“Sudden resolutions, like the sudden rise of the mercury in the barometer,
indicate little else than the changeableness of the weather.”
- Julias Charles Hare, Guesses at Truth (1827)
The problem with most resolutions is they are too safe, sensible, and self-centered.
If our goal is just to feel good about self, resolutions will focus on cosmetic changes.
If we are serious, we will contemplate restructuring our lives and changing life patterns.
What if we actually made nobler resolutions?—
Instead of resolving to lose 10 pounds to improve our looks,
we resolved to eat less and donate money saved to feed the hungry?
Instead of resolving to get more exercise this year,
we resolved to exercise our faith by praying, walking with God,
climbing mountains of challenge, and running patiently in hope marathon?
Instead of resolving to spend less time in front of the TV,
we resolved to translate what we believe into how we behave,
and radically practice our professed creed in our everyday conduct?
Instead of resolving to add tasks to our to-do list,
we resolved to focus on the Christian’s highest ambition—
becoming more like Christ our Savior in our attitudes and actions?
“One thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
[Philippians 3:13-14 NLT]
Johnny R. Almond
Pastor, Colonial Beach Baptist Church, Virginia
Author, www.GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com
Book available through your local bookseller or preferred on-line retailer.
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