FRIDAY December 31, 2021

New Year’s Eve

Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
Philippians 2:1-2

Before people move forward into a New Year, they often look back at what has happened in the previous year. They think of the joys, as well as the sorrows. There may have been the joy of the birth of a child or the sorrow felt in the death of a loved one. A financial disaster or a financial windfall.

It has been a difficult year for the Church. There has been division about Covid 19 vaccinations, wearing masks, and whether to adhere to government mandates or resist them. Society in general has battled against Critical Race Theories and Wokeism––which focuses on staying alert and angry about oppression and injustices, especially racism. Riots and lawlessness have plagued at least 200 American cities, and statues have been torn down. More than 30 States and Washington D.C. activated 62,000 National Guard Personnel to help bring calm.

There continues to be a battle for the hearts and minds of our children. Some laws allow educators to indoctrinate children with thoughts that question their sexuality and, in turn, create within them a gender dysphoria.

Understand, Satan loves to create disunity and confusion. He works towards breaking up marriages and dividing families and friendships. He brings disunity among neighbors, communities and sets one nation against another. God’s design for mankind is unity, love and peace.

No matter life’s struggles, sorrows or joys, a New Year brings with it a blank page and a brand new chapter for what lies ahead. As Christians, this New Year pray for unity to be in our homes, in our Churches, and with each other. If there is unity, then we can enjoy the comfort of God’s love and fellowship of the Spirit, while being a greater influence in reaching lost souls.

Church unity comes from corporate humility.
~Leonard Ravenhill~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!