I've spent the last few weeks praying for a word that I can focus on in 2016. A word that, if I keep it at the forefront of my mind at all times, can set the tone and carry me through the year ahead. There are many great words out there but I was waiting for one to really speak to me, to touch me in a way that could potentially be life-changing if I allowed it.
My one word for 2016 is: Praise!
I used the flight to Boston on Christmas morning to catch up on some podcasts that I listen to. The one I listened to that morning titled "Graduating in Gratitude" really spoke to me. I like to think that I am a grateful person but am I really grateful in ALL circumstances? Probably not. There are definitely times that I let my circumstances dictate my attitude. I let a bad morning control my entire day and therefore probably miss out on some blessings that God has in store for me that day. I sometimes let a bad mood or other people steal my joy. These are not things that I am proud of and is definitely something that I would like to work on. One of the best ways that I know to help keep the right perspective and attitude is to give praise and glory to God in ALL things.
That podcast reminded me that God's gifts alone are not able to bring me joy. They are able to bring me joy though when they are met with my gratitude. But having an attitude of gratitude is not enough. I must not only have a grateful heart but also grateful habits.
"Gratitude without practice is like faith without works. It's not alive." ~ Steven Furtick
Here are what grateful habits will look like for me:
* Being grateful for all that the Lord blesses me with. Remembering that I wouldn't be where I am or have what I do without the grace and provision of God. I can't take credit for any of my successes for it is God who brought them to me and helped me get there. I will give praise for all things.
* Being grateful even when I don't get what I prayed for. God's ways are perfect and so is His timing. He knows the whole story, beginning to end. I only see what is in front of me and what I want in the moment. He wants only what is best for me, even when it seems hard to me. If I got everything I prayed for there would be no need for faith anyway. I will praise God even when His ways are different than my ways.
* Finally, I will be grateful because of what He is doing. In every hardship, in every trial, in every dark night, God is working all things for my good. I may not always know why something happens I will not worry or be angry but I will be confident that God is in control and knows exactly what He is doing. Every season of life is hand selected from God and serves a purpose. It is through those tough times that I grow stronger in my faith and more confident in who I am in Christ. I will praise God because of all that He is doing in and through me.
My goal for 2016 is to be intentional with PRAISE each day, take nothing for granted, and live with a joyful heart, even when life isn't all sunshine and rainbows. It's really hard to be in a bad mood when you are spending time each day giving praise.
