Word for 2019

Hey friends!

It's that time of year where we are finishing up the year with reflection and thinking how we will take what we've learned and do better next year.

It's that time of year where we may be frustrated with how the year turned out - no one's fault but our own. I mean it's up to us to how we respond or react to things and what we do with what is thrown our way.

It's that time of year we decide what WORD will be our focus for the next year.

It's that time of year we either stress like crazy about all the holiday things or get super excited and do all the things. Or maybe somewhere in the middle. I love the holidays. I don't even hate the stress I get from it all.

It's that time of year we look at all the good and have gratitude.

It's that time of year where we may cry of the hard things that came our way.

It's that time of year...

You guys... I am constantly in a new normal here and trying to find my way to obedience through all God is throwing at me. Today my husband said to me "You ask Him what He wants you to do BUT.." And he got this back at him - "Hold on dude - wait a minute! I may ask but I never said obeying Him would be easy! I never realized how much He was going to ask me to sacrifice. I never realized I had to feel like I was giving up on my dreams for a season to do what He is calling me to do. I didn't realize I was going to give ALL of me!"

So... my word for 2019 is Sacrifice. I keep hearing - if you lose it all, will you still love Me? And I keep hearing the reminder - you must die to yourself to truly become closer to Me. Oh you guys, living life, truly living it versus letting it happen takes intention, purpose and action. I'm not really waiting for January to begin this journey, it's already in the works. It's prep time.

No matter how hard it feels. I will surrender and trust in Him as I sacrifice to do what He is calling me to do in this life. I am sure I will fall over and over again. I'm thankful for my cheerleaders, my family, my tribe.

For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. - Philippians 1:21 NLT

Trust in the Lord with all your heart & lean not on your own understandings. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will lead your path straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

Now on another note - I'll admit - I've already started listening to Christmas music and I love it. AND for the first time ever - I am going to put up my tree BEFORE Thanksgiving! WHAT?!!?! I know I know... Only lights, no ornaments. But, I am so ready. I saw this idea about putting felt leaf garland on the tree with blessings written on them - may have to happen next year. We will see.

Be oh so blessed my friends.

Much Love, Amanda