January we will meet by video to prepare our hearts and minds for our 2020 marathon. Our key objective will be to consider anything that might weigh us down. We want to run in a way that causes us to win. Let’s start by how we tackle this next mile marker. We will focus on the need to walk in forgiveness, both of ourselves and others. Let’s not carry any of last year’s offenses with us into the new year. A clean slate can be so invigorating!
Hebrews 12 1-3 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Verses
Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Discussion Questions
- What are the things weighing us down that we need to give to the Lord?
- What does forgiving others look like?
- What does forgiving ourselves look like?
- How can we picture ourselves having a clean slate for this New Year?