Many New Year’s resolutions have something to do with the body or the physical world. Some people want to exercise more or eat better. Maybe they want to learn a new skill or stop wasting money on nonessential things. These are all good goals for a healthier life. But resolutions can go beyond just trying to lose weight or eat more vegetables. We can also look inside of our hearts at our spiritual habits.

Making money is good and necessary. But in the Bible, Paul the Apostle talks at length about the love of money being a root of all kinds of evil. He says, “It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith.” But then he goes on: “But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, persistence, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith.” Paul gives us many spiritual qualities to desire in our own lives. These are resolutions we can make to live a more full and godly life.

These things are hard to accomplish, but with Christ’s indwelling power, and His indwelling Spirit, we can become more godly and righteous. It won’t be easy, but we have to “fight the good fight.” Everything good is from God and worth the sacrifice. When we seek these spiritual goals, others will see us pursuing a better life and want to join us in our good fight to become more godly people.              

This is Luis Palau.