As I write to close out 2016, I reflect on many ups and downs. On a positive note, we welcomed a precious little girl into the world. It seems as if most of the year was focused on her arrival. Shortly after that, God began to open doors for me to preach and minister in various churches after a drought that lasted almost a year. Now 2016 is pretty much in the rear view mirror.
What do you want for 2017? I’m not talking about a slimmer body, 6-pack, tummy tuck, Botox, etc. I’m not talking about cars, houses, and earthly possessions. A fellow blogger challenged me in this area by reflecting on his goal for 2016 and how he rated. I want to ask myself and you, “Who do you want to be in 2017?” For clarification, I’m not asking if you want to alter your gender or any such thing. I’m talking about character. How do you want to be more like Jesus in 2017?
It’s time we pray and ask the Lord who He wants us to be in this new year. If you really want to know, He will answer. May we all become more like Jesus in 2017.
Matthew Winters (Honest Thoughts from a Pastor) 
What I want is Jesus-Yeshua Christ for our Judeo-Christian Nation United States of America again!!
Love Always and Shalom Everyone, YSIC \o/
Kristi Ann
Before i read your writing i had just finished writing 15 seconds wisdom on Beauty and Beast…U know what?? Character changing should be number one priority for each new year…u just plugged in the right charges by saying ‘I am talking about character. How do you want to be more like Jesus” Thanks..
Reblogged this on Talmidimblogging and commented:
Happy New Year!!
Glad to hear the updates and read this news. A baby changes everything, so I’ve been reminded of recently through song. Each of our three came and God has used parenthood to change my character, but that’s another subject. As a fellow minister, I’m glad to read that you’ve had more opportunities to exercise your calling.
I hope you don’t mind me sharing this link: https://williamstricklandblog.wordpress.com/2016/12/30/its-all-about-the-joyful-journey/
God bless!
I don’t mind at all. Thanks for commenting and sharing!
I want to see the Kingdom come and His will be done, on earth as it is in heaven! Thanks for the challenge!
That is the thing I always pray for…to be more like Jesus. I want more of His loving heart, more of His will and less of mine. Even for a man like me who has followed Christ for a long time, I want to ever increase my faith and hope and prayer life. As I have said, these are goals for each day and not just the new year…
Congratulations on your new baby! May you all be blessed as you seek God in spirit and truth!
Steve