You can think of a New Year’s resolution as…an annual makeover attempt! These have become a joke over the years because they don’t seem to stick. One of the most well-known definitions of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. Most people would probably say they get the same results—no results! Why do people still make New Year’s resolutions? Because they genuinely want to get better and know no other way!
Christians sometimes attempt resolutions because they wrongly believe that real progress will only happen in heaven. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’” (Revelation 21:4-5) This isn’t talking about improving on yourself; it’s talking about becoming new.
When asking the question, “Do I need to become new or improved?” look at what the Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:17: “When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!” Where did this concept of newness come from? The cross!
What exactly was achieved when Christ died on the cross? Did Jesus pave the way for a version of you? Or did He purchase something far greater? Your best bet isn’t self-improvement; it’s self-replacement! It’s my belief that just setting goals and changing the outside every New Year doesn’t work because we don’t need a resolution. We need a revolution! All you have to do is look at history see the impact of a revolution.
When you think of resolutions for 2019, consider focusing on being who you are through Christ (someone who desires above all else to honor God and see others come to Christ) rather than focusing on something to improve yourself. Goals are good! And we can all find areas of our lives to strengthen. I’m talking about adapting a spiritual mindset and way of life over life habits that will come and go.