This sermon from Lighthouse Empowerment Sanctuary serves as a spiritual call to action as the year 2023 concludes. Apostle Allison Smith Conliff encourages congregants to transition into the new year by finding hope and resiliencethrough their relationship with Jesus Christ, specifically during times of economic hardship or personal tragedy. The message emphasizes the importance of living an honorable, consecrated life and maintaining integrity in one’s personal and financial dealings. Drawing on biblical figures like Job and the teachings of the Book of John, the Apostle urges the audience to remain steadfast against worldly temptations and to "guard their hearts" against fear. Ultimately, it highlights that while life is filled with uncertainty, divine faithfulness provides a path toward restoration and spiritual victory in 2024.

Key Points:

A surrendered life is considered more effective than traditional New Year's resolutions because human ability is inherently limited, whereas God's supernatural ability is unlimited. Traditional resolutions, such as losing weight or promising to attend church more regularly, are often promises that people cannot keep on their own. Making resolutions you cannot fulfill is a form of lying; instead, the more effective approach is to give everything to Jesus and allow Him to keep you, as you cannot keep yourself.

Several key factors explain why surrender is prioritized over traditional resolutions:

• Reliance on Divine Strength: While resolutions rely on personal willpower, a surrendered life draws from the "unction from above" and the power of the Holy Spirit to navigate tough seasons. Surrendering allows a person to live a "supernatural life naturally," which is necessary because human effort alone is insufficient.
• Resilience During Trials: Resolutions often fail when life becomes difficult, but a surrendered life prepares an individual to "go through with Jesus" when facing sadness, stress, or gunfire and violent acts. Because Jesus rose triumphantly, those who are surrendered can rise out of places of distress rather than staying there and dying.
• Spiritual Continuity: Unlike a resolution which might be a temporary goal, surrender is about "continuing the journey" with God so that He is glorified throughout the entire year. It involves a "consecrated life" where the focus is on keeping one's name in the Lamb's book of life through honest living and righteousness, rather than superficial self-improvement.
• Protection and Guidance: A surrendered life involves guarding the heart and avoiding "loopholes" that the devil might use to cause a person to "sink" spiritually. By seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness first, the surrendered individual is promised that all other needs, the "surplus" and "abundance", will be added to them.
• Willingness and Obedience: The effectiveness of this lifestyle is rooted in a willing and obedient heart. The Apostle states that those who are willing to "put themselves to do it right" and surrender to God’s instruction will "eat the good of the land" in the coming year.

Rec. Date: 31st December, 2023