I am not a fan of new year’s resolutions. They are either quickly forgotten, and therefore useless, or they are not met and lead to needless disappointment. Instead, I believe in setting intentions and expectations, rather than specific goals or resolutions, and to set them daily rather than annually.
Nevertheless, there is something useful about this annual milestone of a new year to take inventory of what you set out to accomplish. Did I live my most authentic life this year? Did I achieve my personal health goals? Did I achieve my professional goals? Did I follow through on my intentions?
Much like birthdays and anniversaries, the turn of a calendar is an opportunity to “renew” your intentions and expectations. As you look back over last year, do you see a process of change for the better in your thoughts, attitudes, and actions?
Ephesians 4:22-24 (NLT) “22throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23Instead, let the spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.24Put on your new nature created to be like God-truly righteous and holy.”
Our old way of life before we believed in Christ is completely in the past. We should put it behind us like old clothes to be thrown away. We are not to be driven by desire and impulse. We must put on the new role, head in the new direction, and have the new way of thinking that the Holy Spirit gives. This is both a once for all decision when we decide to accept Christ’s gift of salvation and a daily conscious commitment.
Living the Christian life is a process. Although we have a new nature, we don’t automatically think all good thoughts and express all the right attitudes when we become new people in Christ. But, if we keep listening to God, we will be changing all the time. Although change may be slow, it comes as you trust God to change you.
Psalm 23:3 (NLT) “He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to His name.”
