Dieting. Reading the Bible. Spending time with family. Finally getting to that “bucket list.” It’s that time of year when “change is in the air.” Most of us don’t have trouble making New Year’s Resolutions. It’s the “keeping them” part that gets us. In fact, 40 to 45 percent of people do make a New Year’s Resolution, and while it is true that 97% of resolutions are never fulfilled, 75% do make it past the first week, and 46% make it past the six month mark.
As we look forward to a New Year, there are three “C’s” in Psalm 37 that can offer some encouragement to help create your “breakthrough” year!
Commit
Psalm 37:5 “Commit your way to the LORD; Trust also in Him, and He will do it.” Every morning, noon and night (Ps. 55:17) give your desires, plans and goals to Him. Ask Him to bring strength and light to your journey.
Confess
Often, when we think of confession, we turn to 1 John 1:9 which deals with confession of sin. While this is important in the life of a Christian, we should also consider confession to the Lord of our deep need for Him. In verses 39 & 40 of Psalm 37, David acknowledges “the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in time of trouble. And the LORD helps them, and delivers them…”(NAS) Confess to Him that you cannot “do life” without His help.
Confidence
David reminds us in verse 25 of the whole hearted confidence that He had in the Lord…“I have been young, and now I am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, or His descendants begging bread.”(NAS) Such a bold perspective caused David to look expectantly to the Lord. In 1 Samuel 30, even when all was lost at Ziklag, David “strengthened himself in the Lord his God” (vs 6 NASV). He then “inquired of the LORD” (vs 8 NASV), believing that the LORD would hear and answer him. And He did…
As you set new goals, and face new horizons, come with a “spirit of expectation” to hear from, and be encouraged by God.
Sounds like a formula to help you join the “3%” club of those who meet their resolutions.
3 comments:
3%--wow, I didn't realize that was the stat. I'd love to be part of that. This year my goals were more generalized (and fewer) than last year.
Jeannie, this truly blessed me! Wow, looking at the Psalmist with new eyes after this post. Thank you. What a release to commit ad draw confidence in the Lord. He is a very present help in time of need- amen!
YES!! I love this!! thanks for posting it! :)
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Both comments and questions are welcome. I hope you enjoyed your time on the couch today.