By Rev. J. Loren Russell
2 Peter 1:10-11 (NKJV)
“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
I am not a New Year’s Eve resolution person. I reserve making resolutions for my personal New Year. Interestingly enough, it’s just around the corner: May 8! I thought I’d share my process, hoping it will be an inspiration to some.
I always begin with a retrospective look at who I am, why I am, and what I‘ve done in the year gone by. Then I visualize and determine what I will do with the rest of my life.
Every year I ask myself if I’ve been able to live up to my personal affirmation of who, why and what I am. Was I being ”the best man, doing the best ministry as an ambassador and a disciple of Christ to help sinners work out their soul’s salvation and to encourage believers to strengthen their Christian walk?”
This year I had to give myself some pats on the back, but I had to administer some kicks in the pants as well.
Peter was living his divine call and election. In contemporary terms, Peter’s intention was to remain relavent so that his message remained long after he was gone. His inspiring words and commitment encourages me to truly embrace the call in my life. Like Peter, I’ve been called to tell everyone that they can be born again by the great mercy of God the Father through our Lord Jesus Christ. Even if it’s not received, the election and the call is to tell.
So I made my New Year resolution. It is to remain steadfast in all that I do. My life and my work must reveal my call and election so that people are edified, God is glorified, and Satan is terrified!!!
Be Blessed!
Rev. J. Loren Russell is an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx, President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial &. Strategic Consulting (718-328-8096), and hosts “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” on Soul 1 Radio, Mondays 8:00 – 10:00 PM. Listen by phone” at 626-226-1448. Be sure to Friend “Matters of Faith” on Facebook and catch the Facebook Live broadcast. Email us at mattersoffaith.mof@gmail.com. Order your copy of Matters of Faith: The Book at Book Blues.
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