Christian Living

SHOULD CHRISTIANS MAKE NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS

by Charles (Chuck) Robey
12/21/15
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SHOULD CHRISTIANS MAKE NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS?

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.  Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will". (Romans 12:1-2)

Should Christians make "New Year’s" resolutions?  Not if they are in direct conflict with scripture.  One must consider that there is no real difference between December 31 and January 1, or any other day for that matter. Every day should be given back to the Lord. (Psalm 118:24)

Realizing of course that New Year’s resolutions are primarily based on secular principles, making and keeping these secular resolutions may be rather difficult for a Christ-minded person. So, for a Christian to make any spiritual New Year resolution may be rather difficult.   

I realize too that Christians are bound somewhat to a secular environment, as we cannot isolate ourselves from the world stage. (1 Cor 5:9-10 )  And our current world structure is directed by Satan. (Ephesians 6:12)  With this in mind, here is a consensus of the ten most popular secular New Year resolutions.

 Lose Weight and Get Fit
 Quit Smoking
 Learn Something New
 Eat Healthier and Diet
 Get Out of Dept and Save Money
 Spend More Time with Family
 Travel to New Places
 Be Less Stressed
 Volunteer
 Drink Less 

Conversely, God has provided a way out for the Christian. (1 Cor 10:13) Here are just a few New Year’s resolutions Christians may consider.

Pray Daily (1 John 5:14-15)

Read God's Word Daily (1 Thess 1:5)

Witness to God's saving grace daily (Romans 1:16)

Another good Christian New Year's resolution is to read the book of Proverbs by reading one chapter a day for 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 out the passage and post it on your bulletin board for daily review.

And above all others, we should guard against Satan's evil efforts. (Romans 12:1-2)  We must not let Satan's influence conform us into his way of thinking.  We need to be transformed into the image of Christ. (Galatians 4:19)  

 So, what about you? Are you going to resolve this year to be a better follower of our living Lord? (Philippians 4:13)  If so, then you can forget all about those secular New Year’s resolutions.

 Author's Postscript

 A simple hint for sticking with it: Pray that the Lord will give wisdom (James 1:5), in selecting your New Year’s resolutions. Pray that the Lord will give you the proper insight not to break these resolutions. Pray for His guidance and needed strength to carry out the resolutions. Find a good Christian mentor who will help and encourage you. Don't let Satan discourage you with occasional setbacks. And finally, always give God the glory for your accomplishments. (Psalm 37:5-6)

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