I thought this was rather appropriate in my own self improvement and constant failures, particularly with exercise, weight, and selfishness, and just wasted time.
This is taken from Our Daily Bread by Jennifer Benson Schuldt:
Many of us make promises to ourselves to mark the beginning of a new year. We make pledges such as I'm going to save more, exercise more, or spend less time on the Internet. We begin the year with good intentions, but before long old habits tempt us to take up our old ways. We slip up occasionally, then more frequently, and then all the time. Finally, it's as if our resolution never existed.
Instead of choosing our own self-improvement goals, a better approach might be to ask ourselves: "What does the Lord desire of me?" Through the prophet Micah, God has revealed that He wants us to do what is right, to be merciful, and to walk humbly with Him (Mic. 6:8 ). All of these things relate to soul-improvement rather than self-improvement.
Thankfully, we don't have to rely on our own strength. The Holy Spirit has the power to help us as believers in our spiritual growth. God's Word says, He is able to "strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being" (Eph. 3:16 niv).
So as we begin a new year, let's resolve to be more Christlike. The Spirit will help us as we seek to walk humbly with God.
Truthful Spirit, dwell with me;
I myself would truthful be;And with wisdom kind and clear
Let Thy life in mine appear. —Lynch
He who has the Holy Spirit as his resource has already won the victory.
Heavenly Father,
Forgive me of falling in the traps and temptations due to selfishness. Let our eyes, and hearts remain focused on You and the rest, will be taken care of in the end. Thank You for the eternal salvation we have in Jesus as our personal Savior. May we strive to follow His examples, learn Your Word, and be in tune with the Holy Spirit, and Your will for each of us.
For it is in the name of Jesus, the name above all names we ask and pray these things, Amen!!
God Bless,
David B.
