By: Minister Teloman Areto

Framing Our Theme and Focal Verse for the Year 

Every year, we set a spiritual focus to guide our journey as a church family. This year’s theme, "Rooted in Virtues: A Year of Spiritual Practice," is more than just a slogan—it is a commitment to developing a faith that is strong, unwavering, and nourished by the Word of God.

Our theme is built upon Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NASB), which reminds us of the blessings that come when we anchor our lives in trust and confidence in the Lord:
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, And whose trust is the Lord. For he will be like a tree planted by the water That extends its roots by a stream, And does not fear when the heat comes; But its leaves will be green, And it will not be anxious in a year of drought, Nor cease to yield fruit.”

To fully embrace this journey, we are rallying around the powerful call to Go Deep! Grow Deep! Stay Rooted! These three phrases frame our spiritual pursuit and serve as guideposts for how we will live out our faith this year.

Go Deep! – A Call to Intentional Study and Commitment 

When we say, "Go Deep!" we are challenging ourselves to go beyond surface-level faith. Too often, we settle for familiarity with Scripture rather than deep, transformative engagement. Going deep means immersing ourselves in God’s Word, studying with purpose, and seeking divine wisdom.

Why Going Deep Matters

Many believers struggle with spiritual inconsistency because they have not built a foundation rooted in true understanding. Jesus addressed this in Matthew 7:24-27, comparing those who hear His words but do not apply them to a house built on sand—easily destroyed by the storms of life. But those who dig deep and build on solid rock can withstand trials and challenges.
 
Going deep is about intentionality—reading the Bible with expectation, praying with faith, and pursuing God with a hunger for more. When we commit to going deeper, we shift from passive Christianity to active discipleship.

Ways to Go Deep This Year

 Dedicate Time for Study – Set aside intentional moments to read, meditate, and reflect on God’s Word.

Engage in Theological Reflection – Ask questions, seek understanding, and don’t be afraid to wrestle with Scripture.

Develop a Strong Prayer Life – Prayer isn’t just about requests; it’s a two-way conversation with God.

Surround Yourself with Strong Faith Community – Join Bible studies, engage in discussions, and learn from others.

Be Willing to Be Challenged – Let God stretch your faith by stepping outside of your comfort zone.

Grow Deep! – A Call to Transformation and Maturity

Going deep in faith is only the beginning. Once we root ourselves in the Word, we must grow deep. This speaks to spiritual transformation—allowing the truths of God to change the way we think, act, and live.

Why Growing Deep Matters

Spiritual maturity is not about knowing more Scripture—it’s about living it out. James 1:22 (NASB) instructs us, “But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves.”

If we study the Bible but don’t let it shape our decisions, attitudes, and actions, we remain spiritually stagnant. Growth is marked by how we apply what we learn. As we internalize God’s truth, it should begin to show in how we love, serve, and reflect Christ in our daily lives.

Ways to Grow Deep This Year

Practice the Virtues of Christ – Love, patience, humility, kindness, and self-control should define us.

Develop a Heart of Obedience – Follow God’s Word even when it’s difficult or inconvenient.

Embrace Accountability – Let others speak into your life and challenge you to grow.

Let Trials Strengthen You – See hardships as opportunities to deepen your trust in God.

Invest in Spiritual Disciplines – Fasting, solitude, worship, and generosity all contribute to growth.

Stay Rooted! – A Call to Perseverance and Unshakable Faith

It’s one thing to start strong in faith—it’s another to endure. Staying rooted means remaining firm in Christ, no matter what comes our way.

Why Staying Rooted Matters

Jeremiah 17:8 tells us that those who trust in the Lord are like a tree planted by the water—never afraid of drought and always bearing fruit. This is the kind of faith we must cultivate—one that remains steadfast even in difficulty.

Life will test our faith. Challenges will come. Culture will shift. Doubt may try to creep in. But when we are deeply rooted in God’s truth, we will not be shaken.

Ways to Stay Rooted This Year

Hold Fast to God’s Promises – Meditate on His Word daily and let it anchor your faith.

Refuse to Let Circumstances Define Your Faith – Trials will come, but they do not change who God is.

Maintain a Heart of Worship – Praise keeps your spirit aligned with God’s presence.

Strengthen Your Spiritual Endurance – Consistency in prayer, fasting, and devotion helps build resilience.

Pass On Your Faith – Discipleship keeps your roots strong by investing in others.

A Year of Spiritual Depth, Growth, and Stability

This year is a journey toward deeper, stronger, and more resilient faith. Through the practice of virtues and the intentional pursuit of God’s presence, we are building a spiritual foundation that can withstand any season.

Go Deep! – Commit to intentional study and an unwavering pursuit of God’s truth.

Grow Deep! – Allow God’s Word to transform you and shape your character.

Stay Rooted! – Stand firm in your faith, no matter what challenges arise.

As we move forward in Rooted in Virtues: A Year of Spiritual Practice, let us take hold of Jeremiah 17:7-8 and live as those whose roots run deep in Christ. May we be like trees planted by the water, unshaken, fruitful, and full of life.

Final Reflection

How will you Go Deep, Grow Deep, and Stay Rooted this year? What steps will you take to strengthen your faith, deepen your relationship with God, and walk in spiritual maturity? This is your time to go beyond the surface and cultivate a faith that is deeply rooted in Christ.

Let’s go deep. Let’s grow deep. Let’s stay rooted.