New Year

Welcome to 2021!

While it has not been the start we were hoping for, as far as community restrictions are concerned, once again we are thankful that we can still have services with limited numbers and rely on the ever essential livestream. It is incumbent upon us as a Church that we do our best to adhere to what our government is requiring of us to minimise transmission, including now having to wear face masks while in Church. I appreciate that none of these measures are for the most part welcomed, yet we endure, not only because we want to be good citizens and obey the laws of the land but, more importantly, we know that they are not forever. They are merely temporary with a goal and limited time frame in mind.

So for now, let us persevere.

Besides, we have seen in the last 10 months that God continues to move in His Church and beyond, to extend His Kingdom with people being saved and discipled, while others coming back after a long stint away. We are also thankful for the amazing start to the new year with 4 receiving the Holy Spirit and 2 baptisms at our NYE service.

Ultimately what is happening in our world is beyond our control, but in the midst of that, we have to focus on what we can control - our personal devotion and relationship with God. Unfortunately for many, they have drifted in their personal consecrations. This has corresponded with their inability to be in Church.

From the outset of 2021, don’t let what you have no say, or control, over deter you from your purpose but focus on what we can do. We can continue to pray, mediate on God’s Word, give, reach out to someone, teach a Bible study…. all of the First Works of the Church. Remember that the First Works are a natural outflow of our First Love. So whatever we must endure, let us remember, return, repent and Rebound to our First Love - our Lord Jesus Christ! (Rev 2:4-5)

A New Decade

Welcome to a new month, a new year and a new decade. What an exciting prospect that we are now entering into a new decade. This is significant because history is often defined in decades. The decade exactly a hundred years ago was known as the roaring twenties, then the turbulent thirties, flying forties, fabulous fifties, swinging sixties, etc.

The last ten years has seen many social upheavals, with terrorism dominating the headlines but also some major challenges to the very fabric of society. There has been a redefinition, by society and government, as to what constitutes a marriage, the removal of personal responsibility for offences and emotional triggers as well as the false notion that personal preference, and not biology, determines sex and gender. All of this is underpinned by the prevailing world view that truth is not objective but relative. 

What may we be expecting in the next decade? I have a feeling it will be more of the same but potentially worsening. Whilst this may intimidate some, the Church of the living God must not retreat in fear or shame but rather it is an opportunity for us to stand in the power of God’s Word and be emboldened by the Spirit of God to declare the truth of God’s Word and the hope of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

I am reminded of the request Elisha made to Elijah in 2 Kings 2:9, prior to the latter’s departure from his apprentice, that he would receive a double portion of his master’s spirit. Whilst Elijah was a powerful prophet that served God’s call in Israel, what Elisha would face as a prophet in his own right would need twice of Elijah’s spirit to meet the challenge of his day. It is of profound interest to note that Elisha did not ask for a double portion of power, miracles or revelation but rather the spirit of Elijah.

Whatever challenges we face in the new decade, let’s not necessarily pursue a double portion of power or ability but let’s get more of the Spirit of Christ dwelling within us. Let 2020 be a double portion year and decade of getting so close to God and being so filled with his burden, love and compassion for the lost, that courage and power will be sure to follow.

A New Year

It is hard to believe that another new year is upon us but it is exciting to be alive and living for God in AD 2018.

We had another amazing General Conference the first week of this month in Canberra with our guest speaker Rev. Woodward ministering the Word and moving in the Holy Ghost. Many lives were touched and saved, and we were refreshed by the fellowship of our brethren. Don’t forget to make plans for next year’s Conference in the same city.

As much as some of us are exhausted and beat from the struggles of last year, the new year always signals a fresh start and new hope. We have an opportunity to clear our heads and our hearts and begin the work of realigning our commitments and priorities.

For me anyway, the new year is an opportunity to put first things first, by prioritising my time, talent and treasure as I plan for the new year. So here’s the order:

God first, then Family, then Church, then reaching the world.

God is a God of order and priority and much of our effectiveness as God’s children is not necessarily working harder but working in order. Most business management tools encourage the manager to prioritise tasks and objectives in order to accomplish the important things. It often takes a lot of work and effort in planning but as the old saying goes; ‘If you fail to plan, plan to fail’.

One thing that is often neglected and left to last in our order of importance is our spiritual lives. Understand that our spirituality must take precedence over every other aspect of life. So plan your priorities in terms of your spiritual life first. This is done with prayer, devotion, fellowship, serving and witnessing. May this year be the best year ever because it’s our best year ever spiritually

The Word that I received for me and for our church from Conference this is is ‘Double Portion!' I am praying, and believing God, for a double portion year of souls being saved and the blessings of God being given and received.

Matthew 6:33  But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

New Year, New Habits

After an outstanding General Conference in Melbourne, many of us are primed and ready for the new year. At the outset of 2017, we have the opportunity to chart a new course knowing that we are older and hopefully wiser than in the previous year.

Let us make the most of our mistakes from the past by not repeating them but applying God’s wisdom and revelation to our lives. Last week, I mentioned the importance of keystone habits that can have a flow on effect on other habits for the better. So from here on, focus on some major habits and be diligent on ensuring that you follow through with them.

For the Christian of course, the keystone habits are the ones that Jesus exemplified and that is prayer and knowledge of God’s Word. Make it your keystone habit to pray and read God’s Word daily. If this can be part of your daily routine everyday for the next six to eight weeks, it will become a habit that will influence your character and ultimately bring you to your destiny.

Church attendance, giving, fasting and witnessing are some of the other habits that are sure to follow and will cause you to become a ‘Contagious’ and ‘Effective’ Christian for God’s glory.

Hebrews 10:25 - Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.