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Hello Dexter,

As we step into 2025, the world presents a mix of hope and uncertainty. From political shifts to personal struggles, life’s challenges can seem overwhelming. Yet, amid it all, our faith in God offers us a foundation of peace and strength that no storm can shake.

The political landscape continues to be a source of tension and division. Debates on governance, policies, and global relations dominate headlines, often leaving us feeling powerless. But as believers, we are reminded that God remains sovereign over every nation and leader. Isaiah 9:6 calls God, "the Prince of Peace,” and in uncertain times, we can lean on this truth. Our role is not just to pray for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2) but to engage with hope and discernment, knowing that God works all things all-together for good (Romans 8:28).

Families today face unprecedented pressures—financial strain, generational divides, and ongoing challenges of raising children in a rapidly changing world. Many of us struggle to balance work, relationships, and spiritual growth.

Yet, the Bible teaches us that family is a gift from God, and through Him, we can overcome any trial. Ephesians 4:2-3 encourages us to “be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Through prayer and reliance on God’s wisdom, we can nurture stronger, more loving relationships within our families.

On a personal level, 2025 may bring trials such as health issues, career uncertainty, or feelings of isolation. In these moments, it’s easy to lose heart. But Jesus Himself offers us comfort: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). By surrendering our fears and burdens to Him, we can experience peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7).

No matter what 2025 holds, let your faith in God be an unshakable anchor. Let it provide perspective when life feels overwhelming, reminding us that we are part of God's greater plan. Spending time in prayer, reading Scripture, and connecting with a community of believers can strengthen us to face the challenges ahead.

As we navigate political, family, and personal challenges of this year, let us hold fast to the promise in Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” With God by our side, we can face 2025 not with fear, but with hope and confidence.

Sincerely,

Pastor Dexter Royes

“I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead…” (Philippians 3:13).

1 - Stay focused.

Anticipating larger goals turns ordinary activities into achievements and adventure.

Don’t let daily details distract and derail your long-term goals.

2 - Set realistic expectations. Achieving a small goal is more valuable than brooding over impossible expectations.

Be aware of your own limits as well as the demands put on you.

3 - Expect challenges. 

Successful people are not mistake-free; they just don’t give up when things go wrong. Rather they find valuable lessons in challenges and adopt new strategies.

4 - Maintain a positive attitude.

 Make the choice to focus on solutions rather than problems. Cultivate thankfulness, optimism, and trust in God in the situations you can’t change.

Source: www.lifestylematters.com

5 - Seek support and accept responsibility.

Surround yourself with people who have positive life skills and learn from them. Develop new habits and ways of thinking. Social ties create mutual accountability and give opportunity to grow in responsibility and consistency.

6 - Practice new choices. Positive choices, when repeatedly made, build body, mind, and spirit. Steady growth and development overcome big, bad habits. Fast is fragile; slow is stable.

7 - Connect. 

Circumstances alone cannot change the heart. Recovery from broken habits, restoration of health, and renewal of hope and happiness come through a daily relationship with God who is personally interested in your healing, growth, and progress. He will guide, sustain, and empower all who come to Him in prayer.

The value of setting financial goals can often be underestimated, but financial goals are important. Here are a few reasons why financial goals matter:

• Clarity and direction: Financial goals offer you a clear roadmap for where you want to go financially. Finances are an important pillar to your overall health and having a healthy financial plan will reduce financial stress and keep you happy. Financial goals provide focus and help prioritize spending, saving, and investing your money.
• Motivation and accountability: Financial goals create a sense of purpose for your money and keep you motivated to stick to your plans. It gives your money a job. You can easily track your progress against your goals and that can keep you accountable as you check in on your progress and ensure you meet your targets.
• Financial security and freedom: Financial goals ensure you are saving for emergencies, retirement, and investing your money. Without a plan your money won’t do anything, but when you plan for where your money needs to go, it allows you to build wealth intentionally rather than hoping that it will all work out.

2024 flew by in the blink of an eye! As we embrace the new year, it is a chance to hit the reset button and realign our priorities. We often make promises to ourselves about adopting healthier habits like eating better, exercising, and getting more sleep.

But let's face it, life can throw us curve balls, making it challenging to stick to these goals. That is okay. The key is to show up every day and strive to become the person you aspire to be. As a local physician, I urge you to make 2025 your healthiest year yet. Here are some valuable tips to support you on your journey:

• Prioritize Restful Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of high-quality sleep every night. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule can regulate your body's internal clock, leading to better sleep quality. Avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can disrupt your sleep.
• Nourish Your Body: Fuel yourself with wholesome foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Minimize your intake of processed foods and sugary drinks. Focus on consuming a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to ensure you get a wide range of essential nutrients. Plan your meals and snacks to avoid unhealthy choices.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep your body hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Hydration is vital for optimal bodily functions and can help prevent dehydration and fatigue. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily. Pay attention to your body's needs and drink more water when you feel thirsty.
• Regular Exercise: Discover physical activities that bring you joy and strive for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise 4-5 days per week. Both strength training and cardio are crucial for burning calories, building lean muscle mass, and boosting your metabolism. Alternate your workouts to prevent monotony and target different muscle groups. Consider joining a fitness class, taking up a new sport, or simply going for a walk or run.
• Set Achievable Goals: Establish realistic health goals for 2025, such as shedding excess weight, exercising more frequently, or quitting smoking. Break down your goals into manageable steps to monitor your progress and keep your motivation levels high. Celebrate your achievements along the way to maintain a positive outlook and stay inspired.
• Establish a Consistent Routine: Create a daily routine that incorporates healthy habits like regular meals, exercise, and sufficient sleep. A routine can help you stay focused and motivated. Be adaptable and flexible with your routine, as necessary. Remember, the aim is to develop a sustainable lifestyle that works for you and your family.

By integrating these strategies into your daily life, you can take substantial strides toward enhancing your overall health and well-being in 2025.

Source - John Epperly, MD, is a medical care provider - Peak Vista

Daily Bible Study Guide

Each quarter [3-months], the Seventh-day Adventist Church publishes a Bible Study Guide for use in weekly Sabbath School, for personal Bible study, or for use in other settings where a deeper understanding of God’s Word is desired.

The Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide (Quarterly) connects the entire world Church together in a global classroom. Written by a variety of authors, the study guide encourages personal time with God and God's Word. The memory texts and key thoughts provide opportunities for spiritual growth & development.

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