Tweets

In the past few months I have found myself (almost) addicted to Twitter. Yes I think I may have been bitten by the bug since I joined the ranks on a sunny afternoon in July. I'm not exactly complaining though. It has provided me with room to air views, share inner thoughts and sometimes, just have fun.

Yes I said fun...Life is a bee-hive of differing aspects to everyday living. Jesus embodied all there is to life's many blessings. The idea that you can live healthy, joyful lives being useful to the ever changing society, environment and social strata.

So...I tweet.

I think I have met a lot of people that way as well...unsure if I can call them all 'Friends' 'cos as I have learned, it pays to have few friends and even fewer close friends. I didn't think it made sense a few years ago when a friend, pastor and close confidant (#youknowwhoyouare - that's tweet lingua by the way) suggested such to me.

I think I can use Twitter for a good purpose. I think that gradually I can build a network where in lives are constantly blessed, challenged and encouraged unto a higher living. I think that indeed social networks pay a very crucial role in how we impact lives as Christians. And so I will continue, in hope that someday someone will testify of the long lasting impact a few 'tweets' have made in their lives.

iBelieve, iSpeak - tweet lingua if you didn't know already.

Tweet y'all soon.

3 Years....

.....And a whole lot has happened. I have changed, my perspective to life, my experiences, my job, my family. I have increased in many ways, and life has taught me its fair share of many lessons.

What hasn't however changed is my thirst for truth, knowledge and opportunities. I live in a land far away from home....building and growing my own family. I have made few friends, and trusted even fewer. Disappointments have come, and indeed they have all gone. I made money, and lost money. Lost loved ones, and birthed one I madly love.

It's been 3 years, a roller coaster ride of emotions, regrets, joys and achievements.

I didn't know what to write, didn't stop to think.

I think I'm back....I'm just unsure if I should continue in the same breathe, or indeed start a new blog. I have a few days to consider this. In the meantime, continue to grow in grace...

The Best Way to Live

The word selflessness brings to mind the idea putting oneself less. While this is not incorrect, it is incomplete unless we focus on the object of such gesture: Others! How do we demonstrate selfless living in our everyday lives?

The life of one comes readily to mind, of a man so full of love and compassion for people despite being despised, hated and afflicted by them.One who knowing their eternal destiny was destruction and death ignored himself and took a decision, a decision that would change the course of human destiny, one that would become the basis of life.

He made the most selfless decision known to man; he paved the path to redemption for all humanity by giving up his own life. This man submitted himself to the most gruesome death ever known to mankind. He died in a most humiliating and shameful, yet painful manner. And while he died, he asked that his murderers be forgiven. The thought of this brings tears to my eyes as I wondered how anyone could be so selfless, so full of love and compassion for people who didn’t even care about him.

Before I became a Christian I was completely fascinated by this story, the story of the one who would willingly die for me, even though I’d never met him. I remember thinking it must be insane or unordinary for any man to love like this and go through what he did. This love so captivated me that even if the threat of eternity in hell wasn’t enough to scare me into accepting Jesus, this act sure made me embrace him.

In this one show of love, this man called Jesus had set an example. And he did this as a human being just like you and I.

“For as much then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, he himself likewise took part of the same….. Therefore, in all things he had to be made like his brethren….” Heb 4:14, 17.

Jesus exhibited this selfless nature as a human being, filled with divine ability; the same divine ability that has been given to us as Christians. Remember his words to us about having the capacity to do the works he’s done and even greater works? Thus we establish that we have in us, God’s ability to be completely selfless.

Another fact we need to understand is the desire behind Jesus’ act of selflessness, I mean why did he do it? What did he stand to gain? Amazingly everything he did was so we would benefit from the free gift of salvation.

He demonstrated to us that the right attitude to a selfless life is not to expect anything in return, never wondering what you have to gain. Jesus showed us what it means to express true acts of love, compassion and selflessness in our daily walk whether on the bus, train, homes, church or other public place.

And such opportunities abound. It could be as simple as standing up for that old man or pregnant lady on the crowded tube, offering to do chores or help with excess work, offering to help complete strangers even if it takes you out of your way or giving generously to the poor.Let not these selfless acts be based on colour, tribe or gender. Rather let it hinge on the principles of our Lord; that which is loving and unconditional.

This is the best way to live!

Created for a Reason

You are who you are for a reason,

You’re part of an intricate plan

You’re a precious and perfect unique design

Called God’s special one

You look like you look for a reason.

Our God made no mistake

He knit you together within the womb,

You’re just what he wanted to make

The parents you have are the ones he chose

And no matter how you may feel

They are custom-designed with God’s plan in mind

And they bear the master’s seal

No, that trauma you faced was not easy

And God wept that it hurt you so

But it was allowed to shape your heart

So that into his likeness you’d grow

You are who you are for a reason

You’ve been formed by the master’s rod

You are who you are, beloved,

Carved out of the masters’ hand.

Created in God's image.

"Like sands through the hour glass, so are the days of our lives”. This catchphrase was made popular by the TV soap Days of our Lives aired on US network, NBC. It depicts the lives of men and women as they walk through this life loving, giving, hurting, hating and eventually, dying.

It is a reflection of man: His passage from birth, infancy, adolescence, and adulthood. The people he meets, the women and men he loves and the events that shape his life. It is a creative narrative of everyday struggles and how man responds to them. Perhaps some or all of these determine his values, beliefs, ideals and goals.

Oft he is drawn to certain faith that relies on an unseen being and his behaviour and integrity may inadvertently be shaped by this faith.Indeed man’s days are like sands through the hour glass: unsure, uncertain, wanton, depraved, decadent and degenerate. Man must find a route out of the mess. Is this life just about birthing, hurting, hating, corruption, selfishness, loving and dying?

Surely there must be more to our life than what we currently experience. Did we evolve for a purpose bigger than we currently accomplish? Simple minds may wonder what the religious bigotry is all about; many are quick to dissuade it as another of life’s preoccupation.

But is it really? Could there be more in the offing? Should we ever be content with merely existing? Perhaps we can shape our lives in the appropriate desired directions, and play active roles in what becomes of us.

Do you think so? I agree with you. I agree life isn’t about “Que sera sera”. Man isn’t as the grass of the land or the sands of the sea, which rise without the will to establish how the end will turn out.

I agree his faith should be more than mere religion, perhaps rather a relationship. Man can participate in his creator’s plan for him and enjoy the fullness of the magnum opus for which he evolved.

Let’s unite in this; that man indeed is a masterpiece. He is the creator’s most accomplished work, fitting for the best of his habitual pleasures. Not merely another one of the many creations of the creator, he is one carefully thought of, crafted in the splendour of the heavens, breathe with the life of God!

ZOE - Filled

As I lay in bed this morning in semi-conscious state, y'know that point where you're still kinda asleep but also awake, I was thinking how blessed I am to be filled with the life of God. Last night while speaking to my precious jewel (by the way, the pix on this page is hers....not mine; and before you wonder, yes...am male....and put up her picture described as beautiful 'cos that's what I think of her.....beautiful beyond description; not just outwardly but inwardly as well. Ah, aren't I a blessed man?), the life of God in us was the basis of the dialogue.

Intriguing as it really is, 'ZOE' is the summation of all that the father of lights has infused in every believer. I remember the first time I learnt of this awesome reality. Way back in my first year as an undergraduate and learning the ropes of christianity, I became interested in the Greek language and started studying the Greek New Testament along with my many translations of the Bible. I had learnt that the original languages in which the Bible was written were Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic for the Old Testament, New Testament and Words of Jesus respectively. I also learnt that the New Testament portion of the bible unveils all that concern me directly as a believer and that it throughly describes all that Jesus came to do as he walked the streets of the earth on his way to Golgotha, then his victorious resurrection.

To understand my identity and the inheritance which God has given to me as joint heirs with Christ therefore, I began to look deeper at the original languages. I began to consider the richness of the meaning of certain words which our poor English language could not totally describe in order that we may fully appreciate the intention of the writer in passing across his message. ZOE is one of such words. In Greek literal sense, it describes the "life of God, life in the absolute sense as God has it and the intrinsic essence that makes God, God".

Further study unveiled to me that indeed this life of God, just as God has it is what we believers have received. When Jesus said he had come to give us life, and life abundantly (John 10:10), this is what he meant. When he told Nicodemus that all who believe in him will have eternal life (John 3:16), this is exactly what he meant. When John wrote about us having life (John 1:4), or testified about eternal life which we have received from God (1 John 5:11), ZOE is what he meant.

Isn't it awesome to know that God has filled us as believers with his essence? The life that makes God who he is, is exactly what we have. If this is the case, then it means we have ALL it takes in this life and beyond to live victoriously. Darkness or death is beneath us, the earth stands still at our command - friends, we have ETERNAL LIFE! It's the seed of your victory, the assurance that you will not die, the confidence that if you ask anything from God, you will have it. Eternal life sets us on a pedestal of continual triumph, we march on as armies of conquerors.....oh my goodness; thank God for Eternal life.

A realisation of this awesome truth motivated my sign-on id "zoe-filled"; I am blessed because I am filled with the life of God, I have his life and this, more abundantly. As Peter wrote in his second epistle "According as his divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness...." (2 Peter 1:3), Peter must have had Zoe in his mind. God has given to us ALL things that suffices us to reign in this life. Eternal life is the fulcrum.

Fight the good fight

One of the blessed words of Paul to young Timothy during a time when he faced the challenging task of erasing false doctrine and questions about his maturity to pastor the churches at Ephesus are what I want you to ponder upon this month. Written to encourage him in his conduct and to be on his guard lest his youthfulness become a liability, rather than an asset, to the gospel, the apostle charged him to “Fight the good fight of faith…” 1 Tim 6: 12.

Just like Timothy, there seems to be an extra responsibility on our shoulders as young Christians to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and the gentleness that befits a man of God. As Jesus taught in his sermon on the mount, let us pursue holiness; the maturity that comes by continual fellowship with God, his word and prayer. The same message is echoed by Jude in his epistle;

“… contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints”. Jude v 3

Exercising our Authority in Christ

One man whose ministry has significantly helped my growth is that of the late Rev Kenneth Erwin Hagin. Listening to his messages as well as reading his many literature obviously shaped my thoughts and perspectives about the faith. I have learnt through his ministry and countless other study of God's word that indeed the believer has been given the authority in Christ Jesus.

Authority over sicknesses and pains, authority over the devil, dominion over the earth, authority to use the name of Jesus, authority over death, authority over any and everything that's of this world. We have been transfered to a pedestal in this life where we reign in the heavenly places.

By virtue of Christ's death on calvary, he purchased for us this authority and infused the power of God in our spirits that we have the ability to do greater works on this earth. We thus ought to exercise our authority in christ and lead triumphant lives continually for "Greater is he that is in us, than he that is in the world".

Our Light Affliction

This morning I want to encourage you. Perhaps you're going through a tough time, perhaps things aren't as great as you would desire. Be patient, relax and let your rejoicing be in the Lord. Today may not be shaping up the way you would ideally want, and the storms of life may be taking their toll on you. I am in this phase as well, but as I prayed this morning, the lord lifted up my heart.

I began to see that God is purging me and preparing me for a greater glory. I began to see that indeed, he is faithful to ensure that I will not be tried beyond what I can handle. He hasn't promised me a life of "no trials or challenges", indeed he warned me they'll come, my faith will be tested....but that I should be cheerful, because I through God has overcome. I am a victor and I live in God as a triumphant child of his glory.

I knew within the inner man that I cannot afford to be led of my senses, considering what I can see rather than what I cannot see. For I live my life by the faith of God and not by my sight (senses). So I rejoice, I am boisterous because I know that at the end of this darkness is a great dawn. Just like Jesus went through a time of darkness - his betrayal, the cruel trials, the mockery, the denials, the beatings, the crucifixtion; he awoke victorious, to a new and blessed dawn.

From the mind's eye, everything seems like the weight of the world may be all on you, and that God has forsaken you. Be of good cheer child of God, these are just light afflictions. God has promised that they are temporary and are working for you a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Release your faith in God, rejoice that he's found you faithful to take you through your fire of refinement so that you can come out purified, precious and great.

Our God is worthy to be praised!

Singing or Sinning?

I have heard different kinds of preached messages with some of them having some interesting topics. Consider these: "Excuse me Lord, I have a question!", " Content in the Context of the Concept", and the one that drew my mind's eye, "Are you singing or sinning?". Before you allow your mind to wonder at the basis of such a message, hold your breath and check out this simple piece of scripture.

"By HIM (Jesus) therefore let us offer the sacrifice of Praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name". Heb 13:15

Accordingly we are supposed to open our mouth, sing with grace in our hearts and praise God continually. Isn't it the Psalmist who beseeched everything that has breath to praise the Lord? Aren't we as Christians supposed to live a life of continous worship and thanksgiving to our God? Indeed we are! However we ought to realise one important thing; let your praising be BY HIM. What does this mean?

Simply put, let every song you sing be one that acknowledges Jesus' finished work on your behalf, sing with an understanding of what God through his son did for you in calvary. Before you utter those words in singing, read the lyrics again. Do they agree with what the Bible says concerning you? Do they indeed show forth the magnificence of God? If you don't know, then rather than plunge into a singing spree, check your Bible or ask your Pastor or some learned brother or sister.

Just like James warned us against praying amiss, Paul in his writings indirectly requests us not to sing amiss. In scriptures like Eph 5:19-20, Col 3:16 we are told that when we sing, let it be with an understanding of the Grace of God, giving thanks to his name for Jesus Christ. There are a number of songs called Gospel, which in reality are not Gospel. I mean, if we read the lyrics and consider the messages, indeed they are not "good news". Rather than depict the sovereignty and excellence of God and his manifest blessings to us through Christ, these songs do otherwise.

Gospel songs are supposed to be exactly what we call them; Gospel (good news)! Next time you listen to a song, or attempt to sing your favourite melody, stop to read the lyrics very well. Ponder the message and like a christian with a Berea attitude, check to ensure its concomitant with scripture truth. If you don't, you just may be sinning and not singing.

A Great 2007 Ahead

I guess it's a little belated, but better late than never! So here's wishing all bloggers a fruitful blogging 2007. I trust that our values and ideals, which form the basis of what we write will continue to inspire others to greatness.

Goals for the year? I've got some and will share soon. In the meantime, I just want to devote sometime to articles of spiritual significance.... a post to encourage you to continually reign in life. I also came across a web page that floats a ministry of a dear brother. A quick look through suggests it intends to be rich in content and impactful in messages. Check it out here on Christ Life Line.

Enjoy 2007!

Rock of Ages

The Second poem is one written in the eighteenth century by a certain Augustus Topaldy, in his great hymn, Rock of Ages:

Not the labors of my hands
Can fulfil thy law's demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and thou alone.

Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to thee for dress,
Helpless, look to thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly,
Wash me, Saviour, or I die!

God has through his cross, paved the way for you to come to him: uncondemned and forgiven. As Paul succintly writes, "For by Grace through faith are ye saved, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God" Eph 2:8.

3 lessons to know are these:

1. No one is ever too far gone to become a christian, or to be accepted by God.
2. All that God wants and accepts is simple faith; a trust in him and acceptance of his grace.
3. Never doubt your instant acceptance into God's family when you open your hearts to Him.

God is still in the business of saving you. The rock of ages knocks the door now, will you accept him?

Oh, the sweetness of the Gospel....

Two poems I love so much are these about the cross of christ and the benefits to me. The first one asks the question about my walk and what ought I do, the second praises the free gift of his salvation. Enjoy!

There's a sweet old story translated for men,
Written in the long, long ago
The Gospel according to Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
Of Christ and his mission below.

You are writing a gospel, a chapter each day,
By deeds that you do, by words that you say.
Men read what you write, whether faithless or true.
Say, what is the gospel according to you?

Men read and admire the gospel of Christ,
With its love so unfailing and true;
But what do they say, and what do they think
Of the gospel according to you?

'Tis a wonderful story, that gospel of love,
As it shines in the Christ-life divine,
And oh, that its truth might be told again
In the story of your life and mine!

Unselfish mirrors in every scene,
Love blossoms on every sod,
And back from its vision the heart comes to tell
The wonderful goodness of God

You are writing each day a letter to men;
Take care that the writing is true.
'Tis the only gospel some men will read,
That gospel according to you."

I guess the ode preaches itself to me. I ought to live my life as a testimony to others, of the gospel of Christ!

Charles Swindoll

One of the most respected redemption teachers of our day, Chuck Swindoll is a man I have admired, not just becuase of his simplistic and impactful teachings but also because his books have largely blessed my life. A native of Texas born in 1934, Chuck is the Chancellor of Dallas Theological Seminary and Senior Pastor of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas.

His ministry teachings include "Insight for living" aired on American radio as well as "Insight for today", a daily devotional. One of the best books written by Pastor Swindoll is the one titled "The Grace Awakening" where he taught about the pricinples of Grace, our liberation from the law and challenged believers to "square up against legalism".

A gift to the church today, Chuck's books and ministry is one I recommend to any christian, aspiring to grow in the grace of our lord Jesus.

Relationships: Pros and Cons

Just in case you're hoping to find a list of merits and demerits of relationships, then think again. My post today isn't going to attempt to reel off a host of such. However I will discuss a pertinent matter that got me stired up this morning.

Getting off work last night, I had to dash off to meet up with a dear friend and sister, as she needed some help with her computing software (let's call her G). G is a wonderful person and one whom I think is fast developing a great attitude to ministry. As I spent time in conversation with her, I knew this woman will someday be used of God in great ways. I've got a picture of her on my wall (among others) and as I made to get ready for work, I had to pause and think again what impact the relationship she's in at the moment will have on her.

G's passion, commitment and drive for the work of God has challenged and encouraged me. Though she's just 2 years born-again, it is evident that given the necessary mentoring and teaching, her faith could explode for the glory of God. However I am a bit concerned. I don't know if I'm just in my state of paranoia again, thinking things that aren't there. Whatever the case is, I am hoping (and praying) that G's relationship with (let's call him, W) will be a stirring up even unto greater works.

Why am I thinking this way, you ask? It's because I know W, and have interacted with him for months now, even before he got G's heart. In my honest opinion, W isn't as mature in Christ as G is. There have been a few occasions when we've been having meetings/fellowships with G in attendance and W kinda gets agitated that the meeting is too long (he's not in the same group/cell with G that I coordinate) or wonders why we should even be having such at that time because he'd like to go away with G (he wasn't even seeing her yet!).

Don't get me wrong, I do not have any biased issues with G and W. If they're persuaded in their hearts to have a relationship based on God's principles, that's fine. However I have seen men and women who used to be on fire for God, get involved with a spouse or mate, or build frienships that over time "kills" off the passion for ministry because these associations were with persons who don't share the same drive and zeal.

I may just be presumptous, I hope I am really. But I suppose the holy writ teaches us that our associations should be unto "stirring one another, and so much more as we see the day (of our lord's coming) approaching" The previous verse in Heb 10:24,25 admonishes that we should "consider (observe fully) one another to provoke unto love and to good works (by implication, an act or deed; typically christian work as opposed to just any other kind).

This Hurts

I know this is a little digression from the subject matter that is the essence of my blog. However I can't help posting this. My passions for true governance seems to engulf me daily and I am righteously angry at the latest of the shambles that my beloved country came up with during the weekend. I read Funmi's blog and had to make comments, added below.

It's a shame Funmi...a travesty that Nigeria has become a puppet playground for men who toy around with bloated egos and despicable characters. I must admit that I didn't see this coming. Reading and following after trends from the UK, I had hoped that all the news about Yar'adua were mere assumptions. And to think he's been paired with a certain Jonathan Goodluck????

Like a friend of mine said in his IM to me this morning; mumu + mumu = Obj 3rd term. Something is wrong with our minds, nay our values and priorities. What is this love for power, position and money? Even at almost 80, why is this old man still meddling around with 9ja like the nation is some sort of extended family of his, running as he dares fit?

To even zone the presidency to the north is the biggest of all shames. I mean, what the heck does zoning a leadership/office/government position to a particular geographic spectre mean? What happened to democratic processes of allowing the people to vote for the man they choose, rather than the next best idiot "zoned" to them? This in my opinion, is one of the tragedies that is called Nigeria.

Until we stop paying undue attention to ethnic diversities and focus on values, ideals, integrity, competence etc, I wonder where we're headed next. So suppose we need a minister of education or a minsiter of energy and such office has been "zoned" to the south, do we then find the next best idiot among the lot of under-qualified men and women to fill these positions rather than consider the man who though from the East, will adequately fill the role?

This is pathetic.

Nigeria: A Nation on the Brink of Liberation?

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people" Prov 14:34

The past few months has been full of intrigues in the Nigerian political climate. From the poor voters' registration exercise to the many spate of killings and bomb treats. Impeachment of public officers unconstitutionally, the usurping of the judiciary by Government ministers. Party dogging and withdrawals, electioneering and screenings, the Nigerian polity has indeed made for keen observation.

Silently I have prayed God for a righteous leader, maybe not someone entirely born-again in character and spirit (for that's what righteousness is; and how I wish so for such), but at least a man who values the people he serves, the rule of law and the principles of sound governance.

Oh how my beloved country will benefit from such a man who fears God. One who isn't a religious fascade, praying to the east or kneeling with head bowed; only to rise up and demonstrate an utter disregard for humanity. It is obvious that righteousness indeed exalts a nation. The greatest countries today are built upon the precepts of the holy writ. Her leaders are men and women who recognise a higher authority and serve "not as unto men, but unto God".

I weep! Indeed I wept today when I woke up to the news that party elections are being rigged, uncredible aspirants who lost the people's vote to contest and thus disqualified have suddenly been "re-qualified" in the interests of the party. I wept when again, I read that certain public office holders are installing their prefered successors in positions where they can influence victory for such so that, as far as Nigerian parlance goes, the incumbent can still lay hold on the office, albeit indirectly.

It's a shame! I can almost swear that these same men and women are those who in the days of the military junta cursed and called the names of deity, accusing the khaki men of looting our land and disregarding the rule of law. These same men professed in those gloomy days that given the chance, they will banish the ills that threatened the survival of our nation. I think they even swore. We don't need a long lecture to know the outcome of their almost 8 years rule, do we?

Nigeria! Are we on the brink of Liberation? Or will 2007 be a continuation of all that's bad for Nigeria?

Ministry & Government II

I have only pastored the people of God for a few years, and even then it was a growing small church and we didn't have all the money and influencial men and women. We were students, celebrating our love for God weekly and bearing each other's burdens. Therefore I cannot claim to have the experience of dealing with a large congregation, nor men and women of high calibre. I do however have enough knowledge and daily walk and wisdom of the Lord to recognise proper standards.

In my view, ministry and leadership go hand in hand. Of course one does not have to be interested in governance as a christian, indeed you may be better off following after your passions for God and spiritual things alone. However you'll agree with me that in your little cubicles, the onus lie on you to be socially responsible. Christianity should not be practiced inside our homes or within the walls of the church alone. The best example of true christian walk abound in your daily interactions and how relevant the faith is to your society.

Daily I have watched christians who show an utter apathy at the ills of their society. Their argument is that why bother; afterall we're strangers and pilgrims on the earth? I find this disturbing indeed. I found the headline news about two different high flying churches who have purposed to spend millions of dollars to build large churches with state of the art and expensive technologies worrisome. Why invest so much in monuments that will fade away and eventually get destroyed when half the money can be used to improve the lot of the membership they're supposed to feed?

Gospel injunction to sheperds is to "feed the flock of the lord". Does this only connote teaching them God's word? While much of God's direction definitely means so, I guess we can extend it a little to also mean "care for their welfare, ensure they're clothed, housed, and are socially secure". God expects us as ministers, whether in direct governance or leading our flock, to be socially relevant in their lives. Using our positions to influence what happens to them when they walk outside the church.

Of what good will a big church auditorium, glass walls, plasma screens, state of the art sound systems, wireless hotspots, leather cushions for seats etc do to individual lives? Do these things indeed enhance spiritual knowledge? Do they add up to how much we can be effective in ensuring that the flock are well taught God's word and are growing in his grace? I haven't asked ministers to consider going into governance. This will of course be very wrong and unbiblical - "Let each man be persuaded in his heart".

However I am asking ministers and christians to pause and think again, aren't we supposed to be socially responsible to our society? Should we just be content with getting by life, as long as we're assured of heaven's splendour?

Ministry & Government

I was reading Funmi Iyanda's blog when the thought stirred my mind with some poignant effect. I have often admired her intelligence and ability to distinguish herself from the easily corrupt sychophants in agbada and kaftan that we have in my beloved country Nigeria. A hidden passion of mine began to stir itself and I began to consider how much I'll love to go back home and take my place among the elite men and women who will inadvertently bring justice, fairness and the rule of law to the world's most populous black nation.

As I considered this again, the struggle raged in my inner being. How would I nurture two passions and realise the fruits when each one demands diligence, focused attention and unbridled participation? In case you don't know what I am talking about, the title helps. I am passionate about God and his work, and while I do not presently sense a calling of God to what is called full-time ministry, I do know (and will follow after) that my fulfillment will someday come when I take my place in some ministry endeavour. Not that I ain't doing that at the moment, but time is going to come when teaching and pastoring on a regular basis will be happily embraced. Or perhaps functioning in the ministry of helps, atttending to the sheep of the Lord. I am convinced about my passion for ministry, and this in much the same way as I am of governance.

Growing up in Nigeria and witnessing the many ills of our society has long etched in my heart a desire to see changes. I am sick of the appalling state of our society, the utter disregard for sound values and the decay in our socio-economy. Being well educated and exposed to right values and ideals of life, I cannot sit with folded arms and watch. Indeed I do not belong to the class of men who watch things happen, or wonder what has happened. I will much rather make things happen. The Likes of Funmi, Prof Pat and the many silent (for now) minds in Nigeria and the diaspora thus attract me. These are the kind of men I'd much rather associate with. People who have sound values and are students of justice and equity.

However I have often wondered how fitting these two varying passions will combine themselves. I have read varying biased thoughts and vendetta poured by the church on a certain Rev Chris Okotie, who though a minister of the gospel seems to be interested in the highest office of the land. Many ascribe that he has lost his vision and direction to follow after ministry. Whatever the case is, I'm not sure Rev Okotie is entirely wrong in declaring an interest in Governance. I agree that the platform and way he's been going about it aren't exactly "ministry-like" and the ideals he seems to hold for Governance somehow contradicts that of true gospel.

Does this however mean that being interested in leadership as a socially responsible christian is wrong? Does such ambition invalidate one's calling by God? I suppose ministry and the gospel should be socially relevant to the people of any community. While we feed the spirits and souls of men with God's message of hope and peace, we also ought to consider how crucial our participation in Governance might help to alieviate many of society's ills. Rather than take tax-payers money and erect monuments of splendour that gulp large sums of money in various cities of the world, perhaps we can consider diverting such funds into community development, feeding the poor, helping the homeless, creating opportunities for people to obtain jobs, empowering men to create their own wealth.

........... to be continued ......

Failing Foward

Ironically this Title is the same as that of a book by one of my treasured authors "John Maxwell" (another one of my collection of literature). While the message and ideas are embraced, I do not intend to write a book review here nor adapt his message. The past few months has indeed been daunting for me, and a test of my faith as well as strong resolve in the Lord. I have held on firmly to the principles for which my life is based and growing stronger in God's Grace. It is in light of this that I share my thoughts on today's blog:

It is easy to think of yourself as the person you have been. Yet it is far more powerful to see yourself as the person you can become. The mistakes and disappointments of the past may seem to be a major presence in your life or threaten to shape your future. At this very moment however, you can choose to leave them completely behind. From this point on, your life is up to you. In each and every moment that is to come, you are free to choose your thoughts, your feelings, your actions and your attitude.

Consider your possibilities. Think about what could happen if the limitations you thought existed were not really there at all. Reach deep within yourself and connect your thoughts to the things that truly matter. Then imagine expressing those treasured values with the way you live each moment. The things you can accomplish are yet unexplored, even still no eyes yet seen nor ears heard or even hearts conceived. You bask as a true praise of a most talked of personality - EMMANUEL!

Beginning now, you can live with the richness and profound purpose that you know is right for you. From this point on, your life is yours to choose.................Really it is!