New VISION for a New YEAR

Scripture:

Habakkuk 2:2-3 Then the LORD replied: "Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. (3) For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.

Observation:

This chapter records God's answers to Habakkuk's questions: (1) How long would evil prevail (Hab 1:2-3)? (2) Why was Babylon chosen to punish Judah (Hab 1:13)? God said that the judgment, though slow to come, was certain. Although God used Babylon against Judah, he knew Babylon's sins and would punish it in due time.

Application:

I read an article from Author Bob Gass that I would like to use to share some thoughts on having new vision for this new year over the next couple of days. I believe it will speak to your heart.
Fulfilling your God-given vision depends on having a vision; which calls for waiting on God until He reveals His plan for you. Dedicating time and energy to it; which calls for patience and discipline. Knowing how to overcome obstacles; which calls for good management. The Bible says: 'Where there is no vision, the people perish. ' (Proverbs 29:18).

Remember South Pacific's lyrics, 'If you don't have a dream, how you gonna have a dream come true?' A vision gives you direction, motivation, creativity and resilience. Without one you become passive, aimless, bored, and vulnerable to quitting. God can give you a vision instantly but its fulfillment will require a lifetime of learning, practicing and managing life's daily challenges.

For the next few days let's look at some vision-fulfilling principles. Visions come with obstacles and opportunities! After decades in America, Raymond Dawson inherited his English grandparent's estate. Returning home he found a run-down farmhouse and barns on land covered with rocks. Disappointed and about to return to America, he decided to walk his worthless inheritance one final time. Pausing on a remote corner of his property he noticed a stream coming from beneath some rocks. He investigated, uncovered some hot springs, and guess what? Today he's the owner of a lucrative resort, right on the sight of his former disappointment!

When you ask God for a vision, you're likely to be placed in a field of opportunities concealed under acres of obstacles; a place of possibilities hidden beneath piles of problems. Then He will stand back and watch how you engage in the ministry of obstacle management!Obstacles can't steal your dream without your permission.

Winston Churchill rallied blitzed, beleaguered Britain from the edge of defeat with these memorable words: 'Never give up! Never give up! Never, never, never, give up!' Obstacles are inevitable; quitting is optional! When you walk in faith and refuse to quit, God guarantees your obstacles won't prevent your vision from being fulfilled. Though they were enslaved, Israel received the strength to overcome Egypt's efforts to break them. The story of their survival and success reads: 'the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew. ' (Exodus 1:12 NKJV).

Paul's dream of evangelising the world met roadblocks at every turn. Tightening his grip he declared, 'We are hard-pressed on all sides, but. never frustrated; we are puzzled, but never in despair. We are persecuted, but. never. deserted: we may be knocked down but we are never knocked out!' (2 Corinthians 4:8-9 Phps).

Joseph's journey to the throne was a long one. It led him through betrayal, persecution and loneliness. His dream, still alive and unsurrendered, was put on hold for years. Now prime minister of Egypt, vindicated in the critic's eyes, his dream at last realised, he recalls the amazing way in which God accomplished it. '"For" he said, "God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction"' (Genesis 41:52 NAS). Joseph refused to surrender his dream; it's what kept him alive. He looked for opportunities in his obstacles, and God made him fruitful, not by exempting him from affliction but by promoting him right there, 'in the land of my affliction'. Your obstacles can't stop God; don't let them stop you!

Prayer:

"Lord, in this new year, help us to receive a new vision from You. We need new direction, new excitement, new zealousness, new passion. We wait on you, Lord. We excitedly await Your voice but more importantly, Your presence. I choose to be still and know that You are God today. In Jesus' name, amen!"