Re:solutions

Instead of resolution, I like re:solution. Dictionary.com defines the word solution as this: the act or process of solving a problem. Now I like that better than resolution and I'm left with the question, what problems in my life will I be trying to solve this year? I currently recognize several problems that I've failed to solve in my life.

The first is this, not getting to the gym on a consistent basis. In previous years I've made resolutions to go to the gym to stay conditioned, get bigger and stronger. I've always started off good then slowly fade away and get lazy. This is a problem I want to fix and so for the past month leading up into this new year, I've already been hitting the gym at least 3 times a week. For this year, the solution is to play a sport on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday and lift weights on Monday, Wednesday, Friday.

The second is that I eat way too much junk food, mainly chips, soda and fast food. For this year, I've eliminated those three from my diet. Yes that means no more In-N-Out, Taco Bell, Burger King, etc. The only exceptions are Subway, Quiznos, Pepe's and Albertos and sit down restaurants. Cutting back on the fast food not only helps me stay healthier, but spend less and save money.

And lastly, I haven't had a consistent daily reading devotional relationship with God. In the past I've always been more motivated to study or have devotional time with God only when I'm preparing to teach at my church. That isn't good because the main motivation to spend time and learn from God shouldn't be to teach others. The main reason anyone should want to spend time in daily devotion with God is because they love God! And I want that to be the solution to my current problem.

So, re:solutions. I've recognized the problems in my life that I need to solve. What are the problems in your life? What solutions will you come up with to fix those problems? Remember, don't be discouraged if you fail, even if you fail miserably. There is no perfect solution. Jesus is the only perfect solution to every problem and loving him is the highest goal anyone can achieve. Consider this passage of the Bible:

"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 3:13-14