How would you describe 2023? Great? Challenging? Tough? A time of growth? A time of blessing? Or would you release a sigh of relief, happy that it is finally over? As we stand at the threshold of a new year, it’s only natural to reflect on the twelve months that have shaped our lives. Taking a moment to pause and reflect on the road we have walked becomes time well spent. Reflection offers a valuable opportunity to consider the lessons learned, the personal growth experienced, and the moments that have impacted our lives over the past twelve months. Below are some questions to consider as we prepare to leave 2023 behind us.
What Have I Learned This Year?
Take a moment to ponder the lessons the year has brought your way. Reflect on both the triumphs and challenges, recognizing that each experience carries valuable insights. It can be helpful to
think of life like a puzzle. Each piece, big or small, plays a part in creating the complete picture. Acknowledging the lessons learned is like finding the right pieces and putting them in place – it helps us see the bigger picture and grow. It also helps to remember that God can use it all for our good, even the hard parts. As Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.“
How Have I Grown?
Consider the ways in which you’ve grown spiritually, emotionally and mentally. Recognize the progress made and celebrate the victories, no matter how small. Growth often involves stepping out of comfort zones and navigating unfamiliar spaces. Express gratitude to God for the growth you’ve experienced, acknowledging the courage He provided that helped you move beyond the confines of the familiar. Be thankful for the way His hand has intricately guided you this year. As you prepare for new growth in 2024 hold onto Philippians 1:6: “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.“
What Do I Need to Take into the New Year with Me?
Consider the qualities, values, and habits you would like to carry forward into the coming year. Proverbs 4:25-27 offers wisdom in this regard: “Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil.” Whether it’s a newfound sense of gratitude, a commitment to kindness, a deeper connection with the Lord, times of daily reflection, acts of generosity, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, fostering stronger relationships with loved ones, or dedicating time to personal growth and learning, intentionally bring these positive aspects into the fresh start that the new year offers.
What Do I Need to Leave Behind?
As you consider the qualities, values, and habits to bring into the new year, it’s vital to reflect on aspects that might hinder rather than help your growth. Assess aspects of your life that no longer contribute to your well-being. Be willing to let go of negativity, unhealthy habits or relationships that hinder your spiritual and personal growth. Creating space for the new often involves releasing the old.
Ask yourself two important questions regarding habits, relationships, or attitudes that may need to be left behind in 2024: How well is this serving me? In other words, does it help or hinder me in becoming the person God created me to be? And, how well does this glorify God? In this process, remember the words from Isaiah 43:18-19, “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” Letting go of what holds you back opens the door for God to bring forth something new in your life.
Is There Any Forgiveness I Need to Grant or Ask?
Unresolved conflicts can weigh heavily on the soul. This is unnecessary excess baggage that does not need to come with you into the new year. Take this time to consider whether there are any forgiveness matters lingering in your heart. Extend forgiveness where needed and experience the freedom that comes with a heart unburdened by resentment or bitterness. Colossians 3:13 gives guidance in this: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
As we bid farewell to the old year, let us do so with a spirit of gratitude for the journey behind us and a sense of hopeful anticipation for the road ahead. While 2024 is yet unknown to us, holding onto the known hand of the One who has our eternal good at heart, Who goes ahead of us and hems us in from behind, will help us conclude 2023 strongly and start 2024 on the right foot. May we finish well, leaving behind what needs to be released and carrying forward the lessons and growth that will influence our steps in the new year.