“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:18-19

Resolutions have lost their popularity in recent years. As people realize they don’t usually keep the resolutions, they are less likely to make them. So what about you? Do you intend to make a resolution this year? Or maybe you’ve decided to focus on a Bible verse for the year or a word the Lord seems to be impressing on you as your watchword for the year. Whatever you are considering, we all tend to look at the new year as a fresh start, a chance to become more than we’ve been in the past.

Here are some suggested resolutions. Some are light-hearted and easy to keep. Some are deeply meaningful. But I suggest you pick one of these or one of your own to start this New Year out on a fresh path allowing God to start a new thing in your heart and life.

Get your new year started of with a blast!

 Resolve to keep fresh-cut flowers in a vase on your table to brighten your day and remind you of God’s amazing creation.

 Resolve to read through the Word of God every single day of the year. (Try Bible Gateway or You Version.)

 Resolve to open the door for people every time you go to a store.

 Resolve to read the Love Dare book and improve your relationship with your spouse.

 Resolve to eat a slice of Birthday cake on their birthday with every single friend whose birthday you are aware of.

 Resolve to journal your prayers to God so that by the end of the year you will have a record of the ways God has moved in your life.

 Resolve to write one note of encouragement a week to someone.

 Resolve to share the Gospel every opportunity God gives you, even though you may feel nervous or intimidated.

 Resolve to return rudeness with kindness.

 Resolve to learn a new fun skill: cooking, playing an instrument, speaking another language, knitting, Iron Man training, painting,…

 Resolve to make it a habit of getting eye to eye with a child to play.

 Resolve to start your own blog.

 Resolve to quit being negative, and trust God.

 Resolve to get involved with a ministry to others or teach a class at your church.

 Resolve to look in the mirror each day and tell yourself, you are kind, you are beautiful, and God has a purpose for you today.

 Resolve to be content with your lot in life, yet to keep working hard daily to improve yourself and to follow God’s directions for your life.

 Resolve to pray for your family every single day. (The prayer app Echo might prove helpful.)

 Resolve not to worry. Choose to have faith.

 Resolve to say “yes” to God.

Surely one of these resolutions appeals to you. You may even want to pick 2 – one heavy one and one light-hearted one. You’ll be sure to succeed at one! Blessings on your new adventure with the Lord! Be resolved to live fully in the moment each day, intently listening and seeking your Father’s direction.