This morning in worship service (Sunday, January 04, 2009), the pastor used Numbers 14 as his text.  The account of the 10 spies returning from the promised land – Joshua and Caleb were in favor of entering the land; the other 8 were scared witless and didn’t want to think of going to the promised land.  The people moaned and groaned.  Some wanted to die; others wished to select a new leader and return to Egypt. The pastor’s sermon dealt with the future.  He pointed out that, as the Israelites, we have two options in our view of the future.  We can embrace the future as Joshua and Caleb, relying on God’s promises and faithfulness.  We can be frightened by the future and wind up as the other spies and Israelites – frightened and paralyzed. I would dare say that all of us will face some sort of challenge in the upcoming year. I pray that we will embrace the future, armed with the promises of God and the proof of His unfailing love and faithfulness. Blessings. In His Name, Lisa The pastor was Pastor Steve Spurlock of First Baptist Church Newton Falls.  If you live in the area and are looking for a church home, you ought to give the church a visit.  The people are warm and friendly.