What’s in a Word?
For the last several years, I have chosen a “word of the year.” Just a single word. I spend a few days writing down words that God lays on my heart. After I jot them down and have a good list, I review each word to see which resonates most with me. When I land on the word I choose, I print it off and place it in a picture frame hanging on a wall in my office next to my desk. This allows me to view the word often, which keeps it in the front of my mind.
Two years ago, my word for the year was Intentional. The goal was not to waste any moment. To be Intentional with everything, every person, every moment, and every opportunity that God would give me that year.
Last year, I moved into a new position at church. I had stepped out of Student Ministry and Yong Adult Ministry, at least from a day-to-day perspective, and into a position I had never served in before. This new position came with additional responsibilities and the opportunity to help provide direction for the discipleship program in our church. As the Discipleship Pastor, I would oversee small groups and discipleship groups, as well as supervise our Next-Gen staff. After working through the same process as before, the word I landed on was Influence. God was giving me a wider net. I wanted to be able to take advantage of this opportunity to Influence even more people with the gospel message of Jesus Christ.
So, what about 2024? What would be the word that guides me this year? Allow me to give some context before I share my word with you.
Towards the end of 2023, I re-entered the education world. I have always been fascinated with the concept of counseling others. I like to help people, and I especially like to help others see the potential that God has placed in their lives. I am currently back in school pursuing a doctoral degree in Biblical Counseling. More specifically Doctor of Education in Ministry in Biblical Counseling (DEdMin). With this added workload and the new responsibilities at church, I knew I would be tempted to let my personal time with the Lord slip. I knew I needed to choose a word that would remind me to stay connected to Him through the busyness of my updated schedule. So, I chose my word…Abide.
The definition of the word Abide is = to dwell, remain, be present, and be held or kept. It also implies to endure without yielding. I knew this was my word. 2024 is all about Abiding in the Lord. Resting in His promises and trusting Him to give me strength when I need it most.
What word do you need to focus on this year? I know…it’s only a word. But it’s a process that can keep you focused. Zig Ziglar once famously said, “If you aim at nothing, you’ll hit it every time.” Choose a word that helps you stay so focused that you will hit your goal.
