NORTHERN ZAMBIA

UNION CONFERENCE
PERSONAL MINISTRIES WEEK OF PRAYER

“Jesus said,
"Take care of
my sheep."
John 21:16

MY LAMBS
ANNUAL WEEK OF MISSION EMPHASIS
Foreword
 TEAM
team PERSONAL MINISTRIES

Dr. Passmore Mulambo

SID PM. Director

Ps. Chris Chishimba

LZC PM. Director

Ps C.D Mabyaki
CZC PM. Director

Ps.r Mofya Chibwe

NZC PM. Director

Ps Timothy Nyirenda
MEZC PM. Director

Ps Moses Ziela
MWZC PM. Director

Ps. Gibson Manda

NWZC PM Director

Pastor Ernesto Ricci

NZUC PM. Director
 SUNDAY
THE POWER OF
BELONGING

Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens
with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the
foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief
cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy
temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place
of God in the Spirit” Ephesians 2:19-22 (NKJV).

I. Introduction:

In Ephesians 2:19-22, the apostle Paul paints a beautiful picture of belonging. He

describes us as fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built
on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief
cornerstone. This passage reminds us that belonging is more than mere association; it is
about being intricately connected to God's family, firmly rooted in Christ. Each one of us,
as living stones (1 Peter 2:5), contributes to the strength and beauty of God's spiritual
house.

II. Creating a Welcoming Environment:

As Seventh-day Adventists, our faith journey is rooted in a community that seeks to

embody Christ's love. Ellen G. White, in "Acts of the Apostles," emphasizes the
importance of creating an atmosphere of Christian love, where each member feels
welcomed and valued.

"The church is God's appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for
service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world." (Acts of the Apostles, p. 9)
Let us actively engage in acts of kindness, hospitality, and encouragement, fostering an
environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging and acceptance.

III. Overcoming Barriers to Belonging

Yet, at times, barriers hinder our sense of belonging. Whether its past hurts,
misunderstandings, or differences, these barriers can impede the unity we are called to
embrace. However, through Christ's example of unconditional love, we can transcend
these barriers.
"Christ's method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled
with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered
to their needs, and won their confidence." (Ministry of Healing, p. 43)

IV. Embracing Diversity and Unity

Our Seventh-day Adventist church community is a tapestry woven with various cultures,
backgrounds, and talents. As expressed in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, we are one body with
many members, each indispensable to the whole. Our unity in diversity reflects the
beauty of God's creation.

Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, a prominent Seventh-day Adventist physician, once remarked,
"In the diversity of nature, science finds unity." Let us celebrate our differences,
recognizing that our diverse gifts, when united in service to God, enhance the richness of
our shared experience as believers.

Conclusion:

Beloved brothers and sisters, our hearts should be filled with the assurance that we
belong—belong to Christ, to each other, and to a global family of believers. As we
continue our journey, let us uphold the principles of Christ- like love, inclusivity, and
unity within our Seventh-day Adventist community and beyond.
 MONDAY
THE ART OF NURTURING
RELATIONSHIPS
"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another
above yourselves"
Romans 12:10.

I. Introduction

In this discourse we explore a foundational aspect of our faith journey: The Art of
Nurturing Relationships. In the tapestry of our Christian Church, the connections we
form with one another are not mere coincidence; they are pivotal for our spiritual
growth and communal strength. Ultimately, the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy
converge to remind us the profound impact of nurturing relationships. They are the very
threads that weave us into a tapestry of love and unity, reflecting God's nature and
fostering spiritual growth within the Church and beyond.

II. Biblical Foundation of Relationships

The Bible is a resounding testament to the value and significance of loving

relationships. From Genesis to Revelation, the scriptures echo the importance of
fostering bonds that reflect the very essence of God's love.

Genesis 2:18 opens the narrative of human companionship, where God Himself
acknowledges the need for connection, declaring, "It is not good for the man to be
alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” This foundational verse sets the stage for
the inherent value of relationships.

Throughout the Old Testament, we witness profound friendships and alliances that
stand as testaments to the power of connectedness. The enduring friendship between
David and Jonathan is a striking example (1 Samuel 18:1). Their relationship went
beyond mere camaraderie; it was a bond rooted in mutual respect, support, and a shared
commitment to God. Ellen G. White, in the Spirit of Prophecy, illuminates the depth of
such connections, stating, "All true friendship is sacred, and the only safeguard for the
youth is to have companionships with those who fear the Lord."

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself exemplified the essence of love and connection.
He not only preached love but lived it, offering a new commandment to His disciples:
"Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John 13:34-35).
This unconditional love, the very hallmark of Christianity, is the foundation upon which
genuine relationships are built.

The early Christian community, described in the book of Acts, beautifully portrays the
essence of interconnectedness. Acts 2:42-47 illustrates their devotion to one another,
sharing their possessions and supporting each other in times of need. This communal
spirit and sacrificial love nurtured relationships, creating a vibrant and unified body of
believers.

III. Scientific Insights into Relationships

Scientific studies affirm the profound impact of relationships on our well-being. The
Harvard Study of Adult Development, spanning over 80 years, concluded that strong,
meaningful relationships are vital for our happiness and health. Dr. Robert Waldinger,
the director of the study, stated, "Good relationships keep us happier and healthier.
Period."

IV. Apostle Paul's Emphasis on Unity and Harmony

The Apostle Paul's letters echo through the corridors of time, emphasizing unity and
harmony within the body of believers. He writes in Ephesians 4:16, "From him the whole
body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up
in love, as each part does its work."

Relationships within the body of Christ are essential for its growth and strength. In our
faith journey, we face trials, doubts, and moments of despair. It's during these times that
our relationships within the church become a sanctuary, a source of strength, and a
reminder of God's unwavering love.

Let us, therefore, commit ourselves to nurturing these relationships. Let us actively
engage in fellowship, small group discussions, and acts of love and kindness. As we do
so, we fulfill Christ's commandment to love one another and experience the joy of
spiritual growth in unity.
 TUESDAY
FROM SPECTATOR
TO PARTICIPANT
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it”
1Corinthians 12:27 (NIV).

I. Introduction:

In his book 70X7, The Freedom of Forgiveness, David Ugsberger tells of General William
Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, who had lost his eyesight. His son Bramwell
was given the difficult task of telling his father that he won’t recover his sight. "Do you
mean that I am blind?" his father asked. "I hear we must contemplate that," his son
replied. The father continued, "I shall never see your face again?" "No, probably not in
this world." "Bramwell," said General Booth, "I have done what I could for God and for
His people with my eyes. Now I shall do what I can for God without my eyes. ”

In this discourse well explore what it entails to serve God whether with our eyes or
without them. Every believer must undergo a transformative journey, moving from being
mere spectators to active participants in God's kingdom. In 1 Corinthians 12:27, Paul
vividly portrays the Church as the body of Christ, underscoring the significance of each
part functioning actively. Just as our physical bodies require every limb and organ to
operate effectively, so does the body of believers require active involvement from each
member.

II. We are Created for Purposeful Engagement

Our existence within this faith arena is no accident. Ellen G. White, in "Education,"
reminds us that God has appointed each individual with unique talents and abilities to
serve His purpose. Just as Bezalel was divinely gifted to craft the sanctuary (Exodus
31:2-5), we are bestowed with diverse abilities meant for active engagement in God's
work. According to God’s divine plan, involving human beings to play a role in His
supernal service is only another way to develop honorable characters after Christ’s own
likeness. The Pen of Inspiration underscores this points in The Desire of Ages, p. 142.
“God could have reached His object in saving sinners without our aid; but in order for us to
develop a character like Christ's, we must share in His work. In order to enter into His
joy,—the joy of seeing souls redeemed by His sacrifice,—we must participate in His labors for
their redemption.”

III. There are far- reaching benefits for being involved in God’s work

Engaging in church activities and ministries is not solely an obligation but an avenue for
spiritual growth. White, in "Ministry of Healing," highlights the joy and satisfaction found
in selfless service, echoing Christ's teaching of 'it is more blessed to give than to receive'
(Acts 20:35).
Historical accounts of reformers like Martin Luther and John Wesley exemplify the
transformative power of active involvement in spreading the Gospel.

IV. Overcoming Barriers

Often, fear, doubts, or time constraints hinder our active participation in the service of
the Lord. However, Hebrews 13:21 assures us of God's equipping to do His will.
“And now may the God of peace, who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, equip you
with all you need for doing his will. May he who became the great Shepherd of the sheep by
an everlasting agreement between God and you, signed with his blood, produce in you
through the power of Christ all that is pleasing to him. To him be glory forever and ever.
Amen” Hebrews 13:20 (TLB)
Like Esther, who overcame fear to serve her people, realizing she was positioned for
such a time as this (Esther 4:14). We too are strategically placed to contribute to God's
purposes wherever we are.

V. Finding Your Place

The apostle Paul pulls a screamer on the depth and height of the peace and
contentment he found in serving the Lord. 2 Tim 1:11-12 depicts a man who has found
his place and soul in God’s work:
“Of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. 12 That is why I
am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and
am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day. ”

Conclusion

Beloved, let us heed Christ's call to active involvement. Through historical examples,
biblical teachings, and the writings of Ellen G. White, we're reminded of our divine
purpose within this faith community. Embrace your unique role, stepping into active
participation, for in doing so, we fulfill God's design for His Church.
 WEDNESDAY
CREATING A CULTURE
OF HOSPITALITY
“And if a stranger dwells temporarily with you in your land, you shall not suppress and
mistreat him. But the stranger who dwells with you shall be to you as one bom among you;
and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.
I am the Lord your God ” Lev 19:33-34 (AMP).

I. Introduction

There is a danger that lurks just beyond a healthy guest services of ushers and deacons.
You can have the right ushers to serve visitors, provide excellent training so they
courteously attend to your first time visitors to know where to go and what to do. But
even when you cover all of those steps, one crucial piece can still be missing. One
danger still threatens to derail the visitors’ experience. Is your entire church hospitable,
or is that just a job for the “professional team”?

II. It’s crucial for the entire church to be hospitable

Is your entire church hospitable, or is that just a job for the “professional team”? This
drama happens every Sabbath in most of congregations. First time visitors consistently
comment on the kindness of our ushers, the ease in finding their way around our church
campus, and the generosity of the Sabbath visitors’ lunch. But their overall experience is
marred once they get past the gauntlet of ushers in name tags. Churches that have
made follow up visitor survey, comments like these are not uncommon:

a. No one attempted to connect with me besides filling out a card.

b. Didn’t really meet anyone after the service. No one came and spoke to us or
recognized that we were new.
c. Although the welcoming committee was very friendly, the members were not as
much.
d. Although everyone looked nice, nobody said anything to me. I’m shy so I didn’t reach
out either. So I have gone two weeks without anyone really welcoming me or trying
to talk to me.

At any given time in our churches, there is likely one group of first time guests sitting in
the audience who are nervously wondering what type of plague they have that would
cause everyone around them not to speak to them. Then there is another group of
people (regular attendees) who are pretty sure they don’t know the people around them,
but are scared to introduce themselves because they may have already introduced
themselves multiple times before to that very person. What’s really fun is when two first
time guests sit beside each other, each of them thinking, “This guy is so rude! Doesn’t he
realize I’m new? He should be speaking to me!” It’s a vicious cycle, I tell you.
III. Fostering an organic culture of hospitality passed ushers and deacons

1. “We” has to start with “me. ” If I want my congregation to get better at

welcoming guests, I have to get better at welcoming guests. I have to structure my
Sabbath so that I can “walk slowly through the crowd” and meet people I haven’t yet
met. That means I have to come to the morning with my game face on. It means all of
my tasks have to be checked off before people show up. And it means that I have to pray
in preparation...not only that God will give me the grace to be others-focused, but that
hell lead me to the exact people who need someone to focus on them.

2. We have to embrace the awkwardness. It’s never easy to have conversations with
people you think you might know but aren’t sure you know...or people you know you
know but you’re blanking on their name. Just suck it up. My favorite line is, “Hey I’m
Ernesto...I’m not sure that we’ve met yet. Remind me of your name again?” And yes,
eventually you’re going to really embarrass yourself when you introduce yourself to
someone who started attending your small church four weeks back. It’s okay. Theyll
survive. You will too.

3. We need to serve as connectors. In his book The Tipping Point, Malcolm Glad well
defines a connector as a person who enjoys building relationships between other people,
“...while most of us are busily choosing whom we would like to know...they see
possibility.” One of the greatest gifts you can give a new friend is...another new friend.
Don’t just settle for meeting them, help them to meet someone else. (“Oh, you’re in the
nursing program at Chisha? Have you met Nchimunya? She’s in her final year there.”)
When we connect people to people, we not only help the guest, but we model to our
members what relationship building can look like, (related post: Get in the Zone)

4. We need to build in “forced friendship.” Some people are not a fan of the “turn and
greet your neighbor” moments that many churches have, for three reasons: (a) Usually
people just talk to those they already know, (b) invariably there is someone standing
alone while a party is going on around them, and (c) germs.

Alternatively, instead of forcing friendship in the middle of the service, why not build it
in the moments after the service ends? This Sabbath, try this: “As we leave today, let’s
acknowledge the elephant in the room. Every week you come in here and sit down
beside people you might not know. Or maybe you’re afraid you do know them, but
you’ve forgotten their name. Right now, glance to your
 THURSDAY
THE POWER OF
ENCOURAGEMENT
“Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which
means Son of Encouragement), sold a field he owned and brought the
money and put it at the apostles' feet” Acts 4:36-37 (NTV).

I. Introduction

We all hunger and thirst for encouragement. When encouragement comes our way, we
soak it up like a sponge. We're ready for more because that's what gets us through the
day. If encouragement is that important, what can you and I do to make sure we're more
positive than negative? If encouragement brings hope and strength and growth to
people's lives, what can we do to make sure we're more encouraging than discouraging?

II. Barnabas—a model of encouragement

The book of acts introduces a model and a definition of encouragement by the name of
Joseph. We're going to note five characteristics of this effective encourager. The first
place you find him is in Acts 4:36. His real name is Joseph. His nickname is Barnabas, Son
of Encouragement. Whenever they saw Joseph coming, the apostles would say, "Here
comes Barnabas. Here comes that Son of Encouragement." Something about his life
caused them to give him that nickname. Most of the time, nicknames point out the
negative, not the positive. When the disciples looked at Joseph, they said, "Here is
Barnabas,
Son of Encouragement." What was it about his life that made them give him that name?

III. Encouragers give freely of their resources

The first characteristic that shows just how much of an encouragement Barnabas was is
found in Acts 4:36-37. Luke writes: "he sold a field he owned and brought the money
and put it at the apostles' feet" Barnabas sells a piece of land, gives the money to the
church, and they distribute it to those who have need. The church had a community
mindset: what's mine is yours, and what's yours is mine.

Barnabas shows the first characteristic of an encourager: an encourager freely gives of

his resources. Encouragers recognize what they have really doesn't belong to them but
to God. What God has given to them is basically there to meet the needs of those around
them. Barnabas freely gave. If you want to encourage someone, do something tangible
for them. As one person said, people really don't care how much you know until they
know how much you care. When we send money overseas, we call that "support" to our
missionaries. It is basically encouragement—letting them know we are tangibly behind
them. When we give time or talent or resources, we tangibly encourage others.
IV. Encouragers accept you where you are.

The second characteristic of an encourager as evidenced in the life of Barnabas:

encouragers accept you where you are. Encouragers are willing to accept you where you
are and help you get where you need to be. They're the kind of people who don't look at
your reputation or your past. They have a wonderful ability to let the past be the past
and to start fresh right where you are. Encouragers realize that none of us come to Christ
with an advantage— all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. All are new
creations in Jesus Christ, and because of that, the encourager can pick up anyone from
where she is and help that person get where she needs to be.

V. Encouragers get excited about the progress of others.

A third characteristic of an encourager is found in Acts 11. Because of the death of

Stephen, we find that the church is growing and spreading across the map. Gentiles are
getting saved. In Acts 11:19, Luke writes: Now those who had been scattered by the
persecution in connection with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and
Antioch, telling the message only to Jews.

Some of them, however, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak
to the Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord's hand
was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. News
about them reached the ears of the church at Jerusalem. At this point in the story, the
church needs a follow-up program to minister to Gentiles. And their follow-up program
happens to be Barnabas. They choose to send him off to Antioch. Good choice! Why? He
wouldn't have any racial problems because he doesn't judge people by their past.

What does a new believer need more than anything when they first start their walk with
God? Encouragement. Notice what Barnabas did. When he got there, he witnessed to the
grace of God and began to encourage them to remain true in the Lord. He rejoiced. He
got excited about their progress. Encouragers get excited about the progress of others.
When they see someone growing in the Lord, they get excited about it. When they see a
couple with a strong marital relationship, they get excited about it. When they see a
single person with healthy relationships, they get excited about it. There is no envy.
There is no jealousy. There is excitement because they're growing and developing.

VI. Encouragers meet the current need.

An encourager has a fourth characteristic. Notice what happens in 11:24-25. "He

[Barnabas] was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of
people were brought to the Lord. Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul." That's
strange. All of a sudden, the church is booming. If that happened today, we would think,
Let's raise up some lay leaders. Let's have three services. Barnabas goes to look for Paul.
When he found Paul, they went to Antioch, and for an entire year they met with the
church and taught new Christians.
The major goal of an encourager is to meet the need even when they're not the best
ones to do it. An encourager is never out to make a name for himself—only to glorify the
name of God. Barnabas knew that Paul had tremendous gifts and that a church needed
to be fed. He pulled those two together. An encourager is a networker—always looking
to see who can best fit the need. The major goal is to get the need met. Encouragers sit
in the back seat and let somebody else drive, if that's what brings God glory. We call it a
servant mentality.

VII. Encouragers give others a second chance.

There's one more quality of an encourager found in Acts 15:36. In this passage, Paul and
Barnabas have decided to go back and visit the churches. But there is a little
problem—John Mark. Paul suggests to Barnabas that they visit the brethren in every city
where they have preached. Barnabas wants to take John Mark. But Paul keeps insisting
they should not take him along because he deserted them in Pamphylia. The
disagreement is so sharp that they separate. Barnabas takes Mark with him to Cyprus,
and Paul chooses to take Silas.

Mark had deserted them on the first missionary journey. Some believe he left because he
was intimidated about being a new Jewish believer in tough Gentile territory. Others
believe there was a bit of a leadership change from Barnabas to Paul. (Early on in the
story, Barnabas is listed first, but over time, Paul takes top bulling.) Mark is Barnabas's
cousin, so maybe that's why he decides to leave.

Regardless of the reason for Mark's abandonment, notice that it shows us the fifth
characteristic of encouragers—they're the kind of people who are willing to give a
second chance. They realize that one failure doesn't mean total failure. "Try again," they
say. That's exactly what Barnabas did for Mark. I find this interesting. Barnabas went on
the first missionary journey with Paul. You would think they'd have a pretty close
relationship. But Barnabas goes to the mat for Mark. Why would he take that risk? He
and Paul were a working team.

Conclusion

Painter Benjamin West tells how he loved to paint as a youngster. When his mother left,
he would pull out the oils and try to paint. One day he pulled out all the paints and
made quite a mess. He hoped to get it all cleaned up before his mother came back, but
she came home before everything was clean. West says what she did next completely
surprised him. She picked up his painting and said, "My, what a beautiful painting of your
sister." She gave him a kiss on the cheek and walked away. With that kiss, West says, he
became a painter.

Every day you and I are trying to paint the picture of Jesus in our lives through what we
say and do. But we make messes. The last thing we need is for someone to come along
and say, "What a mess!" What we need is a kiss of encouragement. It's vital for life and
for relationships.
 FRIDAY
FINDING PURPOSE
IN SERVICE

I. Introduction

“Thousands pass through life as if they had no definite object for which to live, (and) no
standard to reach,” is God’s lament to this generation (Christ Object Lesson, pp. 331).
You see, having a sense of purpose in life is essential for guiding our actions. It provides
direction, fosters resilience, and contributes to positive mental health. Purpose instills a
sense of self-worth and confidence. In addition, individuals with a well-defined purpose
often build meaningful relationships and have a deeper sense of fulfillment and
meaning that extends beyond individual accomplishments to the well-being of others
and the broader community.

In this sermon we will explore a topic that is fundamental to our Christian journey,
"Finding Purpose in Service." As Bible believing Seventh-day Adventists, we believe that
our purpose is deeply intertwined with our service to God and His church. Let us begin
our journey into God's Word to uncover the profound fulfillment and sense of purpose
that comes from actively serving within the church.

II. Understanding Our Purpose:

In the book of Ephesians 2:10 (NIV), the apostle Paul reminds us, "For we are God's
handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for
us to do." Our purpose is intricately woven into the fabric of serving God and others.
Ellen G. White writes in "Christ's Object Lessons" (p. 326): "In all our service a full
surrender is demanded. The problem of ministry is the problem of surrender." We find
our purpose by fully surrendering ourselves to God's service.

III. Discovering Our Talents:

Jesus, in Matthew 25:14-30, tells the parable of the talents. Each servant was entrusted
with talents according to his ability. The ones who faithfully used their talents were
commended with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"
As members of the body of Christ, we each have unique talents and gifts. Romans 12:6-8
(NIV) encourages us, "We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.
If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving,
then serve; if it is teaching, then teach."

IV. There is Joy in active service for God

In the words of John Wesley, "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all
the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you
can, as long as ever you can."

This coincides with the discovery of Dr. Martin Seligman, a renowned psychologist, who
found in his research that individuals who actively engaged in acts of kindness and
service experienced an increased sense of well-being and happiness.

V. Church Mission and Our Role

Jesus, in Matthew 28:19-20, gave us the Great Commission, "Therefore go and make
disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of
the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Our
church's mission is rooted in the Three Angels' Messages of Revelation 14:6-12, calling
us to proclaim the everlasting gospel, prepare a people for Christ's second coming, and
stand firm on God's commandments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, brothers and sisters, finding purpose in service is not just a suggestion; it
is a divine calling. Our fulfillment and joy come from actively participating in God's
mission for His church. As we embrace our unique talents and contribute to the body of
Christ, we become living examples of Christ's love and grace. May we all strive to hear
those precious words, "Well done, good and faithful servant," as we find our purpose in
service. Amen.
 SATURDAY
HOW TO STAY
COMMITTED
Introduction:

In this sermon well reflect on an essential aspect of commitment to our Lord and Savior.
In the face of challenges, it is crucial to seek guidance from the Scriptures, the Spirit of
Prophecy, and even the lessons of history. Let us delve into the Word of God and explore
how to stay committed to the Lord in our Seventh-day Adventist faith.

I. Understanding Our Commitment

Let us begin with the words of Jesus in Matthew 22:37-38, " Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord
your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the
first and greatest commandment." Our commitment to God is rooted in love and
devotion, encompassing every aspect of our being. Ellen G. White, also echoes this
sentiment in "Steps to Christ," saying,
"Love to Jesus will be the spring of action. Those who feel the constraining love of God,
do not ask how little may be given to meet the requirements of God; they do not ask for
the lowest standard, but aim at perfect conformity to the will of their Redeemer."

II. Common Challenges to Commitment

External Pressures: In our journey, we often face external pressures that may shake our
commitment. It could be societal norms, career demands, or family expectations.
However, the Bible warns us in Romans 12:2, "Do not conform to the pattern of this
world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
Internal Struggles: At times, our commitment falters due to internal struggles—doubts,
fears, or personal failures. Yet, 1 John 1:9 assures us, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful
and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

III. Overcoming Challenges

A. Prayer and Fasting:

One of the most powerful tools in our spiritual arsenal is prayer, and Jesus, our perfect
example, demonstrated its potency in overcoming challenges through prayer and fasting
(Matthew 4:2-4). In the wilderness, faced with the temptations of the adversary, Jesus did
not rely on His own strength or succumb to the allure of worldly comforts. Instead, He
withdrew into a period of focused prayer and fasting, showcasing the profound
connection between spiritual discipline and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Gospel of Matthew recounts that Jesus, after fasting for forty days and nights, was
hungry, physically weakened, yet spiritually fortified. It was precisely in this vulnerable
state that Satan approached Him with cunning temptations. In response, Jesus wielded
the sword of prayer, affirming, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that
comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). His reliance on prayer and fasting served
as a model for us, emphasizing that true sustenance and strength are found in
communion with the Divine.

B. Fellowship and Community:

The early Christian community, as depicted in the book of Acts, serves as a profound
model of shared commitment and unwavering support (Acts 2:44-47). This vibrant and
closely-knit community exemplified the essence of Christian fellowship, where believers
were not only united in their faith but also in their daily lives. They shared their
possessions, joys, and challenges, creating an environment of genuine care and concern
for one another. In the face of adversity, this fellowship became a source of strength,
providing a refuge where individuals could lean on their fellow believers for
encouragement, prayer, and shared wisdom.

In challenging times, the scriptural call to lean on our fellow believers echoes through
the corridors of time. The beauty of communal worship and shared faith experiences lies
not just in the moments of joy but also in the times of trial. As we navigate the
complexities of life, the community of believers becomes a place of refuge, a spiritual
family where burdens are lightened through collective prayer and encouragement. The
Apostle Paul beautifully captures this essence in Galatians 6:2, urging believers to "carry
each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." The strength
derived from the fellowship is not only a testament to our shared commitment but also
a tangible expression of the love of Christ within our community.

C. Historical Wisdom:

Drawing from historical lessons, let us remember the dedication of early Adventists and
missionaries of yester years, who, despite facing opposition and disappointment,
remained committed to the Advent message. As historian George R. Knight notes, "The
pioneers were not perfect, but their commitment to the cause of Christ and the Advent
message serves as an inspiration for us today."

Conclusion

Dear brothers and sisters, staying committed requires a daily surrender to God, an
unwavering love for Him, and a reliance on the lessons of Scripture, the Spirit of
Prophecy, and the experiences of those who have gone before us. May we heed the
counsel of Colossians 2:6-7, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue
to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you
were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Stay committed, and may God bless us
all on our journey of faith. Amen.