One Word

Every year I select a word that becomes my theme for the year. I do this instead of setting new year’s resolutions that none of us keep. I got the concept from a book titled “One Word That Will Change Your Life” by Jon Gordon. It is available on Amazon for kindle.

Last year the word I chose was “unoffendable” and even though some people tried really hard to offend me, I can say that predetermining that I was not going to be offended no matter what any one did to me or said about me was effective. I was not perfect but made progress in keeping my heart pure.

For 2024 I have chosen the word:  “words.” I want to grow in the words I choose to use in 2024.

• I want to guard my words based on the teaching of scripture.

2 Timothy 2:24-25
“The Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, 

Titus 3:2
to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.”

Proverbs 21:23
“He who guards his mouth and his tongue, Guards his soul from troubles.”

Proverbs 15:1
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”‬‬

Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
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• Not only do I want to refrain from negative words, I desire to declare the word of God, speak positively, lift people up not tear them down, and be an encourager.

There is power in the words that I use. So in 2024 the word “words” is my one word.  I am committing not to speak anything unwholesome, negative, or to gossip. I am going to speak positive, faith-filled words, that build up not tear down, speak life not death, that encourages others in the faith. I am going to declare the word of God over my life, family, ministry, and over you.

So “words” is my one word for 2024. What could be yours? In the past my one word has been unoffendable, humility, and positive.

This has been more impactful to me than making new year resolutions. Read the book, learn more about the power of one word, choose a word for 2024. See growth in your life.