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The start of a new year brings a fresh beginning, inspiring many of us to reflect on our lives and consider what we might do differently. As people everywhere set goals to improve as spouses, parents, friends, and professionals, the culture of self-improvement reaches an all-time high – often accompanied by a wave of striving and stress.
Even as Christians, we often feel the pressure to do more and be better, recognizing we aren’t as loving, committed, or disciplined as we would like. Thankfully, God’s grace covers where we fall short, freeing us from the heavy demands of perfectionism. In light of this, how does a grace-centered perspective reshape our understanding of growth and change?
We find guidance in 2 Peter 3:18, which says, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." This verse highlights that growth isn’t about striving in our own strength, but about growing in God's grace. Jesus is the one who works in us and through us to bring about lasting change.
In this season of “New Year, New You,” let’s consider how we can approach growth differently. Here are four principles to find hope and rest in Christ’s power to transform us.
God is in the business of making all things new. Growth is his idea, and he has a plan for it. Too often, we approach personal growth from a place of self-initiative. We assess our needs and desires, determine our goals, and define our path. But true growth begins when we align ourselves with God’s plan, rather than setting out on our own.
In Philippians 1:6, Paul writes, “he [God] who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God initiated new life and transformation when we accepted Christ, and that he will continue to transform us until we meet Christ in the future.
Christian growth means stepping into the life God has planned for us and embracing his calling. Self-improvement focuses on our own efforts, while God-centered growth aligns our efforts with his good purposes. As we set goals this year, let’s remember: true growth isn’t about our will being done, but his.
When we think of growth, we often measure it by society’s standards – career milestones, financial goals, and personal achievements. God’s plan for growth is more than external accomplishments. It is about shaping us into our truest selves, which, as believers, is being conformed to the image of Christ.
In Ephesians 4:20-24, Paul urges us to “put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” This transformation is not merely about changing our habits or activities; it’s about becoming more like Jesus in virtue and character. The goal of biblical growth is to reflect Christ's love, compassion, and holiness in our lives.
As we grow in Christ-likeness – living with integrity, looking to God for direction, or prioritizing others above ourselves, for example – our lives transform from the inside out.
True growth does not come from self-effort, but from the power of God working in us. “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us” (2 Peter 1:3). This verse reveals that it is God’s power, not our striving, that enables growth. In his faithfulness, God sends the Holy Spirit to dwell within us, initiating the process of transformation.
The growth God calls us to isn’t achieved through self-effort. Even if we have the desire to do good, we cannot carry it out. True growth comes when we remain connected to Christ (John 15:5). Only by abiding in him can we bear good fruit, experiencing the life and love of Jesus flowing through our lives.
Christian growth goes beyond mere behavior change. It’s a deep transformation of the heart that aligns our desires with God’s. As a result, we see, think, and act differently, as our perspectives continue to shift. Our role is to remain in Christ, allowing him to cultivate lasting change in us.
God’s purpose for growth extends far beyond ourselves. We grow not merely for our own benefit, but to make a difference for Christ and his Kingdom. Our growth allows us to love God and love people more fully. Any achievements or spotlight we receive is ultimately meant to glorify God.
Jesus tells us, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). We find a similar reminder in 1 Corinthians: “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (10:31).
Viewing personal growth through the lens of others redirects our focus to the needs around us, and how we can share Christ’s love in tangible ways. This shift also guards us from the self-centeredness that self-help culture often promotes. When we see growth as an opportunity to serve, our lives become a conduit for God’s love and grace.
As we begin the new year, let’s embrace growth rooted in God’s grace, not in our own striving. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10). We can rest assured that the Lord will grow us and equip us to accomplish the work he has called us to.
By keeping Christ at the center of our goals, we find the hope, rest, and strength to partner with him to make changes in our lives. May this be a year where we rely on God’s work within us to learn, grow, and live life well.
Tieler Giles is a personal development coach who inspires and equips others to grow in God's grace. Through writing, teaching, and coaching, she supports change-seekers on their journey to becoming who God has called them to be. Tieler believes the gospel of Jesus really is good news – and has the power to transform us, our everyday lives, and the world around us. She lives in Charlotte, NC.
