The turn of a new year offers an opportunity to reflect on what has been and prepare for what's ahead. Here are some questions to guide you through that process.
Looking Back
Most years unfold differently than we expect. As you reflect, resist the temptation to over-analyze, nurse regret, or condemn yourself. Instead, seek wisdom, express gratitude to God, and ask for his continued help and grace.
Ground your reflection in these truths: God is sovereign over your life, working all things for his glory and your good. His grace meets you in your weakness. Hold these realities close as you consider the past year.
- What blessings have you enjoyed this year? Take time to give thanks and praise God for his faithfulness (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
- What lessons have you learned? Consider what God has taught you through Scripture, through others, and through your own experiences, including seasons of difficulty. Write down 2-3 key lessons he's been pressing into your heart.
- What burdens are you carrying? Identify the cares and concerns weighing on you, and entrust them to God (1 Peter 5:7).
- How are your habits? Examine your core spiritual practices: Scripture reading, prayer, and participation in church life (worship and fellowship). What rhythms have served you well? Where have you struggled?
- What do you need to let go? Consider both patterns of sin and areas of distraction. What must be laid aside so you can run the Christian life with freedom (Hebrews 12:1-2)?
- Where do you need to try harder? Where do you need to try less? Sometimes we stumble because we've taken on too much. Other times, we're not challenging ourselves enough. Reflect on areas where you've been coasting and areas where you've been straining under self-imposed pressure.
While personal reflection is valuable, consider working through these questions with someone who knows you well and can offer spiritual insight and perspective.
Thank God for the past year. Fix your eyes on his faithfulness. He remains faithful even when we falter.
Looking Forward
A new year is an ideal time to recommit to the essentials. Rather than adding more to your life, focus on strengthening what matters most.
- What is the one thing you hope to see change this year, by God's grace? Look beyond circumstances to consider your character. How do you long to grow? Bring this desire to the Lord in prayer.
- What core habits can you strengthen? Start with the foundations: Scripture intake and participation in church life. Choose a realistic Bible reading plan—print, digital, or audio—that will help you delight in God's Word. Commit to consistent worship and fellowship in a healthy church. Establish these rhythms before adding other practices.
- How will you build these habits into your life? Consider your current season, preferences, and circumstances. Plan when and how to incorporate these practices into your routine.
- What are your roles, and how can you be faithful in them? Reflect on the roles you already fill: spouse, parent, employee, friend. What would faithfulness look like in each area this year? Which relationships or responsibilities need particular attention right now?
- Who can you bless this year? Think about the key people in your life. How might you serve, encourage, or surprise them? Focusing outward on others is one of the most effective ways to break free from self-preoccupation.
The goal isn't perfection but intentionality. You have a part to play, but you desperately need God's help. Don't lean on your own strength or understanding. Come to him and ask for the wisdom and power only he can provide.
God is at work in your life. As you commit yourself to him, he will faithfully help you grow.
