For many of us, New Year’s Eve brings the urge for some sort of life reset.

For you, this time of year may mean making specific resolutions, refocusing on a goal or goals, and/or reflecting on what God has for you in the year ahead. 

For me, historically I’ve made a list of resolutions a mile long. Now, I tend to identify 1-2 goals on which to be laser-focused. Last year, my #1 goal was launching the new Empowering Grace website. 

Whatever personal shifts this season brings for you, one thing is for sure – when we try to change ourselves or portions of ourselves in our own strength, we are often left disappointed and feeling defeated. 

This New Year, try focusing on your identity as a new creation in Christ versus creating a new you. 

Here’s an adapted excerpt from Establishing Our Hearts in the Grace of God:

When Paul wrote to Timothy, he encouraged him by reminding him that God has:

“… Saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.” 2 Timothy 1:9

Let that sink in. The Father saw you and planned for you before He created the world! God is the Master Craftsman. He cannot do anything in a less-than-perfect way. So when He creates, it reflects His character.

“For we are His masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand in order that we would walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 RcV

You are a masterpiece of God’s creative ability. You are a person of destiny. The Father created you with purpose. He has planned for you to do certain works that will glorify Him and delight your heart. He has set aside the necessary grace to accomplish what He has recreated you to accomplish.

As a new creation son or daughter, you have been in the Father’s heart from before time began. He ordained that you would receive His grace so you could fulfill a divine purpose that perfectly suits who you are. You are gifted and graced to fulfill your destiny. 

In 2020, make the decision to embrace the reality of your new creation identity.

New Year Prayer Declaration 

Father, I thank You for what You have done for me in making me a new creation. I choose to believe what You say about me. Old things have passed away. New things have come. And all these new things are from You. By Your doing, I’m in Christ. He has become for me wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. You have recreated me out of Your righteousness and holiness. I choose to put off the lie and embrace the truth. I am a new creation. I am Your workmanship. I am Your masterpiece. You commanded light to shine in my spirit, and You drove out the darkness. Thank You, Father, for Your abundant mercy and grace.

Establishing Our Hearts in the Grace of God contains seven “foundation stones” from God’s Word that establish the believer in the Gospel of grace, revealing the heart of the Father towards his children.

Available as eight-part audio series, book or e-book.