I watched the movie “Live, Die, Repeat” recently, and was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. It’s kind a like a military, sci-fi version of “Groundhogs Day” but with a lot fewer laughs and a lot more action.
It got me thinking… in light of the New Year, about all the events of the last year. Many great things happened in 2014, but there were also some missteps along the way. Probably a lot like you, I said things I wished I hadn’t, and held back things I should’ve said. I was blessed to be involved in many good works, yet I’m nagged by the good things I failed to do. I’m not living with regret, I trust the Lord and his ability to make good out of even the worst of circumstances. Nevertheless, it’s important for all of us to learn from our mistakes, and to apply those lessons as we grow and move forward in our lives.
I would suggest the following retrospective questions as you consider the new year…
1. What things did I say, that didn’t need to be said?
2. Where was I dishonest, either lying, or withholding accuracy in my statements?
3. What things that I engage in that were a waste of time and energy?
4. What things did I fail to do, that would’ve been a blessing to others?
5. In what ways did my life honor the Lord, and in what ways did I dishonor Him or his name?
6. Could it be said that I loved too much, or too little?
7. Does my checkbook register accurately reflect what I believe about the Kingdom of God and His work on earth?
8. If my coworkers, or neighbors, were tasked with writing a summary of what they see in me, what would that look like?
9. Did I spend too much time in 2014 praying?
10. Do I plan on applying new lessons in 2015, or simply repeating the same old patterns?
May God bless you with His own richness in the coming year. May you know His grace, love, and peace.
– Jim
sunamijim.wordpress.com 