Open Door


Then as I looked, I saw a door standing open in heaven and the same voice I had heard before spoke to me………… “Come up here, and I will show you what must happen after these things.”
Revelation 4:1

Every new year is like an open door. It would be nice to hear the Lord speak to us as he did to the Apostle John saying “Come up here and I will show you….” Most of us would probably like to know what this year will bring, though some of us may be fearful to know what lies ahead, and so are happy to wait and see. My attention was caught as I read this scripture in which John was invited to “Come up here”.

These words started me thinking; thinking that the Lord is always wanting us to ‘come up here’; nearer to him. As we do so we begin to see more from his perspective and less from our own narrow view, as John was about to see. It takes a step on our part; a stepping out of our comfort zone and into the unfamiliar. John Ortberg wrote a book called “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Step Out of the Boat.” How many of us want to step out of the boat?

To fulfil our dreams and aspirations we have to take steps, sometimes leaps, of faith. We have to step into the unknown. Perhaps it is a change of jobs, as it will be for my husband; perhaps it is to undertake a training course that has long been a heart’s desire for you. Perhaps it’s to finally publish your writing as I am doing, or even something like joining a voluntary organisation. Whatever it is, the opportunity that a new year brings seems to offer the chance to “step out of the boat”. That’s why people make New Year’s Resolutions!

As this year begins we have the opportunity to forget the failures (or successes) of the past and look forward to what lies ahead (Philippians 3:13). In reality every new day is the opportunity of a fresh start with God. His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23). What a blessing that is!

Consider too the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 11:4 (NLT) which warns, “If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.” Don’t wait for your own perfection either! If you feel the prompting of the Holy Spirit to “come up here” as you begin this new year, then do it, take the plunge and see what will happen. You can trust that underneath are the everlasting arms (Deuteronomy 3:27).

As Peter stepped out of the boat (Matthew 14:25-31), he was all right so long as he kept his eyes on Jesus. When he looked at his surroundings he began to sink. As you step out remember to keep your eyes on Jesus and stay in close fellowship with him. Then you are safe.

Prayer: Faithful and merciful Father, I thank you for this new year. May I heed your promptings and take courage as I look at you to support and encourage me as I step out into whatever you call me to do this year. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.