There is real power in focus and honing our attention on what is important. It gives us direction and acts as a compass to guide us when we become confused, weary or distracted.
A helpful key to assisting me in keeping focused on the things that truly matter and on which to anchor my actions is choosing one word for the year. I place it on my vision board alongside all that I want to achieve for the year as a daily visual reminder. My vision and goals then get filtered through this one word. If my word was freedom, then my plans are directed to find freedom – financial freedom, spiritual freedom, emotional freedom etc. One word helps me stay focused on my goals.
I’ve discovered that having a particular word for each year also helps define what God wants me to concentrate on each day. It takes faith and courage to not go through our days merely existing, but to live with a purpose and joy, whilst making a positive difference in the world.
Having a word for the year where we have inquired after and are listening to God about what He wants us to focus and grow in, helps us filter all of our lives through His “One Word” for us and help us not get off course discouraged.
I love the apostle Paul’s passionate words about what his life was all about. Paul said, “For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognising and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly]” (Philippians 3:8 AMP)
Paul lived an amazing, exciting, meaningful life. Regardless of the high and lows, he remained steadfast and fulfilled His calling. And as a result, he was able to say towards the end of his life, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)
Today I encourage you to take steps to utilise the simple and powerful tool of identifying “One Word” for the coming year. Ask God to help and to reveal it to you by asking the question, “What do you want to do in me and through me this year? Then write down what comes to your mind and heart.
One word can change and transform everything. Keep it where you can see it as a regular reminder and share it with those who will support you as you live your “One Word” out this New Yeare.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for vision and a focus for the year ahead. Please help me discover my one word so I can make the most of every day and opportunity. In Jesus Name Amen.
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