“I’m asking God for one thing, only one thing.” – Psalm 27:4a

For the past 25 years, I have moved away from traditional New Year’s resolutions and instead focused on a One Word vision statement. For an entire year, my One Word serves as a guiding principle in my life. This word is not about “what” I want to achieve, but rather “who” I aspire to be and “why” it matters. It shapes my identity and fuels my purpose, driving me to live passionately and intentionally. Embracing my One Word has transformed every aspect of my life.

My One Word doesn’t just influence me; it also touches the lives of those around me by allowing me to invest in what truly matters. It grants me clarity and focus to live for Christ and to make a meaningful impact for the glory of God. Each year adds a new chapter to the story God is writing with my life, with each One Word acting as the title for those chapters. My journey has been marked by words like Obedience, Refresh, Generous, and Grace.

“Standing between two years is a good place to evaluate our lives. Looking back, we remember the year that has passed – its delights and disappointments. Looking ahead, we anticipate another twelve months that hold the possibilities of high hopes and new dreams.”
– Chuck Swindoll

My first chapter in 2000 was Intimacy, which drew me closer to God and strengthened my relationships with family, co-workers, and friends. My ninth chapter was Healing, during which my dad battled leukemia. Although he passed that year, I witnessed God’s healing and transformation in many lives. For 2024, my 25th chapter was a year of Battle, as I entered the year with the understanding that the battle belongs to the Lord, not to me. When David faced Goliath, he endured intense verbal attacks. Yet, after Goliath’s taunts, David simply declared in 1 Samuel 17:47, “The battle belongs to God!” We often mistakenly believe the battle is ours to fight, but even though 2024 was the hardest year of my life, I embraced each day knowing that the fight is His, and He is always victorious.

Being equipped with my One Word prepares me for a fulfilling life by fostering a deep, daily relationship with the Savior. These past 25 chapters have shaped me into the man of God I am today.

In August, during my transition out of FCA, my 27-year-old son, Eli, shared a profound and prophetic message with me: “Dad, it’s time to stop battling and start building!” I’ve cherished those words in my heart for the last five months. While praying and reflecting on my One Word for 2025, the Lord brought Eli’s message back to my mind. It’s time to Build!

It’s time to Build! However, I’m reminded of Psalm 127:1 – “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” As I embark on this journey, the Lord has made it clear that this year I need to focus on simply building:

Build the Kingdom
Build the Ministry
Build the Team
Build Leaders
Build Myself

As we look forward to 2025, what story do you want to tell by the end of the year? Over the past 25 years of my One Word journey, I have witnessed God’s transformative and miraculous power. Each year stands as a powerful testament to how God has refined, shaped, and developed me into who He wants me to be. Through both valleys and mountaintops, He has taken me deeper on my journey to become more like Jesus. I eagerly anticipate what 2025 will bring because it’s time to Build.

Join me this year on a One Word adventure. Pray for God to reveal a word that will keep you focused on what truly matters. Remember, One Word can change your life!

Lord, as we begin 2025, we ask that You make it a transformative year. We want to live solely for You. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and deepen our knowledge of You. Strengthen us each day. May this year be our best yet! In Jesus’ name, amen.

Dan Britton