The Scriptures distinguish between two kinds of fear: healthy and unhealthy. For example, a protective type of anxiety helps prevent avoidable harm by warning us not to touch a hot stove or walk on thin ice. And we are commanded to have a proper fear of God. This includes an overwhelming sense of awe because of who He is—namely, Judge and sovereign King. It also involves a lifestyle of respectful obedience that honours Him.

Unhealthy fear causes us to feel tense, uncomfortable, or threatened. Its source may be a childhood experience or an authority figure’s repeated negative words. The feeling of distress becomes rooted in our thinking and colours our decision-making. Even when there’s no longer any basis for this anxiety, it may continue to inhibit us.

The imagination is also a source of fear. We can get caught up in “what if” thinking, such as, What if something goes wrong? or What if the outcome I want doesn’t come about?
This kind of agitation can block God’s best in our life. His purposes often require that we move beyond where we feel most comfortable. Learning new skills, changing jobs, or trying a different way of ministering to others could be part of what He expects. Such challenges present the opportunity to trust the Lord and obey Him.

Fear doesn’t come from God (2 Timothy 1:7). Let the Holy Spirit guide you from a place of disquiet into the freedom that is ours in Christ. There you will discover the ability to follow His plan without being hindered by overwhelming fear
.
Matthew 6:25-34
“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these." .

Psalm 34:4
"I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears."

1 Peter 5:6-7
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you."

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Many people believe that piling up good works makes them right with the Lord. Yet when it comes to sin, death is the only payment that can satisfy divine justice (Romans 6:23). Since we all transgress, this leaves us in a desperate situation facing an eternity apart from God.

Grace, the expression of divine love and kindness to the utterly undeserving, prompted the solution: God sent His Son Jesus to die in our place. According to Romans 10:9, all we need to do is believe.
Jesus’ death satisfied God’s justice and brought us
:
NEW LIFE
Our spirit is made alive in Christ the moment we acknowledge we’re sinners, turn from our rebelliousness, and believe that His death paid our sin debt in full.

FREEDOM
At salvation, sin’s power over us is broken and we are set free from its hold. Jesus raised us up out of the predicament of disobedience and gave us the faith to believe. Now we can exercise our newfound freedom and follow Him.

SECURITY
When we accept God’s judgment that we are, by nature, sinners and acknowledge our Saviour’s sacrifice as payment for our sins, we’re permanently adopted into the heavenly Father’s family. Our status changes instantly: Once objects of wrath, we are now children of God. Someday we will be seated in the heavenly realms with Christ to enjoy life everlasting with Him.

God, the very One against whom we rebelled, substituted His Son Jesus in our place to receive the punishment that was rightfully ours. How will you show your gratitude to God for His saving grace?

2 Corinthians 12:9
"But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me"

Ephesians 2:8-9
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast"

Romans 6:14
"For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace"
.
IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Rubbish and waste of time

Followers of Christ know the importance of being saved, but the world sees no need for rescue. Let’s think about some key truths regarding man’s need for salvation.

Those who don’t have a personal relationship with God through His Son Jesus are:

SPIRITUAL DEAD.
Many people don’t realize that there are three kinds of death—physical, eternal, and spiritual. Eternal death comes at the end of the age, when all those who have refused Jesus as Saviour are cast away from God permanently (Matthew 25:41). Spiritual death occurred in the Garden of Eden. Disobedience severed Adam and Eve’s intimate connection to God and caused all of their descendants to be spiritually detached from Him (Romans 5:12). We’re born as “dead” people in need of new life.

LIVING A LIFE OF SIN.
Our nature is to rebel against God, and that’s called sin. Over and over, we choose what pleases us, not Him. We’re enslaved to sin (John 8:34), and any effort to free ourselves from its power is in vain. We need someone to rescue us.

UNDER DIVINE WRATH
Because of our disobedience, we are under God’s judgment, awaiting punishment. All efforts to earn His approval and escape our sentence are insufficient. Sinful man has nothing acceptable to offer holy God. Our only hope of escape is for someone else to take our penalty.

Islam, Ifa, Ogun is not the answer! The good news is that the Lord has provided a way for all to pass from spiritual death to life, from the bondage of sin into freedom, and from condemnation to intimacy with Him. Jesus Christ alone is the way (John 14:6), and He meets our every need.

Acts 4:12
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

2 Timothy 1:9
He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time.

Acts 2:21
And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

IT IS WELL GOD BLESS

Living a life that’s committed to Christ calls for following His wisdom. Let's look at attitudes necessary for consistent Christ-cantered lifestyle:

DETERMINATION
Walking in wisdom is not something that happens automatically. We must decide ahead of time to pursue godly living wholeheartedly.

FOCUS.
To stay on the path of the Lord's will, we must fix our attention on His Word. As we meditate on Scripture and absorb its truths, our minds will align with Christ's, and our choices will be in tune with biblical principles.

SPIRIT SENSITIVITY
With determination to live a holy life and with close attention to Scripture, we become more sensitive to the promptings of the Spirit, our guide who indicates the direction we are to take.

TRUST
Sometimes the Lord's choice for us doesn't appear sensible. It may seem foolish or require sacrifice. Trusting in His perfect wisdom is necessary if we’re to walk according to His plan.

COURAGE
Some things God requires of us may cause us to react with fear. As our trust in Him deepens, courage grows, and we discover the joy of embracing His choice for us.

PERSEVERANCE
It is one thing to start out on the right path; maintaining the course for a lifetime is something else. By depending on God, we can persist and choose wisely over a long period.
Walking in wisdom requires that we continually practice a few basics: Know God, trust Him, listen, and obey. Is this your pattern for living? Remember, a lifetime of godliness develops one choice at a time.


Mark 4:11
"He told them, "The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables"

Ephesians 5:15
"Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise"

1 Thessalonians 4:12
"so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Certainly, many men and women are living well. They enjoy well-paying careers, wonderful homes, and interesting hobbies. But meanwhile, their “pursuit of happiness” has yet to be satisfied. The reason is that lots of people remain prisoners internally, despite their apparent success. They are bound to anxiety and depression, or a fear of losing what they’ve worked hard to possess. However liberating circumstances may seem externally, we eventually learn that freedom must be realized within. But how?

The answer is Jesus Christ. Isaiah 61:1 prophesied a key aspect of Jesus’ ministry, which continues to this day: He has come to heal the broken-hearted and set captives free. When we trust Him as Saviour, the chains holding us back from joy are broken. We are liberated from lies that have been programmed in our minds from an early age, and we begin to see things from God’s point of view. Then we discover that our needs, desires, and overall well-being rest securely in the arms of a loving heavenly Father.

Are you feeling the weight of anxiety or anger? Look to Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). 2 Corinthians 6:2: “Now is the day of salvation” (NIV). The day you trust in Christ is the day He delivers you from fear and bondage.

Galatians 5:13
“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

John 8:32
“And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

2 Corinthians 3:17
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Picture waiting in a checkout line that hasn’t moved for 10 minutes. Many of us would feel frustrated. We live in a generation that expects instant results.

Everyone struggles with some degree of impatience. We’re born with this trait—think about a three-month-old who wants milk in the middle of the night. The inborn reaction is to fuss at the first hint of discomfort and to keep at it until the need is met. Patterns from our old flesh nature, like impatience, make this a continual battle for most people, but one that is very worthwhile to fight.

Let’s consider the biblical definition of patience. The word can refer to both longsuffering and perseverance—that is, not giving up and yielding under pressure. It reveals itself when we are willing to wait without frustration while suffering or experiencing some strong desire. What’s more, patience means accepting whatever the Lord chooses to give (or not to give) and willingly receiving it on His timetable. In the meantime, we should pray, obey, and persist as we seek God’s direction
.
The danger of impatience is that we might miss the Lord’s perfect plan and blessing. But when we trust our Father’s will and timing, we will know inner peace.
What causes you stress? Carefully examine whether you are taking matters into your own hands or releasing the circumstance to almighty God. Follow Psalms 37:7, which says, “Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” Seek His way and His timing. Anything else can be destructive.

1 Peter 2:19-23
For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.

Romans 5:4
And endurance produces character, and character produces hope,

James 1:19
Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

cyprus000:

[size=13pt]
Hope this
www.nairaland.com/attachments/2243437_facebook_jpeg95d68ea7bb28b3fc732f5c43842a5de7

Will educate your ignorance,or do you want more?

I'd rather live in a jungle than live in indain,which is not even better than nigeria.
It still beat my imagination,why a sane person will go to such racist country.
Apart from business purpose
[/size]

waohhhhhh
pure wickedness

In our Christian life, we know the importance of recognizing God's voice and tuning others out. When making decisions, we want to be sure we hear the right Person. The Bible assures us that as believers, we can distinguish God's voice from all others.

The Lord’s voice is heard through Scripture. Take time to reconnect with God through His Word. Let the Holy Spirit bring to mind the truths related to your situation.

God always speaks words that are consistent with Scripture—He will never contradict it. Compare what you are hearing with His Word, and seek godly advice to be sure you have the whole counsel of God.

Sometimes what God says conflicts with what seems logical to human reasoning. Or, it might clash with our fleshly desires. It can be tempting to dismiss a voice that disagrees with our preconceived ideas, but God’s children need to align themselves with His directions regardless.

Our Saviour is calling; how easily do you recognize His voice? To know His voice better, spend more time in His Word. Today is a good time to start.

John 10:27-29
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

It’s been said that failure is the backdoor to success. Many of the most successful people or organizations either failed many times, took several risks, or both—before they achieved.”
Risk taking is having the faith to attempt something new or different even though it might be hard or lead to failure. Risk taking is not recklessness; recklessness involves little or no forethought. In contrast, those who take risks are aware that they face enormous obstacles to achievement; yet, the rewards seem well worth the effort,

Strong leaders boldly take calculated risks. They must do so in order to advance their cause. That’s what Jesus did when he cleared the temple in Jerusalem. When he drove out the money changers and overturned their tables, Jesus ran the risk of enraging those ancient con artists. He risked antagonizing the religious leaders and being misunderstood by the masses. But Jesus had to take that risk; he couldn’t sit idly by as these corrupt vendors made a mockery of his Father’s house. As the Messiah, he deeply felt his “zeal” for the house of God (v. 17). He had to express that zeal regardless of the risk.

As you cultivate your leadership skills, don’t be afraid to take a calculated risk. And don’t fear failure. Both are backdoors to success.

2 Kings 7:4
"If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die."


Ephesians 5:15–17
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

Romans 8:31
What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Think about a circumstance in your life you’d change if you could. Are you frustrated? Worried? Angry? To experience the freedom of contentment in the midst of it—whether a hardship or unfulfilled desire—you must accept the situation as having been allowed by God, even if He didn’t cause it.
In these situations, I often pray, “Lord, I choose to accept this as though it’s coming from You. No matter what I see, I’m choosing to look to You.” Then I can rest in His omnipotence and the knowledge that I’m a child of the living God. Instead of feeling like a helpless, hopeless victim of my circumstance, I know I’m cared for and guided by my sovereign Father through whatever may come
.
The second crucial decision is total submission. This doesn’t mean approaching God insincerely and saying, “Well, Lord, I just want to thank You for this! It’s all just so sweet, Jesus.” No, it’s not. Be honest and admit, “This is painful and I don’t like it. But I choose to submit to You because You are trustworthy and loving. I’m willing to persevere until You accomplish in me whatever You want. I choose to draw from Your strength for everything I need.” My friend, if you make this decision and follow through, your fears will lose their power.

Either you believe Romans 8:28 or you don’t. And if you do, you can entrust yourself to the Lord, knowing that He has your best interest at heart, will take care of you, and won’t ever leave your side. When you embrace these truths, you’ll have no reason to be anxious.

Romans 8:28
“And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

For us who believe in Jesus, contentment should be governed by inner attitude and the decisions we make rather than by external circumstances. Because Paul had learned this secret, he was able to experience joy and peace in any kind of situation—whether he was surrounded by friends or isolated in a Roman prison; whether he had plenty or was in great need.

The apostle understood what it meant to live in Christ and to have Christ living in him (John 15:1-9; Galatians 5:22-23). He had made a simple but profound faith decision to draw his life from the Lord and, as a result, had the calm assurance that what he possessed inside could never be stolen. He was confident in his identity as a child of the Almighty, with full access to the abundant life Jesus offers.

I want to challenge you—this week, when something threatens to steal your contentment, choose to draw from God; decide to stop drawing from other sources and trying to be in control. When you find yourself becoming flustered, anxious, or angry, stop and say, “Lord, You are my source, and I draw from You the capacity to be kind. I draw from You the forgiveness I need to extend right now. I draw from You the love I need to express.” This decision is a matter of simple trust.

Watch and see how God will quiet your spirit and provide confidence when you draw only from Him as your source. You’ll be surprised at your own attitude: When you respond from within—rather than from the flesh—Jesus will give you the ability to respond as He would.

John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

John 16:33
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Philippians 4:6-7
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

What most people know about Jonah is that he was swallowed by a big fish while trying to run from God. In the creature’s belly, he committed to following the Lord’s will. So when Jonah was called a second time to preach repentance in Nineveh, he obeyed.

After the prophet obeyed, there was an unexpected turn of events. He crossed the city, warning the people of divine wrath—and they responded by turning away from wickedness. The Ninevites’ response should have made Jonah ecstatic. Instead, he grieved over their repentance and God’s mercy on them, as Nineveh and Israel were long-time enemies. In fact, he angrily told the Lord he had fled to Tarshish to avoid this very scenario of penitence and forgiveness.

Jonah was displeased because his heart was as hard as when he had run to Tarshish. Trapped inside the fish, he changed his mind about following the Lord’s command. He expressed willingness to do whatever God wanted him to do, but in his heart, he still desired the Ninevites’ destruction. Jonah’s bitterness and reluctance showed through in spite of his righteous actions.

God is not fooled by good behaviour that springs from a hard heart. Obeying Him with an unwilling spirit may achieve His purpose, but we lose the joy of our reward. Perhaps the Lord has called you to serve Him in a way that is personally challenging. As you commit to following His will, pray also for a soft heart. You will find peace and blessing in doing the work if you follow Him without hesitation.

Ezekiel 36:26
And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.

Exodus 9:16
But for this purpose I have raised you up, to show you my power, so that my name may be proclaimed in all the earth.

Philippians 2:13
For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.


IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

The Lord’s commands are clear—He tells believers when to act, where to go, and what to do. He also provides the means for following His directions. The prophet Jonah was told to leave immediately for a certain city and cry out this warning: “Yet forty days and Nineveh will be overthrown” (Jonah 3:4). Instead, Jonah did something foolish (and altogether human). He ran.

Because he was a prophet, we can assume Jonah had studied the Scriptures and knew God intimately. Even so, displeasure over his assignment clouded his judgment, and he became convinced he could flee the Lord’s presence. Jonah was wrong. God sent a great storm and isolated him for three days inside a smelly fish. In other words, the Lord didn’t relent until the prophet agreed to comply.

Jonah learned that running away from the Lord doesn’t release us from His commands. Whether we refuse outright or quietly choose to pursue our own agenda, we simply cannot silence His call. Our Father will neither forget a directive nor change His mind about it, and so the Holy Spirit continues prompting us until we do as instructed.

People who run from divine direction may attempt to silence the Spirit’s reminders by filling their life with distractions. They know what God wants from them but are too proud, stubborn, or scared to comply. What we must understand is that God will pursue us—stripping away diversions and crutches to get our attention. Wise believers obey Him promptly rather than waste time and talent by running.

Deuteronomy 28:1
If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Contrary to popular but poor theological teaching, salvation does not guarantee an easy life. It is tempting to present Christianity as a safe haven from which to watch the world swirl past—then one could open the door to allow in joy and blessing, but hardship could not squeeze through. That brand of religion might sell well in the world marketplace, but it isn’t real.

The truth is, Christians cannot escape conflict or ridicule. The biblical principles we hold dear often seem like foolishness to nonbelievers. What’s more, defending our faith and sharing the gospel will frequently draw criticism or anger from listeners. But Scripture counsels against keeping quiet and blending in (Matthew 5:14-15). In fact, we are to welcome disagreement as a way to grow our faith.

Consider this: Our belief system is named for a man who so thoroughly challenged the status quo that religious leaders called for His death. Jesus Christ was at the centre of controversy during His ministry and very likely all through life. That’s why the biblical record so often shows Him slipping away for time alone with God—He was seeking direction and receiving strength. While Jesus was fully God, He was also fully human. He knew the sting of rejection and the taste of fear, just as we do (Hebrews 4:15).

As believers, we are called to be peacemakers, but that doesn’t mean isolating ourselves from all who oppose the church. Accept conflict as inevitable and reach out anyway. You can have a powerful impact simply by being the person God called you to be—His child.

Matthew 18:15
“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.”

Colossians 3:13
“Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”

Ephesians 4:26
“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,”

Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

In today's Scripture passage, God is teaching us about His relationship with His children. He says that He will deal with us just as a potter works with clay and that we, like the clay, are in His hands.

God deals with believers in two ways. First, He is moulding every one of us into the image of His Son Jesus. Second, He is shaping us for a specific purpose, one that is individually designed so we will help build His kingdom. Our part as the clay is to submit ourselves to His purpose. As the Potter, He may subtract something from our life—similar to removing lumps from clay. Another possibility is that He may speed up the pace until we feel as if we’re spinning. Or, desiring a new shape for His “vessels,” He might dramatically rework our pattern of living in order to start us in a new direction. Our responsibility is to accept any changes from the Master Potter.

We can do this confidently because we are in God's hands. Scripture describes them as: When we think about being clay in the Potter's hands and the ways that God deals with us, we can relax knowing "in His hands" is exactly the place we want to be.

Romans 9:21
“When a potter makes jars out of clay, doesn’t he have a right to use the same lump of clay to make one jar for decoration and another to throw garbage into?”

Isaiah 64:8
“But now, O LORD, You are our Father, We are the clay, and You our potter; And all of us are the work of Your hand. “

Psalms 138:8
“The LORD will accomplish what concerns me; Your loving kindness, O LORD, is everlasting; Do not forsake the works of Your hands. “


IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

The fathers in the Old Testament serve as a warning to modern dads about the impact of a parent’s example. Many godly men were fatherhood failures, and their children paid a hefty price. Jacob’s sons imitated his conniving and manipulative behaviour. King David neglected discipline, and as a result, several of his sons were involved in despicable activities. His heir, Solomon, was an equally poor father, whose son was instrumental in splitting the kingdom.

In spite of their faith, Jacob, David, and Solomon provided a negative role model for their children. Unfortunately, biblical examples of poor fathers outnumber the good. But the gospels mention a man whose sons reflect well on their dad’s parenting skills. No specific details are given to describe how Zebedee brought up the disciples James and John, but he is significant because he did what many Christians try to do today: raise children who follow God. Zebedee’s training prepared his sons for a life of intimate fellowship with the Messiah. It’s a reasonable assumption that he modelled discipline, respect for authority, and persistence, because his sons demonstrated those traits while following Jesus Christ.

Your children will reflect the traits they observe in you. Living in your presence every day, your kids see past any smokescreen that might fool the rest of the world. They monitor your attitude about vocational work and household chores. Little ears pick up on how you talk about others, and little eyes watch your response to difficult circumstances. What kind of example do your children see?

Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Deuteronomy 4:9
“Only take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children's children

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Everyone faces challenges in life. Whether our struggles are financial, professional, relational, or physical, we can be certain that nobody is exempt. Fortunately, we serve a God who is both interested in our problems and able to take care of them.

When trouble looms, prayer is always a good first step to take. But having a foundation upon which to build our prayers also makes a difference. Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, faced an enormous challenge. Three different tribes—the Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites—simultaneously waged war against him. Most leaders would have crumbled under such pressure, or at the very least taken drastic measures, but Jehoshaphat was a wise leader.

Though afraid, he did not strike out against his enemies. Instead, knowing that God was interested in his dilemma, he “turned his attention to seek the Lord” and proclaimed a fast throughout the land (2 Chronicles 20:1-3).

Jehoshaphat also knew that God, who was more powerful than any earthly problem, had done miraculous things for Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and David. That same God would help him, too, in his hour of need. We should never underestimate the Lord’s interest in our affairs. He helped our biblical ancestors, and He can and will help His children today.

It’s easy to think our problems are unimportant in God’s eyes, but He doesn’t feel that way at all. Whatever concerns us concerns Him. If we, like Jehoshaphat, turn to the Lord and proclaim His power, He will intervene. And no matter how great our challenges are, God is greater.

John 16:33
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Jeremiah 32:17
‘Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you.

Numbers 23:19
God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?

Psalm 100:4-5
Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Shame!

What people really need is for their income to be paid when it is due. Giving out foodstuff is not the answer.

NAIJA political system is a total shambles. For real

Sharing our faith with others is important, doing so isn’t always easy. Some people claim that it doesn’t make a bit of difference what they believe. In fact, some go so far as to deny the existence of truth. Yet our belief system actually matters tremendously, because it is the foundation for our character, conduct, and decisions.

For instance, a person who concludes that there is no God and no eternity will live for the moment. On the other hand, someone who trusts in the Lord and His promise of heaven will have a completely different lifestyle and purpose. Obedience, faith, and responsibility will characterize him as he lives to please his heavenly Father.

Knowing what we believe is critical—first of all, because our salvation depends on it. In John 8:24, Jesus made a powerful and unequivocal statement about this subject: “Unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” The Bible is very clear that all people have sinned and in their natural state are separated from God (Romans 3:23). The punishment for sin is death, which is eternal separation from the Lord. But the Father, in His love and mercy, sent His own Son to die in our place. As a result, everyone who believes in Jesus is forgiven and receives His free gift of salvation.

Believers are to share the good news of salvation, but the world’s hostility can make us afraid. Today’s passage encourages us not to fear. Telling others about Jesus doesn’t require lofty words or long quotations of memorized Scripture. Simply be ready with an answer if you’re asked about “the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15).

John 6:47
Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.

John 14:6
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Acts 16:31
And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

In the first chapter of Joshua, God delivers the greatest pep talk in all of Scripture. Moses had just died, and now his successor was called upon to lead the nation of Israel into the Promised Land—a military action that would surely involve significant risk. Joshua was no doubt unsettled by the prospects of facing a strong hostile army. Therefore, the Lord spoke words of encouragement to him that still ring true for us today.
What would have happened if Joshua had refused this daunting assignment? Most likely, the nation of Israel would have languished in the desert indefinitely. Fortunately, this leader was a man of great faith and courage, and he boldly took up the cause of God.

Like Joshua, we face daily obstacles that seem to push our faith to the breaking point. And yet, it is in the throes of adversity that God hones our faith (James 1:2-4). When we refuse to follow Him into risky situations, the results can be devastating to our spiritual growth. Consider the consequences of disobedience on your life:

1. You will never become the person that God wants you to be.
2. You limit your usefulness to the Lord.
3. You are willing to live a life of rationalized disobedience.
4. You’ll be governed by fear rather than faith.
5. You risk losing not only rewards in heaven but also blessings on earth.

Are you in some way refusing God’s call? The Lord is trustworthy. Whatever His plan of action for you, be assured He will see you safely through the ordeal.

MATTHEW 21:21
Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Trusting God is a foundational principle in the Christian life. We are expected to accept that God is perfect in love, infinite in wisdom, and sovereign in control. We don’t automatically grasp these truths at the moment of salvation; rather, we learn them over time. Of these three facts, however, the one we most seem to doubt is the Lord’s love for us. However, Scripture gives us three proofs to rely upon when our certainty starts to waver.

GOD’S NATURE
God’s very nature is love (1 John 4:. The Bible also tells us that God is light and there is no darkness in Him (1 John 1:5). In other words, there’s nothing sinful or imperfect in His character. If the Father is perfect and loving, He will never mistreat one of His children.

CALVARY LOVE
Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross for our sins provides irrefutable evidence of divine love. The Father's heart for humanity was revealed when He gave His Son to die in our place. Through Christ, salvation is available to all, but He would have made the same choice if you had been the only person on earth.

COVENANT LOVE
God is committed to making us heirs (Hebrews 8:10). We know that when we receive Jesus Christ as our Savior, we become children of God. Our immaturity is the reason He is patient and kind to us. God sees us as we are—little ones learning to navigate in our short-term earthly home.

As growing believers, we can't trust God if we doubt His devotion. Thankfully, we possess these amazing proofs. It is the heavenly Father's very nature to love, which He demonstrated at the cross and continues to prove by adopting us as His sons and daughters.

Psalms 119:90
Your faithfulness endures to all generations; you have established the earth, and it stands fast.

1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

2 Thessalonians 3:3
But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.


IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

The Lord wants us to reach our full potential—to become the people He’s designed us to be and achieve the tasks He’s planned for us to do. In our pressurized society, we need to have balanced schedules if we’re going to live according to God’s purposes.
Consider the following five areas. When any is out of balance, our relationship with the Lord and others will be affected, diminishing our effectiveness as servants of Christ.

GOD
To develop our relationship with the Lord and receive guidance, our top priority should be to spend private time with Him each day.

FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Time with family and friends is also essential because relationships are such an important part of God’s plans for our lives.

WORK/CAREER
The area in which we are most likely to become imbalanced is our work. Although the Lord doesn't approve of laziness, He doesn't want us to be overly consumed with our careers either.

PHYSICAL BODY
If we are to accomplish the Lord’s purposes in our lives, we need to take care of our bodies, allocating adequate time for exercise, rest, and recreation.

FELLOWSHIP
The Scriptures also clearly command meeting together regularly with other believers for worship (Hebrews 10:24-25). While some people have limitations that hinder doing this, most of us have no excuse for being too busy for church.

These general areas all need space in your life, but I cannot tell you how to allocate time for them. The Lord has specific plans for each person, and He is the only one who can accurately direct your schedule. Seek His guidance, listen for His voice, and make the changes He brings to mind.

Philippians 1:9-10
“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, “

1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. “

Proverbs 4:23
“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. “

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

May this people get real and get on with the job they were elected for.

Everyone is aware of the tragedy of broken families and the domestic discord that ensues. The immoral and rebellious behaviour of some teenagers, and even of some parents, is deplorable. However, we need to remember that for many of them, a contributing factor was deprivation of the normal affection that should characterize every home. Unfortunately, far too many households lack a father who knows how to express love and support in a perceptible, constructive way.

This is an age-old problem. We see it in the Bible with fathers like David, who seemed painfully unaware of how to foster strong emotional relationships with his children. This critical skill is imperative if we are to keep our families connected and healthy. It is even more important since we are supposed to demonstrate the character of God to our children. If Dad comes across as shaming and demanding or passive and detached, is it any wonder children want nothing to do with a God they assume is like that?

Fathers may not feel naturally equipped to remedy this problem, but they can begin with simple words of affirmation such as "I love you" or "That was a fine job." They can also show love by giving meaningful gifts. Sometimes love is best expressed by spending quality time with our children and doing things with them or for them. And don't forget physical affection. In some cases, a hug or an arm around the shoulder will unlock a child's heart faster than anything else. Find what works best for each of your children and show that you love them—it could be life-changing.

Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. “

Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. “

Isaiah 54:13
“All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children. “


IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

STUBBORN

Perhaps you sometimes have that thought—and you would be correct if your action is your idea, done your way. We have nothing to offer others when we rely on our own abilities and efforts. But as born-again believers seeking to live obediently, we are wrong when we fall into that kind of thinking. Scripture makes it clear what matters to God. Let us seek to think the way God does about what counts.

NEW CREATION
The Bible tells us that what counts is being a new creation (Galatians 6:15). We who have received Christ as our Lord and Saviour are exactly that. Are you a new creation? If so, know that you are of great value to God.

HOLY SPIRIT
It is the Holy Spirit indwelling us who makes what we do significant (John 6:63). Do you recognize His presence within you? He equips you to make your life count.

FAITH
A key ingredient in living a life that makes an impact is faith (Hebrews 11:6). This is not something we produce on our own—it is developed in us. Are you nourishing your soul through God’s Word in order to grow strong in faith?

LOVE
Without love, faith rings hollow and discordant (1 Corinthians 13:1). Is godly love seasoning your words as well as your actions?

OBEDIENCE
Following the Lord’s commands is what truly counts (John 15:10). Have you yielded your ways in order to obey His Word?

When we live God’s way, what we do counts in the eyes of the only One who matters—God Himself.

Romans 8:1
“So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.”

1 Corinthians 1:30
“God has united you with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin.”

2 Corinthians 2:14
“But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume.”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Many people hear the word serve and feel that they do not have the necessary qualities to make a difference in others’ lives. This is true—apart from God. But He has gifted each of us in unique ways with a purpose in mind. His plan for us involves using these talents to serve Him for the good of others.

Satan would like us to believe otherwise. Our enemy wants us to notice what others are doing and then to feel inferior. For instance, I have heard women say, “I am just a homemaker.” They see people preaching and singing in the choir and wish they could accomplish something so great for God. Friends, nothing could be further from the truth. An enormous responsibility rests with those who train their children in righteousness.

In fact, the Holy Spirit has gifted each believer for specific work in God’s kingdom. Scripture explains this idea by a comparison with a human body: Each person has gifts and purposes that make the entire system function well. But if the heel wants the eye’s role, the whole being will lose balance.

Each part is crucial, even though some aren’t as noticeable as others. Truthfully, those with less apparent talents have an advantage because pride and self-sufficiency may not be so great a temptation.

Notice how Peter defined himself: “a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:1). He was no longer a man motivated by self-interest. Once He began to follow Jesus, he saw himself as a servant of God. We, too, are called to serve the King of Kings with whatever abilities we are given.

1 Peter 4:10-11
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

God has a purpose and plan for your life, and His timing is perfect. Sometimes He answers our prayers with “yes” or “no.” But at other times, He says, “Not now.” When this is the case, we can avail ourselves of the rich rewards that come while we wait.
One very practical blessing is that God strengthens us as we lean on Him during delays. Isaiah 40:31 describes an eagle soaring—an apt metaphor for how the believer who abides in the Lord will be lifted and sustained by His Spirit. (In fact, it’s interesting to note that the Hebrew for “wind” and “spirit” come from the same word: ruach.)

When we are facing a difficult decision, the real key is learning to wait. There is no verse of Scripture that tells us to take control and fight our own battles. God is the one who fights them on our behalf (2 Chronicles 20:15). We are to be patient and trust in Him.

When David faced his greatest battles, he waited upon the Lord. God delivered him from destruction and set his feet on solid ground (Psalms 40:1-3). He will do the same for you. When you abide in Him, He gives supernatural energy to accomplish the things He requires of you—His Spirit does for you what you cannot do for yourself.

In reading through the Scriptures, we see that every time one of God’s saints gains a victory, he or she is waiting and trusting in the Lord. You can likewise experience triumph in your life. When you have the omnipotent Creator of the universe acting on your behalf, you can’t lose.

2 Chronicles 20:15
And he said, “Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Psalms 25:3-5
Waiting for God’s timing is neither passive nor idle—it takes discipline and commitment. I can think of four basic requirements for successful waiting.

FAITH
The Lord’s ways and timing are nothing like ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). From a human standpoint, the way He does things is usually totally different than expected. But as we trust Him more, we’ll discover that His approach isn’t so strange after all. And when we live in harmony with God’s will, His timing starts to make sense.

HUMILITY
To wait for the Lord, you must be convinced of your need for Him. Submission to His divine will requires humility. You cannot charge ahead with your own plans and at the same time be fully surrendered to God.

PATIENCE
Are you willing to remain in your current position until you receive clear divine direction? Pausing for clarity from God does not mean that you disengage and allow circumstances to fall apart around you. Waiting upon the Lord is a deliberate decision that requires patience.

COURAGE
Waiting for God often takes courage, especially when there is pressure to act. If you’re not careful, you might stop listening to the Lord and follow other advice. So keep your ear attuned to the voice of Almighty God, and you won’t go wrong.
Waiting upon the Lord is one of the wisest, most important decisions we make in life. And contrary to popular assumptions, it is an active endeavour that requires faith, humility, patience, and courage. When you rely upon God and wait for His timing, the various facets of life fall into place

Isaiah 40:31
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

Psalm 27:14
Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!

Ecclesiastes 8:6
For there is a time and a way for everything, although man's trouble lies heavy on him.

Ecclesiastes 3:1
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS