As we come to the close of one season and step into another, our hearts are full of gratitude and expectation. At Cord of 3, we’ve spent the past year living out the theme of “Pass the Baton.” It’s been a year marked by powerful stories of faith being shared, legacies being built, and generations walking together toward Christ. We’ve seen parents pour into their children, mentors invest in those younger in the faith, and counselors guide hearts through healing.

But now, God is calling us higher.

As we look ahead to 2026, we believe it’s time to Raise the Bar. This isn’t just a new theme—it’s a divine invitation. Rooted in Philippians 3:14 (KJV): “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus,” this call is clear: We’re not done growing. We’re not finished becoming. The prize is ahead, and we are called to press in, press on, and press higher.

This year, we want to walk with you—your family, your children, your marriage, your spiritual walk—as you raise the bar in your own life. God is not looking for a misguided idea of perfectionism; He is looking for surrender, hunger, and willingness. And in this first quarter of 2026, we are inviting you into a deeper journey of raising the bar spiritually. We’ll be focusing on three simple but powerful truths:

1. Examine Yourself (Psalm 26:2)

“Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.”

Everything starts here. Not with striving, but with surrender.

David’s prayer in Psalm 26:2 is raw and real. He doesn’t hide his heart—he opens it before God and says, “Search me.” That takes courage. It takes humility. And it’s the very first step in raising the bar.

We encourage you to take this time to sit before the Lord—not with shame or fear, but with faith that He longs to transform you. Ask Him:

● Is there anything in me that grieves Your heart?

● Am I growing in my love for You and others?

● Are there areas I’ve settled for less than what You’ve called me to?

● What have I stopped believing You can change?

The truth is: God is gentle, but He is also holy. He loves you too much to let you stay where you are. As a family, consider setting aside a time this month to pray together and invite God to examine your home. What is shaping your values? Your habits? Your conversations?

This isn’t about guilt. It’s about grace. Let the Holy Spirit speak—and respond.

2. Set Spiritual Goals (Hebrews 6:1)

“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection…”

Once God reveals where you are, the next question becomes: where is He calling you?

We set goals for so many things in life—our health, our finances, our careers. But have you ever asked, “Lord, what do You want me to pursue spiritually this year?”

Hebrews 6:1 challenges us to leave the basics and go on to maturity. That doesn’t mean abandoning the foundation of the Gospel—it means building on it. Growing in it. Becoming more like Christ in word, in deed, and in heart.

Some goals to consider:

● Deepening your prayer life—not just praying more, but praying with purpose.

● Learning to read and meditate on God’s Word as a family.

● Choosing one area where obedience is hard—and surrendering it.

● Being consistent in church, small group, or service.

● Letting go of old wounds and choosing forgiveness.

Spiritual goals aren’t about performance; they are about pursuit. As a family, talk together. What are we chasing? What is God calling us toward? What steps can we take—this week—to respond?

3. Take the Next Step Spiritually (Proverbs 16:3)

“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.”

Vision without action is just a dream. God isn’t just calling us to reflect and plan—He’s calling us to move.

Maybe the next step for you is joining a Bible study, finding a mentor, seeking help for your marriage, or setting aside time to pray with your spouse. Maybe it’s having hard but holy conversations with your children. Maybe it’s following through with baptism, joining a Bible-believing church, beginning the journey of discipleship with an older Christian, or simply coming back to the Lord after a season of distance.

Whatever your next step is, don’t put it off. Proverbs 16:3 reminds us that when we commit our actions to the Lord, He will establish our thoughts. Often, clarity comes after obedience.

Here at Cord of 3, we’re walking this journey with you. Our counselors, our team, our programs—they’re all here to help you and your family take your next step in faith, healing, and spiritual growth. You are not alone. We are a community—and together, we rise.

The invitation to Raise the Bar is not a demand—it’s a gift. It’s a call to more of Him. To a deeper love. To a stronger faith. To a life that reflects His glory.

Let this year be different. Not because you try harder—but because you surrender more. Let God search your heart, stir your spirit, and lead your steps.

We believe in you. We’re here for you. And we know that as we press toward the mark together, God will do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we ask or think.