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Showing posts from December, 2024

BYE TO A SEASON

Isaiah 65:17b and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. We bid farewell to 2024 in a few hours as we walk into 2025 by God's grace. It is time to start a new chapter, a new season, it is time to make all things new. Isaiah 60:1 Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. It has nothing to do with our age, status or position. It is a new awakening, a new season. God has revealed Himself afresh. His Spirit is revealing His power afresh in our lives. Romans 13:11 And that, knowing the time, that now [it is] high time to awake out of sleep: for now [is] our salvation nearer than when we believed. Don't be left out. Connect! Many years have passed before now, we may have started and before many months we may have given up. That doesn't mean we should resolve to be pessimistic. The new year would be better. We would not make the same mistakes. We would not invest wrongly. God will minister afresh to our spirit. Let us enter...

DO NOT FORGET

Psalms 103:2 NLT Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me. Psalm 118:23 This is the LORD'S doing; it [is] marvellous in our eyes. As we are about to round off this year. Do not forget that: * we asked and we received * we cried out in pain and He healed us * we faced trouble and He took us out of it * our family had issues and He stepped in and took control * we lacked and He miraculously supplied. * we feared death, but He has kept us. * we sinned and He forgave us again and again. * we were not that faithful, yet He was there for us. The list is endless! Deuteronomy 8:19 "Then it shall be, if you by any means forget the LORD your God, and follow other gods, and serve them and worship them, I testify against you this day that you shall surely perish. It was that harsh then! We cannot allow the present challenges to make us forget our victories. We have the victory, "yester-wins" is an assurance of "today and tomorrow ...

TRUST THE ONE WHO KNOWS

Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts [are] not your thoughts, neither [are] your ways my ways, saith the LORD. Our pride as mortals is when we feel that we have gotten that idea or perceived that new thing before others. In business it gives us that edge, makes us move ahead of our counterparts. One thing we would have observed through scriptures about God's revelation to man is that He talked about futures. * Adam  a filled earth from corner to corner all offspring from him. Genesis 11:8 So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. * Abraham  a vision of countless numbers of children Romans 4:16 Therefore [it is] of faith, that [it might be] by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all, * Daniel  who saw things which have not even been fulfilled at the time of this writing. Mat...

Man/GOD DESIRES

1Samuel 15:24 And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice. 1Samuel 15:22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams. One desire of man is to have the approval of other men. (man or woman 👍). We could go so deep in this that we forget who is important. That is God, the Father. In the long run we see the wisdom, though most times the damage has already been done. See how the Messiah, Jesus the Christ looked at it: John 2:24-25 But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men,  and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for He knew what was in man. We must not think then that we do not need good testimony from our fellow humans. No, we ought to, we must live to have a good testimony. H...

AS WE END THE YEAR

Isaiah 55:6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Is there a time the Lord would not be found, is there a time it would seem too late to turn to the Lord, to live the life He wants us to live? IS THERE A TIME WHEN WE CANNOT DO THOSE THINGS WE OUGHT TO DO, OR HAVE BEEN ASSIGNED TO DO? Many examples exist today of people who leave the scene with regret, pain and fear. They look back at their lives and wonder if they would spend eternity with the Father. Some leave the scene and they are worried about the name they have left behind and what testimony they have from the life they have lived. Some others would wish they had really shown love and displayed the character of God in all their dealings. Furthermore, others would wonder why they did not attempt to work on that beautiful idea, skill or talent the Lord gave to them. Why didn't they write that book, speak salvation to that lost one or pray for such and such. Some have been blessed by people, ...

SING TO THE LORD

Psalms 30:12 To the end that [my] glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever. Psalms 30:4 Sing praise to the LORD, You saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. We must be appreciative of what God has done for us. The love that made Him sacrifice His Son to bring us back to Himself. He could have as well let all people be wipped out and create another, but No His love towards us took preeminence. John 3:16 “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.  One way we can express our gratitude to God and show the awareness of His power is by singing His praises. Singing is an activity that gives an atmosphere of joy to one, and who better to sing His praise than the owner of joy Himself. Every believer ought to practice singing praise to God. In it we confess who He is and what He has done. One of the firs...

THIS CHRISTMAS

Luke 2:10-11 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Angels announced to the world an event that is still as remarkable as it was then, even today. That the Son of the one and only Living God was to come as a man into this world to show us the way (which is Himself) to the Father. Then to sacrifice Himself that our sins be forgiven once and for all, and we also be sons of the Father. He also resurrected that we also be resurrected. Was Jesus born on the 25th December, most likely not! Many bother about dates, actual places and the exact scenario, however the spiritual experience and transformation is what matters, that is why John said: John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name: Yes many still bother about sabbaths, angels, Mar...

WHAT ARE YOU MADE OF?

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. We definitely had diverse experiences as we grew up. From our homes, school, extended families, church and so on. Some of these experiences were good, while some were not. A lot of things we may have accumulated in our subconsciousness, we may think we did not keep a memory of them, but time and again they are displayed in our actions and reactions. They define man as * arrogant * merciless * wicked * intolerant * or evil. Other experiences could define man as * loving * caring * peace loving * gentle * or kind We should remember that all these are not excuses to what we become, or are defined by. We must remember: 2Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things [done] in [his] body, according to that he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad...

MAN'S DESIRE TO BE GOD

Psalms 14:1  The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt, They have done abominable works, There is none who does good. One would wonder why anyone would say there is no God.  Could a believer also say there is no God? Selah Well, when a believer desires to take God's place, to occupy His seat, to neglect His word, to rule himself and even extend this to others, it is tantamount to saying there is no God! We could then further ask why would the Lord then say to a believer "I do not know you".  The scripture has only one answer to this. Rebellion! Psalms 14:2  The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there are any who understand, who seek God. They have all turned aside, They have together become corrupt; There is none who does good, No, not one. Let us look at the new testament. Luke 13:27  "But He will say, 'I tell you I do not know you, where you are from. Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity....

DESIRES OF THE FLESH

Ephesians 2:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. The power of man's desire drives him to do what he does. It is just for the thought to sink in then his actions are focused on getting them. There is nothing wrong in desiring. The desire in itself is not where he errs, but in what is desired. That is where the God factor comes into play. It is difficult for some intellectuals to accept that if it is not good, then it is bad, there is no in between. The same way, when it is not of the light, then it is of darkness. Revelation 3: 15-16 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Many think of the great exploits of man, the development of technology, the ease of things, cure to disease...

OUR DESIRE

Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his [own] image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. Man was created from God's desire to have a replica of Himself. His glory, His dominion, His will and ability to make and take decisions. Then He placed the man he made on earth. Man carried God's signature in Him. He desired the way God did, he created the way God did. He had the will, the power of choice, just as God did. It was one of these characteristics that the enemy used against man to cause him to fall from glory. *The power of choice.* This power is still abused by some today. Yes, man desires yet again, but now in the wrong direction. Man sought for what would perish. Energy and time wasted on what wo...

ABOUT YOUR BATTLES

2Chronicles 20:17 Ye shall not [need] to fight in this [battle]: set yourselves, stand ye [still], and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; to morrow go out against them: for the LORD [will be] with you. There are times when the things under our care or that matters to us become so overwhelming. When issues seem to spring up from here and there and we wonder how we would take care of them. * Some may have come because it is its season. * Others may be due to our mistakes or wrong decisions. * Another may be part of our promotion or growing process. * Yet another could be of no fault of us. * And of course those that affect or concern us because of those we love, care for, or are accountable for. It could flood in sometimes and the answer we may have is worry or maybe anger or just pain or worse still we want to give up. We need to remember that worrying and carrying such kinds of burdens is what Yeshua, Jesus the Christ came to help ...

MARY'S CHOICE

Luke 10:42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. What a privilege we have to sit with Him who was meant to minister to multitudes. This was what Mary chose. Jesus spoke so much on the mount.  We thus have the "sermon on the mount" Mathew 5, 6 & 7. Teachings that up till today have not been fully dissected. I remember when I read the book focused on the beatitudes from Matthew 5. The author had yet to scratch the surface of this great teaching. Mary sat at His feet and listened while Martha ran around making preparations. We do not know what we have in having a direct link with the Messiah. Just as Mary could sit at His feet and learn God's will and fulfil purpose. We also have this great privilege to eat from the master's pot. John 14:26 But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance...

UNDER GOD'S CARE

1Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Two things are important when we consider the enjoyment of God's care. First: HUMILITY 1Peter 5:5-6 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time HUMILITY (According to CS Lewis: humility is not thinking less of yourself. It is thinking of yourself less) That is, you are wise enough to think more of God. Not only when there is a problem or challenge, but as a lifestyle. Matthew 15:8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with [their] lips; but their heart is far from me. So Peter by the Holy Spirit writes: we cannot enjoy casting our cares on God until we have learnt to humble ourselves to Him. 1Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand...

LEAD YOURSELF

1Thessalonians 5:12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, Everyone needs a leader, one who he or she accounts to, one he looks up to for direction, correction and even mentorship. Be it in business, career, job, spiritual inclination or family. That is why we have pastors, mentors and advisers. Hebrews 13:17 Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you. It is quite easy for you to think then that because they stand in for you and account for you that you will not account for yourself. Romans 14:12 So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. No matter the pastors, priests, leaders or teachers you heap on yourself. Never think that you have an advocate in a human or spirit that will stand as your advocate on the day of judgement. The decision of wha...

BE THE FAITHFUL ONE

Proverbs 20:6 Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, but who can find a faithful man? Man was not created to be alone, we were meant to be with others. Not an Island but a forest. So you may not be able to control the people that surround you. What do you do then? The key is faithfulness! Many fear because of the betrayal of trust and unfaithfulness from people they have leaned on. The mind of God still surpasses our fears and doubts. No matter what happens, God expects us to remain faithful, to be that good neighbour and that faithful friend. Remember that though the whole world fails, you are already a winner in Jesus the Christ. Who won the victory. As we go about our work today. Be that faithful one, you are never alone, God always has His selected few, who are always faithful. Luke 18:8 NLT I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?”  God sees you and He will always be Faithful t...

ABOUT THE POOR

Matthew 5:2-3 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. When Jesus was teaching on the beatitudes(utmost bliss and happiness) he started with the above opening verse. Poor in this passage was referring to humility, willingness to submit, not holding on to one self . . . Literally being poor is a condition of "not having" , it is deficiency. One can be poor of material things like money, possessions or wealth. And one thing is certain we will always have people in that situation. Matthew 26:11  "For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. Knowing that there would be people in need at all times should make us responsible with what we have, we have a duty to ensure that we do not waste whatever it is we have, knowing that someone may be in need of it. You may say you are not poor, but at a point in time you may be in the position where you need help for one...

SUCCESS

Proverbs 16:9 A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps. How do we get success? We discover our pathway with God, then allow the Holy Spirit lead us all the way . . . then . . . 1Thessalonians 4:11-12 that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing. We sometimes make the mistake of involving ourselves with what we should have no business with, wasting valuable time that should be invested in our business, calling and interests. You find out that you are behind and those who have invested wisely are ahead. While others are reading, doing assignments, making research at school, what are you doing? Do not be surprised when they make great grades. When others have started saving and investing early while you are still partying and being wasteful, do not be surprised when they are financially free while you a...

HEAR GOD SPEAK

John 8:47 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” These are three questions I and many other believers have battles with: What is God saying about this? What is God's will? What step should I take? Questions keep raging in our hearts over different issues, we want answers and very well we do, for how do we go ahead if it is not clear to us. 2Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. The word of God still remains potent and keeps us in tune with what the Father says. The Holy Spirit gives us deep interpretation and also the wisdom to apply. A believer who is conversant with the word of God would easily understand what God says at each point in time. When Jesus arose and read the scripture prophesying...

FELLOWSHIP - A TWO WAY RELATIONSHIP

1John 1:3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. Relationship is a two way affair, it becomes a burden or domineering when it comes one way. When we make our relationship with God a one way affair we wonder why we don't have complete happiness even when our desires are met. It is not about the needs or the wants it is about fellowship . . . Jesus said: Matthew 6: 8, 32 "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. "For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. Jesus makes all the difference, He is the one who reveals the Father to us and in this our joy is full. Not because of the things, but because of Him. Then our joy may be full. John 15:11 "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you,...

ARE YOU CAUSING PAIN?

Proverbs 3:29 Do not devise evil against your neighbor, for he dwells by you for safety's sake. How could I ever think evil or plot evil against my neighbour? Well, search yourself, look inside and around you, what are your works bringing forth? What are your words birthing? When the desire to achieve your goals, meet your targets and satisfy your desire drives you to ignore the pain you cause others, you fall into the error. Yes, we will all keep soaring high and achieving greater success, however, we need to watch to be sure that we have no collateral damage on the way. For your works should cause people to glorify God and not the contrary! Matthew 18:6 NLT But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea. Never think that your actions are in isolation, don't assume, make sure that you are not causing harm to others. You could be an em...

ARE YOU STILL STANDING STRONG?

Ephesians 6:13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. We are in the times of the explosion of wisdom and revelations. A time when people question the very basis of the faith. Contradictions and Arguments. Sentiments and Deceit. While others have been deceived or confused out of faith, some have been reduced to serving mammon still others live outside of Agape. In joy many still STAND! Glory. Jesus asked, Luke 18:8b Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?" The enemy has never changed His tactics, he still attacks the mind. This is where the battle begins and where it ends, that is why we are instructed to guard our minds, feed it the right stuff and keep it away from all forms of evil thoughts and fear. Proverbs 4:23 Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life. Romans 12:2 An...

HOW TO WAIT

Habakkuk 2:3b If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed. Have you prayed, maybe fasted, cried, wailed and it seems God is not interested in your situation. You are not the only one, all believers have passed through that.  Listen: God is interested it may just be that there is a timing! There is this tendency to feel that it doesn't bother God. You may even find your counterparts and even those who are yet to be saved getting it easy. Yet my brethren, you must learn to wait! Will it be easy? No. Yet you must wait. Waiting on the Lord works out our patience and proves our obedience. Micah 7:7 "Therefore I will look to the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me." Lamentations 3:26 "It is good that one should hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD" James 1:4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. Th...

BE CAREFUL HOW YOU RESPOND

Proverbs 15:1 NLT A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. We cannot always control things that happen, but we can control how we react to them. Jesus said it is impossible for offences not to come but woe unto him through whom they come. Matthew 18:7 "Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense come Luke 17:1 Then He said to the disciples, "It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come Of course there will be hurts and pains "but you should not be the cause!" If they come they shouldn't break you but make you. John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world Romans 12:12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you...

WHY ARE YOU HERE?

Esther 4:14b Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Your present position is not a coincidence, there is a reason for being where you are. Every previous experience was made to prepare you for where you are both the good one and the not too good ones. Esther 4:14b Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Habakkuk 2:3a For the vision is yet for an appointed time; So as you enjoy your present position or wait for the next promotion, be grateful for how far the Lord has brought you. * Enjoy the privileges you have * Be diligent in fulfilling your duties * Treat those under you and those above you with love * Have greater people mentor you * Mentor someone * Give as you are led in love * Do not look down on anyone * Do not overly trust anyone * Make integrity and dedication your house style * Show discipline when it is needed yet show appreciation ceaselessly * Do not neglect your family * Do not neglect th...

TEST BEFORE YOU JUDGE

1 John 4:1 Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. One great mistake people make is to tell one off without allowing the person to prove their stand. Do we know what they represent, has God revealed anything about them to us? We ought to be cautious yet we need to know when/what to permit and also when/what to dismiss. There are things the scriptures require we run away from at a glance, those things we do not give a second opportunity. They include: * sexual sin * gossip * plots to do evil * idolatry * all appearances of evil Proverbs 1:15 my son, do not walk in the way with them, keep your foot from their path; 1Corinthians 10:14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry. 1Corinthians 6:18 Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. 2...

STAY AFLOAT

Matthew 14:30-32 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. The world and all its issues are like a big sea which each of us have to walk on. Every step we take leads us forward progressively to fulfil our goals, to accomplish our purpose. I saw this definition of afloat in the dictionary. Definition: Afloat making successful progress under one's own steam. For us to stay afloat we need to do these: * stay light: get rid of all unnecessary burden of sin, guilt, hate, tribalism, religions, worry and so on. Romans 13:12 - 14 The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in licentious...

REMEMBER THAT GOD IS IN CONTROL

Psalms 24:1 The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.  The world and all its people belong to him. The world has a system in place and we have people, powers and groups that control various parts of the system. Yes God designed the world to be controlled by man, but after the fall the enemy and the fallen ones had control and easily manipulated man. This is why we have a corrupted system. Yet in all of these the Heavenly Father is ultimately the owner and controller of all things! It is for us to look unto Him to receive power to conquer the system to fulfil our purpose. We have examples of many in scriptures who conquered because they put their trust in the Lord. Isaiah 40:31 But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.  They will soar high on wings like eagles.  They will run and not grow weary.  They will walk and not faint. The most powerful king in the world at one time experienced God's power and he had to confess what the watchers decreed: Dani...

BELIEVE, DON'T GIVE UP

Philippians 1:6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. The believer does not become "perfect" immediately at the new birth. Yes He is given a new beginning and relocated spiritually but we physically remain here on earth and will still face the earthly challenges and even temptations. It is then for us to grow in the knowledge and love of God becoming better day after day as we walk with Him. 2 Peter 3:18 Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen. The same with situations we find ourselves in, maybe we are not happy with: * the job we have now, or not having a job at all * the spouse we have * not having children yet * the way we look * where we live * our current financial state * our current spiritual state * the family we find ourselves in * where we originate...