Another year has passed, and we have entered into 2016 — a brand-new year. In reality, it is just another day with a different date. For many, however, it is a time to reflect and decide what changes they want to make for their future. Maybe it is to shed some unwanted weight, break a habit, or take a new job. For some, it might be to work on a relationship. No matter what it is, it will take self-discipline to make lasting change.

Harry Truman once said, “In reading the lives of great men, I found that the first victory they won was over themselves... self-discipline with all of them came first.” In order to make changes in our lives and to achieve the desired result, we need to exercise self-discipline. Most people have the desire, but lack the will: the ability to be self-disciplined enough to make the change and to keep it. Consequently, most don’t persevere long enough to make the needed changes in their lives.

As we go into 2016, let’s decide to work on self-discipline in order to make the changes that will last a lifetime. One decision I hope we would all make a priority is regarding church attendance — to attend a Sunday and a midweek service each week in order to grow in the things of God. Another decision is to begin to serve and make a commitment to tithe. At the end of the year, you will see that your life is better and your finances stronger. In the words of Theodore Roosevelt, “With self-discipline most anything is possible.”

Happy New Year!

Just a thought,

PSS