What’s Your Focus Word for 2016?
My Focus Word for 2016 – Courage
Each year I pray for the Lord to show me a special character quality I need to work on the most for the coming year. The word courage continues to come through my prayers and bible reading.
Some family members and friends believe I am already courageous – fighting lupus and other life threatening diseases for over 20 years; having gastric bypass and another surgery these past few years; coping with my husband having two spinal surgeries and consequently disabled unable to work with more surgeries in the future; and living day by day through faith that our Lord will supply all our needs. But in all honesty, I do not feel courageous at all!
I fight insecurities – sometimes on a regular basis. I fight the lies of Satan who whispers in my head that “I am worthless,” “I can’t____,” or “too ______……” well you know the lies we sometimes believe. So when the Lord calls/leads me to guide a bible study, support group, write a book, or speak to a group; I make my list of excuses. Even with the surgeries I have been through, I find myself dragging my feet (or knees) to have knee replacement surgery. Just the thought of it right now give me the chills!
Recently I read a quote by an unknown author, “Courage is about perseverance, not bravery. Be courageous regardless of the fear.”
So this year I will persevere regardless of my fears because my Lord and Savior continues to remind me that I am to be strong and courageous because He is with me wherever I go and whatever I do (Joshua 1:9). He also reminds me that I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13). That He has special plans for my welfare to give me a future and hope (Jeremiah 29:11).
So this year I will diligently work on my focus word – Courage – What’s your focus word for 2016?
Love your “2016 word” and courage is certainly something all of us could use. So thankful that God doesn’t just call us to do something but He equips us, because in my own strength, I’m nothing but a weak, insecure vessel. But my strength comes from the Lord! Good Word today! ((Hugs))
What a beautiful word. I had this a couple years ago. Love the quote you have shared. Thank you for your encouraging words.