by Adventist Naija | Jan 30, 2024 | world Church
The work of Seventh-Day Adventist elders is unique among church leaders. As overseers, they are responsible for everything that is related to the work of the church. As such, the training and directing of elders fall under the Ministerial Association. Because elders work closely with people in all aspects of the church, this handbook includes material from representatives of each department.
The work of elders in the Seventh-day Adventist church is extensive and varied. Some churches are large, requiring leadership over thousands of members. Other churches are small, serving a few members, who are sometimes scattered over a large area. In such churches, pastoral services are usually limited, and the elder provides not only leadership, but, in consultation with the pastor, also arranges for regular preaching responsibilities. This handbook has been prepared to assist elders in understanding their calling, and to train them in their leadership role in the church.
Adventist Elder’s Handbook is very important for all elders.
by Adventist Naija | Aug 14, 2023 | AYM
Pathfinder Day is a celebration that honors the global Pathfinder community, which focuses on nurturing the holistic development of young people. Pathfinders is a youth ministry program that encourages physical, mental, social, and spiritual growth through activities, adventures, and community service. This day reminds us that investing in our youth today ensures a brighter and more empowered future for our communities and the world.
Pathfinders: Shaping the Leaders of Tomorrow
Pathfinder clubs provide a nurturing environment for young people to explore and develop their God-given talents. Through their involvement, youth discover their strengths and passions while building lasting friendships with like-minded peers. As they grow in their relationship with God and engage in community service, they become well-rounded individuals poised to lead and serve with purpose.
World Pathfinder Day
World Pathfinder Day is not just a celebration; it’s a commitment to nurturing the potential of our youth. Through the Pathfinder program, we empower young minds to become leaders, change-makers, and faithful servants of God. As we recognize this day, let us pledge our unwavering support to the youth, encouraging them to embrace their journey of growth, learning, and service. Together, we shape a generation that will carry forward the light of faith, compassion, and empowerment for generations to come. Amen.
Origins of Pathfinder Day:
Pathfinder Day’s origins trace back to the establishment of the Pathfinder movement in 1907 by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It was officially recognized in 1950 as a day to celebrate the accomplishments and growth of young Pathfinders worldwide. Since then, it has become an annual event that underscores the importance of youth development within faith communities.
The Biblical Perspective:
The Bible encourages us not to underestimate the capabilities of young people. In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul urges Timothy to set an example for believers despite his youth. This message resonates with the Pathfinder movement’s belief that young individuals can make a significant impact when given the tools, guidance, and opportunities to thrive.
by Adventist Naija | Jul 15, 2023 | Sermon
Introduction:
Good morning, brothers and sisters! Today, we gather together to explore a topic that resonates deeply with each one of us—finding hope in difficult times. Life’s journey is filled with challenges, trials, and moments of despair. But even in the midst of darkness, we have an unwavering source of hope. Today, let us embark on a journey to discover the profound hope that sustains us through the most trying seasons of life.
I. Acknowledging the Reality of Difficult Times:
Life is not exempt from difficulties. We all face trials—whether they be loss, illness, financial struggles, broken relationships, or the weight of our own mistakes. It is crucial to acknowledge the reality of these difficult times, for only then can we begin to seek hope beyond our circumstances.
II. The Character of God: A Foundation of Hope:
In times of despair, our hope is anchored in the character of God. He is unchanging, faithful, and loving. We find comfort in knowing that God is with us through every storm. Scriptures such as Psalm 46:1 remind us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Understanding who God is gives us assurance that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
III. The Hope Found in God’s Promises:
God’s Word is filled with promises that provide hope in the midst of difficult times. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” We can find hope in knowing that God is working all things together for our good, even when we cannot see it in the present moment. Exploring other promises of God’s provision, comfort, and restoration can bring strength and hope to our hearts.
IV. The Testimony of Hope: Stories of Triumph and Restoration:
Throughout history and within our own communities, we witness stories of individuals who have found hope in the darkest of times. These testimonies remind us that hope is not a mere abstract concept but a tangible reality. Sharing these stories of triumph and restoration encourages and inspires us, reminding us that there is always hope even in the bleakest situations.
Read Also: Sermon – Cultivating a Heart of Gratitude
V. Nurturing Hope Through Faith and Prayer:
In times of difficulty, our faith and prayer life become vital sources of hope. By placing our trust in God and leaning on His understanding rather than our own, we find strength and resilience. Prayer connects us intimately with our Heavenly Father, who hears our cries, comforts our hearts, and brings hope to our souls.
VI. Walking in Hope and Encouraging Others:
As recipients of hope, we are called to walk in hope and be a source of encouragement for others. Our lives should reflect the transformative power of hope in our own journeys, inspiring and uplifting those around us. Let us be beacons of hope, offering a helping hand, a listening ear, and a message of reassurance to those who are in need.
Conclusion:
As we conclude, remember that hope is not wishful thinking or mere optimism. It is an anchor for our souls—a steadfast assurance that God is with us, working all things together for our good. In the midst of difficult times, we can find hope in the character of God, the promises of His Word, and the testimonies of His faithfulness. May we nurture our hope through faith and prayer, and may our lives radiate the hope we have found in Christ, drawing others into His loving embrace.
Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the hope that sustains us in difficult times. Help us to continually place our trust in You and to find solace in Your character and promises. Strengthen us in our faith and enable us to be agents of hope in the lives of others. In times of darkness, may Your light shine through us, offering comfort, encouragement, and a glimpse of the hope that resides within us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
May you be filled with unwavering hope, even in the midst of life’s most challenging moments. May God’s presence and promises carry you through every trial, and may you be a beacon of hope to those around you. Amen.
by Adventist Naija | Jul 15, 2023 | Sermon
Introduction:
Good morning, beloved congregation! Today, we gather to dive deeper into the topic of finding hope in difficult times. Life’s journey is often filled with seasons of profound pain, overwhelming sorrow, and seemingly insurmountable challenges. In such moments, it is essential that we dig deep and discover the wellspring of hope that can sustain us even in the darkest valleys. Let us embark on a journey together to explore the depths of finding hope in the midst of difficult times.
I. Embracing the Reality of Difficult Times:
Difficult times are an undeniable part of the human experience. From personal struggles to global crises, we witness pain and brokenness in our lives and in the world around us. It is crucial that we acknowledge and embrace the reality of these difficulties, allowing ourselves to grieve, question, and wrestle with the pain. By doing so, we open the door to an authentic and transformative encounter with hope.
II. The Depths of God’s Love and Presence:
In the midst of our struggles, we are invited to encounter the depths of God’s love and presence. The Psalmist reminds us in Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” When we feel overwhelmed, God draws near to us with His tender love, bringing comfort, healing, and a deep sense of His abiding presence. It is in this closeness that we find the first glimmers of hope.
III. The Redemptive Power of Suffering:
While suffering is not something we seek or desire, it often serves as a catalyst for transformation and redemption. Through our pain, God molds our character, strengthens our faith, and draws us closer to Himself. Romans 5:3-5 reminds us, “We also glory in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” As we persevere through difficult times, we develop resilience and discover a hope that goes beyond temporary relief, anchoring us in the eternal purposes of God.
Read Also: Sermon: Cultivating a Heart of Gratitude
IV. The Hope of God’s Promises:
The promises of God’s Word become a lifeline in our darkest hours. From the assurance of His constant presence (Joshua 1:9) to the promise of His faithfulness (Lamentations 3:22-23), Scripture is replete with declarations of hope. As we immerse ourselves in the truth of God’s promises, meditating on His Word and allowing it to penetrate our hearts, we find strength, courage, and an unshakeable hope that surpasses our circumstances.
V. Finding Community and Encouragement:
Difficult times were never meant to be faced alone. In the body of Christ, we find a community of believers who can offer support, encouragement, and a tangible embodiment of hope. As we come alongside one another, sharing our burdens, extending a listening ear, and providing practical help, we become agents of hope to those in need. Community reminds us that we are not alone, and that together, we can weather the storms of life.
VI. The Hope of Restoration and Renewal:
Even in the midst of the darkest valleys, we can hold on to the hope of restoration and renewal. The God we serve is a God of redemption, who can bring beauty from ashes and turn our mourning into joy (Isaiah 61:3). While the process may be difficult and the timing may be different from our own, we trust in the promise that God is at work, bringing about restoration and renewal in ways we may not always understand.
Conclusion:
As we conclude today’s message, let us remember that finding hope in difficult times requires a willingness to journey through the depths of our pain and questions. It is in these moments that we encounter the profound depths of God’s love, the transformative power of suffering, and the unwavering hope found in His promises. Let us also embrace the importance of community and find solace in the hope of restoration and renewal that God offers. May we walk this path of hope with courage and perseverance, trusting in the One who holds our future and offers an eternal hope that will never disappoint.
Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the hope that sustains us in the midst of difficult times. Give us the strength to embrace the reality of our struggles and the courage to face them head-on. Fill us with a deep sense of your love and presence, reminding us that you are near to the brokenhearted. Help us to anchor ourselves in the promises of your Word, finding strength and hope in every season. As we journey together in community, may we be a source of encouragement and hope to one another. And in all things, may your redemptive work bring restoration and renewal to our lives. In the name of Jesus, our eternal hope, we pray. Amen.
May the God of hope fill your hearts with a renewed sense of His presence and a steadfast hope that transcends every difficulty. May you find strength, comfort, and unwavering hope as you navigate life’s challenges. Amen.
by Adventist Naija | Jul 15, 2023 | Sermon
Introduction:
Good morning, brothers and sisters! Today, we gather together to explore the transformative power of cultivating a heart of gratitude. In a world that often focuses on what we lack or what goes wrong, gratitude offers a fresh perspective, leading us to recognize and appreciate the blessings that surround us. As we embark on this journey, let us discover how cultivating a heart of gratitude can bring joy, contentment, and a deeper connection with God.
I. Understanding the Essence of Gratitude:
Gratitude is more than a mere expression of thanks; it is a state of being—an attitude that permeates every aspect of our lives. It is an acknowledgement of the goodness, kindness, and provision we receive from God and others. Gratitude is an invitation to shift our focus from what is lacking to what we have been given, creating a foundation of contentment and joy.
II. Recognizing God’s Abundant Blessings:
God’s blessings are abundant and far-reaching, encompassing both the tangible and intangible gifts in our lives. From the air we breathe to the relationships we cherish, God’s goodness surrounds us. By intentionally recognizing and counting these blessings, we develop a heightened awareness of God’s presence and provision, fostering a heart overflowing with gratitude.
III. Gratitude as a Spiritual Discipline:
Cultivating gratitude requires intentionality and practice. It is a spiritual discipline that allows us to draw closer to God. Through prayer, reflection, and the study of Scripture, we discover the depth of God’s love and faithfulness, fueling our gratitude. As we develop the habit of giving thanks in all circumstances, our hearts are transformed, and we find ourselves more attuned to the wonders of God’s grace.
Read Also: Sermon- The Joy of Serving Others
IV. The Ripple Effect of Gratitude:
Gratitude is contagious, with the power to influence not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us. When we express gratitude, it inspires and uplifts others, creating a ripple effect of joy and appreciation. Our gratitude can serve as a witness to God’s goodness, drawing others to experience His love and prompting them to cultivate their own hearts of gratitude.
V. Overcoming Gratitude Blockers:
In our journey toward gratitude, we may encounter various blockers that hinder our ability to cultivate a grateful heart. These may include comparison, entitlement, busyness, or a focus on negativity. By identifying and addressing these blockers, we can break free from their grip and open ourselves to the abundant blessings and joy that come with gratitude.
VI. Practicing Gratitude in Daily Life:
Gratitude is not meant to be confined to occasional moments of reflection but rather integrated into our daily lives. We can practice gratitude through simple acts such as keeping a gratitude journal, expressing thanks to others, and cultivating a habit of prayerful gratitude. By intentionally seeking opportunities to give thanks, we nurture a heart of gratitude that continues to grow and flourish.
Conclusion:
As we conclude today’s message, let us be reminded of the transformative power of gratitude. May we cultivate a heart that overflows with thankfulness, recognizing the abundant blessings that God has bestowed upon us. Let us embrace gratitude as a spiritual discipline, allowing it to shape our perspective, deepen our relationship with God, and influence the lives of those around us. May our lives be marked by a continual outpouring of gratitude, bringing glory to our Heavenly Father and radiating His love and goodness to a world in need.
Let us pray: Gracious God, we thank you for the gift of gratitude. Help us to cultivate hearts that are overflowing with thankfulness. Open our eyes to your abundant blessings and grace in our lives. Transform our hearts, renew our minds, and help us to live lives that reflect the beauty of gratitude. May our gratitude be contagious, inspiring others to seek you and find joy in all circumstances. In the name of Jesus, our greatest gift, we pray. Amen.
May the Lord fill your hearts with a deep sense of gratitude, and may you experience the joy and contentment that come from cultivating a heart of gratitude. May your life be a testimony to the goodness and faithfulness of God. Amen.
Sermon: Cultivating a Heart of Gratitude
