PRESSING INTO ABUNDANCE
The concept of “Pressing Into Abundance” is vividly illustrated in Haggai chapter 2, verse 6, where it is stated, “For thus says the Lord of hosts, ‘Once more (a little while) I will shake the heavens, I will shake the earth, I will shake the sea, and shake the dry ground.'” This passage emphasizes that God’s actions in shaking the heavens and the earth are ultimately for the benefit of His people. The scripture further reveals that this divine shaking will lead to the fulfillment of desires among all nations, culminating in the temple being filled with glory. It is crucial to understand that this shaking is not arbitrary; rather, it is a purposeful act that serves to bring about favor and glory in the lives of believers. The term “glory” in biblical context often signifies wealth and abundance, indicating that God’s presence brings forth not only spiritual fulfillment but also material blessings.
As we reflect on the implications of God’s glory manifesting in our lives, it becomes evident that this presence is associated with joy and the provision of good things. The Bible assures us that “In the presence of God, there is fullness of joy,” suggesting that divine glory encompasses all aspects of life that contribute to our well-being. When God declares that His glory will be upon us, it signifies a transformative experience that encourages us to seek greater divine provision. This season heralds a shift for many, moving from a life constrained by financial limitations to one characterized by true abundance. For those who have struggled with credit issues, there is hope for a reversal in fortunes, as this year presents an opportunity for divine intervention and blessings that will enable individuals to thrive without reliance on credit.
This year presents a unique opportunity for individuals to experience an unprecedented elevation in their credit ratings. It is a time when divine intervention is poised to manifest in remarkable ways, offering innovative solutions to overcome financial challenges that have previously hindered progress. The heavens are set to open, providing inspiration and guidance that will facilitate a transformative journey towards financial freedom, all in the name of the Lord Jesus. It is a moment to celebrate, as the glory of God is anticipated to shine brightly upon those who embrace this season of abundance.
Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that the concept of the temple has evolved; it is no longer confined to a physical structure but resides within the hearts of believers. This season heralds a promise that transcends mere recovery or restoration; it signifies a divine enhancement where the glory of what is to come will surpass that of the past. God desires for His followers to flourish in both influence and affluence, as this increased capacity will enable them to draw others into the Kingdom of God. In a world where the pursuit of wealth often lacks purpose, it is crucial to maintain a mindset focused on the greater mission of glorifying God through one’s life. As divine favor is bestowed, the shackles of poverty and lack will be broken, propelling individuals into a new realm of possibilities, all under the auspices of the Lord Jesus.
A more profound affirmation is warranted. Let us offer praise to God. As we delve into the concept of pursuing abundance, I intend to address three specific aspects. However, prior to that, it is essential to examine the narrative of Isaac as presented in Genesis 26, beginning with verse 1. The scripture indicates that during Isaac’s time, a famine afflicted the land, distinct from the famine experienced in the days of Abraham. This particular famine served as a divine opportunity for God to manifest His power in the lives of Isaac and the covenant community surrounding him. It is evident that each generation encounters its own trials and tribulations. A recent video I encountered highlighted that individuals born in 1900 faced numerous historical challenges, including the First World War, the subsequent Spanish flu pandemic, and the Second World War, which brought immense suffering and loss. This pattern of generational hardship is reflected in Genesis 26, where God consistently demonstrates His faithfulness across the ages, including in our current era.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt various regions worldwide, with many areas, including the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, still under strict lockdown measures. It is crucial to recognize that this, too, shall pass and will eventually become a chapter in our collective history. The scripture notes that during Isaac’s time, another famine arose, which was not unprecedented. It would be unwise for Isaac to perceive famine as a novel occurrence. Similarly, economic recessions are not new phenomena. In Nigeria, for instance, the nation is currently grappling with recession, a situation mirrored in numerous countries globally. Understanding that these challenges are part of a broader historical context can provide perspective and hope as we navigate through them.
Divine providence operates within the context of the circumstances prevailing in your nation and city at any given moment. A significant event is illustrated in the biblical account of Isaac, who approached Abimelech, the king of the Philistines, as recorded in Genesis 26:1. In this narrative, God intervened by instructing Isaac not to migrate to Egypt but to remain in the land that He would designate. This directive underscores the importance of adhering to divine guidance, as God emphasized to Isaac that his prosperity and abundance were contingent upon his obedience to His will and the specific location He had chosen for him. The Lord made it clear that despite any allure Egypt might hold, His blessings were reserved for Gerar, where Isaac was to reside under the king’s authority.
The scripture further elaborates that God promised Isaac His presence and blessings in Gerar, assuring him that he and his descendants would inherit the land and that his lineage would be as numerous as the stars in the sky. This promise was rooted in the faithfulness of Abraham, Isaac’s father, who had obeyed God’s commands and statutes. Consequently, Isaac’s decision to dwell in Gerar was a manifestation of his obedience to God’s word, highlighting the principle that divine blessings are often tied to specific locations ordained by God. It is crucial to recognize that one’s allocation of blessings is intricately linked to being in the right place as determined by divine purpose; thus, stepping away from such a location may result in missing out on the blessings intended for one’s life.
As we enter this season, extending beyond 2021, it is evident that the ongoing turmoil around the globe is fostering a sense of restlessness among individuals. People are increasingly eager to take action and pursue their own paths. In this context, it is crucial to recognize that divine blessings are often contingent upon one’s location. Isaiah 48:17 articulates this notion, stating, “Thus says the Lord your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I am the Lord your God who teaches you to profit and leads you in the way you should go.” This scripture emphasizes that God is the source of guidance and prosperity, underscoring the importance of remaining in the places where one is divinely appointed. Venturing into areas outside of God’s designated plan may result in a lack of fulfillment and success.
The narrative of Isaac serves as a poignant illustration of this principle. He chose to remain in Gerar, the location ordained by God, despite experiencing doubt and fear. It is noteworthy that even while grappling with uncertainty, Isaac adhered to divine instructions, demonstrating that faith can coexist with apprehension. His experience in Gerar was marked by a moment of vulnerability when he misrepresented his relationship with his wife out of fear for his safety. This incident, reminiscent of his father Abraham’s actions, highlights a generational pattern of fear. The story culminates in a revealing moment when Abimelech, observing Isaac’s affection for his wife, underscores the significance of divine favor in the places where one is meant to be. Thus, the lesson remains clear: even in the face of fear, it is imperative to follow divine guidance and remain steadfast in the locations where God has called you.
There are certain instances that led Abimelech to believe that Isaac was engaging in inappropriate behavior, which prompted him to conclude that Isaac had misled them regarding his relationship with Rebecca. The biblical account reveals that after a considerable period, Abimelech, the king of the Philistines, observed through a window and witnessed Isaac demonstrating affection towards Rebecca, his wife. One translation, specifically the New Living Translation, describes Isaac as caressing Rebecca, and the nature of their interaction led Abimelech to realize that Isaac’s previous claims were false. The king recognized that the gestures between Isaac and Rebecca were far more intimate than mere greetings, prompting him to declare that they had been deceived. Consequently, Abimelech instructed that no one should harm Isaac or his wife, affirming that the favor of God remained upon Isaac despite his earlier untruthfulness.
In the context of divine providence, even amidst Isaac’s shortcomings, God’s faithfulness prevailed. Following this revelation, Isaac began to experience significant blessings. The scripture in Genesis 26:12 illustrates that Isaac sowed in the land and reaped a hundredfold in the same year, indicating a remarkable return on his efforts, which was a direct result of God’s favor. Furthermore, verse 30 notes that Isaac’s prosperity continued to grow until he became exceedingly wealthy. This transformation occurred as Isaac became attuned to his divinely appointed location, recognized the importance of his associations, and understood the significance of the seeds he was meant to sow. These elements are crucial for anyone seeking to experience greater grace and blessings in their lives, as highlighted during our New Year’s Eve service.
In 2021, achieving greater glory and influence necessitates a keen awareness of the specific location where one is meant to be.
In the case of Isaac, divine instruction was clear: he was to remain in Gerar rather than venture to Egypt. This decision was pivotal, as God assured him of His presence and favor in that very place, indicating that being attuned to one’s surroundings and associations is crucial. The scripture highlights that Isaac’s sensitivity to his environment allowed him to experience God’s favor, which was evident in his actions. In verse 12, it is noted that Isaac began to invest his resources, illustrating that the concept of “seed” extends beyond mere financial contributions. During an agrarian era, Isaac’s sowing in the land resulted in a remarkable hundredfold return within the same year, emphasizing that one’s contributions can also encompass skills, creativity, and innovative capacities.
As we reflect on the significance of sowing, it is essential to recognize that the actions we take—such as preparing for God’s blessings by “digging ditches” or “borrowing vessels”—create the necessary space for divine intervention. When we align our sowing with God’s guidance, a bountiful harvest is assured, as God possesses the power to transcend natural limitations to fulfill His promises. This year, it is imperative to remain vigilant regarding your location, associations, and the nature of the seeds you plant. The narrative of Isaac further illustrates this principle, as he prospered immensely, accumulating flocks, herds, and a multitude of servants, demonstrating that divine grace can lead to extraordinary success when one is attuned to God’s will and the environment in which they operate.
The narrative surrounding Isaac serves as a profound lesson, particularly in the context of envy and hostility. It is often perceived that the presence of conflict signifies the absence of divine support; however, this is not necessarily the case. In fact, there are moments when God places individuals in challenging environments to stimulate their creativity and foster innovation. This notion of “beautiful tension” can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and development, pushing one to the forefront of their potential. In Isaac’s case, God instructed him to remain in Gerar, a location rife with contention and envy, yet it was precisely this environment that allowed him to flourish. It is crucial to respond to such challenges with grace and integrity, embodying the qualities of a true child of God.
The biblical account illustrates Isaac’s resilience in the face of adversity, particularly when the Philistines, driven by jealousy, obstructed the wells that his father Abraham had previously dug. Their actions, which included filling these wells with earth, were a direct attempt to undermine Isaac’s success. Despite this hostility, Abimelech, the king, acknowledged Isaac’s growing power and urged him to leave, recognizing that he had become mightier than the Philistines. This scenario underscores the transformative power of divine favor; those who once offered assistance may find themselves seeking favor from you as God’s grace manifests in your life. It is my earnest prayer that you experience a new beginning in this season, one that will unmistakably demonstrate God’s intervention in your life, leading others to recognize that your success is a testament to divine assistance. Isaac’s response to conflict was marked by a spirit of peace; he chose to relocate rather than engage in disputes, exemplifying a commendable approach to adversity.
Observe a man of grace, one who diligently works towards favor and refrains from engaging in disputes. The time spent in quarrels detracts from the opportunity to manifest favor; therefore, it is essential to express favor by maintaining peace with all individuals. This year, may the favor of God continually operate in your life. Isaac exemplified this principle until he arrived at Rehoboth, where he proclaimed that the Lord had indeed made room for them, ensuring their fruitfulness in the land. I urge you to listen closely, as you are transitioning from a state of scarcity to one of abundance. In times when others may declare a downturn, you will confidently proclaim an uplift in your circumstances, and I declare that you will experience this elevation in the name of the Lord Jesus.
As I conclude this message, it is important for someone to grasp that despite the numerous scriptural promises, questions may arise regarding the lack of fulfillment in their lives. You may wonder why, despite your efforts to listen to God, remain steadfast, and resist temptations, many still do not experience the fullness of what God has in store for them, even in this season. To further illuminate this, let us delve into the Scriptures and examine how Jesus navigated His own period of scarcity. Reflecting on the time when Jesus was led into the wilderness to fast, we can draw parallels to our current situation. Many have endured a season of lack, perhaps due to job loss or other hardships, but it is crucial to strive from mere recovery into a state of abundance, even amidst uncertainty. God desires to manifest His greater glory in your life, and it is through this pressing forward that you will witness His promises come to fruition.
The adversary entered into the life of Jesus at a pivotal moment, engaging Him in a dialogue that sought to exploit His physical hunger and needs. This interaction serves as a reminder that many individuals today are grappling with significant needs in their lives. If one wishes to seek divine assistance and move towards a state of abundance in this season, it is crucial to adopt the correct perspective and intentions regarding the fulfillment of these needs. A common misstep occurs when individuals approach their needs with misguided perspectives or motivations, which can lead to unfavorable outcomes. It is essential to recognize that God desires for all circumstances to align for your benefit this year, but this alignment will not occur through arbitrary means. Greater grace, influence, and affluence are attainable, yet they require a committed walk with God.
Examining the temptations faced by Jesus, particularly in Luke chapter 4, provides valuable insights.
The scripture recounts how Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit, was led into the wilderness where He faced temptation for forty days. During this period, He abstained from food, highlighting His genuine need for sustenance. This need was not merely a physical one; it underscored the reality that even the Son of God, who took on human form, experienced hunger. As you reflect on your own needs this season—whether it be for companionship, family, financial stability, or personal growth—understand that the adversary employs the same tactics as always. It is imperative to pursue abundance through the divine path, ensuring that your approach aligns with God’s will and purpose for your life.
The actions taken to separate Isaac from the divine favor and blessings of God mirror the attempts made against Jesus in His own life. In the third verse of the Bible, it is recorded that the devil approached Jesus with a challenge, stating, “If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.” This marks the first temptation faced by Jesus. In this discussion, I will focus on the initial two temptations, drawing significant parallels from them. The essence of the first temptation lies in the devil’s suggestion to prioritize personal needs above all else. This temptation serves as a reminder that in our pursuit of abundance, it is crucial to look beyond our immediate desires and instead align ourselves with the word and will of God.
Jesus’ response to Satan highlights the importance of this alignment. When confronted with the challenge to turn stone into bread, the core issue was not Jesus’ ability to perform such a miracle, but rather whether it was in accordance with God’s will at that moment. An excessive focus on personal needs can lead to a situation where those needs overshadow the divine guidance provided by scripture. This tendency often drives individuals to compromise their values, utilizing their power and influence inappropriately. Jesus countered the devil’s temptation by affirming that man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from God. This response illustrates His capacity for delayed gratification and a profound desire for a relationship with God over mere physical sustenance. It prompts a critical reflection on our motivations for seeking God—are we pursuing Him for His presence, or merely for the solutions to our problems?
In this season, it is essential to reflect on what God desires for you, particularly in light of the teachings found in the Gospel of Matthew, which emphasizes the importance of seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. This pursuit is not merely a spiritual exercise; it serves as a foundational pathway to achieving wealth that is both sustainable and devoid of sorrow. The scripture reminds us that it is the blessing of the Lord that enriches without bringing grief, underscoring the significance of aligning one’s life with divine principles. To truly embrace this path, one must recognize that sustenance comes not only from physical provisions but from every word that emanates from God’s mouth.
As you navigate this season, it is crucial to discern the opportunities that present themselves. Not every opportunity is aligned with God’s will, and some may lead you away from a close relationship with Him. This discernment is vital, as it allows you to focus on seeking the Giver rather than merely the gifts. Many individuals become preoccupied with immediate solutions or temporary reliefs, often overlooking the deeper relationship with God that is essential for true fulfillment. The temptation to pursue worldly gains, as illustrated in the encounter between Jesus and the devil, serves as a reminder that the allure of influence and authority can distract from the ultimate goal of spiritual connection. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize your relationship with God above all else, ensuring that your journey is one of purpose and abundance.
The notion of glory, as articulated in the text, is intrinsically linked to wealth and the accompanying influence that such wealth can bestow. The speaker asserts that this power has been entrusted to him, allowing him the discretion to bestow it upon whomever he chooses. In this context, the dialogue shifts to Jesus, who is confronted with a proposition that challenges his devotion. The devil offers a tantalizing deal: if Jesus were to worship him, all the riches and influence of the world would be his. This proposition serves as a test of loyalty, with the devil essentially asking Jesus what his price is for such a monumental exchange. The allure of wealth and status is evident, yet it raises profound questions about the moral compromises individuals may make in pursuit of material gain.
In contemporary society, many individuals, particularly the youth, have strayed from their spiritual paths in the quest for financial abundance. This often leads them to engage in unethical practices, such as internet scams, in order to sustain a lifestyle that is perceived as glamorous or desirable. The text highlights a troubling reality where the blessings that individuals showcase on social media may not originate from divine favor but rather from the temptations of the devil. Jesus’ response to the devil’s offer underscores a critical lesson: he did not dispute the devil’s ability to provide wealth or influence; instead, he reaffirmed the importance of worshiping God alone. By declaring, “Get thee behind me, Satan,” Jesus emphasizes that true service and devotion belong solely to God, illustrating that the pursuit of worldly riches should never come at the cost of one’s spiritual integrity.
Ladies and gentlemen, it is essential to recognize that the pursuit of wealth can often lead individuals down divergent paths. Many may question the necessity of serving God or contributing to the gospel in the quest for riches, believing that financial success can be achieved independently of divine influence. However, the true and sustainable blessings of God stem from a genuine commitment to worship and serve Him, rather than succumbing to the allure of materialism. The wealth that is genuinely traceable to God is a reflection of His kingdom’s influence in one’s life, contrasting sharply with the fleeting gains that may arise from unethical practices or worldly principles.
In today’s society, the temptation to pursue riches through dubious means is ever-present. Individuals may resort to various unethical actions, such as engaging in exploitative behaviors or participating in rituals, all in the name of financial gain. The relentless spirit of capitalism can overshadow moral considerations, leading to a disregard for the well-being of others and the sustainability of our planet. Yet, there exists an alternative path to prosperity—one that is rooted in righteousness and a steadfast relationship with God. As articulated in Matthew 6:24, one cannot serve both God and mammon; loyalty to one will inevitably lead to disdain for the other. In this era, it is crucial for Christians to remain vigilant against the subtle pressures that may lead them to compromise their values in pursuit of wealth, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from serving God with integrity and purpose.
Consider the example of Jesus, who refrained from transforming stones into bread for His own needs, yet chose to multiply bread for others in their time of hunger. This act exemplifies His selflessness, as it was never about His own desires. When He required a donkey to enter Jerusalem, He instructed His disciples to go to a specific location where they would find a donkey tied. He directed them to inform the owner that the Lord had need of it. Throughout His ministry, God provided for Jesus at the right moments, ensuring that all His needs were met without requiring Him to compromise His integrity or submit to worldly powers. This serves as a powerful reminder that true abundance does not come from yielding to temptation or seeking approval from others.
In light of this, it is essential for individuals to commit to worshiping Jesus alone, refusing to bow to human authority while seeking divine favor. One must not engage in prayer while simultaneously seeking to please others to the detriment of their relationship with God, especially when financial pressures arise. The pursuit of abundance should be approached with a covenant mindset, adhering to the principles outlined in the Word of God. Just as Isaac thrived by being in the right place at the right time, individuals should focus on cultivating their skills, sharing their gifts, and contributing positively to both God and humanity. By doing so, they will inevitably experience an increase in their lives. As we move forward, let it be declared that any forces attempting to hinder progress will be thwarted, and those who faced setbacks in the past will find renewed strength and opportunity. In times of adversity, while others may proclaim despair, you will confidently declare a rise in prosperity.