Praise God that He has blessed us to enter into 2017. A new year brings new opportunities and a fresh new perspective on life. It is true that the first day of a new year is simply a new day. The first day of a new year only has significance because of the significance that is placed upon it.

Last week in Bible Study, I asked two questions relating to the expectations of the new year: 1) What will 2017 bring to me? 2) What will I bring to 2017? If I am not careful in my response to these questions, I will unfortunately bring all of my baggage and garbage from 2016 into 2017.

Most of us would prefer something new over something old and used. A new year is just that – a new year. It is an opportunity for us to release the challenges of the past, and anticipate a new year.

A new year is also an opportunity for us to re-new old and used. God is very proficient in renewing, restoring and reconditioning things that were once old, worn and broken.

On this first day of a new year – 2017, God wants you to know that He desires to renew, restore and recondition all of the old, worn and areas of your life. It is accomplished when you establish and nurture a relationship with God, the Father, through His Son, Jesus, the Christ.

Additionally, we desire to enter into this year praying together. Therefore, following is a list of four things that I am asking that the church to join me in praying.

1. Increased intimacy with God

2. Acquisition of the Frederick Douglass School

3. Sale of the church in Sherman Boulevard

4. A mild winter

I believe, church, that God desires to show Pilgrim Rest the power, and the authority that He possesses. God desires to involve us in the transforming and liberating ministry that He will accomplish in this city.

God led me to Isaiah 45:5-7 on last week Wednesday, and I share it with you on today: I am the Lord, and there is no other; There is no God besides Me. I will gird you, though you have not known Me, 6 That they may know from the rising of the sun to its setting that there is none besides Me. I am the Lord, and there is no other; 7 I form the light and create darkness, I make peace and create calamity; I, the Lord, do all these things.’