Publisher's Note

Publisher’s Note
by CK May is the month of flowers not just in the Philippines but also here in Calgary. A lot of my neighbors have done their spring cleaning and unfortunately I cannot cope up with them. I remember that during this time of the year my husband, Hank gets busier day by day. He takes care [...]
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How to have a Happy New Year

By Pastor Nilo Briones of Jesus Word of Life Church

It’s quite heartwarming to greet and be reciprocated with a simple yet well-meant “Happy New Year” greeting, or to wish a healthy and a prosperous one for 2011. As we look back the past year, probably not all things went happy or healthy or prosperous. No wonder as this fallen world offers a variety of flavors, both success and failure. But remember to learn lessons from them as success keeps us going while failures manifest our human weakness that should serve as bridge towards our dependence to God our hope and sustainer.

The spirited truth that holds true is that we all need to be blessed by God in all our endeavors this year because apart from Him we cannot enjoy life in its true essence. I have some nuggets of wisdom from the Scriptures to share so we can have joy all throughout the New Year as follows:

First and foremost is to “Stand firm!” The apostle Paul says (in 1 Cor. 15:58), “Stand firm. Let nothing move you.” Don’t waiver in your faith no matter what’s happening. We all have our share of temptations and trials in life, but remember that there is no problem greater than our Sovereign Lord who is in control. When problems are taken in light of God’s wisdom and strength, there is victory!

Secondly, be forgiving. Settle differences of any sort. It may not be easy but find a way to extend kindness to those offended. Forgiveness dispels evil in our minds and hearts. Don’t carry the heavy burden of bitterness. Start afresh with peace in your heart. Remember, we’re all clothed with dusts of imperfections so forgive as the Lord has forgiven you.

Third, be prayerful. Instead of having an unhealthy fear or insecurity of what lies ahead of us, being burdened with worries, be strengthened with the privilege of prayer. The Lord delights in giving good and perfect gifts to those who put their trust in Him. There is power in prayer. And pray big for His glory!

Fourth, be rejoiceful and gentle at all times. Rejoicing is linked with joy, which springs out of a grateful spirit always thanking God in everything because this is His will for us. And ask God for a gentle spirit, which is the quality of inner calmness. In this rat-race world filled with pressures, gentleness is needed esp. when you’re dealing with someone who’s driving you nuts and when you feel yourself about to blow your top. Be gentle, bless people and honor God.

Finally, as we embark afresh the year 2011, if you’re unsure of what awaits you, meditate and pray sincerely to God humbly asking forgiveness for sins or mistakes done in the past. As you humbly claim God’s forgiveness, be filled with peace and joy. God wants you to live a meaningful life as he promised, “I came that you might have life and have it more abundantly.” God loves you and He has good plans for you — not plans to hurt you but to give you a good future. Have a blessed New Year filled with joy!

Jesus Word of Life Church is an international fellowship congregating in the North East Bible Church @ 175 Whitefield Drive NE, Calgary (Just 100 meter-walk from the Whitehorn C-Train Station). Schedule of our weekly Saturday Service is 6::00 – 7:30 p.m. followed by food and fellowship. If you need to be ministered in prayer, please do not hesitate to call Pastor Nilo at (403) 973-0623 or (403) 285-7979, or e-mail at [email protected].

How to have a Happy New Year

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