January first always feels like a fresh start. It feels like I can become a whole new person at the start of a new year. That’s why so many people make resolutions to improve their lives, to do better, be better, in all sorts of ways.

The problem is that January first is just another day. It’s not magical. January second rolls around, and I realize the same things that weighed me down in December are still here, weighing me down. I still have the same habits, relationships, schedule, and personality. Goals aren’t suddenly closer or easier. Nothing other than the date has actually changed.

The only way to keep those resolutions is to work at them. The date won’t help me. I have to return every day to re-instill my desire for renewal. Consistency is key. To change old patterns, I have to make new ones. To get out of old ruts, I have to climb up, expecting to fall back in, but resolving to climb out again each time. To break old habits, I have to form new ones.

“Be wholeheartedly devoted to the Lord our God to walk in his statutes and to keep his commands, as you do today.” (1 Kings‬ ‭8‬:‭61,‬ ‭CSB‬‬)

Fortunately, when it comes to following Jesus, I am not alone. He promises to provide what I need to be successful, and to forgive me when I fail. I can be obedient to Him through His unlimited strength and loving guidance.

But I have a big part to play. I have to want it. I must be determined. I don’t have to be perfect, but I need to commit. Fully. All in. Either I want to follow Jesus or I don’t. There is no halfway when forming a new habit or changing a lifestyle. And there is no halfway with God. Jesus said He would spit out lukewarm followers (Revelation 3:16).

Are you in? If so, any day is a great day to start living according to God’s path of love. Read the Bible, pray, meet with other believers, practice truly loving people. Don’t wait for the next new year.

Dear God, thank you for the opportunity to live your way, and to start fresh every time I fail. I want to be your good and faithful servant. Remind me every morning of my commitment to you, and give me the strength, courage, and wisdom to try again today with everything I have.