Resolution - reprint from Jan 2, 1999

As the year winds down, many look with eager expectancy to 1999. A new year is a time of fresh hope and possibilities. New dreams are created and new goals are set. The traditional New Year's Resolution fever begins to rise as some aim to lose weight, save more, study harder or be a better parent or spouse. Always, the aspiration is admirable. Invariably, the effect is short term.

Human beings are complex creatures whose internal workings, motivations and desires have fascinated mankind throughout the ages. In an effort to control these internal operations and improve ourselves, many have engaged in prolonged fasting and abstinence, seclusion from human contact and extreme intellectualism. Whatever the approach, there is something in us that recognizes that we are imperfect as we are and that desires a better self.

We are made up of a physical natural body, which we all see and touch. Then there is the soul, which comprises the mind, will, intellect, and emotions. The soul defines our character and personality. Thirdly, we have a spirit, that part of us that relates to God and that continues to exist after our physical body dies.

There is a divine order to a well functioning and balanced human being. The spirit is to lead and direct the soul and the body. The body is the house of the spirit and the mind. Our efforts at improving our human life must be focused on our human parts in the order of priority.

Upgrade and revitalize the inhabitants, and the house will begin to reflect the renewed inhabitants. A goal of losing weight or exercising targets the body. If diligently pursued, it will benefit the health and well being of the house. The secret of success will depend on the ability to stick to a daily routine and a plan developed with reason, common sense and reality.

Where the motivation is only an improved body to fit into an undersized Carnival costume, we are ignoring the value of enhanced spiritual and psychological health. The effect will be as useful as painting a house, while the foundation and interior are allowed to decay.

Becoming a better parent or spouse or saving more targets the soul. Again, if diligently pursued, one can be motivated by reason and emotion to try to be a better person. But the human will, as powerful as it is, cannot fully achieve meaningful human development. The mind and the will have to be directed towards a higher standard that can continue to provide direction when the pressures and demands of life set in.

The way to a truly reformed life is not through annual resolutions focused on improving the body or the mind. The focus must be on the spirit. When the spirit is correctly calibrated and in a place of leadership over the body and the soul, there will be a true change towards lifestyle that approaches the divine order the Creator intended.

To ignore God in the pursuit of a better life is to deceive ourselves. He alone can provide the correct blueprint and standard for enhanced living. Once our spirit is reconnected to God, the exciting journey to new improved life really begins. The spirit is then empowered to direct the energies of the mind in accordance with the divine plan using the techniques and principles in the Life Manual-the Word of God.

There are principles that can be applied to achieve the traditional New Year's Resolutions such as increased savings, economy and thrift (Proverbs 14:23; 24:27). There are standards and patterns for parenting and for improved friendships and relationships. There are examples of hardworking students who outshone their peers and amazed their teachers (Daniel 1:17,20; Luke 3: 40- 47). There is advice for controlling appetite and wisely using time and resources.

In short, there is a wisdom for life. And there is a surer way to success. It is through a reborn spirit, with a renewed mind and a controlled body.