LIVE FOR YOUR FATHER'S PLEASURE

The start of a new year often brings good intentions.  We resolve to eat better, do better, and live better, but  as the weeks pass, many of these resolutions quietly  fade. The same can happen with our faith. God’s Word can move our hearts on Sunday, but be forgotten by Monday. James reminds us that hearing without  obeying is like glancing in a mirror and immediately forgetting what we look like (James 1:23-24). But God never intended for His Word to inspire us briefly, then be forgotten. Having redeemed us by the precious blood of Jesus (1 Peter 1:18-19), we are called to live transformed lives rooted in obedience and gratitude. This year, may our truest resolution be one that lasts: to 

live for our Father’s pleasure. 

READ ABOUT GOD

To live for God, we must first know Him. Scripture is not merely information; it is God revealing Himself to us. Peter reminds us that we have been born again through 

the living and enduring word of God (1 Peter 1:23). Just as a new employee would study a company manual to understand both benefits and responsibilities, believers read God’s Word to know who He is and what He desires. Reading the Bible with the intention of 

obeying leads to transformation. As Jesus taught, the wise builder lives their lives on the rock by hearing His words and putting them into practice (Matthew 7:24). A worn-out Bible often reflects a life steadily shaped by God. 

SHARE ABOUT GOD

Knowing God naturally leads to proclaiming Him. Peter reminds us that we are chosen so that we may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called us out of darkness (1 Peter 2:9). A changed life will stand out. While this may sometimes invite mockery or rejection, Scripture encourages us not to fear, but to be ready to give reason for the hope we have with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). At the end of the day, sharing Jesus is not about winning arguments, but pointing others to Christ through words and conduct.

LIVE FOR GOD

Living for God means aligning our purpose with His will. Trials, suffering, and discipline are part of walking with Jesus because they shape us to reflect Christ’s character (1 Peter 4:1-2; James 1:2-4). God calls each believer to use their gifts to serve others, so that in all things He may be glorified through Jesus Christ (1 Peter 4:10-11). Christ is coming again soon (Revelation 22:7), and as we await His return, may our lives be pictures of 

readiness, obedience, and wholehearted devotion. Let this year be marked by one clear resolution: to live for our Father’s pleasure.