It’s a new year! (Cue the sparklers and long exposure). It’s times of year like this when new gym memberships skyrocket. We want to get fit, start new habits, and get back on track! Yet, as we have all experienced, new routines are hard to adjust to and old habits are even harder to kick. How can we stay on track for creative discipleship this year? Here are 3 guardrails to get you started:

1. Stay Prayed Up.

Deep relationships are fueled by time spent. The most fulfilling times of my marriage are those when Kerissa and I spend together. My relationship with God is no different! So, here is an encouragement: make God a priority this year by praying when you first get up (Mk. 1:35). Wake up a few minutes earlier, take a shower, maybe eat a bowl of cereal, and pray like you have never prayed before. Praise God passionately, thank him lavishly. Take notes in your quiet time, keep a list of people you pray for and cross off the answered prayers throughout this year. The results are stunning.

2. Be intentional.

Jesus commissioned us to make disciples who make disciples (Matt. 28:18-20). Evangelism and discipleship begin with a lifestyle on mission, and a life on mission is an overflow of your love for God fostered in prayer (see above). When you love someone deeply, you will likely talk about them with others. Thus, as you grow in love with God, you will naturally talk about him with others. However, you still must be intentional. Yes, talk to the family in front of you at the grocery store checkout. Yes, treat a friend to breakfast to develop an intentional relationship where the gospel can be shared. Search for opportunities today and take action on them as they come!

3. Use your creative toolbox.

This year, take on projects that benefit others and excite you personally. As you foster a deep prayerful relationship with God – and as your heart overflows with love for him such that you tell others – use your uniqueness to share Christ with others. This is part of being intentional! If you are a photographer, get in touch with others in your field who do not know Christ. Maybe you are a print designer – build a gospel relationship with a client starting with high quality work. Perhaps you are a freelancer (print, animation, video, and others) – allow the creative finger prints of God to imprint your work so much that others notice it.

2017 is a chance to renew our hearts concerning creative discipleship. What are you waiting for?