As we begin a new year, many people try to focus on making New Year’s resolutions. I want to lose weight, exercise more, help others, read my Bible more, etc. All of these are good ideas, good intentions, and things we really want to do, but let’s face it; most of us last until maybe February or March. Before long, these resolutions are forgotten.

In order for us to keep these resolutions, we have to be diligent. Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”

People who are diligent can get the job done. Life happens, and we often don’t work hard enough nor are we diligent enough to keep our resolutions. The results are usually not what we had hoped for.

How much better would these resolutions be if we turned them over to Christ and made our life diligent with Him. Revelations 21:5 states, “‘He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down for these words are trustworthy and true.’” Each year, or better each day, we should make a resolution to turn our entire being over to Christ, to be made new each and every day. We need to be diligent about this.

Just like the a new year starts fresh, let us be diligent and dedicated in our walk with Christ, who helps us start anew. “Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24

John Swonger – CBC Executive Board