If I were to assign a biblical theme to New Life Fellowship, it would undoubtedly be drawn from the words of Solomon in Psalm 127:1 (NIV): “Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”
This “house” is far more than a physical church building. It surpasses talent, leadership, and even the best intentions of people. It signifies a community of believers whose foundation is the Lord Himself. While our efforts—our labor, our giving, our sacrifices—are necessary and meaningful, they are mere dust scattered in the wind if not rooted in God’s presence. Scripture calls us to give and to make sacrifices, not because God needs them, but because we do. Our giving reflects our obedience, our discipline, and our acknowledgment that our true treasure lies in the Kingdom.
Throughout my life, I have never known a time when God has failed me. He has never left me alone, never abandoned me to want. His mercy is unfathomable, reaching depths I cannot comprehend. Through every hardship and every triumph, He has been faithful. Yes, there have been losses, but also gains—and through it all, Jesus has been the constant, guiding this house. There are many reasons why New Life Fellowship should not exist. Yet it still stands. There is only one reason for that: The Lord has built this house.
Take another look at the psalm: there are builders laboring, watchmen watching. These are workers, intercessors, givers, and doers—each playing their part under the mighty hand of God. David prepared for the Temple. Solomon constructed it. Yet, it was the Lord who sanctified it. The Temple’s worth was never in its gold, jewels, or grandeur. Its value came when the Presence filled the room—when the Glory of the Most High baptized the house, transforming it from mere materials into a sacred space.
So it is with us. Our lives, our sanctuary, find value only through the baptism of His Holy Spirit. Our future is not secured by strategy or strength, but by His guidance and our obedience to His voice. Without the moving of His Spirit, we become nothing more than religious relics—symbols without substance. Unless the Lord moves in this “house”—both in our hearts and in this church—our labor is in vain.
I long deeply for a fresh move of His Spirit. I reject the cynical voices that speak against God’s work, and I lift up those who labor with us in Kingdom purpose—to reach our city with the Gospel. When asked, “Pastor, when will you be satisfied?” my answer remains clear and unwavering: “Until we reach every soul with the Name of Jesus in baptism!”
The house must be filled—again and again. We have been commissioned with the Gospel. This house, this church, was built for His glory. It stands as a gathering place for souls whose eternal destinies are but moments away.
O Lord, we pray: build this house.
For Your name.
For Your Kingdom.
For Your glory.
Pastor Jeffrey Harpole
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