Staying focused

I don't know many people who make formal resolutions at the beginning of a new year. But every January 1, faced with the clean slate in front of us, it's hard not to resolve at some level that this one is going to be different. By now, three days in, that slate is already getting a little dusty, and most of us have begun to waver on those resolutions, however formal or informal they may be. But Christians, be of good cheer and keep a faithful perspective on the whole thing. Here, for example, is Vicki Gaines:

Let's keep it simple. And live like we're loved---because we are. Let's rest in the One who came to free us from this continual need to 'fix' our own flesh so we'll feel better about ourselves. We are now crucified with Christ and we no longer live, but Christ lives through us. Nike's ad would mean more if it said: Just Let Christ Do It Through You! Need to lose weight? Have an emotional wound that needs healing? Need to keep a rein on your tongue and speak more lovingly? Me, too, my friend. I can't even forgive without His Spirit operating in me. No matter how good my particular flesh (or yours) might be, our best efforts are still like filthy rags. . . all we do must be fueled by His Spirit.

Let's not focus so much on personal resolutions. If you've made a list, give the whole thing to Him. Jesus is Life - not the life we naively try to carve out for ourselves every year. We can either wear ourselves out struggling to change, or look to Him, confess our need, and let His Spirit take deep residence within us, to work and will to His good pleasure. Sometimes the biggest bondage is staying captive to our own agendas. 2008 is the year to let them go, admitting we have no power to carry out our own resolutions.

Only Christ brings lasting change.

Amen.