For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. 2Chronicles 16:9
Those of you who have followed my writing may be surprised to read that I am excited and hopeful for the church in 2021; including that portion of her who resides in America. I often have to remind myself of this fact, but it is nevertheless true.
There are two reasons for my hopefulness. First, I believe the wife of the Lamb is making herself ready, and she will be perfectly beautiful (Revelation 19:7-8). Secondly, I believe the storms and chaos God is allowing (creating?) give testimony to His continued long-suffering and persistence for her and His Son.
It is no coincidence that 2021 promises to be as chaotic and challenging as 2020. Nor is it an accident that storms are lining up like tropical depressions during hurricane season. Who can imagine how long the season will last, or how severe the storms will be? Only God knows! However, regardless of length and severity, His children rest secure, believing He will use the storms and chaos for our good (Romans 8:28).
Indeed, God will use the storms and chaos of this decade to dramatically transform the individuals, families, and fellowships who keep their eyes focused on the Lord and their minds set on things above. Our prime objective, for ourselves and those in our spheres of influence, must be our maturation in the Lord. Moving up and forward is the only way we avoid wasting the pain and discomfort storms and chaos introduce into our lives.
With this exciting and hopeful perspective in mind, consider your identity in Christ expressed in these passages:
- Ephesians 2:4-10 – We have been given a heavenly perspective and good works to walk in.
- 2Peter 1:2-4 – We have been given all things that pertain to life and godliness… that through these we may be partakers of the divine nature.
- Colossians 1:27-29 – Our hope is “Christ in you”, as we strive “according to His working which works in each one of us mightily.”
- Philippians 2:13 and Luke 12:32 – It is God who works in us both to will and to do for His good pleasure, which is to give us His kingdom.
- 1Corinthians 2:6-16 – We have access to the wisdom of God, we have received the Spirit of God, and we have the mind of Christ. All three person of the Godhead are working for our spiritual maturation.
So, what is the point of all this? The 2021 glass is not half full, nor is it half empty. The 2021 glass is flowing over with blessing and opportunity! Please, please, please, let your mind enjoy this perspective (or force it, if necessary).
The perspective we take into this year will greatly affect our success in navigating the chaos. We recently wrote 4 Biblical Perspectives for Chaos Navigation to help you think more clearly and purposefully about 2021. Those perspective are:
- Chaos and Caterpillars (2Corinthians 3:18)
- Storms and Houses (Matthew 7:24-27)
- Crossroads (Romans 12:2) and Gates (Luke 13:24)
- Sidelines and Battlefields (2Timothy 2:3-4; Ephesians 6:13; and, James 1:23-24)
Check out the article and let me know what you think. Please know that we are also here to help you understand and navigate the chaos with those in your spheres of influence.
God bless you with a very exciting and hopeful New Year.
Updates and Prayer Requests
We are so very grateful to God for your prayers and support this year. We trust He will continue to guide your intercession on our behalf. What would God have you pray and do to advance His kingdom with us in 2021? Here are some suggestions:
A new book is in the works. The Storms Have Come aims to help Christians inspect and restore their houses, and navigate the chaos of the 2020s while helping others do the same. I interviewed with a new publisher yesterday, and the prospects are exciting. Please pray for clarity and swift completion, and how God might have you invest in this project (we need approximately $5,000).
We are in the process of redesigning the inLight Consulting website in conjunction with a relaunch of inLight Consulting – particularly our mission to encourage, edify, and equip leaders in the workplace to make disciples and transform their spheres of influence. We hope to invest $10,000 into the website work and other ministry retooling.
My heart continues to ache for our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world. Please pray with me for their encouragement, protection, and faithfulness in the face of severe trial and tribulation.
Continue to pray for the workplace leaders you know – for their transformation into mighty men and women of God; that they would boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. Let me know how I can help you minister to them.
Partnering with inLight Consulting
God’s purpose for inLight Consulting is beyond human capability. We are desperately dependent on Him; and would have it no other way. We are grateful for the continued support of those that trust God to use this ministry to further His kingdom. Please pray for our vision and mission.
Share the truths you find here with the leaders in your life; it will make them free.
God bless you with wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him; and may He give you the grace and courage to walk in the work He has prepared for you.
Humbly yours and forever His,
Rob