The holidays went by so quickly. It was more of rest for me because I had nothing to worry about during those days. Most of the time were spent just lounging at home, reading books, remembering the year, connecting with the people we love, and spending time with God.
The year started with us celebrating with friends and family. We’ve been receiving guests every week as “housewarming”. I get tired every time but I realized it’s what I want to do: invite people over. I have learned a lot the past few weeks when it comes to hosting and I promise this year, I will try to be the perfect host. It will cost me money, time, and effort but I want to practice hospitality.
But above all, I want this year to be about me and my God being closer than ever. And so I choose this word: ABIDE.
I don’t remember how I came up with it but I know it’s what the Lord is telling me to do this year. I already made a declaration that I want More of Jesus this 2014. My New Year’s Prayer includes me wanting the wisdom to pore over His Words. I tried to End the Year Right by listing down the things I’ve learned and what God has done in my life. I even wondered how it is to be Just Like Enoch.
And then there’s our 40Days of Fasting at church. I joined this year and so far, so good. We’re on Day 10 now. The first week, we had our week of praying together at church. I had no excuse not to join because I am there everyday as I wait for my son. I got to lead the prayer time and devotion last Friday.
Most Christian churches I know start the year with a fast. It’s only this year that I’m serious with it. I thought I couldn’t do it but I’m now able to give up eating dinner. I failed over the weekend (ha!) but weeknights are more bearable.
I know it’s what the Lord requires of me this year. To be able to become a better wife and mother, I need to abide in Christ first.
To abide in Christ. What does it mean?
It means to remain.
To remain in Him in all aspects of my life.
To depend on Him for strength and grace to overcome.
This 2014, I want to read the Bible more and obey what He has to say.
To submit and soak in His presence.
“Remain in me, and I will remain in you. A branch can’t produce fruit by itself, but must remain in the vine. Likewise, you can’t produce fruit unless you remain in me.”
John 15:4
To be an effective minister, one must spend time with God first and foremost. I know I cannot give what I do not have so I intend to get to know my Savior more. I can only do that if I ABIDE in His Word.
My word for the year is ABIDE. What’s yours?