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“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
— Philippians 3:13–14

 As another year comes to a close, reflection is a natural process. For those who serve in law enforcement, the past year likely includes moments of pride, stress, difficult calls, and challenges that linger long after the shift ends. Some things went well; others we wish we could change. Yet Scripture reminds us that the past cannot be undone, but it does not have to define us.

 The apostle Paul acknowledged his past but refused to live in it. Instead, he chose to press forward with purpose. As we enter a new year, here are a few biblical principles to help guide us toward positive change.

 

  1. Release what you cannot change.
    Mistakes and hard moments can teach us, but they were never meant to imprison us.

“For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation… but the sorrow of the world worketh death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10)
Learn from the past, then let it go.

 

  1. Set meaningful and intentional goals.
    Growth happens when we aim our efforts with purpose.

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” (Proverbs 29:18)
Even small, well-chosen goals can bring lasting improvement.

 

  1. Take care of yourself—physically, mentally, and spiritually.
    The demands of this job are real, and strength requires maintenance.

“Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost…?” (1 Corinthians 6:19)
“Come ye yourselves apart… and rest a while.” (Mark 6:31)
Time with God, rest, and healthy habits help sustain long-term service.

 

  1. Choose to move forward with purpose and integrity.
    Each day is a fresh opportunity to serve well.

“Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap.” (Galatians 6:9)

 As the new year begins, may we leave behind what weighs us down and press forward with renewed focus, strength, and hope one day at a time.