What in the world will happen next? The world today, as we speak, we are now living in Two Thousand Twenty-Three. There is a different direction in place, Israel’s existence is being threatened, Russia is becoming a problem, and all at the same time ISIS’ loom, gloom and doom lies in the path of anyone who gets in their way. Ukraine is a bloody grave site. What is this world coming to? What we do have for comfort and peace against any confusion ahead of us, are the Holy Scriptures. They are the light for a rocky path, they are the landmarks on the right road, and they will lead us to finish our course in righteousness, and with approval. Believers in Christ can be as positive and assured 2023 will be a blessed year. We are called upon to forget what is in the past, to press towards the goal, and to live by faith. No matter what may happen, we are God’s children, called by His name, and who one day will be gathered around His throne.
Every day in Two Thousand Twenty-Three must begin as a new year. There must be real ambitions, reachable goals, renewed vision, and ready for change every day. While we do not know what the future holds; we are certain who holds the future. Our future is more secure than our past.
One of my many life verses is found in Psalm 37:7. Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Again, see Isaiah 30:15,18. For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not. And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him.
There must be providence in Two Thousand Twenty-Three. I being in the way the Lord led me (Genesis 24:27). The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want (Psalm 23:1). God’s divine intervention guides the hearts of men. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God (Romans 8:28).
There must be perseverance in Two Thousand Twenty-Three. But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ (Ephesians 4:15). Remember Lot’s Wife (Luke 17:32). There are rest areas along the believers journey, but there is no place to quit. Take another step!
There must be patience in Two Thousand Twenty-Three. Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience (James 1:3). But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses (II Corinthians 6:4). Endure trials without a murmur!
There must be prudence in Two Thousand Twenty-Three. Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge (Proverbs 13:16). Unless there is wisdom, the little foxes will destroy the vines. Wisdom is free; use it freely.
There must be penitence in Two Thousand Twenty-Three. For I acknowledge my transgressions. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow (Psalm 51:3,7). Brokenness!
Until the Lord’s return, Two Thousand Twenty-Three will be a year of great expectancy, joy, and hope.
It seems to me…God spends more time waiting on us to prevail, than we do on His promises.