Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled. (Joshua 21:45 NIV)
It’s New Year’s resolution time. My brother Elijah and I were exchanging goals were were setting for this year. In the past, exercise and diet were at the top of my list. After a few weeks my good intentions had a tendency to dissolve. The spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak.
We make a huge mistake if we attach our weakness to God. With Him, there’s never a gap between what he says and what he does. At Sinai, Israel vowed to do everything the Lord commanded (Exodus 19:8). Shortly after, they were dancing around an idol, giving a golden calf praise God deserved. Israel’s abysmal record of keeping promises is common.
Setting goals is important. If they line up with God’s will, expect plenty of resistance from the enemy. Alone, we are no match for the evil one’s devices, but, if we hitch our resolutions to God’s promises, then no power can stop us. His promises switch the focus from our self-will to the Lord’s unchangeable word.
God is not a man that he should lie, nor a son of man that he should change his mind. Does he speak and not act? Does he promise and not fulfill? (Numbers 23:19)
This is where accurate understanding of prophecy (God’s unfulfilled promises) places us on track for the next level. When we know where the Lord is heading and what he’s certain to do, we are wise to climb on board and start to work. If our resolutions do not produce a greater sense of calling, we may be wasting our time. Our resolutions can easily fall short, but the Lord’s words will never fall short. He will achieve everything that came from his mouth (Isaiah 55:11).
Through these, he has given his very great and precious promises so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. (2 Peter 1:4)
In this year, 2017, I, hereby, resolve to allow Christ to perform his perfect will through me.
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January 1, 2017 at 4:41 pm
arjdolphins
Amen. I also vow to live a life worthy of the Cross. My goal is to share the truth of God’s Word with those who the Lord leads me to and to represent Jesus to the best of my ability while doing my best to limit pride and selfishness. Jesus help me!!. Take away the pain I have when I try to find happiness and worth through others first.
January 2, 2017 at 12:23 pm
John Finkbeiner
I’m very impressed by your goals for 2017. From the sound of them, I believe they originated in the heart of God. The fact that you are owning them only confirms you are listening to his voice. Think big because big things are going to happen. You serve a BIG God.
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