A new year means new opportunities for God to do great things in our lives. But excuses and lack of dedication stand in the way of where we currently are and where we feel like God wants us to be. It all stems from fear, doubt (especially self-doubt) and laziness. We’d like to encourage you to face the excuses you come up with and take a step forward into what He has for you. The justifications and blame we have for others keep us from where God wants us to be (Proverbs 26:13). A good excuse can keep you from God’s call on your life (Exodus 4:1; 10- 17; Luke 9:59-60). When we make excuses, we miss out (Luke 9:61-62; Matthew 19:20-22)! Great things never come from comfort zones, and there are things that we hold onto — an attitude, relationship, possession, etc. — that hold us back. God invites us to intentionally ask what He wants us to do — and we must take the time to then listen closely.