Some years ago, I decided to take the plunge and choose “one word” as a theme for the year.
After some time in prayer and soul-searching, I knew my word for the year was act.
I have to admit, I was skeptical about the whole process from the very beginning. Probably because I tend to be skeptical about all things trendy and bandwagon-ish.
But there have been numerous times over the past year when God brought my one word to mind just when I needed it.
When I was tempted to hold back…
act.
When I was afraid of taking the next step…
act.
When I really preferred to be lazy rather than productive…
act.
And so I told the Lord several days ago that I was willing to have a one-word theme again this year, if that’s what He wanted for me.
Then I waited.
And waited.
And I started to think that maybe I wasn’t supposed to have one word after all.
When I least expected it, as I was working through this Christ-centered book about productivity and some accompanying goals, this question was impressed upon my mind:
“Am I becoming the woman I want to be?”
It was an honest question, and a raw one from the heart of one who sometimes sees too little progress. Too little growth.
I know I’m not there yet. I haven’t arrived. Far from it.
But am I becoming?
And as I pondered this question, it became clear what my one word is for 2016:
Becoming.
Becoming the Person You Want to Be
One of the things I love about this word is its subtlety. It’s not terribly bold, is it?
But I find it inspiring nonetheless.
Day by day, moment by moment, I am becoming the woman I want to be.
I am becoming the woman God wants me to be.
Becoming is a word that offers grace.
I’m not there yet. I’m still in process.
Becoming offers accountability.
I’m not stagnant. I’m progressing.
By Gods grace, here are 4 things I’m becoming in 2016 (and beyond):
More spiritually mature. I want to love God more, with greater longing and deeper devotion. I want to obey Him more faithfully and imitate Him more closely.
More self-controlled. I want to be controlled by the Spirit, and not by my flesh. I want to desire God more than anything on this earth, and to glorify Him in my actions, my words, and my thoughts.
More physically fit. I want to be a good steward of the health God has given me. I want to honor Him with how I take care of the temple in which His Spirit resides.
More productive. I don’t want to do more; I want to do better. I want to invest my time in that which will point the most glory to God and achieve the most good for others.
4 Tools for Becoming
God has been so gracious to direct my attention toward some tools that are helping me in my pursuit of becoming. Perhaps they’ll interest you, too; I have every confidence, based on my own experience, that they would be a blessing to your life.
Grace Goals
It’s quite possible that you and I fall short of meeting our goals because we neglect one essential element:
grace.
This life-changing course provides everything you and I need in order to develop goals biblically, and meet them grace-fully.
Make Over Your Mornings
Crystal Paine from Money Saving Mom created this ecourse of several video workshops, printables, and other resources. This has been absolutely revolutionizing my life! Worth it so many times over.
25 Days to a Happier Home
This ebook shares practical guidance for Christian families who want to improve their home life and strengthen their relationships with each other. There has been some strife in our home lately – too much holiday togetherness, if you know what I mean! – and I can’t wait to get a fresh start with some of these strategies.
Do More Better
I’ve always considered myself fairly organized, but this book has been just what I need as I reevaluate what I’m doing and how I’m doing it. It has opened my eyes to the difference between productivity and busyness, and has reaffirmed my commitment to stewardship. I know I’ll be referring to this resource throughout the year, and beyond.
I can say with confidence that this time next year, I won’t be perfect.
Not even close.
But by God’s grace, I can’t wait to see what I’m becoming.
Leah Adams says
Awww, I wrote about my 2016 Word today, too. Mine is ‘rest’. I love your word…becoming. It hold so much promise and purpose. I am eager to see how the Lord uses it in your life. Lovely post, Jennifer.
Jennifer Clarke says
I just hopped over to your blog and read about your upcoming year of REST, Leah, and I have to say that I think all of us who claim the name of Christ would benefit from the rest you’re describing. Thank you for your ongoing kindness and encouragement to me!
Rebekah says
I love this! I’m so proud to be advancing the gospel with women who have a heart for God first in their lives – whether it’s through rest, as Leah mentions above (because I think God takes us all there at some point – and we need to listen!) or through becoming, or even overcoming. Thank you for your faithfulness to what the Lord calls you to do! Happy new year, friend!!
Jennifer Clarke says
Yes, Becky, I stand in awe of the way God works in each of us according to His perfect plan. His methods vary, but His purpose is one: to conform us to the image of His Son. May He go before you and equip you to thoroughly OVERCOME!
Cathy says
God gave me mine a month or so ago and it is Joy. Too little of that in my life lately that I feel as if I have forgotten how to feel joy.
Jennifer Clarke says
I think JOY is a wonderful thing to focus on in 2016. I pray that our Lord grants you the fullness of joy that is available to you in Christ Jesus.
Erica says
“God has been so gracious to direct my attention toward some tools that are helping me in my pursuit…”
I know the feeling. God graciously directs me to YOUR BLOG – and N.B.C. (never by coincidence). Many times your words have been a direct answer to a question weighing on my heart. This entry is no exception. ๐ Thank you! And Happy New Year!
Jennifer Clarke says
Erica, your words have been particularly special blessing and encouragement. Thank you for your kindness. And Happy New Year to you, too! ๐
Tania Vaughan (@TaniaJVaughan) says
I love this especially “I don’t want to do more, I want to do better”. My one word this year is Intentional and it sounds like a productive word and your tips and insights are a real help to making sure that productivity is worthwhile and not just busy. Thank you x
Jennifer Clarke says
Hello, Tania, and welcome! I’m so glad you found some encouragement here. I pray that the Lord illumines His intentions for your life in 2016, and that He grants you the grace to fulfill them. Thank you so much for stopping by!
Penny says
Love these words, Jennifer. My life message is “becoming the me I was meant to be” and am so thankful to share that journey with God’s women. Thank you for sharing YOUR journey of “becoming”. God is great to give us everything we need to become what He meant us to be. Blessings!
Jennifer Clarke says
Indeed He is, Penny! He calls us and then thoroughly equips us. May we be faithful to follow Him!
Esther says
Love this! I haven’t chosen a word for the year, although I’m considering it. Last year I did not choose one, but I felt like certain words chose me. Or rather, God sent me certain words in a variety of ways that resonated with me. So this past year can be summed up with “brave surrender.”
One thing I realize is that the older I get, the more I need to change. Just when I think I’ve got something figured out, life sends me a new curve ball to humble me. So this year, regardless of the word, my prayer is that I will be seeking after God with a humble heart.
Jennifer Clarke says
I can certainly identify with what you’re describing here, Esther, and I have the same desire. I long for Mary’s response to be my own: “I am the Lord’s slave. Let it be to me according to Your Word” (Luke 1:38). Thanks so much for stopping by, and for sharing your heart with me!
Julie says
I need to be more confident and build my self esteem.
Jennifer Clarke says
Hi, Julie, and welcome! I think a lot of women would echo your thoughts here. I’ve found that the very best way to build confidence is to delve into God’s Word and soak myself in the truth of who He is, and of what He says about me. Placing our confidence in Him and esteeming Him highly gives us a proper view of ourselves. He values you so very much!
Jen says
Lovely! I’m fairly confident I have my word for the year, but haven’t shared about it yet. We have many goals in common, though! ๐ I’m excited to see what the year brings for all of us.
Jen ๐
Jennifer Clarke says
I’m excited, too, Jen! I’m thankful that even when I am faithless, He is faithful and completely worthy of my trust.
Starla J @ Pressing In and Pressing On says
Love this. My word for the year is FOCUS! I’m super excited about it and the scripture God gave me to go with it.
Jennifer Clarke says
I enjoyed reading about your word, too, Starla! May He grant us faithful hearts and obedient spirits this year. <3
Pam Blosser says
I love this, Jennifer! My first year doing one word I also waited and waited for a word. Interestingly, it ultimately was PATIENCE. Growth in that area led me to my 2016 word, PAUSE. I think it’s so amazing how God calls this word to mind throughout my year. And, HE still brings PATIENCE to mind as well. This is so much better than a traditional resolution that focuses on a goal or task. One word impacts all my goals and all my tasks. Thanks for sharing.
Jennifer Clarke says
Pam, thank you so much for sharing your “one word” experiences. I find it very encouraging to hear from other women on this topic! ๐