Make Your New Year Resolutions His Resolution

Read This: “Therefore, if you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Keep thinking about things above, not things on the earth, for you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-2

Think: A new year is on the horizon—a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the new. There are a lot of good ideas thrown out there for New Year’s resolutions. But in reality we only have so much time and it’s so easy to get busy. Too busy. So busy that we lose sight of our purpose and stop living intentionally. Regardless of how optimistically you plan, or whether it takes you one year or ten years to reach your goals, it’s important not to lose sight of the reason we’re here at all, to bring God glory.

The New Year is brimming with opportunities to know God and make him known. We’re part of God’s big story and he has a plan for this year and the next and the next—a plan set in place long before anyone came up with a calendar. Our individual stories are wrapped within the bigger picture. As followers of Christ we have the incredible privilege of being a part of His mission to restore a lost world. We are living our best when our wills, desires, and purpose are molded to his.

As we set out a new to-do list for the year, let’s examine what’s already on our plates, reflecting on what our activities have to do with our purpose. Instead of just setting personal goals for the year, what would it look like if we set more purposeful goals? Goals that are about God’s plan, not just our own. Becoming a mentor, witnessing to neighbors, filling a need at your church, or starting a sports program at church are just a few examples of how we can Goals that reflect a people sold out for God’s plan, living out our calling in big ways and small.

Ask: Think about the things that take up most of your time—some are optional and others aren’t. How does your schedule reflect your purpose? Are there any changes that could be made?

Pray: If you haven’t done so already, pray through your resolutions this year. Ask God to guide you to fulfill your part in his plan for the world.