Isaiah 40:28-31 NLT — Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

Not only do Julie and I choose a word of the year, but we also choose a phrase or mantra that encapsulates our focus. As we have shared, Julie, Ray, and I have been reading The Bible Recap this year. The Bible Recap is a guided reading plan to read the Bible in a year. During the weeks I was praying about my word and mantra for 2026 we were reading the books of the Bible written by Paul. I have truly enjoyed learning more about Paul. He is the inspiration for my mantra for 2026: Be bold. 

Part of today’s featured scripture, Isaiah 40:31, is my life verse. The New Living Translation uses the word trust. In order for me to be bold, I must trust in the Lord. He will give me the strength and the stamina I need to step out in faith and soar with the eagles.

What will be your focus for 2026? Do you have a phrase or mantra that you will focus on to help you stay Christ-centered? We would love to hear from you and pray for you.

Join me in prayer. Dear God, help me to stay focused on You. Give me the courage, strength, and stamina to be bold for You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

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