Heart Check: Inviting God Into the Year Ahead

2026 is officially here, and I’ve seen countless posts on annual planning, goal-setting, and productivity as we rush to begin churning out results and taking action.

But what if, instead of diving headfirst into the hamster wheel, we took a moment to reflect?

Not reflecting on everything that went wrong last year or the goals that weren’t accomplished, but reflecting on who we were last year and who God is calling us to become in the year ahead.

Were there dreams planted on your heart?

Did a vision come to you as you slept?

Did you spend the year caught in cycles of doubt, fear, and anxiety while God was calling you to be bold, confident, and courageous?

Did you grow inward-focused while God was calling you to extend love and kindness to your neighbor?

Many are praying for riches and abundance, but is it to satisfy personal desires, or to also serve as a resource for your community?

You may be praying for new leadership titles, but is it to feed the ego, or to use your influence to lead well and help others?

So often, we set goals for how they look on paper or how we imagine they’ll make us feel once achieved. But this year, I challenge you to seek God before you plan. Not by bringing Him a list of wants and desires, but by inviting Him into the planning process from the very beginning.

Rather than focusing solely on actions, consider the habits and character qualities required not only to get where you’re asking God to take you, but to receive it well and sustain it once you arrive.

If you’re seeking more money, pray for a generous heart and the ability to steward it wisely.

If you’re seeking more clients or customers, pray for discernment to recognize the difference between a good opportunity and a God opportunity.

If you’re seeking community, pray for God to align you with the right people and the right spaces.

If you’re looking to physically transform your body, pray for discipline and commitment.

We all know that faith without works is dead. As you pray for these things, allow your habits and actions to align with your faith. Commit to becoming the person you desire to be.

Not just the person with accolades and accomplishments, but the person God can entrust His riches to.

The person whose light shines before they ever step into a room.

The person whose heart is pure and whose intentions are aligned.

There is nothing wrong with setting goals and making plans, but this year, I challenge you to examine not only your habits, but also your heart and your character. These are the things that truly matter to God.

Earthly titles fade, but the way you love, serve, and use your gifts to impact others carries eternal weight.

Scripture to meditate on: 

“Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Proverbs 16:3

How will you invite God into this moment?

Wishing you a blessed, healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year.