Even though there are a few days of 2025 remaining, this is a great time to look back with thanks to God for the year that has been, and look ahead to commit the year ahead to the Lord. Hebrews 12:1-3 gives us such clear direction on how we can follow Jesus in 2026 - by throwing off sin, running with perseverance, and fixing our eyes on Jesus. This coming year, what will help you keep your eyes fixed on Jesus? 

Here are a few ideas to get started: 

1. Reflect on how you grew as a disciple in 2025. What helped the most? What could have been better? Spend some time in prayer and write down your reflections. 

2. Plan on how you will read the Bible in 2026. You could: 

• Download the free app The Bible with Nicky & Pippa (which also has an audio option). 
• Pick a year devotional. My Rock, My Refuge, by Timothy Keller is a great option that explores all the Psalms. 
• Pick one Old Testament book and one New Testament book, and read a chapter of each a day.   
• Explore the range of commentaries & devotionals in the library at stbarts.com.au/library 
• Join a small group, to meet weekly to grow in reading the Bible. 

3. Plan how you might like to pray this year. You could start by picking up a copy of the Prayer Guide. It has points you can work through to pray for your frontlines, the world, and the church. The book Prayerfulness by Peter Adam is also a great resource to kick start prayer!