As a new year begins, many people make resolutions to improve their health, habits, and daily routines. But the most meaningful change we can pursue is a spiritual one: growing closer to God.
The start of a new year is more than a date on the calendar — it’s a fresh invitation from the Lord to reset our hearts, refocus our priorities, and seek Him with renewed passion. Whether you’re new in your faith or have walked with Jesus for years, these ten practices can help you draw near to God and experience His presence in a deeper way this year.
1. Begin Each Morning With Prayer
James 4:8 – “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”
Mornings set the tone for the rest of the day. Before checking your phone, reading messages, or rushing into tasks, take a moment to pray.
Ask God to guide your steps, give you wisdom, and help you love like Jesus.
Even a simple prayer like, “Lord, be with me today,” opens the door for Him to work in your life.
2. Commit to Daily Scripture Reading
Psalm 63:1 – “O God, You are my God; early will I seek You…”
God speaks to us through His Word. Setting aside time each day — whether it’s five minutes or thirty — allows your mind and spirit to align with His truth.
You can follow a Bible reading plan, meditate on one verse a day, or read through a book of the Bible slowly.
The goal isn’t perfection. It’s consistency. Over time, the Word will shape your thoughts, renew your mind, and strengthen your faith.
3. Worship Throughout the Week
Joshua 1:8 – “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth…”
Worship brings your heart into God’s presence.
Turn on worship music during your commute, while doing dishes, or as you get ready in the morning.
Let praise be more than a song — let it be your lifestyle.
When you worship regularly, you become more aware of God’s goodness and more confident in His power.
4. Stay Connected to Your Church Family
Psalm 100:2 – “Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing.”
God designed us to grow in community.
When you attend church faithfully, participate in Bible studies, and build relationships with other believers, you create room for encouragement, accountability, and spiritual growth.
You don’t have to walk through life alone. A church family helps you stay grounded and spiritually strong.
5. Practice Gratitude Daily
1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “In everything give thanks…”
Gratitude shifts your focus from what is missing to what God has already provided.
Try writing down three things you’re thankful for each day.
They can be big — like God’s protection — or small — like a warm cup of coffee.
The more you intentionally notice God’s blessings, the more joy and peace you’ll carry throughout your day.
6. Take Time to Rest in God’s Presence
Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
In a world full of noise and distraction, stillness is a spiritual discipline.
Turn off your phone, pause the tasks, and sit quietly before God.
You don’t need to say anything — just be with Him.
Moments like these refresh your spirit and remind you that God’s presence is your greatest place of peace.
7. Serve Others With Intention
Hebrews 10:24 “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,”
Every time you serve someone, you reflect the heart of Jesus.
Look for opportunities to help:
Encourage someone who’s struggling Bring a meal to a family in need Volunteer at church Do something kind without expecting recognition
When you serve with love, you’ll feel God working in you and through you.
8. Fast for Breakthrough and Clarity
Matthew 6:17–18 – Jesus’ teaching on fasting.
Fasting is a powerful spiritual tool.
Whether you fast from food, social media, entertainment, or a habit that distracts you, the purpose is the same: to create more room for God.
Fasting refocuses your heart, sharpens your spiritual sensitivity, and often brings clarity in seasons of decision-making.
9. Choose Godly Influences
Proverbs 13:20 – “Walk with the wise and become wise…”
What you listen to, watch, and surround yourself with shapes your spiritual life.
Fill your environment with things that lift your spirit and strengthen your faith — sermons, Christian podcasts, devotionals, uplifting music, and Christ-centered friendships.
When your influences point you toward Jesus, your heart will follow.
10. Surrender Your Plans to God
Proverbs 3:5–6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…”
One of the biggest steps in drawing near to God is trusting Him with your future.
Surrender your goals, dreams, struggles, and decisions to Him in prayer.
God knows what you need and where you need to be.
When you surrender, you experience His peace — the kind that goes beyond understanding.
A New Year, A Deeper Walk With God
As you begin this new year, remember that growing closer to God isn’t about perfection — it’s about pursuit.
Every prayer whispered, every scripture read, every act of worship, every moment of surrender draws you nearer to Him.
This year, may your relationship with God grow stronger, deeper, and more personal than ever before.
May His presence fill your home, His Word fill your mind, and His peace fill your heart.
Let this be the year you seek Him more — and watch how He transforms your life.