How to Set Spiritual Intentions, Not Just Resolutions

January is full of promises. Promises to ourselves, eat better, exercise more, organize our lives, or finally tackle that goal we’ve been putting off. But let’s be honest: most resolutions fizzle out within a few weeks. Why? Because they rely on our own willpower, our own ideas of “improvement,” instead of inviting God to define the year with us.

This year, I want to challenge you to shift the focus: set spiritual intentions, not just resolutions. Intentions are about alignment, purpose, and relationship. Resolutions often focus on external habits. Spiritual intentions focus on internal transformation with God at the center.

Why Spiritual Intentions Matter

1 Corinthians 10:31 reminds us, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” A spiritual intention asks, “Lord, how can my life, my choices, my habits reflect Your glory this year?” It’s not about self-improvement alone, it’s about inviting God to shape our character, priorities, and responses in every area of life.

Intentions are relational. They flow from a desire to grow closer to God, to hear His voice more clearly, and to act with His love in mind. They transform ordinary actions into acts of worship, turning the mundane into sacred opportunities.

Practical Steps to Set Spiritual Intentions

Start with Reflection: Look back over the past year. Where did you feel closest to God? Where did you feel distant? Honest reflection helps identify areas to invite Him in. Psalm 139:23–24 says, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Ask God for Guidance: Pray specifically about what He wants to cultivate in your life this year. It might be patience, generosity, courage, or deeper faith. Be ready to listen; sometimes God’s answers surprise us.
Define Your Intentions in Actionable Terms: Spiritual intentions become practical when tied to daily habits or commitments. For example:
- “I will pray for one person each day.”
- “I will spend ten minutes daily in scripture reflection.”
- “I will practice forgiveness when I feel wronged, relying on God’s strength.”
Write Them Down: There’s power in seeing your intentions on paper. Journaling creates a visual reminder and helps track progress. Include scripture or promises that reinforce your intentions.
Check In Regularly: Unlike resolutions that fade, spiritual intentions grow as we nurture them. Set aside weekly or monthly check-ins with God to pray, reflect, and adjust as He leads.

Personal Reflection

Last year, I made what I thought were “good resolutions.” I wanted to read more scripture, pray more consistently, and grow spiritually. But it quickly became a list of things I had to do, rather than opportunities to deepen my walk with God. The shift happened when I started asking, “Lord, how do You want me to grow this year?”

Instead of focusing on quantity, how many chapters I read, or how often I prayed, I focused on quality and alignment. I asked God to meet me where I was, to transform my intentions from obligation into love-driven devotion. The difference was profound. My actions became worship, and my discipline became joy.

A Challenge for the New Year

This year, I challenge you: don’t just make resolutions. Set spiritual intentions. Invite God into your habits, your decisions, your relationships, and your ambitions. Ask Him to define what success looks like in your life. Let Him turn ordinary routines into extraordinary opportunities to glorify Him.

Remember Philippians 2:13: “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.” Your spiritual intentions aren’t about trying harder—they’re about letting God work in you, shaping your heart and guiding your steps.

So as you plan your year, ask yourself: What spiritual intention will guide your days this year? Write it down. Pray over it. Let it transform not just what you do, but who you become.