As the year winds down, it’s natural to reflect on the 12 months that are now in the rearview mirror. For some of us, it feels like we just blinked and suddenly December is over! For others, this year might have felt like climbing a steep hill—slow and challenging. Wherever you land on that spectrum, the way we end one year and begin another matters more than we might realize. It sets the tone for our lives, families, and our faith journeys.

Here are three simple ways to finish this year well and start the new one on the right foot (or the left one if you’d prefer):

1. Reflect and Celebrate God’s Faithfulness

Psalm 77:11 says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.” (ESV) Reflection is a spiritual discipline that allows us to pause and recognize God’s faithfulness in our lives. Even in the hardest seasons, there are moments of grace worth celebrating.

Take some time this week to write down your “God Moments” from the year. Maybe it was an answered prayer, a new relationship, or even finding peace in a difficult situation. Share these moments with your family or friends. Celebrate them! I’ve heard it said that we replicate what we celebrate.

Ending the year in gratitude prepares our hearts to embrace the new year with hope and trust in God’s continued faithfulness. Gratitude isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a transformative practice that reshapes how we see the world and God’s work in it.

2. Clear the Clutter

Hebrews 12:1 reminds us to “lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely.” (ESV) That’s not just a verse for Lent; it’s an invitation for daily living. As you prepare to step into the new year, consider what might be cluttering your life—both spiritually and physically.

Spiritually, is there unforgiveness you need to let go of? Habits that pull you away from God? Relationships that need mending? Take time to pray and release those burdens to God.

Physically, go through that closet, garage, or junk drawer you’ve been avoiding. It’s amazing how decluttering our spaces can create mental clarity and a sense of renewal. Plus, donating items you no longer need blesses others and reflects Christ’s generosity.

Starting the year with a clean heart and clean spaces makes room for God to do new and exciting things in your life.

3. Set Intentional Goals with God in the Center

Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” (ESV) Goals are great, but goals without God’s guidance often leave us feeling frustrated or aimless. As you look ahead, take some time to pray over your plans for the new year.

What areas of your life need more of God’s presence? Maybe you want to deepen your prayer life, read through the Bible, or serve in a new ministry at church. Write down your goals and ask God to lead you in them. Don’t forget to include your family in this process. Talk about what goals you can pursue together, like family devotions or serving your neighborhood. Then share them with someone who can hold you accountable. A goal worth making is a goal worth accomplishing!

And remember: grace over perfection. The goal isn’t to have it all figured out by January 1st or December 31st for that matter. It’s to walk faithfully with Jesus one step at a time.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare to welcome a new year, let’s do so with hearts full of gratitude, lives freed from clutter, and goals anchored in God’s plans. No matter what this past year has held, God has been with us every step of the way, and His promises remain sure as we step into the future.

May this be the year where we grow deeper in our faith, love our neighbors more intentionally, and see God work in ways we couldn’t even imagine. Let’s finish strong and step boldly into what God has for us next.

Happy New Year, friends! Let’s make it one that honors Him in every way.