Happy New Year

The tradition of making a New Year’s resolution dates back 3000 years to the ancient Babylonians. Actually from nature’s perspective there is nothing mystically different between December 31 and January 1. The Bible doesn’t take note of new year’s resolutions, for or opposed to them. It is a good time to remember and resolve. 

A good reason for making a resolution is the only thing that can enable you to keep it. Therefore, question yourself as to why you are going to make a certain resolution. In other words, question why you might resolve to read the Bible more or pray more. 

Then pause to consider these facts regarding the events of your life.

Jesus said,  “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

Apart from Him we can’t accomplish our resolutions, but…

“Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass.” (Psalm 37:5) Then you can know…

“I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)

Remember this appeal made to ancient Israel. It is applicable today:

“Beware that you do not forget  the LORD your God by not keeping His commandments, His judgments, and His statutes which I command you today, lest; when you have eaten and are full, and have built beautiful houses and dwell in them; and when your herds and your flocks multiply, and your silver and your gold are multiplied, and all that you have is multiplied; when your heart is lifted up, and you forget the LORD your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage; …then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth … 

“And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth…

“Then it shall be, if you by any means forget the LORD your God, and follow other gods, and serve them and worship them, I testify against you this day that you shall surely perish.”  (Deuteronomy  8:11-19).

This gives cause for confidence and caution. Pause now, right now and think seriously about where you are in your spiritual life and what you need to do to improve it. Then commit yourself to Him. After doing so you are in a better position to have a . . . . HAPPY NEW YEAR.