Date: Wednesday, 27th December, 2023
Text: Proverbs 17:22
Author: Pastor Adedeji Fadehan
Exhortation:
Merry making is the act of celebrating and having an enjoyable time. Proverbs 17:22 says, “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” It is very good to have a good time to celebrate as individuals, families, friends, communities, and even as a nation.
However, celebration must not be about ourselves but about the One who made it possible for us to celebrate. God is a jealous God and he said, “I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.” Isaiah 42:8. Celebrate the King of kings and the Lord of lords. Give him the praise that is due him.
Don’t have the mindset of Nebuchadnezzar who thought all his achievements were possible by his power. He learnt his lessons in a hard way- Daniel 4.
Celebrations that don’t recognize or glorify God may turn out bloody or deadly. If you don’t believe ask Herod the king whose birthday celebration led to the death of John the Baptist- Matthew 14:1-12. Or ask Pharaoh whose birthday led to the death of one of his chiefs – Genesis 40:20-23. Amnon, the son of David lost his life during merrymaking in the house of Absalom, his half brother-2 Samuel 13:22-29.
During this festive season, let us put God first; prioritize worship. Bless his holy name. Acknowledge Him as the One who made all you have achieved possible. Let God feel your gratitude and that He alone deserves your worship.
Your joy will not turn to sorrow in Jesus name.
Prayer Nugget: Father, you will be the centre of my merry and celebrations in Jesus nam