REAL HELP | FAITH | APPLY
Faith Habits for the New Year: Spirit, Soul and Body
Are you ready to commit to Faith Habits for the New Year: Spirit, Soul and Body? The New Year is a great time to reset and refocus. Many people make goals for their health, schedule or routines. As a believer, you have a better way. You can build faith habits that help you grow in every area of life. However, instead of relying merely on yourself, bring the Holy Spirit on the scene to help you become strong in faith.
When you do the work to strengthen your spirit, soul and body, you position yourself for the victories God has already planned for you. It does not have to be complicated. Explore these simple steps to start the New Year with purpose and power.
Spirit: Exercise Your Faith Daily
When considering spirit, soul and body, it’s your spirit that is the core of your being. When you became a believer, your spirit came alive with the presence of the Holy Spirit. The way to exercise your spirit is to spend time with the Lord. Romans 10:17 tells us, “So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.” When you read God’s Word with receptive eyes and ears, the Holy Spirit will teach you things you haven’t seen before. Do this exercise consistently to open your spirit, and you will find your faith becoming strong and unwavering.
Just like your physical muscles need exercise to perform at their full potential, your spirit learns to be attuned to the voice of God. As you do, your faith will grow. When you combine strong faith with your words that align with the Word of God, you will be positioned to walk in victory. Just like an athlete trains every day, make a daily faith exercise plan. Set aside time to pray, worship and read Scripture. Even just 10 focused minutes a day can strengthen your spirit. As you do this, your spiritual ear will be tuned to hear correction and direction from the Lord. Receive it with joy and a ready heart. This will cause your faith muscles to continue to grow.
Soul: Renew Your Mind, Will and Emotions
Your soul includes your thoughts, choices and feelings. God wants all three to agree with His Word. Paul wrote, “We have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16). And Philippians 2:13 says, “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” When you choose to think God’s thoughts, your words will change to agree with His words. This will strengthen your inner resolve to live a life of victory and create faith habits.
Third John 1:2 emphasizes the importance of strengthening your soul, “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers” (NKJV). A helpful faith habit for the soul is speaking the Word over yourself. Say, “My mind is clear. I hear God’s voice. I walk in peace.” When unhealthy emotions rise, pause and picture how Jesus would respond. That simple shift can turn frustration into patience and worry into trust. This faith habit will change your soul to reflect His character.
Body: Build Healthy Routines
Your body is the house you live in on the earth. Caring for your body honors God. First Corinthians 6:19 reminds you that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and needs to be healthy.
Physical exercise is a way to develop the “you” you want to see in the mirror. A steady exercise plan, even something as simple as walking daily, will build strength and energy to succeed in what God has called you to do. Choose a simple, healthy eating pattern you can maintain. Drink more water. Plan meals that give you energy. A healthy body supports a healthy spirit and soul. When all three parts work together, you can live with greater focus and joy.
As the New Year begins, remember this: sustainable growth happens a little at a time. Small daily actions build strong faith habits that shape your spirit, renew your soul and strengthen your body. When you commit to living this way, you step into the year ready for God’s best. He is faithful, and He will lead you to victory in every part of your life.