It’s that time of year again.
In just a matter of hours, we’ll bid farewell to 2013 and ring in a new year with hope and expectation.
Hope for a clean slate. A fresh start. A chance to reinvent something about ourselves.
New Year’s resolutions can be great, if we approach our planning with wisdom, diligence, and patience.
A person’s insight gives him patience… —Proverbs 19:11
But before you race to jot down whatever that resolution might be, consider these three things:
Warning 1
Approach your goals with a healthy dose of reality. Why do most resolutions end up tossed by the wayside in just a few short days or weeks? They weren’t realistic. If you’re serious about making a true change, those goals have to be practical and reasonable.
Whatever this looks like in your context, take those resolutions and share them with some trusted friends. Listen to their feedback and make any necessary changes to your goals. Getting friends to help you think through your plans can bring better clarity and perspective.
Warning 2
Behavior modification won’t last. Only Jesus can bring true and lasting transformation, right? That doesn’t apply to just your spiritual life—that applies to every little thing about you! Whatever you’re wanting to change is ultimately a heart issue, so go straight to the one who created you and knows you best. Ask the Lord for this transformation to ultimately start with your heart.
Warning 3
Your own strength will ultimately fail you. Sure, you may find some temporary success in achieving your goals “on your own,” but true success comes when you press hard into Jesus—through constant prayer—for a strength that only He can provide. Be intentional about praying that God would walk this journey with you, every single step of the way.