How did you welcome in 2025? Did you enjoy a cosy evening at home with your family? Or did you take part in a New Year's Eve service with your church family? Each approach has its merits.
I spent New Year's Eve reflecting, sharing, and praying with my immediate family, which was a blessing. I was knocked out with the flu. One of my close friends told me it was God's way of telling me to slow down. I'm definitely going to take rest seriously in 2025. It's hard to be effective when all systems are down.
For many Christians, the gathering on 31 December is a cherished tradition filled with prayer, worship, messages of hope to inspire for the year ahead and fellowship. As the initial excitement begins to fade, it's an ideal time to ponder the messages shared during those gatherings and evaluate how we can carry that genuine encouragement with us throughout 2025.
It's natural for congregations to seek uplifting words as the new year approaches. We are creatures of time. Everyone wishes to start the year with an upbeat outlook, and pastors can feel pressure to deliver inspiring messages that set a hopeful tone. While it's good to encourage others—Scripture instructs us to uplift one another—we must anchor our encouragement in the unwavering truths of the Scriptures rather than in optimistic messages that may serve as mere feel-good slogans.
It's common to feel uncertain about what a New Year may hold. The Lockdown Years showed us how uncertain life can be. While we can analyse financial trends and observe social changes to make informed decisions, we must never cease to look to the Father (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Regardless of the headlines in the coming months, knowing that God is always with us and never caught off guard is reassuring. Scripture reminds us of this truth: "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you" (Hebrews 13:5 NLT). His promise stands firm, whatever the New Year may bring—smooth sailing or unexpected challenges. We can find strength and be assured of God's ever-present presence in our lives.
In this light, it's essential to recognise that encouragement is more than just a fleeting emotional lift. Our goal isn't simply to feel better; it's to draw closer to our Heavenly Father, learning to trust Him more deeply each day. Genuine encouragement nourishes our faith and provides us with the strength to persevere, even when the path is difficult.
Jesus reminds us how important it is to persevere in Matthew 24:13: "He who endures to the end shall be saved." This isn't about promising an easy journey; it encourages us to cling tightly to Him through every season of life. As the thrill of the new year wanes and every day realities come into focus, leaning on Christ becomes our steadfast anchor, keeping us grounded and strong.
Remember to walk in love, let your light shine brightly, and take heart, knowing that the One who promised never to leave or forsake you will be right by your side through it all. Wishing you a wonderful New Year, and may your faith grow stronger throughout 2025!
Remain Strong in His Grace.
Pastor O.
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