What Lies Underneath

It’s the first time this week the burrow seemed clear. A fine day I’m sure filled with so much possibilities, said Mr. Mouse, as he tried to take a peek out of his hole onto the distance. He needed no further convincing, and decided the time to step out and go yonder was now, and the day no longer to be wasted was today. As he struggled to walk on the snow covered undergrowth, deep inside the forest on a mountain peak, he couldn’t help but wonder if it may have been too soon to wonder out, for it had all of a sudden turned too cold, and his fur no longer as strong as it used to be against the wind. As he moved along, a van came alongside, swerving from one side of the path to the other albeit slowly in front of him. He observed, the two wheels on the left was completely eroded, and the two on the right had been replaced with the smaller emergency proxy – “I’m sure you’re only ever supposed to have one of these he thought”. The body covered in sooth, and out of the exhaust came black smoke. Immediately Mr. Mouse gave a hot chase, even he knew that he could outrun this van, for he thought to himself any moment now this van is heading for a disaster. As he came close to the driver’s side, he called out to the driver. The driver saw him acknowledged him, and made an attempt to stop the van. He had pressed on his breaks, which was unresponsive, but technically wasn’t needed; and he watched it roll to halt. They exchanged greeting, after which Mr. Mouse went on to ask him - “are you aware that your van is in a really bad way”? The driver replied, “I didn’t think it was that obvious”. Mr. Mouse continued, “I can be of help”.

The driver moved with the concern of Mr. Mouse, decided to oblige him. He set down his cargo, and they both started to work on the van. As they took the body parts off, they found that the base that should have acted as a shield had eroded away, and the main wafer type content insulator had been half eaten. “No, this will not do” exclaimed Mr. Mouse, “this will not do at all”.

The driver suggested an alternative, but it just was not enough. No no, Mr. Mouse insisted, it must be new. No, no, it must be clean. “I know a place” said Mr. Mouse. You need a complete rectangular base that is made of steel with winged edges - this will prevent any thing from penetrating in. I know too where to get four brand new wheels and a warm spring where we can get fresh water to wash out the dirt from the van including the cargo. This way whatever is left of the soft wafer part of the van could be protected from any further damage”. The driver excited at this followed Mr. Mouse and did as he suggested. His cargo washed of its dirt, was returned to him of greater worth than when he started; for it had become so clean and sparkled so.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

We awaken in the morning wearied and burdened so, but thinks as long as we stay away from people and hide our emotions, no one needs to know what is going on underneath. We think that because it is hidden deep within, it won’t affect the exterior part of us. *erm* wrong!! If everything is not ok, then it really isn’t ok and it’s time for us to find out how we can improve our lives.

We need to first admit to ourselves that we are broken. The outer appearance of the van was in a bad way, because the base had rotted with the worries of life and penetrated the heart. And we know the heart is vital for the maintance of the body. For many of us, our heart is almost on its last lap, and at any moment about to go belly up. But that’s because our shield that should be acting as our protection is not as strong as it should be. We have not bothered to build on it, and to make sure that nothing comes any where near it. And for those of us who have not tried Jesus, I beseech you to try HIM, and see if He is not more than able to shield you in times of trouble. There used to be a time when I battled with my emotion as I saw myself unworthy and therefore not fit to be forgiven or to be called His child. But instead of remaining in my sorry state, I kept being reminded that He has forgiven me all of my sins, and I have been immersed and washed in His blood. I believe that in itself is more than enough when life’s burden or worries tries to bring us to the point when it seems all hope is gone.

We have to be prepared to be open to take suggestions. The driver would have thought, *erm* what does this horrible looking stench living, not fit to be spoken to Mouse have to tell me, and would have missed an opportunity that would have brought a much needed change in his life. The bible tells us that it is a wicked man who puts up a bold front, but an upright man gives thought to his ways (Prov. 21:29). If in need and help is offered accept it. It also says in Prov. 20:18; 24:6 (Make plans by seeking advice…. for victory many advisers). Isaiah 9:6; Prov. 12:16; 9:9; 1:8 - listen to good advice.

I also find talking about the things that are eaten away in my heart brings me a much needed relief. So again we need to find a spirit filled person to encourage us along our life’s journey. Especially one who is accustomed to your way. For example, I have two prayer partners, my mum and my girl friend. Both of which are spirit filled and always ready with the word from the bible to encourage me. I also have my pastors and network of Christian friends who I know are on their knees day and night praying on my behalf. If you don’t have one or have yet to find one, I am more than happy to be of help. But know this that the Lord God Loves you and whatever you are going through is not just for you alone, but to be an encouragement to the people He is sending you to.

Be prepared to cast your load upon the waters. Like me for example when I want something so badly you’ll know cause am all up in your face and everything, and I find that when I try to force it to be mine, *erm* it just breaks apart. So I’ve learnt to just let it go and let God. If this thing is meant for me, it will come back to me better than I started out with. It’s like saying Lord I want YOU to give me this, not me forcing it to be mine. Like the denim jeans example, if you force yourself into it, it will rip to bits, but when you finally fit into it, you’ll won’t know how it all happened (I am speaking from experience, I fit into them all now :)).

So don’t suffer in silence, and you are not an island. Wherever you hide yourself God is more than able to find you and send help to you. He loves you too too much, this time is only the refinery stage, and you’ll see the end result sooner than you think. You are just Fabulous.

Dedicated to U

Did you ever think you would ever get this “blessed”? It’s been a long road to get to this point. During the journey, there was never a time I really believed I would see this day. I had all but given up, because even the light at the end of the tunnel, appeared too many a times as a mirage. And for so long, I had all but decided to walk in the darkness and forget that a day like this will ever come to pass. Then one day, just one day a change came. My change came. Our change came. Just like it did in the time of Joseph, how a prisoner, a foreigner, went from the prison gates to become ruler in the nation of Egypt, a country not his own; all in a space of day (Genesis 41:1-57). Such miracles still happen even now, and it did happen to us.

Today I watched my baby brother graduate from the School of Medicine. Today, I watched him sigh a sigh of relief. It finally happened didn’t it? Oh Yes it did. Today I continue to be amazed, and continue to be reminded that the difficult roads will not always remain the same. Because all it takes is one day. Just one day. Your change will come. My change will come. And I will continue to wait until my change comes.

Wonderful is your Name!!

All of my Life, I have never Known God to fail. That is indeed a FACT and the TRUTH. From the time I was very young and up until now, I have never known God to fail. I am here, alive, healthy and well aren’t I? The Joy of the Lord that supersedes all things is with me. And my cup continues to run over. He is faithful and more than anything His love is so unconditional. Wow, this awesome God how else can I describe you but to say How wonderful is your Name!!

Sometimes it is good to just praise and glorify Him irrespective of what He has done or not yet done for you. Because the knowledge that He is, is enough to deserve all our praise and thanksgiving. Sometimes it is good to tell God, how magnificent and good He is. His ability to be magnificent is not dependent on the number of prayers He has answered, but simply because He is.

I am in the office and just feel like breaking out into a dance. DEAR GOD!! You are indeed the Living God. How excellent is Your Name. DEAR God!! You are JUST too much. Words leave me but I have to tell you this Lord. I really enjoy just being with you and just writing Love letters to you. Because truly Lord I love you (please try and forget those times I shout at you lol - I don’t mean it sometimes, just that.. well Lord You understand lol). I have fallen short of my walk, and messed up Lord on countless times, yet Lord You have continued to be so wonderfully faithful to me.

Thank you Lord for ALL you’ve done for me… You are indeed the Lover of my soul. You are indeed beautiful beyond descriptions; you are the only one I adore. The world will disappoint me, But You God, You are closer than a brother. You dig and stay put. God You just don’t joke with me… wow Lord, who am I that You love me like “shegge”!! What shall I ever render unto You my wonderful Lord? You own the whole world, including all the cattle on a thousand Hills. But Lord since you Love Obedience over sacrifice, I choose to declare to the whole world today, that I choose to obey the word of the Lord in all facets of my life.

Dearest Lord, always nudge me when I go astray so that I don’t wonder too far away from Your wonderful embrace. Your Grace is more than enough for me. Thank you Lord for being all that to me.

None of these things MOVED me!!

NOTHING in life is that important to miss HEAVEN. And No one is that important to cause you to miss heaven, not even your friends - But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God– Acts 20:24.

Our natural eyes may remind us of the situation/s surrounding our life, that nothing is ever going to work out, or that it is as bad as it gets. But you need to get to a point in your life to say the words “and so, what difference does it really make”. Because any form of disappointment in your life cannot last for that long, because as long as the Lord lives your Joy will come, that is for certain (Psalm 30:5b). And no matter what, ALL things work together for your good to them (us) who love the Lord and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). I am not saying that the disappointments are from God, no, I am saying the disappointments helps you realise what you are made of. If you are made of strong metal, the storm cannot break you. Instead it makes you stronger. And if you are made of straw.. well lets pray that none of us is made of straw.

And the Lord honours His words more than His name. Remind Him of His words, because He cannot lie (Numbers 23:19). Do not forget His words. Regardless of what you are facing He says, His presence is with you and He will give you rest (Exodus 33:13-14). Your light will break forth like a dawn, wow I am so excited [have you noticed the way the dawn breaks? Think about it, then you J - Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard – Isaiah 58:8]

I don’t know about you, but I for one I have been redeemed by the Lord and the shout of Kings is with me (Psalm 107:2). Remember the eye of the Lord is upon they that fear Him (Psalm 33:18), and He will visit you, and when He comes He will make His goodness pass in front of you to see (Exodus 33:19 - Then He said, “I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before you. I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion”). None of these things moved me. Disappointments will not move me. We refuse to bow and let life’s problems derail us. Our look of helplessness will no longer betray our worth, because we know who we are. And because we bear the mark of the Lord, we will not be moved.

Our spiritual eyes has to look through the lens of faith and continue to remind our hearts that no matter how bad it seems, God is still able to do abundantly more than we can ever ask. However, our journey, on the road to heaven requires a great deal of cooperation from us. And only those who have made up their mind to follow Jesus regardless will make it to the finishing line. It is not going to be easy but believe me it is going to be worth it.

Dear Lord If I have found favour in your sight, go with me, forgive me my sins and take me as an inheritance. For I am even more resolved to follow His lead. Yes Dear Lord, lead the way, and I will follow.

Just for a moment more!!

“You cannot afford to give up now. You’ve come too far. Let’s keep walking; we are so close to the end I can just smell it”.

Peggy and her four friends after days of endless walking had found themselves in a farmland belonging to farmer Jed. It was spacious, comfortable and there stood in the middle this GREAT tree. It stood out when compared to the rest and had branches you could rest on. On seeing this, Melinda turned to the group and suggested they stopped in for the evening and maybe stay for the night. Then just maybe they would alight early the next day for their journey home. Peggy a little uncomfortable with the idea tried to encourage her and the rest of gang to continue, urging Melinda “You cannot afford to give up now. You’ve come too far. Let’s keep walking; we are so close to the end I can just smell it”.

It was as if her suggestion was falling on deaf ears as her friends were reluctant to carry on and didn’t find anything wrong in stopping in for a short while, even if it was for the night. Peggy remembering the many years the group had been friends for succumbed but insisted that before the clock struck 4am they must be on their way. For they did not know what manner of man the farm belonged to. At 3.30am the next morn, Peggy was already awake and tried to wake the rest up; Tisa and Clarisse were prepared to follow Peggy, but Melinda chose to sleep in for a little while longer, whilst Federica opted to follow Melinda in her lie in.

As Melinda and Federica lay snuggly under the shade of the beautiful tree, the rest of them began to set off. They had just barely left the position of the tree when they realised that farmer Jed and the rest of his workforce were awake and busy working on the farm; and saw that every intruder farmer Jed’s crew came into contact with they shot at for trespassing. Peggy on seeing this feared for their life. And as they turned aside they found that they were standing close to a moving mower cart and made haste to follow the cart. They were able to follow it unnoticed by farmer Jed and his group and were just able to make it out of the farm land alive.

As they got off the farm, they wondered what would become of their friends, and Tisa and Clarisse praised God for listening to good instructions.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

You can’t help but wonder how close to our breakthroughs we are even when it appears the end is still so far away. Sometimes we get distracted and sidelined, which sometimes causes one to try to settle for less than what God has for them. And in most cases a wasted life. Don’t be deceived, don’t be shortchanged, don’t let the enemy steal what rightfully belongs to you (The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full – John 10:10). Don’t be unaware of his schemes (2 Corinthians 2:11), and don’t give up. Don’t let your body cause you to sin or prevent you from entering into your rest because of disobedience or LAZYNESS (Hebrews 4:11 - Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience). The word of God reminded us to pray until our Joy is full (John 16:24). Until what He has promised manifests in our lives we should give Him no rest until He has done what He promised (Isaiah 62:7). Saints keep praying.

And what He tells us to do we should do (John 2:5b; Hebrews 12:25). Seek His counsel early, because storms will come, but Jesus has already overcome it all (John 16:33). Seek Godly counsel and let Him guide you to a successful finish (Isaiah 28:26 - His God instructs him and teaches him the right way; Proverbs 20:18; 24:6 - Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance; for waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers; Proverbs 12:16; 9:9; 1:8). As ungodly counsel will only wear you out (Isaiah 47:13)

“We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead” – 2 Corinthians 1:8b-9.

Keep trusting God and He will see you through. But remember faith without works is dead (James 2:17). Keep persevering and He will grant your labours with success. You are not labouring in vain (Hebrews 6:10). You have not come to the mountain of the Lord to gloom and darkness (Hebrews 12: 18-24). No, you have come to the Living God, who is more than dependable.

It is closer than you think!! Don’t let you story be like that of Melissa and Federica. Let your testimony be like that of Peggy and friends.

Hi my Name is David!!

The oxford dictionary states that Evolution is: • noun 1 the process by which different kinds of living organism are believed to have developed, especially by natural selection. 2 gradual development. 3 Chemistry the giving off of a gaseous product or of heat. 4 a pattern of movements or manoeuvres.

After the short 7.40am bus journey to the train station, I looked forward to my quiet time inside the train. I had hopped that the train would be on the empty side so that I would be able to pray over the songs I was going to lead the worship service with, and ask God for His fresh anointing. The fast train to Verona is just a little over an hour and thankfully today (like it has been the past three Sundays) was on time. As I walked along the carriage way looking for a prime spot, I spotted an almost empty carriage and a sitting place with a tall man fast asleep. His feet spread over the chair of my choice, and so I smugly told him in English, please could you take your feet off my chair.

I was shocked that he did, woke up immediately and sat up, then said to me:

“Is that train opposite going to Venice”

I was surprised he spoke English, sounded American, at which I replied, “yes it is but it’s a very slow one and stops at every stop. But this train takes you straight to Verona, and you can change over for the fast one to Venice”

Then he replied, “I would have been surprised if they put me on the slowest one”

I was thinking to myself, please go back to sleep, I need to spend some time praying over my songs, because I need the anointing of God to flow in today’s service. But instead, he just kept talking and talking and talking. Fifteen minutes into the journey, he had given me a brief history of himself, and he was a young American footballer playing in the European league and after his two years in Bolzano (North of Italy – German speaking region), he was now playing for Barcelona (in Spain). Great, but that didn’t stop there. And at no point did it occur to me to try and witness to him. All I was thinking about was me, my worship service and my songs. I kept hoping there would be one of those “awkward moments” but he just kept talking..lol.. And finally after twenty five minutes of him jabbing away I finally said to the Lord, I give up Lord. Maybe after the train ride, on the next bus ride to my final stop, just maybe I’ll have a bit of quiet time to pray over my songs and for more of His anointing.

He spoke about, culture, life, education, women, beer you name it, I heard it all that morning J, and it wasn’t even 8.30am yet. And all I did was listen to him. I was able to tell him what I was doing too here in these northern regions of Italy, but the conversation was more his sided J.

Then finally, with only fifteen minutes left of the journey, he asks me what I was going to Verona to do, that was when it all started. I told him I was off to church and told him a little about my church. Then we introduced ourselves. His name was David, and mine Lifeofastranger.

“I’m not quite sure what to call myself. I am Jewish and my family are devout. Problem is I’m not quite sure about all these things to do with God. How is it you can believe in God, as opposed to evolution?”

Then I asked him, how do you think the world came to being today?

He had spent his first two college years taking classes in physics at the University of North Carolina (in Chapel Hill), and replied saying, “gaseous particles that soon came together to become water and small life forms started to form”.

I smiled at him and asked him, so what then gave off these gaseous particles?

Which I quickly followed with, for a product to form there has to be a reaction involving reactants. There has to be an initial event that created the reactants which were once products. And therefore if these gaseous particles are a result of - gradual development, giving off of product, a process, a pattern – these are all events that can only be initiated from an origin. This transformation leading to a product must have a beginning. And therefore, how did that beginning come to being?

He smiled too and said, “I give you that”

He moved on to ask me about the mendacity that is the world we live in today. Would I say that it is ok for one to have it all and another none? A man could have all that money, car and house. And another just working in a bar, corner shop, or a bin collector.

At which I replied, why is it so important to you how others live? How do you know if the man who is working in the corner shop is not transforming the lives of others that live in his community? Or the need that the bin man is meeting by collecting one’s refuses. You don’t know the purpose of a man; you can only know the purpose that is yours. The life and purpose of a man can only be revealed to that man, and because we are only privy to ours we can only act as a spectator, but not to use it as a yard stick to measure ours or judge what is happening around us.

He nodded his head, and gave out a smile. And as my heart continued to race faster, I realised we had reached our final stop, Verona. As he stood to bring down his belongings from an overhead compartment, he said to me what do you think of Obama?

I smiled yet again. And said, I admire the lessons that have been learned from Obama’s rise – that it doesn’t matter how long it takes, change is going to come. But whatever difference, bad or good he makes around him, will only be accredited to him to his account. But you see, because we all have our own individual purposes, nobody is going to help us build our accounts, only us. Then I asked him, what are you doing about yours? Because when we get to heaven, God is not going to ask you, “yo what do you think of Obama”, He’s going to get YOUR Life’s CV out and ask you what you did with yours. So stop watching the mendacity that is in the world today, or the successes others make out of their lives, what really matters is “what did David do with his”, and how was he able to use it to transform the lives of the people / the community around him. What did David do with his “tenure”, and what Legacy did he leave behind. To BE sure his LIFE’S CV is going to be read out ON THAT DAY. Make sure it’s Filled out.

As we stepped off the train (the doors in our carriage and the one before us wasn’t working so we had to walk to the third carriage to get off the train talking as we walked along), as he was about to bid me farewell, he held my hand and said, “this has been the most intense, and educative morning he has ever had”. We said our goodbyes and immediately he started to run for his platform for his connecting train to Venice, for his return flight back to Barcelona. I may never see him again.

But as he went, I couldn’t help but ask God to help him. After his time in Barcelona he plans to move to North Korea to teach English. I don’t know what plans God has for him, but I pray that I was able to sow enough seed to help him in that journey. My interrupted quiet time was an inconvenience to me, but I’m sure it was not to David.

So let me pose the same question I posed to David to you. What are you doing about your Life?

The Lord reminded us in our Lord’s prayer (Matthew 6:11; Luke 11:3) and in Matthew 6:34 – the importance of each day, therefore make the most out of what you’ve been allocated, and Let the Lord our most wonderful and worthy saviour guide you as you work out your faith with Him. Let Him continue to order your steps (Psalm 37:23; 17:5) and help you to finish the race well (2 Timothy 4:7). Press on for the prize in front is worth the race (Philippians 3:13-14). Make a difference. Make your life count. You have been created for greatness. Go become it!! You are created beings not evolved beings. Therefore initiate the process of evolution. Transform your environment – it may be a gradual process, it may take a long time, but don’t let that stop you. Release what you are made of. Let the result be a change that can never be stopped. GIVE scholars of the result of your evolution something to debate about.

I caught my 9.17am bus, and was in church by 9.50am. And the worship service was more than I could ever have prayed for.

Does He want to?

I will sing of the goodness of Jesus, and even so for all He has done for me. This week (more so than ever) I’ve been in an attitude of gratitude and there is this overwhelming sense of peace that has followed me throughout this week. It’s not an easy task to leave it all to Jesus (I should know, I preach more than I practice), and sometimes after thinking yes, God can do this, I sometimes wonder but does He want toJ?

I am not only reminded that He can and will, but that He truly wants to. He wants to see me blessed; He wants to see me attaining the Heights that He has created me to reach. He wants to see me be an encouragement to others who may be passing through a situation similar to mine, Oh yes He wants to display me to the world that God my Father, is not just any ordinary man.

So next time you are in doubt, consider this, do you think your earthly father would like to see you his beloved child begging for bread? How do you think your earthly parents would feel when they see you in considerable pain? ---- How much more God, giver of life? {I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread – Psalm 37:25; “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!” - Isaiah 49:15}

There are many things that God wants to do for us, but He needs an Invitation. He says I stand at the door and knock – Revelations 3:20 – He is a gentleman. He wishes to be invited. And He is closer to you than you know (James 5:9). He is always ready and willing to be all that you want Him to be in your life. Thing is, are you willing to try Him, challenge Him? I’ve tried Him, would you?

I don’t need to be told anymore of His capabilities. I have tried limiting God, and that didn’t work. I have tried expected things, but instead received far better, greater, above and beyond the unexpected. I know now that He delights to hear from me, and that indeed is a privilege many are not accustomed to. And for these reasons I am even more persuaded that my God who is GREATLY to be praised wants to see me fulfilling His divine purpose for my life.

What of you?

A simple thought!

So He finally shows up, and you seem to think well He’s not showing out. It’s as if the prayer has been answered but it’s not like the way you expected / wanted it. You can see the manifestation of the answered prayer, but it didn’t come with all the trimmings that you expected.

It’s like you were marooned on the ocean and left to die, and the rescuers finally came, but *err* with no boats visible, as in “are you sure you came to rescue me or compound my plight”?

God can not lie (Numbers 23:19 - God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfil?; 1Sam 16:7; Jos 21:45). He doesn’t say something and not do it. He’s not about to rescue and deliver you from the very situation you are facing, if He’s not able to bring His promises to pass. Remember that (Romans 16:25; Ephesians 3:20). And He doesn’t answer prayers by halves (Numbers 11:23b - "Is the LORD's arm too short? You will now see whether or not what I say will come true for you"). And when your time for visitation comes BELIEVE an end has come to all forms of bareness in your life.

So what if *erm*, the manifestation of the prayer is not you know, the way you expected it to be. Didn’t God say His has no sorrow (Proverbs 10:22), and there will be a satisfaction that comes with His blessing (Psalm 91:16)? Don’t watch what or how it is now, watch what God says it’ll become.

Shocking Out!!

I had seen this sight on numerous occasions, and so today’s wasn’t expected to be any different to the others. But today I was moved; my original sitting place prevented me from being positioned to see what I needed to see. Thus I was upgraded. Yay, I exclaimed, you mean to the next class? Yes maam was the reply. I was offered the choicest of seats, and I chose to seat by the window.

And as I sat down, preparing myself for the most relaxing ride of my life, tilting my head towards the right, to get properly acquainted with the head cushion, there appeared before me this blinding ray of light trying to discomfort me and at the same time obstruct my view coming through the window; no sooner had I cursed it in my heart proceeding to pull the curtains, it seemed to disappear. As I tried to adjust myself, and lifting up my eyes, I saw the clouds. It was as if it was acting as a shield, but not doing a very good job at it, because they appeared to have holes in them, and some of the rays of light had pierced though. The holes also appeared to be many, random and scattered at the same time.

The Lord had something to show me, and I was a spectator.

Then as if I were being elevated, I was lifted above the clouds and there in front of me I could see as far as the eye could see, LIGHT, but now no clouds acting as a shield. … As I marvelled at this light, I finally realised what He meant when He said I have already blessed you in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 1:3-10).

You see, everything we need, require, desire and want according to His will has already been granted. But for some of us it seems we are not getting the fullness of that benefit; this is because there is a shield; there is a barrier; there is an obstruction; there is a blockade, which the enemy has placed, in the bid to frustrate us. But you see what he forgot, was we have a weapon. A weapon known as PRAYER. And every instant, we fire a PRAYER; it acts as a loaded gun that infiltrates the most resistant of shields. And the more we fire it, the more impact we have on the shield’s ability to prevent our breakthroughs from getting to us. And depending on how many rounds you fire, is related to the impact you have on that blockade. So to say if we want to succeed we need to be militant on the way we pray (mmhmm Militant PRAYERS).

And Because of that blood that was shed upon the cross of Calvary, we were reconciled with God (2 Corinthians 5:18), and so regained the authority to stand and fire at will; because God is looking for overcomers, those of us who want testimonies to share of the goodness of God (Revelations 12:11). Those of us whom through communications with God (Prayers) were able to break up unploughed grounds. Because in the end what matters, is living the Life that God predestined you to live (To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory – Colossian 1:27).

Are you ready to be Militant Prayers? I don’t know about ya’ll but am about to shock out and do some serious damage to whatever is standing in the way of my breakthroughs.

Come Share this with me

You can never grow as a person or in your faith unless you have gone through a storm / storms and realize that it was through GOD's grace and His mercy that He brought us through। And since nothing in our life just happens, and because God is the author of our life, He has already written every chapter concerning us from the beginning even to the very end. Therefore, since there is no love greater than the Love of GOD's, let us never forget that our life can only grow better under His direction.

So how fortunate that He gave him this word today again reminding us of that fact “What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory” – Romans 9:23. That what you and I have gone through or may be going through was and is for a greater purpose. Because it is entirely up to God to do as He pleases with us - ¹⁵Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? – Matthew 20:1-16. And because of what He has shown us, we ought to rejoice that He has chosen “us” to be objects of His mercy.

What you are going through will not be easy and may never get easy, but it is worth the goal in front। And the Lord Jesus is saying to you too, think of what He had to go through, which we ought not to ever take lightly. That His was never easy, but see what it meant, paying the “total” cost of our entire sins (not just mine and yours, but the whole world, those alive today, unborn, and those that died before we were born). And if we say we Love Him, we need to take up our cross and follow Him, with all this in mind. For indeed every set back is worth the goal in front.

It has been a week of mighty revelations. I pray that the good Lord who has chosen us to be objects of His mercy will continue to crown us with His glorious riches, in Jesus Name. Amen

Meaningless Existence

As I sit here at this desk, table, work top (whatever those around prefer to call it) I can’t help but recall to memory a feeling of waste. How am I sure that I have not wasted my youth, my life, my existence? Which immediately is followed by the ever reoccurring question / questions - why have I been cursed to exist in a form that is worthless to others? What have I been doing, done and is still doing.

I’ve been awake for two score minus eleven years, even though many a times it feels more like countless decades; but where was I? Yes, today the twenty second day, falling on the fifth day of that week and the fifth month of that year, the year I had promised myself a life of meaningful existence, saturated with pleasant memories. I’m I cursed to procrastinate and thus envy the existence of those that appear to oppress my memory living the life I ought to be living, of which I appear not to? I’m I trying to confuse myself? Yes, I was born to live the dream not dream the dream, or else why do I have the dreams, why does my memory remind me of a life unfulfilled, that is still to be attained. Surely the remembrance is not to oppress and leave me with a sense of failure! No that cannot be the case.

Still as I sit, glancing towards the left side of the room, peering through the window, into the garden encompassed with such rich luscious greenery, I really couldn’t help but say out loud I hate this life. Yes, I hate this meaningless existence that has plunged me into this parody; knowing fully well I should be living another, but not inhabiting this. I should be somewhere else not here, but where? WHERE?

I have tried with my own strength to breathe life to the dream. I have encountered obstacles. I have been told it’s no use. And I have tried to jump start it after repeated fruitless attempts; but my efforts were exercises in futility. I hate this meaningless existence. Away from me you dream of hope that has turned my once sweet rest to nightmares of sorts. I am determined to let go, and give up. I am determined to make this nightmare work. But how can I settle for this when I know I was not born for this. The belief that this is not the dream, continues to hold me ransom, I want to leave, I want to leave, but where to? WHERE TO?

There was a young man (not too long ago - just over two thousand years ago), went by the name of John. He was an only child and was born to his parents when they were well advanced in years. I was told that he spent all of his adult years (before he was killed that is) out in the wild wearing nothing but animal skin, in the HOT dry desert, parched, sweaty and exhausted. No shelter and no place to shield him from the scorching sun. Yes, where was I? And all day he would repeatedly churn out the same words – “Prepare the way of the LORD; Make His paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill brought low; the crooked places shall be made straight, and the rough ways smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” – Luke 3:4-6. This he did without ceasing. Could you imagine how many times he would have had to say this each day, each week and each month?

I’m sure there were people his age, living suddenly, suddenly impressive lives, attaining the riches, wealth and glamour that he could easily have dreamed – which no doubt would have transformed his pitiful existence. And I’m sure there were countless others living the idea of the dream. We are told that men with more than one tunic, tax collectors, soldiers, came to seek his advice ([Luke 3:10-14] mind you these were people who came into money during his time). I’m sure there were many a time when after a packed day, exhausted and tired, he would have wondered, what manner of life is this. But we were told in Matthew 11:11a and Luke 7:28a “Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist”.

So think about it, John’s life wasn’t anything worth talking about let alone “posting on FB” – (I mean who would envy such a life. Tufiakwa not me”), yet Jesus said in his time, no one was greater than he? Now really think about it. Whose opinion of you matters the most? What do you think God is saying about your life, which apparently you’re calling meaningless and have the audacity to HATE. Think about it! How then can you say your life is worthless?

Now check this, we were also told that in that same Matthew 11:11b and Luke 7:28b “but he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he (i.e. John).” Which translates that even if you were a beginner in the Kingdom of God, you’re automatically greater than the Greatest, which means …….. mmhmmm, EXACTLY, OH YES, you are SUPERSTAR status. So next time, you want to say your life is meaningless, let me pose this - when did you become the creator of the Universe and have the power to REVERSE words that God has already spoken concerning you. Now, if He says, You’ve got it going on, how then can you say you haven’t. Which then leads to the second question, how then can you think that what is going on in your life this minute can be termed as a waste? Every time spent in the Lord can never be a waste. Superstars are sort after, and every minute of their lives count. So I repeat that again, your time spent in the Lord will never be a waste. Have you ever wondered how YOUR Superstar status oppresses others? It is you that is living the suddenly, suddenly impressive life..

Oh and the Dreams keep on dreaming it, as my beloved keeps reminding me, there is a time and season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1), and when it happens, mmhmmm it will seem like a dream J

Just in case ya’ll are wondering, I AM LIVING the DREAM.

Could it Be?

Did He not say:

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. I will build you up again and you will be rebuilt, O [Lifeofastranger]. Again you will take up your tambourines and go out to dance with the joyful” – Jerimiah 31:3-4

And when it happens it will be like:

“When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream! We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the Lord has done for them.” “Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What joy!” – Psalm 126:1-3

Has that not been the case? Wow.

Didn’t He also say:

“He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them” – Psalm 145:19 And

“the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love” – Psalm 147:11

Yay!! I am a living Witness of the promises of God. And it’s still a dream to me. I still can’t quite believe it. But it really is happening. It is happening. The Lord who promised is able to do it. Wow Lord, really, as in it’s really happening? Be encouraged saints. What is it you have been waiting on the Lord for? Believe me He can and He will.

Is anything too Hard for the Lord? – Genesis 18:14

In Bed with the enemy

How can I forget that day! My heart aches, deeply, picking up every fragment and piece is too great a chore. I never believed this would ever happen. We are only human and thus easily fooled my brother tells me. You were my super hero, I bragged about the things I could do under your guide to whoever would ever listen. But you’ve taken that away from me. Your countless complaints, your countless moaning, your countless bickering, you’ve taken away the joy I felt just by being associated with you.

I’ve been on the road for some time now, wasted my money on things that moth can only get to, cried to my mother, how I built a case load of things and have no real bricks to show for my effort, yet you complained about the way I dressed, was it worth being called the best dresser of my time when you never took the time to find out who I was, why my hands hurt when I carry, why I no longer derive joy in building wardrobes, I guess you were never that into me, I was more of a statistics to you.

I’ve travelled long tiresome roads as I tried to make time to hang out with you; on the last journey on my way back it took me two days to get to my final destination, but you were too angry, too quick to see all that I had done wrong, too self righteous, I should have known, too angry to see how tired I was, I hadn’t slept in two days, but you were too much in a rush to break my will, to make me into the woman I was never born to be, to tell me the news I will never forget in a life time.

I hope you are happy now, I will never voice my opinion; I hope you are happy now that I feel trapped with someone I never truly knew. Even though your faults were ever so glaring, qualities I never desired in a friend, but I knew super heroes would always have a kryptonite, I guess I never believed yours would be me. That by me associating with you would bring about your destruction. I can not leave because mixing with you brought a tear to my Father’s eyes. And now… I don’t know how to leave, and I don’t want to stay. But you’re still self righteous to see what you did. What you have done to me, to us. You disgust me.

Devil, you sold my house whilst I slept, and when I had left to go to work, I came back stranded deserted all alone with nothing to call my own. I hate the fact that you did this to me. I hate the fact that I should have known sooner. I hate the fact that you hated me, but claimed it was love. I hate the fact that you’ve embarrassed me even when you were supposed to uphold me. I hate the fact that you’ve made me feel dirty and soiled. I hate the fact you’ve made me wish I should have stood on the side of my Father, instead of being pressured into yours. I hate the fact that you’ve made me disgusted when I see happy people because you led me to believe that sadness was the way. I hate the fact that whenever I see you, I see the ‘fool” I thought I knew, and believed in. How can it be? Every “blind folk” sings your praise because they think you are kind and good to all, except towards me. How could I’ve bee this blind. And for so long! This is still all a dream. Waking up, and finding that my things have been sent to my FATHER’S house. Finding that you have branded me a name, which causes me to hide myself from the public. I hope now that you have hurriedly thrown me out, you are happy now. Don’t forget what goes around comes around watch out that your actions towards me don’t heap destruction upon you. Be watchful that the hateful words you spoke concerning me and to me, don’t come back to hunt you.

I am undone…. Ermm, no I’m not.

Oh Happy Day, Oh HAPPY DAY!! Come to think of it, why did you send me packing? You saw me fraternizing with Christian folks huh? You finally realized that the lies were falling apart. You saw me inviting Jesus into my life asking Him to be My Lord and Saviour, so you decided to finish me.

Well, I’m sorry, the word of God say’s Greater is He that is me (1 John 4:4) and I’ve been created to be a light (Matthew 5:14-16), and I’m sure you know that light and darkness does not mix. Mmhmm. So you thought that your final deed will undo me. Ermm sorry to tell you, Jesus says I should take heart that He has overcome you (John 16:33), so you have wasted your time. Your attack merely pushed me across to the side of God. Oh and thanks for sending my luggage’s to my Father’s House. I guess when the Lord Jesus showed up demanding for me, you had to send me packing like the King of Egypt did to the Israelite (Exodus 12:31-33). Since you thought you were mighty and because in my ignorance I gave over myself to you, the Lord reminded you a few truths: (Isaiah 49:24-26 - “But thus says the LORD: “ Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, And the prey of the terrible be delivered; For I will contend with him who contends with you, And I will save your children””); and because of the finished work of Christ on the Cross, my contract with you has been nullified, so you JUST had to let me GO.

Thank you Blessed saviour, for showing up for me and giving me a Reason to live again. Thank you Lord Jesus for not leaving me at the mercy of that deceiver. I promise I’ve learnt my lesson. There is no more turning sideways for me. For I now know that there is no better way than under the Leadership of Jesus Christ.

Don’t learn lesson the hard way. I barely recovered from the clutches of that “fool” called the devil. But thank God for Jesus, for making everything New again in my life, and restoring all that was deceptively taken away from me.

Look at my Life

It was my choice to stay and wait for the Lord, not that I was simply left behind. It was my choice to stay and sit it through, not because you went ahead of me. It was my choice to understand my purpose, not to accompany you in yours. No, really it was my choice to see God through my own eyes, not to see Him through your idea of him. For indeed, I had a lesson to learn, there was no need getting the answers from your notes, after-all there is no guarantee that yours is the correct one.

I had to find out for myself.

If others were rejoicing and calling Him their Great provider (Jehovah Yireh - The LORD Who Sees/provides: (Genesis 22:14)), I needed to know what that meant to me. If others were to lift up their hands and praise Him as being their mighty warrior in battle (Elohim Tsebaoth - God of Hosts (Psa. 80:7); Jehovah Gibbor Milchamah - The Lord Mighty In Battle (Psa. 24:8)), I needed to know Him as one too in my life. If others were to testify of His faithfulness (El HaNe'eman, The Faithful God: (Deuteronomy 7:9)) in being steadfast and truthful (El Emet, The God Of Truth: (Psalm 31:6)), I too needed to know that He has shown the same to me. For through these times, I have known Him to be my light (Jehovah Ori, (Psa. 27:1) and my good shepherd (Jehovah Roi, (Psa. 23:1)). He who healed me from all of my troubles (Jehovah Rophe, (Exod. 15:26)), and because He made me (Jehovah O'saynu, (Psalm 95:6)), it is His desire for me to live a Holy life (Jehovah M'kadesh - The LORD Who Makes Holy: (Ezekiel 37:28)). And because He sees me (El Rai, (Gen. 16:13)), He is always near (Jehovah Shammah, (Ezek. 48:35)), is always with me (Immanu El, (Isaiah 7:14)), and will continue to be my helper (Elohim Ozer Li, (Psa. 54:4)). And whenever I fall short of His glory, He is there to forgive me (El Selichot - God Of Forgiveness: (Nehemiah 9:17)), for He has shown Himself to be a merciful God to me (Elohe Chaseddi, The God of My Mercy (Psa. 59:10)).

And through it all, I know now what it means to have His peace upon my life (Jehovah Shalom - The LORD Of Peace: (Judges 6:24)). For He has revealed Himself as a banner over my life (Jehovah Nissi - The LORD My Banner: (Exodus 17:15)); as my Salvation (Elohim Yish, (Psalm 18:47, 25:5)), as my fortress and Strong tower, as my God who give me Strength (Elohim Mauzi, (Psalm 43:2)), and as my God of Justice (Elohim Mishpat, (Isaiah 30:18)). Who is like You O God. Has He not been from the Beginning (Elohay Kedem, (Deuteronomy 33:27)); Is He not the Great (El HaGadol - The Great God: (Deuteronomy 10:17) I AM (Yaweh 'I AM WHO I AM Exodus 3:14-15), a Holy God (Elohim Kedoshim, (Leviticus 19:2, Joshua 24:19)), Creator of the Heaven and Earth (Elah Sh'maya V'Arah - God of Heaven and Earth: (Ezra 5:11)), the God of Gods (Elohay Elohim, (Deuteronomy 10:17)), the Living God (Elohim Chaiyim, (Jeremiah 10:10)) and who is King Forever (El Olam - The God Of Eternity (Genesis 21:33)).

Is He not God from whom all knowledge is derived from (El De'ot - The God Of Knowledge: (1 Samuel 2:3)).

I don’t know about you, but as for me, He has been my God of righteousness (Elohe Tsadeki) (Psa. 4:1)), and for all He has done and been to me, He alone is Most worthy of my Praise (Elohim Tehilati, (Psalm 109:1)). So no need to mock me or laugh at me, no point poking fun at me during my examination period, for indeed there is a time and season for everything (Ecc. 3:11), and my time to shine has come. Are You still laughing? Well are you?

Keep your head cool

A good friend and colleague of mine have always referred to me as a princess. Apparently I like things done a certain way. Even though I don’t ask too many questions in relation to my work and make every effort not to be seen and heard, they have always found that in their dealings with me I am very professional. So on a topic relating to her field of expertise, it seemed that something was amiss, and I asked her if she could investigate it further. No she said to me, she is never wrong; I went along and acted on the premise that she may be right. She was infuriated that a question could ever be raised concerning her work. And found this very hard to deal with. We both later found out, that there may have been a misunderstanding and she was in the end found to be wrong.

Over this period of time, I realized that it was the acceptance of our difference that makes us rather unique. And problem arises by ones inability to change. The Lord may have blessed me by causing the people around me to Favour me, but that does not mean that I therefore think that I am better than most because of what I have to offer. But rather, I am blessed because God said so, so technically it’s not my fault [I have received a command to bless; he has blessed, and I cannot change it. No misfortune is seen in Jacob, no misery observed in Israel. The LORD their God is with them; the shout of the King is among them – Numbers 23:20-21]. She has seen me in my elements and of course in the best and worst of situations, and I am thankful to God that I have always been able to think to myself how would a Christian behave in every situation I have encountered. [Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter – 2 Corinthians 7:8-11]

I have started to realize that the rain has been falling now and I have been ill prepared for a while. To prepare for greatness, one needs not to be surprised by what is going on around them. And not to be surprised when from the unlikeliest of quarters one’s peace appears to be threatened – [in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his scheme 2 Corinthians 2:11]; the devil is there to steal your joy, don’t let him [John 10:10]. I should have known that during these times when I have seen the hand of the Lord so evident upon my life, surely the enemy can not be happy. But every day I wake up, rejoicing, and thanking God, and laughing at the devil taunting him on how he must have been so foolish to think he would be victorious over my life. “he” must be delusional. “he” sure thinks much of himself doesn’t he. You should see the way I laugh at him. Shame on him.

I don’t know what the future holds, but one thing I know is it is indeed very bright, or else why are people taking notice of me, yes the lady that prefers to sit quietly in the corner of the very first room on the first floor of the building. Really, are my words that important to you!!

I need to Pray

Pray continually – 1 Thessalonians 5:17

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints – Ephesians 6:18

For the first time in a short while, I was reminded that even though it was understandable for soldiers to take a break from prayers, it is not advisable. There are many plausible reasons which we use to explain away why we spend less time communicating with God, but I have found out, the less time you spend praying, you find yourself moving away from God.

So I had promised myself that even though I am taking a short break, I will make sure my prayer life is consistent during this time. Well truth be told, I found my self on most days rising and just getting on with things – my excuse it’s just not the same anywhere else but home. I feel like when I’m in my place here, I know I just have to pray. But anywhere else it’s like oops I forgot to pray this morning, and then try to make up by praying during the day. I am now back in good old Povo, and as I struggled to get up this morning, it was as if I could hear the Lord saying to me, ok hunni, I’ve turned a blind eye this last few weeks, but the battle is still on, and I must arise and pray without season.

I remember saying, tomorrow I’ll get back to the swing of things, but come to think of it, if your adversaries don’t take days off, the locust trying to eat away your blessing don’t take days off, then why are we entitled days off? So could you imagine the amount of damage that could be made the moment you cease to pray? I guess that has always been one of the driving forces when I intercede for others. But for some reason not for myself..

I remember this morning telling God, I will be praying in the spirit (while I still rest, after all I have just gotten back and found myself dozing off (lol)), and besides everything is wonderfully wonderful. Yet He still reminded me that I ought to pray even harder now than I have ever done. Especially if I want to continue to remain victorious.

I am now looking more robust than ever, and it is indeed a sign that for the first time in all my years, I have finally allowed God to FULLY take control of everything that concerns me. Not trying to help him out in various departments. I never have to worry if and when it will happen, because I know that because God has already said it, and because He that said is trustworthy, I believe Him and that settles it.

The drought and the winter seasons are over. I feel refreshed already, for the rain that has started to pour has revived my soul for good.

I am not a Grasshopper

“We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them” – Numbers 13:33b

It is indeed the end of a long anticipated week on my calendar, filled with so much travels and which would end with me taking a much needed break (maybe not deserved but whose checking lol). And this week the one lesson that kept coming to memory is how do I see myself? I finally made the journey to Cambridge; and enjoyed the times spent at the corridors of Emmanuel College. And even though my seminars was nicely delivered, the main highlights of the 4 day trip was the times spent with my sister, ndidi, and speaking about Jesus and the wonderful stories of the bible to a new friend and colleague I made there. I couldn’t believe how easy it was the way the name Jesus kept rolling off of my tongue even though I am supposed to be a scientist and we are after all MSR staffs.

And because I know whom I serve and who I am, Jesus will continue to be my primary message and science secondary. And because I know, that He will only ever send me where His presence will be, surely all I need do is speak His word (Exodus 33:14). All I will ever need is to know the way of the Lord, so that I may find favour with Him (Exodus 33:13).

My week has indeed been successful, not just because the way I was respected at my meetings, but because I had an opportunity to share the word of God. Lord I ask if only you can continue to equip me to boldly share Your word without compromise to professors in the academic settings. Thank you for making little 5.3inches me, look like a formidable giant. Yay, I feel 6.3 already!

“Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong” - Exodus 23:2a. I am sure the people I met this week will wonder for years the kind of scientist I am supposed to represent. Someday I too think about it.

I will be away for the next two Fridays and should be back God willing the 17^th of April. Have a wonderful Easter, Truly truly, Jesus Lives, and thank God I am counted among they that know that to be true.

And always remember friends, we’ve all been created for Greatness, Lets all go become it!!