The word had come to me with a surety it was, indeed, the one word for 2018. But I wasn’t sure I was going to like it. But it’s my word for the year and I will embrace it.
Keeping the word before me has been easy thus far. I want to focus on what God has for me to see, hear, and do each day. More so, I desire to glorify this God I proclaim, reaching out to those He places in my life.
“Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, “This is the way you should go,” whether to the right or to the left.” (Isaiah 30:21, NLT)
This is the way we are to live – paying attention each day – to what God is speaking, whispering into our ear. Life happens all around us and if we aren’t careful, we will miss those opportunities. They will be right under our noses and we won’t even see them.
In the mundane and ordinary, He has hidden for us the uncommon and extraordinary. We must be careful to watch, to listen, and to focus.
As we go about our days, we will find the opportunities –
- The infant who brings a new beginning or a fresh start.
- The children who have dreams and aspirations who dare us to dream for more.
- The elderly who wants to be heard and offer a wealth of wisdom and knowledge.
- The friends and strangers who share their life with us so we remember how much we need one another.
Isaiah reminds us in the above passage …
“His [God’s] presence will be seen, for he will be active among them, instructing them in the way they should walk.”
(from the New American Commentary, Volume 15A, page 521)
But we must dare to focus.
To hear.
To see.
Today I am joining … #DreamTogether and Inspire Me Monday and Glimpses .
That’s a great verse- thanks for sharing! Yes, there is so much we can see and learn if we focus on God and stay open to what he is saying and the things and people that are around us.
Thank you, friend! Think of you often on this “focus” journey š
This was perfect for me today, Joanne. It seems everything I read today is about focusing on what’s in front of me and looking for what’s right and lovely. As winter wears on, it’s easy to lose focus! Thank you for your words today!
So true, Stacey. We keep looking ahead for spring and overlook the day right in front of us.
Great word for the New Year. I loved catching up with your blog on #InspireMeMonday
Thank you, Mary! Glad you stopped here!
What a fantastic post to read this morning. Thanks so much!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Joanne,
Great word! I appreciate the fact that you weren’t enthralled at first with it, but knew it was something God was calling you to. It takes some discipline to focus – to intentionally look, listen, and hear. Joining with you in focusing on what the Lord has for you/me and then following in His ways.
Blessings sweet friend,
Bev xx
I think I wanted an easy word, or maybe one that was soft & fuzzy. Not too much work š But then, where would be growth? It is my word & I must come to learn the lessons it will bring. So grateful for you!
What a great word for the year! I imagine you are going to learn so much as God redirects you back to Him time after time. I know how much I miss when my eyes are not on the One who wants to guide my path. Blessings!
What a great word, Joanne! I still haven’t chosen a word…and I don’t know if I will. But I love reading about everyone else’s!