Surrendering to God… [Word of the Year 2023]

To be honest, my word of the year scares me–quite literally! It feels way too large, untidy, and full of the unknown. I’m not sure where its going… And maybe that is exactly the point!? I’m not supposed to know. 

I caught a nasty cold the Sunday after thanksgiving–and it never went away! While still sickly and with a fresh booty shot of prednisone, I caught covid five days before Christmas. Other known health issues reared their ugly heads in the days following my psuedo-recovery… And now a new health concern has surfaced?! I tell you all of this to say, I have no choice, but to SURRENDER all of my expectations of what the start of this new year should look like to the reality of what actually is… my lack of control over things completely out of my control. Maybe this is the lesson God had in mind all along? 

Surrender certainly wasn’t my choice for a word of the year. My personal choice was wrapped up neatly in a bow by mid-November. It had tangible implications that suited me.

The last time God put me flat on my back with lots of time for pondering [and listening] was in 2018. I had big “life decisions” looming large and I desperately needed God’s guidance. And true to His ever-present, faithful nature, God delivered His perfect peace and His perfect plan–in His perfect timing, of course! So, I’m gently reminded this go ‘round. He’ll deliver again. 

Surrendering, in a biblical sense, is to let go of our plans, expectations, and “need” to drive the bus. Surrendering is our willingness to submit to God’s sovereignty and trust Him to deliver us to our final destination.

“Surrender is the ultimate sign of strength and the foundation for a spiritual life.” – unknown 

Lord, help me to surrender my expectations, my plans, my fears, and my hope for a weary, love-challenged world to You. Help me wait patiently, work diligently, and watch expectantly for You to move. Help me to be Spirit-led. For you alone, drive this bus called “my life and story.” Help me surrender it all—once and for all! Set my eyes upwards, Lord. So, I no longer thwart Your master plan for my life’s story. Help me “Be still” and know, You are God. 

“Trust the Lord with all of your heart and lean not into your own understanding. In all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

Have you ever chosen a #WOTY that frightens you a bit? If so, how did you overcome your fear? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. 💕