The Way of Life

Startled by the new concept being introduced by the man he believed was sent from God, the curious Pharisee asked "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?" The master's answer in verses 5-8 of John Chapter 3 probably got the old Pharisee the more confused as he exclaimed "How can these things be?"

Like Nicodemus, many are confused and uncertain about what it means to be born again and how a man can be born again today. It is sad that some acclaimed Christians in which some are even ‘workers’ in their local assemblies, are not sure of their salvation. While some are 'trying to' be born again, others are 'asking for the grace to' make heaven.

But if we will clearly look into the Scriptures with an open mind and reason along with the written word, we will not have much trouble understanding the mind of God. This new concept of ‘getting born again’ introduced by our Lord Jesus Christ was also explained by Him as to what it is and how it can be attained.

"Verily verily I say unto you, except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit". John 3:5-6. In other words, the master is saying that getting born again is a spiritual birth, not a physical one. That is the number one point.

Now, how can a sinner get born again? The master went on to explain it.

"And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the son of man be lifted up (i.e. He will die for the sin of the world on the cross); that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life...He that believes on Him is not condemned. John 3:14-18.

Can you observe the repeated phrase in Jesus' statement above? Whosoever believes in Him!!!

Let's consider some other verses of the Scriptures where the issue of born again is discussed.

"He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even unto them that believe on His name…which were born of God (born again)". John 1:11-13.

We can see clearly that to be born again is to be born of God (born of the Spirit). It is because we are born of God that we are called the sons of God, Halleluiah!

"Whosoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God" 1 John 5:1

This is a straight to the point statement by Apostle John.

When the keeper of the prison where Paul and Silas were kept wanted to make this necessary decision, he asked "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"  Paul and Silas answered him "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved, and your house." Acts 16:30, 31.

Lastly, let's consider Romans chapter 10. "That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved (born again). Verse 9.

The new birth comes to anyone who believes on the Lord Jesus Christ as God's only sacrifice for sin and confess (receive) Him to be the Lord of his life. For making such decision, a hitherto sinner receives a new spirit from God and as he submit to the Lordship (authority) of Jesus Christ through His word, he experiences a new life called Eternal life (Zoe)-The Life of God.

(Further Scriptural references: Hebrews 3:18-19, Heb. 4:2-3, 6, And 11).

- segun eshorun

Pill of TRUTH - It is a GIFT

I think it must be the size that puts people off from swallowing this pill. Some people had to travel miles to get an "official" backing to show that this pill like the ones mentioned before now is really worth swallowing.

Let's start like this ... Have you ever heard "Nothing is free, you've got to just work for it". Well I've heard it in various versions but more importantly we tend to view salvation this way as well. Some view it as a debt. It just has to be paid back somehow. The mode of payment may differ but all the same you've got to pay it back. Some work in fear wondering if ever they have meet up to this debt.

But if ever salvation was a debt it had long been paid not by your sweat or mine but by the precious blood of Christ Jesus who redeemed us from the pit of hell and is now offering it to us as a gift.

Some accept this half but the other half of the pill is still so difficult to swallow that some just nibble on it lifelong. The other half is a corollary to the first which says that you don't work for a gift; you don't work to get a gift neither do you work to earn a gift. A gift is free of any charge to you otherwise it ceases to be a gift.

Some well meaning but misguided brothers met Apostle Paul to say now that these could not be saved unless they had done do this and done that (Acts 15). Paul did not give them a single moment of time. So much the more He walked miles to seek the support of some others before Him if anything to ensure that this Grace remains what it is - The Grace of God.

God calls us not to try and prove that we could have earned this gift rather He calls us to open this gift up - explore its depth, its breadth, its height and bask in the Glory of all that we have now been made qualified to partake of.

 - Dr bolaji akanni

Pill of TRUTH - You are NEW!!!

Let us take a look at this green pill. It says whatever your past may have looked like don't bother trying to fix it just come to Jesus, he'll bring you out better than you can imagine.

I've been guilty of not being able to swallow this bit in the past. I mean I just could not separate that man or that lady from the past, from the things He/she did. Sometimes giving a brother  a hug is hard to do because  you just can't let go of His past. I mean he is too messed up to ever be fixed again. I can't even allow him into my house. I wonder if ever I was born again when I had such thoughts.

Anyways, a guy got involved in killing another guy who was not even given the opportunity to fight back. He did not stop there but went on to beat off some women, children and other guys as well. He even turned things against them and got most into jail. Did some other unutterable things and suddenly comes back saying "He (Christ) saved me" ? Saved from what!!!?

It took a while for the early church to accept the brother just described above. Some literally ran away from him. Others watched Him all so closely. Not until another brother finally put his 'life' on the line as it were just to show this guy has come clean.

Are you still living in your past? Are you haunted, wondering if all this is really true? Well....I turn you to the one this green pill which simply says though your sins be as scarlet, I would make them whiter than snow. The magnificent Grace of God births new creatures who have been turned away from their past. It is not you trying to make a "re - start". NO!! It is a whole new, fresh beginning altogether. New as have never been seen before. Born again no longer from below but from above!

Keep on swallowing this pill because the side effects are pleasurable - peace, joy, and lots of joy. This is the reality.

- Dr bolaji akanni

Pill of TRUTH - Just Anyone and Everyone

There is always that last pill. Difficult to swallow. Sometimes it is the colour, other times it is the shape. Could be the smell as well but most times it is the size of the pill. The bigger the tablet, capsule, caplet, etc the further down it gets on the list of pills to be swallowed.

Are you finding it difficult to swallow a pill today?

Let's take a look at one such pill. The apostles quite believed in the return of Jesus. I mean they anticipated and waited for fifty days and then the great revival with the ushering in of the Holy Ghost. That was a bit easy to swallow at first but then came the difficult one.

Just about anybody had access to this seemingly exclusive regard as well.

Suddenly it wasn't meant anymore for the small group that waited for so long nor their converts alone but also for some who they could not have imagined.

The loser's, the nobody's, the "no - nation", the...gentiles. 

They too had access to the magnificent Grace of God. I love the way Peter puts it. It is clear that God gave those Gentiles the same gift that he gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ; who was I, then, to try to stop God!" (Acts 11:15)  No difference at all. It was one and the same experience. Not second class or second grade.

The pill today is that the Grace of God includes all and does not exclude anyone. You are as much legible to it as that man across the street or that "Man of God" in the fine suit. If Christ ever died to select some few then that few must be the whole world of which you and I are a part. Aren't you glad you are not left out? Aren't you glad it does not matter where your roots may have sunk into? Surely this pill might not smell right but I've just swallowed it....and it didn't hurt at all.

- Dr bolaji akanni

God's Word is Not Bound

Procrastination is such a thief of purpose. What has been laid upon our heart let us do quickly. It is so easy to push of things till the next hour but before you realize it the next hour becomes the next year. Let us learn to work while it is day making the most of time and purpose and not allowing that evil attitude cause us to count losses.

You would be wondering why I should be saying this but I really ought to have shared this article a while back but nearly lost it no thanks to my yielding to the temptation of "it should be set by tomorrow".

Here is the article, which has been a blessing to me; I hope it would minister to you as well.

God's word knows no boundaries. It has no walls. It has no off limits sign. God's word is living and active. We must learn to separate God's word from the things around us especially the circumstance or the situation we find ourselves in.

Paul under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost said, "Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound."

The truth is the situation we find ourselves is not a testimony to the efficacy of God's word in our lives. God's word is true all by itself. Had the children of Israel understood this they would have been of more cheerful countenance when they saw the giants in the promise land. Because they would have been looking to Jehovah - their deliverer. We've mentioned here that at a time when it was impossible medically for Sarah's womb to give a child Abraham yet believed because he considered the one who had given the promise.

"And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few."

God's word is not bound. Are you a student? Are you searching for a job? Are you married? Whoever you are God's word over your life is not defined by the situation in your life or by your status. Way back in the university, I remember at times I made the mistake of viewing God through the glasses of the four walls of school. Prosperity for instance meant passing exams and having a meal on campus. Peace meant having good grades. Now that I am out of school it is so tempting to think peace is having a good job. But friends we should not think this way. God's word is defined in itself. There is a peace in God which no one can fathom, which no career can satisfy.

God's word is not bound dear friends. Take your eyes of yourself and that situation you are in and latch onto the Truth of His Word. I love that song we sang back in those days

God is bigger than all my problems

Bigger than anything

God is bigger than any mountain I can or cannot see

God is bigger than all my problems

Bigger than anything

God is bigger than any mountain I can or cannot see.

God's Word is not limited, constrained by the things you go through. Hallelujah!

- Dr. bolaji akanni

Beyond being in the midst of Christians ...

Are you alone?

A lion is a pretty strong beast. I am always fascinated when I see the claws, those teeth and the huge paws. I wonder how Daniel would really have felt knowing he did not just have to deal with one but was flung into a den of lions. Truly when the Lord is on your side ... even lions can be tamed. Well, today however, I am again reminded that as fierce and strong a lion looks, it still tactfully takes on its prey. I mean it tends to always chase after a herd of buffaloes but would in the process isolate one. One very unlucky victim suddenly becomes cornered and fight as it may, it just cannot match those paws all by itself. ISOLATION.....a strategy of the lion for centuries. Oddly enough the devil who tends to think he is a lion loves this strategy as well.

But I am not here to enumerate devil’s tactics. Rather to give a word of caution to you, to me. Are you getting bored with the brotherhood? Are you drafting excuses to stay all by yourself? Well ... Be careful. It might be nice to know it was spent in some prayer sessions or truly waiting on the Lord. But don't bask in isolation for too long. Learn to be in the company of the believers in prayers, in worship, in study and even in tearing of bread.

Hebrews 10:25 gave a word of caution to us being by ourselves. Have you noticed our fathers in the faith? Some great errors were made upon standing alone - David, Samson, Noah, Lot, etc. Be on guard. Do not despise the brotherhood. No doubt there may be arguments with your brother but let love grow in the midst of us. Let our unity truly be strength. Let us pray and not tatter endlessly on what should be that is not. Let us worship God and wait on the Lord. Let our meetings together be a source of inspiration and not a means of disintegration. Let us truly be one. Let us meet and desire to meet again and again. Let us meet for God and not for ourselves. 

I have always been moved close to tears each time home is brought closer than I could ever imagine in the midst of the brotherhood. While briefly in Asia I had the opportunity of attending a house fellowship; I would not trade that experience for any other. Everything seems to stand still. Truly how wonderful and how beautiful it is for brethren to dwell in unity. When I consider the one to whom we are gathered, all tribal sentiments, all divisions, all gender strife, all bickering, all mistakes, all errors, all headaches seem inconsequential in the light of Christ to whom we are gathered. And they can't prevent me from coming again and again.

Are you miles away from one? Start one at home, in the field, at work. It doesn't require much really. Just you and another believer.

Don't be isolated from the brotherhood. Don't be on your own.

Till I see you brother and sister. Go be with the brotherhood close to you.

Dr. bolaji akanni

He is able!!

I am being made to understand that God is able. He does not need a set of process to effect a change. All that matters is His word as a backing. For by two immutable things in which it is impossible for God to lie.

He maketh all things beautiful in His own time should not be interpreted as weakness or that He is trying to make an event happen. Holy Spirit please help pass this message across.

The bible says He calleth those things that be not as though they were. Romans 4:17

He said in a certain place that, are my hands too short or my ears deaf?

God said let there be.....

He didn't say let the protons merge with the neutrons and the electrons surrounding. Then let’s wait for the famous KABOOM!!!

No he said let there be and there was.

I pray and desire to be able to trust God for my salary at the end of the month as much as I would believe He is able to cause me to abound beyond that same paycheck.

I trust God to allow that headache be healed as much as He would cause new eyes where their once was none or cause new feet where there was once none.

Because He is God all by himself and He doesn't need building blocks to achieve His aim.

Sometime ago I used to try and rationalise how it would come to pass. I mean try to explain and point out every path to a miracle. But now I am left with no other thought than to wonder at the majesty of the one with whom nothing shall be called impossible.

Don't limit God today!! Trust Him in faith that He is able to do.

Dr. bolaji akanni

Seeing the impossible?!

The life of the believer is marked by a continual gazing upon Christ and the truth of his word. These things however are deducible not by vain imagination but by revelation through His word.

The Bible declares that we walk by faith and not by sight, which is emphatic on the fact that we must continually observe through the eyes of faith.

What however is faith?

Faith is deep rooted conviction in a substantial entity. Faith is the expression of belief upon God through his Word in spite of contradicting or favourable circumstances. Notice that in spite of circumstances, what our faith is meant to be hinged upon is the Word of God. Without an understanding of the Word there cannot be bible kind of faith. Remember, faith cometh by hearing and hearing the message of Christ.

Along these lines especially in view of the topics above let us X - ray the faith of some patriarchs of old

Bible declares that against all hope, Abraham believed God. He was not imagining things. The bible goes on to give us the basis of his faith in verse 21 of Romans 4....he was fully satisfied and assured that God was able and mighty to keep HIS WORD and to do what HE HAD PROMISED. Consider verse 19 (according to that which had been spoken, "So shall your seed be")

Do you now wonder when the scripture says He believed God?

Abraham again offered up his Son in verse 19 of the same chapter. Why? Because he reasoned that God was able to raise him up even from the dead. Let us not forget God had been clear enough to explain that Isaac was the one through whom he was to be father of many nations physically.

Abraham 4th person in the Hall of faith joins along with the other patriarchs who looked forward to the city whose foundations are built of God. Verse 10, 13, 14, and 26 of Hebrews 11.

Moses looked forward and away to the reward verse 26.

By this same conviction, Joseph ordered his bones to be taken knowing the promise of God that they would be delivered out of the land.

I consider lastly Stephen whose wisdom was so mighty; but how won't it when all the while he was not seeing the people and their seething anger but beholding in faith to the point he saw the Glory of the lord.

How do you and I see these unseen realities and stop walking in the vanities of our mind or the things seen. This comes by trust in God and his Word.

He that would come to God must believe that he is and a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Heb 11:6

Don't imagine or think up faith. Rather establish your heart by pondering diligently on his word for this is where faith is hinged on.

Too hard for me ...

II Samuel 3:39

At a troublous time in his sojourn on earth, David complained about the vengeful and murderous act of his nephews, Joab and Abishai.

“…and these men the sons of Zeruiah be too hard for me.”

They were really hard for David’s soft heart to manage. When he preaches forgiveness, they practiced vengeance. When he prayed for peace, they declared war.

So, have I noticed with the trio: Self, World and Satan – the enemies of my soul. When I made up my mind to be spiritual, the world brings in worldliness. When I brace up for a marathon prayer, my body sags in weakness. In many of my desire to serve the Lord, Satan hindered me.

Yet, I have a word for each of you. To the devil, “Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise.” Micah 7:8.

To the world, “I am dead, and my life is hid with Christ in God.” Col 3:3.

To my weak body, “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.”

I Corinthians 16:13.

And to my Lord Jesus I plead “Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee.” Ruth 1:16.

- okenna igbokwe

Which side are you on?

I fancy playing some team sports when I've got the time to. Maybe on a picnic or sometimes just wanting to break some sweat. But one thing I notice they all have in common (Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, etc) is the change of attitude a player has when he switches sides. Take for instance player A in team A is suddenly told to change over and join team B, thus becoming his former teammates opponents.

Now he may have teamed well with his former players but now he has to advance strongly AGAINST them. He is suddenly employing all that he has to score against his former team.

As Christians that kind of mindset should permeate our being especially in view of repentance.

No longer are we advancing the same course with respect to our former ways which are in disharmony with the word of God. Paul had this to say about the Thessalonians Church ... "and how you turned to God from your idols to serve a God Who is alive and true and genuine, and how you look forward to and await the coming of His Son from heaven, Whom he raised from the dead - Jesus,"

Consider the phrase "turn around" and "look forward". This connotes a complete reversal of thought.

I love the way Paul conveyed this in the book of Corinthians. "When you became distressed in a godly way, look at how much devotion it caused you to have. You were ready to clear yourselves of the charges against you. You were disgusted with the wrong that had been done. You were afraid. You wanted to see us. You wanted to show your concern for us. You were ready to punish the wrong that had been done. In every way you have demonstrated that you are people who are innocent in this matter."

A clause I must however add at this juncture is this: We walk by faith and not by sight. Our turn around must be established on the Word of God. It is a turn around with the word of God before us; not just antagonizing all we ever did, but viewing all in the light of God's word.

Enjoy your game but don't let this mindset ever escape you.

- Dr bolaji akanni

Safety first

At the inception of the year, the Federal Road Safety Corps in Nigeria made the wearing of crash helmets mandatory for all motor bike riders and passengers nationwide. This order was to bring a sense of decorum and protection for both bike riders and passengers alike. Given the spate of “Okada” (commercial motor bikes) accidents in Nigeria, the government through its agency needed to step in to enforce the much needed safety measures. Government came to the realization that all citizens and inhabitants are first and foremost “government pikin” (Government’s responsibility). They know they are primary custodians of the well beings of their citizens and inhabitants of the geopolity. On this basis the government views anybody who denies them this onerous responsibility of being the harbingers of a befitting wellbeing as enemy of the state and thus would be dealt with accordingly.

Over the weekend I hitched a ride on a motor bike to my friend’s abode. I wore a crash helmet as a law abiding citizen who had been inculcated into this new regime of security and social wellbeing. It then dawned on me that I was “abstract”. I wasn’t looking the “norm”. Especially in a society where people have been used to plying the most popular means of transportation unprotected – skulls left stark naked awaiting the uncanny event of an accident by a recluse “expert” rider. After all I wasn’t mounting a power bike so why should I be embellished with a “sophisticated” Grand prix outfit. As much as I had imbibed this new social culture I was feeling very odd with this new regime of conformity. A sense of humility encapsulated me as I was being gagged by the law. Above all I needed not fear the wrath of the law enforcement agents who were ready to wield their authority at the slightest default.

Much as the government of the day is concerned about our well being God is much more concerned about the well being of the world he created. He gave his son (Jhn.3:16, Gal.4:4, Rom.8:32) and in addition to that he gave us all things freely to enjoy (Rom.8:32, 1Tim.6:17).  It’s erroneous for humans to work and walk trusting expertly on their whims rather than the plan of the Father (Eph.5:17). They’ll thereby leave themselves in the hands of the Devil who’ll have them for a gourmet made lunch (1Pet.5:8). The Father’s plan for us is that we work in line with his protection and provision for us in Christ Jesus (2Pet.1:1-3).

This safety measure humbles us (Eph.3:9-14, Phil.3:8-10) and makes us live against the norm (Gal2:20, 2Cor.5:14-15). It brings a sense of decorum and direction in our conducts on the face of the earth (Tit.3:11-14). The Christians appreciate their pilgrimage and sense of responsibility to the dying souls (1Pet2.11-12). At first we would feel that we are being unwholesomely abstract – yea, but we are (Eph.5:8-10).

Friends much as you could have been used to being driven by some expertly cut out human ideas, we belong to the ultimate counselor, governor and master (Isaiah 9:6-7). He knows he’s responsible for our lives because he bought us with his life. He’s the creator of everything (John.1:1-5, Col.1:16-17) so he has a better idea of how to manoeuvre in this puzzled terrain. Just as it is an aberration to defy the laws of the land to the detriment of our safety it is an aberration to defy the law of the new creature (Gal.6:15-16) to the detriment of your excellence as a Christian.

Abide with the “safety first measure” by attending to and doing God’s will in all your endeavors. God owns you (1Cor.6:19-20).

- emeka ofia

For me to live is Christ

Sometime ago while pondering over God's word. I was again struck by the unique, distinct and peculiar life we have been called into. I am actually living the life of Christ. I am not to try to please him by my hands but to show forth the excellent virtues of his mighty power at work in me.

I am not trying to carve a niche for myself. Instead whatever niche that may be carved out should continually stem from the accomplished work on the cross.

I mean does my life exhibit the uniqueness of Christ or is it another self declared style unique to me.

Does my action stem from the world or does it stem from the true word of God.

Even though we are called new creatures, our sufficiency does not come from ourselves but from the operation of God in us.

I used to say that what kind of strange humility would make a man pray that men should not see him but the CROSS but now I understand better. Paul desired that we abound in and be filled with the fruits of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ to the honour and praise of God [that his Glory may be both manifested and recognised] Phil 1:11 Consider contextually verse 18

verse 20...my own eager desire and persistent expectation and hope that I shall not disgrace myself nor be put to shame in anything but that with the utmost of speech and unfailing courage, now as always heretofore Christ will be magnified and get glory and praise in this body of mine and be boldly exalted in my person whether through life or through death.

For me to live is Christ

Brother, let our names be forgotten but let Christ be exalted in our bodies. No other thing surpasses this.

The Hymn writer says

"Not I, but Christ," be honoured, loved, exalted;

"Not I, but Christ," be seen, be known, be heard;

"Not I, but Christ," in every look and action;

"Not I, but Christ," in every thought and word

Christ, only Christ, ere long will fill my vision;

Glory excelling, soon, full soon, I'll see

Christ, only Christ, my every wish fulfilling

Christ, only Christ, my All in All to be

Culled from Sacred Songs and Solos (Hymn 623)

In conclusion brothers and sisters, the life of the Christian is the life of Christ. Let us prayerfully pore over these words “I have been crucified with Christ, and I live; yet no longer I, but Christ lives in me. And that life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith toward the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself on my behalf”.

Dr bolaji akanni

Add Value

Basic economics teaches us that the demand for a product or service in the market determines its supply. People would continually demand for a product or service that they derive utility from. In other words they demand products that add value to their well being. People are naturally attracted to things that give them satisfaction the same way ants are attracted to sugar.  The most sought after products in the market are those identified to meet the yearnings of every class in the society. The greatest blue chip brands in the world are those brands that have added value to most of the households across the world, the likes of Microsoft, Pepsi, Coca-cola, Toyota, Mobil, e.t.c. Their products are ranked as premium – first amongst equals.

The greatest soccer teams in the world have a huge fan base because they add value to the lives of their fans. Their quality of play and system of administration endear more supporters to them. You can’t compare the fan base of the best team in a first division to the fan base of the best team in a second division. Although both teams play football, they are not in the same division. People will naturally associate with top quality and this can only be measured by the divisions they play in. Anytime a “great” team wins a globally recognized tournament her fans are left in cloud nine – they’re made proud and excited. This is the value they add. That is why they are counted in a special class above equals.

The greatest blue chip brands and greatest soccer teams have something in common – they add value. They enjoy great patronage because they provide goods and services that meet the yearnings of their customers cum fans; hence they have mustered a bandwagon for their products and services. The reasons they’ve achieved their unparalleled feats is that they are diligent and driven by excellence.

As a Christian what differentiates you from the rest of the pack is the value you add. If you don’t show qualitative Kingdom values nobody would glorify your Father in heaven for your sake (Mat. 5:14-16). It’s the degree to which you make yourself available for God that you’ll shine so make every effort to be fit for the Master’s use (2Tim. 2:20-21).

As a Christian for you to be a successful value adder you must be diligent. In other words, you must be focused, dynamic, purposeful, ingenious, proactive, pragmatic and dexterous. With these qualities you would certainly impact the world around you immensely (Prov. 21:5) and you’ll have your place before great men (Prov. 22:29). A lazy Christian is doomed (Prov. 21:25).

You must vigorously pursue the excellence of God’s grace in all your endeavours, because it’s through the knowledge of God’s grace that you’ll appreciate the beauty of God in you and what God demands from you (Tit. 2:11-14). The Apostle Paul took advantage of this knowledge in his labours (1Cor. 15:9-10) and he has become the most celebrated Apostle in the Bible. He wrote about 13 out of the 27 books of the New Testament.

Add value to yourself and to the world at large because God has configured you to do so (Eph. 2:10). You are a Premium gift to the world and your manifestation is earnestly awaited (Rom. 8:19) - don’t delay.

Becoming the Perfect Man ...

A Christian indeed! He confesses that God can do all things. At the same time he declares that: “Nobody is perfect.”

Do you think he is right? Hear these:

“There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and escheweth evil.” Job 1:1.

“Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.” Genesis 6:9b.

“The Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.” Genesis 17:1

“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5:48

“Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast…” Matthew 19:21

“Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect…” II Corinthians 13:11

You can see that God is eager to make you perfect, if you will play your own part. In this life journey, I have learnt a secret to perfection. That is winning from the mind.

“Casting down all imaginations, and every high thing that exalted itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;” II Corinthians 10:5

That is where to start! Every thought, dream, ambition, imagination and desire that is not of God must be cast down. A winner in the mind is a winner in the body and a winner in action.

Never limit God. By His grace, a man is made perfect in his deeds.

-okenna igbokwe

The Simplicity of the Gospel

Most times when we teach and tell people truths and principles of scriptures, they just look at you and remark - ‘this guy does not know what he is talking about’, ‘if it’s that easy, you think I will be here’, ‘na today’, ‘he hasn’t seen anything yet, it is youthful exuberance’. ‘You don’t understand what I am going through or saying’. People believe if it must work, it has to be difficult. They believe a ‘difficult problem’ requires a serious and rigorous solution. They believe ‘good things don’t come easy’ so they expect very rigid rules and regulations which if they succeed in keeping their conscience will be satisfied that they have worked for and are entitled to what they get. The foundation of God however stands very sure and the scriptures cannot be broken or modified to suit our traditional ‘I deserve it’ or ‘nothing good comes easy’ mentality. This Gospel is simple and is taught simple!

2Corinthians 1:12 “For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward”.

The gospel is taught with simplicity because it is a simple gospel:

2Corinthians 11:3 “But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ”.

Don’t be amazed it’s so simple. In Christ all things are made simple. There is simplicity in Christ Jesus!!!!  His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

Friends, it is not easy because it should be easy. It is easy because someone paid the price that made it easy. It’s without regulations and rigid sacraments because someone observed those sacraments on our behalf and had them put aside. You deserve it because someone worked it out for you. You don’t have to trek and sweat through deserts and mountains and forests to get to the next continent. Just take advantage of someone else’s wisdom and work, travel by air. Same way you don’t have to struggle.

Take advantage of Christ. If you come with leprosy and he tells you go take a bath, go take it! If your wine is finished and he tells you fill your jars with water, fill them up. If you are crippling and he says get up, stand up. If he says let down your net, don’t say you have tried many times, just do it.

- emmanuel aladenusi

Unstable as Water

“Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel” - Genesis 49:4

Below zero degrees centigrade, water is a solid – strong, unmovable. Leave it to absorb heat and it turns to flowing liquid. You would expect it would continue flowing, but not at all. The moment it closes the hundred degrees temperature mark, it turns into vapour and flies away.

Such are some of us. Inside the church, we jump, we cry, we pray; and like the children of Israel we vow:

“All that the Lord hath spoken we will do.” Exodus 19:8.

Outside the church, when the warmth of the world touches us, we melt in weakness. Like Demas, we start loving the world: its fashion, entertainment and the pursuit.

“For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world…” II Timothy 4:10

And if the heat of trials and temptation should come our way, we turn our back to the faith we once professed. Like Jonah, we board a ship to Tarshish, attempting to go away from the presence of the Lord.

When are we going to be men and no more babies in Christ?

When is the Lord going to count on our integrity?

Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong (I Corinthians 16:13); for without stability in your love for Christ, you will not excel.

okenna obi-igbokwe 

Ever Increasing Desire …

I WRITE UNTO YOU, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.
I WRITE UNTO YOU, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I WRITE UNTO YOU, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I WRITE UNTO YOU, little children, because ye have known the Father.

1 John 1:12,13

Suppose you grew up as an orphan in an orphanage and you never knew who your real parents were. In fact, you had always thought the people running the orphanage didn't know, too. And then one day, you are called and told, "Here is a letter your parents left for you. They asked us to give it to you whenever we felt you were mature enough to appreciate it!"

Would you be interested in reading such a letter? I bet you really, really would!

Well, you're no orphan, but the Bible is God, your Father writing to you. His expectation is that you will take its message just as seriously as you would take a personal audience with Him in which He literally speaks to you.

When you think about this deeply, you will have an ever increasing desire for the message of the pages of this book. You will be able to say with David, "... I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold." You will always approach your copy of the Bible with more excitement and interest, than our hypothetical orphan would open his letter.

- jide lawal

The King's Companion

... and Hushai the Archite was the king's companion: 1 Chronicles 27:33 (KJV)

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.1 Corinthians 1:9 (KJV)

God can be trusted, and he chose you to be partners with his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 1:9 (CEV)

We are not told what Hushai did to deserve this most noble title, "The King's Companion". The Old Testament is replete with tales of deeds of men who lived and died for David, those who were captains in his army and in his bodyguard, who risked their lives to indulge his whims and stood valiant in battle to slay his enemies, but there is not one mention of anything Hushai the Archite did to deserve David's friendship.

This calls to mind the fact that the Father has called us to be companions to His Son. There are many honours God has bestowed upon the New Creature, but surely this is the greatest and the grandest of them all! Oh, He calls us no longer servants, ignorant and uninformed as to the intentions behind their Master's orders and actions, but He calls us friends. He tells us what He wants to do. He tells us why He wants to do them. Where others stumble in darkness, our Friend's Light shines upon us and within us and we see clearly.

In all of creation, we are the only ones that share His Nature. We have His Spirit and we can commune with Him. No wonder the Apostle John, in a picturesque to describe this intimacy declared, "He is in us, and we are in Him."

We are His Partners!

- jide lawal

Let Christ be magnified

According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

Philippians 1: 20,21

I attend church services regularly and its always a lovely sight to see the saints lifting up holy hands in the worship of God. Some songs we sing really stir me up emotionally as they call my attention to the sacrifice of Christ upon the cross.

But I wonder if the sacrifice of praise goes beyond what we express in singing. I wonder how many people in the Body of Christ would go as far as saying with Paul, "I don't care whether I live or I die. I just want Christ to be magnified through whatever happens. And to make that a reality I'm going to adopt a lifestyle that lays my life on the line, repeatedly, for His Name's sake!"

Let Christ be magnified in you.

- jide lawal

Floating in GRACE

“For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” James 2:10.

I always got jitters whenever I came across this verse of the Bible or remembered it. Where would I start and where would I end? How would I be able to keep all these laws in my everyday life? I wondered if I would be able to make it.

But when I remember that: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Eph 2:8), my heart is gladdened. A quick word count in my Bible revealed to me that the word “grace” is used about 122 times in the New Testament compared with about 37 times used in the Old Testament.

            Grace, grace, God’s grace,

            Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;

            Grace, grace, God’s grace,

            Grace that is greater than all our sin

My joy is no longer on how many of the laws I am able to keep in a particular day.

The peace of my heart is no longer based on the amount of good works I am able to do each day. Following the words of an American preacher, Paul Washer, my everyday joy comes whenever I remember the finished work of Christ on Calvary; whenever I remember that by that act of grace, my sins were washed away.

            Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,

            Freely bestowed on all who believe;

            You that are longing to see His face,

            Will you this moment His grace receive?

Why not join me float in grace!

 – okenna obi-igbokwe

His anointing … rests in you!

There are quite a number of things which we have reserved for the few but which ironically is the legitimate right of any one born of God i.e. anyone who has believed in the death and resurrection of Jesus.

One of such is the fact that we are anointed by God with the Holy Spirit.

2nd Corinthians 1:21 – 22 states “Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.”

The Christian is the anointed one. His anointing did not come through some cheap means. No! It was God that anointed Him. Realise that contrary to the old testament times, as many as simply believe in Christ Jesus have actually been anointed with God’s Holy Spirit. Now this speaks of you.

In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, if any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified) John 7: 37 - 39

This is remarkable because even early in the ministry of Jesus he identified the fact that it is mere faith on his death and resurrection that guarantees this, and not our zealousness or the works of our hands.

Now let’s see Acts 2:32 - 33

“This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.

Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.”

In the eyes of men, we are prone to excluding or including ourselves in some fair show of humility but God does not know such. What he has done for one, He has done for all. No man can be more anointed than the other.

Why is this so? This is because the object of our anointing is the Holy Spirit of God who is a person and not some measurable entity. If it were some other inanimate material we may understand but the scripture above says God has given the earnest of the spirit into our hearts. John 3:34; 1^st John2:20,27

Let us read Ephesians 1: 13 – 14 together “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.”

See also John 14: 16 – 18 “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;  Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.”

I get dismayed when Christians lose sight of what God has done. The Christian is anointed. If you deny your anointing then you are not born again. Then you can’t see the Kingdom of God which means you are still hell bound. This is the pitiable reality.

You have received this anointing from God.

Again we fail to realize that our anointing is not a ‘once in a while’ thing. Appreciate the expression “till the day of redemption”; see another one “forever”; or can you fathom “dwell”.

Reminds me of some friends of mine who love to travel light because they know they won’t be long where they are going to. But God didn’t come to stay awhile. The bible says He dwells in you by virtue of this same anointing.

I bring you Good news friends we have been anointed of God. You have God resident on your inside. His Spirit is at work in you even as we speak. You are not destitute of the presence of God neither are you of His power. You have His ability resident within you.

I leave you with these words from 1st Corinthians 3:21 – 23

“Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours;  And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.”

I am tempted to add to the list above “that great man of God” and “that anointed man of God”. But you see the truth is – all things are yours.

God is at work within you my brother and sister. Paul understood this early when he said in Galatians 2:8  (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:). Not another one or another anointing, it was the same. We all have been made to drink of the same spirit.

Never look down upon your Christianity. God is at work in you.

Brother, sister, continue basking in the anointing you have received already.

- Dr. bolaji akanni

When All Things are Possible

Matthew 19:26

Are you HIV positive? Do you believe your status can change to Negative?

With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Were your certificates burnt in a fire incident? Don’t you think you can get a good job without certificate?

With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Have you lost your womb? Haven’t it occurred to you that you can have a miracle baby?

With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

It does not end here.

Have you taken lives and committed so much atrocity? Is it not possible for all you sins to be forgiven and you are accepted as a friend again?

With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Is it possible you live your youthful life without immorality, not even a thought of it?

With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Do you doubt you can hit your sales target without lies or deceit?

With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Do you believe you can live a holy life in this present world?

With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Can one be perfect in this life?

“And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.” Luke 18:27

Is it breakthrough in our health, daily provision, our spiritual life; no matter how difficult it seems to be, God can do it. “…He hath done all things well:” Mark 7:37

Do not lose hope. Keep “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;” Hebrews 12:2

“Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of Christ:” Ephesians 4:13.

- okenna obi-igbokwe

The Economy of Grace

Ever watched a race before? The sprinter thrusts himself forward and gathers momentum. In a moment he sprints in an amazing speed. He tries as much as in his power to increase his speed as he eyes the end-mark. Inside, his strength wanes. He keeps mustering courage, hoping that amidst waning strength, he would make it. At last, he gets to the end-mark. Whether he arrived ahead of his opponents or behind, one thing is sure – he is exhausted. His strength is almost drained. He pants and gasps for air. That is the law of nature, even the law of diminishing returns.

Not so with grace.  The more a believer runs in the race of life, the grace accumulates even more. The more you need it, the more it is available. Grace is abundant. No wonder men of God wax stronger in the Lord even in their old age. Not so with a sprinter.

Afraid that hydrocarbon reserves would soon wind up, nations of the earth are scrambling for alternative energy, but the well of grace will never drain up.

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee” II Corinthians 12:9.

More wealth brings more care, increased wisdom increases sorrow, but the abundant grace of God brings steady joy.

“Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: but they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:30

Believer, why not carve out time even in your tight schedule to spend time with your maker? Grace is here! What is stopping you from enjoying it?

okenna obi-igbokwe

Freedom from ancestral setback

Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: (Col 1:12)

No doubt we’ve all got different histories. Culture; described as a people’s way of life differs for each one of us. Various backgrounds. Sometimes however we fail to see beyond where it is we came from. This origin defines the core of our being.

But it should not be so. The truth is no matter how diverse our culture may be all ends in that one man Adam. The one by whom humanity was brought into bondage.

Today however I want us to reflect a little on how we seem not to go beyond the definition given to us by our earthly lineage. I know quite a lot of people who find it difficult to believe certain things the scripture says because truth is they always see everything from the view point of “this is where I came from”.

Dear friends, would you be as the legalistic Jews in Bible who Paul wept over because they found it difficult to accept the righteousness of God because of their culture built on the Law. Rom 10:1 – 4; Matt 15:6; Col. 2:8

Would you be as others who though realize they have been delivered from the powers of darkness yet find it difficult to walk free from the thought of ancestral curses? People who are forever held bound to illnesses and untimely death because of a fear taken away by the Cross.

The question arises again friends that whose report would we believe? God’s declaration in love or the ugly picture the world tries to sell to us in a bid to make us walk short of who we have become in Christ.

The Christian is a new man altogether. He is no longer defined in the physical because we know him no more by those terms.

Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God,… (2^nd Corinthians 5:16 – 18a)

Christ came to save us from ourselves. Doomed to death we were but thank God for His mercy. When I see Christians held bound because of the thought that this is what my mom went through or Grandpa died because of so and so; this is what goes on in the town I came from. What I quickly settle in my mind is that this individual has not come to appreciate the new identity he has now in Christ Jesus.

He is still walking in the mentality of the old man. The new man in Christ Jesus is not a myth. He is not a legend. He is real and this is who you are.

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:12 – 13)

He’s lineage and heritage is new. He is born of God and not of man. I love the way 2^nd Corinthians 5:18a describes his newness. It says “all these things are of God”. Friends don’t be swayed into identifying yourself by the old man because the truth is you have been set free. Redeemed from the cords that once held you bound. Truly know we no man anymore after the flesh.

Glory Hallelujah.

Dr bolaji akanni

How do you define a bad day?

“I messed myself up in the interview. It was really a bad day for me.”

“Despite all my prayers, I still flunked the test. Never seen such a bad day!”

“My wife suddenly fell sick early in the morning. By the time I reached office after taking the kids to school, the meeting had already started. I had to answer a query after. Then, I got a call that Junior broke his arm in school. Only God knows what a bad day.”

The quote continues.

If you were to describe what you call your bad day, wouldn’t it be something like the above? A description of a disappointment to a day’s expectation!

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” Matthew 6:33.

Though a professing Christian, you have so much learned to seek first “all these things.” And when “all these things” fail to make headway a particular day, it is termed a bad day.

Why is your bad day not usually a day you were too busy to pray; a day you failed to tell someone about Jesus; a day you lied? What happens to a day when you talked so carnally as if you have never been a Christian?

“Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”

 I Corinthians 10:31.

If ever you should term a day “bad”, I think it should be a day you were unconscious of the above verse. God is willing to help you achieve this.

- okenna obi-igbokwe

Before You Seek Deliverance …

If there is anything I wish to God the Christian would accept, it is the fact that He has been given a heritage in the King domain of God. The truth of God’s word is that you and I have escaped the corruption of this world and have been made partakers of God’s own divine nature.

Ephesians 2:2 says Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

I love the way our walk was described …“in time past”.

Today we take a peep into the fact that the Christian has been set free from all powers of the evil one and we begin this discussion by referring to a parable of Jesus. The scene was not a favourite for the Pharisee’s. Jesus had made numerous comments about the unfaithfulness and the hard impenitent nature of their hearts. But then he capped it up with this parable describing the man possessed of evil. I have heard many make reference or even sight this parable in discussing about how the Christian ought to take heed lest he is possessed of a devil. A close look at the Word shows however we ought to take heed how we attribute all statements as being descriptive of the man born again.

Verse 44 of the 12^th chapter of Mathew is insightful. The word of God says that unclean spirit came and findeth the place empty, swept and garnished.

We see from God’s word certain attributes of the Christian who is born of God. But the word “empty” is not found as an attribute of the man born again. You are not empty waiting to be filled with any thing that may just pass by. You are not a holiday resort for the devil and his cohorts.

If anything we realize that for being a child of God in Glory, the Christian has received the full measure of God’s spirit.

And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Gal 4:6

Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. 1^st John 4:13

God has filled you through and through. And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. John 1:16 You are not empty rather you possess in you the very life of God.

The word of God is explicit on the fact that the life of the Christian is hid in Christ and in God. Let’s see what Col 1:14 says Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

Once you and I were not the people of God but now are we His people that we may show forth the excellent virtues of the one who has called us out of darkness into his marvelous light. For “In Christ was life and this life is the light of men the light shineth in the darkness and darkness could not comprehend it not”.

You and I are not empty. I wish to God you would understand that in you is the life of God. Bible says this is the record that God has given to us eternal life and this life is in His Son Christ Jesus. Consider the fact that you have not received the Spirit which is if this world but the sprit which is of God. This is what you and I now possess as a heritage.

Dear believer, before you consider seeking for deliverance, realize you ought to ask yourself this question – Do I know the kind of Spirit I have been made of?

You’ve been delivered dear friend.

- Dr bolaji akanni

Security Update!

Are you worried at all this New Year?

Are your enemies too much for you?          

He says: “…and they that strive with thee shall perish” Isaiah 41:11

Do you feel alone?    

He assures: “…I the God of Isreal will not forsake them” Isaiah 41:17

Do you think that task is impossible?         

He says: “…I will make the wilderness a pool of water” Isaiah 41: 18

Is the path slippery and you think you may fall?

He says: “…and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee” Isaiah 42:6

Do you think that fire would burn you?      

His words: “…when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned” Isaiah 43:2

Is your life under threat?     

He vows:  “…therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life” Isaiah 43:4

Thinking He did same in the past and might not help this time around?

He promises: “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.

Behold, I will do a new thing” Isaiah 43:18,19.

Wondering if your finances would be enough?

He says: “And I will give thee the measures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places” Isaiah 45:3

Afraid your past sins might keep Him away from you?

He reminds: “I girded thee, though thou has not known me” Isaiah 45:5

What shall we then say…If God be for us, who can be against us?...He that spared not his own Son…how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?...Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?...For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom 8: 31-39)

The one who watches over Israel is telling you today: “…Fear not; I will help thee” (Isaiah 41:13)

- justoc okenna igbokwe

Why Read the Bible?

I have come to realize bible reading is much more than reading to be able to parrot back. But bible reading involves a study of the bible with a heart ready to receive and be instructed in what the Word says we are. We can't truly have made a study when we walk in contradiction to what we have read. There must be a saving of the souls in accordance with the word. There must be an awakening unto transformation in line with the word. This is the will of God.

It should be hard for us to see what the word says about us and walk contrary. We should find it difficult to lay hold on hate when the word says we ought to love.
We should find it hard to live sinfully knowing that we have received the very nature of God. This awareness comes to bear on us from a proper study of the bible.
Just as a man finds it difficult to wear bra and put on lipsticks so also we should not be comfortable discovering who we are in Christ and walking in opposition to it. A walk outside of who we have been made in Christ is a walk out of reality.
Learn to read your bible with a view to walking as God as made you. “... And if you will read what I have written, you can learn about my understanding of the secret of Christ”. (Eph 3:4 - Good News Bible)

- Dr bolaji akanni

What defines you?

If it ever would and not when it does!!!

This insight came to mind while praying and I am overwhelmed to have the opportunity of sharing it with you. It is remarkable to find out that God’s Word addresses us in view of our eternal heritage in Christ Jesus.

You and I were not made for mistakes rather we have the seed of God on our inside which is pure, holy and undefiled. I noticed with such joy how that when sins (act of omission or commission) are mentioned with respect to the believer, God’s word uses the word “if” and not “when”. “When” presupposes that an event is bound to happen. However, the word “if” is used to make us realize the uncertainty of a Christian sinning.

1st John 2:1 “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous”

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, … [Gal 6:1]

Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, … [Jam 5:19]

For if we sin willfully… [Heb 10:26]

If they shall fall away, [Heb 6:6]

You and I are not bound to sin. Sin does not have dominion over us. Rather we are dead to sin. We have that choice to say “Yes” and “No” and thank God for his enablement. Have you pondered over scriptures? The bible says that he has made us a peculiar people zealous for Good works. It is he who works within us both to will and to do of his own good pleasure.

Ephesians describes us that we are God’s masterpiece created in Christ Jesus unto Good works which God has before ordained that we should walk in them.

You were not made for destruction. God is not apprehensive over you for he knows what he has deposited within you. You were not made to fall. In fact, you were not made for that fall. The Christian is to live a victorious life in God for he has been set free from the bondage of sin that he had no power against.

No wonder scripture is replete with verses giving insight into all you now have and the victorious path which you walk. The best you have for a man that falls is encouragement to rise up for he was not made for that mire.

You and I have partaken of the glory of God. Let this manifest always. Do not be deceived. You have been set free to live a life of righteousness. Those thoughts and habits don’t define you. What defines you is the Word. Lay them aside and walk in the reality of who God has made you.

- Dr bolaji akanni