Resolutions

January 24th – 2 Timothy 1:7

2 Timothy 1:7

Every new year, resolutions are made with hopeful hearts, yet statistics tell us that nearly 43% are abandoned by February. Often, it isn’t a lack of desire that causes us to quit. Instead, it’s fear, discouragement, and self-doubt that creep in when progress feels slow. Paul speaks directly to this struggle in 2 Timothy 1:7, reminding us that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. The same divine power that flowed through Jesus as He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and even walked on water now resides within us through the Holy Spirit. That power is not distant or withheld. It’s offered to us daily, waiting with an outstretched hand. But overcoming fear is a two person operation. God provides the strength. But we are called to actively use the sound mind He has given us by practicing self-control. That means intentionally taking hold of our thoughts. And then filtering them through the truth of God’s Word instead of the lies the enemy whispers. When we partner with God in this way, fear loses its grip and perseverance takes its place.

Reflection Question:
What fears or negative thought patterns tend to derail your commitments, and how can you intentionally filter them through God’s truth instead of believing the enemy’s lies?

Prayer Prompt:
Lord, thank You for giving me a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. When fear and doubt rise up, help me recognize them and bring my thoughts into alignment with Your truth. Teach me to partner with You by using the self-control You provide, so I may walk forward with confidence, perseverance, and faith. Amen.

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January 8th – Philippians 3:13-14

Philippians 3:13-14

One of my resolutions is to grow spiritually and deepen my relationship with the Lord. And that means getting into spiritual shape. Before running a race, an elite athlete puts in the work and dedication needed to condition their bodies, shedding any extra weight that will slow them down. We are elite athletes of God. And to make it to our finish line, we too must put in the work. That means shedding the mistakes and regrets that weigh us down. By having a heart willing to let go and let God, we’ll find the endurance to press on and release the weight of the past. To move toward the glorious future God has lovingly prepared for us of an eternal life spent by His side. And although moving forward isn’t always easy, it is always possible through the grace of Jesus. For in our weakness, He is strong. And it’s His strength which keeps us from getting stuck in mud of yesterday’s setbacks. So release the anchor of the past. And run with freedom, joy, and God’s wonderful promise of a hopeful and purposeful tomorrow.

 

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January 1st – Lamentations 3:22-23

Lamentations 3:22-23

Good morning 2024! A new dawn, and a new day! A fresh, blank page awaiting the ink of our intentions and the brushstrokes of our aspirations. It whispers promises of fresh possibilities and the beauty of new beginnings. And if you’re at all like me, it also brings new resolutions. Goals and promises made for the months ahead. Yet whether those goals are fleeting or brought to fruition, we can find comfort in knowing each new morning also brings the promise of God’s mercies. For His love never ceases, and great is His faithfulness. As we stand at the threshold of new beginnings, God’s promise serves as a beacon of hope, admonishing us that each dawn brings with it a fresh outpouring of divine grace. Reminding us that even when we aren’t faithful, God is. Faithful with opportunities, possibilities, and second chances that come with each new morning. So no matter what the year ahead holds, God’s love will be there for every moment, offering renewal, redemption, and the enduring promise of new beginnings. Happy New Year!

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December 29th – Philippians 2:5-8

Philippians 2:5-8

As we get ready to put 2021 behind us and move on to the new year, may we go in to it with the examples displayed by our Savior with His birth. Including humility, obedience, and the greatest of all, love. Jesus sat on His glorious throne in heaven, where He was surrounded by constant worship and praise. He wanted for nothing, and enjoyed perfect peace at the side of the Father. Yet willingly, He left it all behind to come to this wicked world and save us through His great love. In His humanity, Christ endured great suffering, even unto death on a Cross. He was rejected, ridiculed, and betrayed. And He suffered all of this to glorify God and to comfort and provide for us in all things. (Heb. 4:14-16) So as the new year brings with it a new start, may our resolutions, be filled with “Jesus goals”. Goals to be be better, do better, and have an “attitude in yourselves which was also in Jesus Christ.” (Phil. 2:5)

 

 

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January 8th – Philippians 4:6

Philippians 4:6

Each of us goes into the New Year with goals and ambitions of becoming better versions of ourselves. And when it comes to change, there no one better to team up with than God. He is our greatest Champion who wants us to be the absolute best versions of ourselves we can be. He knows us intimately, every strength, every weakness, and can perfectly guide us to reach any and all goals. So if you’re looking to make a real change, take it to God in prayer, work with Him hand in hand, and rest secure knowing that with God on your side, nothing is impossible!

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