Ditching New Year’s Resolutions
By Laura Bailey
“But as for me, I watch in hope for the LORD, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.” - Micah 7:7 NIV
For as long as I can remember, the days between Christmas and New Year’s were spent evaluating the previous year and planning all the ways I would improve in the following year. I crafted a detailed list with goals, timelines, and rewards if I hit the target. Rarely did I just focus on one resolution. Instead, I filled every line on the paper with a new achievement. And every year around the first of February, exhausted, overwhelmed, and irritated, I threw my resolution in the trash and immediately penned another, this time, a more obtainable list–except it was just as ridiculous to maintain as the first one.
Last year, however, I decided to ditch the resolutions for good and focus on a word or Scripture for the year. Setting goals and working towards improving oneself isn’t a bad thing. But, we mustn’t let our identity be rooted in what we achieved ( or didn’t). This year I decided to focus on three words, Scripture, and prayer. My hope is to spend a few minutes each day to meditate and abide in Christ, using these words to prompt my quiet time.
Feel free to use the below phrases to encourage you this year, and remember, it’s not about what we do in 2023, but Whose glory we do it for.
Steadfast
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” -Psalm 51:10 NASB
Every day I am bombarded with decisions that beg for my attention. What will I eat? Will the kids play soccer or baseball? Do I need to get the roof checked? As I go about slaying my to-do list, I often forget to address the most critical decision of my day: will I choose to live a godly life?
A part of living a godly life is seeking daily redemption and renewal of my heart and mind so that I can be steadfast in the Lord. God graciously gives His Children a heart that yearns to love Him and a spirit of steadfast obedience. Before I go about our day, l take time to call on the name of the Lord and ask for a clean heart that flees from evil and a right spirit that glorifies God in all I do.
Lord, I pray that you will give me a steadfast spirit that aches to choose to live for you faithfully. Amen.
Pleasing
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” -Romans 12:1
Growing up, one of my favorite restaurants had the slogan, “we aim to please.” It’s the service industry; shouldn’t they always aim to please? But I’d missed the point. The restaurant wasn’t desiring a one-and-done transaction but providing a pleasurable experience that would lead to a lasting relationship.
How often do I treat my relationship with God like a transaction to be completed before moving on to the next thing? God finds great pleasure in the relationships with His Children. I can worship and honor the Lord by simply abiding in Him.
Lord, may I live in a way that is holy and pleasing to you. Amen.
Power
“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” - Ephesians 6:10 NIV
During the last few weeks before the birth of my first child, the doctor encouraged me to prepare both physically and mentally for my daughter’s arrival. I began to tailor my workouts to focus on the muscles that helped deliver. However, mentally, I was anxious. I confessed to my husband, “I just don't have the power to do this.”
And by myself, I didn’t have the strength. But, as a child of God, I had the power of Christ living inside of me. My strength comes from a loving, all-powerful Father, and He graciously gives to those who call on His name.
Lord, help me be strong in you and rest in your mighty power. Amen
Intersecting Faith and Life:
Take a few minutes today and read through your favorite Bible verses. Is there a word that speaks to you? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal a piece of Scripture, phrase, or prayer as you embark on a new year.
Further Reading:
How Christians Can Approach New Year’s Resolutions
Better Than New Year’s Resolutions
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Cn0ra
Laura Bailey is an author and Bible teacher who encourages women to understand what they believe, why it matters, and how to apply biblical truths to their lives. Her recent book, Embracing Eternity in the Here and Now, explores how the timeless truths of Ecclesiastes help us live more peaceful, purposeful, and plentiful lives today.
She lives in Upstate South Carolina with her husband and three young girls, where she serves as director of women's ministries at her church. Her passion is teaching the Bible to women, equipping them to live with an eternal perspective. Invite Laura to speak at your next event or learn more: www.LauraRBailey.com
Check out fantastic resources on Faith, Family, and Fun at Crosswalk.com!
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