Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.

Colossians 3:9-10

Most of the time we think of resolutions we will keep in the New Year and often it is a positive take. There are lots of commercials and advertisements for new healthy eating plans. Gyms are advertising introductory rates to entice new members. And I read a post yesterday by a man who plans to read a new book every week in 2023. That’s ambitious, but I think it could become more of a burden than a goal. What do you think?

Over the last few years, I’ve added a few goals. A couple of years ago, I read the Bible through again as part of my daily reading. Last year, I refocused on prayer by typing out a list on my phone and spending time reading and praying through that list daily and this year, I’ve added a daily devotional from Alistair Begg to my daily routine.

Why do we make such plans and goals? I think most of us want to do what Paul describes in the verse above. We want to “put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.”

Paul is speaking of deliberate action. We will not be renewed and changed without intentionally seeking out a plan to grow spiritually. What one thing will you do differently this year?