Every year I begin with this message related to goals and resolutions. I’m always surprised at the number of people who speak ill about making resolutions. The discussion is usually focused on how resolutions always fail. Many say that it seems wrong, or at least unwise, to set goals when you are just being set up for failure. While I agree that making resolutions carries a risk of perceived failure, I would also make the case that attempting some resolutions can be a grand adventure; and some resolutions may actually be accomplished.
Last year I announced a goal to run 1509 miles in 2013. I started the year on a good pace but then toward the end of January our daughter was diagnosed with an advanced stage of ovarian cancer. Running became more difficult to manage in between trips to the hospital and the 24/7 care required with chemotherapy. However, having the goal gave me the motivation to run when my natural tendency would have been to just sit and cry. Getting away for a run turned out to be excellent therapy during a difficult time.
Then in March I became involved with a bike ride for the American Cancer Society. The ride took place in July but my training began in April. The result was an additional goal of 3000 bike miles for 2013. I completed my running miles on Christmas day and my biking miles a few days before New Years. Yes, I believe that goals, resolutions, can be useful.
But there is a type of resolution which carries much more significance than running or biking; definitive things we can do which have eternal significance. Jesus said it well as He admonished the Pharisees: “You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. First clean the inside…and then the outside also will be clean” (Matthew 23:25-26). Most of us make resolutions which are focused in some way on the external, things like exercise or diet. Few resolve to make the more important changes.
The Bible speaks about the initial transformation which occurs when we become a “new creation” in Christ. We call this initial transformation Salvation, and it is ALL by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). But the Bible also speaks about the on-going transformation as we draw closer to God and achieve the peace and contentment found only in His presence. This is a process called sanctification.
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Bible reading would make a great resolution for 2014. If you began a plan last year but did not finish, please do not be discouraged. Rather, consider what you accomplished and simply continue. It really makes no difference if you finish the Bible in one year or in two or three. But a habit of reading and studying God’s Word can make a lasting transformation in our life.
There are several reading plans posted on my web site at:
http://gdwm.org/index.php/resources/
There are many other eternal types of resolutions. So on our list of things to do differently this year – our list of resolutions – I pray we include more time with God in prayer, more time in His Word, more time loving Him with ALL our heart, seeking His presence, and earnestly desiring to know, and do, His will. Let our prayer for one another be that we draw ever closer to our Heavenly Father and experience His love new and fresh every day. In this new year, let’s make eternal resolutions as we resolve to be transformed!
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries
