A New Year - New Resolutions

We are well into the new year and those resolutions for self improvement I thought of making just might have to wait for 2010! Seriously, though, I am trying to make some simple changes and improvements in my life as I know many are.

Not long ago I heard a message on Matthew 25:31-46 and I have decided to make the stipulations for judgement to be the resolutions for my life; to feed the hungry, to quench the thirst of the thirsty, to welcome the stranger, to clothe the naked, to visit the sick, and to minister to the imprisioned. I have resolved to try and do these things through how I live my everyday life; for there are many ways to feed the hungry, quench a thirst, welcome a stranger, clothe the naked, visit the sick and minister to the imprisoned. It may take some creative thinking, but then that is what I enjoy. Who are the hungry? Who are the thirsty? Who are strangers? Who is naked? Who are the sick? Who are imprisoned? If these acts truly separate the sheep from the goats (along with a pure and devoted heart to Jesus) then I can't think of a better resolution for my new year. So as the year progresses you may see these resolutions in some of the stories I share on this blog.

I will still attempt to get healthier through eating right and exercise, live more simply, pay off bills, spend less, and value PEOPLE more than things, but these aren't and shouldn't be considered 'resolutions' as they should be just the normal way of life. I will, however, resolve to grow more diliberately in my faith through study of God's word and a consistent, deeper prayer life. I will resolve to be a better wife and help-mate to my husband as I feel there is and will always be new areas of improvement as our life together continues. I will resolve to share my faith with my family and others through my actions and words if and when the opportunity presents itself...confident and without fear...but with tenderness and love...always. I will resolve to surrender all my talent and ability to the Lord, for His purpose, and remember to give Him all the credit and glory (this is often a struggle for me as it is so easy to get caught up in the self-success mode that the world expects). I will resolve to accept whatever happens in my life as part of God's incredible plan for me...whether it be good or bad...happy or sad...joyful or painful, because I know who is in control of it all. No matter what, 2009 promises to be a GOOD year!