“What’s your word for the year?” Kim, a dear friend and skillful yoga instructor, recently asked this question of the participants in her restorative class.
With more than half the year behind us, Kim’s question was delightfully unexpected.
Kim explained she had chosen “OPEN” as her word for this year, and then she led us through several yoga poses to illustrate the concept. She offered other applications as well, which OPENed my mind and set me to thinking…
To be honest, I hadn’t really considered or claimed a word for 2025, in spite of the fact that I co-authored a book with Linda Gilden entitled Words to Live By: One Word a Week. Dear me! It’s time for a reckoning and a reset.
But back to Kim’s question: As soon as she asked, the word HOPE sprang to mind. Thus far, this year has been one of some trepidation, but even greater HOPE as I moved through an unexpected diagnosis and successful surgery, followed by the joyful arrival of our first grandchild.
Through both major events, God provided hefty doses of HOPE through support, encouragement, provision, and His perfect timing. Wow, is He ever good at His job!
Romans 15:13 remains one of my favorite scriptures about where our HOPE comes from and how it empowers us to accept what is and move forward in confident expectation for what follows.
Speaking of FOLLOW, that’s another word I want to become more aware of and build upon for the rest of this year. Not only have I learned I must FOLLOW recommendations for rest and renewal, but I must also choose carefully who and what I FOLLOW in terms of how I spend time and take in information.
Below is a sampling of the authors and podcasts I currently FOLLOW, all recommended by wise friends who understand the influence of media over minds. I pray you will find some of them valuable to you.
For a recap of daily news from a biblical world view, I listen to The World and Everything in It. A shorter version exists in The Pour Over.
For spiritual nourishment and encouragement, I FOLLOW Joni and Friends, Gospel Spice Podcast, Focus on the Family, John Eldredge, and Max Lucado, among others. I find it helpful to listen to one or more of these podcasts as I am folding clothes, resting, driving, or working in the kitchen.
FOLLOW along with these words from Max’s “Mighty, Yet Gentle” - July 11, 2025 devotion and let HOPE permeate your heart and calm your mind as he reminds us of the Spirit’s work and power in our lives:
The Spirit is wholly holy and unlike any being in our world, which is such good news! We need a source of strength that is unbuffeted by that which buffets us, undisturbed by that which disturbs us, untethered to whatever ties us down. The Spirit is not subject to weather patterns, aging bodies, pandemics, stock market swings, or despots. He has never been sick. He will never be afraid. He does not worry, strive, or struggle. He is the Holy Spirit.
“The wind blows where it wishes…” (John 3:8 ESV). In like manner, the Holy Spirit answers to no government or organization. Mighty enough to clear a path, he can break down walls of prejudice and subdue the most stubborn heart. Yet gentle. A roaring wind at Pentecost. A still, small voice at Mount Horeb. — Max Lucado
This week, whatever you choose to listen to or think about, may it infuse you both mightily and gently with HOPE and help you FOLLOW our Savior more faithfully.
Father,
Thank You that at every turn where fear or dread attempts to trip or trap, You offer HOPE. Help us FOLLOW and focus on “All, but Only” that which infuses our spirits with joy and peace. May we overflow with HOPE in such a way that it overflows into the lives and spirits of those You send across our path each day. We trust You to heal every hurt and meet every need through the power of Your Holy Spirit.
In the name of the One Who grants joy, peace, and HOPE to those who FOLLOW Him, Amen.
The Wobbly Warbler invites you to learn and sing Romans 15:13:
What word(s) would you like to live by for the rest of this year? Let’s pray for each other to be focused and intentional in that regard. Bless you, Friends!
You made me realize I need to know more about the Holy Spirit.
I enjoyed reading about Open, Hope, and Follow...but JOY is one of your most defining characteristics. You share it with so many of us! You can make anyone's day extra special with a few minutes of your time. Thank you for your joy and your great expectations for others to experience it too. You are a treasure!