The start of a new year brings so many mixed emotions. From excitement and anticipation, to renewed hopes and goals, to relief and renewal. So many of us set out to accomplish new goals; long-term and short-term at the start of the year. We quickly jump on the band-wagon of “New Year, New Me” by setting fitness goals, spiritual renewals, and personal mantras.
However, somewhere in between we tend to lose them, the excitement of a fresh start quickly turns into survival mode or worse, disappointment… We start to miss the day-in and day-out excitement that we first had at the beginning of the year.
I noticed this a few years back in my own life so I started approach the New Year differently. What if I chose a word for the year? What if this word could help me accomplish all of those fitness goals, spiritual renewals, and personal mantras I had made? What if this word helped me regain my perspective and helped me refocus?
This past year I chose the word “Equipped: to be supplied with all the necessary equipment.” Setting out at the beginning of 2018, I was not sure what kind of meaning this word would take. You see there have been times in my life where I have not felt prepared, especially in this stage of my life as a twenty-something… As I have read, prayed, and pressed into this word, I now believe that when the Apostle Paul went on to say that may the people be EQUIPPED he meant a resounding blessing not just for them, but for you and me.
I don’t know what kind of load you are carrying. I don’t know what kind of year lies ahead for you or what year you’ve had, but I do know that with whatever happens you can walk into the New year with confidence knowing that you are EQUIPPED to walk through it, that you have been supplied with ALL the necessary equipment to face a new day, to face this new year. Time and time again throughout 2018 this was proven to be true, this word has shown me its meaning in more ways than one.
The words we speak to others and the words we speak to ourselves hold immense power. Throughout scripture we are reminded of the power of our words. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that death and life are in the power of the tongue. James 3:5 tells us that although our tongues may seem small, our words can speak big things.
I have not yet settled on a word for 2019, but I am excited and expectant to see how God will use that chosen word to renew my thoughts and revive my spirit. I encourage you to choose a word for the year and see just how it takes on its meaning.
Praying that you would be equipped according to HIS word and would enter 2019 with great joy and a sense of refreshment... Happy New Year, my friends!