Five Secrets to a Successful Year

1. Put Christ First “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33

2. Get right with others “ Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Matthew 6:12 "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:23-24

3. Keep short accounts with God “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

4. Spend Time Alone With God “How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty! 2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God... Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.” Psalm 84:1-2, 10

5. Encourage One Another “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25

Conclusion  Have I been putting Christ first in my life?  Do I need to make things right with someone?  Do I have sin that needs to be confessed?  Have I been spending adequate time with God?  Is there someone who needs encouragement?