Word of the Year 2021
Well, 2020 was full of challenges, wasn’t it?
My word for 2020 was NURTURE. There were many times I didn’t think this beautiful word could encompass how awful 2020 turned out or I didn’t feel like I was being nurtured or being nurturing, but the truth is God was gracious. In a year that saw so many plans and expectations turned upside down, set aside, or cancelled, HE was nurturing us like only HE could.
As the year progressed, we saw several moments where God was in the process of caring for us, our authors, and our titles as well as encouraging us to grow and develop in areas we might not have considered had the year gone as originally planned. Our ability to donate books to two different non-profit organizations this year. as well as the opportunity to co-host a virtual writing conference for children’s authors are included in our nurturing moments of 2020. I’m so very thankful for our team, our authors, our readers and followers who came alongside us and were a part of the nurturing process of 2020.
When we look back at 2020, it’s hard to not be changed by all that we endured and to feel leery of what might come this year, so as I started thinking and praying over this new year and what the Word of the Year would be, I wasn’t looking for anything fancy. In fact, I chose to go back to basics and to lean into the Lord while intentionally focusing on God’s Word as a reminder of His truth as I began to list out my hopes for the future, despite all the brokenness, hurt, and fear surrounding us due to COVID, politics, news, and other societal challenges.
Of course, when this word came to me, I was worried at first that it was almost too simple, too ordinary. I was initially put off because it’s something that I almost take for granted every day. Yet, it’s in the definition of the word that I realized how perfect it really is for 2021 and how I can apply it to every aspect of life, work, relationships, health, and more.
So, as we move forward into this new year and the 365 days that bring with them new experiences and new adventures, I know I can rely on my Heavenly Father and all He asks of me when he asks me to … (insert drumroll please!)…
According to Merriam-Webster, believe is a verb and it means “to have a firm conviction as to the goodness, efficacy, or ability of something” and “to accept something as true, genuine, or real”. I LOVE THIS! Synonyms to believe are accept, trust, faith, confidence, and affirm. Plus, the word “believe”, or one derived from it, shows up in the Bible over 250 times.
For 2021, I am going to BELIEVE …
Believe that I’m saved by the blood of the Lamb: Romans 10:9-13
Believe that God answers prayers: Mark 11:24
Believe that we have a hope and purpose: I Timothy 4:!0
Believe in our mission: Matthew 18:6
Believe there will be joy after heartache: Psalm 28:7
As I pray for 2021 and God’s calling for myself and for Little Lamb Books, I pray we are able to step into all that He has planned with confidence and BELIEVE that He has the best planned for us. I hope you join me as we remind ourselves that we can rest in the assurance of His strength, His peace, His joy, and His love. I BELIEVE that God is good and I can’t wait to see all that He has in store for us in 2021!
Lambie Love, Y’all!
Rachel
Founder and Publisher
P.S. To check out last year’s Word of the Year, visit here and here.