Resolutions: January 1, 2014

TODAY’S WORD FOR WEDNESDAY JANUARY 1, 2014.

RESOLUTIONS

DEFINITION:

Decide; determine; make up one’s mind; take a firm stand.

SCRIPTURE:

I have resolved what to do, that when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses. Luke 16:4

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

Down through the years it has been a practice for many people to begin a New Year by making some New Year resolutions. History shows us that most of the resolutions are broken in a very short time.

Our Lord in Luke 16:4 tells the parable of the unfaithful steward. This steward was caught squandering the possessions of the rich man he worked for. So, as the scripture tells us the unfaithful steward made a resolution. He went to those that owed his master money and made a deal to give large discounts on what they owed to settle the obligation.

By reducing their indebtedness to his master the steward made them indebted to him so that when the master kicked the steward out the masters debtors would be obligated to help him. The steward’s resolution was not one that honored his master. His resolution was based on greed and deceit and dishonesty.

What kind of New Year’s resolutions are you ready to make today. When you consider making a resolution make sure it honors God and blesses people. This is the kind of resolution that in turn will be a blessing to you. Do not be like the unfaithful steward who considered himself only. Take the time today to encourage your family to consider making some spiritual resolutions that will make you more useful in the Lord’s service. May we suggest several that may be new to you?

Set aside a time every day to read God’s Word. Then take some time after you read the portion of the day to study what you have read by reading a commentary or foot notes.

Set aside time daily to pray. Make it a priority to pray alone and let nothing interfere as you have a heart to heart talk with Jesus. Take time to pray prior to every meal. Make this prayer more than thank You for the food. Take time to praise God for who He is and what He has done for you. Teach your children to pray at meal times as well as in private. Many children are fearful when they are asked to pray in front of family and friends. Help them to understand that praying to God is like talking to a best friend because Jesus is their best friend.

Spend time daily with your family with all electronic devises turned off. We did this with our family when our children were home and still do it today. Take time to pray, talk and get to know the issues each person is facing in life. God will use this time for family members to bond with one another. Do not take “NO” for an answer. Everyone in the family must be there every time.

Yes, New Years is a time to make resolutions. Many will resolve to lose weight, go to the gym, make friends with a neighbor, get involved in church and the list goes on and on. But most of these resolutions will be soon broken. Make your spiritual resolutions and then make them part of your daily life, never to be broken.

Here are several thoughts for you to ponder;

In 2014 say “no” to many good ideas that come your way and say “yes” to the great ones.

Opportunities to serve the Lord will literally drop in your lap if you have your lap ready for dropped opportunities.

Eyes that look are common but eyes that see are rare. Are you looking in 2014 and seeing the opportunities of service that God has for you?

LEARNING:

Our memory verse for this week is found in II Corinthians 9:8.

And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have abundance for every good work.

PRAYER:

Help me to make resolutions that will honor You and bring Your blessings to me and my family. Help my family to decide to do the things which will draw us closer to You and closer to one another. Help us to pray more diligently, serve You more faithfully, and praise You more joyfully.