A few years ago, I heard about the concept of focusing on a word for the year rather than a New Year’s resolution. I liked that idea. At that point, I decided my word should be love. I was head over heels for my new baby boy, experiencing unconditional love in a way I never had before. It just made sense, and was also a good reminder for me to show love to others.
As 2018 kicked off, I wasn’t sure what my word should be. I wrote a few other goals for the year, but didn’t worry about it too much. A few weeks into the year, a friend invited me to try something I’d never done before—holy yoga. I’m no yogi by any means, but thought it sounded cool. When I signed in and confessed my inexperience, the instructor reassured me, “it’s not about the yoga.”
She led us through a series of stretches and poses while she talked about the concept from the fruit of the spirit she was focusing on that week—peace. As she explained how the prior couple weeks had been about love and joy, I realized I had found my word for the year. Looking back at the prior couple years, you could easily say my focuses were love and then joy. Peace was the perfect word for 2018.
The instructor’s message was such a blessing to me that morning. I shed tears as she reminded us that God provides us with a peace that passes all understanding. I tried to shift my focus from the aches and pains in my body and how awkward I felt trying to maintain my balance to the truth she was pouring out as we moved through a “flow.” Regardless of my complete lack of yoga know-how, what she said before we started was so true…it wasn’t about the yoga.
After class, I told my friend who invited me how much I enjoyed it and about my enthusiasm for my new word for the year. We both agreed that we’d be back to the class in coming weeks, but life happens and I have yet to return. It’s funny how God puts you where you need to be right when you need it. Although I hope to get to another class soon, that one little glimpse of yoga and the revelation of my word, peace, has already helped me so much this year.
It’s like God knew I needed to be focused on the peace He provides. The following weekend I was feeling anxious and nervous about speaking at the Tipton Prayer Breakfast and my sister shared this verse, John 14:27, with me. It was an affirmation of my focus on peace and the most perfect reminder in that moment.
This image is now the screen saver on my phone to help me stay focused on peace. Over and over again this year, it’s been the perfect reminder for me. As I witnessed my sweet boy experience his second seizure, I was able to work through it and stay calm. As we prepare for a consult with a neurosurgeon for Gage next week, God is giving me His peace each day, and even moment by moment.
I know that the prayers that cover me and my family are a big reason we can find peace in the midst of tough circumstances. My prayer for each of you is that, no matter what you’re going through or what challenge you’re dealing with, you’d be able to find that same peace that passes understanding.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
“Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7
Love how the Lord reinforces what He is teaching us is so many different ways & how He confirms it, too. The Holy yoga sounds amazing! Working your mind and spirit at the same time! Cool! If I lives closer to Springfield I should would give it a try. Once again, thank you for a wonderful insightful post.