Resolutions Rooted in Faith - Step 2

Prioritize Spiritual Growth in the New Year

New Year’s resolutions – they’re often all about hitting the gym, saving money, or climbing the career ladder. We’ll cut caffeine, crunch numbers, and pull all-nighters to reach those goals. But here’s a question: when was the last time your spiritual growth made it to the top of your resolution list?

As believers, our relationship with God is the foundation for everything else in life. Yet, let’s be honest, it’s easy for this priority to get buried under endless to-do lists. Can you relate?

Why Spiritual Growth Matters

Picture your physical health. You wouldn’t skip meals for days or avoid exercise for months and still expect to feel great, right? The same goes for your spiritual health. Neglecting time with God leaves us spiritually drained, and trust me, the effects show up in our lives. Without regular spiritual nourishment, we can’t grow the way God intended.

Prioritizing spiritual growth keeps us grounded in truth, helps us face life’s challenges with peace, and develops Christlike character. Imagine bearing spiritual fruit like love, joy, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Who doesn’t want more of that? Here’s the bottom line: when we grow spiritually, every other part of our lives benefits.

How to Prioritize Spiritual Growth

Ready to prioritize your faith? Here are three practical steps to get started:

1. Commit to Daily Devotions

Let’s face it: there’s no substitute for spending time with God. His mercies are new every morning, and we need Him daily. Start with 10-15 minutes each day. Read a chapter of the Bible, reflect on its message, and pray about how it applies to your life. If you’re unsure where to start, try a reading plan.

Choose a consistent time—early morning, lunch breaks, or before bed. Find a rhythm that fits your schedule, and stick to it.

2. Join a Bible Study or Small Group

Community is vital. The Bible tells us we’re not meant to walk this journey alone. Joining a Bible study or small group offers accountability, encouragement, and fresh perspectives. Check out options at your church or explore online communities if local ones aren’t available. Who knows? You might even start a group yourself and inspire others to dive into God’s Word.

3. Embrace Discipleship

Discipleship is about becoming more like Jesus. Whether you’re learning from a mentor or guiding someone newer in the faith, walking alongside others deepens your spiritual journey. It’s a powerful way to grow and serve.

Set Faith-Centered Goals

This year, create specific spiritual goals. Maybe it’s memorizing one Bible verse a week, keeping a gratitude journal, or volunteering at church. Don’t overwhelm yourself—start small and be intentional. Pray and ask God to guide your goals.

Measuring Growth

Unlike physical achievements, spiritual growth isn’t always obvious. Schedule time to reflect on questions like:

Do I feel closer to God than I did last year?

Am I more patient, loving, or forgiving?

How has my faith deepened through challenges?

These reflections can help you stay focused and celebrate progress.

A Spiritual Growth Challenge

Choose one area where you’d like to grow. Maybe it’s consistency in prayer, meditating on Scripture, or serving in a new way. Write it down, pray over it, and take action for the next 30 days.

Let’s move beyond checking off the “Christian box” and invest in something that lasts for eternity. This year, prioritize spiritual growth, draw closer to God, and experience His transformative presence in your life. Ready to start? Let’s do this together!

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