As we begin a new year, so often with new goals and hopes for change, I have good news for you! Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to wait for your feelings or your desires to change. They aren’t in charge of what you choose to do. You are.
Your feelings are the caboose, not the engine. They should eventually follow — but they should never lead the way.
(Click to expand — it’s worth reading!!)
As I’m reading Proverbs 1 this morning (yes, I know the photo is Proverbs 2; it was just so fitting, I had to include it!), I’m reminded that this is a book God gave us to teach us wisdom — because we have the ability to listen, to learn, and to choose what we do, even when our feelings tell us otherwise.
We are not prisoners of our desires! We are not slaves to our wants. We are not at the mercy of our feelings. Jesus has freed us from that slavery and enabled us to walk in wisdom and truth!
Go into this new year knowing that, because of Jesus, if you are His, you are not a slave to sin or self. Face each challenge knowing that, because of the Holy Spirit within you, you can always choose to do what is right and good, even when it’s hard, even when part of you doesn’t want to, even when it feels impossible — He always provides a way to not sin.
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man.
God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV
We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that
the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would
no longer be enslaved to sin.
Romans 6:6 ESV
“The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
for gaining wisdom and instruction;
for understanding words of insight;
for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
doing what is right and just and fair;
for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young—
let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance—
for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Proverbs 1:1-7 NIV
Blessed are those who find wisdom,
those who gain understanding,
for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.
She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
those who hold her fast will be blessed.
Proverbs 3:13-18 NIV
Seek truth. Seek wisdom. And choose to live in them. The benefits are infinite and eternal. And because of Jesus, you can. 
More Than This Mess 