“The righteous keep moving forward, and those with clean hands become stronger and stronger.” – Job 17:9 New Living Translation.
“The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.” – Proverbs 4:18 New International Version.
Eight months have come and gone like a fleeting dream in the night. As we step into September, it is essential to remember that we are here not by our strength, but by divine guidance: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord (Zechariah 4:6). Indeed, it is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes (Psalm 118:23).
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Victory
The first eight months of this year have not been without their challenges. Yet, even more significant are the victories we’ve experienced through God’s marvelous help. As Acts 26:22 reminds us, it is by God’s assistance that we have continued to this day. With each hurdle we’ve overcome, we have grown stronger and more resilient.
September 2024: A Month of Moving Forward
What does September 2024 hold for us? It is a month of GOING FORWARD. Our guiding scripture is Job 17:9 (NLT): “The righteous keep moving forward, and those with clean hands become stronger and stronger.” We are called to press on, not to dwell in the past but to look ahead with faith and determination.
God’s Testimony of Faithfulness
Remember, God has not left us without a testimony of His faithfulness. As Acts 14:17 (NIV) declares, “He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; He provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” No matter the challenges or victories you have experienced this year, God is saying: KEEP MOVING FORWARD. Your best days are not behind you; they are ahead.
From Glory to Glory: God’s Mode of Operation
God’s mode of operation is to take us from one level to another—from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18), from faith to faith (Romans 1:17), and from strength to strength (Psalm 84:7). Each step forward is a step into greater growth and transformation.
Avoiding the Celtic Curse: Embrace Growth and Change
In his book ‘Today Matters: 12 Daily Practices to Guarantee Tomorrow’s Success’, John Maxwell discusses the concept of the “Celtic curse”—the phrase “may you remain the same.” This curse implies stagnation, a life without growth or progress. Maxwell emphasizes the importance of daily improvement, urging us to seize each day as an opportunity for growth.
Don’t Settle for Average: You Are Made for More
Don’t settle for average. You are made for more. God’s will for you is to KEEP MOVING FORWARD. Embrace September as a month of advancement, where every day is a new opportunity to grow, achieve, and reach new heights. Remember, your journey is just beginning, and with God by your side, you are destined to move from one triumph to the next. [To be continued next week].