As we begin a New Year, many of us reflect upon the achievements, failures, and events of the past year and approach the New Year with new goals and desires and expectancy. I trust that each of us are examining our lives spiritually to see what we can do in 2017 to help us draw closer to the Lord. As this will differ from one person to another, there is something I would like to suggest that I feel will help all of us regardless of where we are in our relationship with the Lord. I would like to encourage each of us to be intentional to live by the Word of Truth. We are called not only to read His Word but to live it!
Below you will find Five Reasons for Christians to Live by the Word of Truth in 2017:

Reason #1: The Word of Truth helps us to know what sin is and is not.
Read Psalm 119; 11, 105.
The Word of God is like a headlamp that can be worn to help see the path and obstacles ahead..

Reason #2: The Word of Truth keeps you anchored.
Read II Timothy 4:1-4.
The Word of God keeps us anchored during the storms of life just as an anchored boat in a storm will hold fast.

Reason #3: The Word of Truth always tell the Truth!
Read Hebrews 4:12-13.
Many voices in this world tells us what we want to hear but the Word of Truth tells us what we need to hear.

Reason #4: The Word of Truth equips and trains us to be competent followers of Jesus Christ.
Read II Timothy 3:16-17.
Like a good coach who instructs his players, the Word of Truth reproves us, corrects us, and encourages us…so we can become competent followers of Jesus Christ.

Reason #5: The Word of Truth is the True Gospel
Read Galatians 1:6-7.
Many social gospels are being taught today. God’s gospel is a gospel of grace.
Reading God’s Word teaches the truth so we can spot the counterfeit.

May we all determine in our hearts to read God’s Word and apply God’s truth to our lives. May we take to heart Jesus’ words:
“If you abide in my Word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32).

In His Grace,
Pastor Greg DiMeolo