01/01/2025
FIGHT AGAINST STAGNANCY IN 2025
Philippians 3:12-14
"[12] Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. [13] Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, [14] I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
As we step into the New Year, let us confront the major adversary that often stands between us and our goals: stagnancy. This state can manifest as a feeling of apprehension, which the enemy cunningly uses to hinder our progress. When we become complacent with minor achievements, we risk falling into a trap of contentment that stalls our growth.
Stagnancy is not a destination we consciously choose; rather, it is a gradual transition that can occur when we lose our drive to set significant goals. At this juncture, striving to achieve meaningful objectives can become a daunting challenge. The first sign of stagnancy often reveals when we feel we have apprehended with our little progress.
SET GREAT GOALS UNDER GOD
To combat stagnancy, we must aim high and set great goals that are aligned with God’s purpose. A man who limits himself to trivial, unchallenging goals finds himself trapped in mediocrity. It is the boldness that comes from setting high goals — goals that hold eternal significance and inspire motivation — that propels us forward.
As we reflect on the past year (2024), those who feel they have received answers to their prayers may be tempted to slow down. However, we must ask ourselves: What is the nature of our goals for 2025? Are they competitive and inspiring, or do they merely satisfy our comfort zones?
Remember, you do not shine in events you have not prepared for. Avoid pursuing goals that lack substance or eternal value. Instead, consider what stage you want to be known for in the New Year. Will it be for betrayal, inconsistency, or failure?
PRESSING TOWARDS FULFILLMENT
In Luke 5:1-4, we are reminded of the importance of pressing on. Those who set competitive goals and diligently pursue them are the ones who truly thrive. The link between our goals and their fulfillment lies in the Word from God.
"[1] And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, [2] and saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. [3] And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. [4] Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught."
The people's pressing on Jesus made Him release, not just the message to the people, but also the miraculous Word to Simon Peter for the unprecedented harvest.
Just as the Apostle Paul pressed into his relationship with the Lord, we too must keep pressing until we receive the divine guidance necessary to move forward.
No one who presses into God remains unchanged. Therefore, let us persist in our efforts, even when we feel exhausted. The year 2025 is poised to be a year of abundance, but only for those who are willing to press forward with determination and press God more in the secret place.
THE POWER OF PRESSING
Remember, pressing does not require toil; rather, it requires faith and perseverance. The secret to achieving our goals rests in the Word from the Lord. Reflect on the intensity of your pressing: a mere revelation does not guarantee fulfillment if we do not actively pursue it.
As we embrace this New Year, let us resolve to combat stagnancy with bold, God-inspired goals. Let us press on, empowered by our faith and the promise of abundance that awaits those who strive for greatness.
Happy New Year! May 2025 be a year filled with purpose, progress, and divine fulfillment!
From Your Brother,
Olalekan Asikhia
LADTEM Commission
