Joshua 1:1-9
My Beloved Greenwood,
As we step into a new year, we are reminded that each year presents us with a new chapter, a fresh opportunity to grow, serve, and follow God's leading in our lives. The opening chapter of Joshua is a powerful reminder that God's call and purpose never change, but the circumstances around us do. Just as the Israelites were called to move forward into a new land, we are called to move forward into the new season of life that God has for us.
In Joshua 1:1-9, God gives Joshua clear instructions on how to lead God's people into the promised land. We too can draw from these truths as we enter the new year.
1. God’s Promise: "I will be with you"
Joshua 1:5 - "No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you."
As we face the unknowns of a new year, we can take comfort in the promise that God is with us. Just as He was with Moses and the Israelites in the wilderness, He is with us in every circumstance. God's presence is our strength, our security, and our hope. Whether we are entering a year of excitement or challenge, God’s promise to be with us is unshakable.
Application: Take time to reflect on God's faithfulness in the past year, and trust that He will be with you in the new year, guiding you and sustaining you in every moment.
2. God’s Command: "Be Strong and Courageous"
Joshua 1:6 - "Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them."
Entering a new season often requires courage. Joshua was called to lead the Israelites into a land filled with challenges. God did not promise an easy path, but He commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous. The same command applies to us as we face the challenges of a new year. Strength and courage come from trusting in God's power and promises, not in our own ability.
Application: In the coming year, commit to facing challenges with courage, knowing that God’s strength will be made perfect in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
3. God’s Word: "Meditate on the Word Day and Night"
Joshua 1:8 - "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."
Success in the Christian life is not about worldly achievements, but about aligning our lives with God's Word. God instructed Joshua to meditate on the Scriptures continuously, for it was through God’s Word that he would find direction and success. The same is true for us. If we are to navigate the new year with wisdom, peace, and joy, we must make God's Word central to our lives.
Application: Start the year with a commitment to daily reading and meditating on the Bible. Let the Word of God shape your decisions, priorities, and responses throughout the year.
4. God’s Assurance: "I Will Never Leave You"
Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
Finally, we are reminded that God’s presence is not only a promise but also an assurance for every step of our journey. As we move into the unknowns of the year, we need not fear or be discouraged because God will never leave us. His presence is our constant companion, and His assurance empowers us to press forward with hope and confidence.
Application: Whenever you feel afraid or uncertain this year, remember God’s assurance. His presence will be with you wherever you go, and His love will never fail.
Conclusion: Stepping Into the New Year with God
As we embark on this new year, we can do so with the confidence that God’s promises, commands, Word, and assurance will guide and sustain us. This is a year to be strong and courageous, to trust in God’s faithfulness, to immerse ourselves in His Word, and to remember that He is always with us. With God on our side, we can move forward into every challenge and opportunity with hope, joy, and faith.
Let’s enter this year knowing that God is making all things new—both in us and around us. May we live in His presence, stand on His promises, and walk with courage and strength.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the fresh start that the new year brings. We acknowledge Your promises, Your Word, and Your presence in our lives. Help us to be strong and courageous, to meditate on Your Word daily, and to trust in Your constant guidance and assurance. As we step into this new year, fill us with Your peace and confidence, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Pemberton
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