A word for 2015

The gorgeous graphic is from Little Birdie Blessings

Only ten days late or so, I'm coming up with a word for 2015!  You probably wouldn't believe how many different words I've considered.  Some of the strong contenders were "persevere"; "rest"; "keep" -- and I know there were more.  I seriously considered using last year's word -- "balance" again this year, as I feel I haven't done very well with that and still have much more to learn about it.  However, what I finally know is the right word for 2015 is this one: renewal.

Personally, I feel very much in need of renewal on many fronts.  I'm tired and at times feel on the verge of burnout.  I spend lots of time with an old person and so sometimes I catch myself shuffling, as he does.  As each new day begins, I have physical energy (thanks to a good night's rest)  and spiritual energy (thanks to quality time in God's Word and in prayer), but am mentally and emotionally spent.  Renewal sounds not only good, but crucially necessary.

God's Word has much to say about renewal, which is the main reason I chose this word.  Romans 12:2 admonishes us to "be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

Ephesians 4:23 tells us, "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind."

King David prayed, "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me."  (Psalm 51:10)

Isaiah wrote,  "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."  (Isaiah 40:31)

I want each of these verses to be true in my life!

I also looked up "renew" in my very old but very complete dictionary, because, logically enough, renewal means "the state of being renewed."  Here's what I found for the meaning of "renew":
1.  To make new again; to restore to freshness or vigor; also, to gain again as new; as, to renew one's strength.
2.  To make new spiritually; to regenerate.
3.  To re-establish; rebuild; revive.
4.  To repeat; go over again.
5.  To recommence; resume.
6.  To replace; also, to restore to fullness.

All of that sounds good to me! I would love to see renewal in so many areas -- a renewed commitment to God's purposes for my life; a renewed motivation for Scripture memory; renewal in the areas of exercise and eating right; renewed creativity in many areas of life; renewal of old friendships and family ties; renewed mental and emotional energy for the draining tasks of life; times to get away with my hubby and renew our spirits together ... I could go on and on.  God has given me so much hope and expectation with the choice of this word for 2015.  I can't wait to see what He does!