Welcome to a new month and a new year 2024
“Not by might nor by power” Zechariah 4:6
All glory to God for enabling us to cross over to year 2024. Last year, was significant for all of us at CFAO. We are all alive, bubbling, hale and hearty and in good health. Despite that the past few years have been defined by uncertainties, disruption, Covid-19, lockdown and the recent high cost of living crisis in the UK and global financial crisis. We are still standing and not counting losses but profits. This is not by our power or by our making but by the grace of God Almighty.
Ecclesiastes 9:11 (NIV) says, “I have seen something else under the sun; the race is not to the swift, or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise, or wealth to the brilliant, or favour to the learned…” Upon reflection and considering the uncertainties of life, Solomon’s recommendation about life is that it is a gift of God. It is not difficult to see cases where the swiftest or the strongest do not win or become successful. Have you not seen the wise go hungry and the intelligent being unrewarded with wealth and honour?
Zechariah 4:6 says “Not by might nor by power, but by my Sprit says the Lord almighty.” This means that successfully crossing over to a new year or to successfully carry out a task does not depend on your physical strength, influence, knowledge or skill but on the power of the living God. Many people believe that to survive in this world, a person must be tough, strong, unbending and harsh. But God says “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit”. Realise that it is only through God’s Spirit that anything of lasting value can be accomplished.
As we journey along the year and beyond; be determined not to trust in your own strength or abilities, but to depend on God and trust in His power and benevolence. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him and He shall direct your path”.
Therefore, my beloved, I urge you not to rely on your own strength or understanding, but to trust in the Lord with all your heart. Acknowledge God always and He will direct your steps accordingly.
This year —
- We will not weep over our children or any member of our family.
- We will prosper in all areas of our endeavour;
- Good health and long life shall be our portion.
- Our fortunes shall not turn to misfortune.
- We will be victorious all year round.
- Promotion and elevation will be our portion.
- No secret tears but long lasting laughter.
- Our stars shall shine brighter in Jesus Christ mighty name.
Shalom
PASTOR RICHARD
