Time has taught me to pay attention when words, thoughts, emails, conversations begin to take on the appearance of a theme. If you’ve been around here long, you know I’m a big fan of themes!
But the theme taking shape in my mind lately isn’t a fun one. In fact, I’d rather ignore it—but I know better.
In my experience, when a theme begins to overlay my everyday, I know I need to pay attention. God tends to speak to me in themes. In other words, he meets me right where I am and speaks through things I can understand. Guess what? He’ll do the same for you!
So I’m paying attention . . .
Committing to a “word of the year” will keep me focused—and accountable.
I told you it’s not a fun one!
Oh, Lord, where are we going with this theme?
in·se·cu·ri·ty
noun
1. uncertainty, a lack of confidence or anxiety about oneself
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-
- self-doubt
- apprehension, nervousness
- self-conscious
- vulnerability
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2. open to danger or threat; lack of protection
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- job uncertainty/loss
- food insecurity
- lack of access to healthcare
- undependable income
- abuse
-
We know there’s no magic re-set when the calendar turns to 2021.
The economic insecurities present throughout 2020 will be with us for a long time. The emotional toll will be with us for a long time. Those are simple (hard!) facts.
But the million dollar question I still find myself asking is: What will coming together look like when #stayathome ends?
Click to read Thinking Ahead: What will coming together look like when #stayathome ends?
If we’re REALLY all in this together, what should that look like?
What if those of us cocooning in our cozy homes (experiencing little more than inconvenience) put aside our insecurities of self-doubt and lack of confidence and actually tried to make a difference? What if we become the eyes and prayerful hearts who identify needs—and set out to address them?
Confession: I actually like being “stuck at home”. I don’t like the reason, but my hermit side is strong, and it’s very tempting to snuggle in and forget about the world around me. You, too?
And yet, in my community (and yours) there are
- neighbors impacted by serious, life-threatening insecurities like hunger and abuse
- single parents needing a babysitter so they can go to work
- elderly and disabled neighbors needing someone to pick up and deliver groceries
- lonely neighbors for whom a phone call or card would bring joy for weeks
- skilled people able to cut through red tape and find solutions
- . . . and the list goes on
So as 2021 begins, I’m going to focus on dealing with my own self-focused insecurities—and pay attention to ways I can personally address the economic and emotional insecurities of those around me. I’m only one person, but I’m trusting God to lead in this journey he started. He has a reputation for using little people to do big things!
Join me on the adventure by focusing on your community! Let’s let God use us to change the word for someone this year!
insecurity —-> security
But those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
Happy New Year, friends. Be safe. Be strong. Be kind!
Previous words:
2011 – De-clutter
2013 – Circle
2014 – #RiskRejection
2018 — Middle
I have to admit, I’ve been using the words “cautiously optimistic” a lot in the past few months. I think it’s just another way – more of a glass half-full way – of admitting insecurity. I’m with you.I will continue trying to shift my own fears into focusing on a few others as the year begins. Happy New Year, Susan.
Rita, I think we all understand “cautiously optimistic.” I think you’re right about it being a glass half-full way of admitting our insecurity; good analogy. And so we take a deep breath and step into the unknown—together.
May God help you and use you to help those around you to find security. I am so grateful God always brings us to secure places in Him. The word He brought me to for 2021 is “Prevail” > “rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer” (Romans 12:12). Happy New Year!
That’s a great word, Joanne. May 2021 be a year that opens your eyes and heart to what it means to prevail.
I’m so glad to be in the same boat as you this year with our uncomfortable words, Susan! 🙂 Uncertainty is not a fun word for me, just like insecurity isn’t a fun word for you. It will be interesting to hang in here together to see what the Lord is up to with us!
Also like you, being “stuck at home” hasn’t been hard for my introvert side, but it has brought on more emotional struggles to be disconnected from my activities. I needed that prodding to go into the world that my regular opportunities once gave me. Nonetheless, my problems are so minimal compared to what others have experienced in 2020 so I have no room for complaining.
I love how you ended your post with insecurity–>security. I can use that as well for my uncertainty–>certainty!
“…prodding to go into the world…” I totally understand this! Talked w/ another friend last week, and she’s having the same feelings we are. Some days I just want to be that proverbial ostrich, but I know God expects more, so I pray we’ll all stay vigilant to listen and follow.