In today’s message, Pastor David encourages us to prepare for new seasons by building strong spiritual foundations. He begins by highlighting the importance of prayer and fasting, explaining that the effort we invest at the start of the year shapes the rest of our journey. Prayer helps us slow down, hear God, and walk in His presence rather than rushing ahead on our own.
Using Nehemiah as an example, Pastor David points out that renewal often begins with holy grief, a deep heartache over what breaks God’s heart. Nehemiah, “just a cupbearer,” felt burdened for Jerusalem despite not holding a formal spiritual role, showing that God can use anyone willing to respond.
He explores the idea of God rebuilding His people “gate by gate,” drawing lessons from Nehemiah’s walls. The Sheep Gate reminds us that God cares deeply about who we are, not just what we do. The church should nurture one another, offering love, support, and encouragement. The Fish Gate points outward, calling believers to share faith naturally in daily life, not just in church programs. The Old Gate encourages honouring spiritual roots and disciplines like prayer, fasting, and Scripture, while remaining open to fresh movements of God.
Valleys and struggles, symbolized by the Valley Gate, are part of spiritual formation, shaping us just as mountaintops do. The Dung Gate teaches repentance, bringing hidden sin into the light and allowing God to work in us, while showing grace to others. The Fountain Gate speaks of refreshment, emphasising daily filling with the Holy Spirit rather than relying on past experiences.
Pastor David concludes by reminding the church that true renewal isn’t about structures or appearances, it’s about hearts aligned with God. Finished walls are meaningless without prepared hearts. Through prayer, humility, repentance, and openness to the Spirit, both individuals and the church can be rebuilt, gate by gate, ready to live faithfully, love deeply, and serve God with integrity.