My One Word 2019

To treasure something means “to regard or treat as precious; cherish.” Dictionary.com.

Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21 (NIV).

I have decided that for 2019 my “One Word” to guide my thoughts, words, and actions is Treasured. A lot of people are choosing words like courage, discipline, gratitude, and gratefulness. These are all great words, but I wanted a word that was more about just being and less about doing.

Throughout the year, I want to remember that I am treasured by God, not because of what I do for Him, but because of who He is. I am treasured because He chose to treasure me, to cherish me, to regard me as precious.

I also want to remind you, my readers, that you are treasured, too. God cherishes each and every one of you. Jesus died to save you all.

Have you believed that you are too far gone to be saved? Have you committed some terrible sin and believe that Jesus couldn’t possibly forgive you? Trust me when I say, those beliefs are a lie. Better yet, trust Jesus. He said, “And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.” Matthew 12:31 (NIV). No sin is too great that you cannot be redeemed by God who treasures you greatly.

I understand how you feel, though. I used to believe the lie that I was too far gone. My sins and transgressions weighed me down. I didn’t feel liked much less cherished or treasured. By God’s grace I learned the truth. You can experience this grace, too. All you have to do is believe.

Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
John 6:28–29 (NIV).

But wait, I guess there’s a little bit of “doing” in this word I’ve chosen. I also want to heed Jesus’s teaching to keep Him as the One I treasure most. He is treasured by me and so that is where my heart is. I want to regard and treat Him as precious to me. But this “work” comes easily when I know deep down that He treasured me first.

Won’t you join me this year in treasuring and being treasured by God? Let the knowledge of His truth and mercy sustain you, keep you, and strengthen you for each day.

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On a somewhat related note, I have been invited to be a contributing author at Anchored Voices blog. I will be sharing a poetry corner post on the monthly theme. I am honored to be included among a stellar group of contributing authors. The theme for January is our individual One Word. So look for my poem on being Treasured later this month at Anchored Voices.