₦airaland Forum

Sunday, June 11th.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 11.
(Principles That Governs How We Give Our Offerings - 1).

"Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings." (Malachi 3:.

It matters how we give our offerings as it affects your prosperity. You may never be able to enter into your rich inheritance in Christ if you don't give your offerings in accordance to the principles and demands of God's word.

We usually quote the opening text when rebuking tithe defaulters but the verse also mentioned offerings. So, we can also rob God in the offerings we give. In what ways can we rob God in the offerings we give?

First, when we give unworthy offerings. God had earlier rebuked the children of Israel through Prophet Malachi in the first chapter of the book of Malachi. Thus he said; "And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? and if ye offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? saith the LORD of hosts." (Malachi 1:.

Second, when we give deceitfully. In verse 14 of the same chapter, God said; "But CURSED BE THE DECEIVER, which hath in his flock a male, and voweth, and sacrificeth unto the Lord a corrupt thing: for I am a great King, saith the LORD of hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen."(Malachi 1:14).

In terms of physical cash, you dishonor God two ways; first, when you give an amount of money far less than what you have proposed to give not because you don't have it but because you don't value Him enough to remit what you had planned to give. Second, when you give turn or mutilated notes that can't be accepted in the open market. But, you want God to accept it.

So, always give God your very best and learn to give clean notes. He deserves to be honoured even with your offerings. And when you honour him, he will honour you in return. Tomorrow, we will look at the third way we rob God in our offerings.

Prayer: Dear Lord, it's another beautiful day and I thank you for the privilege to be alive to witness it. I ask for your mercy in ways and manners I have dishonoured you in the past with unworthy offerings. I am resolved from this day henceforth to give you my very best. I just just ask for your enabling grace in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Samuel 2:30, Malachi 1:6-14.

Saturday, June 10th.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 10.
(Principle of Tithing - 2).

"Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: THESE OUGHT YE TO HAVE DONE, and not to leave the other undone." (Matthew 23:23).

We introduced the principle of tithing yesterday and said it's important you remit your tithes if you want to enter into the rich inheritance already prepared for you in Christ. There are however so many people and even some notable preachers who preach against tithing. Their main point is that it is not part of the New Testament teachings.

The opening text is a remark our Lord Jesus made concerning tithing. He acknowledged that they pay tithe even of a little plant like mint but they neglect more important aspects of the law. Notice, he didn't condemn tithing but he said that there are other more important things they are neglecting. He ended his remark that they ought to pay their tithes but shouldn't leave the more important things.

What are these more important things? He summarized them as judgment, mercy, and faith. Judgment and mercy simply refers to the kindness we show to others especially those in need and those who are oppressed. Our Lord Jesus made this remark because there are so many people who pay their tithes faithfully but don't give to the poor and needy people in their midst. Even Apostle Paul said the same thing in the thirteenth chapter of the book of First Corinthians. No matter what you do for God, without love for the brethren, you are nothing.

The first submission I have made here is that Jesus did not condemn tithing. He rather said that there are more important aspects of the law they should not neglect.

Besides, the teachings of Jesus concerning giving places more demands on us than tithing. Our Lord Jesus wants us to give 100% of what we have to help the poor. He said that we should do it even if we have to sell what we have - Luke 12:33. He knew this is where the Jews were missing it. They were faithful to tithing but hardly help those in need. And the story hasn't changed even in our days.

It's true that it's difficult to find anyone today who gives his 100% to God. But there are quite a few that gives far above their tithes. The early church practiced the instruction of our Lord Jesus on two recorded occasions - Acts 2:44-7 & 4:34-37. It will be useless telling such set of believers to pay their tithes because they already gave their all.

There are so many professing believers who are faithful in remitting their tithes and even support several church projects and programmes with huge amounts but they don't make budget for the needy. Even when people go to them for help, they are reluctant to give. The few that respond to the cry of the poor do it grudgingly.

He met a young rich ruler on an occasion who boasted he keeps all the commandments of God. But Jesus told him; "....One thing thou lackest: go thy way, SELL WHATSOEVER THOU HAST, AND GIVE TO THE POOR, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me." (Mark 10:21).

So, if you are of the opinion that we shouldn't remit our tithes because it was not emphasized in the New Testament, then be prepared to do that which was emphasized. And this will demand you to give away all that you have to help the poor. But how can someone who is reluctant to give away 10% as tithe give all he has for benevolence?

You can't stand on a fence. If you don't want to pay your tithe, then sell your property and help the poor. Common sense should tell you that tithing is just the minimum requirements of our financial commitment to God. Give it willingly and make extra sacrifice from the remaining amount for the poor and needy brethren in your midst. As you do, you will experience increase in every area of your life and the grace to do more over time will be given to you.

Prayer: My heavenly Father, I am grateful for the opportunity to see another glorious day. I thank you also for unveiling the truth of your word to me concerning tithing. I receive grace to faithfully remit my tithe while at the same time make provision for those in need in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Hebrews 7:4-9, Luke 12:33, Mark 10:17-30.

Friday, June 9th.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 9
(Principle of Tithing - 1).

"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. "(Malachi 3:10).

Today, we will look at the principle of tithing as another principle we must put to work if we want to enjoy our rich inheritance in Christ. Tithe is 10% of your income or increase. In other words, it is not limited to your income or salary. It also includes gift items. Value the gift item and give or pay a tenth of the value as your tithe.

Tithing was first revealed in Genesis when Abraham gave Melchizedec tithe after he returned from a battle where he rescued Lot and his family from the hands of his captors. In addition, he recovered all the goods that they took - Genesis 14:18-20.

His grandson, Jacob also practiced tithing. This is evident in the vow he made which reads; "And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God's house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee." (Genesis 28:22).

The references given above shows that tithing preceded the Law of Moses and transcends it in principle. Under the law, it was instituted primarily to support the Levites who serve in the house of God. Thus, the scripture said; "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." (Numbers 18:21).

When you receive your salary or a cash gift, separate your tithe first before you begin to spend the money. And do not delay to remit it the very next service to avoid the temptation of making use of it under pressure. The same thing applies to those in business. Separate your tithe from the profit you make before you reinvest the money. This is the honour that God deserves.

And the scripture says that you should prove God if he will not open the windows of heaven and pour out his blessings such that there will not be room enough to receive it. This talks about prosperity. It will certainly not happen overnight but God will gradually bring you out of poverty to supernatural abundance over time if you are faithful in your tithing.

In addition, the scripture says that he will rebuke the devourer for your sake. Devourers are unforseen expenses such as money you spend on critical health issues, police cases and even fixing an accident car. Faithful tithers will have less of such issues.

So, make effort to remit your tithe as God blesses you. Do it correctly and faithfully. You can give more than 10% but it shouldn't be less. As you do, the Lord will take you from one level of glory to another in your finances that his name alone might be glorified. Tomorrow, we will look at the claim by some people that tithing is not compulsory in the New Testament and x-ray it under the light of God's word.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, who is like unto you? Amongst the gods, who is like thee? You are glorious in holiness and fearful in praises, doing wonders, hallelujah. I thank you for the revelation of your word concerning tithing. I ask for mercy in manners and ways I have been unfaithful in remitting my tithes. As I do so from this day, open the windows of heaven and pour out your blessings on me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Malachi 3:8-11, Matthew 23:23.

Thursday, June 8th.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 8
(Principle of Firstfruit).

"Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine." (Proverbs 3:9-10).

We have established the fact that we have a rich inheritance in Christ. And we have used a few examples on how to obtain your inheritance with respect to financial and material wealth. Today, we will begin to study in details some of the principles that governs prosperity and how to put them to work so you can experience financial liberty with time.

The first principle we will look at is the principle of firstfruit. Firstfruit is the first ripened harvest from your farm produce. It is expected that you honour God with a good portion of it if you want to experience bountiful harvest next season.

The church is more familiar with the principle of tithing but firstfruit principle was first revealed in the Bible before tithing. It was unveiled in the fourth chapter of the book of Genesis. The scripture said; "And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his Offering." (Genesis 4:4).

Firstling is the first born child of an animal. The first of everything belongs to God, whether it's your agricultural produce, animals or even humans. This is why under the Old Covenant, the Lord laid claim on the firstborn male child of the children of Israel; "... the firstborn of thy sons shalt thou give unto me" (Exodus 22:29).

The principle of firstfruit can still applies today even if you are not a farmer or a cattle rearer. When you get a new job, your first salary is your firstfruit. But your firstfruit offering is the best from it. It is not necessarily the whole as it is taught in some churches. Even under the Old Testament, God never demanded the whole of the firstfruit. What he demanded was the best (Exodus 23:19) or a bundle (Leviticus 23:10). However, you can choose to give all of it to God. It is purely at your discretion.

Your first salary in a new year is your firstfruit of the year. You are also supposed to give your best to God from it. The same applies to those in business. Your first profit in a new business is your firstfruit. Give your best to God from it.
When you learn to honour God with the best of your firstfruit, you are securing your financial future. You will continue to grow in your career or business. You will never experience a sack in your job or the closure of your business.

And it is meant to be presented to your Pastor who will bless you in return. Thus the scripture said; "And the first of all the firstfruits of all things, and every oblation of all, of every sort of your oblations, shall be the priest's: ye shall also give unto the priest the first of your dough, THAT HE MAY CAUSE THE BLESSING TO REST IN THINE HOUSE." (Ezekiel 44:30).

Prayer: Everlasting God, I thank you for keeping the night watch for me. I thank you also for unveiling the principle of firstfruit to me. As I apply it in my life, I declare that you will cause me to experience increase and durable riches in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Exodus 34:22, Numbers 18:2, 1st Kings 17:13.

Wednesday, June 7th.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 7.
(The Role of Faith - 4).

"And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread."(2nd Kings 4:.

We are still on the role faith plays in launching us into our wealth which is one of our inheritance in Christ. The opening text is an encounter a rich woman from Shunem had with Prophet Elisha. From the passage, it seems Elisha went frequently to that town for a purpose which was not stated. And the woman took it upon herself to take care of his meal whenever he comes.

After a while, she decided to provide him with a furnished accommodation with the permission of her husband. I believe she must have noticed some blessings she received by providing his meal even though it wasn't stated. So, she decided to do more than just providing his meal. She also took care of his accommodation.

Elisha inspired by her good works asked her through his servant, Gehazi if she has any need. He even promised to connect her with the King or Captain of the host. But she refused to state any specific need. Then, he asked Gehazi, his servant what should be done for her. Gehazi said that she has no child. Immediately Elisha said to her; "...About this season, according to the time of life, thou shalt embrace a son..." (2nd Kings 4:16). The declaration by Prophet Elisha was too good to be true by her reaction but it happened just the way she was told.

The Shunammite woman put her faith to work by ministering to the man of God. Most of the time, when God wants to change the ugly situations of people, he sends a man of God to them. Men of God carries an anointing that is designed to break yokes in people's lives. But you connect with that anointing with your seed. And whatever he declares concerning your situation comes to pass.

Quite a lot of Christians go to church and receive prophetic blessings from men of God but they don't sow any seed to seal that blessing. This is why things have remained the way they are in the lives of so many believers. So, be smart like the Shunammite woman if you want to see changes in specific area of your life. Look for something to do for the men of God placed over your life. Ensure it's a quality seed that will inspire him to bless you. And whatever he declares concerning your life will come to pass.

Prayer: My Father in heaven, I thank you for your mercy and faithfulness towards me. I thank you also for your word that enlightens me. I thank you for your Spirit that comforts me. Direct my path this beautiful day in accordance to your purpose for my life in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 2nd Kings 4:8-17, Numbers 6:23-27, Genesis 27:7.

Tuesday, June 6th.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 6
(The Role of Faith - 3).

"And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar. In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee." (1st Kings 3:4-5).

Financial and material wealth is part of our inheritance in Christ. But faith plays a role in ensuring that you obtain the wealth that is already yours. It will certainly not happen overnight. But if you mix God's word you hear with faith, you will gradually launch yourself into wealth.

Another good example we will use to illustrate the role of faith is the unusual offering King Solomon offered upon the altar. The scripture said; "And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar." (1st Kings 3:4).

The verse before said that Solomon loved the Lord and walked in the statutes of David his father. No wonder he offered such a staggering amount of sacrifice. The level of your giving to anyone is proportional to the love you have for that person. So each time you give to God, you are invariably telling God the much you love him.

In addition, he was a student of the word. His father David taught him so many things which definitely include how to honour God with quality sacrifice. This is why Pastors should always from time to time teach members how to give quality offerings. It is for their own prosperity. You can't be richer than the level of your giving.

However, the offering got the attention of God that he couldn't even wait till morning hour to communicate with King Solomon. He gave King Solomon a blank cheque in the dream; Thus, it is written; "In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee."(1st Kings 3:5).

King Solomon responded by asking God for wisdom to lead the nation of Israel. God was shocked he did not ask for wealth or the life of his enemies. God gave him his request and in addition, wealth that was uncommon in his days.

This miracle of wealth King Solomon received started with the unusual offering King Solomon offered to God. It takes faith to do what Solomon did. Sometimes, it's important we deviate from the norms and give unusual offerings to God. It's not out of place to set aside a service for unusual offerings. King Solomon was so rich that the scripture said that he gathered gold like dust. A later offering he offered was so much that the one thousand burnt sacrifice looked like a child's play - 1st Kings 8:63.

We give too little and this is one of the reasons a large percentage of the church is yet to experience breakthrough in the area of finance. We are too conscious of who is eating our offerings or what it is being used for. Take your attention away from the administration of offering you give and focus on your expectations.

Begin to make plans to start giving unusual offerings. As you do, God will also open uncommon doors of financial favour for you like he did for King Solomon. Remember, the scripture says; "...He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (2nd Corinthians 9:6, Galatians 6:7).

Prayer: Glorious God, be thou magnified in my life. There is none holy as thou art. You are the only true and wise God. Guide me through the journey of life by your Spirit and your word so I can be what you want me to be in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Kings 3:1-15, 2nd Samuel 24:24.

Monday, June 5th.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 5.
(The Role of Faith - 2).

"Believe in the LORD your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper." (2nd Chronicles 20:20).

We began to discuss the role faith plays in obtaining our inheritance in Christ with specific focus on financial and material wealth. Today, we will look at a few more examples to buttress my points.

During the period of famine in Isreal, God sent Prophet Elijah to a widow who lived in the city of Zarephath to sustain him while the famine lasted. When he got there, he saw the widow gathering a few sticks and said to her, "... Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand." (1st Kings 17:11). As she went, Elijah called her back and said, "...Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand." (1st Kings 17:11).

She responded; "As the LORD thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die." (1st Kings 17:12). She was in deep poverty and her story revealed why she was poor. She had lived her life making provisions for just she and her son. God was not in her budget and no one else was in her budget.

This is the story of most Christians. Whenever they receive money, they consume it on themselves and their families alone. They do not pay tithe, neither do they give quality offerings or even sow into people's lives. Well, Elijah knowing how kingdom principle works told her; "...Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth."(1st Kings 17:13-14).

She believed the word of Elijah, did as she was told and her poverty was turned into abundance. She had enough to eat and also provide for Elijah throughout the period of the famine. Elijah taught the widow the principle of firstfruit and it worked for her.

Don't be afraid to give even in difficult times. The scripture says; "He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap." (Ecclesiastes 11:4). We have an advantage over the people of the world in trying moments. So, we should not cry like they do. Just look for good opportunities to sow your seeds. It could be to your man of God, or on the altar of God. You can also give to a brother or sister in need. God has a way of ensuring that the seed you sow comes back to you in multiple proportions and increase your capacity to give over time.

Prayer: Holy Father, how great thou art. I thank you for yet another beautiful day. I thank you for keeping me safe under the shelter of your wings. Unveil the truth of your word to me that will launch me into my glorious inheritance in Christ in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Proverbs 3:9-10, Matthew 6:33, Ezekiel 44:30.

There is more to this story.

Sunday, June 4th.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 4.
(The Role of Faith - 1).

"For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it."(Hebrews 4:2).

So far, we have established the fact that we have obtained an inheritance in Christ. We also said that everything we need for life has already been provided for us but how much of it we enjoy is a function of our faith and spiritual maturity.

Yesterday, we said that prosperity is one of our inheritance in Christ. Those who criticize prosperity preachers do so out of ignorance even though the message of prosperity is sometimes blown out of proportion.

Today, we will begin to look at some of the principles that governs prosperity and how to put them to work. The opening text says that the gospel couldn't profit the saints of old because they did not mix it with faith. We will examine the role faith plays in ensuring that we enjoy the wealth that is ours in Christ.

Your first responsibility is to believe the word of God you hear concerning prosperity. You must receive it like a little child especially when you know that the vessel God is using to deliver the message is a man or woman of integrity. That doesn't mean that you will accept all they say hook line and sinker. It is imperative you compare what you are taught with the word of God through diligent study.

So, the first step is to believe God's word with your heart. Don't try to figure it out with your senses because the things of God are foolishness to the carnal man or carnal mind. How can you figure out how two loaves of bread and five fishes could feed over five thousand people? How can you explain how water could turn into wine?

Your positive response to the word of God you hear is the starting point for your miracle even in the area of finance. Peter toiled all night in an attempt to catch fishes but he caught nothing. Our Lord Jesus told him; "...Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught." (Luke 5:4).

Peter responded thus; "... Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: NEVERTHELESS AT THY WORD I will let down the net." (Luke 5:5). When he let down his net, the scripture said, "... they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink." (Luke 5:6-7).

Even though Peter's faith produced results, he didn't completely believe the Lord. Our Lord Jesus asked him to let down his NETS as in many nets but Peter only let down ONE NET. He would have gotten a much bigger miracle. All the same, his faith produced result. He didn't allow his senses to get in the way. How could Jesus who doesn't have a fishing experience tell him how to catch fishes would have been his thought.

If you want to experience financial freedom, start by believing what God's word says concerning finance. It may not appeal to your senses. But as long as the instruction is in line with God's word, it will produce miracles even beyond your expectations.

Prayer: Immortal God, invisible God, how great thou art. The heavens declare your glory and the earth unveils the wonders of your works. I thank you for the life you have given me in Christ. I know that the wealth you have provided for me in Christ will locate me over time in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Acts 20:32, John 8:32, Psalms 119:105.

Saturday, June 3rd.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 3.

"For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich." (2nd Corinthians 8:9).

In the realm of the spirit, everything we need for life has been provided by God. And prosperity is one of them. The opening text says that Jesus became poor so that we through his poverty might be rich.

There are quite a few people who say that the scripture is referring to spiritual poverty. Jesus was never poor spiritually. If he was, he wouldn't have been able to perform the miracles he did. But we know that he experienced physical poverty relative to the glory he had in heaven before he came down to earth. There was a time he had no place to lay his head. At a certain time, he was hungry.

God is not against prosperity. It is his will that we prosper. Just as John wrote; "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth." (3rd John 2).

The first man, Adam was created after everything he needed was already made available. He entered into prosperity from the first day. He was was placed in the Garden of Eden which had everything he needed for food. His duty was just to dress the garden. He however lost the opportunity to live in plenty when he sinned against God and was driven from the garden.

The fall of man brought poverty to mankind when God cursed the ground. But the sacrifice Noah offered after the flood reversed the cursed and the opportunity to prosper was restored. Thus, God said to Noah; "While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease."(Genesis 8:22).

It was however through Abraham that God made a promise to bless the world again. He told Abraham, "And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed." (Genesis 12:2-3).

To bless means to empower to prosper. So God promised to prosper Abraham and the families of the earth through him. And that promise has been fulfilled in Christ. As it is written; "And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:29).

The prosperity certainly will not show up overnight. Your responsibility is to understand the principles that governs prosperity and put it to work. As you do, the wealth that is already yours will locate you that the name of God might be glorified.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I worship you in the beauty of holiness. You alone deserve the glory, honour and adoration. I thank you for making me a candidate of blessing in Christ. I declare that the wealth you have made available to me in Christ will locate me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Genesis 8:20-22, 13:1-2, 2nd Peter 1:3-4.

nairalanda1:
Fuel in Benin is N489 right now.

And right now, fuel in Nigeria is N488-540 per liter.

At the end of the day, smugglers cannot make a profit at all. Removing subsidy has made it difficult for anyone to smuggle fuel across the border.

And people ask me why I say subsidy must go...well here is one good reason.

Modified

If fuel was still N195, and I was living on the border, I can buy fuel into two 50l jerrycans, at N19500, cross the broder and sell it at dobule the price, and earn a cool N40000. Note that it was not only big cabals involved in the smuggling...it was also small poor boys and gals too.

Nigeria should fix our refineries to operate to full capacity and supply other West Africa countries fuel. And by so doing, make so much money.

But because of selfishness, they destroyed our refineries and buy share in Dangote refinery making themselves rich at the expense of the nation. What a country.

Friday, June 2nd.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 2.

"Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father." (Galatians 4:1-2).

We said yesterday that your faith and spiritual maturity determines how much of the inheritance you have in Christ eventually becomes yours. The role spiritual maturity plays in obtaining your inheritance can be better understood when we look at the role physical maturity plays in the natural world.

The opening text says that an heir as long as he is a child is not different from a servant even though he owns everything. And this is very true. If a man dies and lives a huge inheritance behind for a child of 7 years old, that child will not be allowed access to the wealth until he is of age.

This is how it plays out also in the things of the spirit. There are so many spiritual babies in the house of God. They can't access their inheritance until they grow up in the things of the spirit. For instance, someone who is arguing about paying tithe is a spiritual baby.
There are wealth he can never access until he practically engage the principle of tithing.

In the same sense, a believer who seldom participate financially in church projects and programmes is not ready for uncommon financial miracles. Spiritual maturity shows itself in your attitudes toward spiritual things. This includes, your prayer life, study life, attitude in your service to God, response to the word of God you hear, regular service attendance, participation in soul winning activities and giving habit.

So, in other to grow to maturity, God places you under teachers and pastors until the time appointed by God. But to so many, that appointed time never comes because they are unwilling to learn and grow. The choice is yours. If you want to enjoy your rich inheritance in Christ, make deliberate effort to grow up in the things of God. At the appointed time, God will ensure that the inheritance that is yours is released to you.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for your the entrance of your word that gives light. Fill me with the knowledge of your will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding that I may fully grasp the endless treasures available for me in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Peter 2:2, 2nd Peter 3:18, 1st John 2:12-13, Acts 20:32.

Thursday, June 1st.

Our Inheritance In Christ - 1.

"In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will."(Ephesians 1:11).

Inheritance simply means what one is entitled to inherit. And it could be by birth, tradition, law or by a written will. By virtue of our union with Christ, we have obtained an inheritance. This will be the focus of our study this month. It's imperative you know what is rightfully yours so that you will not be cheated you out of them.

The value of inheritance is proportional to the worth of the one you got the inheritance from. God is the source of our inheritance. And since God is unlimited in resources, our inheritance also has no limit. We are the ones who set the limit by the faith we put to work.

When God called Abraham and promised him an inheritance, he told him; "I am giving all this land, as far as you can see, to you and your descendants as a permanent possession." (Genesis 13:15, The New Living Translation).

God didn't place a limit to the inheritance he promised Abraham. The limit was determined by the faith of Abraham. He told Abraham he has given him as far as he could see. In the same sense, our inheritance in Christ has no limit. How much of what belongs to you that you enjoy is a function of your faith. If you can see it, you can have it.

Thus, Paul wrote; "Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the UNSEARCHABLE RICHES of Christ."(Ephesians 3:. The phrase, 'unsearchable riches' is translated.'ENDLESS TREASURES' in the New Living Translation. Our Inheritance In Christ is indeed an endless treasure.

Apostle Peter affirmed this truth when he wrote; "According as his divine power hath GIVEN UNTO US ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue."2nd Peter 1:3).

So, in the mind of God, all things are yours. Like I said before, how much of it you enjoy depends on your faith. It also depends on the level of your spiritual maturity. We will throw more light on what I mean by the level of your spiritual maturity tomorrow.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you are worthy to be praised and adored this beautiful morning. You are my refuge and strength, a present help in time of trouble. I thank you for qualifying me to partake of the inheritance we have in Christ. I commit my day into your mighty hand trusting you for a fruitful day in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Ephesians 1:14, Colossians 1:12, 1st Corinthians 3:21, Revelation 21:7.

Wednesday, May 31st.

The Importance of Walking in Divine Love - 31. (It Will Place a Mark of Identification on You).

"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." (John 13:34-34).

We are living in days where people find it difficult to identify a true believer in Christ. To some, it's a function of your dress code. For instance, if a lady wears a long skirt, she is most likely to be a Christian. This is far from the truth even though every true believer ought to be decently dressed. To others, it's about the level of anointing upon people's life such that they can even raise the dead. But these are not the criteria for knowing who a true Christian is.

There is of course the initiation process of becoming a Christian which Apostle Paul spelt out in Romans 10:9-10. First, you must believe in your heart that Jesus died for you and that God raised him up on the third day to justify you. Lastly, open your mouth and confess him as your Lord and Saviour. The moment you follow these steps, you will be saved or born again.

But so many people have done it and you still can't differentiate them from unbelievers. One of the reasons is because they did not believe IN THEIR HEARTS that Jesus died for them. Your belief must come from your heart otherwise your confession of the Lordship of Christ will be meaningless. However, if you are truly born again, there must be visible manifestation of your conversion.

Our Lord Jesus said in the opening passage that the yardstick to identify true Christians is the love they have for the brethren. And this love is displayed in how we support the poor and needy brethren in our midst. It is also extended to the orphans, fatherless, homeless and widows. It therefore means that if you are not practically involved in ministering to the poor and needy brethren, you are not a true believer.

John the beloved threw more light on this when he wrote; "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love." (1st John 4:7-. Notice what John said. He said if you don't show love to your brethren, you don't know God. And that invariably makes you a misfit for the kingdom of heaven.

So, it's not enough to pay your tithe, give quality offerings, sow big seeds in church and partner with one arm of the ministry or the other. You must also make budget to help the poor and needy brethren. The early church did it to the point of liquidating their assets. Let's repent and begin to show compassion to the needy in our midst. This love you show to your brethren is what identifies you as a true disciple of Christ. And it will stand to justify you on judgment day.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for your mercy, grace and faithfulness towards me. Thank you for watching over me and my family. Whatever I am now is by your grace. And I know that you will be with me till the end of time. I pray for financial open doors so I can be a blessing to the poor and needy around me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 13:1-3, 1st John 3:16-18, Romans 12:13.

If this series on love as been a blessing to you and you are led to support my ministry, please send your seed to the account below;

0730821132 GTB Samson Ken Macaulay.

God bless you as you do so in the mighty name of Jesus.

Tuesday, May 30th.

The Importance of Walking in Divine Love - 30. (We Will Help One Another Up The Ladder of Success).

"Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved." (1st Corinthians 10:33).

In the journey of life, we need one another to succeed in our God given vision. We do know that there are evil people everywhere who deliberately work against your progress. But it shouldn't be so in the house of God.

Ironically, some of those who fight you are supposedly Christians. When you tell them your dreams and goals thinking they will rejoice with you, they begin to work against you behind the scene. There are also those in your family who fight you because of your dream in just the same way the brothers of Joseph sold him to slavery apparently to kill his dream.

Quite a few others just mock at your temporary setbacks even within the church. It shouldn't be. We have been called to walk in love. Instead of finding ways to destroy the dream of your fellow brother in the faith, find ways to help him move up the ladder of success.

Apostle Paul in the opening text said that all he did was for the profit of the church that they might be saved. He wasn't talking about being saved from sin because they were already saved in that sense. He was talking about their well being in every area of life. And this includes their health and prosperity.

Ministers who have experienced a measure of breakthrough in ministry should help younger ministers up the ladder of success in ministry. Even if they end up doing better than you, it is to the glory of God.

If you have any information like job opportunity, empowerment scheme or scholarship opportunity, let your brethren know about it. If you have a good business idea that could profit them, share it with them. And stop believing negative things you hear about your brethren. Don't spread them either. The devil uses this strategy to destroy the church and impede our success.

Only very few people get to the top of the ladder of success because we push others who are trying to climb up down instead of helping them up the ladder. And this is why we have very few billionaires in the body of Christ. This is because those who push others down cannot also get to the top. But each time you help others up the ladder, you also climb to a new level of success.

The body of Christ must come to the realization that we are one in Christ. Adherents of other religion give support to their members but the church do just the opposite in most cases. But God is calling us to repentance and to show genuine love for one another. So, whatever level of success you have achieved, help others to move up also. As you do, God will also connect you with those who will help you move up to your next level.

Prayer: Everlasting Father, I ascribe all glory and honour to your holy name. I thank you for counting me worthy to be a part of your kingdom. Use me as an instrument to help others achieve their dreams and goals. As I do, I pray that you will connect me with those who will help me actualize my dreams also in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Acts 20:20, Philippians 2:4, 1st Corinthians 10:24.

I weep for Nigeria. We don't know what is ahead of us. When the wicked are in power, the people mourn. And there can be nothing more wicked than stealing what belongs to another person broad daylight.

Monday, May 29th.

The Importance of Walking in Divine Love - 29. (We become Lights Before Men).

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16).

We live in a very wicked world. And this wickedness has crept into the church also. The scripture describes those who denies their fellow brethren help as wicked especially when it's within their power to help and refuse to do so. It added that such act is tagged as a sin before God

Thus, Moses warned those who refuse to help the poor saying; "Beware that there be not a thought IN THY WICKED HEART, saying, The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand; and thine eye be evil against thy poor brother, and thou givest him nought; and he cry unto the LORD against thee, and IT BE SIN UNTO THEE." (Deuteronomy 15:9).

James also wrote; "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, TO HIM IT IS SIN. And it could stand against you on judgment day as clearly revealed in the parable of the sheep and goat. So many Christians will end up in hell because of this. Don't let it happen to you.

So, learn to minister to the need of the poor and needy in your midst. Such good works makes you shine as lights in the midst of wicked and perverse generation. Moses instructed the Jews concerning helping the poor saying; "THOU SHALT SURELY GIVE HIM, and thine heart shall not be grieved when thou givest unto him..."(Deuteronomy 15:10).

Our Lord Jesus also said; "Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away." (Matthew 5:42). It was the outcry of Jesus to Jews during his earthly ministry to help the poor. He said they should do so even to the point of selling their possessions - Luke 12:33.

Apostle Paul also wrote; "Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality." (Romans 12:13). In fact, he committed most part of his ministry to ensure that the needs of the poor brethren are met. He personally supervised the contributions to this effect - 1st Corinthians 16:1-3.

The church needs to be reawakened to the need to make helping the poor a priority. Such good works beams our lights to the people of the world and glorifies God's name.

The good news about committing ourselves to helping the poor and needy is that it opens the door for more blessings. Just as Moses told the Jews; ".. because that for this thing the LORD THY GOD SHALL BLESS THEE in all thy works, and in all that thou puttest thine hand unto." (Deuteronomy 15:10).

Even the young rich ruler who walked away sad when he was told to sell his goods and give to the poor would have become much richer. This is evident in what Jesus told his disciples after he walked away. He said; "Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, But he shall RECEIVE AN HUNDREDFOLD NOW in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life."(Mark 10:29-30).

Let's begin to beam our lights by supporting the poor and needy around us. You don't even have to know them from Adam to help. This is evidently taught in the parable of the good Samaritan. Thus the scripture says; "Be not forgetful to ENTERTAIN STRANGERS: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares" (Hebrews 13:2).

Prayer: Mighty God, be glorified this beautiful morning. I thank you for the salvation of my soul and your loving care. Lord, I ask for overflowing blessings so I can have more than enough to support the poor and needy around me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Acts 2:44-47, 4:34-37, 1st Timothy 6:17-19.

yinkus6750:
No need wasting time on unending judicial process that won't yield anything in your favour.
Time to move ahead.
Let BAT form a government of unity and carry everyone along for the betterment of the country.
We MOVEEEEE

You think so?

One day, a neighbour of yours will take your wife before your very eyes and someone will tell you to move on. Will you let it happen to you? Then, you will understand why Peter Obi won't throw in the towel.

Sunday, May 28th.

The Importance of Walking in Divine Love - 28. (Right Atmosphere For The Effective Manifestation of Gifts of The Holy Spirit).

"But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy." (1st Corinthians 12:31,14:1).

The manifestations of the gifts of the Holy Spirit has been given to the church to build it up. These gifts of the Spirit are listed in the twelfth chapter of the book of First Corinthians. And they are; word of wisdom, word of knowledge, gifts of healing, working of miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, divers kinds of tongues and the interpretation of tongues. They are nine in number.

Apostle Paul wrote to the church that they should desire these spiritual gifts. However, he said that there is an excellent way or a better way to get these gifts to operate. And that better way is the way of love. Hence, he wrote; "Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy." (1st Corinthians 14:1). In other words, before you desire spiritual gifts, ensure you are walking in divine love. Live a life that is constrained by the love of God.

It's a very dangerous thing to be gifted or have these gifts manifest through you when you are not fully grounded and rooted in love. It will destroy you and also destroy the church. This is why the ministry of so many gifted servants of God crash after a while. Others have their lives cut short.

The Holy Spirit is a gentle Spirit. This is why he descended in bodily form like a dove upon Jesus when he was baptized. You can't yield yourself to Him and at the same time open the door for the devil to operate. The result will be confusion and evil works of darkness.

So, it's imperative as brethren that we walk in divine love so that the gifts of the Holy Spirit can operate freely and bless us as a church. There are so many congregations that you don't even experience any of the manifestation of gifts of the Holy Spirit partly because they don't walk in love and also because they don't desire it.

Let's walk in love and desire these spiritual gifts. Never allow pride to get into you when some of the gifts begin to manifest through you. If you do, it will destroy you and cause strife in the church. And the scripture says; "For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work." (James 3:16).

Prayer: Dear Lord, I am grateful for the gift of life and the opportunity to see another day. Thank you for your faithfulness and tender mercies. I also thank you for the gifts of the
Holy Spirit given to the church. As I desire that they manifest through me, I pray that your love will constrain me never to let pride into my life or take the glory for it in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 12:4-9, Romans 14:19.

dominique:
So that final post he made was a departure note, not to the UK but to the great beyond

I hope an autopsy is carried out to ascertain the real cause of death

Exactly. To just jump into conclusion that he committed suicide based on perception is trying to cover up something.

Let the right thing be done. I don't trust anyone. We are living in a wicked world.

Senator777:
Are you not in Nigeria.

Farmers have left farm due to insecurity. Are you not aware of the numbers of farmers Fulani herdsmen have wasted in their farms.

Nigerians are not lazy and always ready to work but Buhari government didn't help matter at all

Yes, it's true that the terrorists activities has affected farming but it is still not enough reason for us not to have enough output.

The FG hasn't invested enough in agricultural. Besides, they are still to be blamed for not providing adequate security to the farmers.

Agricultural loans disappear into private pockets.

Farming is left to only very few peasant farmers.

The government should get directly involved in agriculture the way they are in petroleum business which they are also not doing well.

Malaysia came to Nigeria few years ago to get palm kernel seed. Now, they are one of the biggest exporter of palm oil in the world.

Are we cursed in Nigeria?

No refinery is working
Agricultural sector is not doing well
Security is very bad
We import most of the things we can produce or manufacture but we are not making any effort.

Ordinary Keke na pep (Try cycle), we can't produce. See, the present cost. We have made India very rich.

What a country.

We have no shame.

No steady light, no good road, no portable water.

I can go on and on.

All they do is borrow to loot.

They will all burn in hell.

Saturday, May 27th.

The Importance of Walking in Divine Love - 23. (It's Brings Unity which in Turn Translates into Productivity).

"That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me." (John 17:21).

One of the heartfelt prayer of our Lord Jesus for his church is that we all may be one in him. And it takes walking in divine love to achieve this both in the church and in our homes. It's only a family or a church that is united that can achieve great feat. Division has crippled the progress of most churches and homes.

It's therefore imperative that the subject of love be taught from time to time as repetition is the law of deep and lasting impression. As long as we are still living in our old flesh, there is bound to be conflict between the flesh and the spirit.

It's however our responsibility to put the flesh under control. And the only way to do so is to walk in divine love. This is what Apostle Paul meant when he said; "...Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh." (Galatians 5:16).

A united family and church or any other institution has the potential to accomplish much. This is evident in the story of the men of old who had a dream to build a tower that will get to heaven. Even God himself testified saying; "...Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do." (Genesis 11:6).

One of the instruments the devil uses to destroy the church and family is division. And so many people easily yield themselves to be used by the devil to cause division without knowing it. You don't have to agree with every decision taken in a home or in a church. But, it's not an opportunity to cause division. Apostle Paul warned; "If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." (1st Corinthians 3:17).

The word defile in the verse above means to waste or destroy the church through any means. And Paul was making allusion to the division in the Corinthian church when he made that statement. So, don't allow yourself to be used as an instrument to destroy the church. Even if you leave for another church, don't say evil things about the church you just left for God will not hold you guiltless.

Therefore, "...stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel... having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind." (Philippians 1:27, 2:2).

Prayer: Gracious and merciful Father, you are highly exalted above all gods. I thank you for keeping the night watch for me and the opportunity to see a brand new day. I pray for unity in our families and churches that your perfect will be achieved in our lives in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: John 17:23, 2nd Corinthians 13:11, 1st Peter 3:8.

marcopollo:
✞ Is It True Our Salvation is Really A FREE GIFT? No Strings?
.
God has revealed to us “The wages of sin is death but the *GIFT of God is eternal life...”
.
*Gift Defined: Something
voluntarily transferred by one
person to another without
compensation or payment.
.
When you receive a birthday gift
from a love one how much does it
cost you and what must you
promise to do to receive or keep it?
.
If you have to make any
contributions of money or
word...by definition is is NOT a gift! That is not what a gift is!
.
Jesus made a complete and total
payment for our sins though his
death, shed blood, burial and
resurrection and by virtue of HIS
work he offers salvation to all who will trust in him for it as a gift.
.
All that is required to receive your
gift of salvation is BELIEVE-[trust]
that he shed his blood, died to pay
for your sins and rose from the
dead to GIFT you will eternal
salvation.
.
You can only give a gift that you
have paid the full price for. For
those who receive a genuine 'gift,'
there are no hidden fees or
surcharges applied to the recipient. And it cant legally be taken back!
.
God's gift of salvation is no
different regards of what you have heard or thought. The Bible shows there are no strings attached because Jesus paid the price in full. If you put your faith in his death, shed blood, burial and resurrection of Jesus the only begotten son of God (1 Cor. 15:1-4), he gives you the 'gift' of eternal life and no charge to you. He paid the price in full. It's really that simple.
.
Read it here:
"For 'if' we 'believe' that {Jesus died and rose again}, even so them also which sleep [died] in Jesus will God bring with him." -1Thess.4:14
So here is the question you must
answer now, Will you accept the
gift of God right now? How?
Believe (Trust, have faith) in Jesus,
that he died paying for your sins
and rose from the grave to save
you.
.
Add nothing or take nothing away
from this gospel message unless
you make it null and void as it then is no longer a gift.
.
➜ Please, please 'SHARE' for the lost on Facebook or any other social media if you agree .

Obtaining it is free but maintaining it is not free. You must deny yourself of so many things to maintain it.

Shame on Nigeria agricultural sector that we are importing tomatoes when we are supposed to be exporting. It's like rat feeding a supposedly big cat.

Please, open the border and let's import even Garri because we are not ready to fix Nigeria.

There was a country. But I believe that God will rescue us.

Friday, May 26th.

The Importance of Walking in Divine Love - 26. (It's One Of The Secrets of Long Life).

"... Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. The LORD will preserve him, and KEEP HIM ALIVE; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies."(Psalms 41:1-2).

One of the benefits of walking in divine love is long life. This is explicitly stated in the opening text. It says that those who considers the poor will be kept alive. God knows that the destiny of so many is tied to your good works. So, he will ensure that you live to a full old age before you sleep in the Lord.

It was the petitions that widows who have been blessed by Dorcas that contributed to her being raised from the dead through Peter. The scripture said; "Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up."(Acts 9:39-40).

The writer of Proverbs said; "My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee."(Proverbs 3:1-2). The verse just quoted established a correlation between keeping commandments and long life. In the same sense, keeping the new commandment of love that Jesus brought will give you long life.

God loves a cheerful giver especially those who give alms to the poor and needy. So, be full of good works and almsdeed. As you do, God will ensure that you live to a good old age that his name alone might be glorified.

Prayer: Father in heaven, hallowed be thy name. I give you glory and honour due to your name. I receive grace to always give to the poor and needy around me from the much you have blessed me. As I do, multiply my seed sown and increase my capacity to give more in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Psalms 34:12-14, Galatians 6:10.

godofuck231:
he's in hiding

OK. Funny enough, they will use his own people against him. And they will agree to do the job because of greed.

This is only happening because there is no real unity among Africa leaders. And they are not ready for greatness yet.

May the Lord raise new generation of leaders in this continent who will bring about industrial and technological revolution in Africa.

The time has come to free ourselves from the slavery of the western world.

naptu2:
Highlights (copy the link and paste it in your browser).
https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/watch/LPTcq0oEFzyjPwF1yNLfw?cid=(p_go-box)(c_fifaplus)(sc_fu20wc)(ssc_highlights)(l_)(ch_)(cc_2min)&pid=(p_go-box)

Line up

Just watched it. Good goals. Please, link to watch other matches live.

They look like two different people. They should post the video, stage by stage if it's really true. I know make up transforms your look but not this one.

godofuck231:
he was poisoned severally

I know. I am asking if they have eventually killed him.

Thursday, May 25th.

The Importance of Walking in Divine Love - 25 (It Gives You The Grace to Be Patient with Difficult People and Still Be Kind to Them).

"LOVE IS PATIENT, LOVE IS KIND, it is not envious. Love does not brag, it is not puffed up." (1st Corinthians 13:4, New English Translation).

It is an understatement to say that we encounter difficult people in our places of work and even in the church environment. And these difficult people task our patients to the point that you are tempted to quit the job or leave the church especially when the people involved are your superiors.

You also have difficult people in the family setting. Sometimes, it's your father who is the head of the family. At other times, it could be your mother, wife, husband or a close relative. Some children are also very difficult to relate with such that they are tagged, 'the black sheep of the family'.

Whoever they are and whichever way they are related to you, it takes love to patient with such people and at the same time be kind to them. A lot of people are patient with difficult people but they are not kind to them. Such kind of patient devoid of kindness is not an attribute of divine love.

Walking in divine love is the only way to conquer difficult people. A woman had a very stubborn son who always go to party and return drunk at odd hours all the time. She has tried every possible means to see that he repents of his evil ways. On several occasions, she tried to make him follow her to church but he declined.

On a certain day, she sought for prayer from Kenneth Hagin of blessed memories. Kenneth Hagin didn't pray for her but counseled her to just show him love the way he is. So, on a certain day, he came back from a party drunk as usual. The mother opened the door for him and prepared water for him to take his bath. She also prepared a very good meal for him. For the first time, she didn't yell at him. And her son though drunk noticed so much change in his mother's attitude towards him.

The next morning, she got dressed and told her son she was leaving for church service. Her son told her to wait for him, that he wants to join her for worship the very first time. He went to church, heard a life changing message and surrendered his life to Christ. This is the power of love.

So, whoever the difficult person is in your life, just find a way to show undeserved kindness to him or her, you will be amazed at how his or her attitude will change. This is why our Lord Jesus said; "...Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, DO GOOD TO THEM that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you." (Matthew 5:44).

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for another wonderful day. I am alive because of your grace and mercy. I ask for your grace to be patient with difficult people in my life and do good to them at the same time in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen

Further Study: Matthew 5:43-46, Colossians 3:12-13.

Congratulations. I didn't give them a chance. I hope our Super Eagles will begin to win matches like this.