For years, I would spend a couple of days before New Year’s writing down my resolutions. I would have quite the list – things I wanted to do better, things I wanted to do everyday, ways I would keep the house cleaner, and the list goes on and on. Usually by day 2, it was over. Life would get in the way, and I just didn’t have time to tackle the list of 10-15 things to do every single day. And then I would feel like a failure. It was such a frustrating cycle to go through year after year.
A few years ago, a friend shared that she didn’t write New Year’s Resolutions. Instead, she would choose a word to focus on for the year. Something she wanted to be more intentional about throughout the year. I thought it was a great idea. That first year, though, I couldn’t think of just a word. A phrase kept coming to me over and over – Run your race.
Our son had passed away a couple of years earlier, and it was a struggle to not compare my life to everyone else who seemed so happy, whose prayers seemed to be answered when mine weren’t. The entire year, I focused on running my race and doing what God had called me to do. I sought out scripture and spent more time praying for God’s help as I tried to run my race well. It worked for me so much better than a list of resolutions.
Last year, I did choose a single word – “courage.” I am afraid of so many things, and I hate it! I don’t want to be afraid. Again, I spent time in God’s word learning from those who demonstrated courage in scripture. One of my favorite quotes from the year is “Courage is not the absence of fear.” (Franklin D. Roosevelt) I’m still a work in progress when it comes to flying, but I have found some incredible scriptures that I use to remind myself that God is in control.
This year, I have chosen a phrase – open my eyes. The writer of Psalm 119:18 says, “Open my eyes that I may behold wonderful things from your law.” I am asking God to open my eyes to both the blessings He pours out on me everyday and the opportunities He provides for me to share His love with others. I don’t want to miss a single one of either.
What about you? Do you have a word or phrase for the year? I would love to hear what you have chosen!