happy new year 2019!

In the Book of Genesis, Chapter 46, Jacob is leaving the place that he had called home. The place where he had gain. The place where he knew God had sent him. No doubt about it.


He now is being asked to go to Egypt. This is where he will see his son that he believed was dead. There he will be reunited with Joseph.


So, on his journey to Egypt, he stops by a place. A familiar place. There he would offer up sacrifices to the LORD.


Ever wonder why Jacob made this pit stop? To build an altar and offer sacrifices? Could it be that there is some uncertainty within Jacob? Could it be that he is unsure of this leg of his destiny? Whether God will continue to be with him? Could be Jacob needs a word? After all it was at the altar where Jacob was accustom to receiving a word from the LORD in the past. A Word of purpose. A word of direction. A word to fuel his faith.


And, yes, it was at this place that God spoke to Jacob as HE had in times past. This time God reminded Jacob of Who HE is. God also told Jacob to not be afraid to go. God said, “I will go down with you…and I will bring you up again”.
To me, This Word from God, in this place, was the confident assurance Jacob needed to know and to continue on his journey.


Let us ponder this Word in prayer.


Father,
As we journey throughout the 2019 year, let us be encouraged by YOUR WORD.
Let us be encouraged by YOU. Let us not be afraid of what lies ahead of us for YOU have declared that YOU are the I AM. The I AM Who is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. The I AM who goes with us as we move forward into unchartered territories. Unknown certainty. Assured destiny. As you reminded Jacob, and many others, remind us to not be afraid and to continue step out in faith in 2019. Most importantly, when we need comfort, when we need a Word, let us continually remember to do as Jacob did - go to the Secret Place. There, let us rest, seek, and worship YOU. And when we get up let us know that we are going to be okay. No questions asked. No doubt. For YOU are the same yesterday, today and forever. We thank YOU and praise YOU for yet another year.
In Jesus Name, Amen.

Happy New Year 2019!


Be Strengthened and Encouraged in HIM,
Liz


So Israel set out on the journey with everything he owned. He arrived at Beersheba and worshipped, offering sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac. God spoke to Israel in a vision that night: “Jacob! Jacob!” “Yes?” He said. “I’m listening.” God said, I AM the God of your father. Don’t be afraid of going down to Egypt; I’ll also bring you back here. And when you die, Joseph will be with you; with his own hand he’ll close your eyes.” Genesis 46:1-4 MSG