Introduction : The Bible says, "Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance" (Pr 20:18). When we face a struggle to survive during this New Year, we should follow the spiritual guidance that God has given us.
1. Let´s obey with faith. 1) Abraham left his hometown by faith (Ge 12:1-4; Heb 11:8). 2) God´s grace revealed according to faith (2 Co 6:1,2). * God hears our prayers and helps us. (1) God bears our burdens (Mt 11:28; Ps 68:19). (2) God works for us (Jer 33:2,3). - Let´s trust, obey, and expect the work of God. We pray with faith, holding the invisible hand of God.
2. Let´s live with hope. 1) Hope of heaven. (1) Death, which is a merciless reality (Heb 9:27). (2) Hell, which is a clear prison with the lake of fire (Rev 20:13-15). 2) Hope overflowing with salvation (Jn 3:16; Ro 5:1,2). 3) Heaven is clear. - Jesus came from heaven (Jn 14:1-3; 2 Co 5:1; Rev 21:1,2; Ro 13:12-14). 4) Hope on this earth - God is our hope (Ps 146:5). - Jesus, our Shepherd (Ro 8:28; Ps 1:14-16).
3. Let´s practice love. 1) We owe a debt of love (1 Jn 4:8-11). 2) Practice love. (1) Share the burdens of others with compassion. (2) Share with others in your lives. (3) Serve others (Ro 12:10, 15,16). 3) God is love - God and heaven are love (1 Jn 4:16,17; 1 Pe 4:8). Without love, our lives and accomplishments are in vain and are nothing (Ps 127:1,2).
Conclusion : What we have in our hearts as we live during the year is very important, because it will bear fruit. Only the fruit that faith, hope, and love bears will be constant and everlasting.
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