I desire to live selfless. . .

. . . and in selfless living, leave a Legacy of Christ.
This post is long overdue, but has always been in the back of my mind. Briefly, in the first new days of January in this bright new year of 2015, I believe I mentioned something of a certain word.
SELFLESS.

source

Last year, my mother took it upon herself to choose one word to focus on for those following days of 2014. You may have heard tell of this through other blogs, friends, or directly from the book by Mike Ashcraft, My One Word. Anyway, my mama chose as her word for that year seek, and all throughout she focused solely on seeking what I shall dub the Three W's: God's Word, God's Will, & God's Way. This year, her word practically bombarded her in the face: focus.
This is a superb way to challenge and strengthen one's walk with Christ. So, a few days before Christmas, I found my word. I hadn't officially decided to pick one, I didn't know where to start, but one word always managed to push its way into my over-thoughtful/distracted mind: selfless.
And here I am.
I've been convicted of being such a selfish person. Those of you who know me personally are probably thinking, "What? Dear little Sarah, selfish? Not at all!" But, alas, 'tis true. I am a stubborn beastie who thinks only of myself and my best interests, and strives to remain in my safe and comfortable bubble inside the walls my own making.
But I wish to change. I wish to be the maidservant of my King, and fill my heart and mind with His thoughts and unconditional love for my fellow Earth-brothers and sisters. To do such a daring and nigh impossible deed, I need to become selfless.
That's my word for darling 2015, and quite possibly for all the years to come afterward. That's the legacy that I want to leave: one that on hearing my name, others will immediately say,
"She was a Selfless Servant of Christ."
My one word: SELFLESS.
And my motto for this year: "I desire to live selfless; and in selfless living, leave a Legacy of Christ." (penned by me, by the way.) :]
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
And now, what of you, then? I have set a challenge, and it's never too late to begin.
Will you accept?
If God wishes it of you, your word will show itself. Maybe it'll be on a billboard, or in a pastor's sermon. It could even be the name of a friend or family member. Quite possibly, it will keep popping up until you give in. :] But don't rush it! It may be a couple weeks before your word comes to light.
Whatever it be, if you take the dive, let me know! Accountability is the God-given gift of iron sharpening iron. Grab a friend or sister!

@sarahpenmaiden | Instagram

Once you have your word, define it. Search the dictionary for a definition, then comb through the Scriptures. Prayer is a biggie, of course. This is between you and God. But don't be afraid to share with others! (I love receiving comments, you know) ;) And then, work through the Three W's. How does your word apply to them? What do you need to change? and so on.
I took another idea from my mama and ordered a custom bracelet from a gorgeous little Etsy shop, Beauty of Heart. This is a darling way to keep your word ever present. You simply have to look at your wrist and BAM! there rests a pretty, everyday reminder.
You shan't forget to comment, yes? Good.
Oh, and do have a lovely Thursday. I'll catch you tomorrow. :]
post signature

Comments

Christine SmithFebruary 14, 2015 at 3:09 PM
Selfless, what a beautiful word to live by.

This post was so inspiring. It's definitely a shock to hear that you have any bit of selfishness. You're always uplifting me and challenging me to grow my walk with God. But I understand. Selfishness is a huge struggle of mine as well. Very huge.

I think choosing a word to strive for each year is a wonderful thing to do. This is only my second year to do it, but it has really helped me focus on something specific to improve instead of just thinking I need to do better in general. It gives me a task to work on.

That bracelet is absolutely beautiful! What a perfect thing to help dedicate yourself to your word.

This was beautiful, Sarah. You live an inspiring example!
Sarah CnossenFebruary 14, 2015 at 8:09 PM
Awww, thank you, dear Lauri! That is what I strive to be. And you, in turn, inspire me!

Love ya, girlie. :]