OUR PRAYERS FOR YOU IN THE YEAR 2021

Dearly Beloved, OUR PRAYERS FOR YOU IN THE YEAR 2021 Wow! Here is another brand new year 2021! Thanks be to God for enabling us to witness another year. Happy New Year (2021). On behalf of my wife, Opeyemi, and our children, Boluwatife, IfeOluwa, Michael and Abraham, I am welcoming you to this New Year with these prophetic prayers adapted from Isaiah 54:7-13 (AMP). This New Year: - the Lord will have compassion on you with His great mercy and everlasting kindness; - He will lavish you with His lovingkindness; - He will establish His covenant of peace with you; - He will make you to stand firm and prosper your endeavours this year in Jesus’ name. Amen. Happy and prosperous New Year! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor), Baptist Building, Oke Bola, PMB 5113, Ibadan 200001, Nigeria +2348055159591 https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/spiritualdigest https://groups.io/g/spiritualdigest https://www.facebook.com/PastorBayoAfolaranmi (Facebook Fan Page) https://www.facebook.com/afolabayo https://twitter.com/spiritualdigest

Spiritual Digest for the Day 01Jan2021

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “‘For a mere moment I have forsaken you, but with great mercies I will gather you. With a little wrath I hid My face from you for a moment; but with everlasting kindness I will have mercy on you,’ says the LORD, your Redeemer” (Isaiah 54:7-8 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY You will not be forsaken this year. The Lord will have compassion on you with His great mercy and everlasting kindness. He will lavish you with His lovingkindness. He will establish His covenant of peace with you. He will make you to stand firm and prosper your endeavours this year in Jesus’ name. Amen. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will experience the great mercy and everlasting kindness of God this year.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 31Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Praise be to the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle. He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me. O Lord, what is man that you care for him, the son of man that you think of him?” (Psalm 144:1-3 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Undoubtedly, the Lord has done many things for you this fading year. Reflected on these things. Praise Him for the year, and be expectant for a better new year. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will always reflect and thank God for what He has done for you in the past.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 30Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Trust the Lord completely, and don't depend on your own knowledge. With every step you take, think about what the Lord wants, and he will help you go the right way. Don't trust in your own wisdom, but fear and respect the Lord and stay away from evil. If you do this, it will be like a refreshing drink and medicine for your body" (Proverbs 3:5-8 ERV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY If you want to see God's promises fulfilled in your life this coming year, do not rush things or you might give birth to an Ishmael. Be careful, people will try to involve you in all kinds of schemes to rescue and promote yourself. God does not need your help to bless you. - Yemi Ladokun ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Thank God for the passing year. Pray that you will be able to trust God totally in the coming year.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 29Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world" (James 1:27 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The hallmark of a true Christian is charity in thought, word, and deed. Charity is the principle Christian virtue. - Jonathan Lockwood Huie ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY O Lord, enable me to always demonstrate my Christian faith in thought, word, and deed.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 28Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:12-14 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Good, Better, Best; I shall never rest, until my good is better, and my better's best. - Author Unknown ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will be able to leave the unachieved goals of this year behind and forge ahead for a better year (2021).

Spiritual Digest for the Day 27Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “It is because of the Lord’s mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is your stability and faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23 AMP). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Continue to rely on Him because as late as the year is, God can still surprise you. The fulfilment of the promise of God may tarry, but it will surely come. No matter the case, God is still faithful! - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Demonstrate Your faithfulness in my life, O Lord, even in the remaining days of this year.

GOD IS STILL FAITHFUL!

Dearly Beloved, GOD IS STILL FAITHFUL! “It is because of the Lord’s mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is your stability and faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23 AMP). “But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not ‘Yes’ and ‘No’” (2 Corinthians 1:18 NIV). Apostle Paul planned to visit the church at Corinth, but some circumstances beyond his control hindered him from doing so. It seemed the church doubted his sincerity. His adversaries there sought all occasions to blemish his character, and reflect upon his conduct; and, it seemed, they took hold of this to reproach his person and discredit his ministry. In emphasising his commitment to what he planned to do for the Corinthians in his second epistle to them, he used the faithfulness of God as example. When God promises to do anything, He will do it. He is not the type of person that is not consistent with His words. In fact, Jeremiah exclaimed, “It is because of the Lord’s mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is your stability and faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23 AMP). God is indeed faithful to His promises for His children. His words are “yes” and “Amen.” He will certainly do what He promised that He will do, because “the one who calls you is faithful and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24 NIV. See also Hebrews 10:23). Has God promised to do something for you this year? Have you lost hope in Him or are you doubting Him? He is faithful, and He will do it. Continue to rely on Him because as late as the year is, God can still surprise you. The Yorubas have this saying: “Oorun ti o ku ni oke yii si to aso i gbe.” Literally meaning “the sun that remains in the sky can still dry a wet cloth.” In other words, there is still hope in a seemingly hopeless situation! The fulfilment of the promise of God may tarry, but it will surely come. No matter the case, God is still faithful! Do you believe this? If you have faith, you will see the glory of God (cf. John 11:40). In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Demonstrate Your faithfulness in my life, O Lord, even in the remaining days of this year.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 26Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Then the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord'” (Luke 2:10-11 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The angelic message was that God had come, redemption was possible. The Lord had visited His people with salvation. What a Christmas message! - Billy Graham ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Appreciate God for the redemption made possible by the coming of Jesus Christ into this world.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 25Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “And great and important and weighty, we confess, is the hidden truth (the mystic secret) of godliness. He [God] was made visible in human flesh, justified and vindicated in the [Holy] Spirit, was seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, [and] taken up in glory” (1 Timothy 3:16 AMP). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The mystery of Christmas is how God could become man while remaining fully God. It defies human explanation, but in the perfect wisdom of God, it was the plan of the ages. - Bill Crowder ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will understand the mystery of Christmas more than before.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 24Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Christ is the visible likeness of the invisible God. He is the first-born Son, superior to all created things” (Colossians 1:15 GNT). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY God wanted to do the job of saving you right, so He came to earth Himself. He did not come as an avatar, an angel, or a prophet. God came as a person. He became the baby and then the man Jesus Christ. - Rick Warren ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will see Jesus Christ as He really is – God, and believe in His saving power this Christmas season.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 23Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says, ‘In the time of my favor I heard you, In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:1-2 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY It is good to make good resolutions on December 31. However, do not wait till that day. Resolve today to abstain from bad habits and start doing good. If you sincerely determine today, the Lord will indeed help you. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to be able to stand by the resolution to abstain from bad habits and start doing good as from today.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 22Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “When the shepherds saw Jesus, they told his parents what the angel had said about him. Everyone listened and was surprised. But Mary kept thinking about all this and wondering what it meant” (Luke 2:17-19 CEV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Christmas gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect on the important things around us – a time when we can look back on the year that has passed and prepare for the year ahead. - David Cameron ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY As the year is running to an end, pray that you will be able to pause and reflect on the passing year and prepare for the year ahead.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 21Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “The wise men came to the house where the child [Jesus Christ] was with his mother Mary. They bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened the boxes of gifts they had brought for him. They gave him treasures of gold, frankincense, and myrrh” (Matthew 2:11 ERV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Celebrating a right Christmas requires that you make Jesus the Object of worship and love Him with all your heart, mind and strength. Let this Christmas be a season of your true worship of God. - Victor Akerele ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Jesus Christ, help me to make this Christmas a season of my true worship of You.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 20Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “[Mary] will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Regardless of any other meaning attached to the Christmas or any controversy about it, the paramount thing is that Jesus Christ came to this world in a time in history for the salvation of humankind. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that the Christmas season will be meaningful to you by being saved from your sins.

WHAT DOES THE CHRISTMAS MEAN TO YOU?

Dearly Beloved, WHAT DOES THE CHRISTMAS MEAN TO YOU? “[Mary] will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21 NIV). One of the most celebrated seasons in the year is the Christmas season. The season is here again. Many people, especially the children, have been caught with the “fever” of the season. There has been this controversy about the origin of season. Many are of the opinion that it originated from a pagan festival. This has made some Christian denominations and sects to distance themselves from the season. Other people would argue that there is no such celebration in the Bible. Many people believe that the Christmas day is the birthday of Jesus Christ, although, this has been disproved from many evidences. However, what does the Christmas mean to you? Christmas is just a festive season to some people. Therefore, such people are ready to celebrate it just as they celebrate any other festive period. They see the season as a time to entertain themselves. Among such people are the ones that believe in taking their children to visit Father Christmas who will entertain the children and gives them gifts for a token. Christmas season is a period that some people feel they can make quick profit in their business or enterprise. Therefore, they inflate the cost of their wares and services. Most people, especially Christians, attach the season to the first coming of Jesus Christ into this world. However, some people are indifferent. To them, Christmas season or even the Christmas Day is like any other season or day. However, one has to consider the popular opinion about Christmas – the birth of Jesus Christ. Why did He “made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness” (Philippians 2:7 NIV) by coming to this wretched world? The main reason is to save people from their sins (Matthew 1:21; John 1:29; Acts 13:38-39; 1 John 3:5; Revelation 1:5-6) so “that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16 NIV). This singular act entails many other things that give Christmas different meanings to different people. Regardless of any other meaning attached to the Christmas or any controversy about it, the paramount thing is that Jesus Christ came to this world in a time in history for the salvation of humankind. Have you been saved by Him? What does the Christmas season mean to you? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that the Christmas season will be meaningful to you by being saved from your sins.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 19Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. - Martin Luther King, Jr. ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to always overcome hatred with love in your relationship with other people.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 18Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, 'Son, your sins are forgiven you'" (Mark 2:5 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Wherever God sees faith, He acts, that is why we must be involved in activities that stirs and increases faith. - ObalOluwa Osuolale ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will be able to demonstrate your faith in God that will make Him to act on your behalf.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 17Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "The Son of Man came to look for and to save people who are lost" (Luke 19:10 CEV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Jesus Christ is looking for broken people to bless. He is looking for hurting people to help. He is looking for sinners to save. Let Him know you qualify. - Kenneth L. Pierpont ************ ACTION FOR THE DAY Yield to the call of Jesus Christ to be saved and blessed today!

Spiritual Digest for the Day 16Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin" (James 4:17 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. - Desmond Tutu ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to always speaak against injustice wherever you are.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 15Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "There will be no more gloom for those who were in distress.... The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.... For to us a child is born, to us a son is given.... The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this" (Isaiah 9:1, 2, 6, 7 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The first coming of Jesus Christ into the world brought light into the world. The celebration of this coming will bring light into the darkness of your life because the zeal of the Lord will accomplish it. - Supo Ayokunle ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Jesus, let Your zeal accomplish great things in my life in this Christmas season.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 14Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY To keep the Golden Rule we must put ourselves in other people's places, but to do that consists in and depends upon picturing ourselves in their places. - Harry Emerson Fosdick ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to always relate with other people as you would want them relate with you.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 13Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “The angel went to her and said, ‘Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you’” (Luke 1:28 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY God has greatly favoured you! Think about your life. Even, if God has not done what you are expecting from Him this year, the fact that you are still living is a great favour. Thank Him for what He has done for you in the past, what He is doing presently, and what He has not done. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will always be appreciative of God as He is favouring you every day.

I AM GREATLY FAVOURED!

Dearly Beloved, I AM GREATLY FAVOURED! “The angel went to her and said, ‘Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you’” (Luke 1:28 NIV). Although I have started broadcasting my fiftieth birthday on social media a month before the D-Day, I did not have the financial resources to roll out the drums on the day I would celebrate my golden jubilee on earth. I had to resort to fate and decide to celebrate the unique day with thanksgiving to God and posting of some of my old pictures and personal quotations on the social media which have become my main platforms of ministering to people. Some people that are close to me were asking me what and how I would celebrate the day. My response was that there would be no special event that day. Birthday wishes by text messages from some of my banks woke me up some minutes past midnight on the D-Day, December 8, 2020. I decided not to do any other thing but to look back and reflect on my life in the past fifty years and appreciate God for what He has done in my life in this half a century. I could remember vividly how I started primary school education at age six. In appreciation to God, I continued to mention as many things as I could remember since 1976 till 2020. I did this for almost an hour. I realized that I have been greatly favoured and honoured by God. At day break, my wife and children prayed with me and I went to my office. Countless messages through phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and email came to felicitate with me. I was not happy that I could not afford a birthdate cake or entertain people with some delicacies or drinks as it is the practice where I live. My office mates were expectant, but nothing came forth. In spite of this, I was glad on the other hand that the Lord could favour me to witness my 50th birthdate in good health. I was appreciative of God for the gift of life He has graciously given me. I have to confess that some people actually blessed me financially and materially later that day. One unexpected blessing even came from an over-eighty-year-old woman that enabled me to do the needful in the African way. Indeed, I am greatly favoured! You may not be celebrating any birthdate now. Nevertheless, do you know that you are also greatly favoured by God? Think about your life. Even, if God has not done what you are expecting from Him this year, the fact that you are still living is a great favour. Many have died. Some are dying as you are reading this message. Be appreciative of God. Thank Him for what He has done for you in the past. Thank Him for what He is doing presently. Even, thank Him for what He has not done. He will continue to favour you in His own time, and in His own way. As for me, I am thankful because God has greatly favoured me. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will always be appreciative of God as He is favouring you every day. NB: I am appreciative also to everyone that felicitated with me before, during, and after my 50th birthday on December 8, 2020 through phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and email (some are still sending their birthday wishes!). I am greatly honoured by your wishes. The Lord will continue honour and favour you in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 11Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD my God, You are very great: You are clothed with honor and majesty?" (Psalm 104:1 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY We should always praise God for who He is as He has demonstrated it in His creation. Bless the LORD, O my soul! - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to always praise God for who He is in your life.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 10Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “So then, my brothers, because of God's great mercy to us I appeal to you: Offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him. This is the true worship that you should offer” (Romans 12:1 TEV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY God wants you to first totally surrender your life to Him before He can accept your possession, service or any other form of worship you can render to Him. Be a living sacrifice to God! - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to firstly surrender your total life to God before thinking of serving Him.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 08Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Praise be to the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle. He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me. O Lord, what is man that you care for him, the son of man that you think of him?” (Psalm 144:1-3 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The Lord has indeed done many things for me these years. I have reflected on these things, and I have many reason to praise Him this day. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will always reflect and thank God for what He has done for you in the past.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 07Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Jesus looked at them and said, `With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God'" (Mark 10:27 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Do not lose hope that your situation is beyond remedy. Man may fail because of his limitation. Things may reach a deadlock with man, but not with God. All things are possible with Him! - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Lord, do the seemingly impossible thing in my before the end of this year.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 06Dec2020

xBIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16, NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY What God requires from you for the giving of His Son is faith in Jesus Christ so that you will not perish (having eternal separation from Him), but have eternal life - an infinitely high quality of life in living fellowship with God, both now and forever. Do you have this life? - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that nothing will hinder you from accepting the eternal life through the giving of Jesus Christ to the world.

THE BIGGEST NEWS OF CHRISTMAS

Dearly Beloved, THE BIGGEST NEWS OF CHRISTMAS "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16, NIV). As usual, the Christmas celebration for this year has started with many fanfares and will end on December 25 in grand services in most of our churches. However, many people have lost or forgotten the biggest news of Christmas. This news is summed up in the most popular Bible verse: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16 NIV). The news started with God, the Creator of the universe. The Holy Bible does not try to prove the existence God. It just started by saying, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1 NIV). It is interesting to see some people today claiming that there is no God. The Christmas news cannot be appreciated without acknowledging the existence of God that initiated the basis of Christmas. This God is the God of love that so loved the people of the world in spite of their unworthiness. He demonstrated His unconditional love to mankind and did what an ordinary man would find difficult to do - giving the most precious thing to an undeserving person. This act of giving should be paramount in us as we celebrate Christmas. This is not a kind of giving where you will be expecting the recipient to give you something else back in reciprocal. It is not the kind of giving associated with Father Christmas where you have to pay some amount of money before receiving the gift. It is a sacrificial giving. The object of this giving is the most precious Gift of all time - Jesus Christ, the one and only Son of God! Many people find it difficult to believe that the Creator of the universe could have a Son. To them, it belittles Him of His majesty. However, that is part of the reasons Paul exclaimed, "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! `Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counsellor?' `Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?' For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen" (Romans 11:33-36 NIV). What God requires from us for His giving is faith in Jesus Christ so that we will not perish (having eternal separation from Him), but have eternal life - an infinitely high quality of life in living fellowship with God, both now and forever given graciously by Jesus Christ to everyone who believes in Him (see John 1:4; 10:10, 28). Do you have this life? This is the biggest news! No matter how you celebrate the Christmas or if you are indifferent to it, let the news has positive impact in your life. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that nothing will hinder you from accepting the eternal life through the giving of Jesus Christ to the world.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 04Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Praise the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens…. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord” (Psalm 150:1, 6 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Praise is our enthusiastic expression of gratitude to God for reigning in glory forever. - Julie Ackerman Link ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Let my heart be always full of gratitude to You, O Lord, for everything You are doing in my life.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 03Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY It is good to remind ourselves of God’s faithfulness and the hope we have in Him. - James Banks ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will always remember God’s faithfulness over your life in spite of your present circumstance.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 02Dec2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "We have so much joy before our God because of you! So we thank God for you. But we cannot thank him enough for all the joy we feel" (1 Thessalonians 3:9 ERV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Your appreciation of the lives of others may very well be the very best gift you can ever give. So give it often. For it costs you little and those who receive it will be wealthy indeed. - Author Unknown ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to always remember to appreciate people that have been channels of God’s blessings in your life.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 30Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love" (Revelation 2:2-4 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Do not be afraid of any opposition or persecution in the ministry God has called you into. When persecution comes, remember that God knows how He will deliver you from such persecution. Therefore, stand fast. He depends on you, and He will not let you down. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, O Lord, to be able to endure hardship to the end.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 29Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “[Jesus] said to them, ‘Then give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God’” (Luke 20:25 ERV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY If one can give one’s life totally to God, it would not be difficult to give to the world and its rulers what belong to them and even use that thing that belongs to the world to glorify God. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will be able to give your life totally to God and as you give to the world what belong to it you will be able do so and use them to His glory.

WHAT BELONGS TO CAESAR?

Dearly Beloved, WHAT BELONGS TO CAESAR? “[Jesus] said to them, ‘Then give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God’” (Luke 20:25 ERV). We were in a Sunday School class recently when a participant privately told me that we can sin at times since Jesus Christ said that we should give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar. He further said that giving to God what belongs to God is when we come to church to worship Him. I immediately refuted his opinion and explained that Jesus was not talking about sin in that reference, but mainly about our civic responsibility to the government and the society. He reluctantly nodded his head in agreement. This wrong allusion to what belongs to Caesar made me think more about what really belongs to Caesar and what really belongs to God. If one has a close look at the passage (and other parallel passages - Matthew 22:15-22; Mark 12:13-17), one will have more understanding on this. The Pharisees and the Herodians colluded together and sent some of their disciples to Jesus to trap Him. They asked, "Tell us, is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?" (Luke 20:22 ERV). If Jesus approved paying taxes to Caesar, He would offend the Jews, and this might discredit His ministry among them. If He disapproved paying of taxes to Caesar, the religious leaders would readily have a proof to accuse Him before the ruling Roman powers. However, being omniscient, He knew their antics. So, He asked them to give Him a coin. Having provided the coin, He asked about the image on the coin. They told Him that the image was that of Caesar. He thereby told them to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God. The coin and other materials used as monetary values have the images of this world and its rulers, and they belong to this world and the rulers of this world. They should be given back to the world. Other things including rules and regulations created by the world should be strictly adhered to if they are not contrary to the rules and laws of God (see Acts 4:19; 5:29). However, people that use the money are created in the image of God and belong to God. So, they should give their lives that carry the image of God to God. Apostle Paul put it this way: “So I beg you, brothers and sisters, because of the great mercy God has shown us, offer your lives as a living sacrifice to him—an offering that is only for God and pleasing to him. Considering what he has done, it is only right that you should worship him in this way” (Romans 12:1 ERV). If one can give one’s life totally to God, it would not be difficult to give to the world and its rulers what belong to them and even use that thing that belongs to the world to glorify God. The person that has given his life totally to God will find it difficult to violate the rules and laws of the world (when they are not contrary to the rules and laws of God), and he will willingly obey the rules and laws of God. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will be able to give your life totally to God and as you give to the world what belong to it you will be able do so and use them to His glory.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 26Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name." (Psalm 100:4 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Reflect on every person for whom you are grateful and for what you are grateful. Your thanksgiving blessing will become a treasured legacy. - Sylvia Gunter ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY O God, I am thankful to You for everything You are in my life. Let me be thankful to everyone You are using also to bless me.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 25Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "I delight to do Your will, O my God, And Your law is within my heart" (Psalm 40:8 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The purpose of prayer is not to conform God to our will but to adjust our will to God. We must learn to trust God so that if He says no, we accept that His will is best. - Henry Blackaby ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, Lord, to delight myself in doing Your will all the time.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 23Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Great is the Lord, and most worthy of praise, in the city of our God, his holy mountain” (Psalm 48:1 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY We have to acknowledge the greatness of God in our lives by worshiping Him for who He is and by thanking Him for what He is doing for us. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will be able to appreciate the greatness of God in your life

Spiritual Digest for the Day 22Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot” (Proverbs 10:7 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Beware of what you are doing today. You will become a reference point tomorrow either for good or for evil. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will be mindful of what you are doing today so that your remembrance will be a blessing, and not a curse, to you and your descendants.

YOU WILL BECOME A REFERENCE POINT TOMORROW!

Dearly Beloved, YOU WILL BECOME A REFERENCE POINT TOMORROW! “The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot” (Proverbs 10:7 NKJV). Proverbs 10:7 (quoted above) is widely quoted mostly when remembering the dead. However, many good people can be remembered while they are still living, and their memory will be a blessing. Conversely, the memory of many people who are still living is a curse! An incident that happened recently confirms this. One of my old secondary school mates posted a funny cartoon of a teacher beating a student with a long cane on the WhatsApp group page of our old classmates. He then asked members of the group a question to identify who among our former teachers that the teacher in the cartoon represents. Many of us started mentioning some of our former teachers when we were in school in the 1980s that we believed were notorious for disciplining students with cane. As each of us was mentioning a teacher, the other old school mates would pass a funny comment about the teacher, and the others would attest to it with other hilarious comments. This continued until one of the old school mates asked about the whereabouts of a particular former teacher. The discussion changed immediately from jesting to praise singing as the old classmates started talking about the good character of this particular teacher and how they could not forget him for the positive impacts he has made in their lives even after thirty years. I was greatly moved with these good reports about somebody who had diligently and unwittingly done his duty over thirty years ago, and people can still be remembering him for his good deeds years after. Fortunately, the teacher is still living and I did not hesitate to share the discussion on the group chat with him. The memory of the righteous is indeed blessed. What would people say about you if your name is mentioned in their hearing? What would you be remembered for even now that you are still living? Would you be glad if people start to recount what you have done many years ago? This reminds me of a Yoruba axiom: “Arise ni arika; arika ni baba iregun. Ohun ti a ba se ni oni, oro itan ni bi o ba di ola” [literally: “What one did or does is what people will recount; what people will recount about one is the father of reference point. What one does today will definitely become history tomorrow”]. Beware of what you are doing today. You will become a reference point tomorrow either for good or for evil. Here is another Yoruba axiom: “Iyan ogun odun a maa jo ni ni owo” [literally, one can still feel the warmth of the pounded yam of twenty years, that is, one will still have repercussions for what one did many years ago]. Will your memory by other people be a blessing or a curse, even while you are still living? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will be mindful of what you are doing today so that your remembrance will be a blessing, and not a curse, to you and your descendants.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 19Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Life is a glorious opportunity if it is used to condition us for eternity. If we fail in this, though we succeed in everything else, our life will have been a failure. - Billy Graham ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that your success in life will not make you lose your soul in eternity.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 18Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking” (Ephesians 4:17 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY God is looking for people that will distinguish themselves in this perverse world by walking with Him. He wants people that will determine to live in His fear and will, live in all His commandments and ordinances, live by faith and total trust in Him, live uprightly and sincerely, and live in intimate communion with Him. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, O Lord, to be distinct to Your glory wherever I find myself.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 17Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 AMP). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY God is in full control. Nothing is outside the scope of His divine radar screen, as He guides us safely home. - Charles R. Swindoll ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Thank God for His working in your life, though you may not notice His handiwork.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 16Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY With God behind you and His arms beneath you, you can face whatever lies ahead of you. - Author Unknown ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, O Lord, not to fear, but put my total trust in You who is taking care of me.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 15Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “When one of them saw that he was healed, he came back, praising God in a loud voice” (Luke 17:15 TEV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Do not be ungrateful to God for what He has done for you. Remember to come back to thank God, and He will bless you the more. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will not be ungrateful to God and other benefactors, but that you will always remember to come back to express your appreciation.

ARE YOU REMEMBERING TO COME BACK?

Dearly Beloved, ARE YOU REMEMBERING TO COME BACK? “When one of them saw that he was healed, he came back, praising God in a loud voice” (Luke 17:15 TEV). Many people are only serving God for what they can get from Him. They can do anything possible in praying for His blessings. However, it has been difficult for them to really worship God for who He is. No wonder, they usually do not remember to thank Him for the goodness He has done, or is doing, in their lives. What an ungrateful set of people! Such people are like nine out of ten men who were suffering from a dreaded skin disease that met Jesus Christ on His way to Jerusalem (Luke 17:12-19). These men beseeched Him to heal them from their disease. Jesus told them to go and show themselves to the priests in anticipation that they would be healed before getting there. These men went in faith, and on their way, they were cured of their dreaded disease! Out of these ten men, only one counted it worthy to come back to Jesus Christ to praise God for what He has done. The other nine men went away ungrateful. Jesus Christ commended this grateful man and confirmed his faith that made him well. The man apparently received spiritual healing as well. His healing was total! There are many reasons that make many people to hardly remember to come back to God to praise Him for the goodness He has done for them. Some people do not know that they should come back to God to thank Him. To some, it is not necessary to return all the glory to God. To some, the goodness is by chance. After all, God is blessing those people that do not ask for it. Nevertheless, such people are depriving themselves of more blessings from God. Interestingly, the proportion of people that remember to come back to thank God is almost one to nine like those ten cured men. Are you like one of those nine ungrateful men or the one grateful man? Are you remembering to come back to God to express your gratitude for the goodness He has done for you? Are you serving Him for what you can get from Him, or worshipping Him for who He is? Remember to come back to thank God, and He will bless you the more. The Psalmist says, “Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (103:1-2 NIV). In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will not be ungrateful to God and other benefactors, but that you will always remember to come back to express your appreciation.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 11Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “The Lord cares for his nation, just as shepherds care for their flocks. He carries the lambs in his arms, while gently leading the mother sheep” (Exodus 20:3 CEV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Just when we cannot take much more stress or bear another burden, God opens His arms and takes us in and lets us know that our burdens are shared. - Ginger Nielson ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Thank God for His care over you since the day of your conception.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 10Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “[God commanded] You must not worship any other gods except Me” (Exodus 20:3 ERV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY We may think ourselves too smart to fall into the trap of worshipping the sun, or a statue, but there are many other things that can divert our attention away from serving God. - Becky Brooks ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that nothing and nobody will divert your attention away from worshipping God wholeheartedly.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 08Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.... For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations" (Psalm 100:1, 5 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Those who rejoice in their unpleasant situation are convinced of God’s love which never abandons anyone that hopes in Him. Feed your soul with the hundredth psalm and you will see that the Lord is indeed good! - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will always have reasons to shout for joy in praises of God all the time.

THE HUNDREDTH PSALM

Dearly Beloved, THE HUNDREDTH PSALM "Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations" (Psalm 100 NIV). Psalm 100 is one of the most popular psalms. Many people have memorized it. In fact I have learnt it since my primary school days. Why is the five-verse psalm popular? The reason is that it is a thanksgiving psalm. Recently, the beauty of this praise poem stirs my heart. Verses 1 to 2 invite us to reverence God with gladness. How often I forget to ponder on the reasons why we should do this. Verses 3 and 5 give five reasons. First Reason: we serve THE God, the one and only God. All other gods are not gods. They are sheer idols. They cannot be compared with Him (cf. Deuteronomy 4:35, 39; 1 Kings 19:39; Psalms 86:8; 89:6; 95:3; 96:4-5; 97:9; Exodus 15:11; Isaiah 40:18; Jeremiah 10:10-16). Second Reason: the Lord created us. Before He created us, He created everything we need so that we will lack nothing (Genesis 1; Job 10:8-13; Psalms 139:13-24). Third Reason: we belong to Him, so He takes care of us; He sustains us; He protects us; He provides for us, etc (Psalms 74:1-2; 78:52; 95:7; Isaiah 40:9-11; Ezekiel 34:11, 30-31; John 10:14-16, 26-28). We belong to Someone who cares! (Psalm 34:15; Matthew 6:26; Luke 12:30; 1 Peter 5:7). Fourth Reason: the Lord is good and He does good things (see Psalms 86:5; 106:1; 107:1, 8, 15, 32; 119:68; Jeremiah 33:11). The Bible presents it this way: "how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him" (Acts 10:38, NIV). Is He still doing good till today? Yes, indeed! Think about your own life. Fifth Reason: the love, mercy, and faithfulness of God are permanent (Exodus 34:6-7; Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalms 36:5; 103:17; 119:90-91; Lamentations 3:22-23; Luke 1:50). The above reasons made the psalmist to rejoice and advise us to always worship God with thanksgiving and praise in verse 4. Nevertheless, why do we need to adore, glorify and bless Him when, at times, we do not receive answer to our prayers? The hundredth psalm counsels us to simply serve God for who He is, and what He is doing for us, not because of what we get from Him. He is more than what we need. Those who rejoice in their unpleasant situation are convinced of God’s love which never abandons anyone that hopes in Him. Feed your soul with the hundredth psalm and you will see that the Lord is indeed good! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will always have reasons to shout for joy in praises of God all the time. NB Please find time to read and meditate on each of the Bible references above. I extensively referred to them for your further studies. God bless you as you do so!

Spiritual Digest for the Day 07Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “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” (Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY We tend to use prayer as a last resort, but God wants it to be our first line of defense. We pray when there’s nothing else we can do, but God wants us to pray before we do anything at all. - Oswald Chambers ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, O Lord, to always make You my first line of defense in any struggle of life I face.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 06Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Seek God first every morning. Seek his guidance all through the day. Trust His power when you need it. - James C. Denison ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY O Lord, let me always seek You and trust in Your power and Your wisdom every day.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 05Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “I have avoided every path that leads to evil so that I could obey your word” (Psalm 119:101 ERV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY To enjoy the full benefits of God, you must demonstrate obedience to His precepts. And to keep His precepts, you must first sanctify yourself – that is keeping away from all forms of evil in every conceivable way. - Author Unknown ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to always keep away from all forms of evil in order to enjoy the full benefits of God.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 04Nov2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Make sure that no one misses out on God’s wonderful kindness. Don’t let anyone become bitter and cause trouble for the rest of you” (Hebrews 12:15 CEV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY When a root of bitterness is allowed to be planted and grown, it not only affects that person, but it also affects all others who are involved. - Os Hillman ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will not allow any form of bitterness to affect you and other people around you.

THANKSGIVING TO THE GOD OF PERFECTION

Dearly Beloved, THANKSGIVING TO THE GOD OF PERFECTION “I will praise You with my whole heart; before the gods I will sing praises to You…. The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands” (Psalm 138:1, 8 NKJV). Gradually, the year 2020 is running to an end. Do you have any reason to thank God in the peculiar year? I do! I started the year (like any other year) with high hope of breaking new frontiers in every sphere of my life. In spite of the challenges that came with the year, especially the global COVID-19 pandemic and its resultant lockdown and the recent #ENDSARS protests that forced many organizations in Nigeria to be closed down for almost a week, I have many reasons to thank God. In spite of the fact that God has not seemingly fulfilled everything that I am expecting from Him this year, I am thanking Him because I know that, being one of the works of His hands, He will perfect that which concerns me. He will never forsake me because His love and mercy for me never fail. In fact, they endure forever. I will give thanksgiving with my whole heart to my God of perfection. I will praise Him wherever I find myself. Psalm 138 (like many other psalms in the Book of Psalms) was attributed to King David. The psalmist was ready to praise God with his whole heart even before “the gods”! “The gods” here meant other kings like David that were considered as “gods” in many ancient Near Eastern societies. In some African societies (like among the Yorubas), traditional kings especially are considered to be second in command to the gods. Undoubtedly, the Lord had been so good to King David. The Lord had manifested His lovingkindness in the life of David. The Lord had answered him when he called on Him. Indeed, great is the glory of God that He had demonstrated in the life and kingship of David. David knew that the Lord would continue to protect him even though he found himself in trouble. He knew that the Lord would perfect that which concerned him. The Lord God deserves our thanksgiving for who He is and for everything He has been doing for us since the beginning of the year 2020. Look back and see what He has done for you. Has He not done so much for you? He has answered you when you called on Him. Even, when you did not call, He has preserved you. Worship Him with your whole heart. Worship Him with your whole being. Worship Him with your resources. Praise Him before the people. Praise Him in His sanctuary. Praise Him everywhere. It is certain that He has helped you thus far in the year. Even, if it seems He has not done what you want Him to do for you this year, He will perfect what He has promised in your life. He is the God of perfection. Apostle Paul said in Philippians 1:6: “being confident of this very thing, that [God] who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (NKJV). I will indeed give thanksgiving with my whole heart to my God of perfection. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Specifically thank God for what He has done for you this year. Pray that He will perfect what He has started in your life before the end of the year.

IS PROTESTING RIGHT?

Dearly Beloved, IS PROTESTING RIGHT? “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan” (Proverbs 29:2 NKJV). For over two weeks, there have been nationwide protests against police brutality and bad governance in Nigeria. Initially, the protests were peaceful and well organized and coordinated. However, some days ago, suspected hoodlums hijacked the protests and started destroying and looting properties. Unfortunately, the Nigerian government could not handle the situation as there were video evidences that the government allegedly hired thugs to disperse the peaceful protesters, and when this did not work, government security operatives allegedly started killing defenceless protesters. The attitudes of the nation's political leaders especially the long silence of the president of the county do not help matter. In spite of the fact that I joined the protests online and made my stand known on some social media platforms, I did not have any intention to base my weekly devotional message on the unfortunately events. However, a post in a WhatsApp group condemning the peaceful protests on the ground that it is against a religious tenet is making me to look at the matter biblically. Does the Holy Bible support bad governance and inhuman actions against fellow humans? Do people have rights to make known their demands to, and protest against the constituted authorities? Are we to remain silent in the face of injustice and bad governance because we want to be obedient to the power that be? Christians are called to be a light in the darkness of the world. They are to speak up for those who have no voice. It is the opinion of some people that protesting is a sign of disrespect for authority. Nevertheless, Christians are also to call out and condemn evil and sinful behavior, injustice and bad governance. While the Holy Bible teaches in many places that Christians should submit to those in authority and obey the laws of the land (see Romans 13:1; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13-14), the sacred Book also admonishes Christians to speak up against injustice and bad governance (see Proverbs 31:8-9; Romans 12:9; James 4:17). Let me round up this message by a word study on the last word in the key verse quoted above: “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people GROAN” (Proverbs 29:2 NKJV). The word “groan” as it is used here means to mourn, to sigh, to complain, to protest! Christians as well as other people under bad governance have been groaning (protesting) inwardly for a long time! The recent public protests in Nigeria are the manifestation of the private groaning that has been going for years because of bad governance of successive governments in Nigeria. It is right to protest and speak out so that the government will know that people are suffering. While I commend the peaceful and well-coordinated protests by the Nigerian youth for over two weeks, I sternly condemn the forcefulness the government tried to stop the protests and the looting and destruction of properties by hoodlums. IT IS RIGHT TO HAVE PEACEFUL PROTESTS. I SAY NO TO BAD GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA AND IN ANY OTHER PLACE! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Lord, the hearts of people in governance are in Your hands. Lead them to govern the people rightly.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 22Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “When the rulers are good, the people are happy. When the rulers are evil, the people complain” (Proverbs 29:2 ERV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY There is no way people will not complain and even protest about bad leadership. It is honourable for a so-called leader to listen to the complaints of the people he is leading. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that our leaders will have listening ears to the complaints of the people. Pray specifically for Nigerian political leaders at this critical moment in the history of the country.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 20Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them” (James 4:17 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. -Martin Luther King Jr. ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will be able stand for the truth all the time.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 19Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "[Jesus Christ prayed] that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me" (John 17:21 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The greatest power God's children have over darkness is unity. There is a dynamic multiplication factor in unity of numbers. We are a hundred times more effective when we are a unified group. - Os Hillman ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will always cooperate with other brethren to maintain the unity in Christ.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 18Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise" (Proverbs 19:20 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Medical and other advices have been given to many people today, and many people do not yield to such good advices to their detriment. Part of taking care of yourself is yielding to such good advices. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will always listen to medical and other advices that have been given to you.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!

Dearly Beloved, TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF! "Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses" (1 Timothy 5:23 NIV). The above Bible passage has been one of the most misinterpreted and misapplied ones. In fact, it is one of those controversial verses of the Bible. Drunkards and those that are inclined to drinking too much wine and alcoholic drinks are quick to refer to it in support of their action. However, as I was in a Sunday school class one Sunday, I saw a different application to the instruction of Paul to Timothy: Timothy should take care of himself. The means of doing this was taking of some wine. Other places where the Bible refers to wine as something of medicinal substance are: Second Samuel 16:2 where it was said to revive the faint; Proverbs 31:6 where it was said to be suitable as a sedative for people in distress; Luke 10:34 where the Samaritan poured oil and wine on the wounds of the injured traveler; and Matthew 27:34 and Mark 15:23 where it was mixed with a drug to ease suffering. Well, this devotional write-up is not aimed at supporting or not supporting the use of wine, but to underscore the importance of taking care of oneself. Paul was concerned about the well being of Timothy, and he recommended to him a way of taking care of himself. No doubt, Timothy yielded to this advice to his own good. Medical and other advices have been given to many people today, and many people do not yield to such good advices to their detriment. Are you one of such people that do not yield to medical, professional, ministerial and other specialized advices about your health, business, family or other endeavors? Part of taking care of yourself is yielding to such good advices. "Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise" (Proverbs 19:20 NIV). In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will always listen to medical and other advices that have been given to you.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 17Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete" (John 16:24 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Our all-powerful God desires to hear our prayers and answer our pleas. And though we do not always understand His timing or His purposes, God always responds with His best for our lives. - Poh Fang Chia ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, O Lord, to always make my requests known to You.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 16Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "How I love to do your will, my God! I keep your teaching in my heart" (Psalm 40:8 TEV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY To know the will of God is the greatest knowledge, to find the will of God is the greatest discovery, and to do the will of God is the greatest achievement. - George W. Truett ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will always aspire to know and do the will of God for your life.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 15Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY In every tempting and potentially life-damaging situation, God had offered a way of escape. - Francine Rivers ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Provide a way of escape for me in every tempting and potentially life-damaging situation, O Lord!

Spiritual Digest for the Day 12Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also" (John 14:2-3 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Jesus Christ has gone to prepare a place for us. We must prepare ourselves for the place. - Emiola Nihinlola ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Enable me, O Lord, to always prepare myself for the place You are preparing me in heaven.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 11Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it" (Proverbs 10:22 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY It is better to seek for the blessings of God that bring wealth with no sorrow than having wealth and other material things "filthy" and ungodly means. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will not be involved in sourcing for wealth and other material things "filthy" and ungodly means, rather seek for God's blessings that bring wealth with no sorrow.

WHAT IS THE SOURCE OF YOUR WEALTH?

Dearly Beloved, WHAT IS THE SOURCE OF YOUR WEALTH? "The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it" (Proverbs 10:22 NIV). When one is talking about wealth, one's mind quickly goes to the popular definition of the word "wealth" which a dictionary gives as "(possession of a) large amount of money, property, etc." Another meaning by an encyclopedia is "an accumulation of goods having economic value." It is simply referred to as "riches." However, this write-up is aimed at the broader meaning of the word - a large amount of something. This thing may be education, knowledge, understanding, wisdom, skill, talent, experience, intelligence, etc. A Yoruba proverb literally goes thus: the source of wealth is filthy. One is bound to agree with this proverb if one thinks of getting wealth in the worldly way. To be wealthy either in monetary or material term or in the general term is not an easy thing. The curse of God on man after the fall in the Garden of Eden is part of this hardship in getting wealth (see Genesis 3:17-19). Those that are wealthy in term of any of these will explain better what they passed through before they could become what they are today. In fact, the source of the wealth of many rich people today cannot be exposed to other people because of its filthiness morally. Nevertheless, the proverb is in great contrast to the teachings of the Bible. In spite of the curse that makes things difficult for man, the Bible says, "Wealth and honor come from you [i.e. God]; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all" (1 Chronicles 29:12 NIV). In another place, God told the people of Israel, "...remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth" (Deuteronomy 8:18 NIV). It is this kind of wealth that comes from the blessing of the LORD to which He adds no trouble. The source of such wealth is not filthy. It is clean and godly. Anyone who has it will enjoy it to the fullness. But the worldly wealth will always bring insatiable desire for more that will make one who has it not to enjoy it. What is the source of your wealth? Is it filthy or godly? As you are aspiring to become wealthy financially, materially or in other areas, what would you want to be the source of your wealth? Ask for the blessings of God that bring wealth with no sorrow. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will not be involved in sourcing for wealth and other material things "filty" and ungodly means, rather seek for God's blessings that bring wealth with no sorrow.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 10Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "But King Solomon loved many foreign women, as well as the daughter of Pharaoh: women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Sidonians, and Hittites.... his wives turned his heart after other gods; and his heart was not loyal to the Lord his God, as was the heart of his father David" (1 Kings 11:1, 4 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Be careful lest the thing you love becomes your master and turn you away from God. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that what you love will not turn you away from your God.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 09Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “But God showed how much he loved us by having Christ die for us, even though we were sinful” (Romans 5:8 CEV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe; yet, at the very same time, we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope. - Tim Keller ************ ACTION FOR THE DAY Accept the amazing grace of Jesus Christ today if you have not done so.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 08Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:27-28 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us. When we discover this, we are less prone to hate our enemies. - Martin Luther King, Jr. ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to have the right attitude towards other people, especially your enemies.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 07Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam. When his brothers and his father's household heard about it, they went down to him there. All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader. About four hundred men were with him" (1 Samuel 22:1-2 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks that others throw at him. - David Brinkley ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me Lord to use bricks that others throw at me to build my life.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 06Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you" (James 4:7-8a NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Walk with God. Make the most of your day by pursuing Him, strolling humbly and joyfully by His side. Do what you know must be done to place Christ at the center of everything. - Charles R. Swindoll ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Enable me, O Lord, to humble myself and move closer to You so as to enjoy Your presence with me.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 05Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Don't you see, you planned evil against me but God used those same plans for my good, as you see all around you right now — life for many people" (Genesis 50:20 MSG). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The devil may throw obstacles and evil circumstances at you, but God will turn those evil schemes around for your greater blessing because He is for you! - Joseph Prince ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to always turn the obstacles in your way to opportunities to advance in life.

WHAT IMPACT WILL YOU MAKE?

Dearly Beloved, WHAT IMPACT WILL YOU MAKE? “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:20-21 NIV). I am always fascinated by the life of Frances Jane van Alstyne née Crosby (March 24, 1820 - February 12, 1915), more commonly known as Fanny Crosby whenever I sing any of her hymns. Here was a woman who was blind for most part of her life (she was blinded by an incompetent doctor at six weeks of age). In spite of this, she wrote over 8,000 hymns. An online source quoted her saying: “It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank Him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.” Some of Crosby's best-known songs include "To God Be the Glory", "Blessed Assurance", "Pass Me Not, O Gentle Saviour", "Jesus Is Tenderly Calling You Home", "Praise Him, Praise Him", "Rescue the Perishing", “All The Way My Saviour Leads Me”, “Take The World But Give Me Jesus” and many others. Crosby wrote over 1,000 secular poems, and had four books of poetry published, as well as two best-selling autobiographies. Additionally, she co-wrote popular secular songs, as well as political and patriotic songs, and at least five cantatas on biblical and patriotic themes, including “The Flower Queen”, the first secular cantata by an American composer. Crosby was committed to Christian rescue missions, and was known for her public speaking. Undoubtedly, her works have inspired and blessed millions of souls throughout the world. Apostle Paul was “...hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9 NIV). He was in a Roman prison awaiting death sentence when he wrote many of his epistles. In one of such epistles, the Epistle to the Philippians, Paul expressed his desire to exalt Jesus Christ in spite of his predicament. He was even ready to die for the cause of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (see Philippians 1:20-21). No wonder, he also made a lot of impact in the lives of many people. What are you passing through now? What impact will you make in spite of your situation? What legacy will you leave behind when you are no more? Determine to make a positive impact in your generation. Do not let any situation hinder you. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that God will help you to make positive impact in your generation in spite of any situation you may be passing through.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 03Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.... that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen” (1 Peter 4:10-11 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY God blesses and entrusts each of us with influence, talent, power and spiritual gifts to glorify Him and build His Kingdom. - Jamie Ivey ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will always use the God-given gifts and abilities in your life for His glory and to bless others.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 02Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The day is coming when there will be no war, no poverty, no boiling political strife. Peace - God’s peace - will reign in the hearts of those who worship Him. There will be a state of complete reconciliation between man and God and between nation and nation. - Billy Graham ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will not miss the glorious end when the perfect peace of God will reign in the universe.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 01Oct2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “This is the day which the Lord has brought about; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24 AMP). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead – tomorrow hasn’t arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I’m going to be happy in it. – Groucho Marx ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Lord, help me to really rejoice in this day.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 30Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Even in God's will, there are persecution and hardship, but God will use the persecution and hardship to glorify Himself in your life. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY God, let me always be in your will so that even if persecution or suffering comes, it will be to your glory.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 29Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears" (Philippians 1:6 MSG). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY What we see of God's provisions teaches us to trust Him for what we cannot see of His purposes. -Author Unknown ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, O Lord, to always see Your provisions when I cannot see Your purpose for me.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 28Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY If you have been looking unto yourself, it is time to start looking unto Jesus. Look unto Him, the author and finisher of your faith. And soon, you will be looking at your healing and prosperity! - Joseph Prince ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me Lord to always look unto You instead of myself or situation.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 27Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY You can make a difference in the little corner that you are. Determine to contribute positively to the development of where you are, and the betterment of people you come across. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will be able to contribute your quota to the positive development of where you are, and the betterment of people you come across.

WHAT AN AVOIDABLE SITUATION! (in honour of late Rev. Mrs. Sarah Oladimeji)

Dearly Beloved, WHAT AN AVOIDABLE SITUATION! (in honour of late Rev. Mrs. Sarah Oladimeji) “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17 NKJV). I was not happy as I wrote this message for the week (I am still not happy!). One of my pastor-colleagues (late Rev. Mrs. Sarah Aderonke Oladimeji) died in an avoidable situation in one of the so-called government specialist hospitals recently because of human negligence and lack of basic equipment for emergency situations. The husband of the deceased who is also a pastor recounted mournfully how he rushed his dying wife to this hospital when situation was going out of hand. He had applied known first-aid treatments to resuscitate her when she slumped and fainted in his presence. The medical personnel at the said hospital did not show enough concern and give expected immediate treatment to the woman who coincidentally was also a trained nurse. Even if they wanted to help, the hospital lacks the needed equipment to treat her and save her from the preventable death as she died there in the hospital because of lack of immediate treatment. Apart from lack of basic medical equipment in most of the public (and even private) hospitals in Nigeria, the unprofessional and nonchalant attitude of many of the medical personnel in these hospitals have caused many avoidable deaths to thousands of people leaving their loved ones in everlasting sorrow. While most of the medical personnel in government hospitals have lost the motivation to be dedicated to their noble humanitarian profession because of the shabby treatments they receive from the government, most of their counterparts in the private sector place financial gain over the sanctity of human life. That is why it is common to see these medical personnel in the private sector refusing to treat patients (even the ones on danger list) except some amount of money is deposited. Thousands of people have died in such a situation because they did not have the needed money to pay. One may argue that such private hospitals are for profit making. However, that should not be at the detriment of losing a life or causing untold pains to patients. One would wonder about government hospitals that are not profit-oriented. Lack of (or the use of obsolete) medical equipment has sent many people to their early graves or deformed them if they were lucky to still be alive. It is shameful that political leaders and other government functionaries that are expected to provide basic health facilities and take good care of the existing government hospitals refuse to do the needful. They are ready to embark on medical tours to other places in the advanced world for medical treatment whenever they have any slightest ailment. What a country! This indifferent attitude of the sanctity of human life cuts across every sphere of the society in Nigeria. Most of the roads in Nigeria are death traps. Many avoidable accidents that caused many human lives have occurred on these roads. Pipe-borne water is not available in most parts of the country as the government leaves the citizens to fend for themselves. Electricity is erratic. Government schools (especially the tertiary institutions) do not have stable academic calendars as the employees in these schools embark on industrial actions at will because of lack of commitment in the part of the government to take good care of these schools and the employees there. The list is endless. How long will the country continue in these avoidable situations after sixty years of independence in spite of the divine endowments of human, material and natural resources that the country have? I weep for my country! You can make a difference in the little corner that you are. The needed change to all these avoidable situations begins with me. It begins with you. Be patriotic. Stop being self-centred. Have human feelings and selflessly care for other people. The people that have the opportunity of being in government (or close to those that are there) should arise and build this country. Let us join hands to stop all these avoidable sad situations. “…to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17 NKJV). Adieu Sarah Oladimeji! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will be able to contribute your quota to the positive development of where you are, and the betterment of people you come across. NB: This message is dedicated to late Rev. Mrs. Sarah Aderonke Oladimeji who died avoidably on September 22, 2020.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 26Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The best way to obtain truth and wisdom is not to ask from books, but to go to God in prayer, and obtain divine teaching. - Joseph Smith, Jr. ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Teach me to almost obtain the truth and wisdom from You, O Lord!

Spiritual Digest for the Day 25Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "I only gave them this command: 'Obey me and I will be your God, and you will be my people. Do all that I command, and good things will happen to you'" (Jeremiah 7:23 ERV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Our obedience to the Lord may seem insignificant in the big picture, but it breathes freshness and life into the spiritual atmosphere of every believer. - David C. McCasland ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, Lord, to always obey You no matter what it will cost me.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 24Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: 'In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.' But you would not” (Isaiah 30:15 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY God is found in stillness. To know God is to stop and be still. Listen to the spirit within you. Communion with God happens internally. You will never meet God in the hustle and bustle of life. Learn to be silent. It is here that you will find God. - Tanya Guerrier ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Teach me, O Lord, to always be still in Your presence in order to hear You speaking to me.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 23Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone” (Ephesians 1:11-12 MSG). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY The only way to know your identity and purpose in life is by getting to know your Creator. When you find your identity in Christ, you are going to find your purpose and the motivation to get to work on it. - Rick Warren ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will really find your identity and purpose in life as you move closer to your Creator.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 22Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Great rewards await if you obey without knowing all the details. It is a principle God wants each of His followers to experience. - Charles R. Swindoll ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to always obey God even when you do not know the details of the instruction.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 20Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY God has not called anyone to be successful, but to be faithful. If success comes out of one’s faithfulness, that is good. However, remember that God will not reward success, but faithfulness. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will focus more on faithfulness, instead of success, in your calling, ministry, and other life endeavours.

SUCCESS OR FAITHFULNESS?

Dearly Beloved, SUCCESS OR FAITHFULNESS? “Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2 NKJV). Some time ago when I was leading a stewardship seminar among some Christians who were mainly church pastors, I referred to the saying attributed to Mother Teresa: “God has not called us to be successful, but to be faithful.” One of the pastors at the meeting disagreed vehemently with the statement. He insisted in spite of my explanations that he will be successful in the ministry. His argument may be right to some extent. However, the primary purpose of the call of God on any Christian in general and any pastor in particular is being faithful to God. Success may come later. The lyrics of the hymn, “OUR BEST”, composed by Salathial Cleaver Kirk (1847-1917) reminded me of the fact. To be specific, these parts of the hymn reiterate faithfulness above success: “Do then the best you can, not for reward, Not for the praise of men, but for the Lord.” Kirk emphasized doing one’s best, that is, being faithful, without thinking of getting reward or praise of men, that is, success. This is the sound biblical teaching! In many places, the Holy Bible teaches about being faithful (see Matthew 24:45-46; Luke 16:10-12; 1 Corinthians 4:2). Regardless of whether what one is doing is small or great, what matters most is faithfully doing one’s best in it. Even if it seems that people do not appreciate one, one should continue to be faithful in one’s calling or endeavour. It is a misplacement of priority when one places success above faithfulness because the success of one’s life or ministry depends on God, and He has the prerogative to give it as He likes to anyone. Apostle Paul reminded the Corinthians this principle when he told them that in spite of his efforts and those of Apollos, that it is God that brings growth (or success) (see 1 Corinthians 3:6). Moses also echoed this principle to the Israelites that it is God that brings wealth (or success) (see Deuteronomy 8:18). Paul further said that it is our labour, “our best” (in Kirk’s words), or our faithfulness that God will reward (see 1 Corinthians 3:9), not our success. Twice, in the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25, the master of the servants said “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things…” (verses 21, 23). In spite of the varied successes of the servants, it was their faithfulness that was commended, not their success. The reason is that God is more mindful of our faithfulness, not our success. No wonder, Paul emphasized it: “…it is required in stewards that one be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2 NKJV). God has not called anyone to be successful, but to be faithful. If success comes out of one’s faithfulness, that is good. However, remember that God will not reward success, but faithfulness. Focus on faithfulness rather than on any form of success. Do your best to be faithful. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will focus more on faithfulness, instead of success, in your calling, ministry, and other life endeavours.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 18Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:8-9 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Sow a thought, reap an act; Sow an act, reap a habit; Sow a habit, reap a character; Sow a character, reap a destiny. - Author Unknown ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will sow good things in order to reap good things.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 17Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Stewardship that honors God is voluntary, not compulsory; generous, not tightfisted; joyful, not begrudging; purposeful, not arbitrary; and within one’s means. - K. T. Sim ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY O God, enable me to give voluntarily, generously, joyful, and purposefully unto You and others as You give me the means.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 16Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt” (Psalm 139:14 CEV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY You are one of a kind. There has never been another you, and there never will be. Every detail of who you are was designed by God. Nothing about you is a mistake or an accident. - Holley Gerth ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY O God, give me the courage to be who I am and to help others do the same.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 154Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God” (Romans 8:26-27 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY People that spend time in prayer and in the study of God’s Word are strengthened in their faith and do not stay discouraged for very long, because the Holy Spirit through fellowship brings peace and contentment. - Billy Graham ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY O Holy Spirit, help me in my prayers and give me peace and contentment through the prayers.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 14Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God” (1 Samuel 30:6 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Only when life is difficult, are we challenged to become our greatest selves. - Jonathan Lockwood Huie ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY O God, strengthen me when it seems that life is difficult for me.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 13Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “At Joppa there was a certain disciple named ... Dorcas … [who] was full of good works and charitable deeds…. But it happened in those days that she became sick and died…. And all the widows stood by [Peter] weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them” (Acts 9:36-37a, 39b NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY You will become history one day. Your words, actions and/or inactions today will become what people will use to measure you. Whether people will be allowed to honestly say what they know about you or not, posterity will read about you one day. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to do the right things now that you are living so that posterity will read good things about you after your demise.

WHAT WILL POSTERITY READ ABOUT YOU? (in honour of Rev. Dr. S. T. Ola Akande)

Dearly Beloved, WHAT WILL POSTERITY READ ABOUT YOU? (in honour of Rev. Dr. S. T. Ola Akande) “At Joppa there was a certain disciple named ... Dorcas … [who] was full of good works and charitable deeds…. But it happened in those days that she became sick and died…. And all the widows stood by [Peter] weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them” (Acts 9:36-37a, 39b NKJV). Some days ago, when I read about the news of the home call of Rev. Dr. Samuel Titilola Oladele Akande (1926-2020) on social media some hours after his demise, I received the news with mixed feelings. As a growing Baptist boy, I knew Rev. Dr. S. T. Ola Akande in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a great icon of the Nigerian Baptist faith. He was then the President (the chief presiding officer) and later the General Secretary (the chief executive officer) of the Nigerian Baptist Convention. I looked up to him as a role model that was worthy of emulation, and I aspired to be like him. He later joined the Nigerian politics in the early 1990s. When I joined the workforce of the Convention at its headquarters in Oke Bola, Ibadan, Nigeria, I heard many stories about him. These stories made me to have mixed feelings when I heard the news about his demise. His demise reminded me of a controversy about what one should say about the dead. Expectedly, many accolades have been said about the late S. T. Ola Akande since his demise few days ago. Many more tributes will still emerge about him. Undoubtedly, S. T. Ola Akande was an enigma personified in the annals of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, and this write-up is not to praise him or do otherwise. One thing is certain: Rev. Dr. S. T. Ola Akande has become a history. Nevertheless, the death of this great orator and indefatigable preacher of the gospel is to remind each one of us that we will die one day, and whether we like it or not posterity will read about what we lived for on earth. When Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) died, people gathered together to recount the good deeds she had done. In fact, a message was sent to Simon Peter to come and wake her up because she was too good to die (see Acts 9:36-43). The books of the Kings and the Chronicles in the Old Testament chronicled the lives and deaths of many kings of Israel and Judah. Each king was measured with either the phrase “he did what was right in the sight of the LORD” or the phrase “he did evil in the sight of the LORD”. Posterity is reading about each of these kings today. You also will become history one day. Your words, actions and/or inactions today will become what people will use to measure you. Whether people will be allowed to honestly say what they know about you or not, posterity will read about you one day. Remember the Yoruba axiom: “Arise ni arika; arika ni baba iregun. Ohun ti a ba se ni oni, oro itan ni bi o di ola.” [Literally: “What one did or does is what people will recount; what people will recount about one is the father of reference point. What one does today will definitely become history tomorrow.”] What will posterity read about you after your demise? Adieu, Rev. Dr. S. T. Ola Akande! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray for the grace to do the right things now that you are living so that posterity will read good things about you after your demise. NB This message is dedicated to Rev. Dr. SAMUEL TITILOLA OLADELE AKANDE (ST Ola Akande) (1926-2020).

Spiritual Digest for the Day 12Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "And [God] said: 'Behold, I make a covenant. Before all your people I will do marvels such as have not been done in all the earth, nor in any nation; and all the people among whom you are shall see the work of the Lord. For it is an awesome thing that I will do with you'” (Exodus 34:10 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY As a child of God, know that your heavenly Father specializes in performing great wonders, key into this by faith and begin to enjoy His limitless ability to do and undo for His people. - ObalOluwa Osuolale ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY I key into Your wonder-working specialization. Perform Your great wonders in my life, O Lord.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 11Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints” (Ephesians 6:18 NASU). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY Prayer is the most powerful weapon for a Christian to pull down every stronghold of the enemy. - Supo Ayokunle ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray that you will be able to pray until all the stronghold of the enemy is pulled down in your life.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 10Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "And she added, 'Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age'” (Genesis 21:7 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY We need supernatural strength and divine wisdom to wait for God's plan to unfold. Good things come to those who wait. - Charles R. Swindoll ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, O God, to be able to wait for Your time for my life.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 08Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm" (Daniel 6:3 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY To be successful in the marketplace, you must be observant, think more, have a holistic perspective and go the extra mile. Go to work today with a better approach to your work or business, and you will rule the market. - Author Unknown ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Help me, O Lord, to be able to distinguish myself in my workplace by being diligent in whatever I am doing.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 06Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33 NIV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY It is a good thing to ask God for material and financial blessings. Everybody needs them. However, the first thing to seek from God is the wisdom to do His will. - Bayo Afolaranmi ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Lord, help me to seek You and Your righteousness first in all my endeavors.

WHAT WOULD YOU SEEK FIRST?

Dearly Beloved, WHAT WOULD YOU SEEK FIRST? "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33 NIV). Can you imagine a person that wants to buy something in the market whose main concern is the additional thing the seller would give him for patronizing him? Or can you imagine a person that has more interest in the insignificant addition to a gift rather than the actual gift? This is what most people do in their approach to God. They would want God to do any other thing for them while they leave the main thing. Many people are ready to spend most of their time asking God for material and financial blessings while they neglect the most important spiritual blessings that He is ready to give those that ask for them. Many would do anything they can to get what they want from God while they refuse to do want God wants from them. The above Bible verse sums it up: "But seek first [God's] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33 NIV). We are to firstly seek the kingdom of God. A Bible commentator puts it this way, "Seek first to be righteous, and to become interested in His favor, and all necessary things will be added to you. He has control over all things, and He can give you what you need. He WILL give you what HE deems best for you." When we firstly seek God and live according to His commands, He will give us even those earthly things that we do not ask for. King Solomon is a good example here. God asked him to ask for anything from Him. Rather than asking for earthly things for his selfish gain, he asked for God's wisdom, and God did not only give him unparalleled wisdom, He gave him even those earthly things that he did not requested for (see 1 Kings 3:1-15). It is a good thing to ask God for material and financial blessings. Everybody needs them. However, the first thing to seek from God is the wisdom to do His will. The psalmist says, "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart" and "He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them" (Psalms 37:4; 145:19 NIV. See also Psalms 34:9-10; 37:18, 19, 25; 84:11; Mark 10:29-30; 1 Timothy 4:8). Many do not have or/and enjoy material and financial blessings because of their misplaced priority. What would you seek first? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Points: 1. Lord, help me to seek You and Your righteousness first in all my endeavors. 2. As I am seeking you first Lord, add all these material and financial blessings to your spiritual blessings for me.

Spiritual Digest for the Day 05Sep2020

BIBLE VERSE FOR THE DAY “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NKJV). *********** QUOTE FOR THE DAY God offers His presence to us in life’s darkest moments, which enables us, in turn, to be His presence to the hurting. - Randy Kilgore ************ PRAYER/ACTION FOR THE DAY Pray for the grace to be a channel of God's comfort to people aroud you.