MONTHLY NEWSLETTER With Rev. Dr. C. A. ONITIRI (December 2023 Edition)
SCRIPTURE: PHILIPPIANS 4V4-9.
THEME: “THE PEACE OF GOD”
Dearly Beloved,
I welcome you all specially to the month of December 2023. As we step into the embrace of December, we embark on a journey centered around the theme, “The Peace of God,” drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom found in Philippians 4:4-9.
Philippians 4v4-9 reads;
“4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” (KJV)
In this scripture, the apostle Paul encourages believers to rejoice always, emphasizing the inner fulfillment that comes from a deep connection with God.
Amidst life’s challenges and anxieties, he reminds us to seek God through prayer, thanking Him for His goodness and submitting our worries with trust.
By focusing our minds on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable, we can experience peace that defies understanding.
Through this joyful pursuit of God’s peace, we are empowered to live virtuous lives, guided by His word, and find contentment in any circumstance.
Biblical figures like Paul, amidst challenges, found joy in his unwavering faith, and learn from characters like David, whose psalms reveal the transformative power of seeking God’s peace in all circumstances.
Lessons for Believers:
- The Source of True Joy: We can discover the profound joy that springs from a deep connection with the Lord.
- Navigating Life’s Turbulence: We can also learn how God’s peace, surpassing understanding, can guide us through the storms of life.
- Cultivating a Grateful Heart: The lesson of gratitude as a pathway to sustaining joy and peace.
PRAYER FOR THE MONTH
Heavenly Father, as we enter December, we seek Your joy that transcends circumstances and Your peace that surpasses understanding.
May this month be a journey of discovery, drawing us closer to You and transforming our hearts.
Guide us in the pursuit of joy, gratitude, and a steadfast mind anchored in Christ.
Let your peace reign in our lives guarding our hearts and minds.
In Jesus’ name, pray. Amen.
Shalom!
