Confession: Owning Our Need for Change – Change begins with confession. We name the places we’ve fallen short, not to dwell on them but to receive God’s grace. Scripture reminds us, “If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9). Think of clay on a potter’s wheel. To be reshaped, the clay has to be soft enough to work with. Confession makes us pliable, giving God space to smooth the rough edges and bring beauty from brokenness.

Self-Examination: Breaking Up Unplowed Ground – The new year invites us to pause and reflect. Hosea 10:12 offers this picture: “Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord.” Unplowed ground holds potential. It’s the part of your life waiting for growth if you let God work there. Ask yourself, “What in my life is bearing fruit? What feels hard or untouched? What could I cultivate this year with God’s help?” Self-examination isn’t about judgment. It’s about looking inward with hope and trust. God walks with you, leading you toward healing and renewal.

Prayer: Listening for the Shepherd’s Voice – Prayer is where we listen. Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). Prayer quiets the noise so we can hear God. It’s more than speaking. It’s making room to align your life with God’s heart. The Shepherd calls gently, leading you to green pastures and still waters. Take time each day to sit in the quiet. Ask, “What is God saying to me right now?”

Fasting: Trusting in God’s Provision – Fasting clears the clutter. It teaches us to rely on God instead of things we think we need. In the wilderness, Jesus said, “One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matt 4:4). Fasting helps you let go of what weighs you down. It creates space to hold what God wants to give you. As you begin this year, ask yourself, “What am I holding too tightly? What can I release to make room for God’s gifts?”

Study: Renewing Our Minds – Paul writes, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom 12:2). Study shapes how we think and live. It helps us hear God’s voice even when life feels loud. Pick a passage or book of the Bible to focus on this year. Let it guide your steps and grow your faith. Scripture isn’t just information. It’s the way God leads us into deeper purpose.

Sabbath: Resting in the Shepherd’s Care – Sabbath reminds us we’re more than what we accomplish. Psalm 23 says, “He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters.” Rest creates space to hear God clearly. When we step away from striving, we remember that God holds all things together. In Sabbath, we reconnect with who we are and how deeply we’re loved. Make rest a priority this year. Let it renew your spirit and bring peace to your soul.

Will you pray with me?

These spiritual disciplines are time-tested ways to welcome God’s work in us. This is true for your life, for our church and for the world. This year, resolve to pray, participate and persevere. Trust that God is working, even when the path ahead feels unclear.

As Corrie ten Boom said, “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” Amen, Corrie. Amen.

Happy New Year! Let’s walk into it together with open hearts, ready to look for God at work.

Grace & Peace,
Christopher