When the Path Changes: Trusting God in the New Year

As one year ends and another begins, many of us reflect on where we’ve been and where we want to go. Sometimes that reflection leads to joy and gratitude—and other times, it reveals the changes we need to make. For me, that realization came last year, when I felt like I was losing myself in a job that no longer aligned with who God created me to be.

At first, I didn’t want to admit it. I told myself to push through, to be grateful for the role that had once been an answered prayer. But the truth was undeniable: the joy, creativity, and spark that once filled my days were gone. I was conforming to a culture that didn’t reflect my values, and I didn’t like the version of myself I was becoming.

So, I started praying. Initially, my prayers were focused on escape: “Lord, I need a new job.” But as the months passed, my heart shifted. My prayers became more about purpose: “Lord, help me use the gifts You gave me. Show me how to work in alignment with my calling.”

That clarity didn’t come quickly, but over time, it became clear that staying wasn’t an option anymore. What had once sustained me—providing stability during a difficult season—was no longer what I needed. It reminded me of the Israelites in the wilderness. For a time, God provided daily manna to meet their needs. But when they reached the Promised Land, the manna stopped. They didn’t need it anymore—they had something better, a land flowing with milk and honey.

I knew it was time to step out of survival mode and into the new season God had for me. So, I took the leap. I quit my job and stepped into something unknown but undeniably better.

The moment I made that decision, everything shifted. The creativity, joy, and confidence that had been buried under stress came rushing back. I felt free to be myself again. And God, in His perfect timing, had already prepared the next step—a new role where I could steward my gifts and embrace my calling in a way that honored Him.

As we step into this new year, I can’t help but wonder: how many of us are still holding onto something that’s no longer God’s best for us? A job, a relationship, a habit—anything that feels safe but keeps us stuck?

The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect, set goals, and ask yourself: “Am I walking the path God has for me? “ If not, what would it look like to trust Him and step into the new?

This year, I encourage you to pursue what aligns with your calling. Let go of what’s holding you back. Trust that God has something better ahead. After all, when you don’t like the road you’re walking, you can always choose another path.

What new path will you take this year?

#NewYearNewGoals #Faith #Purpose #TrustingGod #WriterJourney