As we step into a new year, we should reflect on the past year with gratitude for the blessings and opportunities we received. Standing at the threshold of a new year, it’s important to take a moment to thank God and look forward to the journey ahead. This year, we must expect God’s goodness and actively seek it by living in alignment with His word. Matthew 6:33 encourages us to seek God’s kingdom and righteousness first, and all our needs will be met. This verse highlights the importance of prioritizing our spiritual lives and aligning with God’s will. The promise is clear: when we place God first, He will take care of our material needs. By setting faith-focused goals, we can cultivate a life centered on God’s purpose and bring glory to Him.
Set Goals for the New Year with God
Before diving into the New Year’s resolutions, pause and invite God into the process because it is through Him that we are truly blessed. Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Aligning your goals with God’s purpose is what makes certain that your efforts are directed toward His will. Start by praying over your aspirations and asking for His guidance. Consider areas where you want to grow spiritually, physically, or emotionally, and seek God’s wisdom to prioritize them. There is no fixed timeline for this and your faith may feel like it is being tested, but it is important to remember to maintain faith as you work towards your objectives, trusting that He will lead you where you need to be.
Put a Bible Reading Plan in Place
To make things easier and more streamlined, establish a Bible reading plan. This ensures that you have kept God at the very center of your daily routine as His word helps build the foundation of a faith-focused goals. It could start simple like reading a chapter a day and slowly progress to memorizing key verses. One can even follow a chronological plan when it comes to Bible reading. Keep in mind that consistency is key. Following a Bible plan deepens your understanding of God’s promises. It equips you to face life’s challenges with grace and wisdom. Pair your reading with journaling to reflect on how God’s word speaks to your circumstances and aligns with your future.
Practice Journaling
Journaling helps us practice gratitude and draw closer to God. Writing about daily blessings, big or small, allows us to recognize God’s influence in our lives. Each day, list three things you’re thankful for, even if it’s something simple like a beautiful sunrise or an answered prayer. Choose a beautiful Christian journal for women from a Christian book store to keep you motivated.
Over time, this practice shifts your focus from what’s lacking in your life to the abundance of God’s blessings. With a written record, you can even go back to some of your entries and reflect on how you felt uplifted by God and His unfailing goodness even on difficult days. Pray on it. Build a connection with God by praying, sharing your thoughts and seeking His guidance. As Philippians 4:6-7 encourages, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Invest in a prayer journal to keep a record of the prayers and petitions. Revisit them in a month or more to see how turning to God has worked in your life.
Observe the Sabbath
Despite living a fast-paced life, be sure to commit to Sabbath rest. It is an invitation to pause, reconnect with God, and worship Him. Dedicate one day a week to take a step back from the innumerable demands you try to fulfill every day. Instead, use this day to rest, worship, and reflect on God’s goodness. Use this time to disconnect from technology and work. Engage in activities that nourish your soul, like prayer or reading Scripture with your family. Sabbath rest reminds us that our worth isn’t tied to productivity, and God’s provision is enough.
By setting faith-focused goals and following them, you can deepen your relationship with God. This will help you live in His grace and love as you welcome the new year.