Changing Your Mindset for a New Year

First, Happy New Year!

As we step into the New Year, there's a collective desire for a fresh start and an improved life. Many of us still cling to the tradition of New Year's resolutions, seeing them as a pathway to become the person we aspire to be. Each resolution marks a shift - in action, in priorities, and most importantly, in thinking.

Yet, statistics have long shown that most resolutions tend to dissolve by mid-February. The reasons are numerous, but one stands out: the mindset with which we approach these changes. King Solomon, in his wisdom, recognized this in Proverbs 23:7, stating, "As he thinks in his heart, so is he."

Your mind governs your actions and your perspective. In biblical terms, the "heart" often refers to the core of our emotions, our innermost thoughts. Solomon further advises in Proverbs 4:23, "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life." He was emphasizing the importance of guarding our thoughts.

Jesus, too, highlighted this concept when he taught, "Hear and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person." (Matthew 15:10-11). He goes on to explain, "But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person." (Matthew 15:18). Here, Jesus is connecting our words, our actions, directly to our thoughts, our heart.

The Apostle Paul also speaks to this in his letter to the Colossians, urging, "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." (Colossians 3:2). He's advocating for a heavenly perspective, one that transcends the temporary and the trivial.

When Peter called for repentance in Acts 2:38, the Greek word "metanoeō" was used, which translates to "think differently" or "reconsider." This isn't just about feeling sorry; it's about a fundamental change of heart and mind.

So, as you plan your resolutions for this year, consider:

• How are you planning to change your mindset?

• How will you guard your thoughts this year?

To truly transform, we must start by transforming our minds. Are you ready to change your heart?

Just some food for thought as we embark on this new journey around the sun.

We will be back on Tuesday!

See you soon!