Coming out of the new year it’s likely you’ve spent time in prayer, reflection, conversations with a friend or family, maybe a trusted mentor, about what God is calling you to this year. With the experiences of 2020 in the rearview mirror, I imagine many of us have spent more time than usual considering where we want to grow deeper and stronger in 2021.
COVID has been incredibly challenging. It has stretched us greatly and if you’re anything like me, you’ve been confronted with some hard truths about yourself and realize there are key areas in your life that need some work - God kind of work. We all do!
But be encouraged, now is a great time to establish biblical priorities and principles that help us grow to be more like Christ, to serve others well, and bring glory to God through it all. Whether it’s creating resolutions or prioritizing biblical and healthy disciplines, Northland believes it begins with pursuing Jesus. Even more, we think following Jesus TOGETHER is one of the most effective ways to grow closer to God and others.
We kicked off this year in a series called Following Jesus Together. No matter where you connect to grow deeper in your relationship with God, doing it with others who love God and point you to Him is vitally important. We believe that there are some specific areas that help us in that endeavor - discipleship, community, and studying Scripture… all pursuits that are worthwhile doing together!
Have you ever heard the saying, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” I think we can all agree that there is some real truth in this statement. With that in mind, think about what discipleship, small groups, and being intentional about studying the Bible would mean for you and those around you. There’s nothing God can’t or won’t use to speak to us and transform our lives. No situation, no pain is wasted in God’s work in our lives. But often He uses other people and His Word to speak to us in direct and palpable ways.
You might have some clear next steps about where God is leading you in this new year. We have incredible opportunities led by gifted leaders to help you on your journey. But if you’re not sure what your next steps are, we have no doubt that entering into a disciple-making relationship, being in community with other believers, and digging deeper into the Bible are some of the best places to start.
How can you lean into relationships with others and into Scripture this year to become more like Him? How can you be intentional about seeking God in the community of other believers and studying the Word together?
What’s your next step?
God: Maybe you have questions about who God is and what He has done. Maybe you don’t know what it means to have a personal relationship with Him. Perhaps you’re a new believer and not sure what next steps to take. We’re here to help you with those questions and walk alongside you. Contact us by filling out this short form and we’ll be in touch to answer questions and help you find your way. Fill out the form >
Discipleship: Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28: 16-20 instructs us to go and make disciples. If you’re unsure what that looks like in your life we want to help. Whether you’re asking what it truly means to be a disciple, or if you’re ready to jump into a discipleship group (D-group), take a moment to fill out this short form and we will follow up to help guide you toward your next steps.
Studying the Bible: Kicking off this year, Pastor Gus challenged us with this passage from 2 Timothy 3:16-17, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work”. No matter where we are on our walk with God, the Bible has something to offer us. Like Pastor Gus went on to say, “It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve gone through the Bible but how many times the Bible has gone through you.”
Northland offers a variety of ways to help you dig deeper into the Word. A good place to start is with our Digging Deeper study which takes you through the weekend’s sermon and invites you to pray, read and meditate on how God is calling you to apply the message in your life. We encourage you to study with others, your family or small group, to gain a broader perspective on the material. You can find the study in the worship guide, in our weekly newsletter, and on our website. Several times throughout the year we also publish a printed study guide that you can use throughout the series. Be sure to pick one up the next weekend you join us for in-person worship. The best way to ensure you don’t miss it is to sign up for the weekly email and get it delivered right to your inbox. You can do that at NorthlandChurch.net/Newsletter by selecting yes, I’d like to receive these weekly emails under the Weekly Digging Deeper Study section.
Two classes we highly recommend for those looking to dive deeper into the Bible in 2021 are Bible Boot Camp and our Women’s Bible Study. These studies offer both in-person and virtual options and allow you to journey with others, learning, growing, and understanding Scripture.
Community: At Northland, we believe life is better together. As we experience life together and study God’s word in community we're able to encourage each other, challenge each other, and point each other to Jesus through all of life’s circumstances.
We have some amazing small group leaders who care deeply about providing a place for relationship building and spiritual growth. Visit our groups page to learn more and take your next step toward life in community at northlandchurch.net/groups.
As you spend time praying about what your 2021 looks like and where God is leading you, we encourage you to dive into discipleship, your Bible, and a life rooted in community. You simply can’t go wrong when you’re seeking Jesus with others.
To stay up to date on all that’s happening at Northland including discipleship opportunities, bible studies, groups, and more, sign up for our weekly newsletter here northlandchurch.net/newsletter.