It's human nature to overestimate what we can do in one year, and underestimate what can do in five. A consistent, steady approach wins. Rev Dr Mona Scrivens launches a new sermon series: 'The Future You.' Learn to make decisions today that will lead to transformative, long-term, change. Learn how our current actions, habits, and spiritual discipline can significantly shape your future self. Dive deep into scripture with her and discover how to stay 'up and awake' to what God is doing in your life.

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Summary

In this opening message of The Future You series, we’re invited to lift our eyes beyond short-term thinking and consider the long, faithful obedience that forms our character, our faith, and our lives.

Rooted in Romans 13:11–14, this sermon reminds us that time is precious, habits matter, and the “ways we let in become the ways we are set in.”

With hope, honesty, and practical wisdom, we’re challenged to wake up to what God is doing and intentionally partner with Him in becoming who He’s calling us to be.

Reflection Questions

When you picture yourself five years from now, what hopes or concerns come to mind—and what daily choices are shaping that future?
What “ways” (habits, reactions, priorities) are currently forming your life?
Are they drawing you closer to God or pulling you away?
Where might God be inviting you to practice steady, faithful consistency rather than short bursts of intensity?

I am thrilled to introduce our new sermon series titled "The Future You." Today, I want to take you on a journey of self-reflection and anticipation. Picture your age as a giant number, like one of those big balloons. Now, mentally add five years to it. Visualize who you could become. For instance, if you're like me and currently 45, then envision yourself at 50. Or add 10 years. The goal is to be excited about what lies ahead and to believe in a future that God has already prepared for you.

Thinking Long Term

In the hustle and bustle of planning for a new year, it's easy to think small. Often, we underestimate what we can achieve in the long term while overestimating our short-term capabilities. Many of us, especially in younger generations, lack the commitment to stick with something long enough to see real impact.

Consider ministry as an example—the average pastor stays at a church for just 3.6 years. It’s challenging to make a lasting impact in such a short time. This phenomenon isn't unique to ministry; it echoes in relationships and other aspects of life. We tend to bail out when things get tough instead of hanging in there for the long haul.

Looking Ahead to 2031

I challenge us to ask ourselves: Who could I be in 2031? If we commit now, trust in God, and stay the course, 60 months from now could reveal a drastically transformed version of ourselves. But what goals and aspirations should guide us from now until then?

Setting Goals for the Next Five Years

Let's consider some positive possibilities over the next five years. You could become fluent in a new language using tools like Duolingo. Attaining a degree or learning a trade, mastering a sport, or reading 60 books are all achievable targets with dedication and time. Let’s not forget about growing spiritually—spending time with God, memorizing scripture, or simply transforming your soul could create a profound shift in your life.

On the contrary, poor choices could result in negative outcomes: unresolved divorces, prison sentences, addictions, and financial troubles, all of which could develop over five years. The time between now and five years down the line is enough for significant change, either constructive or destructive.

The Ways You Let In

Consider the philosophy: "The ways you let in are the ways you are set in." Over the next five years, our decisions shape who we become. Our daily routines, how we handle conflict, manage money, and engage with others speak volumes about our values and priorities. These patterns, once ingrained, define our character.

Regular, small actions often surpass brief bursts of intense effort. A study on sunscreen use illustrates this beautifully. Individuals who practiced daily, consistent care—applying low SPF sunscreen regularly—looked significantly less aged than those who used high SPF sporadically. Life works similarly; consistent effort trumps short-lived intensity.

The Future You: A Mirror of the Present

As you ponder the future, remember that it's a reflection and amplification of the present. If you're kind now, you'll likely become kinder. If you're disciplined, those habits will deepen. Conversely, negativity intensifies too. To cultivate a future you’re proud of, make choices today that align with where you want to be.

Commit to Continued Growth

Conclude this exploration with resilience and hope. This series invites you to engage fully with each message. Approach it with measured determination rather than hurried enthusiasm. Understand that substantial, meaningful change takes time and consistency.

Finally, recognize life’s brevity and importance. Decide today who you want to become, and start living intentionally. Amen.

Let us pray: Father God, thank you for your word, which guides every aspect of our lives. Help us apply what we've learned to make decisions that glorify and honor you. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.