There's something about a fresh, new notebook—clean pages, and endless possibilities. The start of a new year feels, in a way, like a crisp new notebook: big hopes, and maybe a little pressure to “get it right.” But, here's good news to fight back against that pressure: we aren't starting this year on our own strength. Lamentations 3:22–23 tells us that God’s mercies are new every morning, which means this year doesn’t depend on how strong you feel, but on how faithful God is. Just like we refresh our calendars, God renews His grace daily.

Many of us step into a new year with plans, goals, and good intentions, yet life often takes unexpected turns. Proverbs 16:9 says that while we make plans, the Lord directs our steps. That can be comforting when your year doesn’t unfold like the vision board you imagined. An prayer that hasn't been answered yet doesn’t mean you’re off track—many times, it just means that God is leading you on a better route. Sometimes the detour is where the growth happens.

God also speaks hope into seasons of change. In Isaiah 43:19, He reminds His people that He is doing a new thing, even when they can’t see it yet. That’s reassuring when the new year feels more uncertain than exciting. Whether you’re navigating school stress, job decisions, or family responsibilities, God is already at work behind the scenes. Just like seeds grow quietly underground, new beginnings often start before we notice them.

As you move through these first days of the year, remember that God isn’t finished with you. Philippians 1:6 encourages us that the One who began a good work will carry it to completion. You don’t have to have the whole year figured out—just take the next faithful step. Ask God for wisdom (James 1:5), show up with a willing heart, and trust that He will meet you there. This new year isn’t about perfection; it’s about progess and walking forward with God, one day at a time. Be encouraged and get excited! His possibilities are endless, and He has WONDERFUL plans for you!