New Year ResetSample

Introduction

In a new year, we often aspire to reset the rhythms of life. We want to recalibrate, or in some cases, newly create what we consider to be healthy practices. We think about our calendar, physical health, work-life balance, and relationships. But what if the most powerful RESET we could make is to reconsider the lens through which we view life? God’s Word paints a divine perspective for every facet of life. As we consider what, where, and how to RESET, we look to Scripture and find that God has a lot to say.

Today's Bible Reading

2 Timothy 3:16-17 – Scripture is God’s Word

RESET: How I See Myself

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)

People often say the Scriptures are God’s history book or God’s instructions for humanity. That’s not wrong, but it’s not the whole picture. Scripture is the divine Word of God gifted to us. It is the foundation on which we can build our lives. It guides how we understand what is right and wrong, not according to our own standards, but according to God’s standards.

Self-help, inspirational, or “10 steps to a better you” books can be useful. They are written by people to help others grow and develop according to earthly wisdom. However, according to Paul in 2 Timothy, Scripture gives us foundational teaching that goes much farther than that. It RESETS our mindset and hearts to God’s standard. Why? Not just to grow in our knowledge of God, but so that we are equipped to make an impact—a Kingdom difference in the lives of people we encounter. Self-help books can offer some solid advice, but when we open the Scripture, we are given authority. Self-help books explain principles of improvement, but God’s Word gives us directives that lead to spiritual formation for our whole lives.

Since Scripture is God-breathed, we must approach it differently than any other book. We come with a weight of seriousness and a readiness to obey. Here’s an example.

“We love because He first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And He has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” 1 John 4:19-21 (NIV)

When we read this passage, we realize that loving our neighbor, our brother and sister, is not just a good idea, but a command for how we live. We love people not because of who they are, but because God first loved us. If we claim to love God, we must also love others. There’s intensity to this instruction!

Reflect

Am I living as though Scripture is truly God-inspired, or do I treat it like helpful tips for a Christian life? If Scripture really is the Word of God, what are three things I want to do differently this year in response?

Pray

God, please help me understand the depth and weight of your Word. As I approach the Scriptures, open the eyes of my heart so that I can grow in wisdom and revelation. As I increase in understanding, give me the strength to apply what I am learning. Thank You for Your Word! I pray it renews my mind and helps me to mature in my walk with You! In Jesus’ name, amen.