Nicholas Rowe

As most of us speak and write English, the word "fix" can be understood in a couple of different ways. Typically, at this time of year end, we think about New Year's resolutions-fixing things that are broken or need mending, like our weight or our work/school schedules. However, the problem with those types of resolutions is that they often only last until the middle of February or June 2026 or, nothing at all. Sad.

Getting back to the Bible, there is a more biblical way to use the word "fix." We must use it in the sense of anchoring something or making it steadfast, like our church building screen fixed securely to a wall. To succeed spiritually in the coming year, we cannot afford to be unstable or double-minded; we must ensure we are fastened securely in four specific areas.

1. Fixed Eyes on Jesus

Our spiritual stability begins with a fixed gaze on Christ. As the Hebrew writer exhorts, "Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus" Heb. 12:1-2. This phrase "looking to" implies a steady, fixed gaze. Just as a runner must focus on the finish line rather than looking back at other runners to succeed, we must keep our attention on the Lord.

We see a powerful example of this in Peter. He walked on the water as long as he looked at Jesus, but as soon as he looked at the boisterous wind, he began to sink, Matt. 14:30. In 2026, we must keep our eyes fixed on Him to walk over the storms of this life:

2. Fixed Hands to the Plow

Once our eyes are set, our hands must be busy with His work. Jesus demands a radical commitment, stating in Luke 9:62, "No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God". A plow is a tool of work, representing the difficult, diligent labor required in evangelism, benevolence, and edification. If a farmer looks back while plowing, the row becomes crooked. Similarly, our service in the Kingdom must be diligent and focused, not looking back at the world. We must remain "steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" 1 Cor. 15:58.

3. Fixed Minds on Doctrine

Activity without knowledge is dangerous. We must have our minds fixed in the doctrine of Christ. Paul instructs us to "Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth" Col. 3:2. This is a deliberate act of the will to refuse to let the world squeeze us into its mold. We must "gird up the loins of our mind" 1 Pet. 1:13, preparing for action with a disciplined mind filled with Scripture. As Psalm 57:7 says, "My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed".

4. Fixed Hope on Heaven

Finally, we must fix our hope on the ultimate reward. This is what keeps us going when the work is hard and the world is hostile. The Hebrew writer describes this hope as "an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast" Heb. 6:19.

Our anchor is not dropped into the shifting sands of this world, but fixed in the unchanging blessing of heaven. This assurance allows us to endure trials without wavering.

To conclude, this is our blueprint for the new year, brethren: Eyes fixed on Jesus, Hands fixed to the plow, Minds fixed on the Word, and Hope fixed on Heaven. However, if you have not yet obeyed the Gospel, your first "fix" needs to be your foundation: Believing, Repenting, and being Baptized (Immersion) into Christ to have your sins washed away.