2014 Resolutions

I had written myself a note with a couple verses to consider for my focal verse for 2014. I read those options and they all served as good reminders, but the verses I chose for this coming year were emailed to me by my dad this morning. 

Titus 2:11-14

For the grace of God had appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who have himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. 

This fits in perfectly with my "resolutions" for this year. Thanks to my dad for sending me those verses and to my grandpa who apparently was talking to my dad about these verses. I have been very blessed to have these two godly men in my life.  

Now, for my resolutions. Short and sweet this year as we will be going through so many changes and there are so many unknowns for the future. 

1. Focus on the big picture. Yes, it sounds cliche. Matt recently reminded me to "choose my battles" with Jackson. We're evaluating discipline methods as Jackson is becoming more strong willed, but he is still so young. What is my goal as a parent? That Jackson will grow to know and love God and that he will grow into a self sufficient human being (the short version). Same for Daniel. Learning his letters before he's two is not as important and learning to pray to God throughout the day (etc.). Big picture. 

2. "If you can't say something nice, then don't say anything at all." I have a problem with being judgmental and that needs to stop. I also feel the need I correct people, which only needs to be done if the correction will benefit the other and not make me look superior.

3. Be open. Making friends in a new place where you don't know anyone is hard. I've met two lovely ladies here so far and "met" via Facebook three more that I'll hopefully meet in person soon. I need to be open to friendships that are available, even if they come from unlikely places. I am joining a Bible study and a MOPS group this semester so hopefully that should help as we're still visiting churches. 

4. Love God. Love my husband. Love my children. Love everyone else. In that order. Sometimes the order gets rearranged which is counterproductive on so many levels. 

5. Be available. Things, the internet, reading, sleeping... It all can wait. Invest in people. Be available. 

A nice short list. I really could just have had one with the Big Picture as everything else ties into it. But these are more specific. 

I eagerly anticipate the rest of 2014. We are in such a good place right now as a family and God has greatly blessed us.