As a new year begins in Nokesville and Gainesville, many of us cannot help but wonder what might change in our lives by this time next year. The calendar resets, but the deeper shifts we long for often take more than a resolution. That is where Pastor Irene Rollins brings a different kind of encouragement, one rooted in faith and the hope found in God's Word.

She reminds us real change is not about setting perfect goals or becoming someone new overnight. It begins when we invite God into our ordinary days. Whether you are in a season of pressing questions or just quietly hoping for something new, there is space for that in God's plan. There is no better time to begin than now, right where we are. If you are part of a church in Gainesville, VA, or nearby in Nokesville, this message speaks to what so many of us are longing for: a fresh start with God leading the way.

Starting with Surrender

We often think big change starts with effort, working harder, getting more focused, or pushing through. But Pastor Irene challenges that thinking. She points us to something much simpler but stronger: surrender. Surrender means letting go, not giving up. It means trusting God to steer, even if we are not sure where we are going yet.

The Bible teaches that when we give our plans and control to God, He brings things together in a way we never could on our own. That does not mean we will always understand what He is doing or feel ready for what is next. But it does mean we do not have to carry the pressure to figure everything out. God already sees the whole picture. Surrender turns our focus from ourselves to Him, and that is where real growth begins.

God Works in the Waiting

Waiting is hard. We naturally want to see quick progress, fast answers, and visible change. But much of God’s work happens in the quiet places where time moves slowly and we have to hold on by faith. Pastor Irene reminds us that growth often happens under the surface, not out in the open.

Think about a seed in soil. It does not bloom right away, but it is alive. It is doing something invisible yet important. Our spiritual life is often the same way. Those seasons of waiting, when it seems like God is silent, are not wasted. They are forming trust, patience, and deeper faith.

In times of waiting, we can still listen, pray, and choose to believe His promises. Verses like Hebrews 12:1-2 encourage us to run with endurance, fixing our eyes on Jesus, who goes ahead of us. Growth starts with trusting even when we cannot see the outcome.

Walking Out New Choices Every Day

Real change rarely comes from a dramatic moment. It is built through small, steady choices. We might want this year to feel different, but the truth is, it comes down to how we show up today. Pastor Irene encourages us to start fresh each morning, leaning closer to Jesus instead of chasing perfection.

Some days, that means making the choice to forgive or to ask for help. Other days, it is staying in God’s Word even when it feels hard to focus. The point is, we do not have to do everything at once. We walk one step at a time.

• Choose to pray when you are stressed.

• Choose patience when you are frustrated.

• Choose kindness when it is not returned.

These simple things stack up over time. They shape who we are becoming and help us live more like Jesus, not just believe in Him.

Trusting God with the Hard Stuff

It is not a question of if hard things will come this year; it is a matter of when. But we are not walking into those moments alone. Pastor Irene reminds us that God sees every burden. He is not waiting at the finish line; He is with us in the thick of it.

When life feels too heavy, that is the exact moment to turn to God, sometimes more out of desperation than strength. The good news is that He is not afraid of our weakness. In fact, Scripture tells us that His strength shows up best when we admit we need help.

When we are tired, discouraged, or unsure, we do not need to hide those things. Bring them into the light through honest prayers. Sing even when crying feels easier. Let worship anchor you when emotions swirl. God does not ask us to pretend everything is fine. He promises to be present, even in the hardest parts.

Looking Forward with Faith

We do not know what this year holds, but we know who holds it. That truth lets us look ahead without fear. Pastor Irene talks about how trusting God means we can expect Him to keep writing our story. The hard chapters do not have to be the final ones.

When we walk with God daily, we build confidence, not in ourselves, but in His promises. We can say, “This time next year, I will not be where I am today,” not because of our hard work or perfect faith, but because God is faithful.

We may not see exactly how He is moving, but we know He is not standing still. In small moments and quiet prayers, He meets us right where we are. That is how we can look toward the future with hope.

Find a Community for Growth

At Love Church, you will find Sunday services every week at 9 AM and 11 AM in Nokesville, Virginia. We offer a welcoming space for families, with kids ministry available from birth through grade 5 during both services. Whether you are beginning your faith journey or seeking encouragement for the year ahead, our community is here to support you at every stage.

The Year Ahead Starts Now

We do not have to wait to see progress or feel different. A fresh start can begin today with a simple yes to God. Every decision to trust, listen, and respond in love sets a tone for the months ahead.

Instead of trying to predict where we will be a year from now, we get to walk closely with the God who already sees it. The future takes shape from what we choose today. So we begin again, right here, right now, with quiet surrender, daily faith, and a heart open to being led. Change does not have to wait. It starts now.

Embrace a journey of renewal and growth with God this year. At Love Church, we believe that every day offers a chance for a fresh start, especially when you walk with others in faith. If you are searching for a church in Gainesville, VA that supports your journey, we invite you to join our welcoming community. Discover how a strong foundation in faith can transform your life—together, we can step confidently into the future God has planned for us.