My New Year’s Resolution
By Brother Randolph
As we begin a New Year, I am reminded of the promises or New Year’s resolutions people make to themselves. Many people look at the New Year as a time for a fresh start; to rid themselves of their bad habits from the previous year. Statistic Brain did a study showing 41% of American’s usually make a New Year’s resolution every year. Some of the biggest resolutions are finding a better job, spending more time with family or friends, and of course, losing weight or eating healthier.
Holiness Tabernacle Church of God In Christ has also started a sanctified and Holy Ghost-led resolution by consecrating ourselves to get closer with GOD. Thinking about what this consecration means to me, I remembered one of the Old Testament scripture: Speak unto the all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy (Leviticus 19:2 KJV).
In one of my Sunday School lessons, Pastor explained that being holy simply means to be like GOD. Understanding how to live my life in a godly manner, I realized I needed to study my Bible even more. Armed with knowledge, I can identify exactly how GOD wants me to live and become a better witness, which is one of my responsibilities as a Christian. But first, I must know and understand the word of GOD. Proverbs 10:13 states, “In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found:” and also Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”
So, my New Year’s resolution or goal for 2017 is to not rely on what I think I know, but to study the Word of GOD and fully put my trust in HIS Word. Many people start the year dedicated to their resolutions, but lose their commitment before the end of January. I personally am consecrating myself to continue throughout the year and the rest of my life. My mission is to be holy and acceptable in GOD’s sight. Hebrews 12:14 (NLT) says, “Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord.”