I Am Resolved!

Do you make resolutions or set goals every year?

Percentages show that most people start strong but never finish what they resolve to do. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the word resolve as ‘to decide firmly on a course of action’. The start of a new year is always a great time to evaluate and reassess how far we have come, and where we would like to be. What actions or behaviors do you feel need more attention and improvement? Every year I try to set realistic goals to cover these 3 main areas:

1. Spiritual/Emotional
2. Physical
3. Professional

It seems that most people try to better themselves by setting goals for weight loss, eating right, exercise, enhancing productivity, getting a raise or increasing sales. But what about your spiritual wellness? Oftentimes our spiritual health gets pushed to the back burner as we focus on the outward goals that others can see. These spiritual goals may seem less dramatic, but in the long run, these are the things that will make the biggest impact! Maybe you want to set a goal to read the Bible through in a year. I would have to say that this was absolutely the most impactful goal I have ever achieved! Maybe you want to set a goal to attend church more, commit to getting baptized or start tithing. Maybe you need to become more forgiving or want to join a small group to establish a community of people who believe as you do.

I think the key is to keep it simple and to write it down. We all have a million things we would like to improve, but you will be more successful if you stick to just a few main goals. Make a list of each goal and revisit them at the end of each month. If you fail to meet your goal, the end of the month is a great time to re-evaluate and readjust in order to start again. Don’t give up altogether – just give yourself a do over!

Like the words from the Old Hymn – I Am Resolved

I am resolved no longer to linger
          Charmed by the world’s delight;
          Things that are higher, things that are nobler,
          These have allured my sight.

God’s Word instructs us to keep changing, and to “Never give up. Eagerly follow the Holy Spirit and serve the Lord”. (Rom. 12:11)  Don’t linger when it comes to spiritual growth. Keep striving to make positive progress in your Christian walk.

What are your goals for this year? How can I help encourage you? This is a NEW YEAR! Today is a new day! I am so excited for 2019.  Let’s support each other and help make this our best year yet!