A New Year’s resolution that matters most

As we all wish each other a happy New Year, remember there is no one better equipped than you to make this year better than last. New Year’s resolutions are everywhere right now, with commitments to lose weight, exercise more, save money and more. But as followers of Jesus, the best resolutions we can make are those that focus on spiritual growth. It is, by far, the top priority.

The Apostle Paul wrote to the Ephesians that he was praying they would have a spirit of wisdom and revelation to know Jesus better. We are never finished getting to know Him more deeply in this life, and there are steps we can take to knock down roadblocks that stand in the way.

The New Testament letter of Hebrews says, “Let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.” 

There is a lot to take in from that passage. First, it is up to us to lay aside the hindrances that trip us up. We are personally responsible for growing in our walk with Jesus and resisting sin. Second, notice the word “endurance.” Many of us struggle with endurance. In a society that often treats instant gratification as a right, Scripture calls us to become people who endure spiritually because we are in a race.

We endure by keeping our eyes on Jesus. With all the distractions the world offers, it is easier than ever to lose focus. A few verses later in Hebrews 12, Scripture says, “So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.” We have all heard the expression “Get a grip.” That is exactly what this passage is telling us to do.

New Year’s resolutions about weight loss, finances and other goals can be good, and there is nothing wrong with them. But we should make sure we give our greatest attention to spiritual goals. As we move into the New Year, the best thing we can do is make a personal commitment to strengthen our spiritual growth through prayer, Bible reading and fellowship with other believers. When those priorities are at the forefront of our lives, it becomes much easier to lay aside the things that hinder our growth in Jesus.

Happy New Year.

Ken Staley is pastor of Faith Church of Pleasant Grove, 9:30 a.m., and Harrisville Methodist Church, 11 a.m. Both are Global Methodist congregations. Text Ken at 918-852-9797.