Choosing my thoughts
The difference between a New Year’s Resolution and One Word (besides the former usually being abandoned by February 1) is one is an attempt at behavior modification and the other is a matter of focus. A single word can take your mind off a negative action you are trying to change and focus your mind on something positive. If you want to see what others are using as their One Word, go to the One Word website (myoneword.org). It can be anything: a Bible verse, an attribute of God or even a manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit.
I thought my word would be pearl, but as I rolled it around in my mind, the word choose popped up as a better way to focus. Speaking of minds, the last half of 2 Corinthians 10:5 tells us: ‘We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One.’ (TPT). Other translations say we bring our thoughts into captivity, or capture rebellious thoughts. By using my word to focus, I hope to work on making my thoughts bow in obedience – at least I’m going to try. I can choose to practice Philippians 4:8, thinking about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. I can choose praise and gratitude. I can choose love and mercy, to trust, to be kind.
My word this year is about much more than making the right choices in life. We deal with making choices every day and I’m sure I’m just like everyone else – some are good and some are not. But actively participating in my spiritual transformation means making conscious, on-purpose choices to capture and bring into submission my wayward, sometimes rebellious and self-willed thoughts. Choosing to do this won’t be easy but God’s Spirit living in me will encourage me and reinforce my good choices, which will not only carry me past February 1, but perhaps even through the rest of my life.
Study by Tammy Tkach
First published on 25 January 2022 at www.gemsofgodsgrace.wordpress.com
About the writer:
Tammy Tkach attends the Oregon, USA congregation, and is the wife of former Grace Communion International President, Joseph Tkach. She is a speaker and writer, and publishes a blog at www.gemsofgodsgrace.wordpress.com
Local congregation:
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