I’m pretty sure I made a few reasonable New Year’s resolutions last January. I’m quite certain I’ve forgotten what they are. Humans are great at brainstorming ideas and launching projects, but humans aren’t as great at perseverance, especially when exhaustion, boredom, or both get in the way. 

This New Year’s, whether you make resolutions or simply have big goals and dreams, I pray you find comfort in accepting that there is no pressure to start or end your year flawlessly. I pray you discover through trial and (plenty of) error that you will like yourself and God so much more when you accept your limitations. You will know the beauty of Perfection only when you recognize that those failings are the key to Christ’s power unlocking the fulfillment that no list or personal achievement ever could.

TONIGHT'S SCRIPTURE

“My power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

YOUR NIGHTLY PRAYER

Father,
Thank you for choosing to be an intimate Savior, forever willing and thrilled to be our Perfection and sustain us despite our weaknesses. This New Year, may we seek your wisdom as we make our resolutions or begin new projects. May spiritual growth, not perfection, be our heart’s true desire.
In your holy name, King Jesus,
Amen. 

 THREE THINGS TO PONDER UPON

1. What’s really driving your resolutions—grace or perfection?
 Examine whether your goals this year are rooted in spiritual growth or worldly approval. One path frees; the other enslaves.

2. Do you give yourself the grace God already has?
 God knows your weaknesses and never asked for perfection—only trust. What would change if you truly believed that?

3. Are you chasing Jesus or chasing performance?
Jesus doesn’t demand flawless effort. He invites you to find strength by depending fully on Him.