2025 is here, and the new year means new beginnings. People make resolutions, start new projects, decide to lose weight, eat better, and exercise more. We long to change habits—get rid of the old and start something better. Yet, new beginnings take courage.
#2025 is here, and the new year means #NewBeginnings. Think of the possibilities! Share on X
Two days after Christmas I made a dietary change: no sugar, no white processed flour. I’m two weeks in and I feel so much better. I have more energy. My head is clear. And, I have much less muscle pain. I started this in the past with relief, but I always seem to get lax after time. They say diet is the hardest thing to change—I agree. Yet, often it’s the thing my physical body needs most.
New Beginnings for Spiritual Change
Change is always a challenge. And where physical changes run contrary to everything familiar, so are spiritual changes. Let’s face it, we get into a rut. We read the same Bible passages, sing the same songs, and hear the same sermons, yet our souls long for more. Something real. Something that touches a chord where we feel out of tune.
Are you in a rut? Does your soul long for something that touches a chord where you feel out of tune? #2025 means #NewBeginnings. Share on X
New Beginnings to Overcome Stagnant Living
As we begin our 2025 journey, let me share my thoughts on this. God never wants us to be stagnant or stuck. The Spirit within us is alive and active. God is working all around us. Though He works in the larger world, His aim is for you and me to become more like Jesus. And that looks a little different for each of us because God in His omniscience (all-knowing attribute) knows what each one of us needs.
I have known the LORD as my savior since 1975, yet I am still in progress—and will be until He calls me home to Heaven. The life-giving, empowering Holy Spirit is working and I want to submit to His transforming power in me. Yet just like with those dietary changes, my spirit wrestles with change.
My Plan for New Beginnings in 2025
#MyOneWord for 2025, what's yours? Share on X
This year I have chosen the phrase DRAW NEAR to help focus on my walk with Him. I can get so busy doing that I have trouble being. At times, I find it hard to open His word…and that makes writing difficult. So I want to be intentional to draw near to Him each day—to spend time letting His word speak into my life. To pray. To worship. And to listen for His direction.
Drawing near is connected to the idea in John 15, where Jesus shares some last-minute words with His disciples before His crucifixion. He wants them to know that He will always be near. He then encourages them to ABIDE because that’s where they will find their strength, power, and ability to go on and share the good news of His Kingdom.
Another powerful image is found in Psalm 1 and Jeremiah 17:7-8. This shows when we trust in the Lord, we are like a tree planted by the water. Did you know that is where I found the name of my blog, The Stream’s Edge?
Because we are human, surrounded by the pressures of everyday life, drawing near, or abiding can feel like one more thing. Not to mention the enemy of our soul doesn’t want us to and wants to derail us. But if we make time with God a priority whether in the morning, evening or some time in between, the other things will get done—I believe He multiplies our time in this way.
Some essentials for drawing near to God
A Bible – choose an easy-to-read version with study notes
Time – be intentional, schedule it if you must (and know that He is with you all the time)
Tools – Bible study, podcasts, small group, attending a Bible-believing church, etc.
Communication – God hears even the softest whisper
Sharing Some New Beginnings Tools With You
#NewBeginnings tools for #2025. Make this a year for positive change Share on X
This year I have decided to read through the New Testament. Joanna Weaver‘s reading plan can help with daily passages and a format to write down what I discover and how God is speaking to me personally through His word.
Asheritah Ciuciu also has an intentional way to new beginnings using her book, Delighting in Jesus: Rhythms to Restore Joy When You Feel Burdened, Broken, or Burned-Out. This book club includes live discussions, devotionals, and community. Find more information here.
However you are led, God can provide a fresh, new beginning in your walk with Him. The change might be just what your soul longs for.
So What Will You Do?
As you move into the new year, are you looking for meaning? Burnt out? Need direction and purpose? Desire forgiveness? All of these and more are found in Jesus Christ.
As you begin the #NewYear, are you looking for meaning? Burnt out? Need direction and purpose? Desire forgiveness? Every one of these and more are found in Jesus Christ. Share on X
Have you made any resolutions for 2025? Is your soul hungry for more? Tell me about this in the comments below.
May 2025 be all that God intends as you draw near to Him,
Jeanne
My gift to you is a four-session study in John 15 where we look at what it means to ABIDE in Christ. The Youtube study is found here. Within the description on the Youtube videos you will find the link to download the study notes for each session.
I have also provided the link below for study notes for each session.
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Delighting in Jesus: Rhythms to Restore Joy When You Feel Burdened, Broken, or Burned-Out. By Asheritah Ciuciu
At The Feet of Jesus: Daily Devotions to Nurture a Mary Heart by Joanna Weaver
Wow !! An amazing start right out of the gate ! Good for you, Jeanne. I believe your setting side sugar and flour is a HUGE step to a healthier you.
I also have been studying in John Bevere’s book, ” The AWE of GOD” Very different than anything I’ve read before.
Thank you..yes I think so too. I haven’t read any of Bevere’s books. But it sounds thought provoking.
Congratulations, Jeanne on the new start to a healthier you. You go girl! 💪🏾 Praying that the Spirit will empower you to resist any temptation the enemy throws at you to try and derail your efforts. I can’t say I am a big resolution person but my goal has always been to draw closer to the Lord.
Drawing closer is the ultimate goal, Sheree. Thanks for sharing and cheering me on (in prayer).
My word last year was abide, this year it is surrender. Learning to abide helps me to surrender all to Him. Spending time each day with Him is so important. For me it is first thing in the wee hours of the morning. My most precious time of the day!
It is the most precious, Lyn. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. And each time we are at Singing Hills, I see your “hiding place” with Him 🙂