JOSEPH FATHERLY ROLE IN THE LIFE OF JESUS
This article is not witch-hunt anyone but to encourage men to be taking responsibilities as God would help them. Lessons also for ladies(unmarried )in choosing the right man for marriage, also (married ladies) supporting their husbands to be their best while preparing their sons to be ready spiritually and morally to take fatherly responsibilities in the future properly.

It has been a common saying that fathers are natural leaders, ladders to climb on, shoulders to lean on and feathers to fly.
Even though Mary got the pregnancy of Jesus by the overshadowing power of the Holy Ghost yet by divine arrangement and intervention God ensure that the relationship of Joseph and Mary is intact. This is to ensure a proper family platform for baby JESUS. In God's original design, parenting should the duties of both parents, father and mother. Therefore God could not allow JESUS to be raised by a single parent of a single father or a mother.
From the account o JESUS birth and childhood we could see some examples of key father responsibilities that Joseph took.

1. MARRYING MARY AS WIFE: Thanks to God for the divine direction Joseph got, he took a bold step to accept and continue the relationship despite what we could a controversial pregnancy.

LESSON: DIVINE GUIDANCE IS VERY IMPORTANT IN MARRIAGE. We should not be led by feelings , what people say or even parent opinion should be a taken a good counsel not final say.
2. PROPER LEGAL DOCUMENTATION : We could infer from trip of Joseph to Judea with Mary his wife which implies he took every necessary step to legalize the union between him and Mary.
LESSON: Marriage must me formalised as soon as necessary checks and concerns including medicals compatibility etc are concluded. Cohabitation of marital partners without proper documentation is not scriptural.
3. COMPANIONSHIP AND CARE OF WIFE: From the biblical narration we could see that Joseph was a caring and considerate husband who ensure that he was available for his wife. From the scripture we saw that he was physically present during the delivery of Jesus. Unlike some husbands who believe their main responsibility is to provide for the family, anybody else could take care of their family even in pregnant state.
LESSON: Provision of money or materials alone are not enough to take care of wife and family. Husbands should make time available for their wives and children especially in critical period like during conception.
4.DEVOTION: Joseph is a good example of a fervent and devoted men of his days . We could see from the bible that he was in temple during when baby JESUS is being dedicated. Also Bible says that the two parents went to Jerusalem as a custom when JESUS was twelve years old. This means that as a matter of of principle and practice he attends fellowship and services regularly with family.
LESSONS: The best way to lead is to show examples, husbands must take lead in attending church programs and services. This would motivate the entire family especially the children to start following the right way of neglecting the assemblies of the people of God.
5. DIVINE GUIDANCE AND SPIRITUAL SENSITIVITY - Joseph was being divinely guided as to relocation especially because of the child- Jesus safety by the angel of the Lord and when it is time to return he was also led to take such important decisions that does not impact him only but the life of his family.
LESSON: Fathers should understand that they are spiritual leaders in their homes. They must be sensitive to God’s guidance for their decisions as it would go a long way to impact their family members.

JOSEPH FATHERLY ROLE IN THE LIFE OF JESUS
This article is not witch-hunt anyone but to encourage men to be taking responsibilities as God would help them. Lessons also for ladies(unmarried )in choosing the right man for marriage, also (married ladies) supporting their husbands to be their best while preparing their sons to be ready spiritually and morally to take fatherly responsibilities in the future properly.

It has been a common saying that fathers are natural leaders, ladders to climb on, shoulders to lean on and feathers to fly.
Even though Mary got the pregnancy of Jesus by the overshadowing power of the Holy Ghost yet by divine arrangement and intervention God ensure that the relationship of Joseph and Mary is intact. This is to ensure a proper family platform for baby JESUS. In God's original design, parenting should the duties of both parents, father and mother. Therefore God could not allow JESUS to be raised by a single parent of a single father or a mother.
From the account o JESUS birth and childhood we could see some examples of key father responsibilities that Joseph took.

1. MARRYING MARY AS WIFE: Thanks to God for the divine direction Joseph got, he took a bold step to accept and continue the relationship despite what we could a controversial pregnancy.

LESSON: DIVINE GUIDANCE IS VERY IMPORTANT IN MARRIAGE. We should not be led by feelings , what people say or even parent opinion should be a taken a good counsel not final say.
2. PROPER LEGAL DOCUMENTATION : We could infer from trip of Joseph to Judea with Mary his wife which implies he took every necessary step to legalize the union between him and Mary.
LESSON: Marriage must me formalised as soon as necessary checks and concerns including medicals compatibility etc are concluded. Cohabitation of marital partners without proper documentation is not scriptural.
3. COMPANIONSHIP AND CARE OF WIFE: From the biblical narration we could see that Joseph was a caring and considerate husband who ensure that he was available for his wife. From the scripture we saw that he was physically present during the delivery of Jesus. Unlike some husbands who believe their main responsibility is to provide for the family, anybody else could take care of their family even in pregnant state.
LESSON: Provision of money or materials alone are not enough to take care of wife and family. Husbands should make time available for their wives and children especially in critical period like during conception.
4.DEVOTION: Joseph is a good example of a fervent and devoted men of his days . We could see from the bible that he was in temple during when baby JESUS is being dedicated. Also Bible says that the two parents went to Jerusalem as a custom when JESUS was twelve years old. This means that as a matter of of principle and practice he attends fellowship and services regularly with family.
LESSONS: The best way to lead is to show examples, husbands must take lead in attending church programs and services. This would motivate the entire family especially the children to start following the right way of neglecting the assemblies of the people of God.
5. DIVINE GUIDANCE AND SPIRITUAL SENSITIVITY - Joseph was being divinely guided as to relocation especially because of the child- Jesus safety by the angel of the Lord and when it is time to return he was also led to take such important decisions that does not impact him only but the life of his family.
LESSON: Fathers should understand that they are spiritual leaders in their homes. They must be sensitive to God’s guidance for their decisions as it would go a long way to impact their family members.

In many situations people lot do things out of provocation from other party. The outcomes of this issue usually comes with some guilt and regrets. In some cases what the provokers did was not even part of the bad news or story that came out of it.
There are different scenarios how the provokers can be avoided.
Boss vs Surbordinate
Be disciplined to differentiate between what’s personal and official. If it’s personal you can create some gaps or distance to avoid interactions. If it’s official, need to understand the organization’s policy so as to be able to take right steps and decisions. If still not sure, you can consult with peers or superiors.
Spouses
It is better to quietly leave the scene and stay alone, if it’s possible to go outside or locked up in a room until the other fellow realizes his/her mistake and apologizes. After the ignoring the provoking fellow for a while and has calm down you can communicate your feelings back your spouse in a conversational manner.
If the partner is still not changing then try and planning more distant arrangement/mechanize to avoid been provoked. If the matter is getting heated up, then separation for a while is advisable.
Neighbor
The best is way to ignore and avoid interactions. You may still be greeting but no close relationship or discussions. If the party is notices and ready to make amends he or she will come for reconciliation.
These and many more related steps will help to keep arm-length to avoid unnecessary provocative actions.

In many situations people lot do things out of provocation from other party. The outcomes of this issue usually comes with some guilt and regrets. In some cases what the provokers did was not even part of the bad news or story that came out of it.
There are different scenarios how the provokers can be avoided.
Boss vs Surbordinate
Be disciplined to differentiate between what’s personal and official. If it’s personal you can create some gaps or distance to avoid interactions. If it’s official, need to understand the organization’s policy so as to be able to take right steps and decisions. If still not sure, you can consult with peers or superiors.
Spouses
It is better to quietly leave the scene and stay alone, if it’s possible to go outside or locked up in a room until the other fellow realizes his/her mistake and apologizes. After the ignoring the provoking fellow for a while and has calm down you can communicate your feelings back your spouse in a conversational manner.
If the partner is still not changing then try and be planning more distant arrangement/mechanism to avoid been provoked. If the matter is getting heated up, then separation for a while is advisable.
Neighbor
The best is way to ignore and avoid interactions. You may still be greeting but no close relationship or discussions. If the party is notices and ready to make amends he or she will come for reconciliation.
These and many more related steps will help to keep arm-length to avoid unnecessary provocative actions.

A lot of DNA wahala is making people people to have fear for marriage and family. It is an adulteration of it that makes it so. Once it is done rightly it gives pleasure, rest and fulfillment that ever imagine.
Marriage is a mainly a functional platform for responsibility. First and foremost. Spiritual Responsibility that God gave you partner to make the work he has given to you easier. the couple must recognize however it is shared responsibilities on both parties. Spiritual responsibility- biblical principle expectation from marriage is that your spiritual strength and capabilities become enhanced. couple must work on developing their individual spiritual capacities in personal word study and prayers not just being active in Church. One shall chase a thousand and Two shall chase 10, 000. Geometric progression you can say.
Romantic responsibility, your wife or husband should be your best woman or man in every thing and your sexual relationship should be to her or him ONLY. Responsibility in raising Godly seeds. Children are not property or achievement as it were, they were assigned to you from heaven for proper care and to be raised to fulfill God’s plan and purpose.
Financial and other responsibilities ought to be shared because God provide the woman as helpmeet not burden but rather a blessing. However Husband ought to head in everything as Jesus is head of the church, he must take the lead. Marriage will only make sense and becomes enjoyable when approach with people approach sense of responsibility.

A lot of DNA wahala is making people people to have fear for marriage and family. It is an adulteration of it that makes it so. Once it is done rightly it gives pleasure, rest and fulfillment that ever imagine.
Marriage is a mainly a functional platform for responsibility. First and foremost. Spiritual Responsibility that God gave you partner to make the work he has given to you easier. the couple must recognize however it is shared responsibilities on both parties. Spiritual responsibility- biblical principle expectation from marriage is that your spiritual strength and capabilities become enhanced. couple must work on developing their individual spiritual capacities in personal word study and prayers not just being active in Church. One shall chase a thousand and Two shall chase 10, 000. Geometric progression you can say.
Romantic responsibility, your wife or husband should be your best woman or man in every thing and your sexual relationship should be to her or him ONLY. Responsibility in raising Godly seeds. Children are not property or achievement as it were, they were assigned to you from heaven for proper care and to be raised to fulfill God’s plan and purpose.
Financial and other responsibilities ought to be shared because God provide the woman as helpmeet not burden but rather a blessing. However Husband ought to head in everything as Jesus is head of the church, he must take the lead. Marriage will only make sense and becomes enjoyable when approach with people approach sense of responsibility.

A lot of DNA wahala is making people people to have fear for marriage and family. It is an adulteration of it that makes it so. Once it is done rightly it gives pleasure, rest and fulfillment that ever imagine.
Marriage is a mainly a functional platform for responsibility. First and foremost. Spiritual Responsibility that God gave you partner to make the work he has given to you easier. the couple must recognize however it is shared responsibilities on both parties. Spiritual responsibility- biblical principle expectation from marriage is that your spiritual strength and capabilities become enhanced. couple must work on developing their individual spiritual capacities in personal word study and prayers not just being active in Church. One shall chase a thousand and Two shall chase 10, 000. Geometric progression you can say.
Romantic responsibility, your wife or husband should be your best woman or man in every thing and your sexual relationship should be to her or him ONLY. Responsibility in raising Godly seeds. Children are not property or achievement as it were, they were assigned to you from heaven for proper care and to be raised to fulfill God’s plan and purpose.
Financial and other responsibilities ought to be shared because God provide the woman as helpmeet not burden but rather a blessing. However Husband ought to head in everything as Jesus is head of the church, he must take the lead. Marriage will only make sense and becomes enjoyable when approach with people approach sense of responsibility.

AntiChristian:
Can you read Genesis 38 and explain it in the light of this your thread?

Thanks for comment. I have gone through the chapter of the Bible. I found something very insightful from there. Judah gave a wonderful wife to his son, but his son did a wickedness before God and he died. The younger brother supposed to take over the wife according to their tradition but he was selfish and died also. Even though Judah has almost given up on Tamar, but she was smart enough to get her way back to the family. She eventually was on lineage of Jesus. Matt.1:3.
Lesson: Tamar is a faithful wife, Judah must have seen this godly character before given her to his son as wife. ( As pointed out the in write up earlier how Abraham and Isaac influenced the wives to their children). Tamar loyalty and faithfulness to the family was eventually rewarded by God. Good character development by both man and woman is important when single and needs to be sustained even after marriage.

DIVINE GUIDELINES AND GUIDANCE IN COURTSHIP/MARRIAGE

1.DIVINE PLANS AND INTEREST IN MARRIAGE

And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. Gen 2:18
God bless them (the two) in the beginning after he made man and woman (Gen. 1:28). God saw that only man existence without woman was an inbalance creation. He condemned and corrected the initial design of a single man. He has to work to perfect this defect in the initial design of man by creating woman and hence marriage.
God brought in woman into man’s life for companionship, partnership and procreation. This perfect arrangement ensured that the humanity existence is balanced and sustained auto-mode reproductively. Apart from the physical gains, there is a spiritual side to this. God want godly marriages and homes that will raise godly seed for him. Mal.2:15
2. DIVINE INVOLVEMENT IN CHOICES OF MARRIAGE PARTNER
And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. Gen. 1:22
God made Eve brought her to Adam, Adam did not design Eve, he only discovered her. The manner of her presentation to Adam showed she has been built and wired to support him which Adam recognized and appreciated.
Abraham carefully and intentionally instructed his servant to choose wife for his son among his kinsmen (Gen 24:7).
Also Isaac and Rebecca also supported Jacob in going to his relative Laban to get wife there (Gen 28:1,2)
God also instructed the children of Israel to always to choose from among their people in marriage.

3. ESSENCE OF GOOD DIVINE CONNECTIVITY FOR GOOD MARRIAGE
And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. Luke 1:28
But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Matt 1:20
In the accounts of Mary angelic encounters which implies her good connectivity to God concerning the pregnancy of messiah we must note that these encounters are personal. They are not based on what prophets said alone, talk less of what pastor and parents are saying. The prophets and pastors roles as spiritual oversight is important but personal divine connectivity to heavenly signals is most paramount in issue of marriage. Also counselling from their sound believers especially the elderly is good – but the direct counsel of the Holy spirit is superior to all.
It was not only Mary that had divine encounters in her family life.
Joseph also had personal encounters with God which made him to make informed and sound decisions
concerning marriage.
Spiritually connectivity to God must be left alone to one party in the relationship, both parties must take good efforts to develop themselves in spiritually.
Having personal encounters with God by individuals make convictions strong, build faith, bring blessings and helps to weather any negative circumstances triumphantly.
Courtship period is a time when the three-fold cord of man, woman and God needs to be proper formed which cannot easily broken later in the marriage. Eccl 4:12
4. SINCERE SELF APPRAISAL AND DIVINE APPROVAL –
But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Matt 1:20
Relationship involves two people of different backgrounds and perspective of life. Most times it takes time to understand other person fully, accommodate other feelings and opinions about certain things even though they are both believers. There must be careful and deep personal examination beyond immediate circumstances of riches or beauty of each other. Compatibility to each other abilities, beliefs, character traits, and so on. This critical thinking must be sincere and personal, it is not based on what friend, parent or pastor is saying, not based on emotions but realities. It must be well thought over, as marriage is supposed to life time decision. Joseph had deep thought about his intentions which is expected of couples in relationship. We saw Joseph engaging his mind fully especially while considering breakup. It was in this period of thinking and possibly praying that he got the exact divine direction he needed. Rush decisions are not to be taken because of the great impact and long term effect of such actions.



5. SEXUAL DISCIPLINE, ALIGNING TO DIVINE STANDARDS
And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS. Matt 1:25
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Heb. 13:4

It is important that as believers in courtship to keep themselves undefiled for many reasons. There is usually a feeling of entitlement of belonging of each other during courtship but sexual restraint needs to be put in place, especially after commitment to each other. Just like Joseph did in the story even though it seems he had done all the needful as a husband, he did not touch Mary until Jesus was born. The bible said what the Lord has joined together let no man put asunder. There are stages or process involved in the different culture and nations. The joining of the Lord is what we must primarily aimed at not just the cultural rites, legal documentation and so on.

DIVINE GUIDELINES AND GUIDANCE IN COURTSHIP/MARRIAGE

1.DIVINE PLANS AND INTEREST IN MARRIAGE

And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. Gen 2:18
God bless them (the two) in the beginning after he made man and woman (Gen. 1:28). God saw that only man existence without woman was an inbalance creation. He condemned and corrected the initial design of a single man. He has to work to perfect this defect in the initial design of man by creating woman and hence marriage.
God brought in woman into man’s life for companionship, partnership and procreation. This perfect arrangement ensured that the humanity existence is balanced and sustained auto-mode reproductively. Apart from the physical gains, there is a spiritual side to this. God want godly marriages and homes that will raise godly seed for him. Mal.2:15
2. DIVINE INVOLVEMENT IN CHOICES OF MARRIAGE PARTNER
And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. Gen. 1:22
God made Eve brought her to Adam, Adam did not design Eve, he only discovered her. The manner of her presentation to Adam showed she has been built and wired to support him which Adam recognized and appreciated.
Abraham carefully and intentionally instructed his servant to choose wife for his son among his kinsmen (Gen 24:7).
Also Isaac and Rebecca also supported Jacob in going to his relative Laban to get wife there (Gen 28:1,2)
God also instructed the children of Israel to always to choose from among their people in marriage.

3. ESSENCE OF GOOD DIVINE CONNECTIVITY FOR GOOD MARRIAGE
And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. Luke 1:28
But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Matt 1:20
In the accounts of Mary angelic encounters which implies her good connectivity to God concerning the pregnancy of messiah we must note that these encounters are personal. They are not based on what prophets said alone, talk less of what pastor and parents are saying. The prophets and pastors roles as spiritual oversight is important but personal divine connectivity to heavenly signals is most paramount in issue of marriage. Also counselling from their sound believers especially the elderly is good – but the direct counsel of the Holy spirit is superior to all.
It was not only Mary that had divine encounters in her family life.
Joseph also had personal encounters with God which made him to make informed and sound decisions
concerning marriage.
Spiritually connectivity to God must be left alone to one party in the relationship, both parties must take good efforts to develop themselves in spiritually.
Having personal encounters with God by individuals make convictions strong, build faith, bring blessings and helps to weather any negative circumstances triumphantly.
Courtship period is a time when the three-fold cord of man, woman and God needs to be proper formed which cannot easily broken later in the marriage. Eccl 4:12
4. SINCERE SELF APPRAISAL AND DIVINE APPROVAL –
But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Matt 1:20
Relationship involves two people of different backgrounds and perspective of life. Most times it takes time to understand other person fully, accommodate other feelings and opinions about certain things even though they are both believers. There must be careful and deep personal examination beyond immediate circumstances of riches or beauty of each other. Compatibility to each other abilities, beliefs, character traits, and so on. This critical thinking must be sincere and personal, it is not based on what friend, parent or pastor is saying, not based on emotions but realities. It must be well thought over, as marriage is supposed to life time decision. Joseph had deep thought about his intentions which is expected of couples in relationship. We saw Joseph engaging his mind fully especially while considering breakup. It was in this period of thinking and possibly praying that he got the exact divine direction he needed. Rush decisions are not to be taken because of the great impact and long term effect of such actions.



5. SEXUAL DISCIPLINE, ALIGNING TO DIVINE STANDARDS
And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS. Matt 1:25
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Heb. 13:4

It is important that as believers in courtship to keep themselves undefiled for many reasons. There is usually a feeling of entitlement of belonging of each other during courtship but sexual restraint needs to be put in place, especially after commitment to each other. Just like Joseph did in the story even though it seems he had done all the needful as a husband, he did not touch Mary until Jesus was born. The bible said what the Lord has joined together let no man put asunder. There are stages or process involved in the different culture and nations. The joining of the Lord is what we must primarily aimed at not just the cultural rites, legal documentation and so on.

DIVINE GUIDELINES AND GUIDANCE IN COURTSHIP/MARRIAGE

1.DIVINE PLANS AND INTEREST IN MARRIAGE

And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. Gen 2:18
God bless them (the two) in the beginning after he made man and woman (Gen. 1:28). God saw that only man existence without woman was an inbalance creation. He condemned and corrected the initial design of a single man. He has to work to perfect this defect in the initial design of man by creating woman and hence marriage.
God brought in woman into man’s life for companionship, partnership and procreation. This perfect arrangement ensured that the humanity existence is balanced and sustained auto-mode reproductively. Apart from the physical gains, there is a spiritual side to this. God want godly marriages and homes that will raise godly seed for him. Mal.2:15
2. DIVINE INVOLVEMENT IN CHOICES OF MARRIAGE PARTNER
And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. Gen. 1:22
God made Eve brought her to Adam, Adam did not design Eve, he only discovered her. The manner of her presentation to Adam showed she has been built and wired to support him which Adam recognized and appreciated.
Abraham carefully and intentionally instructed his servant to choose wife for his son among his kinsmen (Gen 24:7).
Also Isaac and Rebecca also supported Jacob in going to his relative Laban to get wife there (Gen 28:1,2)
God also instructed the children of Israel to always to choose from among their people in marriage.

3. ESSENCE OF GOOD DIVINE CONNECTIVITY FOR GOOD MARRIAGE
And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. Luke 1:28
But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Matt 1:20
In the accounts of Mary angelic encounters which implies her good connectivity to God concerning the pregnancy of messiah we must note that these encounters are personal. They are not based on what prophets said alone, talk less of what pastor and parents are saying. The prophets and pastors roles as spiritual oversight is important but personal divine connectivity to heavenly signals is most paramount in issue of marriage. Also counselling from their sound believers especially the elderly is good – but the direct counsel of the Holy spirit is superior to all.
It was not only Mary that had divine encounters in her family life.
Joseph also had personal encounters with God which made him to make informed and sound decisions
concerning marriage.
Spiritually connectivity to God must be left alone to one party in the relationship, both parties must take good efforts to develop themselves in spiritually.
Having personal encounters with God by individuals make convictions strong, build faith, bring blessings and helps to weather any negative circumstances triumphantly.
Courtship period is a time when the three-fold cord of man, woman and God needs to be proper formed which cannot easily broken later in the marriage. Eccl 4:12
4. SINCERE SELF APPRAISAL AND DIVINE APPROVAL –
But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Matt 1:20
Relationship involves two people of different backgrounds and perspective of life. Most times it takes time to understand other person fully, accommodate other feelings and opinions about certain things even though they are both believers. There must be careful and deep personal examination beyond immediate circumstances of riches or beauty of each other. Compatibility to each other abilities, beliefs, character traits, and so on. This critical thinking must be sincere and personal, it is not based on what friend, parent or pastor is saying, not based on emotions but realities. It must be well thought over, as marriage is supposed to life time decision. Joseph had deep thought about his intentions which is expected of couples in relationship. We saw Joseph engaging his mind fully especially while considering breakup. It was in this period of thinking and possibly praying that he got the exact divine direction he needed. Rush decisions are not to be taken because of the great impact and long term effect of such actions.



5. SEXUAL DISCIPLINE, ALIGNING TO DIVINE STANDARDS
And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS. Matt 1:25
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Heb. 13:4

It is important that as believers in courtship to keep themselves undefiled for many reasons. There is usually a feeling of entitlement of belonging of each other during courtship but sexual restraint needs to be put in place, especially after commitment to each other. Just like Joseph did in the story even though it seems he had done all the needful as a husband, he did not touch Mary until Jesus was born. The bible said what the Lord has joined together let no man put asunder. There are stages or process involved in the different culture and nations. The joining of the Lord is what we must primarily aimed at not just the cultural rites, legal documentation and so on.

BAPTISM OF SPIRIT AND FIRE 🔥

Matthew 3:11 [11]I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:

Thanks be to God for his good and many foresight promises and plans for us our believers. The Lord has seen in to the future how helpless and vulnerable our lives will be without the baptism of Holy Ghost and FIRE. Although there are many teachings about baptism of the Spirit and the revelation have made tremendous impact in our lives. However, there is need to pay close attention also to baptism of FIRE. Baptism of FIRE is another key medium by which GOD empowers us for real dominion in all aspects of our lives. Remember Jesus redeemed us to the initial state where God blessed man to have DOMINION over all things on the earth. Gen. 1:28 This DOMINION is not just in the physical realm over animals and plants it is also SPIRITUAL, FINANCIAL, HEALTH and so on.
SIMILARITIES BETWEEN BAPTISM OF HOLY GHOST AND FIRE
* Same Baptiser - JESUS Matt.3:11
*Same power in Operation - HOLY SPIRIT 1Cor.12:66.
* Both required growth and development - Luke 2:40 Luke 1:80
* Both can diminish in potency. Depending on the individual believer - 1Thess.5:10, Eph. 4:30.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BAPTISM OF SPIRIT AND FIRE
*Baptism of Spirit operates from within John 7:38,39.
*Baptism of Fire is an influence from external force. Act.2:3
*Baptism of Spirit is like a seal or mark on a believer Eph.4:30. Trespassers can still be loitering houses or lands without fence. But *Baptism of Fire is like a fence in fact it is wall of FIRE round about the believers with it.Zech.2:5
* Baptism of Spirit is for DEFENCE Isa. 59:19, Baptism of Fire is for ATTACK Heb.10:29. *Baptism of Spirit is received by ASKING Luk 13:11 but Baptism of Fire is by TARRYING Act 1:8
*Baptism of Spirit helps to do good Baptism of fire helps to get good result. Act 10:38
KEY ADVANTAGES OF BAPTISM OF FIRE
*Maintain high level of Purity - it does not only purifies. It is a great weapon to fight flesh. *Consistent Fervency - This is necessary for quality God's service Rom.12:11 and Effectual Prayer life Jam. 5:16
* Higher Power of the Holy Ghost Operations Heb.1:7- It makes you a threat to the devil.Mark 1:24
*FAVOUR - The burning incense of this fire on our offerings is a sweet savour and fragrance of it brings FAVOUR towards God and man. Lev.3:5
And many more..

The former governor who was soliciting votes at a campaign rally said Nigerians should take their PVCs and vote for him on January 25.

As elections will be held on Saturday, February 25, netizens perceived that the presidential candidate was either referring to Nigerians voting for him some weeks ago or maybe next year January.


https://www.mynigeria.com/NigeriaHomePage/entertainment/Funny-reactions-as-Tinubu-says-Nigerians-should-vote-for-him-on-January-25-629843

Man is created as a primarily a spirit, that has a soul but lives in a body. The soul is the centre of man's intellect and emotions. It makes decisions based on information to him at any particular time. However there are limitations to quality of decision we can make due to access of future information we have. Our souls are innocently like strangers on this planet earth who don't know so much about the environment. This is one of the main reasons why we need divine direction. It is not that our mind is wicked when we take some decision sometimes and we found out later it is not a perfect one. We have several critical decisions in marital relationship, career choice, business steps and so on to make in life that we make our lives lot better if we make good ones. Jesus is the true and right shepherd that has laid down his life for us. He is worthy to lead us not only to succeed here on earth but to make it to eternity.
If you have not given your life to Jesus a Lord and saviour. Please do so today, believe and confess that He died for you, ask me to forgive your sins and write your name in the Lamb' s book of life.
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Man is created as a primarily a spirit, that has a soul but lives in a body. The soul is the centre of man's intellect and emotions. It makes decisions based on information to him at any particular time. However there are limitations to quality of decision we can make due to access of future information we have. Our souls are innocently like strangers on this planet earth who don't know so much about the environment. This is one of the main reasons why we need divine direction. It is not that our mind is wicked when we take some decision sometimes and we found out later it is not a perfect one. We have several critical decisions in marital relationship, career choice, business steps and so on to make in life that we make our lives lot better if we make good ones. Jesus is the true and right shepherd that has laid down his life for us. He is worthy to lead us not only to succeed here on earth but to make it to eternity.
If you have not given your life to Jesus a Lord and saviour. Please do so today, believe and confess that He died for you, ask me to forgive your sins and write your name in the Lamb' s book of life.
https://www.facebook.com/100087568553144/posts/pfbid0NAb89s2FrYjtxxeivknJy9Swt1D5zGDzyyT6GRWiYii7HFjU3ktYRyRLh4QPHDanl/?app=fbl

John 2:3-5

3 And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.
4 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.
5 His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

Mary, Mother of Jesus must have been watching her son closely and observing how he was solving problems by supernatural insight. She has noticed some special abilities, talents and skills in him. Jesus could have been helping her solve some personal , family or private business needs. On this particular occasion both her and Jesus were invited for an event and a need now arise that require immediate attention and solution. Mary was not only selfish here to call Jesus attention to the problem she was also helping the son to solve bigger problems and thereby launching him more into limelight. As parents we need to pay close attention to children's special gifts, talents and skills. Instead of being envious of them, ignoring or belittling them. We should encourage them to sharpen those special abilities. As parents we should also let them know that those special abilities are meant to help humanity not primarily to make money or fame like we see in the Mary how she referred the insufficient wine problem to Jesus and He solved it.

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John 2:4-5
5 His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.
6 And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.
7 Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.
God is a miracle worker, but most times there are human sides of the process to do. In the passage we saw Mary giving the people hint on how to get miracle from Jesus. The main lesson is that when you want miracle get an instruction from Him. The servant align with advise from Mary, they carefully listen to Jesus instruction and they obey and that was it. Individuals have need of different miracle, it could be in your marriage, finance, career, academics and so on. We need to position ourselves for a definite instruction and obey then miracles happen. God does not have any problem giving us miracles once we align to His will and instructions on issues of life.

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PERSONAL RESPONSIBLITY VS PEOPLE RELIABILITY
24 But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,
25 And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.
Jesus was very careful of taking steps based on just people are saying. He knew the heart of most of them did not align with what they are saying.
A lot of people need other assessment of whom they are before being comfortable. Most people get bother by someone else appraisal of their intelligence in examinations and interviews. Beauty in dating, relationships and social interactions. Sometimes people give false assesment because of wrong motives for example a lecturer is pressuring a lady to relationship might fail her not because she was not intelligent enough but rather to pressurized her to submission. In other cases some people might say some positive things which are not entirely true to their boss or leaders in order to get their favour. People assessment is a form of evaluation that can be considered to make some changes however the main thing is your factual personal perception of yourself. When making important decisions we must get person convictions that will build confidence to accept responsibility for the decision. It should not be based on the what people said only. This is more important when it is public that was initiating such kind of decision. It is good and biblical (Prov.11:14,15:22,24:6) to seek advice from trusted individuals however decision should be based on genuine, personal, truthful and prayerful consideration of facts on ground.
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Go and find a top photographer can work with the person while you are still gathering capital to start your own. Get a clear agreement, pay, working conditions once its fair enough go ahead and give your best. Don't give up and be optimistic.

Osinbanjo worth should even be better appreciated now than before, he sacrificed his friendship for a good Nigeria, imagine the inspiring speech he gave at presidential primary night alone, it wouldn't have possible. Osinbanjo is not against Tinubu as it were he is for better Nigeria.

APC Presidential primaries has come and gone. The true intents of the contestants are now clearer than before.
It is obvious Osinbanjo is trying to dissociate with general Nigerian politician mindset that see politics as business or investment with no real good intention for the masses. Osinbanjo speech showed why he decided to stood his ground for fighting for the soul of Nigeria against the popular moves of his political gang. Of a truth he is a beneficiary of the political group but I think he has seen some things to put right but unfortunately his political weight and those with him are not enough wrestle out the power in the direction he wished.
His main contender and eventual winner Bola Ahmed Tinubu has better political affinities, connections and resources. Tinubu speeches reflected more of this personal ambition, political partnerships and plans to defeat PDP other than good plans and wishes for the country they want to govern.
It is clear on this note that the youngest aspirant stepped down for Osinbanjo because he saw the interest of the young and general populace in him while the old and experienced politicians aligned with Tinubu for personal and selfish political interest and not that of the nation.
We should not give up, Osinbanjo tried a little, hopefully in the near future good people with right heart for the nation will succeed to get hold of power and move the nation forward.

A lot of people are seeing marriage has been overrated and some as seeing it as scams. Although people have different experiences, the truth is that foundation and origin of marriage need to be well understood before it can be enjoyed maximally.
The most authentic origin of marriage is God as seeing in the Bible. The following points are to be well noted from the pages of the scripture Gen. 1:26-28.
1.God saw the need - there must be a space or gap, right desire to be filled.
2.God brought Eve - remember God created man - male and female. Allow God to influence your choices in life including life-partner decision making.
3. God blessed them - relying on our skills, wisdom, strength and ability is not enough. We need God's grace and blessings.
In summary God factor in successful marriage cannot be ignored. Threefold cord is not easily broken. As husband or wife you must have allegiance to your selves and to God individually and collectively as a couple.
Some people tends to be lose their composure when the partner sinned or fall into one error or the other. Forgetting that the partner has not only sin against them but against God. If God does not kill people immediately they sin, why do they take laws into the hands to hurt the falling partner thereby committing other crimes. Always know that God punish law offenders in His own way that will be smarter and better than your way.
Love fades between people whether in marriage or out of marriage due to a lot of factors. It takes adherence to God's principles and values to make marriage work. If you life is threatening physically or emotionally in relationship or marriage you can separate from the partner but don't separate from God. At the end of the day, God will help you if you stay faithful to him. Romance and wealth does not keep marriage but alignment with God's principles does.

A lot of people are seeing marriage has been overrated and some as seeing it as scams. Although people have different experiences, the truth is that foundation and origin of marriage need to be well understood before it can be enjoyed maximally.
The most authentic origin of marriage is God as seeing in the Bible. The following points are to be well noted from the pages of the scripture Gen. 1:26-28.
1.God saw the need - there must be a space or gap, right desire to be filled.
2.God brought Eve - remember God created man - male and female. Allow God to influence your choices in life including life-partner decision making.
3. God blessed them - relying on our skills, wisdom, strength and ability is not enough. We need God's grace and blessings.
In summary God factor in successful marriage cannot be ignored. Threefold cord is not easily broken. As husband or wife you must have allegiance to your selves and to God individually and collectively as a couple.
Some people tends to be lose their composure when the partner sinned or fall into one error or the other. Forgetting that the partner has not only sin against them but against God. If God does not kill people immediately they sin, why do they take laws into the hands to hurt the falling partner thereby committing other crimes. Always know that God punish law offenders in His own way that will be smarter and better than your way.
Love fades between people whether in marriage or out of marriage due to a lot of factors. It takes adherence to God's principles and values to make marriage work. If you life is threatening physically or emotionally in relationship or marriage you can separate from the partner but don't separate from God. At the end of the day, God will help you if you stay faithful to him. Romance and wealth does not keep marriage but alignment with God's principles does.

Powerful and insightful content.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32x8o1ZQy28

In my nearly four decades in life, I have heard many killings, beheading and so on of people in the name of blasphemy.This is now even happening in schools where they are supposed to be educated and enlightened.
This is common among the Nigeria northern Muslims - what exactly is motivating, driving them!
Even if the guilty are wrong, is there no forgiveness, love, tolerance in their own beliefs?
Is their a caveat in their religious writings that allows it, or political inequality,ignorance, or just wickedness,or is it because the perpetrators are covered by their extremist people in governance?
Some of these things demand answers. It is just unfair for some people to delight in killings and make other people sad in the name of religion that is suppose help our society now destroying it.

I believe Joseph trusted Mary and the pregnancy would be having shocking to him. Immediately the angel revealed the truth about the pregnancy it was very easy for Joseph to believe. Both of them loved and respected each other. It was a perfect courtship that God use to bring about Jesus Christ to the earth. A very exemplary model for christian singles in courtship and relationship.

Everybody at every level can show good leadership by delivering effectively and innovatively tasks assigned. Developing your leadership at low level enable you to make proper correction to mistakes when the impact is low. Therefore use every opportunity you have to sharpen your leadership skills by excellent delivery of your TASKS no matter how little they maybe. People become exposed at high levels when they have not prepared adequately at low level. Leadership success or failure at high levels (when TITLE is high) is much bigger and wider in impact and influence. Reputation is at greater risk when your leadership failed at high level.

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1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to SEDUCING spirits, and doctrines of devils;

Our ladies should be mindful of what they wearing. Stop SLAYING (murdering) the innocent guys eyes.
Clothes that are meant for indoors should not worn outside. Ladies need to help and protect the men's mind too. Your freedom to wear what you want should not make someone else to look sideways when he suppose to look forward.
When a ladies dress tightly and seductively revealing closely shapes and contours, it makes the men look lustfully automatically except the men look away which takes extra effort and even grace sometimes.

PLEASE CONCERN LADIES SHOULD ADJUST..

Exact truth, advise your friend to turn the so called relationship to mere friendship. The guy is probably student also needs to find his own footing properly first. Both of them should better concentrate on their studies and even find one handwork to learn along also. Especially in these days of frequent and prolong ASUU strikes.

JOACHINpedro:

Pls tell your friend to tell the guy to stop deceiving the girl.
21yrs old me was still thinking of how to pay my fees this one is thinking of how to get married