Are you making New Year’s resolutions, choosing a word for the year, setting goals, or hoping for a fresh start?
However, how frequently do we find ourselves stuck in the past—replaying old mistakes, regretting missed opportunities, or reminiscing about past successes?
I have a list of regrets, mistakes, poor choices —
Still, I can be abrupt, opinionated, harsh, even judgmental —
My imagination can run away with me —
I waste time, opportunities, words —
As I was scrolling the other day, I snapped a picture of this quote by John Mark Green:
“Spend more time writing your future than you do re-reading your past.”
I smiled! What an uplifting perspective! Imagine shifting your focus from the past to what could be. It’s not about ignoring the lessons learned but using them as stepping stones to propel us forward.
Here are a few ideas to consider as you ponder the New Year —
Dream with God!
Take some time to dream with God and reflect on where He might be leading you this year. Instead of focusing on what didn’t work last year, write down a vision of what you want to achieve. Proverbs 16:3 reminds us, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” Ask Him to guide your thoughts as you outline your hopes and aspirations.
Consider “internal” growth!
Instead of concentrating solely on external achievements, think about internal growth. I have ideas of creative skills I want to explore and strengthen this year. But I haven’t thought about ways to strengthen my faith. How might we nurture peace and/or offer grace this year? Jesus’ words in John 15 come to mind — “Abide in Me, and I will abide in you. A branch cannot bear fruit if it is disconnected from the vine, and neither will you if you are not connected to Me.” May we learn more about remaining in Him this year!
Find joy in the process!
We know that God is always at work! He restores and makes all things new, using many varied creative ways to accomplish His purposes. Embrace the process of becoming—we are works in progress, incomplete, balancing the tension of the now and the not yet. Details may feel uncertain. Remember that famous phrase in the scripture: “But God!”
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” Isaiah 43:18-19
Dream Forward
Don’t get stuck in the past. Stop revisiting past chapters in your life. Instead, as you ponder the start of 2025, consider writing bold, faith-filled pages of your life this year! Trust God. Don’t be afraid. Hope! Let go of regret. Believe God—His promises are true!
What story is God inviting us to co-author with Him in 2025? Dream forward!
Also posted in Substack.
