As a new year begins, many of us feel drawn to pause, pray, and take an intentional look at our lives. Some may even enter a season of fasting, creating space to hear what God might be saying as we stand at the threshold of a fresh year. 

By now, our inboxes and social feeds are likely overflowing with inspiration and advice on how to start January well. “New year, new me” resurfaces every year, urging us toward reinvention and radical change. 

But what if a complete overhaul isn’t what the Lord is asking of you? 

Perhaps a more fitting declaration for this season is: “New year, same God.” 

It’s very natural to identify areas of our lives we want to change – habits we want to break, disciplines we want to build, patterns we hope to improve. There is no shame in that desire. Growth is good. But what if, instead of charging into change with pressure and self-criticism, you approached this year with grace and gentleness? 

God has not changed simply because the calendar has.
Malachi 3:6 reminds us of this, as does Hebrews 13:8. He is who He says He is – steady, faithful, and unchanging. In a world that constantly shifts beneath our feet, this is deeply reassuring. 

From this secure foundation, I invite you to prayerfully consider just one – or perhaps two – areas where you’d like to grow in 2026. 

Rather than exhausting yourself with a new gym routine that doesn’t fit your already full schedule, or punishing yourself with 5am starts to squeeze in extra reading, try a different approach. Sit with the Lord and ask: 

• In what area or areas do You want me to grow this year? 

• What would growth look like with You leading the way? 

This softer, kinder posture – one that seeks God’s guidance instead of placing heavy expectations on yourself – creates space for real, lasting change. Not change driven by hype or guilt, but transformation rooted in grace, faithfulness, and trust in the unchanging God who walks with you into the year ahead. 

New year.
Same God.
And that makes all the difference.