Another year is before us, and now is the time for the annual making of “New Year Resolutions”. Unfortunately, the rest of the year is usually dedicated to the breaking of those same resolutions. This past Sunday, we studied 10 New Year’s resolutions from the wisest man who ever lived (and “No”, not Jesus—He was both God and man). In Proverbs, chapter 3, Solomon gives 10 fundamental truths that will provide clarity for our unique life pathways. By listing them here (with additional commentary in parentheses), it is my desire for you to apply these to the many different decisions you may come across in your life’s pathway. In addition, the corresponding verses of chapter 31 will follow each resolution.
Res. 1: Let love and faithfulness never leave you (you will win favor in God’s eyes)-v. 3-4
Res. 2: Trust in the Lord with all your heart (place a firm and confident belief in God’s plan for your life)-v. 5-6
Res. 3: Do not be wise in your own eyes (instead, live dependently upon God)-v. 7-8
Res. 4: Honor the Lord with your wealth (God will see that your every need will be met)-v. 9-10
Res. 5: Do not despise the Lord’s discipline (He disciplines those He loves; it is a good thing)-v. 11-12
Res. 6: Search diligently for wisdom and find it (as we get older, we need more wisdom)-v. 13-24
Res. 7: Have no fear (remember, God is ALWAYS in control)-v. 25-26
Res. 8: Do not withhold good from those who deserve it (take care of your “business” [bills, utilities, etc.])-v. 27-28
Res. 9: Do not plot harm against your neighbor (don’t be a quarrelsome people; God does not like complainers or “pot-stirrers”)-v. 29-30
Res. 10: Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways (God will not share of Himself with individuals of this sort)-v. 31-32
(Verses 33-35 continue with more of the promises of God, if we stay true to these commands.)
To fully appreciate and follow these resolutions, we have to take one important step—we have to be adopted sons or daughters of God. This is accomplished by asking Jesus Christ to forgive you of your sins and ask Him to be the Lord and Savior of your life. If you would like to experience life in a whole new way, now is the time. The beginning of the year is perfect for breaking free from the bondage that sin has placed upon you and resolving to live for God in the upcoming 50 weeks, and beyond. Turn your attention to the section on the right entitled, “A Life-Changing Prayer”. Go through it and sincerely resolve to live by its premise. A resolution of this magnitude now will result in an unimaginable hereafter.
Have a blessed week,
Pastor Claude
