From the Pulpit, Sunday, January 1, 2018
Topic: GO FOR IT
Preacher: REV. DR. TORTY O. ONOH
Bible Text: Psalm 1; Acts 17:10-12
We joyfully welcome you all to this brand new year -2018 in the name of our mighty Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who made it possible in order that we only serve his purpose and vigorously pursue his agenda for our lives, the church and the society. It is important that we note, believe, assimilate and embody this truth as we embark on this glorious journey into the year of our Lord 2018 AD. God purposely put it in the hearts of our forebears when conceiving our Calendar to put it that way, “AD”, meaning the year of our Lord! This means that He is the Lord of all the years put together in its entire ramification. It is important to also note that God is so organized that he would not want us to live in the midst of the years he has offered us in this life without direction, focus and a compass.
God has therefore provided us his pure, timeless and powerful word in the Bible as our faithful guide and compass throughout life. Little wonder, the Psalmist describes the Word of God as a “lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105. Peter describes the origin of the Word as never arising from the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21. The writer to the Hebrews further describes the Word as “living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12.
In King David's apt assessment of God's word, “the law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure enduring forever. The ordinances of the Lord are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.” Psalm 19:7-11. What a timeless and priceless gift!
It is in this wonderful light that I prayerfully charge all of us to go for it this New Year and all the days of our lives. The greatest project you can embark upon in this life is to daily seek your maker through his Word. God has firmly promised that those who seek him will find him if they seek him with all their heart. Jer. 29:13.
Therefore, join us on this holy journey into the word of God with an open and obedient heart. Provide not less than two hours each day to search and meditate on the word of God. You cannot imagine how God will comprehensively transform your life as you diligently go for His word more than all.
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