“From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and violent men take it by force” (Matthew 11:12).
For many of us, this time of year is an activity for remembrance of last year and what God has orchestrated, what He might have planned for this New Year–and what would be a faithful response.
Regardless of the anticipation of future events, a few perspectives have come to mind that are imperatives:
“Therefore I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you” (2Peter 1:12).
“But one thing I do: Forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal to for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13).
Eternity is for the taking! The future is ours to capture today. Finish the race strong; burst into heaven at a full gallop! Put the pedal to the metal!
God promises to provide on the path: acceptance, forgiveness, fellowship, food, shelter, clothing, significance, purpose, love, joy peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. When I look back and review, He has provided all this and more, abundantly!
If then, my needs are met, what is there to fear? Therefore, empty myself, take on boldness with confidence in fulfilling the upward calling!
Not much time left on this earth—it is passing rapidly. Fear Him, for the time is near! The blessed hope of eternity is with us and no time like right now to secure the future!
“…to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you…” (1Peter 1:4).
Practice gratefulness. It solves the injustices and hurts of daily living.
Memorize and study the scriptures. It provides perspectives of God. Otherwise, I am resigned to think like the world.
Invest in your future: evangelize those people God brings to you. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16).
“The king is not saved by a mighty army; a warrior is not delivered by great strength. A horse is a false hope for victory nor does it delivery anyone by its great strength. Behold the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope for His lovingkindness” (Psalms 33:16-18).
And finally:
“What shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? …But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us” (Romans 8: 31, 32, 35, 37).
Have a great year!
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