The Bible and Resolutions

January has hit, so that means resolutions to be made. I did a bit of research to see how resolutions and the Bible fit together. I was amazed how Biblically based a lot of these goals are.

#1 resolution is to lose weight.

Here are five resolutions made yearly:

1. Lose weight/exercise more
2. Get out of debt
3. Organization
4. Quit smoking
5. Volunteer

When it comes to losing weight and exercising more, you can look to Ephesians 5:29 which tells us  For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church. God wants us to care for our bodies and to get up and move. It’s as easy (and for some as hard) as that.

Most people know what God has to say about being in debt if they’ve ever read Proverbs. In 22:7 we’re reminded that The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender. If you need any help getting out of debt, I suggest checking into Financial Peace University. Dave Ramsey’s plan has worked wonders for millions, including me.

I’m a slob. I’ll admit it. 1 Corinthians 14:40 is pointing a finger at me because it says But all things should be done decently and in order. Getting things in order is actually on my resolution list this year. So far, so good. Too often I buy stuff and never use it. I’ve made a rule, if I haven’t used or worn something in a year, it’s gone. The Vietnam Vets are coming to pick up some of my things. I hope they bring a large van.

A lot of people decide this is the year to quit smoking. My advice on that is to not tell anyone. People can’t wait to say “I knew you couldn’t” if you fail. Just see if they notice once you’ve quit. God’s advice can be found in 1 Corinthians 6:20 where it tells us For you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. Putting dangerous things in your body isn’t glorifying God.

Lastly is volunteering. This is hard for most because we have filled our days with work and family. In 1 John 3:18 it is written  … let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. Basically, talk is cheap. If it’s important to you, you’ll make the time.

Resolutions and the Bible go hand in hand. If your resolution is to read the Bible, then don’t be surprised if some of these issues work out whether you’re trying to accomplish them or not. It’s amazing how God does that. We think we’re learning His word, and He’s trying to get us to do what He’s been asking of us all along.

If you or someone you know is in need of prayer, please let me know and I’ll be happy to pray for the situation.