Starting a New Year
As we begin this new year 2025, we can reflect on 2024 and find areas of growth for our lives.
I recently read an article by Lee Grady, director of The Mordecai Project. I have followed his ministry for a number of years, and I'm frequently blessed by his teachings. He listed out some questions that are good tools for reflection and growth. So let's look at them, and see how God wants us to approach a new year.
What were my highlights in 2024? This is a good place to start. Let's identify what brought us joy, and celebrate the victories we saw throughout the year. It may be a good time to record testimonies.
What did I learn in this past year? Were there new insights from the Word? Did any sermon bring new revelation, or did a mentor speak truth that helped? Maybe a great book gave fresh perspective into something, or maybe a new skill was developed.
If I could do 2024 over again, what would I do differently? This is not a time for self pity, but to learn from mistakes that were made. We should never stay in a rut, but we can repent of any moment of weakness and turn back to the Father's arms. Can we realize any bad decisions that were made, and decide how to make better decisons in the future?
Have I made time alone with God a priority? It's important to identify any 'time wasters' and remove them from our daily routine. Rekindle the devotional life with the Lord, and begin to practice quiet time with Him.
Did I develop any bad habits that need to be broken? Take an honest look at yourself, and see if anything if your life is prone to extinguishing the fire of the Holy Spirit. Identify any stronghold that needs to be removed. Ask the Lord to work in you, and allow Him to develop the fruit of the Spirit.
What are my spiritual gifts, and am I using them? See if there is any place where fear has caused you to hide or shrink back from stepping out. Maybe asked a trusted friend or leader about the gifts they see in your life.
How did I influence others for Christ in the past year? Identify the opportunities throughout the year where you were able to teach others, mentor them, preach the gospel, or simply set an example of Christ like behavior. Remember the commission is to: 'go - and make disciples'.
Am I aligned with the right people? Do your close relationships push you into a deeper relationship with Jesus? Make sure you are in true community...a life-giving, Word-based church.
What is God saying to me as I enter into this new year? Spend some quality time with the Lord and ask Him for a word specific to you. It may come directly from Him, or from a prophetic voice. Write it down, and use it as a prayer focus for the year.
What goals do I need to make for this year? If you want to see change in any area, it will take intentional committment...whether it's physically, spiritually, financially, etc.
May the Lord lead us into deeper places of His heart this year. Everything He has for us...is good.
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