It’s that time of year. Folks everywhere have been enjoying the holidays – maybe too much. That extra slice of pie, just one more piece of fudge or that extra serving of potatoes and gravy – all seem to stay with us in a way we wish they would not. Others, in spite of the colder weather, can be found huddled just outside the front or back doors, taking their nicotine break. Many had such a surge of holiday zeal that they got everyone a special gift, and now their credit card carries a small mountain of debt. Many habitually throw their money away on the lottery or some other form of gambling.
As thoughts turn to ringing in the New Year, some realities cross our mind. We realize the need to “turn over a new leaf.”
The extra pounds we now carry deserve to be burned. The tobacco habit being funded needs to be kicked for the health of our bodies and our wallets. The second-hand destruction to children also needs to stop. While we gripe that the government spends more than it takes in, our personal habit has been the same.
What resolutions will we make, and how long will they last? Why is it that some folks seem to have strong determination while others never seem to stick with anything? You probably know someone who quit the fumigation habit “cold turkey” while others have “quit” dozens of times. Many speak of their need to shed some pounds but never follow through. They just keep buying larger and larger clothing. Often the “pot calls the kettle black.” Someone overweight points in disgust to another who will not quit smoking. The over-spender looks down upon the drunkard.
On the website USA.gov, a listing of perennial New Year’s resolutions include: drinking less alcohol, weight loss, debt management and to quit smoking. One survey of 15,000 respondents found that 77% of New Year’s Eve resolutions failed. According to the Franklin-Covey survey, the number one resolution often is to become physically fit.
All the categories mentioned so far deserve attention. However, a different resolution ought to top the list – the wellbeing of our souls. Listen to the words of the prophet: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved” (Jeremiah 8:20). Nothing is more important. You may have the good intention to read your Bible or to attend church services more regularly. It has been said that the way to hell is paved with good intentions. Read Matthew 7:13, 14, 24-28. Are you absolutely certain you have learned the truth and are obeying the truth? “Try your own selves, whether ye are in the faith; prove your own selves” (2 Corinthians 13:5). Why not resolve to visit the church of Christ, and speak to us about your salvation?
