MONTHLY NEWSLETTER With Rev. Dr. C. A. Onitiri ( January 2025 Edition.)
SCRIPTURE JANUARY: ISAIAH 43v18-19.
“Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.”(KJV)
THEME: “NEW BEGINNING “.
Dearly Beloved, Happy New Year!
As we step into January 2025, the dawn of a new year presents fresh opportunities to grow in faith and align ourselves with God’s purpose. This season is a divine invitation to release the past and embrace the newness that God is unveiling. Isaiah 43:18–19 is a call to forget the failures, disappointments, and even past victories, and to trust in the Lord, who promises a glorious new beginning.
SCRIPTURE EXPOSITION:
1.FORGET THE PAST (v.18):
God calls His people to let go of “former things.” Dwelling on past mistakes, hurts, or achievements can hinder us from recognizing His current work. Just as the Israelites needed to shift their focus from their deliverance from Egypt to God’s ongoing plans, we too must trust Him for new victories.
2.BEHOLD THE NEW THING (v.19a):
The phrase “Behold, I will do a new thing” signifies God’s ability to innovate and bring unprecedented blessings. His “new thing” is often beyond human imagination, and it calls for faith and readiness to see His hand at work.
3.PROVISION IN DESOLATE PLACES (v.19b):
God promises to create “roads in the wilderness” and “rivers in the desert.” This symbolizes His power to provide and guide in the most unlikely circumstances. He specializes in transforming barren places into sources of life and abundance.
LESSONS FOR BELIEVERS:
1.TRUST GOD’S TIMING:
God’s “new thing” unfolds in His perfect timing, often when it seems least expected.
2.EMBRACE CHANGE:
A new beginning requires letting go of the old and stepping into the unknown by faith.
3.GOD PROVIDES IN UNLIKELY PLACES:
He makes a way even in the wilderness; believers should rest assured of His sufficiency.
4.SPIRITUAL READINESS:
To perceive the “new thing,” believers must be spiritually alert and in tune with God’s will.
BIBLICAL EXAMPLES:
1.THE EXODUS JOURNEY (EXODUS 14v21-22):
God made a way in the Red Sea for the Israelites, demonstrating His ability to create paths in impossible situations.
2.RUTH’S NEW BEGINNING (Ruth 1v16-17):
Ruth’s decision to follow Naomi led to a fresh start and God’s favor.
3.PAUL’S TRANSFORMATION (Acts 9v1-20):
God turned Saul, a persecutor of Christians, into Paul, a great apostle, showcasing His power to bring new life.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
- Reflect on past lessons, but don’t dwell on regrets—embrace God’s new plans with faith.
- Set spiritual goals for the year: deepen your relationship with God through prayer and Bible study.
- Stay alert for God’s provision and direction, even in unexpected circumstances.
- Encourage others with God’s promise of newness, reminding them of His faithfulness.
CONCLUSION:
As we journey through 2025, let Isaiah 43:18–19 serve as a reminder that God is ever-present, doing a new thing in our lives. May we walk in faith, eagerly anticipating the great works He has prepared for us this year. Let us rejoice and trust in His unfailing promises!
Happy New Year! 
SHALOM!
