Resolutions....do you make 'em?

A really cool way to achieve our goals is to harmonize our schedules with our goals. What do I mean? Well, if we don't schedule the things in our lives that are important to us, they probably are not going to happen. Can I get an "AMEN!"??

If we've made a resolution to get closer in our relationship with God, and we've told ourselves that we'll read a chapter of the Bible each day, then we had better schedule time for it, or it just isn't going to happen . . . mornings are sometimes a rush of activity -- planning for a busy day, gobbling a quick breakfast, finding the clean clothes that you thought were "right there" waiting for you . . . and what happened to your sweet time of study and prayer? Yep. It's gone.

But here is another way to harmonize our schedules with our goals . . . remember the two goals we talked about yesterday? Helping at church, and helping the planet, right? Well, who's to say that you can't be the one who helps organize some recycling baskets at church, and making sure that plastics, cardboard, and more make their way to the correct recycling station!

Perhaps you have made it a goal to get in better physical shape -- and also to witness more. Maybe a good option for you is to take an exercise class where you can meet people to speak to!

Paul said he was "straining" toward his goal. We need to do the same thing with our resolutions.

Just remember that we can't do everything all at once. If we have fifteen resolutions, that's probably too many, and we will get frustrated trying to do everything at one time! Just make a couple that are important to you, and then stick to them. And if you fall down and fail, don't give up! God forgives us, so we need to forgive ourselves, too. If we have a "relapse" then let's talk to God about it, and then get right back to work!  Many of our resolutions are like self-improvement so that we can be more like God Himself. And He is delighted with our efforts, so don't let a failure get you down!

Here is another way to focus on our goals: memorize a scripture verse that helps. The Bible has so much to say to us as we work on becoming more like Christ. Put that verse on a note card and carry it with you. Post it on the fridge. Put it on your bathroom mirror. Stick it on your computer monitor. It won't be long before that verse is in your memory and guiding your life!

Lastly, if you have a Christian friend that you can tell about your resolution, tell them and ask them to help you keep track of your progress. Maybe the two of you can work on the same resolution and help each other!

How about it?

Are you starting this new year with any resolutions?