Showing posts with label Purpose. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Purpose. Show all posts
New Year, New You
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
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People don’t pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the new wine will make the skins burst. The wine will run out, and the skins will be ruined. Rather, new wine is to be poured into fresh skins. Luke 5:37-38 (GW)
Let me use this first post for the year to wish you a Happy New Year. This year will indeed be for you a year with a difference in all its ramifications in Jesus name.
But what really makes a year to be NEW?
A new year is not a function of a flip in the calendar or change in dates but what really makes a new year is a NEW YOU!
If
nothing changes about me and you, that is, if we carry the same old
malice, hatred, negative thoughts, disappointments and moodiness into
the New Year.... it will be what is called in Latin, "quod in veteri" which simply means, "same as old".
Someone defined insanity as "doing the same thing and expecting a different result"
In
the opening scripture above, Jesus made it clear when talking about
fasting that if we need new experience or new level of power (which wine
represents) we must put new wine in new bottles. So the problem is not
with the wine (or new year in this case) it is with the container (you). If the container is old, it will not be able to hold the new wine and it will burst.
So what do I need do Differently to have a New Year?
- Be SPIRITUAL; Every building that will last
must have a solid foundation. So dare to pray more, fast more, study
the Word more and focus on your spiritual well-being this year to have a
really New Year.
- Be KINGDOM ADDICTED; Let everything that has to do with the kingdom of God be your priority this year. Reach out to more people
than you have ever done before this year, follow up more souls this
year, serve in the kingdom and its interest more this year.
- Be FINANCIALLY FREE; Decide to be financially free this if you are not yet. Look out for areas of earning passive income through investments etc. Don't just work for money, let your money work for you this year.
- Be HEALTHY; Our body is the vehicle that conveys us to the place of our destiny. If we play down the importance of being physically fit because we are pursuing our dreams and visions, when we get to the place of performance, the neglected body will not be able to take us there. This simply means, be physically fit, get rid of junk food, exercise as often as you can even if it is just by walking. This also includes keeping healthy relationships.
- Be OBEDIENT; It is the master key to thriving in hard times according to my father and mentor- Bishop David Oyedepo. Doing what God says is what puts us in command of things. Those who were building the tower of Babel in Genesis 11, got every other thing right except the fact that what they were doing was against God's will, so their plans scattered. No matter what else you get right, OBEYING GOD is the master key to making a difference on the earth.
I trust God that, this year will mark a turning point in your life and no matter the negative occurrences around you, you will be able to say, 'My Case is Different'.
Happy New You!
Please feel free to leave a comment below to let me know what you intend to do differently this year to have a new you.
Control-Alt-Delete Yourself!
Monday, March 29, 2010
When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger!
Luke 15:17 (NLT)
I stumbled on excerpts of an interview that Sam Worthington granted last week and I was fired up by what I read. Before you begin to wonder who this guy is, let me quickly help you. You must have had about the film called AVATAR. Yeah! He was the lead actor in the movie where he played Jake Sully.
So, what’s new? I am not really a movie person if I were to be one, I would have been part of the Avatar premiere in London last December. But the thrilling thing for me was that Sam Worthington, who is now 33 years, used to be a bricklayer and just about 3 years ago he used to live in his car. But he said he woke up one morning and looked at himself in a mirror and didn’t like what he saw and guess what he did- in his own words, I CONTROL+ALT+DELETE-d myself (that’s smashing!)
‘Control+Alt+Delete’ is a computer command that restarts the computer. Sam Worthington decided to restart his life.
How? He sold all he had from flat screen TV to the least of his personal belongings and used the proceeds to buy a ‘crappy car’. He took some books with him and a few clothes and then drove off….. the rest his history. Today, just 3 years later he scaled through the auditions for the lead actor role of the movie that has recorded gross revenue of over 2 billion dollars and has beaten all the records available in the movie industry history and even that of Titanic. Sam Worthington has won countess man of the year awards to date.
It is never late to be right- David Oyedepo
Bottom line
I don’t intend to analyse any criticism behind the Avatar movie but that you can restart from wherever you are and still make good of this one life that you’ve got.
On Aston Villa match days, I observe the way people troop across the street where I live and pay so much for parking spaces. I live about 5 minutes walk from Aston Villa stadium and I just wonder how passionate people can be at something that adds nothing to their living. Worse still when I flash back at my times back in Nigeria how people do all they can to watch football matches by their favourite clubs with generating set, Satellite subscription and all the inconveniences for the football madness that has gone global. If only people can be as passionate about their very lives as much as they do for other things.
Life is one grand, sweet song, so start the music. - Ronald Reagan
What to do;
Come to your senses
Like the prodigal son in the scripture above, he finally came to his senses. Although he had taken his part of the father’s inheritance, he decided to have a new start. Sam Worthington restarted as young as 29 years and in 3 years he hit it. How old are you now? It doesn’t matter how old you are-start afresh.
Move from decision to action
Many after reading this piece will just discard of it. I desire that you will not just make a decision to start pursuing your dream if you have lost it but that you will back it up with commensurate actions. Get those books. Get the skill, the qualification or certification and develop yourself.
Be Relentless
Keep on….Obstacles will come. Sam Worthington has many weaknesses- he has a blurred vision, he lost at the induction to become the next James Bond but in spite of his failures and limitations, he bounced back.
Friends, when you look at yourself in the mirror of life, what do you see? Do you see yourself living in the reality of your childhood dreams? If not, do something. Don’t lose that dream. Like the prodigal son, if you have strayed from your Heavenly father, reconnect with Him and He will receive you back and stop chasing after the wind.
Shall we pray;
Lord, help us to make the most of this one life that you have given us. Amen
Luke 15:17 (NLT)
I stumbled on excerpts of an interview that Sam Worthington granted last week and I was fired up by what I read. Before you begin to wonder who this guy is, let me quickly help you. You must have had about the film called AVATAR. Yeah! He was the lead actor in the movie where he played Jake Sully.
So, what’s new? I am not really a movie person if I were to be one, I would have been part of the Avatar premiere in London last December. But the thrilling thing for me was that Sam Worthington, who is now 33 years, used to be a bricklayer and just about 3 years ago he used to live in his car. But he said he woke up one morning and looked at himself in a mirror and didn’t like what he saw and guess what he did- in his own words, I CONTROL+ALT+DELETE-d myself (that’s smashing!)
‘Control+Alt+Delete’ is a computer command that restarts the computer. Sam Worthington decided to restart his life.
How? He sold all he had from flat screen TV to the least of his personal belongings and used the proceeds to buy a ‘crappy car’. He took some books with him and a few clothes and then drove off….. the rest his history. Today, just 3 years later he scaled through the auditions for the lead actor role of the movie that has recorded gross revenue of over 2 billion dollars and has beaten all the records available in the movie industry history and even that of Titanic. Sam Worthington has won countess man of the year awards to date.
It is never late to be right- David Oyedepo
Bottom line
I don’t intend to analyse any criticism behind the Avatar movie but that you can restart from wherever you are and still make good of this one life that you’ve got.
On Aston Villa match days, I observe the way people troop across the street where I live and pay so much for parking spaces. I live about 5 minutes walk from Aston Villa stadium and I just wonder how passionate people can be at something that adds nothing to their living. Worse still when I flash back at my times back in Nigeria how people do all they can to watch football matches by their favourite clubs with generating set, Satellite subscription and all the inconveniences for the football madness that has gone global. If only people can be as passionate about their very lives as much as they do for other things.
Life is one grand, sweet song, so start the music. - Ronald Reagan
What to do;
Come to your senses
Like the prodigal son in the scripture above, he finally came to his senses. Although he had taken his part of the father’s inheritance, he decided to have a new start. Sam Worthington restarted as young as 29 years and in 3 years he hit it. How old are you now? It doesn’t matter how old you are-start afresh.
Move from decision to action
Many after reading this piece will just discard of it. I desire that you will not just make a decision to start pursuing your dream if you have lost it but that you will back it up with commensurate actions. Get those books. Get the skill, the qualification or certification and develop yourself.
Be Relentless
Keep on….Obstacles will come. Sam Worthington has many weaknesses- he has a blurred vision, he lost at the induction to become the next James Bond but in spite of his failures and limitations, he bounced back.
Friends, when you look at yourself in the mirror of life, what do you see? Do you see yourself living in the reality of your childhood dreams? If not, do something. Don’t lose that dream. Like the prodigal son, if you have strayed from your Heavenly father, reconnect with Him and He will receive you back and stop chasing after the wind.
Shall we pray;
Lord, help us to make the most of this one life that you have given us. Amen
Running with a Vision!
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Remember that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize. You also must run in such a way that you will win. All athletes practice strict self-control. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step. I am not like a boxer who misses his punches. 1 Corinthians 9: 24 – 26 (NLT)
If there is any man who is enjoying a great time at the moment, it would be the man whose name and record-breaking feat strikes like a thunder bolt, Usain Bolt."Usain Bolt" who had his 23rd birthday last Friday 21st August. holds world and Olympic records in both the 100 metres and 200 metres and his name and achievements in sprinting have earned him the media nickname 'Lightning Bolt'.
But going through his biography, he said and I quote him, “Well I have been running good since I was 15, so this is no surprise to me. I am sure it is no surprise to a lot of people because I have been doing this from when I was young. I have been doing tremendous things from when I was young. So, this is no surprise to a lot of people”
After breaking the world records in Berlin, he said this in an interview session, “ I keep saying anything is possible. You work hard, you train hard. I still train very hard and running fast races doesn’t change that, but I keep telling you guys my aim is to become a legend”
Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction. - John F. Kennedy
The Jamaican sprinter in the Berlin games collected $320,000 in prize money comprising $60,000 for each gold medal and $100,000 per world record. Whoops!!
Do you also know that Bolt’s recent string of world records was clearly not an expected event, it is not only a world record but has made statisticians and mathematicians to go back to the table because they didn’t predict a 9.69 seconds until almost 2030 but Bolt even shattered this by running 9.58 seconds in Berlin in the 100meters. This is awesome to me for a 23-year old.
He broke the mathematical model that had fit 100-meter record data for almost a century, Bolt’s incredible performance could reset how fast researchers believe humans ultimately can run, but Bolt’s records, the scientists say is nowhere near human limit. Meaning it can still be broken!
To me this means there is still room for you and if not on the track and field but in our chosen professions, vocations, careers and ventures to set the pace, blaze the trail and break age-long records but this starts when we have a purpose for living.
Have a purpose for living!
I love to read biographies a lot and reading through the 23-year old life so far I learnt that he started out early in life although with a passion for the cricket at first but his coach spotted his performance on the pitch and encouraged him to focus more on the tracks. I challenge you to have a purpose for living. God is God of purpose and He has created us all to fulfill a mission on earth, however, He has given us the task to discover, find out, locate and identify the innate gift He has bestowed upon us.
God DETERMINES our purpose, We DISCOVER our purpose.
A man without purpose is a tragedy going somewhere to happen. This is because such a person will always be at the wrong place, wrong relationship, wrong job, wrong career and wrong company at every point in time. Oh! How frustrating to be without purpose. Even if the circumstances surrounding your birth seems accidental, you may be born whether out of wedlock, beside wedlock, under wedlock or before wedlock (whatever), God still has a purpose for your living.
A man without PURPOSE is not fit to live- Martin Luther King Jnr.
Characteristics of Purpose
• Purpose comes before creation;
• Purpose is from God;
• Purpose is permanent;
• Every purpose is unique
• Purposes are inter-related and;
• Purpose requires counsel.
Tips on discovering God’s purpose for your Life
We as humans have God as our ‘manufacturer’ and every manufacturer first determines the PURPOSE of a product and its functions before setting out to produce it, hence, the only genuine source for knowing your purpose is to ask from God if you believe He is your creator. However, since it is not all of us that can hear God distinctly, the following tips can guide us in the discovery of our purpose;
• Check out “that thing” that flows from you NATURALLY or EFFORTLESSLY.
What do you do for others or to better humanity without much stress. It could be singing, dancing, events organizing, public speaking, public relations, sports (like Usain Bolt). No one knows you like you. Settle down and find it out, it may be a pointer to your purpose.
• Check out “that thing” that people COMPLIMENT you for the most.
What do people thank you for the most? Have you led a team or a talk so well that people appreciate you so much but to you it seems normal to you? What do people like so much about you?
• Check out that thing that MOVES you the most.
What do you hate to see? Have you ever wished you could take care of abandoned children or children who are victims of broken and shattered homes? For instance, Mother Theresa found this as her purpose and she stood to address the United Nations. What problem do you wish you have what it takes to solve? Do you hate to see our policemen collect bribes? Do you hate to see violence? Are you hurt when children drop out of school because they can’t afford to pay their fees?
What moves you may become what you’re created to move.
Life is one big road with lots of signs. So when you riding through the ruts, don't complicate your mind. Flee from hate, mischief and jealousy. Don't bury your thoughts, put your vision to reality . Wake Up and Live! - Bob Marley
Please note: These are tips but it can go a long way in propelling you as you discover why you are here. Don’t just sit down and watch. Young boys and girls are already making striking impacts. When will you be shown to your world?
Shall we pray:
Lord, help me to live a purposeful life on earth. Amen
Keep STANDING!!!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
O Lord, why do you stand so far away?
Why do you hide when I need you the most?
Psalms 10:1 (NLT)
Why do you hide when I need you the most?
Psalms 10:1 (NLT)
I receive mails, text on my mobile, IMs and talk with all kinds of people everyday especially those to whom I have a special passion for- the Jobseekers. I share in their pains, stress, frustrations, down moments, desperation and the deplorable situations they go through from not being able to live their dreams to even not being able to meet their basic needs. It’s really hard for some, I must confess.
Some tell me they apply to all the available vacancies and have never been called up for once. At the other extreme, those who have been called up for aptitudes and interviews are yet to know their fate even when it seems as if they did well but their good performance have not culminated in the delivery of the much needed job.
Although, I may not be able to fully explain my passion and love for these job seekers but one of the most important things that can happen to me on a typical day is to spend time to encourage them, rekindle their dwindling hope in themselves and their dreams, point them to their Creator and His love for them and bless them spiritually and financially.
Although, I may not be able to fully explain my passion and love for these job seekers but one of the most important things that can happen to me on a typical day is to spend time to encourage them, rekindle their dwindling hope in themselves and their dreams, point them to their Creator and His love for them and bless them spiritually and financially.
The above scripture however, does not only paint the picture of a job seeker with many unfruitful attempts to secure a job but to anyone who has tried all known avenues to get something done. David was in a similar situation. It seemed as if God no longer answers prayers or better still, prayer is gradually becoming unfashionable as it looks like an exercise in futility.
Friend, God’s ears are not deaf, He is nearer to you than the very clothes you put on. But the reason why you need to go through all that you are experiencing is to fortify you and make you to be able to face any other thing that may come. This is the way James puts it;
Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything. James 1: 2- 4
To me, this means that what God is aiming at is for you to be strong in character and ready for even greater challenges that may come in the future. God means good for you so you must see it as an opportunity for joy. Something to laugh about! Just like a student that will never get promoted without writing an exam, you and I will need to sit and pass the faith test before we can move to the next level.
But why? The reason is simple. There are certain level of blessings or favor that will cause you to lose faith or backslide simply because it will be too much for you so God needs to work on your character before giving you what you can handle. For instance, if God gives some people their dream job, they’ll stop attending church services using the same job as an excuse. For others, the reason why they still pay their tithe now is because their tithe is in hundreds and reasonable (even others are not faithful in tithing the little they have). So when God blesses them with greater, tithing becomes a big challenge to them because their responsibilities will suddenly increase and simply say “God understands”.
To me, this means that what God is aiming at is for you to be strong in character and ready for even greater challenges that may come in the future. God means good for you so you must see it as an opportunity for joy. Something to laugh about! Just like a student that will never get promoted without writing an exam, you and I will need to sit and pass the faith test before we can move to the next level.
But why? The reason is simple. There are certain level of blessings or favor that will cause you to lose faith or backslide simply because it will be too much for you so God needs to work on your character before giving you what you can handle. For instance, if God gives some people their dream job, they’ll stop attending church services using the same job as an excuse. For others, the reason why they still pay their tithe now is because their tithe is in hundreds and reasonable (even others are not faithful in tithing the little they have). So when God blesses them with greater, tithing becomes a big challenge to them because their responsibilities will suddenly increase and simply say “God understands”.
So what do you do when God seems far?
Never pity yourself.
What many people do is to sit down to analyze their perils and start casting aspersions or blame their parents, spouse, the government, or even God. And burst into tears uncontrollably. This act of pity-partying and blame-game can lead to frustration or depression. But never do this. We are told to see the situations we’re faced with as an opportunity for joy. It is a sign that you have something precious inside of you that is being envied by the devil. Laugh it off!
Never pity yourself.
What many people do is to sit down to analyze their perils and start casting aspersions or blame their parents, spouse, the government, or even God. And burst into tears uncontrollably. This act of pity-partying and blame-game can lead to frustration or depression. But never do this. We are told to see the situations we’re faced with as an opportunity for joy. It is a sign that you have something precious inside of you that is being envied by the devil. Laugh it off!
Judge God faithful.
Whatever you’re faced with is coming to you because God knows you have what it takes to handle it. 1 Corinthians 10: 13 has changed my life forever. It reads; But remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can’t stand up against it. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it.
So, you must always remember 3 things;
1. What you’re faced with is common.
2. Judge God faithful and
3. IT’S YOUR SIZE!
Keep standing.
A soldier standing at attention is not bothered whatever happens around him. The reason why I used the cover photo of standing soldier is because that is the position we ought to take because we are to see ourselves as in a battle front. Read this; Use every piece of God’s armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. Ephesians 6:13-14(NLT).
To keep standing, you must put on the belt of truth which is Jesus (He says, I am the way, the TRUTH and life). Hence, Jesus the Word of God- the bible is the belt of truth. Guard yourself with it. Study it so well that you know what it says in all circumstances. Ask yourself, What would Jesus Do (WWJD)? If Jesus was in the same situation, would He screw up and burst into tears or speak straight to the storm or problem. Study the Word and put it to work.
Shall we pray:
Lord, give me the grace not to fall but to keep standing in spite of my circumstances in Jesus name. Amen.
Whatever you’re faced with is coming to you because God knows you have what it takes to handle it. 1 Corinthians 10: 13 has changed my life forever. It reads; But remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can’t stand up against it. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it.
So, you must always remember 3 things;
1. What you’re faced with is common.
2. Judge God faithful and
3. IT’S YOUR SIZE!
Keep standing.
A soldier standing at attention is not bothered whatever happens around him. The reason why I used the cover photo of standing soldier is because that is the position we ought to take because we are to see ourselves as in a battle front. Read this; Use every piece of God’s armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. Ephesians 6:13-14(NLT).
To keep standing, you must put on the belt of truth which is Jesus (He says, I am the way, the TRUTH and life). Hence, Jesus the Word of God- the bible is the belt of truth. Guard yourself with it. Study it so well that you know what it says in all circumstances. Ask yourself, What would Jesus Do (WWJD)? If Jesus was in the same situation, would He screw up and burst into tears or speak straight to the storm or problem. Study the Word and put it to work.
Shall we pray:
Lord, give me the grace not to fall but to keep standing in spite of my circumstances in Jesus name. Amen.
We forget!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
I recently observed a friend taking the marriage vow to live with his wife till death do them part. And as if that was not enough, we all danced to a table where they both signed the dotted line with parents from both families to show the seriousness of their decision and vows.
Although, this was not my first time of observing the scenario but it got me thinking and started meditating or how grave the decision we make when we tie the knots with our soul mate to spend the rest of our lives forever. But I quickly woke up from my “thought- travel” to join in the remaining of the celebration and I really enjoyed myself.
I am presently reading two books by T. D Jakes Life Overflowing and his latest title Before You Do. He was trying to give a fatherly advice in the latter book like He did for His first daughter who was getting married but He also talked on the stunning rate of divorce between Christian marriages and unbelievers which is almost at par.
Trying to marry my earlier experience at my friend’s wedding with this revealing truth in the book, I was face-to-face with the question of: What makes people forget the sacred marriage vow that we make before God and a congregation of witnesses and then still file for divorce? Was it that they became disappointed in their ‘choice’ spouse overtime or that the burning love that made them take their once so-called Angel on dates and sight- seeing has dwindled? The questions kept coming and on and on.
As usual I began consulting with the Word of God to get some clarifications because I believe that the bible is the final authority on all issues of life.
We can stand affliction better than we can prosperity, for in prosperity we forget God. - Dwight L. Moody
I have not really searched for long before He began opening my eyes to fact that what we forget is not just the marriage vows but we forget the key values, confessions, truth and hope in God that has been responsible for taking us to our present position and place in life. God kept emphazing this to His people in all of scriptures to remember the key things that has brought them to where they are. For instance, David recounted where He was bringing Him from ;
He chose David also his servant, and took him from the sheepfolds:
From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance.
So he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skilfulness of his hands.
Psalms 78:70-72(KJV)
David was undoubtedly one of Israel’s greatest king, but God took Him from following sheep to feed God’s people. To me, if we all keep to mind where God is bringing us from, we will never misbehave and see the position and power that God gives us as a privilege and a product of God’s grace.
Men are men; the best sometimes forget. - William Shakespeare
THINGS NOT TO FORGET
I write this title as I reflect on the theme of ‘Thanksgiving’. Can we really thank God enough? The reason why we don’t give thanks is simply because we forget. What do you have that you were not given?
Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;
Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s. Psalm 103:1- 5 (KJV)
1. That He forgave your sins;
We all know the mess we were in before Christ saved us. He did not just save us from our sins but has promised us eternal life. This is one of the things not to forget. Never forget to thank God sincerely for saving you. He saved us while we were yet sinners. He redeemed us from the path of destruction and set our feet on the rock to stand. Never forget!
2. That He healed you;
Many have been through deadly sicknesses and diseases from which God healed them. The same sickness that others died from, is the same you and I have been through and have been delivered by Jehovah Rapha. He didn’t have to heal you, He just did it for His love and for His name sake. What many pay huge amount for, Christ paid it all on the Cross. Never forget that!
3. That He satisfies your mouth;
There were times you wished you had some things cars, apartment, wife, husband, children and other things. But did you notice some of those things no longer form your prayer request list. God has simply satisfied your desires. Yes, but you still have needs? Giving Him thanks for the ones He has done qualifies you to get more. He has indeed been faithful over the years. The list continues…
Only Those who know how to THINK know how to THANK.
Please, take some time out to recount God’s goodness in your life. See the things that you have and not the things you don’t. And you will know that you are indebted to God. Count your blessings name them one by one.
Also, let this heart of thanksgiving help you never to look down on anyone because situation and circumstances change. Remember, there were some you used to look forward to in the past but God has enabled you to go beyond where they have attained. Our heart of thanksgiving to God should help us to humble our self so that God will lift us in due time.
Never forget you are but clay made in the image of God.
10 Commandments of Living in Recession
Friday, April 24, 2009
Then the Lord said to Elijah, “Go and live in the village of Zarephath, near the city of Sidon. There is a widow there who will feed you. I have given her my instructions.”
1 Kings 17: 8 -9(NLT)
The word “recession” is no longer news to the world as over 60% of all news in the media today can be directly or indirectly linked to it and its companions like downturn, slump, depression, downsizing, meltdown and the crunch. Irrespective of the name it is called, all these are not new because the world from B.C to A.D had experienced similar crisis situations and have overcome. So the first good news is that, it will not last forever. As a matter of fact some have predicted that it will last for the next seven years (I pray it will be lesser).
However, my greatest assurance is that God has never left His children in a dilemma without showing them a way out. For example, when there was a famine in Israel, He made provision for His prophet, Elijah, to be fed by the most unconventional way- through a widow. Ordinarily, a widow is the one to be helped in such a situation but she now became a distributor even in recession. Watch out for God’s unconventional leading at this time for your lifting.
Waking up this morning, God began to inspire me on what I have coined to be the 10 Commandments of living in recession. Please Note: Some of these things may not make common sense (as I was also tempted to ask questions as He told me). But I quickly remembered the words of Jesus’ mother at the crisis situation in a wedding where wine got finished suddenly at the middle of the party. She said “Whatever He tells you to do, do it”. Whatever?
1. Fear Not
The opposite of fear is faith. You cannot have faith and fear at the same time, you are either afraid or full of fear. Fear and faith have different sources. Fear is from the devil, faith is from God. Fear makes you do stupid things. During Paul’s journey to Rome, and their ship had crisis, the sailors in fear threw away all the ship equipments. Acts 27:19. Fear can make you sell shares you bought for 50 naira per unit for just 50 kobo per unit. But do you know 90% of our fears never happen. Don’t let the devil infect you with the venom of fear. Let me hear you say, Fear Not!
2. Borrow Not
Those who borrowed funds to obtain shares from the Stock market are now not only unable to pay back the principal after losing over 85% of their investment but battling with the mounting interest from the borrowed funds. See what God told His people repeatedly from His word; The Lord your God will bless you as he has promised. You will lend money to many nations but will never need to borrow! You will rule many nations, but they will not rule over you! Deuteronomy 15:6 (NLT)
The Lord will send rain at the proper time from his rich treasury in the heavens to bless all the work you do. You will lend to many nations, but you will never need to borrow from them. Deuteronomy 28:12 (NLT)
I know God does not stammer, He repeated it twice here. By all means, please avoid borrowing because He says you will never need it. Trust Him!
3. Be led by the Spirit of God for all decisions
When all known financial recovery theories have failed from Harvard Business School to Lagos Business School and stock market stimulus plans (if any) are unyielding from the Wall Street in US to the Broad Street in Lagos, it is only safe to be led by the Spirit of God before making decisions. God still leads those who care to listen for His voice. Yes, listening for His voice would require you to turn off the TV and settle down the bible in a conscious Word study, you will be amazed what He has to tell you. When God leads, He leads forward and He never tells you to do anything against His word. Note: It is for all decisions ranging from where to live, who to marry, business to venture in, when to buy or sell anything. Remember it was God who led Elijah to Zarephath. Abraham to Egypt and it was still the same God who told Isaac to stay where he was. God still leads!
4. Be Hopeful
Being hopeful in times of recession could be one of the most unreasonable things to do. But hope is what makes our heart to keep beating- It is called the anchor of our soul or what our soul hinges on. You remember Abraham who when he did not have any reason to hope to have a child again after almost 100 years of age but still embraced Isaac at 100years and the wife 90years. And if that sounds archaic, remember Hopeful Barrack Obama who when everything from his colour to experience seems to disqualify him for US presidency but hope made him to become the first black man to head the white house. Be optimist about your life, relationship, family, job, academics no matter the crisis. There’s always light at the end of the tunnel. There’s hope for you!
5. Be more committed in your relationships
You will agree with me that we all find ourselves wearing many shoes at the same time. You can be a boss, husband, friend, mentor, coach, son or lover all at the same time. The time of crisis is a time to be closer first to God because your relationship with Him sets precedence for how you relate with others. Secondly, be more committed to members of your immediate family- your wife, husband, and children. Remember, these are the people who will be there always. Show them how much you care. Then this will definitely extend to colleagues, friends, brethren and others. Make sure you invest time and resources into people even at this time. The greatest investment is to add value to others- that is what you will be remembered for.
Let us pray: Lord, I trust in you to see me through this time of recession and cause me to be made manifest to my world even at time. Amen
Watch out for the last 5 commandments.
MOVE ON with your Life!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
So Isaac moved to the Gerar Valley and lived there instead.
He reopened the wells his father had dug, which the Philistines had filled in after Abraham’s death.
Isaac renamed them, using the names Abraham had given them.
His shepherds also dug in the Gerar Valley and found a gushing spring.
But then the local shepherds came and claimed the spring. “This is our water,” they said, and they argued over it with Isaac’s herdsmen. So Isaac named the well “Argument,” because they had argued about it with him.
Isaac’s men then dug another well, but again there was a fight over it. So Isaac named it “Opposition.”
Abandoning that one, he dug another well, and the local people finally left him alone. So Isaac called it “Room Enough,” for he said, “At last the Lord has made room for us, and we will be able to thrive.”
Genesis 26:17 – 22 (NLT)
Does that phrase sound familiar? Well, whether or not it does, God’s message for the hour to you is to MOVE ON with your life in spite of your limitations. We all are faced with situations where the “seemingly” best option for us is to screw up or just surrender. But the difference between the extra-ordinary and the ordinary people is the “extra” effort, “extra” trial, “extra” attempt or “extra” sacrifice that ordinary people put in.
He reopened the wells his father had dug, which the Philistines had filled in after Abraham’s death.
Isaac renamed them, using the names Abraham had given them.
His shepherds also dug in the Gerar Valley and found a gushing spring.
But then the local shepherds came and claimed the spring. “This is our water,” they said, and they argued over it with Isaac’s herdsmen. So Isaac named the well “Argument,” because they had argued about it with him.
Isaac’s men then dug another well, but again there was a fight over it. So Isaac named it “Opposition.”
Abandoning that one, he dug another well, and the local people finally left him alone. So Isaac called it “Room Enough,” for he said, “At last the Lord has made room for us, and we will be able to thrive.”
Genesis 26:17 – 22 (NLT)
Does that phrase sound familiar? Well, whether or not it does, God’s message for the hour to you is to MOVE ON with your life in spite of your limitations. We all are faced with situations where the “seemingly” best option for us is to screw up or just surrender. But the difference between the extra-ordinary and the ordinary people is the “extra” effort, “extra” trial, “extra” attempt or “extra” sacrifice that ordinary people put in.
What are you involved in at the moment and you know you have given your very best? Sincerely, you have done all that you know to do but yet- no show, no positive result!
The scripture above tells the story of the Abraham’s son of promise, Isaac. Abraham had believed God to have Isaac for some 25years before the promise came. But do you know that the fact that Isaac was a son of promise did not exempt him from facing oppositions and obstacles. Similarly, the fact that God has told you many great things would happen for you this year does not exempt you from challenges and oppositions.
The scripture above tells the story of the Abraham’s son of promise, Isaac. Abraham had believed God to have Isaac for some 25years before the promise came. But do you know that the fact that Isaac was a son of promise did not exempt him from facing oppositions and obstacles. Similarly, the fact that God has told you many great things would happen for you this year does not exempt you from challenges and oppositions.
There is no TESTIMONY without TEST
There is no TRIUMPH without TRIAL
There is no MIRACLE without OBSTACLE
There is no TRIUMPH without TRIAL
There is no MIRACLE without OBSTACLE
God had earlier instructed Isaac not to leave where he was and He obeyed. Isaac then decided to dig a well but oppositions came up against him. The opposition was so fierce that they closed up every well he attempted to dig. But Isaac would not give up easily, he persevered until the enemies became tired of him.
What are the Lessons to Learn?
Stay where God wants you to be!
God does not bless people in every place. Better put, there is a place to be for you to be blessed. It is however pitiable to know people pack their bags and travel out of their divinely appointed place only to keep struggling and patching through life without a head way.
God does not bless people in every place. Better put, there is a place to be for you to be blessed. It is however pitiable to know people pack their bags and travel out of their divinely appointed place only to keep struggling and patching through life without a head way.
God’s help comes from ABOVE not from ABROAD – David Oyedepo.
You don’t have to be everywhere, just be where God wants you to be and the blessings will flow there. God spoke to Abraham, Get out of where you are to a place I will show you. But when it came to the turn of Isaac, He told him to remain in the land….To me this means, the fact that others are running to so called “Greener pasture” does not make it so for everybody. If you leave where you are just because that’s where everybody is running to, you may regret it the remaining days of your life. Ask from God where He wants for you. It is fundamental and crucial because that’s where your blessing will flow.
Dig the well where you are
While growing up, I have seen a few times where well diggers were at work. Well, digging is not a small thing. It is real work. In fact, there are instances where explosives or guns are used especially when the digger hit the rocks underground. God told Isaac to stay in the land, Yes. But he was not to stay idle in the land. He sowed in the land even during FAMINE and he got 100% profit. It is not just enough to be divinely located or to stay where God wants you to be, you must be actively involved in doing something profitable in the place God has asked you to stay.
Dig the well. Take the exams. Run the program. Write the test. Make the move. Do the work!
While growing up, I have seen a few times where well diggers were at work. Well, digging is not a small thing. It is real work. In fact, there are instances where explosives or guns are used especially when the digger hit the rocks underground. God told Isaac to stay in the land, Yes. But he was not to stay idle in the land. He sowed in the land even during FAMINE and he got 100% profit. It is not just enough to be divinely located or to stay where God wants you to be, you must be actively involved in doing something profitable in the place God has asked you to stay.
Dig the well. Take the exams. Run the program. Write the test. Make the move. Do the work!
The Best time to invent is yesterday!
Keep Moving!
The truth is that there will always be reasons to turn back. But if you find an excuse to turn back don’t use it. When the children of Israel were faced with the Red Sea and Moses cried to God for help especially because of the Army of Egypt and chariots that was fast closing in on them. But could you believe what God’s response to Moses was- Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! Exodus 14:15 (NLT) God’s word for you is the same, Get moving. Stop crying over what you cannot change.
The truth is that there will always be reasons to turn back. But if you find an excuse to turn back don’t use it. When the children of Israel were faced with the Red Sea and Moses cried to God for help especially because of the Army of Egypt and chariots that was fast closing in on them. But could you believe what God’s response to Moses was- Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! Exodus 14:15 (NLT) God’s word for you is the same, Get moving. Stop crying over what you cannot change.
There is no point crying over spilled milk.
You cannot unscramble eggs.
You cannot unscramble eggs.
Yes, you failed but it was just an event that happened to you and it doesn’t make you a failure. Yes, you messed up with that relationship, but life still goes on. Learn from your past mistakes and please move on. Isaac got to his place of ROOM ENOUGH. God will make room for you this year until you can say, I have room enough.
Shalom!
Why fasting..?
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
’We have fasted before you!’ they say. ‘Why aren’t you impressed? We have done much penance, and you don’t even notice it!’“I will tell you why! It’s because you are living for yourselves even while you are fasting. You keep right on oppressing your workers.
What good is fasting when you keep on fighting and quarreling? This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with me.
You humble yourselves by going through the motions of penance, bowing your heads like a blade of grass in the wind. You dress in sackcloth and cover yourselves with ashes. Is this what you call fasting? Do you really think this will please the Lord?
“If you do these things, your salvation will come like the dawn. Yes, your healing will come quickly. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind.
If you do this, the Lord will be your delight. I will give you great honor and give you your full share of the inheritance I promised to Jacob, your ancestor. I, the Lord, have spoken
Isaiah 58:3-14 (NLT)
Yesterday was Ash Wednesday and that's why I think I should share a few thoughts on the importance of fasting. For many, fasting is a no-go area because they are made up that they cannot fast. The verses above shows a kind of conversation where some claim to fast and don't seem to get the desired result from it but the response was that they lacked the understanding of what fasting is and what it can do. And Understanding is being able to see what is under something that makes it stand- do you under stand?
Although, Christians are of divergent views concerning the ushering-in of the 40-day fasting before Good Friday known as Ash Wednesday. While, there is no place in the entire scriptures where believers are asked to fast for 40 days, however, Jesus taught a few things about the importance of fasting. Actually, it called the Day of Ashes because use of ashes signifies a state of repentance and humility as observed in 2 Samuel 13:19; Esther 4:1; Job 2:8; Daniel 9:3; and Matthew 11:21. Hence, the essence of this post is not to start a religious debate but to shed more light on why anyone should fast no just during the Lenten period but at anytime at all.
Please note that it was food that the devil used in enticing Eve in the garden which eventually led to the fall of man. Food or the belly has become the God of many and inability to control our appetite may be very dangerous.
I believe strongly in the virtue of fasting because it has helped me to deny myself of many things, remain focused and generate power. Whether it is 1 day, 3days, 7days, 10 days, 14 days, 21 days or 40days fast, any Spirit led fast produces result. My own idea about fasting is that when I want result I pray but when I want fast result, I fast and praise!
Fasting is Medicinal
Medical persons have advised that when we fast, it allows our nerves that are always at work ordinarily when we eat, to rest and refresh or regain like every working machine. It also heals hypertension and said to help to control menstrual flow in women. It also helps heal obesity and diabetes. Whichever way, fasting is does more help than harm, if it does any harm at all.
Fasting opens our spiritual hear
When we fast, we are able to transcend from the realms of the seen to the unseen. I am sure Daniel must have fasted with his friends to be able to enquire from the unseen realm what has never been done before. Even if you sleep together with someone on the same bed, it is not possible to know what the person is dreaming about. But, Daniel gave the dream and interpreted it. Later in the book of Daniel, we were told he fasted for 21days.
Fasting helps to achieve victory, God's favor and Breakthroughs
It helps to invoke God's intervention on certain issues of our lives because according to the scriptures above it says our light will break-forth. Esther was able to avert the decree to wipe out the entire Jewish nation after a 3 days fast! Please spend some time to read the passage again.
Other benefits are; fasting kills pride; it is the strongest sign of humility before God; it helps to overcome carnal desires; turns you to another man; renews your anointing as a minister; helps to break bad habits like smoking, anger, drunkenness among others.
Fasting has virtues and whether you observe this 40days fast or not, make sure you have a time out to wait on God for renewal of your strength this year.
PLEASE NOTE!!!
Fasting without prayers is mere hunger strike. And there are certain breakthroughs that you desire that may not come through without fasting as Jesus told His disciples who could not heal a boy that “…. This kind of miracle cannot happen without prayers and fasting” Matthew 17: 21. To me, that means, there are certain things that only answers to heartfelt prayers and fasting. However, for the maximum delivery of our result desired, fasting must be backed with commensurate prayers.
Also, like the cover picture above, which is the mountain of temptation where it is believed the devil tempted Jesus after the 40days fasting, what that suggests is that fasting does not exempt us from temptation but we can be sure to overcome it like Jesus did.
1 Corinthians 10:13 says God is faithful not to tempt us beyond what we can handle.
What good is fasting when you keep on fighting and quarreling? This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with me.
You humble yourselves by going through the motions of penance, bowing your heads like a blade of grass in the wind. You dress in sackcloth and cover yourselves with ashes. Is this what you call fasting? Do you really think this will please the Lord?
“If you do these things, your salvation will come like the dawn. Yes, your healing will come quickly. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind.
If you do this, the Lord will be your delight. I will give you great honor and give you your full share of the inheritance I promised to Jacob, your ancestor. I, the Lord, have spoken
Isaiah 58:3-14 (NLT)
Yesterday was Ash Wednesday and that's why I think I should share a few thoughts on the importance of fasting. For many, fasting is a no-go area because they are made up that they cannot fast. The verses above shows a kind of conversation where some claim to fast and don't seem to get the desired result from it but the response was that they lacked the understanding of what fasting is and what it can do. And Understanding is being able to see what is under something that makes it stand- do you under stand?
Although, Christians are of divergent views concerning the ushering-in of the 40-day fasting before Good Friday known as Ash Wednesday. While, there is no place in the entire scriptures where believers are asked to fast for 40 days, however, Jesus taught a few things about the importance of fasting. Actually, it called the Day of Ashes because use of ashes signifies a state of repentance and humility as observed in 2 Samuel 13:19; Esther 4:1; Job 2:8; Daniel 9:3; and Matthew 11:21. Hence, the essence of this post is not to start a religious debate but to shed more light on why anyone should fast no just during the Lenten period but at anytime at all.
Please note that it was food that the devil used in enticing Eve in the garden which eventually led to the fall of man. Food or the belly has become the God of many and inability to control our appetite may be very dangerous.
I believe strongly in the virtue of fasting because it has helped me to deny myself of many things, remain focused and generate power. Whether it is 1 day, 3days, 7days, 10 days, 14 days, 21 days or 40days fast, any Spirit led fast produces result. My own idea about fasting is that when I want result I pray but when I want fast result, I fast and praise!
Fasting is Medicinal
Medical persons have advised that when we fast, it allows our nerves that are always at work ordinarily when we eat, to rest and refresh or regain like every working machine. It also heals hypertension and said to help to control menstrual flow in women. It also helps heal obesity and diabetes. Whichever way, fasting is does more help than harm, if it does any harm at all.
Fasting opens our spiritual hear
When we fast, we are able to transcend from the realms of the seen to the unseen. I am sure Daniel must have fasted with his friends to be able to enquire from the unseen realm what has never been done before. Even if you sleep together with someone on the same bed, it is not possible to know what the person is dreaming about. But, Daniel gave the dream and interpreted it. Later in the book of Daniel, we were told he fasted for 21days.
Fasting helps to achieve victory, God's favor and Breakthroughs
It helps to invoke God's intervention on certain issues of our lives because according to the scriptures above it says our light will break-forth. Esther was able to avert the decree to wipe out the entire Jewish nation after a 3 days fast! Please spend some time to read the passage again.
Other benefits are; fasting kills pride; it is the strongest sign of humility before God; it helps to overcome carnal desires; turns you to another man; renews your anointing as a minister; helps to break bad habits like smoking, anger, drunkenness among others.
Fasting has virtues and whether you observe this 40days fast or not, make sure you have a time out to wait on God for renewal of your strength this year.
PLEASE NOTE!!!
Fasting without prayers is mere hunger strike. And there are certain breakthroughs that you desire that may not come through without fasting as Jesus told His disciples who could not heal a boy that “…. This kind of miracle cannot happen without prayers and fasting” Matthew 17: 21. To me, that means, there are certain things that only answers to heartfelt prayers and fasting. However, for the maximum delivery of our result desired, fasting must be backed with commensurate prayers.
Also, like the cover picture above, which is the mountain of temptation where it is believed the devil tempted Jesus after the 40days fasting, what that suggests is that fasting does not exempt us from temptation but we can be sure to overcome it like Jesus did.
1 Corinthians 10:13 says God is faithful not to tempt us beyond what we can handle.
Let someone shout Halleluyah!
Why it is well...
Thursday, February 19, 2009
...run now, I pray thee, to meet her, and say unto her, Is it well with thee? is it well with thy husband? is it well with the child? And she answered, It is well.
2Kings 4:26
I wish I could send a post per day but time constraints and other pressing commitments will not allow. This particular post was due to have been posted 2 days earlier.
When I got to the office on that day on that promising day (2 days ago), I decided to play a song from one of the various playlist on my laptop as it is my custom, as I sang along for some 30 minutes or so it got to a song that I would like to share with you.
Although, I must have been singing this song since I was a toddler (ask my mom) but the story of the man that penned this song caught my attention this time. The song is titled "It Is Well with My Soul", written by hymnist Horatio Spafford and composed by Philip Bliss. Come with me as we explore the story behind the song.
Why it is well is not because of what is happening but because of what is written.
Bishop Oyedepo once said,
What is written is superior to what is happening!
Never confuse your condition with your portion!
Your portion is what is written while your condition is what is happening to you at the moment which is only momentary.
This hymn was written after several traumatic events in Spafford’s life. The first was the death of his only son in 1871, shortly followed by the great Chicago Fire which ruined him financially (he had been a successful lawyer). Then in 1873, he had planned to travel to Europe with his family on the S.S. Ville du Havre, but sent the family ahead while he was delayed on business concerning zoning problems follow the Great Chicago Fire.
While crossing the Atlantic, the ship sank rapidly after a collision with a sailing ship, the Loch Earn, and all four of Spafford's daughters died. His wife Anna survived and sent him the now famous telegram, "Saved alone." Shortly afterwards, as Spafford traveled to meet his grieving wife, he was inspired to write these words as his ship passed near where his daughters had died.
The Spaffords later had three more children, one of whom (a son) died in infancy. In 1881 the Spaffords, including baby Bertha and newborn Grace, set sail for Palestine. The Spaffords moved to Jerusalem and helped found a group called the American Colony; its mission was to serve the poor. The colony later became the subject of the Nobel prize winning Jerusalem, by Swedish novelist Selma Lagerlöf.
The Spaffords later had three more children, one of whom (a son) died in infancy. In 1881 the Spaffords, including baby Bertha and newborn Grace, set sail for Palestine. The Spaffords moved to Jerusalem and helped found a group called the American Colony; its mission was to serve the poor. The colony later became the subject of the Nobel prize winning Jerusalem, by Swedish novelist Selma Lagerlöf.
When peace like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot,
Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Refrain:It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet,
though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross,
and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound,
and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
Horatio Spafford
It is well with your soul.... Sing along!
LOVE at its best
Saturday, February 14, 2009
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
For we know in part and we prophesy in part,
but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears.
When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.
Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
ICorinthians 1:1-13 (NIV)
In the mood of the Valentine season, I want to say a special "Thank You" to everyone who believes in me and in what I what I do- to the members of "Job vacancies in Nigeria" group on facebook, where I post job alerts in Nigeria from time to time.
To those who have visited this blog at one time or the other and will still visit, I'm grateful for your love and care.
I want to specially dedicate this post to all those who have the genuine love of God in them and to a lovely friend and sister that is a year older today. May the Lord Bless you real good.
What more will I say? Love! Love!! Love!!! The scripture above compares love with some other virtues like faith and hope but it says love is the greatest. Please take time to go through the scripture again- it is refreshing.
Although, many lovers or people in love today have given the global financial meltdown as an excuse for not being able to give gifts... you know what I'm talking about?
But one thing to note is that when you truly love, you'll go out of your way to please the loved. God loves us so much that he gave His very best- Jesus Christ. What is your very best? I think the best that we all possess is our very life or heart.
And that's what God requires of us... to receive His best gift of love so that we could gain eternal life. Why not use this Valentine to yield your life or sow your life as a seed to please God.
Come to think of it, after your toiling and labors in this world, you will not be fair to yourself if you lose your soul.
Accept God's love today and make Jesus your Lord. He loves you more than you could ever know. God demonstrated His love through the death and resurrection of Christ... will you allow His death to be of no effect?
I know it may not be a popular post on a day like this, but if you really want to know what true love is, taste Jesus and you'll see that His personality is God's love at its best.
I truly luv u!
Drop ur comments at www.atolase.blogspot.com
Just Do it!
Monday, February 9, 2009
This “foolish” plan of God is far wiser than the wisest of human plans, and God’s weakness is far stronger than the greatest of human strength.
Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes, or powerful, or wealthy when God called you.
Instead, God deliberately chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose those who are powerless to shame those who are powerful.
God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important, so that no one can ever boast in the presence of God
I Corinthians 1: 25 – 29(NLT)
The poem below is put together to encourage as many people as God has instructed to do certain things but have refused to take steps because what God has told them doesn’t make natural sense- it just looks “foolish” or too simple to be true. I wrote these words out on 16th of December, 2003 when He was leading in a direction that seems will never lead to the right path, but 5 years later when I looked at my poem note yesterday and saw these words, I now understand better why He is called the Alpha and the Omega, hence the inscription above, which represents the first and the last letters of the Greek alphabet.
I can boldly say He is faithful to every jot of His word. Trust Him enough to commit your life to His hands.
Just do whatever He is leading you to do and leave the remaining with Him, He is ever faithful… digest it.
Do it!
It may not be sensible,
It may not be right,
It may not be clear,
It may not be wise but,
Whatever He tells you to do, do it!
How can water be turned to wine?
How can a rod path the sea?
How can I ever get any fish after toiling all night?
How can my skin be made whole from this leprosy?
Whatever He tells you to do, do it!
Make me know,
Make me understand,
Make me comprehend,
Make me realise but,
Whatever You tell me to do, I will do.
Why should I wait any longer?
Why should I wash in Jordan?
Why should I ever be saved again? But
Nevertheless at thy word, I will do whatever You ask me to do.
Remain blessed.
Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes, or powerful, or wealthy when God called you.
Instead, God deliberately chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose those who are powerless to shame those who are powerful.
God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important, so that no one can ever boast in the presence of God
I Corinthians 1: 25 – 29(NLT)
The poem below is put together to encourage as many people as God has instructed to do certain things but have refused to take steps because what God has told them doesn’t make natural sense- it just looks “foolish” or too simple to be true. I wrote these words out on 16th of December, 2003 when He was leading in a direction that seems will never lead to the right path, but 5 years later when I looked at my poem note yesterday and saw these words, I now understand better why He is called the Alpha and the Omega, hence the inscription above, which represents the first and the last letters of the Greek alphabet.
I can boldly say He is faithful to every jot of His word. Trust Him enough to commit your life to His hands.
Just do whatever He is leading you to do and leave the remaining with Him, He is ever faithful… digest it.
Do it!
It may not be sensible,
It may not be right,
It may not be clear,
It may not be wise but,
Whatever He tells you to do, do it!
How can water be turned to wine?
How can a rod path the sea?
How can I ever get any fish after toiling all night?
How can my skin be made whole from this leprosy?
Whatever He tells you to do, do it!
Make me know,
Make me understand,
Make me comprehend,
Make me realise but,
Whatever You tell me to do, I will do.
Why should I wait any longer?
Why should I wash in Jordan?
Why should I ever be saved again? But
Nevertheless at thy word, I will do whatever You ask me to do.
Remain blessed.
Visit my blog: www.atolase.blogspot.com
Growing and Harvest Seasons of Life
Friday, February 6, 2009
Finishing is better than starting. Patience is better than pride
Ecclesiastes 7:8 (NLT)
So don't get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.
Galatians 6:9 (NLT)
I should have finished this series last week but I got busy with some things-meetings, field audit and reading some interesting books. So, in order to quickly get done with this and talk about some other things which promises to be impactful, that's why I decided to combine the last two Seasons- Growing and Harvest Seasons of Life.
I'm just writing this with excitement and I know God has something positive in mind for the reader. Be expectant!
I also want to urge you to always drop a comment on your observations, thoughts or criticism after reading any post on this blog either by clicking on the 'Comment' link below this post or 'Contact Me' up there. It makes me know how much I connect to you.
Yes, growing and harvest seasons of our lives. Being the last in the series of Understanding of Times, let me attempt a very short recap of what we've discussed so far. We first discussed Planning and Planting Seasons of Life (you can scroll down to the previous posts). I want to share with you what to do after you have set your goals and have consciously started sowing seeds, there are certain things to do in order to experience your harvest. Just like no farmer plants and goes to sleep, so also you and I cannot just sow seeds or register for a school/ professional exam or start a relationship or start a business and then go to sleep. Those who do so do not get the required harvest, if they get any at all.
The scripture above says better is the end of a matter than the beginning. God is not just interested in you starting up something and then it giving up half way or not getting the full harvest. What are the things to do to get your desired harvest? They are in no way exhaustive but I've decided to summarize then below;
Diligence
Nothing WORKS until you WORK it. Many are simply complacent. They get contented with average living. They don't see any need to push further. Diligence is one of the most important attitude needed for growth. A child who is lazy to crawl or always wants to remain at the back of the mother may never walk. It is only the diligent hand that will bear rule. God's word says a man diligent in his business will stand before kings and not with mere men. The reason why you are moving around men with people of no repute or ordinary people is because you are not diligent! I told myself sometimes ago that I will not live an ordinary life and I gave myself up to give it all takes and the results are evident already. Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. A lazy man has no future. Be consciously diligent!
Perseverance
Perseverance is another attitude needed for harvest. Diligence is hardwork but perseverance is dogged, persistent and relentless hardwork. It is a steady and continued action or belief, usually over a long period and especially despite difficulties or setbacks (Thesaurus). Every successful farmer must persevere in order to harvest. It means you keeping doing what you believe in spite of the obstacles. Even if what you planted have been uprooted, replant! Isaac dug a couple of wells and continued digging until he got to his Rehoboth. Many people keep too soon. If you've done all you know to do and you don't seem to see result, persevere- keep at it. It will speak at the end. Be tenacious!
Self discipline
When the harvest eventually comes, you need to be disciplined not to allow it to get into your head. Plenty can get into one's head. It may shock you to hear that the reason why God has not answered some people is because they will backslide if He gives them what they are praying for. God will not give you what will make Him lose you. Some people can just be very undisciplined with money- they buy at impulse, no budget, no investments, just buy what they want and not what they really need. I'm not against giving yourself a treat once in a while, but don't make God see you as a prodigal son because of what He has blessed you with. Be sensitive!
Re-sow part of the harvest
This is an interesting principle. Every fruit carries its seed within it. Orange has orange seed within it, guava, mango, yam…name it. If you decide to eat all your fruit, there will be nothing to sow again which implies no future harvest. Always plough back part of your harvest back to investment. It is crucial. Also, remember to give a tenth of it to God- this is known as tithing to acknowledge Him as the source. Don't eat all, be wise!
Give Thanks
We cannot overemphasize the need to give thanks to the God who made your seed to grow in the first place. Paul plants and Apollo waters but it is God that gives the increase. Always remember, there's a hand behind everything that is moving. Consciously remember to give Him thanks to preserve the blessings. In Malachi 2:1-2, God says that those who fail to give Him glory stand the risk of being cursed even with the blessings.
When last have you taken time to give Him quality thanks. Take some time out to sincerely thank Him for your life today.
Remember, maximize this one life you have to live. The world is waiting for what you have to offer!
You are blessed!
Planning Season of Life
Monday, January 26, 2009
“But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction
of a building without first getting estimates and then checking to see if there
is enough money to pay the bills?
Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of
Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of
funds. And then how everyone would laugh at you!
They would say, ‘There’s the person who started that building and ran
They would say, ‘There’s the person who started that building and ran
out of money before it was finished!’
“Or what king would ever dream of going to war without first sitting down
“Or what king would ever dream of going to war without first sitting down
with his counselors and discussing whether his army of ten thousand is
strong enough to defeat the twenty thousand soldiers who are marching against him?
If he is not able, then while the enemy is still far away, he will send a
If he is not able, then while the enemy is still far away, he will send a
delegation to discuss terms of peace.
Luke 14:28- 32 (NLT)
It is tragic to note that many people spend more time planning trivial matters of life than planning for the most important matters of their very life.
What are your life goals? How big is your dream(s) for the future?
Answers to these questions, however, may not come handy unless you have a working knowledge of the time of your life that you are in. Jesus said in the scripture above that those who build or go to war or who wsih to become His disciples must first need to count the cost before setting out if they don’t want to see shame. Many are faced with shame or find themselves in a fix today because they fail to plan.
WHATEVER TIME IS SPENT PLANNING IS NOT A WASTE BUT AN INVESTMENT.
What is planning?
Simply, it is deciding ahead of time what to do and how to achieve it. Someone defined it as “using your HEAD to go AHEAD”.
Two key factors in planning are ENDS (goals or objectives) and MEANS (strategies or methods). It is believed that the reason why many people refuse to plan is because they do not have any goal for living.
LIVING WITHOUT A GOAL IS LIVNG LIKE A GOAT!
How to maximize you Planning Season
Discover your purpose for living
Every human being created in God’s image is meant to fulfil a particular purpose, but we have a duty to discover from the Creator why He has created us. No product determines its purpose. A television set or laptop does not decide on its own what it wants to do, the manufacturer does. It is the same with us humans, WE DON’T DETERMINE WHAT WE WANT TO DO, WE ARE TO DISCOVER IT. I believe this where many are failing.
Luke 14:28- 32 (NLT)
It is tragic to note that many people spend more time planning trivial matters of life than planning for the most important matters of their very life.
What are your life goals? How big is your dream(s) for the future?
Answers to these questions, however, may not come handy unless you have a working knowledge of the time of your life that you are in. Jesus said in the scripture above that those who build or go to war or who wsih to become His disciples must first need to count the cost before setting out if they don’t want to see shame. Many are faced with shame or find themselves in a fix today because they fail to plan.
WHATEVER TIME IS SPENT PLANNING IS NOT A WASTE BUT AN INVESTMENT.
What is planning?
Simply, it is deciding ahead of time what to do and how to achieve it. Someone defined it as “using your HEAD to go AHEAD”.
Two key factors in planning are ENDS (goals or objectives) and MEANS (strategies or methods). It is believed that the reason why many people refuse to plan is because they do not have any goal for living.
LIVING WITHOUT A GOAL IS LIVNG LIKE A GOAT!
How to maximize you Planning Season
Discover your purpose for living
Every human being created in God’s image is meant to fulfil a particular purpose, but we have a duty to discover from the Creator why He has created us. No product determines its purpose. A television set or laptop does not decide on its own what it wants to do, the manufacturer does. It is the same with us humans, WE DON’T DETERMINE WHAT WE WANT TO DO, WE ARE TO DISCOVER IT. I believe this where many are failing.
What is purpose? It is the intention behind creation or existence. Purpose is permanent, inter-related, and unique. How do I discover purpose? It is usually something that flows from you naturally. It is what you do and people commend you for the most. It is what moves you the most or probably wish you could correct. These are just clues but the major way to discover it is by waiting on God to deliver it to you.
Set achievable goals for living
It is a common saying that “Rome was not built in a day” and that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a step. If purpose is the reason for our living, then we need to set achievable short-term, medium-term and long-term goals towards its realization and to write it down. This is planning. Ask yourself, “What do I want to achieve this year or in the next 5 years and so on but it is crucial to set only achievable goals. For instance, if you earn just N20,000 and you set a goal of buying a car within a year. If you ever get to buy one you may not be the one to ride it because you may have starved yourself to death. The point is that the goals to be set must be achievable ones.
Commit your plans to God
God’s word says we can make plans but only what God intends will come to pass. Hence, there’s a lot of wisdom in making plans and placing them before Good for His sanction. It is the God factor in the plans that we make that makes the journey of life great. Only the counsel of God will stand.
In conclusion, planning is so important that living without a set goal is like playing a football game without a goal post… Can you imagine how frustrating and tiring that can be?
You have only this one life to live, maximize your living!
Set achievable goals for living
It is a common saying that “Rome was not built in a day” and that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a step. If purpose is the reason for our living, then we need to set achievable short-term, medium-term and long-term goals towards its realization and to write it down. This is planning. Ask yourself, “What do I want to achieve this year or in the next 5 years and so on but it is crucial to set only achievable goals. For instance, if you earn just N20,000 and you set a goal of buying a car within a year. If you ever get to buy one you may not be the one to ride it because you may have starved yourself to death. The point is that the goals to be set must be achievable ones.
Commit your plans to God
God’s word says we can make plans but only what God intends will come to pass. Hence, there’s a lot of wisdom in making plans and placing them before Good for His sanction. It is the God factor in the plans that we make that makes the journey of life great. Only the counsel of God will stand.
In conclusion, planning is so important that living without a set goal is like playing a football game without a goal post… Can you imagine how frustrating and tiring that can be?
You have only this one life to live, maximize your living!
Start planning today.
Visit my blog: www.atolase.blogspot.com and drop your comments.
Understanding of Times
Monday, January 19, 2009
As long as the earth remains, there will be springtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, day and night.
Genesis 8:22 (NLT)
Genesis 8:22 (NLT)
There is a time for everything,
a season for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to rebuild.
A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
A time to search and a time to lose.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak up.
A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (NLT)
While I was in church last Sunday, I had a nudging to start a series on the Understanding of Times and I strongly believe God has someone in mind to further brighten our knowledge on the importance of following Divine Timing in actualizing God’s purpose for our living. For many, it is not that they do not have a purpose for living, but they lack the understanding of knowing when to launch out to start the business or register for the course or to start the relationship.
It is a known fact that a clear understanding of God’s purpose for our life is the most important discovery we could make as humans, which is why my mentor Dr Munroe says that “When purpose is not defined, abuse is inevitable”. In simple terms, we cannot avoid abnormal living if we do not have a clearly defined reason for living.
Having said this, I want to submit that while understanding of purpose is crucial, setting out for its fulfillment requires proper timing.
“WITHOUT UNDERSTANDING OF TIMES, LIFE WILL BE LIVED IN FRUSTRATION AND REDUCED TO MERE GUESSWORK”
What is Time?
Perhaps, this may be the most tasking question to ask anyone. However, I would to define simply as the occasion or duration of an event. It is said to be the appointed season for a happening or event to take place. The second scriptural passage above shows that there is time for everything. Although, God created time, He lives outside time. That is, God cannot be limited by time- the day and night that we experience. No wonder the bible says a thousand years (of humans) is like a day with the Lord. It says in another place that He neither sleeps nor slumber.
Characteristics of Time
It is impartial
It cannot be stored
It is nobody’s enemy
It can be invested or wasted or used up
It is reliable or definite or predictable
It is a measure of life
It is continuous/ does not wait or stop
It carries with it opportunities
Understanding of Times
Our entire life is measured in second, minutes, hours, days, months and years. By implication, what I do with my seconds eventually affects the years I live. Until we understand the times we are in, we will not be able to maximize our living. One of the tribes of Israel known as the tribe of Issachar, were said to understand the temper of times and knew what Israel ought to do at the right time, therefore all their brethren were at their command. Hence, those who clearly understand the times we are will take the lead.
In life, there are four seasons known as WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER and the AUTUMN. In this series, I will be taking these seasons as follows;
WINTER - PLANNING SEASON
SPRING – PLANTING or INVESTING SEASON
SUMMER – CULTIVATING or GROWING SEASON
AUTUMN – HARVEST or YIELDING SEASON
To break it down according to Dr. Dennis Watley in his book Timing is Everything, these four seasons happen does not follow a sequence but an individual may be at different seasons in varying areas of life like career, marriage, academics or relationship. What this means in simply terms is that you could have gotten married, thus being in your harvest season in your marriage and then decide to take up an additional degree from school, which means you will probably be in your planting season as regards academics. But which way it goes, Timing is crucial to its fulfillment.
WHEN A FARMER MISSES HIS PLANTING SEASON, HE WILL HAVE NOTHING TO HARVEST DURING THE HARVEST SEASON. WHAT ARE YOU PLANTING NOW?
IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING OF TIMES
To maximize the moments or opportunities that comes our way.
To be able to rise up early for the fulfillment of purpose
To help in overcoming anxiety
To give focus and direction for living
To be able to gain speed and eliminate guesswork.
In the next post, I will explain the Planning Season of our lives and what to do to take advantage of it.
It is well!
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