It's natural for us to think, "new year, new resolutions"! We want 2026 to be different. We make a list of all the areas we want to change: our health, our finances, our work life, our spiritual life. While we need change, God stays the same!  Kimberly Cotton, on the Just Between Us website, asks this question, "What would happen if God created His own resolution list for you?"

Kimberly suggests five resolutions God gives us. As I don't have space for them all, I'd like to share with you three of those resolutions.  You can read the full article here: justbetweenus.org/everyday-life/faith-for-the-new-year/gods-resolution-lists-for-you/

First, GOD RESOLVES WE SHOULD BE AVAILABLE.

She says, "Too busy for God? Who ever heard of such a think? I have to admit that I have often been distracted and less attentive to God's call by work, relationships, children, friends, and even ministry. Do I need to pray more? Yes. Do I need to fast more? Wouldn't hurt. Do I simply need to sit still and listen? Absolutely! God desires time with us. While we are busy with our everyday lives, let's not forget to spend real quality time with the One who allows us to experience each new day." Reminds me of Psalm 46:10, "Be still and know that I am God."

Second, GOD RESOLVES WE SHOULD BE PREPARED.

If you are like me, I am always making a plan, for my day, for my life. Often things do not go as planned. Unexpected changes come and make me grumble a bit. Life is full of surprises, both good and bad.

Kimberly says, "As we walk through life's unexpected changes, let's remember that God is still in control. As each year begins, prepare to be more prayerful, more organized, and ready to accept God's assignments. Spend more time in the Word and trust Him to use all the unforeseen challenges for His good purposes."

Third, GOD RESOLVES WE SHOULD BE A BLESSING.

Looking behind at 2025, we see the many blessings God gave us. God always offers us His best, blessing us in so very many ways. Why? So that we may learn from Him and focus on His most important resolution for us: to be a blessing to others.

Jesus says, "Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you." Luke 6:38.

God calls us to bless others just as He has richly blessed us! How might you bless?

May the Lord bless you and your family with a blessed 2026!

Pastor Caryn