While most cognitively understand that January 1st is just another day, psychologically many view it as a magical chance to start anew with everything from diets to finances. Regardless of your thoughts on annual resolutions, the beginning of the year is a great time to forget what’s behind and press on toward what God has in mind for us this year. The Apostle Paul says it this way in Philippians 3:13-14, “13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
While we can celebrate our successes and learn from our failures, there’s no reason to dwell on either. It’s important to keep moving forward. We don’t want to be held captive by inflated perspectives or doomed projections. Hebrews 10:36 reminds us of the “need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.”
Remember that our God is forgiving. In Christ we have the chance to start again every time we come to Him in true repentance. The words of Lamentations 3:22-24 reinforce this truth and give us hope: “22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.””
While we are to have faith in God’s greatness, mercy, and leading, we all have a part in the direction that we go in 2025. Like James 2:26 tells us, “faith without works is dead,” so we need to put our faith into action.
There are so many possible opportunities ahead of us. Yet, there is only so much any one or any group can take on or accomplish. Perhaps we need to say no to some good opportunities so that we can say yes to some really great ones! Through prayer to God and wisdom from His Word we can make better choices to move forward. Always understanding that no matter our plans we “ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that (James 4:15).””
Still, there is something to be said about setting specific goals. Think of it this way: when we have a target to hit, then we try to hit it. If we set no target, then we go off aimlessly. At the same time, there is value to being practical about our goals. We might want to lose 20 pounds, but that’s a hard goal to reach if you keep measuring by that goal every day. Perhaps setting smaller goals to reach our desired goal is a better avenue. If we attempt to lose 1 pound a week for 20 weeks, our goal does not appear so unattainable. If we are to not only survive in 2025, but thrive, then we need to set attainable goals.
Wanting to grow personally and congregationally are goals that God will bless. Setting the goal of doubling the size of our congregation appears lofty, but what if we each made it our goal to disciple just one lost soul in 2025? If we each made that our personal goal, then we could realistically double the size of our congregation. Such a goal is more realistic, practical, and attainable.
If life as taught me anything, it’s that 2025 will have both battles and blessings. If we choose to pursue God’s best for us as individuals and for His kingdom, then God will be with us along the way. We can then overcome the battles we face and give glory to God for the blessings.
