The final week of the year is perhaps the strangest week of the year. It is like living in limbo. One year seems all but gone and the next is not yet here. Many will wait until January 1 to begin their resolutions. But wise men know “better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof” (Eccl. 7:8).

Do you remember the intensity and intent with which you began this year for the Lord? Do not simply regret that it waned. Refuse to wait, and waste another day, to regain it! Finish well. End as you desired when you started.

A new day begins best when the previous day ended right. And so it is with a new year. Make the final days of this year count and you will begin the new year stronger for the Lord.

Here are 6 definite things that should characterize the last days of this year…

• Reflection on the goodness of God. Think much of Him. Write down the many blessings of the Lord. Gratitude is the ground for building a life that honors God.
• Examination of the heart. “Search me, O God, and know my heart” (Ps. 139:23). What needs to change? Is there anything in me that is hindering true fellowship with God?
• Confession of sin. Say it. Call it exactly what He calls it. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 Jn. 1:9). The goal: nothing between.
• Elimination of lesser things. Identify specific things (even good ones) that may be keeping you from God’s best. What clutter can you remove from your life and schedule?
• Concentration on right priorities. Be definite! List the things that are most important in light of eternity and give your energy to them.
• Dedication to Jesus Christ. Give yourself afresh and anew to His control. Yield every part of yourself to the loving Lord.

On the 7th day you will find a new 1st. The Lord’s day. A new year. What will you do with it?

You continue reflecting on the goodness of God. Continue examining your heart every day. Continue confessing sin. Continue eliminating those things that would distract you from God’s best. Continue concentrating on what matters for eternity. Continue dedicating yourself to the pursuit of Christ and His perfect will.

Finish well. Begin strong. And continue.