We are 7 days in…just 7. And I have to wonder how many of us have already broken our #NewYearsResolutions? Research shows around 77% of us make these sort of commitments. However, only 23% will actually carry them through. To be honest, I broke mine on day 3. I know I’m not alone out there.
Of course, my first reaction is to start making excuses.
- Well, it’s not that big of deal. I’ll still work on it.
- Tomorrow is a brand new day.
- Maybe I should reconsider my resolution…revise it a bit. Rethink it through. I must have been a bit overzealous.
- Honestly, who cares? No one is watching. I don’t have to keep it.
- This is silly. Who has the time? I would need to hire help to carry this through.
- And on and on and on I go….
As I sit here and ponder, I must admit–it’s not so much breaking the commitment that bothers me. Instead, it’s the aftermath. The lingering feeling of disappointing myself. I wanted this year to be better. To improve on some weaknesses. To believe I could do it on my own.
What are your New Year’s Resolutions?
I’m a bit curious…what have you committed too? Being more fit? Losing some weight? Spending more time with family and friends? Or maybe, you decided to make a renewed spiritual commitment. “I’m going to read God’s Word every single day.” “Put others first.” “Let go of anger and resentment.” Most likely, you will experience some hiccups along the way in striving for your goal.
But there is good news. You are not alone. Despite the set-backs, the failures, the disappointments and possible tears…God still cares. You are never beyond His vast love for you. When you fail, He is faithful to pick you up. In the midst of struggles, He hears your faint cry. Even our tiny failures don’t cause Him to change His mind or blink an eye. He will always love you.
“But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” Psalm 86:15 ESV
May you feel the presence of God’s unfailing, never-ceasing, all-encompassing, amazing agape love for you today. You never have to prove your worth to Him because you are already proven worthy!