Today marks the fifth day of the new year. It’s only January 5 and some of our desired life changes have not taken root yet. We’ve already failed to prioritize what we set out to do in 2018. For some of us idealists, even just one day of imperfection makes us want to give up trying. But, that’s not the new path Paul is talking about in Romans 12. New is not about perfection. New is learning to navigate the ups and downs with grace and truth. New is walking a life-long journey of being formed with it’s daily failures and successes. New is not giving up.

In the middle of Paul’s jam-packed theological letter to the church of Rome, he gets really practical. He says, “be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Romans 12:2a). This is not a one time thing. You don’t just wake up one morning with a completely re-newed mind. Transformation happens when we commit to not giving up out of fear or shame, but instead partner with God in his gracious plan to renew us day by day. Read Lamentations 3:22-23 and soak in the fresh renewal you have today.

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

The Lord is merciful. Everyday. The Lord is love. Forever. Let that become the motivation to wake you up with a heart to keep trying. It is in the process of fresh renewal – whether that be daily, weekly, or whenever you remember to turn back to Him – where we find the way of Jesus and the heart of Jesus. And remember it’s a good way, an acceptable way, and what feels like the perfect way of living (Romans 12:2b). That’s how God’s created us and that’s why when we live it, we get to dance around in God’s will.

As you partner with God in your formation, you’ll have to regularly determine your next step. South Fellowship would love to help you take that next step in 2018. Consider which of these might be a healthy next step for you and your fresh renewal in 2018.

JOIN A GROUP
To find a space where you can feel known,
valued, and loved as you honestly
walk out your journey with others…
Sign up for our next Group Launch on January 28th.

GO TO CLASS
To get some fresh perspective
in the area of finances,
studying the Bible,
or talking about what’s going on in your soul…
Register for a Sunday morning class and start on January 21st.

VOLUNTEER TO SERVE
To step up to serve with South…
Raise your hand to serve the Local Church,
Local Mission, or Global Mission.

ATTEND AN EVENT
To have some fun in community
and connect with others at South…
Check out the Events Calendar to find out more
for Men, Women, 20s/30s, Students, Families, and Kids.

ASK FOR HELP
To talk to someone at South…
Message Dan Elliot our Community Care Pastor
to share your current need.

By Yvonne Biel  

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