Ephesians 5:17NKJV says:

“Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

If I should be asking you, how are you preparing or what are your preparations for the new year, I’m so sure that I will hear diverse stories. These will include the proposed "New Year resolutions" a customary practice for most people, a list of items bought or intended to buy, places to visit and appointments to keep, plans for a career change, and others. Amazingly, some might even have plans to have a “new look", a facelift they call it, according to this group of people, looking good is a good business. I agree!

A critical examination of this list, among others, reveals a theme; “My Will”. This is not to castigate anyone, be rest assured, you are not alone, it isn't shocking but quite common to all “natural” beings. Our "world"; as an individual or as a planet, is so materialistic and very selfish. It has always been me and me, and not that alone, like Oliver Twist, we always want more, even amid excess. Never be surprised, it goes in line with the world's ruling system (2 Corinthians 4:4). Now, you would ask if it is normal to pursue "our will", what's the issue again? Fine, it might be normal, but it isn't right. We are the generation that seeks God, seeks His face to know His Ways and His Will (Psalm 24:6). 

It is the highest level of folly to embark on an unknown journey cluelessly or ignorantly. Alas! This is just the pattern that many people have been following all their lives. Continually, they have been ignoring the Great Shepherd, sojourning without His blessings, not knowing, or understanding His Will for them regarding the voyage ahead. Remember, there are 366 days in 2024, being a Leap Year and it implies that there are 366 days full of evil ahead. That will not be for you and me in Jesus Christ's name. 

“Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” - Ephesians 5:16

Beware! That the days ahead are evil is a reality, don't let it sound religious to you. Stay on any news channel for just five minutes and you will be able to substantiate this truth. The good news is that we can still redeem these wicked days, making the most of the time, making every minute count, and using every opportunity. Making these days rewarding can only be possible on one crucial condition: understanding His Will for the year ahead. It is critical to be fully conscious of the will of the Lord for the year 2024 and subsequent years ahead. Friends, I need to understand His, you need it as well and everyone needs to know His Will for their lives.

It must be emphasized that as children of the Most High, we must always be sensitive to happenings around us, particularly to time and seasons.

In the Scripture, it was credited unto the children of the tribe of Issachar that they were people who understood the signs of the times. As a result of this quality, they knew the best course for Israel, they knew what to do on each occasion (1 Chronicle 12:32). 

As you are preparing for 2024 and purpose to know the will of the Lord for your life, my prayer is that you will never be stranded in life. Remember, it was said of our Lord Jesus Christ that He always knew what to do at any time and in any situation (John 6:6).

Some believers might want to contend that our biggest preparations as believers should be toward the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and nothing else. As a true believer, you shouldn’t be preparing for His coming but prepared and ever ready. 

Scripturally, concerning His second coming, we must be prepared and expectant.

“You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.” -Matthew 24:44NLT 

In respect of career, gender, and race, among others, going to the new year without the knowledge of the “Will” and “Ways” of God is suicidal. We shouldn’t forget that God’s Ways are embedded in His Will. You can only pursue His Will while walking on His paths. 

What are the gains of knowing His Will?

1. You have constant access to divine direction. 

        He shows you where to go, and you will be anxious for nothing.

“Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”   - Proverbs 3:6NLT

  2. You will be continually blessed.

“Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, …………….” - Psalm 68:19KJV

        Your days being loaded with His benefits means that He will bear your burdens daily, carry you in His arms, treat you with kindness daily, and 

        prosper you daily, among others.

  3. Life of abundance is sure. 

        In His Will is the flourishing of life, the richness of life, the best quality of life, not on earth alone but for life eternal as well.

“.......I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” - John 10:10KJV

  4. Adequate protection is guaranteed.

        This is a comprehensive protection; it covers you and all your interests. 

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; .........” - Psalm 23:4NKJV

  5. It is “shame proof” and “reproach proof”.

“For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” - Romans 10:11NKJV

  6. It is a source of strength.

“…but the people that do know their God shall be strong and do exploits.” - Daniel 11:32KJV

 

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