Can you believe it's already 2026? As we step into a new year, there's a natural sense of anticipation, a feeling of a clean slate. But for Christians, it's more than just a calendar change; it's a profound reminder of God's unchanging faithfulness and the gift of new beginnings He offers every single day.
The truth is, God's mercies are new each and every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). January often provides a sacred pause—a perfect moment to return, reset, and realign our hearts with God's divine purposes. Whether last year brought incredible triumphs or difficult trials, we serve a God who specializes in redemption and renewal. He lovingly invites us not to dwell on the past, but to embrace the future with vibrant faith.
The truth is, God's mercies are new each and every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). January often provides a sacred pause—a perfect moment to return, reset, and realign our hearts with God's divine purposes. Whether last year brought incredible triumphs or difficult trials, we serve a God who specializes in redemption and renewal. He lovingly invites us not to dwell on the past, but to embrace the future with vibrant faith.
Pressing Forward: Letting Go and Reaching Out
The Apostle Paul beautifully captured this forward-looking spirit in Philippians 3:13-14: "Forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
This isn't just a motivational phrase; it's a spiritual position. Pressing forward means:
This isn't just a motivational phrase; it's a spiritual position. Pressing forward means:
- Letting go of regrets: We release the weight of past mistakes.
- Releasing bitterness: We surrender any grudges that hold us captive.
- Refusing to be defined by yesterday's failures: Our identity is found in Christ, not our past.
- Choosing hope, growth, and Christ: We actively embrace God's path for us.
Seeking God First: Our First Priority
As a church family here at Calvary Baptist, let's commit to seeking God first in 2026. Jesus Himself declared in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
This year, imagine if our priorities truly exhibited Heaven's values! Let's be intentional in our prayer lives, generous in showing love and forgiveness, and bold in sharing our faith. We need more than just resolutions; we need spiritual revolutions within our hearts, becoming fully awake, alive, and aligned with the very heart of God.
This year, imagine if our priorities truly exhibited Heaven's values! Let's be intentional in our prayer lives, generous in showing love and forgiveness, and bold in sharing our faith. We need more than just resolutions; we need spiritual revolutions within our hearts, becoming fully awake, alive, and aligned with the very heart of God.
Finding Rest in Jesus
Perhaps you're carrying burdens into this new year—heavy expectations, anxieties, or unresolved issues. Hear the gentle, loving invitation of Jesus in Matthew 11:28: "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
A fresh start doesn't mean we have to fix everything ourselves. It means we humbly surrender to the One who makes all things new (Revelation 21:5). Let this be the year we:
A fresh start doesn't mean we have to fix everything ourselves. It means we humbly surrender to the One who makes all things new (Revelation 21:5). Let this be the year we:
- Walk lighter, casting our cares upon Him.
- Love deeper, reflecting God’s perfect love to others.
- Trust more fully, knowing He is in control.
Step into the new year with Expectation!
Begin this year with an expectant heart. God is not done with you! The best is not behind you; it's ahead, as you walk in His perfect will. Let's press on with joy, walk daily in His grace, and serve with unwavering purpose.
May 2026 truly be a year of spiritual awakening and divine appointments for you and for the body of Christ.
Happy New Year—and may the peace of Christ guide your every step!
Reference: 7-Day Reading Plan for a Christ-Centered Year
May 2026 truly be a year of spiritual awakening and divine appointments for you and for the body of Christ.
Happy New Year—and may the peace of Christ guide your every step!
Reference: 7-Day Reading Plan for a Christ-Centered Year
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