NEW CONNECT JOURNAL - JOSHUA, NEHEMIAH & THESSALONIANS

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The Book of Joshua

" But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" Joshua 24:15b

Conquering the land for God The book of Joshua is about conquering the land for God, to enlarge the territory of His kingdom. Idolatrous nations were ripe for judgment and were removed forcibly if they did not humbly turn to God; idolatry was re-placed with true worship, and righteous living through his chosen people. God has called us all to be more than conquerors too. As healthy loving church communities we are called to live, increase, multiply and possess the land for Christ. As you read Joshua may God help you to catch the spirit of a conqueror!




The Book of Nehemiah

When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. Nehemiah 1:4a

Rise up to the Challenges Nehemiah was called by God not only to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, but also to enable the exiles to rebuild their lives once again in the land of promise and blessing. Because he earnestly sought the Lord, He rose to the challenge of his day. He willingly moved out of his comfort zone and pursued God's purpose for his life by serving the people of God. His abilities were multifaceted and reflected his generous, holistic approach to caring for others, as he doggedly strove to get the job done. His great determination and perseverance for God's work paid off. His exceptional leadership and his dependence upon God brought success. Through his efforts to bring reform, the Israelite community became solidly established in God's ways. This story prophetically foreshadows the full restoration that God desires for His church. This purpose will be ultimately fulfilled when Jesus finally comes back. As you read Nehemiah may God ignite your calling to be a leader and give you the blueprint for the ideal community He desires.

The Books of Thessalonians

Your faith in God has become known everywhere.... 1 Thessalonians 1:8b

Grounded in the Truth Paul had started a new church in Thessalonica. Recent converts were experiencing much persecution due to their new found faith. To make matters worse, Paul was also unable to stay with them (Acts 17:l-9). Both the first and second Thessalonians letters show that Paul was greatly concerned for them, and that he was trying his best to help them become solidly grounded in their faith and committed to church life. Special emphasis was placed on the Lord's second coming to help them hang on during the turbulent times they were facing. May God inspire us with Paul's leadership of these beleaguered Christians facing tough times. May we also learn that trials are certain for new believers and that facing trials with God's perspective is vital to gaining endurance.




The new Connect Journal will be released in December 2008.

For more information contact:

• Email: connect@hopebrisbane.com