This Weeks Notes ~ January 2, 2022
In Chapter 5: 1-12 of Joshua it describes the consecration of the people of Israel in preparation for the great task that is before them. It stands as a bridge between the crossing of the Jordan and the beginning of the military campaigns to to take over the land. God’s ways are infinitely higher than ours. From all appearances, now was the time to attack the enemy. The people of Israel were filled with the excitement and motivation of having miraculously crossed the Jordan. They knew the enemy was in disarray from the standpoint of their morale (5:1); so surely, it was time to strike.
In God’s plan there are spiritual values, principles and priorities that are far more vital and fundamental to victory or our capacity to attack and demolish the obstacles that the world has raised up against the knowledge and plan of God (2 Cor. 10:4-5). Looking at conditions from our perspective of deadlines, feeling the pressure to perform and accomplish things in order to please people and sometimes our own egos, we are too often in a hurry to ‘get the show on the road.’ But to be successful from God’s standpoint, certain things are essential if we are going to attack the various obstacles of life in His strength and according to His principles.
Like us, the Israelites were ready to walk into a new day. In order for us to make the transition into a new year, a reflection on the past, encourages and prepares us for a new year. We cannot live in the past, but we can learn from the past, as we prepare for the future. A New Year is on the horizon. Be ready!
Reflect on and answer these questions as you reflect and prepare for the New Year:
What are you most grateful for about this past year? In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?
What relationship most supported your growth this past year?
What 3 words best describe this past year? What tweaks do you need to make to your spiritual practice going forward in this next year and how will it support you?
What 1-3 words best captures your intention for the next year? What made you feel purposeful this past year?
What was the single greatest lesson of this past year and what did it teach you about yourself?
Join us Sunday as we prepare and explore transition to the New Year with the Israelites.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!
“I don’t know how, but I know WHO!”
May the joys and blessings of the New Year be yours.
Grace and Peace, Pastor Nelda
Dr. Nelda Barrett Murraine is pastor at First United Methodist Church – PO Box 146 – 229 W 4th St. – Kennedale, TX 76060
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