HIGHLIGHT
Genesis 1:1–2 (ESV): 1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.
EXPLAIN
What a grand statement is this… in the beginning, God created. At once, this assertion makes several claims, among which are the following: 1) God is eternal having always existed and, it can easily be presumed, will always exist; 2) God is beyond us, above us, greater than us; 3) God designed our world on purpose, thus giving us purpose, and 4) We are obligated to honor our Creator and seek to fulfill his purpose for us.
APPLY
As we begin a new year, we often make commitments, goals, and promises for change. Even though December 31st to January 1st is just another revolution around the sun, psychologically we view it as a time for new beginnings. And, that can be a good thing.
Yet when we reflect on the first day of the first year of human history… wow!
What were God’s “goals” for humanity? What did God hope to accomplish?
Consider God’s plan from before creation due to his foreknowledge!
While our sin marred God’s perfect plan for his Creation, as recreations of God’s grace, how can we cooperate to see God’s purpose go forward?
RESPOND
Heavenly Father, as I begin a new year, help me to live in the center of your will at all times, furthering your purpose in this world. Thank you for a wonderful year just finished. Thank you for your presence and help in times of difficulty, in times of joy, and in times of change. May I continue to grow this year to be more like Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.