Jesus calls us to live a worthy life that reflects the high price He paid for our salvation. Through His letters to the seven churches in Revelation, we see the dangers of spiritual lukewarmness and compromise that threaten our faith. The church in Laodicea thought they were rich but were actually spiritually poor, while churches like Pergamum and Thyatira struggled with tolerating sin. In contrast, the faithful churches of Smyrna and Philadelphia persevered through suffering and persecution by keeping God's Word and never denying His name. Living worthily means inviting Jesus into every area of our lives, maintaining biblical boundaries while loving others, and growing in spiritual maturity while keeping childlike faith.

As we enter a new year, consider making your primary resolution to continually seek Jesus in everything you do. Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that Jesus expects from His followers, not as an optional practice but as a regular part of discipleship. The biblical principle is simple: deny your body to feed your soul by abstaining from food while dedicating that time to prayer and seeking God. Fasting creates breakthrough in areas where we feel spiritually stuck, provides protection from spiritual strongholds, and opens our hearts to receive God's vision and direction. Start small with one meal and use that time intentionally for prayer and connection with God.

Jesus outlined his mission statement by reading from Isaiah, declaring he came to bring good news to the poor, freedom to prisoners, sight to the blind, and to proclaim God's favor. This reveals that God with us means we can be with God, but we must first recognize our spiritual poverty and need for him. Jesus offers freedom from whatever controls us - fear, pride, addictions, or other bondage. He opens our spiritual eyes to see that our real battle isn't against people but spiritual forces. The Year of Jubilee is no longer a date but a person - Jesus himself - who cancels our debts and resets our lives.