My One Word

I've been itching to write all week.
Well, literally itching, too, but that's a different story...

Last year was chaotic. And that is an understatement. Our family faced disaster after disaster, putting us in "survival mode" for much of 2016. 

So when I went to the Lord to find out what one word He would have for me for 2017, I expected something along the lines of "peace", "restore", or something of that sort. 

It's hard to explain how exactly I get my one word each year. Basically, it's like the Holy Spirit puts a verse, or phrase on repeat until I can't stand it anymore and I search it out.

Early last week, I kept hearing, "He who dwells...", "He who dwells...", "He who dwells...",

So I took to Google and found Psalm 91:1 which says, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty." 

Then, I hopped over to the dictionary to find:
Dwell (verb) 
1. to live or stay as a permenant resident; reside
but also 
​3. to linger over, emphasize, or ponder in thought, speech, or writing

Hmm. Interesting. 
I won't pretend to have it all figured out. I have no idea what God is up to, giving me "Dwell" for 2017. But I do know what it means to me today. And that's where I'm starting. I'm starting in the Word.

Years ago (pre-parenthood), it wasn't unusual for me to spend a half an hour PLUS reading my Bible every day (Once I read through the entire Bible in just 9 months!). But over the years children and jobs and ministry and responsibilities have caused me to "eat" the word like I eat my actual food- fast, and usually on-the-go. (And half of the time wondering if I even tasted it.)

So here I am, re-training myself to truly dwell in the Word, and in His presence, daily.

I wish I could say it comes naturally, but the truth is it's challenging. With a husband, three children, a dog, and a small group under my care, my to-do list is an unending distraction.

It takes grit and intentionality just to slow down.

So here's the plan: I'm using the Bible App's "Bible in One Year" plan, and each day challenging myself to journal just one thought that stands out to me at the end of my reading. And then I "linger over" that thought for the day.

That's where the blog comes into play. Most days I'll be sharing my ponderings right here. 
My hope is that maybe my words can bring love, light and hope to your heart, too. 

I've always been amazed at how God speaks a fresh Word through His ages-old Scripture, and this past week has been no exception. Already I can feel life coming back into me. I can't wait to know God in a new way this new year, and I'm excited to see all that 2017 holds!

Dwelling in Him,