2014--Part Two

I know I've already written about 2014, but I just couldn't resist writing more concerning this topic. The scary thing is, it's already January 15th. The month is nearly half over and here I am still writing about the new year. I've never been much into resolutions, but I do use the time to contemplate what's coming up. Two Bible verses came to my attention.

Genesis 28--Remember the dream Jacob had where he saw a stairway reaching into heaven? Angels were ascending and descending on this celestial ladder. Choruses often sing the song, "We Are Climbing Jacob's Ladder." God stands at the top of the ladder and recommits to Jacob the same promise He made to Abraham. "Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring." After Jacob wakes up, he makes an interesting statement. He says, "Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it." Isn't that us? Something phenomenal happens and we credit luck or good fortune or being at the right place at the right time. In 2014, I want us to make sure that we are aware of His presence. Let's quit missing the fact that God is working in His people. Keep your eyes wide open and see what He is doing in this new year.

Joshua 3--I've written about this passage before. Joshua has taken over the mantle of Moses and is challenged to lead God's children into the land that had been promised. It's the beginning of the fulfillment of the promise made to Abraham. He's pumped Joshua up. He's told him not to be afraid. To me, it's kind of like the athlete who listens to the music before the game. He's getting psyched and ready to go do his job. After all this, Joshua is finally ready to move and to lead. Now is the time to march. The officers are going through the camp telling the people to get ready. Here's what they say. "When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, and the priests, who are Levites, carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it. Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before." I don't care how old you are, I don't care how much experience you have, you have never been this way before. This year brings new challenges and trials. You've never been this way before....but God knows the way. He will lead us. He will take us through. It is our time to follow and trust. For He can do immeasurably more than you can ask or imagine. That's the kind of year it will be. Let's go! JW