Sunday, December 15, 2013

Count your blessings #thankful #2014

When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Refrain
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
Refrain
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
Refrain
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey's end.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Wait...

What are you waiting for? It is November.  A great testimony abound for us! Things around you might make you want to doubt.  But don't.  Hold on to God's word and wait...

"Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, does not faint or grow weary; there is no searching of His understanding.
He gives power to the faint and weary, and to him who has no might He increases strength [causing it to multiply and making it to abound].
Even youths shall faint and be weary, and [selected] young men shall feebly stumble and fall exhausted;
But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired."
(Isaiah 40:28-31 Amplified Bible (AMP)) HAPPY NEW MONTH FOLKS!! Rejoice! Have joy!!

Saturday, October 19, 2013

Riding hobbyhorses? Or Preaching Christ?

"So many preachers get off onto one thing and ride it like a hobbyhorse. Some get off on women's dress. That's all they ever preach about- and dressing one way or the other will not get you to heaven, or send you to hell. You need to preach Jesus, get the people saved and filled with the Holy Ghost, and let the Lord tell them what to do. Don't fight other denominations. Don't fight fellow Christians, just preach Jesus, the Cross, the Blood and the Resurrection. I've learned God will meet people I never thought He'd reach, because their hearts are hungry. I don't preach against anything, I preach for something. " Sister Maria Woodworth-Etter, minister during the early days of the Pentecostal Movement in the twentieth century.

Culled from "the WOMAN QUESTION" by Kenneth E. HAGIN.





"Empowered to lead by serving!"

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Six reasons why we go to Church

There is a place for personal worship and there is a place for corporate worship. We are counselled not to forsake the gathering of other Christians. That is, don't shirk corporate worship!
Here are 6 reasons why it is important to go to church (shared by Pastor Ovie of Christ Embassy Church, Lafia):
1. To fellowship with the brethren and fellowship with God through Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit.
2. To receive instructions in righteousness.
3. To receive information in the Kingdom. These are informations that will take us to the next level.
4. To be strengthened in the inner man.
5. To worship God in psalms, hymns, with our substance.
6. We come to church to receive cleansing, by the utterance of the Word and the ministration during service.
I'll add: going to church should be an experience, not a task or another activity we just check-off our to-do lists.
Are you going to church today? Go with an expectation. God will not fail you!
Shalom.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

20 Things Every Woman In Her 20s Must Know

1. Love and honour your mother. Learn from her mistakes. It will save you a lot of headache in your thirties (30s) and beyond.

2. You are more talented than you'll ever know. You don't need to sleep with your Boss/supervisor to get a promotion at work or better grades at school. Burn late night candles, put extra time to study and practice until you master your skill. Hard work still pays well.

3. Women can build a strong support network. Don't let few ladies with "Pull Her Down" syndrome discourage you from cultivating true relationship with your female friends.

4. When a man you meet for the first time babbles about how much he earns working for an oil company and how rich he is, that is a red flag. He is either a married smooth-talker who just wants to sleep with you or he is childish. Walk away from deceit.

5. Make your own money. Start small. Maintain a stable bank account. It will keep you out of trouble.

6. When you meet your Soulmate, don't forget to wear your most priceless ornament- submission and humility. But while waiting for him, don't cling to any man to rescue you. Some men these days are also seeking for who will rescue them.

7. Know your body. Look at yourself in front of a full-length mirror at least once a week, naked and after clothed. Know your body and how it works.

8. Life is a gift. But to revel in it, you must be ready to put a lot into nurturing your gifts/talents and skills. Start early.

9. Teenage ended at 19. Clocking 20 means doing away with childish behaviour. But it does not mean you should forget to have fun.

10. Learn the basic skills and let yourself grow- from how to keep your underwear clean, cook, socialize, and network to how to drive a car.

11. Don't do drugs. It kills. Read books, its fortifies. Dance as often as you can, it liberates your spirit, soul and body.

12. Learn to laugh at yourself. It is a good way to build a healthy self-esteem.

13. Eat healthy. Learn to cook for yourself. Don't rely on noodles alone. The cooking skill will be useful in future.

14. Don't give up when you fail. Try again. And again. Then, try another legit way. Don't give up on education/learning.

15. Fear of the future is just that- a fear. It is a state of mind you must learn to tame. Don't let fear pull the carpet from under your feet. The Holy Bible tells us that God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind.

16. Let go of past hurts. You cannot move forward if you keep looking back. Holding on to bitter experiences and regrets will stale your future.

17. Learn to exhale, love deeply and be kind to others, especially those of low estate, and the lowest of low.

18. You are beautiful the way you are. Don't compare yourself to others.

19. Partnership builds bridges. Don't ever forget that.

20. Prayer is the master key. Have faith in God and always have the courage to use your voice wisely. Dream bigger.

Bonus: Enjoy the highs and lows that come with being in your 20s but don't be afraid to grow older. Live life to the fullest and don't forget to smile!
___________________________

Source: OUTSPOKEN: 20 Things Every Woman In Her 20s Must Know. http://www.femmelounge.org/jennifer-ehidiamen-20-things-every-woman-in-her-20s-must-know-outspoken/

Saturday, September 14, 2013

Who is an Excellent Woman?

Minister: Mrs Nepthali Gladys
Event: NCCF Sisters' conference, Nasarawa Eggon
September 14, 2013

Who is an excellent woman?

An excellent woman is a near- or perfect woman in all things. She learns through life as she grows.

Proverbs 31:29

-- Praising an excellent woman is not a right and it does not come early. Note Proverbs 31:11-12 came before Proverbs 31:29.

-- An excellent woman is a planner. Proverbs 31:15
When you plan well, you will not be busy and guilty at the same time. Your role as daughter, sister, wife, mother, business woman etc will not clash. When it does, you'll have the wisdom to handle it right.

-- Being an excellent woman is not about the money.

-- Being an excellent woman is not automaric. You must be determined. Proverbs 31:16

-- An excellent woman is humble, irrespective of her background. She does not look down on her husband. Proverbs 31:23.

-- An excellent woman is not lazy, both spiritually and physically. Proverbs 31:17; Proverbs 31:25; Ephesians 6:10, 14, Proverbs 31:10.

-- An excellent woman is beautiful inside out. Proverbs 31:22; 1Peter3:2-4; Psalm 1:3.

-- An excellent woman is gentle and quiet. She is not arguementative. Proverbs 31:26.

-- An excellent woman prays and teaches her children the same value.

-- An excellent woman is hospitable. Proverbs 31:20.

-- An excellent woman trusts in the Lord.

-- An excellent woman accepts her.wrong and makes correction.

-- An excellent woman is a role model. Titus 2:3-5.

-- An excellent woman is a preacher of God's word. She studies the word and meditates on it. Her root grows deep. Psalm 1:3

-- An excellent woman is not in a rush to hear her husband call her an excellent woman. Proverbs 31:28-29.

---- May God send us a man after His own heart.

Amen.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Sex, Sex, Sex: Can we really abstain or stick to one partner? What does the Bible say about sex before marriage?

I have been mulling over Romans 12:1 for a while now. That is because I got a very fresh perspective on the verse.
Growing up, I've always been told to abstain from pre-marital sex. As a matter of fact, I did ask those who gave the advice why many times ;-) That is a story for another day. But as I mature in the things of faith, I'm begining to understand these issues from a fresh perspective.
Abstaining from all forms of sexual immorality- pre-martial sex/fornication, adultery, philandering and it likes will save us a lot of heartaches. We won't be exposed to all manners of sexually transmitted infections and diseases. Have you seen the statistics lately? Abstinence will also give us rest of mind. We won't need to look-over our shoulders or frantically clean up traces to fake a reputation. Most importantly, abstinence from sexual immorality is our way of showing gratitude to God for His unending love and mercy towards us.
Abstinence is not false purity. Trust me, it appears harder these days because it has become almost a norm to be sexually active outside marriage. It is hard when you are sorrounded by the seeming "glory" of temptation and pleasures of sin. But what is a 3 minute of pleasure compared to an immeasurable consecrated lifestyle that honors God? When God says He will honor those who honor Him, He will! Yes, He sees the sacrifices we make. He does honor!
Here is how 'the woman's study bible' captures it: The believer is not to be modeled by the pressures of the sinful world. We are to experience a transformation, a new way of thinking made possible through the power of the Holy Spirit.
When next you are face to face with a lure to bend over for a few minutes of pleasure, run! Don't stand and expect to fight it down. Ask Joseph :-) He'll tell you same thing- run, flee! (Genesis 39:6-12). Joseph honored God and he (Joseph) was elevated. Ask any historian the pivotal role Joseph played in Israel's prosperity. So you see, that act positions you for trans-generational manifestation. But don't get me wrong, this is not a way to bribe God, condemn others or try to appear holier than thou. It is a lifestyle. Your business.
Abstinence from all forms of sexual immorality is a GREAT way to worship God. It HONORS Him.
See Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 6:18-20; Genesis 39:6-12.
Some of us might have fallen short. But today is a great day to start afresh! Pray for forgiveness and ask God for the enabling grace to honor Him with all of you. When we repent, it means consciously retracing our steps and  following a new direction. Don't allow anyone or anything pull you back to the old habits.
It is possible to abstain from sex if you are not married. It is possible to be faithful to ONE partner if you are married. It is a conscious decision we have to make. Don't deny yourself the opportunity to express your gratitude by honoring God with your body, revel in Him!
"...Lust is lost.
But he'll return
and find no room
in my cleansed robe.
No viper in my bosom.
My crown is restored unto honor.
Lushly virtuous,
and at peace, I am royalty."
I write this to you as I write it to myself. Life is learning and growing.
Praise God!

Sunday, September 1, 2013

What was preached at your church this morning?


I was scrolling through my FaceBook timeline this morning when updates from The Father's House page caught my attention.

Friends, the topic that was being preached was titled, "The Great Commission (Evangelism)." As I read through the different posts on the main page, I realized how similar it was to what was preached at Christ Embassy Lafia (where I worship) earlier this morning.

I'm like, wow!! Exact same thing being preached in two different churches in two different states on the same day?

The text we read in church was taken from Matthew 5:13-16 and Ezekiel 33:1-9.

Our mandate as Christians is to preach the gospel, salt the lives of others, shine our light and win souls for Christ! We are set as watch men.

Remember Christ's instruction? In one word, we are to GO...! Mark 16:15-20.

Nations are for the asking... Psalm 2:8.

No more slacking! Start at your own Jerusalem (sphere of influence). Don't keep the truth & goodness of God to yourself.

May God grant us the grace and boldness we need to propagate His word!

Keep shining!!

Sunday, August 11, 2013

If I was a pastor... Or just as I am...

One of my brothers once asked me what I'll like to see in a church (or something related). I think my response was that I'll like to see today's church become a true place of fellowship. Not a gathering of people who are so self-absorbed about their business they forget to smile at the person sitting next to them. Not a place we hurry in and hurry out weekly. Unless we really need to.

I do not expect us to come to church service pretending to be perfect. There was a time I used to expect that. But one day it dawned on me that most people who come to church are like me: imperfect beings seeking a place to refuel and just lay it all bare before God in worship, in the company of non-judgemental brethren.

These days I walk into church expecting that I don't come out the same way. I come out refreshed.

I think church these days need to conciously remember to keep their activities God-centered and not pastor-centered. I expect worship service to hold smoothly even if the pastors are not around. The choir members should be able to lead worship in a way that the sick will receive total healing and the hard-hearted will be broken and embrace Christ fully. Worship service should not depend on pastors alone. Every worker in church should be a minister. From the usher to the choir mistress, God should move mightily through these vessels and impact lives of those who come to worship.

I once heard an elder tell a pastor not to assume that everyone who come to church is born again. Some Pastors are sometimes in a hurry to double the number of their members that they don't remember to make altar-calls or feel the pulse of their congregation. This explain the reason we have people in the choir who are not born again. Or why people leave service feeling indifferent or as empty as they came in.

The church should be an awesome place of worship not a place to showoff one's latest pair of shoe. But of course it is important to come looking good, not slotful or haggard. Remember how much King Solomon spent in building the temple? How he used only the best of the best resources? Well, if our bodies are the temple of God I expect us to dress it up in our best, to honor God not oppress others. The content that go in e.g. food we eat, books we read, movies we watch should be only the best. Our bodies should honor and glorify God.

Today I did not go to church. I was upset I woke up late and hated the idea of walking into church halfway through the service. I tell myself to learn to treat God's business seriously. If we dare not walk in late to work on weekdays why feel it is okay to be late for church service? Or worse not even showup because it rained?

Well, I hear one day the religious practice of sunday-sunday gathering might become difficult due to attacks on church buildings et al. So we must cultivate the culture of ensuring our lives shine forth the glory of God in us wherever we go. And we must not wait for sundays only to fellowship with our brethren. We must not wait for pastor's instruction before we preach the gospel and pray for others. We must not wait for only Sundays to be Christ-like. Wherever we find ourselves, whatever day of the week, others should be able to see Christ Jesus reflect in us and through us.

May God deliver us from false purity. May God help us not to be a generation of creed without substance or seed. May God's word come alive in us and through us to influence others positively. May we worship God in spirit and in truth. May God preserve our saltiness.

Arise, shine and keep shining (make positive impact)! Praise God!

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Desperate for change? Encourage Yourself, Attain New Level!

David, a strong warrior one day came to his wits end. He cried with his men (soldiers). He was devasted to find his land in ruin and his people (including his wives) have been taken into captivity by the Amalekites. David's men turned against him and were thinking about stoning David to death.

Are you at your wits end? Does it look like nothing is working around you? Have friends turned their backs on you and tagged you with all manners of names? Are things falling apart? Ruined? Are you desperate for change?

Victory is certain!

Here is what we can learn from David:

First, like David, you have to learn how to encourage yourself in the Lord. Quit looking for the approval of men or friends. No one might encourage you. So draw wisdom from David's story and encourage yourself.

1Samuel 30:6
"...But David encouraged himself in the Lord"

Another translation says, "...But David found strength in the LORD his God."

"...But he felt the LORD God giving him strength."

You might be wondering, but how can I do this when I have lost it all. The first step is to speak the word of God into your life by faith! Confess it! Bring to remembrance what God has promised you in His word!

For example, you might be depressed because you are broke and in desperate need. But Psalm 23:1 says "You, LORD, are my Shepherd. I will never be in need." God's plan for you is for you never to lack. Philippians 4:19.

Speak the Word by faith and not be sight. Encourage yourself in the LORD!

God will begin to open your eyes and direct you towards restoration. He will direct you tobyour solution. David understood the power of God's divine direction. He sought God's face and God told him what to do.

The same God who strengthened David and restored all him and his men lost is still alive and at work today! He changes not.

Are you willing to let God strengthen you in this month of new begining (August) and help you recover all? Then pray and ask God to direct you to your solution. Ask God to grant you grace to obey.

Psalm 32:8 says, "You said to me, 'I will point out the road that you should follow. I will be your teacher and watch over you.'"

Isaiah 30:21 says, "Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, "This is the way you should go," whether to the right or to the left."

May God open our eyes of understanding and help us obey His leading. May God send us a helper! 1 Samuel 30:11-16. As unassuming as the Egyptian was, it was through him David found the camp of the Amalekites. Don't despise a solution God leads you to because it does not look like it. May God grant us a discerning spirit!

David and his men recovered all they lost and much more! God was with them!

Dear friends, as God's gracious hand begins to move mightyly upon us, may we not become selfish and despise those with whom we once struggled.

David's men almost fell into that trap. 1 Samuel 30:22-26. Do not despise others when things begin to work out- because things are going to work!

Isaiah 43:18-19. God is doing something new in us and through us! Enlarge your tent because the harvest is huge! Isaiah 54:2.

"Fear not! You will no longer live in shame." Isaiah 54:4.

Are you ready to give gifts to others around you? Be prepared to make a long list because God is restoring all that you have lost! 1 Samuel 30:27-31.

Don't be afraid for the Lord has done great things! Joel 2:18-21.

There is a God! Don't let thanksgiving cease from your lips!

Our Lord Jesus Christ has given us victory!! Praise God!!

Saturday, July 27, 2013

Does anybody want to pray with me?

Last week, we studied the book of Nehemiah in our NCCF Bible-study. A very powerful testimony about a man who is an epitome of visionarian, selflessness, goal-oriented and God-fearing. More on this later.

Out of curiousity, I started reading the book of Ezra last night. I'm told the two books used to be one. As I got to chapter 2, I was about to jump to the next chapter when three verses caught my attention.

You see, this chapter of Ezra focused on giving account of the list of people who returned back from exile. So it listed names, numbers etc.

However, in verses 61-63 of Ezra Chapter 2, we are introduced to the three families of priests whose genealogical record could not be found. This led to their disqualification from the priesthood.

Ezra 2:61-63:
"The families of Habaiah, Hakkoz, and Barzillai could not prove that they were priests. The ancestor of the family of Barzillai had married the daughter of Barzillai from Gilead and had taken his wife's name. But the records of these three families could not be found, and none of them were allowed to serve as priests. In fact, the governor told them, "You cannot eat the food offered to God until we find out if you really are priests."

Friends, their story ended in that verse. The next verse that followed did not record the outcome of the investigation. Was their record found and their priesthood restored?

I slept on this and woke up early hours of this morning with an urge to pray. Would you like to pray with me? Here are the prayer points:

1. Repentance: Lord if there is any way I might have derailed from you, I repent. Forgive me, purify me and grant me your grace to live above sin.
Lord, do not let me suffer any setback because of the sins of my ancestors. I declare that I'm a new creature in Christ! (Psalm 79:8).

2. Restoration: Lord Jesus, have mercy and restore your favor upon me and my family. Restore unto us the joy of your salvation. When the accusser(s) come with a list to condemn us before you and men, let the blood of Jesus answer in our stead. I declare there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus! (2 Corinthians 5:21).
3. Lord, remember us for good. In our workplace/school, let us not suffer any setback. Where there have been cases of missing records, let there be restoration. Where men are plotting to deny us what is ours, Lord God let their plotting be in vain. (Isaiah 54:17).

4. Every decree that has been uttered against me and my family, Lord let there be a reversal in Jesus name! Instead of curses, I receive blessings because God's hand is upon me! Let policies of government and those in authority work in our favor! (Numbers 23:20-23).

5. Lord, let your light shine through us like never before. Let us not be found wanting in our place of primary assignment/in our God-given vision. Give us boldness to influence others into God's Kingdom. Grant us the grace to be a living example! (1 Timothy 4:12).

Thank God for answered prayer!

Praise God for liberation! Praise God for victory!

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Be connected & Stay connected!

"A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of." John 10:10 (MSG).

The devil and his agents have a goal to steal, to kill and destroy. This means nothing good comes out by associating with them. This also mean no matter how good they seem to offer, nothing good will come out of it.

Jesus Christ has a goal to give us life in abundance. Everything good comes from Him. Why, which will you rather embrace? The thief who wants to steal, kill and destroy? Or the Prince of peace and redeemer who wants us to have life in abundance?

Saturday, June 15, 2013

FREE DOWNLOAD - EMJOY - "DANCE ELELE" & "JAMALO SHAMALO (KEEP IT GOING)"


Here's brand new music from rising gospel artist eMJOY (artist bio below).

Dance Elele is a jam for you to literally jump and dance to. It has that European dance genre sound to it, as well African bongo drums running through to bring it home. On "Elele" eMJOY shares a testimony of being saved by Jesus, from peril in this world. And the word "elele" means "to the fullest" as eMJOY defines it, although it's a commonly used Nigerian street slang with a variety of interpretations.

Lyrics can be found at emjoy.bandcamp.com, eMJOY's music site, where listeners can get a free download alongside the second release, Jamalo Shamalo (Keep It going).

Jamalo Shamalo is more of a relaxed tone song which you can still bob your head to. Lots of African bongo drums pervade it but a constant beat on which eMJOY tries to pour his heart out, articulating his conviction of triumph through constant let downs. Here, he believes in God. That regardless of what comes his way, he chooses to "let's go (Jamalo), keep it going (Shamalo), keep following the Father (Je ka Ma Baba Lo)" as you hear in Yoruba language just before each chorus comes in. Taymie is the gracefully vocally endowed singer assisting on the chorus. 

Emjoy Channel:


Artist Bio

eMJOY is an emerging independent gospel rap artist born (July, 1988) and raised in Nigeria, yet currently residing in Toronto, Canada, schooling. His government name is Mayowa Adebajo; Mayowa meaning 'God has brought joy', from which he coined his stage name. eMJOY has been writing and rapping from a very young age (around 10 years old); performing at high school and university events occasionally, but he began his music career in 2010 recording and publishing singles like "New Nigeria Spirit" and so on. In 2011, he released his first body of work online- the YGMVTECH mixtape which included fan-favorite 'Gracias, Ose, Merci', to satisfactorily favorable response. Writer on Rapzilla.com and Imadeintruth.com, Imade, says, "Emjoy knows how to take a pop cultural reference, flip it on its head, and use it to give glory to God. Emjoy's spiritual cleverness makes him an emcee to look out for." Lalaboiy of Notjustok.com says, "...different and unique and has the replay factor." 

You can connect eMJOY online at:
Twitter: @emjoytruly
websites: emjoychannel.com and www.emjoy.bandcamp.com (for free music downloads, and more music)
emjoychannel@live.ca - email for bookings and inquiries


Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Do what you love. Love what you do. #HappyWorkersDay #May1

"A man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?" Ecc 2:24-25.

http://goo.gl/eC41I

"I know the best thing we can do is to always enjoy life, because God's gift to us is the happiness we get from our food and drink and from the work we do." Ecc 3:12-13.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Love is a verb and more..

Love is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud or rude. Love isn't selfish or quick tempered. It doesn't keep a record of wrongs that others do.
Love rejoices in the truth, but not in evil.

Love is always supportive, loyal, hopeful and trusting. Love never fails!

I corinthians 13:4-8

Friday, March 29, 2013

Be Born Again. What Does It Really Mean? (Knowing is not enough)

We often quote John 3:16. But how many times do we really take time to sit and read the verses that precede that verse in the chapter?

The story was told of Nicodemus, a member of the ruling Jewish council (a religious leader), who came to Jesus at night for a heart-to-heart talk. He said to Jesus, "We all know that God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you,"

From Nicodemus' statement, we can see that he is knowledgable about who Jesus is. But that knowledge alone is not enough. Jesus told him directly, "Unless you are born again (born from above), you cannot see the Kingdom of God."

Nicodemus exclaimed,  "What does that mean? How can an old man like me go back into my mother's womb to be born again?"

Here is what Jesus told him in response:
“Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” John 3:5-8.

Again, Nicodemus asked, “How can this be?” It is very important to ask questions when in doubt. Nicodemus wanted clarification on what Jesus meant by the above response. It was in the process of further explanation that Jesus made the statement that has today become a popular text in the Christendom and even among everyone:
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." John 3:16-17.
As a child, one of the early lessons I learnt as a Christian was the importance of being born again. I was told it starts with confessing my sins, repenting and accepting Jesus Christ as my Lord and saviour. Then, there was the conscious decision to be baptized by water, which represents dying with Christ and resurrecting to a new life in Christ and baptism of  the Holy Spirit, which comes with the evidence of speaking in tongues.

But the above should not just stop as "to do" activities we check off.

Recently, I was filling a form while joining a department in a church fellowship. One of the questions that was asked was something like, "Are you born again?" "If yes, what does it mean?"

At first, I gave the automated response, "Being born again means repenting of your sins and accepting Jesus as your Lord and savior."

Any young christian would give such response, right? But as I read and reflected on my response, I felt the superficiality in it. Something inside of me for the first time questioned my christianity and so-called status of being born again. I knew there was more to it than I was embracing.

So, here I am, sharing my testimony. Being born again starts with repenting of one's sins and confessing Christ as our Lord and Saviour. It does not end there. We must live to emulate Christ, not just because the word "Christian" means Christ-Like. But we cannot emulate or be like someone we do not know. So, we have to study the Bible to be knowledgeable and empowered to spread the gospel to others and be able to stand in the day of battle. We must also be baptized in water and in the spirit. We cannot afford to be all creed without substance or seed! God is able to reveal His glory in us and through us! Embrace the salvation in Christ fully and see your life bloom!

We must not mix up religion with salvation. Nicodemus, who came to Jesus was a religious leader. If religiosity was all we needed, Christ would not have told Nicodemus about salvation. These days, it is easy to get carried away with religious activities and forget the true essence of salvation. That is why we find an acute church-goer who claims to love Jesus but hate his/her brother. How can you say you love Jesus and hate your brother...? (remember that song?).

Don't get me wrong, fellowship with brethren must not be forsaken. But like Pastor Tunde Bakare use to say, Make sure you know God for yourself. Meaning, know who God is...ask Him to reveal Himself to you... study the word so no one can confuse you when they dilute the word with human philosophy. Seek the truth like Nicodemus did, know it and let the truth set you free from all religious bondage. By attending a Bible-believing church, you are able to hear the word and grow in your faith. Also, ask your pastor or church leader how you can be baptized in water and in the spirit.

Thanks for reading this blog post! So, are you born again?

Check Point
"For all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet now God in his gracious kindness declares us not guilty. He has done this through Christ Jesus, who has freed us by taking away our sins. For God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins and to satisfy God's anger against us. We are made right with God when we believe that Jesus shed his blood, sacrificing his life for us. God was being entirely fair and just when he did not punish those who sinned in former times." Romans 3:23-25

"For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved." Romans 10:9-10

"For everything comes from him; everything exists by his power and is intended for his glory. To him be glory evermore. Amen." Romans 11:36.


Thursday, March 28, 2013

How to die right. Not just yet.

'He is not here, but is risen!' Luke 24:6

Christ, the founder of Christianity, was the only man capable of making an appointment beyond the grave and turning up to keep it.
Jesus told His disciples, 'After I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee' (Matthew 26:32 NKJV).

And He did. If you visit the graves of those who founded the great religions of the world, you will
find that they are still occupied.

But if you visit the grave where they laid Jesus, you will find that
it is empty and the words of the angels still echoing, 'He is not here, but is risen!' Those words turn every Christian burial into a celebration. Jesus promised, 'Because I live, you will live also.' Eventually you will die of
something; the question is; how can you die right?

There are two correct answers to that question:
1) By preparing in advance.
It was a truly human tombstone that bore the inscription, 'I expected this, but not just yet.'

Here's how you prepare for death. 'If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved' (Romans 10:9 NKJV).

2) By fulfilling your life's assignment.
Jesus said, 'I have glorified You on earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do' (John 17:4 NKJV).

In the final audit you will stand before God and He will ask you, 'What did you do with the gifts I gave you? Did you fulfil your
assignment on earth?' In that moment, nothing will be more important than how you answer
that question.

As seen in The UCB Word For Today.

Reposted by https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=32836367113&ref=stream&refid=17

Sunday, March 17, 2013

#Ajuwaya Praise

The song at #NCCF:

Papa we praise you,
For all you have done!
We remove head dressing,
Ajuwaya praise the Lord.

:-)

Friday, March 15, 2013

Character check- what stood Daniel out?

Young
Teachable spirit
Sharp looking
Intelligent
Diverse skills
Competent
Servant heart
Convictional spirit
Favour with people
Submissive spirit
Relational spirit
Well-informed
Gifted
Excellent Spirit

The character traits that stood Daniel out! Read more in Daniel 1. Keep standing out! :-)

Sunday, March 3, 2013

Going into an uncharted territory! #NYSC

I'm packing again :-) Heading to NS via Abj for a compulsory volunteer service #NYSC! I can't contest for presidency or serve in public office here in Nigeria without it, I hear :-) (That is to show you how serious the programme is). God dey! In Him I put my trust.

Wishing every Batch A corper an exciting year ahead! May we have a great testimony. And here is my anthem as I head out:


Saturday, February 16, 2013

I have been gifted (Testimony time)

Life is a gift. This almost sounds like a cliché now. But it is what it is. Not matter how we want to flip the sentence around, the truth still stares us in the face- life is a gift. It might take a while for some to figure this out but the moment you do, your attitude towards life will never be the same again.

The moment you realize this, you’ll stop competing with anyone. You’ll stop comparing yourself to others and start to realize that your core responsibility is to nurture your talent to increase and bless others around you. You’ll start to live life right, at a different pace.

You ‘ll also start to see the meaning in Ecc 9:11:

I have observed something else under the sun. The fastest runner doesn't always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn't always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those who are educated don't always lead successful lives. It is all decided by chance, by being in the right place at the right time. Ecclesiastes 9:11 - New Living Translation (©2007)

For those who know me well, I used to rant a lot about how I’m able to achieve the little I have by excessive hardwork. In the past, I have caught myself being overly critical of young ladies who sit on their hands expecting some sugar daddies to come rescue them. I have also been very critical of young men who sit all day hoping to become millionaires by just dreaming and doing nothing. But I know better now.

Everything I have- from my good grades in college to my seemingly stable paycheck- I have been given. I wish I could tell you that it was all earned from sleepless nights of reading with candle lights or many days of juggling two to three jobs, combined with full-time studies. But those were just part of the process that paved way for divine increase of my talents.

I know people who are smarter than me, who even work harder than I do. But each time they turn to ask me how they can step up to a new level, I stare back blankly at them. Sometimes I try to share basic theories they can put into practice etc. but the reality is that I am what I am by the grace of God. It is difficult to explain what I know or how I do what I do. It is all a gift.

Today, I wake up, I ask for strength to carry on and the grace never to abuse the gift or take the grace for granted. I pray for the courage to learn to give back.

We have all been gifted- some with one talent, some with two and some with five talents. What are you doing with your gift?

I was listening to Bishop T.D Jakes preach “Instinct to Increase” last week and I was totally blown away. Because it confirmed what I’ve been thinking about the previous week. Here are some notes from the message:

Text: Matthew 25:14-30

If you don’t understand that you have been gifted, you will spend the rest of your life walking away and walking past only what God has given you. Your gift may not be shimmering in the light like others, it may not be the ability to do what others are able to do but you have something. You have been gifted.

If you don’t see what you have as a gift, you won’t protect it. You won’t guard it, you wont take care of it, you won’t appreciate it. You’ll run around to other people who are gifted and you’ll be so ignominious with what they have that you will not appreciate what you have.

You don’t know how or why you can do what you can do? You just know you can do it? That is the gift of the talent! God is at work in your life.

If there was no gift in the first place, there’ll be nothing to enhance.

The goal is not to catch up with anyone but to be excellent on your level.

Anything above zero is increase.

Opportunity often come to you draped in the suit of opposition.

I am thankful for the gift of life. I’m thankful for the gift to be and do. I’m thankful for wisdom to know how to give back and impact others. I’m thankful for my talents. I pray you find yours too and nurture it well. Don't be like the man with one bag of gold who hid his gold (talent) in the ground.

Live well. Live love.

Praise God!



image via peoplepolarity


Friday, February 1, 2013

I will wait for You...

I Will Wait For You (lyrics) - Juanita Bynum:

I will wait for you Jesus
You're the sun in my horizon
All my hopes in you Jesus
I can see you now arising

There's a wall that stands in front of me
I know I just can't climb
Like an eagle You will carry me
Just a matter of time, Your time

I will wait for you Jesus
You're the sun in my horizon
All my hopes in you Jesus
I can see You now arising

There's an evil army all around me
Another wall thats in my way
I believe in the word you promised me
So I will wait another day

I will wait for you Jesus
You're the sun in my horizon
All my hopes in you Jesus
I can see you now arising.

Note:
I usually just skip through this track on my music device. Today I decided to listen to it carefully. Trust me, I clicked on replay right away! The song is empowering.

All we need to go from victory to victory is Jesus! Wait for Him. He is our Lion of Judah, He will do it again.

Happy New Month friends! Lets keep winning! Great grace, for the race!

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Mercy Speaks: That List of Accusations With Your Name On It


The book of Zechariah in the Bible is a very interesting one. The lessons from that story can almost be interpreted in so many ways but without loosing the core message. Not that it should be read in isolation to the other chapters but it captures so well God’s promise and restoration for Jerusalem. A promise, each and everyone of us can tap into for our present time.

Our focus today is on Zechariah Chapter 3 and how it expressly shows us grace and mercy in action.

Now, the chapter begins with prophet Zechariah explaining to us what he saw during the cleansing of the High Priest:
3: Then the angel showed me Jeshua[a] the high priest standing before the angel of theLord. The Accuser, Satan,[b] was there at the angel’s right hand, making accusations against Jeshua. 2 And the Lord said to Satan, “I, the Lord, reject your accusations, Satan. Yes, the Lord, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebukes you. This man is like a burning stick that has been snatched from the fire.”
During the cleansing of the Priest Jeshua, the devil also came with his list of accusations. By all means he wanted to disqualify Jeshua from getting a fresh start with God. By all means, those accusations might have been right. As we see in verse 3:
3 Jeshua’s clothing was filthy as he stood there before the angel.
A High Priest with a filthy robe. Nothing is hidden from God. He sees all our imperfections and our struggles. The devil is always quick to pick out our filthiness. We don't have the full details of why the clothing of the priest was filthy but keep in mind that all have sinned and come short of God's glory. Even when we think we stand, we all have to be careful or else we fall. Our righteousness before God is like a filthy rag, the Bible says. It is never by our works of righteousness. Okay- enough of my babbling.

“Jeshua’s clothing was filthy as he stood there before the angel.” By normal standard, he did not deserve to even be standing there. The devil did not miss his chance to point that out. But mercy said no! The Lord rebuked the devil and granted Jeshua mercy.
4 So the angel said to the others standing there, “Take off his filthy clothes.” And turning to Jeshua he said, “See, I have taken away your sins, and now I am giving you these fine
new clothes.”5 Then I said, “They should also place a clean turban on his head.” So they put a clean priestly turban on his head and dressed him in new clothes while the angel of the Lord stood by.
Jeshua got a fresh start. He was cleansed. Renewed. But it did not end there. Jeshua must also commit and not return to the old ways. We are not to abuse God's mercy and grace. We must agree to walk carefully and follow God's ways. Here is how the Angel puts it to Jeshua the Priest:
6 Then the angel of the Lord spoke very solemnly to Jeshua and said, 7 “This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: If you follow my ways and carefully serve me, then you will be given authority over my Temple and its courtyards. I will let you walk among these others standing here.
8 “Listen to me, O Jeshua the high priest, and all you other priests. You are symbols of things to come. Soon I am going to bring my servant, the Branch. 9 Now look at the jewel I have set before Jeshua, a single stone with seven facets.[c] I will engrave an inscription on it, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, and I will remove the sins of this land in a single day.
10 “And on that day, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, each of you will invite your neighbor to sit with you peacefully under your own grapevine and fig tree.”

Like Jeshua, God is extending His mercy to us everyday. Do not let the list of accusations the devil is holding against you hold you down. We have all sinned. We are too much of a sinner to even knock on Heaven’s gate. Fear, pain, shame, greed, death, barrenness, failure and other baggage from the devil are hovering, waiting for permission to knock us out.

But mercy is saying no. 

Get up and embrace mercy! God is a God of a second, third chance and ever new chance! God's thoughts towards us are thoughts of good and not of evil. God wants to give us hope and a future. But we cannot enjoy these promises in its fulness if we continue to walk in the flesh and gravitate towards the pleasure of sin. We must take that bold step, fall before God's altar and surrender it all to Him and let His precious blood wash us and set of free from the grip of sin and death.

It does not matter how low we have fallen, what we have done with our past. Mercy still speaks. Yesterday ended last night. Today, lets choose to embrace mercy and choose to follow God. It is not by force or by strength, but God’s grace is ever sufficient for us!

We might stumble tomorrow but may God's mercy and grace never let us fail to return home. 

We are a symbol of things to come (Zech 3:8).

God's mercy still speaks. Listen up, embrace it and spread the word! 




Saturday, January 12, 2013

The Proverbs 31 man we forget to talk about :-)


I read Proverbs 31, again. But this time I read it with a fresh understanding, like I saw new lines I did not see there before :-).

First and foremost, these were the words of King Lemuel of Massa, "strong advice his mother gave him..." It began with:
"Oh, son of mine, what can you be thinking of!
    Child whom I bore! The son I dedicated to God!
Don't dissipate your virility on fortune-hunting women,
    promiscuous women who shipwreck leaders.

Reading further he went on to buttress the importance of speaking out for justice and not allowing too much wine ruin one's leadership ability. And then, we are directed to the famous CV of a virtuous woman. Line after line, we are told what the portrait of a virtuous woman looks like or should be. 

Many young women, like myself, have feasted so much on this portion of the Bible. Aspiring to be a "capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman—" (Proverbs 31:10) for the man we'll treat like a king.

But guess what? It takes a man of Proverbs 31:2-9 and 23 to find a woman of Proverbs 31:10-31.

It is a union of partnership. 

If you notice, the portrait of the virtuous woman was punctuated with a reminder in Proverbs 31:23-
Her husband is known in the [city's] gates, when he sits among the elders of the land.

This means, the virtuous woman is not married to a man who sits all week watching SuperSports and debating about Arsenal and Manchester like it is what will pay the children's school fees :-) The man also knows not to waste his strength on promiscuity or those things which ruin kings (Proverbs 31:2).

That whole chapter can as well be titled, "Portrait of a virtuous couple that honor God." As it speaks to the man, so does it speak to the woman. Seriously, this is not an impossible standard to attain or what do you think? 

So we must not just limit the teachings to women alone. Emphatically pointing out how women should model the woman of Proverbs 31. Men can also be that king who chooses to be responsible. 

Take a fresh look at Proverbs 31 again and let the Holy Spirit grant you a clear understanding.  

Enjoy your weekend!


Proverbs 31 (BibleGateway.com)

King James Version (KJV)
31 The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.
What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows?
Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.
It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:
Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.
Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.
Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.
Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.
Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.
10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.