My One Word 2013—Praise

Are you familiar with One Word 365? It’s a campaign to forget the New Year’s resolutions, choosing, instead, to focus on one word all year—intentionally keeping that focus in front of you every day.

It’s become quite a community of One Worders, sharing and encouraging each other along the journey.

2012 was my first step into the community. I chose the word Trust and it was a powerful year. (You can read about my year here: Trust—My One Word 2012.)

When I chose the word Trust for 2012, I also chose Hope for my One Word 2013.

That’s right, early in 2012, I chose my word for the following year. I like to plan ahead. (Don’t judge.)

So, early in December, I reflected on my year of Trust and I thought ahead to my next word—Hope.

Praise.

The word was in my head, but I hadn’t been thinking about it. It was as clear as if I said the word to you. Praise.

I had a feeling God was telling me something, but I didn’t do anything about it. I had my word planned. Hope. It’s a good word.

Days later, the same thing happened. Again, I knew, but ignored it anyway.

Have you ever sensed God trying to get your attention, but you chose to ignore it? Uh-huh, that was me. Until one morning while I drove to work…

As I drove, I complained and vented to God. I was frustrated and upset about a situation involving a particular person, and I wanted God to do something about it.

Praise.

Again? God, I’m not really in the mood for this right now.

Praise Me.

Huh?

And then it clicked.

Imagine a light bulb moment, complete with stunned face (although I didn’t actually look in the mirror) and the feeling as if everything froze for that brief instant.

Oh, I get it now, God!

Immediately, I thought of what a blessing it was that I could talk to God about what was bothering me. And I felt thankful I could do that. Thankful that He’s always there to talk to—no matter where I am or what I’m doing.

In that short drive to work, I let go of Hope as my One Word for 2013 and I embraced Praise.

What I’ve already realized is there is always a reason to praise God. I’m not saying praise for the terrible things we each have to endure in this life, but rather praise for who God is.

For His incredible, unimaginable, never-ending love He has for each and every one of us.

For the good He brings out of anything and everything.

For the way He draws us close by His side. And never lets us out of His sight.

Let all that I am praise the Lord;
may I never forget the good things he does for me.

Psalm 103:2 NLT

What’s your One Word for 2013?

In Christ,

Laura

Linking up with One Word 365, Soli Deo Gloria, Only a Breath, Winsome Wednesday, WholeHearted Home, The Weekend Brew, and Faith Barista Jam Thursdays.