The Word of God for wisdom:
Proverbs 1:7 (NLT)
7 Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
The Word of God inspiration:
Psalm 2:1-3 (NLT)
1 Why are the nations so angry? Why do they waste their time with futile plans?
2 The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the LORD and against his anointed one.
3 "Let us break their chains," they cry, "and free ourselves from slavery to God."
Psalm 2:8 (NLT)
8 Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, the whole earth as your possession.
The Word of God for encouragement:
1 Timothy 6:6-8 (HCSB)
6 But godliness with contentment is a great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out.
8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these.
My observation:
This week I want to put some meat on an outline I read a few weeks ago. I will be reflecting on five reasons why we should have nothing to fear in the New Year.
How unnecessary it is that anyone should spend their lives living in constant fear. The arms of the Lord are open to all who look to him for deliverance. The psalmist reminds us that the answers to our problems are just a prayer away. Our Father is waiting to hear from us if we "only ask".
Today we look at the first reason why we who look to God for answers need not fear as we face the New Year.
The Contentment of His Provisions
What a blessing it is to know that God is able and willing to meet our needs. In our focal passage from 1 Timothy the Apostle Paul reminds us of the peace that comes from the recognition of the things we do have. As the hymn writer says, "Count you many blessings, and name them one by one and it will surprise you what the Lord has done".
1 Timothy 6:17 (HCSB)
17 Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be arrogant or to set their hope on the uncertainty of wealth, but on God, who richly provides us with all things to enjoy.
My prayer:
Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I am so grateful for the contentment that comes from knowing that you love me so much that you will provide for all of my needs. Father, I ask that you will stir up within me an attitude of gratitude for all of your gracious provisions.
--
1 Peter 2:2-3 (ESV)
2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
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