Why is it so challenging to keep resolutions?
1. A new habit takes an average of 66 days to be established.
2. A new habit requires energy.
Entropy:
the natural tendency in the universe for things to go from a state of order to chaos.
Resolutions can be valuable for us as Christ-followers.
But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.
Daniel 1:8 New International Version (NIV)
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Colossians 3:12-14 (NIV)
Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God’s help, I do humbly entreat him by his grace to enable me to keep these resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to his will, for Christ’s sake.
~Jonathan Edwards
1. Resolve sensibly.
2. Resolve dependently.
I can do all things through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
3. Resolve humbly.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
James 4:10 (NIV)
4. Resolve seeking God’s will.
What Would Jesus Have Me Do?
Alan’s New (School) Year’s Resolution
So, what about you?