There is no time like the present, and if you’ve ever felt like time is rushing by without giving you a moment to breathe-you are not alone. In a culture where busy schedules are normal, it’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of which direction to set your focus. Do you feel constantly overwhelmed, overstimulated and like the to-do list is never-ending? That’s exactly how I felt before I found the transformative power of choosing a word of the year.
Having a word of the year is not something you should follow just because it’s trendy, but because it’s an opportunity to align your heart with God’s will and allow Him to guide you through the year. When you focus on a single word and intentionally pair it with prayer and scripture, you invite God to work in your life in ways you never imagined.
In this post, I’ll share how setting a word of the year will transform your relationship with the Lord and give you greater clarity of your purpose. Whether you’re new to this idea or looking for inspiration to start fresh this year, you’ll find practical steps, biblical encouragement, and real-life insights to help you get started on this transformative journey. Let’s dive in and discover the word that will shape your heart and mind in the year ahead!
What is a Word of the Year?
What if, instead of striving to do everything under the sun, you could focus your heart and mind on one central ‘theme’ that aligns with God’s plan for your life? A word of the year is just that—a God-inspired focus word that acts as a spiritual compass for your year. Resolutions are task-driven, but a word of the year sets an intention. It serves as a daily reminder of who God is calling you to be, which gives way to opportunity to transform your heart, mind, and actions.
The Concept and Purpose of Setting a Word of the Year
The goal is not to achieve perfection; it’s about aligning with God’s purpose for this season of your life. For example, if you’re in a busy season as a mom managing your home and maintaining work-life balance, God might lead you to focus on peace. Rooted in John 14:27—“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you”—this word could shape how you approach challenges and prioritize your time.
Instead of juggling dozens of audacious goals, you lean into a single, powerful word that becomes a filter for your decisions, actions, and prayers. Your word of the year will drive your mission, vision and values – how you show up in this next season. For me, setting a word of the year has brought clarity and peace into seasons of uncertainty and waiting. It shifted my mindset from needing to “do it all” to trusting God more. Whether your word is faith, joy, discipline, or rest, each moment becomes an opportunity to live out that word in partnership with Him.
The Difference Between Resolutions and Intentions
Resolutions focus on what you will do—lose weight, save money, etcetera. While these goals aren’t all bad, they rely heavily on you and your own will. This can lead to frustration if life doesn’t go as planned. In contrast, intentions invite God to work through you.
Consider the difference:
- Resolution: “I will read the Bible every day in the morning.”
- Intention tied to the word faith: “I will trust God and allow His Word to strengthen me daily. I will do this by meeting with Jesus while I get ready for my day. I will utilize my Bible App and worship playlist”
By focusing on an intention, you step into the New Year with an open heart posture, centering your actions on where God wants to lead you. This intentional approach can be freeing because it’s no longer about striving for perfection; rather about embracing the journey of grace that God has for you.
Take some time to pray and reflect. Ask God to reveal the word He wants to guide you to this year. You might be surprised by how one simple word can create profound change.
Why Setting Intentions Matters for Christian Women
“Do not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God—what is good and is pleasing to him and is perfect.”
Romans 12:2
Aligning Your Life with God’s Will
Worldly distractions—social media, the newest trendiest items, or an endless list of goals—can pull your attention away from what truly matters. But when you prayerfully choose a word like peace or surrender, it becomes a filter for your decisions.
For example, if you choose the word joy, you’ll find yourself looking for reasons to praise God on good days as much as the hard days. If your word is trust, you’ll rely on Him instead of your own strength during challenging situations. Setting a word of the year keeps your mind fixed on God’s promises and His transformative work in your life.
Strengthening Your Roles as Wife and Mother
By anchoring your actions to a God-centered intention, you create a home environment that reflects His love. Your marriage becomes stronger, your parenting becomes more Christ-like, and your family is blessed by your example of faithful living.
For example, choosing the word patience could help you respond with kindness during your toddler’s meltdowns. A focus on love might inspire you to be more intentional in how you show affection to your spouse. Words like faithfulness and trust remind you to rely on God’s strength as you navigate the ups and downs of marriage and motherhood.
Be a Light to Others
Setting a word of the year can also inspire those around you. When you live out your intention, your faith becomes a testimony of God’s goodness. Sharing your journey with your word can open doors to deeper conversations about faith and draw others closer to Christ.
“In the same way your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16
How To Chose Your Word of The Year
As you set your intention for the year, remember that your word has the potential to impact your marriage, your children, and your community in ways you can’t imagine.
1. Listen for God’s Guidance Through Prayer and Reflection.
Dedicate thirty days to fervently seeking God through prayer, scripture and worship. During this time consider committing to a fast from something that has been distracting you (maybe that’s social media or spending money outside of the essentials). Another important thing you should do during this time, paired with prayer and the Word, is to make time to be silent. Start small and take five minutes out of your day to sit in silence with the Lord.
2. Use Scripture to Get Inspired.
There are countless stories in scripture of bold and faithful men and women of God who endured and perservered. As you dive into the Word, take notes on what you’re reading. Are there recurring themes you’re seeing? What is the purpose or lesson of the book or chapter you’re reading? Do you keep seeing the same characteristics and qualities? If you think you’ve found your word of the year, take time to reflect and pray about it.
3. Reflect on Your Word.
Once you’ve found your word and intention, reflect on these questions:
- Is there some part of my heart that is reserved or not softened towards God’s will for my life?
- What fruit do I want to bear?
- Write a letter of what you are hoping and expecting from God this year. Don’t hold back. Write down even the most seemingly audacious goals and desires of your heart.
How to Live Out Your Word Throughout the Year
Incorporating Your Word of the Year into Daily Life
Choosing a word of the year is a meaningful first step, but the real transformation happens when you intentionally weave it into your daily life. Next you must create habits and routines that align with your word. Start by dedicating time each week to reflect on your word. Here are some ways to get started:
- Say a daily prayer: Ask God for daily guidance to live out your word.
- Meditate on scripture: Find Bible verses that reinforce your word and meditate on them. I highly recommend writing them where you’ll see them often!
- Start Journaling: Write about how your word shapes your thoughts, actions, and experiences. Keeping a written record allows you to see God’s faithfulness over time. Some journal prompts for you:
- How has God shaped my heart and mind?
- What fruit have I seen from focusing on this word?
- Write a gratitude letter to God for the lessons you’re learning from.
Practical tools can also help you stay focused on your word:
- Create a vision board: Create a visual reminder of your word and intention using images, Scripture, and affirmations that inspire you.
- Keep track in a planner: Use a planner to set goals and reflect on your decisions.
- Utilize apps: Apps like YouVersion or Echo Prayer help you stay connected to God’s Word and track your prayers.
Staying Focused and Encouraged
It’s natural to lose focus as the year progresses, but staying committed is crucial for any growth. Philippians 4:13 reminds us: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Rely on His strength when distractions come up, and take practical steps to stay encouraged.
- Revisit your word during quiet time: Reflect on how God is using your intentionality to shape your heart and life.
- Join a support group: Connect with other likeminded Christian women. Sharing your journey provides mutual encouragement and accountability.
- Share with an accountability partner: Let someone you trust know your word and invite them to check in with you.
Consistency matters more than perfection. Give yourself grace and continually realign your focus on God’s plan.
Teaching Your Family the Power of Intentions
Setting a word of the year is an opportunity to bless your family and teach your children how to live intentionally as a believer. Include your children in your process by helping them choose their own word or theme for the year. For example, a young child might choose kindness, while a teenager might focus on discipline. Use this as a chance to share Bible verses and pray with them about their goals. This effort will encourage them in their walk with the Lord as well!
Demonstrate to your family how living intentionally shapes your actions. When you practice patience with your children, love toward your spouse, or faithfulness in prayer, your family is witness to the power of a Christ-centered life.
Read more: How to Overcome the All-or-Nothing Mindset as a Mom with Grace and Joy
Final Thoughts: Invite God Into All Seasons of Your Life
Choosing a word of the year is more than a temporary resolution—it’s an invitation to let God lead you into a season of growth, trust, and transformation. As you pray, reflect, and seek His guidance, remember that God desires your heart.
Whatever word He places on your heart trust that it’s exactly what you need in this season. Living out your word won’t always be easy and you might forget it sometimes, but as you lean on God’s strength, you’ll see His hand working in every aspect of your life.
Let this year be a testament to God’s faithfulness as you walk in obedience to His call. Join our community to share your word, find encouragement, and connect with others on this journey. And if this post inspired you, share it with a friend who might also be seeking God’s guidance for the year ahead. Let’s embrace this year with purpose and faith!
Leave a Reply