Each year for the last few years, I have asked the Lord to speak a word to my heart, a word that is true to His Word, that I can focus on for the year ahead.

2015 – He spoke the word “Thanksgiving”

2016 – He spoke the word “Rhythms”

2017 – He spoke the word “Rejoice” – specifically he spoke Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”

I am assuming that a huge reason God has told me that my word for the year is rejoice, is because the verses following address anxious hearts, and Lord knows that in this season of motherhood and life, I deal with an anxious heart.

Philippians 4:6-7 “do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Rejoice is a verb. It means, “feel or show great joy or delight” It can also mean, “cause joy to” or “take delight in” How can I worry my days away when I am busy rejoicing? I have a feeling that this year will be a year of great joys and great hardships but I am ready to lean into Jesus and practice my rejoicing.

Dad was with our students in Denver from Dec 27-Jan 4 so the girls and I kicked off the new year with pedi’s using the last of our Christmas money. Bonus, Grandma and Grandpa Fick stayed home loving on Bub : )

Dad’s home and that is surely cause for rejoicing.

Micah’s biological Grandmas came to visit and brought some Donut Man DVDs for the kids and my kids are entranced. Anything with donut in the title, causes lots of rejoicing in the Fieleke house.

My man built me a real pantry because he didn’t approve of my rubber maid shelving.

Date night. Yes, please.

This weekend, weather permitting, our Bitty has her first dance show. And I will be rejoicing my butt off because this girl is a treasure and the delight she shares when she’s dancing is unmatched.

(I ordered my bracelet at mudlove and I LOVE IT.)

I would love to hear what your words for the year are or ways that you are helping remind yourself of areas to grow in 2017!