The start of a new year always feels like a blank page. We start thinking about what we want to change: get healthier, manage our time better, maybe even slow down a little. But what if the most meaningful change this year isn’t about adding more to our list, but about drawing closer to Jesus in the middle of what we already do?
The new year is a chance to focus on drawing closer to Jesus, not just adding more to our to-do list.
The Power of Simple Habits
That’s where simple habits of faith make such a difference. Prayer, for example, doesn’t have to be long or polished. It can be as simple as taking a breath and saying, “God, I’m here.” It’s those quiet moments of honesty that open the door for the Holy Spirit to work in guiding, comforting, reminding us we’re not alone.
The Importance of Community
And we don’t grow best in isolation. Real change happens when we walk with others. Joining a group, serving on a team, grabbing coffee with a friend, or connecting with others on Sunday can remind us that faith was never meant to be a solo project. We need each other to stay encouraged and grounded.
Finding Your One Small Habit
As we step into this new year, maybe ask yourself: what’s one small habit that will help keep Jesus at the center of your life? Maybe it’s starting your day in prayer, reading a verse with your coffee, or reaching out to someone who could use encouragement. Small habits can shape us in big ways. And when those habits draw us closer to Jesus, that’s when real transformation begins.
Start with Simplicity
Choose a habit that's easy to incorporate into your day, like starting your morning with a brief prayer or reading a single verse with your coffee. Keep it simple so it’s sustainable.
Reflect on Your Routine
Look at your daily schedule and think about how you could add a faith-based moment to it—whether that’s a quick prayer during a break or listening to a devotional on a commute.
Consider Community Support
Think about joining a group, serving on a team, or connecting with others on Sundays. Being around others who share the same goal will inspire you to stick with a new habit.
Watch this week's sermon and learn how to make your first step.
Just as the start of the new year invites us to draw closer to Jesus through small, intentional habits, the book of Acts shows how believers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, boldly continued Christ’s mission in their everyday lives. The same Spirit that led the early church is available to us, guiding and strengthening us to live out our faith in the midst of daily routines. This week’s sermon will help us explore how the Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses in our world, just like the early believers, and how we can align our actions with God's purpose for our lives.
Written by JoAnn Johnson
JoAnn Johnson is the Lead Pastor at Newbreak Church. JoAnn and her husband, Eric, love San Diego and exploring all the great beaches with their two boys and dogs. Prior to serving at Newbreak she worked with the SoCal Network of the Assemblies of God providing leadership and training for hundreds of churches and pastors. She is excited for the future of Newbreak Church, as we continue to develop leaders who change their communities.
This was a really encouraging reminder as we step into a new year. I appreciated the focus on simple, sustainable habits of faith instead of trying to do everything at once. The way you highlighted prayer, everyday moments, and the importance of community really resonated. Thank you for sharing this perspective, it’s a helpful nudge to keep Jesus at the center of our daily routines.
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