Grace World Outreach Church
Day 2 – Bonus Prelude
Getting Set
By: Daniel Norris
“Behold, the former things have come to pass, and new things I
now declare…” (Isaiah 42:9, ESV)
Did you know the average New Year’s resolution lasts just eight days? That’s right, eight days. Most dreams, goals, and plans are tossed out about the same time the Christmas tree hits the curb.
Why? James Clear wrote it this way, “We do not rise to the level of our goals. We fall to the level of our systems.”
New goals with old habits will not bring new results. In fact, it is the perfect recipe for repeating last year’s outcomes.
That is why Scripture urges us, “Forget the former things.” Yesterday got you here, but it is what you do today that determines where you go tomorrow.
We are not making shallow resolutions. We are setting Spirit-filled goals and backing them up with daily action.
Take a look at your 3–5 BIG DREAMS you wrote down yesterday for this year. For each one, ask:
- What will I do to move toward this?
- When will I do it?
- How often will I do it?
- Who will hold me accountable?
Once you answer these questions, open your phone or calendar and schedule it. Block out the time, whether daily, weekly, or monthly. Small, consistent steps will help you move forward.
Make it as important as a doctor’s appointment. This is your reminder: your goals matter. What you choose to do today will bring you closer to seeing them come to life tomorrow.
Prayer:
Lord, You are the God who declares the end from the beginning. I believe You have placed these dreams in my heart. Now give me the discipline to walk them out. Let this not be the year of good intentions. Let it be the year of new things. In Jesus’ name, amen.