A GOOD BEGINNING

 JANUARY 3, 2023

2 Timothy 3:14-17

But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

"Remain Faithful" the apostle Paul says. 

The apostle Paul's words to his fellow church planter , Timothy, help us understand four key dimensions for our relationships in this New Year, well every year:

1. With Christ. Jesus directs our living toward all other things: the Scriptures, values, right and appropriate relationships with others.

2. With other believers. God united Timothy and Paul in ministry through their shared faith in Jesus.

3. With others. Physical family members (Paul reminded Timothy of the faithful example of his mother and grandmother, Lois and Eunice), friends, acquaintances, and coworkers.

4. With the Scriptures. God's word should shape our lives and guide us in the way to live with others and honor Him in these relationships.

God's purpose for us is that we would live productively (flourishing) and bring His goodness into the lives of those around us. The four dimensions outlined above serve as guidance that helps us to live out God's intention as we engage in honoring, righteous, compassionate, and faithful relationships with those around us. We know that God did not call us to live our lives of faith alone, yet sometimes we need reminding that God is always with us,  and an aspect of his care for us is that God has given us fellow Jesus followers, brothers and sisters in Christ, a Community of Faith in which we help one another on our life journey.

We are pilgrims on a journey;
We are family on the road;
We are here to help each other
Walk the miles and bear the load.

I will hold the Christ-light for you
In the nighttime of your fear;
I will hold my hand out to you,
Speak the peace you long to hear.

LET US PRAY

Almighty God, we thank you for being our Abba Father who tenderly loves us and has done so much to bring us into your family. Please be with us this year as we seek to honor you in our relationships and bring Your blessings to others. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.

1 Timothy 1:2 


May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace. AMEN