“The first thing that often stops us from progressing in our goals is when our identity is attacked. The enemy will always seek to shake our firm grounding in our God-given identity as a son or daughter. When he succeeds in that, our chances at being successful as a Christ follower tend to diminish. ”

— NELSON SOLOMON

Nothing beats that “new” feeling. You have looked at buying the latest gadget and done all the research. You finally go to the store and you bring the item to checkout.

As the cashier rings up the item and you complete the purchase, the energy and passion inside of you is rising quickly, to the point where you want to shed the cover and get the product in your hands before you reach the car door.

That feeling of a brand new, untouched device, just waiting for new memories and adventures. Untainted by previous efforts. Open to new vision and new ideas.

That’s the feeling that accompanies the dawn of a new year, a new season, a new decade. Every failure and mistake of the last year or decade does not have to define you anymore.

It’s the reason so many start new resolutions and goals on January 1, with new enthusiasm.

But when January 2 hits, or perhaps earlier than that, that “new” feeling can tend to wear off quickly. You are quickly reminded of how you messed up the last time you made an attempt. You are reminded of how everyone has written you off as a failure.

When this inevitable moment hits as a new decade begins, it is absolutely critical that you remember the words of David in Psalm 139:14: “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”

The first thing that often stops us from progressing in our goals is when our identity is attacked. The enemy will always seek to shake our firm grounding in our God-given identity as a son or daughter. When he succeeds in that, our chances at being successful as a Christ follower tend to diminish.

If you are able to accomplish one goal at the beginning of 2020, let it be this: Reaffirm your identity as a son or daughter of the King. And once you succeed at that, seek to strengthen your walk with God and discover your God-given purpose.