Last January 1^st, I made two resolutions: Finish writing a book and keep the little basket in my closet (for keys, chapstick and gum etc.,) nice and tidy. Guess which one I accomplished?

 

That little basket is a devil.

 

Beth likes me to keep things clean. And while I kept the basket much tidier than before, I can’t say I knocked this one out of the park. And while you may think my second goal never warranted a resolution, I do. First, the desire was to love my wife in a practical way. Second, my first resolution required enormous effort. The chances of me accomplishing two huge dreams seemed over-optimistic and maybe even distracting.

 

By the way, my first book will be published in a few months. The writing part is complete.

 

I hope you’re finding some time to reflect on 2014, and I pray that you are ready to surge into 2015. The most effective, life-changing organizations care for people holistically. They recognize that our spiritual, physical and emotional components are intertwined. Each person is just one person, so we must care for everyone holistically. As you consider setting some goals for 2015, consider your whole being. Consider small things to love someone. And consider huge dreams that God has given you, but you’ve always shoved away. Here are some questions to ask:

1. How can you become healthier spiritually? Physically? Emotionally? Intellectually?
2. What “small” chore would communicate “big” love to someone else?
3. Has God given you a dream that you’ve never pursued? Is it time to obey?
4. How can you make a commitment that you’ll still be keeping in six months? (If you haven’t exercised in three years, commit to walking for 15 minutes, 4 times a week. Don’t commit to hour-long workouts every day. Make a sustainable commitment.)
5. With whom can you share your commitment, so that they can hold you accountable? (Sharing on social media doesn’t count; it probably doesn’t even help. Most of us would prefer to read about how you KEPT a commitment.)
6. Does your commitment honor God? Check your motives before proceeding.

 

Blessings in 2015.

 

dream keep new years resolutions