As we move further into the new year, how are your resolutions and goals holding up? Did you know the second Friday of the year is known as “National Quitter’s Day”? Have you stayed focused past January 10th?
Accountability plays a crucial role in achieving goals. In a recent conversation, Melanie and I discussed her word of the year—”more”—but not in the way the world views it. More of God. More joy. More peace. If you feel like you’ve been in a season of spiritual emptiness or are longing for more of Him, you’re not alone. Let’s explore what it means to make space for more of God in your life and how friendship can be an important part.
Read this episode’s transcript.
But Isn’t Less the Goal?
When Melanie shared that her word for 2025 was “more,” it initially seemed at odds with the idea of doing “less.” But Melanie quickly clarified—it’s about creating space for what God wants to give us: more joy, more peace, and more of His presence. In past seasons, she focused on decrease—letting go of control and learning to trust God more deeply. This year, however, she feels God calling her to receive more of Him. As John 10:10 reminds us, Jesus came so we could have life—an abundant life.
Clearing Out the Clutter
So, how do we make room for more? The answer lies in “less.” Less social media. Less comparison. Less filling our lives with busyness. As Melanie put it, “You only have so much space in your box.” If we fill it with worldly things, there’s little room left for God. We can create space for Him by setting aside distraction-free, dedicated, quiet time in His Word, honoring the Sabbath, and saying no to even good things.
Laying Down Our Rights
Another significant part of making room for more of God is laying down our perceived rights. We live in a culture that often prioritizes personal freedom and the “right” to do as we please. But as Paul teaches in 1 Corinthians 9-10, we are called to think of others first. We must be willing to set aside our “right” to indulge in things like gossip or pride in order to pursue more of God’s heart. For me, this also meant laying down my right to speak back in moments of frustration, trusting that God’s way is better.
Running the Race with Purpose
Paul compares the Christian life to a race in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, where strict training is needed to win the prize. Like athletes, we must train ourselves intentionally—whether that means controlling our thoughts, restraining our words, or making time for God each day. It’s not easy, but this discipline is the path to experiencing more of God in every part of our lives.
The race we run as believers has a purpose. Every step, every act of surrender brings us closer to the prize—eternal life with Christ. But running aimlessly won’t get us there. We need intentionality, discipline, and hearts open to God’s “more.”
Seeking More of God
So, what does “more” look like for you? For Melanie and me, it means intentionally choosing to seek God first in everything and being vulnerable with a friend for accountability. It’s a reminder that more of God requires less of the world. As you move through this year, think about the areas you need to surrender to make room for the abundant life Jesus promises. Let’s walk this journey together, striving for more of Him every day.
Habit Hero Book Giveaway Winner
From last week’s Why Teach Children Character Traits? blog post, the winners of the Habit Hero books have been chosen! Congrats to:
- Katy B at Katyfbrooks@_______.com won The Generous Giraffe
- Oliva at odoty1@______.com won The Helpful Hippo
- Gennaveve at gennaveve93@____.com won The Honest Owl
- Amanda at aferguson34@______.com won The Courteous Kitten
- Alicia at aliciacordell24@______.com won the entire Habit Hero set!
Winners, please contact me within 48 hours with your shipping address for the prize. Thank you to everyone who entered to win and to the author for providing the giveaway books!
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