Resolutions Rooted in Faith Step 1

Step 1 -

Seek God First in the New Year

Have you ever jumped headfirst into New Year’s resolutions, only to find yourself giving up halfway through January? You’re not alone! The excitement of starting fresh often leads us to take on too much too soon. You may have already jumped in and found my words to be absolutely true, but don’t worry. You’ve only just begun and the battle is not over yet! What if we approached goal-setting differently this year? What if we started by seeking God first?

Why Seeking God First Matters

In Proverbs 16:3, we’re told: “Commit your works to the LORD, and your thoughts will be established.” (NKJV) That’s a powerful promise, but it requires something from us—trust.

Trust in who or what? Instead of relying on our own understanding or rushing ahead with our plans, we’re invited to pause and involve God in the process. We have to be willing to open up our tightly clenched fingers and release our plans to God, allowing Him to bend them, break them or bless them as He sees fit.

When we seek God first, we’re aligning our desires with His will. This doesn’t mean every goal will succeed exactly how we imagine, but it does mean our plans will be rooted in something bigger than ourselves. Are you ready to take that step?

How to Seek God First in Your Resolutions

Here are some practical ways to make God the center of your planning:

1. Start with Prayer
   Before you write a single resolution, take time to pray. Find a quiet moment to ask, “Lord, what would You have me focus on this year?” Think through the options and opportunities before you. Be still and listen for His guidance.

2. Dive Into Scripture
   We need to remember that God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). As you set your goals, explore scriptures that speak to your heart. And meditate on verses that remind you who should be in charge of your life. For example:

   • Feeling unsure about your next steps? Read Proverbs 3:5-6.

   • Looking to grow spiritually? Meditate on Matthew 6:33.

3. Journal Your Thoughts
   Writing down your prayers and goals can bring clarity. It’s also a great way to look back and see how God has been faithful throughout the year. So break out that fancy journal that’s been collecting dust on the shelf and record what God has been showing you. Don’t get bogged down by decorations or stress over how to set it up. Just open it up and start pouring out what is on your mind!

Hmm...plans to modify!

What Happens When We Seek God First

When we seek God first, our perspective changes. Instead of chasing after things that may not satisfy us, we focus on what truly matters—our relationship with Him and His desire for our life. When your goals align with God’s goals for your life it often leads to unexpected blessings.

Seeking God first can bring us peace. We don’t need to stress out over whether or not we made the right choice. Knowing your goals align with God’s will brings a sense of calm.

Seeking God first will give us direction. We will know exactly where we are heading and why. You’ll be less likely to feel lost when challenges arise if God is the one who is leading you.

Seeking God first brings spiritual growth. As you pursue your resolutions you will simultaneously be learning more about trusting God to lead you and guide you. This will help you to lean on God for help every step of the way and will help you mature as a Christian.

A Challenge for This Year

Here’s a simple challenge for you: before you write down your goals, spend one day in prayer and scripture. Ask God to reveal the priorities He has for you this year. Stop reading now and make a decision. Will you allow God to lead?

Starting the year with God doesn’t mean your plans will always go smoothly. You may have upsets and setbacks and your plans may even go up in smoke! When that happens, take a moment to reevaluate your game plan. Were you really following what God wanted or what you wanted? It could just be that God is leading you down a different path. Don’t stress! You can still trust Him because you have the confidence of knowing He’s guiding your steps. As Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:33, when we “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,” everything else falls into place.

So, grab your Bible, find a quiet spot, and let God be the first voice you listen to as you face today and every day!

Be like Jesus every day!

Cas

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