"Starting Right with God" - Pastor Joel Sarmiento

Introduction

A new year often brings fresh hopes and renewed desires. Many begin it longing for something new—a new phone, a new car, or perhaps a new home. Yet beyond material things, the best “new” we can pursue is a renewed relationship with God.

As we step into this new year, it is worth asking ourselves an honest question: Where is my relationship with God right now? Am I growing closer to Him, or have I allowed the noise and demands of life to slowly draw me away? The beginning of a new year offers a sacred opportunity to realign our hearts and start right—with God at the center.

Delighting in God’s Word

Psalm 1:1–3 paints a beautiful picture of the person who delights in God’s Word. This individual resists ungodly influences, meditates on Scripture day and night, and grows like a tree planted by streams of water—strong, fruitful, and flourishing in every season.

God’s Word gives life, clarity, and direction. When we delight in it, we find steady nourishment for our souls. Joshua 1:7–8 echoes this same truth, reminding us that true success and lasting prosperity are found in meditating on God’s Word and living in obedience to it.

Spiritual strength, courage, and blessing do not come from our resolutions alone, but from a daily devotion to God’s truth. When we make His Word our foundation, He guides our path and prospers our way—according to His will and in His time.

Illustration: Living with the Waterfall

The Kaufmann family once purchased a beautiful piece of land in Mill Run, Pennsylvania, complete with a stunning waterfall. Wanting a vacation home that faced the falls, they hired the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. But Wright surprised them—he designed the house over the waterfall rather than merely facing it.

When asked why, Wright explained, “I don’t want you to simply look at the waterfall. I want the waterfall to become part of your life. Wherever you are in the house, the sound and presence of the water will surround you.”

In the same way, God does not want us to observe His Word from a distance. He desires that it flow through every part of our lives—refreshing us, shaping our character, and strengthening us day by day. God’s Word was never meant to be read occasionally, but to be lived daily. When Scripture shapes our thinking, guides our decisions, and steadies our hearts, it becomes a constant source of life.

Conclusion

Genesis 39:3 tells us, “And his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord made all he did to prosper in his hand.” Joseph’s life reminds us that when we walk closely with God, His presence becomes evident in everything we do.

As we begin this new year, may we choose to walk in God’s Word, trust in His promises, and live under His blessing. Let us not simply aim for a better year, but for a deeper walk with God.

Let’s start right—with God.