Christian Living

MY NEW YEARS DISSOLUTION

by Charles (Chuck) Robey
12/26/13
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It's that time of the year again. I know, it just seem like yesterday, that we were approaching year 2014 and making those yearly resolves. Time surely flies . Like the old parson would say, "I guess time flies, because we are always trying to "kill it".

Anyway, time for those infamous "New-Year resolutions". Or should we labeled this yearly inauguration event as our "New Years Dissolutions", considering those resolves will fall by the wayside, or in to the corner waste bucket. Yes, this annual ceremony is usually over before it actually begins.

According a study conducted in 2002, 25% of New Year’s resolutions are broken in the first week alone. Within 6 months, over half of us will have given up.

So, what will you resolve to give up ? You know the list: lose weight and get in shape, stop drinking, quit smoking, learn a new hobby, read a good book and improve the mind, eat healthier, get out of debt, spend more time with family, travel to new places, be less stressful, do some Volunteer work and the list goes on-and-on.

Please bear in mind, this age old "resolution" adage is based on a secular view point. So, what about from a Christian point of view ? I realize, for a Christian to make any spiritual New Year resolution may be rather difficult, considering we Christian are bound somewhat to our environment. We cannot isolate ourselves from our surroundings. ( 1 Cor 5:9-10 ) and we all know that the current world environment is dictated by Satan himself. ( Ephesians 6:12 )

However, one need only to pray and search the scriptures to quickly defeat this worlds evil influence. It's just a matter of a spiritual attitude adjustment. For God is ready and willing for His Holy Spirit to control our lives. ( Romans 8:26 ) ( 1 John 5:6-8 )

And one need only pick up a newspaper, turn on the TV news or surf the internet, to see the terrible condition of this old world. And if you let it, aside from trusting in God's divine help, it will surely drive you "bananas". Sometimes, I feel like this current political mind-set is all by design to distract Christians, as it's certainly easy to get addicted to this particular liberal point of view. On the other hand, it may just be prophecy at work ( 2 Timothy 3:1-13). Whatever the intention, we as believers must not let this worlds evil persuasion effect out walk with Christ ( Philippians 2:5 ).

The best New Year's resolution scripture, to guard against Satan's evil traits, is found in ( Romans 12:1-2 ). We must not let Satan's influence conform us to his way of thinking, as we need be transform into the image of Christ ( Galatians 4:19 ). When we submit our hearts and lives to Christ, the Bible says we will be "transformed into his likeness ... which comes from the Lord, who is this Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18).

In addition, we must renew our mind by much pray ( 1 John 5:14-15) and the study of God's word (1Thess. 1:5). The Holy scripture has the power to turn our thoughts and attitudes toward God and away from the carnal ways of the world. Without the cleansing power of the word, we become insensitive to sin.

Another good Christian New Year's resolution is to read the book of Proverbs by reading one chapter a day of a month. Just pick out a 31 day month and go for it And it wouldn't hurt to memorize ( Philippians 4:6-7 ) or print and post this particular passage on your bulletin board, for daily review.

So, what about you ? Are you going to resolve this year to be a better follower of our living Lord? If so, then you can forget all about those secular "New Years" resolutions", and just live for Christ (Philippians 1:21).