As a kid, I had a friend who would always pick a word for the year. She loved to deck out her notebooks, to-do lists, even her clothes to match that theme. Honestly, I never really got it. By early February, I was pretty sure most of them would abandon their words and wait until next year to try again.
But then something shifted for me this year, in 2025. A few weeks back, I listened to my friend Monsia Kirkland’s podcast where she discussed the word “new.” She mentioned that God’s idea of “new” was different from her own understanding.
Monica is genuinely one of the most dedicated prayer warriors I know. Unlike her high school and college friends, she is sincere, committed, and careful with what she says. For her, choosing a word each year isn’t just about focus. It’s about being open to what God might reveal to her.
This practice of selecting a word for the year has become popular among both Christians and secular folks. It’s a way to articulate the essence of what one hopes to experience over the next year. Many Christians ask God to provide a word and help fulfill its purpose within the coming 365 days. This transition period in December and January resonates with many as it symbolizes fresh starts. But what if choosing a word is less about the word itself and more about surrendering control?
Letting Go of Control in God’s Timing
The Bible speaks to the importance of recognizing different seasons. For instance, the Israelites navigated the wilderness before reaching the Promised Land. Adam and Eve entered a world filled with beauty, only to face challenges after the Fall. Revelation tells of a coming season that is yet to unfold. Seasons are unavoidable; they define our lives. When we acknowledge them without trying to dominate them, it can actually free us from the tight grasp we often hold.
As it says in Proverbs 16:9, “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps” (NLT). I committed this verse to memory when I was young because it reminded me of two crucial truths: 1. God has good plans in store for me, and 2. Even if I stumble, God’s plans will come to fruition (Isaiah 46:10).
We often pick a word of the year hoping to predict what lies ahead. We desire success, love, prosperity—the whole package. But it’s crucial to remember that a house stands firm only when God builds it. In other words, the validity of our words hinges on God’s input; He knows our needs better than we do.
If you’re like me, this whole concept can feel unsettling. I want clarity and answers right away! But, that’s not how it works with God. His timing is intentional and aligns with His broader plans for us.
Guidelines for Choosing Your Word in Prayer
If you’re contemplating a word for 2026, here are some suggestions:
- First, seek the Lord for guidance on a word and spend quality time in prayer about your thoughts. Seriously, give it some time and ask for clarity.
- Listen more than you speak. It’s great to talk to God—absolutely do that! But make sure you’re also tuning in. Take a moment to hear His voice.
- If you’re having trouble, ask someone close to you to pray on your behalf. Sometimes God can speak through others.
- Engage with the Bible and converse with the Lord. Find a quiet spot and adopt a posture of surrender, ready to receive whatever God wishes to share with you.
As noted by Abide Magazine, choosing a word of the year doesn’t need to be a burden, but perhaps the key is to let God reveal that word through your prayers and scripture reading.
When you let God choose your word, a few things can happen:
- You relieve yourself of the pressure.
- You surrender control to God.
- You invite a spirit of creativity in how the Lord communicates in the new year.
Asking God for a word can foster a sense of anticipation for the good He’ll bring into our lives. It cultivates total dependence on Him, as seen in Psalm 37:4: “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart” (NIV). Of course, those desires should align with God’s will, but sharing them with Him is perfectly okay, no matter what word you end up with.
Just like any New Year’s resolution, you can quickly read more scripture, choose a word, and move on. Or, just as likely, you’ll forget it in a month. But hear me out: this is a chance to align your heart with God’s, making you healthier and more focused.
As completely loved says, “Choosing the Word of the Year provides a foundation for knowing God and seeking more of Him. If I pick up a book titled Joy, I expect it to teach me about joy. So, when my Word of the Year is Joy, I’m ready to discover what God wants to show me about that feeling.”
So, should you select a word this year? I think it really comes down to your intention. If you plan to face God with open arms, ready for whatever He might say, then go for it. But if you believe that a word can magically change your circumstances, well, that’s probably a misconception. It’s essential to approach the Lord with the right mindset, especially when it comes to the Word of the year. Yes, you and God can share the same words, but keep your expectations flexible.
A Prayer for Guidance in the New Year
Dear Jesus,
Choosing a “word of the year” can feel intimidating. We naturally want control and certainty about the future, but we can only focus on You. If there’s anything You wish to share with us this year, we’re here—ready and open. We humbly surrender ourselves to whatever that word may mean in our lives. Please speak to us, Jesus. We long to hear Your gentle wisdom. We are Your flock, prepared to listen and follow where You lead. We love You, we praise You, and we trust You.
Amen.
