Be Still.
I chose this One Word (okay it is two words, but they work together to make one idea), partially based on Psalm 46:10 “…be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (NIV). In the New American Standard Version of the bible (my version of choice, since it is translated word for word instead of idea for idea, making it ideal for word studies), this verse says, “Cease striving and know that I am God…”

For a type A personality like me, the words “be still” and “cease striving” sound really challenging, yet wonderful at the same time. When I looked up the Strong’s number for cease (7503) I found the following, “to relax, to let drop, refrain, to let go, let along, to be quiet, to show oneself slack, to abate” (this information was found on www.blueletterbible.org which is a great tool for bible study/word studies). I wasn’t sure what abate meant, and was surprised and convicted when I read its definition, “to put an end to, to reduce in degree or intensity.”

So, we will see how God uses this idea of be still to refine me. It will be interesting to revisit this topic throughout the year and see what is specifically being learned. I desire to be a woman who does not control, but is at rest in God’s Presence and ability (sufficiency) to direct my life and the lives of those around me. Control is a huge issue I wrestle with and asking Him to grow me in this area [of not striving, but resting and trusting, and being at rest internally] is going to be challenging, but I long to change and be refined; for my health, for the benefit of my family, and mostly for His glory.

http://echoesofmyheartcd.blogspot.com/2013/01/our-word-for-2013.html