A pastor once prepared a list of resolutions for himself. He called his list “The Seven Ups.” This had nothing to do with the soft drink, but had everything to do with attitudes toward Christian living.
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1. Wake Up - What is your attitude when you first awaken? Do you rush right into your routine? Are you immediately focused on what the day has in store for you, what lies ahead?
Decide to have a good day. This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalms 118:24) . We should rejoice because of this great gift and be glad or happy in it.
2. Dress Up - The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks. "...For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7) , God is concerned on what is on the inside. With Christ in your heart and the knowledge of what ultimately lies in store for you, how can you not smile?
3. Shut Up - Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. He who guards his mouth preserves his life, But he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction. (Proverbs 13:3) He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips. (Proverbs 20:19) Listen to counsel and receive instruction, That you may be wise in your latter days. (Proverbs 19:20)
4. Stand Up - For what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:9-10) We do, however, have a responsibility to always do good, whether to Christian or non-Christian.
5. Look Up - To the Lord. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
6. Reach Up - For something higher. Always try to better yourself.
Proverbs 3:5-6—Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
If we trust in God and acknowledge Him, not with just a nod of recognition, but with a deep and intimate knowledge of Him; we find that he will make our paths straight. That is, He removes obstacles, or shows us a way around them, and makes a smooth path for us to travel, or gives us a better life, or helps us to achieve that unachievable goal.
7. Lift Up - Your Prayers. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; (Philippians 4:6) This is not a call to a carefree life, but rather an entreaty to not be worried about anything, Paul and Timothy cared for or were concerned those they ministered to, yet they retained trust in God. Jesus Himself warned against worry, which reduces or eliminates trust in God.
Whatever your goals for each day, may the Lord bless you and use you for His glory! Remember, you have nothing to prove but you do have Someone to please!