So – What is YOUR Word?
“And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.” ~ Matthew 14:25-29 (ESV – emphasis mine)
I have mentioned it before; I don’t do new years resolutions. However, I do chose (or it chooses me) a word that will guide me through the year. Last year it was bold, and this year it is a word made up out of 2: Fiercehearted. One thing that I tend to forget is that God has saved me so that I can stand on firm ground; on His Word, and His strength.
In December, I read through the 31-day Advent devotional “Come, Let Us Adore Him” by Paul David Tripp. It was such an eye-opener to say the least. Yes, Jesus came as a baby boy, but that was just the beginning. With it came the hope, the promise that He will be with us until the end. We don’t need to be afraid of what we face this side of heaven. We can live and love boldly because of His love for us.
I love the story of Jesus, Peter and the disciples told in Matthew 14. Peter believed Jesus, when He told him that he could walk on water in Matthew 14:29. However, look what happens when Peter took his eyes off of Jesus:
But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Matthew 14:30 (ESV – emphasis mine)
You see, this is what happens to us too. We take our eyes off of Jesus, and we feel like we are sinking. My dear friends, let me assure you, you are not. You are standing on His promise to hold you up. Be fiercehearted with me this year. Stand up, don’t let others drag you down and belittle you. You are standing on firm ground. So what is your word for 2018?
Lord of Heaven and earth. Thank You for giving me firm ground to stand on. Help me to be fiercehearted this year. With You, I am strong; I can live and love boldly. In the precious name of Jesus, Amen.
Often times life can make us feel like we are drowning but you are right, when we keep our eyes on Jesus – He will keep us afloat. I haven’t thought about my “word” yet for the new year but I like yours. (Blessings)
Thank you, Laurie for stopping by. I am thankful that Jesus is never changing and I can hold on to Him.
Iris,
I love your word for the year — fiercehearted. That’s a powerful word and a great reminder of how we can stand in Jesus with a fierce heart for Him.
Katie
Thank you Katie for stopping by. I needed something that reminds me to not be afraid, and move forward knowing that He gives me the strength.
I love your word, Iris! I will try to be fierehearted with you.
That would be awesome, Bernadine. In a way it is a scary word, but on the other hand it gives me confidence knowing to Whom I belong.