Quote for the Day 01Jan2015

To reach up for the new, you must let go of the old. What lies behind you is not nearly as important as what lies in front of you. - Joel Osteen

OUR PRAYERS FOR YOU IN THE YEAR 2015

Dearly Beloved, OUR PRAYERS FOR YOU IN THE YEAR 2015 Praise the Lord for witnessing another year 2015! As usual, Opeyemi (my wife) and our children (Boluwatife, IfeOluwa, Michael and Abraham) are joining me to welcome you into the New Year with these prophetic prayers adapted from Isaiah 61:6-7 (NKJV). This New Year: - The Lord will give you a new name; - He will find you worthy to serve Him; - You will enjoy the goodness of God in all your endeavours; - Instead of your past shame you will have double honour; - You will rejoice in what the Lord shall apportion you; - In fact, His everlasting joy shall be yours 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 +2348163045450 +2348138325934 (WhatsApp Only!) BB PIN:79D09A93 http://www.thewordthruthenet.org/ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/spiritualdigest2003/ https://www.facebook.com/PastorBayoAfolaranmi (Facebook Fan Page) https://www.facebook.com/afolabayo https://twitter.com/spiritualdigest http://inspirationaldailyquotes.blogspot.com/ http://smspastorbayo.blogspot.com/ NB Send your reaction to me directly at or .

Quote for the Day 31Dec2014

For all the blessings of the year, for all the friends we hold so dear, for peace on earth, both far and near, we thank Thee, Lord. - Albert H. Hutchinson

Quote for the Day 30Dec2014

The danger of excusing sin under the guise of Christian liberty is evil. To gain self-control, willingly allow Christ control. - Amos O. Tella

Quote for the Day 29Dec2014

When the earth seems to move under us, let’s be flexible in our expectations but firmly confident in God’s steadfast love and care. - Dennis Fisher

Quote for the Day 28Dec2014

Undoubtedly, the Lord has done many things for you this fading year. Have you reflected on these things? Do you have any reason to praise Him this year? - Bayo Afolaranmi

WHAT IS MAN THAT YOU CARE FOR HIM?

Dearly Beloved, WHAT IS MAN THAT YOU CARE FOR HIM? “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). As the year 2014 comes to an end, I am looking back and reflecting on my life and activities in the fading year. The year started brightly for me. I had many aspirations that I wanted to come to pass before the end of the year. I took for granted that I will see the end of the year. With few days for the year to come to an end, I am still alive. I have embarked literally and figuratively on many journeys of life in the course of the year. I have encountered many dangers and passed through many storms of life. Here I am today about to see the end of the year. Each day I am sleeping in the evening and waking up early the next day. I am even observing my siestas any time I have the opportunity. I never knew what is happening when I am asleep. Is it my making that I am waking up each time I sleep? The systems in my body are working perfectly. Probably, I visited the hospital once or twice throughout the year for medical check-ups. I was never admitted for once for health reasons in any hospital. I am eating foods and drinking water and other drinks. How these substances undergo digestive processes in me is a mystery to me. I am easily excreting the waste elements in me everyday. My reasoning faculty is working fine. I am free to go from one place to another. I can go on and on recounting what has happened and is still happening to me in the dying year. Are all these my doings? What of millions of people that started this year with me, but are no more today? Am I better than them? What of people that are alive, but are not enjoying all these good things that I am enjoying? What makes me special than these people? As I am reflecting on all these, the words of the Psalmist quoted above come to my mind. What attracts me most in the verses is the clause, “...what is man that you care for him...?” What or who am I that is making God to be so good to me this year? Why is He so mindful of me? Admittedly, I could not achieve all my aspirations this year. However, the Lord has been so good to me during the year. I praise Him for He is indeed “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). Undoubtedly, the Lord has done many things for you also this fading year. Have you reflected on these things? Do you have any reason to praise Him this year? Will you not also join the Psalmist to exclaim, O Lord, what is man that you care for him, the son of man that you think of him? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 27Dec2014

The power of the Holy Spirit enables us to withstand evil and temptation and to persevere in times of persecution or hardship, but the power of the Holy Spirit is never a vaccination against difficulty. - Michael Youssef

Quote for the Day 26Dec2014

Boxing Day is associated with giving and receiving of gifts. Have you received the greatest Gift, Jesus Christ, into your life? - Bayo Afolaranmi

Quote for the Day 25Dec2014

I heard the bells on Christmas day their old familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the words repeat of peace on earth, good will to men. - Henry W. Longfellow

Quote for the Day 24Dec2014

Would not life be worth the living, would not dreams be coming true if we kept the Christmas spirit all the whole year through? - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 23Dec2014

Nothing lies beyond the reach of prayer except that which lies outside the will of God. - Dennis Fisher

Quote for the Day 22Dec2014

If you are enduring a long-term inconvenience, consider thanking God for what He is teaching you through it. - Amos O. Tella

Quote for the Day 21Dec2014

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

DO NOT WAIT TILL DECEMBER 31

Dearly Beloved, DO NOT WAIT TILL DECEMBER 31 “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). One of the contacts on one of my BBM lists contacted me recently and wanted me to counsel him on how he could overcome the habit of masturbation. As I probed into his activities and companions, he made some confessions about what he is doing that he thinks contribute to his bad habit. I counselled him to abstain from such actions. His response was that he would start abstaining from them as from December 31 as part of his New Year resolutions. I disagreed and told him straightaway that he does not need to wait till any day to start abstaining from any action that he knows may be contributing to his bad habit if really wants to be free from such habit. He promised to try. He later informed me that there have been changes since the day he started abstaining from such actions. It is common to see people making New Year resolutions on December 31, especially as they are about to enter the New Year. Most of these resolutions include determination to change some bad habits in the New Year. Interestingly, such determinations hardly last through the month of January before the people that make it go back to their bad habits. Certainly, such resolutions have become usual practices that do not come from the depth of the hearts of people that normally make them. As tradition, such people join other people to make the resolutions without real commitment to keeping them. If it were not so, why do people wait for a particular day (especially December 31) before making resolutions to change from a particular bad habit? God has given man the willpower to do what is good or otherwise. In fact, He has given us the grace to do the right thing at the right time. However, are we making good use of this grace? Apostle Paul enjoined the Corinthian Christians not to receive God's grace in vain because NOW is the time of God's favor (see 2 Corinthians 6:1-2). If this is so, why then postponing the time when God is ready to help you? 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. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Lord, help me to sincerely resolve NOW to abstain from bad habits and consciously start doing good things.

Quote for the Day 20Dec2014

The tragedy of life does not lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach. - Benjamin Mays

Quote for the Day 19Dec2014

Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow. Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement. - Debra Cummings

Quote for the Day 18Dec2014

The spectacular glory of God’s love for us was revealed in the coming of Jesus. - Bill Crowder

Quote for the Day 17Dec2014

Every man and woman is born into the world to do something unique and something distinctive; and if he or she does not do it, it will never be done. - Benjamin E. Mays

Quote for the Day 16Dec2014

Your doubt cannot change your situation. What will change your situation is your faith. – Supo Ayokunle

Quote for the Day 15Dec2014

Our life and blessing is to bring God glory. Delay is not denial. When our blessings are delayed by God it is to bring greater glory to Him. - EA Adeboye

Quote for the Day 14Dec2014

While it is good to decently celebrate the Child that was born in Bethlehem, it is far better to believe in the Son that was given during that event for the salvation of humankind. - Bayo Afolaranmi

UNTO US A SON IS GIVEN

Dearly Beloved, UNTO US A SON IS GIVEN “For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 NKJV). Christmas season every year has been dedicated to the celebration of the Child Jesus Christ that was born “...wrapped... in swaddling cloths, and laid... in a manger” (Luke 2:7 NKJV) in Bethlehem some two thousand years ago. It is interesting that Prophet Isaiah rightly prophesied that a Child would be born, and a Son would be given. However, it is unfortunate that many people take no or little notice of this, especially the Son that was given that day! While the Child that was born signifies the humanity of Jesus Christ, the Son that was given signifies His deity. The attraction centred on the Child that was born has belittled the significance of the Son that was given. The Child that was born was the Son that was given through the demonstration of the love of God the Father to the world “…that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 NKJV. See also John 1:14, 18; Romans 5:6-10; 8:32; 1 Timothy 1:15-16). The latter part of the prophecy in Isaiah 9:6 is referring to the Son that was given. He is the Messiah that “the government will be upon His shoulder” - the eternal King that will reign and rule over the Universe. This Son’s “...name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 NKJV). He is indeed more than a child that many people are celebrating during Christmas. While it is good to decently celebrate the Child that was born in Bethlehem, it is far better to believe in the Son that was given during that event for the salvation of humankind. Do not let the celebration of the born Child blindfold you to the importance of the given Son who will judge the world one day. Unto us a Son is given! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 13Dec2014

Good leaders feel secure enough to repent when wrong. They don't have to project their self-worth, defend their every move, or make excuses for their failures. - John C. Maxwell

Quote for the Day 12Dec2014

Be impeccable with your word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using your word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love. - Miguel Ruiz

Quote for the Day 11Dec2014

Those who sincerely look for Jesus will see Him. Those who are insincere in looking for Him will miss Him. - SAK Olaleye

Quote for the Day 10Dec2014

There are many who are struggling or have fallen on hard times and need our assistance. Who in your life needs a helping hand? - Dennis Fisher

Quote for the Day 09Dec2014

Life’s challenges sometimes seem impossible. Do you feel you are too weak to fight the battle? Do not give up! Keep your heart loyal to God, for He constantly watches over you, and He desires to demonstrate His strength in your life. - Henry Blackaby

Quote for the Day 08Dec2014

O for a thousand tongues to sing my great Redeemer's praise, the glories of my God and King, the triumphs of His grace. – Charles Wesley

Quote for the Day 07Dec2014

Any celebration or activity during this Christmas season that does not give glory to Jesus Christ is not pleasing to God. He wants us to use the season to worship Him. - Bayo Afolaranmi

O COME ALL YE FAITHFUL

Dearly Beloved, O COME ALL YE FAITHFUL “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him’” (Matthew 2:1-2 NIV). The Christmas season is here again! It was like yesterday that we celebrated the last one last year. Thanks be to God for sparing our lives to witness another season. While some people are indifferent to the season and its cause, many people would have started planning on how to utilize the season to their advantage. Unfortunately, most of these people will still commit the error of leaving the Reason for the season, Jesus Christ, out of the season. The season is to be used to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ by adoring Him in all way we can. The Magi from the east came to Jerusalem to worship the new born King. The concept of adoration of Jesus Christ the Lord during Christmas season, and even all seasons, might have prompted the writer of one of popular Christmas hymns, “O COME ALL YE FAITHFUL” (Adeste Fideles) who many people believed to be John Francis Wade (c. 1710-1786) to invite people to come and adore the Christ the Lord. Wade summoned all the faithful to come joyfully and triumphantly to behold the King of angels and adore Him. Wade used the hymn to describe who this new born King is: “True God of true God, Light from Light Eternal... Son of the Father, begotten, not created.” As the shepherds and the Magi came to adore the new born King, we also ought to come and adore Him. We should give all glory to Him now and forever. Amen. Any celebration or activity during this Christmas season that does not give glory to Jesus Christ is not pleasing to God. He wants us to use the season to worship Him. “O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.” In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 06Dec2014

Knowing that heaven is our real home makes it easier to pass through the tough times here on earth. - Charles Spurgeon

Quote for the Day 05Dec2014

As you prepare to celebrate Christmas this season, do you have a place for Jesus Christ in your life? - Gold Anie

Quote for the Day 04Dec2014

No Christian, no matter the level of his spiritual attainment and maturity, is immune against troubles and tribulations. - Olufemi Babalola

Quote for the Day 03Dec2014

If you want to feel rich, just count all of the things you have that money can't buy. - Anonymous

Quote for the Day 02Dec2014

Praise is our enthusiastic expression of gratitude to God for reigning in glory forever. - Julie Ackerman Link

Quote for the Day 01Dec2014

We must not allow the clock and the calendar to blind us to the fact that each moment of life is a miracle and mystery. - H. G. Wells

Quote for the Day 30Nov2014

Think of those things you have to praise the Lord for. Do not forget all His benefits. Recount them and praise the Lord. Bless the LORD, O my soul! - Bayo Afolaranmi

BLESS THE LORD, O MY SOUL! (Part 2)

Dearly Beloved, BLESS THE LORD, O MY SOUL! (Part 2) "Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits?" (Psalm 103:1-2 NKJV). This is the continuation of the study on Psalms 103 and 104 started last week. We examined who God is especially in His greatness manifested in His creation which made the psalmist to exclaim to his soul to bless or praise the Lord. In this second part of the study, we will examine what God has done, is doing, and will still do for us that make Him deserve our worship, praises and thanksgiving. The psalmist urged his soul not to forget all the benefits of God. What are these benefits? He enumerated them in this Psalm 103: the Lord forgives all his sins (verse 3a); the Lord heals all his diseases (verse 3b); the Lord redeems his life from destruction (verse 4a); the Lord crowns him with love and compassion (verses 4b, 8, 11, 13, 17); and the Lord satisfies his desires with good things (verse 5). The psalmist declared that the Lord did all those things to his soul, hence, the exclamation to his soul to bless the Lord. He went further to declare other things that the Lord has done and is doing to him as well as other people: the Lord is just to the oppressed (verse 6); the Lord led the Israelites out of slavery through Moses (verse 7); the Lord is gracious and slow to anger (verses 8-10); and in His compassion and love, He treats us like children (verses 10-14). Having declared the goodness (or benefits) of God, the psalmist entreated the angels and all the heavenly hosts to join him in blessing the Lord. He even entreated you and me, His works, to also bless the Lord. Undoubtedly, you also will have many things to praise the Lord for. Think of those things. Do not forget all His benefits. Recount them and praise the Lord. Bless the LORD, O my soul! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 29Nov2014

When the storms of life hit, houses built on and held together by Jesus Christ stand firm. - Marion Stroud

Quote for the Day 28Nov2014

Some lessons of patience take a long time to learn. - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 27Nov2014

Be resolute in your goals, but flexible in your tactics. There are times that call for repetition and perseverance; and there are times that require new ways of thinking and doing. The challenge is knowing one from the other. - Jonathan Lockwood Huie

Quote for the Day 26Nov2014

Be thankful for what you have; you will end up having more. If you concentrate on what you do not have, you will never, ever have enough. - Oprah Winfrey

Quote for the Day 25Nov2014

Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does. - William James

Quote for the Day 24Nov2014

Let your faith overcome your fear, and God will turn your worry into worship. - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 23Nov2014

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

BLESS THE LORD, O MY SOUL!

Dearly Beloved, BLESS THE LORD, O MY SOUL! "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). The book of Psalms is full of praises of, and prayers to God. Psalms 103 and 104 are distinct out of the other psalms because of their description of who God is and what He is doing to us that make Him deserve our worship, adoration, praises and thanksgiving. Let us examine first who God is in Psalm 104 before coming back to Psalm 103 to discover what He is doing for us that made the psalmist told his soul "and all that is within" him to bless or praise the Lord. He started with the greatness of God. The greatness of God is manifested in His creation: He stretches out the heavens like a tent (verse 2b); He sets the earth on its unmovable foundations (verse 5) and covers it with the deep (verse 6a); He sets the course of water (verses 6b-9); He satisfies the earth and other creatures by His work (verses 10-13); He makes the earth produce food for the animals and even man (verses 14-15); He provides dwelling place for His creatures (verses 16-18); and He marks off seasons, days and years by the sun and the moon (verses 19-23). The psalmist continues to describe how God made His creation in wisdom, and all these creatures look unto God for sustenance (verses 24-29). Having considered all these things, the psalmist concludes that the glory of God will endure for ever and that he would respond to God's greatness by singing to Him all his life and that he would find pleasure in meditating about it. The implication of this psalm is that we should always praise God for who He is as He has demonstrated it in His creation. Bless the LORD, O my soul! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). NB Next week, we will consider the other aspect of why our soul should bless the Lord. Till then, God bless you!

Quote for the Day 22Nov2014

What can you do right now to begin to turn your life around? The very first thing is to start making a list of things to be grateful for. - Joe Vitale

Quote for the Day 21Nov2014

Learn to fight fear with fear. Those who fear God, above all else, can be delivered from all other fears. - Amos O. Tella

Quote for the Day 20Nov2014

Do not waste your precious energy on gossip, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead, invest your energy in the positive present moment. - Anonymous

Quote for the Day 19Nov2014

Most of our obstacles would melt away if, instead of cowering before them, we could make up our minds to walk boldly through them. - Orison Swett Marden

Quote for the Day 18Nov2014

Whatever our circumstances we can give them to God. He has lifted the burden of our sins; will He not lift the weight of our sorrows? We have trusted Him with our eternal souls; can we not entrust our present circumstances to Him? - David Roper

Quote for the Day 17Nov2014

When God assures you of His presence and support on anything, do not ask questions. Start from where you are till He takes you to where you should be. - Emmanuel Oloruntoba Arotile

Quote for the Day 16Nov2014

What are you passing through personally? Does it seem as if the wicked are having upper hand you? Does it seem as if God is not fighting for you? There is a better future for you! He will fight for you. He will take away your sorrows. - Bayo Afolaranmi

THERE IS A BETTER FUTURE

Dearly Beloved, THERE IS A BETTER FUTURE "The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing. The sorrows for the appointed feasts I will remove from you; they are a burden and a reproach to you" (Zephaniah 3:17-18 NIV). "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'" (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). The evils of the world especially the seeming triumph of the terrorists in the recent time have made some to conclude that this world can longer be a better place. To such people, things will be going from worse to the worst. The evildoers will be prospering while the righteous and the innocent will continue to suffer for needless pains. This very world may be growing from bad to worse every day because of its waywardness from God. God may have allowed wickedness to triumph over righteousness for some time. However, there is a better future. The people of Judah in the time of prophet Zephaniah were in a similar situation. Their leaders had led them away from God and God had allowed them to face untold hardship from other nations. However, God sent a message of hope to them through prophet Zephaniah - there is a better future! (Zephaniah 3). This message came after God had pronounced judgments on the nations that had tormented them. What are you also passing through personally? Does it seem as if the wicked are having upper hand against you? Does it seem as if God is not fighting for you? There is a better future for you! He will fight for you. He will take away all those sorrows. See what God promised the people of Judah, "At that time I will deal with all who oppressed you; I will rescue the lame and gather those who have been scattered. I will give them praise and honour in every land where they were put to shame. At that time I will gather you; at that time I will bring you home. I will give you honour and praise among all the peoples of the earth when I restore your fortunes before your very eyes" (Zephaniah 3:19-20 NIV). Indeed, there is a better future! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 15Nov2014

With God behind you and His arms beneath you, you can face whatever lies ahead of you. - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 14Nov2014

Every man’s purpose is pre-determined by God. A man does not choose his purpose; he discovers it. - Sunday Popoola

Quote for the Day 13Nov2014

We live in a dark world that desperately needs to see the light of Jesus Christ. Our calling is to shine forth God’s truth so that others can be directed to the One who redeems and is the path to liberty and life. - Dennis Fisher

Quote for the Day 12Nov2014

When you put your hope in God you need to wait and wait patiently on Him. - Dapo Akinlotan

Quote for the Day 11Nov2014

The greatest tragedy in life is not death, but a life without a purpose. - Myles Munroe

Quote for the Day 10Nov2014

Be not weary in your serving; Do your best for those in need; Kindnesses will be rewarded By the Lord who prompts the deed. - Anonymous

Quote for the Day 09Nov2014

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

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 have 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.

Quote for the Day 08Nov2014

By remembering specific ways God has provided for us in the past, we can change our perspective for the better. God’s steadfast love endures forever! - Dennis Fisher

Quote for the Day 07Nov2014

I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition. - Martha Washington

Quote for the Day 06Nov2014

I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish He didn't trust me so much. - Mother Teresa

Quote for the Day 05Nov2014

Jesus Christ, who loves us with an everlasting love, understands our struggles, and can be trusted to provide us with a rest we can never find on our own. - Bill Crowder

Quote for the Day 04Nov2014

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

Quote for the Day 03Nov2014

Stand up to your obstacles and do something about them. You will find that they have not half the strength you think they have. - Norman Vincent Peale

Quote for the Day 02Nov2014

If God can be good to us in many ways, then we have to appreciate Him by serving Him joyfully even if He does not do, or has not done, what we want Him to do for us. - Bayo Afolaranmi

SERVE GOD WITH JOY

Dearly Beloved, SERVE GOD WITH JOY “Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joy and gladness of heart, for the abundance of everything...” (Deuteronomy 28:47 NKJV). The first fourteen verses of Deuteronomy chapter 28 are well known by many people because of the promises of God that are there. On the contrary, few people care to study the remaining fifty-four verses in the chapter because of the curses in those latter verses. However, those verses full of curses are warnings for anyone who does not want the curses to be his/her portion. Conspicuously, the main reason for the curses in those verses is disobedience to God, but there are other reasons for these curses as Moses warned the people of Israel. One of such reasons is not serving “God with joy and gladness of heart” for the abundance of His goodness. If God can be good to us in many ways, then we have to appreciate Him by serving Him joyfully even if He does not do, or has not done, what we want Him to do for us. The consequence of not serving Him with joy is servitude to our enemies. Instead of promotion, demotion would be the lot of anyone who refuses to serve God joyfully. In other words, anyone who does not appreciate God may not enjoy more of the goodness of God, but will certainly be under the curse of God. The people of Israel that came out of Egypt are a good example of this. They grumbled against God on many occasions, and all of them (except Caleb and Joshua) could not enter the Promised Land (see Numbers 14:26-35). This year is running to an end. Ponder about your life this year. Are you appreciative of God? Do you serve Him with joy, or you are full of grudges against Him because of what He has not done for you? Do not incur curses of God on yourself. Thank Him and serve Him with joy, and He will manifest Himself in your life. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 01Nov2014

Anyone, anywhere, anytime, who calls on Jesus Christ in faith, experiences the destiny-changing wonder of God’s redemptive love. - Amos O. Tella

Quote for the Day 31Oct2014

True success is staying on God’s path by following His Word and giving Him praise instead of craving it for ourselves. — David McCasland

Quote for the Day 30Oct2014

While it is well enough to leave footprints on the sands of time, it is even more important to make sure they point in a commendable direction. - James Branch Cabell

Quote for the Day 29Oct2014

The most eloquent prayer is the prayer through hands that heal and bless. The highest form of worship is the worship of unselfish Christian service. The greatest form of praise is the sound of consecrated feet seeking out the lost and helpless. – Billy Graham

Quote for the Day 28Oct2014

Jesus Christ’s presence in our lives enables us to be of good cheer even in the midst of pain. - Dennis Fisher

Quote for the Day 27Oct2014

Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude. - Thomas Jefferson

Quote for the Day 26Oct2014

Are you in need of any good thing? Come boldly to the throne of grace and ask. Do not be at fault in not asking. - Bayo Afolaranmi

DO NOT BE AT FAULT

Dearly Beloved, DO NOT BE AT FAULT "You want something but don't get it…. You do not have, because you do not ask God" (James 4:2 NIV). My children used to get sets of biscuits every morning as they go to school for refreshment apart from the food they take for their breakfast. My wife and I forgot to give them the biscuits one day, and none of them remembered to remind us as they normally do. When they came back from the school, the elder one, my son, accused us their parents for not giving them biscuits that day. My response was, "Did you ask for them?" He could not defend himself because he knew that he also shared in the fault of not remembering about the usual sets of biscuits that day. He was the first to remind us the following day about the biscuits as they were about to set out for school. There is a spiritual lesson in this event. Our heavenly Father has many blessings and provisions in store for us. He has been given us these blessings and He will continue to give us. While He is not a forgetful Father like any earthly father, He wants us, however, to ask Him what we want. Jesus Christ said, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" (Matthew 7:7-11 NIV). Are you in need of any good thing? Come boldly to the throne of grace and ask (Hebrew 4:16). John said, "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of Him" (1 John 5:14-15 NIV). Do not be at fault in not asking. Hear Jesus Christ again, "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). In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 25Oct2014

Do not allow yourself to be possessed, bombarded, and driven by the wheel of sin. Give yourself to be driven by the Word and the Spirit of God. Then, you will be secure and prosperous. - Lawrence Oladimeji

Quote for the Day 24Oct2014

Only when we are aware of the danger that faces us every day will we consciously seek the help we need. And only if we are on the alert will we lean on the strength of our Lord, who is greater than our spiritual enemy. - Bill Crowder

Quote for the Day 23Oct2014

Do not fall for looks, they can deceive. Do not fall for wealth, in the end it fades away. - Anonymous

Quote for the Day 22Oct2014

God acts in His timing - at just the right time according to His will. - David Roper

Quote for the Day 21Oct2014

No matter how good our life may be here, heaven is far better. Present pleasures cannot be compared to the joys of heaven. - Amos O. Tella

Quote for the Day 20Oct2014

You lose nothing by forgiving someone who wronged you but you lose everything by refusing to forgive. Unforgiving spirit is more dangerous than danger itself. - Chris Tayo Orodiji

QUANTITY OR QUALITY?

Dearly Beloved, QUANTITY OR QUALITY? "And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him" (Matthew 6:7-8 NIV). A pastor-colleague who visited my family early in the morning on day for an important assignment met us having our family devotions. After the worship service, he enquired from me about the normal duration of our daily family devotions. I told him that I do not care about the time, but the quality of the devotions. He then shared with me his experience with somebody that came to him for prayers. When he used a certain number of minutes in praying for the person, the person was surprised that the prayer session was over so soon. He then asked the person the number of minutes or hours he believes it would take a curse invoked on another person to take effect. The person believed that a curse that is less than a minute could be of eternal consequence on the person it was invoked. The pastor and I then discussed briefly about the quality and quantity of time to be spent for a prayer to be effectual. Some people are of the opinion that the longer the prayer, the more effective it is, or the more you repeat the same request at a particular time, the sooner God answers such request. This has made many people to engage themselves in unnecessary long prayers, saying of the same thing for a number of time, marathon prayer sessions, all-night prayer vigils, and so on so that God would quickly answer their prayers. Some Christian denominations and some religions even adapt a way of using kinds of tool to aid them in repeating their prayers in a particular number of times. Most of these beliefs and practices are contrary to the teachings of the Bible about prayer. What matter most in our prayers is the quality, not quantity, of time we spend in saying the prayers. A Bible commentator says, "Christ does not fix the length of our prayers. He says that we should not repeat the same thing, as though God did not hear; and it is not improbable that he intended to condemn the practice of long prayers. His own supplications were remarkably short." Let me point it out here that I am not talking about perseverance in requesting something from God - a situation where one persistently continues to ask for a particular thing from God until God answers the prayer (as Jesus Christ taught it in Luke 18:1-7). The Bible teaches that we should pray all the time (Luke 18:1; 21:36; Romans 12:12; Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:2). The question then is what matter most in our prayer? Is it the quality or the quantity of time we spend to say it? This is a question that we must answer as we go to the Lord in prayers. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 19Oct2014

The quality of time spent for a prayer to be effectual is more important than the quantity of time spent for that prayer. Focus on the quality of the time you are spending in prayer more than the quantity of time you spending. - Bayo Afolaranmi

Quote for the Day 16Oct2014

As the Owner of all that exists, God exercises His sovereignty by dispensing tokens of His bounty to whomever He wills. - Ronald Youngblood

Quote for the Day 15Oct2014

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

Quote for the Day 14Oct2014

Oh, that our lives would so reflect Jesus that we would leave a mark on our neighborhoods, and the memory of our godliness would linger on! - David H. Roper

Quote for the Day 13Oct2014

Although there is a time to be quiet and a time to speak, choosing to speak less allows us to hear more. - Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Quote for the Day 12Oct2014

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

BE A LIVING SACRIFICE

Dearly Beloved, BE A LIVING SACRIFICE “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). Some days ago, Muslims throughout the world celebrated the Eld el Kabir celebration that commemorated the divine provision of ram for Ibrahim when he wanted to sacrifice his son to God. In spite of the distortion of the original story from the Holy Bible, the way these people devotedly sacrifice animals, especially rams, during this annual celebration is noteworthy. Unfortunately, they are missing it because Jesus Christ is the final Sacrifice for humankind’s sin (see 1 Corinthians 5:7). No other sacrifice or shedding of blood is acceptable to God now, “...because by one sacrifice [Jesus Christ] has made perfect forever those who are being made holy” (Hebrews 10:14 NIV. See also verse 10). Instead of making animal sacrifice or shedding of blood in any form to appease God, we are to offer ourselves as a living, NOT dead or inanimate, sacrifice to God (Romans 12:1). Apostle Paul continued to say that this is the true and holy worship that is pleasing and acceptable to God. The implication of this is that we are to deny ourselves of sinful pleasures and purposes, and use our lives for the glory of God. This calls for total surrender to God. It is a dedication of presenting and yielding of body, mind, and will to God day by day. It is to devote ourselves to God, as if we had no longer any claim on ourselves. It is to suffer and bear all that God might appoint, and to promote His honour in any way which He might command. It should be noted here that this is far more than giving or offering of animals or substances to God. It is even far more than working for God. It is willingly and consciously giving of one’s total self to God before giving of any other thing. The Macedonian churches demonstrated this when “...they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will” (2 Corinthians 8:5 NIV). Are you ready to present yourself as a living sacrifice to God? No amount of any other offering or sacrifice is acceptable to Him. He 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! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will be able to offer yourself as a living sacrifice to God.

Quote for the Day 11Oct2014

One of the greatest privileges of a Christian is to be associated with God in the all-important work of winning souls to the Lord Jesus Christ. - Banjo Ajao

Quote for the Day 10Oct2014

Many people allow their need for other people's approval to control their lives. They spend their lives worrying about what others think of them. - Rick Warren

Quote for the Day 09Oct2014

Life is a gift, not a possession, from God to be received and handled with gratitude and to be given back to God. - Amos O. Tella

Quote for the Day 08Oct2014

I want it said of me by those who knew me best, that I always plucked a thistle and planted a flower where I thought a flower would grow. - Abraham Lincoln

Quote for the Day 07Oct2014

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.

Quote for the Day 06Oct2014

Real joy does not come from favorable economic conditions, being accepted by society, or by owning a luxury car. These bring only temporary happiness at best. Joy comes from one thing alone: a sure knowledge that you are saved through the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. - Michael Youssef

Quote for the Day 05Oct2014

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. - Bayo Afolaranmi

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.

Quote for the Day 04Oct2014

To everyone who feels like a “throwaway” headed for the landfill of life, Jesus opens His arms of love and offers a fresh beginning. That’s why He came! - David McCasland

Quote for the Day 03Oct2014

God is the provider of all that we have, including our ability to work. We are to work diligently, be wise stewards of what He has provided, and then rest in the promise of His care. - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 02Oct2014

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

Quote for the Day 01Oct2014

The life of faith is not about showing only our good side. It’s about exposing our dark side to the light of Christ through confession to God and also to others. - Julie Ackerman Link

Quote for the Day 30Sep2014

We can find hope by putting everything in God’s hands and then trusting Him for the outcome. - Dave Branon

Quote for the Day 29Sep2014

If God sends you on stony paths, He will provide you with strong shoes. - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 28Sep2014

Listening to medical, professional, ministerial and other specialized advices about your health, business, family or other endeavors are part of taking care of yourself. - Bayo Afolaranmi

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) WEBSITE REDESIGNING I want to redesign the official website of my Internet ministry: http://www.thewordthruthenet.org/. It was first designed and hosted in 2008. Undoubtedly, it is overdue for redesigning. If the Lord is leading you to be part of this project, send a private message to me at spiritualdigest@yahoo.com. God bless you!

Quote for the Day 27Sep2014

I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold, I’d rather be His than have riches untold; I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands, I’d rather be led by His nail-pierced hands. - Rhea F. Miller

Quote for the Day 26Sep2014

Praise, like prayer, is one great means of promoting the growth of the spiritual life. It helps to remove our burdens, to excite our hope, to increase our faith. - Charles Spurgeon

Quote for the Day 25Sep2014

Your life is a story. Each day you get to write a new page. So fill those pages with responsibility to God, to others, and to yourself. If you do, in the end you will not be disappointed. - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 24Sep2014

Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow but only empties today of its strength. - C. H. Spurgeon

Quote for the Day 23Sep2014

In facing our fears and struggles, it’s vital that we yield totally to God. When we do, God can use our problems as an avenue for His power. - Dennis Fisher

Quote for the Day 22Sep2014

As you cling to God’s promises, ask Him to reveal new direction and purpose for your life. - Cindy Hess Kasper

Quote for the Day 21Sep2014

When Jesus comes to reward His servants, whether it be noon or night, faithful to Him will He find us watching, with our lamps all trimmed and bright? - Fanny Crosby

WILL JESUS FIND US WATCHING?

Dearly Beloved, WILL JESUS FIND US WATCHING? "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour” (Matthew 25:13 NIV). The story of the Ten Virgins is one of the popular parables of Jesus Christ. It tells of ten virgins that were waiting for a bridegroom. Interestingly, five of these virgins were wise by having oil in their jars along with their lamps while the other five were foolish by not having extra oil thereby not preparing for any eventuality. The bridegroom delayed in coming and arrived late in the night. The prepared wise virgins could accompany the bridegroom to the wedding banquet while the foolish ones missed the banquet because they were not adequately prepared. It was probably this Bible story that motivated the famous blind hymn writer, Frances J. Crosby (also known as Fanny Crosby), to compose the hymn “WILL JESUS FIND US WATCHING?” in 1875. The words of the hymn attest to this. Crosby asked that will Jesus find us faithfully watching with our lamps all trimmed and bright when He comes to reward His servants whether it is noon or night. Can we say we are ready for the soul’s bright home? If Jesus shall call us one by one at the dawn of the early morning to restore our talents back to Him, will He be able to say “Well done” to us? We shall have a glorious rest if there is nothing in our hearts to condemn us after we have been true to the trust He left us and have sought to do our best. Blessed indeed are those whom the Lord finds watching because they shall share in His glory. However, the big question is, “If He shall come at the dawn or midnight, will He find us watching there?” So are you really ready if Jesus Christ should return today? Or are you like the foolish virgins in the biblical story? Jesus Christ will come back one day. It may be now, it may be later. The fact that He has not come for the past two thousand years does not negate the certainty of His coming. Are you ready for His coming? Will He find you watching? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ will not meet you unprepared.

Quote for the Day 20Sep2014

When people hunger for God, God has a way of satisfying them. - Dickson Madoghwe

Quote for the Day 19Sep2014

Because of Jesus we can come to God through prayer anywhere, anytime. - Dennis Fisher

Quote for the Day 18Sep2014

Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset. - Saint Francis de Sales

Quote for the Day 18Sep2014

Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset. - Saint Francis de Sales

Quote for the Day 17Sep2014

Better to do our deeds to honor God and serve others than to do them to collect gratitude. - Randy Kilgore

Quote for the Day 16Sep2014

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

Quote for the Day 15Sep2014

It is our duty and responsibility to find out why we were created and use the very gifts God has given us for His glory and not our own. - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 14Sep2014

Success is not the end of the story in your life. Always prepare to manage the aftermath of your success. When success comes, be ready to face more challenges. Such challenges may be positive or negative. - Bayo Afolaranmi

WHEN SUCCESS COMES

Dearly Beloved, WHEN SUCCESS COMES "Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea and they went into the Desert of Shur. For three days they travelled in the desert without finding water. When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter" (Exodus 15:22-23 NIV). The people of Israel had just recorded a great success - God delivered them completely from the oppressing Egyptians by making them pass through the Red Sea on dry ground and completely drowning their foes in the sea (Exodus 14). They acknowledged this victory by singing songs of praise to the Lord (Exodus 15:1-21). However, immediately after leaving the Red Sea, they were confronted with a challenge - wandering in the desert for three days without finding water. Even when they eventually found one, they could not drink it because it was bitter. The reaction of the people of Israel showed that they could not manage their success neither could they rely on the source of the success. Nevertheless, the point of emphasis here is not about their reaction, but about the aftermath of the success. The Bible is full of aftermaths of successes: Noah could not control himself at the first fruit of his labour after the flood (Genesis 9); Abraham was asked to sacrifice the son he had in his old age (Genesis 22); the people of Israel went through River Jordan on a dry ground into the waiting hands of the hostile Canaanites (Joshua 3-10); Gideon fell into the sin of idolatry after God gave him and the people of Israel victory over the oppressing Midianites (Judges 8:22-27); Samson failed to manage his many successes over the rampaging Philistines and eventually fell into their hands (Judges 14-16); Samuel was a successful minister of God, but he could not train his children the ways of the Lord (1 Samuel 7:13-8:3); Saul was overcome by covetousness after his success over the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15); David fell into the sins of adultery and murder after God had established his kingdom (2 Samuel 11); in spite of his wisdom, Solomon loved and married many foreign women to his peril (1 Kings 11); of note was Uzziah whose success made him to go against the law of God (2 Chronicles 26:16-21). The list cannot be exhausted. Do you know that success is not the end of the story in your life? Do you always prepare to manage the aftermath of your success? When success comes, be ready to face more challenges. Such challenges may be positive or negative. Pray that God will enable you to handle them successfully. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 13Sep2014

God’s power can be more easily seen and experienced in our lives when we get rid of sin’s build-up every day. - Cindy Hess Kasper

Quote for the Day 12Sep2014

Christian worship is not for enjoyment. It is for the glory of God. Worship is not about us. It is about God and for God. - Rueben Chuga

Quote for the Day 11Sep2014

Kind words may be free, but they give a priceless lift of spirit. Why not encourage someone today? - David C. McCasland

Quote for the Day 11Sep2014

Kind words may be free, but they give a priceless lift of spirit. Why not encourage someone today? - David C. McCasland

Quote for the Day 10Sep2014

God cannot be worshipped outwardly, or by special rituals in special places. He can only be worshipped in spirit and truth. - Reuben Chuga

Quote for the Day 09Sep2014

Everyone aspiring to succeed here on earth must fearlessly launch out into the deep of life. You must be willing to leave the safety of where you are, and step on to another different terrain of achievement and exploits. - Femi Emmanuel

Quote for the Day 08Sep2014

When God asks us to follow Him, He wants to lead us to a place of closer fellowship with Himself. His Word assures us that He is loving and faithful in leading those who humbly follow Him. - Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Quote for the Day 07Sep2014

God is not looking for ordinary workers, but workers that are willing to work for Him diligently. - Bayo Afolaranmi

WANTED: A DILIGENT WORKER!

Dearly Beloved, WANTED: A DILIGENT WORKER! "One night Eli… was lying down in his usual place. The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down…. Then the LORD called Samuel" (1 Samuel 3:2-4 NIV). "Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men" (Proverbs 22:29 NIV). The boy Samuel was ministering in the tabernacle at Shiloh when he suddenly heard somebody calling his name. He thought it was Eli the priest that was calling him. So, he ran to Eli to answer the call. However, it was not Eli. Eli told him to go and lie down. This happened thrice. It was on the third occasion that Eli perceived that it might be God calling Samuel, so he told the boy what he would say when he hears such call again. Samuel heard the call the fourth time and did as Eli told him. The story is a well-known one especially to the children, but there is a lesson in it, that many people do not always take note of: the willingness of Samuel to do anything for his master, Eli, even in the night when others had slept. It was this willingness to serve and his diligence that made God to call him and used him mightily in place of the wayward sons of Eli. Are you also willing to be diligent in your work to the point of having extra-time work without thinking of remuneration for such work? Are you diligent in your work to the extent that your boss and even God can single you out for greater responsibility and compensation? God is not looking for ordinary workers, but workers that are willing to work for Him diligently. Wanted: A diligent worker! Are you ready to be one especially in the service of God? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Requests: 1. God, give me the spirit of diligence to be more diligent in all my work. 2. Let my diligence lead me to higher ground in my working place and in your service in Jesus' name. Amen.

Quote for the Day 06Sep2014

God’s surprises continue so we can take heart. He has not stopped showing His kindness to you and me. - David McCasland

Quote for the Day 05Sep2014

To hoard wealth is foolish, for it is genuine faith, not gold, that will sustain us through trials and result in praise, honor, and glory to God. - Julie Ackerman Link

Quote for the Day 04Sep2014

No one ever cared for me like Jesus; There's no other friend so kind as He; No one else could take the sin and darkness from me- O how much He cared for me! - Charles F. Weigle

Quote for the Day 03Sep2014

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

Quote for the Day 02Sep2014

Give yourself the gift of forgiving others, not because THEY deserve it, but because YOU deserve the serenity and joy that comes from releasing resentment and anger. Unconditional forgiveness is the path to your own inner peace. - Jonathan Lockwood Huie

Quote for the Day 01Sep2014

Never lose hope, no matter the size of the mountain confronting you. Your mountain will move as long as you retain your hope in God, because He knows the foundation of every mountain, and can easily uproot them. - EA Adeboye

Quote for the Day 31Aug2014

If you have the opportunity to choose anything in life, what would you choose? Even when you choose wisely, would you remain with your choice? - Bayo Afolaranmi

WHAT WOULD YOU CHOOSE?

Dearly Beloved, WHAT WOULD YOU CHOOSE? "This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live" (Deuteronomy 30:19 NIV). "`So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?' The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this" (1 Kings 3:9-10 NIV). The traditional wedding ceremony in most part of Nigeria has been replaced with either Christian church wedding ceremony or the Islamic wedding ceremony. This modern ceremony is now being preceded by or mixed with what is commonly called the engagement ceremony. The engagement ceremony is mostly traditional in nature. One of the aspects of the engagement ceremony is picking of the most valuable thing out of the dowry items that the family of the groom brings to the family of the bride. The bride will perform this rite. She is expected (when she is a Christian) to pick a copy of the Holy Bible that has been included in the dowry for that purpose. It is a way of telling the whole world that the bride values the Holy Bible more than any of the dowry items and that she is deciding to make the word of God her guide as she is entering into a new life. This practice is good and laudable. Nonetheless, how many of such brides value the word of God more than any other thing in the world? How many of them really make it their guide in their matrimonial homes? These are applicable to men also, although, they are not required to make such decision during the engagement ceremony. The practice has made me ponder on many practices we are doing religiously without thinking seriously about their purposes and implications. If the bride (or even the groom) is given free hand to choose what she likes most, would she choose the Bible? If you were given such rare opportunity to choose from the things of this world and the word of God, would you really choose the word of God? Solomon chose to be wise when God asked him to ask for anything (1 Kings 3:4-14), however, at his later years, he abandoned his choice and allowed his foreign wives to mislead him (1 Kings 11:1-9). What would you choose? Even when you choose wisely, would you remain with your choice? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 30Aug2014

If you feel stuck, bring your whole self to Christ, not just the problem, but you. Ask God to change your heart. Commit yourself to pray to that end. It is God's heart to give good gifts to His children. - Sheila Walsh

Quote for the Day 29Aug2014

No matter what life may bring, nothing can remove us from the realm of God’s grace. - Joe Stowell

Quote for the Day 28Aug2014

After pain and anguish, after toil and care, We shall see the King some day; Through the endless ages joy and blessing share, We shall see the King some day. - Lewis E. Jones

Quote for the Day 27Aug2014

Sometimes our plans are not the plans of God. Hence, it is pertinent to every time structure our steps in alliance with God's plans. - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 26Aug2014

If pride has crept into some areas of your life, ask God to give you victory over it before it robs you of God’s will for you. - Henry Blackaby

Quote for the Day 25Aug2014

Let us always keep the prayer lines open, knowing God is always there; for we upon His name may call anytime and anywhere. - D. De Haan

Quote for the Day 24Aug2014

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

NOT WITH GOD

Dearly Beloved, NOT WITH GOD "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). Our God is the God of all possibilities. Nothing is impossible with Him, with the exception of things that are contrary to His divine attributes (see Numbers 23:19; 1 Samuel 15:29; 2 Timothy 2:13; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18). God is the infinite God. He can do all things. He knows all things. He is above all things. He is the Creator of all things. In fact, He is the eternal God that has been before the creation of all things; He is when there are all things; and He will continue to be when all things are no more (cf. Hebrews 13:8). What a God! On the contrary, man is finite. He cannot do all things. He does not know all things. He is not above all things. He is just a created being. In fact, he "is of few days and full of trouble" (Job 14:1 NIV). Jesus Christ brought out this great difference between God and man when His disciples were amazed at His teachings about the kingdom of God. He said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God" (Mark 10:27 NIV. You can also read Genesis 18:14; Jeremiah 32:17, 27; Luke 1:37; 18:27; Philippians 3:21). What is the implication of this glaring difference? Total dependence on God, and not man. One should not rely on anybody, even oneself. One should not lose hope that one's 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! "What is impossible with men is possible with God" (Luke 18:27 NIV). In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Request: 1. God, make all those good things that are impossible possible for me in Jesus' name. 2. Let me totally depend on you in all things especially those things that are beyond my control in Jesus' name. Amen.

Quote for the Day 23Aug2014

Management of self is a difficult enterprise that must be learnt and mastered if one would emerge as a champion in the battle of life. - Collins Olatunji

Quote for the Day 22Aug2014

What do we live for, if it is not to make life less difficult for each other? - George Eliot

Quote for the Day 21Aug2014

Real friends speak the truth to us in love - even if it is not what we want to hear. - Author Unknown

Quote for the Day 20Aug2014

There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires. - Nelson Mandela

Quote for the Day 19Aug2014

When Jesus comes to us our trouble ceases. At His command the wildest storm instantly becomes calm. The trouble itself may not leave us but it is no longer troublesome when He is with us. The wind may not stop blowing and beat upon our lives but He makes peace within us. - James R. Miller

Quote for the Day 18Aug2014

If you are unsure of where your treasure is, examine where you spend your available time and money. - Henry Blackaby

Quote for the Day 17Aug2014

It is the will of God that every church member should enjoy good health. So, Ebola should be adequately discussed in the church. - Bayo Afolaranmi

EBOLA SHOULD BE DISCUSSED IN THE CHURCH!

Dearly Beloved, EBOLA SHOULD BE DISCUSSED IN THE CHURCH! “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well” (3 John 2 NIV). Since the outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in some parts of Africa and its dramatic entrance into Nigeria about a month ago, many facts, rumours, and even jokes have emerged about the epidemic. One of my friends on Facebook recently posted this message on his wall: “IF YOU GO TO CHURCH TODAY AND THE MESSAGE CENTERS ON EBOLA... KNOW IT FOR SURE THAT THATS ONE DEAD CHURCH EXISTING AS A NEWS/CURRENT AFFAIR CENTER!” I totally disagreed with it instantly and commented on the post to express my disagreement. Interestingly, most of the people that commented on the post also disagreed with it. A fundamental question is raise here: should current affairs in general and the issue of Ebola in particular be discussed in the church? This may be controversial, but I am of the opinion that the church should not be indifferent to prevailing issues in the society. In fact, the church should be actively involved in what is going on in the society because the church is in the society, though it may not be of the society. The church should be a platform to inform its members about prevailing issues in the society. This information should include enlightenment, warnings, advice, suggestions, observations, comments, and the likes on the prevailing issues. If the church is not ready to do this, then, we should be ready for misinformation that will eventually mislead church members. The Bible says, “...my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge...” (Hosea 4:6 NIV). On the issue of Ebola virus disease (EVD), the church should rise up to enlighten its members about the possible causes of the disease, how to prevent them, the symptoms of the disease, and how to handle people that have been infected by the disease. Undoubtedly, there are many promises in the Bible against pestilence. Nonetheless, people should be enlightened not to take these promises for granted by not being precautious of possible causes of Ebola and all other diseases, and try as much as possible to prevent their infection. There is power in the blood of Jesus to heal one from any illness or disease, but, the church must not become healing centres while hospitals and other medical centres are neglected. Pastors and other spiritual leaders should not turn themselves overnight to healers of Ebola or any disease. It is the will of God that every church member should enjoy good health (see 3 John 2; Psalm 20:1-5; 91:10; Philippians 2:4, 27; Deuteronomy 7:15; Exodus 23:25; Isaiah 33:24). Therefore, Ebola should be adequately discussed in the church. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Points: 1. Pray that as you take precautions, God will protect you from being infected with Ebola virus disease and other diseases. 2. Pray for divine healing for people that have been infected with the virus. 3. Pray that God will provide a sure cure for this disease. 4. Pray that our governments and other health institutions will expedite actions to control the spread of this deadly disease. NB To put this message into practice, let me briefly give some facts about Ebola virus disease (EVD): The disease is also known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever or simply Ebola virus. It kills up to 90% of people who are infected. It is a rare but deadly virus that causes bleeding inside and outside the body. As the virus spreads through the body, it damages the immune system and organs. Ultimately, it causes levels of blood-clotting cells to drop. This leads to severe, uncontrollable bleeding. How to get Ebola: Ebola is not as contagious as more common viruses like colds, influenza, or measles. It spreads to people by contact with the skin or bodily fluids of an infected animal, like a monkey, chimp, or fruit bat. It then moves from person to person the same way. Those who care for a sick person or bury someone who has died from the disease often get it. Other ways to get Ebola include touching contaminated needles or surfaces. You cannot get Ebola from air, water, or food. A person who has Ebola but has no symptoms cannot spread the disease, either. Symptoms of Ebola: Ebola can feel early like the flu or other illnesses. Symptoms show up 2 to 21 days after infection and usually include: high fever, headache, joint and muscle aches, sore throat, weakness, stomach pain, lack of appetite. As the disease gets worse, it causes bleeding inside the body, as well as from the eyes, ears, and nose. Some people will vomit or cough up blood, have bloody diarrhoea, and get a rash. How it is diagnosed: Sometimes it is hard to tell if a person has Ebola from the symptoms alone. Doctors may test to rule out other diseases like cholera or malaria. Tests of blood and tissues also can diagnose Ebola. If you have Ebola, you will be isolated from the public immediately to prevent the spread. Please create awareness, not panic, about Ebola! (You can know more about this disease through the Internet.)

Quote for the Day 16Aug2014

From God's perspective, all things are working together for the believer’s good and for His honor. - Poh Fang Chia

Quote for the Day 15Aug2014

Do you know that you are different, special and unique from others? Develop your style. If you do what others are doing, your difference will not be noticed and you will be missing in the crowd. Whoever you may be and whatever you are doing, let your style be unique and live your own life in a special way. - Femi Emmanuel

Quote for the Day 14Aug2014

God wants you to live a stress-free life, not one filled with worries about tomorrow’s problems. When tomorrow comes, His grace will be there for you as your help, protection, favor and enabling! - Joseph Prince

Quote for the Day 13Aug2014

When trials intrude to slow down your life, it would be easy for you to give in; but by perseverance you’ll overcome strife, so just keep on plodding - with Christ you can win. - Branon

Quote for the Day 12Aug2014

God can create roads where we see only obstacles. When the way ahead of us seems uncertain, it’s good to remember what God has done in the past. He specializes in pathways in any circumstance - pathways that point us to His love and power. - David McCasland

Quote for the Day 11Aug2014

Man’s way lead to a hopeless end. God’s ways lead to endless hope. - Amos O. Tella

Quote for the Day 10Aug2014

What are those bad and wrong things that you also take pleasure in? In what way do you approve of those that are doing such bad and wrong things? Beware that you do not take pleasure in bad and wrong things. - Bayo Afolaranmi

DO YOU TAKE PLEASURE IN THEM?

Dearly Beloved, DO YOU TAKE PLEASURE IN THEM? "Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them" (Romans 1:32 NIV). There is a Yoruba proverb that goes thus: "He who does not eat rat should not use his teeth to divide it for the children." The proverb amused me. However as I pondered on it further, I realized that many Christians are like that proverbial man. They would not want to do something, especially bad thing, but they take pleasure in such things when other people are doing them. King Solomon took pleasure in foreign women when God forbade the people of Israel not to do so (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). The Bible says, "King Solomon loved many foreign women. They were from nations about which the LORD had told the Israelites, `You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods.' Nevertheless, Solomon held fast to them in love" (1 Kings 11:1-2 NIV). These foreign women gradually led him away from God. Some good kings of Judah had a flaw - "the high places, however, were not removed" (1 Kings 22:43; 2 Kings 12:3; 14:4; 15:4, 35 NIV). This flaw was recorded against Jehoshaphat, Joash, Amasiah, Azariah, and Jotham. Their problem for not removing these high places was probably that they took pleasure in them. It is ludicrous that some people in the Christian faith are taking pleasure in things that are contrary to the word of God. A good example of this is the controversial ordination of homosexuals in some Christian denominations. I wonder what messages such denominations want to pass across to the unbelievers. What are those bad and wrong things that you also take pleasure in? In what way do you approve of those that are doing such bad and wrong things? Beware that you do not take pleasure in bad and wrong things. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 09Aug2014

We are never too badly broken for God to reshape. He loves us in spite of our imperfections and past mistakes, and He desires to make us beautiful. - Cindy Hess Kasper

Quote for the Day 08Aug2014

Our hope for today and forever lies in the loving mercy of God who calls each star by name. - David McCasland

Quote for the Day 07Aug2014

Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset. - Saint Francis de Sales

Quote for the Day 06Aug2014

Stand Tall, Stand Proud. Know that you are unique and magnificent. You do not need the approval of others. - Jonathan Lockwood Huie

Quote for the Day 05Aug2014

No matter the pressure or what you face, do not seek an alternative from the will of God. - Femi Okunlola

Quote for the Day 04Aug2014

An idol can be any false idea about God. We are made in the image of God. He is not to be made in our image. - Amos O. Tella

Quote for the Day 03Aug2014

People may blame Job for his self-righteousness, but his life is one that even God could boast of. Can you be like Job, and can you do like he did? - Bayo Afolaranmi

CAN YOU DO LIKE JOB DID?

Dearly Beloved, CAN YOU DO LIKE JOB DID? "Oh, that I had someone to hear me! I sign now my defense - let the Almighty answer me; let my accuser put his indictment in writing. Surely I would wear it on my shoulder, I would put it on like a crown. I would give him an account of my every step; like a prince I would approach him" (Job 31:35-37 NIV). Job was a righteous man. I respect him a lot. His last defense in Job 31 is thought provoking. Let us look at them one after the other: he started the last part of his defense by declaring his covenant "not to look lustfully at a girl" (verse 1). He reiterated this in verse 9 that his heart had never been enticed by a woman. What a sexual purity! He testified about his blamelessness in terms of falsehood and deceit in verses 5-8. Also he talked about how he had not denied justice to his servants because he knew that the same God created him and these servants (verses 13-15). Moreover, he could boast about his generosity to the needy (verses 16-23). This generosity was extended to the members of his household as well as strangers (verses 31-32). He also exonerated himself from putting his trust in material possessions or any form of idolatry (verses 24-28). He could say it that he had never "rejoiced at [his] enemy's misfortune" nor invoke "a curse against his life" (verses 29-30). He even claimed his fairness to inanimate things like land (verses 37-40). In each of the cases, he prayed for severe consequences if he had done otherwise. No wonder, he could appeal his case to the Almighty (verses 35-37). Who on earth nowadays can do like Job did - to be bold enough to be able call people to challenge his/her integrity and fairness? Are we men not looking lustfully at other women, and being enticed by them? Are women also not doing what will make men to lust after them by their dressing and actions? How blameless are we in terms of falsehood and deceit? Are we not treating those that are subordinate to us with injustice? How generous are we to the needy and others around us? Are we not looking up to material possessions and other worldly things as our source of security? Have these things not become our thin gods? What is our attitude to our perceived enemies? Do you not rejoice at their misfortune and even invoke curses on them? How fair are we to animals and inanimate things around us? Can we sincerely pray that God should repay us according to our deeds? People may blame Job for his self-righteousness, but his life is one that even God could boast of (Job 1:8; 2:3). Can you be like Job, and can you do like he did? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 02Aug2014

God will follow you to the ends of the earth to give you another opportunity to surrender your life to Him. How many opportunities has He already given you? Is it not time you stopped running and surrendered your life to Him? - Bob Gass

Quote for the Day 01Aug2014

The secret of joy in work is contained in one word – excellence. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it. - Pearl Buck

Quote for the Day 31Jul2014

When you do not set your heart to seek the Lord, calamity is the inevitable result. The surest way to prosper in your endeavors is to diligently pursue the will of God. - Henry Blackaby

Quote for the Day 30Jul2014

If you wish to be miserable, think about yourself, think about what you want, what you like, what respect people ought to give you – and then to you, nothing will be pure, you will spoil everything you touch. You will make misery for yourself out of everything good. – Charles Kingsley

Quote for the Day 29Jul2014

The key to happiness is not to have what you want but to want what you have. - Anonymous

Quote for the Day 28Jul2014

Do not waste your precious energy on gossip, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead, invest your energy in the positive present moment. - Anonymous

Quote for the Day 27Jul2014

Hark, the voice of Jesus calling, Who will go and work today? Fields are ripe and harvests waiting, Who will bear the sheaves away? …Who will answer, gladly saying, Here am I, send me, send me? - Daniel March

HARK, THE VOICE OF JESUS CALLING

Dearly Beloved, HARK, THE VOICE OF JESUS CALLING “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” (Isaiah 6:8 NIV). “Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field’” (Matthew 9:37-38 NIV). Daniel March was a pastor in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA in the late nineteenth century when he had the inspiration to compose the hymn, “HARK, THE VOICE OF JESUS CALLING.” He composed the hymn during a service to replace a hymn that he perceived was not suitable for his message, and he sang the hymn immediately. Undoubtedly, Isaiah 6:8 and Matthew 9:37-38 (quoted above) would come to mind as some of the Bible passages that Daniel March might likely used as Scripture texts for his sermon that day. More than in the days of Daniel March, the voice of Jesus is still calling today, “Who will go and work today? Fields are ripe and harvests waiting, who will bear the sheaves away?” Will you answer the call like Isaiah and say, “Here am I. Send me!”? Daniel March gave some explanations in his hymn. You do not need to go to a distant place to do this assignment. You can find the lost around you; you can help them at your door. You do not need to have millions of dollars before you can give for missions. You can give the widow’s mite, because, what you truly give for Jesus will be precious in His sight. You do not need to be a great speaker before you speak of the love of Jesus and His death. You can even lead the little children to the Savior’s waiting arms. While you may not be noticeable to many people as some great evangelists and preachers of the Gospel, with your prayers and with your bounties, you can secretly do what heaven demands. You can even be like faithful Aaron and Hur who held up the hands of Moses while Joshua was in the war front fighting God’s battle (see Exodus 17:10-13). Having warned that we should not let people hear us idly saying, “There is nothing I can do. While the lost of earth are dying, and the Master calls for you”, Daniel March, therefore, concluded in the hymn with this admonition: “Take the task He gives you gladly; Let His work your pleasure be; Answer quickly when He calls you, Here am I, send me, send me.” Are you ready to yield to this admonition? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).

Quote for the Day 26Jul2014

Jesus is not one of many ways to approach God, nor is He the best of several ways; He is the only way. - A.W. Tozer

Quote for the Day 25Jul2014

Our love for God must not be based solely on His blessings but because of who He is. - Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Quote for the Day 24Jul2014

We don’t have enough words to tell God how much we love Him! So, let’s show Him our love by surrendering our hearts and lives to follow Him. - Joe Stowell

Quote for the Day 23Jul2014

If I were to say, "God, why me?" about the bad things, then I should have said, "God, why me?" about the good things that happened in my life. - Arthur Ashe

Quote for the Day 22Jul2014

Every child of God needs to learn how to have a constant relationship with God more than doing a service for Him. - SAK Olaleye

Quote for the Day 21Jul2014

Joy is not an emotion. It is a decision to look beyond painful circumstances and see that God is present in every situation. - Yemi Ladokun

Quote for the Day 20Jul2014

The bones of uprightness can live again wherever you find yourself by contributing your own positive quota towards it. Shun corruption in any form! - Bayo Afolaranmi

CAN THESE BONES LIVE?

Dearly Beloved, CAN THESE BONES LIVE? “The hand of the Lord was upon me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. He asked me, ‘Son of man, can these bones live?’ I said, ‘O Sovereign Lord, you alone know’” (Ezekiel 37:1-3 NIV). I am not happy with the level of corruption in my country, Nigeria. Corruption has eating deep into the fibre of every place from the highest level in the corridors of power in the country to the lowest level one can think of. Even, our religious (and especially Christian) settings are not left out of this moral decadence. I have been thinking if there would be any remedy from this situation. Will Nigeria ever be corruption free again? As I ruminated on this, the vision of Ezekiel in Ezekiel 37 came to my mind and specifically, the question of the Sovereign Lord: “Can these bones live?” Ezekiel could not answer the question, but the Lord asked him to command the dry bones to come back to life. After the dry bones had come back to life at Ezekiel’s command, the Lord gave the meaning of the vision: the dry bones were the whole house of Israel who thought that “[their] bones are dried up and [their] hope is gone” (verse 11 NIV). The Lord then asked Ezekiel to prophesy to the people that He (God) would open their graves and bring them up from their scattered places; that He would bring them back to the land of Israel. After these, the people of Israel would know that He is the Lord, when He opens their graves and brings them up from the far places. He also promised to put His Spirit in them and that they would live (see verses 12-14). In spite of the level of corruption in Nigeria, I believe that Nigeria will be free of corruption one day. Only, I cannot say how soon this will be. However, what role am I playing to make this come to reality sooner? What roles are you playing to make Nigeria corruption free? For non-Nigerians, what roles are you playing to make your society corruption free? The bones of uprightness can live again wherever you find yourself by contributing your own positive quota towards it. Shun corruption in any form! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that the Sovereign Lord will break every yoke of corruption in your life and society.

Quote for the Day 19Jul2014

You are the determinant of whether your heaven will be closed or opened. If you walk with the Lord and faithfully obey Him, the heaven over your life will be opened. If you neglect God and decide to disobey Him, your heaven will be closed. - Supo Ayokunle

Quote for the Day 18Jul2014

When you face valleys in your life, never forget that God is infinitely mightier than your problems, and He is watching over you. No matter how desperate your circumstances may seem, God is sheltering you and protecting you. He is upholding you and empowering you. - Michael Youssef

Quote for the Day 17Jul2014

We come nearest to the great when we are great in humility. - Rabindranath Tagore

Quote for the Day 16Jul2014

Giving with unending generosity consists of time, encouragement, financial help, compassion, friendship and prayer. - Amos O. Tella

Quote for the Day 15Jul2014

I have found a friend in Jesus, He’s everything to me, He’s the fairest of ten thousand to my soul; The Lily of the Valley, in Him alone I see All I need to cleanse and make me fully whole. - Charles W. Fry

Quote for the Day 14Jul2014

When unwelcome circumstances threaten you and you feel vulnerable, reflect on one of God’s names. Be assured — He will be faithful to His name. - Joe Stowell

Quote for the Day 13Jul2014

Have you allowed God to have His way in your life? Will you let God be the Potter of the clay in your life? Surrender your total life to Him and do not struggle with Him over your life ambition. He will mold your life in a better way than you never imagined. - Bayo Afolaranmi

HOW CAN GOD HAVE HIS WAY?

Dearly Beloved, HOW CAN GOD HAVE HIS WAY? "Father, if you are willing, please don't make me drink from this cup. But do what you want, not what I want" (Luke 22:42 ERV). “But, Lord, you are our father. We are like clay, and you are the potter. Your hands made us all” (Isaiah 64:8 ERV). Occasionally, I use the lyrics of the hymns I post daily in the “Ministering through Daily Hymns” aspect of my Internet ministry to pray for people in the “Prayer Wishes” aspect of the ministry. I do this because many people just sing and enjoy the melodies of these hymns without pondering on the wordings of the hymns. I was proved right recently when I used the lyrics of the popular hymn “HAVE THINE OWN WAY, LORD” by Adelaide A. Pollard to pray with people that day. I was surprised when some people in my contact lists asked me how God can have His way in their lives. When one asks God to have His way in one’s life, one is implying two things: one, one is depending on God and one is ready to yield to the way of God, and two, God is able to do the right thing in and over one’s life. Therefore, one who allows God to have His way over one’s life will surrender one’s total life to God for guidance and direction. Such one will allow God to do as He wills over one’s life without struggling with God or imposing one’s way on God. Having tried without success to become a missionary to Africa, Adelaide A. Pollard yielded herself to God and composed that hymn, “HAVE THINE OWN WAY, LORD.” She likened herself to clay while God is the Potter that is molding the clay as He wants. She waited and yielded herself so that God could mold her and make her after His will. Even as she did this, she went ahead to pray that God should search her and try her and wash her as she humbly bowed in His presence. Because she had allowed God to have His way in her life, she could pray also that God help her, touch her and heal her from her wounded and weary heart. Above all, she wanted to be filled with the Holy Spirit so as to see only Christ always living in her. Have you allowed God to have His way in your life? Will you let God be the Potter of the clay in your life? Surrender your total life to Him and do not struggle with Him over your life ambition. He will mold your life in a better way than you never imagined. Lord, have Your way in my life! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that you will not struggle with God but allow Him to have His way in your life so that your life will be molded as He wants it. NB Are you on BBM and you have not joined my first BBM network? If yes, you can still invite me through this second BB PIN:79D09A93 to be receiving my daily messages. If you are already in the first network and you have been receiving my daily messages you do not need to join this second network. Thanks.

Quote for the Day 12Jul2014

Money has never made man happy, nor will it, there is nothing in its nature to produce happiness. The more of it one has, the more one wants. - Benjamin Franklin

Quote for the Day 11Jul2014

God calls us to a wonderful process of learning to know Him, with the assurance that it will lead to productive service in His name and for His honor. - David McCasland

Quote for the Day 10Jul2014

Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply. - Stephen R. Covey

Quote for the Day 09Jul2014

Our peace comes from the confidence that the Lord loves us and He is in control. He alone provides the comfort that settles our nerves, fills our minds with hope, and allows us to relax even in the midst of changes and challenges. - Poh Fang Chia

Quote for the Day 08Jul2014

God will certainly not answer all our prayers the way we want Him to do so, but He works everything for the good of all who love Him. - Bayo Afolaranmi

Quote for the Day 07Jul2014

People, who consider themselves victims of their circumstances, will always remain victims unless they develop a greater vision for their lives. - Stedman Graham

Quote for the Day 06Jul2014

Give glory to God for the grace He has given you to enjoy the resources He has graciously endowed you with. Some have these resources, but they cannot enjoy them. Some wish to have what you have, but do not have them. - Bayo Afolaranmi

SOME HAVE FOOD, BUT...

Dearly Beloved, SOME HAVE FOOD, BUT... “These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng” (Psalm 42:4 NIV). One of the songs we used to sing when I was in elementary school is, “Some have food, but cannot eat; some can eat, but have no food. We have food and we can eat. Glory be to You, O Lord!” Honestly, like many of my contemporaries, I did not know the actual lyrics of this song and many other popular songs sung in school in those days. We just sang them routinely. However, just recently, I overheard it from some school pupils as they were about to have their midday break. I listened attentively to it as it refreshed my memory of my elementary school days, and I reflected on the lyrics of the song. Many people really have plenty of food and other financial and material resources, but they cannot enjoy them because of physical ailments, psychological trauma and other hindrances that are beyond their control. On the other hand, many people are hale and healthy with no stress, but they do not have food and other financial and material resources to enjoy. This scenario can be likened to a Yoruba adage: one who has head does not have cap to wear on it. However, many of us have food and other financial and material resources relatively and we can enjoy these things because we have little or no physical ailments, psychological trauma and other such things that may hinder us from enjoying the God-given resources. Glory, indeed, be to God. The writer of Psalm 42 could explain this scenario better. He wanted to join others to worship God but he was hindered by physical ailments and psychological trauma that were beyond his control. However, he encouraged himself by putting his hope in God. On the other hand, another psalmist in Psalm 103 expressed his praises to God “who satisfies [his] desires with good things” (verse 5, NIV). Do you give glory to God for the grace He has given you to enjoy the resources He has graciously endowed you with? Some have these resources, but they cannot enjoy them. Some wish to have what you have, but do not have them. Appreciate God for what He has done for you, and He will enable you to enjoy them more. I have food, and I can eat. Glory be to You, O Lord! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Points: 1. Pray that you will always appreciate God for the grace to enjoy His goodness over your life. 2. Pray for people that desire to enjoy the goodness of God but cannot because of some hindrances.

Quote for the Day 05Jul2014

God’s presence is real. He continually watches over us. He is rock-solid. — Anne Cetas

Quote for the Day 04Jul2014

Live in such a way that when people think of honesty and integrity, they will think of you. - H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Quote for the Day 03Jul2014

Sometimes the majority only means that all the fools are on the same side. – Anonymous

Quote for the Day 02Jul2014

I have learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. - Maya Angelou

Quote for the Day 01Jul2014

God is looking out for you when you do not even know you are in danger! – Bob Gass

Quote for the Day 30Jun2014

Do not despise what seems weak and insignificant to the world. God can use them to bring down the giants in your life! - Joseph Prince

Quote for the Day 29Jun2014

There will be showers of blessing for you from God - showers of fruitfulness and abundance, security and protection, freedom from oppression, promotion, and lots more. You will know that the Lord is good and His love endures forever. - Bayo Afolaranmi

THERE WILL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING

Dearly Beloved, THERE WILL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING "I will bless them and the places surrounding my hill. I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing" (Ezekiel 34:26 NIV). A shepherd in the Old Testament symbolized a royal caretaker of the people of God. This is the reason why the Old Testament great men are referred to as shepherd (Jeremiah 23: 1ff; Ezekiel 34:1ff). Even God was called the shepherd of Israel in Psalm 80:1 (cf. Psalm 23; Ezekiel 34:11-16). Unfortunately, most of the leaders of the people of Israel were bad shepherds. They misled the people. They only fed themselves to the detriment of the people. This made God to pronounce woe on them (Ezekiel 34:2-6). He said that He will hold them accountable for the misled and underfed sheep which were the people they were leading (verses 7-10). However, the good news is that God promises to search for His sheep and look after them (verses 11-16a). Where there has been no justice, especially amongst the people, God promises that He will shepherd the flock with justice (verses 16b-24). He promises to make a covenant of peace with them so that they will be at rest (verve 25). Above all, He will send to them showers of blessing (verse 26). These showers of blessing include fruitfulness, security, freedom from oppression, and lots more. The Lord will do these so that His people will know that they are His, and that He is the Sovereign God, the Lord above all lords, the God of the universe. Have the leaders of your country, church, or group disappointed you? Have they let God down in their leadership roles? Have you lost confidence in them? Take heart! The Lord will search for you and look after you. He will lead you with justice. He will make a covenant of peace with you and you will have rest. Above all, there will be showers of blessing for you from Him - showers of fruitfulness and abundance, security and protection, freedom from oppression, promotion, and lots more. You also will know that the Lord is good and His love endures forever (see Psalm 100:5). People will glorify God for the good things He will do in your life. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Requests: 1. Manifest yourself, Lord, in this world that is full of injustice and oppression and let the world that know you are the Sovereign Lord in Jesus' name. 2. Lord, let your showers of bless be on me, my spouse, children, work and everything that belongs to me in Jesus' name. 3. Let the people of the world know that you are my God by the good things you will do in my life in Jesus' name. Amen.

Quote for the Day 28Jun2014

Jesus' authority on earth allows us to dare to go to all the nations. His authority in heaven gives us our only hope of success. And his presence with us leaves us no other choice. - John Stott

Quote for the Day 27Jun2014

God knows us so well that He chooses the perfect time to give us what is best and to send reassurance of His care. — Bill Crowder

Quote for the Day 26Jun2014

Yielding control to God is a choice we can make every day - starting today. - David C. McCasland

Quote for the Day 25Jun2014

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. - Winston Churchill

Quote for the Day 24Jun2014

I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear. - Nelson Mandela

Quote for the Day 23Jun2014

Everything you say and do, is a reflection of the inner you. - Anonymous

YOU WILL COMPLETE IT!

Dearly Beloved, YOU WILL COMPLETE IT! "Then the word of the LORD came to me: 'The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also complete it. Then you will know that the LORD Almighty has sent me to you'" (Zechariah 4:8-9 NIV). The people of Israel were returning from the exile. They were picking up the crumbs of their nationhood under the leadership of Zerubbabel. One of such crumbs was the rebuilding of the temple of God in Jerusalem. However, they faced strong oppositions from the neighboring nations that did not want them to re-establish their nation (see Ezra 4). It was during one of those oppositions that the word of God came to Prophet Zechariah to assure Zerubbabel that he would be the one that will definitely complete the building project. Zechariah Chapter Four is full of prophecies in regards to the procedure of the completion of the rebuilding of the temple: firstly, it is neither by human might nor power, but by the Spirit of God (verse 6). It means that the success of the project would be by the Lord's doing, not by man's making. Secondly, all the mighty oppositions against the project will come to nothing (verse 7). This is exactly what happened when King Darius issued a decree to thwart all the oppositions (see Ezra 6:1-12). Thirdly, the very person that laid the foundation of the rebuilding of the temple will be the one that will complete it (verse 9). This promise actually came to pass (see Ezra 6:13-18). The last but not the least of the procedure is the fact that they should not despise the day of small things (verse 10a). That is, they should not look down on the little resources they had, and especially, the time they started the project with no hope. This may also mean that they should not underrate their small or slow progress at the work. They should not allow the contempt of others to discourage them (cf. 1 Timothy 4:12). The resultant effect is that people will rejoice at the completion of the project (verse 10b). What project have you started? Is it academic pursuit, building project, business project, or even a ministry? Are you facing oppositions or having difficulties in completing it? Do people despise you for your seemingly failure or slowness to its completion? Your hands that started the project will execute it to a successful completion in Jesus’ name. Follow also that procedure given to Zerubbabel. Do not rely on your own understanding, strength or resources. Rely on God. His grace is sufficient for you. He will silence all the oppositions that may arise against, or are facing you. All difficulties in your way shall vanish, and all the objections be got over. Believe that you that started the project will complete it. And do not despise your days of your humble beginning. Do not look down on yourself. Disregard people's contempt. Remember, "...He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6 NIV). You will complete the project! People will rejoice with you! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).