New year’s resolutions are famously short-lived. Those who still make them start off well, intending to lose weight, exercise more, or save money. But more often than not, the willpower quickly runs out and the resolution dies a quiet death while the old habits reign victorious. Should we even bother?
Numbers 6 gives some historical context. In this chapter God speaks to Moses about those who take a vow, “to separate himself to the Lord” (v. 2). This is a completely optional action for a length of time the person chooses. During that time they cannot drink wine or even eat grapes, touch a dead body, or cut their hair. During this time, the person who has taken the vow is considered a Nazarite, and “is holy to the Lord” (v. 8). When the time is completed, the Nazarite offers a sacrifice to God at the tabernacle, and the Nazarite’s hair is cut and put into the fire as a sacrifice itself. This all seems a little extreme for today, but the concept is very much in line with a new year’s resolution.
Making a vow isn’t a bad thing. It is a way of concentrating our energies toward accomplishing some goal; improving ourselves in some way that has eluded us before. However, it also demonstrates the limitations of our own willpower. Changing our habits is very hard to do. Just ask a dietician how often patients actually follow their guidance.
The Bible gives us a hint as to how we can improve the odds of success with our resolutions. Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, “And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” In other words, don’t try this alone. Get others involved. Create a community of support and accountability. When we are weak and ready to give up, our friends can lend us their strength.
The Bible also speaks a great deal about forgiveness. When trying to stick to a resolution, it’s important to grant yourself forgiveness when you mess up. A little grace can help you get back on the path, whereas beating yourself up can make you not want to try again. Don’t give up!
January is the perfect time to consider making a resolution. It can be a fresh start. Get others involved with you, and be prepared to forgive yourself if you mess up. Of course, God will love you no more or less, no matter what happens with your resolution, but it might improve your life—even your spiritual life. Make it a matter of prayer before you start, and each step of the way. And you don’t even have to shave your hair when you’re done!