"Wise as Serpents, Innocent as Doves: Aligning with God’s Timing"

As we step into a new year, we often make resolutions, dream new dreams, and reflect on the year behind us. But have you ever paused to consider how we measure time and why we celebrate the New Year on January 1st? What if our cultural rhythms are out of sync with God’s divine order?

The world teaches us to rush forward, conforming to societal norms without question. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to live with discernment. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 10:16 to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves." Wisdom and innocence—these dual attributes help us navigate a world often driven by deception and distraction.

Time, Truth, and Alignment

For centuries, humans marked time through natural rhythms: the waxing and waning of the moon, the changing of the seasons, and the cycles of planting and harvest. In biblical times, the year often began in spring, aligning with renewal and new life. But as history unfolded, political and cultural forces shifted our calendars and rhythms.

While these changes might seem insignificant, they remind us of a deeper truth: we must intentionally align our lives with God’s order rather than the world’s chaos. God designed time and creation with purpose, as we see in Genesis 1:14: “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens... for signs and for seasons, and for days and years.”

Learning to Be Wise

The enemy thrives in confusion, and one of his strategies is to pull us away from God’s rhythm. Whether it’s through busyness, over-scheduled lives, or distorted truths, we risk losing sight of God’s purpose. Yet, Scripture calls us to discernment:

• Psalm 90:12: "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

• Micah 6:8: "What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"

True wisdom isn’t about self-reliance or intellectual pride. It’s about humbling ourselves before God and seeking His guidance daily.

Practical Steps for a New Year of Alignment

This year, let’s commit to walking in God’s truth. Here are three steps to consider:

1. Pause and Reflect: Take time to assess how you’re spending your days. Are your priorities aligned with God’s purposes?

2. Reclaim God’s Rhythm: Embrace moments of Sabbath rest and reflection. Trust that God’s timing is perfect, even when the world demands constant motion.

3. Discern the Deceptions: Be mindful of cultural pressures that distract from God’s truth. Pray for wisdom to see through half-truths and align your actions with Scripture.

A Prayer for Alignment

Lord of time and eternity,
Bring our hearts into alignment with Yours.
Teach us to walk in Your rhythms of grace,
To rest when You call us to rest,
And to work diligently when You call us to work.
May our lives reflect Your divine order,
A testimony to Your eternal truth.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Call to Action

As we embark on this journey together, I invite you to join us in making this year one of spiritual alignment. Whether through prayer, Bible study, or intentional moments of rest, let’s walk in God’s ways.

If this message resonates with you, share it with a friend or loved one. Let’s encourage one another to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves," standing firm in God’s truth while extending His grace to a world in need.

Blessings on your New Year,
Pastor Benjamin