Challenge Central: a CBC devotional
By: John Kerr
Christmas is over, and the new year is almost upon us. Time for those New Year’s revolutions!
“Wait.” you say, “don’t you mean resolutions?” No! If we are being honest, how many times have we made resolutions to exercise more, cut out junk food, read our Bible, and so many more? I am just being practical here. I have made my share of New year’s resolutions to the point that I no longer do so. The feeling of pressure to revolutionize our lives feels even more acute at the New year.
Perhaps what is really at stake here is a feeling of failing and even a bit of remorse. It can be a need to do better, to “pull oneself up by the bootstraps.” Why not take the calendar change as a time to take a personal inventory? A time to be honest rather than revolutionary; a time to prepare for the battle ahead?
The Psalmist, in Psalm 101, seems to be taking inventory. First, he sees a need for personal worship; “to you, O LORD, will I make music.” Filling one’s mind with worship for God will push out many negative and often sinful thoughts that prevent us from living a blessed life.
Second, he seeks to have integrity, especially as it relates to his house. What effect does a parent who is often physically present but practically absent have on the children of the home? Watching three football games on a Sunday afternoon while missing the opportunity to interact with one’s children is a telling blight on family life.
Third, “I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.” This can involve many things, not necessarily things evil in themselves. It can involve that which is really important to us, which in turn will define who we are.
Lastly, “I will know nothing of evil.” This sums up the true desire of the heart of a Christian man or woman. One way of looking at this is to avoid anything that can hinder me this year, even the most innocuous things.
So don’t make your resolutions “revolutions.” Make attainable goals. Enlist help to achieve those goals. Include your spouse and children to make these goals a family affair.
Have a happy New Year. It all begins with having a heart of integrity.
