2023 is here!

A new year can bring a mixed bag of emotions. Some view it as a fresh slate, an opportunity to make some needed changes. Others may not feel as optimistic. Perhaps with all that is happening in the world it may fill some with anxiety over the possibilities of another year. Many might find themselves limping into 2023. The last year was filled with challenges, and they might not be ready to face another year like the last.

Whichever of these categories you may place yourself into, I want to provide you with some encouragement and a few things to consider as we come into a new year.

I want to briefly examine the Israelites in Joshua chapter one. They have spent 40 years wandering in the desert. Moses their beloved leader is dead. Joshua, Moses’ successor, has assumed power, and now God is instructing the nation to enter the land of Canaan. The land promised to them generations before.

At a glance it would seem that things were trending in a positive direction for Israel. Yes, but there were a couple considerations. Israel would have to conquer the land of Canaan. It was filled with established and fortified city nations that weren’t keen on the Israelites invading their land. Conquering the land would be a tall order for an untrained army.

Furthermore, to first enter the land of Canaan the Israelites would have to cross the Jordan River. Normally the river would be traversable as it was a slow stream. However, during springtime, the river could easily surge to be a mile wide. In the midst of these challenges God speaks to Joshua:

“Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land, I swore to their ancestors to give them.” – Joshua 1:6

Amidst the challenges ahead, God encouraged Joshua to remain strong and courageous because in essence God had gone before the nation of Israel. He had already promised the land to Israel. Using this backdrop there are a couple things for us to be consider and be encouraged by as we come into a new year.

First, identify the challenges that are ahead of you this year. Before entering the land of Canaan, the Israelites sent spies to survey the land. There was nothing wrong or disobedient with them surveying the land and forming a strategy for their upcoming conquest. This is a practical exercise for each of us. Identify the challenges we have in this year and make a game plan for success. Perhaps its challenges related to relationships, finances, or even your relationship with God. Identify the challenge and make a plan for how you will face each of these challenges this year.

Second, prioritize God in your decisions. As Israel sought after the Lord, He provided the solution to each of the challenges they faced. Through Him the waters of the Jordan River supernaturally parted, and Israel walked across dry land. Through Him the fortified walls of cities came crashing down. Through Him Israel was able to achieve what God has asked them to do. Each of us can take great comfort in knowing that regardless of the challenge we face this year as we prioritize and seek God, He will provide the solutions.