A New Year's resolution from Scripture

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15, ESV).

If you’re looking for a reason to go out there and “do your best” today—spiritually, as well as in every other way—here it is from the Bible. Be determined today—to stop talking trash, to stop gossiping, to desist from petty complaints, to extinguish those little retaliatory digs, to exercise self-control, to resolve to do better in your attitude, to put on a gentle spirit.

“… if anyone cleanses himselffrom what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work” (2 Timothy 2:21, ESV).

If you’re looking for a reason to go out there and “cleans yourself” of bad habits of thinking and acting today, here it is from the Bible. Be determined today to cleanse yourself from every doubtful thought pattern and personal habit.

“So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace …” (2 Timothy 2:22, ESV).

If you have had it with a chronically stumbling and double-minded life, and you suddenly really want a life that’s more righteous, faith-filled, loving, and peace-filled, here is Scripture’s command to “pursue” these things. Go for it. It is by God’s grace you will be able to do it. It is by grace you will gain what you desire.

How about a New Year’s resolution?