At the end of 2014, I decided that I would be intentional about defining each year that was to precede. As a writer, the most natural way to define this was by picking a word, based on scripture and having periodic check-ins with myself throughout the year to see if I was living it out.

In 2015, my word was contentment based off scripture found in Ecclesiastes 6:9b, it reads “It is better to be satisfied with what you have than to always be wanting something else.” I felt like I’d grown far too accustomed to always asking God for more and this led to a great deal of discontentment. Instead of fostering an attitude of gratitude, I grew bitter over all the things I felt I did not have. So with the pursuit of minimalism in mind, I told God I was done asking and would just do my best with whatever He granted.

That year was marked by so much peace and this huge sense of relief in knowing that whatever I had would be enough for me. Ironically, this was the year God also decided to bless me with a new job, a new home and it’s the year Geordan proposed to me. I can’t help but wonder how things might have turned out differently if I had not decided to just be content with whatever God gave me.

Now, 28 days into 2016, my word is faith, based on the scripture found in Hebrews 11:6. It reads “Now without faith it is impossible to please God, for the one who draws near to Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who seek Him.” I felt before this year even started, that God would call me out to do some things I’d never done before, things that would require me to trust Him and I’m doing it because I’ve already experienced His faithfulness and know He does not give man a vision without also equipping them to bring that vision to pass. He is faithful, even when we are not and I am highly anticipating all that He will do this year. He’s already sold multiple copies of The Black Girl’s Guide to Living on Purpose, secured a venue for the book’s launch party and landed me a feature in a magazine based in Houston. Remember, we’re only 28 days in. Who knows what He’ll do with the remaining 337? I just have a feeling it’s going to be BIG.

As you look to the months ahead, I challenge you to search the scriptures and find a verse that contains your word for this year. By being intentional in this, you’re already claiming victory over whatever trials and tribulations are headed your way. You’re setting yourself up to be dynamic in 2016 and to not allow it to be a year of defeat. I may not know you and you might not know me but I do know that’s happened to you, even up until this very moment, can be used to give God glory – you simply must define how it will tie into your story.