In 2015 I decided to
forgo resolutions and just set goals. In 2016 I decided to center those goals
around a single word for the year. 2016’s word was Restoration. I have been
putting a lot of thought into what word I would need to focus on this year.
When I felt led to Restoration, I had no idea how that word would take on
valuable meaning as major life events unfolded in the latter half of the year.
After some quiet
time, I believe the Lord has lead me to the word I will focus on this year:
Lean
The dictionary has
multiple meanings for this word. However, the one that struck an immediate
chord with me was “to rely or depend”. The verse that I am focusing on this
year accompanies this word and its definition in its entirety.
The last half of 2016 has taught me more than ever that I need to learn to lean. I am acutely
aware at how inadequately I do this in my day to day life. I am a fixer. I am a
planner. I do not do surprises well. I thrive under pressure and I enjoy
routine. That is me. All of these personality traits tend to go against the
meaning "lean".
It should not come as
a surprise that I am hesitant to embrace this for the year, but I truly
feel led to allow it to be the word that defines 2017.
Over the last year I
have experienced indescribable heartache and lingering grief. I have had my
best laid plans scattered in the wind, only to be amazed by God’s provision and
order. While I know accepting to learn to lean is necessary, I also know it
will be challenging.
I’ve been trying to
gauge what this will look like for me this year and I have chosen some areas to
really focus on this year. Some are similar to last year, but with a new word,
there will also be new outcomes. While I could never foresee all that God
has in store for me and my family, I know His plan is perfect. I know His
actions are good. I know as I learn to truly lean on Him that I will grow my relationship
with Him.
Learning to Lean in 2017
My Family
-depend on my husband
more (give up more of my need to control)
-rely on God for
wisdom in raising and making decisions for our children
-relying on God to
grow our family how and when He chooses
Health
-relying on God to
lead me to the right doctors and professionals
-depending on God to
help me get back on track with eating and exercise
-relying on God to
help me recover completely, both physically and emotionally
Home
-relying on God’s
provision
-depending on God to
direct us to the perfect plan and resources for our new home
Work
-depending on God to
give me wisdom, patience, and endurance
Interpersonal
-relying on God to
show me ways to strengthen relationships
-trusting God to
bring those that I need into my life
-seeking God’s will
for my friendships
-trusting God to help
me develop relationships with others that I can help
It may seem like I
have a lofty list, but the majority of these areas are intertwined. If you
notice, the word lean is full of action. I know my shortcomings, but they do not define me. God
will do a great work with me this year as I learn to lean into Him. It is my
hope and prayer that I will be able to pay it forward through this season of
growth and leave the lives I encounter better than they were before.
What will you be
aiming for this year?
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