Let me begin by wishing all of you a very HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Recently I had the privilege of ministering to the graduates of the Riverside, California Teen Challenge program. It was a time of great rejoicing as the room was filled with family and friends of the graduates. There was a wonderful sense of God’s presence there as several of the graduates shared their testimonies and we worshiped together.

In the service I shared God’s words to Israel from the writings of the prophet Isaiah. The words are WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT for the future. I believe that the Lord would want me to share these words with you as you begin a new year of ministry.

These words are taken from Isaiah 41 and 43. (New Living Translation)

• I have chosen you and will not throw you away. Isaiah 41:9.
• I am with you. Isaiah 41:10.
• I am your God. Isaiah 41:10.
• I will strengthen you. Isaiah 41:10.
• I am holding you by your right hand. Isaiah 41:13.
• You are honored…I love you. Isaiah 43:4
• No one can reverse my actions. Isaiah 43:13.

The Lord prefaces these words by saying, “DON’T BE AFRAID!”

There is much that can cause to fear in this world, BUT God’s words of assurance will give us the courage to stand fast as we serve Him.

May God bless you with His GRACE and MERCY throughout the whole of 2009.

With much love,
Mel Grams