LORD, BREATHE AFRESH ON ME – JANUARY 2024 NEWSLETTER

INTRODUCTION:

The breath of God is evidence of His power and strength in the life of man, infusing life into him to function as a living being. In the rhythm of life, there comes a profound longing for renewal, a desire for God to breathe afresh on weary souls. There is a tendency for someone to lose strength and courage due to life’s situations and challenges. Everybody needs to examine oneself and desire refreshment in preparation for a new beginning. The essence of people going on vacation is to relax and refresh mentally and physically.

In Genesis 2:7, after God created man, he could not do anything until God breathed into man; then, great ideas and innovation began to flow through man. It is the same process when feeling worn out and stuck – one needs to go back to God and breathe afresh for new revelation and innovation. In this article, some points that encourage positioning oneself for the move of God will be well explained.

1) Breathing New Life into Your Daily Struggles:

Life’s challenges can weigh heavily on the human soul, and the plea for renewal becomes more poignant. The prayerful request to “refresh a steadfast spirit” acknowledges the need for resilience and unwavering commitment. This point encourages believers to draw strength from God, allowing Him to breathe new life into their daily struggles.

2) Seeking Divine Revival:

To revive means to bring back to life and reposition for greater value and functions. Just as Ezekiel called for the breath of life to revive the lifeless, individuals yearn for a spiritual revival. This point emphasizes the importance of actively inviting the divine breath into our lives, anticipating a revitalization of purpose and passion.

3) Position Yourself for the New Breath of God:

The instruction of Jesus Christ to his disciples when preparing them for the fresh breath of God through the Holy Spirit empowerment was that they should wait and position themselves for the move. The metaphor of the four winds in Ezekiel’s vision symbolizes the comprehensive nature of divine renewal. It speaks to the idea that God’s breath can come from every direction, touching every aspect of our lives if we are rightly positioned. Believers are encouraged to be open to transformative winds, allowing God to breathe afresh into their relationships, careers, and personal growth.

Conclusion:

The imagery of breath infusing life into lifeless bones paints a vivid picture of spiritual resurrection. This point delves into the idea that God’s breath has the power to bring new life, resurrecting dormant dreams and passions. It encourages individuals to embark on a journey of spiritual rebirth, trusting in the divine breath to bring forth a vibrant and purposeful existence.

Finally, the quick way to receive God’s breath is to be on God’s side. This can only happen if you give your life to Jesus Christ. If you have not encountered Jesus Christ, He is calling you today; kindly accept His invitation and be saved.

Let’s Pray:

  1. Lord Jesus, I thank you for how far you have led me.
  2. My Lord and my Father, breathe afresh on me with great ideas and innovation.
  3. Lord, let me operate under divine favor this year. Amen!

John Aderogba for ROPMI.

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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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