“I will be a better spouse/father/mother this year.” “I will not smoke or drink anymore.” “I will finally start a business.” Most of us have made New Year’s resolutions like these at some point. While making a decision to work towards a goal and improve your life is very important, the issue is how to ensure that you won’t give up after a few weeks or months.

Many times, I’ve made resolutions that I couldn’t keep. But through some studies and experience, I have come to realize that it is not by my might nor by my power, but by the help of God. Our weak points, trials and temptations can so strong that we need divine empowerment to be able to overcome them. So if you want to stick to your goals this year, follow these steps.

1. Make A Resolution

Identify what you need to see changed this year and make a decision to change it. To wish it away is as good as saying, “Let this issue remain as it is.” Make an active decision to finally resolve the issue and you are on your way to putting it to rest.

2. Acknowledge Your Incapability

Until you accept that you need help, you will continue to struggle with your resolution. Many fail to fulfill their New Year’s resolutions not because they aren’t determined enough, but because they were overcome by temptations, challenges and fleshly desires. The spirit may be willing but the flesh is weak. (Mathew 26:41)

3. Ask For Divine Empowerment

“…ask and you shall receive, that your joy may be full.” (John 16:24). Until you ask for help from God, you will not receive any. Therefore, ask God to help you to uphold your resolution forever.

4. Have Faith

Once you’ve asked Him, you need to believe that God shall surely help you out. You will soon discover that you are totally a changed person. God never fails; He only needs us to have faith.

5. Be Grateful

So, what should I do while I wait to see the change? Give thanks to God for helping you. Thank Him for helping your desired result come to pass. Gratitude is a sign that you actually believe that God will help you.

As simple as these steps are, they have changed the lives of many, including mine. It takes the power of God to overcome trials, temptations and the power of the flesh. The power to gratify our weak points is so strong that willful power cannot defeat it. But with God, all things are possible.

Ngozi Nwoke is a teacher and a counselor. A product and distributor of love. She has a passion to teach people how to enjoy God’s love and fellowship for more fulfilling life. Want more fulfilling life? Subscribe for free email updates today. http://stepswithgod.com