The confetti has settled, the last of the holiday treats are (mostly) gone, and a fresh calendar page beckons. For many, this time of year is synonymous with resolutions – promises to hit the gym, read more books, save money, or finally learn that new skill. And if you're anything like me, you've also experienced the familiar sting of those resolutions crumbling, often before Valentine's Day even arrives.
I'll admit it: I'm not much for making resolutions. The track record isn't great. Usually, within the first 60 days of the year, my well-intentioned declarations have dissolved into forgotten aspirations.
Romans 7:19 NIV For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.
The struggle is real!
But here's a thought that's been stirring in my heart, especially for those of you who do embrace the tradition of a New Year's resolution. What if, this year, we shifted our focus? What if, instead of aiming for purely self-improvement, we set our sights on something far greater?
Resolutions that Glorify God
Imagine resolutions that aren't just about you, but about magnifying the One who created you. These aren't just about fleeting success; they're about eternal impact. They're not about proving something to yourself, but about drawing closer to God and reflecting His light to the world.
So, what might that look like?
2 Timothy 3:16 NIV All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
Let God’s truth transform you.
Matthew 5:16 NIV In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Proverbs 3:9-10 NIV[9] Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; [10] then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
Matthew 28:19-20 NIV [19] Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV [16] Rejoice always, [17] pray continually, [18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
The beauty of these kinds of resolutions is that even if we stumble (because we are human, after all!), the pursuit itself is inherently good. Our Heavenly Father delights in our desire to honor Him. And when our focus is on Him, He provides the strength, grace, and motivation we need to keep going, even when it's tough, because we know that;
Philippians 4:13 NIV I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
This year, let's redefine "resolution." Let's make it less about personal achievement and more about divine alignment. Let's make resolutions that, whether perfectly kept or humbly pursued, ultimately bring glory to God.
What resolution might you consider making this year to glorify God? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I'll admit it: I'm not much for making resolutions. The track record isn't great. Usually, within the first 60 days of the year, my well-intentioned declarations have dissolved into forgotten aspirations.
Romans 7:19 NIV For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.
The struggle is real!
But here's a thought that's been stirring in my heart, especially for those of you who do embrace the tradition of a New Year's resolution. What if, this year, we shifted our focus? What if, instead of aiming for purely self-improvement, we set our sights on something far greater?
Resolutions that Glorify God
Imagine resolutions that aren't just about you, but about magnifying the One who created you. These aren't just about fleeting success; they're about eternal impact. They're not about proving something to yourself, but about drawing closer to God and reflecting His light to the world.
So, what might that look like?
- Instead of "Read more books," how about "Deeper dive into God's Word"? Commit to a daily devotional, a Bible reading plan, or a study of a particular book.
2 Timothy 3:16 NIV All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
Let God’s truth transform you.
- Instead of "Hit the gym," how about "Serve my community"? Find a local ministry, a food bank, or a neighbor in need. Use your time and energy to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Matthew 5:16 NIV In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
- Instead of "Save money," how about "Practice radical generosity"? Look for opportunities to give above and beyond, to bless others financially, or to support a cause that aligns with God's heart.
Proverbs 3:9-10 NIV[9] Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; [10] then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
- Instead of "Learn a new skill," how about "Share my faith"? Pray for opportunities to share the hope you have, to invite someone to church, or to simply live out your faith in such a way that others are drawn to Christ. This connects directly to the Great Commission.
Matthew 28:19-20 NIV [19] Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
- Instead of "Get more sleep," how about "Prioritize prayer"? Dedicate a specific time each day to commune with God, lifting up your concerns, expressing gratitude, and simply listening for His voice.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV [16] Rejoice always, [17] pray continually, [18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
The beauty of these kinds of resolutions is that even if we stumble (because we are human, after all!), the pursuit itself is inherently good. Our Heavenly Father delights in our desire to honor Him. And when our focus is on Him, He provides the strength, grace, and motivation we need to keep going, even when it's tough, because we know that;
Philippians 4:13 NIV I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
This year, let's redefine "resolution." Let's make it less about personal achievement and more about divine alignment. Let's make resolutions that, whether perfectly kept or humbly pursued, ultimately bring glory to God.
What resolution might you consider making this year to glorify God? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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