Do-Overs and Fresh Starts

It was such a blessing to lead our Sunday school class today in a discussion of Genesis 7 and 8. True, the story of the flood is a tale of judgement, but it also reflects the generousity and mercy of God as He gives a second chance to mankind.

In chapter 8, Noah waits for God's direction even though the ground was dry. How often I climb out of my "boat" of circumstances long before God has given me the go-ahead. Noah was a man of character who waited on God for every move he made. Some of the women in my class shared the challenge with me to sit quietly, listening, and waiting for God's next direction.

The first recorded action that Noah took after leaving the ark was to build an alter and offer a sacrifice. What an act of worship and consecration! Instead of bounding on down the pathway when hard circumstances ease up, I'm challenged to pause for worship and thanksgiving. He is truly worthy of praise.

In this week of New Years Resolutions, I want to leave you with some questions for evaluation, reflection and action. Sitting down in a classroom with a group of women that I love, listening in the silence for God's voice to me about these questions, and putting my thoughts to paper this morning was a blessing. I hope that you'll take some time to do this exercise yourself and that the blessing will follow you into 2008.

1. What are some of the things that you are thankful for from 2007?
(Worship)

2. What are some places of disobedience or unrepentence from 2007?
(Consecration)

3. How have you grown spiritually and been obedient in 2007? (Evaluation)

4. In what ways do you need a Fresh Start in 2008? (Reflection)

5. What actions will you take in 2008 to grow spiritually and strengthen
obedience? (Action)