Lose Weight. Get Organized. Spend Less While Saving More. Enjoy Life to the Fullest. Stay Healthy and Fit. These were listed as the top five New Year's resolutions for 2014 according to the University of Scranton. Journal of Clinical Psychology. The same study reveals that 62% of Americans at least occasionally make resolutions - though only 8% actually meet with success in achieving them. It begs the question:

Should we even bother making New Year's Resolutions?

The low success rate of those who actually achieve their New Year's resolutions might lead a person to conclude that making them is a waste of time. However, there is evidence that supports the belief that those who establish New Year's resolutions are more successful at achieving other goals that they set. The practices of establishing resolutions with the onset of a new year appears to me more a matter of culture than it does of Biblical expectations. But there are certainly verses that we can ponder, pray over and meditate upon as we look forward to a new year. For inspiration on this post, I am drawing heavily on this 2011 post from Bob Gonzales's wonderful and insightful blog, It is Written. As Bob suggests, remember to include God in forming your resolutions. Many of the goals that we set - no matter how "worthy" they may be, often don't involve God and instead focus on the kingdom of self rather than God's.

A Biblical Approach to “Resolutions”

Consider this verse from the book of Psalms:

When I think on my ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies; ~ Psalm 119:59

I love how Matthew Henry explains it: "The psalmist prayed with his whole heart, knowing how to value the blessing he prayed for: he desired the mercy promised, and depended on the promise for it. He turned from by-paths, and returned to God's testimonies. He delayed not. It behoves sinners to hasten to escape; and the believer will be equally in haste to glorify God." Pray upon this passage as you look forward to 2015. Examine with a mirror instead of a microscope. Consider your ways by engaging your mind and focus your heart on where God's will shall be your resolve. Use scripture as your "measuring stick." Throughout the rest of this week, I am planning to share some of my own thoughts, perspectives and experiences with New Years resolutions (hint: I don't make them - but I don't discount them either). In the meantime, let's all examine and consider the states of our souls as we prepare for a new year. It could be the best ever. It could be the most challenging ever. It could be filled with joys or heartache. It could be the year that Jesus returns. Regardless of what 2015 brings, I certainly pray that I will be of sober mind and softened heart, fully dependent upon god's favor and instinctively desiring full glory to God in all things. In that state, it doesn't matter what the year brings. My reactions and response will  be of right accord.

What about you? What are your thoughts and opinions of New Year's resolutions? Do you make them? Have you every kept any? Have they changed your life? Leave a Reply on this post and share. I'd love to hear from you!