A new year brings possibility — a fresh start filled with big dreams and bold intentions. But what if this year isn’t about resolutions that fade by mid-January? What if it’s about choosing daily dependence on God instead of relying on our own strength? God is a one-day-at-a-time God, inviting us into order, obedience, and relationship with Him. When we walk in step with Him each day, He faithfully lights our path and leads us into His best.

Christmas is just days away, and I love this time of year for so many reasons—sparkling lights, generous spirits, and joy-filled moments with friends and family. In preparation for the 25th, I love to read through the Christmas story. This year, as I read and took time to study, I was struck by a few facets of this well-known narrative that spoke directly to my heart.

Let me just cut to the chase — I’m a runner. When things get hard, I have a tendency to tuck tail and flee. I used to see challenges as signs that God wasn’t with me, but I’ve learned that He often uses those moments to bring me to surrender. Like Jacob in Genesis 32, we all face seasons of wrestling — moments that strip away our comfort so God can shape us, humble us, and bless us with a deeper understanding of who He is.

Turning 50 isn’t what shakes me—it’s realizing time is no longer unlimited. In my 20s, the future felt endless, but now I know the moment to act is today. God has been teaching me the difference between urgency and panic. Panic is chaos fueled by fear, but urgency is rooted in trust, focus, and obedience—like Esther’s courage before the king. As I step into this new decade, I choose urgency, not panic—trusting His pace, His plan, and His purpose.