Biblical Resolutions: Aligning Your Goals with God’s Will
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Visit our Holy Spirit Gear Store- - - - - ->>> HERE <<< - - - - - - New items Weekly
Each New Year, millions of people craft resolutions. We pledge to lose weight, save more money, or pick up a new hobby. But as I reflect on my own past resolutions, I’ve realized how fleeting and often self-centered they were. This year, I’ve decided to take a different approach: making my resolutions biblical. By anchoring my goals in God’s Word, I can ensure they glorify Him and align with His purpose for my life.
Why Biblical Resolutions?
The Bible encourages self-reflection and personal growth, but always within the framework of God’s will. Proverbs 16:3 reminds us, "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." Unlike secular goals that often rely solely on self-discipline, biblical resolutions draw strength from God.
Steps to Make Your Resolutions Biblical
1. Seek God’s Guidance Through Prayer
Before drafting a single resolution, I spend time in prayer. James 1:5 encourages us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." Whether I’m considering a career change or a new ministry opportunity, I seek His wisdom first.
2. Base Your Goals on Scripture
I’ve learned that God’s Word is the ultimate roadmap. If I resolve to grow in patience, I meditate on Galatians 5:22-23, which lists patience as a fruit of the Spirit. If I aim to give more generously, I study 2 Corinthians 9:7, which teaches that "God loves a cheerful giver."
3. Prioritize Spiritual Growth
This year, I’m prioritizing my relationship with God. 1 Timothy 4:8 reminds us, "For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come." My spiritual resolutions include reading the Bible daily, memorizing Scripture, and attending regular fellowship.
4. Set Goals That Reflect God’s Heart
Micah 6:8 beautifully summarizes God’s desires: "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" This year, I’m committing to serve my community, advocate for the vulnerable, and walk humbly in obedience.
5. Partner With Accountability
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 states, "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow." I’ve joined a small group where we share our resolutions, pray for each other, and hold one another accountable.
Examples of Biblical Resolutions
Grow in Faith: Resolve to spend 30 minutes daily in prayer and Bible reading (Matthew 6:33).
Practice Forgiveness: Choose to forgive those who’ve hurt you, as modeled in Ephesians 4:32.
Cultivate Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal, inspired by 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
Steward Your Body: Treat your body as God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) by eating healthily and exercising.
Serve Others: Volunteer regularly, reflecting Philippians 2:4, which says to "look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."
Overcoming Challenges
Making resolutions is easy; keeping them is another story. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 26:41, "The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." I’ve found strength by relying on His grace and not my own willpower (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Celebrating Success God’s Way
When I achieve a goal, I give glory to God. Psalm 115:1 reminds me, "Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory." Celebrating success doesn’t mean boasting but sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness.
Recommended Books to Further Study the Subject
This year, I challenge you to join me in making resolutions that align with God’s Word. Instead of fleeting, self-focused goals, let’s strive for resolutions that glorify God and advance His kingdom. As Colossians 3:17 urges, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." Together, we can start this New Year with purpose, guided by His unfailing Word.