Another year has passed, and we have entered into 2016 — a brand-new year. In reality, it is just another day with a different date. For many, however, it is a time to reflect and decide what changes they want to make for their future. Maybe it is to shed some unwanted weight, break a habit, or take a new job. For some, it might be to work on a relationship. No matter what it is, it will take self-discipline to make lasting change.

Harry Truman once said, “In reading the lives of great men, I found that the first victory they won was over themselves... self-discipline with all of them came first.” In order to make changes in our lives and to achieve the desired result, we need to exercise self-discipline. Most people have the desire, but lack the will: the ability to be self-disciplined enough to make the change and to keep it. Consequently, most don’t persevere long enough to make the needed changes in their lives.

As we go into 2016, let’s decide to work on self-discipline in order to make the changes that will last a lifetime. One decision I hope we would all make a priority is regarding church attendance — to attend a Sunday and a midweek service each week in order to grow in the things of God. Another decision is to begin to serve and make a commitment to tithe. At the end of the year, you will see that your life is better and your finances stronger. In the words of Theodore Roosevelt, “With self-discipline most anything is possible.”

Happy New Year!

Just a thought,

PSS

What is your greatest need? Maybe you are thinking: more money, better health, or nicer stuff. Although these may be legitimate needs, they are not our greatest need. In fact, while hanging on the cross, Jesus said it best as He pleaded, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” He didn’t pray for our prosperity or health; He prayed for our greatest need — forgiveness.

Forgiveness is: the act of pardoning somebody for a mistake or wrongdoing, liberating completely, canceling a debt. The great news about forgiveness is that it’s exactly what Jesus does for all who call on His name and follow Him. No matter what you’ve done, if you ask Him, He’ll forgive you. And as we receive His forgiveness, it is vital that we forgive others as well.

As the New Year approaches, let’s move forward knowing that our greatest need has already been met — God gave his only Son so that we can be forgiven — His greatest gift in exchange for our greatest need. 

Just a thought,

PSS

‘Tis the season for Christmas trees, presents, family and lots of good food. Don’t get me wrong: It is fun to give and receive gifts, and good to spend time with family. However, Christmas has become so commercialized that most people believe it’s more about family and gifts than the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ. But, it’s much more than that — Christmas is about the salvation of the world.

God sent His only Son to die for us so that all of mankind would have the opportunity to have our sins forgiven and a relationship with God. When Jesus came, He was born, walked the earth, and gave His life for every one of us who would believe in Him. Christmas is a celebration of that birth — that the Savior of the world has come, Emmanuel (God with us).

Salvation is the greatest gift mankind has ever received. We should honor it, and honor Jesus as Savior. I am so grateful for what Jesus has done for me. His sacrifice has given me a life and, more importantly, a relationship with God. As we celebrate Christmas this Friday, let’s remember the purpose of His birth — the incredible sacrifice He made for our salvation.

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas.

Just a Thought,

PSS

All his life, a Wimbledon tennis champion thought that winning this major tournament would result in life as he had never known it. Following his championship, he said, “The thrill of victory lasts about fifteen minutes.” Most people think that success produces life, but Ecclesiastes 4:8 says that man is always working but never satisfied.

Just because you perform well and produce a lot doesn’t mean that you will experience true life. Jesus said, numerous times over, that He is the giver of life, and He gives it abundantly. Don’t get me wrong: being productive and having achievements in life are important, but we must realize life is more than that — it’s about seeking His kingdom and His righteousness.

Achievements can be a blessing, but they are not to become what we seek. First and foremost, having confidence in His Word, we are to seek God. As we do everything as unto the Lord, we give Him all the glory, because He is the giver of life — peace, joy, faith and hope. The things in this life are temporary, but what we do for God is everlasting.

Let’s learn to be grateful.

Just a Thought,

PSS

Have you ever thought about the statement, “Things happen for a reason”? In some ways, it could be a coping mechanism to get through a difficult or hurtful situation, but sometimes people use this as an excuse to evade responsibility. Other times, people use this reasoning to justify a decision that didn’t work out or to blame God for their circumstances.

For the most part, I do believe things happen for a reason. However, there are many times when our circumstances are a direct result of our own decisions. For example, someone said, “Everything happens for a reason, but sometimes the reason is that you’re stupid and make bad decisions.” Sadly, instead of taking responsibility for their lives, so many blame someone or something for their problems.

The first step toward positive change is to take responsibility for your life. Own up to the choices you have made, play the hand you’ve been dealt and keep moving forward. In doing so, you will begin to see your circumstances improve and your life change for the better.

Just a Thought,

PSS