ojaysjoel blog

Anchor Scriptures: "If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one's religion is useless." — James 1:26 (NKJV) "Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity... it defiles the whole body... But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." — James 3:5-8 (NKJV) Reflection:  Apostle James perfectly captures the power of the tongue — he compares it to a small matchstick that can set an entire forest ablaze. Though it is one of the smallest members of the body, the words it speaks carry serious, lasting consequences. There is a Yorùbá proverb that says, "Ohùn jẹ́ ẹyin, bí ó bá jàbó, kì í ṣeé kójọ" — voice is like an egg; once it falls and breaks on the ground, it can never be gathered again. So it is with our words. Once a careless, hurtful, or evil word lea...

Scripture focus: Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. Proverbs 3:13, 15-16  KJV  Reflection: Wisdom is one of God's greatest gifts to mankind. According to Scripture, true happiness, lasting success, honour, and long life are all connected to wisdom. A person who walks in wisdom avoids many pitfalls, makes sound decisions, builds healthy relationships, and enjoys the blessings that come from living according to God's will. Do you desire a happy home? Get wisdom. Do you want success in your career, business, or ministry? Get wisdom. Do you want to enjoy healthy relationships and make choices that lead to peace and fulfilment? Get wisdom. The Bible declares that wisdom is more valuable than precious jewels, and nothing we desire can compare with it. However, tr...

"My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth."  Proverbs 3:11-12 (KJV) Chastening is one of the clearest expressions of love. Just as a loving parent disciplines a child to help him grow into a responsible and successful adult, our Heavenly Father corrects His children to mould them into the image of Christ. God's discipline is never meant to harm us but to guide us in the path of righteousness and holiness. I am grateful for the godly discipline and training my parents gave us while we were growing up. They taught us the ways of the Lord, corrected us when we went astray, and consistently pointed us to Christ. Today, I am happy to testify that all of us remain in the faith. Some have become elders in the church, while others serve as pastors. The values and character instilled in us through loving discipline have so shaped our lives that peopl...

Scripture Focus: “For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.” (Romans 10:11 (KJV) Trust is one of the most valuable gifts we can give. We trust parents, friends, leaders, our abilities, finances, and even technology. While these things may help us in life, they are limited and can fail us at critical moments. Human strength is imperfect, wealth can disappear, and earthly support can be absent when we need it most. God, however, is different. He is faithful, unchanging, and true to His word. The promise of Romans 10:11 assures us that anyone who places their faith in Christ will never be put to shame. Those who trust in God can rest confidently, knowing that He neither abandons nor disappoints His children. The Psalmist declared, “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7). Human resources may appear strong, but God's power is greater than every earthly advantage. Likewise, Proverbs 3:5-6...

Scripture: “God opposes the proud but shows favour to the humble.” – James 4:6 Ego is one of the greatest obstacles to spiritual growth. It quietly persuades us that we are self-sufficient, that our achievements are solely the result of our own strength, and that we do not need God's guidance. Yet, the more room ego occupies in our hearts, the less room there is for God to work in our lives. Throughout Scripture, God consistently honours humility. Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less and recognising that every good gift, talent, and opportunity comes from Him. In Proverbs 29:23 we know that " A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit."  When we surrender our pride, we become teachable, compassionate, and dependent on God's wisdom instead of our own understanding. Jesus, though Lord of all, demonstrated the ultimate example of humility by serving others and obeying the Father complete...

Lamentations 3:22-23 "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." Every morning we wake up is a gift from God. While we sleep, He watches over us and sustains our lives. Many went to bed last night but did not wake up today. By His mercy and compassion, we have been given another day. God preserves us for a purpose: to worship Him, serve Him, and be a light to others. As long as we have breath, there is work to do in His kingdom. "This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Psalm 118:24). Let us begin each day with gratitude, remembering that every new morning is proof of God's faithfulness and another opportunity to live for His glory. Prayer : Father, thank You for the gift of this new day. Help me to live for Your glory, serve You faithfully, and fulfil Your purpose for my life. In Jesus' name, Amen. Thought for...

Scripture focus: Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him? Ecclesiastes 3:22  KJV  Reflection In a world that constantly pushes us toward the next milestone, it is easy to view our daily work as merely a stepping stone toward a distant future. We tell ourselves, "I’ll be happy when I get that promotion," or "I’ll relax once this season passes." Yet, Solomon’s wisdom in Ecclesiastes offers a gentle and sobering wake-up call: today is the portion God has given you. The Scripture reminds us that we cannot peek into the future, nor can we control what happens after our time on earth is done. God has intentionally veiled tomorrow to teach us how to live fully today. Your current labor—whether it is building a business, caring for your family, studying, or serving in your community—is not an accident or a delay. It is your God-given as...