Isaac Mwaniki

This being a new year, there are many people having many desires for it. Traditionally, there has been a lot of resolutions which unfortunately are forgotten as quickly as there are made. I think it is from this background that i resolved not to make resolutions.

Today in service, our Pastor expounded on the theme of my churc this year which is Arise and Possess from the book of Deutronomy 1:8. I have issues with some of such themes just as i have with resolutions. Listening to Pastors as New years begin, one senses a wave of encouraging people as the year begins. The pastors were like competing for the most graphical phrase to describe the state of blessedness promised this year, "if you sow a seed unto the work of God". A lot of emphasis is put on waiting upon God and the hope is well broadcast that this s the year of the Lord.

Today was a great day for me when the pastor spoke on the above theme. The most challenging aspect was that God does not ant us to always behold his beauty in His sanctuary but also go forth and accomplish what we feel Him enable us. This involves a lot of risks, vulnerability and a real possibility of failure. Prayer seems a smart excuse for not doing what we must. When can we say for sure that we can move on with a venture without any risk involved. Life itself is a risk and so whatever is in it. Prayer is thus no substitute for action.

What is the difference between achievers and the rest of the crowd? I think James Oswald Sanders gave a good response: "The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight; But they, while their companions slept; were toiling upwards in the night."

I think that this year we should all move out of the comfort zone and move forth to possess the great things God has in store for us. This will be achieved by hardwork and sheer determination and not by only waiting for God to bless us while not doing much.

What goals do you have this year? Move on because the Lord has promised to go with you. Many times God's plan for us becomes clear as we move along the risky path of obedience.