Matthew 2[18]  In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.

The video below is quite graphic and captures acts of Genocide in Jos, Nigeria.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Please also find below pictures of the 2am attack of 7th March 2010 over Zot and Dogo-Nahawa villages of Jos south Local Government areas.

Please note that you may find these pictures disturbing.

Watch and Pray … and be alert.

Mark Lipdo
Program coordinator
Stefanos Foundation
Jos, Nigeria

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

John 12[4]  But Judas Iscariot, the one of His disciples who was about to betray Him, said, [5]  Why was this perfume not sold for 300 denarii [a year's wages for an ordinary workman] and that [money] given to the poor (the destitute)? [6] Now he did not say this because he cared for the poor but because he was a thief; and having the bag (the money box, the purse of the Twelve), he took for himself what was put into it [pilfering the collections](Amp)

Romans 8[28]  And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Have you ever woken up to discover funds kept in your care has been lost … gradually and systematically diverted ?  Indeed you are a man of prayer but you also blame yourself for ignoring available wisdom on controls that would have prevented losses under your stewardship.  Often as Christians we avoid issues as this and instead of also building “adequate processes” that protect against diversions we are perhaps rightly focused to build “strong men (and women)” but still vulnerable to “Judas Iscariot”  on an undisturbed mission amazed at our trusting  ”carelessness”.

A man of God once said the protection of a true church is in the genuine fellowship and interdependence of the body of integrated members and it’s not about size.  The healthy hands even in a small body can protect the face from an attack, just as the nimble feet can protect the body by immediate motion…but a large heavily built man with sluggish hands and feet not aligned with the body or in conflict with it is extremely at risk.  True fellowship and unity amongst members are a great protection.  May we be one – indeed. Amen.   But whether there is unity or not -  keep your focus always on your father the King of kings. 

This blog post is perhaps more down to earth to demonstrate some very basic  internal control principles to at least consider especially if you find yourself in a custodial role even as you leverage accounting help available in the body.   Do not wait to be stung before you wake up.  If you are too spiritual to understand these things … you are perhaps too spiritual to have very large sums of money in your care.  I may mean well but can end up corrupting people with temptations they are not prepared to deal with …or surround myself with cracks the enemy will love to leverage to cause reproach and distractions.

• Segregation of dutiesrequires that different individuals be assigned responsibility for different elements of related activities, particularly those involving authorization, custody, or record-keeping. For example, the same person who is responsible for an asset’s record-keeping should not be responsible for physical control of that asset. Having different individuals perform these functions creates a system of checks and balances.  Segregate roles properly – do not allow one super trusted person to handle all your accounting/money related roles and transactions from beginning to end.
• Proper authorization of transactions and activities helps ensure that all activities adhere to established guidelines unless responsible managers authorize another course of action. Establish and implement simple guidelines that will protect resources in your stewardship.
• Adequate documents and recordsprovide evidence that financial statements are accurate. Controls designed to ensure adequate record-keeping include the creation of invoices and other documents that are easy to use and sufficiently informative; the use of pre-numbered, consecutive documents; and the timely preparation of documents.  Embrace financial transparency – openness and completeness in financial records will one day protect you.
• Physical control over assets and records helps protect assets. These control activities may include electronic or mechanical controls (such as a safe, employee ID cards, fences, cash registers, fireproof files, and locks) or computer-related controls dealing with access privileges or established backup and recovery procedures.
• Independent checks on performance,  which are carried out by people who did not do the work being checked, help ensure the reliability of accounting information and the efficiency of operations. For example, a supervisor verifies the accuracy of all cash receipts at the end of the day. Internal auditors may also verify that the supervisor performed the check of the cash receipts. Also, you should reconcile bank records and other independent records with your local records regularly. Let your accounting role understand that you have the ability to and will regularly conduct independent checks especially to verify liquid assets.
• Qualified Personnel should fill accounting/audit roles.  Incompetence can be costly and poor accounting has resulted in reproach and issues. Regular training to update skills is important.

In not-for-profit organisations including missions and churches it needs to be admitted that risks (not necessarily reduced by anointing) will indeed be higher and additional caution is needed for the following reasons:

1. High levels of amateur or volunteer labour and part-time staff
2. Only basic internal controls are affordable and staff are not aware of legal responsibilities
3. Records tend not to be correctly maintained and only basic cash statements are prepared.
4. Leaders tend to be community supporters of the cause and not trained or qualified professionals.

The recession is not an excuse but has of course heightened pressures that produce evil workers.

Paul declared and prayed in 2 Timothy 4 [16]  At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. [17]  Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. [18]  And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever.

May you be divinely strengthened … and may the Lord stand with you and help you that His word will continue to be preached.  And may your ministry, business and home be delivered out of devourers and preserved till the end. Keep glowing on the mission field.

At a deeper level of truth, we can gain even through all losses God permits if we endure and keep trusting Him and not our systems, skills and abilities.  All things will work out for our good.  Discovery and expulsion of Judas was not God’s plan as Judas played a crucial role to facilitate the glorification of Christ. Paul was perfected in all his experiences to be a great blessing to generations of Christians through his writings and teachings. The treachery of the brothers of Joseph only pushed him to destined greatness.

May God continue to reign in all that pertains to us and may He bless and keep us always. Be focused. Maintain your concentration.  Keep shining on. You are not a failure.  Get up – Keep beholding the King of kings. May Christ and Christ alone be glorified. Amen

Bode

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

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

Genesis 26[12]  Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him.

II Kings 8[1]  Then spake Elisha unto the woman, whose son he had restored to life, saying, Arise, and go thou and thine household, and sojourn wheresoever thou canst sojourn: for the LORD hath called for a famine; and it shall also come upon the land seven years.

There are special blessings reserved for those who have made themselves special to God.  This confirms once again that God treats us the way we treat Him.  How are you treating God today?  When a seven year famine was coming upon the land, Prophet Elisha saw many people but singled out the Shunammite woman for that piece of information.  Not only that He guided her away to other lands without famine.  If you are close to God, He will guide you away from danger.  One thing we learn is that God has a solution recipe for every famine.  In Kings 17:1-16, after self-inflicted famine, God asked Elijah to leave for the place He had arranged for him to be provided for.  God always has a place of refuge in times of famine.  Sometimes that place may be outside the area affected by famine but at other times it is within the famine-ravished land, as in the case of Isaac in Genesis 26:1-16.

Isaac thought of escaping to Egypt to avoid the famine but God warned him to stay there and sow.  He obeyed and got so great a harvest that he became the envy of the Philistines.  When he had become prosperous and enlarged, Gerar could no longer contain him.  Apart from a secure location, there are things you can do to escape famine.  Quite a lot of people travel out searching for greener pastures.  Many Nigerians in Nigeria are living better lives than some who left these shores hoping to escape the hard times.  Even in your profession, trade or business, if you are precious to God, He will warn you of imminent storms and give you the recipes to apply. Cultivate a working and lasting relationship with the Lord and you will access relevant information that could affect your today or tomorrow.  Remember God is the original haven from famine.

Famines affect people differently.  While the majority may be experiencing its worst times, a minority may be experiencing its best moments. (Pastor E.A. Adeboye)

Culled from “Open Heavens –Daily Devotional   14 February 2010” by  Pastor E.A. Adeboye  who is the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. 

 Sin is sin and merits punishment, whether you acknowledge it or not…Martin Luther

 “If I am afraid to speak the truth, lest I lose affection, or lest the one concerned should say, “You do not understand,” or because I fear to lose my reputation for kindness; if I put my own good name before the other’s highest good, then I know nothing of Calvary love.” ‘IF’ by Amy Carmichael

Bode

Dear friend,

The victories of God are unusual in that they do not come with weak persuasions but with a strong hand.  What does this mean?

Exodus 6[1]  Then the LORD said unto Moses, Now shalt thou see what I will do to Pharaoh: for with a strong hand shall he let them go, and with a strong hand shall he drive them out of his land.

As you also study Exodus 5, you may liken yourself to Moses just before God spoke these words. Perhaps, like Moses your previous well meaning initiatives have turned to a fiasco. You find yourself unequally yoked to strange partners, chained by your greed and passions.  Even after many years toiling in the wilderness for your father-in-law, you hear God and you launch on your assignment only to be resisted firmly and make little progress. Your “Pharaoh” does not just say “No”…but in a rage increases the bondage, scatters the people to more fruitless searches, disasters to distract them and unites them only in complete disdain of you and your tactless cries.  You have sunk to your lowest point and wonder what next…and join Whitney Houston to sing the words of R. Kelly…you imagine that you can not bounce back…but your imaginations insult the King of kings.

“…About to lose my breath … There’s no more fighting left … Sinking to rise no more… Searching for that open door.   And every road that I’ve taken …Led to my regret…And I don’t know if I’m gonna make it…Nothing to do but lift my head…I look to you …I look to you…And when all my strength is gone…In you I can be strong…I look to you…I look to you…And when melodies are gone….In you I hear a song, I look to you …” sings Whitney

Indeed look up to God for great strength. When God says “ Now” it does not mean “later”.  Some implications of His strong hand:

1. Past frustrations, previous victories , mockery, distractions, popularity, or lack of it, or sudden deterioration of your situation are all irrelevant.
2. The length of time in bondage…whether your trouble is generational or a lighter genre is of no consequence
3. Inability to fathom how God will move is evidence of a strong hand and the sudden nature of change proves this is an unstoppable force at work.
4. The strong hand of God forces the strength of all opposition to work to your favour
5. It is the strong immortal untiring hand of God holding us that keeps us and not our mortal hands  holding God.

Exodus 12 [35]  And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they borrowed of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment: [36]  And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them such things as they required. And they spoiled the Egyptians.

When God freed the children of Israel they spoiled the Egyptians and were given their treasures and wealth.  It was the gold, fabrics and wealth transferred that was used to build the Tabernacle and its precious objects and symbols of God.  God is transferring wealth into your hands. These are not gifts of Sodom that come with errors, confusion and unquenchable thirsts, but ordained wealth to nurture God’s purpose through you.  Indeed, you were told all riches will make you sin… but these blessings do not add any sorrows to your life.  Instead they will make you sing a new song …composed by a fulfilled Moses and the Lamb of God.

Rev. 15: [3]  And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. [4]  Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.

Trust in Him and get yourself equipped for what’s coming…your sudden change.  Understand how to handle Kingdom wealth…take a basic accounting course to be a better steward…learn how to use spreadsheets…invest in skills and wisdom to handle wealth…sing the song of the fulfilled…start something new and fresh for God…move forward in Him.

For getting some Bible perspective on your finances, there are some good internet links you can start from  David Ramsey, Bible Money Matters, Christian Personal Finance.    But most importantly my friend, never forget the Blood of Jesus.  If all that happened to Moses was merely a shadow and so much was accomplished with the blood of animals - consider the boldness, grace, liberty and victory we  have in the New Covenant in Christ Jesus and the power in the Blood of Jesus.  With an unveiled face let your lifted eyes remain always lifted to Him who has given you a new song.

As you behold the King of kings…Remember - Now is the appointed time.

May Jesus Christ always reign in you.  Amen

Sincerely,

Bode

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 …

Click here to view the embedded video.

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

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.

Psalm 122[7] Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces.   Lamentations 3[17]  And thou hast removed my soul far off from peace: I forgat prosperity.   Isaiah 57[21] There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.

There is a strong link between peace and prosperity…and it is God himself who says there is no peace for the wicked.  Perhaps the greatest wickedness is oppression…the oppression of the poor, the defenceless unborn child , oppression in the name of faith and resource oppression as nations are plundered.  Where there is no peace…the Bible says we forget prosperity. Surely, continued oppression delays the end of recession.

This article on the Jos Crisis in Nigeria was contributed by Mark Lipdo Program Coordinator – Stefanos Foundation, Jos, Nigeria and Evangelist Matthew Owojaiye, Chairman : Northern States Christian Elder’s Forum, Kaduna, Nigeria.

JOS, NIGERIA CRISIS 2010:  Account by Stefanos Response team.

Various accounts reveal that one Kabiru NEPA (as he is called in the area) a staff of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), brought in some over 200 Muslim men to rebuild his house on Sunday, 17th January, 2010. Kabiru’s house was one of those burnt during the 28th November 2008 crisis situated on one of the streets at Gindin – Atili, a street that was mostly affected during the November, 2008 crisis which left no building standing in the area, both of Non-Muslims and Muslims alike. Mallam Kabiru did not bring this project to the notice of the village head who when interviewed said he could have made it known to all that Muslim men would be working in the area. 200 muslim men on Sunday morning is not a common sight in this area since the last crisis, this certainly raised the tension in the area, he said. The builders working at the site did not help matters; report has it that they kept chanting intimidating noise, referring to Non-Muslims as “Arna” (meaning infidels)” knowing they may likely not support the reconstruction many of whom suffered so many losses in the last crisis and are too poor to rebuild the ruins. Tension mounted in the area and got out of control when the driver of the lorry hauling sand to the site got into a quarrel with one of the non – Muslims in the area. This attracted the Muslim workers and later resulted into attack on any non-Muslim sighted around and a woman, Anna Ayuba got badly injured.  Unknown to all, the chants of “Allah a’khabar” had attracted other Muslims to the area and worshippers in ECWA Church; about 500m away were attacked. The violence escalated in Yan-shanu and Congo Russia and got out of control with reports of fake soldiers appearing in these areas.

Stefanos Foundation gathered that when Law Enforcement arrived on the spot earlier at the heat of the incident, they could not do much to forestall the violence. An eye witness reported that when the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3rd Armored Division of the Nigerian Army, Jos, came to investigate the matter while inspecting the burnt down church, gun shots came from the nearby Muslim settlement, bringing down three Christian youths. The gunman was apprehended and handed over to the GOC but in the presence of the villagers, the man was set free. This made the villagers lose faith in the security operatives. 

Rev. Samuel Daji Riga of ECWA church Jos Jarawa, whose members were attacked in church and the church building completely burnt and partly demolished; reliably informed Stefanos that ‘I was still preaching in church that Sunday morning when one of the members of the church Boys Brigade rushed in to draw the attention of one of my elders outside, the elder quickly ran back to inform me of an impending attack by the Muslims. I immediately cut off my sermon and closed the service to enable our members return to their homes or any safe place. Unfortunately for us, before we could vacate the church premises, the attackers had arrived with their weapons. In a bid to escape, some of our members were injured by gun shots from the assailants. They later set the church ablaze and utterly destroyed everything in the church including the motor-bike of a member’ At the time of this report, we found an inscription boldly written on the wall of the church building – ‘Islam is 4 peace and Islam is the best’.

Mrs. Anna Yakubu, a victim of the unfortunate incident, told Stefanos that her son returned home after church service through the said construction site and reported that the workers at the site were busy chanting Allah Akbar and from their behaviour, he suspected something may go wrong. It was not so long then they heard the voice of the man who barely left their home calling on them to run. While attempting to do so, she was attacked with a stone at her forehead; she fell to the ground with blood all over her face. Her son, Ajik, could not escape the bullets of the assailants on his face. They are both receiving medical attention at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH). Stefanos also interviewed Danjuma Mohammed, a Muslim, who was among those who were working on the construction site that day.  The situation that happened in Jos Jarawa on Sunday was quelled down on Monday, 18th January, 2010 and it looked like that was the end of it. But the news that spread, sparked up similar reactions at Bukuru where Muslims set ablaze Assemblies of God church and ECWA church around Gularandong and looted shops belonging to Christians. Non-Muslims also reported Muslims burning their houses at Bisichi and Fan in Barkin Ladi LGA. The conflict which has always been tolerated on religious grounds, soon turned chaotic, leaving the locals struggling to defend and protect their settlements. Similar attacks were later reported at Gyero Village, Kuru village near Hipang and Rahol-Kana (Ungwar Doki) near TCNN. Also reported were those of Pankshin and Mangu on Wednesday, 20th Jan. 2010 and Thursday, 21st Jan. 2010 respectively.

At the time of this report, mass burials had been carried out by government on Wednesday and Thursday, and as such, it is difficult to ascertain the number of casualties or deaths. However, many were seen receiving treatment at JUTH, Plateau Hospital and ECWA Evangel Hospital among others.   A 9 page report (with pictures ) can be downloaded by clicking here.     A 36 page final report has also been compiled.  Pictures have been removed in the Jos Crisis (Feb 2010) Final  report by Stefanos to make download easier.

“The Church in the Northern States of Nigeria is alive and vibrant. It has undergone several persecutions, churches burnt, believers killed and property destroyed…” Evangelist Matthew Owojaiye ( Author of Marginalised but not Broken: Experiences of Christians in Northern States of Nigeria)    Recent report on Religious Crisis in Northern Nigeria by Evangelist Owojaiye who is the Chairman : Northern States of Nigeria Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF)

I Corinthians 4: [12]  And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, .we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it: [13]  Being defamed, we entreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things unto this day.

“Reasons have been proffered why the Christians in our time are being attacked.  It is all about Jesus Christ and His salvation.  Once Christians are silenced the gospel will not spread.  The harassment is also for the unstable to shrink back and be destroyed.  I believe “Wise as serpents and harmless as doves” should be our strategy.  But we should never take human life or harm anyone.  Christians need help to find ways and means of preventing massive loss of life during riots…we will be diligent, vigilant and self controlled under the severe persecution of the gospel…”  Dr P.S. Abdu (Nov. 2009)

“When comes the promised time…that war shall be no more,…oppression, lust, and crime shall flee thy face before?…” Lewis Hensley, 1867.

“Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Deut 31:6

Jesus Reigns forever…Worship and obey Him…our joy shall be full. Amen.

 To support Christians in Jos with financial donation, pls click

Bode Ososami, Mark Lipdo ( Stefanos foundation), Evangelist Matthew Owojaiye (NOSCEF)

… as  “Business Titans”  and the “Best Minds” meet to discuss global economics …

Daniel [2:1]  And in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him. [2]  Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans, for to show the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king. [3]  And the king said unto them, I have dreamed a dream, and my spirit was troubled to know the dream.

“We have an absolutely unique opportunity today, but it comes with its set of challenges. The first big challenge comprises ecological sustainability and tackling climate change. The second is that of reducing poverty and inequality in the world. Azim H. Premji, Chairman, Wipro, India

 “Bankers are already trying to wriggle out of their responsibilities. In some countries they are lobbying quite successfully against tougher capital and liquidity requirements, against more effective depositor protection and they are planning to pay out their largest-ever bonuses.” Doris Leuthard, President of the Swiss Confederation and Federal Councillor of Economic Affairs, Switzerland

The WEF had the insight and the courage to recognize that underneath the economic crisis, there was also a values crisis; and that an economic recovery must be accompanied by a moral recovery as well.” Jim Wallis, Author, Editor-in-Chief and Chief Executive Officer, Sojourners, USA

We have to ask what an economy would look like if it were genuinely focused on making and sustaining a home – a social environment that offered security for citizens, including those who could not contribute in obvious ways to productive and profit-making business; an environment in which we felt free to forego the tempting fantasies of unlimited growth in exchange for the knowledge that we could hand on to our children and grandchildren a world: a social and material nexus of relations that would go on nourishing proper three-dimensional human beings – people whose family bonds, imaginative lives and capacity for mutual understanding and sympathy were regarded as every bit as important as their material prosperity.” Archbishop Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury

 “Yes, the bankers have done a lot of mistakes.  There were a lot of mistakes made. But it is time to stop the shame and blame. There are a lot of people unemployed in the world [and] the market economy can only be maintained or continued by confidence.” Ferit F. Sahenk, Chairman, Dogus Group

“It’s not just about shareholder return anymore.  That’s not the focus. It’s stakeholder return. Let’s look across the entire system, and not just focus on short-term profits, but on long-term stakeholder value.” Timothy P. Flynn, Chairman, KPMG International

“I think the big question is how strong the recovery will be, how self-reliant and resilient it will be, once governments and policy-makers begin to pull back on the various forms of fiscal and monetary stimulus that have been put in place.” Peter Sands, Group Chief Executive, Standard Chartered Bank, United Kingdom

 “I think the biggest problem in the U.S. is . . . far too large a percentage of our resources go into the relatively unproductive segment of Defense. If we had not started the war in Iraq, and spent a trillion dollars there . . . we would have far more freedom now to respond to this short-term crisis.” Barney Frank, Congressman from Massachusetts (Democrat), 4th District; Chairman, Financial Services Committee, USA

“This is a fool’s paradise, for people who think [the recession] is over… If we don’t have jobs, there is no sustainable way of re-balancing the global economy…People… sit here and say ‘It’s over’, while we know there are millions of jobs still to be lost.” Sharan Burrow, President, International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC)

“I think we’re over the hump. When you look, at least in Asia, the manufacturing sector, they’re back. And I think… it is going to be the emerging countries who are going to be leading the recovery.” Hirotaka Takeuchi, Dean, Graduate School of International Corporate Strategy, Hitotsubashi University

 “I also believe that a country can rise from the ashes in a very short time . . . ” Don’t tell me Haiti can’t do this. This is an opportunity to re-imagine the future, for Haitian people to build the country that they want to become, instead of to re-build what they used to be.” William J. Clinton, Founder, William J. Clinton Foundation

“This is the time to show that the WTO is not only about profit and greed. This is the time for all countries to offer duty-free, quota-free, to all Haitian products with simplified rules-of-origin.” Celso Amorim, Minister of Foreign Relations of Brazil

Daniel 2 [44]  And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever. [45]  Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure. Daniel

Matthew 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. KJV Bible

Jesus reigns forever…

Bode

Give generously and sacrificially to help Haiti at this time as you enjoy this song by Josh Woodward titled ”Motionless Land” (Click this link to see song video) .

Click here to view the embedded video.

It is no more news that over 200,000 of the world’s poorest are dead.  The aftermath of suffering, questions and anguish is still fully emerging even as many generously offer practical help and ask …why?

Ecclesiastes 7:12 …. and money is a defence…Proverbs 14[20]  The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.

I do expect many songs and blogs of encouragement on the Haitian Crisis even as Pope Benedict XVI, we read this week, has a new commandment for priests needing to get their message across  to “Go forth and blog”

Also, listening to an insightful podcast BBC (Radio Wales)- All things considered on Haiti sets you thinking even more.  Indeed an unfair proportion of disasters has hit the poorest nation in the western hemisphere – 4 earthquakes in the last 2 years, a landslide, a collapsed school, political turmoil, loss of life at an extraordinary scale and now this.

Could it also be the defenceless poorest are the most spiritually vulnerable as we also learn that religion in Haiti has long been a fluid mix of Catholic and Afro-Caribbean spiritual traditions and animism, which for centuries have made the island country a battleground for Western missionaries? But we do seem to have at least evidence that the poor seem somewhat unusually vulnerable even to natural forces.

Poverty has dimensions that the comfortable may not be familiar with.  The poor can be desperate and more akin to spiritual experimentation - easier victims for even minimally funded offerings.  The poor are numbed to being targeted for hatred as years of repeated mental and physical abuse distort realities and crush esteem. Richer nations often cannot understand their plight and will tend sometimes in very bad taste to glamorize the quaintness in poverty in films like “Slum Dog millionaire”.  Indeed many sell physical belongings and come to poor nations to help as missionaries offering hope and help – but some come with a rich and advantaged mindset. I have heard portrayals of links between poverty and the virtue of humility.  Perhaps it is more  true to say that the poor are not necessarily humble – they are often just plainly hungry, weak, abused, exposed and desperately in need often tending to criminality.  The poverty of the worlds poorest extends beyond lack of material possessions to mental distortion from decades of abuse and low esteem, poor education and confusion worsened by spiritual bondage.  The real disaster of poverty is down played to ease the conscience of the advantaged who sip cocktails in terraced parlours as they send generous aid quickly to nations buckling under crippling debt, political confusion and an ensuing darkness…as soon as media prick their hearts to do so…indeed, they buy peace and comfort of mind with their giving.

The suffering poor are quick to say there is nothing good about poverty and cry for more food, education, freedoms and liberating truths and will often ponder over the missionary who has never faced nor desires to face their devils but instead offers a blend of faith that seems at peace with their unseen warlords.  They know as they politely receive food, medicines, hope and money from all that will bring them – but still secretly appeasing their deities – that only a bolder power confrontation will unseat the hierarchy of unseen principalities. They wait for food but also for a spirit-filled Paul to confront their peculiar “Diana of the Ephesians” (Acts 19)

But  crisis can have its benefits…which will emerge someday.

1. It teaches lessons on “Faith in adversity” that only victims can demonstrate.  The grieving need to hear the truth that God does not forsake us in affliction. Only those who have suffered and have been comforted are credible comforters.
2. Crisis can dislocate the debris of the past and allow a better future – creating the opportunity for a new beginning.
3. There is a “glow” under the ashes someone said that only the burnt can offer to a world with a distorted mindset unable to deal with some realities of life.

As the recession gradually recedes and a new lifestyle of moderation becomes the fad, perhaps the excess (instead of financing abortions in the west or another credit card spree) can be funnelled to cancel all the debts of the poorest nations like Haiti and offer sustained and more direct support for education, infrastructure reconstruction, basic healthcare and food supplies for the impoverished…even as corruption and other ills are tackled.  All nations should make firm commitments to poverty eradication - recognising that poverty is evil. Stronger nations should help the weak.

Jesus Christ referred to the religious Pharisees (seen as the models of generosity, truth and integrity in His time) as a generation of vipers and when the people asked what they should do differently… Jesus did not say “give what you can” nor does He say” help the poor”… He answered quite plainly …

Luke 3[11]  He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.

I suspect if all believers obeyed this very simple and plain teaching and give all that they should (not just to other Christians) … there will be far more progress. Christ  knows about the corruption and the challenges…but still concludes that true Christianity bridges the gap between the rich and poor and doesn’t extend it and even does more than just reducing the chasm.

More spiritual warriors and perhaps less commentators are also needed to dislodge the grip of darkness that enslaves the poor…even as a new opportunity for enlightenment presents itself for the right response.

God bless you…as we pray for more grace to let Jesus reign in our hearts in 2010. (Enjoy the audio on the Haiti exprience)

Bode

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

The recession has been hard on the nations and we look for the healing of the land in 2010 and opening of the heavens that the promised blessings may fall.

In Nigeria, the question that seems prevalent among many is if the President – not seen for over a month – is alive … as rumours of comatose hospitalisation spread and many go on a protest march requesting for clarity on where the leader is and how he stands on the many issues.  Debates on the situation continue in the political arena and some simply resign to the suspense.  A few await his arrival…

The Bible say in 2 Chronicles 7[14]  If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

For the healing of the land, the word of God focuses on the state of the church (my people called by my name) rather than the politics. The responsibility for repentance (if the land is to be healed) is on His people and not unbelievers, leaders, presidents or prime ministers…though of course we are also commanded to pray for our leaders. Perhaps a neglected question that really should be top on our minds is if our “Personal fellowship, relationship and consecration” is dead, alive or comatose? Others may protest..where is the church in all the ethical and many other battles of faith? Why is she so silent?

The Book of Revelation points at a church in Sardis with fame and reputation but really dead. This I compare to a celebrity kept barely alive only by skilled doctors, advanced technology and expensive leading-edge medical life support and facilities.

Revelation[3:1]  And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. [2]  Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. [3]  Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.

S. Michael Craven  (Christian post Columnist) in a recent post concerning the American Church  writes  ”… the “wound” apparent in the American Church is indeed serious and our natures are such that we tend to minimize the spiritual complacency present in our own lives and among God’s people. We say to ourselves, “peace, peace” as if all is well with the world because the reality makes us too uncomfortable; such a view of reality inevitably demands more of us than we are often prepared to give. If we are honest, our inclination is to just get along with our lives rather than throw ourselves unreservedly into the cause of Christ. We assume that such selfless devotion will erase all comfort in our lives never realizing that this is where joy unspeakable and real freedom is ultimately to be found.”

This post is not remotely qualified to comment on the health of the church in the nations. However, somewhere there is the church worship centre, parish, house cell group, or youth fellowship apparently recuperating or seriously wounded or already comatose in the “Worldliness Specialist Hospital” intensive care ward closely supervised by Snr. Consultant, Mrs Feel-Good and eminent surgeon, Mr You-will-make-it  and connected to the best lifesaving technology in the “Religious activities Unit”  watched by the best anaesthetist, Mr Prosperity and other expensive equipment/specialists. She does seem to be doing quite well as has been reported but the land in which she dwells cries for healing.   Like the church in Sardis, although the name continues to thrive and the reputation remains intact, the angel of the Church cries for Revival.  The protest march of the Christian can be different and is often on our knees in a different form of militancy campaign.

Solemn Assemblies

Among already ongoing solemn campaigns is the Pray Daily America’s 40 Days of prayer and fasting that began Jan 4 and will run until Feb. 12. Participants meet daily online at www.praydailyamerica.com to pray, seek God, confess personal and national sins and reaffirm the founding fathers’ covenant with God for the United States. Each day a different prayer topic is posted on the web site.

For the entire month of February, the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Nigeria  is also requesting Christians all over the world to fast and declare a solemn assembly of prayers and watchfulness, repentance and rededication … We need the ultimate physician -The Holy Ghost – to visit His people afresh and send us ablaze again as His soldiers on the field of faith.

God promises to heal the land … if the church humbles herself, repents, fasts and prays.  You can join in the prayers by visiting the sites and reflecting on posted topics and points. Take time out to personally seek God and repent…stand in the gap for weaker brethren, unbelievers and for your nation. We also should continue to pray for complete physical and spiritual healing and divine direction and alignment of our leaders in the nations … according to the will and purpose of God.

Pray also for Christians in nations where faith costs the most (World watch-list 2010)  (North Korea tops this list) because of intense persecution. Pray especially for Haiti and against future natural disasters in all the nations. Pray also against outbreaks of killer diseases and divine protection against terrorism in all forms. Pray for a steady but sure economic recovery all over the world and an end to global recession…  Remember this site in your prayers…

Jesus reigns and He says in John 14[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.

God bless you as you let Jesus win and rule in your heart in 2010.

Enjoy this audio teaching  (click)  Five steps to genuine Revival .

Bode

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