A Fresh Start and a Firm Foundation
As we launch out in 2026, I can sense both excitement and soberness across our city. We’re all looking at our neighborhoods and our congregations with renewed hope, eager to see how the Lord is going to move in Nashville this year. Yet, we know there will significant challenges ahead.
It’s a season for big dreams and bold prayers and breaking down walls. As we lean into the excitement of a new start, I want to remind us of a simple truth: our greatest leadership asset isn’t a fresh new strategy—it’s our total dependence on the One who called us.
Here’s some really great news, we don’t have to carry the weight of the results for the coming ministry year. Those belong to God. Our task is faithful obedience with full dependance. I’m continuing to pray this for myself and for you as this year begins; not that we just work for God, but that we would walk with Him.
I’ve been reflecting on some ancient petitions from The Valley of Vision that I believe are the perfect fuel for a pastor’s heart in January.
This comes from the entry New Year:
- Lord, give me thy grace to sanctify me. May our private walk with You be the source of our public ministry.
- Give me thy comforts to cheer. Let the joy of our salvation be our daily fuel when the work gets busy.
- Give me thy wisdom to teach. Grant us clarity as we proclaim Your Word to a city that needs it.
- Give me thy right hand to guide. Lead us as we lead others, keeping our feet on the right path and our hearts humble.
- Give me thy counsel to instruct. In every decision and meeting, may we hear Your voice above the noise.
- Give me thy law to judge. Keep us aligned with Your truth and centered on Your heart.
- Give me thy presence to stabilize. When the year brings its inevitable surprises, may Your peace be our anchor for my unsteady emotions.
I am genuinely excited about what is ahead for each of us. We have an incredible opportunity to see the Gospel flourish in our area. Let’s run this race with joy, knowing that the One who started this good work is faithful to complete it.
I’m honored to be in the trenches with you.
Grace,
Bob Bickford
Executive Director, Nashville Baptist Association