THE GOD WHO KEPT ME THROUGH THE YEAR
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Lamentations 3:22-23
Key Verse: “It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.” (Lamentations 3:22)
Supporting Texts: Psalm 121:1-8; Isaiah 46:3-4; 2 Timothy 4:18; Psalm 124:1-3; Jude 1:24
INTRODUCTION:
As the year draws to a close, we pause to acknowledge that survival was not accidental but divinely orchestrated. Many began the year with us but did not make it through; our preservation is evidence of God’s mercy, not human strength. Truly, it is the Lord who has kept us.
Throughout the year, we faced uncertainties, battles, challenges, and unseen dangers. Yet, God stood as our keeper, defender, and sustainer. His mercies renewed every morning became our daily covering and strength.
This message calls us to reflection, gratitude, and renewed trust. When we look back honestly, we can boldly testify that if the Lord had not been on our side, the outcome would have been different.
1. GOD KEPT US BY HIS MERCY
The mercy of God is the foundation of our preservation. It is mercy that shielded us from destruction and gave us another chance.
a) Mercy preserved us from destruction (Lamentations 3:22). God’s compassion prevented total consumption.
b) Mercy covered our shortcomings (Psalm 130:3). If God marked iniquities, none could stand.
c) Mercy sustained us daily (Psalm 23:6). God’s goodness followed us throughout the year.
d) Mercy triumphed over judgement (James 2:13). God chose compassion over condemnation.
Biblical Example: The Israelites were preserved in the wilderness solely by God’s mercy despite repeated disobedience (Nehemiah 9:19-21).
2. GOD KEPT US BY HIS POWER
Beyond mercy, God actively defended and protected us by His mighty power throughout the year.
a) God is our keeper (Psalm 121:3-4). He neither slumbers nor sleeps over our lives.
b) God preserved us from unseen dangers (Psalm 124:1-3). Many traps were avoided unknowingly.
c) God delivered us from evil (2 Timothy 4:18). His hand rescued us repeatedly.
d) God carried us through weakness (Isaiah 46:3-4). When strength failed, He carried us.
Biblical Example: Daniel was preserved in the lions’ den by God’s power despite deadly opposition (Daniel 6:19-23).
3. GOD KEPT US THROUGH EVERY SEASON
God’s faithfulness was consistent in every phase of the year; good days and difficult days alike.
a) God kept us in times of joy (Psalm 126:2-3). He filled our mouths with laughter.
b) God kept us in times of trouble (Psalm 66:10-12). Trials did not destroy us.
c) God kept us in transitions (Deuteronomy 31:8). His presence went ahead of us.
d) God kept us when answers delayed (Habakkuk 3:17-19). Faith sustained us while waiting.
Biblical Example: Job was preserved through loss, pain, and restoration by God’s sustaining grace (Job 1-2; 42:10).
4. GOD KEPT US FOR A PURPOSE
Preservation is proof that God is not finished with us. He keeps those He still intends to use.
a) Preservation confirms divine purpose (Jeremiah 29:11). God’s plans for us remain intact.
b) God kept us to fulfil destiny (Psalm 138:8). He completes what concerns us.
c) God kept us to reveal His glory (Isaiah 43:7). Our lives exist for His praise.
d) God kept us to enter a greater tomorrow (Proverbs 4:18). Our path continues to shine brighter.
Biblical Example: Paul was preserved through shipwrecks and persecution because his assignment was not yet complete (Acts 27:22-25).
CONCLUSION:
Looking back over the year, one truth stands firm: God kept us. Not by chance, not by power, not by wisdom, but by His mercy and grace. Every preserved life is a testimony of divine faithfulness.
As we move forward, let gratitude guide our hearts and obedience shape our steps. The God who kept us through this year will surely keep us into the next, until His purpose is fully accomplished.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, thank You for preserving my life throughout this year.
2. Lord, I acknowledge that it was Your mercy that sustained me.
3. Father, forgive me for every moment of ingratitude this year.
4. Lord, let Your preserving power continue over my life and family.
5. Father, thank You for delivering me from dangers seen and unseen.
6. Lord, strengthen me to fulfil the purpose You preserved me for.
7. Father, let every benefit of preservation speak for me.
8. Lord, carry me by Your grace into the coming year.
9. Father, let my life continually bring You glory.
10. Lord, perfect all that concerns me as I move forward.
