Let's Thrive in 2025!

Start with Purpose

Scripture:

Jeremiah 29:11 – "For I know well the plans I have in mind for you—oracle of the LORD—plans for your welfare and not for woe, so as to give you a future of hope.”

Reflection:

As we begin 2025, it’s important to set our hearts and minds on God’s plan for us. Thriving isn’t just about material success—it’s about growing in faith, strengthening relationships, and embracing God’s purpose. Take time this week to reflect on what thriving means to you spiritually, mentally, and physically.

Action Steps:

• Personal Activity: Write down three spiritual or personal growth goals for the year.
• Family Activity: Have a family discussion about hopes and dreams for 2025.
• Social Justice Activity: Research a local charity or cause to support this year.
• Journaling Prompt: What does “thriving” mean to me? How can I align my goals with God’s purpose?
• Prayer for the Week: Lord, help me embrace Your plan for my life. Give me wisdom, strength, and courage to walk in faith and make choices that lead to thriving in You. Amen.

Bonus Challenge: 
Choose a “theme word” for 2025 (e.g., Faith, Strength, Growth) and display it somewhere visible.

Faith Over Fear

Scripture: 
2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.”

Reflection:

Fear can keep us from living the full and joyful life God intends for us. When we allow fear to take hold, we hesitate, doubt ourselves, and sometimes even doubt God’s plan. But thriving means stepping out in faith, even when we don’t have all the answers. God has given us the power to overcome fear with love and confidence in Him. This week, let’s choose faith over fear and move forward with boldness!

Action Steps:

• Personal Activity: Write down one fear that has been limiting you. Next to it, write a Bible verse that reminds you to trust in God.
• Family Activity: Have a conversation about overcoming fears. Share stories of times when faith helped you or a family member push through.
• Social Justice Activity: Support someone facing fear—send an encouraging note, donate to an organization that helps those in crisis, or mentor someone in need.
• Journaling Prompt: What fear do I need to surrender to God? How can I step forward in faith this week?
• Prayer for the Week: Lord, replace my fears with unwavering faith. Help me trust in Your plans and walk in confidence, knowing You are with me. Amen.

Bonus Challenge: 
Each morning, declare: "I will walk by faith, not by fear."

Cultivating Gratitude

Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.”

Reflection: 

Gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you” – it’s about shifting our mindset to see God’s presence in every moment, even in challenges. Research shows that practicing gratitude improves mental health, strengthens relationships, and reduces stress—all essential to thriving in daily life. When we focus on what we have rather than what we lack, we open our hearts to joy and peace. This week, let’s make gratitude a daily habit!

Action Steps:

• Personal Activity: Start a gratitude journal. Each day, write down three things you are thankful for.
• Family Activity: Create a family gratitude jar. Each member writes one thing they’re thankful for daily and shares at the end of the week.
• Social Justice Activity: Express gratitude through action—write thank-you notes to community workers, teachers, or church members.
• Journaling Prompt: What are three things I’m grateful for today? How does gratitude change my perspective?
• Prayer for the Week: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your countless blessings. Open my eyes to see and appreciate the gifts You provide each day. Amen.

Bonus Challenge: 
Every night before bed, thank God for one challenge you faced that helped you grow.

Praying with Intention

Scripture: 
Philippians 4:6-7 – “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. ”

Reflection:

Thriving isn’t just about what we do—it’s about where we find our peace, strength, and direction. Prayer connects us to God, calms our anxieties, and gives us clarity. But to truly thrive, we need to pray with purpose. Instead of rushing through prayers or using them only in times of need, let’s cultivate a consistent and intentional prayer life. When we pray with focus and faith, we open our hearts to God’s guidance and experience His peace.

Action Steps:

• Personal Activity: Set aside dedicated prayer time each day. Try using the ACTS method (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication).
• Family Activity: Pray together at a set time each day, whether at meals, bedtime, or before starting the day.
• Social Justice Activity: Organize a prayer chain or participate in intercessory prayer for those in need.
• Journaling Prompt: What do I need to bring before God this week? How has intentional prayer impacted my life
• Prayer for the Week: Lord, help me approach prayer with sincerity and purpose. May my prayers be a reflection of my faith, trust, and gratitude toward You. Amen.

Bonus Challenge: 
Write down three specific prayer requests and follow how God responds over time.