Stepping Into The New Year With Confidence Series

STEPPING INTO THE NEW YEAR WITH CONFIDENCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Joshua 1:9

Key Verse: “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9)

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 27:1; Philippians 1:6; Proverbs 3:5-6; 2 Timothy 1:7

INTRODUCTION

Stepping into a new year can be filled with anticipation but also anxiety. Many believers feel uncertain about the challenges ahead, yet God calls us to approach each new season with confidence, knowing He is with us. Confidence in God removes fear, strengthens faith, and positions us for supernatural favour.

Confidence is not self-reliance but the unwavering trust that God will direct our steps, protect us from harm, and empower us to achieve His purposes. A confident believer faces the future without hesitation, anchored in God’s Word and promises.

This message will reveal practical steps to develop spiritual confidence, release fear, and enter the new year with boldness, courage, and expectation for God’s best.

1. BUILD CONFIDENCE THROUGH GOD’S WORD

Faith and assurance grow as you internalize God’s promises and meditate on His faithfulness.

a) KNOW THE WORD OF GOD – The Scriptures remind you of God’s guidance and protection (Psalm 119:105). Knowledge builds confidence.

b) MEDITATE DAILY ON HIS PROMISES – Reflection on God’s faithfulness renews courage (Joshua 1:8). Expectation aligns with action.

c) DECLARE GOD’S WORD OVER YOUR LIFE – Speaking Scripture reinforces belief (2 Corinthians 4:13). Words shape spiritual reality.

d) TRUST IN HIS UNCHANGING NATURE – God’s faithfulness remains constant (Hebrews 13:8). Confidence grows with assurance.

Biblical Example: Joshua’s courage and leadership came from constant meditation on God’s Word (Joshua 1:6-9).

2. RELEASE FEAR AND DOUBT

Fear hinders progress, while confidence opens doors for God’s blessings.

a) IDENTIFY SOURCES OF FEAR – Recognising fears allows intentional release (Isaiah 41:10). Awareness leads to action.

b) REPLACE FEAR WITH FAITH – Faith in God overcomes worry and anxiety (Philippians 4:6-7). Faith produces boldness.

c) REMOVE NEGATIVE INFLUENCES – Avoid discouraging words or situations (Proverbs 4:23). Protect your mindset.

d) EMBRACE GOD’S PEACE – God’s presence calms uncertainty (John 14:27). Peace strengthens courage.

Biblical Example: David faced Goliath confidently because he trusted in God’s power, not his own strength (1 Samuel 17:45-47).

3. STEP FORWARD IN OBEDIENCE

Confidence is expressed through action, following God’s direction without hesitation.

a) FOLLOW GOD’S INSTRUCTIONS PROMPTLY – Obedience brings supernatural support (Joshua 3:5). Action reinforces faith.

b) TAKE RISKS WITH GOD – Bold moves yield divine outcomes (2 Kings 6:15-17). Courage invites miracles.

c) STAY COMMITTED TO GOD’S PLAN – Consistency ensures alignment with purpose (Romans 12:2). Commitment sustains growth.

d) ACT WITH EXPECTANCY – Trusting God ensures outcomes reflect His promises (Psalm 37:5). Expectancy fuels confidence.

Biblical Example: Peter stepped out of the boat in faith and walked on water because he trusted Jesus’ instruction (Matthew 14:28-29).

4. MAINTAIN A HEART OF GRATITUDE AND PRAISE

Confidence is strengthened by remembering God’s past faithfulness and praising Him continually.

a) RECALL GOD’S PAST DELIVERANCES – Gratitude reminds you of His power and love (Psalm 77:11-12). Memory reinforces courage.

b) PRAISE GOD REGULARLY – Worship creates an atmosphere of divine confidence (Psalm 22:3). Praise sustains faith.

c) FOCUS ON BLESSINGS, NOT PROBLEMS – Perspective shapes action (Philippians 4:8). Positive focus strengthens resolve.

d) SHARE TESTIMONIES OF FAITH – Witnessing encourages others and solidifies your confidence (Psalm 105:1). Testimonies reaffirm belief.

Biblical Example: Paul maintained confidence and joy in prison by remembering God’s faithfulness and praising Him (Acts 16:25-26).

CONCLUSION

Entering the new year requires confidence rooted in God’s Word, freedom from fear, bold obedience, and a heart of gratitude. Confidence empowers you to face challenges, seize opportunities, and embrace God’s promises without hesitation.

As you step forward with faith, remember that the Lord goes with you, and your confidence shall open doors for supernatural favour, breakthrough, and divine blessings in every area of your life.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, help me step into the new year with unwavering confidence.

2. Lord, remove every fear and doubt that hinders my progress.

3. I declare courage and boldness in every area of my life.

4. Father, fill me with faith to act in obedience to Your plans.

5. Lord, strengthen me with Your Word and promises.

6. I release all anxiety and embrace Your peace.

7. Father, guide every step I take in this new season.

8. Lord, let gratitude and praise increase my confidence.

9. I declare that I shall walk boldly into divine opportunities.

10. Father, make me a living testimony of Your faithfulness.