A big welcome to the new year, 2008, in the mighty name of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Even though, in the physical, time is adjudged to be homogeneous, and therefore one day does not really differ from another; spiritual considerations approve that we take note of certain times. Psalm 90:12 suggests that numbering our days will help us in applying our hearts to wisdom. Afterall, whether we put mind to it or not, our days are certainly numbered. Not just as individuals, but according to 1 Cor 7:29, "the time is short" for the human race as a whole!
Moreover, noting that "set times" do exist when certain landmark events are just perfectly suited; it is important to be watchful lest one misses such appointed "times of visitation" which might be difficult if not impossible to again replicate once lost (cf Psa 102:13 and Luke 19:41-44).
In addition to all these, the beginning of a new year offers a good opportunity for self appraisal, and making a fresh start in ways where we might have missed it. With the help of the Holy Spirit, one could make new bold resolutions involving one's career, the company one keeps, etc. So again, I bid you a warm welcome into the year 2008 in the name of the One Who is the Alpha and the Omega!
What does this year hold for the world? In the first instance, paraphrasing one of the stanzas in the hymn Peace, perfect peace.
"we can have peace, even though tomorrow seems uncertain, since we are sure Jesus lives forever.. and is going to be in charge, even tomorrow"! For the child of God, there is certainly no cause for alarm as to what the future portends.
Nevertheless, looking at the clear 'environmental signals'(cf Mat 16:3/Luke 12:56), it is not so difficult to discern what to expect in 2008. Considering the strident, almost desperate moves by advocates of interfaithism (proclaiming all religions serve the same god), to increasing efforts to further blur the gender-line among other signs of the times, it is clear that the year 2008 will be a year of Intense Greying of the World. Hence, it is year that needs to be navigated under the leading of the Holy Spirit, making use of one of the gifts He has made available for this period - discernment (cf 1 John 4:1, 1 Cor 12:10).
The Bible makes it clear that a darker world only means a world where the children of God are to shine even more brightly than ever before (see Isa 60:2, Dan. 11:32ff, Eph 5:13, Phil 2:15, etc). Dear child of God, as you determine to embrace the ways of the Lord this year and make a clear stand for Him, using the gifts of discernment, this year then will be your best ever, to date.
Joshua
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