My social media feed is overflowing with optimism right now. Friends are declaring 2026 will be “the best year ever.” Some are getting married, others are graduating college, expecting babies, or (like many of us in our 50s) becoming grandparents for the first time—or again. Every milestone feels like a reason to celebrate and post. Then come the classic resolutions: eat healthier, exercise more, and lose weight aggressively. I get it—I’ve been there.

But this is my 54th New Year, and I’m taking a different path this time. A couple of months ago, a friend asked if I’d set my goals for 2026. Goals? Honestly, I hadn’t even thought about it. Work makes me set them, but personally? Not really. So I pulled out a notebook and started brainstorming: Lose 10 pounds. Eat better. Join a gym. Spend less, save more. The list grew quickly—overwhelmingly.

As I stared at it, a wave of defeat hit me before I’d even begun. Listing everything I wanted to fix or improve just highlighted all the areas in my life where I am the most discontent. Nothing on that list was truly motivated by honoring God. It was all self-serving: I want to look better in my jeans, fight the signs of aging, feel more in control.

If I dug deeper, the real driver wasn’t closeness to God—it was gaining attention, approval, or security from the world. My flesh would be fed, but my soul? Still restless.The Bible warns us about this exact trap. In Philippians 4:11–13 (NIV), Paul shares his hard-won secret: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation… I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Paul wasn’t chasing better circumstances; he was learning contentment in Christ, no matter what.

Jesus puts it even more directly in Matthew 6:33 (NIV): “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” When our deepest pursuit is God Himself—not a smaller waistline or a bigger bank account—He promises to provide what we truly need.

Then there’s 1 Timothy 6:6 (NIV), Paul reminds us: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” True gain isn’t in what we achieve or acquire; it’s in a life aligned with God, satisfied in Him.

So I simplified. Instead of a long to-do list that exposes my discontent, I chose one daily focus: H.E.A.L.T.H. —not just physical, but holistic health that feeds my soul.

Each day, I aim to pursue:

• H — Heaping piles of fruits and vegetables (nourishing my body as God’s temple—1 Corinthians 6:19–20)
• E — Exercise daily (moving my body with gratitude, not punishment)
• A — Always start with God (time in His Word and prayer first, seeking Him above all)
• L — Lots of water and less wine (simple stewardship of what He’s given me)
• T — Take time to relax and read more (resting in His presence, not striving)
• H — Hug a lot! (loving others well, because that’s where real joy lives)

I love this because it’s not about rigid outcomes or perfection—it’s about daily, grace-filled choices that honor God and care for the life He’s entrusted to me. When I start with Him (that “A” is non-negotiable), the rest flows more naturally. And if I slip? His strength (Philippians 4:13) covers me—no defeat, just gentle course-correction.

If you’re like me—if past resolutions have only spotlighted your discontent and resulted in defeat. Let’s stop chasing self-improvement that feeds the flesh and start pursuing the One who truly satisfies. True health begins when we delight in the Lord (Psalm 37:4), trusting Him to shape our desires and provide what we need.

Who’s with me on this quest for daily H.E.A.L.T.H.? Drop a “like” or comment if you’re choosing God-first contentment in 2026. I’d love to hear how you’re starting your year anchored in Him.

Happy New Year, friends. He’s already with us and being image bearers of God, all He asks is that we make Him the true motivation in 2026 —let’s walk it out together.