By all means, be intentional in how you live. As the apostle Paul put it, “To live is Christ, to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). But also remember in this new year to rest in the goodness of Jesus. Each day with Him is a great gift. His yoke is easy, and His burden is light (Matthew 11:30).

As we begin another new year, it affords us the chance to reflect back on 2025 and give thanks to God for all He did. Most likely, the past year presented new challenges and trials but also surprising blessings. Though we make plans, you never truly know what a year will hold. We wonder, what will God do this year? What miracles will He perform? Obviously, we won’t know the answer to that until this time next year, but we do know that we must step out in faith. The Christian life is always and only a walk of faith, not of sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).

As you approach this new year, perhaps you have some goals, plans, and even “resolutions” you hope to achieve. In no way do I want to discourage you in that. I know I do. But how many Christians have goals and plans for growing in grace and godliness? Safe to say, not enough. Is your chief aim this coming year to please God and grow in your knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:4, Hebrews 11:6, John 17:3)? It is easy to aim for things like physical health, financial wellbeing, and worldly success. But when that becomes the consuming focus of your life, your Christian walk will inevitably suffer.

In your battle against sin and corrupting worldly influences, here are a few things to keep in mind.

The Beauty of Christ

Jesus is the “image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth” (Colossians 1:15-16). There is much more I could say about the Savior, but how astonishing to think He is also a friend of sinners! The more attractive Jesus is to you, the less attractive sin will be. This year, be resolved to know Him as you have never known Him before.

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