The fireworks are finished and the chocolates are dwindling at the bottom of the selection boxes. We’re all talking about how much we ate on Christmas Day or how much of a struggle going back to work is. But the first days of January are a perfect time for reflection, too. It’s not out of place to have deeper-than-usual conversations at this time of year. And, if we’re ready, we can use them to talk about Christ.
As 2020 begins, why not spend some time reflecting on these five verses from 2 Corinthians? Each one provides pause for thought about your own life and faith. But each will also give you something to have up your sleeve ready for those New Year conversations with friends and family. So pick one or two, watch out for opportunities, and speak about your faith. That’s a New Year’s resolution you can tick off almost straight away.
And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3 v 18)
Paul’s description of how God works in us conveys what a privilege it is to have the Holy Spirit. Think back over the year: When did you see him shaping and transforming you? When did you get the deepest sense of his glory? Maybe you could share that if someone asks you what the highlight of the year was.
WHAT YOUR FRIENDS SAY: What was the best thing in 2019 for you?
WHAT YOU COULD SAY: Probably the way that God…
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. (2 Corinthians 4 v 16)
Paul is honest about the afflictions he and the Corinthians have suffered (v 8-12). Yet he calls them “light and momentary” by contrast with the eternal glory that awaits. Could you use his words to share the same perspective? If it’s been a tough year for you, what has helped you not to lose heart?
If things have been hard for your unbelieving friend, you could ask what gives them hope. Ask how you can support them. You could even suggest reading a gospel together (or a book that explains the gospel). Tell them it will offer hope—or at least take their mind off things.
WHAT YOUR FRIENDS SAY: This past year was really tough. / I’m dreading 2020.
WHAT YOU COULD SAY: What will help you keep going?
We know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. (2 Corinthians 5 v 1)
Everything earthly—including the “earthly tent” of our bodies—is passing away. But as believers, we have eternity secured for us by Jesus. Fears for the world are a good opportunity to pray “Your kingdom come, on earth as it is in heaven”. So why not consider—and talk about—what your prayers for the world will be this year, and what your ultimate hope is?
WHAT YOUR FRIENDS SAY: Grrr—Brexit/Trump/healthcare/climate crisis
WHAT YOU COULD SAY: It’s at times like these that I’m glad I have something greater to hope for.
So we make it our goal to please [the Lord]. (2 Corinthians 5 v 9)
Maybe you’ve got exciting plans or big life changes ahead. As you discuss them, why not consider adding how you’re hoping to serve God through those things? Of course, it is not just about big things: God loves our everyday faithfulness. What are you involved in at church? Which friends are you praying for? Which parts of the Bible do you hope to get to grips with? How will you please God at work?
WHAT YOUR FRIENDS SAY: Any plans for 2020?
WHAT YOU COULD SAY: Well, I’m excited about … but my main goal is to please God in it, by…
Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. (2 Corinthians 7 v 1)
As people around us seek to make themselves more perfect, we have the chance to talk about what the best motivation is for such resolutions. It’s out of reverence for the God who has made us his sons and daughters (6 v 16-18) that we seek to live pure and holy lives.
WHAT YOUR FRIENDS SAY: This is going to be the year when I…
WHAT YOU COULD SAY: My resolution is … because God has done so much for me that I
love him and want to show it.