Kindred,
Before jumping ahead into the future, resolve the conflicts of the past.
No matter what that past is, take each future step with a thankful and loving heart with the Lord in the wisdom of the Holy Spirit.
If hindsight is 20/20, then what insights have you discovered?
What tests of character have you endured? Did you pass (each test)?
Who have you become?
Will it be and is it acceptable to the Lord?
As you prepare your New Year resolutions, keep in mind what you have learned.
The expectation of salvation or forgiveness is meaningless and often times dangerous, because you might not or have not achieved the expectations of the Lord (which is what matters) in order to attain salvation and receive forgiveness.
Despite of what you might have taught, whether you are saved is not determined solely by your beliefs or deeds, but by your good character and the Lord's Judgement.
If you have sinned, confess, repent and atone. Do not expect to be saved or forgiven, but work toward it.
Try being the best person you can be and do the best good you can.
