So, in 2016, let’s not just make resolutions, let’s change our motives.
How do we change our motives? By changing our hearts. Wouldn't it be grand to make this the year we always dream great dreams?...have a lofty ambitions? ... cherish noble aspirations instead of selfishly focused dreams?
Would it be great if we were more eternally minded and less materially shackled?
We must set our minds on things above. We must have the mind of Christ. We must allow the Holy Spirit to direct not only our actions, but our hearts and our desires. Are you willing to submit your deepest wants and dreams to Him?
Pleasing Christ - rather than pleasing self - there's the perfect resolution fo this coming year! Without this motive capturing our thoughts, guiding our steps and inspiring our words and actions, our aim will be earthly and low.
If we aren’t aiming to please Christ, our ambitions will be selfish and our goals will be mortal. Only dreams dreamt for Him can fulfill our hearts. Only accomplishments in Jesus’ name will have eternal impact.
Set our mind on things above this year, for what one loves one follows after. If you or I are to live a spiritually victorious life, we must think spiritual thoughts. If we want to climb high, we must set our sights – our minds – on things above. We must guard our hearts and minds, and our senses, from the fleshly in order to keep our minds set on things above.
“Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:2
A grand beginning is to turn away from selfishness - because sin is basically selfishness. Sin is putting our own wants and desires ahead of God's. Let’s purpose right now to start this New Year in right fellowship with our Lord. Let’s repent of our sin, our selfishness, and ask God’s help to live a life pleasing to Him.
We are all creatures of habit, good or bad and habits form as we indulge in them. Let's purpose to replace the bad ones this year, in order to free ourselves from the shackles of the flesh that hold back our ministry, our spiritual growth, and our love for our Lord.
Beloved, we do not strive alone - thank goodness! We cannot change our own hearts, but God who starts us, stays with us. God who saves us, will keep us. Will you resolve to live wholeheartedly for Jesus this year? With Him, let’s change our motivation, and change our lives.
Dear Lord, we purpose to live each day this year in order to please You. Help us guard our hearts and minds from distractions; strengthen us to do Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Blessings as we all set out to live 2016 - FOR HIM!
Cara & Patti
Classic Christianity