As we step into 2025, it’s natural to contemplate the path ahead, particularly concerning our relationship with God and Christ. How disheartening it must be for those who lack a burning passion, who see no grander purpose in their existence, and who settle for a life of distractions. Surely, life offers more than simply avoiding disaster while filling our time with video games, superficial online interactions, and the numbing effects of entertainment or harmful substances. Jesus offered a different vision, proclaiming he came to bring “life, and have it more abundantly.” This abundance is found in a daily, intimate relationship with the Son of God, empowering us to live with purpose and become co-workers in reconciling lost souls. It’s a life lived from the inside out, guided by conscious choices of thought, word, and deed, rather than being tossed about by the whims of the world.
We all know that life isn’t like the movie Groundhog Day; we don’t get do-overs. Each of us likely carries regrets from the past year, but now a new year unfolds. The question is, how will we use the time and opportunities we’re given? These moments pass quickly, and we must seize them. Consider your spiritual life; does it feel vibrant and alive? Are you excited about the privilege of being a child of God, and is your love for Jesus growing? Do you feel closer to Him? And how is your compassion for others? Many of us might feel spiritually stagnant. If so, we can take to heart Jesus’s interaction with Peter in Luke 5.
In that passage, Jesus asked Simon Peter to launch his boat into the deep and cast his nets, despite Peter having fished all night without success. Peter, although initially hesitant, obeyed, and his nets overflowed with fish—a testament to the Lord’s abundant blessings for those who work with him. Peter’s initial hesitations mirror our own, with our own litany of excuses that keep us from fully committing to God’s will. But what if we dared to truly prove the Lord’s faithfulness, letting go of our fears and doubts and truly placing our lives in his hands? It might just make for the best year of our lives!
Jesus consistently challenged the status quo for the benefit of others. Like Peter, we may be tempted to shrink away from this kind of engagement, to retreat into our comfort zone. But true peace is not found in stagnant waters; it arises by drawing ever closer to Christ so that he can heal and transform us. This is where we find true peace: when the Prince of Peace reigns in our hearts and is evidenced in our obedience. Let’s move past the fear that can steal the “big catch” that the Lord has for us. This year, let’s strive to live in courageous obedience, even if we have to do it afraid.
We may live in increasingly turbulent times, but a biblical perspective allows us to look ahead with excitement. Each day brings us closer to the glorious day of seeing Jesus face to face, a day both we and Jesus eagerly anticipate. He longs for the reunion with loved ones, a day when the church is finally together. Following this, he will finally return, this time to put an end to pain and suffering. True and lasting peace, which can only come when evil is fully defeated, will then finally become a reality on Earth. However, until then, we can experience peace within us. This inner peace comes from drawing close to the Lord Jesus, who is our peace (Ephesians 2:14), and surrendering our inner conflicts to him. We are reminded in Romans 5:1 that through faith we have been justified, finding peace with God. Moreover, a spiritual mind brings “life and peace” (Romans 8:6), and through the gift of holy spirit, God fills us with joy, peace, and hope as we believe (Romans 15:13). Philippians 4:6-7 further encourages us to release our anxieties through prayer, allowing the peace of God to guard our hearts and minds.
I am profoundly convinced that The Living Truth Fellowship is fulfilling a unique and vital purpose within the Body of Christ. In a world often clouded by confusion and spiritual uncertainty, this ministry stands as a beacon of hope, truth, and light, guiding believers and seekers alike toward a deeper understanding of God’s Word and His divine plan for humanity.
If you share this belief, I wholeheartedly invite you to join us in spreading the word about the transformative resources and teachings we provide. Together, we have the opportunity to reach countless individuals who are searching for clarity, hope, and direction in their spiritual journey. By sharing these invaluable resources, we can extend the reach of this ministry, touching lives and hearts far and wide.
Let us remain steadfast in our mission, united in purpose, and unwavering in our commitment to illuminating the darkness. In a world where the night seems to grow ever darker, our collective light has the power to shine even brighter. It is this radiant light that makes it possible for those who are lost to see clearly and find their way to the truth that sets them free.
Now is the time to stand together, to be the guiding lights that lead others out of the shadows and into the glorious freedom and joy of knowing Christ. Your support, whether through sharing our message, engaging in our online fellowships, or contributing financially, is instrumental in advancing this sacred mission. Together, let us bring hope to the hopeless, direction to the wandering, and light to those yearning for it most.
Your fellow laborer with the Lord Jesus Christ,
