jadeus:


A father places a bottle of poisonous pills on the table within their reach. He then tells the children not to take the pills or else they would die. The children who are too young to understand the gravity of death, climb on the table and share the poisonous pills. When he comes back, he finds his children unconscious, possibly dead. Is that father a loving father? Is he innocent when it comes to the possible death of his children?
Now how about applying that to God in the case of the garden of Eden and see how loving God is. You can exonerate the father in the story above by saying that he didn't have any foreknowledge of his children's choice. You can use the fact that we imperfect humans make mistakes, you can't make an excuse for God. Godis omniscient and knows the beginning from the end. Therefore he knew the consequences for his actions. He KNEW that man would eat the tree, yet he put it there. He created man in such a way that man was gullible enough to be deceived by a talking snake. He KNEW the future that awaited his 'children' if he put this tree there. Do you think that God is truly innocent in all this? Also, remember that it was God that created Satan knowing fully well the monster that Satan would become. God know all this before hand and yet went on with his plan and you say that he is loving?

Romans 9:19-20
One of you will say to me: “Then why does God still blame us? For who is able to resist his will?” 20 But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? “Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’”[h] 21 Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use?

God, as sovereign Lord and Proprietor of all, dispenses his gifts or favours to his creatures with perfect wisdom, but by no rules or methods of proceeding that we are acquainted with. The time when we shall exist, the country where we shall live, our parents, our constitution of body and turn of mind; these, and numberless other circumstances, are doubtless ordered with perfect wisdom, but by rules that lie quite out of our sight.But God's methods of dealing with us, as our Governor and Judge, are dearly revealed and perfectly known; namely, that he will finally reward every man according to his works: "He that believeth shalt be saved, and he that believeth not shall be damned."

Go figure bro

A lot of people find it hard to personally apply “For God so loved the world ...” to themselves. Sadly, they have bought into the devil’s lie that they aren’t important enough to be singled out for blessing from among the billions on earth. But they seem to forget that the same God who singled out Abraham, Moses, David, Mary, etc. for his good pleasure can choose anyone he pleases.

How do I know that God thinks you are special? Jesus Christ died for you. Because of the heavenly Father’s love for the world, He sent His Son to die on the cross as a sacrifice for the sins of everyone living in the past, present, or future. None of us deserve the Father’s care and protection, but thankfully, deserving isn’t the basis for His love. In fact, God’s very nature is love, which He demonstrated through Christ’s death “while we were yet sinners”.

God cares so much for His children that He gives each one a place in His plan for the world. Believers are gifted with the talents and attributes needed to carry out His purpose. However, Christians who consider themselves exempt from His love aren’t looking for the opportunities He sends. They are too distracted by Satan’s lying voice.

The Lord loves you. He says so again and again in the Scriptures. But don’t take my word for it. Read His Word for yourself and see how much He cares.

Ephesians 1:4-5
Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,

John 15:16
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.

Romans 8:28-30
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.

Romans 5:8
But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

1 John 4:13
And God has given us his Spirit as proof that we live in him and he in us

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Before Christ faced death on the cross, he made a request to God the Father in John 17:1, ““Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you.”

Each morning as the day unfolds, news of tragedy or success comes out to our hearing from the various media houses. Terrorism in France, Military revolt in Turkey, Kidnappings and Corruption in Nigeria, Brexit, Incoming Olympics in Rio and premiership season in the UK. Looking through this list of occurrences, all one can pray for is for God to have his way and glorify himself.

To pray for God’s glorification is to say “God, do whatever will bring You the greatest honour and make You known to the world.” It means that we are also surrendering what we want the outcome to be. God in His sovereignty will choose what will bring honour to His name. And whatever happens, we are to believe He has done just that for our good and His divine purpose.

Whatever the situation may be personally, collectively or globally, God is always behind the scene. He has a way of turning bitterness to sweetness, sorrow to happiness and crying into laughter.

PRAYER
Jehovah! Please have your way in our world today. Give us the privilege via our attitudes, actions and words of revealing your love to a world that desperately needs you. Let your spirit join us together in love to give you the glory in Jesus mighty name – Amen

Revelation 4:11
“Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honour and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.”

Psalm 115:1
Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness!

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

Although the Lord showers His goodness on all men and women, the ability to perceive and enjoy it is limited by a refusal to reverence Him as God. To experience the fullness of His kindness, we must honour Him by choosing His way of submission and obedience. The Lord will never withhold His goodness from those who walk uprightly with Him.

In love and wisdom, the Father has specifically designed a pathway for each of His children. Because no two people are alike, each path will look different. What may be best for one person may not be good for another. Comparison of God’s ways in different lives will lead only to discouragement and misjudgement. We have neither the wisdom nor the eternal perspective to understand why the Lord leads some people down a road of pain and hardship, but we can know that He is always good.

Every step on God’s pathway represents a deliberate choice to follow Him. By looking around instead of fixing our eyes on Jesus, we may start thinking that we are missing out on some really good experiences or possessions. If we leave the Lord’s course to follow one that looks better, we will forfeit His good blessings and discover, as Adam and Eve did, that any other way leads to loss.

Take time periodically to ask yourself, Am I on the path the Lord has chosen for me, or have I taken a detour to follow another direction that looks good? To build our own course and ignore the goodness and abundance of His pathway is foolishness. God alone knows the way we should take.

Proverbs 16:1-2
The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit.

Psalm 37:23-24
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.

Isaiah 43:16-19
Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, who brings forth chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down, they cannot rise, they are extinguished, quenched like a wick: “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

Psalm 94:12-14
Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O Lord, and whom you teach out of your law, to give him rest from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked. For the Lord will not forsake his people; he will not abandon his heritage;

Psalm 32:8
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

Psalm 37:23
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way;

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

I’ve often heard believers proclaim, “God is good!” when all is going well but then doubt His benevolence when the blessings they envisioned don’t materialise. Because God alone is good, only He can accurately determine what is best for each person. His kindness is expressed in more ways than simply provision of wealth, health, and relationships. Some of His gifts are experiences we would never choose, but the Lord knows we need them in order to grow in faith, obedience, and perseverance. Consider the following expressions of God’s goodness toward us:

DISCIPLINE
Since God’s love is unfailing, He corrects us when we refuse to follow Him and instead go our own way. The process is painful, but the result is “the peaceful fruit of righteousness” (Heb. 12:11).

DELAYED BLESSINGS
Satan offers a world of opportunities and possessions that seem to promise happiness but ultimately draw us away from God. With great wisdom, the Lord lovingly withholds those things that prove detrimental to our spiritual life.

USEFUL TRIALS
God knows which refining experiences we need in order to become fruitful in His kingdom. What appears to us as a valley of weeping is God’s place of preparation for godliness and service.

It can be tempting to interpret God’s character on the basis of our circumstances. If evidence compels us to doubt His goodness, we must remember that while His gifts come in a variety of wrappings, they are always beneficial. ”

Psalm 25:8
The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray.

Psalm 34:8
Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!

Psalm 84:11
For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.

Psalm 106:1
Praise the LORD! Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

bolaji3071:




Nice post bro. I don't know if I can post this in my Christian blog also bolajiakanbi dot dot com

why not bro? spread the word

Three of the four gospels contain an account of the young man who asked Jesus a very important question: “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” (Luke 18:18). A ruler with great wealth, he considered himself a moral man because he had kept the Lord’s commandments.

However, he was operating under the false assumption that good works bring salvation. He seemed to be asking Jesus what else he had to do to secure his place in heaven—besides all the good things that he had already accomplished.

This is what I refer to as the “great deception”—the false belief that eternal life can be earned through our own efforts. If we give credence to this lie, then we do not understand the problem of our sin and how it separates us from God. Scripture tells us that we have inherited a sinful nature from the first man (Rom. 5:12). Ever since that time, humanity has been in rebellion against the Lord and under His judgement. There is nothing we can do to pay for our sins.

If this were the end of the story, we would be a people without hope for today or the future. But the good news is that the heavenly Father recognised our plight and mercifully provided the way to heaven (John 14:6).

When God made us in His image, He created us to live forever. So, though our earthly bodies will perish, our spirits will never die. The question about eternal life is important, as we’ll spend eternity either with God in heaven or in an insufferable state, separated permanently from Him (Matt. 25:34, 41).

John 6:50-71
This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. ...

Matthew 7:21-23
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’

Matthew 25:46
And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

How much?

All of us experience times when our circumstances seem unbearable, prayers appear to go unanswered, and the Lord feels distant. When that happens, we may wonder if He is the same as we once believed Him to be. During such times of helplessness, faith falters for some people yet grows stronger for others. What causes these opposite responses to suffering?

The key is simply one’s understanding of and trust in God’s faithfulness. This term means that the Lord never changes—He always does what is right, remains true to His promises, and is 100 percent reliable. In other words, we can trust our almighty God, regardless of our situation or attitude.

Our understanding of God relates to this concept. Do we trust Him enough to obey, even when obedience seems foolish? Are we so confident He hears and answers prayer that we consistently bring requests before His throne, even when we don’t see an immediate response? Are we daily sacrificing our selfish desires and patterns of living because we believe His promise of eternity, joy, and peace? An answer of “no” may indicate a deficient understanding of God’s character. That’s why reading the Bible is so important—through Scripture’s countless illustrations of our Father’s attributes, we learn who He is and increasingly trust Him.

Thankfully, God’s faithfulness does not depend on our circumstances, our feelings, or even our own faithfulness. He is true to His Word and true to Himself. How would your life look different if you had complete confidence that God was trustworthy and unchanging? I call it peace of mind knowing that God is faithful.

1 Corinthians 1:9
God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Psalm 33:4
For the word of the Lord is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness.

Psalm 86:15
But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.

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.”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

The second greatest commandment that Jesus Christ told us to practice is to love our neighbour as ourselves. Relatives, friends, neighbours, church family and strangers are among those who fall in to this category. The bible said we should imitate Christ who left his divine heavenly privileges to take on the lowly human form in order to do the will of God. Jesus Christ did not discriminate, but he showed fairness, justice, tolerance and impartiality to everyone.

We are often tempted to be selective in choosing which acquaintances to help. According to Jesus’ example, we cannot bear someone else’s burdens based upon whether that person has lived up to some standard we have set. There are people who will never dress like us, hold opinions similar to ours, or share our interests. But those same people might be hurting and in need of somebody to help carry their difficulties. A genuine expression of godly love can transform the life of a person weighed down by struggles.

Even when we understand that lifting the weight of someone else’s load fulfils the law of Christ, Christians are frequently tempted to pass such responsibility to a pastor or Sunday school teacher. But the Lord intends something different for the lives of His children.

Our unique experiences equip us to help in ways that the pastor or teacher—who have different experiences—cannot. Ask God how you can begin to help bear the burden of neighbours who are hurting.

James 2:14-17
What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

Hebrews 13:16
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Philippians 2:4
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Luke 6:38
Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”

Galatians 6:2
Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

According to the Hebrew historical records, David was an unwanted child of his father. This is the reason he was given the menial job of taking care of the family’s herds. A tedious and dangerous household undertaking which most family members abhorred.

Suddenly, Prophet Samuel showed up in his life, anointed him and declared him the King of Israel. What a welcome relief that would have been to David. The stone that the family rejected, became the chief cornerstone.

We can learn from the life of David that God can turn one’s life around in an instance when least expected. Where the world has rejected you, the Lord can admit you. Where the world has tarnished you, the Lord can respect you.

In the palace of Pontius Pilate and on the cross at Calvary, the world despised Jesus Christ. But in Heaven, the Lord and the Angels were dancing, knowing fully well that Jesus has given us Victory. The devil should have known better.

The Lord can take an impossible situation—no matter what it is—and move in ways mightier than you can imagine. Do you live in eager expectation of what the Lord will do? Or have you chosen to linger in the depths of despair? I choose the former. What about you?

Jeremiah 30:17
For I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the Lord, because they have called you an outcast: ‘It is Zion, for whom no one cares!’

Joel 2:25-26
I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the hopper, the destroyer, and the cutter, my great army, which I sent among you. “You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied, and praise the name of the Lord your God, who has dealt wondrously with you. And my people shall never again be put to shame.

Psalm 51:12
Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.

Isaiah 61:7
Instead of your shame there shall be a double portion; instead of dishonour they shall rejoice in their lot; therefore, in their land they shall possess a double portion; they shall have everlasting joy.

Job 42:10
And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job, when he had prayed for his friends. And the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

Disappointment is an emotional response to a failed expectation. An occurrence that happens very often. Things do not always work out according to expectations. This is a fact of life. However, lingering on in disappointment leads into discouragement, sadness, lack of focus, pain, self-blame and a critical mind-set. How do we handle circumstances like this?

As believers, we serve the One who is able to do more than what we can do or think. Courage and determination is the key to overcome. When Joshua was given the mantle to lead the Israelites into land of Canaan, (an overwhelming task that even Moses could not achieve) God told in Joshua, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

There are some circumstances that are unavoidable, but how we respond is a choice. Either we can let sadness overwhelm our soul or we can face the situation with courage and bring it before the One who can help. We can do all things through him that strengthens us. Without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes. This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Stay positive. Keep fighting the good fight of faith. You were not created to lose. You are born to win.

Romans 8:28
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

It is well. God bless.

No matter what specific form temptation takes in our lives, the enemy uses a fairly standard process to get us off track. And it is as effective as ever.

First, we begin to think about the object of our desire. We play with it in our mind, imagining how we would feel if it were ours. Isn’t it interesting that no matter how many blessings God has showered upon us, we always seem to focus on the one thing we do not have! We must ask ourselves, Could the enemy be trying to redirect my focus?

Remember, Satan wants to alienate us from the Lord. If he can get us to take our eyes off God and instead fix our attention on what we feel we’re lacking, then he can lead us to temptation.

Next, the thought builds until it finally gives way to full-blown desire. This intense longing is the culmination of our imaginings. We’re no longer content simply to enjoy the object in our mind; now, we must actually have it.

Finally, the desire leads to a choice. Here is where we make the decision, Will I give in to this sin, or will I lay it down and submit to the Lord’s will for my life?

Through the Holy Spirit’s power, we have the ability to walk away at any point in the process of temptation. We are never helpless to defuse the situation; no matter how much momentum has built up.

Do you ever feel as if you are powerless to stop a growing temptation in your life? Understanding the nature of this progressive process can help you to stand firm against the enemy’s tactics.

Luke 22:40
And when he came to the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.”

1 Peter 5:8-11
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 119:11
I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

ENDTIMELIFE:



https://www.naij.com/884021-just-panic-ikorodu-rival-cult-groups-battle-many-feared-dead.html

PURE MADNESS

Everybody experiences temptation. No matter how spiritual you are or how long you’ve followed Christ, you have been tempted. Sometimes this experience seems like a faint whisper, and other times it’s an unbearable shout in your mind. Regardless of how it sounds, you know just what temptation feels like. But if someone asked, could you define the term?

Temptation is simply an enticement to take a God-given desire beyond God-given boundaries. Many people reject this idea, refusing to believe that guilt-instilling allurements could be even remotely related to the Lord. But think about it: In what ways are you most often tempted? In the area of material possessions? Intimacy? Companionship? Food? These are all things that God not only created but also uses to bless His people. The problem comes when we—who still carry around the old “programming” of our flesh nature—take those drives beyond the healthy limits that God has set for our lives.

For example, He created sex for enjoyment within a marriage relationship. However, when this divinely approved desire is corrupted by physical intimacy outside of marriage, then what the Creator designed for His purposes becomes a source of guilt and shame. That is not what God intended.

One of the enemy’s top strategies is to distort a God-given drive for his own vile purposes. You can short-circuit such an attack: Remind yourself where this urge came from in the first place, and then ask God for the strength to use such drives for His glory, as He intended.

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.

James 4:7
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Galatians 5:16
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

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

favoured234:
Good to read..


Just wondering if there's something called outer conscience too

Yes there is.

That is the outer man as referenced as "earthen vessels" in 2 Corinthians 4:7 and "mortal flesh" in 2 Corinthians 4:11. In essence the "physical flesh".

In every human being, God has placed a conscience which sends warning signals when a behaviour or decision might be harmful. I call it our natural God - given ability to distinguish between right and wrong. Anyone who ignores their conscience, do so at their own peril.

In a believer, the conscience is a tool of the Holy Spirit. It is like information technology to a business organisation. The program language used is the Word of God, which allows it to send signals into our inner consciousness and give us the ability to respond in accordance to the will of God. The more the word of God dwells in you, the shaper the signal becomes.

When the Holy Spirit captures our consciences, He reminds us of Godly principles so we can make wise life decisions. This is made available to all believer, but the degree to which it is given varies. It is up to the individual to enhance what God has plant(ED) within. Within you, there is a seed, but the fruit that will be produced from that seed (quality/quantity) is up to you.

To ignore our inner conscience prompting will ultimately lead to a shipwrecked faith. It is like disregarding the Law of the land and continue to commit a crime. Snubbing a fault signal of a car dashboard. Ignoring the smoke coming out of a building. It is like leaving a 2-year-old with a match near a gas oven.

We all know people who have “run aground” in life. A shipwrecked faith is inevitable when believers ignore their conscience and rationalise or defend disobedience. It’s far better to turn yourself over to the great captain of your soul, Jesus Christ. His Holy Spirit will guide you correctly.

As you wake up this morning, what has the Holy Spirit put in your conscience? Hmm-mm; I have chosen to obey mine, what about you.

Isaiah 30:21
And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.

Romans 2:15
They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them

Hebrews 10:22
Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

1 Timothy 1:5
The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

In most parts of the Christian world, freedom to practice your religion is constitutional. However, despite this independence, most are still held captive by sinful habits and mind-sets. This is the reason religious autonomy does not exist in most Islamic countries. To them, religious pluralism leads to contradictions and ultimately conflict. I agree.

The enemy’s strategy is to use all kinds of temptation to shackle our time and attention on the temporal. His greatest deception is convincing people that their chains do not really exist. A lie. “………friendship with the world means enmity against God…….” (James 4:4)

Our freedom to practice our religion(faith) should be used as decision to protect the heart, mind and body from evil influences. Let us use of our freedom to live in harmony. It is that kind of domain that God the father, Christ the son, and the Holy spirit dwells.

Galatians 5:1
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.

1 Peter 2:16
Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.

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

The best way to express our love and gratitude to God is by being devoted to him. Regular Bible study and prayer should be an integral part of our daily routine. A passion to obey, a spirit of humility and willingness to serve him will also reveal how committed we are.

OBEDIENCE
God overlooked King David imperfections because of his desire to do what the Lord asked. He set aside his desire to build the temple and let Solomon lead the effort. David had the capacity to build, but he let the will of God prevail.

HUMILITY
David refused to become prideful after killing Goliath. Instead, He remained in King Saul’s service and waited on God to make him King. God gave him a Kingship that will last forever through Jesus Christ.

SERVICE
After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.'- (Acts 13:22)

Are you ready to do the role God has given you to do in its entirety? David did it and his life became an eternal testimony. Christ did it and he was given a name that stands above all names. As for me, I am totally sold out for the Lord.

Proverbs 16:3
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.

Psalm 143:10
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!

2 Peter 1:5
For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge,

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

We live in perilous times. Terrorist threats, political turmoil, xenophobia and ethnic/racial tensions on the rise, economic uncertainty, aggressive secularism, etc. everywhere. Personally, I see the Lord working on the background as prophesied in the book of Revelation. The day of the Lord is at hand.

Before David became the King of Israel, his role as a shepherd took him into dangerous zones (mountains), where not only armed robbers but also wild animals (Lions and Bears) posed a threat. His walk through these mountainous territories was also physically hazardous. Putting one-foot wrong could lead to death at the bottom of the valley.

Our lives can be like these rugged terrains. It is only the grace of God that enables one to go out and come back safely on a daily basis. That is the reason God gave us the Holy spirit to guide and empowers us. It takes away the fear and builds our trust in God. Through him (Holy Spirit), we can look into the future with hope that all will be well.

Psalms 121:1-8
I look up to the mountains— does my help come from there?
2 My help comes from the LORD, WHO made heaven and earth!
3 He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber.4 Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps.
5 The LORD himself watches over you! The LORD stands beside you as your protective shade.6 The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night.7 The LORD keeps you from all harm and watches over your life.
8 The LORD keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.

Psalms 23:1-4
The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honour to his name.4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley, [a]I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

For a seed of corn to achieve its greatest potential, it must undergo certain processes. Among them is death to self. Its outer cover has to be shed and peeled off. The inside contents have to come out before changes takes place. To someone who doesn't understand growth, it would look like complete destruction. However, what is really taking place is a complete regeneration from dead to life. Transformation into a new creation.

What is within you that is defiling your spiritual growth or calling? What area of your life do you need to shed and peel off? I am working on mine, what about you.

Philippians 2:5-11

You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.
6 Though he was God,[a]
he did not think of equality with God
as something to cling to.
7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges[b];
he took the humble position of a slave[c]
and was born as a human being.
When he appeared in human form,[d]
8 he humbled himself in obedience to God
and died a criminal’s death on a cross.
9 Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honour
and gave him the name above all other names,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

I have observed that in areas like praying, tithing and daily Bible reading, most Christians in these regards are doing ok. However, there are some areas where a high proportion seems to be slacking. Areas like serving in the church, sharing our faith and surrendering our will to the Lord. It is called Procrastination (i.e. Deferring, postponing, delaying and putting off our spiritual calling)

Some of the reason behind these are lack of commitment, the feeling of inadequacy, insecurity, fear of the unknown which leads to inactivity in key areas of our spiritual calling. We are called to go out into the world and spread the gospel.

It may seem challenging at first, but we got to have the mind-set and heart that says “God have your way”. True submission says, “Lord, I am willing to do whatever You want in this situation. I will obey Your Word.”

The Lord has asked us to be His ambassadors, who represent Him to a hurting world according to His plan and timetable (2 Cor. 5:20). Therefore, procrastination has no place in the life of a believer. Which areas of your life does this bring to mind?

Proverbs 13:4
The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.

Proverbs 12:24
The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labour.

Ephesians 5:15-17
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

James 4:17
So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

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FRONT PAGE NEWS FOR GOD'S SAKE

During the week, I went out on public transport in the UK during the working hours. I saw a lot of pensioners out and about on the bus. Some of them were in their 80s/90s and still going strong and totally independent. Such sights are very rare in countries like Nigeria. In the UK, it is the norm.

I thought to myself, where are we getting it wrong in our motherland? The words that came to mind was priorities. The stress of wanting to be this or that alone can shorten one’s life span. Lifestyles like unhealthy eating habits, lack of exercise, lack of rest, over the top socialisation, etc is enough to keep the blood pressure rising out of control. Hmmm

Food for thought eh

Romans 14:5
One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

“Ask and thou shall receive” is a renowned Christian scripture that even atheists are conscious of. However, in between this statement is the concealed word “wait” that is fast becoming an old-fashioned concept within the faith. “7-day miracle”, “3 days’ breakthrough”, etc. are now the tailored themes that are highly favoured over the former one. Why?

Sometimes our attention is misdirected. Minds and prayers came become so fixed upon the need that our gaze shifts away from the will of God. Before one can reach a desired destination, there must be a preparation. Timing is key. When God blesses, he does not add sorrow and bitterness into it. It is like yearning to become a doctor, but not ready to go through medical school and horsemanship.

In seasons of waiting, let us use it as an opportunity to stretch and grow in faith. Self-evaluate and align our motives on the will of God. Habitual sin has to go. Then believe that His response will be for your good and His glory.

James 5:7-8
Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slow to fulfil his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.

Isaiah 30:18
Therefore, the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

In Goshen, the children of Israel at first were prospering. Their opulence put them in the limelight. So, the new Pharaoh turned their prosperity into misery. God used the Egyptians to rattle the Israelites in order to get them out of Goshen into Canaan. God wanted to remind them that the God of their ancestors (Abraham, Isaac and Jacob) who makes covenants and never breaks them is still alive and kicking.

Which area in your life is giving you a hostile publicity. Is God rattling your cage in areas where you are not in his perfect will? The ways of God is mysterious.

Psalms 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

The natural reaction of a human being during times of dry seasons is to blame circumstances or individuals. This results in us creating barriers that hinder us from achieving our goals in life. In times like this, we tend to solve such challenges by ending relationships, changing locations, change careers, etc to spare ourselves from further dissatisfaction. These are temporary solutions which most times lead to greater discomfort. The question arises; how do we handle such situations in a godly way?

BY LOOKING INWARD
Mark 7:15
Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them."

The mind and heart has to change. Every ungodly thoughts and areas of rebellion to the will of God has to be rectified. It is then can we have peace.

GET RID OF OUR PAST
Philippians 3:13-14
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Do not allow yourselves to be a prisoner of the past. As one does not think/remember of the kind of rubbish that went into the dustbin, likewise one should forget the mistakes of the past. If you want to fly on the sky, you need to leave the earth. If you want to move forward, you need to let go the past that drags you down,

TRUST GOD
John 15:6-8
If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever wish, and it will be done for you. This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, proving yourselves to be My disciples.

Obedience and trusting God is the key. Those who trust in the Lord shall never be put to shame

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

I will forever be grateful towards my deceased mother for introducing me to Christ at an early age. There is no inheritance as important as leaving a spiritual legacy for future generations.

A parent’s pattern of life, the principles that govern their actions, and the power of their words will always have a huge impact on a child’s understanding of the world and God. Kid’s observation of parental spiritual and ethical values are practically evaluated as they grow older enabling them to gain valuable life experience, which will be merged into their own future individual principles.
Consequently, investing in a spiritual legacy is a continual process that extends beyond a parent’s lifespan. One thing that I learnt from my mother was prayer. Morning and Evening prayer time was unavoidable. A legacy I am current passing down to my children’s. I call it instituting a lifetime relationship with God.

At the gate called beautiful, Peter and John told the lame man that silver and gold they have not, but what they have is the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. The Lame man was given an inheritance beyond what he thought and ask for. He became a witness of one of the most priced spiritual testimonies.

As you go to church this morning, think about the spiritual legacy you want to leave at the end of today. Begin developing a legacy today that will last forever.

John 4:34-38
34 Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work. 35 You know the saying, ‘Four months between planting and harvest.’ But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe[a] for harvest. 36 The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life. What joy awaits both the planter and the harvester alike! 37 You know the saying, ‘One plants and another harvests.’ And it’s true. 38 I sent you to harvest where you didn’t plant; others had already done the work, and now you will get to gather the harvest.”

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

yommyuk:
I do not really read any meaning or significance into this visit.
Photographically, it looks great, but where are all the Afro- American leaders and elites?

He should also include in this visit the Hoods, where the real Negros live. Promote social and cultural awareness among them from the grassroots. Encourage the Negros to invest in Africa and visit their roots.

This one na show off and just a Holiday trip from Naija stress. Na Shakara

I retract this post. I just saw some videos of the Oni of Ife on this US trip. I am Impressed! He is doing a good job.

Keep it up Kabeyisi !!!!!!! Ki ade pe lori!!!

In Apostle Paul’s day, the Greek language was the business linguistic of communication as English language is today. This led to the influx of the Greek culture into the Mesopotamian values (the Hebrew values included.). Philosophical evaluation into religious beliefs was widespread. The gospel of Jesus Christ was perceived as foolishness and illogical. People tried to approach it through their intellect. Today people still use the same methodology. Education and human intelligence to them seems the wisest plan to reach God. However, in 1 Corinthians 3:19, “the wisdom of man is foolishness in God’s sight”

To dismiss faith in favour of a strictly intellectual approach to God is injudicious. Christianity is about glorifying God by believing in his Son. Trusting in him with all our heart, body and soul. Following his blueprint (the bible) precisely by not turning to the left or right. Looking ahead in the knowledge that God is the alpha and omega; the beginning and the end, the author and finisher of our faith. Without faith it is impossible to please God.

God has promised to destroy the false wisdom of the world, and for good reason. We are created to glorify him. We thank God for making a way for us to approach him – through his one and begotten son, Jesus Christ.

Proverbs 2:6
For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
.
Matthew 21:22
And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”

Romans 10:17
So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.

Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

IT IS WELL. GOD BLESS

modelmike7:
Happy Birthday Omo Baba 70. Many more rythmic years ahead.

OMO ABAMI EDA -- HBD