I SHALL NOT END THIS YEAR IN SHAME

I SHALL NOT END THIS YEAR IN SHAME

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 34:5

Key Verse: “They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.” (Psalm 34:5)

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 3:26; Isaiah 54:4; Romans 5:5; Philippians 1:6; 2 Corinthians 12:9

Description: This sermon highlights the divine assurance that believers can end the year in honour, victory, and testimony, free from shame, disappointment, or regret, by trusting in God’s power and promises.

INTRODUCTION:
As the year draws to a close, many reflect on missed opportunities, failures, and unfulfilled dreams. Such reflections often bring fear of shame or regret. However, Scripture reminds us that those who look unto the Lord shall not be put to shame. Ending the year without shame is not dependent on human effort alone; it requires faith, divine intervention, and a reliance on God’s grace.

Believers have the authority to declare that their endings will be different from their beginnings. No matter the setbacks, disappointments, or challenges, God has a plan to turn things around, restore lost ground, and ensure honour at the year’s end.

1. SHAME IS OVERCOME BY TRUSTING GOD
Faith in God is the antidote to shame.

a) Trust shields against disgrace (Proverbs 3:26). God protects those who trust Him.

b) Trust brings courage to face setbacks (Psalm 27:3). Fear and shame cannot dominate the trusting heart.

c) Trust invokes divine favour (Psalm 5:12). God’s favour dispels shame.

d) Trust aligns with God’s plan (Jeremiah 29:11). His intentions ensure honour.

Biblical Example: Joseph overcame years of betrayal and prison to rise to prominence in Egypt, ending the year and season of his trials in glory (Genesis 41:41-43).

2. SHAME IS REMOVED THROUGH GOD’S REDEMPTIVE POWER
God has the power to restore and redeem every lost opportunity.

a) God restores what has been lost (Joel 2:25). Lost years, dreams, and efforts can be redeemed.

b) God turns disgrace into testimony (Psalm 126:1-3). What looked like shame becomes praise.

c) God makes the last greater than the first (Ecclesiastes 7:8). Endings can surpass beginnings.

d) God lifts the fallen (Psalm 145:14). He raises those who are lowly and oppressed.

Biblical Example: Naomi left Bethlehem in bitterness but returned with joy, as God restored her fortunes through Ruth (Ruth 1:20-22; 4:13-17).

3. SHAME IS DEFEATED BY OBEDIENCE AND FAITHFULNESS
Walking in God’s will ensures honour at the end.

a) Obedience attracts divine protection (Isaiah 1:19). God honours the obedient.

b) Faithfulness invites blessing (Luke 16:10). Small faithfulness leads to greater rewards.

c) Obedience aligns with God’s timing (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Right actions at the right time produce honour.

d) Obedience produces testimony (Deuteronomy 28:13). God sets the faithful above reproach.

Biblical Example: Daniel remained faithful in exile and ended the year and season in high honour, interpreting dreams and receiving promotion (Daniel 6:1-3, 28).

4. SHAME IS ELIMINATED THROUGH PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING
A heart of gratitude and worship positions believers for honour.

a) Praise invites God’s presence (Psalm 22:3). God dwells where He is honoured.

b) Thanksgiving strengthens faith (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Gratitude nurtures hope.

c) Worship counters despair (Acts 16:25). Even in chains, worship brings breakthrough.

d) Praise shifts focus from lack to God’s sufficiency (Psalm 103:1-2). Honour follows a grateful heart.

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas praised God in prison and witnessed a miraculous release, ending the season of shame in victory (Acts 16:25-26).

5. DECLARE THAT THIS YEAR WILL END IN HONOUR
Faith-filled declarations affirm God’s promise.

a) Speak life over your ending (Proverbs 18:21). Words activate destiny.

b) Confess God’s promises daily (Romans 10:9). Declaration reinforces faith.

c) Reject shame and declare victory (Isaiah 54:4). Refuse to carry past regrets.

d) Position yourself for supernatural testimonies (Psalm 23:5). God prepares honour even amidst trials.

Biblical Example: Elijah spoke boldly and saw God’s miraculous provision and vindication, ending the season of scarcity in abundance (1 Kings 18:41-45).

CONCLUSION:
Ending the year without shame is a divine possibility for every believer. Trust, faith, obedience, praise, and declaration are keys to experiencing honour, restoration, and victory. Whatever trials or disappointments you have faced this year, God can turn them around. Refuse shame, embrace God’s promises, and end the year in testimony, blessing, and joy.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, thank You for preserving my dignity this year.

2. Lord, remove every trace of shame from my life.

3. Father, restore every lost opportunity.

4. Lord, empower me to end the year in honour.

5. Father, strengthen my faith to trust You fully.

6. Lord, help me walk in obedience and integrity.

7. Father, fill my heart with praise and thanksgiving.

8. Lord, position me for supernatural testimonies.

9. Father, let every adversary fail in their plan against me.

10. Lord, I shall not end this year in shame but in victory, in Jesus’ name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. You shall not end this year in shame.

2. God’s favour shall overtake you before the year ends.

3. Every lost opportunity shall be restored.

4. Honour shall locate you in this season.

5. The end of this year shall be greater than the beginning.

6. Shame shall be far from your life.

7. You shall testify of God’s mercy and goodness.

8. Every enemy plot shall turn to your promotion.

9. Your life shall radiate victory and joy.

10. You shall enter the new year with glory, blessing, and celebration, in Jesus’ name.