For the past 5 years I have chosen one word to focus on for the new year. There are many ways to come up with your one word, but I decided to start with the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22
22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control.
These are incredible words to focus on each year. I have really enjoyed this exercise because I stop and think of my word all the time and it helps me in times of stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, etc.
This year my word is goodness. At first I thought “goodness, okay well that seems like an easy one because I think I’m mostly a “good” person and I always try to do good”. However, I wanted to dig deeper. I looked up the definition, the synonyms, the greek meaning behind the greek word that was translated into goodness in the Bible and the definition of some of the synonyms.
Here are all of the words I could find that constitute goodness:
- morally good
- virtuous
- friendliness
- generosity
- grace
- good will
- kindness
- integrity
- honesty
- mercy
- decency
- benevolence
- compassion
My seemingly simple one word has now become much more meaningful, weighty and beautiful.
Now when I remember my word – Goodness – I will think of so much more than just “being good”. I will remember to give grace and mercy even when I don’t feel like it. I will remember to be compassionate whenever I feel the urge to judge. I will remember to be generous with my time, attention and prayers not just with my money.
If you’ve never focused on one word for the year, I highly recommend it. There are even sites and communities where you can join in and tag them on social media. You can let others know so they can help keep you accountable. If nothing else it will help us all improve in one area at a time. It’s simple, and doesn’t cost a thing – but it can have life changing results.
Happy New Year!