5 Things I Was Asked to Change in 2026

As we ease back into work in the new year, I wanted to share something personal. On January 11th, I gave my first sermon of 2026 that came from Matthew 16:13–20. I had to start living this message before I could speak it.

I have 'set and forgotten' New Year's resolutions more times than I can count, only to watch optimism fade as the pressure seeps in and questions reappear. Underneath it all, I wondered: Am I really ready for this year? Do I even know what needs to change this year? That is where I was, in that space with real questions, real discomfort, and real pressure.

So, in this message, I sensed God showing me five specific things I needed to change in 2026. Not shallow tweaks. Not motivational goals, but deep, disruptive shifts I had to own. I am sharing these because you might feel the same weight too.

So, whether you are juggling the pressure of workplace demands or just trying to find your footing again, I hope these speak to your soul as they did to mine. Here are 5 Things I was asked to Change in 2026:

1. 1Change What I Am Listening To: In the story, Jesus asks His disciples, "What do people say about me?" He was not doing a popularity check. He was making a point: Other people's opinions do not always align with the truth. Jesus wanted them (and me) to realize that whoever and whatever you listen to shapes your perspective. As we get back into the groove of what we do, it is easy to allow the loudest voices to lead and influence. But just because something is loud does not make it true.
2. 2Change What I Am Focusing On: Then Jesus shifts the question: "But who do YOU say I am?" That one hit me. Focus is not just about attention. It is about alignment. Jesus was inviting them to go deeper, to speak from the belief of their personal experience. For me, this meant asking: Am I aligned with what I say I value, especially in how I serve, lead, and show up for others?
3. 3Change How I See Myself: When Simon gives the right answer, Jesus tells him this was not revealed by people but by the Father, and then He gives him a new identity: Peter. That moment reminded me that I often define myself by my role, my responsibilities, or my results. But God sees me differently. Revelation does not just inform; it transforms. When I see Jesus clearly, I begin to see myself rightly. This shift is still working its way through me.
4. 4Change What I Am Building My Life On: This one was tough. Am I building my life on information or on actual revelation? Only revelation has the power to reshape your foundation and that requires trust, patience, and surrender, especially in high-pressure environments. This one challenged me to slow down and check what is under the "success" hood.
5. 5Change How I Live Each Day: Jesus told Peter, "I'm giving you the keys of the Kingdom." That speaks of delegated access, authority, and responsibility. He challenged me to stop praying like I am waiting for a breakthrough and start walking like I am carrying the breakthrough. For me, that meant living out the Momentum Mindset®, not just teaching it, but exemplifying it daily.

I am not sharing this as someone who has it all figured out, but as someone who is being refined and stretched in real time. I hope this message gives you the language for what you might be feeling and the strategy to keep moving forward.

Which of these five shifts is God asking you to make this year? What would change if you lived like the breakthrough was already in you?

Email me at info@drsamueljones.com. I would love to hear what is resonating with you and how I can be praying for you in this season.

Let us grow together in 2026, spiritually, personally, professionally, and practically.