Welcome to 2025. Following the chaos of 2024, many have asked, “What’s most important in life?” How do you respond to that? It’s so easy to get worked up about the way we measure things in life. What new unexpected experiences or changes will come our way this new year?
Many people make resolutions, saying, “From now on, I will…” But how many of these moments of determination will pass by? Some believe that having good intentions signifies a fresh start and that they can begin anew whenever they choose. It would be great if it were that simple.
In 2025, we can all anticipate more change. Some of these changes will be choices we make, while others will occur unexpectedly. The theme of change is a consistent element in the scriptures. What does this change entail? God has transformed the lives of millions, and the Apostle Paul describes the kind of change that God desires for His people.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Colossians 3:12-14
Despite our high hopes and best efforts, we often find ourselves unable to change in the ways God desires. Simply gritting our teeth and trying to force ourselves to be better is not effective. Attempting to change on our own usually leads to frustration, not to genuine transformation.
Yes, Jesus, I’m all in, but perhaps not completely. Jesus isn’t interested in us merely becoming nicer and more agreeable while maintaining our own little kingdoms. God doesn’t ask us to accommodate Him; instead, He calls us to live for Him. This new year, He has something much greater planned for us. That is to choose to…Live for what matters most to God.
Anyone who has tried to make a change knows that if this year is going to be different from previous years, we need a new approach and a change in perspective. Living according to what God desires from us is not as simple as changing a tire; it is not a quick fix.
It requires a change of heart. The real question is not if we will change, but how we will change. Change is inevitable. What kind of changes do you want to make this year? Remember, you do have choices.
As followers of Christ, we are called to embrace a new way of life, one that belongs to a different kind of kingdom. Although this can be challenging, it is essential to leave behind our own little kingdoms.
This might involve letting go of the mindset that insists, “Don’t you see? This is how things should be!” It could also relate to how we define our success, our attempts to control people or circumstances, or our desire to seek the approval of others.
These distractions not only divert us from something greater, but they can also consume and control us. They have the potential to drain the very essence of our lives. Often, these distractions feel utterly empty and meaningless. However, there is a better way.
There are things we cannot change, but we can make choices that have a lasting impact on the lives of others, especially if we choose to live for what matters to God. For thousands of years, God has been working to change the hearts and minds of people, and He desires to change yours and mine as well.
If you desire lasting peace and contentment throughout this new year may your heart’s cry be…
Father, not my will, but thy will be done…your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. What do you want me to do for You?
The God who is unchanging changes everything! Be grateful that His love for you will never change. That is one thing we can count on this year and forever!
Happy New Year! Make it a good one!