1. Romans 12: 2
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
Be in the world and not of it in 2018.
2. Philippians 2: 13
"For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."
God is working in you; isn't that so comforting?
3. Matthew 16: 24-25
"Then Jesus told His disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."
Take up your cross and follow Him this year.
4. Habakkuk 2: 3
" For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end- it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay."
One of the many reminders given to us in the Bible that God's timing will always overcome our own agenda.
5. John 6: 35
"Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall not thirst."
Are you unhappy with your life in 2018? Don't search for happiness this year because the only true JOY is found in Jesus.
6. 1 Corinthians 10: 13
"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."
You are capable of standing strong in Christ and not giving into temptation; in fact, He provides a way out of temptation.
7. John 16: 33
"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."
He doesn't tell us we won't face trials on Earth... so instead of asking him to rid you of your trials and struggles, ask him to meet you in your struggle to help you out... because after all, he has overcome the world.
8. Philippians 4: 11-13
"Now that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
Learn to be content with where you are in life right now because you know that you can do all things through HIM who gives you strength.
9. Hebrews 12: 1-3
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."
Finish this race we call the Christian life; never lose hope and don't quit.
10. Proverbs 27: 17
" Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."
Find people who you sharpen and who sharpen you as well. Strong, Christian friendships will help you grow in your walk with Christ.
11. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
Be intentional with rejoicing. Find God in all parts of your day.
12. Colossians 3: 14-17
"And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your heart to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
In all that you do, give thanks and honor to God.
13. Proverbs 19: 21
"Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand."
We all have an idea of what we want and think our future should look like, but so does God. And his plan will always prevail.
14. 2 Corinthians 5: 7
"For we walk by faith, not by sight."
Do not rely on your own plans; walk through life believing in God's plan for you.
15. Exodus 14: 14
"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Do not try to fight your battles alone; turn to God.
16. Luke 6: 27-28
"But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, but pray for those who abuse you."
Pray for your enemies; do not seek revenge.
17. Psalm 126: 3
"The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad."
Rejoice about all the Lord has done for you.
18. Philippians 4: 8
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, what is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
Live out your Christian life in this way in 2018.