As the calendar turns over and a new year begins, the world focuses on goals, resolutions, and priorities. But for believers, 2026 is more than a fresh start; it’s an invitation to draw near to Jesus. God is not a stale tradition or a distant deity.
He is alive, active and new to us every year. His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23), and He is calling you into something fresh right now.
Drawing near to God isn’t just a religious exercise or a duty; it’s a path to great reward.
We aren’t called to be close to God for His own benefit; it’s for believers. Walking near the Lord and in the Spirit is a lifestyle of victory. The more you abide in God’s Word and in His presence, the more you will hear His voice and the more victorious and prosperous you will be in every area of life.
Additionally, the Word tells us God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). A reward is a prize, an honor, a gift. That’s what you can expect when you spend time drawing near to Him.
Here are several rewards you can expect as you draw near to Jesus this new year:
Draw Close to God for Fresh Encounters
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8, NKJV)
Spending time with God requires persevering attention and constant effort. Not just a moment of spiritual excitement as the new year begins, but a consistent lifestyle.
The Passion Translation of Hebrews 11:6 says, “He rewards the faith of those who give all their passion and strength into seeking him.” This year, let that be you. Make it your mission to press into God’s presence with fresh expectation.
When He draws near to you, you’ll enjoy a closeness, a fellowship, a friendship. Doors of communication will open wide. You’ll hear His instruction, His correction and His encouragement. It’s a relationship that will redefine your year.
Draw Near for Wisdom for Every Challenge
“He will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13, NIV)
The new year brings new decisions, new opportunities and often, new problems. But when you come close to God, you are not left to figure things out on your own. The Holy Spirit will lead you into all truth.
If you’re a businessperson, He can guide your strategies. If you’re a parent, He’ll show you how to lead your children. If you’re navigating health, finances or relationships, He will give you insight beyond your natural understanding.
Remember King Hezekiah in 2 Kings, who saved Jerusalem from the threatening Assyrian army? When he drew near to God and prayed for intervention, the Assyrian army withdrew completely, and Jerusalem was spared. One man’s prayer changed the course of history. That’s what happens when you draw near and listen.
Get Close to God for Insight into the Future
“He will show you things to come.” (John 16:13, KJ21)
Wouldn’t it be powerful to walk into the new year with a glimpse of what’s ahead? You can! One of the rewards of drawing near to God is prophetic insight. He reveals what’s coming so you can prepare.
God’s Spirit will show you how to avoid traps, prepare for opportunity, and walk through trials with confidence. Don’t just rely on headlines or predictions. Lean into the One who already holds tomorrow.
Draw Near for Strength for Every Battle
“The joy of the LORD is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10, NKJV)
You may walk into this new year feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders based on the trials and temptations you faced in the past year. But God has promised supernatural strength for every moment when you draw on the joy of the Lord.
His power is made perfect in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). When your natural energy runs out, His miracle-working power takes over. You can face anything this year with joy because His strength is available every day in every challenge.
Draw Near for Provision for Every Need
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33, NKJV)
What are you believing for this year? Healing? Financial breakthrough? Peace in your home? It’s all found in God’s Word.
Your job isn’t to chase provision; it’s to chase Him. As you prioritize drawing near to Him, His presence and His Word, every other need will be met. Let this be your year of alignment, where seeking Him first brings everything else into place.
Draw Near for Power To Fulfill Your Calling
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me” (Luke 4:18, NIV)
You may feel unqualified for what this year holds, but God doesn’t need your natural ability. He needs your availability.
God equips your ordinary abilities with extraordinary power when you’re close to Him. What He calls you to do this year, He will empower you to complete.
So don’t shrink back. Step forward in faith, and trust that His anointing will meet you right where you are.
As this new year unfolds, you don’t need resolutions; you need revelation. You need to know the God who makes all things new, who refreshes your spirit, who calls you closer.
Commit to being close to God in this season, and you will discover new levels of intimacy, insight, strength, provision, and power. His rewards are not outdated; they are new every morning, and they’re waiting for you now.
Victory is yours. Now draw near to Jesus and walk in it.
© 1997 – 2026 Eagle Mountain International Church Inc., DBA Kenneth Copeland Ministries. All Rights Reserved.
