Greetings in the name of our Majestic Lord, Jesus. Here we are in a new year—2024. I’m sure we will have a lot of catchy phrases for this year. I have never been much for that; however, I believe you need to declare life over your new year. The words in Job 22:21-30 would be great to say over your life for the coming year. In doing so, make a vow or promise to God to do and receive what’s written within those Scriptures.
These verses in Job say you should promise to get to know the Lord better and accept what He has said in His Word. Put His Word deep within you, meaning to meditate and think on His Word so it is unforgettable. If you will, the Father promises to build you up, making you stronger and more prosperous.
You will make your prayer to Him, He will hear you, and you will pay your vows. You will also declare a thing, and it will be established for you; so light will shine on your ways. —Job 22:27-28
God has made you in His image and likeness. He created the earth and heavens with His Words. What are you creating with your words? You are like God in the way that your words have the power to create. I’m not talking about magic or witchcraft by no means; it doesn’t work like that. However, there have been many books written on how it does work.
Allow me to simply say that it works by faith in God’s Word. Believe it, do it, doubt not, nor let unbelief into your heart. Thoughts of doubt may come to mind, but the Scripture says to cast these down (2 Cor. 10:5). How do you do that? With your words—by declaring and decreeing what God has said. Do not take thoughts that go against God’s Word. You take thoughts by speaking them (Matt. 6:31), and when you say them, you decree them as something you believe enough to say and see come to pass.
This new year, we must declare the new life in Christ Jesus for ourselves. We all need refreshing. All of us need energy and a fresh charge to make it to the finish line. Everything we had to get through last year is used up. Last year’s supply is not enough to push us through this year. Remember, Paul said that we must be “continually” filled with the Spirit (Eph. 5:18). To be filled with the Spirit, you must draw on the Spirit by studying the Word, praying, and simply asking the Holy Spirit to fill you.
The Spirit of God is what makes alive our mortal body (Rom. 8:11) and our spirit. He gives us hope and comfort to press through the obstacles of life. Many get stuck and trapped in the bondage of an unabundant life because they are not being constantly filled with the Spirit of God. You don’t fill up your car’s fuel tank only once, and that’s it. You must continue filling it up so you don’t run out of gas.
Job 22:27 says, “You will make your prayer to Him, He will hear you, and you will pay your vows,” which means to keep your promise. A promise to God is not like a New Year’s resolution that may soon be forgotten. It is a vow, like a marriage vow, a pledge, a contract with God, which is not to be broken. If it is, you should go to Him immediately and ask for forgiveness. He is faithful to forgive you and cleanses you of all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). You and God both benefit when the promise is kept.
We have been made new creatures in Christ Jesus. Yes, old things have passed, but our new creature needs renewing every day. Without renewal, you will miss something God wants you to have. The Father has said that His mercies are new every morning (Lam. 3:22-23). So, if one day isn’t so great, we know there will be a fresh start in the morning with all the promises of God still in place. How do you go about acquiring this renewal? By starting your day with God, His mercy, and His benefits.
I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. Riches and honor are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. —Proverbs 8:17-18
Jesus taught us to pray for our daily bread (Matt. 6:11) and the bread of life (John 6:35) because we cannot live an abundant life with just the earth’s natural substances. We need supernatural nourishment (Matt. 4:4). Many of us, myself included, must have that cup of coffee first thing in the morning to get going. However, before I get out of bed, I recognize the Father and talk to Him on the way to the coffee (LOL). Seeking Him out first thing, diligently, not casually, will allow you to find Him and all the provisions He has for you for that day. And HE IS FAITHFUL!
I’m encouraging you to start early with prayer—more prayer than you do now. Talk with Him; it’s that simple. Tell Him how thankful you are for Jesus and your relationship with Him. Praise Him for all your blessings and everything you are grateful for. Tell Him what you need and ask for guidance. Remind Him of His Words and His promises to you. But you must know the promises before you can remind Him, so read the Bible; it is His Word.
The Bible is also how He will speak to you most of the time. Allow the Spirit of God time to talk to you. Remember, God speaks with a still, small voice, so spend enough time with Him so you can say everything you need to, then listen for Him to speak. Don’t be in a hurry; otherwise, how do you expect God to have time for you if you don’t have time for Him? (Remember, it is about a relationship with God, not a religion.) God has provision and protection for you every day. Start with Him so you can walk out your day with every one of those promises. (You will see them when they come your way.)
This year will be a continuation of the world getting darker. The things you have seen that you thought you never would have and the events you can’t believe happened will increase. No matter what happens, Jesus never changes. He is light, and His Spirit will always guide you in all truth. Your time with Him and what you do will be crucial this year. It will be crucial for everyone! And many still do not know Jesus, yet they hunger for that light in life that He provides. This is where we come in!
Tell people about Jesus; you can do it. Just let them know He loves them, and they can call on His name for help. Your prayers for this ministry and financial support also help people to know Jesus. If you are not one of those who do, please consider teaming up with us this year. Commit to the new life in Jesus and see new things happen. Until next time, remember . . . Jesus is coming VERY soon! Be ready!
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