Begin again with God
Gen 46:1 And Israel took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac.
As you begin a journey, there are many things we include on our checklist. The excited Israel would not want to ensure he did not forget anything as chances were that they would not be returning … not very soon.
But Israel does not forget God. It is easy to forget God when things are upbeat and seem to be working right, but God watches us closely for our first moves … the hordes of hell are also interested in new beginnings and ready to target the most wicked temptations to scuttle any real progress. I also notice the name Israel is used and no more Jacob. This is the new covenant name. Our progress into new things also must leave behind old identities. We must learn to start afresh with God to commit all in His hands. Israel offered sacrifices, bringing offerings and burning them on the altar. We are living sacrifices and there are times when we should go to God afresh … putting our lives afresh on the altar of God. We should tell God that indeed He is God and we are just His creation …to use us as He wills. Sacrifice represents an expensive gift … our lives being the most important offering of all.
Why is it important to start in times of new beginnings with communion with God? Because new beginnings involve new apprehensions, new devils, new encounters, new troubles and new challenges … and we need the assurance of God. The place chosen for the sacrifice was Beersheba. God appoints the sacrifice and the place. As you read this devotional … are you at the verge of a new beginning ? If so, then find the location and time to quickly go to God in communion. Surrender your life completely to Him and His agenda. Let God know by your sacrifice that He is in control and the future of all that pertains to you is safe in his hands. Praise Him, worship Him ..declare His majesty and greatness. Worshipping God is another way to present a pleasing sacrifice. Sing hymns of praise to Him.
Song.
Praise, my soul, the King of Heaven;
To His feet thy tribute bring.
Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,
Evermore His praises sing:
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Praise the everlasting King.
Praise Him for His grace and favor
To our fathers in distress.
Praise Him still the same as ever,
Slow to chide, and swift to bless.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Glorious in His faithfulness.
Fatherlike He tends and spares us;
Well our feeble frame He knows.
In His hands He gently bears us,
Rescues us from all our foes.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Widely yet His mercy flows.
Prayer: Lord, May your grace and truth that you reign forever, be sufficient at all times for me. Especially when I should be greatly disappointed. Amen
The Songs of Joseph is an integration of encouragement scriptural devotions, prayers and a compendium of songs of mercy, salvation, new beginnings and victory. We can expect as we trust and obey that our end will indeed be ultimately glorious because God works His marvellous agenda. Be blessed as you read and sing along, daily. Edited by Bolade Apampa
