If you’ve ever felt the quiet pressure to “figure out” a word of the year as January begins, you’re not alone.
The start of a new year can feel loud. Goals. Plans. Expectations. And somewhere in the middle of it all, a gentle nudge that says, I should probably ask God what He wants for this year.
But here’s something I want to say clearly.
God is not bound by calendars.
And you’re not late.
If you’re just now breathing, settling, or noticing your need for Him more deeply, you’re right on time.
Choosing a word and a Scripture isn’t about starting strong on January 1. It’s about staying close to God in the days that follow.
What a “Word of the Year” Really Is
A word of the year isn’t a goal to achieve or a label to live up to.
It’s a posture.
An invitation.
A way to notice what God may already be stirring in your heart.
Sometimes it’s a word that brings comfort.
Sometimes it’s a word that feels stretched or unfamiliar.
Both can be holy.
This word becomes something you return to when life feels scattered. A reminder of how God is meeting you in this season, not how well you’re performing.
How to Begin Choosing Your Word
You don’t need a long prayer session or a perfectly quiet moment to start.
Begin gently.
Sit with God and ask one simple question:
“God, what are You inviting me into right now?”
Then pay attention.
Notice words that surface as you pray.
Notice themes that keep appearing in Scripture.
Notice what your heart longs for or resists.
Some words come quickly.
Others take time.
There’s no rush. Let the word settle before you decide it has to be finalized.
Letting Scripture Follow the Word
Often, Scripture naturally follows the word.
Once you sense a word taking shape, ask God to show you a verse that reflects it. This doesn’t need to be complicated or lengthy. One or two verses are enough.
This Scripture becomes something you return to when emotions are loud or faith feels quiet. You read it slowly. You pray it honestly. You let it remind you of what’s true.
My word for this season is Abide, and my Scripture is John 15:4–5. It’s a quiet reminder that closeness with God isn’t something I strive for. It’s something I remain in.
Walking With Your Word and Scripture
This practice doesn’t have to take extra time or effort.
You might write your word in your planner.
Highlight your Scripture in your Bible.
Pray it when you don’t know what else to say.
Return to it when life feels overwhelming or uncertain.
The purpose isn’t perfection.
It’s presence.
Small, steady reminders can keep your heart anchored in God through ordinary days.
For some women, having a physical place for their word and Scripture helps prayer feel more focused.
A Prayer Bible is one simple way to do that. It’s a Bible where you highlight verses by topic and mark them so you can return to them when you need them most. Instead of wondering what to pray, you can pray God’s Word back to Him, letting Scripture guide your time with Him.
If this is new to you, I have a free Prayer Bible Hub that teaches the basics step by step and helps you get started without feeling overwhelmed.
👉 LINK TO FREE PRAYER BIBLE HUB
Many women use this practice alongside their word and Scripture as they begin praying more intentionally and consistently.
If You’d Like a Little Guidance
If choosing a word or Scripture feels confusing or overwhelming, I created a gentle guide to help you slow down and listen without pressure.
It’s not about getting it right.
It’s about making space.
You can download the free guide below and walk through it at your own pace.
👉 LINK TO FREE WORD & SCRIPTURE GUIDE
A Gentle Reminder
You don’t need a fresh start to meet with God.
You don’t need clarity before you begin.
You don’t need the “right” word for God to work in your life.
He meets us in the listening.
He honors the quiet yes.
And sometimes, one word and one Scripture are enough to walk closely with Him, one day at a time.