Listening Prayer: Seeking A Special Word from the Lord for 2023

 

Oftentimes, I find myself hoping for refreshment at the start of a new year. Like many others, I ponder my goals, consider resolutions and aspire to mentally reset as I eagerly aim to grow into a more devoted follower of Christ and better servant toward others.  

Have you ever considered asking the Lord for a special word for the upcoming year—something He wants to specifically highlight to you, place on your heart and gear your attention toward—a theme He wants you to ponder in 2023? 

If you've chosen to give your life to Jesus, you’ve received the gift of the Holy Spirit, allowing you to further know and understand the Father.  

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” John 10:27 

Establishing relationships entails both sharing your heart and getting to know the hearts of others. Likewise, it is the same with developing intimacy with Jesus. We have the divine opportunity to (1) let Jesus in as we choose to be vulnerable with Him, and (2) understand the depths of His character more and more.  

God desires to speak to us, establishing two-way communication. Therefore, we are called to listen. In order to listen, we must hear.  

Hearing from the Lord can happen in a number of ways:  

  • From within His Word. The Bible is our helpful tool of Truth; it is the living, breathing Word of God, sharper than any double-edged sword, designed to reach and be understood by any heart that has the Holy Spirit. It is powerful and always truthful.  

“For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 

  • From within our inner Spirit. As we spend time in prayer and in God’s Word, we develop the ability to hear from the Holy Spirit. While I have never heard an actual audible voice, I definitely hear as the Holy Spirit places things on my heart and mind. It is a communication that becomes more evident the more time we spend in God’s Word and in prayer, and as our relationship with God matures.  

“When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth, for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will declare to you the things that are to come.” John 16:13 

  • From others. As other faith-filled individuals listen to the Holy Spirit, they inevitably speak life into those around them, building people up, sharing Truth in love. When we surround ourselves with life-giving believers who listen to the voice of the Lord, we inevitably receive wise counsel and truths from the Spirit that allow us to grow.  

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 

1 Thessalonians 5:11 

In the first few weeks of this new year, I encourage you to ask God to reveal the special New Year’s word He wants to highlight for you in 2023. I have faith that a particular word or words will be presented to you in some capacity through one or multiple avenues of communication with the Lord.  

Whether the key word is “joy”, “reverence”, “value” or something else that is equally beautiful, holy and meant just for you—know that God has amazing, new plans for you in 2023 if you are willing to step into further intimacy with Him, and be available to Him. 

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