A New Year, A New You: Stepping Into Growth and Transformation

The foundation is critical to the integrity of any structure. Likewise, the start of a new year calls for a renewed outlook and attitude. The only way to guarantee a fresh experience in the new year is to become a new person. Growth is God’s will for our lives, and no one is beyond transformation. The only real limitation is an unwillingness to change.

Consider Jacob, the deceiver, who became Israel, a prince with God. Or Moses, a murderer, who became the deliverer of a nation. If they could be transformed, so can you. As Deuteronomy 30:19 reminds us, life presents us with choices—blessings or curses, life or death. What will you choose?

The First Question God Asked: Where Are You?

4 Possible Positions You could Be In Right Now

In Genesis, God’s first question to man was not about achievements or possessions but about position: Where are you? This same question applies to us today. Where are you in your faith, growth, and purpose? There are four possible positions you could be in right now:

Standing Still:
Many people grow in age but not in spiritual commitment. If you are standing still while everything around you moves forward, you risk being left behind. Excuses for stagnation may be valid, but they do not exempt you from the consequences. It’s time to move forward—there is more to do, greater heights to reach!

Retreating:
Looking back longingly at the past can be dangerous. Luke 9:62 reminds us that anyone who puts their hand to the plow and looks back is not fit for the kingdom of God. Nostalgia can be a trap. The past may have had its good moments, but your future holds even greater promises. Learn from the past but don’t live there—keep moving forward!

Going in Circles:
Inconsistency is the enemy of progress. Some people take two steps forward and then retreat to where they started. The root of this problem is often a lack of conviction. As Romans 14:5 says, Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. If you truly believe in the vision God has placed in your heart, commit to it wholeheartedly.

Wandering Aimlessly:
God’s will is for you to be progressive, making each day an improvement over the last. 1 Samuel 16:13 shows us that David was anointed, but he still had to grow into his calling. Likewise, God has called you to greater things, but you must take intentional steps toward progress.

How to Be Intentional About Growth This Year

To ensure that this year is different from the last, you must be deliberate about growth in three key areas:

Grow in Your Faith Walk:
Faith is not meant to be static. Romans 1:17 teaches that we move from faith to faith. You may start by trusting God for small things, but He wants to build your faith to believe for bigger breakthroughs—whether it’s healing, financial freedom, or a deeper relationship with Him.

Grow in Spiritual Stamina:
A weak spirit is the devil’s delight, but God’s will is for you to be strong in Him. Building spiritual stamina requires spending quality time with God. Psalm 85:8 reminds us, I will listen to what God the Lord will say; he promises peace to his people. The more time you spend in His presence, the stronger you become.

Grow in Love:
Love is more than a feeling—it is a choice and a commitment. Philippians 1:9-11 (MSG) says, Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. This year, don’t just trust your feelings—test them. Make love your foundation, and let it guide your actions.

Your Status Is Changing!

This year is your year of transformation. Whatever position you were in last year, it’s time to take a step forward. Don’t stand still. Don’t retreat. Don’t go in circles. And don’t wander aimlessly. Instead, press on toward the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Your status is changing for the better—embrace it!