Resolutions

As we begin a new year, no doubt many of us have jotted down a list of resolutions similar to this. We want to go into 2015 with a fresh outlook for change and trying new things.  In doing this, it is very easy to get caught up in resolving to change or do new things in our life that affect only us.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with thinking of yourself.  Every person has some area in their life that they can change or improve upon or something new that they have never tried/done.  I simply propose that along with our resolutions that pertain to ourselves, that this year we include some resolutions that pertain to others.

Jesus Christ is the greatest example of someone that did for others.  He was very selfless in all aspects of His ministry.   In John 15:12, He says “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you”.  And O how He loved us!  He displayed the greatest act of love on the cross of Calvary.  I know that many of us will probably never be in a situation where we will die for another, but Jesus loved in many other ways and so can we.

Whenever there were large groups gathered around Him listening to Him speak, He was concerned about them having something to eat.  Now, it may not be feasible for us to feed large groups of people, but how hard would it be to buy a meal for someone every now and then. 

Jesus Christ was not only the greatest orator, but He was also the greatest listener.  He took the time to listen to those of a heavy heart, those with good news to share and those who just needed a friend.   Many times in our lives, we just need someone to talk to.  Not everyone is full of great wisdom and advice, but everyone can listen.

Hebrews 10:24 says “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:” The definition of thoughtful is “Showing consideration for the needs of other people”.  I think this is a great theme for us to carry throughout the year…Be Thoughtful…Consider Others!  I promise that if you strive to grow closer to God, to be thoughtful and consider others, then you will receive joy like you have never imagined! 

I hope that you will join me in doing this for 2015.  Happy New Year!!

Here are a few ideas on how to be thoughtful:

• Smile!
• Give a helping hand when you see someone carrying a lot of stuff.
• Give a homeless person your leftovers from a restaurant you just ate from.
• Purchase a couple of umbrellas, blankets, ponchos at a dollar store and keep it in your trunk – when it’s a rainy/cold day, find a person who needs it and give them one.
• Leave anonymous thank you notes to teachers.
• Put change in a vending machine.
• Leave a book you have already finished somewhere for someone else to read.
• Drop off a toy or game at a homeless shelter.
• Send someone a small gift anonymously.
• Drop off flowers at your friend or neighbor’s house.
• Buy a meal for a homeless person.
• Pay for someone’s meal behind you at a fast-food drive-thru.
• Write an inspirational note to someone who needs inspiration.
• Send a card to someone in the military overseas.
• Drop off a toy or game at a hospital.
• At the post office, leave some extra stamps at the stamp machine.
• Buy a phone card and give to a homeless shelter for them to give to someone.
• Drop off teddy bear to police department to give to traumatized children.
• Drop a few coins in an area where children play, where they can easily find them.
• If you know someone who is having a hard time financially, pop $5, $10 or $20 in an envelope, disguise your writing or type the envelope, and mail it to them.
• Pay for someone’s groceries.
• Open the door for someone.
• Acknowledge the cashier who’s helping you and genuinely ask them how they’re doing.
• Say hello.
• Give up your seat to someone who needs it more.
• Pay someone a compliment.
• Help someone with their groceries or bags.
• Offer to help an elderly neighbor with their household chores.
• Call a friend randomly, and let them know you’re thinking of them.