shortlady
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READ: Psalm 119:25-32
I cling to Your testimonies; O Lord, do not put me to shame! I will run the course of Your commandments. —Psalm 119:31-32
Many people make resolutions on New Year’s Day, promising themselves (and sometimes God) that the next year of life will be different. We determine that habits are going to be changed and new patterns of behavior developed.
Resolutions like these are highly commendable and can often serve as a stimulus to spiritual growth. But not always. Sometimes our resolutions are carried out only for a little while and all too soon are forgotten.
Samuel Johnson, a deeply committed Christian who lived in the 18th century, frequently wrote resolutions in his journals. Here is a typical entry: “I have corrected no external habits, nor kept any of the resolutions made in the beginning of the year, yet I hope still to be reformed, and not to lose my whole life in idle purposes.”
It is good to engage now and then in self-examination. We should face up to the changes that need to be made, and then make plans for the way we’re going to implement them. For example, if we realize that our devotional habits are weak and inconsistent, let’s resolve to spend some time daily in focused fellowship with God. Let’s ask the Spirit to help us in this consistent practice through all our tomorrows.
Today is a good day to start. —Vernon C Grounds
You’ll go forth a little stronger
With a fresh supply of grace,
If each day you meet the Savior
In a secret, quiet place. —Adams
God speaks to those who take time to listen, and He listens to those who take time to pray.
READ: Psalm 119:25-32
I cling to Your testimonies; O Lord, do not put me to shame! I will run the course of Your commandments. —Psalm 119:31-32
Many people make resolutions on New Year’s Day, promising themselves (and sometimes God) that the next year of life will be different. We determine that habits are going to be changed and new patterns of behavior developed.
Resolutions like these are highly commendable and can often serve as a stimulus to spiritual growth. But not always. Sometimes our resolutions are carried out only for a little while and all too soon are forgotten.
Samuel Johnson, a deeply committed Christian who lived in the 18th century, frequently wrote resolutions in his journals. Here is a typical entry: “I have corrected no external habits, nor kept any of the resolutions made in the beginning of the year, yet I hope still to be reformed, and not to lose my whole life in idle purposes.”
It is good to engage now and then in self-examination. We should face up to the changes that need to be made, and then make plans for the way we’re going to implement them. For example, if we realize that our devotional habits are weak and inconsistent, let’s resolve to spend some time daily in focused fellowship with God. Let’s ask the Spirit to help us in this consistent practice through all our tomorrows.
Today is a good day to start. —Vernon C Grounds
You’ll go forth a little stronger
With a fresh supply of grace,
If each day you meet the Savior
In a secret, quiet place. —Adams
God speaks to those who take time to listen, and He listens to those who take time to pray.
