Every year it seems like I make the same New Year’s Resolution—and it seems like the resolution lasts about the same amount of time each year; which is about a month in case you were wondering. This year I decided to do something different. I decided to spend my new year closer to God. I hope you will too.

There are 5 different resolutions that you should make this year.

1. Give Thanks

“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:15-17

Focus on the good and forget the bad. Sometimes it may seem hard to give thanks, but this year focus on all the good things; and all the things you are thankful for.

2. Pray Often

"The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." James 5:16

Have constant communication with God. Sometimes it may seem like we only communicate with God when we need something, but this year focus on communicating with God on everything. Strengthen your relationship with God. Keep Praying!

3. Love Each Other

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:12-13

Sometimes it may seem impossible to love someone, but don’t give up. Keep treating others with same love and kindness God shared with us.

4. Forgive Each Other

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3:13

Forgiveness is something we all struggle with. This year try to forgive others so you will also be forgiven. In addition, your forgiveness will lead to happiness, and a changed perspective.

5. Trust in His Plan

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

As humans, we want to control our lives. We want to have control over our own future as well as our own day-to-day tasks, but this year trust in God’s plan. God has a perfect plan laid out for you, so trust in him with all your heart.