{What Do I Know of Holy}: JOY

2011 was a rough year and I am not sad to see it go. Anyone else feel this way?

Ministry triumphs were in abundance but unfortunately, so were personal trials.

As the freshly fallen snow covers the cold, hard ground, may the grace of God cover over a multitude of sins as he washes us whiter than snow.

Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. {Philippians 3:13-14}

As for 2012, I look forward with great hope to the possibilities it brings. A new beginning. A clean slate. A fresh start.

And after much thought and prayer, I have decided that my one word for 2012 will be...JOY!

Have you heard of the one word movement? Do you have a word that you are going to focus on this year?

I am not much for resolutions. I usually get overwhelmed and quit. So last year when I discovered the one word movement, I was so excited. It simply gives me one thing to focus on in the new year. One thing that I want to accomplish. One thing to filter everything else through to make sure that I stay on track and am not adding anything to my life/schedule that does not fit with my God-given purpose and goals.

I suggest you consider doing it too. That way you can head into the new year with a goal, but without setting yourself up for disappointment, failure and frustration.

What do you say? 

Tough things may come my way. Unknowns may be scary. Yet, I am determined to find joy in the journey in 2012!

This print designed for us by 517 Creations, which has also been featured at Be Different Act Normal, 517 Creations and Printable Decor.

I may have to look hard to find it at times, and some days I may even have to choose joy, but the bottom line is that my God is with me, he has a plan for me and his mercies are new every morning.

A big part of this is going to be living a life of gratitude, being thankful for all of his blessings, not taking the little things for granted. And learning to embrace/cherish the special moments along the way.

My husband is a wonderful, loving, Godly man of character and integrity. I have 2 beautiful, healthy boys who light up our home. And if nothing else, by the grace of God {through faith}, I have a personal relationship with my savior Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life in heaven with him!

I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ. {Philippians 3:8}

These are the things I will cling to when the going gets tough. 

So, whose with me? Tell me your 2012 word!

Go here for 5 tips to help you decide your one word.

And by the way, I plan to print the {above} 517 Creations  print to display in my home this year, as a reminder of my one word and my goals. I already put it on the left sidebar of my blog. I also plan to purchase this necklace from The Adopt Shoppe to wear as a daily reminder as well.

I am sure that Cap Creations or my talented friends over at The Adopt Shoppe and 517 Creations would love to design a necklace and/or a word art print with your word on it for you. Just let them know that I sent you!

Also, my friend Melanie at Only a Breath is giving away free blog buttons with your one word on it!

Happy New Year, friends! May God bless you as you seek him in 2012!

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart. {Jeremiah 29:13}