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.