Every year, I pray for the direction of the upcoming year.... pray that I can surrender, that I can move forward in The Lord's timing and in His direction. My word last year was "Liquid" as in “remain liquid”, not hardened to what always has been but to be ready to flow with The Spirit. Anyone who has had insight to this last year of my life knows that that call to be liquid was definitely an important point to remember (2017 was nuts!) However, looking back at His Faithfulness in every single area in my life, (whether positive or seemingly negative) it is His Faithfulness that is unquestionably evident... not how "strong" I am, or how witty, not the prizes or pitfalls, or how many events (or even how well or often I blog) - His Faithfulness stands alone... and through it all, I can't help but think of last year with a smile on my face, because He IS Faithful and True and will continue to be for the rest of my days and beyond – that is a promise that I hold on to!
Now ONTO 2018...
1 Thessalonians 5:16 - 22 says, "Be joyful always; Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil."
How can this even be attainable? ALWAYS joyful? ALWAYS PRAYING? There is only ONE answer... FOCUS... and this is my word for 2018… FOCUSing my thoughts, my eyes, my heart, FOCUSing absolutely everything that I am on my Heavenly Father. Not taking the Gift of Jesus’ sacrifice for granted. Listening. Not assuming. Not being bound by how things have always been done before. Not harboring the past but remembering His Faithful promises already fulfilled. Being ready to take the next step – or giant leap. No fear. Only boldness. Trusting. Accepting who I am in Jesus Christ without wavering. Being in His Word...I will FOCUS on what IS IN THE I AM.
My heart literally flutters when I think of how this word, as it becomes more than five letters, challenges me, will change me and will impact those around me!
I hope that this encourages and challenges you too! Don’t hesitate to share your struggles, how I can praying– but equal to that – don’t forget to share your praises and victories… I would love to rejoice with you!
2018 … 362 days left – may we each FOCUS on what The Lord has promised, trust that He Is and will continue to be Faithful AND walk boldly, declaring HIS Greatness every step of every day, and wherever He leads us! What a wonderful way to start to a New Year!
~ Jenni
www.joyinallseasons.com