With the new year moving on (it’s already Jan 3) I want to ask you this: Are you ready for this year?
Yesterday I sat and listened as my senior pastor (who is also an orator, in my opinion) shared with us what we need to do as a congregation for 2011. He gave the analogy by referring to the Israelites and their wilderness journey (read the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers & Deuteronomy*) vs. their cross-over into Canaan (read the book of Joshua*). When they were in the wilderness, there was a great need for food, clothing and water and no visible provisions were available. Cue God. He rained down manna from heaven for 40 years (except on the Sabbaths) and gave them quail when they got tired of manna. He ensured that their clothes and shoes lasted the journey. Just imagine a baby leaving Egypt in a little outfit and baby sandals. At the end of the journey at 40 years old, he was probably wearing the same clothes and sandals! Such is the God I serve. But let me get back to my point.
Bishop went on to state that after they crossed over into the Promised Land of Canaan, the manna ceased. Why? Because the days of supernatural provision were over and no longer necessary. The Israelites now had to push hard to get what they needed and desired. It was time to work! So in the same way, 2010 (and earlier) were years where we needed miraculous intervention for our needs. In 2011 it’s time to work for what we need! The excuses have now expired and everyone now has opportunities available to make provisions for themselves and their families. He called out those who owned businesses or those who will start their own businesses to step forward with a special seed offering to start the year.
I do not now own a business, but I know that God has special plans in store for me. What did it for me was when he said “Make your business cards! Put on them “singer” or “transcriber” or whatever your specialty is.” He said this as confirmation to what I had experienced only hours earlier. I was up late the night before drafting my business cards! (Remember I said I do not own a business at this time. But one thing I have learned over the years: Step out when it seems ridiculous to do so and God will bless immeasurably.)
He also encouraged us to write our goals for this year. I usually keep my goals in my head, but today I will write them down. I have heard that writing them down makes them more real and helps us move from the realm of possibility and spurs us to action.
So did you write your vision and make it plain? “Then the Lord answered me and said, “Record the vision and inscribe it on tablets, that the one who reads it may run. For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hastens toward the goal and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay.” ” (Habakkuk 2: 2, 3, NASB*)
*All references are from the Holy Bible.
Life, Love and Other Topics: My Commentary 
Love your new blog, Michelle! And, this is definitely such great encouragement for the start of the New Year!!!! Thanks so much for sharing!!
Hi Kennisha, Thank you SO much for stopping by!
I keep seeing and hearing that word RIDICULOUS!
Hi Linda, it’s a privilege to have you on here! Yes, ma’am! I’ve heard that word too – that and “beyond your expectations”!!! EXCITED!