How are your New Year’s resolutions going?
We’re a few weeks into the new year, and many people may be thinking about how they can best stick to their resolutions, others may still be contemplating exactly what their resolution will be – and if it’s one they can maintain.
Typical resolutions might include losing weight, eating better, drinking less alcohol, or finding a new hobby. These are fairly standard resolutions. The key element most New Year’s resolutions have is that they are self-centred. I think this is an important thing for Christians to consider when deciding on their resolution.
This isn’t inherently wrong, it’s ok to improve ourselves. We are made in God’s image, so it is right for us to look after our bodies by exercising, eating healthy, avoiding drugs, etc. But, isn’t this the same trend people follow every year? As Christians, should we be focusing on resolutions for ourselves, or on resolutions that seek to benefit others?
So, what are some good resolutions to have as Christians? Here are some ideas to get you started that focus on loving others and the world around us.
Reading the Bible with a friend
Choosing a New Year’s resolution to do with a friend can help keep both of you accountable, and perhaps it could help you keep a consistent Bible reading schedule. Uncovering the truth of God’s Word is a rewarding experience that will help you better yourself, like a resolution should do.
Environmental and sustainability resolutions
It is difficult to ignore the urgent need to take better care of our planet, and as custodians of the Earth this should be important to us. Perhaps join a beach clean-up group or use more public transport. If you have a green thumb, starting a veggie garden or planting flowers are both practical hobbies. Growing your own vegetables, or even taking care of chickens might be a way for you to provide food for yourself and others.
Serving at church
If you’re not already, you could make time to serve in some capacity at your church. This could be singing, playing an instrument, operating the sound desk or PowerPoint, leading in youth and kid’s ministry, or welcoming people at the start of the service. If there are no opportunities to serve at your church, it may be worthwhile contacting your local charities or Christian organisations such as radio stations and schools, and asking if they need volunteers.
Writing letters or thank you notes
Our devices are a big part of our lives today, but they can be both a blessing and a curse. Because of this, some people may resolve to cutting down the time they spend on their phones. However, this might result in feeling ‘disconnected’ from the rest of the world (or FOMO—fear of missing out). Thing is, phones are not the only way to communicate and you can still pick up a pen and some paper and write letters to people. This might be particularly appropriate for loved ones who aren’t as well acquainted with technology as you may be. Writing letters to people shows you’re taking time and effort to send them a message.
Perhaps these ideas will inspire you to pursue a New Year’s resolution that, put simply, is not all about you. The concept of New Year’s resolutions is reflective of egotistic thinking, but a Christian’s resolution should reflect their faith.
Jackson Reid is a journalism student currently studying at University of Wollongong in Australia. He has been working casually at Pulse 94.1, a Christian radio station, for the last 5 years. He is particularly passionate about youth and kids ministry at church.
Jackson Reid is a journalism student currently studying at University of Wollongong in Australia. He has been working casually at Pulse 94.1, a Christian radio station, for the last 5 years. He is particularly passionate about youth and kids ministry at church.
