ojaysjoel blog

"Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Proverbs 6:6" Devotion : Truly the wisdom of God is unsearchable; He has created many things for our learning. The opening scripture throws light on one of those things which God has created to teach mankind knowledge. To the sluggard or lazy person God created the ant to teach them knowledge so that by putting to practice that knowledge they can acquire wisdom for living.   The ant does not have a leader (its queen is always deep down underground) but gathers food in the harvest so that she can provide herself food in the summer. If an insect can live with this wisdom then a human being should do better.   However, this is not always the case; that is why God tells the lazy to go to the ant and discern the principle behind hardwork and wealth creation. The ant is industrious and saves what she has gathered against a rainy day. The Christian should also learn from the ant; he/she should be diligent with work, ...

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Mathew 28:16-17 Devotion: Struggling with faith in God is a common experience, and it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this journey. We see in the passage above that even among the disciples who lived with Jesus, touched him, ate with him some still doubted Him.    In the Bible, it’s not just Thomas who doubted, everyone did! Adam, Eve(Genesis 3:1- end), Abraham(Gen 15:7-21), Sarah(Gen.18:12), Moses(Exodus 3:11), David(1Samuel 27:1), Elijah(1King 19: 1-18), John the Baptist(Matthew 11:3; Luke 7: 19), and the list goes on. They all were doubters. Even Jesus’ family thought He was crazy(John 7:5). All the disciples ran away in doubt, not just Thomas, even Peter and the others went back to their fishing(John 21:3-19) profession which  signified their unbelief.   There are many reasons why someon...

"Am I seeking human approval or God's? Should I strive to please people or serve Christ?" (Galatians 1:10) Devotion: Do you often find yourself caught between pleasing people and honoring God? Paul's words above offer guidance:   Every moment presents a choice: Human Approval or God's? If your heart desires to please God, remember: - It's not about accumulating good deeds (Hebrews 11:6). Faith which means trust, is the sole requirement.   Reflect on your motives with these questions: - Are cultural trends and opinions shaping my decisions, or am I grounded in God's Word? - Do I trust Jesus' finished work, or do I believe I need to add more? - Will I stand firm in faith, even in adversity?   If seeking popularity is your goal, following Jesus may be challenging. However, if trusting God is your priority, He invites you to live differently: - Show unconditional kindness, patience, grace, and love. Ultimately, you will stand before an audience, either of ...

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7" Devotion : The scripture described fools as those who despise wisdom and instruction; that is, those who have no regard for wisdom and instruction. They are people who think they know it all: in the society they have no respect for God and His Word; they have no place for the law of the state or the people therein.    In addition, they only think of themselves and please themselves. It is very dangerous to be a fool because you become a tool in the hands of the devil and his cohorts of darkness. The children of God are encouraged to study the Word to show themselves approved unto God, 2 Timothy 2:15.  When we study the scriptures we develop the fear of God in us and the wisdom of God becomes our portion. Glory to God! Dear reader, what shows that you fear God?

Psalm 91, known as the "Psalm of Protection," offers a powerful message of divine safeguarding and comfort. Let's explore its key spiritual themes and meanings: 1. Divine Protection and Refuge God is our refuge and fortress, providing rest and security to those who dwell in His presence (Psalm 91:1-2). This imagery evokes a deep sense of peace and trust. 2. Trust and Faith Trust in God is paramount, as He delivers us from dangers, diseases, and hidden traps (Psalm 91:3-4). Metaphors like God's feathers and wings illustrate His protective care. 3. Spiritual Warfare Psalm 91 addresses spiritual warfare, safeguarding believers from physical and spiritual threats (Psalm 91:5-6). God's protection encompasses both day and night. 4. Angelic Assistance God commands His angels to guard believers, lifting them up and protecting them from harm (Psalm 91:11-12). This highlights divine intervention through angelic beings. 5. Promises of Deliverance and Salvation Th...

And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece. Luke 9:3 KJV Devotion: The early disciples had a different kind of hardship during their time. There wasn’t any easy way around accomplishing their missions. So, preparing for a long journey could’ve been the best thing to do, yet Jesus had other plans. He wanted them to go empty-handed. Was it some sort of punishment? No. He wanted them to teach a valuable lesson: to rely only on God. Beloved, do you trust Jesus enough for all your needs? Do you value His words over your personal opinions? If you do, not only will your needs be met, but you will also save yourself from many troubles and heartaches. Remember that nothing is impossible for God. When you rely solely on God, you will see His power on display. You will witness miracles! Hallelujah! Prayer Point: My Heavenly Father, I cannot do anything without You. I want to rely on and trust You wit...

Psalms 139:13-14 NIV For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Devotion: Psalms 139:13-14 reveals the intricate and intimate nature of God's creation of human life. God deliberately crafted your innermost being, knitting you together in your mother's womb with precision and love (Psalm 139:13). You are a masterpiece, created for a special purpose, to worship and spread the good news of Christ.   As a fearfully and wonderfully made individual (Psalm 139:14), you possess inherent dignity and value. This reflects the greatness of God's works, reminding you to respect and honor your body as a temple of the Most High.   The psalmist's response is praise, acknowledging the wonder of God's creation. This recognition fosters a deeper appreciation for oneself and the Creator.    This passage highlights David's personal relationship w...

"It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman. Proverbs 21:19" Devotion : This scripture gives a guideline to unmarried men and women who want to get married so they could choose carefully. A wilderness is a desert, a place of loneliness, drought, and scarcity. A contentious and angry man/woman is a kind who delights in arguing, quarrelling, fighting, and anger. A single person would prefer the wilderness to contentious and angry man/woman. It is just simple logic that everyone will choose peace over war. Dear reader, are you single? Then this scripture is a guide for you to choose carefully. Share your thoughts here!

 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12 NIV. Devotion: Paul wrote the above verse to the Romans, to teach them to follow the example of Christ which he himself followed. He probably wrote from detention which is an indication that he was going through rough times.  This can only be possible if you have been redeemed and full of the spirit of God. As human being we tend to complain when we are going through rough patches, one may even lose faith and hence seek self help. But we cannot help God in things spiritual. The only available option for us is to submit to God, to trust in His ability to deliver us according to His promises in Isaiah 43 vs 2. So next time you're going through tough times rejoice because there comes light in the morning no matter how long the night, Be patient because God's timing is different and He uses time to mold our character and most importantly be in constant communication with God in prayers, it is a demonstrati...

Psalms 90:12  So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Devotion: A wonderful verse! Psalms 90:12 is a profound prayer written by Moses, where he asks God to teach him to value each day, so he can live wisely. Let's break it down: a)"So teach us to number our days"     Moses recognizes that life is short and fleeting. He asks God to help him (and us) appreciate the limited time we have on earth. "Numbering our days" means being mindful of the passing of time and making the most of every moment. b) "that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom"   The purpose of valuing each day is to live wisely. Moses wants to use his time to gain wisdom, which involves: 1. Prioritizing what's truly important 2. Living with intention and purpose 3. Making decisions that align with God's will 4. Cultivating a heart of gratitude and humility Key takeaways: 1. Life is short: Make the most of every moment. 2. Value each day: Don't ta...

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. James 4:8 KJV Devotion: It’s difficult to come into the presence of God when we are double-minded. When we believe His word and then doubt what’s next to come, nothing good will come out of such a mindset. Unfortunately, we can be like this sometimes, especially when our mind is clouded with fears and worries that overtake our faith in God and His faithfulness to accomplish His Word and promises.  Beloved, it is a blessed thing to be convicted by the Holy Spirit when your faith is wavering! The opening scripture may seem harsh, but God’s truth hurts if we are not aligned, and His love brings discipline simply because He loves us! If this speaks to you, know how much you are cherished and loved by the Father! Draw near to Him and let go of every unbelief! He alone matters; the rest are truly insignificant! Hallelujah! Prayer point: Holy Spirit, thank You for conv...

Psalm 20:7  Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God, and are saved.  Devotion: If read above verse and the next we will understand who we should trust God only and nothing else. If you put your trust in the wrong person or hand the end result might be a disaster. The Bible says in Proverbs 3:5–6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths." When you do this you will always come out successfully because God will guide you to knowledge. An example is when life seems doubtful, turn to God. As a college student, I find that you doubt your own judgment in what you want to study. You may not trust that you can do this job that you are studying in school on your own. But when you submit to God, He will lead you on the right track. King Solomon's life is a good example of someone who trusted God. He wrote the verse under the...

  And if thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favour in thy sight; and let me not see my wretchedness Numbers 11:15. Devotion: Spiritual fatigue, or burnout, can affect anyone, even devoted Christians. Moses, in Numbers 11:15, exemplifies this exhaustion, crying out to God, "If You treat me like this, please kill me here and now." His frustration stemmed from the Israelites' constant grumbling and ingratitude despite God's miracles. Causes of Spiritual Fatigue: 1. Interacting with ungodly people (Numbers 11) 2. Complacency (Revelation 2:1-7) 3. Lack of remembrance (Revelation 2:5, Psalm 42:6) Signs of Spiritual Fatigue: 1. Feeling worn down or frustrated 2. Lack of passion or zeal 3. Difficulty praying or studying the Bible 4. Avoiding church or serving others Overcoming Spiritual Fatigue: 1. Remember: Reflect on your spiritual journey's high points (Revelation 2:5, Psalm 42:6) 2. Renew: Seek God's power and strength (Isai...

"When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. Proverbs 3:24" Devotion : The wisdom of God has several benefits and the above scripture displays some of the rewards of godly wisdom.   How has God turned the wisdom of the world into foolishness? The answer is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the opposite of what the world tells is wise and mighty. In this sermon on Isaiah 40:13–14 titled “The Wisdom of God,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones confronts the worldly pursuit of high-minded thinkers and well-educated leaders. Jesus came from a lowly family in Nazareth. He did not bring a message for the wise and proud, but for the lowly and humble. He did not come to conquer with an army, but to die for the sins of many and to deliver them from Satan.  The cross is foolishness to the wise, as the apostle Paul says. What does this mean for Christians today? It means that Christians must not look to worldly wisdom a...

Leviticus 11:29-30 (KJV) lists the chameleon among unclean creatures. Spiritually, a chameleon represents someone who pretends to be something they're not, changing their "color" to deceive others. Devotion: In today's church, various types of spiritual chameleons exist, united by their exploitation for personal gain: 1. *Fellowship Chameleon*: Lacks genuine desire for spiritual growth, pretending piety while deceiving others. 2. *Leadership Chameleon*: Manipulates others using oratory and administrative gifts, prioritizing self-aggrandizement over servant-leadership. 3. *Financial Chameleon*: Uses church for business deals, ignoring Jesus' teachings (Matthew 21:12). 4. *Romantic Chameleon*: Employs deception to attract the opposite sex. *Reflection Question:* Are you a spiritual chameleon? *Call to Action:* Recognize and change your ways, embracing authenticity and sincerity in your faith journey. Written by Dr Joel Olanrewaju, please share your thoughts with me ...

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Colossians 3:2 KJV Devotion: If you would be honest when asked, what makes up your thoughts the most? Do you mostly think about God and His goodness, or is it about a situation, a person or events from the past? We are all guilty of thinking about so many earthly things and sometimes, when these thoughts eat up our time, we lose sight of God, His words and our faith in Him.  Beloved, thinking about stress, pain of the past, fears and worries won’t give you answers but more stress and worries. Jesus Christ said that worrying doesn’t even add a single day to your life (Matthew 6:27). But when you set your affection on things above and not the things here on earth, when you focus on God and His Word rather than your problems and difficult people, you gain peace of mind and heart, a good night rest and good health, giving you better perceptions and insights in life.   God’s Word says, you shall be kept in perfect...

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 NIV Devotion:  The prophet Isaiah describes an incredible vision that God gave him in Isaiah 6. He saw the Lord on a throne with angelic beasts flying around crying, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory!” (Isaiah 6:3 NIV)   An angelic being then came to Isaiah, took a burning coal and touched his mouth with it to show the removal of his guilt and the forgiveness of his sin. (Isaiah 6:7) That’s when Isaiah heard the voice of the Lord, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” (Isaiah 6:8) Isaiah responded willingly and said, “Here I am! Send me.”     When Jesus came to earth He had an effect on people similar to the one God had on Isaiah. Many people who came face to face with Jesus were forever changed. He forgave their sins, removed their guilt, and healed their bodies. And when...

Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:24 kjv. Devotion: Most modern Christians see Christianity as they see normal culture. They do not count it to pray like the elderly Christians, many find it difficult to go on their knees to pray to God. In fact some cannot pray for 30 minutes at a stretch. Hence they complain that God did not answer their prayer without considering all situations surrounding the prayer.  Prayer is a two way communication between God and humans, therefore it is important to find a serene atmosphere, pray vigorously and then wait on the Lord for answers.  Jesus went to the hills to pray all night(Luke 6:12), he prayed in Gethsemane till his sweaty was like drops of blood(Luke 22:44). So if Jesus who is God can pray that much I wonder why some Christians cannot pray.  Paul said pray without ceasing(1 Thessalonians 5:17) which means continue to pray till something happens. Jesus himself ...

"If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. John 13:17" Devotion : Jesus had washed the disciples' feet and had wiped them with a towel. When he had finished he told them to wash each others' feet for a disciple is not greater than his master.  He continued to tell them that it is good to know his Word and his Work but happy will they be if they do them. He made it explicitly clear that knowing the scriptures is not enough but doing the scriptures is what brings happiness and joy.  Dear reader do you know the word of God, how often do you read the Bible? The first step in discipleship is to study the word of God while the second step is to practicalise what you have studied. When you practice Jesus' example you become like him . The people will see you and call you Christian, people will call you pastor even though you're a layman performing great exploits for Christ.   Dear beloved, are you backing the scriptures you know with action? Share your tes...

"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10" Devotion : The devil and his cohort of darkness have a strategy against the saints. Their nature is to steal, kill, and destroy; and the strategy they live by is to steal, kill, and destroy Christians and people who have something good to offer humanity.    The devil is responsible for putting all manner of courses in schools to misdirect Christians and people thereby stealing their dreams; this accounts for all sorts of unemployment in the society. The devil is a murderer and if he does not succeed he tries to kill your dream, vision, and aspiration. He has destroyed many lives through sicknesses, diseases, death, drugs etc.    Jesus Christ came to give life to our dreams, visions, aspirations and make our life more meaningful. When Jesus comes into your life your life will never remain the same; He gives...

Psalms 34:8 NIV [8] Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. Devotion: Since I know how to pray I have been enjoying the goodness of God. This is not to say that there has not been problems or difficulties, No far from it but God has been faithful, he is always there for me and sees me through my troubles. There was a time I disobeyed God and lived for myself, yet I constantly prayed to him and he delivered me.   David served King Saul but Saul pursued David relentlessly. He wanted him dead. David lived in the wilderness, caves and roamed the streets like a mad man yet God did not forget him. This is why David said "I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears."Psalms 34:4 kjv  David prayed to God and he was delivered from his troubles, the same way you will be delivered from your troubles. You may be going through rivers of water now remember God's promise that it will not overflow you nor take you away. M...

"My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. John 10:29" Devotion : Any Christian who comes across this scripture should be happy indeed. Jesus Christ said whoever He has given eternal life will not perish neither will any man snatch them from His hand. What a relief! He also made it clear that his sheep hear his voice and follow him.    Every Christian should fellowship with the Word of God and the Holy Spirit so that he/she can hear the voice of Christ Jesus. If the Word of God dwells in you richly it is easy to hear the voice of Christ because he speaks nothing but his Word.   Dear beloved, do you want to hear the voice of Jesus Christ, then follow a reading plan to study the Bible and make sure to fellowship with other disciples of Christ.  Please share your opinion on this and other topics with Dr Joel Olanrewaju at gbemide09@gmail.com. Do not hesitate to share this good news of Christ with y...

Galatians 5:25 NIV [25] Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.  Devotion: When you walk with a friend, you have to keep up with each other. If one of you rushes ahead or lags, you’re not walking together anymore. And it’s not that different when it comes to walking with God. The Apostle Paul said this: “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”   When we trust in Jesus as our Savior, we’re given the gift of grace and the gift of the Holy Spirit. To put it simply, the Holy Spirit is God. We are given God! The Holy Spirit leads, guides, and works in and through us.   There are times when we’re tempted to run ahead of the Spirit. Because, if we’re honest, He’s not always moving as quickly as we’d like. We might even question if He’s moving or if He cares. That’s why walking with God requires trust.   There are other times when we’re tempted to lag behind the Spirit. Because, at times, He might be guiding us somewhere t...

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NIV. Devotion: A tree is identified by the fruit it bears, a orange tree do not bear grapes neither will orange bear grapes. When the people meet you on the street they address you by the way they see you - your dress, speech and or how you relate with them. Your conduct in public say much about you. A person well groomed, with edifying speech who shows kindness to people will first be seen as a follower of Christ than an unkempt rude person.   What makes the difference is the Christ in you, if you follow his example, these fruits of the spirit will manifest in your conduct. You cannot hide it, it is like a smoke it will appear either you like or not. On the other side if you do not believe and you live for yourself, involuntarily your conduct will show you to the people.  You can have good...

 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Matthew 5:8 NIV Devotion: Do you want a pure Heart? Then meditate on the words of this song: CAC, GOSPEL HYMN 746 -  Title: ALL TO JESUS I SURRENDER I SURRENDER ALL 8.7.8.7. & Ref  Taken from Matt. 19:27, where the apostles say - Behold we have forsaken all, and followed Thee.  1. All to Jesus I surrender, All to Him I freely give, I will ever love and trust Him; In His presence daily live.  I surrender all,  I surrender all,  All to Thee, my blessed Saviour,  I surrender all. 2. All to Jesus I surrender, Humbly at His feet I bow, Worldly pleasures all forsaken, Take me, Jesus take me now.   I surrender all,   I surrender all,   All to Thee, my blessed Saviour,   I surrender all. 3. All to Jesus I surrender, Make me, Saviour, wholly Thine, Let me feel the Holy Spirit, Truly know that Thou art mine   I surrender all,   I surrender all,   All to Thee, my bl...

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23 NIV Devotion: A group of pastors once attempted to cross the road recklessly, putting themselves at risk of being struck. In a moment of desperation, one of them cried out the name of Sango, the Yoruba god of thunder, to save him. Ironically, despite being a Christian pastor, he instinctively invoked the deity of his cultural background, revealing that in times of crisis, people often turn to what they genuinely believe in.    What goes into your soul and mind determines what comes out of your mouth. And what you say influences your actions and decisions. While you might not notice the effect your choices have on you today—over time, they will impact the direction of your life. This is what happened in the story above.  When Proverbs 4:23 tells us to “guard our hearts” what it’s essentially saying is—“pay careful attention to how you fill your inner life.”   So how do we intenti...

"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:3" Devotion : Jesus Christ recognized that the heart can be troubled due to unbelief, therefore, he exhorted his disciples to believe in him. Jesus Christ proceeded by promising his disciples that he was going to prepare a place for them and come back to take them unto himself.    Many people do not believe that Jesus Christ is coming back but they do not believe at their own peril. The Bible says this Jesus that your see going up to heaven will similarly come back(Act 1:11).  There's no need to be worried about the time of his coming, because only God Himself determines that. Jesus says in Acts 1:7, "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power." All you need to believe is that Jesus is coming some, if He did not meet you on earth, you'll will resurrect when he comes and li...