December 28th, 2025
by Pastor Gary Moritz
by Pastor Gary Moritz
Ever feel like the post-Christmas blues hit harder than expected? The wrapping paper is in the trash, the festive songs have faded, and the credit card bills start rolling in. As we stand on the brink of a new year, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and wonder, "Is this it?" But what if I told you that the birth of Jesus was not just a one-day celebration but a launching point for a life filled with hope and purpose?
The Apostle Paul's Roadmap to Hope
In Philippians 3, the Apostle Paul gives us a powerful roadmap for moving forward. He writes, "Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, I press on toward the goal." This isn't just inspiration; it's instruction. It's a call to leave behind the baggage of the past and step into the new year with hope and clarity.
Reflect with Honesty
Before we can move forward, we need to reflect honestly on where we've been. Take some time to review the past year. What were your biggest wins? What drained you the most?
What surprised you, and what did God teach you? By understanding these aspects, you can gain clarity for the days ahead. Remember, you can't forget what you've never faced. So, face those events, learn from them, and prepare to move forward.
Release What Doesn't Belong
To truly embrace the new year, we must release what doesn't belong. Paul didn't hold onto his past as Saul; he embraced his new identity in Christ. Similarly, we need to let go of unresolved tensions, reset expectations, and cast our burdens onto the Lord. Psalm 55:22 reminds us, "Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you." Start 2026 lighter, not heavier, by leaving behind the baggage of 2025.
Refocus with Clarity
Define your January win. What is the one thing that would make January a success for you? Is it praying more, following Jesus closer, or establishing a consistent Bible reading routine? Unclear goals produce unclear results, so focus on one specific, measurable win.
Additionally, choose one growth area for January. Whether it's delegation, strategic thinking, or emotional health, focus on growing in that area for the next four weeks.
Revitalize with Hope
Remember, hope is not just an emotion; it's a person—Jesus Christ. Hebrews 6:19 tells us, "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." Our hope is rooted in Christ, not in our circumstances. As we act like hope is true, we must live and walk by faith, trusting that God will do what He promises. Romans 8:31 encourages us, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"
Practical Steps for a Hopeful New Year
A Prayer for the New Year
Heavenly Father, as we step into this new year, help us to release the past and embrace the hope and purpose You have for us. Guide us to reflect honestly, refocus our goals, and revitalize our spirits with Your presence. May we trust in Your promises and walk by faith, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. In Jesus' name, Amen.
As we enter 2026, let's step forward with hope, expecting Jesus to move mountains in our lives and communities. Remember, you can't grab what's ahead until you release what's behind. Let's trust God to build our lives and advance His kingdom, both near and far.
The Apostle Paul's Roadmap to Hope
In Philippians 3, the Apostle Paul gives us a powerful roadmap for moving forward. He writes, "Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, I press on toward the goal." This isn't just inspiration; it's instruction. It's a call to leave behind the baggage of the past and step into the new year with hope and clarity.
Reflect with Honesty
Before we can move forward, we need to reflect honestly on where we've been. Take some time to review the past year. What were your biggest wins? What drained you the most?
What surprised you, and what did God teach you? By understanding these aspects, you can gain clarity for the days ahead. Remember, you can't forget what you've never faced. So, face those events, learn from them, and prepare to move forward.
Release What Doesn't Belong
To truly embrace the new year, we must release what doesn't belong. Paul didn't hold onto his past as Saul; he embraced his new identity in Christ. Similarly, we need to let go of unresolved tensions, reset expectations, and cast our burdens onto the Lord. Psalm 55:22 reminds us, "Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you." Start 2026 lighter, not heavier, by leaving behind the baggage of 2025.
Refocus with Clarity
Define your January win. What is the one thing that would make January a success for you? Is it praying more, following Jesus closer, or establishing a consistent Bible reading routine? Unclear goals produce unclear results, so focus on one specific, measurable win.
Additionally, choose one growth area for January. Whether it's delegation, strategic thinking, or emotional health, focus on growing in that area for the next four weeks.
Revitalize with Hope
Remember, hope is not just an emotion; it's a person—Jesus Christ. Hebrews 6:19 tells us, "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." Our hope is rooted in Christ, not in our circumstances. As we act like hope is true, we must live and walk by faith, trusting that God will do what He promises. Romans 8:31 encourages us, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"
Practical Steps for a Hopeful New Year
- Reflect Honestly: Set aside time to review the past year and learn from it.
- Release Baggage: Let go of unresolved tensions and burdens that don't belong to you.
- Refocus Goals: Define a clear, achievable goal for January and choose one area for personal growth.
- Revitalize with Hope: Anchor your hope in Jesus and act on your faith.
A Prayer for the New Year
Heavenly Father, as we step into this new year, help us to release the past and embrace the hope and purpose You have for us. Guide us to reflect honestly, refocus our goals, and revitalize our spirits with Your presence. May we trust in Your promises and walk by faith, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. In Jesus' name, Amen.
As we enter 2026, let's step forward with hope, expecting Jesus to move mountains in our lives and communities. Remember, you can't grab what's ahead until you release what's behind. Let's trust God to build our lives and advance His kingdom, both near and far.
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