GLORY TO THE NEWBORN PRINCE OF PEACE – DECEMBER NEWSLETTER

Text: ISAIAH 9:6.

Introduction

Glory is the language of worship that reveals the amazement and excitement when the wonder of God manifests to man. This is used in several events in the scripture. But the one that is particularly alarming is the experience of the shepherds when the news of the birth of Jesus Christ came to them in the field while they were watching over their sheep at night. The angel of the Lord appears to them with the word “Peace.” Suddenly, the glory of the Lord surrounds them with beautiful voices from heaven echoing songs of joy and glad tidings.

In the tapestry of religious narratives, the birth of the Prince of Peace stands as a timeless symbol of hope and harmony. Rooted in the scriptures, this celestial event continues to resonate across cultures and generations, offering solace in turbulent times.

The journey begins in the Old Testament texts, where prophets foretold the arrival of a savior, a harbinger of peace. From Isaiah’s prophetic words to Micah’s vision, the anticipation of a Prince of Peace echoed through the ages. The fulfillment of these prophecies unfolded in a humble manger, where a divine presence descended upon the world, ushering in an era of tranquility.

Let’s delve into the three key points and the profound significance that sometimes eludes our understanding.

1) Emmanuel: God With Us

The name ‘Emmanuel’ symbolizes the presence of God all around his people. It is a sign that God has reconciled with man. So, the essence of the Prince of Peace lies in the concept of Emmanuel – God with us. The incarnation of divinity among mortals signifies a profound connection between the celestial and the earthly realms. It beckons humanity to embrace harmonious coexistence, reminding us that amidst our struggles, we are not alone. One of the undeniable promises of God is that “I will not leave you nor forsake you…” This season is a time to remember that God will always be there for you in all situations.

2) His Compassion and Forgiveness have no End

The news of the newborn Prince of Peace extends beyond His miraculous birth. His earthly journey is marked by a revolutionary message of compassion and forgiveness. In a world often marred by discord, these principles serve as pillars of peace, guiding us toward understanding, empathy, and reconciliation. The peace that Jesus brought to the world is the bedrock of his mercy and love toward man. “God loves the world and gave his only son…” His love is encompassed with compassion and forgiveness for man to take his place in heaven.

3) Light in the Darkness

After the experience of the Garden of Eden, the world was covered with darkness. In the book of Isaiah 9:1-2, when Prophet Isaiah was delivering the messages about the coming of the Prince of Peace, he confirmed and described the effect of darkness in the life of the people. The symbolism of the star that led the wise men to the newborn Prince resonates as a beacon of light piercing through the darkness. In our own lives, this celestial light represents hope in moments of despair, promising that even in the bleakest hours, a transformative radiance can guide us toward a path of peace. Jesus Christ came to shine as light in our dark world and deliver us from the effects of darkness.

Conclusion

The celebration of the newborn Prince of Peace encapsulates a saga that transcends time and resonates with the deepest recesses of the human soul. As we reflect on the scripture background, key points, and occasional confusion, let us strive to embody the timeless principles of hope and harmony in our own lives, ensuring that the glory of the Prince’s arrival continues to shine brightly across the tapestry of human existence.

Finally, the best you can do is to give your life to Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. This will pave the way for you to enjoy the peace which he brought to the world.

LET’S PRAY

1) Give thanks to God for his mercy and love towards you.

2) Sing Christmas Hymns and Songs to celebrate the Lord Jesus Christ.

3) Pray for the Peace of God in your life as the year is coming to an end. Amen.

John Aderogba for ROPMI.

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A Grateful Heart – November 2023 Newsletter

Introduction:

Let’s begin with a question: Do you have reasons to be thankful, or has God been good and faithful to you in any way? There’s a saying: “Think and Thank.” When you reflect on God’s goodness in your life and all He has done for you, it naturally leads to gratitude. As we journey through life, cultivating a grateful heart is essential, especially as the year comes to a close. This world often presents challenges and uncertainties, making a grateful heart incredibly significant. Gratitude has the power to transform our perspectives, fostering resilience and appreciation for life’s blessings. As the year unfolds, let’s reflect on our journey and the kindness we’ve received. In this article, we’ll explore the concept of a grateful heart and its connection to recognizing God’s goodness, drawing inspiration from the scriptures mentioned above.

1) Reflect on God’s Faithfulness:

As the year ends, we have the opportunity to reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout the year. Despite challenges and uncertainties, God has been with us every step of the way. From small blessings to significant milestones, everything we’ve experienced is a testament to God’s goodness. Let’s acknowledge His faithfulness and express our gratitude for His unwavering love and care. Gratitude is not just an emotion; it’s a transformative practice that shapes our outlook on life. By thanking God for both triumphs and trials, we embrace a holistic perspective that deepens our spiritual connection.

 

2) Recognizing God’s Provision and Providence:

“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1 (NIV) This scripture invites us to see God’s hand in our lives as we look back on the year. We witness a tapestry of experiences woven by the hands of a benevolent Creator. Every sunrise, every breath, and countless opportunities are manifestations of God’s enduring goodness. God has provided abundantly for our basic needs and desires. Whether it’s a job opportunity, financial stability, or the support of loved ones, His provisions are evident. Let’s not take these blessings for granted but offer heartfelt thanks for His generosity. A truly grateful heart recognizes God’s hand in both moments of joy and adversity. Challenges are not stumbling blocks but stepping stones, guiding us toward growth and resilience.

3) Embracing a Positive Perspective:

Psalm 100:4 says, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” (NIV) This scripture encourages us to embrace a positive perspective through a thankful heart. It enables us to focus on the goodness around us rather than dwelling on challenges. Even in difficult times, blessings can be found. Shifting our focus toward gratitude brings strength, hope, and joy. As we approach the year’s end, let’s choose to see the glass half full, acknowledging the abundant blessings God has bestowed upon us. A grateful heart is attuned to God’s faithfulness from the beginning of the year. His grace has been a constant companion, guiding us through highs and lows. Embracing a positive perspective helps us cultivate gratitude in our hearts.

Conclusion:

A grateful heart is a conduit for experiencing the fullness of life. Rooted in the scriptures, our gratitude becomes a sacred practice woven into the fabric of our existence. As we navigate the remainder of the year, let’s start each day with thanksgiving, recognizing and celebrating the goodness of God that has been with us from the very beginning. Maintain a spirit of gratitude, giving thanks to God for His countless blessings. May the words of the psalmist resonate within us, “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1, NIV).

Time to Pray:

  1. Give thanks to God for His goodness and mercy over your life.
  2. Sing songs of praise to God.
  3. Read Psalm 100, 107, and 118, then offer your prayer.

 

John Aderogba for ROPMI.

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Be Joyful and Hopeful – October 2023 Newsletter

October Newsletter

Topic: Be Joyful and Hopeful

Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Introduction:

The mystery of life is this: no one can give you joy or make you joyful. People can make you happy; that’s why we have entertainers and comedians to amuse us at events. Many people express their emotions through facial expressions while being entertained, but once the event ends, that happiness fades because it’s not resolved within their minds. You are the only one who can create joy within your heart. Joy flows like a river and permeates every fiber of your being as you generate it yourself. As human beings, we all encounter trials and tribulations that can be overwhelming. It’s easy to become discouraged and lose hope, but as believers, we are called to be joyful and hopeful despite our circumstances. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, the apostle Paul reminds us to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This scripture tells us that our joy and hope should not be based on our current life situations but on the fact that we belong to Christ and have the assurance of salvation. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by negativity. We need to cultivate a spirit of joy and hope, regardless of our circumstances.

We shall explore three key points that can help us embody this article and experience a life filled with joy and hope.

1) Focus on The Promises of God:

One of Satan’s tactics is to divert your attention from God’s promises and use circumstances to distract you from placing your hope in the Lord. God has promised us eternal life with Him if we put our faith in Jesus. We can be assured of this promise and find comfort in knowing that no matter what happens in this life, we have a hope that extends beyond it. Romans 8:28 tells us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This means that even our struggles and challenges can be used for our ultimate good if we trust in God’s plan. True joy is not dependent on external circumstances but on the state of our hearts. By choosing to focus on the blessings we have, no matter how small, we can find reasons to rejoice. This does not mean ignoring our pain or challenges but rather choosing to find strength and hope in the midst of them. By embracing a mindset of gratitude and celebrating even the smallest victories, we can experience a profound transformation in our overall outlook on life.

2) Cultivate A Heart of Gratitude:

When we focus on the blessings in our lives and the ways that God has been faithful to us, it can be easier to maintain a spirit of joy and hope. Psalm 100:4 says, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Gratitude can help us keep our focus on God and remember all that He has done for us. Gratitude has the power to shift our perspective and transform our lives. The scripture urges us to give thanks in all circumstances, reminding us that even amid adversity, there is always something to be grateful for. Cultivating a practice of gratitude allows us to shift our focus from what is lacking to what we already possess. It opens our eyes to the blessings, big and small, that often go unnoticed. Gratitude not only brings us joy but also inspires us to extend kindness and compassion to others. By expressing gratitude in all circumstances, we cultivate a spirit of contentment and resilience that carries us through life’s ups and downs.

3) Surround Yourself with Positive Encouragement:

The reason why many people cannot create joy within themselves and remain hopeful in the Lord is because of the people they surround themselves with and their perspectives on life. Satan purposely surrounds people with individuals who pollute their minds with negative thoughts to discourage them. As believers, we are called to support and encourage one another. Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Surrounding ourselves with other believers who can uplift us in times of difficulty can help us stay focused on our joy and hope in Christ. This life presents us with trials and tribulations that can dampen our spirits.

Conclusion:

The scripture 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 calls us to be joyful and hopeful, irrespective of our circumstances. By rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks in all circumstances, we can cultivate a mindset that transcends challenges and enables us to experience a life filled with joy and hope. Let us embrace the wisdom of these words and strive to live each day with gratitude, knowing that through joy and hope, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. In doing so, we not only transform our own lives but also become beacons of light, inspiring others to embrace the power of gratitude and live joyfully and hopefully. Finally, the only source and giver of joy is Jesus. In Him, you can find everlasting joy. He will always want to be there for you in all circumstances if you will let Him. I encourage you to let Him have His way in your life as your Lord and Savior.

Prayer time: Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Then, create an atmosphere of joy within yourself and worship God. Tell Jesus about your troubles; I am sure He will see you through. Amen.

John Aderogba for ROPMI.

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