Reflecting on 2025: What Did God Teach You This Year?
Hello, cherished readers—it's Jessica here, your therapist at Restoration Counseling LLC, settling into this contemplative last week of December 2025. The year has unfolded like a tapestry—vibrant threads of joy woven with shadows of trial, all under the watchful eye of a God who never wastes a stitch. As fireworks fade and calendars turn, I invite you to a gentle pause: What did the Lord whisper (or shout) to your heart this year? In my sessions, we've often ended tough seasons with this question, uncovering treasures amid the rubble. Today, let's make it a guided reflection—a devotional space with journaling prompts to honor God's faithfulness, process the growth, and step into 2026 with clearer eyes and lighter steps.
The Gift of Looking Back: Reflection as Soul Care
Reflection isn't just a tidy wrap-up; it's a sacred rhythm that echoes the psalmist's call to "remember the deeds of the Lord" (1 Chronicles 16:12). In our fast-scroll world, pausing to review fosters profound healing—enhancing self-awareness by illuminating personal patterns and boosting decision-making for the year ahead. It cultivates gratitude, which research links to a positive mindset and reduced stress, shifting us from scarcity to abundance. Spiritually, it deepens intimacy with God, turning hindsight into foresight as we trace His hand in the highs and lows. For my clients, this practice has been transformative—naming lessons from chaos builds resilience, empowering well-being and purposeful growth. So, grab your journal, a warm drink, and perhaps a candle's glow. Let's reflect with grace, no judgment—just curiosity and praise.
Guided Journaling Prompts: Tracing God's Lessons in 2025
These prompts are designed to flow like a conversation with the Divine—start with prayer: "Open my eyes to what You've done, Lord." Take your time; one per day if it feels rich. Let the Spirit lead.
Highs of His Hand: What were the highlights and clear blessings of 2025? How did you see God's provision or joy break through—perhaps in a unexpected friendship, a answered prayer, or a moment of breakthrough? (Inspired by reflections on divine goodness.)
Lowlights and Laments: What were the hard things or disappointments this year? Name a struggle where you felt lost—be raw and honest. Where was God in that valley? Recall a verse or whisper that sustained you, like Psalm 23:4: "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me."
Spiritual Shifts: How did your faith deepen or change? Did God teach you about surrender, forgiveness, or trust through a specific trial? What Scripture anchored you most, and why?
Growth in Grace: What personal patterns did you notice—perhaps in relationships or habits? How did God invite you to grow, and what one lesson feels like a "word for the year" (e.g., "rest" or "courage")?
Gratitude's Glow: List three ways God showed up in unexpected places—a rescue from anxiety, a deepened marriage bond, or simple daily mercies. How has gratitude reshaped your perspective?
Forward Glimpses: Looking ahead, what are you most excited for in 2026? How will you carry 2025's lessons into the new year? End with a prayer of release and hope.
As you write, notice the themes emerging—God's faithfulness is the golden thread. If tears come, they're holy; if laughter bubbles, it's worship.
Carrying the Light Forward: A Year Redeemed
Beloved, 2025 wasn't perfect, but in God's economy, nothing is wasted—every lesson a lantern for the path ahead. As you close this reflection, whisper thanks: For the Teacher who never leaves, the growth that hurts before it heals, and the promise of new mercies come morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). May this exercise not just review the year, but renew your spirit, inspiring forward steps with joy.
Jessica@RestorationCounselingDSM.com, visit my website, www.restorationcounselingdsm.com or text me at (515) 518-0681 to get started in therapy for the New Year!
