A new year is upon us, bringing with it that familiar mix of hope and anticipation for what lies ahead. While the world around us buzzes with resolutions about fitness goals and career ambitions, what if we took this fresh start as an opportunity to dive deeper in our walk with Christ? What if this year, our focus wasn’t just on changing our habits, but on transforming our hearts?
You see, New Year’s resolutions often fail because they rely solely on our own willpower. But when we center our goals on growing closer to God, something beautiful happens—we tap into a strength beyond ourselves. As Paul reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). This isn’t about striving harder; it’s about surrendering more fully to His work in our lives.
That’s why I’ve prayerfully compiled these twelve spiritual resolutions, each rooted in Scripture and designed to help you draw nearer to God’s heart. Whether you’re seeking to deepen your prayer life, study His Word more consistently, or serve others with greater love, these resolutions offer practical steps for spiritual growth.
Throughout this guide, you’ll find Bible verses to anchor your journey and journaling prompts to help you reflect deeply on each area. Take time with these prompts—let them guide your prayers and help you discern where God is leading you this year. Your responses will become a personal record of your journey, something to look back on as you see how God works in your life.
As you read through these resolutions, ask the Holy Spirit to show you which areas He wants to work on in your life this year. Are you ready to begin this journey of transformation?
Resolution 1: Commit to Daily Prayer
Scripture: “Pray without ceasing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Have you ever set a goal to pray every day but found yourself falling short? You’re not alone. Life gets busy, distractions pop up, and sometimes prayer feels like just another item on our endless to-do list. But here’s the beautiful thing: God isn’t asking for perfection—He’s asking for connection.
The Bible tells us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). At first glance, that might sound impossible. But this verse isn’t about constantly being on your knees; it’s about maintaining an open, ongoing conversation with God throughout your day. It’s a reminder that He’s always near, ready to listen.
To start, pick a specific time of day for intentional prayer—maybe first thing in the morning, during your lunch break, or right before bed. Find a moment that works with your routine and stick to it. It doesn’t have to be long or complicated; just talk to God like you would a close friend. Share your thoughts, worries, and gratitude with Him.
If you’re looking to make your prayers more intentional, try journaling your prayers. Write down what you’re praying for and how you’re feeling, then revisit it later to see how God has worked in your life.
Journaling Prompt: What time of day can I dedicate to prayer? How can I make my prayers more intentional?
Take a moment to jot down your thoughts. You might be surprised at how this small act of planning can lead to a more vibrant prayer life. Remember, the key is consistency, not perfection. Just show up, and let God meet you there.
Resolution 2: Read Through the Entire Bible
Scripture: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119:105
Have you ever dreamed of reading the entire Bible but found it overwhelming? You’re not alone. With 66 books and over 31,000 verses, it’s easy to feel unsure of where to start—or how to stay consistent. But here’s the good news: reading the Bible isn’t about speed or checking off boxes. It’s about letting God’s Word guide you, one step at a time.
Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Imagine walking a dark trail with only a lamp to guide you. You don’t see the whole path at once; you see just enough light for the next step. That’s what the Bible does for our lives. It provides the wisdom, encouragement, and direction we need day by day.
To make this resolution stick, find a reading plan that works for you. Whether it’s a one-year Bible plan, a chronological approach, or even just focusing on one book at a time, choose something manageable. There are tons of free plans online or in Bible apps to get you started.
Think about the obstacles that have kept you from reading consistently. Is it lack of time? Feeling intimidated by Scripture? Not knowing where to begin? Write those down. Then, brainstorm ways to overcome them. Maybe you set aside 10 minutes in the morning, join a Bible study group, or use a devotional guide for structure.
Journaling Prompt: What obstacles have kept me from reading the Bible consistently? How can I overcome them?
The key is to remember that it’s not about perfection. If you miss a day, don’t let it derail you—just pick up where you left off. The goal is to let God’s Word illuminate your path, one step at a time. You’ve got this!
Resolution 3: Serve Others with Love
Scripture: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.” – Mark 10:45
It’s easy to get caught up in our own needs and schedules, isn’t it? But as Christians, we’re called to follow the example of Jesus, who said, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve” (Mark 10:45). Think about that for a moment. Jesus, the King of Kings, chose a life of service. If serving others was His mission, how much more should it be ours?
Serving doesn’t have to be grand or complicated. It’s about seeing the needs around you and responding with love. Maybe it’s as simple as helping a neighbor with groceries, volunteering at your church, or writing a note of encouragement to someone who’s struggling. Even small acts of kindness can make a big impact when done with a servant’s heart.
Take a moment to reflect on where you can serve this year. Are there ways you can support your family more intentionally, like offering to take on extra responsibilities at home? Could you get involved in a ministry at your church or volunteer in your community? Think about the unique gifts God has given you and how you can use them to bless others.
Journaling Prompt: What practical ways can I serve my family, church, or community this year?
Write down a few ideas, and don’t be afraid to start small. Remember, serving isn’t about recognition or reward—it’s about showing Christ’s love through your actions. When you serve others, you’re not just meeting their needs; you’re reflecting the heart of Jesus. What a powerful way to live out your faith this year!
Resolution 4: Cultivate a Grateful Heart
Scripture: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Gratitude doesn’t always come naturally, does it? When life feels overwhelming or things don’t go as planned, it’s easy to focus on what’s wrong instead of what’s right. But 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Not some circumstances—all of them. That’s a tall order, but it’s also a powerful way to transform your perspective.
Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you already have. It reminds you of God’s faithfulness, even in the hard moments. Developing a habit of gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges—it means finding reasons to thank God in the middle of them.
Start by looking for the small blessings. Did you wake up today? That’s a gift. Do you have food to eat? Another blessing. When you begin to notice and name these little things, you’ll realize just how much God is providing for you each day.
Journaling Prompt: What blessings have I overlooked? How can I develop a habit of gratitude?
Take a moment to write down three things you’re thankful for today. Then, think about how you can make gratitude part of your daily routine. Maybe it’s starting a gratitude journal, saying a prayer of thanks before meals, or sharing one thing you’re grateful for at the end of each day with your family.
As you cultivate a grateful heart, you’ll find it’s harder to dwell on negativity and easier to see God’s hand in your life. Gratitude isn’t just about what you feel—it’s about how you choose to live.
Resolution 5: Strengthen Relationships
Scripture: “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8
Relationships are one of God’s greatest gifts, but they can also be challenging at times. Misunderstandings, busy schedules, or past hurts can strain even the closest bonds. Yet, 1 Peter 4:8 encourages us to “keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” Love isn’t just a feeling—it’s a choice to forgive, be patient, and put others first, even when it’s hard.
Strengthening relationships often starts with taking an honest look at where things stand. Are there people in your life you’ve grown distant from? Perhaps a family member, a friend, or even someone in your church? Sometimes, all it takes to rebuild a connection is reaching out with humility and a willingness to listen.
Another way to show love more freely is by being intentional. A thoughtful text, a kind word, or carving out time for someone can go a long way in deepening your relationships. And don’t forget the power of forgiveness. Letting go of past grievances can bring freedom and healing—not just for the other person, but for you as well.
Journaling Prompt: Are there relationships I need to reconcile? How can I show love more freely?
Take a moment to reflect and write down a few practical steps. Maybe it’s scheduling a coffee date with an old friend, writing a letter to someone you’ve lost touch with, or simply praying for the people in your life.
Remember, relationships take effort, but they’re worth it. As you invest in the people around you, you’ll not only strengthen those bonds—you’ll also reflect God’s love in a way that can transform hearts, including your own.
Resolution 6: Share the Gospel Boldly
Scripture: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” – Matthew 28:19
Sharing the Gospel can feel intimidating, can’t it? You might worry about saying the wrong thing, being judged, or pushing someone away. But Matthew 28:19 gives us a clear command: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” This isn’t just for pastors or missionaries—it’s for all of us. And the best part? We don’t do it alone. God equips us with His Spirit to guide our words and actions.
Start by asking God to show you the people in your life who need to hear the Good News. It could be a coworker, a neighbor, a family member, or even someone you interact with regularly at the gym or grocery store. Sharing the Gospel doesn’t always mean having a deep theological discussion. Sometimes, it’s as simple as sharing your story—how Jesus has transformed your life—or inviting someone to church.
Boldness doesn’t mean being pushy; it means trusting God to work through you, even if you feel nervous. Pray for opportunities to share and for the courage to speak up when the time comes. Remember, the results aren’t up to you—they’re in God’s hands.
Journaling Prompt: Who in my life needs to hear the Good News? How can I share it with courage?
Take a moment to write down names of people God has placed on your heart. Then, jot down one or two practical steps you can take to start a conversation or show them Christ’s love in action.
When you step out in faith to share the Gospel, you’re living out your calling as a disciple of Jesus. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about pointing others to the One who does. Let that truth give you the confidence to share boldly this year.
Resolution 7: Focus on Godly Stewardship
Scripture: “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.” – Proverbs 3:9
Have you ever thought of yourself as a steward? It’s a powerful way to view everything you have—your time, talents, and finances. Proverbs 3:9 reminds us to “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.” This verse isn’t just about money; it’s about acknowledging that everything we have belongs to God and using it wisely for His glory.
Godly stewardship starts with recognizing your resources as gifts from Him. Your time can be used to serve others and grow closer to Him. Your talents—whether it’s teaching, creating, organizing, or something else—are tools for building His Kingdom. And your finances can support your family, bless others, and contribute to ministries that further His work.
Take a moment to assess how you’re managing these areas of your life. Are you intentional about where your time goes, or do you often feel stretched thin? Are you using your unique skills to serve God and others? Are your financial decisions honoring Him? Stewardship isn’t about perfection—it’s about making small, consistent choices that reflect your trust in God.
Journaling Prompt: How can I manage my time, talents, and finances to glorify God?
Write down one practical step for each area. For time, maybe you’ll commit to a daily devotional or block out time to serve in your community. For talents, think about how you can use your gifts in your church or workplace. For finances, consider setting aside a portion for tithing or giving to a cause close to your heart.
When you prioritize Godly stewardship, you’re not just managing your resources—you’re worshiping the Giver of every good thing. Trust Him, and watch how He multiplies your efforts for His glory.
Resolution 8: Prioritize Rest and Sabbath
Scripture: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
In today’s fast-paced world, rest often feels like a luxury, doesn’t it? We’re constantly juggling work, family, and endless to-do lists. But Jesus gently invites us in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a promise. God designed us to need rest, not just physically but spiritually.
Resting doesn’t mean doing nothing; it means pausing to recharge and refocus on what truly matters. Sabbath is about setting aside time to stop striving and instead worship, reflect, and enjoy God’s presence. When we prioritize rest, we’re reminding ourselves that we can trust God to sustain us, even when we pause from our work.
Take some time to think about how you can create space for rest in your weekly routine. Maybe it’s setting boundaries with work or dedicating a specific day to unplugging from technology and spending time with God and loved ones. Rest can also mean saying “no” to things that drain your energy so you can say “yes” to what refreshes your spirit.
Journaling Prompt: How can I create space for rest and worship each week?
Write down what rest looks like for you. Is it an afternoon spent reading Scripture, a family walk in nature, or an hour of quiet reflection? Commit to protecting that time each week, and consider how you can make worship a part of it—whether that’s through prayer, listening to worship music, or attending church.
Remember, rest isn’t selfish; it’s an act of trust and obedience. When you prioritize Sabbath, you’re aligning your life with God’s rhythm and finding the peace only He can give.
Resolution 9: Grow in Humility
Scripture: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Pride can sneak into our lives so subtly, can’t it? Maybe it’s taking credit for a project at work, feeling superior when someone makes a mistake, or refusing to admit when we’re wrong. But Philippians 2:3 challenges us to “do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” That’s a radical way to live in today’s self-promoting world.
True humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself—it’s about thinking of yourself less. It’s recognizing that every gift, talent, and blessing comes from God, not from our own merit. When we understand this truth, it changes how we view both success and failure. Success becomes an opportunity to glorify God rather than ourselves, and failure becomes a chance to grow rather than a threat to our ego.
Practicing humility might mean listening more than speaking, giving others credit, or being willing to serve in ways that don’t get noticed. It could be as simple as asking for help when you need it (admitting you don’t have all the answers) or as challenging as apologizing sincerely when you’ve hurt someone. Sometimes it means celebrating others’ successes as genuinely as your own.
Think about your daily interactions. Are there moments when pride gets in the way of relationships or prevents you from learning something new? Consider how different those situations might be if you approached them with genuine humility. Remember, Jesus—the King of Kings—washed His disciples’ feet. If He could humble Himself to serve others, how much more should we?
Journaling Prompt: How can I practice humility in my daily interactions? What areas of pride do I need to surrender to God? Take time to write down specific situations where you can choose humility over pride this week. Maybe it’s letting someone else take the lead on a project, asking for forgiveness, or simply listening without trying to one-up someone else’s story.
Remember, growing in humility is a journey, not a destination. Each day brings new opportunities to choose others over self and to reflect Christ’s servant heart. As you practice humility, you’ll likely find that it brings a freedom and joy that pride never could. After all, when we decrease, He increases—and that’s exactly how it should be.
Resolution 10: Develop a Spirit of Forgiveness
Scripture: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Forgiveness can be one of the most challenging aspects of our faith journey, can’t it? When someone has hurt us deeply, holding onto that pain can feel justified, even righteous. But Ephesians 4:32 gives us a different perspective: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” That last part is key—we’re called to forgive because we’ve been forgiven so much more.
Think about it: God forgave us completely through Christ, not because we deserved it, but because of His great love. Every sin, every mistake, every wrong choice—covered by His grace. When we really grasp the magnitude of God’s forgiveness toward us, it changes how we view forgiving others. It’s no longer about whether they deserve forgiveness; it’s about extending the same grace we’ve received.
Developing a spirit of forgiveness doesn’t mean pretending you weren’t hurt or that what happened was okay. It’s not about forgetting or even necessarily reconciling in every situation. True forgiveness is a decision to release the right to revenge or resentment, leaving justice in God’s hands. It’s choosing to break free from the prison of bitterness that can consume your heart and harm your relationship with God.
Sometimes forgiveness is a daily choice. You might need to wake up each morning and consciously decide to forgive that person again. That’s okay. Healing takes time, and God understands that. The important thing is to keep surrendering those hurt feelings to Him, asking Him to help you forgive as He has forgiven you.
Journaling Prompt: Who do I need to forgive, and how can I seek God’s help in doing so? Take a moment to write down names or situations where unforgiveness might be holding you captive. What’s keeping you from forgiving? How might your life be different if you released these burdens to God?
Remember, forgiveness isn’t just something we do for others—it’s a gift we give ourselves. When we choose to forgive, we’re choosing to trust God with our pain and walk in the freedom He intended for us. It might be the hardest thing you do, but with God’s help, it’s possible. And the peace that comes from following His example of forgiveness is worth every difficult step of the journey.
Resolution 11: Trust God in All Circumstances
Scripture: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
It’s easy to trust God when everything’s going according to plan, isn’t it? But what about when life throws you a curveball—when the diagnosis isn’t good, when relationships fall apart, or when your carefully laid plans crumble? That’s when Proverbs 3:5 becomes more than just a familiar verse: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.”
Notice it doesn’t say “trust in the Lord when things make sense” or “trust in the Lord until it gets too hard.” It says to trust Him with all your heart. That word “all” is significant. It means trusting God not just with the big things, but with every detail of your life. It means choosing faith over fear, even when—especially when—you can’t see the way forward.
The second part of the verse is equally important: “do not lean on your own understanding.” How often do we try to figure everything out on our own? We analyze, plan, and worry, thinking if we just work harder or think longer, we’ll find the solution. But God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His understanding goes far beyond our limited perspective. Sometimes the greatest act of trust is simply saying, “I don’t understand, but I know You do.”
This kind of trust isn’t blind faith—it’s based on God’s proven character and faithfulness. Look back over your life. Haven’t you seen Him work things out in ways you never could have imagined? Those testimonies become anchors for your trust in current struggles. When doubt creeps in, remind yourself of specific times God has shown Himself faithful in your life.
Journaling Prompt: What fears or uncertainties do I need to surrender to God this year? Write down the situations that make your heart race or keep you up at night. What would it look like to fully trust God with each one? How might your daily life be different if you chose trust over worry?
Remember, trusting God doesn’t mean you’ll never feel afraid or uncertain. It means choosing to believe His promises even when your feelings say otherwise. It means taking your worries to Him in prayer instead of carrying them alone. And it means resting in the knowledge that the God who holds the universe together is more than capable of holding your life together too. He’s trustworthy—not because of your circumstances, but because of who He is.
Resolution 12: Be a Light in the World
Scripture: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14
Have you ever thought about how powerful a single light can be? In complete darkness, even a tiny flame draws attention and provides guidance. That’s what Jesus meant when He said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Notice He didn’t say you should be or could be the light—He said you are the light. It’s not just a suggestion; it’s your identity as a follower of Christ.
Being a light doesn’t necessarily mean doing big, dramatic things. Sometimes it’s as simple as choosing kindness when others are harsh, speaking truth when lies are easier, or offering hope when circumstances feel hopeless. Think about your everyday interactions—at work, in your neighborhood, with your family. Each one is an opportunity to shine Christ’s light through your words, actions, and attitudes.
The image of a city on a hill is significant too. Cities in ancient times were built on elevations not to show off, but to provide light and direction to travelers. Similarly, our purpose isn’t to draw attention to ourselves, but to point others to Jesus. When people see your life—your response to challenges, your treatment of others, your choices in difficult situations—they should catch glimpses of God’s character.
Remember, you don’t generate this light on your own. Just as the moon reflects the sun’s light, we reflect Christ’s light to a dark world. That means staying connected to the Source through prayer, Bible study, and worship. The brighter His light burns in your heart, the more naturally it will shine through your life.
Journaling Prompt: How can my actions and words reflect Christ to those around me? Take time to consider the different spheres of your life—home, work, church, community. What specific opportunities do you have to shine His light in each area? What might be dimming your light that needs to be addressed?
Remember, being a light doesn’t mean being perfect—it means being authentic in your faith journey, including your struggles and growth. Sometimes the most powerful testimony is how you handle failure or defeat with grace and trust in God. Don’t hide your light out of fear or insecurity. The world desperately needs the hope, love, and truth that only Christ can provide, and He’s chosen you to help shine that light. Let it shine brightly, consistently, and courageously, knowing that even the smallest light can help someone find their way home to Him.
Here’s to a New Year
As we wrap up these twelve resolutions for spiritual growth, take a moment to reflect on which ones resonated most deeply with your heart. Did you feel God tugging at your spirit when we talked about developing a consistent prayer life? Or maybe the call to forgive struck a particularly tender chord. Remember, this isn’t about perfectly keeping every resolution—it’s about taking intentional steps toward Christ-likeness, one day at a time.
Choose one or two resolutions that speak to where you are in your journey right now. It’s better to focus deeply on a few areas than to spread yourself too thin trying to tackle everything at once. Write your chosen resolutions somewhere you’ll see them daily—maybe in your Bible, on your mirror, or as a reminder on your phone.
Keep your journal close throughout the year. On difficult days, look back at your reflections and see how far God has brought you. Let your written prayers and observations become testimonies to His faithfulness. And don’t be discouraged if you stumble—growing closer to God is a journey, not a destination.
I’d love to hear which resolutions you’re choosing to focus on this year. Share in the comments below, and let’s encourage one another in our walk with Christ. Remember, we’re not in this alone—we’re part of a community of believers all striving to know Him more deeply.
Let’s pray:
Dear Father, thank You for the fresh start this new year brings. As we set our hearts on growing closer to You, give us the strength and perseverance to follow through. Help us be faithful in prayer, diligent in Your Word, and quick to show Your love to others. When we struggle, remind us that Your grace is sufficient. May this year be marked by spiritual growth, deeper faith, and lives that shine brightly for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.