S.M.A.R.T. Financial Resolutions for the New Year

Jan 1, 2026

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Every January, millions of people set fresh goals: eat healthier, exercise more, or get their finances in better shape. These are good and worthy aims. Yet studies consistently show that most resolutions fade within a few weeks.

So if this is the year you want to steward money more wisely—get out of debt, save consistently, or live with greater margin—what actually helps habits last beyond January?

The answer isn’t more motivation. It’s a better foundation.

Why Good Intentions Aren’t Enough

Resolutions often fail for predictable reasons. We set goals that are vague or unrealistic. We don’t connect them to a meaningful “why.” Or we jump in without a system to support change. When life gets busy or discouraging—as it always does—old habits quickly take over.

If you’ve ever tried to stick to a spending plan, curb impulse purchases, or make steady progress on debt, you know those difficult moments will come. Lasting change doesn’t happen by hoping harder. It happens when old patterns are replaced with new, intentional habits.

The Power of a Plan

One of the most common reasons financial resolutions fail is simple: we try to change without a plan. But you can’t hope your way into better money habits.

A spending plan turns good intentions into clear, practical choices. It gives your money direction and helps automate progress so your goals become part of everyday life—not just something you think about when motivation is high.

More than that, a plan allows you to steward what God has entrusted to you with purpose and clarity, rather than relying on willpower alone.

Accountability Makes Progress Stick

We were never meant to pursue growth in isolation. Accountability strengthens resolve and keeps discouragement from becoming defeat.

Invite a trusted friend to check in with you regularly. Make it a family goal to reduce spending or save consistently. Celebrate wins together—and when you fall short, don’t quit. Reset and keep going.

Stewardship is a journey, not a single moment of success.

Willpower Isn’t Enough—You Need God’s Strength

Even with a solid plan, many people still struggle to keep their resolutions. Often, it’s because they’re trying to do it all in their own strength.

Lasting change requires spiritual power, not just discipline. Scripture reminds us of this truth:

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” — Hebrews 12:11

New habits often feel uncomfortable at first. A budget can feel restrictive. Cutting back can feel frustrating. Saying no to impulse purchases can feel like a sacrifice. But God promises that discipline rooted in faith produces something beautiful over time—peace, stability, and a life aligned with His wisdom.

That’s why prayer matters. Ask God to reshape your desires, guide your decisions, and strengthen you when the novelty wears off. If you’re married, pray together, inviting the Lord to give you unity as you pursue shared financial goals.

Build S.M.A.R.T. Financial Goals

Once your plans are grounded in prayer, structure matters. One of the most effective ways to build that structure is by setting S.M.A.R.T. financial goals—goals that are:

Specific

Don’t say, “I want to save more.” Say, “I will save $100 each month.” Clear goals are easier to follow.

Measurable

Tracking progress keeps you motivated. Seeing balances change and debt shrink builds momentum.

Achievable

Don’t expect to undo years of financial strain in a few weeks. Small wins compound over time—and they prevent discouragement.

Realistic

Dream boldly, but plan honestly. Your goals should reflect your actual income and expenses—not depend on debt to fill the gaps.

Timely

Every goal needs a timeframe. Whether you’re saving, paying down debt, or building margin, set milestones and review your plan regularly to adjust and keep moving forward.

A Better Measure of Success

As you set financial goals for the new year, remember that every number tells a story—about God’s provision, your heart’s priorities, and the opportunities He gives you to bless others.

Success isn’t measured by how much you accumulate, but by how clearly your finances point to Jesus as your ultimate treasure.

If you’d like help building habits that last, the FaithFi app is designed to help you create a plan, track progress, and stay encouraged along the way. You can find it in your app store or visit FaithFi.com to learn more.

Faithful stewardship isn’t about perfection—it’s about steady, surrendered steps forward.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

A credit card company is suing a family member over about $12,000 in debt. His wages are now being garnished, and he’s worried about losing his home and damaging his credit. His wife ran up the debt without his knowledge. Is there any advice I can give him? Would filing for bankruptcy stop the wage garnishment, or is it too late since the case is already in court?
I set up a TreasuryDirect account, but can’t figure out how to convert my paper I Bonds to electronic form. The website isn’t clear about how to add them. What steps do I need to take to convert them?
My wife and I just turned 64, and both work at the same Christian school. We have an eight-year-old, and our employer offers a family health plan that covers all of us. As we approach Medicare age, do we have to leave the family plan? What do we need to do about enrolling in Medicare, and how does it affect our child’s coverage?
I’ve used your financial small-group curriculum before. Do you currently offer any small-group resources or curriculum? If so, what would you recommend?

Resources Mentioned:

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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