How are you feeling right now? Are you tired after the New Year’s celebrations? Stuffed happily full of festive treats? Expectant for the year ahead? Or perhaps disappointed that you haven’t had the magical ‘zing’ you crave at the start of a New Year?

I’m feeling all of the above. It’s quite conflicting!

On the way to work this morning, radio stations asked what our New Year’s resolutions were. They even wondered if anyone had already broken theirs! It can start to feel like the renewal of the New Year is short-term; perhaps a momentary, fleeting notion that fades throughout January and February.

At the end of the year, many people took to social media to reflect, post statuses about the year gone and share what they’re looking forward to in 2018. Some were grateful, some were expectant and others revealed that they’d really struggled in 2017.

Whether you’re going through a storm or are in a peaceful place, it’s important to reflect, be honest and thank God. In Colossians 3, we read about how we are to ‘‘do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” This verse has been a fresh reminder and has helped me put the New Year into perspective. Everything I do (in word or action) should be done in thankfulness to Jesus. For he allows all things to work together for my good (Romans 8:28).

Reflection shouldn’t just be over the New Year period. It should be part of our routine. So, reflect. Remember. Recognise Christ in your life. Present your requests to God by prayer and petition (Philippians 4:6). Be thankful and make it daily. Not just a status on New Year’s Eve.

I’m going to choose be more thankful this year. A New Year and a new, thankful me.


Here are some resolution ideas for the year ahead. How will you choose to enrich your 2018?

1. Read Scripture daily (give it a specific time in your routine)
2. Create a blog for your reflections and to encourage others.
3. Speak to your church leader about volunteer opportunities.
4. Make a reading list for the year and stick to it. If you want to go deeper into understanding Scripture, why don’t you add our suggestions to your list?
5. Keep a thankfulness diary. Take five minutes to note down answered prayers and moments you were thankful for during the day.