Choosing a word for the year can be a profoundly spiritual practice, offering a unique way to invite God into our daily lives and decisions. This concept has gained traction in recent years as believers seek to simplify their spiritual focus amidst the chaos of modern life.

My word for 2024 was silence.

In 2024, God revealed to me the sacredness of silence in our lives, serving as a conduit to deeper connections with God, others, and ourselves.

In the quiet moments with God, we open ourselves to His still, small voice, finding direction and peace that often eludes us in the noise of everyday life. I often found myself in prayer, lifting my praises and prayers to God from the moment my knees hit the ground to the second I stood up, not leaving any room for His holy response. Looking back, learning how to be silent, and still, with God was one of the most rewarding experiences.

In relationships, moments of shared silence can communicate understanding and presence more profoundly than words, nurturing intimacy, and mutual respect. Silence taught me how to be a better friend and listener, giving me the space to fully focus, understand, and respond in conversations in a way that shows genuine interest and empathy.

And with ourselves, silence allows us to reflect, to listen to our inner thoughts and feelings, fostering self-awareness and personal growth. In these silent moments of reflection I also found that silence has a speed, and it is slow.

By embracing silence, we cultivate a richer, more meaningful existence in all areas of our lives.

Selecting a word for the year is not merely an exercise in positive thinking or self-improvement; it’s an act of faith and surrender to God’s guidance. God spoke my word over me in a moment of prayer when I worried that I needed to fill my prayer time with God with constant babbling and meaningless words.

The process typically begins with prayer, asking God to reveal a word that will shape one’s spiritual journey for the coming year. This word can serve as a lens through which all experiences and challenges are viewed, providing clarity and direction.

Once you have received your word, it’s essential to integrate it into your daily life. This might involve writing it down in places where you’ll see it frequently, such as your journal, phone, or refrigerator door. Meditating on the word during your quiet times with God, allowing it to inform your prayers, and seeking out relevant Scripture passages can deepen its impact. For example, if your word is “hope,” you might focus on verses such as Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.”

Choosing a word for the year also fosters a sense of community. Sharing your word with a trusted friend or small group can provide mutual encouragement and accountability. It opens the door for others to speak into your life and to pray specifically for your growth in that area.

Selecting a word for the year is a prayerful act of seeking God’s direction and aligning one’s heart with His purposes. It simplifies spiritual focus and fosters deeper communion with God. As you journey through the year, this word can serve as a beacon, illuminating your path and reminding you of God’s unwavering presence and promises. May your chosen word draw you closer to Him and enrich your spiritual walk in the year ahead.