Matthew 6:33

New Year custom dictates that we review our lifestyle after our celebration season and make "resolutions" to correct behavior or focus goals for the coming year. Most of us who have spent some time with the Lord give acknowledgement to the custom, but usually also search our hearts to confess any lingering issues and renew our commitment to serve our King, the Lord Jesus.

May I suggest a few of the "bigger resolutions" to consider?

The First and Second Commandment (Matthew 27:37-39)

To love God wholly and then love others is the demanding summary of the Ten Commandments of God. None of us keep them continually, but all of us should renew our willingness to obey them (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

Judgment, Mercy, and Faith (Matthew 23:23)

All the "technical obedience" of the Pharisees was not enough to please the Lord Jesus. He considered all religious activity secondary to a lifestyle of holiness that reflected His own heart (Micah 6:8).

Kind, Tenderhearted, Forgiving (Ephesians 4:32)

Jesus told His disciples that the world would recognize our love toward one another (John 13:34-35). He also said that if we refused to forgive those who had wronged us, the Heavenly Father would not forgive us (Mark 11:26). This is supremely important!

Good Stewards of God's Grace (I Peter 4:10)

The Stewardship principle has its foundation in the Dominion Mandate of Genesis 1:28, to care for God's creation. The lifestyle requirement extends to our use of that which God has given us (Matthew 25:15-28; Luke 19:13-25) and to the service we give to God's family with the gifts He has given us (Romans 12:3-11).

Sow Bountifully (II Corinthians 9:6)

There is much bound up in this command and promise: faithfulness in our church (Hebrews 10:25); consistent tithing (Malachi 3:10; I Corinthians 16:2); and generous offerings and alms (Luke 12:32-34). But it also covers all that we do in the Lord's service, from the "cup of cold water" to the "ministry" to and for the saints. This "resolution" is most blessed when it is followed "cheerfully" (II Corinthians 9:7).