2024 - Surrender

I'm so bad at new years resolutions, like most people.  So I stopped trying.  I do, however, like giving myself a word to focus on for the year.  Last year it was peace.  Peace in the midst of chaos.  In life I'm surrounded by all sorts of chaos; in my own home and in the world.  I wanted to be able to focus on keeping myself at peace through it all.  I think I did a fairly good job at it, for the most part.  It wasn't easy but I spent time finding Bible verses and keeping myself in prayer over how I could find peace in every situation thrown at me.  In my life I'm experiencing so many trials, battles, and emotions I tell no one about.  In my home we are really struggling with a lot of things.  I am really struggling to cope with any of it.  I'm always struggling with my own temper as I try to teach my kids how to control theirs.  I feel like it's a daily challenge just to keep this house clean.  I get so frustrated when my overly-affectionate husband is constantly wanting to touch me and then he gets frustrated when I pull away instead of reciprocate.   Now that the holidays are over and winter is in full swing I can feel my seasonal depression setting in.

So, this morning as I gave myself some quiet time in my bedroom with my Bible and an attempt to restart a few of my old devotionals a word specifically came to mind.  

I've been trying so hard to figure it all out but I know I can't do this all alone.  I need to surrender it all to God.  All of the things I'm experiencing I pass it all to Him.  I trust in His plan.  I'm allowing Him to guide my steps.  I'm waiting on all things to be accomplished in His timing.  

I will be working at my health - both physically and mentally.  I will be spending more time devoted in the Word and increasing my prayer time.  I will spend less time scrolling through my phone but will spend more time on my laptop writing that piece that has been taking me forever to accomplish.  Whatever I do, it will be done with God in mind and with Him in the center.  Any problems I give to Him.  All the joy I'll give to Him.  I surrender all!  

Do you have a yearly word?  Or a resolution?  How good are you with sticking with them?

Happy New Year, friends!  Maybe last year did not go well for you.  I pray your 2024 brings an abundance of peace, joy and blessings!