Peace

As the year winds down and I reflect on this year:

• Challenge of a pandemic
• Realization of a new calling
• Closing a treasured business and dream
• Selling all our belongings
• Leaving a nicely packaged well settled life
• Moving to a nomadic life
• My strong propensity for anxiety

It is no wonder God gave me the word “peace” for the year.

Long before I heard of or read the book, “One Word That Will Change Your Life by Jon Gordon, God was giving me a word for the year.

For years I had the habit of starting the new year with a new journal filled with detailed lists of my personal, physical, spiritual, relational goals.

One year when I sat down to pray and consider the next years goals, I hit a roadblock. The pages remained blank. Day after day. Other than the word “balance” that God was whispering in my heart. And thus, began my one-word journey.

The following year, I (notice the word “I”) decided to keep balance as my word because I did not feel as though I (again that self-centered word) did not do a very good job putting balance into my life. It was not until the 3^rd year that I listened instead of deciding.

God gave me a new word.

Each year God give me a new word. Some years I find myself praying in November for the word, other years, He speaks in the depth of my soul before I even ask.

God knew before 2020 began what challenges were ahead. He knows my inner being and how even the normal daily happenings in life fill me with anxiety. He knew I would need to lean heavily on Him and focus on His peace.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Praying the Prince of Peace has filled you with peace to face your challenges this past year.