ojaysjoel blog

As the calendar turns, we are invited to pause and reflect: How did I finish the year, and where did I finish it? The way we end a season often reveals the posture of our hearts and sets the tone for what lies ahead.   Spiritually: With Jesus or Otherwise The most important question is whether you finished the year walking with Jesus. Did you grow in faith, or did distractions pull you away? Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:14: “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”     Think of Peter, who faltered by denying Christ, yet finished his journey restored and empowered (John 21:15–19). Even if your year ended with weakness, Jesus offers renewal. Finishing with Him means ending in hope, forgiveness, and strength.   At Home and in Family Living: Where did you finish in your relationships? Did love and unity flourish, or did conflicts linger unresolved? Joshua declared in Joshua 24:15: “As for me and my house, we wi...

Scripture focus:  Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” — Psalm 23:4   Prayer Life often brings seasons where we feel like we’re walking alone—whether it’s stepping into a new job, moving to a new city, or facing challenges without the support we hoped for. But Scripture reminds us that even when we “go solo,” we are never truly alone.   God’s Presence in Solitude Moses once went up Mount Sinai alone to meet with God (Exodus 34:28). Though he was physically by himself, he was surrounded by God’s glory. Similarly, Jesus often withdrew to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16). These moments of solitude weren’t empty—they were filled with divine presence and strength.   “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” — Deuteronomy 31:6   Stories of “Going Solo” - Joseph in Egypt...

Scripture focus:  It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 Devotion: As we stand at the threshold of a new year, our hearts rise in gratitude to the God of mercy, who has carried us through the days gone by. His compassions have not failed; they have been new every morning, and great has been His faithfulness. We praise Him for the countless times He has forgiven, restored, and lifted us when we least deserved it. Truly, it is by His mercies that we are not consumed.     Looking forward, we rest in the assurance that the same God who has shown us mercy will continue to pour out His goodness in the year ahead. His promises are sure, and His love is unfailing. We anticipate fresh mercies, new opportunities, and deeper experiences of His grace.     Yet, as we rejoice in what we have received and expect more, we must heed the warning o...

Prayer is more than a religious ritual—it is the lifeline of our relationship with God. It is the way we communicate with Him, express our dependence, and align our hearts with His will.   From the very beginning, Scripture shows us that prayer is essential. Adam and Eve walked and talked with God in the garden (Genesis 3:8–9). Abraham interceded for Sodom (Genesis 18:22–33). Hannah poured out her soul before the Lord for a child (1 Samuel 1:10–11). Jesus Himself often withdrew to pray (Luke 5:16). If the Son of God needed prayer, how much more do we? Why Pray? - Prayer connects us to God’s presence.     “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)     Prayer is not about informing God of what He doesn’t know, but about drawing closer to Him. - Prayer changes us.     Paul exhorts us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to G...

When we pause to consider the mystery of the incarnation—that Jesus, the eternal Son of God, came in the form of man—it fills us with awe. Scripture tells us that “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). But why did He choose to step into our humanity?   1. To Reveal God’s Heart      Jesus came as man so we could see the invisible God in a way we could understand. Through His compassion, His words, and His actions, He showed us the Father’s love in tangible form.   2. To Identify With Us      By becoming human, Jesus experienced hunger, fatigue, sorrow, and even temptation. He knows what it means to walk in our shoes. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us that He is a High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses.   3. To Redeem Us      Only by taking on flesh could He bear our sins on the cross. As man, He lived the perfect life we could not live, and as God, His sacrifice carried infinite wort...

Heavenly Father,   On this blessed Christmas morning, we pause to thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who came as light in our darkness and hope for the world.   We lift up our family and friends before You today. May Your love surround them, Your peace fill their hearts, and Your joy overflow in their homes. Strengthen the bonds between us, heal any hurts, and remind us that we are united in Your grace.   Lord, let this season be more than decorations and gifts—let it be a time of renewal, forgiveness, and gratitude. May we carry the spirit of Christmas into the new year, walking in kindness, faith, and love.   Bless each person here with health, happiness, and the assurance that they are cherished not only by us but by You.   In Jesus’ name we pray,   Amen.   From Dr Joel Olanrewaju Olagbemide. Merry Christmas to you all. 

When we pause to consider the mystery of the incarnation—that Jesus, the eternal Son of God, came in the form of man—it fills us with awe. Scripture tells us that “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). But why did He choose to step into our humanity?   1. To Reveal God’s Heart      Jesus came as man so we could see the invisible God in a way we could understand. Through His compassion, His words, and His actions, He showed us the Father’s love in tangible form.   2. To Identify With Us      By becoming human, Jesus experienced hunger, fatigue, sorrow, and even temptation. He knows what it means to walk in our shoes. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us that He is a High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses.   3. To Redeem Us      Only by taking on flesh could He bear our sins on the cross. As man, He lived the perfect life we could not live, and as God, His sacrifice carried infinite wort...

Scripture focus: Psalms 90:12  So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Birthdays are moments of joy, gratitude, and reflection. They remind us of the gift of life and the faithfulness of God who sustains us day by day. Each passing year is not just a marker of age but a testimony of God’s mercy and purpose in our lives.   In Scripture, we see glimpses of birthday celebrations. Pharaoh celebrated his birthday with a feast, and it was on that day that Joseph’s interpretation of dreams came to pass, leading to the restoration of the chief cupbearer (Genesis 40:20–22). This reminds us that birthdays can be turning points—moments when God fulfills His word and sets His plans in motion.   Job, reflecting on the day of his birth, cried out in anguish (Job 3:1–3). His lament shows us that birthdays are not only about festivity but also about acknowledging the reality of life’s trials. Yet even in sorrow, God’s presence remains cons...

Scripture focus:  “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).  Christmas in the Bible is centered on the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the gift of salvation. The Scriptures tell the story of hope, joy, and divine love revealed in Bethlehem.   The Bible does not mention the word Christmas, yet it unfolds the story that Christians celebrate each December: the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. The prophets of old had long foretold His coming. Isaiah declared, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). This promise set the stage for the night when heaven touched e...

We bring our discussion on Narcissism to a conclusion today by encouraging you to emulate Jesus and humble yourself even when provoked. - Scripture: “He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8)  - Reflection: Jesus modeled humility. Living with a narcissist requires us to stay humble, not to compete for control because it will lead to frequent misunderstanding.  - Prayer: Lord, help me reflect Your humility and love, even when pride surrounds me.  - Action Step: Do one act of quiet service today without seeking recognition.   ©Dr. Joel Olanrewaju, gbemide09@gmail.com. 

On the 6th day of our discussion on Narcissism, we encourage us to seek support from appropriate people.  "A burden shared is a burden halved" is a proverb meaning that sharing your problems with others makes them feel less overwhelming, as support and different perspectives lighten the load, but it depends on who you share with, as the wrong person can actually make it worse. It encourages seeking help and community, often linked to biblical teachings like Galatians 6:2 in the Bible ("Bear one another's burdens").  - Scripture: “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10)  - Reflection: Moses needed Aaron and Hur to hold up his hands (Exodus 17:12). We need community too.  - Prayer: Father, surround me with people who will encourage me and remind me of Your truth.  - Action Step: You may not be able to bear it alone; reach out to a trusted friend, church elder, pastor or mentor today.  ...

On 5th day of our discussion on Narcissism we found it important to let us know that setting boundaries is key. It is supported by  - Scripture: “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” (Matthew 5:37)  - Reflection: Boundaries are not unloving—they are wise. Even Jesus withdrew from crowds to rest and pray (Luke 5:16).  - Prayer: Lord, give me courage to set healthy boundaries without guilt.  - Action Step: Identify one area where you need a boundary. Practice saying “no” with peace. Doing this will make it easier to live peacefully with a narcissist.  Put it into practice.  ©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, gbemide09@gmail.com.

On the fourth day of our discussion on Narcissism we counsel that you identify  yourself with Christ and choose not to be belittled by anyone.  - Scripture: “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood…” (1 Peter 2:9)  - Reflection: Narcissists may belittle or dismiss you, but your identity is secure in Christ.  - Prayer: Father, remind me daily that I am loved, chosen, and valuable in Your sight.  - Action Step: Write a list of three truths about who you are in Christ. Read them aloud.   ©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, gbemide09@gmail.com.

On day 3 of our discussion we urge us to pray for narcissists. Day 3: Pray for Them - Scripture: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)  - Reflection: Jesus prayed even for those who crucified Him. Prayer softens our hearts and invites God’s power into hard situations.  - Prayer: Lord, I lift up this person to You. Work in their heart and heal what is broken.  - Action Step: Spend 5 minutes praying specifically for the narcissist in your life.   ©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, gbemide09@gmail.com.

Today we continue our discussion on Narcissism. We counsel us to respond with grace Day 2: Respond with Grace - Scripture: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)  - Reflection: Saul’s jealousy of David shows how pride can lead to destructive behavior (1 Samuel 18). David responded with respect, not revenge.  - Prayer: Father, give me strength to respond with kindness even when I feel attacked.  - Action Step: When provoked today, pause before speaking. Choose a gentle response.  

We are going to discuss above topic for the next 7 days, with hope that God will help us cope with narcissists or change if we are one of such person. Scripture Reading: “For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud…” (2 Timothy 3:2) Who is a Narcissist? A narcissist is someone who is excessively self-centered, craves admiration, and often lacks empathy for others. They may manipulate situations to maintain control, dismiss the feelings of those around them, and struggle to admit fault. In essence, their world revolves around themselves. Braid topic: Living with a Narcissist Day 1:  Guard Your Heart - Scripture: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23)   - Reflection: A narcissist’s words can wound deeply. God calls us to protect our hearts by anchoring them in His truth.   - Prayer: Lord, help me guard my heart against manipulation and keep my focus on You.   - Action Step: Writ...

Scripture Reading: “For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud…” (2 Timothy 3:2) Who is a Narcissist? A narcissist is someone who is excessively self-centered, craves admiration, and often lacks empathy for others. They may manipulate situations to maintain control, dismiss the feelings of those around them, and struggle to admit fault. In essence, their world revolves around themselves. Narcissism is not new. The Bible warns us about people who are “lovers of themselves.” King Saul is a striking example. When David was praised for his victories, Saul’s pride turned into jealousy and rage (1 Samuel 18:6–9). His need for admiration blinded him to God’s plan and poisoned his relationships.   Another example is the Pharisees, who loved the praise of men more than the praise of God (John 12:43). Their self-focus kept them from recognizing Jesus as the Messiah.   But Scripture also reminds us that pride leads to destruction (Proverbs 16:18), wh...

Key Verse:   "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." — Romans 12:18 Devotional: Peace is one of the deepest desires of the human heart, and Scripture calls us to pursue it not only with God but also with those around us. Living at peace with everybody is not always easy, but it is a mark of Christ’s love shining through us. 1. Joseph and His Brothers (Genesis 45:4–15) Joseph had every reason to hold bitterness against his brothers who sold him into slavery. Yet when God elevated him in Egypt, Joseph chose reconciliation over revenge. He embraced his brothers, saying, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20). His story reminds us that peace often requires forgiveness and a willingness to see God’s hand even in painful circumstances. 2. David and Saul (1 Samuel 24:1–22) David was hunted by King Saul, yet when given the chance to kill Saul, David spared his life. He declared, “I will not lay my hand on my lord,...

Scripture Focus: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” (Psalm 150:6) Reflection Every new day is a gift, and with it comes countless reasons to lift our voices in praise. The very breath in our lungs is evidence of God’s sustaining power. We praise Him for life, for health, for family and friends, and most of all, for the gift of Christ who secures our salvation.   But the reasons don’t stop there. God’s mercy is new every morning (Lamentations 3:22–23). He provides daily bread (Matthew 6:11), protects us as our fortress (Psalm 18:2), and answers our prayers even before we speak (Isaiah 65:24). His peace steadies us in storms (Philippians 4:7), His love promises eternal life (John 3:16), and His Spirit empowers us (Acts 1:8). Creation itself testifies to His glory (Psalm 19:1), and His faithfulness endures through all generations (Psalm 100:5).   Application Gratitude is not reserved for moments of abundance—it is a posture for every season. If you can br...

Scripture Foundation - “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6   - “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” — Ephesians 6:4   - “The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” — Proverbs 29:15   Reflection Parenting a recalcitrant child can feel like walking through a storm. Their resistance, stubbornness, or defiance may test patience and love. Yet Scripture reminds us that discipline is not punishment alone—it is guidance, correction, and love wrapped together.     Consider the story of Hannah and Samuel (1 Samuel 1–3). Hannah dedicated her son to the Lord, and though Samuel grew up in a challenging environment under Eli’s household, her early training and prayers shaped him into a prophet who listened to God’s voice. This shows us that even when children res...

Scripture focus:  “Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.” — Ecclesiastes 11:1   The Principle of Sowing and Reaping:  Life is a divine cycle of sowing and reaping. Every act of kindness, every seed of goodness planted in another’s life, carries within it the promise of return. The Apostle Paul reminds us:   “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” — Galatians 6:7     When we choose to bless others, we are not only fulfilling Christ’s command to love our neighbor, but we are also setting in motion a spiritual law that ensures goodness will find its way back to us.   Jesus’ Teaching on Giving Jesus Himself taught this principle of reciprocity:    “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” — Luke 6:38   ...

Scripture focus: Matthew 6:2   Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. Devotion: There are moments when our hands are busy with what seems like holy labor, yet our hearts are quietly serving ourselves. We may clothe our actions in the garments of devotion, but beneath them lies the subtle whisper of ego, the hidden desire for recognition, or the instinct of self-preservation. These motives often dwell in the subconscious, unnoticed, until the Spirit of God shines His light upon them.   Consider the Pharisees of Jesus’ day. They prayed long prayers in public, gave alms with trumpets sounding, and fasted with faces disfigured to show their sacrifice. Yet Christ declared, “They have their reward” (Matthew 6:2–5). Their works were not for God, but for the applause of men. What looked like piety was, i...

Key Scripture - “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” — Revelation 20:15   - “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” — Luke 10:20   - “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” — Revelation 3:5 Reflection One day, there will be a roll call in heaven. The Bible speaks of the Book of Life, where the names of those who belong to Christ are written. The most important question is not whether people know your name here on earth, but whether your name is recorded in heaven. - Earthly Recognition vs. Heavenly Record     Many strive to have their names remembered in history, on monuments, or in achievements. Yet Jesus reminds us that true joy comes from knowing our names are written in heaven (Luke 10:20).   - The Story of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke...

Scripture focus  But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance.  Psalms 55:13 Reflection  Betrayal is the wound that cuts deepest—not from the hand of an enemy, but from the embrace of a friend. It is the breaking of trust, the shattering of loyalty, and the unveiling of hidden deceit. Scripture is filled with stories that remind us that betrayal is not new; it is as old as humanity itself.   The First Betrayal In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve betrayed the trust of God by disobeying His command (Genesis 3:6). Their act was not against a stranger, but against the One who gave them life. Betrayal often begins with a choice—small, subtle, but devastating in consequence.   Joseph and His Brothers Joseph’s story is one of the most vivid pictures of betrayal. His own brothers, consumed by jealousy, sold him into slavery (Genesis 37:28). The betrayal of family is a bitter poison, yet Joseph’s forgiveness later shows that betrayal can b...

Scripture "Return, faithless Israel, declares the Lord. I will not look on you in anger, for I am merciful, declares the Lord; I will not be angry forever." — Jeremiah 3:12   Reflection:  A fish is designed for the water. Its gills, fins, and body are perfectly suited to thrive in rivers, lakes, and oceans. But once removed from its natural environment, it begins to gasp, flail, and weaken. Out of water, the fish cannot survive.   In the same way, a Christian is designed to live in the presence of God. Our spiritual “oxygen” is prayer, worship, fellowship, and obedience to His Word. When we backslide—when we drift away from God’s presence and return to old habits—we are like a fish out of water. At first, we may still move, still appear alive, but inside we are suffocating. The joy of salvation fades, peace slips away, and our spiritual strength weakens.   Warning Remember, the devil is cunning. “For Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light” (2 C...

Key Verse "But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant." — Matthew 20:26 (NLT) Reflection Leadership is a sacred responsibility. It is not about power, prestige, or position, but about service, humility, and guiding others toward God’s purposes. The Bible is filled with examples of leaders—some who honored God and others who failed in their calling. Their stories remind us that leadership is ultimately stewardship of influence. Examples of Good Leaders - Moses: Though reluctant at first, Moses led Israel out of Egypt with faith and obedience. He interceded for the people when they sinned (Exodus 32:11–14), showing a leader’s heart of compassion.   - Nehemiah: He rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls despite opposition, demonstrating courage, vision, and reliance on prayer (Nehemiah 2:17–20).   - Jesus Christ: The perfect model of servant leadership. He washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:14–15), teaching that true greatness com...

“From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” — Psalm 61:2 Devotion:  The Psalmist, David, understood the importance of turning to God when his heart was overwhelmed. His knowledge of worship was limited to crying out in times of distress. Yet, even in that limitation, he directed his cry to the true God, the true Leader of all. This is commendable, for he sought refuge in the Rock that is higher than himself.   In the New Testament, however, believers are given a deeper and limitless understanding of worship. Worship and prayer are not confined to moments of trouble; they are a lifestyle. Scripture reminds us:   “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.” — Hebrews 13:15-16   Jesus Christ is revealed as the...

Death is the one appointment no human can cancel. It comes suddenly, often without warning, and it asks only one question: Are you ready?   Jimmy Cliff’s haunting words in his song, "House of Exile" remind us of this truth: “Your day arrives when you least expected…” The Bible echoes this same urgency. Scripture Reflection:   - Ecclesiastes 9:12 – “Moreover, no one knows when their hour will come: As fish are caught in a cruel net, or birds are taken in a snare, so people are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them.”   - Hebrews 9:27 – “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment…”   - Matthew 24:44 – “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”   These verses remind us that death is not a respecter of age, wealth, or status. It comes to the young and old alike, sometimes in the quiet of sleep, sometimes in the chaos of life.   Bible ...

Key Verse "Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!" — Psalm 133:1 (ESV) Reflection Brotherhood is more than shared blood or common interests — it is a divine calling to walk together in love, truth, and purpose. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture paints a vivid picture of what true brotherhood looks like: sacrificial, forgiving, loyal, and rooted in God’s covenant. Biblical Examples of Brotherhood - Cain and Abel (Genesis 4)     The first brothers in Scripture remind us that jealousy and pride can destroy relationships. Cain’s failure to master sin led to tragedy. This story warns us to guard our hearts and pursue reconciliation. - Joseph and His Brothers (Genesis 37–50)     Betrayed and sold into slavery, Joseph later forgave his brothers and provided for them. His story shows that God can redeem broken relationships and use them for His glory. - Moses and Aaron (Exodus 4)     Though different in temperament, Mos...

Scripture Reading:   “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18   Reflection:  Loss is a universal part of the human journey. It comes in many forms—death, disappointment, broken relationships, or missed opportunities. In these moments, our hearts ache, and questions rise: Why, Lord? How do I go on?     The Bible does not shy away from grief. Job, stripped of family and possessions, still declared: “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” (Job 1:21). David, after losing his child, worshiped and found strength to continue (2 Samuel 12:20–23). Even Jesus, standing at Lazarus’ tomb, wept (John 11:35). These stories remind us that grief is not weakness—it is part of our humanity, and God meets us there.      Loss teaches us dependence. It strips away illusions of control and draws us into the arms of the One who promises never to leave us (H...

Proverbs 29:18: “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” OPENING THOUGHT:  Vision is the God-given picture of your future. It is not just ambition or desire, but a divine revelation of what God has purposed for your life. Without vision, life becomes directionless. Proverbs 29:18 reminds us:  “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.”     Your vision is the compass that guides your steps, keeps you focused, and fuels perseverance even in seasons of difficulty. Ask yourself "what is my vision? Do I have a vision or I am just beating about the bush? HOW TO RECOGNISE YOUR VISION: - Follow your inner pull → Notice what excites and inspires you.   - Spot passion patterns → Repeated interests often reveal your vision.   - Align with values → True vision matches your core principles.   - Feel the resonance → Energy, hope, or good fear signal you’r...

Scripture Foundation - “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” — 1 Corinthians 15:33   - “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23   - “Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity.” — 1 Timothy 5:1–2   Reflection :  In today’s world, the term platonic affair often describes a close, affectionate relationship between two people without romantic or sexual involvement. While friendship is a gift from God, Scripture calls us to examine the motives and boundaries of every relationship.     The Bible celebrates pure companionship. David and Jonathan’s friendship is a shining example: “Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself” (1 Samuel 18:1). Their bond was rooted in loyalty, covenant, and godly love—not in secrecy or compromise.     However, the word affair carries undert...

"Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16" Devotion : The opening scripture above is dealing with corporate prayer, which can be applied to prayer in general. Failure to forgive hinders corporate prayer; no wonder Apostle James said we should be bold enough to tell one another where we or they are going wrong so that corporate prayer can be a time of feasting and refreshing because answers are received and miracles, signs, and wonders are pronounced.   As a child of God, you should not keep offence inside you as it will pollute your spirit. Go to the offender quickly and show him/her his/her fault quickly and politely before it begins to harm you.    In Matthew 5: 23-25 Jesus teaches us to quickly reconcile with our brothers if we have ought against them or they against us. After doing this then we can present our gift to the alter. If our gift will not be...

Scripture focus:    “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:14). Every person is born with a divine imprint — a spiritual DNA that carries God’s unique design for their life. You are not an accident, nor are you a copy of someone else. The psalmist declared, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:14). This verse reminds us that God carefully crafted you with intention, weaving into your being gifts, passions, and purposes that make you stand out.   God’s Deposit in You:  When God created Jeremiah, He said, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5). Notice the sequence: God knew, God formed, God set apart, and God appointed. That is the divine DNA at work. Just as Jeremiah was marked for a prophetic calling,...

Scripture focus:  “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him” (1 Kings 18:21).   Indecision is a quiet thief. It steals peace, delays obedience, and often leaves us paralyzed between two paths. Yet Scripture reminds us that God is not the author of confusion but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). When we hesitate too long, we risk missing the joy of walking in step with Him. Elijah’s Challenge at Mount Carmel   The prophet Elijah stood before Israel and asked, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). The people’s indecision revealed a divided heart. Elijah’s words remind us that indecision is not merely about choices—it is about allegiance. When our hearts are set on God, decisions become clearer because they flow from devotion, not doubt. Peter Walking on Water   Peter’s moment on the waves shows the danger ...

Scripture Focus:   "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9 (NIV)  Devotion:  In a world where procrastination and indifference are common, the child of God must stand apart. Delay is often the enemy of obedience. When God speaks, He expects swift action—not hesitation. This was the case with Joshua, whom God repeatedly encouraged to be bold and decisive as he led the Israelites into the Promised Land.    God’s instructions are not suggestions. They are divine mandates meant to be followed with urgency and faith. Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me” — John 10:27. This means that recognizing and responding to God’s voice is a mark of true discipleship.   To cultivate sensitivity to His voice, immerse yourself in the Word daily. Pray in the Spirit and with understanding. Meditate on Scripture and...

Key Verse "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God."   — Romans 13:1 (NKJV) Reflection:  In a world that often celebrates rebellion and self-rule, the call to submit to lawful authority can feel countercultural. Yet, Scripture consistently teaches that honoring authority is not just a civic duty—it’s a spiritual one. God is a God of order, and He establishes structures of leadership for the flourishing of society and the discipline of His people. Biblical Foundations 1. Jesus and Caesar When asked whether it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, Jesus responded: > “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”   — Matthew 22:21 Jesus acknowledged the legitimacy of earthly authority—even under a pagan empire. His example teaches us that obedience to civil law does not compromise our loyalty to God, as lon...

Scripture:   "All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord."   — Proverbs 16:2 (NIV) Reflection: We live in a world that often rewards appearances. Acts of kindness, generosity, and integrity are praised—especially when they’re visible. But Scripture reminds us that God doesn’t merely observe our actions; He examines the heart behind them.   Proverbs 16:2 is a sobering mirror. It tells us that even when our ways seem pure to us—or to others—God sees deeper. He weighs our motives. That means He discerns whether our good deeds are truly good, or if they’re tainted by self-interest, pride, or manipulation.   Doing the right thing with an ulterior motive is like offering someone a gift with a string attached. It may look generous, but it’s not love—it’s leverage. It may seem noble, but it’s not righteousness—it’s strategy.   Jesus warned against this in Matthew 6, when He spoke of those who give, pray, and fast to be seen by o...