You will make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever. (Psalm 16:11)
Did you know that most New Year’s resolutions fail by February 1?
If you’re like most mamas, you started off 2019 with big goals for change. But by now you might be feeling a bit guilty or discouraged because you’ve already failed to keep them. Or perhaps you haven’t completely fallen off the wagon yet, but you’re really struggling.
We all have good intentions for change, and a new beginning is a perfect excuse to start. But then life happens, and we just…give…up.
Why is change so hard? That new resolution is good for you, and it’s something that you want. Even though you might have all kinds of support in place, such as encouraging people and motivational tools, making lasting change is really hard.
There is a lot of information available on how to accomplish goals. Some say to do the new, wanted behavior for 40 days to ingrain a pattern in the mind. Others believe that surrounding themselves with a community of like-minded goal setters is the key. Those things are good, and they really do help, but I think there is something deeper to consider.
Think on this question for a moment. Who set your new year resolutions?
You did. And why did you set them? Usually because of external influences. For example, your goal might be losing weight because your doctor recommended it. Or perhaps your goal is to set aside money for a family vacation because it’s something you perceive you would like—or because everyone else seems to have amazing vacations.
One of the most powerful realizations I’ve ever had about new resolutions, goal setting, and even how I spend my time is that God is just as concerned as I am about my personal achievements. In fact, he’s so concerned about them because he’s the one that wants me to have an incredible, abundant life. His abundant life is full of joy, peace, and ultimate fulfillment. He knows exactly what I need, when I need it.
Goals created in my own mind, based on what I perceive I should be doing, should be achieving, or should have might not be in complete alignment with the abundant life that God has in mind for me. But when I allow God to set my goals and fill me with his incredible Spirit, I never fail. In fact, I succeed beyond my wildest dreams.
What if you let God set your 2019 resolutions, based on what he wants for you—abundant life?
This January, my first resolution is to do nothing more than to regularly sit quietly before the Lord. To reflect on his Word and to seek his vision for my abundant life. I’ll write out my 2019 resolutions by the 31st of this month, after I have been filled with God’s presence and direction.
Friend, would you join me? I’d love to hear how God whispered into your heart about the abundant life he wants for you this year. After 31 days of reflection and connection with God, wouldn’t it be fun to see how your resolutions change—or how they might look different than you initially thought on January 1? Feel free to post your experience below.
Leave a Reply