Back in the summer I asked a few of the staff to choose a word they want to focus on for the coming year and a verse to go along with it. I chose the word “Joy” and Psalm 40. One of the things I most appreciated about Bob Russell’s ministry, which has been a huge encouragement to me, is that he seemed to be so full of genuine joy. He always seemed to have the hint of a smile on his face, and looked for the positive in every situation. I want to model that kind of joy in my life and ministry in the church.
What is your word for 2025? If you could look back and have one word true of you at the end of the year, what would it be? Choose that word now and begin praying for God to be at work in your life. Most mornings I begin the day praying for genuine joy to be pervasive in my life. I read Psalm 40 and reflect on the truths in it, like verse 8, “I delight to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart.”
The word for our entire church this year is “Grow” and the passage is in Isaiah 61:3. Our focus is to “Grow into Oaks of Righteousness.” We want to grow deep and strong, able to endure and flourish in our community. A tree that is strong is one that “bears fruit in season” (Psalm 1). This kind of tree is a blessing to all who are near it. We want to be that kind of church. And the strength of Valley View rests on the growth of each individual member. How would God grow you specifically this year? I’d love to hear what word and what passage He puts on your heart for 2025!