Word by Word: Connecting Merriam-Webster to God During Lent

Sometimes the simplest invitations lead to the most unexpected encounters with God. This Lent, I discovered that even something as ordinary as a daily vocabulary word could open the door to deeper reflection, healing, and connection with His Word. What started as a small nudge turned into a sacred practice—one that reminded me that God can use anything, even language, to draw us closer.

A Divine Invitation Hidden in Words

This Lent, I wasn’t just given a challenge—I received an invitation. It didn’t come from a Bible study group or a pastor, but from God Himself, who knows how much I wrestle with staying focused and spiritually engaged during sacred seasons. His whisper was clear: “Use Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day to connect with My Word each day.”

At first, I wasn’t sure how a vocabulary app could become a spiritual tool. But I felt the nudge—and I was both instructed and intrigued.

So, I leaned in.

Sacred Lessons from Everyday Language

Each morning, I opened the Merriam-Webster app on my phone to find the word of the day. Sometimes it was a word I’d never heard. Other times it was something familiar that took on a new depth when filtered through a spiritual lens. I’d pause and ask God,

What does this word have to do with You? With me? What are You showing me today?

Some words became keys to unlock deeper truths:

• The word “career” wasn’t about chasing titles or paychecks—but more about slowing down to hear God’s direction instead of moving through life recklessly.

• “Emollient” brought to mind Psalm 147:3—“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Just as physical emollient soothes dry, cracked skin, God’s presence and truth can heal the emotional wounds of stress, burnout, and self-doubt.

• “Curfew” nudged me to see the importance of structure, wisdom, and obedience.

How a Dictionary Became a Devotional

What started as a simple word search became a sacred scavenger hunt—discovering how each seemingly random word could guide me to Scripture, to a truth, or to prayer. Some days, the connection was instant. Other days, it took silence, journaling, or just being still. But every day, it was an invitation to slow down, reflect, and listen.

Not just to the word—but to the Word made flesh.

I never expected a dictionary to become a devotional guide. But God has a way of meeting us in unexpected places—in inboxes, on word lists, and even in moments when we least expect Him.

This Lenten practice reminded me of something powerful: the sacred is everywhere. Especially in language. After all, “In the beginning was the Word…” (John 1:1)

And this journey didn’t end with Lent—it poured into something more.

Carrying the Word Forward

Starting Monday, May 5, I’ll be sharing a new devotional series called “The Daily Pour”—a slow, sacred rhythm of one word, scriptures, and reflections each week. It’s inspired by each of the words featured as Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day during the period of Lent—March 5 (Ash Wednesday) to April 20 (Easter Sunday)—and continues the practice of letting God speak through unexpected places.

If you’re craving quiet moments, soul-sips of Scripture, and reminders that God is in the details (even the dictionary)—I’d love for you to join me.

Come back here next Monday for the first pour.

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Gracefully yours—Coffee🤎Sweat🤍Tears🩵