A time for reflection

Steve Lyston, Contributor

As we come to the end of another year, for some it was a good year, for others it was a trying one; yet, for others it was filled with obstacles. Despite all, let us remember that the most important thing we have is life! The main fact that you are still standing, consider yourself favoured and blessed. Furthermore, you must never forget where you started.

In order for one to move forward, there are several things on which we need to reflect.

Did I spend enough time in the presence of my Creator?

Did God play any part in my decision making for 2012?

Did I do enough for the poor?

Did I spend enough time with my family?

Could I have done a better job at work, church or in the community?

When was the last time you walked through the community, to see how everyone is doing? If it has been a while, were you too busy seeking or making money?

Who were your top-five supporters throughout the year? Then ask yourself, what can I do to show them my appreciation?

Did I achieve all my goals and objectives - budget, sales, and so on?

If you have not achieved anything substantial in that regard, what wisdom have you gained from the experience?

What new tactics and strategies will I adopt in order to be a key player or to move ahead in the game?

In what way will God play a role in my life and organisation?

Should I pray, fast, read the word more in the coming year?

All these questions are critical to your moving forward in the year ahead.

Your Season Has Changed

Many started the year 2012 with great expectation, great hope, but they are no longer in the land of the living. The failures experienced in the year past - job loss, broken relationships, loss of assets and investments, poor sales, missed opportunities - there is still hope! Everything in life is a season; nothing remains the same. The world is always turning and so there is always a new day ahead of you.

Your future is not determined by the current economic climate, nor the current political state of affairs. Your success and future is dependent on God and your commitment. Remember, change begins within. Your mountains and situations are more afraid of you than you are of them! Suicide is not an option!

Remember, those who say to you, "It can't work!" or those who deny you, will have an awakening when your season has changed; because, then, it will not take much effort on your part to accomplish what you must!

You will no longer hear, 'Don't call us, we will call you.'

Keys To Success for 2013

Honour God, and men who serve well (Genesis 14: 18-20; Proverbs 3: 1-0).

Meditate on God's word and use it daily as your guide to achieve success (Joshua 1:8).

Remember, regardless of how qualified you are, success will only be guaranteed with God's help.

Sow good deeds daily and walk in integrity. Remember, there are always unseen eyes watching you. God neither slumbers nor sleeps.

Never underestimate the areas from which your blessings will be coming.

Blessings always come from unusual sources, unusual people and unusual places. Take nothing at face value (II Kings 5, II Kings 7: 3-15).

Maintain a heart of compassion and walk away from pride. Humility brings promotion and pride brings demotion.

Steve Lyston is a biblical economics consultant and author of several books, including 'End Time Finance' and 'The New Millionaire'.