Article source: JOY! Magazine

And just like that, it’s finally December! It’s time to rest, recoup, and prepare our hearts for the new year. But before we chase 2026, let’s make sure to finish 2025 well. “Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves” (2 Cor 13:5). We need to take an honest look – ask the Lord to show you what to keep and what to lay down. Finish 2025 at the cross; begin 2026 on your knees, eyes fixed on Jesus.

1. Forgive freely
Unforgiveness hardens the heart and weakens our prayer life. Jesus said, “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him…” (Mark 11:25). We can’t move forward spiritually if we are shackled by unforgiveness. Write the names. Pray for them. Make the call if you must. If they’ve passed on, forgive before God. This is not denying the hurt – it is obeying Christ. Freedom follows forgiveness.

2. Repent honestly
Small compromises grow if we feed them. It’s critical to repent. Ask the Spirit to search you: “Search me, O God, and know my heart…” (Psa 139:23-24). Be specific. Pride. Gossip. Hidden sin. Broken promises. Stop, turn, and come to Jesus. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Speak to a mature believer, find someone to hold you accountable. End the year clean.

3. Give thanks intentionally
Gratitude resets your view. “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thes 5:18). No matter our circumstances, we have so much to be grateful for. List ten mercies from 2025 – daily bread, protection on the road, answered prayers, lessons learnt, etc. Thank Him at the table, in the queue, and on the N2. Gratitude humbles us; it changes our perspective. Acknowledge God as Jehovah Jireh, your provider.

4. Plan with purpose
Don’t drift. Seek Jesus first. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt 6:33). When planning for the next year, start with prayer – then write out simple, achievable steps: daily Scripture reading, weekly fellowship, monthly generosity opportunities, and real rest days. Put dates to them. Commit your plans to the Lord. Submit to His will: “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that” (Jam 4:15).

5. Run with endurance
The race does not end on 31 December. “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus…” (Heb 12:1-2). One obedient step at a time. If you fall, get up. If you’re tired, ask for help. Keep your eyes on Christ, not the clock.

6. End at the cross
Close the year at the cross. Bring your sins, fears, and plans to Jesus. Receive mercy. Ask for strength. Then walk into 2026 with a clear conscience, a grateful heart, and a focused plan. Hand in His – pace set by His Word.

This article is featured in the December issue of JOY! Magazine. Read a digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za

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Date published: 28/12/2025
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only.

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