How to Discern God’s Voice for the New Year

As the New Year approaches, it’s natural to reflect on where you’ve been and where you’re headed. Many people ask, “Am I where God wants me to be?” “Am I walking in my purpose and calling? “Which way should I move forward?”

If you’ve been desiring some clarity and direction for your life, here are some steps that can help you discern God’s plan for your life.

Tips to Discern God’s Voice

1. Start the Year with Prayer and Fasting

Set time intentionally to be with God. During this time, ask for clarity and wisdom. The start of the new year is a great time to reevaluate your heart and choose to surrender your plans to Him; trust that He will guide you in His timing.

One of the best ways to surrender is to fast and pray. This is about joining the 21-day prayer and fasting challenge that I do every year (find more info here).

2. Be Grounded in the Word of God Daily

The Bible says that God’s Word illuminates our path (Psalm 119:105). Sometimes, you may not know exactly what to do at the beginning of the year, but as you take the next step and stay grounded in God’s Word, trust that He will reveal what to do.

3. Listen to the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit will speak in many different ways: through inner peace, conviction, and prompting, but as you study the Word, you will begin to discern His voice even better. He wants to teach you (John 14:26) and help you to discern where God’s will, open door, and where you shouldn’t go. If you stay close to the Holy Spirit, He will help you.

4. Lean Into Wise Counsel

It’s also important to surround yourself with godly mentors, pastors, and friends who can provide godly advice and discernment. For bigger life choices, run your decisions by people who have walked with God longer than you, and they will provide wisdom and direction (Proverbs 11:14).

5. Look for Open and Closed Doors

Next, make sure to pay attention to the opportunities that are set before you (Revelation 3:8); sometimes, a closed door means it’s not the right time. During waiting seasons, learn to praise God “in the hallway” while you wait for the next open door. Don’t force doors to open that God has closed; instead, go through the doors He has already opened.

6. Wait Patiently But Also Act in Faith

To wait patiently means you can’t be desperate, and you can’t go into panic mode. You’ve got to wait. However, there are often times when you must also learn to take a step of faith (2 Corinthians 5:7). Sometimes, you must act before you see results—like stepping into the Jordan River before it splits.

Some seasons require waiting, while others require walking. The Holy Spirit will guide you when to wait and when to step forward.

7. Whatever You Do, Do It With All Your Heart As Unto God

Lastly, I want to emphasize that sometimes, you don’t need to do only what is specifically within your calling in order to prosper in the Lord. David prospered as a shepherd, a musician, and an armor-bearer before becoming king. Joseph prospered in prison and in Pharaoh’s house. As long as you are trusting in the Lord, living in repentance and obedience, the Bible says, “Whatever he does, he’ll prosper” (Psalm 1:3).

Ultimately, I want to encourage you to discern God’s will this year by starting with prayer and fasting and surrendering to Him. And whatever you do, do everything with all your heart as unto the Lord.

Read: “Which of These is God’s Voice?”