This year has not begun as smoothly as I would have hoped. The bumpy start to 2025 has reminded me over and over to rely on the Lord. Everything is not all about me.
At the beginning of a new year, we often hear this phrase: “This is going to be MY year.” Of course, the fresh start of a new year can inspire some ambitious goals. However, each time I have heard that statement recently, I am reminded that this is not “my year!” Setting goals can be a good motivator—reading a certain number of books, exercising more, eating healthier— but when the new year becomes about us rather than serving God and doing His work, these goals can quickly lose their value.
Too many people are more concerned with looking good than doing good. My generation has lost sight of what is truly important because we focus on whether we look good to others, if our social media is perfect and aesthetic, and whether we are doing good things just to feel good about ourselves. We even fool ourselves into thinking we are doing just fine: “I am doing the best that I can.”
I want this year to be a great year. Do I have goals for myself in the coming months? Of course, but how can I consider it a good year if I continue claiming it as my own? As Christians, we must remember that this year, given by God, is another chance to serve Him, fulfill His will for our lives, and encourage others to keep going.
When we focus on what truly matters, God will take care of the rest. Some days will be harder than others, and some will not go as we expected. However, when we have the mindset of “This year will be a year to serve the Saviour more,” the coming months will unfold as He planned.
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. – Matthew 6:33
by Ashley Myers
