Issue 2016-01
The Righteous Under Severe Trials
Here we go………….Again!
The two biggest holidays of the year are now passed and we are now embarking on a New Year. January 2016 is exciting! We call it “God’s Month”. Since the inception of the ministry of New Life Christian Church, we have dedicated the entire month of (each) January to God (15 years).
Pushing back plates, limiting activities, reading and journaling has been beneficial to our members and others that have joined in on this pilgrimage. I must say that spending dedicated time in the presence of the Lord is priceless!
Let me share how this looks:
- We always start with a theme. This year’s theme is: “Turning Over a New Leaf”, Living life to hear Well Done. Matthew 25:21a (This year, each member filled out a Character Inventory on themselves and chose 1 area that needed turning over).
- We outline a fast; this year a 21 day Daniel Fast.
- The first 5-7 days of January is spent in quiet reflection (the good, bad and ugly!) and plenty of repentance.
- After quiet reflection and repentance, we are now ready to embark on hearing from the Lord through prayer and scripture reading (additional repentance is often needed). This year’s book of the Bible is Proverbs.
- The first 3-5 days of fasting can be challenging so we make an effort to encourage one another. Fasting reveals just how much the flesh lusts against the spirit. Don’t give in to its demands. You will silence it after day 5.
One the many benefits of this discipline: it sets the course for the whole year. Much vision and insight is received during the month of January. God grants great favor when we intentionally put Him first!
If you have never been on this type of journey feel free to join us, we are still in the month of January.
Be Blessed,
Pastor Gary L. Pleasant
Senior Pastor & Founder
New Life Christian Church
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