Christmas has passed, and if you're like me, the week after feels like your Waze app is constantly recalculating, and I quietly think, “Lord... me too.” We start a new year filled with hopes and big goals, as if we need to fix everything in our lives immediately. New habits, routines, budgets, and even a new look.

Suddenly, we imagine ourselves going to LA Fitness at 5:00 a.m. Remember, I said that’s a goal, not something I’m doing yet. Pray for me! The year begins with “On your mark, get set…” but some of us are still tying our shoes, looking for keys, or searching for coffee. It might feel like we're already falling behind before the year truly begins. 
 
Here's the good news: real change often doesn't start with doing more. Sometimes, it begins by making space. Jesus didn't say, “Seek first a perfect plan” or “Seek flawless habits." Instead, He said, “Seek first the Kingdom of God," not to pressure us but to show where true peace begins. When we prioritize Him, there's no need to chase after purpose or self-worth. Grace leads the way. This year isn't about staying busy, for God's sake; it's about being available to Him. 
 
As 2026 begins, it may be a gentle nudge from God to Reset, much like switching your phone from dark mode to light mode. Dark mode, used to save battery or avoid brightness, feels like survival mode: effective but incomplete. Light mode restores clarity—brighter, calmer, and clearer. This is like spiritual reset mode, which doesn't deny struggles but invites God to turn up the brightness so you can see His direction and remember you're not alone on this journey. 
 
Survival mode makes us hold our breath, rely solely on our strength, and risk burnout. In contrast, Reset mode offers reassurance that God is in control, allowing us to breathe freely again. While survival mode can depend on caffeine to get through difficult seasons, Reset mode helps us truly live once more. In survival mode, we persist with prayer, coffee, and whatever little peace we can find. Reset mode involves trusting that God is guiding us, reminding us that He knows what He’s doing. It's not about pretending everything is perfect but trusting God's presence in each imperfect step. 
 
Reset mode welcomes anyone ready for a new beginning. Whether you're a busy parent taking a moment to breathe, someone coming back to faith after a long absence, a student contemplating your next step, or a believer praying for renewal, remember you're not behind or late. You're precisely on time for God to renew and restore you. This year isn't just about surviving; it's about progressing like someone who understands the Promised Land is a real destiny, not just a dream. The Promised Land isn’t merely a physical place, but a spiritual promise of Rest and Reset with purpose, peace with a sense of direction, and confidence that God goes before you. No more wandering aimlessly; we walk with Jesus—calmly, steadily, without panic—He is leading the way. 
 
To assist you in transitioning from survival mode to Reset mode in 2026, here is a prayer for you: 
 
Lord, Reset my heart before I focus on habits. Align my spirit before I arrange my schedule. Renew my desires before I tackle my to-do list. Lead me from just surviving to genuinely resting in You. Help me to care for what You've entrusted to me with calmness, not pressure. Teach me to seek You first, trust You fully, and walk with You into the future You've prepared. Amen.

At the Intersection,
Dr. Quincy Brown