Today, let's dig into what the Bible says about the unshakeable strength available to us as the body of Christ. As we kick off this new year, let's focus on the strength God provides for His Church. In 1st Chronicles 16:11, it encourages us to "Seek the LORD and His strength; seek His presence continually!" It's pretty amazing that God invites us to actively seek and pursue His strength, steering us away from relying on our own toughness or power. Jumping to Ephesians 3:16, the Apostle Paul's prayer isn't just for individuals but for the collective strength of the Church. The strength we're talking about isn't just physical; it's the resilience and power from the Holy Spirit working within us. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus reassures us that the Church, founded on the rock of Christ, is indestructible—no force or trial can overcome it. Going back to the Old Testament, God used the prophet Zechariah to convey a vital message to His people. Facing a seemingly impossible task, Zechariah delivered the message in Zechariah 4:6, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts." God reminded His people to rely on His strength and Spirit to build and establish what He called them to do as a church community. Though the challenges may seem daunting, God's strength is more than enough. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, the Lord says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Let's lift up prayers for the global and local church, asking that in our weaknesses, God's strength shines through. Together, as one body, may we be empowered by the Holy Spirit to stand strong, build, advance, and glorify Jesus in the face of every adversity.