There is the story of one man who foolishly bungled his last chance. He was an armed robber and it was clear to everyone that he deserved to die. No one cared that his destiny was to spend his eternal lifetime burning in hell fire. No one cared that he now felt bad about the things he had done and wished for an opportunity to repent and live his life differently. He was being executed slowly and the pain was unbearable. He wished the pain to end, but it was clear that this end would only bring greater pain and unimaginable torment. He was doomed and it seemed there was no way out.
His cohort and friend was going through the same torture but he saw things differently. They were both hanging on their crosses beside the man called Jesus. His friend decided to take a chance.
He would never be baptized, take Holy Communion, attend a church service or witness to a lost soul. He would never be able to give tithes or offerings, read his bible or dress like a Christian. He would not have a chance to obey the Ten Commandments to prove that he loved the Lord.
But then a thought crossed his mind. How many people, at that moment, had the Saviour of the universe so close to them? He saw a divine opportunity, a last chance and he decided to take it. He turned to Jesus and with the knowledge of the fact that this man could actually save his soul, he said…
“Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom….”
He expected to be ignored, rebuked, rejected; but rather the same Jesus who had at one time confided in His disciples “If anyone comes to me, I will in no wise cast him out.”
Also now replied him by saying
“Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise” Luke 23: 42
A couple of hours later, this man marched boldly with Jesus into heaven for all eternity.
Sadly, His friend was escorted into hell also, for all eternity. He had been at the border of His miracle but he didn’t see it.
Talk about seizing the moment…
2008 is another opportunity, another chance for us to live our purpose, to expand our vision and enlarge the place of our tent. To deepen our relationship with God and become all we are meant to be. Let’s prepare to seize the moment
I wish you all a Happy New Year in Advance….
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Monday, December 24, 2007
Gbala's Party
Mr. Gbala heard from the grapevine that his family and friends were planning a surprise birthday party for him. They probably didn't want him to catch on yet but it was quite obvious. They hired a hall for the event, they hired caterers, bought gifts and expensive clothes and shoes for the party.
Everything became clearer when he stumbled on the invitation card; the party was to start at 12noon. He was proud of his friends. Obviously they loved him. He had planned surprise parties himself and so he knew the joy and awe it could bring to the celebrant. He waited patiently for the day to come.
Very early in the morning of the d-day, he went on his knees and thanked God for surrounding him with such wonderful people. And then he waited ... and waited...
No one came for him, no one said anything. When it was about 4p.m. in the evening, he could take it no longer and decided to go to the venue. Something must have gone wrong; who knows, the person they sent to inform him may have taken a wrong turn.
He was surprised to see the party already in full swing. A guard stopped him at the door and told him clearly - No gate crashing please, you are not invited.
But it's my birthday and this is my party, he explained.
The guard was quite cocky as he replied, I know it is your party but the fact is that you are not invited. Please leave ….
Gbala was sad as he turned and walked away with his head down. His friends were not interested in him, they only wanted a good time in his name.
At this point I will like to wish you a Merry Merry Christmas and to remind you not to forget the reason for the season. It is to celebrate Jesus and to thank Him for the burden he bore to secure our salvation
Someone asked me over the weekend about the significance of the colors red and green used as Christmas symbols. I don’t really know for sure, but I think an attempt must be made so that we are not celebrating without knowing the reason for the season. So here goes…
RED – represents the blood that Jesus shed on the Cross of calvary as the price to redeem us from our sins and a sinful life.
Green is the color of life. Therefore, green symbolizes the potential for eternal life that Jesus' sacrifice made possible for all of us.
The lights on the Christmas tree and the star on top are all meant to remind us of the new star that appeared to proclaim the birth of the promised Messiah. The Messiah has come already and it is left for us to be saved
The bells on the Christmas tree are a reminder of the bells worn by sheep. Bells are a means for the shepherd to find the sheep that have wandered from the flock and become lost. If we make fall into sin, there is still a way for us to rise and find our way back to our saviour.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Everything became clearer when he stumbled on the invitation card; the party was to start at 12noon. He was proud of his friends. Obviously they loved him. He had planned surprise parties himself and so he knew the joy and awe it could bring to the celebrant. He waited patiently for the day to come.
Very early in the morning of the d-day, he went on his knees and thanked God for surrounding him with such wonderful people. And then he waited ... and waited...
No one came for him, no one said anything. When it was about 4p.m. in the evening, he could take it no longer and decided to go to the venue. Something must have gone wrong; who knows, the person they sent to inform him may have taken a wrong turn.
He was surprised to see the party already in full swing. A guard stopped him at the door and told him clearly - No gate crashing please, you are not invited.
But it's my birthday and this is my party, he explained.
The guard was quite cocky as he replied, I know it is your party but the fact is that you are not invited. Please leave ….
Gbala was sad as he turned and walked away with his head down. His friends were not interested in him, they only wanted a good time in his name.
At this point I will like to wish you a Merry Merry Christmas and to remind you not to forget the reason for the season. It is to celebrate Jesus and to thank Him for the burden he bore to secure our salvation
Someone asked me over the weekend about the significance of the colors red and green used as Christmas symbols. I don’t really know for sure, but I think an attempt must be made so that we are not celebrating without knowing the reason for the season. So here goes…
RED – represents the blood that Jesus shed on the Cross of calvary as the price to redeem us from our sins and a sinful life.
Green is the color of life. Therefore, green symbolizes the potential for eternal life that Jesus' sacrifice made possible for all of us.
The lights on the Christmas tree and the star on top are all meant to remind us of the new star that appeared to proclaim the birth of the promised Messiah. The Messiah has come already and it is left for us to be saved
The bells on the Christmas tree are a reminder of the bells worn by sheep. Bells are a means for the shepherd to find the sheep that have wandered from the flock and become lost. If we make fall into sin, there is still a way for us to rise and find our way back to our saviour.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Monday, December 17, 2007
It Wasn't Easy
This song is for you. I hope someday I will become IT savy enough to load music onto my blog but meanwhile just think on the powerful lyrics of this song from Cece Winnans - Alabastar Box.
It Wasn't Easy by Cece Winnans
Don't think for a moment
I never felt the pain
You can't imagine
The hurt and the shame
They put the nails through my hands
Pierced my side, please understand
It wasn't easy, but it was worth it
It wasn't easy, it wasn't easy
It wasn't easy but it was worth it
It wasn't easy, it wasn't easy
It wasn't easy but it was worth it
I didn't have to do it
But I did it anyway 'cause I really love you
So much I took your place
I died for your sins
Yes I'm the one
Don't take it lightly
What I've done
It wasn't easy, but it was worth it
I left my throne
My purpose was the cross
Shed innocent blood
I paid the cost
It wasn't easy, But it was worth it
It Wasn't Easy by Cece Winnans
Don't think for a moment
I never felt the pain
You can't imagine
The hurt and the shame
They put the nails through my hands
Pierced my side, please understand
It wasn't easy, but it was worth it
It wasn't easy, it wasn't easy
It wasn't easy but it was worth it
It wasn't easy, it wasn't easy
It wasn't easy but it was worth it
I didn't have to do it
But I did it anyway 'cause I really love you
So much I took your place
I died for your sins
Yes I'm the one
Don't take it lightly
What I've done
It wasn't easy, but it was worth it
I left my throne
My purpose was the cross
Shed innocent blood
I paid the cost
It wasn't easy, But it was worth it
The Redeemed Church and It's Auditorium
The News of 11th December 2007 wrote an article under the above caption last week tuesday. The article has generated extensive debates and drawn significant ire from Nigerians who in typical fashion love to debate, deliberate and adjudicate. Nothing wrong with that and I will like to make my own contributions by stating what I consider to be the facts below:
1) I have tried to get the source of this N7.7b (which The News did not quote). I don’t have it yet. And so I realize that it is based on this unsubstantiated figure many have passed judgment already. (If you are reading and you have a verifiable source, please do let me know)
2) The report says, the auditorium is floored with Marble! I was there on Saturday; I looked for marble but found none. What I saw was - a few metres just in front of the altar floored with Interlocking stones. The rest of the auditorium (about 90%) wasn’t even floored at all; except to say it was floored with sand – red earth. How do I know, I had to wash my dusty feet when I got home.
3) The structure of the auditorium is simply – Pillars, holding up a roof, no walls, no partitioning. This same space has been used for the church convention for many years; the only difference is that now it is covered – at the top – to keep out the sun in the afternoon and some of the cold at night. Also there are enough lights for everyone to read and see clearly. I looked at the whole structure again; I am neither an architect nor a builder, so pardon me; but I did not see N7.7b.
4) Some people have said that RCCG and Adeboye do not need one million people to gather together for any sound reason…. And I tend to agree.
But Maybe God does have a reason. The world has the same millions who gather in the world today as they worship football, Hollywood idols, music stars, and other false Gods. These same millions that Revelation 4: 11 declares are created to worship God.
The only thing we can give to God is worship. In heaven that is what they do now, and that is what we will do when we get there. I strongly believe God is pleased when tens, hundreds, thousand or millions of those who love Him, gather together here and give him pleasure by worshipping him.
5) Whatever amount was used on this building, some believe it should have been used to feed the poor. That’s what they told Mary too when she bought expensive perfume and poured it on Jesus feet. They would have preferred if she had brought the money to them so they could give it to the poor. But Jesus immediately rebuked them and confirmed his right to receive worship, even if it costs money.
In addition to this, I am glad to say that the church does take care of the poor – scholarships, rehabilitation of Area boys/ prostitutes, rent and so on, are provided from the centre and by each Parish to the best of its ability.
I respect Pastor Adeboye for one major reason – his humility. I have heard him preach a message and come back months later to say that He now has a deeper understanding and retract what he earlier said. I have seen people give him gifts and have seen him immediately give them out to others who need them more. I see the simplicity of his lifestyle, his dressing and his possessions. Until I knew him, I thought a preacher had to shout and demonstrate before power can follow his messages; but this man speaks simply and gently and men are moved to repentance and seeking their creator.
No one is perfect and so I would rather pray for him,
1) I have tried to get the source of this N7.7b (which The News did not quote). I don’t have it yet. And so I realize that it is based on this unsubstantiated figure many have passed judgment already. (If you are reading and you have a verifiable source, please do let me know)
2) The report says, the auditorium is floored with Marble! I was there on Saturday; I looked for marble but found none. What I saw was - a few metres just in front of the altar floored with Interlocking stones. The rest of the auditorium (about 90%) wasn’t even floored at all; except to say it was floored with sand – red earth. How do I know, I had to wash my dusty feet when I got home.
3) The structure of the auditorium is simply – Pillars, holding up a roof, no walls, no partitioning. This same space has been used for the church convention for many years; the only difference is that now it is covered – at the top – to keep out the sun in the afternoon and some of the cold at night. Also there are enough lights for everyone to read and see clearly. I looked at the whole structure again; I am neither an architect nor a builder, so pardon me; but I did not see N7.7b.
4) Some people have said that RCCG and Adeboye do not need one million people to gather together for any sound reason…. And I tend to agree.
But Maybe God does have a reason. The world has the same millions who gather in the world today as they worship football, Hollywood idols, music stars, and other false Gods. These same millions that Revelation 4: 11 declares are created to worship God.
The only thing we can give to God is worship. In heaven that is what they do now, and that is what we will do when we get there. I strongly believe God is pleased when tens, hundreds, thousand or millions of those who love Him, gather together here and give him pleasure by worshipping him.
5) Whatever amount was used on this building, some believe it should have been used to feed the poor. That’s what they told Mary too when she bought expensive perfume and poured it on Jesus feet. They would have preferred if she had brought the money to them so they could give it to the poor. But Jesus immediately rebuked them and confirmed his right to receive worship, even if it costs money.
In addition to this, I am glad to say that the church does take care of the poor – scholarships, rehabilitation of Area boys/ prostitutes, rent and so on, are provided from the centre and by each Parish to the best of its ability.
I respect Pastor Adeboye for one major reason – his humility. I have heard him preach a message and come back months later to say that He now has a deeper understanding and retract what he earlier said. I have seen people give him gifts and have seen him immediately give them out to others who need them more. I see the simplicity of his lifestyle, his dressing and his possessions. Until I knew him, I thought a preacher had to shout and demonstrate before power can follow his messages; but this man speaks simply and gently and men are moved to repentance and seeking their creator.
No one is perfect and so I would rather pray for him,
- that God will keep Him from ever going astray;
- that God will give him more wisdom to execute the daunting task of leadership and
- that God will continue to make him a respected voice in this generation.
CREATED TO WORSHIP
Last week was hectic for me at work and I couldn’t take the full opportunity of a retreat that the annual Holy Ghost Congress of the Redeemed Christian Church of God usually affords. But I was there on Saturday evening for a few hours and I saw - - - a glimpse of heaven.
No I didn’t fall into a trance, neither did I see a vision. What I saw was a picture of what i think heaven will be like. I saw scores of people raise their hands together to the one true God in worship. I saw people dance with ab
andon, somewhat close to the famous King David’s dance – a dance that may draw the contempt of men but draws applause from God. I saw people fall on their face and cry out their love for their creator.
Just before the close of the program, the 1000 large mass choir left their seats and rejoiced in front of the altar. (Picture here) You could almost touch the joy that gathered like a cloud in the atmosphere.
One of the climatic moments was when we all sang
Awesome God, Mighty God
We give you praise
Awesome God
You are highly lifted up Awesome God
You are highly lifted up Mighty God…..
As I stood and watched the unfolding events, the word that dropped in my heart was – Heaven and just then I remembered Revelation 7:9-12.
After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.
And they cried out in a loud voice: "Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb."
All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying:
"Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!"
I realized that we doing the one thing we were created to do – to WORSHIP.
No I didn’t fall into a trance, neither did I see a vision. What I saw was a picture of what i think heaven will be like. I saw scores of people raise their hands together to the one true God in worship. I saw people dance with ab
andon, somewhat close to the famous King David’s dance – a dance that may draw the contempt of men but draws applause from God. I saw people fall on their face and cry out their love for their creator.Just before the close of the program, the 1000 large mass choir left their seats and rejoiced in front of the altar. (Picture here) You could almost touch the joy that gathered like a cloud in the atmosphere.
One of the climatic moments was when we all sang
Awesome God, Mighty God
We give you praise
Awesome God
You are highly lifted up Awesome God
You are highly lifted up Mighty God…..
As I stood and watched the unfolding events, the word that dropped in my heart was – Heaven and just then I remembered Revelation 7:9-12.
After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.
And they cried out in a loud voice: "Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb."
All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying:
"Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!"
I realized that we doing the one thing we were created to do – to WORSHIP.
Monday, December 3, 2007
GOD IS DRAWN TO OUR PRAISE
Paul and his co-missionary Silas where arrested one day because they dared to rebuke an evil spirit in the course of sharing the good news of salvation. (Acts Chapter 16). As a result they were beaten, their clothes were torn and they were put in the inner prison with their feet bound in stocks.They were being punished for doing God’s work.
As they sat together waiting in chains, they had a number of options.
1) They could have complained to God about how He had forsaken them in the face of their obedience or about how they were receiving a poor reward for their pursuit of His will.
2) They could have cursed those that persecuted them and commanded them to become blind. And they might have been justified.
But rather they did something we will all find very strange…
They started singing songs of praise to God. They worshipped him from their heart. They probably told him that in spite of their trials, they did not doubt that He was still the Great and Mighty God, Great in counsel, mighty in deed. The other prisoners heard their songs and must have wondered what manner of man they were.
The next thing everyone knew was that there was a mighty earthquake. The foundations of the prison shook; the doors flung open and everyone’s chains were loosed.
That night Paul and Silas became free men.
What accounted for the earthquake and their miraculous deliverance. Psalm 22:3 gives us a clue. It says - God inhabits the Praises of His people.
Just take a moment to imagine…
They praised God! God heard and His heart was drawn to the love and faith they had in Him; so He came down and entered into the prison. The foundations shook because no building can contain God and remain the same.
(
His promise to inhabit our praises is all the solution we need because no problem can really stand in the face of our Almighty God. This reminds me somewhat of Incredible Hulk and His clothes, if you know what I mean.)
God's presence in response to their praise, led to an earthquake and their freedom.
Wonderful story about how we need to keep our focus on God regardless of our trials and problems. In everything, let us give thanks. God is bigger than every problem we may be facing.
As they sat together waiting in chains, they had a number of options.
1) They could have complained to God about how He had forsaken them in the face of their obedience or about how they were receiving a poor reward for their pursuit of His will.
2) They could have cursed those that persecuted them and commanded them to become blind. And they might have been justified.
But rather they did something we will all find very strange…
They started singing songs of praise to God. They worshipped him from their heart. They probably told him that in spite of their trials, they did not doubt that He was still the Great and Mighty God, Great in counsel, mighty in deed. The other prisoners heard their songs and must have wondered what manner of man they were.
The next thing everyone knew was that there was a mighty earthquake. The foundations of the prison shook; the doors flung open and everyone’s chains were loosed.
That night Paul and Silas became free men.
What accounted for the earthquake and their miraculous deliverance. Psalm 22:3 gives us a clue. It says - God inhabits the Praises of His people.
Just take a moment to imagine…
They praised God! God heard and His heart was drawn to the love and faith they had in Him; so He came down and entered into the prison. The foundations shook because no building can contain God and remain the same.
(
His promise to inhabit our praises is all the solution we need because no problem can really stand in the face of our Almighty God. This reminds me somewhat of Incredible Hulk and His clothes, if you know what I mean.)
God's presence in response to their praise, led to an earthquake and their freedom.
Wonderful story about how we need to keep our focus on God regardless of our trials and problems. In everything, let us give thanks. God is bigger than every problem we may be facing.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
QUITE FUNNY
Sometimes we need to relax our facial muscles and exercise our laugh lines. I hear it makes us look younger and keeps the wrinkles at bay. I hope you find this joke as funny as I did
My pastor was recently invited by a member of his congregation to their country home for dinner. They had just finished an excellent meal of pounded yam, Afang and chicken soup.
As the member who was also a farmer, escorted the Pastor out, the pastor saw a rooster strutting through the yard.
"That's certainly a proud-looking chicken," my pastor commented.
"Yes, sir," replied the farmer. "He has reason to be proud: one of his sons just entered the ministry!"
My pastor was recently invited by a member of his congregation to their country home for dinner. They had just finished an excellent meal of pounded yam, Afang and chicken soup.
As the member who was also a farmer, escorted the Pastor out, the pastor saw a rooster strutting through the yard.
"That's certainly a proud-looking chicken," my pastor commented.
"Yes, sir," replied the farmer. "He has reason to be proud: one of his sons just entered the ministry!"
Thursday, November 15, 2007
DON’T ASK HIM HOW
When you need a miracle, have you sometimes wondered how God will do it? Does your inability to see the how, dampen your hope and your faith?
The ‘how’ of a miracle belongs to God alone! God is eternally creative and is never limited by the how. He is able to come up with the right way, every single time; even sometimes beating his own records.
Yesterday, at evening service I learnt something new.
When the Israelites needed to cross the red sea urgently, God parted it – absolutely amazing and mind boggling.
When they wanted to move into Canaan through the Jordan, He asked the priests to stand in the waters on the shore and it parted again.
At another time Elijah struck the waters with his mantle and by the power of God it parted. Elisha didn’t think twice before he did the same thing.
In the old testament parting the waters soon became, no longer unusual.
One day many years later, Jesus wanted to join his disciples in the boat when they had left him behind. A narrow mind would have thought that His only option was to part the sea again; but that wouldn’t work this time because the disciples in the boat would have experienced some upheaval.
So Jesus did something new; - he walked on the water - and after numerous strides He caught up with them. He easily did something a bit more creative to solve the challenge at hand.
God’s power and ways are unlimited. Maybe if we start by having a bit more faith in his creativity, we could experience more of His power in our generation.
Don’t ask God how; just ask in line with His will and believe...
Romans 11:33 O! The depths of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God. How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out.
The ‘how’ of a miracle belongs to God alone! God is eternally creative and is never limited by the how. He is able to come up with the right way, every single time; even sometimes beating his own records.
Yesterday, at evening service I learnt something new.
When the Israelites needed to cross the red sea urgently, God parted it – absolutely amazing and mind boggling.
When they wanted to move into Canaan through the Jordan, He asked the priests to stand in the waters on the shore and it parted again.
At another time Elijah struck the waters with his mantle and by the power of God it parted. Elisha didn’t think twice before he did the same thing.
In the old testament parting the waters soon became, no longer unusual.
One day many years later, Jesus wanted to join his disciples in the boat when they had left him behind. A narrow mind would have thought that His only option was to part the sea again; but that wouldn’t work this time because the disciples in the boat would have experienced some upheaval.
So Jesus did something new; - he walked on the water - and after numerous strides He caught up with them. He easily did something a bit more creative to solve the challenge at hand.
God’s power and ways are unlimited. Maybe if we start by having a bit more faith in his creativity, we could experience more of His power in our generation.
Don’t ask God how; just ask in line with His will and believe...
Romans 11:33 O! The depths of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God. How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
HOLLER WHEN YOU NEED HELP
To say I was stunned when I heard the news of Paula White and Randy White’s pending divorce is a gross understatement. 
I know Paula’s story. I have seen her as a role model to many and I have adopted her as one of mine. I respect the way she rose above a limiting background to make something out of her life. I appreciate the way she preaches with power and as I watch her, I look out for tips on how to touch people’s lives with passion. Her words touch me and cause me to pause, reflect and desire a change from the old.
She overcame a rough childhood and today dedicates her life to helping others be all that they can become in God. She call herself a life coach(Who would have dreamed that this self-proclaimed "messed-up Mississippi girl" would become one of the world's "mid-wife to dreams"?)
She seemed to have such a happy settled marriage. Once she preached about the husband being the head of the wife. She led him to the stage that day and ducked beside him making it clear that being the head is not to intimidate or Lord it over the wife but to act as a cover.
I have searched my heart again and it would help to know what could have gone wrong; what could not be resolved. Why a divorce???
Paula is not God, but many have seen God through her. And that is scriptural because God has called us to be a light. One of the things that light does is to make us see clearly. God wants us to live our lives so that people around us can have a better view of Him.
As I ponder I realize it cannot be easy to be a leader in the church, as Paula is; a head and shoulder above the rest, an easier target for the enemy.
We are still human and yet spiritual. How do we overcome the wars that face us daily?
I remember the times I enter into the church with a heavy burden on my heart. I feel I need help but the moment people walk up to me and ask for help or counsel, I put my burdens aside, don a smile, listen and try to guide them to a solution. There is a temptation not to let people see when you are hurting.
I wonder how many people do this. Could that be Paula and Randy’s problem? Scandals in Christianity don’t develop in a day. It takes moments of pretending that everything is okay when it is not; pretending that you know all the answers when you don’t; pretending that you are not tempted when you are.
My husband often says, “A person who refuses to expose a wound so it can be treated but rather covers it up, is looking for infection.”
I have learnt from all this that we need to deal with the issues we face as Christians or else one day it will explode in our face and the effect may just be like rubbish hitting a turning fan. When we need help let's cry to God and not pretend.
Mark 10:47-52; And when Blind Bartimeus heard that it was Jesus passing by, he cried out "Jesus, son of David have mercy on me... and he recieved his sight.
May God help us!!
I know Paula’s story. I have seen her as a role model to many and I have adopted her as one of mine. I respect the way she rose above a limiting background to make something out of her life. I appreciate the way she preaches with power and as I watch her, I look out for tips on how to touch people’s lives with passion. Her words touch me and cause me to pause, reflect and desire a change from the old.
She overcame a rough childhood and today dedicates her life to helping others be all that they can become in God. She call herself a life coach(Who would have dreamed that this self-proclaimed "messed-up Mississippi girl" would become one of the world's "mid-wife to dreams"?)
She seemed to have such a happy settled marriage. Once she preached about the husband being the head of the wife. She led him to the stage that day and ducked beside him making it clear that being the head is not to intimidate or Lord it over the wife but to act as a cover.
I have searched my heart again and it would help to know what could have gone wrong; what could not be resolved. Why a divorce???
Paula is not God, but many have seen God through her. And that is scriptural because God has called us to be a light. One of the things that light does is to make us see clearly. God wants us to live our lives so that people around us can have a better view of Him.
As I ponder I realize it cannot be easy to be a leader in the church, as Paula is; a head and shoulder above the rest, an easier target for the enemy.
We are still human and yet spiritual. How do we overcome the wars that face us daily?
I remember the times I enter into the church with a heavy burden on my heart. I feel I need help but the moment people walk up to me and ask for help or counsel, I put my burdens aside, don a smile, listen and try to guide them to a solution. There is a temptation not to let people see when you are hurting.
I wonder how many people do this. Could that be Paula and Randy’s problem? Scandals in Christianity don’t develop in a day. It takes moments of pretending that everything is okay when it is not; pretending that you know all the answers when you don’t; pretending that you are not tempted when you are.
My husband often says, “A person who refuses to expose a wound so it can be treated but rather covers it up, is looking for infection.”
I have learnt from all this that we need to deal with the issues we face as Christians or else one day it will explode in our face and the effect may just be like rubbish hitting a turning fan. When we need help let's cry to God and not pretend.
Mark 10:47-52; And when Blind Bartimeus heard that it was Jesus passing by, he cried out "Jesus, son of David have mercy on me... and he recieved his sight.
May God help us!!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
WHAT YOU WANT IS NOT ALWAYS WHAT YOU NEED
The 40 year old man was quite comfortable in his position. It was no longer a big deal that he was lame and he was no longer ashamed that he was a beggar. He no longer flinched when he sat in the sun and his complexion became increasingly darkened by the day. The heavier the rain, the better because it made up for the times when his people were too busy to help him with a bath.
His finances were improving by the day. Everyone knew God’s commandment to give to the poor. Everyone knew he was a genuine cripple not like some other frauds who pretended they were blind but were somehow able to burst into a sprint whenever there was a riot. His income was good; enough to support his wife’s earnings from her petty trading and enough to take care of their children.
Today, the sun was kind to him. Probably because it was the Sabbath, when men showed their pious side and maybe had greater access to God’s mercy.
He took up his position beside the beautiful gate and as expected the coins began to drop into his plate. He looked up and saw two men walk towards him. What grace, What elegance. There was something different about them. He stared but couldn’t place what it was. Well, all he needed was their money, so he donned his most pitiable voice, “Please, have pity on a poor needy man like me….
He expected Peter to put his hand into his pocket but rather Peter gave a command … “Look at us.” That sounded strange but he gave them his whole attention.
Hear Peter in Acts 3: 6, “Silver and Gold, I have not, but what I have I will give to you, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk…”
The rest is history; the lame man walked. His life could no longer remain the same.
The lame man expected money but received what money can never buy. He wanted a few coins but needed a miracle. He got one.
May we pray that God should daily lead us to find what we need and what will make a difference to our lives
His finances were improving by the day. Everyone knew God’s commandment to give to the poor. Everyone knew he was a genuine cripple not like some other frauds who pretended they were blind but were somehow able to burst into a sprint whenever there was a riot. His income was good; enough to support his wife’s earnings from her petty trading and enough to take care of their children.
Today, the sun was kind to him. Probably because it was the Sabbath, when men showed their pious side and maybe had greater access to God’s mercy.
He took up his position beside the beautiful gate and as expected the coins began to drop into his plate. He looked up and saw two men walk towards him. What grace, What elegance. There was something different about them. He stared but couldn’t place what it was. Well, all he needed was their money, so he donned his most pitiable voice, “Please, have pity on a poor needy man like me….
He expected Peter to put his hand into his pocket but rather Peter gave a command … “Look at us.” That sounded strange but he gave them his whole attention.
Hear Peter in Acts 3: 6, “Silver and Gold, I have not, but what I have I will give to you, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk…”
The rest is history; the lame man walked. His life could no longer remain the same.
The lame man expected money but received what money can never buy. He wanted a few coins but needed a miracle. He got one.
May we pray that God should daily lead us to find what we need and what will make a difference to our lives
Monday, October 15, 2007
PRAYER TIPS
Have you ever felt that your prayers don't count. Do you sometime feel as if prayers are an unneccesary burden rather than a blessing. Do you spend three hours jisting with a friend and wonder why three minutes prayer seems so long.
I'll just advise you to read Dutch Sheets book on Intercessory prayers.
I have read many books on prayers and my humble opinion is that this is the best so far!!
He takes time to explain the reasons for and power of prayer with wisdom, gentleness, and humor. By the time you read this, you will be fully inspired to pray for the impossible. Dutch sheets is also not afraid to confess his doubts and fear and proffer advice based on how he was able to deal with them.
Here's a link to get a copy on Amazon. It's also available in leading bookstores in Nigeria
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
ONE GLANCE CAN BE DANGEROUS
Dele saw her smile at him across the room. He should have looked away but he didn’t. In a split second, he realised that she looked pretty in a homely way, had a beautiful figure and wore her braids elegantly.
He didn’t know her name but became pleasurably aware of her. However he wasn’t going to do anything about it because he was happily married, content and loved his wife dearly. He had been married for ten years and had never slept with another woman since then.
He left the restaurant and went back to work. As he lay beside his wife later that night, thoughts of her attacked and penetrated his peace. That smile, those braids, the pretty face, the slim figure! He indulged himself and let the thoughts roll. He slept off much later with a happy smile on his face.
Two weeks later, he sat at an empty table at the same restaurant enjoying his lunch. A shadow fell across his meal. “Do you mind if I join you?” she asked in a most sonorous voice. He couldn’t say no. He enjoyed their chat and wished he could prolong the lunch hour.
A month later, they had dinner together. If she had been a hunter, clingy, or demanding in any way he would have found it easy to resist the attraction. But she was nice, selfless and pleasant and he often wondered if she was innocent.
During the next 3 months he spent all of his free time with her. It was just like a dream. He loved his wife but he enjoyed her company. An expensive indulgence; but he allowed himself to enjoy it.
Then one day she confronted him. He was responsible for her pregnancy. It was a mistake. She wanted an abortion. Could he please give her some money so she could do it at a professional hospital? He remembered he had always preached that - abortion is a sin against God. What was he going to do??
At that moment, his thoughts were with his wife. He loved her and didn’t want anything to come between them ever. How would she feel? The joyful memories of the past 3 months instantly faded away. He held his head in his hands.
How he wished that three months ago, he had looked away.
Matt 5:28-29 – “But I say to you, whoever looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you…”
He didn’t know her name but became pleasurably aware of her. However he wasn’t going to do anything about it because he was happily married, content and loved his wife dearly. He had been married for ten years and had never slept with another woman since then.
He left the restaurant and went back to work. As he lay beside his wife later that night, thoughts of her attacked and penetrated his peace. That smile, those braids, the pretty face, the slim figure! He indulged himself and let the thoughts roll. He slept off much later with a happy smile on his face.
Two weeks later, he sat at an empty table at the same restaurant enjoying his lunch. A shadow fell across his meal. “Do you mind if I join you?” she asked in a most sonorous voice. He couldn’t say no. He enjoyed their chat and wished he could prolong the lunch hour.
A month later, they had dinner together. If she had been a hunter, clingy, or demanding in any way he would have found it easy to resist the attraction. But she was nice, selfless and pleasant and he often wondered if she was innocent.
During the next 3 months he spent all of his free time with her. It was just like a dream. He loved his wife but he enjoyed her company. An expensive indulgence; but he allowed himself to enjoy it.
Then one day she confronted him. He was responsible for her pregnancy. It was a mistake. She wanted an abortion. Could he please give her some money so she could do it at a professional hospital? He remembered he had always preached that - abortion is a sin against God. What was he going to do??
At that moment, his thoughts were with his wife. He loved her and didn’t want anything to come between them ever. How would she feel? The joyful memories of the past 3 months instantly faded away. He held his head in his hands.
How he wished that three months ago, he had looked away.
Matt 5:28-29 – “But I say to you, whoever looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you…”
Friday, September 21, 2007
WHEN GOD FORGIVES
Peter was in a state of shock. The one he embraced as Messiah, was being treated like a common criminal. His all powerful Saviour and Friend was being humbled by mere mortals and He was not even lifting a finger to save himself.
Peter was confused and sat before the fire trying to sieve through the avalanche of thoughts and doubts coursing through his mind. Was Jesus really who He said He was? Was this the end of a 3 year journey of discovering great new possibilities? What next? What if…?
Suddenly the threat of being joined with Jesus as a co-accused became very real. A young maid accused him of being an accomplice to Jesus. Without thinking Peter blurted out, “Me? I don’t know that man. Never seen him before! May I be d…..d if I have as much as spoken to him even once. …”
Peter denied Jesus not once, but 3 times within the space of an evening.
And then the cock crowed and he remembered…. how earlier in the evening, he had pledged his unwavering eternal allegiance to Jesus. He had promised to die rather than deny his dear buddy.
As the feelings of shame spread through his body, Jesus turned and looked at him. He knew!! Now Peter would gladly have died. He had denied his friend at His greatest hour of need. His gut wrenching pain increased and he wept bitterly.
Within the next 24hours Jesus was dead without an opportunity for Peter to apologise and seek forgiveness. It is easy to imagine Peter going home that day and spending the night asking God for Mercy.
Such a great sin but God saw a truly repentant heart and God forgave him.
How do I know?
Hear the words spoken to Mary in Mark 16: 6-7, after Jesus rose from the dead,
“Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth who was crucified. He is risen! ….But go tell His disciples - AND PETER – that He is going before you into Galilee…
Why single out Peter? Probably because Peter needed to know that in spite of what he had done. He was still loved. And so God sent him a word to let him know he was forgiven.
God will always honour true repentance!! It makes sense to take advantage of God's grace and mercy
Peter was confused and sat before the fire trying to sieve through the avalanche of thoughts and doubts coursing through his mind. Was Jesus really who He said He was? Was this the end of a 3 year journey of discovering great new possibilities? What next? What if…?
Suddenly the threat of being joined with Jesus as a co-accused became very real. A young maid accused him of being an accomplice to Jesus. Without thinking Peter blurted out, “Me? I don’t know that man. Never seen him before! May I be d…..d if I have as much as spoken to him even once. …”
Peter denied Jesus not once, but 3 times within the space of an evening.
And then the cock crowed and he remembered…. how earlier in the evening, he had pledged his unwavering eternal allegiance to Jesus. He had promised to die rather than deny his dear buddy.
As the feelings of shame spread through his body, Jesus turned and looked at him. He knew!! Now Peter would gladly have died. He had denied his friend at His greatest hour of need. His gut wrenching pain increased and he wept bitterly.
Within the next 24hours Jesus was dead without an opportunity for Peter to apologise and seek forgiveness. It is easy to imagine Peter going home that day and spending the night asking God for Mercy.
Such a great sin but God saw a truly repentant heart and God forgave him.
How do I know?
Hear the words spoken to Mary in Mark 16: 6-7, after Jesus rose from the dead,
“Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth who was crucified. He is risen! ….But go tell His disciples - AND PETER – that He is going before you into Galilee…
Why single out Peter? Probably because Peter needed to know that in spite of what he had done. He was still loved. And so God sent him a word to let him know he was forgiven.
God will always honour true repentance!! It makes sense to take advantage of God's grace and mercy
Monday, September 17, 2007
READ A SAMPLE CHAPTER OF THAT BESTSELLER
You want to buy that Christian Book, but would like to search the contents before you decide? You don't have the time to take a trip to the bookshop, isn't that why you are making the purchase online?
Try the Google book search. It contains a limited preview of books uploaded by several authors or publishers. I have found the link useful. I hope you do too.
Just type in the title of the book you want in the google book search on the left navigation bar on this page and .... start your preview....
You are wondering what book to start with? Try - THE AIREGINAN DREAM by moi
Try the Google book search. It contains a limited preview of books uploaded by several authors or publishers. I have found the link useful. I hope you do too.
Just type in the title of the book you want in the google book search on the left navigation bar on this page and .... start your preview....
You are wondering what book to start with? Try - THE AIREGINAN DREAM by moi
Friday, September 14, 2007
Irresistible
There are a few things God cannot resist.
One of them is True Repentance.
Ps 51:17 says, " The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken spirit and a contrite heart - these oh God you will not despise.
God hates sin. But He softens and forgives where He sees true repentance. Let's look at some examples
King Ahab
In 1 Kings chapter 21, King Ahab stumbled on the vineyard of Citizen Naboth. Just one look and he wanted it … badly. Naboth said no; the vineyard had been in the family for generations and he was going to pass it on to his son after him. Thoughts of the vineyard he couldn’t have, made Ahab sick; very sick.
His wife Jezebel would have none of that insubordination to the king’s wishes. So she hired some assasins and got Citizen Naboth killed pronto! The news got to King Ahab who immediately recovered from his illness and wasted no time in taking over the vineyard – the fulfillment of his dreams.
God was angry! He sent Elijah to Ahab with a message – he would face calamity and would die!
When Ahab heard the judgment, he tore his clothes, fasted and mourned. Hear what God said in response…
I Kings 21: 29, “See how Ahab has humbled himself before me? Because he has humbled himself before me, I will not bring the calamity in his days….
Next …
King David
In 2 Samuel 11- David looked where he shouldn’t look;… at a beautiful married woman taking a bath. The obvious followed – Adultery and then the woman got pregnant. David’s response was to get her husband positioned in the war front. The poor man was killed before he got wise about their unholy secret. The woman mourned her husband for a few months before she moved in with King David.
To me the whole set up looks unforgivable!! Or what do you think? But then…
When confronted with his sin David said, I Sam 12: 13 – “I have sinned against the Lord…”
God looked into his heart and sent a message to him, “The Lord also has put away your sin.. you shall not die…However, because by this deed you have given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme, the child who is borne to you shall surely die.”
It’s clear from the scriptures that God will forgive the unforgivable when there is true repentance.
What then is TRUE REPENTANCE?
It is not feeling bad because you’ve been caught.
It is not a guilty conscience that lingers but for a moment.
It is not saying sorry just to save face
It is not regret today… and going back to the same old issue tomorrow
Rather…
It is making a u-turn and deciding in your heart that it will never happen again…
It is knowing that God hates what you have done and because you love God and don’t want to annoy Him, you will not allow it happen again…
It is knowing that only God can help you live holy and trusting Him to do just that.
Once God sees true repentance He will forgive and you can know peace again.
Do you need forgiveness and peace. It makes sense to accept what God has offered... on His terms
Don’t want this entry to be too long. So I will leave the story of Peter’s repentance to the next blog entry.
One of them is True Repentance.
Ps 51:17 says, " The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken spirit and a contrite heart - these oh God you will not despise.
God hates sin. But He softens and forgives where He sees true repentance. Let's look at some examples
King Ahab
In 1 Kings chapter 21, King Ahab stumbled on the vineyard of Citizen Naboth. Just one look and he wanted it … badly. Naboth said no; the vineyard had been in the family for generations and he was going to pass it on to his son after him. Thoughts of the vineyard he couldn’t have, made Ahab sick; very sick.
His wife Jezebel would have none of that insubordination to the king’s wishes. So she hired some assasins and got Citizen Naboth killed pronto! The news got to King Ahab who immediately recovered from his illness and wasted no time in taking over the vineyard – the fulfillment of his dreams.
God was angry! He sent Elijah to Ahab with a message – he would face calamity and would die!
When Ahab heard the judgment, he tore his clothes, fasted and mourned. Hear what God said in response…
I Kings 21: 29, “See how Ahab has humbled himself before me? Because he has humbled himself before me, I will not bring the calamity in his days….
Next …
King David
In 2 Samuel 11- David looked where he shouldn’t look;… at a beautiful married woman taking a bath. The obvious followed – Adultery and then the woman got pregnant. David’s response was to get her husband positioned in the war front. The poor man was killed before he got wise about their unholy secret. The woman mourned her husband for a few months before she moved in with King David.
To me the whole set up looks unforgivable!! Or what do you think? But then…
When confronted with his sin David said, I Sam 12: 13 – “I have sinned against the Lord…”
God looked into his heart and sent a message to him, “The Lord also has put away your sin.. you shall not die…However, because by this deed you have given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme, the child who is borne to you shall surely die.”
It’s clear from the scriptures that God will forgive the unforgivable when there is true repentance.
What then is TRUE REPENTANCE?
It is not feeling bad because you’ve been caught.
It is not a guilty conscience that lingers but for a moment.
It is not saying sorry just to save face
It is not regret today… and going back to the same old issue tomorrow
Rather…
It is making a u-turn and deciding in your heart that it will never happen again…
It is knowing that God hates what you have done and because you love God and don’t want to annoy Him, you will not allow it happen again…
It is knowing that only God can help you live holy and trusting Him to do just that.
Once God sees true repentance He will forgive and you can know peace again.
Do you need forgiveness and peace. It makes sense to accept what God has offered... on His terms
Don’t want this entry to be too long. So I will leave the story of Peter’s repentance to the next blog entry.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Another day Another Miracle
Every day is a miracle. We do not often see this because we have gone through so many days and so tend not to pay attention to the miracle of:
breathing, sleeping and waking, eating without chocking, going to the toilet freely, and returning home safely after each day.
But God is actively working on our behalf.
Psalm 91: 11-12 'For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone
Yesterday evening, God brought the fact of His divine protection, home to me again. My husband came home about 7p.m. in the evening and sat down. I greeted him casually, and why not? He had just dropped me at home three hours earlier before returning to church.
With a pensive tone he said - I experienced something today that I have never experienced in my whole life. That got my attention... What happened? I asked. He told us the story
He was driving from our church within the Mainland hotel complex and had a Pastor friend - Pastor Otunde, beside him. The Pastor's children were sitting behind. He drove through oyingbo towards Adekunle to drop Pst Otunde at home. At the second main intersection, notorious for being blocked by danfo drivers, they saw people running towards their direction, including the danfo drivers who abandonned their buses. Their first thought was armed robbers, and so Pastor Otunde opened the door and gave a characteristic order that you hear in cases like that - Run!!!
However, in that split second where he had placed one foot on the ground, my husband saw a trailer facing the one way traffic and bearing down on him with an obvious problem of brake failure. The road at that point sloped downwards and the trailer was clearly gathering speed. He took a decision and swerved to the left. Pastor Otunde was thrown out of the car and as he hit the ground he was rolled to the right. The trailed passed between the car and Pastor Otunde, missing them both by a hair's breadth before speeding by and chasing other pedestrians and drivers off the road. A stunned Pastor Otunde got up and the first question he asked my husband was - What just happened now? As i lay on the ground i saw the tires of the trailer roll just beside my face!
Apart from a few bruises he was okay. He kept saying, Thank you Lord for this miracle. Not even my glasses were broken.
I woke up early this morning and kept thinking of what could have happened if God had not intervened. All I could do was sing songs of praises. It could have been a different story. Join me to say.... halleluyah!!
Make God continue to look out for us, In Jesus Name. Amen.
Have a blessed week
breathing, sleeping and waking, eating without chocking, going to the toilet freely, and returning home safely after each day.
But God is actively working on our behalf.
Psalm 91: 11-12 'For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone
Yesterday evening, God brought the fact of His divine protection, home to me again. My husband came home about 7p.m. in the evening and sat down. I greeted him casually, and why not? He had just dropped me at home three hours earlier before returning to church.
With a pensive tone he said - I experienced something today that I have never experienced in my whole life. That got my attention... What happened? I asked. He told us the story
He was driving from our church within the Mainland hotel complex and had a Pastor friend - Pastor Otunde, beside him. The Pastor's children were sitting behind. He drove through oyingbo towards Adekunle to drop Pst Otunde at home. At the second main intersection, notorious for being blocked by danfo drivers, they saw people running towards their direction, including the danfo drivers who abandonned their buses. Their first thought was armed robbers, and so Pastor Otunde opened the door and gave a characteristic order that you hear in cases like that - Run!!!
However, in that split second where he had placed one foot on the ground, my husband saw a trailer facing the one way traffic and bearing down on him with an obvious problem of brake failure. The road at that point sloped downwards and the trailer was clearly gathering speed. He took a decision and swerved to the left. Pastor Otunde was thrown out of the car and as he hit the ground he was rolled to the right. The trailed passed between the car and Pastor Otunde, missing them both by a hair's breadth before speeding by and chasing other pedestrians and drivers off the road. A stunned Pastor Otunde got up and the first question he asked my husband was - What just happened now? As i lay on the ground i saw the tires of the trailer roll just beside my face!
Apart from a few bruises he was okay. He kept saying, Thank you Lord for this miracle. Not even my glasses were broken.
I woke up early this morning and kept thinking of what could have happened if God had not intervened. All I could do was sing songs of praises. It could have been a different story. Join me to say.... halleluyah!!
Make God continue to look out for us, In Jesus Name. Amen.
Have a blessed week
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Unholy Attractions
It happens. Just thank God if in your heart of hearts it has never happened to you as a Christian. But many Christians have experienced those unruly thoughts and strange desires that are improperly directed towards someone that shouldn’t be?
A Christian Married man …. Another woman
A Christian Married Woman …. Another man
A young Christian Man ….. A friend’s fiancé
A counselor ….. A Counselee of the opposite gender
Etc…
Deadly options, unrighteous thoughts, recipes for disaster; but may God have mercy, they happen. Some great men of God have even fallen flat on their faces because of these unbridled desires. So it is dangerous to sweep it under the carpet with a holy smile and pretend it is not real.
What do we do? First is to realize that every sin starts in the realm of the thoughts. That is why Jesus said, if a person has lustful thoughts he has committed adultery already. The beginning of the solution is to identify those thoughts as sin, not even a weakness, sin! Confess them to God as such.
Then change your location. Most of these desires are fed by sight and association. Tone down the friendship, stop visiting the house, hand the person over to another counselor. The bible says if your right hand will cause you to sin, then it is better you cut it off. I heard the personal testimony of a married brother who actually changed his job because he was attracted to a woman in his office. They worked together everyday and even though he loved his wife, he couldn’t understand those feelings, so he took a wise decision and moved to another company.
Talk to someone about it. Seek out someone that can be trusted and is also spiritually mature enough to counsel and pray through with you. That person may actually be your spouse. But be careful and allow God to lead you to someone who can carry this burden with you. Sometimes these desires thrive in an atmosphere of secrecy. Imagine if everyone including your Pastor could see your thoughts; they will probably be different. So expose this and see God give you victory.
Cut off anything that feeds these desires – Soap Operas, any movie that has a hint of blue, erotic novels, pornography. These must go so that they do not belittle the value of the precious blood of Jesus that was shed for us.
The Holy Spirit is your helper. Let him help you deal with the desires and to help you take practical steps to make sure that they do not recur.
It is well and keep on living for Jesus alone.
A Christian Married man …. Another woman
A Christian Married Woman …. Another man
A young Christian Man ….. A friend’s fiancé
A counselor ….. A Counselee of the opposite gender
Etc…
Deadly options, unrighteous thoughts, recipes for disaster; but may God have mercy, they happen. Some great men of God have even fallen flat on their faces because of these unbridled desires. So it is dangerous to sweep it under the carpet with a holy smile and pretend it is not real.
What do we do? First is to realize that every sin starts in the realm of the thoughts. That is why Jesus said, if a person has lustful thoughts he has committed adultery already. The beginning of the solution is to identify those thoughts as sin, not even a weakness, sin! Confess them to God as such.
Then change your location. Most of these desires are fed by sight and association. Tone down the friendship, stop visiting the house, hand the person over to another counselor. The bible says if your right hand will cause you to sin, then it is better you cut it off. I heard the personal testimony of a married brother who actually changed his job because he was attracted to a woman in his office. They worked together everyday and even though he loved his wife, he couldn’t understand those feelings, so he took a wise decision and moved to another company.
Talk to someone about it. Seek out someone that can be trusted and is also spiritually mature enough to counsel and pray through with you. That person may actually be your spouse. But be careful and allow God to lead you to someone who can carry this burden with you. Sometimes these desires thrive in an atmosphere of secrecy. Imagine if everyone including your Pastor could see your thoughts; they will probably be different. So expose this and see God give you victory.
Cut off anything that feeds these desires – Soap Operas, any movie that has a hint of blue, erotic novels, pornography. These must go so that they do not belittle the value of the precious blood of Jesus that was shed for us.
The Holy Spirit is your helper. Let him help you deal with the desires and to help you take practical steps to make sure that they do not recur.
It is well and keep on living for Jesus alone.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Absolutes Are Better
All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. I Corinthians 10:23
Many years ago I took a decision to stay away from alcoholic drinks. That means whatever the case I will not drink. I didn’t take that decision because I felt it is a sin to drink alcohol. Obviously it is a sin to get drunk (tipsy is drunk!) or fall under the influence of alcohol; it is w
rong to prioritize social drinking to the detriment of taking care of the family.
But then what happens if I take a little glass of wine at a corporate dinner – that’s where I often get faced with making a choice. I don’t think it would be wrong to drink a little, but I still say NO!
Why? Because I have long learnt that ABSOLUTES ARE BETTER.
In any situation where the flesh or mind can develop a strong craving that does not glorify God, then it is better to abstain; even where a little is okay.
Very few plan to get drunk at the first sip of wine; or to become lifetime drunkards at the first mouthful of beer….
Many never plan sex at the first passionate kiss outside wedlock;
When passing on the juicy details of friends affairs; it’s hardly clear that one day your friend will get to know where the rumor started from.
I used to have problems with soap opera’s. Once I started watching, it consumed my whole attention. I dedicated the one hour of the soap to the soap alone. That translated to postponing or canceling any other appointment – official or spiritual to make sure I don’t miss any episode. The day I realized the influence on my life was too strong, I decided to stop watching them.
In life we cannot make choices based on what is right or wrong alone, but also on what is expedient and what adds value to life. Whatever doesn’t add value is best avoided.
Here is a site with interesting christian quotes. I hope you find it useful
http://www.christianquotes.org/index.php
Many years ago I took a decision to stay away from alcoholic drinks. That means whatever the case I will not drink. I didn’t take that decision because I felt it is a sin to drink alcohol. Obviously it is a sin to get drunk (tipsy is drunk!) or fall under the influence of alcohol; it is w
rong to prioritize social drinking to the detriment of taking care of the family.But then what happens if I take a little glass of wine at a corporate dinner – that’s where I often get faced with making a choice. I don’t think it would be wrong to drink a little, but I still say NO!
Why? Because I have long learnt that ABSOLUTES ARE BETTER.
In any situation where the flesh or mind can develop a strong craving that does not glorify God, then it is better to abstain; even where a little is okay.
Very few plan to get drunk at the first sip of wine; or to become lifetime drunkards at the first mouthful of beer….
Many never plan sex at the first passionate kiss outside wedlock;
When passing on the juicy details of friends affairs; it’s hardly clear that one day your friend will get to know where the rumor started from.
I used to have problems with soap opera’s. Once I started watching, it consumed my whole attention. I dedicated the one hour of the soap to the soap alone. That translated to postponing or canceling any other appointment – official or spiritual to make sure I don’t miss any episode. The day I realized the influence on my life was too strong, I decided to stop watching them.
In life we cannot make choices based on what is right or wrong alone, but also on what is expedient and what adds value to life. Whatever doesn’t add value is best avoided.
Here is a site with interesting christian quotes. I hope you find it useful
http://www.christianquotes.org/index.php
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
STEPPING INTO GOD'S REALM
Acts 17: 27-28
..so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us.; for in Him we live and move and have our being.
We often invite God to come into our lives. But isn’t He here already. Isn’t that why we call him the Omnipresent one– present everywhere at the same time. So why do we not see more of His power, direction and influence in the issues that concern us?
I think it is not really about God stepping into our realm. He is here already; it’s more about us stepping into His realm.
An analogy.
Radio stations beam into our homes 24 hours a day. You may have a radio in your room but if you don’t switch it on and then tune it to a particular station, you can’t be a part of what is being beamed.
God is near. So near, because His presence consistently gives us breath each second and He keeps us alive. But there is so much more we hardly tap into. If we don't take the time to tune into Him, we can pass through this whole life time unaware of the fact His hand is extended in friendship.
All we need to get more of God is to step into his invisible realm. Beyond our regular time of prayer and reading the bible – (Sometimes we do not give more than 15minutes in a day to this), it would also require us taking time to be constantly conscious of his presence. We would need to set aside some time of quiet, where we take note of his presence and allow an intimacy to grow. Informal communication with Him at your desk in the office, in the bathroom, while you are driving, will all add up. Offering up words of affection, thanksgiving and praise for all He has done, will make Him more real.
Do all this and don’t be surprised when you see more of God’s manifestation in your life. Healings, direction, deliverance, assignments, special wisdom, solutions are just a few of the benefits of stepping in. TRY IT!!
..so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us.; for in Him we live and move and have our being.
We often invite God to come into our lives. But isn’t He here already. Isn’t that why we call him the Omnipresent one– present everywhere at the same time. So why do we not see more of His power, direction and influence in the issues that concern us?
I think it is not really about God stepping into our realm. He is here already; it’s more about us stepping into His realm.
An analogy.
Radio stations beam into our homes 24 hours a day. You may have a radio in your room but if you don’t switch it on and then tune it to a particular station, you can’t be a part of what is being beamed.
God is near. So near, because His presence consistently gives us breath each second and He keeps us alive. But there is so much more we hardly tap into. If we don't take the time to tune into Him, we can pass through this whole life time unaware of the fact His hand is extended in friendship.
All we need to get more of God is to step into his invisible realm. Beyond our regular time of prayer and reading the bible – (Sometimes we do not give more than 15minutes in a day to this), it would also require us taking time to be constantly conscious of his presence. We would need to set aside some time of quiet, where we take note of his presence and allow an intimacy to grow. Informal communication with Him at your desk in the office, in the bathroom, while you are driving, will all add up. Offering up words of affection, thanksgiving and praise for all He has done, will make Him more real.
Do all this and don’t be surprised when you see more of God’s manifestation in your life. Healings, direction, deliverance, assignments, special wisdom, solutions are just a few of the benefits of stepping in. TRY IT!!
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
God Moves in Mysterious ways
Never ever limit God by your own wisdom or your idea of possibilities. This story told by the G.O of The Redeemed Christian church of God is funny and insightful.
Pastor Adeboye has known poverty and his stories are not complete until he mentions the fact that he wore his first pair of shoes when he was a teenager. Meanwhile, this story is about a day in which he was hungry and wanted to eat something nice for a change.
He decides to pray, “Lord, I am hungry and I have no good food to eat. I am tired of soaking Gari…Pls give me good food today.” He hung the prayer on the hook of faith.
Sometime in that village afternoon, a young girl walks into his home with a basket????
She greets him. “My mother asks me to bring this food to you sir.”
He wonders aloud. “Who is your mother?”
“Mama Lagbaja.” She responds.
He is still perplexed. “Young girl, I do not know any Mama Lagbaja, you must be at the wrong place.”
“No sir. My mother asked me to bring the food here.” He argued with her for a while but when she insists, he backs off. It wasn’t unusual in the village for people to send food round when celebrating one great event of the other. “Put the food on the table and thank your mother for me, very well.”
Immediately she left, he remembered his prayer earlier in the day. “Thank you Lord,” he whispered. He drew the table close and examined the food. It was his favourite – Pounded yam with steaming hot Egusi soup and Bush meat. “God you are too good,” he murmured again. Within a short while he had savoured every morsel of the meal. He leaned back and soon he was fast asleep.
A knock on the door woke him. It was the same girl. She must have come back to collect the plates. But why the frown on her face….
“I made a mistake." the girl lamented. " The food was for someone else. My mother said I should come and collect it back.”
“Ah, my dear, that is a costly mistake. The food is no longer available. Please apologize to your mother…..
God works in mysterious ways! So don't limit Him!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Want a Promotion?
If you want true promotion; I mean the kind that will assist you to fulfil your God given dreams/ Vision, then it can only come from God.
Many of us look to men - a friend, a boss, a Godfather for promotion. But I heard something recently that changed my view on this.
Hardly will you find a person who will promote you above himself. Therefore If you put all your trust in a person, then you have just placed a natural limitation on how far you can go.
God can take a man from the dungeon of nothingness to the limelight of glory. I remember now that my very first profitable job was by divine intervention. On resumption, someone was quick to tell me about one of the women on the interview panel who fought everyone else and insisted i be employed. This was at a time when you couldn't get a job in that company unless you had a Godfather or Godmother!
Have a blessed day!
For Promotion comes not from the East nor from the West nor from the south. But God is the judge, He puts down one and exalts another. Ps 75: 6-7.
Many of us look to men - a friend, a boss, a Godfather for promotion. But I heard something recently that changed my view on this.
Hardly will you find a person who will promote you above himself. Therefore If you put all your trust in a person, then you have just placed a natural limitation on how far you can go.
God can take a man from the dungeon of nothingness to the limelight of glory. I remember now that my very first profitable job was by divine intervention. On resumption, someone was quick to tell me about one of the women on the interview panel who fought everyone else and insisted i be employed. This was at a time when you couldn't get a job in that company unless you had a Godfather or Godmother!
Have a blessed day!
Monday, July 9, 2007
Imitating God
Ephesians 5:1 – Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.
We discussed this tall order of a scripture in teen’s church yesterday.
‘How can a mere man imitate God?’ was the question on everyone’s lips “He’s too Holy, Powerful, Glorious …”
But eventually we settled down to decode the scripture
1) First it is a commandment so it is possible. God will not command you to do something you cannot do…
2) “Dear Children” is at the end of the verse for a reason. We are called to walk in His steps just as a child does with the parents. True children don’t balk at being like their parents!
3) We have never seen him so how can we be like Him?” someone asked…. The answer is that he has revealed himself to us through
· The Bible
· What we have heard about him and
· Jesus …
4) “But we haven’t seen Jesus…,” someone else was quick to ask. “But we have read about him and we have full details of how he lived,” someone else was quick to answer.
5) And More importantly we have the Holy Spirit of God who is willing to live in us and – ; reveal God’s will, guide us into all truth and help us to live right.
6) The Christians in Antioch are a good example: They were so much like Jesus that they were called Christ-ians
Our Conclusion: We can pursue this commandment and live for God alone on a daily basis. We cannot do it by our strength alone, we depend on Him and the one who gave the commandment will also make it possible.
Stay Blessed
We discussed this tall order of a scripture in teen’s church yesterday.
‘How can a mere man imitate God?’ was the question on everyone’s lips “He’s too Holy, Powerful, Glorious …”
But eventually we settled down to decode the scripture
1) First it is a commandment so it is possible. God will not command you to do something you cannot do…
2) “Dear Children” is at the end of the verse for a reason. We are called to walk in His steps just as a child does with the parents. True children don’t balk at being like their parents!
3) We have never seen him so how can we be like Him?” someone asked…. The answer is that he has revealed himself to us through
· The Bible
· What we have heard about him and
· Jesus …
4) “But we haven’t seen Jesus…,” someone else was quick to ask. “But we have read about him and we have full details of how he lived,” someone else was quick to answer.
5) And More importantly we have the Holy Spirit of God who is willing to live in us and – ; reveal God’s will, guide us into all truth and help us to live right.
6) The Christians in Antioch are a good example: They were so much like Jesus that they were called Christ-ians
Our Conclusion: We can pursue this commandment and live for God alone on a daily basis. We cannot do it by our strength alone, we depend on Him and the one who gave the commandment will also make it possible.
Stay Blessed
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Faith is ...
Faith is when you turn to God and tell him how big your mountain is.... Then you confidently, stand with God, turn to your mountain and tell it how big your God is.
Stay Blessed
Stay Blessed
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
He is Coming
Have you noticed how, when you set a date, the day always arrives promptly and surely. No matter how far away it is, one day, that day you set will be here and it will not miss.
Jesus is coming back again and on that day we will all behold him, surely and certainly. This painting gave me the shivers of deja vu because it's just like a vision of what will be.
Mark 13:26-27 At that time men will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens.
We need to prepare for his coming because He is Coming!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
When the Music Fades
I love this song by Matt Redman and also sang by Michael W. Smith. I believe God is pleased when we go beyond the theatrics of a song and actually touch His heart
When the music fades
All is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that's of worth
That will bless Your heart
I bring You more than a song
For a song in itself is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You It's all about You,
JesusI'm sorry Lord for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You
It's all about You, Jesus
King of endless worth
No one could express
How much You deserve
Though I'm weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath
When the music fades
All is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that's of worth
That will bless Your heart
I bring You more than a song
For a song in itself is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You It's all about You,
JesusI'm sorry Lord for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You
It's all about You, Jesus
King of endless worth
No one could express
How much You deserve
Though I'm weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath
Called to be like Him
It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians. (Acts 11:26) Why? They were so much like Christ that it was unbelievable. In character, in words and in power, they lived just like Jesus. They did not call themselves Christians, the non-believers did!
How different this is from our generation. Today, we call ourselves Christians but the unbelievers do not believe. They hardly see the character of Jesus in us; they hardly see the power, they hardly see any difference.
I am not saying that we are not different: we are! But they do not see it and if they don’t, then how will they come to embrace the salvation of God. It is so sad, that some of us are comfortable with being worldly. Today, unfortunately, some Christians give and take bribes; steal from their employers; flout the laws of the land; get angry without restraint; fornicate; look down with pride on those that God has by His grace lifted them above; all without a second thought.
The world looks and sneers. How sad! Some Christians even join the world to make fun of others!
Many times I wonder how God feels. No one is perfect, but He has given us the power to live holy lives. Most often the decision on how we live day by day is ours.
Let us remember that Jesus called us the light of the world. If we don’t shine, the world cannot see Him. God forbid that our character or way of life should be a stumbling block to those who would otherwise have found Christ. Amen!
How different this is from our generation. Today, we call ourselves Christians but the unbelievers do not believe. They hardly see the character of Jesus in us; they hardly see the power, they hardly see any difference.
I am not saying that we are not different: we are! But they do not see it and if they don’t, then how will they come to embrace the salvation of God. It is so sad, that some of us are comfortable with being worldly. Today, unfortunately, some Christians give and take bribes; steal from their employers; flout the laws of the land; get angry without restraint; fornicate; look down with pride on those that God has by His grace lifted them above; all without a second thought.
The world looks and sneers. How sad! Some Christians even join the world to make fun of others!
Many times I wonder how God feels. No one is perfect, but He has given us the power to live holy lives. Most often the decision on how we live day by day is ours.
Let us remember that Jesus called us the light of the world. If we don’t shine, the world cannot see Him. God forbid that our character or way of life should be a stumbling block to those who would otherwise have found Christ. Amen!
Friday, June 15, 2007
But Jesus did get angry...
True.
I also had to reconcile this in my mind as i studied the times that Jesus exhibited anger and this is what i discovered.
Jesus' anger was never to defend self. He was insulted, doubted, persecuted, spit upon, crucified but he was never angry for these personal reasons.
But He really got upset when anyone offended God. Like the traders who decided to set up shop in God's holy temple, or the pharisees who gave the people impossible laws to follow, or when the mother of James and John lobbied for a heavenly seat for their son. He spoke harshly to the pharisees when they blasphemed against the Holy Spirit.
Most of the reasons we get angry are selfish. Sometimes it can't be avoided but then it must be put aside immediately and it must be resolved before the sun goes down.
It will do us good to follow Jesus' example.
I also had to reconcile this in my mind as i studied the times that Jesus exhibited anger and this is what i discovered.
Jesus' anger was never to defend self. He was insulted, doubted, persecuted, spit upon, crucified but he was never angry for these personal reasons.
But He really got upset when anyone offended God. Like the traders who decided to set up shop in God's holy temple, or the pharisees who gave the people impossible laws to follow, or when the mother of James and John lobbied for a heavenly seat for their son. He spoke harshly to the pharisees when they blasphemed against the Holy Spirit.
Most of the reasons we get angry are selfish. Sometimes it can't be avoided but then it must be put aside immediately and it must be resolved before the sun goes down.
It will do us good to follow Jesus' example.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Ousting Anger
I have often heard an angry man (or woman) justify their anger by quoting the scripture in Ephesians 4:26 that says, “Be angry, but sin not…. .
But did God really give us this scripture to promote regular bouts of anger. I think not. Anger is an emotion by which we show how much we are displeased with a person or a situation. It easily gives birth to raised voices in heated rebukes and abuse; physical attack; hate, malice, and even murder. With this kind of offspring I believe that God would want us to do away with anger completely. Hear His word….
Eph 4:31 –Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice
- Clearly, God does not support anger
Col 3:8 – But now, you yourself are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice…
- This is a commandment
James 1: 20 – For the wrath of man does not promote God’s Righteousness
It never does
Prov 29: 22 – An angry man stirs up strife and a furious man abounds in transgression.
Anger translates to sin. Simple!
And lastly the full rendition of our text…Eph 4:26 Be angry and do not sin, do not let the sun go down on your anger.
How easy is it to be angry and not sin?
How easy is it to put away your anger before the sun goes down? Especially if you become angry by say 5p.m. in the evening.
So let’s put away anger completely especially if you want to stay away from sin and if you want to promote God’s righteousness alone.
But did God really give us this scripture to promote regular bouts of anger. I think not. Anger is an emotion by which we show how much we are displeased with a person or a situation. It easily gives birth to raised voices in heated rebukes and abuse; physical attack; hate, malice, and even murder. With this kind of offspring I believe that God would want us to do away with anger completely. Hear His word….
Eph 4:31 –Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice
- Clearly, God does not support anger
Col 3:8 – But now, you yourself are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice…
- This is a commandment
James 1: 20 – For the wrath of man does not promote God’s Righteousness
It never does
Prov 29: 22 – An angry man stirs up strife and a furious man abounds in transgression.
Anger translates to sin. Simple!
And lastly the full rendition of our text…Eph 4:26 Be angry and do not sin, do not let the sun go down on your anger.
How easy is it to be angry and not sin?
How easy is it to put away your anger before the sun goes down? Especially if you become angry by say 5p.m. in the evening.
So let’s put away anger completely especially if you want to stay away from sin and if you want to promote God’s righteousness alone.
Monday, May 28, 2007
What's your Networth
Luke 12:15
And Jesus said… “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses
I read this yesterday evening and almost did a double take. If I wasn’t sure this was a direct word from Jesus’ lips I would have glossed it over and turned to the next page. Rather, I kept my finger on that page, closed the bible and stepped into thought land.
I would have thought otherwise, a person’s life does seem to consist of the things we have.
Don’t we wake up in the morning, with one thought in our heads of how we are going to make more money; build a new house; buy that classy car or get that new job? And once we achieve that level don’t we begin to desire the next salary raise, a better car, a larger house, the latest mobile phone. Don’t we respect those who display abundance of wealth without any regard for how they made it? Don’t we cut down on church fellowship and daily bible study because our work demands more of our attention? Don’t Christians sometimes lie, cheat and stab a close friend for the sake of some more ‘possessions’.
This is underscored by the story of a young man who decided to leave his lucrative joy and follow God’s clear leading into full-time Ministry. His Mother could not shed enough tears. She felt that in spite of her prayers her husband’s family had finally gotten through to her son’s star!
The way we go about it, it does seem that the more we possess, the more life we have. The more money the more power; and power can be sweet..
If the value of our lives is not based on the things we possess as Jesus said, then what should our daily priorities be? Should we take another look at how to calculate our networth?
What do you, think? I'll like to hear your views
And Jesus said… “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses
I read this yesterday evening and almost did a double take. If I wasn’t sure this was a direct word from Jesus’ lips I would have glossed it over and turned to the next page. Rather, I kept my finger on that page, closed the bible and stepped into thought land.
I would have thought otherwise, a person’s life does seem to consist of the things we have.
Don’t we wake up in the morning, with one thought in our heads of how we are going to make more money; build a new house; buy that classy car or get that new job? And once we achieve that level don’t we begin to desire the next salary raise, a better car, a larger house, the latest mobile phone. Don’t we respect those who display abundance of wealth without any regard for how they made it? Don’t we cut down on church fellowship and daily bible study because our work demands more of our attention? Don’t Christians sometimes lie, cheat and stab a close friend for the sake of some more ‘possessions’.
This is underscored by the story of a young man who decided to leave his lucrative joy and follow God’s clear leading into full-time Ministry. His Mother could not shed enough tears. She felt that in spite of her prayers her husband’s family had finally gotten through to her son’s star!
The way we go about it, it does seem that the more we possess, the more life we have. The more money the more power; and power can be sweet..
If the value of our lives is not based on the things we possess as Jesus said, then what should our daily priorities be? Should we take another look at how to calculate our networth?
What do you, think? I'll like to hear your views
Thursday, May 24, 2007
The Best Offering
Imagine that you have the option of a Fatty Lamb without Blemish and a basket of fruit. You decide to give an offering to the Lord and you wonder which one….
That was the dilemma that Cain and Abel faced in chapter 4 of the book of Genesis. Cain did give the basket of Fruit and Abel gave the lamb without blemish.
God accepted Abel’s offering which was made up of the firstborn of his flock and their fat; but rejected Cain’s offering of fruit.
How can we know the will of God? How do we take decisions that will please him?
It is instructive to know that about 2000 years later in Lev chapter 1-3, God gave detailed instructions on the type of offering acceptable to him. You guessed right - The flock and the fat: V.16 specifically says – all the fat belongs to the Lord.
How did Abel know, even before the law was given?
I think it had to do with his heart. His heart was right and he wanted to please God regardless of his desires or what anyone thought.
Cain’s first and only consideration was himself.
The follow up events prove this. When Cain’s sacrifice was rejected, he was angry and at the first opportunity he killed Abel and became the first murderer on the earth. So obviously, there was a problem with his heart and his desires.
Beyond the actual sacrifice God looks at the heart. What you have left after you have given is more important than how much you give. God loves a cheerful giver rather than a grumbling giver.
Are you agonising over a decision, you just don't know what to do. When our heart is right we become open to hearing and receiving His instructions on what to do and what decision to take. Especially if our whole desire is to do His will not ours.
That was the dilemma that Cain and Abel faced in chapter 4 of the book of Genesis. Cain did give the basket of Fruit and Abel gave the lamb without blemish.
God accepted Abel’s offering which was made up of the firstborn of his flock and their fat; but rejected Cain’s offering of fruit.
How can we know the will of God? How do we take decisions that will please him?
It is instructive to know that about 2000 years later in Lev chapter 1-3, God gave detailed instructions on the type of offering acceptable to him. You guessed right - The flock and the fat: V.16 specifically says – all the fat belongs to the Lord.
How did Abel know, even before the law was given?
I think it had to do with his heart. His heart was right and he wanted to please God regardless of his desires or what anyone thought.
Cain’s first and only consideration was himself.
The follow up events prove this. When Cain’s sacrifice was rejected, he was angry and at the first opportunity he killed Abel and became the first murderer on the earth. So obviously, there was a problem with his heart and his desires.
Beyond the actual sacrifice God looks at the heart. What you have left after you have given is more important than how much you give. God loves a cheerful giver rather than a grumbling giver.
Are you agonising over a decision, you just don't know what to do. When our heart is right we become open to hearing and receiving His instructions on what to do and what decision to take. Especially if our whole desire is to do His will not ours.
Keep On Living For Him
Elizabeth and Zachariah had obviously given up hope of having a baby. She was probably about 60yrs and so what was the point of continuing to believe.
But they both kept on loving God and living blamelessly for Him. Zachariah diligently kept at his priestly duties. And one day God showed up while he was serving. God's angel came in Lk 1:13 and said:
"Do not be afraid, Zachariah, for your prayer is heard and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son..."
And 9 months later, they did have a baby.
The key lesson to learn here is that God is not limited by the passing of time. As we diligently do his work, he will surely reward and we can keep on believing that He is able and willing to do exceedingly more than we can ever ask or think.
But they both kept on loving God and living blamelessly for Him. Zachariah diligently kept at his priestly duties. And one day God showed up while he was serving. God's angel came in Lk 1:13 and said:
"Do not be afraid, Zachariah, for your prayer is heard and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son..."
And 9 months later, they did have a baby.
The key lesson to learn here is that God is not limited by the passing of time. As we diligently do his work, he will surely reward and we can keep on believing that He is able and willing to do exceedingly more than we can ever ask or think.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Do not let impossibilities intimidate you
And with God nothing shall be impossible Luke 1: 37.
I believe the tense of this quote is deliberate. It is a word for those who believe that the era of the miraculous ended with the bible days. But this word gives us a reason to believe that today, tomorrow and all through my future, God can make impossibilities possible.
Are you faced with one?
The first step is to believe. Where you have lost hope, turn this simple verse over in your mind a million times. Next is to give God our attention. This generation is so distracted, its unbelievable. Evidence has shown that those who receive miracles are those who take the time to look towards him. Maybe that is another reason why we don't see the much of the miraculous today; many of us are too busy.
God is real and His power is real for you; even today!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
The Power in God's Word
I have been planning to do this for a long time but thank God's it's starting today. On this blog I will be sharing with you whatever God speaks to my heart as I listen day by day.
The bible is so deep and vast that one life time is definitely not enough for one person to get it all... So we don't have a choice but to work as a team.
See you tomorrow
The bible is so deep and vast that one life time is definitely not enough for one person to get it all... So we don't have a choice but to work as a team.
See you tomorrow
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