"Happy New Year!" What a blessing it is to acknowledge the end of one year, and embrace the possibilities of another. 2008 will surely be an outstanding year! In fact, I believe 2008 is going to be the year of God's magnificent blessings. God is going to open the windows of Heaven, and prove Himself to this world; and you and I are going to be the vehicles He will use. However, in order to receive everything God has for us, we must learn how to receive specific instructions from Him.

God is able to show you the path to profit in your relationships, physical health, and in your career. The Bible says in Isaiah 48:17, "… I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go." God will lead you into the fullness of His blessings; however, you must have a personal relationship with Him through His Word. Now, more than ever, seeking God through prayer and His Word is vital. Failure to do so could result in missed opportunities.

Failure to seek God limits your ability to receive instructions from Him. Many Christians are not spending quality time reading their Bibles, yet they are praying for a right now word. However, a right now word from God can always be found in His Word. Find out what He has already said; then do it. This will position you to receive specific instructions from Him; yet it begins with your obedience to what He has already instructed. Psalm 119:105 says, "By your words I can see where I'm going; they throw a beam of light on my dark path" (The Message). This scripture proves that God desires to direct you. However, it's up to you to tap into the wisdom and direction His Word provides.

I have seen countless Christians step away from the sound counsel of God's Word, and wonder why they haven't heard a word from God. The Word of God is the foundation for receiving instruction from Him. You can't operate outside of God's Word and expect Him to direct you.

As you seek God's specific instruction and direction for the upcoming year, don't allow anything to remove you from the Word. Nothing moves Christians off the path to life and godliness more than negative emotions. Although you have great plans, dreams, and aspirations, you must conquer negative emotions before you obtain your desired results. The enemy knows he can't stop any of the great things God has planned for you, so he'll try to use negative emotions like hurt, disappointment, fear, or discouragement to move you off the path that leads to the fullness of God's blessing. Don't allow him to distract you!

This year, make a decision that you will diligently seek God; He will richly reward you for it (Hebrews 11:6). Obey God's Word; and when you receive specific instruction from Him, immediately act on what you hear. The Bible says if you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good of the land (Isaiah 1:19). Allow God to direct you into the best year of your life. You'll be glad you did!

Be sure to visit our online Bible study center where you will find a vast amount of resources to help build your relationship with God. Be encouraged, and remember, if God directs you to a path, it will lead you to the truth.

— Dr. Creflo A. Dollar