With a flip of the page, one year ends, and another roars into existence. Three-hundred sixty-five days of hopes, dreams, and challenges lay ahead. Already, blank spaces begin to fill with appointments. Some of us deliberate over annual goals or resolutions while others invite God to give us a word for the New Year. As we invest time in these pursuits, let’s walk through the following four steps as we consider how He led us through the last twelve months and as we welcome the New Year.

Three Faith-Focused Strategies to Welcome the New Year

Remember I keep a  journal of dated prayer requests and sometimes enjoy looking back through its pages. The number of answered prayers provides a beautiful reminder of God’s faithfulness when I am discouraged. In the same way, pausing to remember God’s goodness to us during the previous year not only honors Him but eradicates erroneous beliefs about self-reliance.

How did God’s hand guide you through the unexpected difficulties you faced?

Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. (Isaiah 46:9 ESV)

Reflect  The beginning of a new year lends itself to personal reflection. While useful and important, I believe the simple two-syllable word, reflect, is far more significant than it appears.

As God's image bearers, we are meant to reflect Him. More importantly, those who follow Christ should mirror their Savior. #newyear #reflectChrist Click To Tweet

The New Year ushers in a fresh occasion to embrace Jesus’ kingdom mission and message. His unmatched love for others. And the challenge to endure no matter the circumstances.

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV)

Recommit Resolutions rarely stick. Goals, when done well, lead to productive outcomes. And a life committed to the Lord lasts for eternity.

Where did you struggle last year? What areas of your life led to disappointments, disillusion, or doubt? Are there wounded places of your spirit that you tuck away–hiding them from the healing hands of Jesus. Fearful He will not–or cannot–heal you.

Oh, friend, as someone who has journeyed through the wilderness of doubt, can I encourage you to lay your burdens down? Recommit the hurting places of your heart, mind, and soul to the Comforter.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. (Proverbs 3:5-8 ESV)

Practical Ways to Utilize the Three R’s

Remember Set a timer for 3 minutes. Brainstorm a list or mind map all of the ways you recognized God’s hand in your life last year. Now, write a prayer thanking Him for His faithfulness.

Reflect Ask God to transform you more into His likeness in the new year. What does the Holy Spirit impress upon your heart? Are there specific areas in which He wants you to grow?

Recommit  Based on your time in reflection with the Lord, take action. Recommit to growth so that you might more clearly reflect Him. Perhaps you will want to study scripture each day, join a Bible study, or start attending church regularly. Maybe you merely need to recommit to resting in His love.

A Prayer for the New Year

Dear Father,

I come to you with a heart of thanksgiving, remembering the goodness you poured into my life last year. Despite the trials and challenges I faced, I knew you were with me. I know “every good and perfect gift is from above” and I praise you, Lord, for your tender love and guidance. I long to reflect more of you, Jesus, and ask you to transform me into your image. Reveal the weaknesses that hinder and teach me to recommit my mind, body, and soul anew to you each day.

In the powerful and matchless name of Jesus,

Amen

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