When the New Year Grows Old

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Has the new year you touted merely a month ago already grown old?

Has the fire of goals for desired change already grown cold, here in the dead of winter?

Causes certainly can be many. A lot of life can happen in the span of 30 days. In the course of one day, even. Which supports the notion that there isn’t anything magical in our calendars. Or any particular day. One day is like another in that regard. But the Lord holds them all in His hands!

Maybe, just maybe, there is a hint of the prosperity gospel laced into a theology that power of change for a good life lies in the belief that a new year holds the power of transformation. Or our own self-determination.

Right about now, some people may have had passing thoughts of guilt because they feel they have failed at the goals they set for themselves. Which, of course, is unfortunate. But is it the person … or possibly the goal? It’s not uncommon to set unfair expectations—mounting up unrealistic goals which are too burdensome to manage.

So, what’s the solution?

Factoring God into the equation.

If lofty goals set depend on our flawed will and wisdom, they will falter. However, goals which depend on faith in God’s ability for success is ideal. Seeking His will for change and His purposes to accomplish are the starting point in prayer when considering such things.

Goal setting requires prayer. A lot of it!  It is best done before the throne of grace with humility, listening ears, an open mind, and a receptive heart. (I am preaching to myself here!) Ask God to direct your planning and to guide your decisions. Search His Word and seek the godly counsel of others. Because when the messages of the world and the desires of our hearts inform our plans, strife inevitably ensues.

God desires fruitful living for your life. He wants good to come from your life. And He works FOR you to do just that.

It’s never too late to begin. Scrap the old and start anew—whatever day of the year it is. Yes, even here at the start of a new year.