"The great and glorious masterpiece of
man is to know how to live to purpose."
Michel de Montaigne
As we usher in a new year, isn't the tendency to self-evaluate, set goals, make resolutions? Whether or not they're spoken out loud or merely contemplated and reflected on in the quiet place of mind and heart, a new year's beginning is a natural marker for setting course for the future.
As you determine your priorities for 2009, as you identify changes you'd like to make in relationships, time management, work and home, consider the wisdom spoken in Ephesians 5 and 1 Corinthians 10. Regardless of your personal specifics in New Years' resolution making, obedience to the principles in these passages will make a difference in every change made or goal set.
And most important, because God cared enough to preserve this in His word, it's most certainly His will for us as believers.
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.
~ Ephesians 5:1, 2
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
~ 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)
Can you see how these scriptures align with your hopes, dreams, goals or resolutions for 2009? Do share!
Photo credit: Inhabitat.com
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As author of PENSIEVE, Robin is always reflecting and contemplating the intricacies of life; she finds it very difficult to write when husband and children are underfoot during Christmas vacation, so she has yet to reveal her own goals for the New Year, or even recap 2008.
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Beautiful. Each goal, each ambition and every single purpose in our life should be made in light of Him.
Definitely good reminders. God's word is so incredibly relevant and it always amazes me how it has stood the test of time even if the author of the universe wrote it. I guess I shouldn't be amazed but it makes me appreciate who God is even more.
The pleasing aroma in Ephesians makes me think of my grandmother who always wore a certain perfume. Wouldn't it be wonderful if anyone who came near us went away with the lingering sensation of having been closer to someone who knew God? What a beautiful thought.
Have a great day. I am cleaning, pitching, and simplifying today. Hope yours in a good one.
Nicki,
I couldn't agree more
. When Christ is present in every decision, it changes the outcome, beginning with our perspective!
Sarah,
WONDERFUL thought about our personal "aroma"; what is it people sense when they're present with me? Lovely analogy I'm certain I won't soon forget.
Thank y'all for chiming in so quickly! Blessings to you on this day and year!
Simply beautiful…what a great way to start off the New Year! Thanks for the chance to STOP and re-focus!
xoxo,
Melissa in Mel's World