18“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

One of the best things about a new year is the seemingly fresh start that comes with it. Everyone looks to the coming year with expectations that this year will be different, hopefully in a good way. Many of us try to establish new habits and routines that will help us reach the potential we see in ourselves. The unfortunate reality of all this is how many of us fail and fall short of the goals and expectations we set, only to have a similar year as the one before.

Obviously, setting new goals and routines isn’t a bad thing – keep pursuing those healthier and stronger lives. However, most of our goals are likely centered around self improvement and soley dependent on our effort. The days go on and our perseverance wanes as we forget what our resolutions were in the first place. What if we tried something new?  The truth is we were never meant to live this life without the involvement of our Creator and Sustainer and we certainly can’t reach our potential without Him. Hence, what if this year was more about letting God do a new thing in you than you trying to do it all by yourself for yourself?

Through the life, death, and ressurrection of Jesus Christ, God has offered us a new way of living. As followers of Jesus, we are given His Spirit who invites us to abide in Him rather than in ourselves. Rather than this year becoming a year of greater independence, what if it became a year of greater dependence? I’ve heard it said before, “If dependence on God is the goal, then our weaknesses are strengths.” Additionally, what if this year was more about loving and serving others, like your teammates, than your days being about you? As you head into this new season, whether games or workouts are ahead, depend on God to carry you through and keep your eyes open for opportunities to serve. Seasons have their ups and downs, but our God is constant and faithful through it all.

  • Prayerfully reflect on your goals and expectations for the coming year. Is God involved?
  • Ask God to help you become more dependent on His Spirit.
  • Praise and thank God for His daily love, grace, and mercy.

Pre-Game Playlist: