Passing a New Way

The children of Israel were facing “The Great Unknown.”

Moses had died. His “assistant”, Joshua, one of the 12 spies, who along with Caleb, remained faithful was chosen by God to replace Moses. As he assumed the mantel of leadership to guide the people into the Promised Land, God gave him specific instructions.

The first three chapters of Joshua record the Lord’s message to Joshua “to be strong and very courageous.” And to faithfully observe God’s commandments. The Ark of the Covenant, called by one writer, “God’s GPS”, would lead them forward.

In this context, God reminds Joshua, “You have not passed this way before.”

New territory. New experiences. New responsibilities. New opportunities. And new challenges. All of these and more, Joshua and the people would face. Sounds a lot like beginning a new year, eh?

As we begin 2024, we’re embarking upon traveling a new way. The journey will be filled with excitement, anticipation, and renewed hope. Some will graduate from high school or college. Others will begin their first job. Some will be married. Others have their first baby.

2024 may be the year you reach a long desired goal. A promotion. A new home. Starting your own business. Or wrapping up a business deal with huge monetary benefits.

This year may be the year you become an “empty nester.” Or retire from your job. Or move to a new location.

Others, for various reasons, may find themselves worshiping with a new congregation. Making new friends. Assimilating into the fellowship. Connecting with the pastors and preachers.

This year may also bring sickness, sorrow, suffering, and even death into your family. The accompanying difficulties will prove challenging. At times hurtful. And such trials may test your faith.

As we travel this new way, God’s advice to Joshua transcends the centuries. Follow God’s GPS. His instructions. His Word. And walk in His way. To be strong and of good courage. To obey His commandments. And not to be afraid or dismayed (Josh 1:6-9).

Additionally, consider these thoughts as you travel a new road this year.

#1 Thank God for your blessings.

He’s the Giver of good gifts (Jas. 1:17). In Christ we experience all spiritual blessings (Eph. 1:3). Don’t let yourself worry and whine about what you don’t have, be grateful for what you do have.

#2 Allow adversity to make you stronger.

While not always easy, it’s possible for problems to build us up. Fortify our faith. Deepen our resolve. And strengthen our character. When Paul prayed for God to remove his “thorn in the flesh.” God said, “My grace is sufficient for you.” He didn’t remove the thorn, but Paul received spiritual strength in spite of physical weakness (2 Cor.12:7-10).

#3 Respect the value of time.

As we turn the calendar, the new year reminds us of the passing of time. Its brevity. Its value. Its march forward. Indeed “time waits for no one.” Let’s pass this new way, as the Bible admonishes, “redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” In other words, “make the most of your time.” The words of Benjamin Franklin ring true. “Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that’s the stuff life is made of.”

#4 Engage in self-examination.

Before you get too far into January, “examine yourself to see whether you are in the faith” (2 Cor. 13:5). What progress have you made spiritually? Are you growing? Learning? Improving? Serving? Contributing? Do you need some course corrections?

Do these brief thoughts challenge you to redirect your energies? To rediscover your purpose in life? To renew your commitment to Christ? To reestablish your priorities? To revive your faith? To get out of your comfort zone? To set some new goals?

As you pass a new way in 2024, this is our prayer for each of you.

The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace.”‘
(Num. 6:24-26)

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman