10 Resolutions Jesus Would be Proud Of

1. Losing Weight

The Bible says that our body is a temple and that gluttony is one of the seven deadly sins. Jesus dwells in us, making the physical -- together with the spiritual -- important and worthy of our attention. You can find many books about Biblical weight loss plans.

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV)

You can also check out Dan Dick's encouraging "Devotional for Dieters" here.

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2. Managing Finances ‘His’ Way

We live in a society of materialism where it’s all about what you have and how much money you make. However, the Bible tells us that this is a foolish way to live. Instead of getting caught up in society, we are much better off learning how to manage our finances ‘his’ way. A good place to start if you are short on cash right now is getting a copy of Dave Ramsey’s Total Money Makeover.

“If you lend money to any of my people who are in need, do not charge them interest as a money lender would do.”
Exodus 22:25 (NLT)

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3. Committing to Time with the Lord Every Day

Our lives get more hectic everyday. It seems we are running a thousand different directions traveling for work, running the kids here and there, or simply running errands. It’s so easy to get distracted and let time with the Lord fall on the back burner. This year, commit to spending some time with Him everyday — whether you have five minutes or thirty. He wants to hear from you and spend time with you.

An easy way to get started is to pick up a copy of the devotional Simple Grace in the checkout at the grocery store. It is a monthly devotional that has a five minute devotion to read everyday. You can also sign up for the free "Your Daily Prayer" and "Bible Study Minute" devotionals if you need help staying consistent in your Bible study or prayer time.

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4. Committing to Going to Church on a Regular Basis

Sometimes we get away from going to church because we have other commitments or we simply just don’t feel like going. However, it is important for us to be amongst other believers. Not only is it good for our spiritual health, Jesus wants to meet us there every Sunday as well as in our daily lives.

“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25 (NLT)

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5. Joining a Bible Study

Sometimes studying the Bible can be difficult. We may have a version that is hard to understand or we just don’t know where to start in the first place. A good way to get started is to join a Bible study. You will have a verse or topic that you are studying every week or every month and you can ask questions of other believers if there is something you don’t understand.

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6. Praying Daily

Sometimes people think you have to pray all at once or only at night before you go to sleep. This can be daunting if you have a busy life. Instead, pray throughout the day. Start in the shower or take five minutes in the morning when you are alone, it’s quiet, and you can hear the Lord’s voice clearly without distraction. Then pray throughout the day as things and people come to heart and mind, and as situations unfold around you.

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7. Giving it All to the Lord

As humans, we want to control many aspects in our lives. As a result, many of us struggle with giving our problems and issues over to the Lord. Giving our situations to Him is something we need to do, however. It frees us from guilt, stress, worry, or whatever we are struggling with, and puts it in his loving and capable hands to take care of. Be bold in your resolution and give your life over to him, letting him guide you throughou the year. What an exhilarating and awesome adventure that would be.

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8. Pursuing Your Talents/Passions

Take the time this year to pursue your talents and passions. Spend more time in your kitchen cooking, volunteer at that organization, write that book. Creativity is essential for your well-being and you never know where the Lord will take you or what he will do with your talents! He gave them to you for a reason -- so use your gifts to give him all the glory.

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9. Committing to Overcome an Issue

We all struggle with something. It could anything from weight loss, anxiety, or forgiveness to drugs or alcohol. Take the time to reach out and find the right programs/steps to start the journey to recovery. Jesus would be proud of you taking the first step in overcoming your struggles or addictions. He is with you all the way.

“But the Holy Spirit produces these things in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. There is no law against such things.”
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)

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10. Exercising the Fruits of the Spirit

These days, it’s so easy to get irritated and upset over things. We often react poorly to situations and people and then regret it later. Instead, try to exercise the fruits of the spirit this year - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. By pausing, thinking, and reacting in a way of love rather than irritation or anger, you will surprise your offender and feel better in the long run.

Are you still wondering what resolutions to start with in the new year? Let’s pray.

Dear Lord,
As a new year is upon us, I’m trying to figure out how to bring my life closer to you. I have so many areas that I need to work on. Please speak to my heart and let me know what the most important things are that need attention. Provide me the resources and people I need for a solid start and continue to walk with me in the new year. In your name I pray. Amen.

Carrie Lowrance is a freelance writer and author. She has been featured on Huffington Post, Bon Bon Break, The Penny Hoarder, Parentmap, etc. She is also the author of three books of poetry and one children’s book, Don’t Eat Your Boogers (You’ll Turn Green). She writes her own child care blog at carrielowrance.com.