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...