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At the just concluded solemn assembly of worship, prayers and the word of the Redeemed Christian Church of God themed “Let the Fire Fall”, Pastor Enoch Adeboye shared several gems of divine wisdom and insights…but there is one solemn thought that keeps niggling at my soul.  It is seen in a story.

Many years ago amongst the people of Ife-Wara in Nigeria ( a small community of humble villagers) was a very peculiar tradition. At the wedding night, it was considered normal that the bride would be found to be a virgin and customary that the family of the groom would return to the bride’s family with special additional generous gifts and singing in confirmation of this - to thank the family for keeping their daughter unspotted.  However, if the groom discovered the bride not to be one, then there would also be a visit by the groom’s family with songs of shameful mocking and demeaning presentations.  Because of this tradition – the honour of families were guarded and linked to how well they trained and kept their daughters.  This “crude” practice provided somewhat effective checks to curb immorality.

Pastor Enoch Adeboye narrated an application of this tradition (many years ago) in the story of his dear sister and her lady friend. The lady friend got married first and there was dismay and an embarrassing alarm as the groom’s family came later in the night after the wedding with mockery to report that she was not what they expected.  The turn of his sister came years later and the Adeboye family was of course naturally anxious especially ma Adeboye (young Enoch’s mother) who fretted endlessly at the prospect of shame if her daughter was found defiled.  Everyone in the community understood and accepted the tradition and there was no small relief when later in the night, the guests came with joyful singing and beautiful generous gifts indicating all was well.  I understand these traditions still exist in some communities.  You will tend to find even before the gospel came to these communities that immorality was low as the associated social stigma was greatly feared.

Discussing the “The last fires”, Pastor Adeboye spoke of two final fires. The first fire is the Fire of Hell which is for the damned who rejected the grace of the gospel or backsliders or the carnal who lived in reckless or just careless abandon.  

Revelation 20[11]  And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. [12]  And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. [13] And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. [14]  And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. [15]  And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

The second is the fire that will try our works and service to God to see the quality and judge for appropriate reward

 I Corinthians 3[11]  For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. [12]  Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; [13]  Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. [14]  If any man’s work abides which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. [15]  If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

The summary of it all is that in the future are days of discovery for all acts – hidden or known.  And also all that was done with questionable motives (i.e.  from God’s perspective). God Himself will administer the fire to try all our deeds and just as in the wedding  illustration narrated above … it may be a day of ugly revelations and regret or could be a day of joy.  The time to reflect on this and adjust is now  … do not set yourself for an ugly epilogue. 

True ministers will be thanked for preparing people for heaven.  False shepherds will be humiliated for teaching an alternative gospel often for influence, money or approval of men. We are in an era that mocks many biblical moral instructions as “legalism” or impossible to practice because of “innate” challenges even when we know many of these disciplines and acts of self control and separation have been embraced before – even amongst rural unbelievers.  In Christ Jesus we can climb even higher up the mountain of consecration and like a soaring eagle excel in ethics … in Business, Ministry and personal life…

Do pray for the purifying fire of God to touch your failures, losses and sorrows  - your successes, gains and gladness – your projects, health and wisdom – your today, past and future….crying for healing, revival and mercy…and grace to change your ways.

What type of songs will be rendered for you at the final assembly?

I do pray for mercy and that we shall meet in Heaven .. someday. 

Bode

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Recently it was reported in the Nigerian Punch , a retired General ( who had served meritoriously in the corridors of power in several laudable capacities) publicly and proudly admitted to being enriched by a magnanimous award of an oil bloc 12years ago from which he realised $1Billion  and seeks to give a tithe of it $100m through his foundation to support charities and many worthy causes. 

Deuteronomy 17[14]  When thou art come unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, and shalt possess it, and shalt dwell therein, and shalt say, I will set a king over me, like as all the nations that are about me; …  [16]  But he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt, to the end that he should multiply horses: forasmuch as the LORD hath said unto you, Ye shall henceforth return no more that way. [17]  Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold. …

Perhaps only a few are dumbfounded at this public revelation of a most refined kind of resource looting.  More that have benefitted from the largesse of the amiable General are a bit embarrassed at his lack of discretion and tact while the values of future generation of leaders are updated as they take copious notes on what to do when in leadership. It is suspected by some that this unusual admission of past misdemeanours perhaps reveals only just a tip of the iceberg.

Let me humbly suggest that this cannot be another example of favour from God.  Instead, God warns leaders not to greatly multiply the silver and gold that belongs to Him but be stewards and serve the people they lead with it.  In Deuteronomy, God lists the heavy costs for disobedience to His commandments.  This includes  … Deuteronomy 28[33] the fruit of thy land, and all thy labours, shall a nation which thou knowest not eat up; and thou shalt be only oppressed and crushed always.

The oil bloc – a national resource – did not belong to the leaders (they are stewards) and so this manner of award and indeed other similar ones can only be examples of larceny that needs to be urgently judged and rectified.  Many families of previous national leaders, ministers, resource officials and corporate moguls groan under strange curses they cannot comprehend…even as the nation wonders how it is possible that social and economic oppression has become almost normal. The Nigerian energy sector also remains strangely perpetually dominated by foreigners as very little value is locally created in spite of local content pronouncements and an extremely talented populace.

Also, we cannot tithe ill-gotten wealth and bring into the treasury of God to obtain pardon.  We cannot bribe God or society with giving to become holy or to make our resources also holy when they have already come from illicit activities.  On the contrary scripture teaches that the entire treasury of God becomes polluted if “dirty” money is accepted.  This also suggests we are not to shy from asking detailed questions concerning unusually large sums given for any noble cause…even if this offends many.  Dirt is loathsome…it pollutes everything it touches and is not cleansed by quick-fix generous giving.

Haggai 2 [12] “If one carries holy meat in the fold of his garment, and with the edge he touches bread or stew, wine or oil, or any food, will it become holy? Then the priests answered and said, “No.” [13] And Haggai said, “If one who is unclean because of a dead body touches any of these, will it be unclean?” So the priests answered and said, “It shall be unclean.”

Luke 3 [14] And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.

Hebrews 13 [5]  Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

Someone said resource oppression continues to thrive in perhaps this most religious nation as new power cabals emerge from the emerging politics.  Hear Jeremiah…

Jeremiah 8 [8] How can you say, “We are wise, for we have the law of the LORD,” when actually the lying pen of the scribes has handled it falsely? [9] The wise will be put to shame; they will be dismayed and trapped. Since they have rejected the word of the LORD, what kind of wisdom do they have? [10] Therefore I will give their wives to other men and their fields to new owners. From the least to the greatest, all are greedy for gain; prophets and priests alike, all practice deceit. [11] They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious. “Peace, peace,” they say, when there is no peace. [12] Are they ashamed of their loathsome conduct? No, they have no shame at all; they do not even know how to blush. So they will fall among the fallen; they will be brought down when they are punished…NIV

As we honour the General for rare honesty in his open admission, my prayer is that children of God will urge politely that the proceeds from this shameful transaction and indeed perhaps many others discovered not just in government but also in the corporate sector – be voluntarily and completely returned to the national treasury for the benefit of the people God has blessed to enjoy His wealth…over 150million Nigerians mostly living in deprivation in need of electricity, good roads, education and basic medical care.  Indeed God would have begun a new thing with this urgent call to restitution.

Ephesians 4:28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

Deuteronomy 22 [22:1]  You shall not see your brother’s ox or his sheep being driven away or stolen, and hide yourself from [your duty to help] them; you shall surely take them back to your brother. (Amplified)

Proverbs 9 [17]  Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant. [18]  But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.

Exodus 22 [9]  For all manner of trespass, whether it be for ox, for ass, for sheep, for raiment, or for any manner of lost thing, which another challengeth to be his, the cause of both parties shall come before the judges; and whom the judges shall condemn, he shall pay double unto his neighbour.

A last word from Jesus – the friend of sinners…in the home of Zaccheaus the famous tax collector who corrected his ills as best he could…Luke 19[5]  And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for today I must abide at thy house. [6] And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully. [7] And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, that he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. [8] And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken anything from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. [9] And Jesus said unto him, this day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. [10] For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

God bless you all even as He reigns in our lives.

Bode

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NEW YORK (Reuters) – Tiger Woods has only begun the long road back to recovery as a credible spokesman for corporate sponsors who have lavished a fortune on his stellar golf career.

John 10[10]  The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 2 Peter 2 [19]  While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.

The power of temptation and sin to destroy could not have been more evident as it was with Tiger Woods.  Sin will surely cost you and it is quite expensive. You cannot afford this costly luxury expense in good times and certainly not in recession.  This post is not focused on Tiger’s discovered adultery, its huge cost nor about his public repentance but summarises some related thoughts on sin.  Today, we are promised liberty…and anything more laborious than a yawn in the sanctuary is termed to be “works”.  All attempts to warn of the dangers of a virulent destroyer have been labelled and shunned as “legalism” and many hide and suffer in bondage – too ashamed to uncover the bitter reality of enslavement.  We toy with a wise destroyer who sneaks through the cracks of “innocent” entertainment, leisure and expression of natural freedoms to drop his poisons and explosives. We are deceived to imagine concealment of sin equates to escape from its consequences and so perfect the art of covering our tracks.

In his book “God’s Call” Charles Finney also writes “While it is true that men have this attribute of moral liberty, it is equally true that they are morally enslaved to evil – they are in moral bondage.  They have liberty through their created makeup; the bondage comes by voluntary perversion and the abuse of their powers. The best of human beings are in voluntary bondage to appetites and passions, alcohol, love of money, fashions of the world and opinions of other people and bondage to selfishness.  Everyone who is led counter to his convictions of duty is enslaved.”

A school of thought would want to legalise as much of bondage as is decently possible as though making poison legal reduces the potency of the venom. How flawed and naive a defence against a destroyer intent on complete devastation of body, soul and spirit. Charles Finney also writes “No matter what the form of the temptation may be, moral conscience convinces us of our duty to fight and not feed it…but every time we do not resist we become more and more helpless and commit more and more to the control of the iron-hearted master. “

The tempter deceives the victim to believe that no harm or cost is intended – only pleasure. The serpent is admitted and slides under the sheets to be embraced…there seems to be no immediate hurt done…only a momentary and oftentimes lingering and addictive pleasure.  Temptations continue with a strong and fearful delusion that the victim is getting better because he receives temperance lectures and has noble thoughts but the next day is left as drunk and helpless a victim as ever…as the victim falls again.  But there is a cure.

Jesus – the friend of sinners says – come. I have the cure to sin. The cure is a double cure that cleanses from the guilt of sin and its power to destroy.

Romans 6[20]  When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. [21]  What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! [22]  But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. [23]  For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NIV)

Nowadays, Christians do a lot of things in the name of liberty.  God says He is coming to fight against those following and sponsoring wrong doctrines. 

Rev 2[14]  But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. [15]  So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. [16]  Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

The sin associated with your business is the most significant expense item on your income statement.  Repent – go to Jesus for His rescue plan.

listen to this message on the rescue plan …

Bode

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A.W. Tozer writes in “Echoes from Eden

 “Jesus tells the story there of the man who went into a far country and before leaving, called in his three servants.  He gave them talents to be held in trust during their absence.  He gave one man five talents, another two and another one, each according to his own ability.  They could not complain for each was given what he deserved.   Then He said, “ I will be coming back – remember that I have delivered unto you my goods.”  ….

 … But the hour will come when our kindly-faced but serious Saviour will call the redeemed and justified to His feet saying:  “ I must have an account of the deeds done in the body since you were saved.  You have had more abilities entrusted to you for faithful and obedient service and witness.”

There will be no place to hide then.  You tried to settle everything in the spiritual life by one act of believing but there are some things that are never settled until death cuts us off or until the Lord comes.  Now what is it that God expects of us morally, and spiritually?  He advises the way of self-judgment: “ If we judged ourselves we would not come under judgment”… I trust many of us are becoming willing to breathe sincerely that prayer with Charles Wesley:  Arm me with jealous care – as in Thy sight to live; And Oh, Thy servant, Lord prepare  – A strict account to give”

I often reflect on the words of Tozer.  The Bible tells us of a man called Enoch who walked with God … so closely that God took Him.  Enoch had a son he named Methuselah. But why did Enoch walk with God?

Genesis 5 [21]  And Enoch lived sixty and five years, and begat Methuselah: [22]  And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters: [23]  And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: [24]  And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.

Methuselah means “When he is dead judgement shall be sent”… or  in plainer terms – the audit comes when he dies.   We can imagine that God inspired Enoch to give his son this name and every time Enoch saw Methuselah he remembered the coming judgment and must have been often perturbed in that he did not know how long Methuselah would live.  Everyday must have been lived with strict care.  This perhaps was the secret of Enoch’s close walk with God.  Indeed, we know Methuselah lived very long (969 years) and died in the year of the flood that destroyed the world (except Noah and those in the ark).  The fact that Methuselah lived longer than any man known testifies to God’s incomparable mercy, love, patience and long-suffering – that gives and gives us new opportunities to repent. This does not mean He has changed His plan.  The effacement of thoughts about judgment  from our theology causes us to seek fun and be unwatchful.  The apparent delay decieve many to imagine He will no more return.

Someone asked “ How can I be sure I am walking with God in my finances, business and ventures?”…and I answered  ” live a life of constant remembrance that whatever you do, gather and achieve is time-bound and mortal … and after there will be a comprehensive audit…a judgment of it by an all-knowing God who owns it all.”

God will judge what we did with time, career, ability, skills, our marriage, ministry, education…He will judge our response to every sermon we heard…every blog we read…every thought and knowledge He gave us.  He will judge what we did with our nationality and all our advantages…He will judge fairly but firmly according to His word. It is wise to understand the audit scope by studying the word of God and quickly agreeing with it.

He especially remembers what we did concerning the poor, the vulnerable, the widows and the orphans…the hungry and the weak…He will judge all our failures, successes and all our assets acquisition and losses.  He will audit our saving and spending and scrutinise our generous giving.  He will judge our silence and also our words.

He will consider all our aspirations, earnings and luxurious extravagance in the light of the needs of others with neither food nor shelter.  He will judge our comfortable social safety nets in the light of impoverished souls perishing daily and innumerably like unprotected insects  - mere statistics or news items to us.  He will judge the things we missed because we thought they were immaterial – yet someone hungry somewhere could have been fed for weeks on that which we squandered on another gadget we will throw away in a few months.  Everything will be reviewed as  though they belonged to Him and not to us…nor to any government or nation…or even ministry.   They all belong to Him.

Enjoy this video by John Piper giving his own perspective on the Prosperity gospel …

Concerning all the investments, businesses, achievements…Christ constantly reminds us  “ I will be coming back – remember that I have delivered unto you my goods.”    Surely, we all need more grace to walk with constant remembrance of this truth – ever seeking the mercy and help of a God who lovingly and patiently awaits our repentance and is ready to give us a fresh start.  With this mindset, all our business activities will be conducted in a very rigorous self-auditing mode that transcends our accounting standards.  He will examine if we are still full or emptied of every deposit that must have been poured out for the benefit of humanity.  Have all the talents been invested for His glory?  What do we have hidden in the closet of procrastination?

Many may ask?  Why have I dedicated many posts to Haiti and ugly scenes of crisis and death amongst the poor brethren in Jos, Nigeria…surely these have nothing to do with managing money and success.  Others may not want their consciences assaulted with images of the poor living under subhuman conditions… and a few have had disturbing nightmares caused by realities they are not used to considering.  But our responses to all these scenarios may all be part of His judgment …

Isaiah 58 [6]  Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? [7]  Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? [8]  Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward.

Get back on track… and back into the ark. This time – be sure you remain in the ark  – in Christ Jesus.   May the Almighty God who is able to keep us faithful and save us till the very end arm us with jealous care and bless us indeed.  Amen

Bode

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A good business plan is acknowledged to be a critical requirement for the successful start-up of any business idea. This is because a good business plan enables you, as the initiator of the business, to articulate your business idea(s), vision and aspirations; and to communicate to potential investors, helpers and partners (in a convincing manner) the viability of your business idea.  God has deposited something in you…so run with it …remember God has sent helpers and divine connections for a specific time…and the night cometh …John 9 [4]  I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.

A period of fasting and prayers is strongly advised to incubate divine ideas and much recommended before initiating God’s works through you. But remember you need to begin with a concisely documented plan.

Business plans are useful for many different purposes: as a key prerequisite to support requests for funding ( I recommend you seek first for equity funding partners and not debt); as a framework to obtain approvals; and, as a tool for operational business management.  You can follow a simple structured process.

1. Define your business activities i.e. clear idea of the business scope and vision of what you want the business to achieve. Also understand the current status of the business
2. Define the external market (including regulations etc), your competition and your market positioning
3. Define your core objectives for the period of the plan and strategy for achieving the objectives
4. Identify the risks and opportunities and strategy for limiting risks and exploiting opportunities
5. Refine strategies into working plans and project costs and revenues and develop a financial model/ plan

Perhaps, the most important tip for ensuring your business plan is actionable and “recession-proof” is however to conduct a thorough Sensitivity Analysis to evaluate the impact of various scenarios of the business environment on your financial plan – i.e. your projected costs and revenues. This is a critical aspect of step 5 of the process listed above.

Business Planning is about a journey and the plan is the starting point. It charts a route to your destination – sets out the method for running your specific business activities over a specific future period. It gives landmarks to confirm progress, identifies the major hazards to watch for along the way and gives strategies for coping with issues and challenges; thereby helping to “expect” the “unexpected”… this can only be achieved through rigorous and effective scenario planning and sensitivity analysis of your financial plan and it is definitely worthwhile to seek some professional input and help in completing this important step of the process. Other specific tips to help to develop a more realistic and convincing business plan in a recession are to:

1. Be conservative (humble) in projecting growth and estimating market size, recognizing that your target customers will likely have a lot less in terms of their disposable income during a recession. 
2. Split up your planning cycle into manageable phases (e.g. by using quarterly instead of an annual financial plan) and conduct periodic reviews to update your planning assumptions based on changes in the environment.
3. Build in cost-cutting options to manage your operating costs from day one.
4. Present a statement of cash flows to show how you will ensure your business generates sufficient cash to sustain your operations.
5. Get the plan reviewed by someone who understands the market you are targeting and who can objectively challenge your assumptions

Finally, remember that in order to successfully launch/manage a business during a recession you have to understand why people buy, recognize what people are most likely to buy and this means recognizing new market opportunities. These are challenging times for us economically, but in the greatest challenges there are also often the greatest opportunities.

Finding Divine Connections  -  How to identify people God has assigned to you

How do you recognize divine connections, partners and help God has assigned to you.  A divine connection may only be there for a short season so recognizing how to spot them is important. Kirwaye Grace posted these great tips. Meditate carefully on the scriptures. They will guide you.

1.Each person God assigns to you will solve a different problem for you.(1 Corinthians 4:17,Philemon 1:22-24) and will proudly identify with you publicly.(Acts 18:7-11).  They gladly adjust their plans to accommodate your need.(John 4:3-14)

2.Those assigned to you feel protective towards you( Romans 16:3-4,2Corinthians 11:32-33) and will defend you in your absence(1Samuel 20:30-33)…they can see the dangers and traps you cannot (Acts 20:28-31) and willingly become enemies to your enemies (2Samuel 15:32-37,16:16-23,17:5-14)

3.Those assigned to you will never enter into a covenant of friendship with anyone plotting your destruction (Proverbs 17:17) and will protect your reputation at any cost (Ruth 3:13-14) and will not use information to hurt you(1Samuel 22:11-23)

4. Those assigned to you willingly forfeit the reward of other relationships to stay by your side (1Samuel 23:16-18) and will pay an uncommon price to encourage and support your cause.(1 Chronicles 11:17-19) and can discern greatness in your cause even when your behaviour appears unwise. (Acts 21:8-17)

5. Anyone who breaks your confidentiality is not assigned to you (Proverbs 11:13,20:19) but those assigned to you will have flaws (Luke 22:33-34) and sometimes experience doubts and may initially dread their assignments (Acts 9:10-19)

As you may have rightly concluded, these are rare gifts from God.  God has remembered you … and will send help to you to get started.  Also please do listen to live broadcast “Remember me Oh Lord” by Pastor Adeboye at Holy Ghost service tonight (you can also listen to the broadcast later) by connecting to RCCG  – Remember me Oh Lord.

Our God reigns.  God bless you as you worship and obey Him…Our joy shall be full.  Surrender your life to Jesus Christ.

Ogedi Onyeama, Henrietta Bankole-Olusina (Senior Managers in Accenture), Kirwaye Grace and Bode Ososami.

Resources

1. The Definitive Business Plan by Richard Stutely, Second Edition. FT Prentice Hall
2. Writing a Business Plan in a Recession, by Stephen Nelson.
3. Tweak Your Business Plan in a Recession: Presenting your Business Plan to a Bank in Troubled Economic Times, by Rosemary Peavler.

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Phillipians 4[5]  Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

A new lifestyle of moderation is evolving. Recently Yahoo Finance reported in a recent article 17 Ways Consumers are Changing  by Rick Newman…to present a new world of moderation and frugality.  Some have speculated that when things improve the consumer will go back to lavish consumption but consumer watchers believe this new culture will linger longer than many expect. I wrote a blog post The Post–Recession World and High Growth Business opportunities on the new world and ideas for businesses to consider to embrace the new realities in which I suggested “…The more discerning, sophisticated, frugal consumer will have more options and power…”

The word “Success” is also being redefined – writes Rick Newman in his article. Also more than ever before materialism is being shunned and viewed with suspicion. Another recent news caught my attention on how the luxury royal caribbean cruise liner seen at the Haiti port immediately attracted critical remarks…even as we hear another magnitude-6.1 temblor shakes buildings and sends screaming people running into the streets.

No doubt there is also a new interest in spiritual things out of fear and realization that many creeds seem to have failed and previous metrics of performance found unreliable. Also as digitalization consumerises faith – there are new evangelism opportunities but also serious threats…

Like never before it is time to bring the Lord into the equation of our ministry, business and lifestyle. The Lord cannot be a consultant, adviser or just a helper to achieve what we want or endorse our “ improved” ways.  He is King and He wants to reign as He opens new doors to those who seek, honor and fear Him.

I have listed an update of new opportunities…remember you can start small … and it is not about making more money …

Potential Opportunities/niches to consider…

1.   Low cost Food and Agriculture solutions
2.   Employment bureau/Human capital engineering/Re-education services
3.   Security Intelligence and corporate safety
4.   Low end residential real estate solutions
5.   Outsourcing services/Equipment Rentals/Leasing services
6.   Customer Market insight / Data consulting services
7.   E-business Markets leveraging new channels i.e. webs/blogs/social media
8.   Government Consulting/regulatory support/Public sector support services
9.   Recycling of waste / Used goods merchandising
10.   Community facilitation/volunteering management/support
11.   Home/Personal Finance consulting (Debt-free consulting)
12.   Alternative media solutions ( “responsible” audiovisual/radio/web/TV)

 

Isaiah 11[2] And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; [3]  And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears…

Surrender your life to Jesus and let Him reign in you.
 

Bode

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My dear Friend …

Perhaps in the many diverse shakings and trials of the stormy recession of 2009, many things seem to have gone awry for you that have caused you to wonder again and again.  “Is all well with me?  Am I really saved?”  As 2010 is ushered in  - you recall acts of indiscretion that hit the headlines or the  recent discovery and open publication of shameful misdeeds.  Yet, do thank God that you still can find the grace to read a post like this as you ask God “…but why am I thus ?  Why did I embrace that desperate and corrupt act that has led to this?  Why have I been found to be so weak? …Why am I thus? ”

Indeed, many brethren and trusted loved ones now watch from a safe distance. You are left alone…finally alone with God.  But even in His presence, all you seem to discern are doubts singing to you “Were you really of God? Did you ever know Him?  Are you His or are you not?”

John Newton (1725 –  1807) was an English Anglican clergyman and former slave-ship captain. He was the author of many great hymns, including “Amazing Grace“.  He also wrote several lesser known hymns especially this one which is rarely sung perhaps because it was penned for the person immersed in deep doubts… a situation well familiar to him.

Below are the verses of the hymn  titled “’Tis a point I long to know”.   I do not recommend this for next Sunday…but rather to hide in your personal  repertoire for a time of great need of divine assurance.

1.’Tis a point I long to know,
Oft it causes anxious thoughts;
Do I love the Lord or no?
Am I His or am I not?

2. If in love, why am I thus?
Why this dull and lifeless frame?
Hardly, sure, can they be worse,
Who have never heard his name!

3. Could my heart so hard remain,
Prayer a task and burden prove;
Every trifle give me pain,
If I knew a Saviour’s love?

4. When I turn my eyes within,
All is dark, and vain and wild;
Filled with unbelief and sin,
Can I deem myself a child?

5.If I pray, or hear or read,
Sin is mixed with all I do;
You that love the Lord indeed,
Tell me, Is it thus with you?

6. Yet I mourn my stubborn will,
Find my sin, a grief, and thrall;
Should I grieve for what I feel
If I did not love at all?

7. Could I joy his saints to meet,
Choose the ways I once abhorred,
Find at times, the promise sweet,
If I did not love the Lord?

8.Lord decide the doubtful case!
Thou who art thy people‘s sun;
Shine upon thy work of grace,
If it be indeed begun.

9.Let me love thee more and more,
If I love at all, I pray
If I have not loved before,
Help me to begin today.
 

2 Corinthians 12[9]  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.

Romans 5[20]  Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: [21]  That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

My friend, as you repent – find the humility to go to the feet of Jesus for grace and mercy and lay it all before Him. Like it was done for the man who fell amongst thieves, Jesus will unconditionally bind up your wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set you back on your feet and will take care of you – having settled the issues by His blood.

I John 1[9]  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. [10]  If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

Please, do not make the fatal mistake or believe the deception of concealing your sins, pains and many wounds behind another flurry of good charitable activities or attempt to justify yourself with well reasoned responses.  Instead, let the blood of Jesus Christ be enough for you…and there is a lot Jesus – the Balm of Gilead – wants to share personally with you to soothe your hurts.

Proverbs 28[13]  He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.

Joel 2[23]  Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month . [24]  And the floors shall be full of wheat, and the vats shall overflow with wine and oil. [25]  And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. [26]  And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be ashamed. [27]  And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the LORD your God, and none else: and my people shall never be ashamed.

Another hymn writer John Newton wrote in humble confession …

Weak is the effort of my heart – and cold my warmest thought
And when I see thee as thou art – I’ll praise thee as I ought.

Do stop weeping in your private lonely moments….It is well. You will see the merciful Lord who has been waiting for you. You can begin again wherever you are. I cannot explain how this mess will be turned to a message but I know you will yet praise God and testify of His great grace and mercies.

God bless you my friend.

Yours in Christ.

Bode

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Psalm  1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. [2]  But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. [3]  And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. [4]  The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

Lately, I find myself besieged with modern thought bombs – deceptive counsel – exploding and leaving debris of doubts threatening to darken understanding.  There are three examples of increasingly accepted “counsel” that cause me to pause, think and consider.

• It is the method in the modern emerging church that is changing and not the message. Most modernists believe that the message Christ – the salvation of God is not changing but rather it is the method that needs change. The TRUTH is that if you listen to early preachers e.g. Tozer or Spurgeon who taught the word over 50yrs ago and compare to messages from the network menu…you must conclude (you can find a few classics on sermon audio) that the message is radically different…It is NOT the music and style – described as “the method” that is changing today. It is the fundamental message of salvation only in Christ Jesus and what this truly means – that is being repackaged.  Modern style/music/atmosphere etc are anaesthesia to dull perception during a radical surgery.

• Imperative for radical spiritual warfare has ceased …we need not war (fast and pray) like saints of old …because social issues are now better addressed, basic needs are met and people are coming to the Lord in their billions.  Let’s focus on more constructive engagements. The TRUTH is that the war is more fierce and intelligent. It is fought not on sea and land but on the digital and print media, in education, in our minds and thoughts and on cultural fields. The new weapons are amazingly effective.  Instead of feeding Christian to the lions, Christians are now fed with strange meats… how many “Daniels” decline the sumptuous fare?

• The Church (or the old time religion as we used to know it) is becoming irrelevant, threatened to extinction and will soon collapse under the weight of overriding cultural pressures…unless it accepts extra-biblical revisions.   The TRUTH is that the Church is Christ’s treasured and adored Bride – and is very safe.  She does not require any adornment that has not been provided by Christ in His word. The scriptures assure us that nothing will prevail against the Church.  It will be what it is meant to be when Christ returns i.e. without spot or wrinkle…ready for the master. The only garment she needs is Christ. Many over the ages have seen her troubles and afflictions and did not understand that in her weakness she is at her strongest. Though God requires human vessels, the Church is increased and sustained primarily by divine help and not by well meaning efforts or marketing.

What has this got to do with finances or other practical matters? We are asked to reflect and meditate on the word of God – day and night, to delight in it … and we will prosper like the Palm tree…even through the toughest storms. 

The Palm tree is known for resilience, stamina and uncommon ability to withstand extreme vagaries of weather including long periods of cessation of rain and adverse situations. You and indeed your business, marriage or ministry can be like stately palm trees or chaff easily blown away.  You decide which.  

Be assured that you have given your life to Jesus Christ. You can do so  – even now.

Have a blessed day. Amen.

Bode

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Matthew 6[24]  No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.  

There are two warring masters who are distinct in their influence to dominate your life, thoughts and very being.  You cannot be on the fence…indeed one master must be despised if the other reigns.  Christ says we cannot serve both.  He also teaches that we cannot be neutral to these commanding forces…if we are not under one domain by default we are under another.   I have encountered many Christian finance blogs that seem to suggest we can have the best of both worlds but this is not the teaching of Christ.  I have also seen so many great and helpful tools (some on my blog) that help us be financially responsible and often concerned (if we are not careful) that these do not become a new line of “modern toys “ that preoccupy us well. But we eventually miss the point as they do help us to win the urgent money battle only to lose the critical war.  When we put so much focus on money, we are always lured into a romance with an intensely jealous and controlling mistress that will not permit Christ any ground. 

How then can we know if we are serving “ mammon”? There are seven (7) simple questions in this blog.  Be certain that for each question you will only be able to hold on to one selection and never both.  If your life leans more to the bold italicised clause then perhaps  you are not in mammon’s grip. Then intercede for the freedom of others …

1. Is the Word of God on finances/money a pretext (something that is put forward to conceal a true purpose or object; an ostensible reason; excuse…to support or propagate a principle we already elect to embrace) OR  is the Word the main text that drives behaviour (the leading theme that controls our life – even when challenging to your acceptance)?
2. Are we focused on the situational ethics of money ( right behaviour based on current expectations of society and business culture) OR  are we committed concerning our decisions to the leading of the Holy Spirit of Christ – the interpreter of God’s word especially in the little things the world considers immaterial?
3. Where are we making friends/spending most our time/forging and leveraging our alliances…and investing our money and efforts? Is it mainly to make more money OR to win souls for Christ and be Christ-like?
4. Is our concentrated objective the stewardship and discovery of what Christ calls the True Riches OR any kind of riches will do?
5. Have we been mastered by Godly contentment and ruled by its humbling sceptre OR are we restless and anxious to preserve or achieve a lifestyle that is driven by lusts, passions and irresistible marketing of gadgets and materials?
6. Do we accept that worldly wealth though not evil in itself has a natural association with sin and can be our god requiring extra care for those who must embrace it OR  do we conclude that we can easily blossom in worldly wealth – drink and be merry.
7. Have we well addressed in our lives the foolishness of laying up treasures for ourselves here and being uncertain of the state of our eternal bank account – i.e. the state and reality of our eternal dwellings  OR we think eternity will take care of itself, let’s figure out how to pay today’s bill and manage assets and liabilities we can see.

Ephesians 1[7]  In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

We will find out that Christ is right in that it is deception to conclude that we can be on both sides.. To have Christ reign is a full-time deal demanding full allegiance and devotion.  Similarly to be a servant to mammon is to be under a powerful influence that demands complete, unalloyed, homogenous and undivided attention to its gospel.

This does not mean we cannot be wealthy and be free from mammon. Possessions do not have to be another god. Instead, possessions should be a means of glorifying God and advancing the Kingdom of God – otherwise they will become destructive … eventually.

Ecclesiastes 5:[10]  He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.

Read more in my recent publication Wealth out of Ashes.  Also, for more reflections and related articles and free subscription to articles please click icon below. Be blessed as you also enjoy the audio teaching  “Christ’s view of Money, Mammon” on the side bar.

Bode

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We can learn from the example of Isaac on how to respond to some of the challenges and come out even stronger in tough periods.  There  was a famine which was the closest thing to a meltdown in Bible times…a time of agricultural disaster.  What can we learn from Isaac? Read the entire chapter of Genesis 26.  Some excerpts follow:

Genesis 26 [12]  Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him. [13]  And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great: [14]  For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him. [15]  For all the wells which his father’s servants had digged in the days of Abraham his father, the Philistines had stopped them, and filled them with earth. [16]  And Abimelech said unto Isaac, Go from us; for thou art much mightier than we. [17]  And Isaac departed thence, and pitched his tent in the valley of Gerar, and dwelt there.

1. Do not go down to Egypt – trust in the Lord of the covenant.  Egypt symbolizes willingness to get wealth by any means, in other words the ways of the world. We are greatlytempted to abandon righteousness and do whatever we think is necessary to survive – a great mistake made by many Christians today.  If we are willing to listen to God, who is acutely aware of our condition, He will direct us just as He directed Isaac to “ dwell where I tell you to dwell” ( verse 3).  God’s admonitions against depending on Egypt echoes through scripture to His chosen people Israel. 

Isaiah 30[1]Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: [2]  That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt! [3]  Therefore shall the strength of Pharaoh be your shame, and the trust in the shadow of Egypt your confusion.

2. Do not be afraid to sow in the famine.  This is a tough act of faith that perhaps is the only way to establish to God that you truly believe the rains are in His hands and He is your source and has riches in glory to bless you. Many imagine they have no choice but to consume their seed in famine – but this only guarantees a future destruction.  Others mock the scriptures on sowing as only a deception to rob the already disadvantaged.  But this was Isaac’s main lever in the land of famine … and soon we are told he waxed great. Pray concerning your seed and always look to God for harvest and no man.

3. Do not underestimate God’s ability and grace over you. Isaac, out of fear, resorted to deception (Gen 26 :6-10) because he was afraid that his wife’s beauty would make him a target of the envious.  Trust God and work hard, and do not be fearful of success making you a target.  Base your actions on the fear of God alone and not the fear of man. Beware of being tempted to resort to deception… and if you have done this, go to God and repent. God was merciful to Isaac. Many err in this area. Do not lean on your own understanding.  God can take care of you.

4. Do not strive with men, even if your success makes you a  target for strife as it typically can in times of general difficulty.  This is perhaps one of the most difficult things to learn.  if  you truly trust God, you will know that prosperity is determined by Him. Isaac was forced to move because of His prosperity.  He would dig wells and others will show up to claim the fruit of His hardwork.  Amazingly instead of fighting  them, he simply moved on and started again elsewhere.  Eventually, his enemies could not resist his success and they came to make peace with him because God’s favour on his life was evident to all.  Instead of obsessing about those (real and imagined) who are out to stop your progress, concentrate on serving God and obeying his voice. “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood”.  Learn to release issues and matters and not get locked in strife i.e. by moving on knowing God knows best.  This is not cowardice but often requires greater courage. Do not defend yourself or attempt to prove yourself…this can be a subtle idolatory.  Let God prove you and advertise your innocence – though this often takes a very much longer process.

5. Do not use your success to settle scores.  Isaac could have repaid the people of Gerar in kind for their bad behaviour towards him.  Instead he accepted their peace offer and even hosted them to a feast.  Alas, during hardship, some people you trusted may wrong you or disappoint you.  Do not respond in kind when you are now successful and thriving, even if they do not see or acknowledge their fault.  Paul said “do not be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good” and “render to no man evil for evil”.

Most of us have not done as well as Isaac.  It is well … still go to God even if like a prodigal son.  Remember, it is not by our power nor is it by might but by His Spirit so let His Holy Spirit have His way.  Walking in your own strength is a sure recipe to fall – eventually…and remember to give all glory to God.

Bode