Resolution and transformation are two entirely different things. Transformation involves a change in condition, nature, and character, while resolution requires resolve, determination, and will.

Almost all resolutions require sacrifices that are determined by human will. That's why most people can "will" themselves to stay resolved for several months, but their sincere intentions usually fall by the wayside. On the other hand, transformation is a change that happens through something greater than us. Transformation involves a change of character, not just a behavior change.

As a result, it makes sense to pursue transformation instead of resolutions if we want to change rather than modify. You may even discover that once you are truly transformed in certain areas of your life, you will no longer desire resolutions. This is because you will be accustomed to living in sustainable ways.

If transformation is the goal, where do we begin? Let's look at what the Word of God says. Romans 12:2 says, "So, brothers and sisters since God has shown us such mercy, I beg [urge; appeal to] you to offer your lives [selves; bodies] as a living sacrifice to him. Your offering must be only for God [holy] and pleasing to him, which is the spiritual [or authentic; true; or appropriate; fitting; or rational; a reasonable] way for you to worship. Do not be shaped by [conformed to; pressed into a mold by] this world [age]; instead, be changed within [transformed] by a new way of thinking [or changing the way you think; the renewing of your mind]. Then you will be able to decide [discern; test and approve] what God wants for you [is God's will]; you will know what is good and pleasing to him and what is perfect."

Let's look at it in more detail. To experience true transformation, the Bible instructs us to:

Offer our lives as a sacrifice.

All parts of our bodies, including how we move them, what we feed them, and how we view them, are offered to God as an expression of gratitude and thanksgiving.

He alone must be the object of our sacrifice.

Only when we choose to glorify God will we be satisfied and fulfilled. We will always be disappointed and left seeking more when we prefer to please men or let temporary gratifications motivate our choices.

Don't copy the behaviors of the world.

Your appearance and ways will eventually resemble the world's methods if you are molded into its pattern. The truth is that you can never achieve God's intended plan by conforming to this world. This is because you will always settle for less than God has prepared for you.

Let God transform you by how you think (renew your mind).

Ultimately, transformation is a lifelong process, not just a one-time thing. The inward change of a believer corresponds to his outward appearance. Renewing our minds starts with knowing God and His Word. It changes the mind and life of a believer regardless of what the world tells us is good and true. Actual change occurs when we are transformed by renewing our minds to everything God says.

Be content with God's will.

In seeking the Lord's guidance, be assured that the outcome is what He wants. You may have to adjust your expectations and align your desires with His anew. His will for your body, weight, and health may not be what you requested. However, trust that it is indeed what He wants.

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