“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” – Ephesians 5:15-16 (NKJV)
Every bookkeeper knows that at the end of the fiscal year, the numbers do not lie. The ledger shows exactly where the resources went. What if you approached your year the same way? An honest audit of how you have spent your days. Have you been a good steward of the year? This reflection is not about guilt; it is about wisdom for what is ahead.
The anchor text reminds us to live wisely, redeeming every opportunity, because each day is full of distractions that could derail us. Now we are looking at 365 days in review. Ask yourself: What did God help you accomplish this year? Where did distraction win? What goals are still waiting? Like a bookkeeper closing the books, this honest assessment provides the insight you need to steward the coming year with greater wisdom.
But the way you reflect matters as much as the reflection itself.
Your reflection without God’s direction is just self-analysis. Invite Him in, and reflection becomes transformation. As the psalmist prayed, ‘Test me, Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind’ (Psalm 26:2).
Set aside time to sit before the Lord and invite Him into your review of the year. Tell Him the areas you are grateful for. Gratitude is born out of reflection. Ask Him: ‘Where were you at work in my life this year? What were you teaching me? Where did I partner well with you, and where did I resist?’ Listen. Write it out in a journal. Be honest about the wins and the losses, the obedience and the distractions.
Then ask the most important question: ‘Lord, what do You want to do in and through me in the coming year? Stewardship is not about becoming your own taskmaster; it is about aligning your life with God’s heart. When you bring Him into the process, reflection becomes redirection. (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Dear believer, reflection is not a journey of guilt; it is an honest conversation with a loving Father. God is always willing to direct your steps. As you reflect on the year, trust Him. He does not hold your shortcomings over you – He holds your hand and walks with you toward greater faithfulness. That is the heart of stewardship: not perfection, but partnership with God.
Bible Reading Plan: Zechariah 13–14; 2 John