How can I make my New Year's resolution stick?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I am determined to turn over a new leaf this year. But I am afraid it will be like all the years before. How can I make my New Year's resolution stick? -- S.R.
A: Slogans have been around a long time, perhaps as early as the Middle Ages. Slogans were passwords used to help identify individuals in the heat of battle. Today they are used in advertising to "distinguish a short, striking or memorable phrase." Various presidents have used slogans to dramatize their philosophy of government. Roosevelt had the "New Deal," Truman had the "Fair Deal," and Reagan had "Make America Great Again" (adopted by the current president).
"Out with the old, in with the new" is often the slogan of a new year followed by many resolutions made by people determined to "turn a new page" and do better than the year before. Sadly, most New Year's resolutions die before the end of January.
Jesus Christ had memorable slogans that have endured through the ages, and we would all do well to pay attention to them and adhere to them. Jesus announced His great society, "His kingdom," which was the promise of Heaven and eternal life with Him -- forever. It will endure because the Kingdom of God is not built on a false promise -- but the word of the Lord. Conversion is a requirement of citizenship in this wonderful place. Many people say that it doesn't matter what's believed (to get to Heaven). But Jesus Christ said, "Unless you are converted ... you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3).
Are you holding on to the solid Rock, Jesus the Savior? Do not delay. Start the new year off with a sure thing -- God's promise to give you a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
(c)2019 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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