In recent years, it’s felt taboo or uncool to make a new year’s resolution. Multiple friends have told me, “I don’t do resolutions. If I’m going to change something about my life, an act of my will, not my calendar, will be the catalyst.” I admire my friends who have a steel resolve and can simply make a change. I, on the other hand, do not have steel resolve. Mine is more of the Jello-variety of resolve. I need all the help I can get—including New Year’s resolutions.
Jonathan Edwards, the 18th century revivalist, had 65 resolutions he lived by (and probably failed by) every year. I imagine that like me, he renewed his commitment to his internal promises on January 1st. I need, and even enjoy having a day of the year when things can reset. It’s what my 4th grade self called the do-over. December 31st ends and all of the inconsistency of the year dies with it. I get to start over, do better, live more wholly. Though I have to remind myself every January 1 that it’s all grace. It’s work, but it’s the grace of God working in me (1 Corinthians 15:10) for a more holy, passionate, fully alive me. If you find yourself in the same boat this year, join me in making these resolutions.
MY RESOLUTIONS
1. Regular Bible Reading. Because of my vocation I literally get paid to read and study my bible. But it’s interesting how often my bible reading drifts into sermon study. I have the potential to read for hours and yet neglect personal soul care. Like everyone else, by the end of the year I need the bible more than ever—the meat of the Word, the honey from heaven—to sustain me. So, every year I use a one year bible reading plan. I have tried different varieties over the years, but this one is my favorite. You can find it on your You Version bible app or simply download the reading plan and use your paper bible.
2. Regular Prayer Time. I’ve found that putting prayer on my personal calendar is the only way I will cultivate the depth of personal communion with God that I really long for. Sure, I pray in corporate settings and in small groups and at home around a dinner table. But the prayer that centers and stills my heart from the cares of this world only happens with great intentionality. My calendar looks like a patch work quilt. Some days my prayer time is in the middle of the day. Some days it’s first thing. The key is that I schedule it and treat it like a lunch appointment. I won’t cancel it even if someone (in the flesh) needs to meet. I know I need this time with God like I need air to breathe.
3. Read More Books of Substance. A recent study shows that the average American watches three hours of TV a day (some much more). That means if you and I live an average life span, we will have spent a decade in front of a boob tube by the time we die. That’s more than depressing. This is why reading is always on my resolution list. My resolution is: read more, read better. For those who are interested in such things, I keep a different book in four places at all times. My computer bag (which goes everywhere I go), my nightstand, my bathroom, my quiet time chair. I do this because these four places are where I spend most of my time. Please, no jokes about the bathroom. 🙂
4. More Time Outside. My one year check up is in four days. Here is what I expect to hear. Jon, typing on a computer is not exercise. Preaching is not cardio. Carrying an arm full of books is not building biceps. My last resolution is to start running again. I had a running injury this last year and haven’t really tied on my running shoes for quite a while. My resolution, get off the couch, Jon!
The list could go on and on. For some that read this, perhaps you’d like to make the local church a priority once again. Or get in community. Maybe join a small group. Learn to give financially to kingdom endeavors. Shed some weight. Learn a language. For others, it might be to further your education. Travel to Alaska. Learn to sew. It could be anything! Make some resolutions.
I have a few more that wouldn’t interest you, but I do have them. And honestly, I think everyone should. January 1st means we all get to start over. Do better. Live and love more wholly. I’d love to hear what your resolutions are this coming year.
