Out with the Old, In with the NEW
Posted Tuesday, January 05,2010
By Jen Quinnelly, Bulletin Editor
The beginning of every new year seems to encourage all sorts of resolutions towards self betterment, many of which rarely reach fulfillment but appear to encourage focus and organization. We replace our old resolutions with new ones just like we replace our old ‘stuff’ with new ‘stuff’. Many of these yearly goals involve:
· Spending more time with family & friends
· Losing weight & working out
· Quitting bad habits that are cost prohibitive and life threatening
· Getting out of debt
· Enjoying life more
· Learning something new
· Helping others
· Getting organized
Most of us would agree that this list covers at least a part of what we ourselves would like to complete in this upcoming year. However, I think the list is a bit short-sighted. I have been challenged over the past few years to evaluate whether the goals I set and the plans I make for the future might NOT be as valuable as I once thought. How often do I question if what I’m doing is Godly and of eternal value? Which of my resolutions and purposes will stand the test of eternity? What can I take to heaven with me? Let’s face it, most of the time we are pretty self-centered. We struggle with allowing God to mold us and make us into His image. We have a hard time renewing our minds in Christ and letting Him replace the old self with the new person. We have a hard time making and keeping resolutions that are eternally focused (read Colossians 3). Sometimes we are like the rich man in Luke 12 in that we treasure things of little value.
So here’s the challenge: along with the personal resolutions to lose weight, get organized, and pay off debt, make resolutions that focus on eternity.
· Resolve to share Christ more often.
· Resolve to always be prepared to give an account for the hope that is within you.
· Resolve to renew your mind through reading the Bible, praying, journaling, and memorizing scripture.
Do not conform any longer 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 12:2)
· Resolve to pray for the world, our nation, city, community, church, and your personal family.
Keep track and watch God work. At the end of 2010, review all that He has done in and through you. I guarantee these eternal resolutions will NEVER fail.
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