Faith.
Those of you who make New Years resolutions have probably already done so, but maybe these thoughts will provide additional insight that will benefit you now or in the future. Others consider that anytime in January qualifies as a New Years resolution. And then some of us make “resolutions” throughout the year, which may be the most beneficial. If something in my life needs to be changed, shouldn’t I do it now instead of waiting for the start of a new year? But on the other hand, the start of a new year is a natural “restart”.
A New Years resolution is simply a commitment or a goal that involves a positive change or effect in our lives. It could be something physical (better food choices, increased exercise, etc.), emotional (more quiet time in the woods/parks, less time scrolling, reducing stress in my life, etc.) or spiritual (more faithful attendance at church, daily Bible reading and prayer, etc.). Anything that involves an improvement in behavior or lifestyle would qualify.
Historically, some trace the practice of resolutions back to the Babylonians in 2000 B.C. The choice of January 1 as the date goes back to the Romans. In a report from NPR “One of the first appearances of the phrase “new year resolutions” was in a Boston newspaper in 1813, according to Merriam-Webster.
And yet, I believe there are multitudes of people, accustomed to receive injunctions of new year resolutions, who will sin all the month of December, with a serious determination of beginning the new year with new resolutions and new behaviour, and with the full belief that they shall thus expiate and wipe away all their former faults — Unknown, 1813”
That is a rather sad commentary, but don’t many people today have the same attitude but maybe on a shorter time frame, like weekly? Such as events like Mardi Gras?
Some reasonable suggestions by “experts” include: take small bites instead of attempting giant steps (don’t make a resolution to lose 50 pounds this year, determine to lose four pounds a month); have the proper motivation (is my goal for family or health reasons or just to please my vanity?) and start with “low hanging fruit” (eliminate soft drinks as opposed to all sugar immediately).
Personally, my practice is not big on New Years resolutions, but I am constantly evaluating, with prayer, my own life, and endeavoring to live pleasing to my Savior. The biggest impact of the new year to me is that we are one year closer to the return of the Lord, when He comes in the air and calls the true believers to heaven. Will you be ready?
Dr. Lonnie W. Stine, Pastor – Badger Community Church
11198 Badger Drive, Waupaca, WI
An independent, Bible teaching, local church
Sunday: 9:00 am Bible Study, 10:00 am Morning Worship
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