Upheld In New Year Instruction

Here We Are Again

Yes, a new year. Again. Resolutions. New starts. Shaking off the dust of the old year.

Are we? We may try to start over, but the old year and those before it, still hold sway over our lives. Those unfinished tasks must be finished. Relationships don’t magically fix themselves over the Christmas season. Matters, personal and business, still need to be worked into place.

We must move forward.

The Cavalry is Here

Ok, I can’t help it. I’m writing historical these days, so help arrives with the Cavalry in the Old West. I can picture it: desert dust flying through the beating of the sun as horses gallop to the rescue with the gallant soldiers on board. Thanks for bearing with my virtual picture.

But I do believe it true. Our God has already ridden to our rescue. He has given us a way forward. We don’t need to wander the desert. We have a roadmap. To get us from year to year. From 1 Thessalonians, chapter five.

Recognize Spiritual Leaders

We sit under pastors, teachers and small group leaders. Pray for them and be at peace. That is, do all you can to pursue those things that bring about peace together.

Be Joyful

Choose joy. Even when circumstances are difficult. For God is still good. All the time.

Pray Continually

Keep the communication lines wide open between God and you. Walk with Him. Find time every day to spend studying the Words of Instruction He has given.

Give Thanks in All Circumstances

For we don’t know, in the throes of situations, how God will bring about His good plans for our lives and those around us. Things and events that may have eternal value. Giving thanks in all things is His will for us.

Mind the Spirit

The Scripture says do not quench the Spirit. Be mindful to obey when He whispers to you. Go talk to that person standing in line and maybe grumbling. Your smile might be just the thing they need to see. And the Spirit would be pleased. Or perhaps He is calling you to something difficult. He will be with you in your obedience.

Test Everything

Hold to the good. We are all aware of the pull of the culture in just about every area of our lives. Choose the good wherever possible. Turn off what is unedifying. Test all you hear against what God has said.

Avoid Evil

This is a good one. Evil is becoming more prevalent and harder to discern. But God’s help is available at every turn. Seek Him first and He promises that the devil will flee.

God Will Sanctify

Pay attention when true exhortation comes. Be aware of the false, for God’s word will be for our growth and goodness. He builds us in His Image.

Scripture is True

Scripture tells us that He who calls us is faithful and He will do His work in us as we open our souls and our lives before Him. Believe Him.

What better way to start the new year? Better than resolutions. Better than just starting over.

“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NKJV).