Well, it’s about that time of year again when resolutions all across the country are being broken. Packed on the 1st week of January, local and franchised gyms are losing clients in droves. Diets are being compromised with, “oh, just one cookie won’t hurt.” Credit cards are being taken back out of desk drawers to be used for just one little must have. Someone is bumming “just one” cigarette off of a friend.
I have a theory as to why it is difficult to keep New Year’s Resolutions. Because they shouldn’t be made in the first place!
Now, hear me out. I’m not saying resolutions shouldn’t be made. I’m saying you shouldn’t wait until New Year’s Day to make them. When you choose to wait to make positive changes in your life, you are essentially making a statement as to the importance of such a change. And that statement is that that change is not important enough to make in the here and now.
Let’s take a look at the definition of resolution: a firm decision to do or not to do something.
A resolution is a good thing if you have a habit that is detrimental to your health, relationships, finances, etc. But, is it really a firm, good, quality decision if you choose to wait to make the change? I’m not saying it’s impossible, but why wait? Good, life-changing decisions should be made the moment you realize they need to be made. It should not be put off. Waiting until the New Year does not make for a firm, quality decision. Now, in this moment, is the time to grow.
I would encourage you to read Romans 12 regularly and resolve, now, to live daily what is prescribed in this chapter. Renew your mind daily in God’s Word and how he says you should live, not just in the New Year, but all the time. Do what His Word says and everything else will fall into place.
“Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship. And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you]…”
“Love is to be sincere and active [the real thing—without guile and hypocrisy]. Hate what is evil [detest all ungodliness, do not tolerate wickedness]; hold on tightly to what is good. Be devoted to one another with [authentic] brotherly affection [as members of one family], give preference to one another in honor; never lagging behind in diligence; aglow in the Spirit, enthusiastically serving the Lord; constantly rejoicing in hope [because of our confidence in Christ], steadfast and patient in distress, devoted to prayer [continually seeking wisdom, guidance, and strength], contributing to the needs of God’s people, pursuing [the practice of] hospitality. Bless those who persecute you [who cause you harm or hardship]; bless and do not curse [them]. Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others’ grief]. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty [conceited, self-important, exclusive], but associate with humble people [those with a realistic self-view]. Do not overestimate yourself. Never repay anyone evil for evil. Take thought for what is right and gracious and proper in the sight of everyone. If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for God’s wrath [and His judicial righteousness]; for it is written [in Scripture], ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord. ‘But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome and conquered by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12: 1-2; 9-21 AMP
“I have never heard anything about the resolutions of the apostles, but a good deal about their acts.” Og Mandino
In His Service,
Rebecca Hamilton, Founder/ Executive Director
For Every Great Battle, There is a Great Victory!!