By Pastor Rick Duncan and Pastor Joe Valenti
We all need to make changes if we are going to weather the storms and experience more new life in Christ in 2026—stopping some things that limit our life in Christ and starting some things that will enhance the possibility of God making us more vibrant.
We must clearly answer the “who, what, why, when, where, and how” questions when it comes to making changes. So, here is a quick guide for how to develop a plan to not only listen to Jesus, but obey him so that you can be well-prepared for the storms of life.
Step 1 – Schedule an hour to put your plan together. Make an appointment with yourself to be alone with God.
Step 2 – Spend an hour reflecting and praying.
You may want to think in these five categories:
- Spiritual
- Relational
- Intellectual
- Emotional
- Physical.
Do an honest self-assessment using the questions below. Then ask God to reveal the answer to this question: What changes do I most need to make in order to experience more new life in Christ? Now, get out some paper and a pen or pencil and start writing.
6 Spiritual Growth Plan Questions for 2026
- What promises from the Father do I need to claim in prayer this year? What is the most humanly impossible thing I will ask my Father in heaven to do this year?
- What will I read and memorize in Scripture this year, and what books, podcasts, or other resources will I learn from?
- What is the biggest time-waster in my life, and how will I minimize it in order to volunteer somewhere meaningful as a servant-leader?
- How will I grow in my generosity to my church and other ministries this year? (Think priority giving—Matthew 6:33; percentage giving—Malachi 3:8–10; and progressive giving—2 Peter 3:18.)
- How will I deepen my commitment to others this year—especially those in my LifeGroup—and how will I encourage or mentor a few friends?
- How will I commit to missional living, joining God in His mission to restore the broken so that others may come to know Jesus as Savior and Lord?
Step 3 – Write down your plan. Be realistic. Don’t set the bar so high that you become discouraged if you stumble.
Make your goals SMART—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Reasonable, and Time-bound. Keep your plan visible and share it with your family, your LifeGroup, and an accountability partner.
Jesus makes all things new. Invite Him to help you.
