This year, I am turning 23. 23, a year that many entitled, Jordan Year. Jordan Year comes from the famous basketball player, Michael Jordan that is. Many associates 23 with the idea of Jordan Year because it is a year that steps deeper into adulthood. 23 for me is about intentionality. Many people think the new year starts in January but, for me, the new year starts June 24th. I associate a new year with my birthday because I am becoming a year older and stepping into a new season with the Lord.

As I stated before, year 23 for me is about intentionality. I am striving to be more intentional in all things but most specifically, in my approach to life. I am currently reading the book of Proverbs this month. I chose the book of Proverbs because of the focus on wisdom. As I grow older, I strive for the Lord to fill me with wisdom and understanding. How I am being intentional about being filled with these principles is by, reading the book of Proverbs.  

Proverbs has been heavy on conduct, how one ought to approach life and situations. The majority of my reading is focused on embodying the Fruit of the Spirit, being gracious to others, and honoring others. The Lord has been so gracious and loving to me for the past 23 years, I want to do better at giving Him, unconditional love. In this new year, I am excited to grow deeper in my walk with Christ. I am excited to know Him more and love Him deeper. As I sit here, I think about the lessons I learned in Proverbs and how I can be more intentional in my approach to life. When I speak about intentionality, I am speaking about all things. The Fruit of the Spirit are characteristics I have been cultivating in my life for some time and, I am finally starting to see them manifest in the way I live.

As I move into my 23rd year, I am learning how to rest more and embrace life. In the past, I was confined to a list, a plan. I wanted to do x,y,z before I was a certain age. Of course, I still have goals and plans but I am allowing the Lord to guide them instead of myself. I am letting go of the time frame I have to accomplish the things I want to accomplish and instead, allow the Lord to direct me. Trusting the Lord in the way has not been easy but, it has been one of the most amazing things I have done. I feel lighter, I feel happier, I feel excited to see where He guides and leads me. I know that I can trust the Lord because, He has NEVER failed me. The Lord has shown me time and time again that I can depend on Him.

As I finish up the book of Proverbs this month, I am striving to fully embrace God. I know it's a journey but, each day I will give my all over to Him. Each day I will learn to place my full dependence on my loving Savior. In year 23, I am focused on intentionality and embracing all that the Lord has for me. I encourage you to do the same.