By Kimba Capbell
I remember years ago, several of my friends talking about their “word” for the year. One of my friends chose the word “peace” and another friend chose the word “family.” I didn’t have a word. I wanted a word for the year, but I didn’t know exactly what to choose. I think I chose something that year, but honestly by February that word was long forgotten.
It was New Year’s 2019. I sat down with my Bible and notebook to think about my New Year’s goals. God gave me the word “Surrender” as I sat on my couch that day. He then led me to the verse found in Galatians 2:20, “I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” I began to think about the word “Surrender” and thought about what that word truly meant. To me, it meant giving it all to Him. Not trying to run on my own strength, but to be completely dependent and obedient to Him. The year before had been a challenging year. I had goals and dreams, but realized I had tried to accomplish them on my own. God was gently teaching me that I needed to “Surrender” my plans to His – to let go and let Him lead me. I was waving the white flag and clinging to my Creator and Savior. God brought that word to my heart over and over again in the year 2019. It was a pivotal season in my life, and I am grateful God gave me that word during that season.
Do you have a word as we begin 2021? Maybe it is not a word. Maybe it is a Scripture that God is pressing on your heart for a new year. What is He wanting to teach you during this season? Are you listening? Are you willing to sit at His feet and allow Him to speak life and truth into you? What about the ministry that you lead? What is God preparing you for this next year? Think about your family, your friends, your community. How might God want to use you in 2021? Are you ready?