The beginning of a new year is a time of reflection, focus, and establishing new rhythms. A new year can also stir up feelings of anxiety and uncertainty, but it doesn’t have to be that way. By focusing on the truths found in Scripture, you can look to the year ahead with excited anticipation as you resolve to be grounded in the peace found in God.
With that in mind, here are 26 Scriptures to reflect on this year.
Scripture About Fighting Fear
No matter what dark valleys the year holds, remember that God is with you.
“‘So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.’” –Isaiah 41:10
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” –Psalm 23:4
“‘Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.’” –Joshua 1:9
Scripture About Peace
Talk to God, rest in Him, and you will find peace.
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” –Psalm 23:1
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” –Philippians 4:6–7
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” –Psalm 91:1
“‘I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.’” –John 16:33
Scripture About Battling Sin
Resolve to be transformed by the Spirit this year, and let go of worldly passions.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” –Romans 12:2
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” –Ephesians 6:12
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” –2 Corinthians 5:17
Scripture About Following God
In all things, follow God’s leading, and He will direct your steps.
“‘But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.’” –Matthew 6:33
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” –Proverbs 3:5–6
“‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’” –Matthew 11:28
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” –John 14:6
Scripture About God’s Love
Focus this year on God’s immeasurable love for you.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” –John 3:16
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” –Romans 8:28
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” –1 Peter 5:7
Scripture About God’s Protection
Because God loves you, remember that He has the power to protect you.
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” –Jeremiah 29:11
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways … .” –Psalm 91:11
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” –Psalm 121:7-8
Scripture about Finding Strength in God
When trials come, find your strength in God’s power.
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” –Philippians 4:13
“… but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” –Isaiah 40:31
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” –2 Corinthians 12:9
Scripture About Making Disciples
Resolve to tell others about the loving and powerful God of the universe.
“‘Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.’” –Matthew 28:19–20a
“‘In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.’” –Matthew 5:16
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” –1 Peter 2:9
Commit to meditating on God’s Word this new year. It will help you to fight fear, have peace, battle sin, follow the Lord, find strength, make disciples, and be reminded of God’s love and protection.
7 Prayers for the New Year
As calendars turn to a new year, many will seek a fresh start with new goals and resolutions. For believers, the new year is a great time to seek the Lord’s guidance and to pray for deeper faith. Here are seven Scriptures and prayers to help you live missionally this year.
