By This past year, the verse for the year was Psalms 1:3 “He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither;And whatever he does shall prosper.” For me it was a season of putting down roots and being planted. It has been a long time since I have really put down roots, I prefer the life of a wanderer being free to go wherever I feel. This year I expected that things would be calm and about staying put. Boy was I wrong in that!
In 2017 I moved (it was the first week of January), I quit 2 jobs (at the same time) and started a new one, I found my ministry focus changed and periods where I could not understand how I was supposed to put down roots. Looking back, I see that I was putting down roots, and that God was planting me where He wanted me, it took some changes to get to where I am now. I have put down roots, I am working in a job that gives me room to dream and develop and grow. I am still in the same apartment and have signed another lease for another year. However, those things are just the externals. I find that I have rooted myself in my church family more now than ever, which is funny because at the beginning of this year I was working at my church and it took leaving staff to begin to truly connect and build community (I am not saying this is true for everyone just me). I have also found my own little group of friends that are far more like family than friends.
This coming year, I know that I am going to need to keep developing my root system, to be prepared for when the winds of life come and shake things up. However, this new year has a new verse. This next year my verse is Joshua 1:9 “ Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
What I know, is that when I first saw this verse and it kept drawing me to it, I only saw the “be strong and courageous” part but when I sat down and really looked at it the second part stood out and hit my spirit. What does this mean? I do not know but I have a feeling there are some adventures coming soon.
What about you? Do you have a verse for the year? Do you have a focus quote or idea? What are you focusing on this next year?
Beth – You also meet me this year! 😊🤣 I cant believe it was only this year that we meet. You have been a blessing to me! Thank you for all your prayers and hugs. Love ya girl!
Aww that is true I did meet you this year! I definitely met some amazing people this year!