This new post really excites me. No, really it does. Not because of the goals that I have set out for myself, but because of my new word for the year. But we’ll dive into that shortly.
First off, I would say that I’m typically not the kind of person that *needs* to have a word for the year. Some years it has come to mind more easily than others. However, I always try to have some goals to work towards. In my previous post, I talked about the word that I had for 2020 which I think was just setting a foundation for this year.
Backing up a little, I was listening to a new (to me) podcast where I heard this word. And It was one of those moments where it felt like it “hits you between the eyes”. Do you know what I’m talking about? Like you’re suddenly super aware and alert. That was me, and this was the word that was spoken during the podcast and that I’m claiming for myself over 2021… are you ready?
STEWARD
As soon as I heard it, I just knew that it was perfect and exactly what I need. So I did some research from a biblical standpoint and also an internet search because I wanted to study the word a little deeper. Here’s what I came up with:
- steward (biblical definition): “Utilizing and managing all resources God provides for the glory of God and the betterment of his creation.”
I also liked this version from a blog post I found, “The careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care.” Both phrases I think are very powerful and challenging at the same time.
I’ll be 100% transparent, I feel like this word is challenging for me. Over the past few years in my life, whether personal or business, I’ve felt like I’ve wasted a lot of my time. I’ve let my emotions dictate more of my decisions, again, both personally and in business. I’ve let down my guard with true productivity and stewardship in many areas of my life; health, finances, business, talent, time, etc.
So as this word came through the podcast, it clicked instantly. This is it. This is my new word. And so I have began to brainstorm and really dive deeper into what this looks like and how I will be applying it to my own life. So let’s take a look: (I’m very much in the basic steps of this for now. I want to make sure these are all smart goals that I know I’ve either accomplished or didn’t. There’s no room for in-between goals.)
PERSONAL:
- I want to be a good steward of hosting people in my home by preparing a meal for at least one new couple each month. (Which in turn, will challenge me to host people beyond my inner circle)
SPIRITUAL:
- Read through the bible (using the chronological bible) – which I’ve never done before, so I’m excited for this one!
- Go through a special class at our church and officially become members!
FINANCIAL:
- Sponsor a child through cure (We currently sponsor two children through Compassion and LOVE getting to build a relationship with them through handwritten letters! I would LOVE to have you join in this amazing cause to spread God’s love!)
Wrapping it up, I want to leave you with these quotes. I hope they will challenge you to become a better steward of your time, money and resources too:
- “God equipped ME with the skills and personality required to be a steward of God.”
- “We are not to WASTE what he has given us, we are not to HIDE what he has given us, and we are not to do NOTHING with what he has given us.” <– life motto anyone?
- “In everything you do, and with every decision you make, look first to how you can serve the Lord. Always invest the things he’s trusted to you into Kingdom work.”
I’m so excited to be able to look back at the end of 2021 to see what the Lord has done. It’s going to be a great year, friends!
If you’ve enjoyed this personal post, you might also enjoy these:
6 years of business: A trip down memory lane