HOW TO HAVE A GREATER YEAR
In Haggai chapter 2, specifically verses 6 through 9, we encounter a profound message from the Lord of Hosts, which is situated within the Old Testament among the prophetic texts often referred to as the “Book of the Minor Prophets.” The designation of “minor” or “major” prophets is not indicative of their significance but rather reflects the length of their writings. In this passage, God proclaims a transformative promise, stating that He will shake both heaven and earth, as well as the seas and dry land. This divine shaking is intended to draw all nations to the “desire of all nations,” ultimately filling the temple with glory. The Lord emphasizes His ownership of silver and gold, asserting that the glory of the latter temple will surpass that of the former, and He will bestow peace in this place.
As we reflect on this scripture, particularly in the context of preparing for a new year, it becomes evident that God is drawing a distinction between the former and latter temples. The promise of greater glory in the latter days serves as a source of hope and encouragement. The Lord invites us to remember the glory of the past while anticipating an even greater manifestation of His presence and power in the future. This theme of “Greater” resonates deeply, suggesting that everything surrounding us is poised to exceed our previous experiences. In this context, the discussion centers on the temple, symbolizing not only a physical structure but also the spiritual renewal and blessings that God is ready to pour out upon His people.
In 1 Corinthians 3:16, the Apostle Paul presents a profound challenge to the Corinthian church, emphasizing their identity as the temple of God, where the Spirit of God resides. This declaration signifies a transformative understanding of what it means to be a dwelling place for the divine. Paul is not referring to a physical structure or a traditional church building; rather, he is highlighting the New Testament concept of the temple, which encompasses the believers themselves. By asserting that they are the temple of the Most High, Paul invites them to recognize the immense power and presence of God within them, encouraging a declaration of faith that acknowledges their strength in the face of worldly challenges such as illness, unemployment, and sin.
As we reflect on this message, it becomes evident that believers are entering a new season characterized by the greater manifestation of God’s power in their lives. The promise of divine intervention is underscored by the prophetic words found in Haggai 2:6, where God declares a shaking of both heaven and earth. This shaking is not merely a historical event but a continuous process that resonates with the current global challenges, including the ongoing pandemic. The assurance of God’s greater power nullifying curses and overcoming obstacles serves as a source of hope and encouragement for families and individuals alike. As believers affirm their identity as temples of God, they can expect to witness extraordinary manifestations of His grace and favor in their lives, reinforcing the truth that greater is He who is in them than any adversity they may face.
When individuals begin to quantify events or circumstances, it is ultimately only God who possesses the true ability to assess and understand the entirety of the situation. To illustrate this point, consider the sport of wrestling; when a competitor is brought to the ground or pinned, the referee must follow a specific counting procedure—first counting to two, then to three. If the pinned individual is unable to escape, the match concludes. This analogy serves to emphasize the belief that our God will soon eradicate the challenges posed by the current pandemic. While the exact number of counts required for resolution remains uncertain, it is essential to recognize that nothing is permanent. Our God is never taken aback by the events unfolding in the world; rather, everything that occurs is within His divine permission and control. We hold firm in the conviction that in the forthcoming season, God will reveal Himself as the ultimate authority, beginning with manifestations in our personal lives and within our church community.
As we gather this evening, I urge everyone present, as well as those joining us from various locations around the globe, to accept the notion of embracing the upheaval that has characterized recent times. Many were caught off guard by the tumultuous events of 2020, and before they could fully comprehend the implications, significant changes had already transpired. As we transition into 2021, I encourage you to turn to your neighbor and share the message: “embrace the shaking.” You may question the rationale behind this encouragement, but I assert that embracing the shaking is ultimately for your benefit. God has declared that when He initiates a shaking of the heavens, the dry lands, and the seas, the resulting transformation will lead to a greater manifestation of His presence within this temple, and indeed, within the lives of those who are watching from home.
Are you still present with me this evening? It is essential to recognize that we are not meant to live in fear; rather, we should welcome the turbulence that surrounds us, as it ultimately serves our benefit. As this upheaval persists, several significant developments are likely to unfold. One notable outcome is the heightened visibility of what are referred to as the five global giants. To elaborate, during a conference I attended in South Orange County, California, in 2008, Pastor Rick Warren introduced what he termed the Peace Plan. He identified five global giants that would dominate the world for decades, urging every organization, government, and church to prepare for the challenges posed by these formidable entities. Historically, the Bible recounts the story of Goliath, the giant from Gath, whom David bravely faced. In every Promised Land, there exist giants, and today we are confronted with these five global giants, which may even be more numerous than initially perceived, as Goliath himself had brothers.
As we navigate this current landscape, we must acknowledge the rising tide of spiritual emptiness and the prevalence of self-serving leadership across the globe, even in the most prosperous nations. Leaders who prioritize their own interests over the common good are increasingly common, raising concerns about their suitability for political office. Additionally, the specter of extreme poverty and the ongoing threat of pandemic diseases loom large, with experts warning of potential new strains of COVID-19. It is crucial to shift our focus away from the ever-changing nature of pandemics and instead anchor our faith in the unchanging nature of God. While the circumstances surrounding us may fluctuate, our God remains a constant source of strength and stability. Are you still with me this evening?
In times of uncertainty and change, it is essential to anchor our focus on the unchanging source of strength and guidance.
As we transition into 2021, it is crucial to direct our attention towards that which remains constant amidst the turmoil. The ongoing pandemic has brought the topic of vaccines to the forefront of public discourse, and it is likely to dominate conversations throughout the year. This subject is not only a matter of health but has also become deeply intertwined with political considerations. It is important to remain informed and to approach the situation with a spirit of prayer and trust in God. Should the need arise for you to receive the vaccine, it is vital to approach this decision without fear, recognizing that the discourse surrounding vaccines will be prevalent in 2021 and may impose certain limitations on individuals, particularly in professional settings.
Jesus’ teachings remind us to rise above the distractions and disturbances of the world. In Luke 10:18-19, He emphasizes the authority bestowed upon us to overcome adversities, stating that He witnessed the fall of Satan and granted us the power to triumph over all forms of evil. The assurance that the one who declared this is alive and present provides a profound sense of hope and security as we navigate the challenges of the coming year. It is this unwavering faith in God that will guide us through 2021 and beyond, helping us to transcend the effects of the pandemic and its associated trials. Let us remain steadfast in our belief that with divine support, we can face whatever lies ahead with courage and resilience.
The current climate is marked by various challenges, including spiritual desolation, self-serving leadership, pervasive poverty, widespread health crises, and alarming rates of illiteracy. Many individuals are disengaged from reading or studying, whether it pertains to spiritual texts or current events, leading to a proliferation of panic-driven messages circulating on platforms like WhatsApp. It is imperative to resolve not to enter the new year burdened by these issues. There exists a higher power that oversees your circumstances, one that transcends the limitations of social media groups. This entity has been vigilant long before the advent of WhatsApp, and has articulated promises in sacred texts regarding your life. By placing your faith in these assurances, you will witness the manifestation of divine intervention.
As we transition into the new year, it is essential to shift focus from the incessant sharing of alarming news to the teachings found in scripture. The Bible poses a critical question in Isaiah 53:1, asking, “Who has believed our report?” This inquiry emphasizes the importance of faith in the divine narrative, which ultimately reveals the hand of God in our lives. To navigate the ongoing turbulence effectively, there are three specific directives that have been imparted for those seeking to harness the potential of this tumultuous period. Additionally, for anyone who has faced significant setbacks in the past two years—be it job loss, health issues, or other hardships—there is a message of hope: full restoration is on the horizon. It is assured that by mid-year, those who resonate with this message will have a testimony of renewal and recovery.
As we approach the conclusion of the Accelerate Conference at the end of June, you will have the opportunity to share a testimony regarding the individual and family I am referring to. I feel a profound sense of assurance in my spirit about their complete restoration. Although I am unaware of the specific circumstances that have led to your current situation, it is evident that you have experienced a severance from your previous state. The Scriptures remind us that there is hope for a tree even when it has been cut down; at the mere scent of water, it can sprout anew. I declare over that family and the individual involved that the divine hand of God is upon you, initiating a process of full restoration in the name of the Lord Jesus. Whatever transpired in 2020 that disrupted your resources and left you incapacitated, I proclaim that as we enter this new season, you will experience renewal in the precious name of Jesus.
To fully harness the transformative power of this moment, I offer three key instructions. First, I urge you to “dig ditches and borrow vessels,” a phrase that may raise questions about its meaning. This concept is rooted in the biblical account found in 2 Kings 3:15-18, where the kings of Israel and Judah sought guidance from the prophet Elisha during a time of crisis. In response to their plea, Elisha instructed them to bring a musician, and as the music played, the hand of the Lord came upon him. He then commanded them to fill the valley with ditches, assuring them that although they would not see wind or rain, the valley would be filled with water for their sustenance. This act of digging ditches symbolizes preparation and faith in God’s provision, demonstrating that even in seemingly impossible situations, God can deliver victory and abundance.
In contemporary terms, let me illustrate a scenario involving two CEOs who sought the counsel of a prophet, a man of God, during a time of crisis. They found themselves entangled in a political or business dilemma concerning the Moabites, who were expected to fulfill a treaty obligation to Israel but had chosen to defy it. In their desperation, the kings of Israel and Judah approached the prophet Elisha for guidance. Elisha instructed them to bring a musician, and as the music played, the hand of God came upon him. He recognized their dire need for water and conveyed that to receive a miracle, they must first dig ditches. This directive was particularly poignant for those who were prepared for battle, as it required them to engage in an act of participation rather than relying solely on divine intervention.
This narrative underscores a critical lesson about the nature of miracles, particularly those associated with the Promised Land. These miracles are characterized by a mindset that acknowledges shared responsibility between the divine and humanity. In today’s context, many individuals may find themselves in a state of inactivity despite their fervent prayers and worship. They may remain passive, waiting for divine intervention while neglecting to take proactive steps in their lives. Elisha’s message was clear: while there would be no rain or wind, the valleys would be filled by the next morning, emphasizing that faith must be accompanied by action. This principle is echoed in the story of a woman in 2 Kings 4:1, who faced her own economic hardships, illustrating that miracles often require human effort and engagement to manifest.
In the current economic climate, it has been officially designated as a year of recession.
However, there is hope that by the second or third quarter, or even before the year concludes, the economic downturn will subside. A poignant example of personal struggle amidst this broader economic context is illustrated by a woman who faced her own financial crisis. With creditors threatening to take her children and the absence of her husband, she sought the counsel of the prophet Elisha. In their encounter, Elisha inquired about her situation, asking her what she possessed in her home. The woman responded that she had nothing except for a solitary jar of oil. This exchange set the stage for a transformative moment in her life.
Elisha then instructed her to borrow vessels, emphasizing that the miracle she sought required her active participation. This notion of “borrowing vessels” can take various forms depending on individual circumstances. For some, it may involve pursuing further education to enhance their skills, while for others, it could mean initiating a new business venture or forming partnerships. Additionally, it might entail leveraging existing platforms to showcase one’s talents or products. Unlike the expectation of miraculous interventions without effort, this approach calls for proactive engagement. The message is clear: in times of need, one must take tangible steps—whether it be digging ditches or borrowing vessels—to facilitate the blessings that are to come. As individuals commit to these actions, they may witness significant breakthroughs, including liberation from financial hardship.
It is important to recognize that while an individual may experience a sudden influx of financial resources, this does not guarantee a permanent escape from the clutches of poverty. The reality is that without a fundamental change in one’s circumstances, the specter of poverty can easily return. However, it is asserted that this will not be your experience. The intention is not merely to share a superficial testimony of receiving a significant sum of money, such as a million naira, which may serve as a temporary relief. Rather, the divine purpose is to eradicate the very foundation of poverty in your life. By embracing this truth and believing in the promises of the Lord, one can expect to witness the transformative power of God in their life. Many individuals are transitioning from a state of mere sufficiency to a more stable middle-class existence, characterized by comfort and ease. This new status often brings with it a certain lifestyle, where even the simplest requests, such as for water, reflect a level of comfort and choice.
As some individuals break free from the constraints of the middle class, they are poised to ascend into true wealth. It is time to move beyond the labels that have confined you to a middle-class identity for too long. The year 2021 heralds a season of elevation and advancement. This message is not merely about superficial prosperity or ostentatious displays of wealth; it is rooted in a divine promise that encompasses both spiritual and material blessings. The Lord has declared that He will shake the heavens, the earth, and all that exists, and with this shaking comes the promise of glory, which is intrinsically linked to wealth. This wealth is not intended for self-indulgence or pride but is meant to serve a higher purpose—advancing the Kingdom of God in our world. For those listening, whether in person or online, the initial experience of true wealth is not about lavish parties or luxury cars; it is about using resources to support and promote the divine mission on earth.
The divine purpose is evident, as articulated by Jesus, who instructed us on the proper way to pray: “Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come.” It is imperative to recognize that if the wealth entrusted to you does not serve the advancement of the kingdom, you are misusing the resources at your disposal. Such misappropriation can lead to a transient hold on those resources, particularly if they were acquired through divine favor rather than malevolent means. As a community of faith, we must actively engage in our responsibilities. The Elevation initiative will focus on fostering career development, providing training, and facilitating funding for startups. We will create networking opportunities in small groups to forge partnerships, enabling individuals to access resources and support from various agencies and professional organizations. This proactive approach is essential as we enter a new season; we will not remain passive, waiting for divine intervention, but will instead take tangible steps to “dig ditches” and “borrow vessels” as a collective body.
As we prepare to transition into 2021, it is crucial to place our trust in God to protect us from the influence of deceitful individuals who exploit confusion and uncertainty. The upcoming year may witness an increase in fraudulent schemes, as desperation can lead many astray. The prevalence of falsehoods may become a significant concern, and it is vital to remain vigilant. In Psalm 120, David implores the Lord for deliverance from “lying lips” and “a deceitful tongue,” a prayer that resonates deeply as we approach the new year. It is essential to seek divine protection against making poor decisions influenced by deceitful narratives. With God’s guidance, we can navigate our business endeavors and career paths without falling prey to misleading information, ensuring that we remain steadfast and secure in our pursuits.
In the present moment, it may be difficult to discern the affirmations of those around you, yet I assure you that regarding your family, you will navigate the year 2021 without making misguided choices. In the biblical account found in 1 Kings 22, a prophet named Micaiah was summoned to deliver a message to the king. Prior to this, God posed a question: “Who will we send to Ahab to lead him astray?” In verse 19, Micaiah recounts a vision where he observed the Lord seated on His throne, flanked by the heavenly hosts. The Lord inquired who would persuade Ahab to go to Ramoth Gilead, as it was time for Ahab’s demise. It is crucial to understand that in 2021, you will not falter; poor decisions can derail one’s destiny, as the choices we make significantly shape our futures. I declare that your decisions will be sound and guided in this year.
The narrative continues with various spirits offering their counsel, until one spirit stepped forward, proposing to be a deceptive influence in the mouths of Ahab’s prophets. This serves as a cautionary reminder to be discerning about whom you choose to listen to in 2021. The Lord approved this spirit’s plan, affirming that it would succeed in persuading Ahab. I pray that you are protected from deceitful words and influences in the name of the Lord Jesus. I encourage you to declare with conviction that you will not be led astray by falsehoods. Proclaim that the grip of deceitful spirits is broken over your life, affirming your commitment to truth and clarity as you move forward in this year.
In every facet of my existence—be it in my professional endeavors, financial management, or spiritual journey—I strive to embody the principles of divine guidance. I find joy in the profound truths found within the Scriptures and relish the freedom bestowed upon me through my faith in Jesus Christ. I firmly declare that no external forces will deter my path; I remain resolute in my commitment to this divine purpose, unwavering in my belief that nothing can hinder my progress in the name of Jesus Christ.
Today, I wish to draw attention to a pivotal moment in the life of the prophet Elisha, as depicted in 1 Kings 19. The narrative begins with Elisha engaged in the labor of ploughing, utilizing twelve yoke of oxen, symbolizing his dedication to his previous vocation. However, the encounter with Elijah marked a transformative shift in his life. As Elijah passed by, he cast his mantle upon Elisha, an act that signified a divine calling. Elisha’s immediate response was to seek permission to bid farewell to his parents, illustrating the weight of the decision before him. Elijah’s reply, seemingly dismissive, hinted at the profound significance of the mantle and the calling it represented. This moment serves as a reminder that many may find themselves caught in the cycle of routine, yet it is essential to recognize the divine opportunities that beckon us to elevate our focus and purpose. As we move forward, let us consider what we must relinquish to align ourselves more closely with our spiritual calling and the greater mission at hand.
Elisha recognized a pivotal moment in his life when he sensed that an extraordinary opportunity was about to slip away. In a decisive act, he took the twelve oxen he had been plowing with, slaughtered them, and used the wood from the yoke to create a fire for a celebratory feast with his community. This act symbolized his commitment to leave behind a life of mundane labor and embrace a divine calling. As we reflect on this, it is essential to acknowledge that for many, the era of unfulfilling toil is coming to an end, particularly as we transition into 2021. This year marks a significant turning point for those who are ready to step into greater destinies, as God is orchestrating movements toward more profound purposes in their lives.
As we approach this new year, it is crucial to remain alert to the signs and opportunities that may present themselves. Individuals may experience their own transformative moments akin to that of Elijah and Elisha, where a new mantle of purpose may be conferred through various means, such as conversations, emails, or articles. This is a time for initiating new ventures, whether it be a business, a non-profit organization, an educational institution, or a ministry. It is imperative to be discerning about one’s environment, relationships, and the seeds one plants for the future. Therefore, one should exercise caution in their associations, particularly in distancing themselves from negative influences that may hinder their progress. While we may not have control over our family ties, we certainly have the power to choose our companions and friends wisely, ensuring that they align with our aspirations and divine calling.
Friendship should not be compelled when it lacks intrinsic value; it is essential to evaluate the worth of your relationships. Are you truly present with me this evening, or is our connection devoid of significance? When a relationship is not driven by mutual value and fails to yield positive outcomes, it cannot be sustained by mere obligation. This year calls for a conscious effort in choosing your associations, as well as a thoughtful approach to your contributions. By contributions, I refer to your financial resources, your acts of service, and the manner in which you utilize your talents. It is imperative to be intentional and to maintain a focus on the principles of the Kingdom of God. Additionally, it is vital to invest in the lives of others; seek divine guidance to identify individuals who represent fertile ground for your efforts. If you remember nothing else from our discussion tonight, please take to heart the importance of maximizing the opportunities presented to you. Let us reiterate the key points: first, prepare yourself by creating opportunities; second, have faith that you will be protected from deceitful influences; and third, be willing to adapt and change as necessary.