Welcome to 2025: Embracing Wisdom for the New Year

Happy New Year!

As we step into 2025, I want to share a simple yet powerful tradition I’ve come to love: working through the book of Proverbs each January.

With 31 chapters, Proverbs offers a daily dose of wisdom to carry us through the month and set a solid foundation for the year ahead. Whether it’s January, mid-year, or a season when you’re searching for answers, Proverbs provides grounding truths.

This wisdom-filled book can guide us at any point in the year.

Proverbs isn’t just a collection of ancient sayings; it’s a treasure trove of guidance on life, relationships, character, and our walk with God. This book helps us cultivate a mindset that’s not only wise but also resilient and grounded in truth. When we let this wisdom shape us, we start the year on a foundation that reminds us of God’s purpose and our role in His kingdom.

Proverbs is the greatest book of wisdom ever written, largely penned by the wisest man who ever lived. God gave His servant Solomon this wisdom to pass along to us, His servants, who continue the ministry of Jesus—the embodiment of wisdom—until He returns in full glory.

One of the verses that always sets the tone for me is Proverbs 1:7

We cross the threshold of true knowledge when we live in obedient devotion to God.

Stubborn know - it - alls will never stop to do this for they scorn true wisdom and knowledge.

This verse reminds us that true wisdom begins with reverence and humility before God.

As you read through each chapter, certain verses may call out to you with reminders and encouragement. Proverbs 3:5-6 is a timeless favourite:

Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make. Become intimate with him in whatever you do, and he will lead you wherever you go.

What better encouragement could we have for the new year than a reminder to trust God’s guidance in every step?

Another guiding verse is Proverbs 4:23: So above all, guard the affections of your heart, for they affect all that you are. Pay attention to the welfare of your innermost being, for from there flows the wellspring of life.

 This verse encourages us to be mindful of what we allow into our minds and hearts. Our thoughts and attitudes shape our actions, and Proverbs calls us to protect our inner lives as we grow.

As someone who values wise counsel, Proverbs 15:22 is a firm favourite of mine:

Your plans will fall apart right in front of you if you fail to get good advice. But if you first seek out multiple counsellors, you’ll watch your plans succeed.

Seeking advice and surrounding ourselves with people who carry godly wisdom strengthens us and aligns us with God’s will. And when it comes to speaking with discernment, I turn to Proverbs 17:27-28:

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure? That’s how you show that you are wise. An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected, no matter what you’re facing. When even a fool bites his tongue, he’s considered wise. So shut your mouth when you are provoked—it will make you look smart.

This reminder to speak with care, and sometimes simply to listen.

Starting the year with Proverbs helps to realign us with God’s wisdom and principles, creating a framework to navigate life’s challenges. As you read, I hope you’ll find clarity and strength for whatever this new year brings.

For wisdom is so priceless that it exceeds the value of any jewel. Nothing you could wish for can equal her. (Proverbs 8:11).

May these ancient words breathe fresh life into 2025, guiding us to live wisely, humbly, and purposefully. I look forward to sharing more reflections with you throughout the year as we continue this journey together.