A Resolution to Renew

Photo image courtesy Nancy C. Williams

“Be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and...put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” – Ephesians 4:23-24 (NKJV)

Here it is, the new year! It’s time to dump baggage left over from last year, kickstart our diets (again), and get back into the gym. Let’s organize our calendars as we make resolutions for what we want to accomplish in 2026!

I have lots of nifty ideas, but frankly, resolutions just make me tired. What I really want is a newer brain. Can you identify?

There’s nothing wrong with attempting to reach new milestones. However, most of our goals are self-centered. If we fail to finish, our dreams are swept away with them. Instead of renewing our youth, we feel dejected...and another year older.

Friend, let’s start from a different viewpoint this time. What if we shoot for spiritual growth? It’s a resolution that appeals to everyone!

Here’s the bad news. We can make all kinds of plans and start on tasks, but unless the Holy Spirit is present, nothing we try to accomplish will be successful. Without His power and guidance, we have no well to draw from, no compass to lead us, no results.

When Jesus appeared to His followers after His resurrection, He gave them marching orders to become His witnesses to the ends of the earth. After His ascension, His apostles remained powerless for 10 days. Suddenly, the Holy Spirit came upon them in a mighty wind and tongues of fire, igniting their hearts with a tremendous passion. They immediately preached from the rooftop, and 3,000 souls were added to their number (see Acts 2).

With the Holy Spirit dwelling within them, the apostles went forward to share the Gospel, heal people from disease and death, drive out demons, and baptize new believers. These are remarkable results.

How do we bolster our spiritual growth? The good news is, you can always pray. Spend time meditating on Scriptures, and ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand God’s truth, even when it involves messages you don’t want to hear, about personal sacrifices and inevitable persecutions.

Then, change your motives from all-about-me to all-about-others. Consider yourself “on mission” as you plan. How can you nurture relationships in the world around you, to offer hope in God’s promises and Christ’s salvation?

As you seek direction from the Holy Spirit, He will turn your defeats into His victories. He will fill you with words, direction, and influences that you never thought possible. Pray for Him to lift you out of your comfort zone. The boldness He provides will be astonishing!

So, think again about your resolutions. If you and I truly seek to work in Christ’s kingdom, we need to pray earnestly and humbly for spiritual renewal. Pray for God to realign your plans to fulfill His purposes.

What exciting opportunities you will find ahead! A “new you” may develop through the ministry where God places you.

Whether it's lightning-fast or slow-paced, you can count on spiritual progress when you focus on His will.

May the Holy Spirit bring you a joyful year in His presence and your pursuit of growth!

Questions for Reflection:

1. What resolutions can you make this year that will encourage spiritual growth?

2. What hindrances or hurdles are keeping you from fully serving in Christ’s kingdom?

3. How can you be more faithful in your prayer life?