Hephzibah.

Rejoice. 
Fryder.


this is my word for 2012. as i was driving for an extended period of time while being back in the states i decided to ask God for my word for the year.
the word which had been stirring in my mind and heart since Christmas Eve was "Rejoice!"
at the Christmas Eve service we sang "Rejoice. Rejoice. Emmanuel." and my heart was captivated and drawn to these beautiful words. i eagerly took hold of the word and started planting it in my heart.
God did not have a problem reemphasizing it the morning of january 2nd as i was preparing to go back to norway.
as i stood in my mother's bathroom somewhat hesitant to go back as i desired more time to stay and invest in appleton, WI the words from Philippians 4:4 popped into my mind.
i heard a distinct voice in my head say, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I'll say it again rejoice." i am not going to lie... a part of me was resistant to hear these words and even more so to take them to heart. throughout the day God softened my heart as i looked to Him. i opened up receiving once again the revelation that God's timing is perfect and being grateful for the time i did have in appleton.


what does it look like to rejoice always?
what will Papa allow me to experience to really embrace and more deeply understand this word?
what will He teach me from His truth?
what will i learn about perseverance and joy in the midst of struggles and discipline?


last week i received a picture where i was standing on a sand dune by the ocean. the wind was wrapping itself around me and the sun was radiant. God said, "Hailley Jo, you are so worthy." not only could i hear God say this to me i could feel it as the sun beamed on me in my white dress, as the scent of the sea filled my nostrils, and the wind brushed across my legs, my back, and my cheeks. a flood of peace and joy came over me. i can rejoice in who He had made me to be and what He speaks over me. rejoicing in being His daughter.


His truth. His voice. His promises.
the most worthy.
all to be rejoiced in.


what word will God give you for this year?