For the past two years, I’ve selected a word and Bible verse to focus on for the new year. My reason for doing this is to grow deeper with the Lord and align my heart with His.
For 2021, my word was joy, and my verses were 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances;
for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (NIV).
Last year proved difficult with our move to Tennessee and buying a home. But in giving thanks in all circumstances, I wrote out something each day for which I was grateful. Gratitude for God’s blessings in my life brought an extra dose of joy to my heart.
For 2022, I’ve selected the word awareness. I desire to be aware of God’s presence in a greater way. I’ve selected Habakkuk 2:14 to remind me of my focus word.
For as the waters fill the sea, the earth will be filled
with an awareness of the glory of the Lord (NLT).
In following the Lord for many years, I’ve grown in my faith and trust His word to be true. But I also yearn to draw closer and develop a more intimate relationship with Him. I desire more of those special moments where I sense His nearness.
By faith, I believe the Holy Spirit watches over and guides me. But I need to better develop my spiritual listening skills and be sensitive to hearing the Lord when He speaks and follow His leading.
Have you experienced those moments with God when you know without a doubt that you’ve communicated with Him in a real and personal way? I’ve felt this closeness over the years, but I long for these moments to be a regular occurrence—just the Lord and me.
I hope to walk away from my prayer time and sense a greater connection to God. To experience His fullness and all He has for me.
I believe God desires this kind of relationship and plan to take the following four steps to draw closer to Him.
Continue to read His Word and write out verses that stand out to me but allow myself more time to meditate upon these verses and write them on my heart.
Focus on Bible studies and be more purposeful when I study. Ask the Lord what He wants to show me.
To not only pray, but to get alone with God and listen for Him to speak before I jump up and carry on my day.
Spend time in personal worship, lifting my voice to the Lord in song.
What would you add to my list to draw closer to God?
My hope for 2022 is to be more aware of the Lord’s presence as I continue to grow deeper with Him and align my heart with His.
Photo by Alice Donovan Rouse - Unsplash