7 New Year Resolutions that could Change the World

In the new year . . . let’s resolve.

Whether or not you do New Year resolutions, we could all stand to improve some things in our life. And, if we do, I’m confident we could also improve the life of others. In fact, with a whole lot of improving . . . it might become contagious . . . and we might just change the world.

7 new year resolutions that could change the world:

Let’s resolve to begin everyday with a prayer, a smile, and a humility check.
It will require discipline…but how we begin a day almost always determines how we end one.

Let’s resolve to return evil with good.
It won’t be easy. In fact, it will be hard. A grudge or sarcastic remark seems so much more fulfilling . . . in the moment. But, over time, it causes more harm than good . . . mostly to us…more than “them”.

Let’s resolve to never let the sun go down on anger.
This is true in every relationship . . . but especially in marriage. Anger emotions grow overnight. They blossom into more intense anger emotions. We may not be able to resolve all disagreements, but we can drop the right to get even and resolve to be at peace as much as it depends on us. We will awake with level ground to build better, healthier relationships with others.

Let’s resolve not use Facebook as a forum to bash others.
Or even as a forum period. It divides people rather than bringing them together. Let’s resolve for a kinder, gentler Facebook…rant-free even . . . where we stalk . . . I mean check in on old friends. Let’s act like people…real people . . . may actually see what we write. And care. (This includes Twitter too.)

Let’s resolve to exercise our patience muscle.
Wow! I put this one in the middle so that maybe you (or my wife) would skip over it quickly. Just kidding. This is one I need . . . we all need. I’m not sure we can completely master it this year, but, with intentionality…and Christ’s strength . . . we can keep getting better.

Let’s resolve to remember it’s not about us.
This one alone would change the world. What if we placed into our schema that other people matter . . . just as much as we do? Does it make a difference when you think someone values you? Of course it does.

Let’s resolve to listen more than we speak.
It’s hard to value others when we are doing all the talking. (It’s also hard to hear from God.) It requires an act of humility when we remain silent at times we want to speak. But, it guards the tongue, protects relationships, and we might actually learn something.

Of course, ultimately the change we need is the Gospel, but who knows? Maybe if we change the way we treat others . . . including other believers . . . others might want to hear our Gospel.

What resolve do you propose?

Ron Edmondson

Ron Edmondson is a pastor and church leader passionate about planting churches, helping established churches thrive, and assisting pastors and those in ministry think through leadership, strategy and life.

http://www.ronedmondson.com