Isaya 5 - Kalanga Bible (KBTP)

Have I not commanded you Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

As we step into a brand-new year, it’s easy to get caught up in the “New Year, New Me” vibe. Social media is buzzing with resolutions, glow-ups, and vision boards. But let’s pause for a second, what if a fresh start isn’t just about what we do but about what God is doing in us?

1. A Promise of Renewal

The Bible is full of stories where God hits the reset button. Think about Noah. After the flood, God gave humanity a second chance. The rainbow became a symbol of His promise to never give up on us. Genesis 9:13 says, “I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth.” This covenant reminds us that no matter how overwhelming life gets, God is always faithful to renew His relationship with us. He’s not just a God of second chances but of endless chances, each wrapped in His love and grace.

2. Grace for the Israelites

The Israelites messed up countless times, yet God’s grace led them into the Promised Land. His faithfulness shows us that no mistake is too big for a fresh start. Deuteronomy 31:8 reminds us, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Even in seasons of wandering and waiting, God was their guide and protector. This narrative is a powerful reminder that God’s presence remains constant, even when we lose our way.

3. Becoming a New Creation

Through Jesus, we’re not just given a clean slate, we’re made new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This verse is a reminder that God’s transformation starts within. Being a new creation doesn’t mean life gets easier; it means we’re empowered by the Holy Spirit to live differently. It’s about leaving behind the labels and lies that once defined us and stepping boldly into the identity God has given us.

4. Letting Go of the Past

Sometimes life feels messy, and it’s hard to move forward. But God’s Word encourages us to release what’s behind. Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” God’s plans for us are always forward-focused. Letting go doesn’t mean pretending the pain or mistakes never happened. It means trusting God to use even our brokenness for His glory and to lead us into something better.

5. Daily Renewal Through Mercy

God’s mercies aren’t just for the start of the year, they’re new every single morning. Lamentations 3:22-23 proclaims, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” This means every day is a fresh start. No matter how badly yesterday went, today is a chance to start over with God’s compassion as our foundation. His love is unshakable, and His faithfulness is unending.

6. Bold Steps of Faith

A fresh start often requires bold moves, like stepping out in faith. Joshua 1:9 encourages us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Trust that God’s got your back as you move forward. Taking bold steps can feel scary, but it’s often where we grow the most. It’s in these moments of uncertainty that we discover the depth of God’s strength and provision.

7. Trusting in His Plans

As we embrace a new year, we can find peace in knowing that God’s plans are always for our good. Jeremiah 29:11assures us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This promise doesn’t mean life will be problem-free, but it does mean that God’s purposes are perfect. Even when things don’t make sense, we can trust that He is working all things together for our good.

How to Make It Practical

Pray About It: Ask God to show you what areas of your life need a reset. Be honest with Him; He can handle it.
Find Your Squad: Surround yourself with people who point you toward Jesus. Life hits different when you’ve got a community that lifts you up.
Set God-Centered Goals: Instead of just focusing on fitness or finances, think about how you can grow spiritually this year. Maybe it’s reading your Bible daily or serving others.

A Fresh Start for Everyone

Whether you’re stepping into this year with excitement or dragging last year’s baggage behind you, remember this: God specializes in fresh starts. He’s not limited by our failures or fears. His love is bigger, His grace is stronger, and His plans are better than anything we could imagine.

So, as you kick off this year, don’t just strive for change, invite God into your journey. He’s ready to write a new chapter in your story. Are you?

But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people

The story of Jesus is the ultimate glow-up, from a newborn in a manger to the Savior of the world. His journey isn’t just inspiring; it’s transformative for everyone who believes. Let’s unpack how Jesus’ humble beginnings and divine mission changed history forever, all rooted in Scripture.

1. A Humble Start

“And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them” (Luke 2:7).

Jesus’ story begins in the most unassuming way imaginable. Born in a small town and placed in a manger because there was no room for His family in the inn, His birth reflected humility and simplicity. The King of Kings arrived without the fanfare one might expect for royalty. Yet, this humble start sets the stage for a life that would redefine greatness, teaching us that our worth isn’t tied to our circumstances but to God’s purpose for our lives.

2. Announced to the Underdogs

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people’” (Luke 2:10).

Imagine being a shepherd on a quiet night, and suddenly, the sky lights up with angels announcing the birth of the Savior. The first people to hear about Jesus’ birth weren’t rulers or religious leaders but shepherds, ordinary, overlooked individuals. This choice reflects God’s heart for the marginalized and forgotten. By starting with the underdogs, God showed that His kingdom is for everyone, regardless of status or position.

3. Prophesied to Change the World

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

Centuries before Jesus’ birth, the prophet Isaiah foretold His arrival. This verse captures His divine mission: to bring peace, guidance, and hope to a broken world. Jesus wasn’t just another leader; He was the fulfillment of a promise, the embodiment of God’s love, and the answer to humanity’s deepest needs. His glow-up was written in the stars long before He took His first breath.

4. Growing in Wisdom and Favor

“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52).

Jesus’ childhood wasn’t skipped over in His story. He grew up like us, experiencing the challenges and joys of life. From His time in the temple as a young boy, astounding scholars with His understanding, to His later years preparing for His ministry, Jesus’ growth shows that even the Savior embraced the process of learning and maturing. This reminds us that growth, both spiritual and personal, is a vital part of God’s plan for our lives.

5. The Moment of Revelation

“Then a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased’” (Mark 1:11).

At His baptism, Jesus’ identity was publicly affirmed by God Himself. The heavens opened, and God declared His love for His Son, marking the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. This moment wasn’t just about Jesus, it was a revelation for the world, a confirmation that the Messiah had come to fulfill His divine mission. It was a turning point, transitioning Him from preparation to action.

6. Sacrificial Love for All

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

Jesus’ glow-up wasn’t about personal gain or recognition. It was about love, sacrificial, selfless, and unconditional. His journey led to the cross, where He paid the ultimate price for our sins. This act of love redefined what it means to give, showing that true greatness lies in serving and sacrificing for others. Jesus’ death and resurrection opened the door for everyone to experience God’s grace.

7. Risen and Reigning

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay” (Matthew 28:6).

The ultimate glow-up: Jesus conquered death. His resurrection wasn’t just a miracle; it was the fulfillment of His promise and the foundation of our faith. By rising from the grave, Jesus proved that He has power over sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe. His reign as the risen Savior continues to transform lives today.

The Bottom Line

Jesus’ journey from the manger to the cross and beyond is a story of transformation, humility, and redemption. His life redefined greatness and brought hope to the world. As we reflect on His glow-up, let’s remember that His story isn’t just history, it’s an invitation to experience a glow-up of our own through faith in Him.

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Healing, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, is something everyone seeks at some point in life. In times of suffering, pain, or brokenness, the Bible offers comfort, hope, and promises of restoration. God is described as the Great Healer who mends our wounds and brings wholeness to every aspect of our lives. Scripture reminds us of God’s ability to restore not just the body, but also the heart, soul, and mind.

Here are seven Bible verses that speak to God’s healing power and offer encouragement for those in need of restoration.

1. Jeremiah 30:17
“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the Lord.”

God’s promise in this verse is one of restoration. No matter how deep the wound or how severe the brokenness, God assures His people that He will bring healing. This verse serves as a reminder that nothing is too far gone for God to repair. His desire is to bring health and wholeness to His children, both physically and spiritually.

2. Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

While physical healing is important, God also tends to the brokenness in our hearts. When we feel crushed by life’s circumstances or overwhelmed by grief, He is near, offering comfort and healing. He binds up the wounds that no one else can see, restoring our inner peace.

3. James 5:14-15
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up.”

God invites His people to seek healing through prayer and the support of the community of believers. The act of calling on others to pray in faith demonstrates a trust in God’s ability to heal. This scripture reassures us that God hears and responds to prayers offered in faith.

4. Isaiah 53:5
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”

Through Christ’s suffering and death, spiritual healing is made possible for all. His wounds bring us salvation, and in that salvation, we find the ultimate healing for our souls. This verse serves as a reminder of the eternal healing that comes through Christ’s sacrifice.

5. Exodus 15:26
“He said, ‘If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.'”

God reveals Himself as “Jehovah Rapha,” meaning “the Lord who heals.” This verse underscores God’s power and desire to bring healing to His people. It is a reminder that God not only heals, but He also protects and preserves His people when they walk in obedience to His word.

6. Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

True healing is found in coming to Him. When life’s burdens become overwhelming, Jesus offers rest and restoration for the soul. His gentleness and compassion bring peace and relief to those who are weary, making Him the source of ultimate healing for our emotional and spiritual struggles.

7. 1 Peter 2:24
“He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.”

Through Jesus’s death and resurrection, we are offered new life, free from the bondage of sin. The healing referred to here is both spiritual and physical, pointing to the completeness of the restoration that Jesus offers.

Conclusion

Healing is a multifaceted process that touches every aspect of our being—our bodies, minds, hearts, and spirits. These verses remind us of God’s deep care and His promise to heal us in every way. Whether we are seeking relief from physical illness, emotional pain, or spiritual brokenness, the Bible assures us that God is the Great Healer, and His power is available to those who seek Him.

Lumbo gwe Nzhambi

1 Ngwenu ndowombila n'diwa wangu

ngekwe nnda uwe we mizhambi:

N'diwa wangu wakabe ana nnda we mizhambi

pezhugwi kwe duthu pana mavu akanaka.

2 Wakawutsha kadusa mabgwe;

kadzwala mizhambi yakanaka muuli.

Kabaka ngadziNgadzi pakati kwawo,

kabaka ne panoswinigwa nkumbi we zhambi muuli.

Kaumilila kuzwala zhambi

koga kukazwagwa zhambi dzinoshababa.

3 Ndizo wali imwi bagali be Jerusalema

namwi bathu be Juda,

sumikilisani pakati kwangu

ne nnda wangu we mizhambi.

4 Ini tjimwe tjingabe tjakathamigwa nnda wangu we mizhambi

tjandisakathama kene?

Ndabe ndakalinga kuwana zhambi dzakanaka

koga ini wakazwala zhambi dzinoshababa?

5 Ndizo wali ndowomubudza

tjandinowothamila nnda wangu we mizhambi.

Ndowodusa lukuta gwawo

ngono unowobe mafulilo,

ndowoliga guma lawo

ngono unowotshambatshambiwa.

6 Ndowouletjedza ukabe gula,

autowosunuligwa kene kuli kuushakulila,

unowozhala kungubo ne mihwa.

Ndowodziba makole

kasinise vula muuli.

7 Ngoti nnda we mizhambi wa Yahwe Masimbawose

ing'umba ye Iziraela,

bathu be Juda

tjidzwalo tjabo tjinobashathisa.

Yahwe bakabe beda kubona malebeswa

koga bakabona kutebuka kwe lopa.

Be yemula kubona ndulamo

koga bakabona tjililo tje buyendasi.

8 Yee mme wee! Ibabo banopaphidza ng'umba dzabo nge dzimwe ng'umba

bepaphidza minda nge mimwe minda

kuswikila kusala kusina bugalo gwe mmwe,

mube mugala mulimoga mu shango.

9 Yahwe Masimbawose bakalebeleka beti,

“Nge malebeswa ng'umba idzedzi hwuluhwulu dzowobe matongo,

dzose ng'umba idzedzi whuluwhulu dzowosala dzisina bagali.

10 Ndima dzili gumi dze mizhambi dzowobuza galoni dzili tathatu,

saka le mbewu likabuza sakana le mathunde.”

11 Yee mme wee! Bapalala ibabo banobindukila zwing'o,

ibabo banoyedzisa kuswikila pakati kwe busiku,

kuswikila balaladza.

12 Mu mizano yabo bana dende ne tjilidzo tje misungo ili gumi

ne thamborini nyele ne nkumbi we zhambi,

koga abana hanya nge mishingo ya Yahwe,

kene kubona mishingo ye maboko abo.

13 Ndizo wali bathu bangu banotapiwa ngekusawisisa.

Bana mamo mu bali banowofa nge zhala,

banjinji banowoma nge nyota.

14 Ndizo wali ikumbu tjomidza mate

tjitalabudzika kusingapele.

Bakudziwa be Jerusalema ne bunjinji gumuili banodelukila mutjili

kang'ompela ne bakashatha muili.

15 Nthu unoisiwa pasi,

ne banozwikudza banoyisiwa pasi.

16 Koga Yahwe Masimbawose banokudziwa ngo sumikilisa kwabo kwakatambunuka,

Ndzimu Wakayengemala unolakidza kuyengemala kwawo nge ndulamo yawo.

17 Ipapo pkhwizana dzowofula sedzimu mafulo adzo,

zwakakodziwa ne mbudzana dzowofula mu matongo e bafumi.

18 Yee mme wee! Bapalala ibabo banokweba zwibi zwabo nge misungo ye manyepkhwa,

bekweba bubi gwabo se bakakweba koloyi nge mitjili.

19 Ibabo banoti, “Ndzimu ngaulibilidze,

ngaulibilidze kuthama nshingo wawo

kuti tiubone.

Ngaizhe, ndongoloso ye Wakayengemala we Iziraela ngaizhe,

kuti tiizibe.”

20 Yee mme wee! Bapalala ibabo banodana tjakabipa beti tjakanaka,

bedana tjakanaka beti tjakabipa,

banotola zhalima bakalithama tjedza

bakatola tjedza bakatjithama zhalima,

banobiga tjinobaba

mu bumo gwe tjinozipa, tjinozipa mu bumo gwe tjinobaba.

21 Yee mme wee! Bapalala ibabo bakatjenjela mu mesho abo,

beti batjenjedu nge kubona kwabo.

22 Yee mme wee! Bapalala ibabo banozibika nge kung'wa nkumbi we zhambi,

nyambi mu kushanganya mikumbi.

23 Mosunungula nthu una nlandu nge tjizwimba nlomo,

usina nlandu kalashikigwa nge fanilo dzidze.

24 Ndizo wali se moto upisa mashanga

ne bushwa gulota mu nthuto,

saikoko midzi yabo inowobola

ne maluba abo anowuluka se hwuluba,

nge kuti bakalamba nlayo wa Yahwe Masimbawose,

bakalengudza dama le Wakayengemala we Iziraela.

25 Ndizo wali Yahwe bakagwadzila moyo bathu babo,

ngono bamilidza luboko gwabo bakabaloba.

Matombo akazunguzika,

ne zwitumbu zwabo zonga malala mu dzizila.

Nenguba kwakajalo kugwadza moyo kwabo akuzopela,

luboko gwabo gutjakamilika.

26 Yahwe banowomilidzila zwitjaba zwikule tjilakidzo,

banoweba nge nlidzo ibabo baku phelelo dze shango.

Ibile ababa baswika tjinyolotjo,

baswika belibilidza.

27 Akuna wabo unonyala kene unotshatsharika.

Akuna wabo unotshumwayila kene unoyizela.

Mimwandabula yabo akuna wakademba mu thunji

ne shangu dzabo akuna ina ntjili wakathubuka.

28 Misebe yabo inopitsha

ne matati abo akalulwamila kuposa.

Thozo dze mbizi dzabo dzakasima se bgwe

ne makumbgwana e koloyi dzabo dze ngwa anopoteleka se tjampupudze.

29 Tjibombo tjabo tjonga tje shumba,

banobomba se shumba tjetjana,

dzobomba ha dzibhata tjadzinovima,

dzotjisenga kusina tjingadzitolela.

30 Mu zhuba ilelo, dzowoubombela

kukanga kuwona kwe gungwa.

Ngono kowoti nthu elinga shango,

unowobona zhalima ne buyendasi,

tjedza tjowomidziwa nge zhalima le makole.