Starting the New Year Intentionally

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it's essential to acknowledge that growth and improvement don't happen by chance. Rarely does someone wake up and exclaim, "How did I get so good at this?" True progress requires intentionality, a plan, and sticking with it.

Many embark on the journey of a new year with resolutions, while others contemplate who they want to become in the coming months, years, or even decades. Reflecting on the past year, my family chose the word "resilience" as our guiding principle. This practice has yielded profound insights, and I encourage you to consider starting somewhere as a family, even with small steps.

The power of incremental change cannot be understated; the accumulation of these smaller efforts often leads to significant results over time. This year, let's explore a transformative approach by grounding ourselves in the timeless wisdom found in the Word of God.

10 Verses on Wisdom and Character to memorize as a family.

1. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV):

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

2. James 1:5 (NIV):

"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

3. Proverbs 4:23 (NIV):

"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."

4. Colossians 3:12 (NIV):

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."

5. Psalm 119:105 (NIV):

"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

6. Proverbs 22:6 (NIV):

"Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it."

7. 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV):

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity."

8. Ephesians 4:29 (NIV):

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

9. James 3:17 (NIV):

"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere."

10. Psalm 119:11 (NIV):

"I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."

As we commence this new year, let's make the Word of God a priority in our hearts and homes. By embracing these verses about wisdom and character, we lay the foundation for intentional growth. May this intentional focus guide our steps, shaping us into individuals and families who reflect the goodness and wisdom found in the Word. Happy New Year!