As the calendar turns over, many people take time to look back on the past year's accomplishments, moments of joy, and challenges. With the new year on the horizon, thoughts may shift towards setting goals and making changes. It's common to create a list of resolutions for the upcoming year, outlining things you want to change, achieve, or develop to make the year ahead more fulfilling and purposeful. Popular resolutions often revolve around weight loss, financial management, and travel. For Christians, making a list of resolutions can also be a meaningful practice. Beyond physical goals like losing weight or decluttering, believers can use resolutions to focus on strengthening their connection with Jesus and deepening their faith.

     Even though resolutions are not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the concept can serve as a tool to encourage Christians to be purposeful about their faith in the upcoming year. While creating a list of resolutions does not equate to fortune-telling, having a set of faith-centered resolutions can prompt Christians to prioritize God.

     Annually, believers should explore ways to strengthen their faith and lead devout lives. These types of resolutions are ones that all Christians can consider as they anticipate a fresh start in the new year. Christians can carefully consider resolutions that align with the teachings of Scripture to enrich their faith. Ultimately, whatever actions followers of Jesus take, they aim to do so for the glory of God. Establishing resolutions can assist Christians in remaining committed to placing God at the forefront of their lives.

Here are 7 Ways to Strengthen Your Faith in the Coming Year:

1. Allocate extra time to connect with God

And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, He was there alone. (Matthew 14:23).

     As believers, we are urged to follow the example of Jesus. Jesus set the perfect model for our lives, and one common practice we observe in his life was making time for prayer and establishing a connection with God. When considering setting goals for the coming year, consider dedicating more time to spending in God's presence. Seek divine guidance on how to create additional opportunities to be with Him. This devoted time with God will bring you peace, calmness, hope, and wisdom.

2. Engage with a church

And let us consider one another to provoke [encourage] unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner [habit] of some is; but exhorting [encouraging] one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25).

     The New Testament underscores the importance of the church community and the necessity for followers of Jesus to be part of a group of believers. It is vital to have fellow Christians who can offer accountability, companionship, and support for spiritual growth. Life is full of challenges, and having a church family to provide encouragement and assistance is crucial. The body of Christ serves a significant role, and every individual should strive to connect with a church in the coming year or enhance their participation in their current church community.

3. Get into the habit of serving

As every man hath received the gift [spiritual gift], even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. (1 Peter 4:10).

     Each believer has been given unique gifts by God, which should be used diligently. It is our responsibility to use these abilities to strengthen the church and advance His kingdom. Jesus showed great compassion towards the needy and stressed the significance of serving others. As we step into the new year, let us actively seek opportunities to serve regularly, using our gifts to make a meaningful impact on the world and to bring glory to God.

4. Engage with the Bible

For whatsoever things were written aforetime [past] were written for our learning [to teach us], that we through patience and comfort [encouragement] of the scriptures might have hope. (Romans 15:4).

     The Bible is a precious resource for mankind that reveals the character of God, provides insight into our own essence and His immense love for us, and guides us on how to dedicate our hearts to God and lead a righteous life for Him. It is important for believers to immerse themselves in the teachings of the Bible daily. The scripture uplifts, educates, admonishes, and equips individuals. Many people struggle to find time to read and delve into the Bible. As the new year approaches, commit to making reading the Bible a new spiritual practice integrated into your daily routine. By studying and understanding God's teachings, your faith will be profoundly impacted in meaningful ways.

5. Spreading the Good News

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost [Spirit]. (Matthew 28:19).

     Jesus entrusted His disciples with a crucial task - to spread the message of the Gospel and guide people of all nations to become followers by sharing the Good News and baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It is important for each of us to consider how often we share the Gospel. It is possible that God has strategically placed certain individuals in your life for the purpose of evangelizing to them - through both spoken words and living a life that reflects Jesus' love. As we enter a new year, let us pray for opportunities to share our faith and fulfill the great commission by helping others discover Jesus as their Redeemer and Lord.

6. Emphasize spiritual development

Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine [teachings] of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward [in] God. (Hebrews 6:1).

     It is God's will for us to advance in our faith rather than remain spiritually immature. Spiritual growth is attained through mentorship, humility, resisting temptations, avoiding sin, and fulfilling God's purpose for us. Ask God to reveal ways in which you can strengthen your faith. By committing yourself to God, studying the Bible, fellowshipping with other believers, and prioritizing prayer, you can enhance your spiritual maturity this year.

7. Be generous in your giving

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. (2 Corintians 9:7).

     God delights in our acts of generosity towards others! Believers are encouraged to joyfully contribute their financial resources to advance God's kingdom. As we enter the new year, take time to contemplate how you can give generously in the same way that God has generously given to us. We express gratitude for God's blessings by faithfully giving back to Him as cheerful givers.

A Prayer for the New Year

Almighty God, I thank You for granting me another year of life and for Your unwavering faithfulness and compassion towards me in the past year. Despite facing challenges and hardships, I firmly believe that You have been beside me throughout. As I anticipate the upcoming year, my deepest wish is to live in a way that pleases You. I strive to bring honor and glory to Your name in all that I do and think. Lord, may I prioritize You above all else this year. I humbly seek Your blessings and guidance for the new year, asking for Your protection, wisdom, and opportunities to be a beacon of light in the world. I offer this prayer in Jesus' name, Amen.