Reflections and New Beginnings: Farewell to 2024, Welcome to 2025

As the curtain falls on 2024, we find ourselves at a crossroads where reflection and anticipation intersect. This time of year offers a unique opportunity to pause, look back at the journey we’ve traversed, and chart the course for the year ahead. As Christians, we are reminded to ground our reflections and plans in the Word of God, seeking His guidance and wisdom in all things.

The Year That Was: A Retrospective on 2024

2024 brought with it a mix of triumphs, challenges, and moments of profound growth. Through it all, we are reminded of the words of Ecclesiastes 3:1 (KJV): “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” This verse encourages us to see both the highs and lows as part of God’s divine plan, shaping us into vessels for His glory.

Across the globe, we witnessed significant breakthroughs in technology, science, and sustainability—advances that echo the call in Genesis 1:28 (KJV) to be stewards of the earth. Yet, as we celebrated progress, we were also reminded of our dependence on God’s provision and mercy.

For many, 2024 was a year of personal milestones. Whether achieving professional goals, nurturing relationships, or overcoming challenges, the faithfulness of God was evident. As Psalm 37:23 (KJV) assures us, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.”

Looking Ahead: What Will 2025 Bring?

The dawn of 2025 carries with it a sense of possibility and renewal. Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) offers timeless wisdom as we step into the unknown: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” This new year is an opportunity to surrender our plans to God, trusting Him to lead us.

Key themes that may shape the coming year include:

  • Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship: As we continue to care for God’s creation, let us remember Psalm 24:1 (KJV): “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.”
  • Technological Innovation: While advancements in technology bring new possibilities, we must seek wisdom and discernment, echoing James 1:5 (KJV): “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
  • Human Connection and Well-Being: As society navigates modern complexities, the words of Philippians 2:4 (KJV) remind us, “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”

Resolutions and Intentions

The beginning of a new year is often accompanied by resolutions. Colossians 3:23 (KJV) encourages us: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Whether it’s committing to healthier habits, pursuing a passion project, or dedicating time to ministry, 2025 is a blank slate waiting to be filled with God’s purpose.

Let us also resolve to be kinder and more compassionate. Ephesians 4:32 (KJV) exhorts us: “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”

Gratitude for the Past, Hope for the Future

In saying goodbye to 2024, let us heed the call of 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV): “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Gratitude transforms even the most difficult times into stepping stones for spiritual growth.

As we welcome 2025, let hope guide our steps. Hebrews 11:1 (KJV) reminds us: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” With faith and trust in God, we can embrace the unknown with courage and optimism, knowing that He holds the future.

Here’s to a remarkable 2025, grounded in faith and guided by His Word!

Have a Great New Year, May the Lord Bless you and Keep You.

Philip Berry Thd

Monday of Holy Week:

Cleansing of the Temple: Jesus overturns the tables of the money changers and drives out those buying and selling in the temple (Matthew 21:12-17, Mark 11:15-19, Luke 19:45-48).

Holy Monday, is the second day of Holy Week, which leads up to Easter Sunday. While it’s not as extensively documented in the Gospels as Palm Sunday or Good Friday, it still holds significance in the Christian tradition. Here are some details about Holy Monday.

1. Cleansing of the Temple

Holy Monday is often associated with Jesus’ actions in the temple, particularly the continuation of the cleansing of the temple that began on Palm Sunday.

According to the Gospel accounts (Matthew 21:12-17, Mark 11:15-19, Luke 19:45-48), after Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, he went to the temple and drove out the money changers and merchants who were exploiting the house of God for profit.

This act symbolized Jesus’ authority and his zeal for the purity and integrity of worship.

2. Teaching in the Temple

Following the cleansing of the temple, Jesus continues to teach and engage with the people in the temple precincts.

The Gospels mention various teachings and interactions that likely occurred during Holy Monday, including parables, debates with religious leaders, and instructions to his disciples.

One notable teaching from this period is found in Matthew 21:18–22 and Mark 11:12–14, 20–25, where Jesus curses a fig tree that bears no fruit, using it as an object lesson about faith and the consequences of spiritual barrenness.

3. Preparation for the Passover

As Passover approaches, Jesus and his disciples make preparations for the Passover meal, which they will share together on Thursday evening (Maundy Thursday).

This likely involves logistical arrangements such as securing a location for the meal, obtaining the necessary elements for the Passover celebration, and making arrangements for their accommodation during the Passover festival.

4. Reflection and Prayer

Holy Monday may have been a day of reflection and preparation for Jesus as he approached the culmination of his earthly ministry. It’s praiseworthy to assume that Jesus spent time in prayer and communion with the Father, seeking strength and guidance for the events that would unfold in the coming days. The Gospels often depict Jesus withdrawing to solitary places to pray, and Holy Monday would have been no exception as he mentally and spiritually prepared himself for the trials ahead.

While the specific events of Holy Monday are not extensively detailed in the Gospel accounts, it is nevertheless recognized as a significant part of Holy Week, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow in the days leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. It serves as a reminder of Jesus’ authority, his commitment to true worship, and his preparation for the ultimate sacrifice he would make for humanity’s redemption.

Tuesday of Holy Week

Teaching in the Temple: Jesus engages in debates with religious leaders and delivers parables, including the Parable of the Tenants (Matthew 21:23-23:39, Mark 11:27-12:44, Luke 20:1-21:4). Look them up.

Olivet Discourse: Jesus delivers prophetic teachings about the destruction of Jerusalem and his second coming (Matthew 24:1-25:46, Mark 13:1-37, Luke 21:5-38).

Teaching in the Temple refers to Jesus’ activities and interactions within the temple in Jerusalem during the days leading up to his crucifixion. This period of teaching is especially prominent during Holy Week, including Holy Monday. Here’s a more detailed explanation:

Context

The Temple in Jerusalem was the central religious and cultural institution for the Jewish people. It was not only a place of worship but also served as a hub for various religious activities, including teaching, sacrifice, and prayer.

During the time of Passover, Jerusalem would have been filled with pilgrims from all over the region, adding to the bustling atmosphere in and around the temple.

Activities and Interaction

Jesus engaged in various activities within the temple, including teaching the people, debating with religious leaders, and responding to questions posed by his disciples and other observers.

His teachings covered a wide range of topics, including the kingdom of God, the nature of true worship, ethics, and the interpretation of Scripture.

Jesus often used parables—stories with spiritual and moral lessons—to convey deeper truths about God’s kingdom and the expectations of discipleship.

He also challenged the religious authorities of the time, critiquing their practices and interpretations of the law while emphasizing the importance of mercy, justice, and genuine faith.

Important teachings and interactions during this time include the Parable of the Tenants (Matthew 21:33-46, Mark 12:1-12, Luke 20:9-19), the question about paying taxes to Caesar (Matthew 22:15-22, Mark 12:13-17, Luke 20:20-26), and Jesus’ response to the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:34-40, Mark 12:28-34, Luke 10:25-28).

Significance

Jesus’ teaching in the Temple during Holy Week was a demonstration of his authority as a teacher and a prophet. His words challenged conventional thinking and called people to a deeper understanding of God’s will. It also served as a public declaration of his identity as the Messiah and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Jesus’ teachings and actions in the Temple underscored his role as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice.

Furthermore, his interactions with religious leaders and ordinary people provided opportunities for reflection, conviction, and decision-making, setting the stage for the events that would follow in the days leading up to his crucifixion and resurrection.

Overall, Jesus’ teaching in the Temple during Holy Week was a pivotal moment in his ministry, highlighting his mission to proclaim the kingdom of God, confront religious hypocrisy, and ultimately, offer salvation to all who would believe in him.

Wednesday of Holy Week

This day is sometimes referred to as “Silent Wednesday” as no specific events are recorded in the Gospels. It’s believed that Jesus spent this day in Bethany, perhaps resting before the events to come.

Phil Berry ThD D.D.

How to know the will of God for your Life

part 4 of 5

Listen to the Holy Spirit:

Many Christians believe that the Holy Spirit dwells within believers and guides them. Pay attention to your conscience, inner promptings, and the peace that comes from aligning with God’s will.

Listening to the Holy Spirit involves being in tune to the guidance, prompting, and conviction of the Holy Spirit within the believer’s heart and mind. Here are some Scripture reference to help clarify.

John 16:13: “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”

Romans 8:14: “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”

Galatians 5:16: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”

Galatians 5:25: “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”

1 Corinthians 2:10-12: “But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.”

Ephesians 4:30: And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.”

1 Thessalonians 5:19: “Quench not the Spirit.”

These verses highlight the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding, leading, and empowering believers. Listening to the Holy Spirit involves cultivating a sensitivity to His voice through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and obedience to His promptings. It requires surrendering one’s will to the leading of the Spirit and being open to His direction in all aspects of life.

Be Open and Flexible:

Sometimes God’s will may not be immediately clear, and it may require patience and openness to discern. Be willing to surrender your own desires and plans to God’s leading, even if it takes you in unexpected directions.

The concept of being open and flexible, especially in the context of seeking God’s will, involves a willingness to yield to God’s plans and purposes even when they may differ from our own desires or expectations. Here are some Scripture references from the (KJV) that illustrate this idea:

Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Isaiah 55:8-9: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

Romans 12:2: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

James 4:13-15: “Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.”

Proverbs 16:9: “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.”

Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”

Being open and flexible means surrendering our own plans and desires to God’s will, trusting that His ways are higher and better than ours. It involves acknowledging God’s sovereignty and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life, including decision-making, relationships, and future plans. By being open and flexible, we position ourselves to receive the blessings and fulfillment that come from aligning our lives with God’s purposes.

Phil Berry TH.D D.D

Seek Wise Counsel: Proverbs 11:14 says,

“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

3 0f 5 How to know the will of God for your life

 Seek guidance from trusted spiritual mentors, pastors, or wise friends who can provide biblical insight and perspective. The principle of seeking wise counsel is emphasized throughout the Bible as a valuable source of guidance and wisdom. Here are a few key verses from the (KJV) that underscore the importance of seeking counsel:

Proverbs 11:14:

“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

Proverbs 15:22:

“Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.”

Proverbs 12:15:

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.”

Proverbs 24:6:

“For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

Proverbs 19:20:

“Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.”

Proverbs 20:18:

“Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.”

Psalm 1:1-2:

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”

These verses highlight the wisdom and safety that come from seeking counsel from those who are wise, knowledgeable, and grounded in God’s principles.

Seeking wise counsel involves humility, openness to input from others, and discernment in choosing advisors who align with biblical values and principles. It’s an essential aspect of decision-making and seeking God’s will in our lives.

Seeking godly counsel is a vital aspect of decision-making and discerning God’s will for your life. Here are some additional insights on the importance and characteristics of godly counsel:

1. Wisdom and Discernment: Godly counsel comes from individuals who are wise and discerning, possessing a deep understanding of God’s Word and His ways. Look for advisors who demonstrate spiritual maturity, integrity, and a track record of making decisions aligned with biblical principles.

2. Spiritual Alignment: Seek counsel from individuals who share your commitment to following Christ and living according to His teachings. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide guidance rooted in faith and trust in God’s sovereignty.

3. Prayerful Guidance: Godly counsel involves seeking wisdom through prayer and seeking God’s guidance together with your advisors. Invite the Holy Spirit to lead and direct your conversations, guiding you toward decisions that honor God and align with His purposes.

4. Accountability and Transparency: Establish a relationship of trust and accountability with your counselors, where you can openly share your thoughts, concerns, and struggles. Embrace constructive feedback and be willing to receive correction when necessary, knowing that it comes from a place of love and genuine concern for your well-being.

5. Experience and Expertise: While spiritual wisdom is paramount, it’s also valuable to seek counsel from individuals with relevant experience and expertise in the areas where you need guidance. Consider consulting professionals, mentors, or advisors who can offer practical insights and advice within their respective fields.

6.Biblical Foundation: Godly counsel is rooted in the timeless truths of Scripture. Seek advisors who base their advice and counsel on biblical principles and who help you apply God’s Word to your specific circumstances.

7. Peace and Confirmation: As you seek counsel, pay attention to the peace and confirmation that comes from the Holy Spirit. While wise counsel may challenge you and prompt you to consider different perspectives, ultimately, it should align with God’s Word and resonate with your spirit as you seek His will.

8. Continual Growth and Learning: Surround yourself with a community of believers who inspire and encourage spiritual growth and maturity. Engage in ongoing dialogue, study, and reflection with your counselors as you navigate life’s challenges and opportunities.

In closing seeking godly counsel involves aligning yourself with wise, spiritually mature advisors who guide you according to biblical principles, prayerful discernment, and mutual accountability.

By surrounding yourself with godly wisdom and seeking counsel from those who honor God, you can make decisions that honor Him and lead to a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Phil Berry Th.D , D.D.

How to know the will of God for your life

Part one of Five

Determining the will of God for your life is a deeply personal and a spiritual journey.

People often seek guidance on this matter through various means. Here are some general suggestions that in my personal life I find helpful:

  1. Study the Scriptures:

Interpreting the will of God in the scriptures, specifically involves careful study, prayer, and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Read Regularly:

Establish a habit of regular Bible reading. This helps you become familiar with the teachings, principles, and narratives presented in the scriptures.

B. Pray for Guidance:

Before delving into the scriptures, pray for guidance from the Holy Spirit to illuminate your understanding and reveal the will of God to you.

C. Contextual Understanding:

Consider the historical and cultural context of the passages you’re reading. Understanding the context helps in grasping the intended meaning of the text.

D. Cross-Referencing:

Utilize cross-references tools to explore related verses and passages. This can provide a broader perspective on the message and ensure that you are considering the scripture in its entirety.

E. Study Tools:

Use concordances, Bible dictionaries, and commentaries to go deeper into the meaning of specific words, phrases, and passages. These tools can provide you with a wealth in information, study the language and historical insights. This will prove to beneficial to you.

  • Prayer and Meditation:

Spend time in prayer and meditation, seeking a connection with God. Reflect on your desires, strengths, and values.

Prayer and meditation are important aspects of Christianity. In the Bible, there are numerous references to both prayer and meditation, highlighting their significance in the spiritual life of believers. Here are a few biblical perspectives on prayer and meditation:

Prayer:

1.Communication with God:

The Bible encourages believers to pray as a means of communicating with God. Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV) says, “Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”

2 .Persistent Prayer:

Jesus taught about the importance of persistent prayer in passages like Luke 18:1-8. The parable of the persistent widow emphasizes the need for continuous and earnest prayer.

3 .Praying in Faith:

James 5:16 (KJV) encourages believers to “confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”

  • Praying According to God’s Will:

1 John 5:14-15 (KJV) emphasizes the importance of praying in accordance with God’s will, stating that when we pray according to His will, He hears and answers our prayers.

  • Prayer as a Weapon:

Ephesians 6:18 (KJV) describes prayer as part of the armor of God, emphasizing its role in spiritual warfare: “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”

Meditation:

  1. Meditating on God’s Word:

Psalm 1:2 (KJV) speaks of the blessedness of the person whose “delight is in the law of the Lord, and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”

  • Reflecting on God’s Deeds:

Psalm 77:11-12 (KJV) encourages believers to meditate on the works of God: “I will remember the works of the Lord: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.”

  • Focus on Truth and Virtue:

Philippians 4:8 (KJV) encourages believers to meditate on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report.

  • Meditation for Wisdom:

Joshua 1:8 (KJV) links success and prosperity to meditating on God’s Word: “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth, but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”

  • Meditation as a Source of Joy:

Psalm 63:6 (KJV) expresses the joy found in meditating on God: “When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.”

Integration of Prayer and Meditation:

Both prayer and meditation are intertwined in the Christian life. Prayer is the communication with God, expressing thoughts, feelings, and requests, while meditation involves contemplation and reflection on God’s Word and deeds. Together, they contribute to spiritual growth, understanding, and a deepening relationship with God. The combination of prayer and meditation allows believers to draw closer to God and align our lives with God’s will.

Phil Berry Thd, D.D.

Title: Obedience Over Sacrifice: A Lesson from 1 Samuel 15:22 (KJV)

Introduction:

In the pages of the Holy Bible, profound lessons are woven into the narratives of ancient times, offering timeless wisdom that resonates across generations. One such lesson can be found in 1 Samuel 15:22 (KJV), where the prophet Samuel delivers a message from God to King Saul. This verse carries a powerful message about the significance of obedience over mere sacrifices.

To understand the depth of 1 Samuel 15:22, we must delve into the context. King Saul had been given a clear command by God to utterly destroy the Amalekites and all that belonged to them, sparing nothing. However, when Samuel arrived to assess the outcome, he discovered that Saul had spared King Agag and the best of the sheep and cattle, justifying it as an offering to God.

The Verse:

Samuel confronts Saul with the words that echo through the ages: “And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22, KJV).

  1. Divine Delight in Obedience: The verse challenges the notion that outward acts of worship, like burnt offerings and sacrifices, hold greater value in God’s eyes than obedience. It emphasizes that God takes great delight in those who heed His voice and follow His commands.

 2. Obedience Trumps Sacrifice: The phrase “to obey is better than sacrifice” underscores the priority of obedience over ritualistic sacrifices. While sacrifices were an integral part of worship, God’s primary desire was for His people to obey His instructions wholeheartedly.

 3. Attentiveness to God’s Voice: The verse further emphasizes the importance of hearkening to the voice of the Lord. It highlights the need for a deep connection with God, listening intently to His guidance, and aligning one’s actions with His divine will.

Application to Our Lives:

  1. The timeless lesson from 1 Samuel 15:22 resonates with us today. It challenges us to reflect on the motivations behind our actions and the sincerity of our obedience to God’s commands. Here are some practical applications:

Prioritize Obedience: In our journey of faith, we must prioritize obedience to God’s Word over religious rituals or external displays of devotion.

  1. Examine Motives: Regular self-examination is essential. Are our actions driven by a genuine desire to obey God, or are they mere attempts to appear devout?

Cultivate a Listening Heart: To hearken to the voice of the Lord requires a listening heart. Cultivate a prayerful and receptive spirit, seeking guidance through prayer and studying the Scriptures.

Conclusion:

The enduring message of 1 Samuel 15:22 serves as a guiding light, reminding us that our relationship with God is built on the foundation of obedience. As we navigate the complexities of life, may we heed the voice of the Lord, knowing that true worship involves not only sacrifices but, more importantly, a heart surrendered in obedience.

Philip Berry D.D Thd

    Embracing Spiritual Renewal in 2024: A Journey of Faith and Reflection

    Introduction:

    As we step into the year 2024, many of us find ourselves at the crossroads of life, seeking a deeper meaning and connection to something beyond the material realm. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to lose sight of our spiritual well-being. The Bible, the word of God serves as a timeless guide, offering wisdom and inspiration for those on a quest for spiritual renewal.

    The Call to Renewal:

    The (KJV) Bible, with its rich language and profound teachings, has been a source of guidance for generations. In Isaiah 40:31, we are reminded, “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” this verse indeed captures the essence of spiritual renewal. —a call to patiently wait on the Lord, trusting in His divine plan and finding strength in Him.

    Reflecting on the Past:

    As we embark on this journey of renewal, it is essential to reflect on the past year, acknowledging both successes and failures.

    Psalm 51:10 (KJV) urges us to pray, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” Through sincere self- reflection, and repentance, we open ourselves to God’s transforming power, paving the way for a renewed spirit.

    Seeking Spiritual Disciplines:

    Spiritual renewal often involves cultivating spiritual disciplines that foster a closer relationship with God. Regular prayer, meditation on Scripture, and fasting are powerful practices that can lead to a profound sense of spiritual rejuvenation. Psalm 119:11 (KJV). Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. 

    This scripture encourages us to store God’s Word in our hearts, guiding our steps and nourishing our souls.

    Church Community and Fellowship:

    In the journey toward spiritual renewal, the importance of community and fellowship cannot be overstated. Hebrews 10:24-25 (KJV) reminds us, “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Sharing our spiritual journey with like-minded believers provides support, encouragement, and accountability.

    Embracing a Transformed Mindset:

    Romans 12:2 (KJV) encourages us to “be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Spiritual renewal involves a shift in mindset—a departure from worldly values and a renewed focus on God’s truth. Through prayer, meditation, and aligning our thoughts with biblical principles, we can experience a transformative renewal of the mind.

    As we enter 2024, let us embark on a journey of spiritual renewal guided by the wisdom of the Bible. Through patience, reflection, spiritual disciplines, community, and a transformed mindset, we can draw closer to God and experience a profound renewal of our spirit. May this be a year of deepening faith, heightened awareness of God’s presence, and a lasting transformation that extends beyond the temporal into the eternal.

    Wow 2024 here we come!

    I pray that you will allow the word of God to transform you into His likeness this New Year.

    Phil