January 2012
JEREMIAH 29:6 "MULTIPLY THERE AND DO NOT DECREASE."
God tells His people, "I know the plans I have for you...plans to prosper you...plans to give you hope and a future" (Jer 29:11). But hope needs a nurturing environment. God did not give them permission to take that hope, then just sit back and do nothing. No, He told them exactly what He wanted them to do while He was working out some of the details of their future:
"Seek the peace and prosperity of the city in which I have carried you... Pray unto the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you will prosper too." (Jer 29:5-7)
In other words, while you're waiting for God to turn things around, seize the moment. Become as productive as you can. Maximize your potential. God said, "Pray for the prosperity of those around you, because when they prosper, so will you." In other words, "You've got to lose yourself to find yourself." While you're waiting on God to do something for you, do something good for someone else. that is what Paul meant when he said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). By being a blessing to others you literally become a channel for God to bless you.
Our mandate this year, in the middle of uncertain times; in the middle of an economic turmoil, when everything else looks like it is decreasing, is to multiply. Mulitply there and do not decrease. My prayer is that each of us will find someone to bless this year. Bless someone with your time, talent or your finances. Get out of your comfort zone, and get into someone else's zone. Because the word of God says, "Give and it shall be given unto you." 2012 is going to be a year of exponential multiplication and it will all begin with each one of us doing our part in making 2012 successful. It all starts by praying and giving to our city, our community, our church family, and our church.
May the Lord Bless you and Keep you,
Pastor Mike Battles