I just love this concept of having \u2018a word\u2019 as a spiritual discipline. (I\u2019m sure you have stumbled across this idea…recently the blogging world has been crazy busy writing about it!) Somehow…ok, God\u2019s grace, of course…I was introduced to this idea three years ago. A bit ahead of the crowd which is sort of typical for me. You see, I don\u2019t do trendy things, I surely dance to the beat of a different drum. But I am perfectly settled with that…it is who I am and who I imagine I will always be.<\/p>\n
Here’s how it works: \u00a0the plan is to pray and, following God\u2019s lead, choose \u2018one word\u2019 that will be your focus for the next year. In working through this concept it seems to be so simple and, yet, so vast in its application. I have found that my eyes and ears (and spirit!) are aware and attentive to \u2018hearing\u2019 my word whether in the Scriptures, or in study of other books, or in listening to a sermon or teaching, etc. But isn\u2019t that just the way that the Holy Spirit leads, and guides, and teaches us? It is the still, small voice that we hear. It is His gentle leading that always bring us to \u2018see\u2019 a revelation. Haven\u2019t you found this true?<\/p>\n
Each of my words has always been in relation to Almighty God. My \u2018one word\u2019 in 2013 has been TRUST,<\/span> in 2012 it was PEACE<\/span>, and in 2011 my word was REFUGE<\/span>. And these are the verses that I began with and stood upon:<\/p>\n TRUST<\/em><\/strong><\/span> PEACE<\/span><\/em><\/strong> REFUGE<\/em><\/strong><\/span> I can honestly tell you that drawing closer in my relationship with God in light of each of those words has changed my heart. No doubt about it; absolutely! And so I joyfully anticipate ALL that God is going to do in me in 2014 as I focus on one word\u2014JOYFUL<\/span><\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n You will make known to me the path of life;
\nWhen I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.
\nIn God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust;
\nI shall not be afraid. What can mere man do to me?
\nPsalms 56:3 and 4<\/p>\n
\nDo not fret or have any anxiety about anything,
\nbut in every circumstance and in everything,
\nby prayer and petition (definite requests),
\nwith thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.
\nAnd God\u2019s peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul
\nassured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God
\nand being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace]
\nwhich transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard
\nover your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
\nPhilippians 4:6 and 7<\/p>\n
\nBut let all who take refuge<\/em> in You rejoice; let them ever sing for joy,
\nand spread Your protection over them, and that those who love Your Name may exult in you.
\nPsalm 5:11<\/p>\n
\nIn Your presence is fullness of joy;
\nIn Your right hand there are pleasures forever.
\nPsalm 16:11<\/p>\n