As Julie and I have shared over the last few weeks, instead of making a New Year’s resolution, we choose a word to focus on throughout the year. In 2025 I chose two words that coincide together: peace and joy. Joy comes through peace.

Julie and I have found that whatever word or words God lays on our heart to focus on is usually an area that we will be tested. As a result, we must lean into our word of the year and truly focus on it to strengthen us through trials and troubles. This idea held true for me in 2025 as me and my family faced many difficulties. Midway through the year I caught myself spiraling into a cycle of worry. Needless to say, my peace and joy were on shaky ground. Thankfully I wasn’t in this spiral long before God brought it to my attention during my prayer and devotion time one morning. The Holy Spirit led me to understand that after all the speaking and writing I have done about my faith, now I must truly live out my faith. Having faith means I must trust God and by trusting God I would have peace and joy.

In the latter part of 2025 I have been praying about my word for 2026. I felt God was still asking me to focus on trust but I needed to be sure. In November I began using a new journal a friend gave me last Christmas to write my prayers and gratitudes each morning. On November 22, 2025 God confirmed that trust would be my word for 2026. As I turned to a new page I discovered a special inserted page with a scripture written on it.

Romans 15:13 NIV — May the God of all hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

There it was, a God wink found in an unexpected page in my journal. There was my confirmation in a scripture that contained my words from last year and my word for the new year. WOW! Go God!

What word is God laying on your heart to focus on in 2026? We would love to hear from you and be in prayer with you for your new year.

Join me in prayer. Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for God winks and confirmations. May I keep my heart open to the guidance of Your Holy Spirit as You lead me into a new year. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

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