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Personal Preparation Guide - Getting Your House In Order - Final

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''GETTING OUR HOUSE IN ORDER'' 8 Overview & Schedule OBJECTIVE

To equip, empower, and encourage members to enhance their spiritual, financial, relational, and physical health in both their personal lives and in the life of ZBC. STRATEGY

Throughout 2026, sermons, resources, materials, courses, conferences, and mission and ministry events will provide opportunities and learning experiences for members to improve their spiritual, financial, relational, and physical health. Ql. 2026 EVENTS

January 3: Sacred Assembly Kickoff for the 2026 Season of Prayer Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 Noon

January 5-9: Week of Personal Reflection, Evaluation & Preparation Focus: First Steps to Getting Your House in Order in 2026 Members are encouraged to dedicate this week to reflection and evaluation of their personal spiritual, financial, relational, and physical health. Identify areas for enhancement in each of these categories using the personal PREP Guide. Guide can be downloaded. Limited hard copies can be purchased.

January 11: Weekly Life Group Studies Begin Focus: Financial Health Members are encouraged to join a weekly (Small) Life Group to pray together and share insights from the devotional study: 40 Day Spiritual Journey to a More Generous Life. Devotional study guide can be downloaded. Limited hard copies can also be purchased.

January 16: Prayer Vigil (Noon & Evening) Members and ministries gather for a time of corporate prayer.


Getting ""Your"" House in Order PERSONAL PREPARATION GUIDE

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

This guide helps you prepare for the church-wide emphasis on "Getting Our House in Order" which will focus on enhancing the spiritual , financial, rel ational, and physical health of members in 2026. By identifying areas for improvement at the start of the year, you'll set the stage for a transformative journey throughout 2026.

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

I. Daily Commitment - Time: Set aside 15-20 minutes each day.

II. Daily Activity Format 1. Begin with Prayer: Seeking God's guidance for your journey 2. Scripture: Focus on the day's scripture 3. Devotional Thought: Connect the scripture to your life 4. Reflection Questions: Meditate and record your thoughts and insights 5. Assessment Exercise: Evaluate your current status 6. Action Item: Identify areas for improvement in 2026

HELPFUL TIPS

Be Consistent: Follow the daily format. Reflect and Record: Keep notes or a journal. Take Action: Complete the daily exercises. Partner Up: Consider doing this with a spouse, family members, or accountability partner.


DAY ONE

MONDAY, JANUARY 5, 2026

My Spiritual Health SCRIPTURE

''But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." - Matthew 6:33 (NIV) D

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Finding Fulfillment in God's Promises Jesus invites us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, promising that all our needs will be met. This call challenges us to prioritize our relationship with God above all earthly concerns, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from aligning our hearts with His will. When we focus on God's Kingdom, our worries diminish, and we find peace in His provision and guidance. REFLECTION

1. What does seeking God's Kingdom first look like in your daily life?

2. Are there specific areas where you find it challenging to trust in God's provision?

3. How can you adjust your priorities to align more closely with God's righteousness? ASS SSM

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Complete the following Personal Spiritual Health Self-Assessment below to assess where you are spiritually.


ASSESSMENT EXERCISE

( Scoring:

Rate each question on the provided scale (1 = Needs Much Attention, 5 = No Attention Needed).

CATECiORY 1, CONNECT

I read the bible, pray and meditate daily:

1

2

3

4

5

I regularly seek guidance of the Holy Spirit in making decisions:

1

2

3

4

5

I participate in a Life Group (e.g. Small Group or Sunday School):

1

2

3

4

5

I actively participate in opportunities provided for spiritual growth:

1

2

3

4

5

I am aware of my spiritual gifts and how they impact Zion:

1

2

3

4

5

I have recognized spiritual growth in my life over the past year:

1

2

3

4

5

I tithe regularly, sacrificially and cheerfully:

1

2

3

4

5

I actively use my spiritual gifts to serve others:

1

2

3

4

5

I have exercised faith by stepping out of my comfort zone:

1

2

3

4

5

I actively share my God story (testimony) with others:

1

2

3

4

5

I invite others to attend Zion services or spiritual activities:

1

2

3

4

5

CATECiORY 2. CiROW

CATECiORY 3. SERVE

CATECiORY 4, CiO

MY THREE LOWEST SCORING AREAS TO FOCUS ON:

1.

2. 3. TODAY'S ACTION ITEM

Based on your assessment, identify specific improvements you will commit to improving in 2026.


DAY TWO

TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2026

My Financial Health SCRIPTURE

"The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it." - Psalm 24:1 (NIV) DEVOTIONAi TMOUG

T

The Foundation of Faithful Stewardship Today, we focus on Financial Health. Just as Isaiah urged King Hezekiah to "set his house in order," we must evaluate our stewardship of the resources God has given us. Every dollar belongs to God; we are not owners but managers of His gifts. This perspective transforms our approach to spending, saving, and giving, infusing them with eternal significance. Before building, we must assess our situation. Let today be about honest evaluation-free from judgment or shame, but rooted in a clear understanding of our financial standing. REFLECTION

1. How do you view money-as something you own or something you manage for God?

2. What emotions arise when you think about examining your finances closely?

3. What would it mean for your financial decisions if you truly believed every dollar belongs to God?

TODAY'S ACTION ITEM

Based on your assessment, identify specific improvements you will commit to improving in 2026.

FINANCIAL HEALTH SELF-ASSESSMENT

�structions: Rate yourself from 1 (needs significant work) to 5 (excellent). To accurately complete this exercise, Lu may need to gather your financial statements: bank accounts, credit cards, loans, and investment accounts.


FINANCIAL HEALTH SELF-ASSESSMENT

SECTION 1: BANKINCi & CASH FLOW

1. I follow a written budget or spending plan:

2

3

4

5

2. I am living within my means (not depending on credit cards):

2

3

4

5

3. I have an emergency fund of 3-6 months expenses:

2

3

4

5

1. I know my credit score:

2

3

4

5

2. I know the total amount of debt I owe:

2

3

4

5

3. I have a plan to pay off my debt:

2

3

4

5

4. I pay my credit cards in full each month:

2

3

4

5

1. I put money into a savings account each month:

2

3

4

5

2. I make regular contributions to retirement accounts:

2

3

4

5

1. I have a current, valid will:

2

3

4

5

2. My beneficiary designations are up to date:

2

3

4

5

2

3

4

5

SECTION 2: DEBT & CREDIT

SECTION 3: INVESTINCi & RETIREMENT

SECTION 4: ESTATE PLANNINCi

SECTION S: INSURANCE & PROTECTION

1. I have adequate life insurance for my family's needs:

___ /85

TOTAL SCORE:

SCORING GUIDE 68-85: Excellent foundation

51-67: Good progress

MY THREE LOWEST SCORING AREAS TO FOCUS ON:

1. 2.

3.

34-50: Building fundamentals

17-33: Starting out


DAY THREE

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2026

My Relational Health "Don'tjust pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good." - Romans 12:9 (NLV) DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT CHECK YOUR RELATIONSHIPS! Healthy relationships require intention and authentic investment, often needing adjustments. God established the importance of relationships, emphasizing community when He noted that it wasn't good for man to be alone. As believers, we are designed to foster healthy connections-with God and others. Relationships are diverse, shaped by unique personalities, and span family, friends, neighbors, and co­ workers. Each needs intentional care, with love as the common thread. Healthy relationships demand time, effort, and regular evaluation; neglect can lead to erosion, while nurturing strengthens bonds. Authenticity and vulnerability are key, supported by Scripture: "Speak truthfully to your neighbor" (Ephesians 4:25). Without truth, relationships become unstable. Moreover, as we mature, we may need to adjust boundaries, extend forgiveness, or accept changes, as advised in Ephesians 4:32. Some relationships may need refining or may naturally close. Ultimately, our goal is to honor God by walking in truth and love. As you move forward this year, prayerfully assess your relationships. Establish clear standards and realistic expectations. Commit to authenticity-both giving it and allowing it.

"Lord, search my heart and guide me in truth. Show me where growth is needed, where healing is required, and where love must be more sincere. Help me to build relationships that honor You and reflect Your grace."

TODAY'S ACTION ITEM

Based on your assessment, identify specific improvements you will commit to improving in 2026.

RELATIONAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT

Complete the Relational Health Self-Assessment below.

J


RELATIONAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT

Instructions: Rate yourself based on how often these statements are true for you. Be transparent (Psalm 139:23). 1: Never 2: Rarely 3: Often 4: Always

I

I

I

]

CATEGORY 1: DEVELOPING NEW RELATIONSHIPS

1. I actively seek opportunities to make new friends:

2

3

4

2. I find it easy to connect with members of Zion:

2

3

4

3. I participate in gatherings and events to build new relationships:

2

3

4

1. I spend quality time with my family regularly:

2

3

4

2. I invest time in building relationships with church members outside of services:

2

3

4

3. My words and actions reflect love, grace, and humility:

2

3

4

4. I feel comfortable sharing my thoughts and feelings with family and friends:

2

3

4

1. I actively seek to reconcile with family, church members & friends:

2

3

4

2. I practice forgiveness to resolve misunderstandings and conflicts:

2

3

4

3. I believe that others find me approachable:

2

3

4

CATEGORY 2: PRESERVING & STRENGTHENING RELATIONSHIPS

CATEGORY 3: HEALING & RESTORING RELATIONSHIPS

REFLECTION CHECK:

MY THREE LOWEST SCORING AREAS TO FOCUS ON:

1.

2. 3.

Review your "1" and "2" responses for goal setting.


DAY FOUR

THURSDAY, JANUARY 8, 2026

My Physical Health SCRIPTURE

"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." - I Corinthians 6:19-20 (NLV) DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

This scripture reminds us that our bodies are sacred temples of the Holy Spirit. As stewards of these temples, we have a profound responsibility to care for and respect our physical health. Being good stewards means recognizing that our bodies are gifts from God, deserving of intentional care and nurturing. Your body is a temple - the actual dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. Consider how your daily health decisions (e.g. good nourishment, regular exercise and proper rest} reflect your stewardship of the body God entrusted to you. PRAYER Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible gift of my body, a temple of Your Holy Spirit. Help me to treat it with the respect and care it deserves. Guide my choices toward health, and let my actions reflect my gratitude for the life You've given me. May I approach my physical well-being with mindfulness and compassion, recognizing its importance in my spiritual journey. Amen.

TODAY'S ACTION ITEM

Based on your assessment, identify specific improvements you will commit to improving in 2026.

PHYSICAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT

Complete the Physical Health Self-Assessment below.

J


PHYSICAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT

CATEGORY 1. GENERAL HEALTH

How often do you visit your healthcare provider for routine check-ups? Never

Twice a year

Once a year

More often

Do you have any chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)? No

Yes

How would you rate your overall health on a scale from 1 to 10? (1 = Poor, 10 = Excellent) 4

3

2

5

6

7

CATEGORY 2. PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

How many days per week do you engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity?

L

0

1-2

3-4

5 or more

On average, how long do you participate in physical activity each day?

L

30-60 mins

< 30 mins

> 60 mins

Do you incorporate strength training exercises into your routine? L

Yes

No

Occasionally

CATEGORY 3. NUTRITION

How many servings of fruits and vegetables do you consume daily?

L

0

1-2

3-4

5 or more

How often do you consume fast food or processed meals?

L

Daily

A few times a week

Once a week

MY THREE LOWEST SCORING AREAS TO FOCUS ON:

1. 2. 3.

Rarely

8

9

10


DAY FIVE

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026

My Commitment SCRIPTURE

"Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this." - Proverbs 37:5 (NLV) DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

As we step into 2026, it's essential to reflect on the power of commitment in our lives. Making a commitment is not merely a formality; it's a foundational step toward growth in our spiritual, financial, relational, and physical health. Real transformation happens when we step beyond our comfort zones. When we allow ourselves to be stretched and challenged, we discover new strengths, courage, and endurance that we never knew we had. Growth is seldom comfortable; it often requires us to confront obstacles and work through struggles. This process is not automatic; it demands our commitment to persevere. There is no neutral ground in our walk with Jesus. We are either progressing in our relationship with Him or drifting away. Jesus desires more than just our minimal effort; He invites us into a transformative journey. While He loves us as we are, His love compels us to pursue growth. He calls us to commit to higher levels of engagement in every area of our lives.

'

REFLECTION

What commitments are you willing to make this year to enhance your spiritual, financial, relational, and physical health? How can you hold yourself accountable?


FINAL STEPS

Action & Accountability TODAY'S ACTION ITEMS

Review: Re-examine each of the improvement objectives you identified for 2026 across all four D health areas.

D Share: Discuss your goals with family members or a close friend to establish a support system. D Pray: Seek God's heart regarding a formal commitment on Commitment Sunday, March 15, 2026.

MY 2026 ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER($) "SURROUNDING OURSELVES WITH SUPPORTIVE INDIVIDUALS WHO ENCOURAGE US CAN HELP US REMAIN STEADFAST.''

NAME:

NAME:

FINAL PREPARATION NOTES

''He loves us as we are, but His love compels us to pursue growth."


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