New Man's Resolutions
A new year always gets people talking about "new
year's resolutions." God's Word proposes the "new man's resolutions" to
those born again into Jesus Christ.
Colossians 3:9,10 says, "...you have put off the old man with his
deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according
to the image of Him who created him..."
Just as with the new year, we put the old year behind us; in becoming
the "new man" we put the "old man of sin" into our past.
In fact, 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ,
he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things
have become new."
Colossians 3 informs us of many of the "new man's resolutions" we must
make. Please consider them and apply.
Resolve to put your mind on heavenly, rather than earthly things
(Colossians 3:1,2).
Resolve to bury sins like "fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil
desire and covetousness" in the past (Colossians 3:5,6).
Resolve to control your emotions and your tongue by not sinning in your
"anger" and turning from "wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy
language" and lies (Colossians 3:8,9).
Resolve to be "renewed in knowledge" by studying God's Word, the
example of Jesus and by listening to the instruction of other Christians
(Colossians 3:10; 2 Timothy 2:2; 3:16,17).
Resolve to show no partiality to those in the body of Christ, but love
all of your brethren equally regardless of race, status or occupation
(Colossians 3:11).
Resolve to achieve spiritual qualities like holiness, mercy,
"kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering," forgiveness and love
(Colossians 3:12-14).
Resolve to complain less and count your blessings more (Colossians
3:15).
Resolve to filter your words and deeds through God's Word before taking
action, making sure the Lord approves of the decision you are going to
make (Colossians 3:16,17).
Resolve to be the type of husband, wife, parent, child and worker God
wants you to be (Colossians 3:18-4:1).
Resolve to pray for open doors to teach others the gospel (Colossians
4:2-4).
Resolve to "walk in wisdom" when doors are opened and be willing
to defend the gospel to those who question or challenge you (Colossians
4:5,6).
January 2006