A New Beginning: Starting Fresh 预览

New Mind, Part 2

Yesterday, we talked about spending time in God’s Word to refocus our thinking and give us a new perspective on what is in front of us. Today as we look again at the story of Joshua, take some time to reflect on God’s promises. Your mind cannot be renewed without knowing the Word of God or digging into what it says. Here are some promises for you to reflect on right now:    

• Promise for Wisdom: James 1:5    
• Promise for Forgiveness: 1 John 1:9    
• Promise of Faithfulness: Deuteronomy 31:8    
• Promise of Your Future: Jeremiah 29:11    
• Promise for Provision:  Philippians 4:19    
• Promise for Purpose: Romans 8:28    
• Promise for Salvation: Romans 10:9

If we aren’t reading about God's promises for us, then we’ll never believe them! This is why the promise for Joshua to “prosper and succeed in all you do” is contingent on, “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it.”

These are amazing promises to know close to our hearts so we can begin renewing our minds. As you spend more time in God’s presence and reflect on His word, you will notice more clarity in your life. When we hear what God promises to us by being in the Word of God, we can then start believing those promises, which make them a reality in our lives!

Think of reading the Bible like food -- you wouldn’t go a day without eating. When we go without hearing from God, it’s like depriving our soul of the food it needs. (Matthew 4:4) 

Life can sometimes feel like a continual war. Some seasons are harder than others, but everyone experiences hardships. Here’s what is great about God. His Word says He will be WITH you! You don’t have to go through this battle, trial, or difficulty alone. 

If you want to experience the blessing of God’s promises, you have to do what Joshua did -- meditate on God’s Word. Let it be the first thing you go to in the morning. Let it guide and direct your day. Let it feed your soul and point you to worship God. Let it encourage you in challenging times. That’s the power of being in the Word of God!

God promised to be with Joshua everywhere he went and He does the same with you. As a matter of fact, the Great Commission given in Matthew 28:18-20 is for everyone. It is where Jesus commissions His people to go make disciples, promising to be with us till the very end of the age. Take a step back, get into God’s presence, and know that He will always be with you!

Reflection Questions:  

1. Which of God’s promises means the most to you?    
2. When has God been with you even when you were fearful?