As a new year begins, resolutions are started by both young and old. Each New Year presents an opportunity to “start over” in some ways. For whatever reason, January 1st sparks the feeling of desire to commit to something or stop doing something. Perhaps that consists of re-committing to an opportunity you had last January. Weight loss, finances, relationships, and overall health are some of the most popular resolutions.

As Apostolics, we have the opportunity to also commit (or re-commit) to being a better follower of Christ. Instead of trying to “fix everything” by a basic resolution, it’s more practical to evaluate needed areas of improvement in your life and commit to basic principles. Paul discussed with the Galatians the importance of understanding that we “reap what we sow.” Anyone can pretty much understand this concept. If we make bad decisions, we’ll often have to deal with the bad results. This year, we all have the opportunity to commit to sow good things.

If you’re in middle school or high school, Project 7 allows you the opportunity to easily commit to doing four things: unlocking your faith, unleashing truth, elevating Christ, and serving others. These are four basic principles that can make your 2017 an incredible year. By starting a Project 7 Bible Club, you can reach your world in new ways. If you would like to give your year some definition, use P7 as a guide to how you can accomplish this.

• By committing to unlock your faith, you can realize that you are who you are only by His grace, and you want to share it with others. Unlocking your faith also unlocks God’s will. When you unlock your faith, you allow God the opportunity to use you as a tool in your school campus.
• By committing to unleashing truth, you can show people who God really is. Our world is full of confusion about God, Christianity, and His people. By giving them the truth of His love, His identity, and His purpose, you can connect people to a real, living Savior.
• By committing to elevating Christ, you can put the “Thy will be done” prayer in action. By elevating Christ on your school campus, you’re offering hope to a generation that needs it more than ever. What better way to suppress doubt and fear than to elevate the One who gives courage and strength?
• By committing to serving others, you are being the hands and feet of our creator. Jesus Himself said He didn’t come to the world to be served, but to serve. Showing God’s love isn’t just an opportunity we have through words, but actions.

This year, don’t just say you want to commit—actually commit. When you give definition to your commitment by starting a Project 7 club, you have a much higher chance of seeing it through. Don’t let worry or past failures stop you from making 2017 the best year you’ve ever had. Join this P7 story. Join our P7 Nation. The decision is yours.

Seth Boyte is the youth pastor at Apostolic Truth Church in Appleton, Wisconsin. He is also the P7 coordinator for the state of Wisconsin. He is married to his beautiful wife Evelyn and together they live passionately for Christ.