New resolutions. New goals. And dreams.
Are they the same? I think not. Resolutions are usually made at the beginning of a new year. Sometimes they are not too well thought out. Sometimes, though, the goals we make are our resolutions and sometimes our dreams become a goal which becomes a resolution. Sometimes.
One can resolve to lose weight, to exercise more, to study the Bible more.
One can resolve to listen more closely to what the Lord says to us, to be open to opportunities to do what the Lord may be telling us to do.
One can resolve to write that book we’ve put off for far too long. One can resolve to get started, to put pen to paper and state our thoughts and feelings and dreams and Bible study insights. One can resolve to be a better listener, to keep our focus on Jesus Christ and not on our own personal vendettas. One can resolve to write more letters, send more cards, bake more cookies, share more meals, and share the Gospel with all, not just a select few with which we feel at ease.
Sometimes resolutions are kind of like wishful or hopeful thinking that may never be accomplished.
Just like our prayers, we must be specific, to the point. God may know what you mean, because He knows your heart, but it is His discretion on how He will answer.
A goal I might say I have is to write a book. It is a dream as well. To actually do that, accomplish that, I must know what type of book. I must write, not when the mood strikes me, but every day. I must study God’s word and listen, with my heart and soul and mind. I must actively pursue and not be wishy-washy about any of it.
There may be many good routes to take and God may bless any of them, but to do them well, it must be one at a time, not several at once.
Now, this would be a resolution for me -- To write specifically toward one goal, one study to finish before moving on to another; To determine if prose/poetry written is to result in a published book and to follow through if determination warrants it.
Resolutions should not be made instantaneously, but thoughtfully considered.
Perhaps this is the year you resolve to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
“For whoever finds me finds life, And obtains favor from the Lord; … ” (Proverbs 8:35)
Perhaps this is the year you resolve to be generous, a cheerful giver ….
“But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” (II Corinthians 9:6-7)
Giving is not determined by the size of our pocketbooks. It is not just about money. It is not about obligations. We should not feel obligated to do something, to give, not even to the Lord. All giving should be about love. If you love the Lord you will abide with Him and He with you, and you will give of your abundance; you will give and give, and your gifts will be cheerful and generous because they are given in love.
Perhaps this is the year you resolve to establish God as your center and let your life move around Him, instead of around you and your whims.
To refocus, re-energize, reorganize, regroup, remember.
Listen to the following song, “My Heart Your Home,” with words and music written by Nathan and Christy Nockels, 1997.
Perhaps this is the year you resolve to be at peace ....
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27)
Perhaps this is the year you resolve to believe His promises, to accept His love, to follow wherever He leads, to obey His teachings, to be One with Him.
To learn more about accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, click here or for an interactive flash presentation of the Gospel: www.thekristo.com
