Reflection questions for a new year
“So teach us to number our days, that we may get a heart of wisdom.” -Psalm 90:1
At the end of every year and the beginning of a new one, I like to take some time to pause and reflect. This can be really beneficial to help me have a better picture of where I am at the moment, celebrate past wins, and resolve to make any necessary changes, among other things. The following is not an exhaustive list of questions, but it is a good place to begin reflecting on last year. I recommend setting aside some time, beginning in prayer and journaling out your answers to some of these questions as you start a new year. Lastly, the beginning of January is great for this exercise, but these questions can be helpful for any time in the year, whenever you need a reset, some clarity, or even perspective.
What were your biggest wins/proudest moments? Why?
What were your biggest regrets/lowest moments? Why?
What life lessons did you learn this year?
What prayers did God answer this year?
What do I want to change/do differently in the new year?
In what area(s) of my life am I carrying some momentum into the new year?
What do I want to keep the same/maintain as I step into the new year?
What did God teach me/speak to me this year?
What promises from scripture am I holding onto/believing God for as I step into the new year?
What is my plan for my devotional time? What will I keep doing? What’s something different/new I will start doing?
“Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” -Hebrews 13:20-21
Fady Ghobrial is a pastor at Arabic Baptist Church of Boston and a Ministry Fellow with Christian Union Gloria (Harvard College).
