by Edie Melson
@EdieMelson
Since today is New Year's Eve, I thought I'd share my One Word for 2015.
I’ve long since
given up making New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I use this time to allow God
to redirect my steps onto the path He has for me. I’d like to take today to
share how I go about that.
I began this
process in 1996 when, at the urging of several godly friends, I began asking
God for a verse to guide my steps during the coming year. He faithfully
supplied that first verse and has done so every year since.
I’ve loved the
practice of searching out His will, and it’s become a sweet time of fellowship
as I listen for His voice. Then, in 2012, a new friend suggested I also ask Him
to supply a single word for the coming year. (Thank you, Beth Vogt.) I did, and again the process
added depth to my relationship with God.
This year I,
after much prayer, I’ve chosen the word Yoke. This word encapsulates what it
means to stay close to Jesus, and is amplified by Matthew 11:30.
I
did some deeper study into this verse, and I’d like to share with you what I’ve been reminded of about Jesus’ yoke
and the rest He has for me. There are three applications I’ve found from these
verses.
- First,
our yoke is personal. In
biblical times the yoke of an ox was made from wood. It was hand
carved—especially for that particular animal. It wasn’t interchangeable between
animals.
- Second,
our yoke is a partnership.
A young, untrained ox was paired with a more mature ox that could guide and teach
the young one and make his work easier.
- Finally, our
yoke is perfectly fair and just. The word Yoke has the same Greek root word as the balance on a
scale.
I’ve shared my word
for 2015, I’d love for you to share yours. Be sure to leave it, and/or your
verse for this year in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
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