I've just completed reading a book by my friend Tunji Ishola. This new book is "Live Your Life To The Fullest"
You probably know him and if you don't, here's a brief bio of him: "He's the pioneer of Lightspring International, an organisation that focuses on developing the spirit of excellence in young people and making them standards for the world." You can find out more about him from his site http://www.lightspring.org.uk/
Tunji's new book not only focuses on youths but a must read book for adults also. His book will groom you for the next level of life. Contained in this book are real life examples of people that have attained greater heights and have moved from zero to becoming heroes in their various fields. He outlined and explained simple skill sets that needs to be possessed to usher you into that long awaited destiny. Although they are simple nuggets but if practiced, will surely propel you into a new realm of exploits.
You see, you have to take responsibility for your failures as well as your successes. Consequently, you need to approach life slightly differently to get a different result from what you are currently having. If you are new to making things happen or creating the advantage you need without waiting for someone else, then you need to check this book out!
If you want to learn how to turn adversity into opportunity and unlock the door of creativity within you, then grab a copy of his book. Tunji Knows this stuff --- he lives it to the fullest.
Saturday, 24 October 2009
Tuesday, 13 October 2009
I Need To See A Doctor
“….He said to them, those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick…..For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” ---- Matthew 9:12-13
When was the last time you had yourself checked into your health centre for a check-up? Oh! I bet you only see your GP when you experience discomfort within your body system. This suggests that those who are well and of good health need not consult a doctor.
I recently came across a rather interesting piece on the duties of an eye doctor to a patient who complains of certain eye problems. The article got me thinking and as a result, I concluded that Jesus Christ does perform similar functions to a doctor. Here’s the extract:
“There are many things to ask to assess someone’s eye condition. It is important to do a thorough interview as well as examination to get the correct diagnosis. A patient might be asked depending on their condition these questions. Do they have vision loss? Is it painful? Does it look like there is a curtain coming down over the eye? Is the pain sudden in onset, or has it been there a long time?” --- http://www.ideau.org/when-you-need-to-see-the-eye-doctor.html
When an individual begins to react to these or any sort of discomfort outside of their normal body conditions, it is most likely that such body is reacting to a change either internally or externally. These feelings are called symptoms and they help in diagnosing the nature of such sickness or disease.
Many Christians today especially the youths are experiencing what I call the “SID Syndrome” which means Sin In Disguise. Many are living in sin but the symptoms they manifest are recognized in the society and by the media and entertainment world as the norm! Consequently, many have not yet presented themselves for an X-ray under the Light of the Holy Spirit, which means many youths have continued to live in their sins.
Let’s briefly discuss how the underlined words above relate to us Christians today.
Thorough Interview: until we present ourselves before our Lord Jesus to answer the questions of sin issues we are facing, we stand no chance of being cleansed from them through His blood. At least, we need to explain to Him our challenges for Him to tell us what we are doing wrong or those things that have caused defects in us. He really wants to help you overcome your sins so that you can become one with Him because He loves you.
Examination: He’s willing to check you critically [spiritually, emotionally & physically] because He knows you inside out even beyond what you can tell Him in your prayers. He will tell you the reasons behind your depravity.
Diagnosis: this is the moment of truth. He tells you even your hidden sins in other for you to repent of them and embrace His grace and love for a new live in Him. Not only does He highlight your wrong ways, He also explains the causes i.e. those things or relationships that you are still associated with that corrupts you. The last part of the process of course is Prescription.
Prescription: the only thing that guarantees you a prescription at anytime is being able to present yourself right before your doctor [Jesus] whenever you sense a discomfort in your life. His lines are open 24/7 to grant your request. At this point, He has no other choice but to prescribe to you solution that will restore wellness into your being.
So what are you waiting for? Pick up the phone and dial the Kingdom line to engage God in prayer for an honest diagnosis and prescription to any persisting symptoms.
sin
When was the last time you had yourself checked into your health centre for a check-up? Oh! I bet you only see your GP when you experience discomfort within your body system. This suggests that those who are well and of good health need not consult a doctor.
I recently came across a rather interesting piece on the duties of an eye doctor to a patient who complains of certain eye problems. The article got me thinking and as a result, I concluded that Jesus Christ does perform similar functions to a doctor. Here’s the extract:
“There are many things to ask to assess someone’s eye condition. It is important to do a thorough interview as well as examination to get the correct diagnosis. A patient might be asked depending on their condition these questions. Do they have vision loss? Is it painful? Does it look like there is a curtain coming down over the eye? Is the pain sudden in onset, or has it been there a long time?” --- http://www.ideau.org/when-you-need-to-see-the-eye-doctor.html
When an individual begins to react to these or any sort of discomfort outside of their normal body conditions, it is most likely that such body is reacting to a change either internally or externally. These feelings are called symptoms and they help in diagnosing the nature of such sickness or disease.
Many Christians today especially the youths are experiencing what I call the “SID Syndrome” which means Sin In Disguise. Many are living in sin but the symptoms they manifest are recognized in the society and by the media and entertainment world as the norm! Consequently, many have not yet presented themselves for an X-ray under the Light of the Holy Spirit, which means many youths have continued to live in their sins.
Let’s briefly discuss how the underlined words above relate to us Christians today.
Thorough Interview: until we present ourselves before our Lord Jesus to answer the questions of sin issues we are facing, we stand no chance of being cleansed from them through His blood. At least, we need to explain to Him our challenges for Him to tell us what we are doing wrong or those things that have caused defects in us. He really wants to help you overcome your sins so that you can become one with Him because He loves you.
Examination: He’s willing to check you critically [spiritually, emotionally & physically] because He knows you inside out even beyond what you can tell Him in your prayers. He will tell you the reasons behind your depravity.
Diagnosis: this is the moment of truth. He tells you even your hidden sins in other for you to repent of them and embrace His grace and love for a new live in Him. Not only does He highlight your wrong ways, He also explains the causes i.e. those things or relationships that you are still associated with that corrupts you. The last part of the process of course is Prescription.
Prescription: the only thing that guarantees you a prescription at anytime is being able to present yourself right before your doctor [Jesus] whenever you sense a discomfort in your life. His lines are open 24/7 to grant your request. At this point, He has no other choice but to prescribe to you solution that will restore wellness into your being.
So what are you waiting for? Pick up the phone and dial the Kingdom line to engage God in prayer for an honest diagnosis and prescription to any persisting symptoms.
sin
Monday, 5 October 2009
WISDOM - THE PILLAR OF LIFE
I know you have been waiting to see what this article will contain and the secret(s) to possessing this kind of God-wisdom. I want to try and keep it as short as possible looking into three essential parts – her source, how to possess her and lastly maintaining her.
So, from where comes divine wisdom?
“For the Lord gives skilful and godly Wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” --- Proverbs 2:6 [AMP]
Straight forward isn’t it? So, let’s agree that that’s non-negotiable and undisputable! Therefore, anyone who needs to operate in this kind of wisdom knows where to go or who to consult. He’s in fact the Wisdom of the world. Any other promise elsewhere would result to a futile effort. He’s the all-knowing God. He would surely answer you when you call.
Now, I hear you ask, “OK! I now know the source of this wisdom but on what terms and conditions do I take delivery of her and become one with her?” The beginning of your quest for divine wisdom is found in this simple statement;
“The reverent fear and worship of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom and skill [the preceding and the first essential, the prerequisite and the alphabet]…..” -- Psalm 111:10 [AMP]
This is the basic prerequisite in walking in Godly wisdom. It’s simply the fear of the Lord – “to receive His instructions [Words], walking in them and treasure up His commandments within you, making your ear attentive to skilful and Godly Wisdom and inclining and directing your heart and mind to understanding [applying all your powers to the quest for it].”
Doing this, guarantees you the beginning of the wisdom of God. Don’t expect to get it without a cost; remember it’s what distinguishes the wise from the fools! So, it’s hidden and stored up only for the righteous. These are those who heaven considers to have a right standing and are upright with Him. Heaven determines this and His criteria for measuring each person’s uprightness are best known to Him; but if you ask me, I’ll say His measuring stick varies from one person to the other.
“He hides away sound and godly Wisdom and stores it for the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with Him)…” – Proverbs 2:7 [AMP]
You will have to seek [Wisdom] as for silver and search for skilful and godly Wisdom as for hidden treasures, Then you will understand the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of [our omniscient] God. [Read Proverbs 2:1-7]
Now you know the Source and how to possess her but how then do you keep her?
Simple! Just follow the second step over and over again! Don’t stop seeking her, search for her as for silver and as for hidden treasures. His Wisdom is located [hidden] in His Word. It’s made hidden for the upright in heart to possess it.
You would need to read this over and over again, ponder and meditate on it. Send as emails to your friends if you would love others to benefit from this wisdom nugget or simply send this blogsite, http://citadelofgrace.blogspot.com/ to your friends and family to enjoy this Godly wisdom. Always remember that, “The Gospel is for sharing and not for you alone!”
“I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble. Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go; Keep her, for she is your life” --- Proverbs 4:11-12
So, from where comes divine wisdom?
“For the Lord gives skilful and godly Wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” --- Proverbs 2:6 [AMP]
Straight forward isn’t it? So, let’s agree that that’s non-negotiable and undisputable! Therefore, anyone who needs to operate in this kind of wisdom knows where to go or who to consult. He’s in fact the Wisdom of the world. Any other promise elsewhere would result to a futile effort. He’s the all-knowing God. He would surely answer you when you call.
Now, I hear you ask, “OK! I now know the source of this wisdom but on what terms and conditions do I take delivery of her and become one with her?” The beginning of your quest for divine wisdom is found in this simple statement;
“The reverent fear and worship of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom and skill [the preceding and the first essential, the prerequisite and the alphabet]…..” -- Psalm 111:10 [AMP]
This is the basic prerequisite in walking in Godly wisdom. It’s simply the fear of the Lord – “to receive His instructions [Words], walking in them and treasure up His commandments within you, making your ear attentive to skilful and Godly Wisdom and inclining and directing your heart and mind to understanding [applying all your powers to the quest for it].”
Doing this, guarantees you the beginning of the wisdom of God. Don’t expect to get it without a cost; remember it’s what distinguishes the wise from the fools! So, it’s hidden and stored up only for the righteous. These are those who heaven considers to have a right standing and are upright with Him. Heaven determines this and His criteria for measuring each person’s uprightness are best known to Him; but if you ask me, I’ll say His measuring stick varies from one person to the other.
“He hides away sound and godly Wisdom and stores it for the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with Him)…” – Proverbs 2:7 [AMP]
You will have to seek [Wisdom] as for silver and search for skilful and godly Wisdom as for hidden treasures, Then you will understand the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of [our omniscient] God. [Read Proverbs 2:1-7]
Now you know the Source and how to possess her but how then do you keep her?
Simple! Just follow the second step over and over again! Don’t stop seeking her, search for her as for silver and as for hidden treasures. His Wisdom is located [hidden] in His Word. It’s made hidden for the upright in heart to possess it.
You would need to read this over and over again, ponder and meditate on it. Send as emails to your friends if you would love others to benefit from this wisdom nugget or simply send this blogsite, http://citadelofgrace.blogspot.com/ to your friends and family to enjoy this Godly wisdom. Always remember that, “The Gospel is for sharing and not for you alone!”
“I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble. Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go; Keep her, for she is your life” --- Proverbs 4:11-12
Friday, 25 September 2009
WISDOM - WHAT YOU NEED TO ACHIEVE SUCCESS [PART 2]
Yesterday, I wrote about the wisdom needed to achieve success. So let’s examine what this wisdom can do to you and the impact that can be made as a result. Stay with me!
I once came upon this quote by Albert Einstein, “Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it”. This quote alone set my bones on fire and my mind to motion. My mental system almost became like a perpetual motion machine unstoppable and out on a search! I researched various individuals who have reached the peak of their ladders and considered to be successful by world standards and I eventually agree that wisdom is not a product of schooling in fact she’s not a respecter of university degrees or certificates.
Having said that I began to ponder on what Albert mean by the “lifelong attempt to acquire it”! It’s true that wisdom need to be acquired but from where? No doubt, wisdom could be achieved through study, research, books etc. as in Daniel 9:2 but this same Daniel was recorded to have:
“…light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods…an excellent spirit, knowledge, understanding, interpreting dreams, solving riddles, and explaining enigmas, were found in this Daniel….” ---- Daniel 5:11-12
That is definitely not from reading of books or study!
I’m more interested in this kind of wisdom (Spirit of wisdom). Imagine the genius you might become working in both type of wisdom (divine & wisdom form study). This is how it works….the divine wisdom (from within your spirit) tells you what to do or how to do or even when to do a thing but your human wisdom (from within your mind) coordinates the working out of what has been spoken into your spirit and thus prompts your body into action. It is your mind that says, go to the library and read so and such books, study biographies, eliminate some options, pay for a service all based on what the Spirit has impressed in your spirit.
The acquisition of divine wisdom is from God. Let me ask you; “Is human wisdom always right or can it be refuted?” Certainly, yes! But when it comes to the wisdom of God it is unstoppable. He said to His disciples, “For I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you!” -- Luke 21:15. Isn’t that interesting that the wisdom by which they spoke can not be questioned or refuted? I’m talking about the all powerful wisdom of God. Did the above Scripture come to past? Yes, Stephen moved in that Spirit of wisdom.
"But they were not able to resist the intelligence and the wisdom and [the inspiration of] the Spirit with which and by Whom he spoke. "--- Acts 6:10 [AMP]
This talks of Stephen who was full of faith and power. The word of God is still the same today; as it was in the beginning, so it is now and ever shall it be. His speech is nothing but a demonstration of the inspiration by the Spirit of God. Stephen, although not yet born narrated the whole story of the Israelites how He called Abraham, the story of the other patriarchs, the story of Joseph, how Moses led the people out of Egypt. He basically narrated the whole book of Exodus without reading a book! Read Acts 7.
"You stubborn and hard-headed people! You are always fighting against the Holy Spirit, just as your ancestors did."
"When the council members heard Stephen's speech, they were angry and furious. But Stephen was filled with the Holy Spirit. He looked toward heaven, where he saw our glorious God and Jesus standing at his right side."
---- Acts 7:51, 54-55 [CEV]
That is wisdom.
OK. I believe you are getting clearer the power of this kind of wisdom. My next article will teach you how to be a partaker of this wisdom and maintain it. Your life is about to experience a divine change. So, WATCH OUT FOR MY NEXT ARTICLE!
I once came upon this quote by Albert Einstein, “Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it”. This quote alone set my bones on fire and my mind to motion. My mental system almost became like a perpetual motion machine unstoppable and out on a search! I researched various individuals who have reached the peak of their ladders and considered to be successful by world standards and I eventually agree that wisdom is not a product of schooling in fact she’s not a respecter of university degrees or certificates.
Having said that I began to ponder on what Albert mean by the “lifelong attempt to acquire it”! It’s true that wisdom need to be acquired but from where? No doubt, wisdom could be achieved through study, research, books etc. as in Daniel 9:2 but this same Daniel was recorded to have:
“…light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods…an excellent spirit, knowledge, understanding, interpreting dreams, solving riddles, and explaining enigmas, were found in this Daniel….” ---- Daniel 5:11-12
That is definitely not from reading of books or study!
I’m more interested in this kind of wisdom (Spirit of wisdom). Imagine the genius you might become working in both type of wisdom (divine & wisdom form study). This is how it works….the divine wisdom (from within your spirit) tells you what to do or how to do or even when to do a thing but your human wisdom (from within your mind) coordinates the working out of what has been spoken into your spirit and thus prompts your body into action. It is your mind that says, go to the library and read so and such books, study biographies, eliminate some options, pay for a service all based on what the Spirit has impressed in your spirit.
The acquisition of divine wisdom is from God. Let me ask you; “Is human wisdom always right or can it be refuted?” Certainly, yes! But when it comes to the wisdom of God it is unstoppable. He said to His disciples, “For I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you!” -- Luke 21:15. Isn’t that interesting that the wisdom by which they spoke can not be questioned or refuted? I’m talking about the all powerful wisdom of God. Did the above Scripture come to past? Yes, Stephen moved in that Spirit of wisdom.
"But they were not able to resist the intelligence and the wisdom and [the inspiration of] the Spirit with which and by Whom he spoke. "--- Acts 6:10 [AMP]
This talks of Stephen who was full of faith and power. The word of God is still the same today; as it was in the beginning, so it is now and ever shall it be. His speech is nothing but a demonstration of the inspiration by the Spirit of God. Stephen, although not yet born narrated the whole story of the Israelites how He called Abraham, the story of the other patriarchs, the story of Joseph, how Moses led the people out of Egypt. He basically narrated the whole book of Exodus without reading a book! Read Acts 7.
"You stubborn and hard-headed people! You are always fighting against the Holy Spirit, just as your ancestors did."
"When the council members heard Stephen's speech, they were angry and furious. But Stephen was filled with the Holy Spirit. He looked toward heaven, where he saw our glorious God and Jesus standing at his right side."
---- Acts 7:51, 54-55 [CEV]
That is wisdom.
OK. I believe you are getting clearer the power of this kind of wisdom. My next article will teach you how to be a partaker of this wisdom and maintain it. Your life is about to experience a divine change. So, WATCH OUT FOR MY NEXT ARTICLE!
Thursday, 24 September 2009
WHAT YOU NEED TO ACHIEVE SUCCESS
For all those that have been telling me how much they enjoy my articles, thanks for your interest and good to know the articles are a blessing to you. I’m back now and may His grace sustain me. Keep reading and you shall be blessed. I will be doing a series on Wisdom…May you be blessed.
Have you ever thought why the Bible instructs that “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom…”? --- Proverbs 4:7 May be not! You see one thing that you need more than any other thing in life is wisdom. When I talk about wisdom, I’m talking about divine wisdom (that which is from above); surely not the wisdom of this age (human wisdom) nor the wisdom of darkness.
The major crisis you’re currently facing in various areas of your life is nothing but a wisdom problem. It’s simply due to lack of wisdom! Not being able to apply divine knowledge. So you may ask, “Do I need God-wisdom every time?” The answer is yes. All the time! Since wisdom is the principal thing, then you need to take possession of it. It causes you stand out. You just ask God if you lack it. “If anyone of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him” – James 1:5
Solomon was a man that walked in wisdom; in fact known to be the wisest man that ever lived. You see, you might die trying various businesses, courses, ideas, plans if you lack this wisdom ‘m talking about. It reduces your days of labour and conserves your energy. It moves you into a place of inheritance and ends your days of struggle. It makes you walk smarter and surely brings reward and prospers the work of your hands. Don’t be fooled by your own wisdom, it’s so finite compared to the infinite wisdom of God. It surely knows all things.
“So, if truly this wisdom exists, why have I not walked in it or people around me?”, you might ask. This is because it’s a hidden wisdom and has been concealed from this age. No doubt, some people possess this wisdom I’m talking about and understand its importance; however, those who haven’t taken delivery of it would have to search for it in God. It comes through a relationship with the Holy Spirit.
“By me, kings reign and rulers decree justice” --- Proverbs 8:15. Don’t you know that, before God gives you a kingdom, He first grant you wisdom to reign. No wonder He says, “Wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of your times…” --- Isaiah 33:6.
Please watch this space as I explain further on this God-ordained wisdom. Your entire life needs it. It will mark you out, reduce your labour, and grant you excellence. I will be sharing with you this kind of wisdom that people cannot resist not even the forces of hell, how to obtain it, walk in it and maintain it. Please again keep your watch and see the truth that will be exposed in my next article.
Have you ever thought why the Bible instructs that “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom…”? --- Proverbs 4:7 May be not! You see one thing that you need more than any other thing in life is wisdom. When I talk about wisdom, I’m talking about divine wisdom (that which is from above); surely not the wisdom of this age (human wisdom) nor the wisdom of darkness.
The major crisis you’re currently facing in various areas of your life is nothing but a wisdom problem. It’s simply due to lack of wisdom! Not being able to apply divine knowledge. So you may ask, “Do I need God-wisdom every time?” The answer is yes. All the time! Since wisdom is the principal thing, then you need to take possession of it. It causes you stand out. You just ask God if you lack it. “If anyone of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him” – James 1:5
Solomon was a man that walked in wisdom; in fact known to be the wisest man that ever lived. You see, you might die trying various businesses, courses, ideas, plans if you lack this wisdom ‘m talking about. It reduces your days of labour and conserves your energy. It moves you into a place of inheritance and ends your days of struggle. It makes you walk smarter and surely brings reward and prospers the work of your hands. Don’t be fooled by your own wisdom, it’s so finite compared to the infinite wisdom of God. It surely knows all things.
“So, if truly this wisdom exists, why have I not walked in it or people around me?”, you might ask. This is because it’s a hidden wisdom and has been concealed from this age. No doubt, some people possess this wisdom I’m talking about and understand its importance; however, those who haven’t taken delivery of it would have to search for it in God. It comes through a relationship with the Holy Spirit.
“By me, kings reign and rulers decree justice” --- Proverbs 8:15. Don’t you know that, before God gives you a kingdom, He first grant you wisdom to reign. No wonder He says, “Wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of your times…” --- Isaiah 33:6.
Please watch this space as I explain further on this God-ordained wisdom. Your entire life needs it. It will mark you out, reduce your labour, and grant you excellence. I will be sharing with you this kind of wisdom that people cannot resist not even the forces of hell, how to obtain it, walk in it and maintain it. Please again keep your watch and see the truth that will be exposed in my next article.
Monday, 29 June 2009
THERE'S A CODE FOR YOUR LIFE
“… Even before I was born, you had written in Your book everything I would do.” – Psalm 139:16
“Identifying and following the code written for our lives is the only guarantee that produces the unique result that reveals the true purpose of our creation”. – Dammie Oguntayo
What if I was able to tell you how to spend each day of your life according to God’s plan? Won’t you be happy knowing you’re doing what your Father expects of you without wasting a day of your life?
This Scripture really got me thinking…imagine what you engage yourself in daily, is not one of those recorded in His book for your life! Imagine pastoring a church when He has actually called you into business or working as an accountant when He’s actually recorded for you in His book, a Philanthropist. I truly now understand why he will say to some people, “…depart from me, oh you workers of iniquity.” It is very dangerous to be committed to doing the wrong things.
Everything you will become has been written in His book. No wonder, He also says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” --- Jeremiah 29:11. God knows and have plans for each of our lives. He has a plan for your life and you fit very well into His purpose. Following another plan will automatically cause you to chase shadows. God being a Father of love mapped out a plan for you to execute on earth but unfortunately many have devised their own schemes.
Until you go back to getting this master plan, which is almost like a computer plug-in that produces a certain, usually very specific function “on demand”, life becomes so unbearable, full of trials and error. Identifying and following the code written for our lives is the only guarantee that produces the unique result that reveals the true purpose of our creation.
I have found out three categories of people when it comes to running with the plan of God. The first class of people is the class I call the “crowd”.
CROWD
Their name speaks well of them! This set of people are those called NFA, meaning, No Future Ambitions. They almost exist as if they don’t. Not that they were created without a purpose but they chose not to be bothered in finding the true reason for their existence. They spend the day as it comes. They aim at everything without hitting a target. They are the sought of people that wants to sing today, be a comedian tomorrow, go into business the next month all the way to minister at the pulpit! They are jack of all trades but master of none. Don’t get me wrong, I agree that there are multi-talented people but people that fall into this category I’m talking about are those in the trial and error group. They lack focus. They follow trends, fashion and social changes. They are easily and negatively influenced by friends. Basically, they lack VISION. Obviously, a man without vision is a man without FUTURE. Members of this class end up in frustration and total failure because they refuse to understand the plan and will of God for their lives. Is God to be blamed? I don’t think so. They eventually give up and settle for less. The next class is the “careless”.
CARELESS
This class of individuals are those with the understanding of the purpose of God for their lives but suddenly got distracted off the tracks. They started well with the plan in their hands which was unto them a guide or map for the journey ahead but they eventually got sidetracked based on the cares of this world. They dropped the plan due to environmental factors, attending and giving their time to things that have no direct impact on their purpose. That is why, Timothy was warned: “O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust, avoiding the profane and idle babblings and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge— by professing it some have strayed concerning the faith. Grace be with you. Amen.” 1 Timothy 6:20-21. People that fall into this category are those that want to give attention to what the people around them are saying. They want a bit of the world, a bit of God. Impossible! You are either cold or hot. Don’t you know that, “No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier? And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.” – 2 Timothy 2:4-5. Life becomes tasteless and loses its salt when a person abandons the plan of God for his life. The last class of people are the “committed”.
COMMITTED
They don’t need much explanation; their name depicts them as people of focus. They are not ready to throw in the towel! They understand they have to stand for something or else, they will fall for anything. They are always showing their commitment through “persistence to a purpose”. They are not afraid of making mistakes or even failing. They have so much plugged into the Word of God for their lives. They are out on an assignment to set the pace, to please the one who sent them and to occupy their position here on earth. They understand the challenges involved but yet they are not ready to compromise or take “NO” for an answer. This class of people are always with the plan of God in their hands throughout their lives. They are not willing to part with it unlike the “CARELESS”, which started with the plan but eventually dropped it due to the cares of the world and the system where they find themselves. The “COMMITTED” have just one purpose - to please and execute the assignment ordained them by God.
What has God called you to achieve here on earth? Are you working to execute His plan on earth or are you just minding your own business or have you even collaborated with the devil unknown to you? An honest, self and thorough examination will suffice. With God, it is never too late! Yes, it’s never late. In fact, He is standing at your door patiently waiting for you to grant Him access to the door of your heart where you can begin to experience His will for your life. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” --- Revelation 3:20. What an awesome God!
You might have been a person that falls into the first class described above but His plan is to bring you to the class of those that are committed to living in His will. You can definitely call on Him again to begin to order your steps in the way that you should go. His plan is not to kill you or cast you away but He’s really stretching out His arms of love crying out for you, “Come unto Me and let Me help you, just put your burdens upon Me”.
Thursday, 25 June 2009
I HAVE SEEN THE ENEMY
“We have met the enemy and he is us” --- Pogo Cartoon
It was a beautiful sunny afternoon day while travelling in the East area of London while I did a self examination of myself. I pondered and wondered why my flesh still sometimes responds to the things of this world. I mean to the desires and lust of this world. It became so apparent and obvious that my flesh is so vulnerable to the things of this world. As this concern grew within me, I have since then engaged myself in a continuous search, study and meditation to know and understand the reasons behind my propensities.
What do you think then, that we can continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! I suddenly began to find out that many of us have hidden in pretence under the umbrella of grace as a license to continue in our sins.
My friend, there’s a need to understand that Grace is God’s unmerited favour to those that deserves His wrath. This shows that we are not even qualified for such grace but by the power of His love, gave His Son for us.
We would need to identify the reason(s) we still continue in these sins although Ephesians 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God”. This simply means we were redeemed through faith (our acceptance of the victory we have in Jesus Christ) from the power of sin and the devil by grace in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ offering Himself as a sacrifice for our sins to defeat the power of sin. It goes on to say, all these didn’t happen by our own power, will, self-determination or strength but simply a gift to us from God. This gives us the assurance that sin no longer has dominion over us. The next question that rattles out of your mouth is then, “Why do I still sin if I have been redeemed from the power of sin?” Your second thought might be – “Since Jesus Christ died for me to defeat the power of sin, He will always prevent me from sin if/when He wants to!” To examine these two views properly, have a look at my scenario which I believe will help your understanding of grace and your own role in your salvation.
The relationship between God’s grace and man is like that of the world system and a strong tower. Before we gave our lives to Jesus Christ to become born-again, we were all under the direct influence of sin, sold to the bondage of sin and all continued in sin through the Adamic nature. We followed the dictates of our fleshy (sinful) desires, thoughts, actions and sinful habits. Sin became so deeply seated inside of us due to various things we were exposed to through the media, our culture, western civilization, fashion etc. As a result of all these factors, following the principles of the world, the devil was now able to hold us captive from pleasing God.
The next episode was that God deemed it fit to release us form the power of bondage and gave us the spirit of adoption to become sons of God through the death of Jesus Christ. Suddenly, our residence changed from that of the world and we became citizens of heaven instantly. Consequently, our residence was moved from the world system to the strong tower. Praise God!
From the moment we started living in His strong tower as sons, the Bible records that “There is therefore now no condemnation to, those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit” --- Romans 8:1. However, there’s still need to relate with the world system – because we still live here physically while on earth, go to work, school, do business and lots more. The challenge now is that we as sons must walk according to the Spirit while here in the world to maintain the grace we have in Christ Jesus. So, for those sons who chose not to remain or always walk in the Spirit will most likely continue in sin according to the desires of their flesh while mingling with the world.
We can now rightly conclude that grace is for all that have faith in Jesus Christ but not for all that continued according to the flesh. Your flesh is your number one enemy and that is you! As long as you respond according to the flesh and not the Spirit, you abuse the grace and if right measures are not taken, you probably end up in the bondage of sin again. Every individual must acknowledge their sins and constantly deal with them accordingly with the help of the Holy Spirit and not according to the flesh or self-strength.
It was a beautiful sunny afternoon day while travelling in the East area of London while I did a self examination of myself. I pondered and wondered why my flesh still sometimes responds to the things of this world. I mean to the desires and lust of this world. It became so apparent and obvious that my flesh is so vulnerable to the things of this world. As this concern grew within me, I have since then engaged myself in a continuous search, study and meditation to know and understand the reasons behind my propensities.
What do you think then, that we can continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! I suddenly began to find out that many of us have hidden in pretence under the umbrella of grace as a license to continue in our sins.
My friend, there’s a need to understand that Grace is God’s unmerited favour to those that deserves His wrath. This shows that we are not even qualified for such grace but by the power of His love, gave His Son for us.
We would need to identify the reason(s) we still continue in these sins although Ephesians 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God”. This simply means we were redeemed through faith (our acceptance of the victory we have in Jesus Christ) from the power of sin and the devil by grace in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ offering Himself as a sacrifice for our sins to defeat the power of sin. It goes on to say, all these didn’t happen by our own power, will, self-determination or strength but simply a gift to us from God. This gives us the assurance that sin no longer has dominion over us. The next question that rattles out of your mouth is then, “Why do I still sin if I have been redeemed from the power of sin?” Your second thought might be – “Since Jesus Christ died for me to defeat the power of sin, He will always prevent me from sin if/when He wants to!” To examine these two views properly, have a look at my scenario which I believe will help your understanding of grace and your own role in your salvation.
The relationship between God’s grace and man is like that of the world system and a strong tower. Before we gave our lives to Jesus Christ to become born-again, we were all under the direct influence of sin, sold to the bondage of sin and all continued in sin through the Adamic nature. We followed the dictates of our fleshy (sinful) desires, thoughts, actions and sinful habits. Sin became so deeply seated inside of us due to various things we were exposed to through the media, our culture, western civilization, fashion etc. As a result of all these factors, following the principles of the world, the devil was now able to hold us captive from pleasing God.
The next episode was that God deemed it fit to release us form the power of bondage and gave us the spirit of adoption to become sons of God through the death of Jesus Christ. Suddenly, our residence changed from that of the world and we became citizens of heaven instantly. Consequently, our residence was moved from the world system to the strong tower. Praise God!
From the moment we started living in His strong tower as sons, the Bible records that “There is therefore now no condemnation to, those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit” --- Romans 8:1. However, there’s still need to relate with the world system – because we still live here physically while on earth, go to work, school, do business and lots more. The challenge now is that we as sons must walk according to the Spirit while here in the world to maintain the grace we have in Christ Jesus. So, for those sons who chose not to remain or always walk in the Spirit will most likely continue in sin according to the desires of their flesh while mingling with the world.
We can now rightly conclude that grace is for all that have faith in Jesus Christ but not for all that continued according to the flesh. Your flesh is your number one enemy and that is you! As long as you respond according to the flesh and not the Spirit, you abuse the grace and if right measures are not taken, you probably end up in the bondage of sin again. Every individual must acknowledge their sins and constantly deal with them accordingly with the help of the Holy Spirit and not according to the flesh or self-strength.
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