What happens when you discover that wholehearted has become hole-hearted?
Breezing along through the year with wholehearted as my guiding word has been relatively easy – much like I hoped it would be when I chose it.
However, knowing that God has intentions well beyond our imaginings, I knew in the back of my mind that eventually I would have to climb deeper into the word’s meaning.
Descending that ladder reveals a whole different perspective.
Parts of my heart that I thought were full were stuffed with “filler”…useless material that only fluffed things up for appearances sake.
A few holes were discovered, too; they were allowing the good stuff to merely pass through without staying permanently imbedded.
How did my heart get to this state? Aside from the mileage related to age, maybe its upkeep has been a bit neglected.
(Have I been ignoring those “Maintenance Required” warnings?)
So…what to do?
Time for a cardio tune-up, to say the least!
And where might I go for help with that?
…To God, of course…the original Repair Man. I can request that He do some diagnostics and give me the analysis of major issues.
Perhaps a transfusion of unconditional love is necessary – or just increasing the flow rate of gladness and joy would suffice.
Maybe a few minor excisions are indicated.
Cutting out some negativity and discouragement would make a definite improvement.
Or how about a procedure that would open up the valves that are clogged with whatever is keeping me from getting closer to God?
A word can have little meaning until it truly becomes a part of your heart.
Dear Lord,
Thank you for revealing how I can become more wholehearted. I consent to all recommended repairs, knowing full well that I will have to commit to make some changes too. I have full faith in you as my Care and Repair Provider.
These awarenesses have opened my eyes to your intentions, and I am grateful to know you always there, encouraging, guiding, loving.
You alone can make holes become whole.
And your all-knowing guidance is worth the wait.
“O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like you in all of heaven above or on the earth below. You keep your covenant and show unfailing love to all who walk before you in wholehearted devotion. ~1 Kings 8:23
Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.
~ Psalm 27:14
beWARM 
Getting to read this makes me feel like I’m closer to you! Miss you and your big heart and big hugs tons.
Beautiful reflection, Toni. I, too, began my year in earnest with “blessing” and the end of day reflection on it has largely fallen by the wayside. Huh. Need some tune up FOR SURE. God, give me the DISCIPLINE and the strength to follow through! AMEN!
Thank you, Susan! May we both be BLESSED with the DISCIPLINE to continue to hear HIs voice. Missing you!!!
…always ‘thoughtful’ times, follow the reading of your ‘discoveries’….
MUCH thanks dear one…once, again…thankful for my sisters in Christ.xo
I recognized your “voice”, Frannie! I am grateful for my sisters, too…..xo
…its me, Frannie who last commented…!
Toni, it is brave and WISE of you to not just “sit” with your God-blessed word, but to actively engage with it, grow it, nurture it…..even when it causes you to say, ouch, and ulp!! Thank you for reminding me that I must do the same, because this honors God, who graciously gave us our word!
Your thoughts are always so affirming, Betty! Bless you for your constant encouragement!
Thanks for your challenge of choosing one WORD for the year and your honest sharing of your own personal pilgrimage in this challenge. I sometimes wonder how I ever lived so many years of my Christian life without that parameter? I am sure the Holy Spirit has been my guide throughout my journey but one WORD keeps me on track. I must admit there have been many detours this year but when I feel I have failed I am reminded by the Holy Spirit to keep moving FORWARD and “forgetting what is behind.”
Thank heaven for those nudgings of the Holy Spirit, Jean! And I too have been reminded that I need to stop revisiting the past. Onward…and forward!!!
And then, the word becomes worth it’s weight, too. What a gift, to hear your voice, as you turn your word over and over, peel back layers, uncover another facet and dimension, and listen to His gentle leading as He heals, repairs, and makes you/us whole. Continuing to move forward, leaning in to Jesus. Sending you love, sweet beautiful whole-hearted friend.
And sending love and forward-moving wishes back to you, dear friend! Happy to be on the path toward Him with you and many others…
and I am happy that you noticed my play on words!