Embracing a New Approach to the New Year
As the calendar flips to a new year, many people are trading in traditional resolutions for a single word that encapsulates their goals and aspirations. Social media feeds are filled with friends and acquaintances sharing their chosen words, such as “Enough,” “Abundance,” “Whole,” and even “Nope.” While I abandoned the idea of New Year’s resolutions years ago, I never quite jumped on the bandwagon of selecting a guiding word – until now.
A Year of Burnout and Awakening
Looking back on the start of last year, I was exhausted. The constant pressure to say yes to every opportunity had taken its toll, and my body eventually gave out, succumbing to a series of colds and flu that lasted for seven agonizing weeks. It was as if my body was forcing me to prioritize my own needs, something that doesn’t come naturally to me.
The Power of Listening
If I had to sum up my last year with a single word, it would be “LISTEN.” Through counseling, I embarked on a journey to better understand my own needs and desires. I learned to tune in to my physical and emotional requirements, recognizing that meeting others’ needs wasn’t the same as meeting my own. I also began to listen to my emotions, acknowledging that I struggle to ask for what I need, especially on an emotional level.
A Deeper Connection with God
Most importantly, I started listening more intentionally to God’s voice through the power of the Holy Spirit. I believe that the Bible is God’s Word, but I also believe that God speaks to us in a personal, intimate way. This deeper connection with God has brought me immense joy and has lightened my emotional, physical, and spiritual burdens.
A New Word for a New Year
As the year drew to a close, I received an email from a friend about choosing a word for the new year, but with a twist: instead of selecting a word myself, I would invite Jesus to give me one. After some initial hesitation, I decided to pray a listening prayer, asking Jesus to reveal His word for me for 2020. The answer came swiftly: “ABIDE.” I was led to John 15:5, which reminds us that apart from God, we can do nothing.
A Year of Abiding
As I look to the future, I’m excited to see how this year unfolds – in my family, writing, friendships, and overall well-being – as I abide in Him. I’m grateful for the gift of God’s Word and the clear call to remain in Him alone.
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