The question we have to ask ourselves is “I do not know how much time I have, nobody does.  Whether it is seventy, fifty, forty years or eighty, hundred years…We should ask ourselves critically, how have I done so far? How have I used the talents God has placed in my hands?” … if we answer that sincerely, we’ll know that we have to redeem the time…

Indeed, there are many things that we need to do to ensure that we can give a good account of ourselves in Heaven…God is looking for people who would use their talents to the fullest, who use everything they have been given…

God bless you

Mrs Sola David-Borha

Executive Director and Deputy CEO of Stanbic IBTC Chartered Bank Plc

• Crisis is a time of intense shaking that leaves behind great strength, and removes the debris and impurities as well as preparing us for the future.
• Crisis is the time of building and shining to the glory of God as God is proved.
• Crisis establishes covenant relationships and trains you to restore others.
• Crisis repositions you back on the track God has destined.
• Crisis levels the playing field again and creates the opportunity for a fresh beginning.

Pastor Gabriel Oteka is in charge of RCCG HEAVEN`S GATE IKOTA AJAH – a Church Parish in Lagos, Nigeria and shares his testimony to the glory of God.

This time last year, I had lost all respect I had in the parish and every shred of dignity was gone. People began to leave the parish. I lost an elder and his wife because they felt I had lost the capacity to lead them. In 2008 we gave birth to a new parish and in the same week lost the tenancy to our accommodation. We had to make do with a training hall in a security company. We spent over two years here. Services were only on Sundays. Attendance dropped rapidly until we were less than twenty. In a move to remedy the situation we raised funds and paid a deposit of about $45,000 for a property of $200,000. The agreement was that we could go on the land and have our services there, but this we could not do because other parties suddenly came to stop us, claiming some dispute. At this point there was no more money and attendance had dropped so much that all hope was lost. One night I broke down in tears before GOD asking why He put me in this situation. Where did I miss it? Why all the losses? Financial, membership etc.

It was in the midst of this time of pain and confusion that GOD moved. I got a phone call to visit a couple in their home the following day.  I was not expecting much, because by now the burden had become larger than what could be remedied naturally. When I got to their home, after a few pleasantries, an envelope was dropped before me. When I picked it up it weighed more than a single cheque leaf. When I opened the envelope there were 3 cheques, the first read RCCG HEAVEN`S GATE  (equivalent of) $90,000, the second RCCG HEAVEN`S GATE  $90,000, the third cheque RCCG HEAVEN`S GATE  $90,000. My first reaction was to pinch myself to ensure this was not a dream. I took the envelope home slept, woke up, and the envelope was still there, I paid in the cheques and they cleared.  It suddenly dawned on me how faithless I had been. And that He had been on my case all along. Our GOD is very faithful. We have since started service on our land. PRAISE GOD.

Someone reading this blog should be encouraged. It was good all those who left you and abandoned you did so.  Stop weeping and be strong. God has not abandoned you.  Keep moving forward.  This Crisis will not break you but serves only to mould you into something better.  Remember God needs you to encourage someone else when God comes finally through for you.  It may not always be in a monetary form…but God surely comes through for His children as the floodgates of Heaven open.

God bless you.

Bode

1. Money, Riches and Achievement will make you happy and fulfilled.

Micah 6[12] For the rich men thereof are full of violence, and the inhabitants thereof have spoken lies, and their tongue is deceitful in their mouth. [13] Therefore also will I make thee sick in smiting thee, in making thee desolate because of thy sins. [14] Thou shalt eat, but not be satisfied; and thy casting down shall be in the midst of thee; and thou shalt take hold, but shalt not deliver; and that which thou deliverest will I give up to the sword. Riches, pleasures can be obtained but satisfaction is a separate virtue that God must send not necessarily as a consequence of wealth. Ecclesiastes 5[10] He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity. The challenge is that riches promote lusts and desires that steal our hearts from God…and when we love silver we are cursed with never being satisfied and always wanting more…a path that leads to a downward spiral.

2. God gives us what we desire and supplies our wants.
Truth: God gives us what He decides in His unquestionable benevolence to give us for His glory and purpose. True works of God do not lack for funds.

Phillipians 4[18] But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. [19] But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Needs are not wants…nor are they desires…Our needs relate more to God’s divine assignments and His purpose for our lives. He wants us to prosper as our soul and destiny prospers. This promise was made to Epaphroditus – a generous giver to Paul’s cause. God’s cause and all who align to provide to it will not lack. God may if He chooses but is not committed to finance our lifestyle expenditures … nor does He have to pay for our vain pursuits.

3. When we give to God – God owes us and we must expect to receive.
Truth: God commands us to give our Tithes, first-fruits and offerings out of love for Him and not as an investment.

Luke 17 [10] So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.We can never repay what God had done and still does for us through our giving of what He gave us in the first place…talk less of turning God to a debtor. The best of us are unprofitable from God’s perspective. He fulfils His word by opening the windows of heaven, causing men to give us and blessing us with increase as we love Him.  It is love of God that God responds to and not debt. Indeed how can we say we love God and argue about giving back to Him in our Tithes, First-fruits and Offerings and to bless others to His glory.

4. Seize the moment…your best life is now so amuse yourself and enjoy life.
Truth: Your best life is certainly not now !

Luke 6 [25] Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep. The Bible is full of pictures that lets us see He saves the best for the last. His Eternity in Heaven is His best. His way is to serve the best wine last…the way of the antichrist is the exact opposite. Eternal damnation is the worst of all worst case scenarios…and it is saved also for the last. Christians are told especially in the end-times to endure … and that it will be worth the wait. The antichrist says there is nothing to wait for so don’t miss out on the joys of the moment at the expense of your soul.

5.We can believe God for harvests we have not sown, God does the impossible.
Truth: God has no limitation – for all the silver and gold in Heaven, Earth, with believers and unbelievers all belong to Him and He gives as He pleases. God does not deny His word on which He asks us to meditate on day and night.

Genesis 8 [22] While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease. God is merciful  – He does not deal with us according to our iniquity but scriptures encourage us to change our seed if we want a different harvest.  We can not sow oranges and hope to harvest bananas.  Our kind words, sacrificial giving, service and industry can be seeds …we must pray God gives increase. Zero multiplied a billion times remains zero. Change your seed and reap a different outcome.

Galations 6[7]  Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. [8]  For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

God bless you.

Bode

For investors, a double-dip, if it materializes, would be a throwback to 2008, with a floundering economy punishing stock returns. Jeff Tjornehoj, Lipper’s research manager for the United States and Canada, says the Dow Jones industrial average could touch 9,000 by the close of 2010. “Is it reasonable to expect it? I think it’s reasonable to put some odds on it,” he says.

Nahum 1[9]  What do ye imagine against the LORD? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time.

2 Kings [7:1] Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the LORD; Thus saith the LORD, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria. [2]  Then a lord on whose hand the king leaned answered the man of God, and said, Behold, if the LORD would make windows in heaven, might this thing be? And he said, Behold, thou shalt see it with thine eyes, but shalt not eat thereof. [3]  And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die? … [18]  And it came to pass as the man of God had spoken to the king, saying, Two measures of barley for a shekel, and a measure of fine flour for a shekel, shall be to morrow about this time in the gate of Samaria: [19]  And that lord answered the man of God, and said, Now, behold, if the LORD should make windows in heaven, might such a thing be? And he said, Behold, thou shalt see it with thine eyes, but shalt not eat thereof. [20]  And so it fell out unto him: for the people trode upon him in the gate, and he died.

As we enter the second half of the year, it remains to be seen if it will be the best half or another record low as a double-dip manifests.

The 4 lepers in 2 Kings did not have much theological background and perhaps never even heard the prophesy of Elisha. They simply came to the conclusion why not do something…if they did nothing they would die anyway.  There is someone reading this blog with an idea, a dream, a new book, a new business, a new plan…and the odds of success seem grim given all the indicators. But consider what would happen if you did nothing.  The difference between the worst case of your new venture and your do-nothing scenario tells you to move forward.

Move forward in the Lord…the flood gates of heaven have opened for you. Enjoy a new beginning. The blood has cleansed you and brought you justified for an overflow of blessings. May you be so extraordinarily blessed in this second half of the year that all who associate with you will also be blessed.  Amen

An area of caution …watch your confession. Your words have consequence.

At a deeper level we see these 4 lepers as unwanted strangers ready to die … they gave their very lives… consider what you could ultimately loose if you do not move in self-sacrifice … Zac Poonen writes on the spirit of sacrifice …

In Ephesians 5:25, it is written that “Christ loved the church and gave HIMSELF for her”. To build the church, we have to love the church in the same way. It is not enough to give our money or our time. We have to give OURSELVES – our Self-life.

When God wanted to describe His love to man, He could compare His love with only one earthly example – the love of a mother for her newly-born child (See Isaiah 49:15). If you observe a mother, you will see that her love for her baby is full of the spirit of sacrifice. From early morning to late at night and right through the night, a mother sacrifices and sacrifices and sacrifices for her baby. And she gets nothing in return. She endures pain and inconvenience, year after year for her child, joyfully, expecting nothing in return. That is how God loves us too. And that is the nature He wants to impart to us. But it is impossible to find a fellowship anywhere in the world about which it can be honestly said that they all love one another like that.

Most believers know only how to love those who agree with them and who join their group. Their love is human and is far removed from the sacrificial love of mothers!!

Yet Divine love is the goal towards which we should be striving. So each time we sing the above lines, we should not only honestly admit that our love is not yet like that, but also confess our hope and longing that our love will become like that one day.

A mother does not care whether others around her are sacrificing anything for her child or not. She joyfully sacrifices everything herself. In the same way, one who has seen the church as his own baby will not be bothered whether others around him are sacrificing anything for the church or not. He will sacrifice himself joyfully, and he will have NO complaint or demand against anyone else. Those who complain that others are not sacrificing for the sake of the church are not mothers but hired nurses. Such nurses have fixed working hours and will complain when the nurse for the next 8-hour shift does not come on time.

But a mother does not work 8-hour shifts each day. She works a 24-hour shift daily – year after year – and she does not even get paid for it. Even when her child is 20 years old, the mother’s work is not over!! Only mothers can have milk for their babies every day. Nurses cannot produce milk for the babies they care for. In the same way, those who are like mothers in the church will always have a word for their spiritual children – in every meeting. Many elders have no word for the church because they are nurses, not mothers.

A mother does not expect any payment from her children. No child ever pays its mother for her service. In fact, if you were to calculate the wages a mother should be paid, at the rate of Rs.20 per hour (as paid to nurses), you will find that every child owes its mother more than 3 million rupees, by the time it is 20 years old!! Which child can ever repay such an amount to its mother?

Now the question that comes to us is: Who is willing to work like that for the Lord and for His church – without receiving any payment, but giving oneself, day after day, year after year, until Jesus comes? If God can find just one person with that spirit anywhere, He will use him to build the church, much more than He can use 10,000 half-hearted believers who try to serve Him without the spirit of sacrifice.  When Jesus returns to earth and you stand before Him, will you have any regrets over the way you lived, or will you will be able to look back over a life spent usefully for the kingdom of God?

Many are drifting along and wasting their lives on earth. Wake up before it is too late, and ask God to show you that His way is the way of sacrifice. He who has ears to hear let him hear.

God bless you

Bode

Revelation [16:1] And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth. [2] And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshipped his image. [3] And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man : and every living soul died in the sea.

When God promised to pollute the waters He did not say it would be with the help of BP, Halliburton or Schlumberger. This blog does not claim every disaster is the hand of God but only attempts to bring to the fore what these perhaps only vaguely related scriptures imply for present times.

The economy and ecosystem of Egypt was highly dependent on the Nile…a red fluid which was called blood(perhaps for want of a better term) in polluting the Nile would compel Pharaoh to releasing the Israelites to worship their God… we learn the court magicians could explain what happened and Pharaoh was unimpressed. God hardened Pharaoh for a greater judgment.

The other divine pollution in Revelation appears to be in the future when vials of the wrath of God are poured and the sea became as the blood of dead man …and all living souls died..no magicians here…Pharaoh is silent.

Click here to view the embedded video.

The events in Louisiana may at least only resemble a dress rehearsal or a mini-pilot …and you may well ask “Why should God be angry with anyone – after all we do to give Him pleasure ?” When I reflect on contemporary issues in Christianity…one observes a growing helplessness, a subtle voluntary captivity that imposes itself and moulds the Christian into whatever new shape the Pharaohs of modern society dictate. It is not just that the Christian is worldly but the bride is enslaved to labour tirelessly all day in the “rat-race” of striving, “competitive acquisition” and “career laddering ” – all for the interests of modern day Pharaohs…bricks must increasingly be made with less straw.

I wrote in my book “Wealth out of Ashes” in Chapter 9 (Rain from Heaven) of two dispensations of enterprise - Careers in Egypt and Canaan…and include in my blog site a page for Prayers for finding the right job.  The Bible is no more permitted to be the word of God. Rather situational ethics direct the Bible as to what it must say and mean… and few who dare challenge the trend are isolated. Indeed, there is no greater slavery than the voluntary captivity of the mind.

Our modern day Pharaohs may have the technology and mobilisation to stop the leak … though admitting ” there is a lot of uncertainty and this is extremely difficult”…”every available resource” was to be used to stop the oil from coming ashore but it did …BP /Halliburton/Schlumberger will be spanked as “system failures” are highlighted and penalised…reforms will be introduced…etc.

How many more shocks, floods and quakes can a fragile society coming out of recession bear? Perhaps we can still go to God for mercy…perhaps more intercessors are needed and not social commentaries . When will we realise that tampering with God’s order and manipulating the captured minds of God’s children is also God’s problem and when He arises and pours His vials, maybe the debates, foolish and unlearned questions will cease and worship in spirit and in truth will begin.

2 Timothy 2 [22] Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. [23] But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. [24] And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men , apt to teach, patient, [25] In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; [26] And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

We remember the families of those that lost loved ones in the rig accident as well as many households affected by the spill and pray for grace to bear the loss.

Come to Jesus. Remain always blessed and safe in His secret place.

Originally published in  The Christian Post .

Bode

1. As we are going to render accounts to God, we must remember – to whom much is given…even more will be expected in terms of judicious employment of time, talent, skills, opportunity, connections and resources for the Kingdom of God. The questions we need to answer easily and positively would be … what have you done for the Kingdom? Who have you told of the Kingdom? How have you contributed to the Kingdom of God? Indeed your taxes are all tidy…but how about your Tithes, offerings …Be sure the divine Revenue Authority scores you 100% in your local church. Personal debt for lifestyle may be an issue with God for many.

2. The End times are times of rapid and unpredictable change in all ramifications. Corporate structures must be even more flexible…many will exit and enter new business because of the incredible dynamics of customer and market issues at this time. Dinosaurs will suffer for size and lack of nimbleness in a time when swiftness in responding to change is key. The CEO must be ready for change yet anchored with values that must never change.

3. Hearing and knowing God for yourself and your resources is important. There is no other time when personal and corporate devotion will be more valuable to sense the will, timing and purposes of God even in corporate decisions. Seeking to hear God through multitude of Godly counsel is also wise for major investments and decisions.

4. Our KPI – Key Performance Indicators can no more just be stock price or profits or financial value added. The Godly CEO ponders over other KPIs that show how rich we are towards God. These will include giving not just to ministry but to the poor, orphans and widows in community involvement and many little things we may not receive much credit for. A top company for example can organise a “Skill Building workshop for Prisoners” and executives spend personal time mentoring ex-criminals.

5. We should not go near God’s glory especially at this time. God’s divine jealousy has hurt people, myself not excluded. I sense we will be entering a period when worms will be devouring Herods again. We must be aware of serious dangers of evoking divine jealousy in corporate life and business. The devil will be tempting many “achievers” to boast to destroy them.

I read an article by Dr Okey Onuzo “The Wounded heart of a jealous God…” ponder these thoughts extracted from the article.

“I was there awhile ago when a young man became the head of his organization. His mounting of the saddle was greeted everywhere with a high degree of expectancy. It was like the people shouted: “Hurrah! The messiah has come.” During his first year in office, the company made a strident progress and laid solid foundations for future progress. At their first annual general meeting after his ascendancy, there was a great sense of euphoria that great things were ahead. But alas, the seed of death was sown there at that first annual general meeting. There came forward staff that sang his praise to high heavens. The company even arranged a young girl of about 12 years to sing his praise in a poem. I was also there at this first Annual General Meeting. I could not help saying to myself under my breath: “This is wrong.” Soon after, the wounded heart of God began to be revealed and this young man left the company after a few years in total disgrace and humiliation rejected by his staff who saw his tyranny and high handedness as an insult to their loyalty and obedience.

I was also there somewhat when a company defied the odds to keep afloat in a very competitive business world. Then one day, they looked at their balance sheet and felt they needed to show gratitude to those who had helped them in order to encourage them the more, a policy which in itself was very good. But then, who did they thank first: it was those who awarded the contracts, those who signed their cheques and those who facilitated their business in one way or the other. The only person they forgot to thank was the true source of their sustenance – GOD. As I watched from the sidelines, I felt in myself that something was wrong about this gratitude but it was no use putting in any word for they were bent on their project. When the effect of the wounded heart of God set in, they were ready to learn how to be grateful in life.

The LORD gave me the focus for the year 2010 from John 3:30: “He must increase, and I must decrease.” Stretch that to mean, “God must increase and every man else and everything else must decrease.” This is the attitude that will ensure that we have divine favour behind, in-front, and besides us as we navigate the year 2010.

The company that desired to show gratitude desired a good thing indeed. But they should have paused at the beginning to ask themselves: “In what way or ways should we show gratitude to God as an organization for what He has done for us through men and women in our business circle?” That question, coming from their heart would have gladdened the heart of the LORD and whatever token the Holy Spirit would have led them to do would have protected them from the dangerous effects of the vicissitudes of business life and from the consequences that come from the wounded heart of a jealous God.

As for the young chief executive who relished in personal praise, he has gone into the wilderness as a very strong warning from the LORD. He would need to repent in dust and ashes in order not to disappear completely into oblivion. His arrogance had risen as a horrible stench in the nostrils of God and heaven is determined to put an end to it.”

Finally, it is not morbid to be fully prepared to be with the Lord. Corporate battles won in the boardroom may count as major defeats in eternity. You may discover too late in eternity that the end does not justify the means. The blood of lives crushed by a “no-nonsense” regime that helped you to the top – may be crying as evidence against you. Be sure your family and loved ones are at peace with you. A few notes of apology may be apt.

For precious cases the best thing God could do is to take you out – aside for a while to help you regain true perspective. Cherish and make best use of this period to mend relationships that have been soured over the race for market share.

A final word on what I would be wary of the most – and that is worldly acclaim. For in Luke 16: [15] And he (Jesus) said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

Do all you can by the grace of God that if presented to the Almighty…He will be saying to you…Matthew 25:21 Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord

Give or rededicate your life to Jesus today.

God bless you. Amen

(Originally posted in The Christian Post)

Bode

Genesis 15[1] After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. 

Which things? There are conditions for receiving divine vision for business, marriage, ministry and victorious living. True visions from God are for want of an expression – disturbing. This is because we (writer included) are naturally steep in delusion and many empires are personal – not of God and plainly put in need of dissolution. The vision of God could initially taste like hard pebbles discovered in your salad plate…but the after-taste is real joy. Divine vision can intimidate human intellect and threaten current mindsets requiring fresh assurances from God not to fear or dread losses that surely happen. Also God’s vision is for the spiritual mature and not babes but also not for the tired aged. Indeed a capacity to move is required which may not necessarily be an issue of age…”…young men shall see visions” He says. 

Reading the previous chapters 13 and 14 in Genesis we observe pictures that help us discern some of the preconditions for divine vision. 

True separation: Many businesses go for a retreat or isolate executives to frame future strategies. Abram separated from Lot just as we must separate from the familiar and comfort zones. There are many false visions abundant in lower realms that simply feed our ego and have little to do with God. Worldly vision is always competitive as Michael Porter…guru on competitive strategy will teach…and anchored on limitation. But the word warns in Philipians 2 [3] Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. True separation recognises God as the limitless source of all increase and supply that can neither be depleted from use nor increased by labor. Abram passed this test as he declared in Genesis 14 [22] And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the LORD, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth, [23] That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich: 

True Selflessness: “Look after yourself” is the slogan of worldly vision even as success is tied to the visible i.e. increase in influence, popular acclaim or control of resources. The faith of many is for gain, miracles, prosperity, healing and blessings – but these tend to be on a platform of impatience and self-deception. Abram battled kings and rescued Lot in praise of God who delivered the enemies of His children into their hands. The Glory of God was always before him…True glory often requires us to decrease that God may be further magnified. Setting aside our personal agenda for Christ’s banner screaming “Occupy till I come” is a good new beginning. 

True faith in God: True faith is evidenced in action. Vision is a waste on the person who will not move forward for fear of failure or ridicule. In Genesis 13[18] Then Abram removed his tent, and came and dwelt in the plain of Mamre, which is in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the LORD. Abram responded to the promises of God by immediate action and not procrastination. Vision must be given only to those who will run obediently based on faith in the word of God. Someone said recently “Vision without action is a daydream, Action without vision is a nightmare!” Visions from God can be bold requiring uncommon leadership to move forward when others tarry. 

With all these things in place, God showed Abram a glorious end-state and inscribed in his mind His vision as He declared to him in Genesis 15[5] And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be. [6] And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness. God showed Abram what will happen in the future even up to the time of Moses centuries later … [14] And also that nation, whom they shall serve, will I judge: and afterward shall they come out with great substance. 

Does God still give visions? Perhaps we should say instead do we meet the conditions to be touched by God to see His future and beautiful end-state for our businesses, marriage and ministry?
Abram was blessed but we note at Sarah’s death, he was yet to possess even a plot for her burial. God is not against wealth but God’s vision brings His preordained purpose alive by our sacrificial obedience. Abram, though blessed, is perhaps most remembered not for assets but for his journey of faith to sacrifice Isaac foreshadowing the greatest truth that Jesus Christ was offered sacrificially by the Father who so loved the world for our sin and that Jesus reigning in our hearts is realisation of God’s ultimate vision. 

Mark 8[25] After that he put his hands again upon his eyes, and made him look up: and he was restored, and saw every man clearly. 

As we receive another touch from Jesus, may we receive courage and strength in our inner man to look up to see new hope and be restored…but this time seeing every one clearly to be another potential soul to be won for Him. Perhaps your business, marriage, ministry or new venture has a part to play in the “occupation” . Amen 

Jesus is coming soon with His reward. Surrender to Him. 

God bless you. 

Bode

Luke 12[15]  And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. [16]  And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: [17]  And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? [18]  And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. [19]  And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. [20]  But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? [21]  So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

In the text Jesus Christ warns…

1. Be careful – even as you work hard and diligently gather …we are not to strive and work without being sensitive to what we really are doing. What are our real motives?  Who is our real employer?
2. Be even more careful and recognise the evil of covetousness …envious yearnings and desires for what someone else has or what we would love to have for our pleasure. Beware of lack of contentment
3. Do not come to the wrong conclusion that God’s pleasure and the value of your life is reflected remotely in your possessions or approval of men

The man described as a fool excelled as a role model in many areas…

1. In industry and would have been acclaimed a great success
2. Great personal resolve and determination – a great thinker and an accomplished planner and achiever…a proactive and disciplined honest business man – who could perhaps be at the peak in his career or industry
3. A man of wisdom and exceptional foresight – purchased good seed, excellent logistics to transfer and store produce…excellent timing…made great plans for His future…laid treasures for himself…a leader in Industry. Emotionaly balanced – Financially fit.  Healthy, trim with a wonderful family.

But there were few things he was not doing so well.  This included the following…

• He was not rich towards God – not using what God had given for His glory and cause. He did not quite understand the glory of God and had no sense for His cause and God’s agenda at the time.
• He seemed certain about everything but did not consider what would happen at his death – to him and to his goods… nor was he aware of the timing of his death or the destination of his soul.  He was confident on the things that did not matter as much. You could say he majored in the minor and minored in the major – He was a titan in material things but in spiritual things only a novice…
• His main preoccupation was how to rise to the top, live at ease, eat and drink and be merry…His happiness and pleasure was his goal. Indeed he had mastered how to achieve this goal and was set to achieving it.

There are many topics and issues that are not popular especially to the self confident achiever.  These are considered too negative or perhaps too unclear to be given any serious attention. “Why worry about what you cannot be sure about” seems to be the rich fool’s philosophy …why can we not instead just celebrate what we can see and touch? 

Jesus Christ calls him a fool because he knew little, talk less of being certain about the matters of the soul and the ultimate destination of his spirit.   Heaven and eternal damnation in Hell were not topics the fool wants to give much attention.  Death was a subject he would prefer to not even consider seriously…

Watch him…laughing, drinking, celebrating and so full of mirth….rushing off to teach the next success seminar or collecting another award … grinning at the applause…as he contemplates another investment or business idea – set to capture the market again.  Most envy him and spend sleepless nights searching for his secret recipe …

The Rich Fool he is called…even as Jesus patiently waits for him.

You can also enjoy a teaching from Episode Three:The Rock  on “ Jesus – The Sure Foundation ” below

Click here to view the embedded video.

God bless you as you enjoy viewing.

Bode

Jesus Christ was prophesied to come as a leader and commander.  In Isaiah 55[4] Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.  

In John 4[32]  But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. … [34]  Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

Jesus had a different diet.  God’s leaders are on specific assignments to execute God’s blueprint in a time-based realm. God’s plan is a vast mosaic of complex circumstances that can only amaze and baffle most of us. Like DNA, the hereditary material in humans under the most powerful microscope we are lost in wonder… but the trained and prepared eye of the leader sees the patterns and what they mean.  Obedience comes easy with revelation of divine assignment that most lack.

Daniel and the three Hebrew boys emerged as leaders in Babylon Daniel 2[48]  Then the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon. [49]  Then Daniel requested of the king, and he set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, over the affairs of the province of Babylon: but Daniel sat in the gate of the king.

In Daniel 1[16] Thus the steward took away their portion of delicacies and the wine that they were to drink, and gave them vegetables.

Daniel and the team of future leaders were fed with vegetables. The word that nourishes leaders is often different in its demands and exactitude from those who will be led.  Like Moses in the wilderness, the training and experience curriculum of leaders will be tougher, distinct from others and will separate, as they say, men from the boys.  Where the way is narrow, the way of leaders is even narrower. The standard fare of entertainment, pleasure and idle chatter will be far from God’s leaders. Others may but leaders cannot.

John the Baptist was described as the greatest of all leaders before Christ…Matthew 11[11]  Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist…

John the Baptist’s meat was even more peculiar. Matthew 3 [4] And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.

The one chosen to lead the way for Christ, John the Baptist, who would also minister boldly to correct the lavish and unmentionable escapades of King Herod, fed on locusts.  Locusts are devourers – a predatory nuisance in most cases but for John the instrument of the devourer was only food to sustain Him.  In like manner for Elijah, the raven, a scavenger, became an obedient carrier of nourishment for the man God had chosen to ravage the priesthood of Baal. God’s leaders will survive and be nourished in the most hostile and arid environments.  Joseph was weaned for years on the menu of servants and prisoners. Humility – a vital trait for the leader – is often grown in the laboratory of simplest diets and limiting circumstances.

The diet of God’s leaders has always been somewhat peculiar – those who grow eating what others eat be it spiritually, physically or mentally will be hampered to lead others. Saul ate so much with the people until he dropped his divine assignment for the people’s mandate

I Samuel 15[24]  And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.

As Christians, we are all leaders in Christ Jesus.  It is more than being an example for others to follow as indeed we must.  But in addition staying ahead and apart from the pack to be able to lead.  Be encouraged as God sets you apart for His purpose in business enterprise, ministry and in politics. Wait on Him.

God bless you.

Bode

Matthew 6[14] For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: [15] But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

I do recall in my earlier and even later years being forgiven only if I promised to make certain adjustments but found little or no references to understand unconditional forgiveness. I often did not feel forgiven just perhaps mainly corrected.

But then I seem to observe everywhere – be it just next door, in a failed business enterprise, the embattled home of Tiger Woods, reported abuse in the catholic church, macheted and burnt victims in Jos Nigeria, crippling debts of poverty stricken nations, the arraignment of the bankrupt or the political and economic sabotage of nations or a grudge in my heart .  Who will reach out with unconditional forgiveness in these scenarios?  Then I remembered the example of how Jesus forgave me …totally and unconditionally He reached out with love warning me “sin no more”…because with sin comes an expensive cost to be paid..but then He paid in full for all my sins offering me a salvation at no cost to me except that I repent and return to Him… all grace. Even from afar off before making new promises I could not keep without His help – the Saviour embraced me warmly.

Luke 15[20] And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. [21] And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. [22] But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet.

People we forgive are not necessarily free from the need to make positive adjustments nor the consequence of their actions, rather we are free from the dire consequence of bitterness and enmity and holding grudges.  But what do I do in a case of a serious misconduct? Do I just forgive with no strings attached ? I really could not, but there is a helper that helps us to live as we should – the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit comes with a question – how would you want to be treated if you committed and were convicted of the worst crime knowing you could have granted to you what you wished? You will want another chance without conditions. Diplomatic immunity is a form of legal immunity and a policy held between governments, which ensures that diplomats are given safe passage and are considered not susceptible to lawsuit or prosecution under the host country’s laws (although they can be expelled). Have you ever met an offending diplomat offering to waive his immunity and be persecuted for wrong doing or a President waive his immunity and prefer to be tried for an offense? Rare.

Matthew 7[12] Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

In business, family, ministry or career, Holy Spirit help me to forgive unconditionally and totally. Find a scenario with which to begin this new habit of unconditional forgiveness – list out those who have hurt you in order of magnitude and simply knock off those in greatest need of forgiveness. Businesses can adapt an ongoing forgiveness policy to release worst creditors as God gives grace. Husbands forgiving wives and vice versa. Spread the joy by lavishing fresh assurances of unconditional forgiveness to the undeserving. Forgive Tiger Woods and pray for his home and that he finds unconditional forgiveness in Jesus Christ who does not require him to be reincarnated as a cheated wife .

I pray for more grace for myself and all who read this post to practise these habits … and to experience a new wave of mercy and favour from the King of kings who reigns supreme.

God bless you

Bode

A study suggested that 3-5% above the rate of inflation can be a reasonable gain…our objective is to keep our money for future needs and have stable resources to respond to God’s command in giving to His work, the poor and/or other possible recipients as the Spirit of God directs.

Prioritisation is important…before we  invest or even give to ministry we must often be reminded of certain issues…I certainly am not there yet but I do tend to admire the unusual candour and benchmark expressed in the following extract from Christian Fellowship Church web site based in India.

“A genuine work of God may use money, but it is never dependent on money. It is dependent only on the power of the Holy Spirit. Where any work is dependent on money, it is not a genuine work of God.

Jesus’ ministry was dependent only on the Holy Spirit. He did accept gifts of money from His followers for His work (Luke 8:2, 3). But He never asked anyone at any time for money and He never made His financial needs known to anyone but His Father. This is the way that any ministry that honours God will work even today. …and so, in the more than three decades that we have existed as a church (since 1975), we have never asked anyone for money for our needs and we have never sent out any prayer-letters hinting about our needs either. We have never taken an offering in our church in Bangalore or in any of the many churches the Lord has planted through us in India and abroad. We only place an offering-box at our church-meetings, for those who wish to give – secretly, cheerfully and voluntarily – for the work of the Lord. We have also offered food and accommodation freely always to all who attend our annual three-day conferences in different parts of India. All the elders in our churches support themselves with earthly jobs (like the apostle Paul did) and none of them is supported financially by the churches. Our books and video and audio messages on the Internet are also offered freely for anyone in the world to download and circulate to others freely. We have received everything freely from the Lord and we give it all out to others freely. … we have never been in debt at any time since we commenced our ministry. We have never taken a bank loan or a mortgage for constructing any of our meeting halls. We do not judge other ministries who do things differently from us. But this is the way God has led us.  … when people ask us whether they can give to support this ministry, we ask them to go through this checklist first:

 1. Are you a born-again child of God? It is a great honour and privilege to support the work of God on earth; but that privilege is given only to His born-again children (3 John 7).

 2. Do you have enough money for your family’s needs? Are you sure that your giving will not put your family under any financial strain? You must take care of your family’s needs first (1 Tim.5:8). Our Father in heaven is very rich and He (like any rich earthly father) does not want any of His children to starve or suffer in any way, just because they gave Him money for His work.

 3. Do you have any large debts to repay? If so, do clear those debts first. God wants His children to live restful lives, free from all debt. We must first give to Caesar what is his, before we can give anything to God, because God does not want us to give Him Caesar’s money, or anyone else’s money (Matt.22:21; Rom.13:8).

 4. Do you have a clear conscience? Have you done your best to be reconciled with those whom you have hurt in any way? God will not accept any offering from anyone who has hurt someone and still not apologised to that person (Matt.5:23, 24)

 5. Are you giving freely and cheerfully – and not under pressure from any man or even from your own conscience? God loves cheerful givers, not reluctant givers. He does not want gifts from those who give under pressure, or who give in order to fulfill some obligation, or who give merely to ease their conscience, or who give in order to get some reward from Him in return (2 Cor.9:7).

Please bear with us as you go through this checklist….”

The prudent investor in similar fashion cannot be investing money if deficient in his tithes/offerings, is in debt or has not kept enough to meet family needs…He should pay his debts first to God and man and take good care of his family first.

Excess resources can then be invested noting God’s ownership and sovereignty. The kingdom can use funds to advance the cause of Christ. 

The key principle of prudent investment of surplus is diversifying for safety and stability/moderate growth.

Ecclesiastes 11[2]  Give a portion to seven, yes, even [divide it] to eight, for you know not what evil may come upon the earth. (amp)

If you are familiar with a few good stocks that you are confident have weathered economic cycles you can stick to these. Insist that your portfolio adviser creates a conservative mix and not a hot high-growth pot….to complement your long term get-rich-slow perspective of a steward(manager) for God who is the owner.  You may also consider an Ethical fund i.e. a mutual fund that limits investment alternatives to securities of firms meeting certain social/ethical Bible-based standards. Real estate is also a viable option but needs to be considered within the context of the overall asset mix and decisions on location/optimum real estate size require professional consultation.  Do not move forward however on what you do not have a grasp for.  Beware of impure motives, worldly-wise wisdom, powerful emotions and unclear vision that appear to lure way from the “narrow” path. Money is no excuse to embrace the broad way to destruction.

Proverbs 13[11]  Wealth [not earned but] won in haste or unjustly or from the production of things for vain or detrimental use [such riches] will dwindle away, but he who gathers little by little will increase [his riches]. (amp)

Jesus reigns forever

Bode

John 17[27]  Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Peace in the areas of finances is an area in which many seek Biblical perspective and direction.  We understand that the peace of God is not just through principles but rather is the gift of God – not given as the world would give…but received by faith and complete obedience to His word.

There are 7 aspects of Biblical ethics that relate to Financial Peace.  This may not be complete but nevertheless is a good place to start.

1. Debt-free living
2. Wise investing
3. Generous giving
4. Lifestyle of moderation
5. Diligence and Industry
6. Caring for the family
7. Honouring God in finances

As we permit the word of God and the interpreter – the Holy Spirit, to guide our ways on these issues – we may or may not appear on Forbes list of the worlds wealthiest…but will know a peace that is alien to the world.

Debt free living

Proverbs 22[7]  The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. [26] Be not one of those who strike hands and pledge themselves, or of those who become security for another’s debts. (Amp)  The one who saves is the lender…purpose to pay off existing mortgages ASAP.  Do not borrow especially for consumables or for status. Get rid of credit cards. Save…Save…Save.  (Enjoy this article on How to stay debt-free and mastering credit.)

Wise Investing

Invest for retirement and for the future conservatively on instruments in which you understand the risk profile.  “Conservative” means investment for stability sometimes at the expense of promised gains. The Bible in saying we shall lend to nations seems to imply that stability of investments is preferred to promise of returns with added risk. Defer expenditure and let the power of compound interest work for you. Seek expert advice (beware of ungodly counsel) and compare counsel from different sources.  Pray for final direction.

Generous giving

Proverbs 11 [24]  There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty. Do not ask me how this works…but it does.  There is a mystery to the great value in releasing our precious things and consideration to establish the covenant of God and for the poor…being like a flowing stream to which God can pour His wealth into.

Lifestyle of Moderation

Phillipians 4 [5]  Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Phillipians [19]  But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Guard your heart from consumer marketing that attacks moderation and fuels passion to spend on what you really do not need ( but may be able to afford) …or more precisely what the Holy Spirit has not asked you to buy. Seeking to make a statement with a show of luxury is great folly.  Worse still is if the money is borrowed or is in stewardship.  Luxurious and sumptuous fare financed from parishioners who do not enjoy this lifestyle is oppression and not Christianity. God promises to meet the needs of faithful stewards and  not the wants of the squanderer.  True religion bridges gaps – through communal sharing and love.  (Read more about frugal living of Warren Buffet)

Diligence and Industry that adds value to society

Matthew25 [30]  And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. The profitable servant is hard-working and makes contributions, creates value through enterprise in an open competitive market.  Idleness/sloth and practices that protect unfair competition and finance indolence are natural partners to confusion.

Caring for the Family

I Timothy 5[8]  But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.  God cares about traditional family values. A man, a woman and the household must be cared for. Parents must be honoured with giving. Set funds aside for education, aged parents, unplanned births. A recent statistic showed 21.3% of abortions (which God calls murder) result from lack of financial preparation)  It is wise to maintain a family emergency fund. Trifling with God’s instructions on the family is simply asking for trouble.

Honouring God in Finances

I Samuel 2[30]  Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.  Honouring God by giving offerings, tithes and first fruits to God out of love for Him is not legalism but confirms that He is the owner, provider and protector of our wealth. You cannot expect peace if you treat God shabbily by dropping alms and leftovers or crumbs from what completely belongs to Him in the first place.  Observe the superiority of the giving of Abel who gave the firstlings of his flock.  Genesis 4 [3]  And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. [4]  And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering.  Giving God the first and the best of our increase is only smart.

Hebrews 12 [14]  Follow peace with all men , and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:

Jesus reigns forever.

Bode

Mary Slessor

To what extent do our business practices and personal ethics align with Christ’s example especially in the area of giving?  Consider for illustration the commendation of the woman who broke the alabaster box of very precious oil and poured “wastefully” on Him. 

Mark 14[3]  And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head. [4]  And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made? [5]  For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her. [6]  And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me.  

The admired sharp dealer (in this case perhaps Judas) cannot miss an opportunity and is quick to see the cost-benefit analysis and also even the non-quantifiable aspects. Many businesses have given very generously like Simon, the leper who financed this meal and the accommodations…but were not commended by Jesus.  Others have simply come to their local church or fit in any scenario to “eat”… to seek some turnaround idea or gem of advise that will unlock a door or just soothe a legitimate and often spiritual hunger… again these were not commended.  Christ does not commend even the disciples (at this time) – Judas , Peter and the rest who appeared to have left their businesses …I dare say with an eye to return if things get tough…not having burnt the bridges behind them. 

Many in this passage have given but only this disliked woman is commended by Christ.  Do you think Christ will commend your business savvy?  Put in another way…”Would you have seen the Spirit of Christ in action and say “what a waste” …So and so or ABC PLC  would have been a great Industrialist/multinational…or would have contributed so much as a multi-billionaire to so and so charity…if only…what a waste…” 

It is now de rigueur for all businesses to want to be seen as  good givers to society…but ponder at the type of giving called a “good work” by Jesus in the story… 

• Many (unlike this woman) came to eat, some gave that which cost them much but this woman gave that which was very precious.  Examples in the Bible of givers who gave the very precious include Abraham, David, Paul and of course Jesus Himself who gave His life.  Can I truly say I or my business is truly pouring out the very precious or making  costly contributions or just giving crumbs?
• Even the disciples were filled with indignation at this type of giving?  Has your giving been so “wastefully excessive” to cause annoyance amongst peers and even brethren?
• When she gave …she broke the box suggesting – no strings attached.  It was an irretrievable gift with no means of controlling or managing how it flows ( I imagine a lot of the oil spilled on the ground to the dismay of onlookers) Are you so careful in giving that the Holy Spirit has been silenced. The bridge behind her was burnt –  no going back as feedback gets nasty.
• She gave for an unseen need– the perfume was required to be on Christ as He went through cruel torture to the cross and the grave? But others like Simon the Leper – it appears – gave for needs they could see and appreciate i.e. recreation and a meal for Jesus and others.  The other disciples fled after the crucifixion suggesting they gave their time and all because they saw a potential hero … and wouldn’t follow an apparent loser.  But this woman’s giving was seen as a waste as no one understood what it was for. The value of her giving was unknown perhaps even to her.  Great givers like William Wilberforce who gave much to fight the Slave Trade – Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary who went to live among the Efik people in Calabar in present day Nigeria where she successfully fought against the killing of twins at infancy – or John Wesley etc all gave for future generations.  They did not see how great a contribution they were making to the future needs of society at the time of giving though they knew they were doing some good.

“Indeed ministers attacked John Wesley in sermons and in print, and at times mobs attacked him. Wesley and his followers continued to work among the neglected and needy. They were denounced as promulgators of strange doctrines, formenters of religious disturbances; as blind fanatics, leading people astray, claiming miraculous gifts, attacking the clergy, and trying to re-establish Catholicism…” Wikipedia… 

• This woman in the text did not appear to be prodded by a great sermon on giving nor moved by pictures of hungry children.  I believe the Spirit of God guided her to give…like indeed He does for all activities that please God.  Most great givers commended by Christ would perhaps feel stupid, used or perhaps overdoing it at the time.  Future generations remember them – not because they gave but their most precious assets (in many cases their youth and the prime of their lives) seem to have been squandered for something others did not see as necessary in their time.

Jesus said “ leave her alone”… and alone she must have walked out of the room of murmuring onlookers – an outcast to them – but greatly commended by the King of kings – the greatest giver of all time. 

Our most precious things may have monetary value and may not.  For me it could be my rights and self-confidence…for others a cherished culture or need for recognition or approval …these are our richest gains waiting to be counted as loss.   Lord Jesus…we are no more in times of David, Wilberforce, Slessor or Wesley but God help me to give as I should … to give my precious things to the needs not always appreciated now … but always out of love as led by your Holy Spirit. 

Jesus reigns forever. 

Bode 

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

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 benefited 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 block – 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 150 million 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