Every year many of us like to evaluate our life’s goals and make New Year’s resolutions. The dictionary defines a resolution as “a firm decision to do or not to do something.” As such, most resolutions fall into one of two categories: bad things we want to stop doing, and good things we want to do more.
Philippians 4:13 tells us, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” However, the Bible doesn’t give any specific instructions about New Year’s Resolutions. So, what sort of New Year’s resolution should a believer make? Christian New Year’s resolutions should focus on things that help us honor God with our lives and make us more Christ-like.
If there is a sin that you wish to stop, by all means, resolve to do that first. Repentance is preached throughout the whole Bible. Furthermore, Jesus said “Go and sin no more.” (John 8:11). You can also resolve to put a more positive spin on it, such as by saying that you will use your body to honor God.
How do you honor God with your body? It’s simple: take care of it and don’t adulterate it.
In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul says “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own.” He reminds the believers that they should keep their bodies healthy and pure by following God’s commandments and living righteously.
Don’t sin, don’t take drugs, don’t smoke or vape. Eat healthy, exercise, and get enough sleep. Sounds like new year resolutions! The Bible says, “All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize” (1 Corinthians 9:25). If your motivation is to please God, and not vanity or self-worship, you’re doing it for the right reasons.
Here are ten Biblically-based New Year’s resolutions that will help you grow in your faith:
- Read the Bible daily.
- Pray every day and night.
- Go to church regularly.
- Serve others.
- Share the gospel.
- Be a peacemaker.
- Be an encourager.
- Give generously.
- Honor God with your body.
- Start a gratitude journal.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” ~Philippians 4:8
May the goodness and favor of God, the Lord Jesus, and the Holy Spirit be with you as you turn from your old ways and begin a new life in Christ.
Happy New Year!