Prepare for Takeoff
Prepare for Takeoff
Be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. (Eph. 6:10)
Launching Out
By the time a space mission takes place, astronauts have gone through hundreds of simulated launches and landings and virtually everything else in between. Ron Garan, who flew into space on the shuttle Discovery, says that because so many things can go wrong during launch, most of their training—as much as 90 percent—is focused around that one phase of the flight.
That’s an interesting ratio, especially when it appears on the first page of a new devotional book, whether you’re starting out on New Year’s Day or at any new beginning point during any season on the calendar of your life. Starting right is way more than half the battle.
Gearing Up
So as you prepare for the 365 days that stretch out ahead of you, take this opportunity to look at more than just your quiet-time habits. Do you need to forgive anybody? Is your schedule set up to allow some space for both necessary rest and unexpected intrusions? Are you withholding anything from God’s reach—a particular habit or attitude or some other treasured entitlement?
Is your heart as open and ready as it can possibly be, expecting this to be the most positive, most powerful year of change and spiritual growth you’ve experienced in a long time?
Ephesians 6:13 says to “take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand.” If you’re serious about starting right, there’s a good chance you’re going places.
Bottom Line
This is more than just a new day. It’s the start of something special in your life.