On Jan. 1, it’s go time. Our New Year’s resolutions will be on the clock. The journey to lose weight, pull ourselves out of debt or take on new hobbies will commence.

New Year’s resolutions are natural. The beginning of the year represents a new start. And we all strive to be better than we currently are. After all, God wants us to reach our full potential.

But sometimes, resolutions aren't all we'll hope they'll be. They can lead to improvement but they don’t always lead to fulfillment. We can become healthier and more financially secure. But if we believe we'd be content if only we made more money, found a spouse or lost weight, we're mistaken. That’s not where contentment comes from.

That sense of fulfillment can only come through a relationship with Christ.

“For in Christ all the fullness of the deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness.” -Colossians 2:9-10

Without hesitation, get healthy. Let's improve ourselves as God calls. But if we expect a lifestyle change to bring us fulfillment and happiness, our New Year’s resolutions are going to fail of our hopes. To find what we're truly seeking, let's start with Christ in 2016.

Deeper reflection:
•What is your New Year’s resolution?
•What do you believe God is calling you to do in his name during 2016?

Next steps:
•Buckner offers a variety of ways for you to put your faith into action in 2016. Visit buckner.org/volunteer or buckner.org/missions to check out opportunities to serve locally and internationally during the coming year.