A happily different new year

There are all kinds of clever statements about setting New Year’s goals. “If you aim for nothing, you’re sure to hit it,” “Goals must be realistic, attainable, measurable, and…” (something else that I don’t remember), “You’ll be the same person five years from now except for the books that you read and the people that you meet,” etc. etc.

We’ve come again to that time of year for reflection. Where are we and where do we want to be? No surprise, we find good advice for better goal-setting in the Bible, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9) – We can make plans but we must remember that God controls the details. So, talk to Him about it. Make sure you’re on the same page. Another one, “Ye looked for much, and, lo it came to little; and when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the Lord of hosts. Because of mine house that is waste, and ye run every man unto his own house. Therefore, the heaven over you is stayed from dew, and the earth is stayed from her fruit.” (Haggai 1:9,10) – Even if our plans succeed, the enjoyment may be short-lived if we’ve forgotten right priorities.

Give God His rightful place in your plans. Again, talk to Him about it. Make sure you’re on the same page. One more: “God is able to make all grace abound towards you, so that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8) – remember, your goals can’t be just about you. God blesses those who bless others. Others will benefit from your commitment to love like Jesus loves.

God wants His children to be a people “Zealous of good works.” (Titus 3:14) Make a difference, and a happily different New Year is possible!