From Intentions to Eternity: A Faith-Based Guide to New Year’s Resolutions
A new year is a chance for a fresh start and it’s a great time to set goals and build better habits. Follow these six strategies to help you make this your best year yet.
#1 Submit
Before you take your first step, take your resolutions to the Lord in prayer. Get centered spiritually to make sure your goals are aligned with His and that vices like vanity and greed aren’t setting you up for failure before you even begin.
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”
#2 Plan with Purpose
Instead of a list of goals, map out what will be rewarding in your resolutions. Knowing your “why” gives you purpose and drive.
Think about why you want to improve your health and fitness. Is it to feel stronger, have more energy or keep up with the kids and grandkids?
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
#3 Focus on Who You Are and Whose You Are
Don’t look at New Year’s resolutions like a to-do list of tasks to tackle. That type of mindset reminds you of what you haven’t done instead of what you’re capable of. Instead, focus on the here and now with confidence and a positive attitude.
Instead of saying, “I’m going to get my credit cards paid down this year,” say things like, “God has called me and equipped me to be a good steward of what’s been entrusted to me.”
1 John 3:1
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!”
#4 Embrace Micro-Habits
Big changes don’t happen overnight, so start small. Aim for short-term goals first. When you can check the box beside achievable goals, you’ll gain the confidence to do more.
Don’t just resolve to read the Bible in a year. Resolve to read a certain number of chapters within a certain number of days or set a goal just for the day ahead.
1 John 3:1
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!”
#5 Keep Grace over Grit
No one is perfect. If you make a mistake or slip back into old habits, grant yourself the same level of compassion you would grant to someone else. Offer yourself some encouragement and remember that progress is always more important than perfection.
If you overeat at a party or meal, don’t mentally beat yourself up as a lost cause and decide you might as well binge for the rest of the day. Decide that your overindulgence was a temporary lapse, it’s part of your past, and you’re moving on.
Zechariah 4:10
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.”
#6 Anchor Resolutions in Gratitude
When you’re thankful for what you have and for what you can do today, efforts to improve tomorrow are more rewarding. Whether it’s as simple as the ability to go for a walk, having access to healthy food and clean water, or having enough money to pay your bills this month, celebrate every win.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
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