As the calendar turns and a fresh year begins, many are quick to set goals — lose weight, save money, get organized. These pursuits are valuable, but as believers, we are invited into something far deeper than resolutions. God extends to us the opportunity not merely for improvement, but renewal, a complete transformation from the inside out.
Renewal begins with surrender. The world says, “Become your best self,” but Christ says, “Let Me make you new.” True renewal is not about striving harder, it’s about surrendering deeper. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Your past mistakes, your lukewarm seasons, your spiritual weariness, none of these disqualify you. In fact, they make you a perfect candidate for the renewing work of the Holy Spirit. God is not looking for perfection. He is looking for willingness.
You must have renewal of the mind. Every transformation starts in the mind. If we enter a new year carrying old thought patterns, we will repeat old cycles. Scripture reminds us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).
This year, choose to replace anxiety with God’s promises, self-doubt with His identity, and discouragement with His hope. Saturate your mind with His Word daily. Renewal is not a one-time event, it’s a rhythm.
Renewal of your spiritual life is essential for growth as a child of God. Perhaps last year was spiritually dry. Maybe prayer felt distant, or church attendance became routine. Take heart; God specializes in revival. He is eager to breathe life into the weary soul. “Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31).
Start this year by returning to the basics. Reignite your prayer life not with perfect words, but with honest conversation. Reopen the Scriptures not as a checkbox, but as a lifeline. Reconnect with the body of Christ because renewal is stronger in community.
Let this be the year of spiritual awakening. You don’t need a “new year, new you” slogan. You have something better, “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27).
This year is not just another chapter. It is a divine invitation — to let go of what God never meant for you to carry, to walk in freedom instead of fear, to pursue His presence above all else. You don’t have to strive to be new; you simply have to stay close to the One who makes all things new.
This week’s recipe is an easy-peasy casserole. With ground turkey and sweet potatoes, it is hearty for those cold winter nights but packed full of nutrients. Everyone in your family is sure to love this delicious meal.
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears then you also will appear with Him in glory” (Colossians 3:1-4).
