Since 2004, I have made a practice of asking God for a word for the coming year, a practice that I had heard someone in a small group at church mention. It has amazed me how the word that comes to me as an answer to that prayer has played such a part of the year that follows.
Sometimes I’ve received a single word. Sometimes I’ve received a phrase. Always what I’ve received has been meaningful, although I confess I wasn’t as fond of the year my word was “Endurance” as I was of the year my words were “Peace & Simplicity.”
This year, I didn’t have to wait long at all to know God’s word for me was “Grace.” I sensed that He wants me to go deeper into understanding just how amazing is His grace toward me and also to learn how I can show more grace to others around me, to those I love as well as to complete strangers.
I already had my word when I began hearing in the planning community about an online workshop called One Little Word. I decided to look into it and, after doing so, decided to participate as a way to document my Year of Grace.
I thought I would share my start with you. I’m using a travelers notebook for the project (less space for storage than a scrapbook binder). Each month I’ll be answering prompts and exploring my word in a new way. These photos are of my January entries.
Do you ask God for a word for the year? If so, please share what it is for 2018. If not, please consider it prayerfully. I have been so blessed by focusing on one little word each year.
You might want to read Debbie Macomber’s 2012 release, One Perfect Word. In it, Debbie shares what this practice has meant for her. (I gave the book 5 stars on Goodreads).
No matter if you have a word or not, may this be a year where you are constantly aware of God’s grace in your life.
~robin
Robin Lee Hatcher
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My word is different this year ~ a noun rather than an action word ~ but… I have the directive, the action for the noun!The past month the word Name has jumped out at me. Jesus called people by their name ~ no surprise because He is personal. Also, what I am saying is specifically for you!
Lord, during 2018 may I be so aware of others that I too call them by name, speak directly to them, look in their eyes. Listen with my heart and see what You see. Blessings, Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House
Amen. And beautiful!!
The word for me this year appears to be provision. It comes up constantly in my morning prayer time… whether thanking God for His provision, or asking for it for my family, my church, or even myself. Thanks for your encouragement! Blessings over you and yours!
Great word, Trudy. I pray that you see God’s provision in amazing ways in 2018.
After reading about several of my favorite authors asking for their “word” I prayed for my own. Within a very short time I knew it was “strengthening”. I also asked in what area to focus. I received physically and spiritually. However I was most pleased with relationships. Taking the time to strengthen my relationship with family and friends will be a focus for me this year. Thanks for sharing this wonderful idea with your readers. This walk we are on continues to be narrowed.