A New Kind of Goal

Although I typically make a goal list of twenty plus (mostly tangible) items, I thought this would be a good year to just take a break and try something different. One of my favorite bloggers (and previous employers for that matter) always chooses ONE word to focus on throughout the entire year. This year she chose to meditate on the word explore. I think I am going to join her this year:-).

I have tossed around several words in my mind these past few weeks to try to determine which one would prove to be the most beneficial for the next 365 days. While the words vision and thankful have made it to the top three on my list, the one word that has prevailed to the very top is prayer. I think it encompasses being 'thankful' and having a 'vision' for the future, while also remembering what is truly important.

I recently read an article written by Billy Graham where he said one of his greatest regrets is that he wished he would have prayed more.  That really hit home with me.  I mean really, Billy Graham?! Here are a few things the bible tells us about prayer:

"Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known." Jeremiah 33:3

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

"Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working." James 5:16

It's been a tough year no doubt, but do you know what? I am still learning and growing. In the words of Lysa Terkeurst, I am making "imperfect progress." But progress nonetheless.  (Thanks for the book recommendation, Angie!)  I hope to start a prayer journal that stays by my bed at night and in my purse throughout the day.  I want to be more intentional about counting my blessings and turning to God during the difficult times.  I want to hold my tongue more- even if it means a quieter me.  I want to develop a deeper relationship with Jesus. And I know all of these things start with prayer.

Will you join me?
Bk

"...being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6