Pray First // A New Year Begins

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness…” ~Matthew 6:33

A New Year invites reflection—and anticipation.

As calendars turn and plans begin to form, it’s tempting to rush ahead, set goals, and map out what we hope the next twelve months will hold. But before we move forward, Scripture gently reminds us of a better starting place: seek the Lord first.

The beginning of a new year is not about self-improvement or fresh determination alone—it’s about renewed dependence. God does not ask us to carry the year ahead in our own strength. He invites us to walk with Him, to listen before acting, and to trust before striving.

When we “Pray First,” we acknowledge a simple but powerful truth: God is already at work in the days ahead. He knows what this year will bring—its joys, challenges, opportunities, and unknowns—and He promises to be faithful through it all.

This year, instead of asking only What will I do? consider asking, Lord, what are You already doing—and how can I join You? As you seek Him first, allow Him to shape your hearts and align your priorities, so that you will more willingly follow where He leads you. 

As you begin this year, pause and reflect:

• Where am I tempted to rely on my own strength instead of trusting the Lord?
   
• What would it look like to truly seek God first in this season?
   
• How might God be inviting me to grow in faith, obedience, and love this year?

Let us step into the year ahead together—grounded in God’s Word, guided by His Spirit, and committed to Pray First.

PRAISES:

• God’s faithfulness to sustain the ministry through several challenges in 2025
• 13 new triple bunks adding capacity to our guest rooms
• Plans for new game room improvements 

PRAY WITH US:

• More fathers & sons to sign up for Quest next month
• New opportunities to share about our ministry with the community
• A plow truck to clear and sand the driveway during the winter
• A new pool/billiards table