Joy
“Joy holds open the door to possible and makes sure everyone sneaks in.” -Abrahams
Deeper than happiness, stronger than pain, more determined than doubt. Teach me to choose and pursue joy this year Lord God, Amen.
Love
“Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” -1 John 4:20-21 NIV
The two are linked. I love God when I love my and brother and sister and neighbor. “But that’s so hard! People are mean and messy.” Lord God help me. I am not naturally equipped to love without expecting a lot in return. Please remind me that the gift of love You gave cost me nothing. So, I should charge nothing when I give it away. Heal my heart, let me be reminded that no matter how many bumps or lumps it takes it is held safely in Your loving hands. Amen.
Peace
“Not just the absence of conflict, true peace requires taking what’s broken and restoring it to wholeness whether in our lives, our relationships or our world.” – The Bible Project
Restored, renewed, whole and complete. Show me how I can be an ambassador of wholeness wherever I go this year, Lord. Help me remember to bring peace with me. Shalom.
Hope
“Hope is the anthem of my soul.” – Switchfoot
The image of hope illustrated as the tension in a cord being pulled tightly sticks with me. To live in that bright anticipation that something wonderful is being revealed, being made, in the quiet of the wait. Knowing, “they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. Selah
Christ
Courageous rebel, loving friend, Son of man, Son of God, carpenter, King. Lord Jesus while on earth You were fully aware of Your value and completely humble in Your mission. You loved others so well. You were fully present with them, but You found balance in self-care through solitary prayer. You were bold and brave and quiet and obedient. How do I do that Lord God? How do I live a life that reflects You, a life that is balanced? I want to know more about You. To spend the rest of my life pursuing You, trusting You. Please show me how. Amen.
Jesus Girl 