Do You Know You?

Many of us enjoy personal assessments that promise to identify our character or personality traits. We are curious to see whether the algorithm labels us a high achiever, a problem solver, or—perhaps—a couch potato. We may not always agree with the results, but we are almost always eager to see them.

Now imagine a nationwide survey titled “How Christian Are You?” How would you score? If the results were visible only to you and to God—ranging from easily recognizable to totally incognito—where might you fall?

As we enter a new year, this is a meaningful time to pause for honest reflection and spiritual growth. Consider a few questions: In times of crisis, where do I turn first—prayer, Scripture, or my own instincts? When life is joyful, is God at the center of my gratitude, or quietly moved to the background? Do I see myself as compassionate or judgmental? And as I move through the world, how often do I extend grace—especially to those who think, act, or look nothing like me?

These questions can touch every area of our lives: family relationships, political views, financial decisions, and our involvement in the church. Ideally, our self-perception would align closely with God’s vision of what it means to be a follower of Jesus.

Whatever the “results” may reveal, we know there is always room to grow. Each day, we are invited to become more like Christ—people shaped by love, hope, grace, mercy, justice, and peace.

In Psalms 139, the psalmist says:

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. – Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)

I pray that the year 2026 brings us God’s blessings in abundance! And I pray we offer to God the best of who we can be.

Happy New Year!

Love Pastor Candy