The tradition of making resolutions at the beginning of the year has sometimes felt like a futile act of wishful thinking when I fail to see the fruits of my goals. With careful observation, I have noticed a pattern regarding this dilemma. 

I notice when my resolutions are promises to myself that require disciplines that I have never practiced, they are often abandoned early on, with no remembrance of my fervent vows.

Likewise, when my prayers are bargains, I make with God, in exchange for the things I desire; I have found myself reneging on my end of the deal.

I begin to feel the words of the Apostle Paul, saying, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” (Romans 7:15) 

I see that both resolutions and prayers are for the purpose of experiencing a more fulfilling life.   The results, be they positive or negative, are a reflection of my self-acceptance; i.e., if I truly feel worthy of the expanded good. 

Obviously, wishful thinking and negotiating with God are the evidence of former concepts about my relationship with the Divine.  I now know there is a Law of Mind that responds to the faith I have in my own words. This Law is sure to bring about the fuller life of my dreams. 

With this realization, I clearly see there are old beliefs, buried deep in my subconscious mind, still operating in my individual realm of ‘consciousness.  Is it possible, I ask myself, that these ‘hidden beliefs,’ that no longer represent my current thinking, have a tendency to neutralize the most noble ideals I envision for my life?

Ancient Wisdom assures me a fuller life is never withheld. It is the soul forever becoming its greater-yet-to-be. I remember the teachings. 

“What you decide on will be done, and light will shine on your ways.” (Job 22: 28 NIV). 
There is creative power in the decisions I make.

“The kingdom of heaven is within.” (Luke 17: 20, 21). 
I let words of beauty, harmony, wisdom, love, and joy permeate the thing I desire to manifest.

“It is the Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12: 32). 
The word of God flows, easily and effortlessly through me, establishing greater good on earth.

“All that the Father hath is Mine.” John 16:15
The Creative Mind of God and my mind are the same mind. God’s creative thoughts are my creative thoughts.

“There is a Power for Good in the Universe and I can use it.” ~ Ernest Holmes

I am now wide awake, seeking first the realm of goodness that exist within me right now. I pay attention to what I think, say and do. In so doing, I consciously and deliberately neutralize all limiting and sabotaging thoughts.   I announce, with authority, the high resolve of my inspired thoughts.

My resolutions for the coming year of 2021 are anchored in a consciousness that I am empowered by my own spiritual nature, to do what is mine to do, that brings about the good I desire for a greater expression of life. My prayers for 2021 are reflected in a world that works for everyone; a world of health, wealth, unity and love.  

I heed the teachings of Howard Thurman, and I “keep fresh before me the moments of my high resolve.” 

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This Weeks Affirmation

Today I choose the direction as I step into my greater yet to be!
By Judy Hilley