Thoughts for the New Year

I can't ever recall actually making a "New Year's Resolution." I've thought about it...but never really got into the "hype." Some people are extreme about their resolutions, and some people fail to follow through as early as January 1st.

This year...I've given it some thought. I'm not going to give up my diet coke, I'm not going to set a goal to lose five pounds, tell myself I will start exercising more, or even at all. This year, I decided to open up my Bible and look for ways that I can become a better person, a person that reflects Christ more in her daily life.

In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.

Proverbs 16:9

Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21

Oh how we all, at some point in time resist surrender with all our might and constantly fight to gain complete control of our lives. I catch myself almost daily, trying to figure things out. I need to carry this verse with me, every moment of every day.

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out. Proverbs 18:15

I want to constantly learn. I want to keep my mind and my heart open to new things and ideas.

Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death. Proverbs 19:14

I need to remain focused on the good that can come from disciplining my child, as long as it is done properly. As he grows older, I want him to be able to understand my reasoning and fully know that the decisions I've made during our journey together, were decisions I have made out of love.

Many a man claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful man who can find? Proverbs 20:6

An earnest hope accompanies every "new year." A hope that God will bring someone special into my life. I know that faithful men with unfailing love exist. I'm just trying to remain patient.

All a man's ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart. Proverbs 21:2

I don't want to "judge" a person by their actions any more than I want people to judge me for things I may or may not say or for things I may or may not do.

I love Proverbs....

Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2

I am notorious for spouting off at the mouth, quick to jump to conclusions and/or accusations. My desire is to seriously control this part of my life.

As these scriptures were being "handed" to me...there were two that truly stood out.

Romans 5:1-5

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

I love the word "hope". I believe that ultimately, it's what most of us live for.

HOPE:to cherish a desire with anticipation, to desire with expectation of obtainment, to expect with confidence.

And lastly, Romans 12:9-21

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friend, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written, "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary:

"If your enemy is hungry, feed him;

if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.

In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Wow... I think that if ANY New Year's Resolution is made...it should be based on this Scripture alone. Stop for just a moment and ponder the type of world we would live in, if everyone lived according to it! For me personally, I fail miserably to follow it much at all.

I truly hope that 2009 blesses each and every one of you!!!