The old year has drawn to a close and the new year stretches before us full of unknowns, adventures, and
mystery. It is both an exciting time and a scary time. As we make this transition every year, we are reminded
that we need to let go of those things in the past that were unhealthy or toxic and practice actions that will help
us lead healthy productive lives in the new year. Many people mark this passing by making New Year
resolutions. People resolve to lose weight, go to the gym regularly, take classes to be better educated, heal
relationships, be more patient, etc. These are all good choices, but as followers of Jesus Christ, we also need to
consider how we can let go of those things from the past that kept us from drawing closer to God and to think
about what we could do differently in the new year to help us grow in our faith and our walk with God.
As you consider whether to make a New Year’s resolution or not, I invite you to consider a prayer practice that
will not only increase your own faith and help you feel closer to God but will also be a blessing to those you love.
What if you made a resolution to pray a word of scripture every day over those you love? This could be your
New Year’s gift to them. Prayer is a powerful weapon to fight in the spiritual realm against anything the evil one
may use against those you love. Praying God’s words (which the Bible calls the “sword of the Spirit”) takes the
power of prayer to another level of spiritual authority in the spiritual realm.
Begin by asking God what verse He would have you pray.
It is helpful if these are verses you have memorized so
you can easily pray them. As you think about each individual, ask yourself what they need right now: joy, peace,
hope, spiritual growth, etc. Then let the Spirit show you the verse to pray that addresses their need.
Then let each person know what you will be praying over them all next year. You can just tell them in person, in
a letter, email, or text. Or if you are creative, artistic, or crafty, you could make something like a bookmark, a
refrigerator magnet, embroider the verse, or make a Christmas decoration with the reference…something to
remind them how they are being prayed for. I am sure sites like Pinterest have lots of creative ideas.
The unique aspect of this New Year’s resolution is that it blesses and protects those you love as it helps you
spend more time in God’s presence and see His faithful answers to your prayers. Let me add my New Year’s
resolution for the members of our classes. Every night I will be praying this over our Classis:
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with
hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
Have a blessed New Year!
Submitted by
Jolene DeHeer
