This isn’t your typical new year’s resolution kind of post. In fact, it is probably the exact opposite. While there’s more than enough messages this time of year promoting self improvement, not many are proclaiming that the new version of ourselves should be a whole lot less of ourselves. Christians are familiar with the often quoted 2 Corinthians 5:17. We are new creations in Christ. I see that verse used more this time of year than any other time of the year. Sermons and devotions that promote self improvement. I believe that exercise, eating better, and healthy habits are great things. But the call of the gospel on our lives is much deeper than that. The gospel life is one lived for others. It’s a life of sacrifice, giving, loving, and serving. The “new creation” is a Spirit-filled individual who cares far more for the salvation and betterment of those around them than for how they are viewed by others or even for their own needs. One of the greatest of the apostles, Paul, states it this way:

But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.

Acts 20:24 ESV

In a different letter to the church at Galatia he wrote this:

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Galatians 2:20 ESV

To the Philippians Paul emphasized something very similar.

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…

Philippians 2:3-5 ESV

And just so no one thinks this is just Paul’s message, look at how Jesus Himself phrased it.

And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.

Luke 9:23 ESV

It is easy to get wrapped up in goal setting when a new year rolls around. What I would propose is that we all focus less on the “usual” goals for the new and improved us, and make our goals more about others and how we are going to put Jesus on display this year. Instead of the new year bringing about a new you, it can bring about less of you, and more of Jesus. I invite everyone to pray that this would be the case for me. Those who know me, I ask for them to hold me accountable. We need to encourage our brothers and sisters in this life of surrender. Eat healthier. Exercise more. Set goals. But may we never forget what our ultimate goal should always be: To know God and to make Him known.

This year may it no longer be us who live but Christ who lives in us. This year may we do nothing out of selfish ambition but look out for the needs of those around us. This year may we testify to the gospel of grace. This year may we take up our cross and follow our King.

Peace in Christ brothers and sisters.