New Year

Now we look inside and what  we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new.  2 Corinthians 5:17 the Message 

What is it about a new year that makes us innately want to start over or begin again?  We want that fresh start, so we set unrealistic goals, and in doing so, we set ourselves up for imminent failure and disappointment.

Morning television news programs seem to have made it their mission to improve the lives of their audience by constantly suggesting new ways to live life to the fullest.  One morning lately, they suggested ways to maximize your morning.  The ways began with “List six things you want to accomplish today”.  It went on to suggest that we should then rank these six things in order of importance, and as we accomplish them, they should be checked off the list.  Making a list takes effort each day, and who has time to check it off?

I decided that the first thing on my list of six things to accomplish would be to make my own list of ways to maximize my morning, my day, my week, my month, and my year.  I’m probably falling into the same trap of failure that I promised I wouldn’t do; but nothing ventured, nothing gained!

The first thing on my list is be positive.  I can’t listen to those cynics who weigh us down with negative thoughts; instead, I will remember that  with God all things are possible.

The second thing on my list is to find a purpose for each day.  This purpose should involve doing something for someone every day, whether it be in thought, word, prayer or deed.  Ask the question, “What can I do for you today?”

The third thing on my list is to be enthusiastic, empathetic and energetic.  No one needs another person being fatalistic, tired, and judgmental all the time.

The fourth thing on my list is trusting God in all things.  It is my mission to trust that when bad things happen, God is still in control.

The fifth thing on my list is to love unconditionally.  It’s easy to play the blame game, but that’s not what God expects.

The last thing on my list is to start each day in prayer and bible study.  God has set the example that we should follow, and it should be a mission each day to challenge ourselves to meet His criteria.

Good Luck with all the new resolutions for the new year.  I wish you a very Happy New Year filled with joy, peace and love!