Well Church, what can we say? The year 2020 in many ways has not turned out like anyone could have imagined. It started with promise, but quickly moved to a pandemic. Through the pandemic we have experienced shutdown, struggle, and a “new” normal, which I really don’t want to continue. Some of you have lost loved ones and we mourn with you. Some of you were and are currently sick with Covid19, or the flu, or other illnesses and we pray to God for healing on your behalf. 2020 has been a year of trials and temptations like we have not seen in our lifetime. 2020 has driven many of us to our knees in prayer! Why does it take a pandemic for us to trust, pray, or repent?
In 2020, we have been challenged to have faith over fear, by allowing God to take control of our circumstances and believe He was big enough to handle them. We were challenged to engage in prayer over living a life of panic. Prayer along with the Word of God are offensive weapons wielded by the Saints against the enemy. The enemy wants to destroy life, but prayer gives us a lifeline to the Father, and He hears our cries and acts on our behalf. He is always faithful and finally we have been challenged to have joy over despair. Joy is not focused on our circumstances, but it is found in Christ, the Way-maker and Miracle worker in our lives. Joy conquers despair when we decide to allow God to empower us with His Spirit.
My prayer for us in 2021 is that it will be a year of Renewal, not just a new normal but a supernatural normal. The Apostle Paul says it this way, “Therefore, we do not give up. Even though our outer person (physical body) is dying, our inner person ( spiritual life) is being renewed day by day.” (2 Corinthians 4:16)
Church, do not miss out on what God has in store for you in 2021, by looking back at 2020. Look forward, by seeking God, and being renewed by Him daily. Make that your life’s desire. A lost world is dying to hear the message of hope in Christ. We have that message; allow that message to renew your desire for evangelism, discipleship, and discernment of the truth. May God richly bless and renew you as you live for Him in 2021!
Pastor Johnny, Lead Pastor