Happy New Year!
I’m not usually one to get overly excited about New Year’s resolutions. But I am deeply committed to growing in my knowledge and love of Jesus. And so I don’t want to waste the opportunity a new year brings to set some goals, refresh some habits, and refocus on what matters most as we head into 2026.
The apostle Paul puts it like this:
“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.” (Philippians 3:10)
So have you thought about how you want to grow as a follower of Jesus this year?
A simple way to approach this is to think in three categories:
What do I want to start doing?
This might be beginning a regular Bible reading or prayer habit, reading the Bible one-to-one with someone, or committing to regular church or community group. What new practice could fit into your life so that 2026 becomes a year of genuine spiritual growth?
What do I want to stop doing?
There may also be things that need to be cut out. Sin is an obvious one, though we know it often takes more than sheer willpower. Sometimes it’s the habits, patterns, or environments that feed that sin which need to stop altogether.
“Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.” (Hebrews 12:1)
What do I want to change?
Other things may simply need a refresh. A new rhythm, a wiser boundary, or a different approach to keep habits and disciplines helpful and life-giving. One change I’m making this year is around my phone habits—deleting some social media and keeping my phone out of the bedroom—to create more space for reading and to free my mind from constant distraction.
I’m convinced that, in Christ, our best years are not behind us but ahead of us—not because life gets easier, but because God continues his good work in us.
“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)
Grace & peace,
Andrew
P.S. To help we have a page with some resources that could be helpful as you make plants to grow as a follower of Jesus this year. cityonahill.co.nz/2026