As we approach the end of a year, there is a very human tendency to look back, to reflect, to pause. The ‘limbo’ days between Boxing Day and the New Year often give us time to do this.
Having a good memory is a vital part of spiritual health. We need to remember what God has done for us this year. We need to count our blessings and name them, one by one. The human tendency is to forget (see Ps 78, Nehemiah 9) and this means we are always in danger of forgetting God’s character and actions on our behalf, and so it is good to pause and remember.
God has blessed us in so many ways. Think of all the people who have been to different events throughout 2025 and who have heard of God’s love. Think of the ways God has provided for us through grants and people’s generosity. Remember how God has helped us in personal situations. Looking back reminds us of God’s miracles, provision, help and goodness in everyday life.
The ‘looking back’ is not simply reminiscence or nostalgia. It is a way of clothing ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ. (Rom 13:14) It is a safeguard for us, for though we may well have struggled, failed and fallen away during the year, God has been at our side throughout. I have known those who have suffered and are still suffering right now, who have grieved and are still grieving, who are alone and facing great challenges. But as we clothe ourselves in Jesus, we can look ahead with hope. God does not change. (Mal 3:6) Our memories of who He is and what He has done give us hope for tomorrow, so that we can walk forward in faith. What God has been – faithful, loving, good, kind, merciful, forgiving, gracious – He will continue to be. (Lam 3:22-23) We can face a new year with confidence and hope, all because of God.
