DWELL

This year I am embracing the word DWELL as my theme and inspiration for 2024.

It has been my habit for the past ten years or so to choose a word or phrase for the new year. This year, as I was reflecting on 2023, I knew the direction I wanted to go. I wanted to lean into the idea of possessing the inheritance that God has already promised. Partly this was due to something a dear friend said to me during one of our prayer times. We were praying about the church where my husband and I are currently serving as interim pastors.

She said, “The work has been done; the foundation has been laid. All that is required now is to sit in God’s presence and let His glory fall.” (Elizabeth Catholique) This was exactly what we needed to hear for our church!

I felt this sentiment also applied to my writing. I’ve taken a lot of courses. I’ve set up systems for marketing and outreach. I have a lot of books out there already as well as a small but loyal following of readers. The foundation has been laid, so to speak. Now, what is required is to surrender and let God make something of it if He so wills.

Her words also spoke to me in terms of my own spiritual life and my prayers for family etc. Again, the foundation is there. It’s a matter of trusting God; walking in faith for what He has already promised, even if I can’t see it yet.

I love how the word DWELL encompasses all of these things. I don’t need to strive, worry, or “do more”. The foundation is laid! Now I just need to wait upon Him and let Him do the rest. I actually woke up on December 30 with this word in my head. Several verses also came to mind:

Psalm 91: 1 – He who DWELLS in the shelter of the Most High will rest (abide) in the shadow of the Almighty.

Isaiah 58: 12 – And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to DWELL in.

Psalm 23: 6 – Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will DWELL in the house of the Lord forever.

BONUS! As I was reflecting on DWELL, it came to mind that this is a very practical word as well. We have been living in a renovation for more than a year. Many of our belongings are still not unpacked and there are no pictures on the walls. It’s time to quit “camping” and DWELL in our home! It’s time to move in, both physically and mentally.

What about you? What is your theme or inspiration for 2024?