However old we are is the number of “New Year” transitions we have made. How many of them began with a greater resolve regarding some specific change intended to be made? How many of those changes did not last very long into the new year. Despite earnest intent, sometimes our own convictions are not enough alone. Being in the support of others where there may be some ongoing accountability provides great benefit. We need each other. And above all, we need the Lord and the newness He is able to provide.
In a search of lists for common New Year’s resolutions I found ideas such as: eat healthier, get more exercise, drink less, manage stress, quit smoking, eat out less, create a better balance between work and life, prioritize your mental health, etc. For the younger there might be a focus on things such as getting more sleep, studying harder, less screentime, less junk food, etc. All of this is focused on for becoming a “better you” as these contribute toward healthier living. However, neither of those lists made reference to the spiritual life, though that does also have impact on both physical and mental health. There is another direction to look for a “better you” and that is what God desires to provide not only relative to life presently but eternally.
In his second letter to Christians at Corinth, Paul noted a significant newness associated with Jesus where we read. . .
“(14) For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; (15) and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. (16) From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. (17) Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:13-17 ESV)
There is not just the “better you” but the “best you” we all need to focus toward and surrender to becoming through the transformation Divinely made possible. (i.e. 2 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 3:21) As we have been united with Christ through baptism to rise to the new life in Him (Romans 6:3-4), it is an ongoing thing. A lot of resolutions based on living life for us might bring about some healthy changes, but it is the full surrender to the Lord with the resolve to live life for Him that leads into and through the continuing transformation of our whole being for the “best you” we could ever be! May we allow God’s Spirit to continue His marvelous transformative work of bring us back into the image He created us to possess; His! (Genesis 1:26-27)
Have a great day LEAVING THE OLD BEHIND FOR THE BEST IN CHRIST!
Carl
