Many of us have been climbing mountains, ladders, and walls in life. We have scaled the slippery slopes of ambition and crafted elaborate platforms of achievement so that we can reach the illusionary pinnacle of success. But, for 2024, I stand to declare a different kind of ascent: Divine Elevation. This year, our ministry will be guided by the theme "Divine Elevation: Walking in Humility and the Fear of the Lord."
Divine Elevation is not a man-made platform. It is not about our secular qualifications, our self-made achievements, or the ladders we climb on our own. It is about submitting ourselves to God's authority and acknowledging that true success and honour come from God alone, not from our own efforts. Psalm 75:6-7 reminds us, "For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another." When we humble ourselves before God and live in recognition of His presence, power, wisdom, and judgement, He can exalt us and bless us with all that is necessary for a fulfilling life.
Divine elevation is not the fleeting glory of earthly triumphs, but a rising tide of purpose, favour, and fulfilment, rooted in the very heart of God. It is not attained through the arrogance of self-made men, but by walking in humility and the fear of God. Proverbs 22:4 states that the reward of humility and the fear of the Lord is riches, honour, and life.
The theme, Divine Elevation: Walking in Humility and the Fear of the Lord" is a reminder that our ultimate purpose and fulfilment are found in surrendering to God's plan and trusting in His divine guidance. We understand that the master key to promotion and advancement is not mere ambition, but being humble and having the fear of God. These are the sturdy staff and guiding lights that illuminate our path. 1 Peter 5:6 declares, "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time."
The humility we speak of is not the act of belittling or undervaluing oneself, but, it is a profound understanding of our place in God. The life and teachings of Jesus himself serve as an example of this. Philippians 2:7-8 (KJV) describes how Jesus, despite being equal with God, humbled himself and took on the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men. He further humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Jesus' humility is an example for all believers to follow. Paul says, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 2:5). We are to put on the mind of Christ so that we may demonstrate humility and obedience in our daily lives. By following Jesus' example of humility and obedience, we can truly reflect His character and bring glory to God.
Indeed, humility is a crucial virtue that allows us to acknowledge our finite nature and recognise the greatness of God. It requires us to surrender our pride and submit to God's will, even if it means sacrificing our own desires. Just as Jesus displayed humility through his obedience and willingness to undergo the ultimate sacrifice, we too are called to adopt a humble mindset.
John the Baptist had this attitude of humility, which we too must now embrace. He declared, "I must decrease, but He must increase" (John 3:30). This is the path that the Apostle Paul also followed, "serving the Lord with all humility of mind" (Acts 20:19).By following the examples set by Christ, Paul, and John the Baptist, we can serve the Lord with a genuine humility of heart, trusting in His timing, and exalting Him and esteeming others above ourselves.
There is a "due time" for your promotion, so be patient. Do not grow weary of doing what is right in the eyes of God, for you will be rewarded if you do not lose heart. While many people chase after wealth and esteem in an attempt to carve out their own paths in life, the Master's key to true fulfillment and purpose is not found in worldly pursuits. It lies in walking with humility and maintaining the fear of God. This, indeed, is the master key to Divine Elevation — the grace of God that elevates us not only in earthly standing but also in spiritual growth, moral development, and a deeper, more intimate connection with Almighty God.
You are invited to join us as we embark on this transformative journey in 2024. Let us shed the garments of pride and put on the cloak of humility. Let the fear of God be our compass, guiding us on the path of obedience and service. For in this surrender lies the true key to unlocking the boundless blessings of Divine Elevation.
We extend a heartfelt invitation for you to join us as we embark on this transformative journey in 2024. Let us cast aside the garments of pride and embrace the cloak of humility. May the fear of God serve as our compass, directing us along the path of obedience and selfless service. It is in this surrender that we discover the authentic key to unlocking the boundless blessings of Divine Elevation.