I have a stalker

There is this silver alfa romeo, that parks under the first street light at the begining of the via brenero road. I have to walk on this road to go to my hotel apartment. The first night I noticed this car, it kept veering off the via brenero road to park as if to ask direction from the passers by, every time I walked alitle past it. But he would say nothing as I walked past. And he repeated this 4 times, parking at the entrance of a shop off the road, and next at the entrance of a petrol station, with his engine running, as if to say here I am.

Anyways after all the veering and sudden parking, I would refuse to look into the car to find out what the madness was. It was the second time that night, a car had stopped. The first was a brand new BMW, and he did say "ciao prego" as I walked past, but my mum taught me not to speak to starngers so I didn't reply.

So last night, I was off to the apartment again, where this same car started of on the original parking space. I hadn't noticed it until when it chimed his keys to make sure I noticed him as I walked past the parked car. I was startled, and looked, and there it was the alfa romeo, and same reg. I became frightened. He repeated his moves, this time was parked so close to the walk way I was sure he was going to mowe me over. As I walked wondering what this man was intending to do, two other cars drove past with the passengers screaming. I started to run. But then I stopped, I said to myself, this is a safe place, obvioulsy this man has mistaken my identity. Only 15 minutes up the road, there were even pretier girls, scantily dressed and he could have any of them, why me.

The nature of the way I've always worked is my mind work better in the evening, and even if I start work at 8am, I actually dont get started till 2pm onwards. So I normally work till 9pm without realising the time. Anyways, I promised my self to leave early today, say 8pm, I wouldn't wish my past few days experience on any one. I am finally begining to think, I'm not as intimidating as I used to be. What has happened. God please deliver from the hands of these people.

My Life - about the Favour of God

Why name myself the life of a stranger called me? I started blogging when I arrived in blacksburg Virginia, and wasn't quite sure what to do with myself.

So as I walked through blacksburg side roads and its hills, I started to wonder why the Lord would want me here over the period I spent there. For many months I wondered and really prayed about it, and asked Him to teach me whatever lessons I needed to learn and quickly too. But I guess with our relationship, I was always too hard of hearing. A week just before I was due to return to the UK, I attended an amazing conference at the Radford Church of God, and there the Lord spoke to me clearly. I realised finally that my life have always been about the FAVOUR of God. And even though I might have to travel on the road that many don't travel on, this is the life God had ordained for me.

So since I love blogging so much, and Love God, and find that the only time I don't querry Him and accuse Him of making life unbearable for me lol, is only when I'm in His word. So I've decided to post the lessons I learnt during my time over there. Hopefully when I'm done I can also move over to lessons I've learnt here in Italy (seing as my mind being idle is too damaging to my walk with God). I have a really good feeling about this.

So come on over, I have something to tell you - GOD'S FAVOUR IS IMMUTABLE AND CANNOT BE REVERSED.

I never sent you!!

Hope all your weekend was fabulous. Mine was, in a weird sort of way. After a wonderful time on TERC on Friday, I was feeling very wonderful (as sisbee and akelcalledwonder would always say). So I decided to walk home. I was reliably informed that because I'm Nigerian and have been used to my Nigerian dishes, the Italian food I have started to really enjoy would cause me to gain weight. And it’s not an option not to eat their food. You see I have a food card that can only be used at restaurants, and it would be foolish not to use it. So the Nigerian in me is maxing it out. lol.

As I had previously described my office is on one the mini mountains here in Trento (approximately 400meters), and on the bus will take approx. 20mins to get into town before changing buses, and a further 10 mins before getting to my hotel turned apartment. So on Friday evening, it was a lovely evening, and I constrained a colleague to take the walk with me, and he reluctantly did as I wanted us to leave at 8pm, when he would leave at 6pm on a Friday. And what a beautiful walk it was. The path was very steep, surrounded by nature, fresh water stream with live animals...lol...ok fishes, and fruits, I saw apples, grapes, cherry, wild berries, wild strawberries, fig trees and its fruit, and many I can't say Ive ever heard of. Past the train tracks and down. The walk like I said was a down hill walk and it made the walk very pleasant.

So the next day. I decided to go to work, and because of the pleasant walk the night before, I decided to walk and not get the bus. What a big mistake. I had done 25 mins, when I realised I could no longer walk upwards on the path. It was so steep that I kept stopping every 10mins for a break. My bum, legs, thighs, you name it was hurting. At times I was walking backwards up the mountain because I could no longer do it going forward. The path was so deserted; I thought to myself that even if I were to stop, no one could come by to rescue me in the next coming hrs, so I struggled on until I made it to the top, to my workplace. Took me 2hrs, a walk that was a 50mins walk. But I made it no less.

I was exhausted with pain, and starving. So I took myself to the restaurant, and my, did I eat. Because of the festive weekend here, I had arranged to meet a couple of people at nine, and could not leave on time. So I missed my bus, and you name it I had to walk back. The walk back wasn’t the problem; I had to jog because I had people waiting for me. So I jogged all the way (ok ok, most of the way) and stayed out till 2am watching the water and fire presentation. On Sunday morning, I was too tired to wake up, and the bus only runs hourly on a Sunday, well you figured it out, missed the bus, and had to walk to the station, a 25mins walk to get my train to get to my church that is like 100km away.

So all in all, no one asked me to do all this, but as I wage war against gaining weight by eating healthy Italian food, the fight must continue. And even if it kills me, I must keep up the fight. So today I am ready for the fight. I am in my adidas triainers (obviously everywhere hurts too much to wear anything else), backpack and very comfy wear. I did get the bus to work today, but will be walking home. Will try and eat the berries along the path today. I hear they are very tasty.

Prov. 23 vs. 6 -7

"⁶Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats: ⁷For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee".

O can I be me!!

I am torn between envy and lazyness. I keep remembering the parable of the talents. There are many who make do with their one talents (even when surrounded with many with more than one talent), I have been given much and yet all I have is ungratefulness. I complain, I shudder, I lust, I harbour ill feelings, why must he/she succeed and Im still struggling. God I pray, please deliver me, spring me out of this thinking. We all have been given gifts, and they have been given to us for a purpose, a purpose for which we must search out day and night. I have good intent, I get easily excited, but I seem to run out of steam even before I had begun. Which then takes me back to the vicious cycle of being stuck in the runt between envy and lazyness.

I read in His word in Proverbs 18 vs. 9 - one who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys. I say to myself, when and how did I become a sister to one who destroys. It was when I took my eyes off the word of God. It was when I chose to compare my life to the life of those around me. It was when He gave me my talents, and I refused to make use of them because I felt they were not enough compared to oby's or joys, or bs, or jenny's and countless others. It was when I complained tirelessly of how He has dealt me a bitter blow, and when my day break came, I still complained it was too little too late.

Why oh merciful God do you have time for me. Why must you love me so. Why must you never leave me nor forsake me. Why must you shower me with favour yet all I do is spit back on your face for the Great and awsome things you have done for me. Why must you lift me up so that my feet doesn't touch the floor and cover my shame, yet all I do in return is "hiss" which is then followed by "about time". Great gracious and most wonderful God. Please do not deal with me as my sin and attitude deserves. Help me be more like the "me" you created me to be, to be more like Christ. Oh How I love you Lord. But I know you wouldn't know it with the way I carry on.

Im sorry dear Lord.

So I found a church in VERONA

Sometimes I thank God for my chatty ways. I saw this "aunty" at my regular bus stop where I caught my buses home, and went on to greet her. I found out she was Nigerian, and I asked her about churches where English was spoken. She told me that churches here tend to be Catholics and they speak only Italian as their population don't speak or understand English, but she had a daughter who went to a church behind "Brenero".

I got so excited, took her number and called her. She introduced me to her daughter, and she was a delight. A very pleasant 21 yr old. Well, her daughter told me that she no longer went to the church behind "Brenero" but have found a very good church in Verona. Well I was a little surprised. You see Verona is like 100 kilometres from Povo, and I couldn't imagine me going all that way just for church. Back in blacksburg, I did 30 miles to go to church, I couldn't imagine any further that 30 miles.

Anyhow, we popped on the train went there, and I must say it was a typical Nigerian church. The choir members were all women, they screamed into the microphone which was so loud that I was almost deafened by the noise. I have had this same experience before, how can I forget the wonderful church in Newark New Jersey. It was a very small church of possibly 30 people.

"But if the fruit is good, eat of it". They prayed a lot which I liked, but it was mostly a binding and casting geared prayer. The Pastor preached on relationships, but there was something he said, and I realised that I was at the right place.

It might not be what I'm used to, or I might have to miss the praise and worship bit, because of the noise - [anyways to those that can't sing, God did say make a joyful noise - so their noise is good] - but I believe I have been placed at this place for such a time as this, and thank God for the help he has brought into my life.

Did I tell you that the pleasant girl has offered to show me around, take me shopping, basically made herself available. The Lord indeed is faithful. Psalm 32 vs. 8 is definitely in motion.

Oh really, can I pass for a Hottie?!

Blog Idol rocks. I am so loving it. Who would have thought so much fun can be derived from such. And I can only vote for a favourite, not more.

So back to my main story. You would think seing a police car in your neighbourhood would make you feel a tad safe. Well on friday on my way home, after trying to chat to the girls who were hanging around the corner of my apartment scantily dressed at 11pm at night - who by the way thought I was trying to solicit them for a service, could you imagine - anyways that story is for another day - a police car drove by and the men in the car really smilled at me. I wasnt quite sure what all that was about, I mean I've spoken to police men which ever counry I've been to, they are very good with directions and help, but I felt this was alittle different.

So anyways , I said Ciao back, and continued my walk. Walked past those girls again, cause I sorta missed my turn and had to walk back (so it would look like I was walking back and forth..lol), said my hellos again and went home. The next day I happened to mention this to my collegue at work who told me that the police men knew all the girls in my district and must have thought I was a new girl walking the block Bwahahahaah. Could you imagine. I was very well and smartly dressed, only below the knee showing. And that they are well within their right to ask the girls for their services as its very legal here. I was sort of flabbagasted, like can I really pass for a road side chica.

And I had to go home so late, cause I stayed out on the phone box chatting to my mum. Obvioulsy not going to try going home in the dark again. You just never know the sort of stories I might be telling. But Im really begining to love it here. The views really are spectacular, and Im only 4hrs away on the train from Munich. Might try visitng continental europe on the train.

Happy voting. NaijaDude rocks. Miss T, can't wait to hear your next piece.

UPDATE

I am so excited, and I don't know why, maybe its because temmylicious is finally settled, maybe its because I have this indiscribable joy in my heart. But I know its becauuse God is with me, I just want to go out and shout scream and dance on the top of my street to whoever would listen about the goodness of God. He really is a good God, Did you know that. He really is somthing. Ok, I have 5 job offers, can you imagin that. This my God will not kill me with Favour.

God is Amazingly too much and wonderfully wonderful

Ok,

so I called home yesterday crying to my mum, how I hated it here. I send text to everyone that would listen about how depressed I am. Sent my number to everyone that would listen about why they should call me before I harm myself..lol..Nija bloke laughing at me, because of all the shakara I did for them in the states, about how I was leaving.. my wonderful temmylicious sending me ogbono soup and her love.. and finally my mama calling me to pack my things and come home, saying which kain job be this, my pikin come home, and apply for new job. Telling me to forget my big pay offer in Japan, and free rent, and free tax, telling me its too far.. you never know I might cry again and then i wont be able to come home..lol..

So I took her advice, applied for this post at Rice State univeristy in Texas, sharp sharp the prof. replies and wants to meet me. I was like, ok, I will either chose cambridge or Texas.

So I went to this meeting yesterday, realised if I took away my dislike of this place, and not having any phone or internet at my apartment, this place isn't all that bad. I still didn't care, Ive started packing for my return to England, when I read the word of God last night on Psalm 32 vs. 8. "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you".

The word didn't really filter or go in. As I returned to my office today, to read over my contract, determined to try and publish two papers this year to compensate for my moving around, I felt the need to search for nigerians in Italy, and what I found amazed me. And it took me back to the lady I met yesterday.
.............................
On my way to work yesterday, I had gotten lost on the bus 7, and was going round north of italy in circles. I met this black girl on the bus, but I didnt say a word. After 20mins on the bus, and after I had realised that I was indeed lost again, I asked her what bus I was in, she spoke english very well with a nigerian accent. I asked her where she was from, she screamed nigeria, I wasn't sure why she would say it in such a manner, however I concluded it could be for the reason that there were a few black people around verona / trento who appeared to be refugees from warturn countries. I thanked her very much, but before I ran for the next bus, I asked her what part of nigeria she was from and what she thought of life living in Italy. She screamed benin, and shook her head, saying it would be better if i returned to where I came from. Paying me a compliment, that I looked too good to be or to stay in this country.
................................
Fast forward to today, now.. I work for Micro****, but in a university, so I am paid by micro**** but I can still have an academic carreer, i.e. go up to become a full professor.

So after I had done my search I found out that there were alot of nigerian girls very young girls who are sent over here unknowing into prostitution. They probably have no hope, and probably feel that God has abandoned them. Something spoke to my spirit, pray for these girls. MY GOODNESSES. For the first time in this country, I feel like I have a mission, something I can do for God. I had always complained why all the coloured girls I see in this place all dress like street chicas, I can see why.

For the first time, I have decided to stay, I was indeed sent here for a reason, and I will not leave, until God uses me to make some difference, even if it is only through prayers.Taurean Minx said something about doing your bit, I think God was indirectly trying to tell me about waiting here for a while. It really isn't my time yet to shine, but I can do a lot in hidden places or where ever I am.

Stay well all.

Trully God is good, He spoke to me concerning entering my rest. But its only possible to only when I obey. So Lord here I am, send me.

Im here, and Im sad!!

You would think all this move is wonderful and Im loving every moment. I hate to be a representative of an ingrate, but it appears I am. I think I might have decided wrongly to come here. Maybe becausue I have options thats why Im going on like this, maybe because I know I have a better position in Okinawa that I need to decided on before the 1st of septmeber, and its a 5yrs position. I am told the japanese take is personally if you accept a position and then reject them half way.. you never know they may ban me from ever entering their country psyc.., but whatever it is I need divine intervention.

My Terc family, please keep me in your prayers. If I was sent to minister the word of God, shouldn't I be able to communicate with them and they with me. Anyhow, Im told they speak english in okinawa, and the US marines are every where.

OK, this is my complaint section done. Oh and to top is all up, Im in love with Mr OJ, and who probably doesn't know I've been feeling him for a long while now. I had hoped, this silly emotion will disapper but it hasn't. To make it worse, I was sort of telling him in codes about it, but he still did not figure it out. You know how it is ladies, we are not allowed to chase the man, so even though I'm not into all that women chasing guys (like no way), I won't lie he really is worth it. Maybe he really just sees me as his friend. Something I am an expert in. And I guess its worse now because my travels have started in earnest and all that lonley feeling has begun.

Anyhow, I need serious deliverance. Im thinking of moving to neurology. The Okinawa position is in brain analysis. What do you think people. I need a challenge, something to take my mind off Mr. OJ. But what if I don't like it in Okinawa. Im begining to dislike things. I have a mortgage, in England, and a wonderful mother to make proud, should I just sit at home for like 3 months before i decided...Serious Prayers wanted.. for slowly loosing it sista.

My move to Italy is imminent!!

I’m sorry all for leaving you all hanging like that. Was trying to get myself fully relaxed, energised and morning ready for what I’m about to do next. And no it wasn’t about a marriage proposal, the marriage proposal was a while ago, and as you all well know I had to give him an answer. So no, my trip to Nigeria wasn’t really that eventful, but I thoroughly enjoyed myself no less.

After my trip to Nigeria, I realised that I have become that girl that all your boyfriends have as best friends before they met you, or talk about all the time because we are such great mates; who they are still trying to link up and hang out the same way they used to before they were married, even though they know that she knows that things aren’t the same any more, which then upsets them because they feel she has changed. No Sugar, of course she has changed, you are married dim wit, and she doesn’t want to be the third in the crowd, and yes she is very happy for you, and no, she has no feeling for you. It so happens that she no longer wants to be your Bessi mate, your girlfriend / wife should be now.

OK! So what was I on about, yes, my imminent move to a different part of Europe. I was offered different positions; of particular interest to me was the one in Okinawa Japan, and the other in Italy. Suffice to say, I would still have had to learn a new language regardless of which offer I took. I have opted to take the Italian Job, with a very rich surrounding on the very top of the gigantic mountains on the North Eastern Part of Italy; in a village called Povo. The area shares borders with Austria, and it appears I might have to learn German as well. The University is a very old one, and the centre I will be working in is heavily funded by pharmaceuticals and biotech companies, Microsoft being one of them. I like to have funds to make sure my research is carried out well, which made this offer a clear first compared to the others.

So come next week, after my return from Belgium I will be moving my things and me to Italy, first stop Verona. It appears that the life of a stranger will continue the chronicles of her life as she leaves home yet again to embark on a journery she continues to ask the good Lord to bring to an end.

So all this was my new development. No misunderstanding was intended. I would add I am told that Milan is hrs away on the North west side, so shoppers keep me in mind. Hope everyone is having a great summer, and those in the UK, hope your exams went well.

The very best.

Dearest Friends

It appears I have dealt you a bitter blow by gowing away and not bothering to inform you all. I did mention it the last time I was on Terc. I have finally arrived in the UK from my many trips and will be here just a little while. I will try and keep up with my blog trotting and blogging. I thoroughly enjoyed my trips especially the latest the one to nigeria. Oh my Goodness, its really made me think of one day moving back to nigeria in the not so distant future (maybe its the same bug I get every time I go which dies down after 8 months of my return - LOL).

Anyhows, there is a LATEST DEVELOPMENT. Guess friends??

LOve ya.. will keep ya updated.

So Long Blacksburg, Farewell USA

As the title of my blog suggests, I am no longer a stranger in a foreign land {if you wondered US}, I am finally Home. To my parents house how I've missed home. I still have many travels before me, but for now I will be doing it from the UK. From Loved ones.

But blacksburg was really not as bad as I made it out to be. I was so upset that I was away from home that I had failed to recognise what was staring back at me, or should I say what I had in blacksburg. I had a wonderful Church, some great collegues at VT and the Lord had given me the opportunity to meet some great people whose paths were caused to cross mine to be an influnce and source of support when I needed them the most.

My last sunday in church was two days ago, and I never realised how much little o me was loved. My goodness could you believe the church were in tears that I was leaving and they all came out and gave me money - close to like 1000 dollars. Could you imagine that, I couldn't I was shocked I was wailing terribly and chocked up with tears. Gosh, the word of God is so true, He would cause people to bless you, come and see how visiting pastors were counting money to give me. I was like ooh my goodness upon all my shakara I didnt know people love me pass like this oo.

So even though I was dying to come home, I never realised I had a home away from home, and only when I was leaving did I realise how much I was loved. So if none of you wants to love me, I have so many that do. I am currently asking God what to do with this money, this is not the kind to go and buy shoe and bag and leather coat with matching trousers with. I need to go before God to ask Him what to do with this money His people have given me.

So on that note, I would like to send out a warm hearty love to everyone, and a special thank you for the concerns you gave throughout out my most difficult week. I Love you all. Stay well and I will be back with some updates on my trips to munich and verona. Take care all.

Life.

33 Dead and 18 injured on my campus

Today is a very sad day for me.

A gunman was loose on my campus today - Virginia Tech, Blacksburg - and so many students have been killed in this quiet town. 18 are wounded and some jumped off the top floor windows of their building trying to save themselves. We were on lock down in the office, and we have now been told to evacuate immediately.

Let us all pray for the families involved and pray for the youth.

Today is indeed a solmn day for us all. Lets pray that God will comfort us all.

The airports must know my Name!!!!

I'm so sure they do. So here is me going all the way to the West side to give a seminar when I got almost stranded at the Chicago O'Hare airport. And No it was of no fault of mine. It's simply not meant to be. My orriginal seattle to Dulles flight was delayed, so they bumped me off to Chicago where I spent the next 20 odd hrs wondering what manner of life this is? and why me? I had not had any sleep, was on adrenaline looking forward to my next flight out after my 5am arrival, well, suffice to tell you that I did not make it out till past 1am the next morning.

Maybe when I'm feeling alot better I might expansiate, but I just felt to let you all all know that I have still yet to arrive at my front door and have been travelling since wednesday night. It's the early hrs of friday morning and am still trying to find my way HOME.

When will I ever find people living in these cities that always love / finds ways to harrass me so?

Day 40 – Living with purpose

Living with purpose

Final Day

Finally, living on purpose is the only way to really live, as everything else just exists. And in order to find our identity (who we are), our importance (if we matter) or our place in life, we will and can only find answers in God’s five purposes for us. And when we know there is a blessing in doing the right thing to do them [John 13 vs. 17]. However it is not easy to do the right thing, and it’s so easy for us to get distracted and drift away from what matters most. Therefore, in order to prevent being easily distracted, we ought to develop a purpose statement for our life and review them regularly.

I am told that it should be a statement that:

1) summarises God’s purpose for my life [note – not a list of goals – as goals are temporary and purposes are eternal] [Psalm 33 vs.11]

2) Points the direction of my life, as this forces me to think specifically about the path of my life [Prov. 4 vs. 26]. So not only does it spell out what I intend to do with life, time and resources – it will imply what I will not be wasting them on [Prov. 17 vs. 24].

3) Defines “success” for me, which should state that what I believe is important and not what the world believes, and should clarify my values [Philippians 1 vs. 10]

4) Clarifies my role – so even though I may have different roles at different stages of my life, my purpose will and should never change.

So as I prepare the statement I need to be able to answer the following questions which include:

1) Whom am I going to live for and build my life around? I.e. what will be in the centre of my life? - It is good to centre our life on our career, family, hobby even money; however none of them is strong enough to withstand the problems faced in life. Therefore, we need to have a solid centre that is unshakable [2 Chronicles 14 vs. 4], show me who is more solid than the Great Jehovah. To also bear in mind that whatever is at the centre our life is our god [Eph. 3 vs. 17]; and only when we know that we know that we KNOW that God is our unshakable centre will we worship Him [Phil. 4 vs. 7].

2) What will be the character of my life? This question is to do with discipleship. I am told that I need to make a list of character qualities I need to work on and develop in my life, like for example, the fruit of the Spirit [Gal. 5 vs. 22 – 23]; or the beatitudes [Matt. 5 vs. 3 – 12; 2 Pet. 1 vs. 5]; And not to be discouraged when I stumble or fall through my journey [1 Tim. 4 vs. 16].

3) What will be the contributions of my life? To answer this question I need to understand that this question is to do with service; i.e. what my best role in the family of God is [2 Corinth. 9 vs. 12]; therefore, by serving others, I am acknowledging God’s goodness to me and saying thank you to Him. I also need to choose whom I can help best seeing as I have not been called to help everybody as have a specific gifting [John 15 vs. 16]

4) What will be the communication of my life? This is all about my mission to unbelievers, which is my commitment to share my testimony and good news with others; [and if a parent, then part of their mission is to raise their children to know Christ, in order to help them understand His purpose for their life [John 24 vs. 15]]. And to live credible lives that unbelievers will accept [Philip. 1 vs. 27].

5) A final question is what will be the community of my life, that is how will I fellowship with others and how will I understand my commitment to other believers and connections to family of God.

So therefore, after I have put together my statements, I am informed that it will be very good to keep them in mind [Prov. 22 vs. 18]. To also remember that God’s will for my job, marriage or where I am supposed to lived are very important but are secondary issues, and so it’s imperative I fulfil God’s eternal purposes regardless of where I live or work or whom I marry [Prov. 19 vs. 21].

As I conclude this series, I would like us to remember; Since our purpose is to please God [1 Thess. 2 vs. 4], let us therefore be like David, a man who dedicated his life to fulfilling God’s purpose on earth in his generation [Acts 13 vs. 36], since He has created us for such a time as this [Ester 4 vs. 14] and is looking for those to show Himself strong on their behalf [2 Chronicles 16 vs. 9].

Finally I pray: Dear Lord please use me for your purposes, help me to serve your purpose in my generation in Jesus Name. Amen.

Day 39 – Balancing my life

Balancing my life

Penultimate day - Lessons learnt so far!

What have I learnt so far?

Well I have learned from the study of this book and always referring it back to the Bible that God’s five purposes for my life includes:

1. loving God with all my heart – since I am planned for God’s pleasure, my purpose is to love God through worship
2. loving my neighbour as myself – since I am shaped for serving, my purpose therefore is to show love to others through my ministry
3. to go and make disciples – since I am made for a mission; my purpose is to share God’s message though evangelism
4. baptise them into – since I am formed for God’s family, my purpose is to identify with God’s church through fellowship
5. Teach them to do all things – since I was created to become like Christ, my purpose is to grow to maturity through discipleship

So even though my commitment to the great commandment and great commission will make me a great Christian, this is not an easy thing to do – a balance is required. For that reason, in order to keep a balance, I need to:

· Join a small group for accountability – [Prov. 27 vs. 17; Philippians 4 vs. 9]; this includes praying, encouraging and supporting each other seeing as we are meant to grow together not separately [1 Thess.. 5 vs. 11].

· Regularly evaluate my spiritual health – [Lamentations 3 vs. 40; 1 Corinth. 11 vs. 28; 31; 31 vs. 5; Gal. 6 vs. 4; 2 Corinth. 13 vs. 5]; to do this I need to check my vital signs of: worship, fellowship, Growth in character and mission [2 Corinth. 8 vs. 11].

· Record my progress in a personal journal – I am told that this is not a diary of event, but more of a record of life’s lessons that I don’t want to forget [Heb. 2 vs. 1; Numbers 33 vs. 2]; as I journey through life [Psalm 56 vs. 8]. As every problem that I face is purpose driven as it forces me to focus on God, draw me closer to others in fellowship, build Christ like character in me, provide me with a ministry and finally give me a testimony [Psalm 102 vs. 18]. By recording my progress I preserve the testimony of God and how He came through for me and helped me fulfil my purpose.

· Pass on what I’ve learned to others – [Prov. 11 vs. 25; 2 Tim. 2 vs. 2]. It is my responsibility to carry God’s message to others [James 4 vs. 17], a privilege God has allowed me to be part of [1 Tim.4 vs. 6; John 17 vs. 6-26]

Day 38 – How to become a world class Christian

How to become a world class Christian

Which would I prefer? To be a worldly Christian or a world class Christian?

Seeing as the great commission is my commission, it doesn’t take a genius to remind me I need to do my best in becoming a world class Christian instead of a worldly Christian. What then is a worldly Christian and who are they? Well I am told that they are Christians who look to God primarily for personal fulfilment. They are saved but self centred, their prayer focused on their own needs, blessing and happiness. They are Christians who use God for their purposes instead of being used for His purpose; however. On the other hand, world class Christians know that they are saved to serve others, and made for a mission. They are eager to receive their assignment and excited about the privilege of being used by God.

A world class Christian’s joy, confidence and enthusiasm are contagious because they know that they’re making a difference, and this affords us to experience a little of what heaven is like. But how can I become world class Christians? Today the great barriers are no longer distance or transportation, because we now have airplanes, ships, trains buses automobiles – Our great barrier is the way we think.

To think like a world class, I will need to:

Shift my thinking from self centred thinking to other-centred [1 Corinth. 14 vs. 20 - Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults; Philippians 2:4 - Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others]. Even though this may be difficult, fortunately I have the Holy Spirit [1 Corinth. 2 vs. 12 - We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us] who is more than able and eager to help. Therefore, I need to start asking the Holy Spirit to help me to think of the spiritual needs of unbelievers whenever I talk to them; to pray a silent prayer such as “Father help me to understand what is keeping this person from knowing you”, to find out where they are in their spiritual journey and then finally to do what the Holy Spirit tells me to do to bring them closer to Christ [1 Corinth. 10 vs. 33 - even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved].

Shift my thinking from local thinking to global thinking. God loves the world this is why He sent His Son [John 3 vs. 16 - For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life]. He has always wanted family members from every nation He created [Acts. 17 vs. 26-27; Col. 1 vs. 6 - that has come to you. All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and understood God's grace in all its truth]. This is why praying continually facilitates my global thinking. To pray for the nation by name [Psalm 2 vs. 8 - Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession]; for opportunities to witness [Col. 4 vs. 3 - And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains; Rom. 1 vs. 10 - in my prayers at all times; and I pray that now at last by God's will the way may be opened for me to come to you]; for courage to speak [Eph. 6 vs. 19 - Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel]; for those who believe [John 17 vs. 20 - My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message]; for rapid spread of the message [1 Thess. 3 vs. 1 - So when we could stand it no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens] and for more workers [Matt. 9 vs. 38 - Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field]. By me praying this partners me with others around the world; to pray also for missionaries [2 Corinth. 1 vs. 11 - as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favour granted us in answer to the prayers of many]; and to read and watch the news. So I pose this question to you, what type of Christian are you? Are you an Acts 1 vs. 8 [But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth] Christian?

To shift my thinking from here and now thinking to eternal thinking; to make the most of my time here on earth by having an eternal perspective [2 Corinth. 4 vs. 18 - So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal]. Not to trade my life for temporary things, but eternity [Luke 9 vs. 62 - Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God; 1 Corinth. 7 vs. 31 - those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away]; to remove whatever it is standing in place of me becoming a world class Christian [Heb. 12 vs. 1 - Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us] and to stay focussed on Jesus [Matt. 6 vs. 20 – 21 - But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also]; to use the wealth God has given us to bring people to Christ [Luke 16 vs. 9 - I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings] which is the best financial investment I will ever make [1 Tim. 6 vs. 19 - In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life].

Finally to shift my thinking from thinking of excuses to thinking of creative ways to fulfil my commission; excuses like I don’t have anything to offer [Jer. 1 vs. 7-8 - But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD]. To remember I (and all of us) am called to fulfil God’s purposes for my life.

Lessons learnt – To pray and ask God for where He wants me to serve in the years ahead; and to do my part as the great commission is my communion and doing my part is the secret to living.

Day 37 – Sharing My Life’s Message

Sharing My Life’s Message

By becoming a believer I have become God’s messenger, and God wants to speak to the world through me [2 Corinth. 2 vs. 17 - Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God] and through my experiences to bring others into His family [1 John 5 vs. 10 - Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son].

How does He do this? Well He wants to speak to them through my testimony (the story of how I began a relationship with Jesus); through my life’s lesson (the most important lessons God has taught me); through my godly passions (the issues God shaped me to care about the most); and finally through the good news (the message of salvation).

By speaking to them through my testimony, He would like me to share with others how Christ has made a difference in my life. We have therefore been chosen to share our life’s story [1 Pet. 2 vs. 9 - But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light; Acts 1 vs. 8 - But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth] simply as witnesses of the goodness of God, which is an essential part of (mine) our mission. Sharing my testimony is also vital as many people who won’t accept the authority of the bible will listen to a humble, personal story; this explains why Paul used his testimony to share the gospel instead of quoting scriptures [1 Pet. 3 vs. 15-16 - But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behaviour in Christ may be ashamed of their slander]. We are told the best way to be ready in sharing our testimony is to write and memorise them.

By speaking to them through my life’s lesson. These lessons are the truth that God has taught me through my experiences. Such as lesson and insights that God has taught me through relationships, problems, temptations and other aspect of life [Psalm 119 vs. 33 - Teach me, O LORD, to follow your decrees; then I will keep them to the end]. Sadly the mistake I have made (and we all too) is never learning from them [Psalm 106 vs. 43 - Many times he delivered them, but they were bent on rebellion and they wasted away in their sin]; so while it is wise to learn from my experiences, it is even better to learn from the experiences of others [Prov. 25 vs. 12 - Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man's rebuke to a listening ear].

By speaking to them as I share my godly passion. God is a very passionate God; and as I grow closer to Him He will give me a passion for something He cares a lot deeply; so that I can be a spokesman for Him, but I need to grow closer to Him so that he can deposit himself into me, only then will I not be able to keep my self from talking about what He cares about the most [Matt. 12 vs. 34 - You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks; Psalm 69 vs. 9 - for zeal for your house consumes me, and the insults of those who insult you fall on me; Jeremiah 20 vs. 9 - But if I say, "I will not mention him or speak any more in his name," his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot]. Only then will I be passionate about a problem, purpose or principle and champion God’s cause. But in doing so I am reminded to never belittle someone else’s godly passion [Gal. 4 vs. 18 - It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always and not just when I am with you].

Finally my life’s message includes the good news; [Rom. 1 vs. 17 - For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."; 2 Corinth. 5 vs. 19 - that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation] a message that shows that I trust God’s grace to save me through what Jesus did; my sins are forgiven; that I get a purpose for living and a promised future home in heaven. However I need also to care for unbelievers, because God has never created anyone He didn’t love and loved them to the point of turning away from His Son on the cross because of how much He hates my sins.

I therefore need to ask God to fill my heart with love for His children so that the fear of sharing His message will depart from my heart.

My fellow friends, I ask you today what are you willing to do for those around you who are not saved. [2 Corinthians 5 vs. 14 - For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died; 1 John 4 vs. 18 - There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love; 2 Pet. 3 vs. 9 - The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance; Col. 4 vs. 5 - Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity].

Day 36 – I am made for a mission

I am made for a mission

I am created for a mission. Seeing as The Lord is at work in the world, He has created me to join Him in this work and this assignment is known as my mission. From previous lessons, I have learnt that my ministry is to believers; my mission therefore is to unbelievers. Consequently, fulfilling my mission in the world is God’s fifth purpose for my life.

We as Christians are sent into the world as a representative of Jesus Christ [John 17 vs. 18 – As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world] and this is our mission. Since one of our purpose is to be like Christ, we need to remember that Christ took His mission seriously [Luke 2 vs. 49 – why were you searching for me? He asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?”] and completed it well [John 19 vs. 30 – when he had received the drink, Jesus said “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit] and we ought to do the same. Christ mission is now our mission, which is introducing people to God [2 Corinth. 5 vs. 18 – All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and gave us a ministry of reconsilation], so that we that He has saved would fulfill the purposes He created us for, which are: to love Him; to be part of His family; to become like Him; to serve Him; and finally to tell others about Him – with the underlying factor of us getting out there and bringing others in [2 Corinth. 5 vs. 20 – we are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: be reconciled to God].

Fulfilling my life’s mission is an essential part of living for God’s glory. This is because my mission:

Is a continuation of Jesus’ mission on earth. As a follower of Jesus I am required not just to come to Him but to go into the world for Him [Matt. 28 vs. 19 – 20 – therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of age; Mark 16 vs.15; Luke 24 vs. 47; John 20 vs. 21; Acts 1 vs. 8]. This mission is not just given to pastors or missionaries but to us all, and is a mission from Jesus Christ and so isn’t optional. And if I choose to ignore it would mean disobedience and I will be held accountable for the unbelievers that live among me [Ezekiel 3 vs. 18 – when I say to a wicked man, ‘You will surely die’, and you do not warn him or speak out to dissuade him from his evil ways in order to save his life, that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood]. For the reason that I am most probably the only Christians the unbelievers around me will ever get to know and my mission is to share Jesus with them.

Is a wonderful priviledge, so even though it is a big responsibility its also an incredible honour to be used by God [2 Corinth. 5 vs. 18] as I get to partner with God in building of His Kingdom [2 Corinth. 6 vs. 1 – As God’s fellow-workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain] and get to represent Him to the world [2 Corinth. 5 vs. 20].

Is to tell others how to get eternal life through Christ Jesus, and this is the greatest thing I can do for them. To bear in mind that however much contented or successful people appear to be, without Christ they are lost and headed for eternal separation [Acts 4 vs. 12 – Salvation is found in non-one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which they must be saved]. This is why it is important for me to tell them about Jesus.

Has eternal significance, as it impacts the eternal destiny of others and thus more important than any job, achievement or goal I could ever attain. Nothing else I do will matter as much as helping people establish an eternal relationship with God [John 9 vs. 4 – As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me]. To make sure I share the good news where I am, and to look for people God places in my path to share the good news.

Finally, Gives my life meaning, this is why I must live a purpose driven life committed to worship, fellowship, spiritual growth, ministry and fulfilling my mission here on earth [Acts. 20 vs. 24 – However I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace].

Lessons learned so far:

I have found out that God’s timetable for history’s conclusion is connected to the completion of my mission [Acts 1 vs. 7 – 8; Matt. 24 vs. 36; 24 vs. 14]; and therefore the need to stay focused on my mission and not to speculate on when Jesus returns is very vital; as this is a form of distraction and if distracted to remember what the Lord says in Luke 9 vs. 62 – Jesus replied, “No one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for service in the Kingdom of God”; in conclusion, to accept God’s agenda for my life and let His Will be done [Luke 22 vs. 42; Rom. 6 vs. 13; Matt. 6 vs. 33].

Day 35 – Our weakness shows God’s power

Our weakness shows God’s power

The Lord not only wants to use our strengths to do His work, our weaknesses are just as important. Our weakness are not an accident, God deliberately allowed them in our life for the purpose of demonstrating His power through us [Isaiah 55 vs. 9 - As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts; 1 Corinth. 1 vs. 27 - But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong]. We may be tempted to conclude that God may never use us, but God is never limited by our limitations, in fact He enjoys putting His great power into ordinary containers like us [2 Corinth. 4 vs. 7 - But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us], but in order for us to allow God to use us, we must:

1) Admit our weakness, by owing up to our imperfections to stop pretending to have it all

2) To be content with our weakness, as they cause us to depend on God and is particularly useful in showing us how much we need each other. {God is in the business of transforming our weakness for the positive; there are many examples in the bible of people whom God transformed their weakness; to name a few, Moses who had a temper and God transformed him to the humblest man on earth [Numbers 12 vs. 3 - Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth] and Gideon who suffered low self esteem to a man know as a mighty man of valour [Judges 6 vs. 12 - When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior]}.

3) Honestly share our weakness, the more we let down our guard, take off our mask, share our struggle, the more God will be able to use us in serving others. Paul was a man who shared his weakness in all his letters [Rom. 7 vs. 11 - For sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, deceived me, and through the commandment put me to death]. To bear in mind that our strength creates competition, whilst our weakness creates community.

Therefore I have made up my mind to glory in my weakness as when I am weak God is Strong [2 Corinth. 12 vs. 56 - I will boast about a man like that, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses]