January 7, 2026

Entering a New Year With Trust, Not Details

Lessons from the road to Damascus

by

Hensley Moorooven

“Get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do” (Acts 9:6, NIV).

A new year often begins with expectations, resolutions, and questions about what lies ahead. While we long for certainty and crave clarity, God frequently starts new seasons by asking us to trust Him one step at a time—He gives no blueprint, just a command. The story of Saul on the road to Damascus reminds us that obedience does not always come with details—only with direction. He heard one simple instruction: “Get up and go . . . and you will be told . . .”

Here are three practical, powerful biblical lessons we can learn from the story of a man who said yes without knowing what came next. I pray these lessons still speak to our journey of faith today.

God often gives just one step at a time.

In today’s fast-paced world we long for clarity and detailed plans. But this verse reminds us that obedience often begins with a simple trusting step forward—even when we don’t know the full picture.

Faith is not about seeing the whole staircase, but about taking the first step.

Readiness to obey precedes revelation.

Saul was not told everything up front; he had to go before he would know. This is a call to move when God says move, even when we are uncertain or uncomfortable. Faith is not about seeing the whole staircase but about taking the first step.

God uses places and people to shape our calling. 

Saul had to go to the city—Damascus—where others would speak into his life. Today we are reminded that divine guidance often comes through people and community. We don’t walk alone.

A Personal Prayer

Lord, at the beginning of this new year, I surrender my need for certainty. When You offer direction without details, give me a trusting heart. Help me rise when You call, move when You lead, and listen carefully as You unfold Your purpose one step at a time. Amen.

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About the Author

Hensley Moorooven is undersecretary of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

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