FLUSHING – As we enter 2025, it’s easy to let it arrive before we’ve truly prepared for what’s ahead. At the Baptist State Convention of Michigan (BSCM), we’re not only looking forward to the opportunities God has in store, but are also committed to moving forward to see His plans fulfilled. If we want to experience everything God has for us, we must do more than look ahead—we must take active steps of faith to move ahead into His purpose.

Looking Forward

The Bible reminds us in Jeremiah 29:11:

“For I know the plans I have for you”—this is the Lord’s declaration—“plans for your well-being, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

God has incredible plans for us, plans that we may not even fully understand yet. As we look forward, we need to seek His direction for our churches and ministries. Together, we have the opportunity to advance the Gospel in ways that transform lives, communities, and even nations.

At the BSCM, we are committed to helping churches take their next step to accelerate Gospel movement. But this cannot happen without seeking God first. I invite you to join me in prayer, asking God to reveal His plans and to give us the wisdom and courage to follow His leading. What role is God calling your church to play in this greater movement? How can we, together, embrace His vision to make disciples and spread the Gospel to every corner of Michigan and beyond?

Moving Forward

Looking forward is vital, but it is not enough. We must also be willing to take intentional steps toward what God is calling us to do. James 1:22 challenges us:

“But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” The time for action is now.

In 2025 we want to provide opportunities for churches to:

• Build Kingdom Bridges: Collaborate with other churches and partners to strengthen Gospel unity and advance God’s mission together.

• Pursue Focus: Embrace who God is uniquely calling your church to be, rather than trying to replicate another church’s strategy or vision.

• Normalize Sentness: Actively participate in sharing the Gospel boldly near and far around the world and planting churches everywhere for everyone in a world in desperate need of the hope of the Gospel.

God’s call on our lives and our churches is not passive—it demands that we act. This means embracing both the opportunities and the challenges ahead, trusting that He is working through us as we step out in faith.

What Is Your Next Move?

What is God calling you and your church to do in the days ahead? Are you willing to do more than just see the vision? Will you take the steps to make it a reality?

Together, we can accomplish far more than we could ever achieve alone. By building strong relationships grounded in the Gospel, we can partner effectively to see God’s Kingdom advance. The Gospel unites us in mission, reminding us that we are one body with one purpose: to proclaim Christ to a lost and dying world.

As we move into 2025, let’s commit to seeking God’s vision, taking bold action, and partnering together to accomplish His work. The future is bright because it is held by the One who is faithful. Let’s move forward with confidence, trusting that He will guide us every step of the way.

Are you ready to look forward and move forward? Let’s take this journey together—advancing Gospel mov