Resolved

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“I do not run without a definite goal; I do not flail around like one beating the air.”—1 Corinthians 9:26, Amplified

It can be easy to talk yourself out of making resolutions for the new year, especially when research shows that many are broken after the first month anyway. Why bother? But when you’re walking in the adventure that is God’s kingdom, you quickly realize that He is all about resolve, intentionality and purpose when it comes to our destiny and our everyday lives…

“For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us].”

—Ephesians 2:9-11, Amplified

Which means there is always one resolution truly worth pursuing, a resolve "to decide firmly on a course of action; a firm determination to do something"—getting to know God more and more so that our lives will walk more and more in paths that reflect His goodness and love.

Perfect? Like all other resolutions, this one will be broken within the first month, if not sooner. Potholes, misfires, and wanting do-overs along the way will be a given. But the difference between this resolve and all the other resolutions that people will make on January 1 is that a broken resolution in the hands of the Redeemer is not a failure. Because God’s great grip of grace, how He loves keeping His promise of making all things new, and how He loves continually singing “Perseverance!” over us from January to December, will trump every epic trip and stumble, every time.

In fact, some of the best resolutions we can make for a new year are not resolutions at all, but prayers—a reminder (and relief) that all the outcomes ahead will be in His hands, not ours:

“God, teach me lessons for living so I can stay the course;

Give me insight so I can do what You tell me—my whole life one long, obedient response.

Guide me down the road of Your commandments; I love traveling this freeway!

Give me a bent for Your words of wisdom, and not for piling up loot.

Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets; invigorate me on the pilgrim way.

Affirm Your promises to me—promises made to all who fear You.

Deflect the harsh words of my critics—but what You say is always good.

See how hungry I am for Your counsel;

Preserve my life through Your righteous ways.”

—Psalm 119-33-40, Message

For a new year, even just for today, so be it, Lord.

“Resolution One: I will live for God. Resolution Two: If no one else does, I still will.”—Jonathan Edwards

[ADAPTED FROM 12-28-14]