by Justin Morton
The New Year causes many of us to think about the things we need and want to change in our lives. For some, these changes are related to our physical health—things like healthy eating, exercising more and getting plenty of rest. While these are all important considerations, what about the improvement of our spiritual health? In what areas do we desire to grow and improve spiritually this New Year? Consider two important areas we all could grow in to improve our spiritual health this New Year.
First, let’s grow in our love for God. Jesus said the greatest command we have is to love God (Matt. 22:37-38). Because of the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross, we should be inspired to love God with all our hearts. This love can be seen through our devotion to God, although that’s not always easy. Jesus even said we would have to deny ourselves and take up a cross (Lk. 9:23-26). True love and devotion to the Lord takes self-discipline and whole-hearted commitment.
Second, let’s grow in our love for others. Jesus said the second greatest command is to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matt. 22:39-40). If we truly have experienced the love of God, it will change us and cause us to love others in a way we never knew we could. Love will produce a passion in our hearts for others who are lost and dying in sin.
My hope and prayer is for 2023 to be a spiritually healthy year for all of us. May we each grow in our love and devotion for God and others. I truly believe if we do these things, Walter Hill will have our healthiest year yet!