ojaysjoel blog

"He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end. Ecclesiastes 3:11" Devotion : The opening scripture has thrown light on two different times: God's time and man's time. God lives in eternity but man lives in time; God is not limited by time but man is. He makes all things beautiful in His time.  If we have this consciousness in us and submit our time to God's time, we will experience and enjoy the beautiful things He has in store for us. The children of God will never rush in life if they walk in the consciousness of God's time. Jesus is the alpha and the omega; He knows the beginning and the end of everything.    Dear reader, do you want to know the beginning and end of something that is bothering your mind? Go to Jesus Christ in the person of the Holy Spirit. Share your comments here! Shared by Dr Joel Olanrewaju.

2 Samuel 14:14  For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him. Devotion:  Death: A Universal Reality: Death is an inevitable part of life, a reality that awaits us all. As the Bible reminds us in 2 Samuel 14:14, "we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again." This poignant analogy underscores the finality of death, the irreversibility of life's fleeting moments.   No Respect of Persons: Yet, in the face of death's universality, we often find ourselves grappling with the question of fairness. Why do some lives seem to be cut short, while others are granted more years? The Bible reminds us that "God respecteth no person" (2 Samuel 14:14). Death is a great leveler, a reminder that our lives are not our own.   God's Plan for the Believer: But for those who hav...

As believers, we are not immune to life's challenges. However, we have a hope that sustains us, a promise that our inner being is renewed daily, despite our outward struggles (2 Corinthians 4:16). The apostle Paul reminds us that our bodies may weaken, but our spirits are revitalized every day. This truth empowers us to face afflictions with courage, recognizing that they are temporary and have eternal benefits (2 Corinthians 4:17). In a world filled with distractions, it's easy to lose focus. But Paul urges us to prioritize eternal things over temporal ones (2 Corinthians 4:18). Our afflictions, though difficult, are opportunities for growth, refinement, and eternal rewards. So, dear reader, when faced with challenges, remember: 1. Your inner being is renewed daily, giving you strength to persevere. 2. Afflictions are temporary and have eternal benefits. 3. Focus on eternal things, prioritizing God's kingdom above all else. May these truths encourage you to never give up, ...

 And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. Mark 4:9 KJV. Devotion:  Hearing means perceiving sound by the ear: it is a passive act and automatic, hence you can hear sound and still be doing other activities. It is not processed .   Listening on the other hand involves actively paying attention to sounds and understanding them and processing what sound your hear and acting on it. Therefore listening leads to obedience.   Throughout the pages of Scripture, there’s a word that gets repeated:  "hear," or a related word, "listen." In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word "Shema" translates into English as "hear" or "listen" and is often used to emphasize the act of listening, understanding, and obeying.   Today’s culture places value on doing many things at once; we often try to listen while focusing on other tasks, which divides our focus. The sound of someone’s voice might come into our ears, but if we’re also scrolling ...

  Psalms 90:17 (KJV) "And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it." Devotion: In this verse, Moses, the author of Psalm 90, concludes his prayer with a powerful request for God's beauty and blessing to be upon His people. Let's explore the profound meaning and significance of this verse.   When Moses asks for "the beauty of the LORD our God" to be upon us, he is seeking the divine presence and favor of God. This beauty is not merely aesthetic; it encompasses God's holiness, glory, and goodness. It is an invitation for God's character to shine through His people, reflecting His splendor and majesty in their lives. The bible in Psalm 27:4 says  "One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple." Do you seek God...

Romans 13:8 (NIV) Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law." Devotion: In Romans 13:8, Paul emphasizes the paramount importance of love, urging us to owe nothing to anyone except love. This love is not a mere feeling but an action, a commitment to fulfilling God's law through our relationships with others. True love extends beyond societal norms and expectations, reaching into the depths of compassion, forgiveness, and grace.  Years ago, when I lived in Lugbe, a suburb in Abuja, there were several girls in a nearby building who lived by being picked up by men at night. Their noisy lifestyle and disregard for others often caused frustration among the neighbors, including myself and my husband.   One day, the landlord had enough and evicted all the girls. While most found somewhere else to go, one girl remained homeless, keeping her belongings in our building corridor and sleeping there on most nights. The tenants, includin...

And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. James 3:6 KJV Devotion: The tongue is one of the most important parts of the body that God created. It is used for speaking and communicating with words. It is also used for singing and praising the Lord in its original design. But if not used according to the will of God, it can spark a fire in the spiritual realm! A single, reckless word can initiate a war, destroy life, or curse a soul. Beloved, never allow your tongue to be used by the enemy to spark a fire; rather, use your tongue as water that refreshes others and speaks life to the dying and hope to the hopeless. May your tongue put out a fire rather than create one! Let your tongue glorify Your Maker! Prayer Point: Lord, I thank You for my tongue. I surrender this part of my body unto You to bless it, remove everything that is not from You, a...

Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. Mark 13:33. NIV. Devotion: The words of Jesus in Mark 13:33, serve as a stark reminder of the need for constant vigilance and preparedness in our spiritual lives.   The phrase "Be on guard!" is a clear call to be vigilant and watchful. It emphasizes the importance of staying alert and attentive, especially in a world filled with distractions especially social media and uncertainties due to financial issues and insecurity. Jesus is urging His followers to maintain a heightened sense of awareness, not just in their daily lives but in their spiritual journey as well. The bible captures this very well as we can see in  1 Peter 5:8- "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."   The Importance of Readiness cannot be underestimated and that is the reason  Jesus warns that the exact time of significant events—whether it be the end time...

Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 (NIV) 2 Corinthians 12:9  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Devotional: In this passage, Paul shares profound insights about the interplay between human weakness and divine strength. These verses invite us to embrace our weaknesses and lean on God's grace, recognizing that His power is most evident when we acknowledge our limitation. Paul speaks of extraordinary spiritual experiences, including being "caught up to the third heaven." He humbly refrains from boasting about these experiences, emphasizing that they are not the foundation of his ministry or faith. This reminds us that spiritual experiences, while significant, should not be our primary focus. Instead, our relationship with God and His grace should be at the center.  In Romans 12:3 the bible says...

Matthew 6:21  For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Devotion: "Where did you keep it?" This question, though simple, holds profound significance in the realm of faith. It is a query that prompts introspection, urging us to examine our priorities and the state of our hearts. In Matthew 6:21, Jesus declares, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This verse serves as a poignant reminder that our true allegiance lies with the object of our affection. If our hearts are fixated on earthly riches, then our treasure is earthly. However, if our hearts are centered on God, then our treasure is heavenly. The parable of the talents, as recorded in Matthew 25:14-30, further illustrates this concept. A master entrusts his servants with varying amounts of talents, expecting them to utilize these resources wisely. Upon his return, the master commends the servants who have multiplied their talents, but rebukes the servant who has buried hi...

 "Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place" (2 Corinthians 2:14). KJV. Devotion: As believers, we have every reason to give thanks to God. For in His infinite mercy, He grants us the strength to triumph over every adversity, that we might become beacons of hope in a world shrouded in darkness. The apostle Paul, in his second epistle to the Corinthians, aptly captures this sentiment: "Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place" (2 Corinthians 2:14).   This verse underscores the profound impact of our faith on the world around us. As ambassadors of Christ, we are called to bear witness to the transformative power of His love, mercy, and provision. Everywhere we go, we carry the sweet aroma of His knowledge, leaving an indelible mark on those we encounter.   But how can we fulfi...

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. John 15:4 kjv Devotion:This verse captures the essence of a dependent, fruitful relationship with Jesus Christ. Let's delve into its spiritual meaning and draw on other scriptural references to enhance our understanding and application. The Vine and the Branches: Jesus uses the metaphor of the vine and branches to illustrate the intimate and life-sustaining connection between Himself and His followers. Just as a branch derives its nourishment and vitality from the vine, so must believers draw their spiritual strength and sustenance from Jesus. Without this connection, the branch is lifeless and cannot produce fruit. I have seen this on mango trees when the branch tears off it withers with the fruits. In John 15:5 Jesus says "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for witho...

In the book of Proverbs, King Solomon offers timeless wisdom on how to navigate life's complexities. One such gem is found in Proverbs 3:7, which cautions against the dangers of self-righteousness. This verse serves as a poignant reminder to approach life with humility, reverence, and a willingness to acknowledge our limitations. The phrase "Do not be wise in your own eyes" is a stark warning against the pitfalls of self-reliance and intellectual arrogance. It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we possess all the answers, that our perspective is the only valid one, and that we can navigate life's challenges without guidance. However, this attitude is fraught with peril, for it blinds us to our own biases, ignorance, and vulnerabilities. In contrast, the verse urges us to "fear the Lord." This is not a call to cower in fear, but rather to cultivate a deep reverence for the divine. It is an acknowledgment that there exists a higher power, a wisdom ...

Psalms 16:5-6 reminds us that our inheritance in God is eternal and ever-sustaining. David's declaration, "The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup," signifies that God's presence and blessings are our most valuable inheritance. Key Blessings. - Divine Inheritance and Sustenance: God's presence and guidance are our eternal inheritance. - Security and Divine Maintenance: God actively preserves and maintains our well-being. - Pleasant Boundaries and Goodly Heritage: God sets boundaries in pleasant places, providing spiritual richness and fulfillment. Living in Divine Favor: Recognizing our divine heritage calls for gratitude, stewardship, and living with purpose and confidence. We rest assured that our inheritance is rooted in God's love and faithfulness. Prayer. "Heavenly Father, thank You for being our portion and inheritance. Help us cherish our divine heritage and live with gratitude and confidence. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Romans 15:21  But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand. Devotion: In Romans 15:21, the Apostle Paul quotes from Isaiah 52:15, emphasizing the universal scope of the Gospel. This verse highlights the extraordinary ability of the Gospel to reach beyond cultural, geographical, and social boundaries, touching the lives of those who have never heard its message.   The verse declares, "To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand." This promise underscores the supernatural nature of the Gospel, which can penetrate even the darkest and most isolated regions, bringing light and understanding to those who have been deprived of its message.   This phenomenon is not limited to the first century; it is a timeless principle that continues to unfold in our world today. The Gospel has a way of crossing borders, transcending languages, and overcoming cultural barriers, ...

"Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved." Psalm 55:22 Devotion: The Psalmist discovered the secret to a burden-free life and wanted to share it with everyone. He emphasized that it's not our responsibility to carry our burdens; instead, we should cast them upon the Lord of Hosts. Our role is to lay our burdens at His feet. Jesus Christ reinforced this idea in Matthew 11:28, saying, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Truly, the Lord doesn't want the righteous to suffer; He's always ready to deliver and sustain us.  When the Bible mentions "burden," it's not referring to physical loads, but rather spiritual needs, troubles, and anxieties. This means we still need to study for exams, work to sustain ourselves, and take responsibility for our lives. However, when faced with challenges or new endeavors, we should commit them to the Lord, a...

"Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. Ecclesiastes 12:7" Devotion : The scripture above illustrates that there is an end to life on earth. The body returns to the earth and the spirit to God who gave it.  Those who do not believe that there is another life after death should know that when life ends on earth the soul appears before God for judgment. For it is appointed unto men once to die and after this the judgment (Hebrews 9:27). Those who have the liberty to rejoice are the born again Christians because they have passed life on earth and have attained eternal life. They are judged for rewards but the unbeliever is judged unto damnation because he did not believe in Christ Jesus. Let us live in this world with the mindset that one day we will give account to God for our stewardship.   The almighty God has made Jesus Christ the Judge to judge the living and the dead. Dear reader, nobody can avoid Christ Jesus; ...

"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; Ephesians 5:25" Devotion : Husbands have been given greater responsibility to love their wives. The standard is to love them even as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for it. Any husband who does not love his wife to the point of death has not fulfilled the Word of God and should be prepared for the consequences. A reasonable wife who enjoys the intense love of her husband will joyfully submit to her husband.  Many marriages are suffering today because of this simple principle of submission from the wife and love from the husband. People who do not understand this principle should not marry.     Marriage is avoidable, it is not compulsory. Dear reader, do you wish to get married? Do you understand the basic principle of love and submission? I suggest you sit together with your proposed spouse and study this verse prayerfully or visit your pastor to teach you this princip...

Romans 15:13  Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Devotion: Romans 15:13 reminds us that our God is a God of hope, who desires to fill us with "all joy and peace" as we believe in Him. This verse highlights the importance of experiencing joy and peace in our Christian walk.  The Source of Joy and Peace: The apostle Paul emphasizes that joy and peace come from the power of the Holy Ghost. This means that our joy and peace are not dependent on external circumstances, no on riches, not academic brilliance or sport achievement but rather on the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. We get the Holy Spirit when we give our lives to Christ meaning joy and peace is from God. Empowering Others: Paul's prayer for his converts serves as a model for leaders. A good leader seeks to empower their followers, wishing them well and desiring their growth. By sowing good seeds, leaders can reap ...

Acts 8:35 NIV [35] Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. Devotion:As we open God's Word, we hold a treasure that has transformed countless lives throughout history. Yet, understanding its nuances and context can be a challenge. In Acts 8, Philip helped an Ethiopian official grasp the meaning of Isaiah 53, revealing Jesus as the Messiah. This encounter transformed the man's life, and it can do the same for us.  Let's apply the same principle each time we meet someone, do not hesitate to spread the good news. Tell your story since you have accepted Christ as lord and Saviour. While it is good to have good knowledge of the word, telling the world who we were before we met Christ and how he has transformed our lives will go a long way.  Or neighbours want to see what God has done in our lives since we gave it to Christ. Let your life story spread the gospel. Be a good ambassador of Christ everywhere just as Phillips was. L...

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1" Devotion : A substance is something that can be seen and touched; faith should be viewed in that manner simply because God sees our faith.   The evidence of our faith is the Word of God. What do you desire, need, or want as a child of God? Look for the evidence of your need or desire in the Word of God. In other words, have scriptures for every need or desire; pray with this evidence without any shadow of doubt and you will receive the solution to your need.   Dear reader, do you have evidence for the things you are praying for? If you do then begin to rejoice for the solution and you will receive it physically.   It's still a new year, renew your faith in Christ and begin to exercise this faith in all that you do. Testimonies await you in Jesus' name, Amen.  Share your thoughts with me at gbemide09@gmail.com.

Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38. NIV. Devotion: This verse captures the essence of the transformative journey that every believer is invited to embark upon. It begins with a call to **repentance**—a heartfelt turning away from sin and a sincere desire to align our lives with God's will. Repentance is not merely a fleeting moment of regret; it is a profound and ongoing process of inner renewal. It is an acknowledgment of our human shortcomings and a humble appeal for God's mercy and guidance.   Following repentance, Peter urges every individual to be **baptized** in the name of Jesus Christ. Baptism is a powerful symbol of purification and rebirth. It represents the washing away of past transgressions and the emergence of a new creation in Christ. By undergoing baptism, believers publicly declare their commitment to follow Jesus ...

The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.Psalms 34:18. Devotion: If you're experiencing loneliness, remember that you're not alone. The Bible offers numerous passages and teachings to provide comfort, encouragement, and guidance. As you navigate the challenges of loneliness, it's essential to hold onto the truth that God is always with you.   First and foremost, God's presence in your life is constant and faithful. In Hebrews 13:5, we're reminded that God has promised never to leave or forsake us. This promise brings comfort and reassurance, especially during moments of loneliness.   Furthermore, God's love for you is profound and unfailing. Psalm 34:18 tells us that the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Knowing that God loves and cares for you deeply can bring immense comfort and help alleviate feelings of loneliness.   In addition to God's presence and love...

Proverbs 16:3  Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. Devotion: As we step into this new year, it's a fresh chapter filled with opportunities, challenges, and the promise of growth. Here are some words of encouragement to help you navigate the year successfully and spiritually. First, trust in God's plan for your life. Remember that He has mapped out a path for you, and His timing is perfect (Jeremiah 29:11). As you set your goals for the year, seek God's guidance and wisdom. Commit your plans to Him, and trust that He will lead you in the right direction (Proverbs 16:3). Stay focused on your goals, and don't let setbacks discourage you. Persistence is key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success (Philippians 4:13). Be open to change and growth, and remember that sometimes God's plan involves stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new opportunities (Isaiah 43:18-19). Maintain a grateful heart throughout the year. Gratitu...