QUESTION: “Are New Year’s resolutions Biblical?” Paul allowed the glory of the Gospel to fully occupy his mind and impact every aspect of his life, and I pray you will, too. ANSWER: I’m not against New Year’s resolutions, especially when they are made under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and in confidence in the Lord’s power to do great and new things in and through you for His glory. As a matter of fact, from the beginning Scripture has shown that God has set times, seasons, and festivals for the purpose of renewal because God is a renewing God. The New Testament makes it clear that we are to renew our minds constantly (see Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 4:16). How? By allowing the Holy Spirit to help us let go of past sin and guilt through genuine confession and repentance, by allowing the Holy Spirit of God, the very breath of God, to fill the sails of your life and be the power that pulls you through each day, week, month, and year. Here’s the problem: We can get caught in the quicksand of the past—past sorrow, failure, pain, anger, and even success—which can fill us with fear and anxiety rather than trust and peace in our faithful God. So, we must echo Paul in our every resolve: “[O]ne thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). Paul allowed the glory of the Gospel to fully occupy his mind and impact every aspect of his life, and I pray you will, too.  

There are moments when it seems that the only news available is bad news. Headlines fill with stories of deception, financial ruin, sickness, and natural disasters. In an attempt to escape the bad news, many people travel long roads in search of a peace that seems to continually elude them. Rather than reaching their destination fulfilled, they hit dead ends and return home disillusioned and exhausted. Only the Gospel offers us the way to reconciliation with God that brings eternal security, peace, and joy.   This is nothing new. It was the same in Jesus’ day. Rather than turn to God and embrace the Good News of the Savior’s coming, people sought their own roads to eternal peace. However, only the Good News of Jesus Christ addresses the root cause of mankind’s dissatisfaction, the sin that separates us from the Father. Only the Gospel offers us the way to reconciliation with God that brings eternal security, peace, and joy. Do you need good news today? The best news of all time is that Jesus loves you and He has provided the way for a full and loving relationship with the Father. As you begin this new year, spend some time asking God to reveal His heart to you as you reflect on the wonder of Christ’s sacrifice. Prayer: Father, I desire the eternal peace that only Jesus Christ can bring. I pray You will reveal Your heart to me and guide me on Your path this year. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 5:1). Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef’s sermon series Need Good News?: LISTEN NOW | WATCH NOW

It’s a new year. It feels fresh. It holds possibility. And with renewed energy, you are probably gearing up for practical change in your life. Maybe you’ve already made resolutions to better yourself and pursue impressive activities—exercise more, eat less, read more, learn a skill, volunteer. These are all good goals. But we must take care that by focusing on these practical, helpful, outward activities we don’t miss out on what is even better. "For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come" (1 Timothy 4:8). As we Christians seek to make godly resolutions this new year, we must contemplate what it really means to pursue godliness. Is it enough to make "Christian" goals, resolving to participate in a Bible study or read through the Bible in a year? No, even these endeavors can be limited in value. Even spiritual disciplines can be twisted by our sinful nature, tempting us to chase after our own praise and honor through righteous works rather than to pursue God because He is God. We must follow the example of Mary, who knew her deep need—the same need we all have—to sit in the presence of God, just as Jesus affirmed, ". . . few things are needed—or indeed only one" (Luke 10:42). At the end of the day, all of our concerns and longings for self-improvement are met in God in the best way: through self-forgetfulness as we dwell on the greatness of God. In contrast, our Western culture focuses on the self—self-help, self-care, self-improvement. It wants quick, practical answers that serve the self. And sadly, many churches cater to this self-centered view of the world, offering sermons with quick tips to turn your life, marriage, or kids around or books to get the best out of life—what you really deserve. While such promises may draw struggling people through the doors, they do nothing to bring eternal, life-giving transformation. That alone, from beginning to end, is the work of God. For, though Christianity is indeed practical, calling believers to serve, give, and love, all of these actions, if they are to have any lasting effect, must flow from one source: God in all His majesty. It is utterly impractical for us to try to improve ourselves in an eternally meaningful way apart from knowing the one who alone can do this work in us—the great I AM. Have you ever found yourself frustrated in church as your pastor delivers a sermon about the character of God when you just want some practical help? Perhaps you are happy to dive into the Word to find an answer to your present problem, but do you read Scripture to simply soak in the character of God—to study His matchless nature? It can be easy to forget that all the practical help we need for this life and the life to come emanates from a personal God who has revealed Himself in the person of Jesus Christ—God made flesh (see John 1:14) There is nothing else in all the universe that can anchor you and give you hope like the unchanging God who is love. We must not neglect to study the perfections of God; they are life-giving because He is the source of life. As Oswald Chambers exhorted students at the Bible Training College in London: It is not the practical activities that are the strength of this Bible Training College—its entire strength lies in the fact that here you are immersed in the truths of God to soak in them before Him. . . . if you waste your time in overactivity, instead of being immersed in the great fundamental truths of God’s redemption, then you will snap when the stress and strain do come. But if this time of soaking before God is being spent in getting rooted and grounded in Him, which may appear to be impractical, then you will remain true to Him whatever happens. (My Utmost for His Highest) RETURNING TO THE ONE THING This year, let’s focus on knowing God instead of seeking how-to. And let’s not limit our experience of God to favorite passages of Scripture or thoughts about Him. Let’s feast on the inexhaustible glory of God and all His attributes—His self-existence, eternity, goodness, jealousy, love, sovereignty, omniscience, and more. Because, when we do, we are transformed from the inside out. Our pursuit of God through prayer and His Word naturally leaves us in awe of Him and develops a desire to live godly lives that glorify Him. At the end of the day, all of our concerns and longings for self-improvement are met in God in the best way: through self-forgetfulness as we dwell on the greatness of God. What might happen if churches simply invited people to come and know God, to be immersed in the wonder of who He is? What if we lived like the study of God and His character, perfections, and majesty were of supreme importance and relevance for life, immeasurably worthy of our time? What if God Himself became enough for us? We might witness a revival that the West desperately needs. For, true revival comes through a personal encounter with the incomprehensible God who has made Himself known. He alone is unchanging and sure in all the universe. His promises stand. His love is steadfast. His Word can be trusted. Because of who He is, you can be eternally rooted in Him, living out a peace and contentment that nothing else in all the world can provide. So, this year, let’s sit at the feet of Jesus and know God. Start your day with God’s Word. SIGN UP FOR OUR DAILY DEVOTIONAL

For nearly four decades, God has used Dr. Michael Youssef to faithfully shepherd His people through the local church while simultaneously proclaiming the uncompromising Truth of the Gospel to the nations. Today, in obedience to God’s leading and with deep gratitude for His faithfulness, Dr. Michael Youssef announces a significant ministry transition. Beginning in summer 2026, Dr. Youssef will devote his full-time energy to Leading The Way, the global ministry God entrusted to him to proclaim Christ, call the Church to revival, and reach the lost—especially in the most difficult and spiritually resistant regions of the world. This transition, prayerfully discerned and prepared for over several years, was formally announced during the annual congregational meeting of The Church of The Apostles in Atlanta. At that time, leadership of the local church will be passed to Dr. Youssef’s youngest son, Dr. Jonathan Youssef, whom God has clearly raised up for this next season of growth and ministry. Now that God has raised up my son Jonathan to lead The Church of The Apostles into its next chapter, I will be devoting my full attention to Leading The Way,” said Dr. Michael Youssef. “I am deeply thankful to the Lord, and I know that the best is yet to come. A Legacy of Faithful Local Church Leadership Dr. Youssef founded The Church of The Apostles in 1987 with a clear Biblical mandate: to reach the lost and equip the saints. From its first gathering of fewer than 30 people, the church has grown into a thriving congregation of more than 3,000—rooted in the inerrancy of Scripture, the Lordship of Christ, and the faithful exposition of God’s Word. While stepping away from day-to-day pastoral leadership, Dr. Youssef will continue his relationship with the church as Founding Rector Emeritus, ensuring continuity, spiritual support, and prayerful encouragement for the congregation and its leaders. Accelerating the Mission of Leading The Way This transition marks not a slowing down—but a decisive acceleration of Dr. Youssef’s global calling. Leading The Way currently broadcasts Biblically-based teaching more than 18,000 times each week across television, radio, and digital platforms—reaching millions in 28 languages, including extensive ministry throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and other restricted regions. With his full-time focus now directed to this global mission, Dr. Youssef is advancing several critical initiatives, including: Expansion of THE KINGDOM SAT television network, reaching Muslims with the Gospel of Jesus Christ Growth of the AWAKE America prayer movement, calling the American church to repentance and revival New waves of Finding True Peace evangelistic outreach High-impact evangelistic events across the Middle East and beyond Increased digital engagement and discipleship in restricted and unreached areas I want to take as many people to heaven with me as possible,” Dr. Youssef said. “We do not know how long the doors will remain open to proclaim the Gospel. That is why I am putting my foot on the accelerator now. One Calling—Two Distinct Ministries While Leading The Way and The Church of The Apostles will continue as separate 501(c)(3) organizations, both remain united by a shared theological foundation and a singular devotion to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Each ministry will continue to operate under its own Board of Directors, leadership structure, and mission focus. This transition reflects a Biblical principle seen throughout Scripture: faithful leadership passed on, so that the mission of God may advance without interruption (2 Timothy 2:2). A Call to Prayer and Partnership As Dr. Youssef steps fully into this next chapter of ministry, we ask believers around the world to pray—for wisdom, protection, and boldness—as the Gospel advances into regions where the name of Christ is often opposed, restricted, or dangerous to proclaim. The urgency of this hour cannot be overstated. Apostasy is rising. Biblical illiteracy is spreading. Yet God has placed before us open doors. And by His grace, Leading The Way will walk through them—unashamed of the Gospel, unwavering in Truth, and unrelenting in the call to repentance and salvation through Jesus Christ alone. And this Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. —Matthew 24:14

Imagine your wedding day or any beautiful wedding ceremony that you have attended. Think of the husband’s eyes—completely focused on his bride. He is captured by her beauty and stands ready to give all his life to her. Similarly, the bride’s eyes are only for her groom, and as she steps toward him, she readies herself to make the same lifelong commitment to him. This earthly picture of all-consuming love points us toward a much greater reality. For a husband’s passion for his bride gives us a small glimpse into God’s love for His heavenly bride, the church. Just imagine the impact the church could have on society today if we shifted from serving ourselves to wholeheartedly serving Christ’s bride. Our God loves His bride with an everlasting love that is stronger than death, and He has demonstrated His commitment to her by not sparing His own Son (see Jeremiah 31:3; Song of Songs 8:6; Romans 8:32). Just as a husband cares for his wife, Christ deeply cares for His church. The moment you became a Christian, you yourself became a part of His bride. Therefore, if we love Christ and our own selves, we cannot be indifferent to her plight. After all, we are one with her just as a husband and wife are one (see Ephesians 5:31-32). Your local church is the visible expression of the bride of Christ. The local church is where God is calling you to express your commitment to Him and your passion for Him, serving others as He has first served you. "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters" (1 John 3:16). Just as Christ first gave up His life for us, we are now called to give up our lives for the church—pouring ourselves out in fervent acts of sacrificial love. But rather than committing to love the bride, many are still dating the church. They bounce from congregation to congregation, never going deeper than surface-level connection. Maybe they attend somewhere for a year or two, but then someone gets on their nerves or the preacher says something they don’t like. And then off they go to the next church.  Their relationship with God is self-centered, and thus their relationship with the bride of Christ is also self-centered. They want the benefits of belonging to a church without the cost. They want the privileges of community without the responsibility. And at the end of the day, it is all about them and their needs. So they continue to date different churches, never fully committing to one. They never learn what it means to love sacrificially. Beloved, Jesus Christ did not establish His church to just meet your needs. No and a million times no! The reason we attend church as believers is not primarily to get our needs met (though we do), but to glorify Jesus Christ and love our brothers and sisters in Christ, that together we might make Jesus known to a lost world—just as He told us, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" ( John 13:35). And in the process of losing our lives for others, we ourselves are uplifted and made more like our Savior. Just imagine the impact the church could have on society today if we shifted from serving ourselves to wholeheartedly serving Christ’s bride. The atmosphere of our entire nation would change. But we cannot love the bride of Christ by coming to church 10 minutes late and leaving 10 minutes early. Pouring out our lives for the church means being actively involved—whether that means coming early to pray, staying late to clean, serving in the beleaguered children’s ministry, or having lunch with that person we’d rather ignore. Let us seek to be as devoted to Christ’s bride as He is to us. Let this be our New Year’s resolution for 2018— to not spare our own lives, but give them up in sacrificial service to those for whom Christ died. Jesus is worth it all, and every deed done in His name will not be forgotten, but will be rewarded on that last day when He splits the skies to call us home at last. May you and I be found faithful—fully committed to Christ and His church—on that great day. Sign up to receive a free 6-month subscription of My Journal today. SIGN UP

QUESTION: “What is the best New Year’s resolution you can make?” ANSWER: “I pray that your resolution is to trust in the promises of God.” Dr. Michael Youssef encourages us to trust in God’s promises every day of the year.