You Have Not Passed This Way Before
Introduction:
For practical purposes, 2007 is behind us – there’s
nothing to go back to. We can’t undo a single action. We can’t take back a
single word. Before us lies a new year – full of hope and promise if we
so desire. What was the best year of your life? 2008 can be the best year of
your life! God wants success for our lives! Josh 1:7-8; 3 John 1:1-2
I.
We are entering a new year - we have not passed this way before.
A.
After the days of mourning for Moses, the people of God
prepared to cross over the Jordan River.
1.
They were told to keep the ark in view – Josh. 3:1-4.
2.
The ark represented God’s presence with His people.
B.
As we enter the New Year, let us keep our eye on God and
His word.
1.
Life is uncertain. James said, 4:13-16
a)
There can still be a certain apprehension about venturing
into the unknown.
b)
Facing the future can be inspiring, challenging, and
exciting.
c)
It can also be awesome, fearful, and dreadful.
2.
Tomorrow is a blank page to be filled in by the passing of
time and events – tomorrow means hope and opportunity.
II.
We must learn to
number our days.
A.
Psalm 90:12
B.
We need goals upon which to focus our lives.
1.
S pecific
2.
M easurable
3.
A ttainable
4.
R ealistic
5.
T angible
C.
Our long range goal is heaven - Phil. 3:12-14; Heb. 12:1-2
D.
How will you achieve your goals?
1.
Do you want to be a better bible student?
2.
Do you want to be a better spouse?
3.
Do you want to be a better parent?
III.
We are not the first to journey into
uncharted territory.
A.
Heb. 11:7 – Noah
B.
Gen. 12:1; Heb. 11:8-10 – Abraham
1.
Left a trail
marked by the smoke of his altars
C.
Heb. 11:24-27 - Moses
1.
Rom 10:17 – faith which comes by hearing the word of
God.
2.
Heb. 11:6 - without faith it is impossible to please God!
Conclusion:
A.
Many people have customs for welcoming a new year.
B.
Putting away the past and starting fresh with resolutions
for a new year is a great way to start anew.
C.
The Bible encourages Christians to such renewal: Phil. 3:13-14