Stepping Into The New Year

1. REFRESH YOUR HEART

1 Kings 13:7 "The king said to the man of God, ‘Come home with me and refresh yourself, and I will give you a reward.’"

In this narrative, King Jeroboam attempts to entice the man of God, who has just challenged the idolatrous practices at Bethel, with hospitality and a reward. The man of God was under strict divine orders not to eat, drink, or return the same way he came.

REFLECTION: SPRITUAL REFRESHMENT vs. EARTHLY OFFERS

King Jeroboam’s offer of refreshment is a pivotal moment. It’s tempting, appealing to basic human needs for food, rest, and acknowledgment. However, this "refreshment" comes with strings attached—it leads away from obedience to God’s explicit commands.

THEME: “REFFRESH YOUR HEART”

1. SHIFTING FOCUS TO TRUE REFRESHMENT

The literal suggestion to "refresh yourself" can be viewed as a metaphor for our spiritual life. Often, we seek refreshment and rejuvenation in worldly comforts or recognition, which may momentarily satisfy but do not truly fulfill the deeper needs of our soul.

2. TRUE HEART REFRESHMENT

Scripture teaches that true refreshment for our hearts comes from our relationship with God. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites those who are weary to come to Him for rest. This rest is more profound than physical relaxation; it’s a restoration of the soul, realigning our hearts with His peace and purpose.

APPLICATION: SEEKING DEEPER REFRESHMENT

(i) IDENTIFY WHAT TRULY REFRESHES: Evaluate what you turn to for refreshment. Is it time spent in God’s presence through prayer and scripture, or is it worldly pursuits? Reflect on how these choices nourish your soul or leave you wanting.

(ii) PRIORITIZE SPIRITUAL PRACTICE: Incorporate spiritual disciplines like meditation on God’s Word, prayer, and community worship. These practices are sources of deep refreshment that renew our hearts and minds.

(iii) OBEY GOD’S COMMANDMENTS: True peace and refreshment come from living in alignment with God’s will. Like the man of God in the story, we are often tested; steadfast obedience leads to spiritual renewal.

2. RENEW A STEADFAST SPIRIT

Psalm 51:10: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”

EPHESIANS 4:23-24 “and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.”

David’s earnest request to God reveals a profound understanding of human frailty and the divine source of renewal. He doesn’t just seek forgiveness; he seeks transformation – a complete overhaul of his inner being to prevent future spiritual failures.

THEME: "RENEW A STEADFAST SPIRIT IN ME"

1. UNDERSTANDING A STEADFAST SPIRIT

A "steadfast spirit" speaks of unwavering commitment, loyalty, and unshakeable faith in the face of trials and temptations. It’s about having a heart that is firmly planted in God’s truth and love, undistracted by the world’s allure.

2. THE NEED FOR RENEWAL

Our spirit often wearies under the weight of sin, trials, and the monotony of daily routines. Like David, we recognize that our efforts alone are insufficient to sustain a steadfast spirit. We, too, need divine intervention to rejuvenate our commitment to God.

APPLICATION: STEPS TOWARDS RENEWAL

(i) COFESSION AND REPENTANCE: Begin with acknowledging your sins and shortcomings before God, just as David did. Genuine repentance opens the door for spiritual renewal.

(ii) SEEK DIVINE HELP: Understand that renewal of spirit isn’t a one-time event but a continual process that involves God’s intervention. Pray earnestly for God to work within you, creating a clean heart and renewing a steadfast spirit.

(iii) IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE WORD AND PRAYER: Spiritual disciplines are the bedrock of a steadfast spirit. Commit to regular Bible study and prayer, asking God to strengthen your faith and resolve.

(iv) COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Engage with a community of believers who encourage and challenge you to grow in your faith. Spiritual companionship is vital in maintaining a steadfast spirit.

3. RESET YOUR WAYS

ISAIAH 43:18-19 "Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth;”

God tells the Israelites to look for new things from Him and not get stuck in old ways of doing things.

4. REALIGN YOUR LIFE

MATTHEW 1:20-23 “But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. "And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins." So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: "Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel," which is translated, "God with us."