10 Commitments for the New Year
By Colin Pugh
Editor’s Note — As a new year begins, many churches are asking a familiar question: How do we help people move beyond good intentions and into real spiritual growth? Colin Pugh, the pastor of Clinton Baptist Church, challenged his congregation to focus on a set of simple, but powerful Scripture-based commitments for the year ahead.
CLINTON, Md. — As we step into 2026, many people make traditional New Year’s resolutions. And resolutions are good—but what if we moved from casual resolutions to intentional commitments? And what if a church collectively made those commitments?
Commitments shape habits, and habits shape lives.
This year, I’ve compiled ten commitments designed to help each of us grow deeper in Christ and stronger as a church family.
The Bible says, “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).
Our church, individually and collectively, truly wants to grow in grace and knowledge!
Here are our Ten Commitments! Perhaps you can use them as well!
- Commit to Corporate Worship
If you do not regularly attend church services, commit to worship in person at least two Sundays each month. God uses gathered worship to strengthen faith and unity (Hebrews 10:24–25).
- Commit to Biblical Community
Commit to one small-group Bible study, Sunday School class, children’s or youth group, or men’s or women’s study where you can grow, be known, and enjoy fellowship (Acts 2:42).
- Commit to Regular Bible Reading
If reading Scripture is not a habit, begin by setting aside time to read three days a week, then grow from there. If you’re already in a committed reading program, consider extending it for a longer period. Consistency matters more than volume. God will bless that time, and you will begin to grow strong roots (Psalm 119:105).
- Commit to Daily Prayer
Commit to praying every day, even if briefly. Prayer keeps us dependent on God rather than self. As you spend time with Him, He will bless that time and increase your desire to draw near to Him (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
- Commit to Praying the Word
As you read Scripture, pray it back to God, allowing His Word to shape your praise, confession, and requests (John 15:7).
- Commit to Faithful Giving
If you are not currently giving, begin with a small, consistent percentage and grow from there. Pray and trust God to guide you in generosity (2 Corinthians 9:6–7).
- Commit to Serving
Use your time and gifts to serve in church ministries, within the church building, or in the community. Spiritual growth accelerates when faith is put into action (1 Peter 4:10).
- Commit to Christlike Living
Let your faith be visible through obedience, integrity, and love in daily life. Be intentional in how you live and represent Christ (Colossians 1:10).
- Commit to Sharing Your Faith
Pray for opportunities to share Jesus with others through both your words and your actions. Ask God each day for divine appointments and for the wisdom to speak when He opens the door (Matthew 28:19–20).
- Commit to Spiritual Faithfulness
Write these commitments down. Review them regularly. Ask God for grace to remain faithful—not perfect, but persistent (Galatians 6:9).
Father God,
We come before You as Your people, committing ourselves to grow in our walk with You this year. Help us to be faithful, focused, and steadfast. Give us grace when we struggle and strength to remain committed. As we write these commitments down, help us to live them out so that we may grow deeper in our relationship with You and reflect Christ in all we do.
Thank you for leading us and showing us the way.
In Jesus’ name we pray,
Amen.
Feature photo provided by Clinton Baptist Church