How To End This Year as a Christian

As we near the close of the year, it’s important to take a moment to pause and reflect on God’s faithfulness. I see it as a time to let our hearts be full of gratitude, hope, and faith, as we pray to face the end of this year and the beginning of the next with confidence in His sovereign plan. Just as the Scriptures remind us, the living have hope, and God’s thoughts toward us are always filled with peace. May we finish this year strong, trusting that His miracles are still possible and His goodness still ours to receive, as we look ahead to all He will accomplish in us and through us in the coming year. See also these declarations, prayers, and quotes

1. With Gratitude that You Are Alive and Well

“Let everything that hath breath praise Jehovah. Praise ye Jehovah.” (Psalm 150:6)
Hallelujah! We are still alive to witness the end of 2025. This alone is a testament to God’s goodness, and His purposes for you are still unfolding. I may not know what you might have gone through in different seasons this year—trials or triumphs—but thank God you are alive, and that’s what’s important.
As believers, we should be grateful for all that we’ve received and achieved, even if we haven’t received much or achieved all our goals yet. Let’s see what we’ve received as the manifestation of God’s grace and love toward us, and for all we’ve achieved as accomplishments and growth.
However, if you’re in the midst of struggle, I am not trying to minimize it, nor should it mean that your life has no meaning—there’s still a divine purpose to fulfill and goals to accomplish with your life. God is still weaving your story. This should fill you with gratitude and hope in His promises.
Remember: “For to him that is joined with all the living there is hope; for a living dog is better than a dead lion.” (Ecclesiastes 9:4)
What to do:
• Acknowledge that your life is a gift—worth cherishing and giving thanks for.
• Recount the blessings in your life: health, relationships, and opportunities.
• Write down the things you’ve received or accomplished as an expression of your gratitude.

2. With Faith that a Miracle Could Still Happen

“Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof; and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.” (Ecclesiastes 7:8)
This verse reminds us that the close of the year can be more glorious than its start. It encourages patience and perseverance, teaching us to expect a miracle—God can still do something amazing at the year’s end. He has not changed. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The One who parted the Red Sea, raised Lazarus from the dead, and turned water into wine is still mighty.
Our God is not limited by time. He can still perform miracles even in the remaining days of the year. He can turn the tide even in bleak circumstances. He is the Author who decides how the story ends and is more than able to write the final chapters of the year according to our faith. If we wait upon Him with faith soaring, we shall find that the end is far better than the beginning.
I am still expectant; be expectant too.
What to do:
• Don’t be discouraged by present circumstances.
• Believe God can still perform miracles.
• Pray boldly for breakthroughs.

3. With Prayer: Ask God to Crown the Year with His Goodness

“Thou crownest the year with thy goodness; and thy paths drop fatness.” (Psalm 65:11)
This is one of my favorite verses of the Bible. It makes me believe God for my cup-running-over moment—His endless, benevolent goodness that is still possible at any given time.
This year has been full of His goodness—our daily bread, our sound health, His hand in our joys and even in our sorrows. And with only a few days left before the year ends, more could still happen. We can boldly come before the throne of Christ and ask that He crown the year with blessings, wonders, favor, and abundance. That makes it all the more exciting.
Now, as we stand on the threshold of a new year, I pray that God would crown it with His abundant blessings so that His goodness would overflow into every aspect of our lives, in Jesus’ name.
What to do:
• Reflect on the goodness of God you have seen all through the year—answers to prayer and His provision.
• Ask God to bless the end of this year and give you peace as you transition into the next.

4. With Hope that Next Year Will Be Greater

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith Jehovah, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you hope in your latter end.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
I say to myself that when my faith feels little, hope gives me courage to trust in God’s plans for me. Please, friends, let’s find rest and have confidence that God has a plan for us—a marvelous destiny, filled with peace, hope, and prosperity!
Even if 2025 brought trials and the path was rough, trust that God is working all things for your good. Though the coming year may be a mystery to us, it is already known to God, who planned out its every detail and ordained each day of it. He is the Shepherd who leads you beside still waters.
So, as you close 2025, lift your heart in faith and look forward to 2026 with expectation, knowing that God is intentional about you and His plan for you is a beautiful, purposeful future.
What to do:
• Reflect on all your expectations that came to pass this year.
• Pray that God will lead you into a new year full of growth, peace, and blessings.
• Write out your hopes and dreams for 2026, trusting God to guide you.

5. With Joy: Rejoice in God’s Faithfulness

“Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)
The Bible’s emphasis on joy and rejoicing has me thinking lately about the importance of joy. Joy for a Christian is not dependent on circumstances, but it flows from knowing and trusting that God is good, sovereign, and concerned about us.
As this year ends, I sincerely pray that our hearts will dwell on Jesus, the source of lasting joy. Knowing we are His should fill us with joy—that He is faithful and ever near to us, not because everything went perfectly.
May we experience the kind of grace that causes believers to rejoice in the blessings, the lessons, the answered prayers, and even the challenges. And may God continue to guide and bless us in 2026.
What to do:
• Thank God for the gift of joy in Christ.
• Rejoice in His goodness, even in trials.
• Share joy with others through encouragement and kindness.

6. With Reconciliation: Restoring Relationships

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-24)
As 2025 comes to a close, I believe God is giving us an opportunity to seek reconciliation in any broken or strained relationships. I remember reading this morning the verse that says, “Be angry, but do not sin.” I see the correlation of this scripture with the need to forgive and reconcile with those who might have hurt us during the course of the year. Reconciliation is a gift, whereas unforgiveness and malice are heavy burdens to carry into the new year. Since Christ reconciled us to God through His death, let us extend this wonderful gift of God to others.
Even though reconciliation is about choosing to forgive, heal, and rebuild the relationship with God at the center, I do not think it should be pursued where there is abuse, violence, manipulation, or any ungodliness. Let’s be wise. Forgiveness is mandatory, but reconciliation requires caution.
What to do:
• Reflect on any relationships that need reconciliation, and take the first step to restore peace (but be cautious where there is violence, abuse, manipulation, or ungodliness).
• Seek forgiveness where necessary, and offer forgiveness where it’s needed.
• Pray for God’s guidance and wisdom in restoring any broken relationships.

7. With Kindness: Spread the Love of Christ

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
Now is the time to show kindness to others. If we view kindness as an expression of God’s love, it will make it easier to show others. In a world that often feels cold and indifferent, kindness has the power to transform hearts, heal wounds, and open doors to evangelism.
Kindness comes in different forms—simple words of encouragement, acts of service, or being supportive of someone. It’s far beyond a gesture; it is a reflection of the kingdom of God—even small acts will suffice.
Let us find opportunities to showcase this character of Christ to a world that is often selfish, unkind, and cold.
What to do:
• Identify areas to be more intentional in showing kindness.
• Look for opportunities to bless others in any way you can.
• Practice small acts of kindness every day—whether through a thoughtful gesture, a kind word, or being present.
• Be kind to yourself too. We all need it.

8. With Generosity: Give Freely and Bless Others

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7)
I find giving to be an attractive trait in a Christian. Moreover, God gave us our Savior Jesus Christ. Giving is part of the DNA of a Christian. Understand that giving is not limited to monetary gifts—it’s far deeper and bigger than money. It is our service, time, talent, and anything that can add value to others and honor God’s name.
As we close out 2025, consider how you can live generously in every area of your life—whether with your time, talents, or resources. Generosity should be expressed freely and cheerfully. A generous heart is one that sees the needs around it and steps in to meet those needs, trusting that God will multiply what we give. Give especially to those who cannot afford to repay you. So, whether it’s a financial gift, helping someone in need, or offering your time, let your life overflow with generosity in the final days of 2025 and beyond.
What to do:
• Reflect on the ways you can be more generous in the coming year.
• Start practicing it in your own small way.
• Give with a cheerful heart.

9. With Vision for the Next Year: Walk in God’s Plans

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” (Proverbs 29:18)
Over the years, I have picked up the idea of writing my vision, expectations, and plans on how to achieve my goals for a new year. I can tell you that this brings focus and productivity. Vision gives direction and purpose; it enables us to live with intention and clarity.
I counsel you to see the importance of having a written vision for what you believe God will achieve in the coming year. Commit it to God in prayer and take steps in faith toward it. Write a fresh vision for your life, relationships, and purpose in 2026. Whether it’s spiritual growth, personal goals, or dreams for ministry, ask God to reveal His will and help you walk in it with faith and confidence. Trust that He will provide the resources, wisdom, and strength you need to fulfill His plans for you.
What to do:
• Spend time in prayer, asking God for vision for the new year.
• Write down the goals, dreams, or areas where you feel called to grow.
• Seek clarity on God’s plans for you, and trust Him to guide you step by step.
• Set measurable steps to walk in the vision God has given you, knowing He will empower you to fulfill them.

10. With Kingdom Service: Evangelize Your Community

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)
Let me close with this very important point—evangelism. There is no higher calling for us Christians than sharing the message of Jesus Christ. Evangelism is not only for pastors or missionaries—it’s the responsibility and privilege of every believer. The Lord Himself commissioned us to go and make disciples of all men by telling them about Him who loves them and died for them. When we speak, act, and live in a way that points others to Christ, we participate in God’s mission on earth.
Before we step into 2026, let us be intentional about spreading the gospel even in the remaining days of 2025. Let our lives reflect Christ’s love, urging others to seek Him. Evangelism is kingdom service—it honors God, builds His kingdom, and brings eternal impact.
What to do:
• Use your social media to share the gospel.
• Use every opportunity to speak about Christ to others.
• Practice sharing your faith with those closest to you.
• Make evangelism a consistent part of your life in 2026, trusting God to use your obedience to touch lives.

Closing Reflection

As you reflect on the ways you can end the year strong, what steps will you take today to apply these principles in your life? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Know someone who needs encouragement as they finish the year? Share this post with them and invite them to reflect on God’s goodness together.
Which of these actions are you going to start today? Commit to at least one and let’s trust God for powerful changes before the year ends!