The new year brings hope and is full of anticipation for the plans God has in our future. I could never have predicted what God had in store for me in 2019, but he used every experience—both good and bad—to help me grow in him and mature as a Christian. As I reflect on the past year, I’m excited about all the ways God will use me in 2020. Here are five things I’ve put on my New Year’s Resolution list so that I can be a vessel for him. This is my 2020 vision.
1. Be More Salty
“You are the salt of the earth. […] You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:13-14
In recent times, salty has taken on an entirely new meaning. It used to just describe the mineral, but now the word is used to express a feeling of resentment towards a person or situation. In this context, I’m talking about the salt mineral. Most bad cooking can be improved with a little salt. It enhances flavor and preserves our food. The world is hurting with resentment, and as Christians, we are called to be the salt of the world and a light in the darkness. This year, I will work to enhance the city and state I live in and preserve our fundamental Biblical values.
2. Hide His Word
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11
Those who abide in God’s word are his disciples. Truth is found in the word, and the truth sets us free. If you’ve ever wanted to read the entire Bible cover to cover, January is a great time to start, and there are a lot of great resources to help you accomplish your goal. We are so blessed in America to have religious freedom and unregulated access to God’s inspired word. This year, I’m committing to memorizing more scriptures and spending time in the word.
3. Adopt Someone
“Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.” 1 Timothy 2:2
On January 8, the Nebraska Legislature will reconvene and consider some big decisions regarding life, liberty, and families. You can adopt your state representative in prayer by visiting Nebraska Family Alliance’s Adopt a Leader page. We’ll send you a free resource packet with prayer points and a custom magnet with your senator’s photo to remind you to pray without ceasing. I live in Legislative District 28, and this year, I’ll be praying for God to give my representative and state leaders guidance and strength.
4. Run the Race
“Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8
You knew this one was coming. It wouldn’t be a New Year’s Resolution list without mentioning fitness. I don’t just need physical fitness in 2020 though, I need spiritual fitness too. My body is a temple of God, and I want to make sure it honors him in everything I say and do. In order to run the race of life, we need to strip off weight and sin that might slow us down. This year, I will not only maintain my physical body, but I will feed my spirit with the word, worship, and support from fellow believers.
5. Be Still
“Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10
This spring, I’ll turn 24. I’ve officially reached my mid-twenties, and with that milestone comes the full-blown responsibilities of adulthood. It’s so easy to overcommit and become overwhelmed with obligations. This year, I’m going to take time to rest, be still, and watch God’s plans for 2020 unfold before my eyes with 2020 vision.
Marilyn Newland
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