Getting Unstuck: Where to start?
Welcome to the new year! It’s a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. If you’re joining us online or in person, we’re glad you’re here. For those of you who are guests, we’d love to connect with you—just scan the QR code in front of you or drop a message in the chat.
As we step into January, many of us reflect on the past year and think about the resolutions we made. It can feel like we’re stuck in a loop, repeating the same patterns year after year. This feeling of being stuck can be unsettling, especially for those of us who believe that Jesus came to help us break free from those cycles.
In Luke 4:18, Jesus declares his mission: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free.” When we feel stuck, it often feels like we lack freedom. But Jesus offers us a way out. So why do we still find ourselves trapped in unhealthy patterns?
There are many areas where we can feel stuck: unhealthy relationships, uncontrolled habits, family dysfunction, and negative self-perception. These are just a few examples, and we’ll explore them throughout this series. But first, let’s consider how our view of God impacts our ability to change.
Your understanding of God can significantly affect your journey toward getting unstuck. If you see God as a stern judge or a distant figure, it may hinder your ability to embrace change. On the other hand, if you view God as a loving and merciful Father, you’ll be more open to the transformation He desires for you.
In Romans 12:1-2, Paul urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices and not to conform to the patterns of this world. Change requires recognizing the destructive patterns around us. We live in a culture that often promotes unhealthy values, such as tying our worth to our net worth or believing that happiness comes from momentary pleasures. We must be discerning and aware of these influences.
Change is an ongoing process. It’s not a one-time event but a continual renewal of our minds. Just as a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly, we too can experience metamorphosis in our lives. This transformation is about integrating all aspects of who we are—body, mind, and spirit.
As we reflect on the areas where we feel stuck, let’s focus on our true purpose and calling. Worship is not just about singing songs; it’s about living our lives in response to God. When we align our actions with our purpose, we begin to see the change we desire.
Finally, remember that change reveals the goodness of God. As we are transformed, we discover His perfect will for our lives. This journey of change is not just for our benefit; it’s a testament to God’s goodness and mercy.
As we move forward into this new year, I encourage you to take a gospel—Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John—and read it. Pay attention to what Jesus says and does. Ask yourself what this reveals about God’s character and His purpose for your life.