TITLE: Resolutions I Can Keep

TEXT: Luke 16:4 – I am resolved (I have a plan and will execute my plan)

PROPOSITION: A new year is a time to evaluate, make changes, resolve to be or do better.

QUESTION: How?

KEY WORD: Changes

SCRIPTURE READING: Same

Introduction:

1. A new year is a time of reflection, evaluation and making adjustments.

2. Luke 16:4 – a man was in trouble – he developed a plan (resolved – KJV)

3. We often make “resolutions” and by February – they are a distant memory.

4. The word in Luke 16:4 – to know, to be firm in your understanding

Specific

1. We are often very “generic” in our goals

   1. We want to lose weight, travel, save some money

   2. We want to grow in faith, have more patience

   3. We want to read/study our Bible more

2. You can't just say – I am going to build a house – no plans, drawings

3. You can't get where you want to go – until you know where you are going

4. Casey Stingle – When you reach a fork in the road – take it.

Countable

1. Our resolutions must be something that can be measured – counted

2. Not – lose weight – lose 10, 20 pounds

3. Not – travel – go to Disney World, FL

4. Not – save some money – save $20 each paycheck

5. Not – study Bible – Read one chapter each day

6. Not – be more patient – take time each day with my child to listen

7. Not – be more caring – send one card each week

Accountable

1. Make it known to others – announce it – at work, home, church

2. Ask someone to check on your progress

3. Tell God what your plan is – Pray – ask for His help to reach the goal

4. All the organized programs – AA, Weight watcher's – use this tool

Corrections

1. You may have set the goal too low – or too high

2. It is OK to make a mid-course adjustment

Get Back on the horse again

1. Forget – Fail – Return to old habits = Start fresh – new again

2. Pick yourself up – see where you went astray – start again

3. Lamentations 3:23 – They are new every morning; Great if Your faithfulness

Conclusion:

1. Will you make it? Maybe, maybe not – Will you try?

2. When will you begin? Next week? Why not now? Today?