Issue 1332 – Resolutions – December 30, 2023
As we’re on the brink of a new year, many are setting resolutions—some aiming to try new things, others to drop old habits or pick up healthier ones.
It’s a common time for introspection, isn’t it? What better moment to reflect than on the brink of something new?
Come January, gyms and fitness clubs are buzzing. They sign up heaps of people, knowing many won’t stick around. Some keep memberships, hoping to muster the motivation, while others keep paying, but never returning out of sheer embarrassment.
I get it. We all sense areas in life that could use a boost. But the real change isn’t just about doing things differently; it’s about a shift within ourselves.
The ancient Israelites were given the Law to show that simply changing actions isn’t enough. None of us can stick to it perfectly; we all fall short.
True transformation starts with a new heart and spirit.
“And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.” Ezekiel 36:26-27
I’m no exception—I’ve got areas to work on too. But tackling them all at once? That’s overwhelming. So, I’m taking small steps, leaning on grace and mercy, asking for help to be more faithful and Christlike in the little things.
Small changes often pave the way for bigger ones.
Sure, I know I’ll stumble, revert to old habits, or be plain stubborn and rebellious. I wish that weren’t true, but it is.
Being a follower of Christ, I’m reminded that I’m renewed, and the Spirit resides within. He’s faithful and forgiving when I mess up. There might still be consequences, but I’m cleansed in His eyes.
My prayer is to grow more like the One who loves me boundlessly.
Thinking of these heart changes, Paul’s words to the Philippians come to mind—a New Year’s wish for you as well.
“…it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:10-11
There will be no Gleanings until January 2nd. See you then.
Be blessed
Hallelu Yah / Praise God
Kevin
Gleanings From The Word
Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life.
Soli Deo Gloria (For the Glory of God alone)
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All contents, “Gleanings From The Word” and “Experience an Extraordinary God in Ordinary Life,” are © 2001, 2023 KF “Kevin” Corbin Gleanings From The Word.
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is from the English Standard Version (ESV).
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