Swift Justice

Friends,

Recently, a substantial donation was sent to an orphanage overseas so that the administrator could purchase bunk beds for new arrivals. Unfortunately, that money was stolen almost as soon as it arrived. As the events were described, it was revealed that the thief, who was responsible for several other robberies that day, had been apprehended and summarily executed.

This was an upsetting and startling situation. Yet, the Lord wanted to make sure that we see that His hand is never far from His body.

Exodus 22:22-24 [NKJV]
You shall not afflict any widow or fatherless child. If you afflict them in any way, and they cry at all to Me, I will surely hear their cry; and My wrath will become hot, and I will kill you with the sword; your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless.

God specifically mentions orphans and widows several times throughout scripture... as if there is a special place in His heart just for them. They receive His protection and His mercy. God's people are told to minister to the widow and the fatherless above all others. We know that this is because, without our Savior, we too are fatherless and husband-less.

In the circumstance of this recent robbery and subsequent execution, we see this scripture played out for us in vivid and shocking detail. We can see that our Father truly takes very, very seriously any action that the evil one takes against us. Sometimes, justice is swift and obvious... as this particular thief can now attest. Other times, we must operate on faith rather than sight.

I will have more to say about this in future postings. But for now, brothers and sisters, put aside any doubt that the LORD sees what happens to every member of His body... no matter how insignificant or dramatic the action. His hand will administer justice in His time; and it will be perfect and good.

Be encouraged,
Jose

Worldly cares and influence

Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, and they did not have more than one loaf with them in the boat. Then He charged them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “ It is because we have no bread.” But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, “Why do you reason because you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive nor understand? Is your heart still hardened? Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember? When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments did you take up?” They said to Him, “Twelve.” “Also, when I broke the seven for the four thousand, how many large baskets full of fragments did you take up?” And they said, “Seven.”
Mark 8:14-20 (NKJV)

The disciples saw first hand the God's divine supernatural provision to the multitude. Turning what was seemingly lacking and inadequate into more than enough and running over. Yet within a short period of time, the disciples were confronted with a period of inadequacy and responded like a normal and rational man will - worry!!!! The influence and legitimate concerns of the world , the leaven of the Pharisees and Herod can shrink any faith we have if we succumb to its intimidating influence.

Can someone at the source and surrounded by resources worry at the possibility of running out of provision? After all He has done, the Lord is asking again like he did to the disciples....

So He said to them, “How is it you do not understand?”
Mark 8:21 (NKJV)

Brothers and Sisters, take heed of the leaven of the world, we have an All-Sufficient God.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Forgive now

Friends,

Among the most difficult actions for man to take is the act of forgiveness. Insults, injuries and injustices are often remembered and built upon for a long, long time. Why do we do this? What purpose is served by storing the memory of an offense from last week or even last month? What do we gain by holding tightly to the harm done to us in the 1990's?

Luke 17:3-4 [NKJV]
Jesus says... Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, "I repent," you shall forgive him.

Well before the benefits of forgiveness were chronicled and documented is this clear mandate from our Lord. And yet, we resist obedience. I could go on and on with examples, but if you search your own heart, you will find unforgiveness just as I did in mine... probably without looking for very long.

Don't let another day go by without letting go of that old hurt. Forgive the one that wronged you. Do it today so that Christ can begin healing that injury. It is never too late to experience the freedom that comes from obeying Jesus.

Be encouraged,
Jose

Right Spirit!?!?!

After Christmas, we all look back at the holiday with some angst. We think we gave too much, or not enough, we were too tight or too liberal without giving, we all promise not to do the same thing again next year. There are a few simple questions about how we carried out the Christmas Day celebrations that can help us out?

1. Did we recognize that God gave the ultimate gift of His Only Son?
2. Did we respect the work that Christ did in our lives to give us life more abundantly?
3. Did we give presents with the earnest hope that it met a need in someone's life?
4. Did we receive our gifts with thanksgiving and realize that our friends and family were trying to meet a need in our life?
5. Have we taken into account the effort (not the money) it takes to give a good gift that meets a need?
6. Do we realize that God is our all-in-all and without Him, no present will satisfy the hole in our lives?
7. Do we know that God has blessed us tremendously over the past year, quarter, month, week, day and hour and have we been thankful to Him?

Merry Christmas to all and I know that I am more thankful for who God is because He put people in my life that care about me.

Be Encouraged,

Martin

Merry Christmas

Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
Galatians 5:1 (NKJV)

As we celebrate the birth of our risen Savior – Our Lord Jesus Christ - today , we are reminded of the price paid in full for us and the liberty given us and most importantly the unique and wonderful opportunity given to all for eternal life. As we remember His birth, our focus must be the salvation brought for us by the eternal King. This season must bring to focus the basis of the 'exemplary giving' that gave us all 'hope and an eternal life' to look up to instead of condemnation.

For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
Galatians 5:13 (NKJV)

As we celebrate the remembrance of the birth of our Lord, we must celebrate not only His birth, but most importantly the liberty and hope of salvation that we have through Him. Rejoice! our King lives forevermore.

Merry Christmas.

Be Encouraged,

Afolabi

Gratitude's Reminder

Friends,

Look at your life and its circumstances today. Remember that you owe everything to the Lord. You may think it's good or think that it's not so good. But God's plan is perfect and good. Which brings me to one of my favorite verses of all of Scripture:

Jeremiah 29:11-12 [NKJV]
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.

So let us take a moment to rejoice... not just in spite of our present circumstances, but because of our present circumstances. It will force us to remember that God is good, all the time!

Be encouraged,
Jose

With God

For with God nothing will be impossible.
Luke 1:37 (NKJV)

Attempting to go to the next level or a defined goal usually seem difficult. Even more puzzling to the carnal mind are the pronouncements and declaration of the Holy Spirit over our lives. These - in every human calculation never add up. There are so many hurdles, obstacles, and barriers to contend with. The word impossible sounds logical in all things. It is so because all flesh operate in a limited space. However the Spirit of God in us is not bounded by the constraints of the flesh. When the Spirit of God told Mary that she would give birth to the Savior, she wondered, how could I? A virgin!

There is life in every child of God. This new life will come forth and we shall live for ever more. To men it may be impossible, but with God it is all possible.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Self-Inflicted Nonsense

Sin is something that we do to ourselves. It is not pushed on us by others, but caused by our own actions. We create the drama that unfolds in our life. How can we manage to stay on the path while creating turmoil? Faith in God and trust in the commandments of Jesus Christ along with reliance on the Holy Spirit for Guidance.

Like all self-inflicted wounds, sin can be avoided by change of focus. Almost all sin is related to our belief that we are number one and we need to be or do something that is outside the will of God. We have a personal investment in the actions or activities related to the sin we are performing. Let's take the time to analyze why instead of "is it worth the effort and penalty?". When we look at the reason behind the actions, then we can change the actions and the results. God will help us if we start to move in His Direction. Let's chose to implant Christ into our daily life and thought process and we can see a difference.

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. James 4:7-8 [KJV]

Be Encouraged,

Martin

The Living word in us

You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.
2 Corinthians 3:2-3 (NKJV)

We have been set aside for His goodness and good works in all areas of our life, to impact and increase Kingdom principles here on earth. Many may not have the privilege or opportunity to read or study His word in written form, but we are His word in living form that many will see, read and study. Does your life in public and private reflect this sacred role?

There’s more to our being alive today, it is for a special purpose that have been ordained from the foundations of the world. Be conscious of this divine purpose and do not work contrary to it. Many may not make it through unless they read Him clearly in your life.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

The Never Dying Word

Friends,

During this time of year, there is no shortage of things to do. There are parties at work, concerts and special services at the local assembly, and gatherings of family and friends at home. And while many of the occasions make mention of Christ's incarnation, none of them dig into the deep truths of that amazing event. And even though the Lord demands that we learn those deep truths, the study of God's Word always seems to take a back seat to the parties, the concerts, the special services and the family dinners.

What priority do you assign to Bible study? Are you too busy? Is it something you find time for when nothing else is happening? Or do you make time for Bible study, even at the expense of offending your fellow man?

1 Peter 1:23 [NKJV] (emphasis added)
having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever

The parties and concerts and dinners last for a few hours each, and their memory for a few days. But the word of God is everlasting.

Brothers and sisters, let us renew ourselves in the study of Holy Scripture. It is an investment with eternal dividends. It is the cornerstone of our salvation and the foundation of sanctification. It is the path of life!

Be encouraged,
Jose

Our Gift

A man's gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.

Proverbs 18:16 (NKJV)

While we walk the isles of life trying to discover ourselves, our potentials and our strengths, we are urged not to take lightly those gifts which the Lord has blessed us with. Because those things we do so well and comes so easy to us, we often discount them and take them for granted. The Lord has blessed each and everyone with a gift – something we do very well and possess a great potential to do better. We must discover it, build on it and receive His enabling power for ultimate success.

The scripture declares that through this gift, a way is made for us. God’s plan for our lives is to live life to the fullest and to accomplish what He set out for us to be. We must discover our purpose and gift to live the life the Creator set out for us. Brothers and Sisters, search it out, discover the gifts and put them to use, for it is God’s will for you.

Be Encouraged,

Afolabi Oghafua

Wisdom and Liberty

I returned and saw under the sun that - The race is not to the swift, Nor the battle to the strong, Nor bread to the wise, Nor riches to men of understanding, Nor favor to men of skill; But time and chance happen to them all. For man also does not know his time: Like fish taken in a cruel net, Like birds caught in a snare, So the sons of men are snared in an evil time, When it falls suddenly upon them.
Ecclesiastes 9:11-12 (NKJV)

The Preacher rightly portrayed the dilemma facing every sinful nature and mortal being. Time and Chance happen to all. It does not matter what we know, possess, our fame, skill, or accomplishments. Time and Chance continues to confront men, but Christ brought the world assurance and hope that whosoever will believe in Him shall not be at the mercy of time and chance but chance and time will work for our overall and eternal good.

Then I said: “Wisdom is better than strength"...."Wisdom is better than weapons of war";
Ecclesiastes 9:16,18 (NKJV)

This wisdom is embedded in the knowledge of the truth and the application of this truth to our very daily existence. You shall gain divine wisdom when you know the truth and the truth shall set you free.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

God Will Keep Me

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Psalm 23:5 [KJV]

Over the past few days, many things have come up in my life that have been very worrisome and disturbing. These items are beyond my control, but I wonder about how they came to the point that they are now. I also realize that what the events are don't hold the importance that these type of occurrences happen in everyone's life.

I was reminded of the verse above in my favorite Psalm. When the events all around us are not joyful and happy, we must remember that "God keeps me in presence of my enemies". He keeps me from falling. He continues to bless me so that I may be a blessing to others. God has set me on the solid rock and I can share that joy with others during the trials and tribulations of life. God always keeps us blessed and anointed so we can be His Showcase and Example even when we don't feel like we are.

Be Encouraged,

Martin

Man's Laughable Standards

Friends,

There is something strange in the way men give great weight in the worldly accomplishments and titles. We seem to believe that pastors, government officials or captains of industry are somehow shielded from God's plans. In our warped sense of fairness, we think that children are innocent of sin and that the poor are judged according to a different standard.

Yet scripture tells us over and over that the entirety of creation is subject to God's authority. And that means that when God determines that the time is right for Him to bring forth His wrath, all will be touched:

Exodus 12:29 NKJV
And it came to pass at midnight that the LORD struck all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sat on his throne to the firstborn of the captive who was in the dungeon, and all the firstborn of livestock.

First, let us see that it was the LORD who stretched forth His hand and executed the necessary judgment. God sees no need to apologize for His actions, and neither should we apologize for what He does.

Next, it is important to note that every household felt His wrath. There is no distinction between palace, prison, or paddock. The only way that God draws a distinction is by the blood of the lamb.

And so it is with us, brothers and sisters. All of creation is under the same death sentence for sin. But because Christ has applied His blood to us, the LORD passes over us and instead of death, we get LIFE!!

Be encouraged,
Jose

Do it now

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.
Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NKJV)

Time for us all is of essence. To every thing in our life there is a season, a time to sow, nurture and harvest, to miss a specific set time is to alter the chain of events in our lives. But while we live, we must pursue all righteousness with all of our heart for there is no pursuit in the grave.

But for him who is joined to all the living there is hope, for a living dog is better than a dead lion.
Ecclesiastes 9:4 (NKJV)

We can accomplish lofty things, impact and change lives - all when we still have time and hope. Unfortunately time for us is finite, so lets make every moment count for Him who died for us.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Vessels to start with

Friends,

Have you ever tried to fill up a full gas tank?
Have you ever tried to pick up a coin when your hands are full of paper?

These sound foolish, don't they. Yet, we try this with God seemingly every day. We say that we want to bring our "best" to God, yet God doesn't need any of our skills or intellect or ideas. Consider the following examples:

2 Kings 4:3-4 NKJV (emphasis added)
Then he said, "Go, borrow vessels from everywhere, from all your neighbors—empty vessels; do not gather just a few. And when you have come in, you shall shut the door behind you and your sons; then pour it into all those vessels, and set aside the full ones."

John 2:6-7 NKJV
Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of purification of the Jews, containing twenty or thirty gallons apiece. Jesus said to them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.

Both times, God required that the vessels be empty, so that God can fill them up. Brothers and sisters, emptying ourselves out is never easy. It means that we must put our wants and needs aside. It requires us to submit our time and energy to the service that God calls us to. It means forsaking our seemingly good ideas and clever plans, and replacing them with the Lord's perfect will.

In response, the LORD promises to fill us with His presence.

Be encouraged,
Jose

A patient spirit

The end of a thing is better than its beginning; The patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.
Ecclesiastes 7:8 (NKJV)

To every thing there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven. The day and the night is a perfect example of this divine cycle of life. In our lives as well, times will change, but God’s word says the end of a thing is better than its inception. As the seasons and time change, it is also possible to get caught up in the web of interpreting our situations from a carnal perspective.

Do not say, "Why were the former days better than these?" For you do not inquire wisely concerning this. In the day of prosperity be joyful, But in the day of adversity consider: Surely God has appointed the one as well as the other, So that man can find out nothing that will come after him.
Ecclesiastes 7:10, 14 (NKJV)

Brothers and Sisters, rather than channeling our energies into only asking questions, let our Spirit be patient and not proud. When we rest in the assurance of a faithful God, our patient spirit can also experience the peace that defies all human reason.

Be Encouraged,

Afolabi

Getting Back on Track

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 [KJV]

We have seen evidence of lost focus all around us. We have flawed decision making and flawed execution because of that lost focus. We all want to take the easy road out and cruise through life. We can be granted that request by following the verses above and their instruction. Making our request know to God by prayer and supplication will get us in tune with what God wants in our lives.

We must get in tune so that we can execute what God has planned for us. When we get back to where we need to be, the peace of God will come upon us. God uses that peace to show that we are on the right track. We also know that He is with us during any test that comes up, like sickness, job loss, family turmoil, social upheaval and the like. These tests are all to help us advance to the next level of faith and understanding. God uses the fire of these test to remove the impurities and mold our character, like a jewelry maker molds gold.

Be Encouraged,

Martin

Not losing focus

For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
Romans 10:3-4 (NKJV)

When there is preponderance of knowledge to the point of elevating self above the knowledge of God, then a seered conscience becomes the role model of the day, family values are distorted, moral decay enlarges and men pursue self righteousness instead of the righteousness of God. So the result is conflicts, conflicts and events unimaginable happening every where, but there is an opportunity for every child of God to make a difference. We cannot be ignorant of the word and deny the power contained therein. The cares and pleasures of the world must never cause us to shift to submission to self-righteousness. This usually leads to destruction. Paul put it clearly here that Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.

We can make a difference, through the power of the Lord Jesus Christ in us and our total submission to His righteousness change the world and increase the Kingdom of God here on earth. It is part of our great commission; we must never lose sight of this.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

The fall of celebrity

Friends,

The headlines scream out at us. We know the latest about pop stars, movie stars and the so-called intriguing people. The awards shows are simply another opportunity for some to flaunt their wealth and extravagance.

It is easy for us to sit in judgment as the celebrities prance up and down their red carpets, making their bodies nothing more than walking posters to be gawked at.

It's much harder for us to see that same sin in ourselves. But we do the same thing, just in a different way. We may not have runways and cameras and autograph seekers. But we preach a sermon of "Get saved and get a new car!" We dress for service to impress the man next to us, instead of the Man who died for us. We demand money for the next big church building or TV program, while the poor pick through garbage to for something to eat.

Be aware, brothers and sisters.

Isaiah 3:16-17
Moreover the LORD says:
"Because the daughters of Zion are haughty,
And walk with outstretched necks
And wanton eyes,
Walking and mincing as they go,
Making a jingling with their feet,

Therefore the Lord will strike with a scab
The crown of the head of the daughters of Zion,
And the LORD will uncover their secret parts." -- NKJV

Just because we know we are His chosen children does not exempt us from being struck by our Father. Note that this passage refers to the "daughters of Zion." He will rebuke His own far more strictly than those who do not bear His Name. Such holiness is not what our flesh finds impressive or perhaps even comfortable. But it is the path to true and everlasting blessings.

Be encouraged,
Jose

Nothing between us

Friends,

Think, for a moment, of the images that express remarkable intimacy... the comforting touch of a close friend, the vulnerability of sharing deep truths, or the private time between a man and his bride.

All of these images point to the relationship that our Lord has created with us. He expresses this intimacy in many ways, of course, and some might escape our notice. For example, when He established the original Passover, God instructs His people to take an unblemished lamb from their flock, and ...

Then they shall eat the flesh on that night; roasted in fire, with unleavened bread and with bitter herbs they shall eat it. -- Exodus 12:8 (NKJV) ... emphasis added

The Lord, who is a Consuming Fire, wanted nothing to come between Himself and the chosen lamb. So therefore, it was not boiled, sautéed, or deep fried. It was cooked with direct fire. The Lord is making a connection here, brothers and sisters. He is touching His chosen. The flesh will be burned by it; that much is certain. But in so doing, His chosen people are made ready for what is to come next: redemption, emancipation, freedom, salvation.

Be examined today, friends. How would you describe your intimacy with the Father? Can you feel the heat of His presence, or is your experience diluted with easy teaching? Are you wowed by fancy rituals and excellent presentation, or is the true Word of God preeminent?

The time is now. This the day of preparation. Go to the fire, Christians. For what follows is amazing.

Be encouraged,
Jose

Power in Truth

For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do.
Roman 7:15 (NKJV)

It is true we go through our challenging and struggling seasons. With warring parts in our members like in Apostle Paul's experience, we must confront the weaknesses in our lives with the truth of God’s empowering word.

And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free.
John 8:32 (NKJV)

Knowing the way and the truth are desirable and commendable things, but the knowledge alone will not change us from our broken and condemned state. It is the application of the truth by the power of the Holy Spirit in our daily walk that will bring about the real renewal of our mind. This transformation sets us completely free.

Brothers and Sisters, going it alone usually doesn’t work. But we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength. It is this strength and applying power that I pray for us today. May we continually find the ‘truth-applying’ power to every season and times of our lives, Amen.

Be Encouraged,

Afolabi

Who Do You Work For?

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. Colossians 3:17 [KJV]

As we are winding down the year and work on positioning ourselves for a new start, we have to ask the question of who are we working for in this day and time? Are we true to the letter that Paul wrote to the Colossians years ago? Are we working for the Lord and giving thanks to Him? Or are we in the "rat race" and working to obtain more stuff?

When we look back over our life, do we see evidence that we worked for Christ instead of ourselves? Can we point to where we did what God said? When we find those moments, we realize how much more rewarding they are now. We realize that we had the correct focus and God worked everything out for His Goodness and our benefit. During the time, we may have felt differently, but our faith kept us on the path. What a reward that became when we put in our work for God!!!! He has the best pay scale ever. He is always there to make us whole. Praise God for the job that He has given me in His Kingdom.

Be Encouraged,

Martin

The Him in us

Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness. And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin. Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him.
1 John 3:4-6 (NKJV)

He was bruised, decimated and defiled that we may gain eternal life. Yet in the lawlessness and destruction of the world, the Son of Man was manifested that He may take away our sins. While the sins are taken away, the flesh in us resists and obstructs the revelation of Him in us. That is why "the weapons weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:3-5).

When every thought is brought into captivity to the obedience of Him in us, then His paid price for us is not in vain. To do otherwise is to crucify the Shepherd of our soul again. The Him in us must not be mocked nor violated, but must be exalted above all in our life.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Faith without stupidity

Friends,
God's sovereignty is at the core of my belief. He is involved and in charge. We plan, devise, and consider the potential consequences of our actions. But at the end of the day, every result is in the hand of God. Nothing, not even the smallest detail, escapes His notice. I take great comfort in this belief... knowing that the most kind, generous and loving being is actively controlling all events, whether I notice them or not.

Some people would logically conclude, then, that we can live recklessly, presuming upon God's protection regardless of the normal consequences that He has ordained. No one would argue that stepping in front of a speeding train is going to end up in a big mess for the believer and non-believer alike. But what of the more subtle situations? Jesus tells us:

Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. -- Matthew 10:16 (NKJV)

Is God absolutely in charge? Most certainly.
Does He demand that we behave with wisdom and maturity? You better believe it!

Be encouraged,
Jose

We give Thee thanks

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: Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
Psalm 103:1-5 (NKJV)

Like we ought to do everyday, we bring focus to the awesome grace, mercy and goodness of the Lord toward us through the year. When we bring the gift of salvation, the forgiveness of our debts, healing, provision, unrivaled benefits, victory, protection, mercies and daily renewals into remembrance, our soul just ought to revel and bask in the attitude of praise and thanksgiving. How can our soul take all of these lightly and for granted?

To you Oh Lord be all praise, glory, honor and majesty. Thank you Lord for you are good and your mercies are from everlasting to everlasting.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Again, Patience

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.
1 John 4:1-4 (NKJV)

You have heard this before and many times, test all spirits before you receive them. Many false prophets are aware of this truth, so they even come to our world in His name, professing to be evangelists and ministers of the truth, they even sound like the truth, yet they pursue a different agenda to the Kingdom that they try and perfectly impersonate.

Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober.
1 Thessalonians 5:6 (NKJV)

Therefore again, let us with patience run this race of faith, with patience we will wear out the impostor, with patience we will unravel the true agenda of every ministry, with patience and steadfastness and His grace we will not miss the mark. In all that we do, let patience have its way and at the appropriate time.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Returning to praise

Friends,

When we stop to consider all that God has done, how do we get through a day without falling to our knees in grateful appreciation?

Luke 17:17-18
So Jesus answered and said, Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?

I am as guilty of the next man of getting busy and neglecting to take the time to focus my gratitude on the One who is truly worthy. His grace is sufficient, of course, but it is imperative that examine what Christ has done and return to Him in praise.

Let it never said of us, brothers and sisters, that we are among the 90% who accept His blessings and go on without acknowledging that He has done a mighty work in us.

Be encouraged,
Jose

Have patience, Be patient

By your patience possess your souls.
Luke 21:19 (NKJV)

When the Lord was asked for signs and tips about the end times, He gave a rather gloomy picture and daunting scenario. There will be persecutions and sophisticated deceptions that will require a discerning mind and spirit to detect. In all these there will be prevalence of a sheered conscience, moral decay, widespread destruction and uncommon calamities everywhere. Wolves will come in Sheep's clothing, dishing out the word so much like the real thing, but we have been warned and given the way out of these things. With patience we will wear out the deceptive ploys and antics of the adversary in sheep's clothing, with patience we will overcome the dread and scaring events of the end time.

For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 14:4-6 (NKJV)

With patience we will ultimately possess our souls.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

God’s way

So he said to me, "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty.
Zechariah 4:6 (NKJV)

To win the battle of life, you need to focus your strength in the praise of Him, for He inhabits the praise of His people. To focus on something else is to live an inefficient and ineffective life. Joshua in the Battle of Jericho laid down the arms and chose to implement God's way for dealing with Life's battles (Joshua 4). Hannah knew better with the ridicule and provocations from Peninnah and her children that her fist or anger could not match the challenge at hand but only her faith in Him - who never forgets - could make her prevail and this she pursued rigorously (1 Samuel 1). The faith fight may seem long, bitter, sore and endless, but the end is so sweet, joyous and eternal.

For His anger endureth but a moment; in His favor is life; Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.
Psalm 30:5 (NKJV)

I pray the Lord will continually give us the wisdom to apply faith in all our challenges and walk with Him. Faith your issues one on one, put on the garments of praise, thank God for the present situation, glorify him, Bless his name for where you currently are, and what he will do and continue to walk in His will at all times. This is the King’s way, it never fails.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

God is Bigger than All My Problems

Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed. Psalm 37:24-26 [KJV]

Even when we think that all is lost, it is not. God holds a promise that carries past our generation. He says that even when we fall, we are not out. We are held by His Hand. Is there any more comfort than that? God has us even when we fall. He is bigger than all my problems. He will be merciful to us and hold us with His Hand. God wants us to know that that He loves us and that we can trust Him.

Are you carrying something around that you should give to Him? Let God have it today and let Him hold your hand through the situation. God will always be there in the midst of all the events that are happening. "Greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world."

Be Encouraged

Martin

The Shepherd's heart

Then David spoke to the men who stood by him, saying, “What shall be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?”
1 Samuel 17:26 (NKJV)

Israel had been intimidated for a long time by the armies of Philistine. Their adversary was a colossal figure, huge, imposing and intimidating. His description by warfare standards would make any opponent cringe and crumble at the sight of this Philistine Champion. But David hearing and seeing the trauma and dread that fell on his people as a result of the threats and rants from Goliath was moved and wanted this 'reproach on his people' taken away. Just like the good Shepherd that never allows reproach and harm to come our way so was David prepared to do battle in the face of danger and a formidable adversary.

Do you have the Shepherd's heart? Do you use the talent and strength that the Lord has given you to emancipate the weak or do you use these to exploit them? We must be driven by this simple example of the Shepherd's heart because we are our brother's keeper.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Our own undoing

Friends,

Lest we forget that the ongoing work of sanctification is accomplished by the LORD and not by us, we would do well to remember what Isaiah recorded:

Isaiah 6:5
So I said:
Woe is me, for I am undone!
Because I am a man of unclean lips,
And I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips;
For my eyes have seen the King,
The LORD of hosts.

Isaiah was no slouch. He was a faithful man of God, dramatically used to remind Israel of the promises made and kept over many generations. He spoke boldly and forcefully against the rebellion of that day (and of our times, for that matter). And for all the anointing that fell upon him, even he recognized his inadequacy in the face of a Holy God.

What about you, brothers and sisters? Do you realize that we are in no way, shape, or form, worthy of being the presence of God? When we come to that place, we can finally begin to understand the fullness of grace that He has bestowed upon us. It is the beginning of revelation... to understand the depth of His love for us.

Be encouraged,
Jose

No wavering

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
Hebrews 10:23-25 (NKJV)

As the days go by, we take a step closer to our call to glory. Our fervent prayer is for length of days that are purposeful, meaningful, impacting and beneficial not only to ourselves, but our world and generations to come. With our steadfastness of hope comes a sacred responsibility of invoking the treasure in every brother and sister for good works. We are in this race together and we must cheer each other up in this performance for the audience of one. He that has called you and I is faithful and He will never fail.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Signs and Wonders

Friends,

One of the reasons I'm so glad to be a Christian is that Jesus has created a genuine relationship between us. And as a result, I get the privilege of hearing from Him and speaking with Him.

This morning, I stopped at a convenience store for a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich. I wasn't going to, but I could really sense His leading in this... even if it was something as seemingly trivial as a egg, cheese and turkey sausage on a pancake (which is really good, by the way). Then I walked out of the store and saw it: a beautiful rainbow painting its way across the morning sky. Then I noticed a flock of geese slicing their way south. I stepped out into the cold air ... and that's when it hit me.

This is my absolute favorite kind of day!

God had planned all of these things. And sure, I wasn't the only person that realized that it was a cool, autumn morning. And surely there were others who saw those geese and that rainbow. But God wanted me to see them, and to take note of them. Without the little detour into that store, I would have driven to work struggling through the hundreds of thoughts competing for my attention, never taking the time to speak to my Lord.

But because He loves me, he changed my direction and had me notice what He does. And when I thanked the Lord for this perfect day, we got to talking, which turned a mundane morning commute into a time of prayer and worship.

Be encouraged,
Jose

Ready To Serve

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee. Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness. Psalm 51:7-14 [KJV]

How do we get ready to serve? First we have to go to God and get in the right spirit. Not in the right frame of mind, but in the right spirit, because once the spirit is right, it will help the frame of mind. David was caught red handed stealing and covering up. He had no other out, but to go to God and get ready to serve again.

How do we do that? We must go to God and line up with Him again. He will be able to complete the list of things above in our life so that we can get to our assigned task. Praise, worship and service are the tasks that we are called to do. Let's get back in the game and be ready to serve.

Be Encouraged,

Martin

Work to win

For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you.
1 Corinthians 9:19-23 (NKJV)

As members of the Body of Christ, our common goal of increasing the Kingdom must not be relegated to the cares and issues of our times and world, rather we must seek wisdom to navigate what seems to be a complex mix of God's children and creations. Paul from the above scripture employed different strategies but with one underlying goal that is to bring salvation to as many that will receive and accept it. We are the salt and light of the world, while we set to win for the Kingdom of God, we must not be influenced by the world but we must influence the world lest we lose our taste and flavor.

Let us with certainty run the race set before us, impact our generation and bring value to God's kingdom here on earth with heavenly wisdom. We must not take our eyes away from the ball even in the midst of all the different attractions.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Trembling kings

Friends,

The so-called opinion makers of the west have been attacking Christianity for a generation and a half. They attempt to marginalize believers with sarcasm, lies and hyperbole. I always find it comforting that this behavior is foretold in Scripture:

Psalm 48:4-5
For behold, the kings assembled,
They passed by together.
They saw it, and so they marveled;
They were troubled, they hastened away. [NKJV]

The world has decided that these public figures are as powerful as kings; and therefore they hang on their every word. Consider the behavior of these "kings" as it relates to Christianity: They see it and, instead of desiring to understand it, they mock it. Is that not a typical reaction of fear and prejudice?

The point of all this is, brothers and sisters, that our LORD saw this coming. He has this state of affairs well under His control. And therefore, we can be confident that He will ensure that their mockery, like all things, "work together for good to those who love God" (Rom 8:28b).

Be encouraged,
Jose

Dangerous mixing

Friends,

False professions are nothing new, and the evidence is in the actions (which have always spoken louder than words).

Deuteronomy 29:19
and so it may not happen, when he hears the words of this curse, that he blesses himself in his heart, saying, 'I shall have peace, even though I follow the dictates of my heart'—as though the drunkard could be included with the sober. [NKJV]

Now is a great day to reexamine our walk. Does it align with our words? Do we say all the right things and sing all the right notes, but harbor and nurture secret sin? Or have the words we've heard and said taken root? Are we truly a different and peculiar people? Can the world tell us apart as easily as we can tell the difference between a drunk man and a sober one?

Sisters and brothers, it is never easy to be different in this world. We will most assuredly be labeled as fanatics. But it is an integral part of taking up our cross each and every day. And it is a way of obedience and blessing.

Be encouraged,
Jose

Seek Wisdom

Now Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with him, but had departed from Saul. Therefore Saul removed him from his presence, and made him his captain over a thousand; and he went out and came in before the people. And David behaved wisely in all his ways, and the LORD was with him. Therefore, when Saul saw that he behaved very wisely, he was afraid of him. But all Israel and Judah loved David, because he went out and came in before them.
1 Samuel 18:12-16 (NKJV)

Right before Saul's presence and reign as King of Israel, David excelled, did great exploits and incurred divine favor and the acceptance of the majority of the people. King Saul did not receive this well and planned evil for David all the way. But because God was with David, he escaped all the evil schemes of Saul on him. Rather than react negatively to the king, David obeyed and served him the more. He simply acted wisely through the divine wisdom given to him.

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
1 Peter 3:9 (NIV)

It takes the spirit of God in us to overcome the natural instincts of the flesh, it does take wisdom to respond to life according to His will for us. In all our ways, lets seek wisdom from above.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Prayer as a Fuel Stop

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6 [KJV]

How many of us use prayer as a necessary fuel stop? Do we go to God to let Him know that we need recharging? Or do we use prayer as a last ditch stop gap before falling deep into a pit? Or do we use prayer as a way to get out of the pit that we have fallen into? I believe that all of us use prayer in some of the ways listed. When we can make prayer an essential part of our lives, we will see that the power of God will show up regularly on our behalf, because we are keeping our fuel tanks filled. Let's devote some time to prayer over the next two weeks to see if we keep our tanks, how much better will our lives run. Let's start today.

Be Encouraged,


Martin

His word, Real Hope

Your word I have hidden in my heart,That I might not sin against You.
Psalm 119:11 (NKJV)

The word spoken by God as promises are a beacon of hope. They bring renewed life to a wearied soul. The words of promise gives a reason to live, a reason to persevere and endure, a reason to confront present difficulties and challenges and to ultimately hang in there for an expected end. This was the singular reason King David had to hide the word in his heart, lest he through his own actions and words work against the promises of God in his life.

Keep the word in your heart, secure hope with His word, hide it like King David if you have to. They are life, they are strength, power and necessary to navigate the smooth and rough terrains of life. They bring Real hope for the hopeless and all in a challenged generation of today.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

The Ram in the Bush

And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. Genesis 22:13 [KJV]

God will always provide our needs when we have been obedient to Him. Think about Abraham and Isaac. God told Abraham to give up the one thing that he had longed for all his life. The test of faith was for both Abraham and Isaac. Abraham, to see if he truly believed that God could do anything and Isaac, to find if God could get him out of impossible situations. Both of them had to have immense fear in what could happen, but God knew the outcome. He knew that Abraham trusted Him, but He wanted to confirm in Abraham's heart that fact. He also knew that Isaac would go through life with a belief that God could get him out of the most dire straits. God can always have a "Ram caught in the thicket" for us, but we must go far enough in our faith to find the thicket and then the "RAM"

Be Encouraged,


Martin

Life and Death

Friends,

We know that the blood of Christ is powerful beyond imagination. Did you know that it not only has the power of life, but the power of death, as well?

Exodus 7:20
And Moses and Aaron did so, just as the LORD commanded. So he lifted up the rod and struck the waters that were in the river, in the sight of Pharaoh and in the sight of his servants. And all the waters that were in the river were turned to blood. [NKJV]

Just as the Word is life and wisdom to the believer but foolishness and judgment to the non-believer, so is the blood of the Lamb. You see, when the true Christian sees Jesus' blood, he sees life. That is because he knows that Christ's blood was shed for the specific purpose of bringing life.

But the reaction from the non-believer is different. It may be, "What a shame; He was such a good man," or, "He was fool to die like that," or, "If He was a god, He wouldn't have let them do that to Him." The common thread for each of these responses is that they all lead to death. Like the water that turned to blood in Egypt, it is a testimony of judgment, not redemption.

Remember, brothers and sisters, the true purpose of Jesus' redemptive act. He shed real blood so that real men and women may have eternal life. Let us truly live for Christ today.

Be encouraged,
Jose

The Time Is Now

Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. Matthew 24:44 [KJV]

Time waits for no one and time passes faster than we expect. When we are called to do something such as stand up for God, we must be ready to move. We must not delay. God has placed us into a position of carrying out His Work. When we delay, the next person comes in to do the job. I don't know about you, but when I see someone doing what God had initially asked me to do, I feel that I let God down by not being ready or willing to respond. I also try to use that as a reminder that when God is ready, He knows that I am ready. So as Christ shared in this lesson, the time came and those that were ready got to go onto their reward.

Be Encouraged,


Martin

For such a time as this

For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
Esther 4:14 (NKJV)

Many have found themselves in positions they never thought feasible or possible in the recent past, but God's plans in a believer's life are divine and ordered for His purpose. Esther had gained close proximity to the base of power and influence until the stake of her generation and kindred hung on the balance. Her elevation to a sphere of influence was for such a time as this. She became a destiny changing tool for the Jews of that time. The Esther’s of this generation abounds and you and I know what the calling is on our individual and collective lives.

We have been set apart for a time such as this - A time where there seem to be much hopelessness in the land, a time where the trend of things have been on the downward path. We can bring hope back to a weary and confused generation. In the midst of the entire gloomy picture from the modern day media, we can be the beacon of hope and the light of the world, for we have been preserved for such a time as this. Do not miss your destiny changing opportunity.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Fan the Flames

Friends,

Imagine what it must have been like nearly 2,000 years ago -- celebrating Pentecost in a crowded second floor room in Jerusalem surrounded by true believers. A mighty noise of rushing wind fills the whole building and fire spontaneously appears before you. Your mind rushes back to the stories you heard as a child: when Almighty God led His people through the wilderness as a pillar of fire, when God spoke to His anointed prophet Moses from a fiery bush, and when the fire of the LORD fell upon a watery sacrifice and utterly consumed it along with the saturated dust and stones. The Holy Spirit connects those events with what you see in front of you....

Acts 2:3
Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. - NKJV

Brothers and sisters, that same fire dwells within each man and women who is truly called to follow Christ. It is a fire which demands that we speak the truth about God without apology or fear. It is a fire that drives us to acknowledge the "least of these" as Christ's representatives. It is a fire that burns when our thoughts, words and actions dishonor the holy Name of the Lord. It is a fire that burns with passion when we enter God's presence in worship.

Do you have the fire?

Be encouraged to burn bright and hot for Jesus,
Jose

Good counsel

Esther had not revealed her people or family, for Mordecai had charged her not to reveal it.
Esther 2:10 (NKJV)

Esther had lost her parents at an early age and was nurtured and brought up by her uncle Mordecai. Mordecai trained her according to Proverbs 22:6 - 'Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it'. Because Esther had been brought up to be receptive to good counsel, this accompanied her all the way to the King's palace, attracting favor and mercy to her all the way.

Mordecai, though never had the opportunity to grace or be in the presence of the powers that be, but his assiduous and conscientious pursuit and beqeathing of good counsel propelled his adopted daughter to not only royalty but it also positioned him to influence the fate of his people and generations to come.

Counselors are rarely seen or heard but their influence is huge and far-reaching. What kind of counsel do you give? Like Mordecai, never miss any opportunity to impact your generation and those to come.

Be Encouraged,

Afolabi

Fear of the Lord

The fear of the LORD leads to life, and he who has it will abide in satisfaction; He will not be visited with evil.
Proverbs 19:23 (NKJV)

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. To fear the Almighty God is to acknowledge Him in all our ways. When we operate in the fear and reverence of the Most High God, our actions and intents are guarded from destruction, our choices are divinely informed and directed and we are enveloped in a divine assurance which gives us peace that goes beyond the reasoning of man.

But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting On those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children's children.
Psalm 103:17 (NKJV)

To walk and operate in the fear of the Lord is the smartest move you will ever make. His fear inspires the detesting of sin in our lives and we are motivated to shun all acts of self-righteousness, pride, arrogance and all unrighteousness.

Be Encouraged,

Afolabi

The Fire Within

Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay. Jeremiah 20:9 [KJV]

When we are revived with the Word of God, we are excited to let this fire out. But when we are not following God's lead, or trying to keep quiet about what God means to us, or not coming from a great session where the Word of God was shared, we become like Jeremiah. He became weary of telling the people about God and what God could do for them. He wanted to keep quiet and not cause any more public disruptions. But God is planted deep in all of us as The Word was in Jeremiah and when the time comes to speak, we are powerless to hold the Word back. We must take a lesson from Jeremiah and let the fire out. The fire does service to us all in purifying and cleansing. We need the fire within to clean us out.

Be Encouraged


Martin

Intimate Fire

Friends,

One of things about God that is so awesome to me is how completely uncontrollable He is. He does what He does, and no one and no thing can stop Him. Like a wildfire, He cannot be contained. Now don't get me wrong. We like fire when we can keep it managed, like in a fireplace. But when it escapes our control, it consumes everything it touches, melting steeling, turning cement into dust, and leaving nothing behind but dust and ash.

Hebrews 12:9
For our God is a consuming fire. (NKJV)

If the thought of God as fire strikes fear in your heart, then confess to the Lord that you are afraid of Him. God is not going to change, but He will deal with your fear. God is not going diminish Himself nor allow Himself to be managed. And for us that are true believers, this is good news. I don't know about you, but I don't want God to be small enough to be controlled. I want God to be bigger and more powerful than anything found in this life. And Almighty God is just that!

Be encouraged,
Jose

Revival

Friends,

For most of us, the word "revival" inspires images of powerful music, enthusiastic preaching, and that spiritual high that almost always results from those experiences. Remember how you felt after attending one of the many traveling conferences presented by Promise Keepers, Women of Faith, and Joyce Meyer Ministries? That's what is often meant by "Revival."

But the wonderful songs and uplifting prayers are not the source of true revival.

Psalm 119:25 (NKJV)
My soul clings to the dust;
Revive me according to Your word.

Brothers and sisters, the Word is what revives. Songs that reflect the Word can help. Prayers that affirm the Word are wonderful. But the Word is the real thing. It is truly the "pause that refreshes." Go to it and see how your life changes!

Be encouraged,
Jose

What Do I Do Now?

Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate, And the LORD have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land. Isaiah 6:11-12 [KJV]

When you read the leading verses in this passage, it will be very familiar. Isaiah is recounting his visit with God after King Uzziah died. While in the presence of God, he volunteered for a mission to spread the word. We normally stop reading after that, but what are the follow-on actions?

God instructed Isaiah and He instructs us to continue on His Mission regardless of the popularity or the response. He wants us to finish the course. So after we get the assignment and look at the tasks and even after we start moving, we must plan to push to the end. So, the answer to what do I do now is to keep going until it is finished.

Be Encouraged,

Martin

Leave no one behind

Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him.
Acts 10:34-35 (NKJV)

We serve a God that isn't a respecter of personalities. He deals with all his creation with grace particularly those who fear Him and works righteousness. Peter like the Jews of the time operated in an aura of superiority never regarding other folks that wasn't from his own. The trance he fell into exposed this arrogance and he was instructed to never call any one common or unclean. In our society today it is easy to slice and dice people based on our own classifications - sinner, adulterer, fornicators, liars, rapist, killers, swindlers, homosexuals, etc.

and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV)

If any of these will forsake their ways and seek the face of the Lord in reverence, then they become the apple of God's eye as it is His intent and desire that all these come to repentance. In His Kingdom, everyone is welcome. Leave no one behind. Those who are His will heed to the call sooner or later.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Remembrance takes us to gratitude

Friends,

Whenever I remember the cross, it causes me to be express such gratitude for what Christ has done. But it doesn't compare to the feeling I get when I remember that my actions deserved the cross. Before entering the Promised Land, Moses instructed Israel to conduct a special ceremony that illustrates this very point.

Deuteronomy 26:5, 10b-11 (NKJV)
And you shall answer and say before the LORD your God: My father was a Syrian, about to perish, and he went down to Egypt and dwelt there, few in number; and there he became a nation, great, mighty, and populous.

Then you shall set it [your sacrifice] before the LORD your God, and worship before the LORD your God. So you shall rejoice in every good thing which the LORD your God has given to you and your house, you and the Levite and the stranger who is among you.

This passage starts with the acknowledgment of sinfulness (my father was a Syrian) and takes us right into sacrifice and then to the party (rejoice in every good thing).

For us to truly appreciate the work of Christ at Calvary, we must appreciate the depth of our depravity. As a result, the sufficiency of grace becomes amazing and awe-inspiring. Bless the Lord, brothers and sisters. For He has forgiven us who so desperately need that forgiveness.

Be encouraged,
Jose

What Should I Ask For?

And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore. And Solomon's wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east country, and all the wisdom of Egypt. I Kings 4:29-30 [KJV]

As we read yesterday, with God, all things are possible, so as we face today, we wonder, what should we ask for? Solomon was faced with a similar situation prior to becoming king. He was presented with many options and the verses above show the result of his request. If we can deny ourselves and let God direct, then we can ask for and receive the right gifts. Sometimes we get caught up in the desires or concerns of today and forget the downstream affects of our decisions. But, if we trust God first and listen to His Directions, then we can always ask for "the right stuff"

Be Encouraged,


Martin

With God...

Jesus looked at them and said, With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.
Matthew 19:26 (NKJV)

Yes, it is a biblically correct statement for ‘man’ to look at ‘man or God’s’ plan and make the conclusions of impossibility. Our Lord expressed the mindset of man on lifes challenges. But when the “With God” clause is added into all situations, circumstances and conditions, then the predetermined 'impossible' outcome is altered forever. ‘Got any impossibilities being echoed and amplified by the world and folks around you? Just add the “With God” phrase into your life statements and believe the end statement

O Sovereign LORD! You have made the heavens and earth by your great power. Nothing is too hard for you!
Jeremiah 32:17 (NKJV)

With the world, there are limitations and constraints, but with our God, the impossible becomes possible.

Be Encouraged,

Afolabi

Flee from Form without Substance

Friends,
We are in an age of aesthetic excellence. Worship services are crisp, with every song performed beautifully and every movement choreographed with precision. Even the sermons are timed to not interfere with overall schedule.

I don't think this is what God wants from us.

2 Timothy 3:5 (NKJV)
having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!

We have lowered our standard to the point where we are thrilled when it all runs smoothly, completely overlooking the whole point of the matter... which is to enter into the presence of the Almighty God, with praise, reverence and awe.... and then to hear from Him, to be fed by Him. If this is lacking in your regular time of corporate worship, then you must speak. There is no excuse for starvation when God's word is abundant. The Lord will hear, even if the minister does not. And the Lord will gladly open a way to fill your heart with His voice.

Be Encouraged,
José

Trimming Down to Size

And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me. Judges 7:2 [KJV]

God called Gideon and confirmed his mission. Gideon, being a typical human, got as many people as possible to help. God stated that there were too many people to win the fight less the credit goes to Israel instead of God. With that fact, God devised a series of test to trim the army down to size so that we would all know that the victory belong to God.

Every now and then in our lives, when we get the direction from God, we try to go and get too much help to accomplish the goal. What we really need is just the right number so that we can truly be tools in the Hand of God accomplishing His Will. When we read the story of Gideon, we always look at him as an extension of God for delivering the Israelites.

Be Encouraged,

Martin

The Real Lion, The roaring lion

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
1 Peter 5:8 (NKJV)

Elijah had just done a wondrous feat of taking out the false prophets of Baal and launching into the next phase of the move of God in the land of Israel in those days. Then word came to him on the plans of Jezebel. She swore to pursue Elijah and bring his life to an abdrupt end. Just after our moments of victory, we must never shrink back and think that 'self' brought us through the victory. Then will the enemy attempt to or strike, but as long as we continue to depend on the real source of our victory and success, what may look or sound like a life-threatening situation or threat will just be seen for what it is. Elijah unfortunately forgot that the destruction of the enemies was not his doing but the Hosts of Heaven behind him.

The enemy will surely come as a roaring lion - threatening, intimidating and presenting situations that look dreadful and fearful, but really isn't the real thing. We have the Lion of the tribe of Judah, not a roaring one, the rock of our salvation and the strength of our life.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Ceaseless prayers

I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting;
1 Timothy 3:8 (NKJV)

One of the ways we communicate with our God is through prayer. Prayer connects us to the supernatural realm where things get done and issues are resolved. The enemy knows that our easy and most accessible weapon is our prayer, hence he throws all sorts of weight and hindrances like tiredness, slumber, fatigue, distraction, unnecessary focus on our past failures and pain, doubts, unbelief, elevation and over-exaggeration of our present challenges and difficulties, etc. Life will no doubt be a bed of roses,hence we must…

pray without ceasing,
1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NKJV)

To break the channel of prayer is to break our faith connection and breaking our faith connection is to disconnect from the Creator God. Staying in touch with our Creator is not only a wise thing to do; it is an absolute necessity for every believer.

Be Encouraged,

Afolabi

It is in within

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.
Matthew 12:35 (NKJV)

We have all been carefully and wonderfully made by our Creator for the glorification of His works in this world. Many times we seek greener pastures and opportunities of blessings and advancements without first looking within ourselves. The endowment and our giftings make way for us. The words we speak over our lives and circumstances come from within and are endorsed by God when they are spoken out. We only need to speak and live by His word, the living word.

For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush.
Luke 6:43-44 (NKJV)

The blessing is within, reach out to it and give the glory to Him who planted it there.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Take off your shoes

Friends,

Long, long ago, when vengeance was called for, one of the victim's family members was designated as the one to carry out that act... he was called the "kinsman redeemer." If, for whatever reason, he could not execute justice, the tradition was that he removed his shoe and handed to the one who take that role in his place.

Even as a young man, Moses knew that he was called to lead God's people out of captivity and into the lands promised to their forefathers. And from what he did as a young man still in Egypt that perhaps he decided to use his own wits, training and charisma to free the Hebrews.

But when God confronted Moses in the desert, speaking out of a burning bush, He told the former prince -- and now shepherd -- to take off his shoes. Yes, this was an act of respect for the land which God had declared to be holy. And yet, there is a deeper meaning, for God's plan was to free His people Himself.

Exodus 3:7-8a
And the LORD said: “I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows. So I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up from that land to a good and large land, to a land flowing with milk and honey

Did Jehovah use Moses in a mighty way to accomplish His plan? Absolutely.
Does He now use you and me to bring the Gospel to all people, thereby accomplishing His plan of salvation? Certainly.
But, Moses could not rescue God's elect, and neither can we. We must take off our shoes, as he did, and stop thinking that we are saving people. For the glory of that act must always be the Lord's.

Be encouraged,
José

Bless your land

And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the LORD for it; for in its peace you will have peace.
Jeremiah 29:7 (NKJV)

In his letter to the Captives that were taken away from Jerusalem to Babylon, Jeremiah advised the Israelites to seek the peace of the city of their location. He stressed the need to pray for the Land as well. By lifting our cities, states and countries before the Lord, we are impliedly lifting ourselves before Him. In the peace of these places, we also become recipients of the peace of the land.

Have you blessed the land and region around you? What goes around comes around.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Give Me a Sign

And Gideon said unto God, If thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said, Behold, I will put a fleece of wool in the floor; and if the dew be on the fleece only, and it be dry upon all the earth beside, then shall I know that thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said. And it was so: for he rose up early on the morrow, and thrust the fleece together, and wringed the dew out of the fleece, a bowl full of water. Judges 6:36-38 [KJV]


Gideon needed confirmation. He was concerned that God was not the one sending him out on this mission. He needed a sign (actually, many signs) to confirm that the God of Abraham, Issac and Jacob was speaking to him.

We are sometimes in the same spot as Gideon. We may need a sign or many signs from God to assure that we are hearing from Him. God know what we need just like He knew what Gideon needed to go out and represent Him against the enemies of Israel. We may not have to lay out the fleece to verify that God is speaking to us, but when we ask for a sign, we need to keep our senses alert, for God may use anyone or anything to confirm what He wants us to do.

God knows what we need before we ask and will provide when we need so that we can receive our notification properly.

Be Encouraged,


Martin

The bruises are His

Friends,
Here in America, we are blessed with a pretty effective justice system. Criminals, when caught, are given an opportunity to defend themselves and, if convicted, are subject to fair and reasonable punishment. Thus, a shopkeeper can be confident that the man who robbed his store will pay a price for those evil actions.

Our own transgressions against the Lord are no less offensive to God than the robbery is to the store owner. Yet instead of expecting the criminal to serve the justly determined sentence, our merciful Father has decided to take the punishment upon Himself. It is as if the merchant, having had the one who stole his livelihood brought before him, steps into the jail cell on that criminal's behalf.

Isaiah 53:5
But He was wounded for our transgressions,
He was bruised for our iniquities;
The chastisement for our peace was upon Him,
And by His stripes we are healed.

Such mercy and forgiveness stretches our ability to comprehend. Yet it is real, and it is new every morning.

Be encouraged,
José

Praising at the right time

Friends,
Have we become too timid to praise? Are we sensitive to our surroundings when giving glory to God? Should we really allow society's standards to govern how we speak about the Lord?

This can be, no doubt, a tricky subject... but only if we are concerned about what the world thinks is appropriate. Rest assured, friend, that the world will never give us "permission" to speak boldly and confidently about Christ. Witness not only the blatant persecution of Christians in China, but the subtle and insidious censorship of God-fearing men and women in England, Canada and the U.S.

The proper response to the world is found, of course, in God's word:

Psalm 138:1-3 (NKJV)
I will praise You with my whole heart;
Before the gods I will sing praises to You.
I will worship toward Your holy temple,
And praise Your name
For Your lovingkindness and Your truth;
For You have magnified Your word above all Your name.
In the day when I cried out, You answered me,
And made me bold with strength in my soul.

Whenever you attempt to worship Christ with your whole heart, the gods of this world will make every attempt to silence you, just as they did to David so many thousands of years ago. They will tell you that such words do not belong at work, or in the restaurant, or at the grocery store. But in that moment, brothers and sisters, cry out to Almighty God, for He will make you bold with strength!

Be encouraged,
José

God is with Me

If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Daniel 3:17-18 [KJV]

Sometimes when the threat comes, we have to be like Shadrach, Meschach and Abed-nego. They were dedicated to God till death. They even stated that if God did not deliver, their belief would not change. How many of us have lost some faith in God when He did not do what we wanted? ......

Now how many of us as we look back on one of those situations realize that God was right all along and wished that we had been more faithful. God has the ultimate plan and He has promised to take care of me. So my faith is not like today's society, "what have you done for me lately?" but "I believe if you don't do anything else". We must keep our faith in the faith of God. He will take care of us just as He promised. Remember that "God is with me"

Be Encouraged

Martin