TGD PRAYS DAY 30

 "Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me." (Psalm 66:20).
"I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place." (Psalm 118:5).
...

"In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul." (Psalm 138:3).
Thank the Lord for answers to all our prayers and petitions. Thank Him for strengthening us and setting us in a large place

TGD PRAYS DAY 28

 (Jeremiah 29:11-14)
1. Thank God for His thoughts of peace towards us. Pray that we remain patient as He leads us to our expected end.
2. Thank God for hearkening unto us as we have called upon (and continue to call upon) Him.
3. Thank Him for revealing Himself unto us as we seek (and continue to seek) Him.
In Jesus' Name.

TGD PRAYS DAY 27

 1. Thank God for His faithfulness, protection, guidance and love.
2. Thank God for bringing us to His holy mountain and making us joyful in His house of prayer.
3. Pray that our offerings and sacrifices (of praise) are accepted by the Lord.
4. Pray that we are consistent in prayer and thanksgiving. ...
May the Lord hear us as we call upon Him.

TGD PRAYS DAY 26

 There is an interesting story in Job 42:7-10.
Job's friends had foolishly spoken wrongly in their attempt to explain away Job's misfortune.
God asked them to take offerings to Job and he would pray for them lest God dealt with them according to their folly.
The Bible records that Job's captivity was turned around as he prayed for his friends that 'spoke of the Lord what was not right'.

1. Let us pray for those that have mocked us and have not spoken God’s counsel concerning the situation we are dealing with or have dealt with.

2. Let us thank God for a turn around in our situations as we pray for this category of people.

May the Lord hear us as we cry to Him, in Jesus' Name. Amen

Why Do You Want It So Badly?

Oyeladun Ayorinde

November 29, 2014 ·

Good morning darling sisters. Happy weekend. As you enjoy your weekend, can we ponder the story of Hannah together?
In the book of 1Samuel 1: 6-7,11 "And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the Lord had shut up her womb. And as he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the Lord, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat. And she vowed a vow, and said, O Lord of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I WILL GIVE HIM UNTO THE LORD ALL THE DAYS OF HIS LIFE, and there shall no razor come upon his head." (Emphasis mine)

I know that we all know this story very well. For some of us, we were taught this story from children bible class, so I won't bore you with telling the story again. From verse 6, the Bible recorded that her partner, the second wife, provoked her, taunted her, raised her kids up and danced that she wasn't a woman in a man's skin, stopped Hannah from sending her kids on errands, etc. And so year after year, Hannah's prayer had been like this, "Oh Lord, give me my own child. Let all these taunting from my mate cease. Oh Lord, You have given her another child, give me my own child too! When will I have a child that I can also send on errands? And so on........."
And then after a long time, she realized that Peninah wasn't her problem, her problem was herself! She was focusing on the wrong person. And so this particular year, when she got to Shiloh, she changed her prayer point, knowing that whatever God gives her must be for His own glory ALONE.
Immediately she understood this and prayed so, God set machineries into motion to answer her prayers (vs 12 - 17 )
The point the Holy Spirit wants us to see is this-- That promotion, that breakthrough, that husband, that child, etc that you are asking for, why do u want it so badly? Are u ready to use the blessing for His glory? Don't you want to wear the rings so that people can know that you are also married? Don't you want the promotion and the breakthrough so that you can also be respected and have money to spend? Are u ready to give Him back that blessing and let Him use it to His own glory?

James 4:3 "Ye ask and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts."
I believe we need to check ourselves out this weekend and beyond and ask for forgiveness if we are in this situation. This year can still be your year of visitation. I will rejoice in your testimonies in Jesus name.

He Can Suspend Time For You

Oyeladun Ayorinde

Wonderful sisters, I am sure you had a good week and you are looking forward to a blissful weekend. While enjoying your weekend, I will like to share this scripture with us all.

Matthew 14 : 15-21 "And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals. But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, we have here but five loaves and two fishes. He said, Bring them hither to me. And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass; and took the five loaves,and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake , and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were filled : and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.

Every time I read this scripture, I have always wondered if I were one of the disciples, I am not sure I will collect the loaves from Him. This is because at d point of giving it to the disciples, there was no sign of multiplication!
But that isn't my main point for now. I want us to look at the whole action of Jesus and the multitudes.
The multitudes had their money to buy victuals but couldn't because they were listening to His teachings, so we could say He was the One that kept them.
For everything in life, there's a law guiding it. The law applicable here is that since they couldn't go and buy and they didn't bring food, then, they have to remain hungry. That is the normal/natural law but there's a bigger law than the natural one. Jesus had to suspend the natural law and perform a miracle in order to feed d multitudes.
This was also d case with d widow of Zarephath in 1Kings 17 : 8-16. The law of diminishing ought to be applicable to her cruse of oil and barrel of meal but the miraculous caused it to increase until the end of the famine so that she, Elijah and her son could eat.
In the book of Joshua 10 : 12-14, God had to suspend time for Joshua as he fought the Amorites.
Several times, even while walking by the laws that guide our existence, we run into road blocks and there seems to be no way out. At that time, your best option is to look up like David did in Psalms 121 : 1-3 and allow God to step in.

I must reiterate here that the multitudes were with Jesus, so they were in His will. The Widow of Zarephath was obeying God through the Prophet. We can't run our lives anyhow, outside God and expect a quick fix when we hit the brick. No. We must be ready to follow Him through and through.
You have been following Him but it seems like things aren't working out the way it should and it is like you have nothing to show for following Him. In fact, some are already making fun of u. I pray for you today that the Lord will step into your situation. He will suspend time for you. Maybe it looks like time is no more on your side, the Lord will compact time for you and bring your miracles forward in Jesus name. You will also say like Sarah said in Genesis 21: 6 "And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh,so that all that hear will laugh with me"
I will hear your testimonies in Jesus name.

Take care of your parents!

Oluwafolakemi Ibidokun

Pencil: I'm sorry.
Eraser: For what? You didn't do anything wrong.
Pencil: I'm sorry, you get hurt because of me. Whenever I made a mistake, you're always there to erase it. But as you make my mistakes vanish, you lose a part of yourself and get smaller and smaller each time.
Eraser: That's true, but I don't really mind. You see, I was made to do this, I was made to help you whenever you do something wrong, even though one day I know I'll be gone. I'm actually happy with my j...ob. So please, stop worrying I hate seeing you sad.

Our Parents are like the eraser, whereas we children are the pencil. They're always there for their children, cleaning up their mistakes. Sometimes along the way they get hurt and become smaller, frail, older and eventually pass on.
Let them see you as a gift to them!
Take care of your parents!
Treat them with kindness!
Most especially love them!
Remember, it's a matter of time, You and I will get there someday

God's Word Is Yea And Amen

Oyeladun Ayorinde

Good day beautiful sisters. I believe there's somebody that the Spirit of God wants encouraged by what I am led to share today.
In Genesis 49 :29 -Jacob was about to die and he gave his children charge not to bury him in Egypt but to take his corpse to the land of Canaan.
And then in chapter 50 : 24-25 -- "And Joseph said unto his brethren, I die: and God will SURELY visit you and bring you out of this land unto d land which He sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. And Joseph took an oath of the children of Israel,saying, God will SURELY visit you and ye shall carry up my bones from hence." (Emphasis is mine)

Joseph knew what God had promised and he was so sure of God's deliverance that he informed his brethren what they should do with his corpse.
Many Israelites died and were buried in Egypt because they didn't know what Joseph knew. Joseph knew of a surety that God would bring His People out of Egypt into the Promised Land.
And so, in all the years of torment and hardship in Egypt, Joseph's corpse became a point of reference to remind Israel that they were coming out of Egypt one day.
No matter the negatives around you now, everything that God has said concerning you are Yea and Amen. As long as God has spoken, His words can't return to Him void ( Isaiah 55 : 11).
Whatever He says is your reference point that the problem is solved. Even if it doesn't happen immediately, be rest assured it will.
You can't die without the fulfilment. He is ALWAYS right on time.
Psalm 62 : 11 - "God has spoken once; twice have I heard this; that Power belonged unto God "
Get ready to sing your song and to dance your dance in Jesus name.

Bible Study - Esther 1-2

Good morning blessed sisters. Thought this could help someone. Especially for those of us with busy schedules, that rarely pick up the bible daily to do study. In as much as we need to nourish our bodies with good food, most importantly, our souls needs it more. Starting with the book of esther. For now, our focus will be on chapter 1 n 2. What are the lessons learnt in both? Let's discuss sisters.
Top of Form 1
Adenike Morounke Adebola I'm already excited about this..Esther 1 and 2, here I come...
September 18 at 12:26pm · Like

Mo Oyediran What are our thoughts on this two chapters pls?
September 18 at 12:44pm · Like

Adenike Morounke Adebola One thing that jumps out to me in Chapter 1 is how we should respond to authority (whether they are right or wrong etc). I believe that Vashti’s issue was compounded because she was disrespectful to her husband AND her king….I am not too sure what she was hoping to achieve but it sure was the wrong approach.
September 18 at 3:29pm · Edited · Like

Adenike Morounke Adebola I wonder what the background issues were, Who was right? Who was wrong? It didn’t matter eventually as Vashti got herself dethroned BY HERSELF! No one else was to blame. Unfortunately for her, she didn’t know enough to run to God after her big meltdown…
September 18 at 3:30pm · Edited · Like

Ronke Adeyemo Taiwo In chapter one, what i learnt is that we are role models. the main reason Vashti was deposed was because Memucan felt other women will repeat what she has done, so no matter where or in any situation we find ourself. Lets remember that our life is an epistle another woman is reading.
September 18 at 3:48pm · Like · 2

Adenike Morounke Adebola Thanks Sis Ronke (my Choco). I like that perspective. I don't believe Vashti considered the wider implication of her actions. I believe that when the Bible says that anger rests in the bosom of a fool, this is what we're talking about...
September 18 at 3:57pm · Like

Mo Oyediran The story tells me the key to submission is Obedience. Queen vashti for whatsoever reasons outrightly disobey her husband the king. She possibly was not aware of the consequence of her actions until the verdit came. Then it was already late.
September 18 at 4:41pm · Edited · Like · 1

Mo Oyediran I learnt we should learn to obey authorities no matter what we are instructed to do. Moreso, this was her husband. Don't think he had any evil intention with his instructions. He was proud of her especially for her beauty. So, my ? is why would she have disobey him in d first instance? Help me sisters.
September 18 at 4:04pm · Like · 1

Adenike Morounke Adebola One question that I wonder about…WHY DID VASHTI REFUSE TO APPEAR AT THE KING’S COMMANDMENT? Had she lost respect for Ahaserus as her husband and king? Why? Whatever her reason was, it was not strong enough for her to retain the Queenship….I believe that at times, we need to step back and ask ourselves if the things causing anger and resentment in us matter enough to lose the position(s) God has placed us for…I believe carrying out such an assessment will help us determine if it is worth all the drama…I wonder what happened to Vashti...if I remember when we get to heaven, I'll like to ask about her #AddsVashtiToMyToAskList
September 18 at 4:09pm · Edited · Like

Mo Oyediran Sis Ronke, pls can u help us with that? Thanks!
September 18 at 4:43pm · Like · 1

Olasunkanmi Karimu Ogunyemi If vashti was not dethroned,ow would esther get to d throne?
September 18 at 5:43pm · Like · 1

Adenike Morounke Adebola I also like to pray that days of celebration will not be turned to days of sorrow for us because of someone’s foolish decision…I have seen too many of such occasions in my lifetime to realise that it is very important to pray such a prayer whenever one is planning a celebration. We have the case of Ahaserus/Vashti and the birthday Herod celebrated that ended in the beheading of John the Baptist…that is one prayer I don’t joke with anymore when preparing for a celebration….
September 18 at 6:08pm · Like · 1

Hephzibah Oyinda I find Esther 2:1 interesting….the king’s wrath made him forget Vashti…what exactly did he remember about Vashti after his wrath subsided? I believe that as leaders, in one capacity or the other, we should be careful what we do when we’re ANGRY!!!! Some of us may speak words that will have generational impact…
September 19 at 12:02am · Like · 1

Boomy Seun If Vashti didnt do what she did how will d word of prophecy be fulfilled in the life of Esther? God has rejected vashti and embrace Esther. For God's way are not Men's way.
September 19 at 3:39am · Like · 1

Ayodele Esther Elemese I learnt dat no matter highly place I am I should learn to be humble king throw party to men also vashti throw the party to the women, the king can command also she bt she forgot dat one authority is higher than the other even if we are older than the person we should learn to be humbleI
September 19 at 8:30am · Like · 2

Ayodele Esther Elemese I think is God arrangement bc he can bring low and he can lift up and whever God want to favour or lift his own children he has to bring someone down so we should try to be on God side always so that he can lift us up e.g david and saul
September 19 at 8:50am · Like · 2

Mo Oyediran Thanks @ ma'am Ayodele, God bless u real good.
September 19 at 9:07am · Like · 2

Adenike Morounke Adebola I think we can ask - was Vashti wrong to have thrown her own 'rival' party? I think when the king requested her presence, if the party was so important, she could have merged her party with his?Why did she have her own separate party anyway? And her party was in the house that BELONGED the king...Someone told me that division is actually di-vision; when there are 2 visions...I think Vashti's refusal to obey the king's COMMANDMENT (not advice) was the straw that broke the camel's back. I suspect the king had done something to hurt her as her husband (possibly neglected her). I think this was her way of paying him back.Disgracing an authority figure in a bid to pay them back is an ill wind that blows no good. There are better conflict resolution tools...Thanks Sis Ayodele for pointing out Vashti's rival party...I never thought of it that way....
September 19 at 9:40am · Like · 1

Mo Oyediran My take is, does she even hav d right to merge her party with his in d first instance. Why start what u can't complete. She missed it totally.
September 19 at 9:56am · Like · 2

Mo Oyediran Then, I learnt again that there is reward in integrity,holiness and adequate obedient to God's word. If esther had been a wayward lady without interity and virtue her uncle would never have recommended her. Of cos there are sevrall young ladies in the province. But the ones requested for were the virgins amongst them. She couldn't have been known is she wasn't.
September 19 at 10:15am · Like · 2

Adenike Morounke Adebola I find Esther 2:1 interesting….the king’s wrath made him forget Vashti…what exactly did he remember about Vashti after his wrath subsided? I believe that as leaders, in one capacity or the other, we should be careful what we do when we’re ANGRY!!!! Some of us may speak words that will have generational impact…
September 19 at 7:17pm · Like

Adenike Morounke Adebola Someone asked why Esther went to compete with others for the king’s attention. I don’t believe Esther had a choice in this matter…Esther 2:8 says ‘when Esther WAS BROUGHT, not ‘WHEN ESTHER WENT’. NIV says ‘When Esther was taken’…as far as I know, it wa...See More
September 19 at 7:18pm · Like

Adenike Morounke Adebola For me, Esther was a great example in obedience. Even in the palace, she didn’t disobey Mordecai….Later, when she had an objection to Mordecai’s instruction, she voiced out respectfully and finally obeyed when she was overruled….I believe that is too h...See More
September 19 at 7:20pm · Edited · Like

Deborah Gathering Thanks everyone for sharing.

The Gathering of Deborahs (TGD) - Vision

The inhabitants of the villages ceased, they ceased in Israel, until that I Deborah arose ...a mother in Israel...Jug.5:7

We will not sit and watch the devil have a field day in our part and corner of the world.

We are the company of those that will arise, take charge and assume responsibility for the promotion of God's Kingdom and His righteousness, first in our own homes and then in the world at large.

...

We are the Deborahs of our generation.

Our light has come.

The glory of the Lord is risen upon us.

we will rise and shine...

The vision of The Gathering of Deborahs is to raise women that will arise like Deborah (The Judge) to stem the tide of evil in their generation.

We exhort ourselves with the Word of God, we pray with one another, we provide Biblical counsel to our sisters, we discuss topics that are relevant to Christian women. Please feel free to post articles and comments that are in line with the vision. 

We do not allow adverts on the wall. Please send a private message to this account if you are interested in enterprise related discussions.

Any post with too many abbreviations that render the post unreadable or with untranslated portions in a language other than English will not be approved while similar comments will be deleted.

We'll love to hear from you. You can send any questions, prayer requests, testimonies etc as a message to this account or as an email to thegatheringofdeborahs@gmail.com.

LETTING GO OF BITTERNESS

Chi-Chi

BITTERNESS is a Stumbling Block To God's Blessings In Your Life.

Countless people today are bitter because of what they think God has done to them.

Even in the Bible there were people who showed bitterness towards God also. One of such people is Naomi. If you read Ruth 1:20-21, you see where Naomi changed her name to Mara- meaning bitter, because she was blaming God for her terrible experience in Moab. Yet she wasn't supposed to blame God because in the first place, she and her husband disobeyed God by going to Moab- a place God had forbidden the Israelites to go to. Therefore the consequences she and her husband suffered were as a result of their own action- disobedience.

What am I trying to say here? There are always consequences for our actions- good or bad. There are consequences for disobedience (even if you don't know you are disobeying).

Disobedience/ stubbornness (especially in doing something wrong) can very well cause Bitterness. When you refuse to stop a bad habit. When you refuse to end that relationship/ friendship that is immoral and adds no value to your life. When you refuse to let go of the hurts and pains from your past or refuse to forgive the person/people that caused you such pains. Then you are giving every room for Bitterness to come in and dwell with you, and when it does it brings along with it depression; anger (sometimes rage); despair/hopelessness; stagnation (sometimes demotion), doubt/faithlessness (you find it hard to trust anyone); guilt; shame.

The good news is that you don't need to carry all these baggages that Bitterness has to offer. You can end the Bitterness right now but the decision is yours to make. Enough harm has already been done. Why not choose to let go of the Bitterness. There is a walking out of the wrong path and a working out of the right path. Nobody said it's going to be easy and it isn't a day's job,but it 's very possible to enjoy a life free from Bitterness. How?

1. Develop a healthy obsession with doing good works. By this I do not mean you should become another Nelson Mandela or a hero overnight. It may be things as simple as stooping down to give a hug to a hurting child. Stooping down to assist a weak or sick person. Giving out clothing (or any form of help) to a poor person or someone in need. No job is too little if you are seeking to do good to others. You may not know but these simple acts have a healing effect on someone who is bitter. These good works make you look beyond yourself and think about the wellbeing of others.

2. Learn to obey instructions. If Bitterness is a consequence of disobedience, then you'l agree that developing an attitude of obedience to instructions is a sure way of destroying Bitterness. Learn to be discreet in asking questions. Let's face it,it must have been very difficult for Ruth (in the Bible) to serve or obey her embittered mother-in-law, Naomi after their return from Moab. It isn't easy to serve a bitter person. It takes a lot of self discipline and hard work. But if Ruth had not followed Naomi's instruction about Boaz, and if she had not also obeyed Boaz's instructions she wouldn't have married him nor would she have been the mother of the great grand father to David- an ancestor of Jesus. So obedience is a key to overcoming Bitterness.

So what are you still doing about that Bitterness you carry in your heart everyday?. Isn't it time you left it and embrace the beautiful future God has been keeping for you? The time to act is NOW!!!

Wishing you all a blissful week ahead!

LIVING BEYOND HYPOCRISY

By Chi Chi

"Woe to you Scibes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs,which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity". (Matt.23:27-28).

Hmmm, whitewashed tombs? Dead men's bones? Filled with hypocrisy and evildoing? You will agree with me that these are not the words we normally associate ...with Jesus. These words sound so harsh, so emphatic, so blunt, like words borne out of anger. Why would Jesus speak in such a manner?

Actually Jesus had great respect for what some of the Pharisees were trying to do. He knew men like Nicodemus revered God and sincerely sought to follow His ways. But some others were merely interested in the outward show of holiness in the name of safeguarding traditions. These outward shows of piety were the things that triggered Jesus' harsh words to the Pharisees. This shows the deep hatred Jesus has for hypocrisy.
How easily we can fall into similar attitudes! We all have certain religious traditions and devotions that we treasure, but we sometimes disregard those who don't share our religious views or mode of worship. Sometimes we set certain standards of holiness for ourselves but we criticize those who are not living up to it. In our zeal to follow Jesus, we sometimes add on obligations we don't need to add and we condemn those who don't share our views or worship God in the same way.
This is a call to all the Deborahs in the house to worship God in spirit and in truth. Enough of the outward show of piety. Someone once said Nigerians are religious but not God fearing/not spiritual. We like people to know that we go to church, attend prayer meetings and engage in the 'things of God' in church, but how many of us actually allow the Gospel message to transform us to better people in the society (I mean outside the church)? How many of us will not just glance through this article as usual and
say by default: "Thank you sis for sharing"? How many of us will actually allow this message (and other admonitions we receive) to actually bear fruits in us- fruits that will transform generations?
Jesus is saying today that His yoke is easy, His burden is light, and His law is Love. May we see His admonition as a caution to us not to substitute His ways for ours. May we never forget charity and mercy as we seek to live according to His will!
Happy new month and a beautiful week I wish you all!!!!!

LIVING BEYOND HYPOCRISY

Chi-Chi

"Woe to you Scibes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs,which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity". (Matt.23:27-28).

Hmmm, whitewashed tombs? Dead men's bones? Filled with hypocrisy and evildoing? You will agree with me that these are not the words we normally associate with Jesus. These words sound so harsh, so emphatic, so blunt, like words borne out of anger. Why would Jesus speak in such a manner?

Actually Jesus had great respect for what some of the Pharisees were trying to do. He knew men like Nicodemus revered God and sincerely sought to follow His ways. But some others were merely interested in the outward show of holiness in the name of safeguarding traditions. These outward shows of piety were the things that triggered Jesus' harsh words to the Pharisees. This shows the deep hatred Jesus has for hypocrisy.

How easily we can fall into similar attitudes! We all have certain religious traditions and devotions that we treasure, but we sometimes disregard those who don't share our religious views or mode of worship. Sometimes we set certain standards of holiness for ourselves but we criticize those who are not living up to it. In our zeal to follow Jesus, we sometimes add on obligations we don't need to add and we condemn those who don't share our views or worship God in the same way.

This is a call to all the Deborahs in the house to worship God in spirit and in truth. Enough of the outward show of piety. Someone once said Nigerians are religious but not God fearing/not spiritual. We like people to know that we go to church, attend prayer meetings and engage in the 'things of God' in church, but how many of us actually allow the Gospel message to transform us to better people in the society (I mean outside the church)? How many of us will not just glance through this article as usual and
say by default: "Thank you sis for sharing"? How many of us will actually allow this message (and other admonitions we receive) to actually bear fruits in us- fruits that will transform generations?

Jesus is saying today that His yoke is easy, His burden is light, and His law is Love. May we see His admonition as a caution to us not to substitute His ways for ours. May we never forget charity and mercy as we seek to live according to His will!

Happy new month and a beautiful week I wish you all!!!!!

Break Forth Into Joy

Good morning sisters. Happy new month.
Is there a promise that has been long delayed yet seems impossible? The Messiah had been promised for a long time and Israel had practically given up hope. And to have Him born of an unknown young girl?
"And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord." (Luke 1:45).
Has the Lord said it? Do you not know that the Lord watches over His Word to perform it? Do you not kno...w that His Word will not return to Him void?

"For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off." (Isaiah 55:10-13).
You have wept sore; you have been desolate. This is the word of the Lord to you...
"Sing, O ye heavens; for the LORD hath done it: shout, ye lower parts of the earth: break forth into singing, ye mountains, O forest, and every tree therein: for the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and glorified himself in Israel. Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself; That frustrateth the tokens of the liars, and maketh diviners mad; that turneth wise men backward, and maketh their knowledge foolish; That confirmeth the word of his servant, and performeth the counsel of his messengers; that saith to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be inhabited; and to the cities of Judah, Ye shall be built, and I will raise up the decayed places thereof: That saith to the deep, Be dry, and I will dry up thy rivers: That saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid." (Isaiah 44:23-28).
"Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the LORD hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted." (Isaiah 49:13)
"Break forth into joy, sing together, ye waste places of Jerusalem: for the LORD hath comforted his people, he hath redeemed Jerusalem. The LORD hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God." (Isaiah 52:9-10).
It's time to rejoice, sister...
Have a blessed and productive day.

PRAYING IN SOLITUDE

Chi-Chi

Very early in the morning, long before dawn, Jesus got up&left the house and went off to a lonely place and prayed there.(Mark1:35).

None of us can ever be as busy or holy as Jesus was while He was on earth. Yet, he saw the need to withdraw from everyone and everything in order to have a quiet time with his Heavenly Father. The value of private meditative prayer can never be over emphasised. Indeed, it is in peace and solitude that a devout soul finds God!

Our busy lives would be more rewarding to us and others if we spend a quiet hour/ time in prayer before we rush into the activities that demand so much of our time. The busier we are, the more prayerful we should be. We should make out time to pray/ commune with God as often as we can, all through the day.

Prayer is not so much about the words we say but about being present with God,being conscious of God's presence every hour of our day and acknowledging his presence by our thoughts,words,or actions. There is a need to recreate yourself in God at every given opportunity by communing with him.

Let us remember: you cannot be doing the work of the Lord and yet abandon the Lord of the work. Endeavour to spend time in private prayer with your God EVERYDAY.

Remain blessed!!!

THE PARABLE OF THE TEN VIRGINS

Ifeoluwa Babajide

Matt. 25:1-13

There were ten virgins who received call to meet the bridegroom.They heard call bcos they were qualified.They were qualified bcos they were virgins.By that i mean they were christians, not just christians but saved ones they had to go and meet the groom by leaving everything and everyone behind.In the christians race to meet the Lord, one must focus on the bigger picture.
Leave everything and everyone who may act as impediment behind. Remember you heard the call they didn't have.
While the groom delayed his coming, they all slumbered and slept. Many christians had zeal for God in the yonder years but as He 'delayeth' his coming, they slumber and are sleeping spiritually.They use boldface to cover up but are asleep. At the time of slumbering, there was nothing to ginger them and then the sleep came in.The first love is gone and carelessness sets in and you know while men slept the enemy came and sow tares among the wheat.

Good enough,there was another call,another message, another opportunity to meet the groom because He cometh. He may delay but will surely come.We are blessed if we hear messages that change and remind us of His coming again,so we can check our lamp.

They trimmed their lamps. Interesting to know that there are levels of burning the light can give. A just lit candle glows and becomes steady as time goes on. As it is burning, it comes to a stage where it has reduced to its bearest minimum yet is still burning. If care is not taken to get replacement at that time, the candle will burn down.  We may be burning as a christian but the question is 'How are we burning? Are we observant enough to notice the candle going down or living with the illusion that at least there is light? Once the light goes off,  there might be injuries on the way to getting another one.

The foolish discovered there was no oil and asked of the wise who told them to go and buy.Oh how pathetic is it that the virgins left all behind,probably slept in the cold,mosquitoes(if any) yet had not the easiest,cheapest and the most available thing to have (oil), which in the Bible signifies grace.
How many christians today get awash with activities yet don't have oil.They don't stay true to themselves.They forgot where the Bible asked us to examine ourselves.They go hypocritical about it all till the lamp is gone out.They ask from their friends but forget those who have 'enough' grace do not have any to spare other than the little one that will make them qualifies to appear before the groom. They went to the market to buy when selling is over.Oil is not transferable,you must buy for yourself.

The groom came and the door was shut. Surely, He will come.Those who were ready went in with Him. The key word is READY.  The foolish came and beg Him to open the door but He vehemently denied knowing them. Maybe they tried to give reasons why they should be considered like being a worker, this and that in the church but He said He never knew them.

We are finally challenged to watch for we know not when the time shall be. May the Lord find us watching and waiting when He comes. May we have oil in our lamp to keep us burning. May our heart not be overcharged by drunkeness,cares,activities of this time that that day meet us unware. Amen
Shalom!

Deborah, The Nurse

Adenike Morounke Adebola

I thought I had my night planned out - Movie while relaxing on the couch and finally we'll all have a great night rest. Great, right?

Well... I 'mistakenly' dozed off so no movie or relaxing on the couch. I woke up to find my daughter bright-eyed and ready to play...We're still up and well, please pray for us that we go to bed SOON!
As I was praying and meditating while waiting for my daughter to sleep (thank God for the early doze), the Holy Spirit led me to what I'm about to share....

DEBORAH
Deborah on my mind! No, not Mrs Deborah Lappidoth, the judge... Are you surprised that there is another Deborah in the Bible?
Okay, let's find HER!

"But Deborah Rebekah’s nurse died, and she was buried beneath Bethel under an oak: and the name of it was called Allon-bachuth." (Genesis 35:8).

That's not the first time the Bible talked about her but that's the first time we were given her name. She was first introduced in Genesis 24:59.

"And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go. And they sent away Rebekah their sister, and her nurse, and Abraham’s servant, and his men." (Genesis 24:58-59).

Deborah was the only familiar person Rebekah had in a strange land; the only 'family' Rebekah went with to join her new family. I wonder what the age gap was between Deborah and Rebekah. They were obviously close. Deborah had known Rebekah as a single lady.
Then came the 19 year wait for Rebekah and Isaac. (According to Gen 25:20, Isaac was 40 years when he married Rebekah and he was sixty when the twins were born per Genesis 25:26). No kids for 19 years! I wonder what it was like for Deborah having to tend to Rebekah for those 19 years. I believe Rebekah's attitude was what drove Isaac to intreat the Lord (Genesis 25:21). He probably had had enough Rebekah drama and was like 'Oh Lord, please give us kids so this woman can let me rest and meditate in peace', lol.

One striking thing for me is that unlike Sarah/Abraham/Hagar before them and Rachel/Leah/Jacob/Bilhah/Zilpah after them, Rebekah/Isaac/Deborah did not make the messy 'Go into my maid' arrangement. 19 years sure was a looong time to wait! This is definitely a time in history I wish I witnessed. :D
Finally, there came twin boys with all their drama! Jacob, the fast guy and Esau, the profane. Add Rebekah, the schemer and Isaac, the meditating prophet. Include Esau plotting to kill Jacob. I can imagine how much drama Deborah had to witness on a daily basis.
In all these, Deborah remained a faithful nurse. No mention of her contributing to the drama Isaac had to deal with. She played such a wonderful support role that no one remembers her, lol.
My friend put up a post on her Facebook wall  about doing whatever God has called you to do no matter how trivial the task appears to be. As mundane and insignificant as her tasks appeared, God considered her important enough to tell us her name. Many men and women in the Bible who achieved what would be considered more significant feats were not mentioned by name. But God considered Deborah important enough to tell us her name. SELAH.
And for whatever reason, a great judge and leader was given the same name many generations later.
She served in the household that brought forth the Messiah!
I'll like to pause here to acknowledge and thank every Deborah (the nurse) who labours in the background everyday - every lady irrespective of her status that labours FAITHFULLY to ensure that the work of the Lord is moving forward. Your labour is not in vain. The Lord who sees what you do in the background will re ward you openly, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

If you are yet to join the train, please locate your position and man your office. It starts with a prayer of salvation. You can pray the prayer below and send an email to kneekey2@yahoo.com for more information on the next steps.

PRAYER OF SALVATION
O Lord God, I come to You in the Name of Jesus Christ. Your Word says, "...whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Acts 2: 21)
I ask Jesus to come into my heart to be the Lord of my life. I receive eternal life into my spirit and according to Romans 10:9, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." I declare that I am saved; I am born-again; I am a child of God! I now have Christ dwelling in me, and greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)! I now walk in the consciousness of my new life in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah!

The Fear of falling Again

Oluwafolakemi Ibidokun

Some people, because of the fear of falling again they.....
*Have refused to get up from their last fall
*Have refused to try one more time
*Have refused to risk being hurt again...
*Have decided to make a home lying down
*After all, they say, he that is down needs fear no fall (but that's not what that line means)

They look for people in similar situations, people who have written themselves off to leak their wounds; they encourage themselves that success is not for them, they lament, the problems are just too much!, they sit around and moan.
Come on sisters!
Deal with your worst fear!
Don't be intimidated by bad news!
Confront and throw your fears out the door!
Take on life with confidence!
God is on your side!
Keep your trust in God!
He is going to cause all things work in your favour, for your good.
That's a GUARANTEE! !
So let nothing STOP YOU, not even fear!!

Biblical Role Models

Oluwafolakemi Ibidokun

As a woman you possess an inner strength like no other, and as child of God, you are able to do all things through Christ. However, as a single woman you may not always feel those truths are exhibited in your life. I have learned incredible lessons from some amazing women of strength and I’d like to share some encouragement from a few of my favorite biblical female role models.
Of all the women listed in the Bible, most people may probably not select the three that I considered below as role models. Much like me, they are the 'behind the scenes' type of women. They are not at the center of attention or frontline of a book, but their lives exhibited great faith lessons that I draw strength from and which I apply to my life on a daily basis. I need not the limelight, I only need the inner witness that I’m living a life that is pleasing to Christ every day, whilst relying solely on His grace to do so, and exactly the strengths I draw from these Biblical heroines.
As much as I learn what to do from them, I have also learnt valuable lessons in what not to do.
I invite you journey with me into the lives of three of the women I admire so much and I pray that you find joy and lifelong lessons from their stories too.
Naomi
First on my list is Naomi. Her story is found in the book of Ruth and although Ruth’s story held great biblical significance to the lineage of Christ, albeit, it was Naomi who mentored Ruth and offered her great insights often overlooked in this story. Most people like to make the correlation to single women finding their Boaz like Ruth but it was Naomi who taught Ruth everything she knew, and thank God for that teachable spirit she possessed.
Much like many single women today, Naomi suffered great losses and she refused to hide her bitterness. Her constant focus on her circumstances led her to live a life of hopelessness. But she did not stay that way. We all have bad days, but we must learn that there is a purpose and gain in pain and we can’t stay that way because God is faithful to restore. Naomi believed in God and attributed her suffering to His will and inspired great loyalty in her daughter-in-law.
Naomi's story teaches us to form deep and lasting relationships. Despite her own circumstances and suffering, Naomi was there for Ruth. She not only encouraged and guided her, but she shared her life with her. The life of Naomi taught me how to be a better friend and mentor, despite my circumstances and what I’m going through I can use my experience to bless others and point them to Christ.
Hannah
Next on my list is Hannah. I love the story of Hannah so much, not because she eventually got what she wanted but because of how she responded to criticism, how she responded to God when her prayers went unanswered for so long and most of all how she honored God when He answered her prayer.
Hannah’s story, found in I Samuel chapter one, definitely teaches us how to trust God wholeheartedly and to live faithfully. Again, like many Christian single women, Hannah desperately prayed for something she wanted and was taunted by her mate for the lack of that thing in her life. But unlike many of us, Hannah didn’t lash out at others, even when situations and circumstances which surrounded her called for such, she didn’t invite her friends over for a pity party, nor did she slip into a mild state of depression; she took her heartfelt concerns to God, and made a vow. Eventually God honoured her request and granted her, her heart desire. At last, Hannah enjoyed many of God blessings, she eventually redeemed her vow, by giving back to God that very thing she had waited for so long to have Hannah's story taught me to check my motives, for requesting any blessing from God. why do I want what I want? Is it for my own selfish interest and pleasures or for God’s glory?
Hannah prayed, she believed, was hopeful, had faith and left the results to God. She was comforted by her time spent in the atmosphere of God's presence, she considered God faithful and God came through for her(1Samuel 1:18). Hannah's story taught us to have confidence in God and to be mindful of our attitudes when faced with one challenge or the other, also that during our waiting period we should remember what God has done for us in time past and be encouraged. To always have confidence in God’s ability to answer prayers and to completely trust that His decision to do so or not is always in my/our best interest.
Mary of Bethany
Last, but certainly not the least I shall be considering is Mary of Bethany. Much of her story is found in the 11th and 12th chapters of John. Like us, she was a single woman and lived a life fully devoted to Jesus. Just like us she succumb to doubts and weaknesses as a result of her circumstances. Upon seeing Jesus, through her tears she said “Lord if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:32). However, after witnessing the miracle of Jesus raising her brother Lazarus from the dead, she responded with worship. “Mary then took a pound of very costly perfume of pure spikenard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair...” (John 12:3). What a height of worship!
Her story taught us that even though we may have moments of doubt, we cannot stay there. Once we recognize the greatness and the miracle working power of God, our hearts are naturally drawn to worship the King of Glory. Mary learnt the importance of seeking the Lord’s presence regardless of the circumstances and situations she was in at the time.
“…Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”- Luke 10:39-42
Although criticized by her loved one, she took time to bask in Jesus’ presence rather than squander the moments with meaningless feats. And we too should not be so busy working for Him that we miss Him. Jesus’ response confirms that He is pleased when we put Him first. Yes, Mary teaches us how to worship the Father and how to prioritize and put first things first. Thank you Mary for helping me to understand the importance of seeking His presence rather than His presents.
A role model is someone who serves as an example and whose behavior is emulated by others. These ladies certainly exhibit behaviors that I love to emulate. The lessons from their stories help to strengthen my Christian walk and am grateful.
Who are your biblical role models and what have they taught you?

I am spiritual, but am I wise?

Bimbola Tayo-Bamidele

"THEN THE kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom.

2Five of them were foolish (thoughtless, without forethought) and five werewise (sensible, intelligent, and prudent).

3For when the foolish took their lamps, they did not take any [extra] oil with them;

4But the wise took flasks of oil along with them [also] with their lamps.

5While the bridegroom lingered and was slow in coming, they all began nodding their heads, and they fell asleep.

6But at midnight there was a shout, Behold, the bridegroom! Go out to meet him!

7Then all those virgins got up and put their own lamps in order.

8And the foolish said to the wise, Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.

9But the wise replied, There will not be enough for us and for you; go instead to the dealers and buy for yourselves.

10But while they were going away to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were prepared went in with him to the marriage feast; and the door was shut. Matt.25:1-10 (AMP)

I asked God what to tell you today and He said to tell you this:

It is not enough to be a "virgin"; you must be a wise "virgin".

Go get oil into your lamps. Get enough and get some extra too. He said the more oil you have, the more your chances and opportunities are. He said you have been very diligent, you have also prayed and have given so much. Now, it's time to:

"Enlarge the place of your tent, and let the curtains of your habitations be stretched out; spare not; lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes,

3For you will spread abroad to the right hand and to the left; and your offspring will possess the nations and make the desolate cities to be inhabited." - Is.54:2-3

Build your capacity to contain where He is taking you to. The widowwoman was told by Elijah to go borrow vessels from her neighbours and fill them with oil. The Bible says the oil did not stop until the vessels were all exhausted. That means if she got just a vessel, she would have just a vessel of oil. If she got two, four, ten, one thousand... She would have oil commensurate to that.

His word to you this morning is this:

Build your capacity to contain what He has planned to pour into you and into your life. Your container is too small for what He has in mind.

While the bridegroom tarries, go get extra oil.

May the Lord increase your understanding and mine.

Have a great day and blessed week, sisters...

God Will Not Punish Him

Bimbola Tayo Bamidele

"I am finding it hard to forgive him. I have cursed him and I know he will suffer for everything he did to me. God will punish him... bla bla bla." She lamented.

I smiled.

I chuckled.

I laughed.

I have often been told that I am harsh, which I rarely deny.

But I know I do not cause anyone harm with my being harsh, when I need to be,... even when I hurt them with it.

The opening paragraph was a lamentation from a younger friend of mine who believed an injustice has been done to her and who is now calling on the God of vengeance to arise and let His enemies be scattered, on her behalf. (I have her permission to share this here)

She had been in a relationship with this guy for three years. She had contributed a quota to the guy's current status in life. All of a sudden, bro said he is no longer interested. It even led to a thorough beating from the guy at some point, because she was demanding for a "hearing".

I told her that God will not punish the guy for anything. And that her curse is not going to affect him one bit. There is nothing she also shouldn't forgive for; he owes her nothing. The guy never forced her to do anything for him; she did all that she did willingly. He is responsible for his life and has a right to determine who he wants in his life; she was the one who has acted unthoughtfully and foolishly.

I asked her why she is calling God to punish him. Did God send her into his life in the first place? If God did, then she can go back to God and make a report. And even at that, she has no right to curse him.

I was into a three years relationship and after our formal introduction, two months to the fixed wedding date, when i had already sent a bulk sms inviting friends and family to my "wedding", this guy came up with some story to say he was no
longer interested in the relationship.

I was hurt; but I never felt he wasted my time neither did I feel he disappointed me in any way. I didn't feel he owed me anything. I had no
business with him. I just went straight to the God that sent me into the relationship in the first place, to make my report, to ask questions, and to receive fresh instructions on the way forward.

Before someone begins to think that I was not committed to the relationship was why I found it easy to move on, I beg to differ. The reason I found it easy to move on, was because I didn't run my own errand when I went into the relationship; I was running God's errand. Everything I was responsible for in his life or contributed to, was not on my errand; but God's. So, I didn't feel like he cheated me, wasted my time, deceived me or disappointed me. It is between him and God. Mine too was between God and I. He owed me no explanations; God did. I said yes to him because God led me to. If he says he is not "doing" again, I go back to that same God.

I told this young friend of mine that if my husband wakes up one morning and says he is not interested in our marriage anymore, life goes on with me and nothing will change negatively about me (God forbid, anyway)

(Before someone begins to think that the reason I am talking like this is because hubby and I are not close or that I don't love him, it is not true. This lady visited my home and saw the love hubby and I share; it is so visible and palpable, you can almost touch it.)

See, women have to realize that if they are in any man's life, they are there on an assignment ...not to be a burden. Women are resourceful, rich, complete and whole. They need no man to complete them; they are the ones who need to complete man. What they need is God to define them and reveal His purpose for their lives to them. It was God Eve knew and it was God who brought Eve to Adam. The Bible says, it is not good for man to be alone, so God created you and I to complete man. No wonder he that finds you and I finds a good thing and obtains favour from the Lord. We are the ones who adds favour to their lives. We are the ones they can't do without; not the other way round. And this has nothing to do with struggling to win their favour; but with just being a woman who fears the Lord and who conducts her affairs with wisdom and discretion.

Let's get a revelation of who God made us to be and let's be just that.

And it is until we make God our priority and find Him in everything that concerns us, that we can truly find ourselves.

Let God define your life and be the reason you woke up this morning and want to wake up tomorrow too.

You are complete in Him.

Rest in Him.

May the Lord increase your understanding ...and mine.

Amen.

ADD VALUE TO YOURSELF

Bimbola Tayo-Bamidele

Dear single sister, I need your help with this. I am conducting a search and I am yet to find
what I am searching for. I have been checking through the scripture to find a woman... named or unnamed, young or old ...just one, that is weak, helpless, needy and who waited for a man to come and make her life complete. That job is God's, and I can't overemphasize this. 

The ones I found were strong, capable, confident, and value-adding. Even an unnamed slave girl in Naman's house was value-adding. She was the one who suggested a way to get her master healed of leprosy. Remember Esther? The "If I perish, I perish" lady. Remember Jael, an "ordinary" housewife who was so strong, confident, capable and value-adding that she single-handedly killed a national enemy, General Sisera. I do not want to mention Serah, who something about her made her husband feel she could save him from being murdered at a time. ..and who brought him so much rest and comfort and also worked alondside to raise 318 men in their home. I do not want to mention Priscilla, who was working alongside her husband in ministry and was so much recognized that her name comes first when the couple is mentioned. Oh, what about little teenage Mary? An ordinary, common girl whom God chose to birth a whole Saviour of the world... and who accepted the responsibility without battling an eye? You think such a huge task could be given to an helpless, weak, and needy woman? I don't want to mention the "Virtuous Woman"; let's not go there.

Develop yourself. Add value to yourself. Women are not meant to be weak, helpless and needy. They are meant to be a "help". It is an anathema, an abuse of purpose for you to go about searching for help. You are the helper... you should function in your capacity as one. Develop yourself. Add value to yourself. Forget your past. No matter what has happened, you are more than what happened to you. You are God's gift to humanity. You are God's gift to the world. You have something to offer. You have a role to play. You have a place to occupy.
Destinies are tied to your rising. Lives are tied to you. So many things depend on you. You are a mother of nations. There are nations in your womb waiting to be birthed.

"Arise [from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you—rise to a new life] Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you!" - Is.60:1 (AMP)

Amen.

HE WANTS THE BEST FOR US

Bimbola Tayo-Bamidele

Each time my son breaks a rule, I spank him... especially if I had warned him before he did it.

For every fresh breaking of my rule, I pardon him and correct him by telling him not to do it again.

When it is repeated or becomes a habit, I beat him seriously.

But you see, no matter how much he errs and how much I punish him, I love him so much, I will not allow any evil come near him, I care for him and I will not withhold anything good from him.

Never have I beaten him and found him running away from me not wanting anything to do with me anymore. Sometimes, he even comes hugging me while still crying and wailing, stretching his hands for me to carry him.

He makes me so proud of him when after correcting him, he takes to correction without being offended in me.

When he breaks a toy or spoils anything, he may not get a replacement immediately but the plan to get him a replacement is already on my mind...

Such is a poor but clear picture of our relationship with a Father who loves us with an everlasting love.

He is not condemning us; He is interceding for us with groanings that cannot be uttered.

He wants the best for us. His plans for us are good. His thoughts are good. He will not withhold good things from us. So if we expect some good things and they have not come, it is not because He hates us and is punishing us. No. He makes all things beautiful in its time.

His love for us is perfect; let it cast out all fears.

He will not cast us away forever....

PRAY FOR SOMEONE TODAY

Bimbola Tayo-Bamidele

Many of us often wish we had people upholding us in prayers because of some stuffs we are going through. We wish someone would just take our matter to God and intercede for us. Thank God the Bible says Jesus forever lives to make intercession for us before the Father. So we can go rest in that. Jesus already got our back... and the Holy Spirit also prays for us with groanings that cannot be uttered.

Does that free us from prayers? No. But we do no longer pray out of desperation. We pray believing that whatsoever we ask the Father in Jesus' name is already done. Our issues are settled. We should relax in that reality.

Having settled the above in our hearts, something is required of us. We should also take our friends to God in prayers. Our total victory lies in helping and praying for others. The Bible says that it was when Job prayed for his friends that the Lord turned his captivity. Why not pray for someone today? Job did not pray because he was okay and had it all. No. He was even sick, poor and desolate, so we have no excuse. That may be the last straw that would break the back of the camel of all our adversaries.

Sow a seed of prayer into someone' life today and watch God turn again your captivity.

You will surely testify and we will rejoice with you.

Amen.

"And the Lord turned the captivity of Job and restored his fortunes, when he prayed for his friends; also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before." - Job 42:10

God's Will May Be Different From Our Plans

Bimbola Tayo-Bamidele

Do you know that everyone of us actually desire God's will to be done in our lives? Yet we fight it when it conflicts with our idea of what His will should be.
Sometimes, our mind is so fixed on what we really want and then, for formality purpose, we ask Him to have His way and let His will be done. When He now does His will, or reveals it, and it does not come in the package we expect, we begin to fight it; simply because it does not tally with our expectations.
As I think about this now, an incident came to my mind.
Hubby and I wanted to relocate from our former apartment. He wanted somewhere close to our church, I wanted the heart of town; and the heart of town is far from our church. We prayed and agreed that God's will, will be done.
When we eventually got a place, it was neither close to church, nor to the heart of town. It was not a place either of us ever considered at all... and we didn't want it. I followed the agent to the place reluctantly, but when I saw the apartment, I fell in love with it. But it was not where either of us wanted or expected.
When I told hubby about the place, he said 'No'. Even after much persuasions and pleadings from me, he refused to agree. So, I gave up, and agreed with him to settle for a place near the church.
Do you know that as he went searching for some other place on his own, he was taken to this same place that I first saw and told him about. He loved it as soon as he saw it. He immediately called me and told me, "I found the place you were taken to the last time. Well, since you said you liked that place, let us go there." Meanwhile, i had taken my mind off the place. I told him, "No! it is too far from church; neither is it close to the heart of town." Now, it was his turn to start persuading me but I insisted.
Then the Holy Spirit interrupted me, "I thought you wanted my will?"
I replied, "Yes, of course. I do and You know it" Then He said, "Why are you now fighting it?" I was surprised to hear that, so I asked, "You mean...?" He replied, "Yes, that is My will" I had no choice. I had to succumb to and align with the new development.
We have never ceased to thank God for that house. The neighbours, the environment, the atmosphere, everything was just beautiful and more than we could ever ask for. We could not have gotten a better place at that period... and we nearly missed it because it did not appear to be where we wanted it or what we wanted.
God's will, most times, may be different from what we ever imagined. If eyes have not seen, ears have not heard, and if it has not entered the heart of any man what He has prepared for all that love Him, then all that love Him must keep an open mind... even
after praying for what they desire; so that they will not miss Him and His best for their lives.
May God help us to recognize and accept His will even when it comes in a disguise.
May God's will be done in every aspect of our lives in Jesus' name... and may we align with it.
Amen.
Have a great day, great women of God in the house.
Shalom.

Every Wise Woman Builds Her House (2)

Bimbola Tayo-Bamidele

Every wise woman builds her house but the foolish one tears it down with her hands. - Prov.14:1
Woman, pay attention to your spirit. Your spirit is the real you. Your spirit is your very life. Your spirit is the engine room of your being. Your spirit is your "house".
Every wise woman build her spirit but the foolish one tears it down with her hands.
It is from your spirit that every other thing stems. It is from your spirit that your mood, attitude, character, disposition, countenance and all stem.
1Pet.3:4 talks about the "...unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit, which [is not anxious or wrought up, but] is very precious in the sight of God."
Without a gentle and quiet spirit, which is fully secure and restful in God, we are easily provoked, angered, irritated, anxious, impatient, unloving, unkind, inconsiderate, unthoughtful, resentful and bitter... and we nag.
Every wise woman builds her house but the foolish one tears it down with her hands.
Maybe, we could argue that we do not "tear" down our "house". But the fact is that, if we are not consciously and deliberately building our spirit every day, we are passively tearing it down. Our spirit was not wired or designed to run on neutral. It is not designed to run on automatic gear. Any laxity in the spirit opens the door for the enemy of our soul and God's Kingdom, through us. Every indulgence, non-challance, and passivity is a dangerous and deadly trap. Why?
Your spirit is the candle of the Lord... - Prov.20:27
That candle must not go off or go dim at any time, if we must be spiritually alert, receptive and sensitive to God's voice. That candle must be fuelled daily, no matter how "busy" you are. It is called "daily bread"... not "weekly" or "Sunday bread".
In our various callings, we must be wise women whose "houses" are well built. As a teacher, engineer, architect, banker, social worker, fashion designer, street sweeper, whatever, nothing matters than our spirit being well grounded and established. I can be a street sweeper and be a joy to heaven while a "successful" business woman is not heavenly relevant. So what matters is my spirit being built enough to hear and listen when the Master speaks.
Every wise woman builds her house, but the foolish one tears it down with her hands.
Are you a wise woman?
Build your house.
You are on earth for a specific assignment. You are here to "help" God's Kingdom in one way or the order. It does not have to be something "big" in the world's view. Yours may just be like Mary's - to raise a "saviour" for God as a mother. Yours may be like Moses' mother - to have the courage and wisdom to keep Moses save and alive in a time when children's lives are being destroyed. Yours may be like that of that little servant in Naman's house who orchestrated relief for her master. Yours could be like that of Dorcas who was such a blessing that when she died, people that had benefited from her generousity had to cry out to God and got her raised from the dead. Yours could be like that of Sarah or Priscilla, working alongside their husbands (This is important for every married woman, in one way or the other; even if your work is different from that of your husband, there must be unity of purpose... else the devil will have a field day in your home.)
Your spirit is the candle of the Lord.
Your spirit is your "house".
Every wise woman builds her house, but the foolish one tears it down with her hands.
May the Lord increase your understanding ...and mine too.
Thanks for this opportunity.
Thanks for being here.
I appreciate you all.
Have a great and restful weekend, great women of God in the house...
Amen.

Every Wise Woman Builds Her House (1)

Bimbola Tayo-Bamidele

Every wise woman builds her house, but the foolish one tears it down with her hands." - Prov.14:1
We, women have a tendency to build everything but our "house". We build our career, business, marriage, husband, children, ministry, friendships but our "house".
We are usually strong and powerful, always there for every other person but for ourselves. We give everyone and everything our all, expecting them to automatically return our gestures with what we "deserve" and when they don't, we feel used and feel like victims and start demanding "justice". We try to help everyone but ourselves.
"House" as I received the interpretation here, refers to our base, our essense, our abode, what we rest on, our foundation, from which every other thing extends.
Every wise woman does not leave her "house" to chance. She does not live the responsibility of building her base to others, not even her husband. She takes responsibility for her life, sanity, health, soundness and well-being. She is first there for herself and it is from that place of rest she has built for herself within herself, that she extends to others, including her husband, children and every other thing.
Nobody will build your "house" for you woman, it is your personal responsibility to stay sane, healthy, sound and whole. Dont Attend to everything and everyone at the expense of your house. It is dangerous. Our strength, and capability should extend from a solid base/foundation that we have built within us or we crumble in no time, when faced with normal every day challenges that shake us to the very core of our being.
Let us start with ourselves. The whole world can wait. That is why our unmarried days are the best time for this. But even if we are married, it is not too late. After we are built, we can start reaching out to others from our rich resources ...not run on our default mode.
God created us to be a Help. And the word "Help" gives an impression of someone richly equipped with everything it takes to help another. Things fall apart and we fall apart with them, only when we have refused to pay attention to our base. We build our children, our husband, career, business, ministry and weave our lives around them while leaving our "house" unattended to. We expect them to pay us back by building our house for us, in return for the help we render them, and because it is not theirs to do, we begin to see "unfairness" and begin to demand for equality and justice. When anything happens, we begin to feel like victims of circumstances simply because we have assumed we had our priorities right.
Many of us are not actively "tearing" down our house, but we do, when we do not put in conscious efforts to build it. When you are not actively and deliberately building, you are tearing it down. When you leave it in its default mode and running it on automatic or neutral, you are tearing down your house with your hands.
The everlasting God is your refuge, underneath are His everlasting arms. Make God your base. Wisdom, wealth, health, strength and all other materials needed to build your house are in His hands. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Every woman that will be wise must have a good dose of the fear of the Lord to begin with. Your relationship with the Lord should be rich, sound and buoyant. Let it be your base, the foundation from which all other things extends from. Your relationship with God must not be traded for anything, for from it comes your very life. Emotional strength and stability, soundness of mind, clarity and wisdom are all benefits of a house well built. When God is at the centre, things can never fall apart... and when and if they do, you will not fall with them.
Are you a wise woman?
Build your house.
Nobody will do it for you. It is your personal responsibility to stay sane, healthy, sound and whole. Don't attend to everything and everyone at the expense of your house. It is dangerous. Our strength should stem from a strong base or we crumble in no time.
May the Lord increase your understanding and mine...
Amen.
Do have a good day and a restful wrekend