“I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness ……” (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
The Apostle Paul wrote the above scripture as he was about to leave this world. He was specially graced to know when his time expired, hence the writing of this glorious scripture.
As the year 2012 draws to an end, many are likely to assume that their unaccomplished hopes, goals and visions for the year may never materialize, but the reality is that 30 days is still a long time for God to come through. Also, the Bible says the end of a thing is better than its beginning (Ecclesiastes 7:8); it will be correct to deduce from this scripture that God reserves the best till the last. Believe this truth as you enter this month!
In the event that at the end of the year, your goals are yet to be accomplished, it doesn’t mean abysmal failure in 2012. This is simply because this is a good time to lay a strong foundation for the year to come. To finish well is to discharge every weapon in one’s arsenal to recoup/regain what may have eluded one in 2012. It is also time to achieve the opportunities still inherent in the year. To finish well, the following are imperative viz:
1) Fight the good fight: The Apostle Paul was certain he had fought a good fight at his transition. He had done everything he presumably should have done by the grace of God. This world is not a playfare but a warfare, this is because there is an adversary who is opposed to everything progressive in our lives (Ephesians 6:12). A winner is simply a committed fighter, one who keeps fighting till victory comes. One of David’s mighty men, Eleazar the son of Dodo was said to have fought so much until his hand was weary and stuck to the sword (2 Samuel 23:9-10). This guy didn’t stop fighting when he was tired, he kept engaging the enemy until he routed them all out. Pull yourself together, get those prayer points of yours out again and engage every opposition to your progress in Jesus name.
2) Finish the race: The Apostle Paul realized he was in a race. We are also in a race, though the year is far gone and well accomplished, we can still double up efforts in some areas of our lives by the grace of God. Most athletes in a race experience the second wind. This occurs when an athlete who is already out of breath and expiring suddenly finds new strength to press on at top performance to finish the race. Receive a new dose of the wind of the Spirit in Jesus name. The quote by Martin Luther King Jr also comes to mind here: “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward”. Our God renews strength and also gives power to the weak (Isaiah 40:29-31). The grace of God is available to carry us to new dimensions that will signal an accomplished end.
3) Keep the faith: Apostle Paul testified he kept the faith. Keeping the faith simply means staying focus inspite of distractions, temptations and criticisms of naysayers, Satan and his cohorts, etc. Keeping the faith is remaining resolute on God in adverse circumstances. Opposition only comes to those who are in motion and making progress. The fact that you are tempted sorely off your course means there is something at stake that is really worth your attention. Elisha stuck with Elijah and kept his gaze on him on learning that his desire will only be granted if he sees Elijah taking off in the whirlwind. Despite the distraction of other prophets and the whirlwind, Elisha kept his gaze on Elijah and gained the prize.
CONCLUSION: Apostle Paul said because he fulfilled the 3 aforementioned points, he is gaining a crown that has been reserved for him. Give the remaining part of this year all the attention and energy you can muster. Pray hard, praise harder, trust in the Lord, go forth and do exploits for Christ! By so doing, you will finish strong and also finish well!
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Monday, December 3, 2012
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Created in God's Image (November 2012).
“Then God said, let us make man in Our image according to Our likeness, let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth. So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him, male and female He created them” (Genesis 1:26-27, NKJV).
Human beings are flesh and blood but God is a Spirit (John 4:24). God doesn’t have a physical body like we humans but He has a form. He has eyes (2 Chronicles 16:9), has feet (Isaiah 66:1), has hands (Deuteronomy 26:7-8), has a back part (Exodus 33:23), has ears (Isaiah 59:1-2),etc. After God formed man out of the dust of the earth, He breathed into his nostrils the breath of life thereby transfering a part of Himself into man. Human beings are the zenith of God’s creation, created in His image and likeness. Below are some vital truths of how we share in the divine order:
1) Ability to relate: Animals associate while humans relate. Mere associating is a superficial way of relating; a relating that is limited to the mind. God is a Spirit and to worship Him must be in Spirit and in truth. God is looking for relationships that transcend just body and mind hence He created man in His image to be able to relate with Him spiritually. It is only those whose spirits have been recreated in Christ that can truly worship God. God is a relational God, always coming daily to meet Adam( the first man) in the cool of the day for fellowship. He made an helper for Adam because He affirmed that it is not good for man to be alone.
2) Ability to create: It is true that God didn’t finish the work of creation in the six days of creation. God created the raw materials of the earth and left the finished products to man. He created the vegetation, the trees and left creation of furniture, buildings, etc to man to complete. In essence, man is co-creator with God. The ability to create resides in him. There is something every man and woman is wired to produce and contribute to creation. I pray you discover and deploy yours in Jesus name.
3) Ability to lead: After God created the earth, He gave man dominion over the works of His hands. He leased the earth to mankind to oversee and superintend and He gave him the capability to function as the ruler of the earth. “The heaven, even the heavens are the Lord’s but the earth He has given to the children of men” (Psalm 115:16). We are to rule over the earth and its elements in cooperation with God. Unfortunately, after the fall of man, he lost part of this rulership power which was restored back after Christ resurrected from the grave.
4) Ability to imagine: God gave a renewed, enlightened and supersonic mind to Adam (the first man) at creation. Adam named all the animals at creation. He had such a robust and fertile imagination. Whatever name Adam deemed fit to call animals, so be it. This fertile and robust imagination was contaminated when Adam disobeyed, and contaminated mankind with the virus of sin. It is true whatever you are able to conceive and believe and act upon will become a reality with time in your life (Mark 9:23).
5) Ability to choose: Man is the only creation in God’s order that has a free choice. When God touches the lion, he bows and roars. When He touches the sheep, they bow and bleat and the list goes on. Man is the only created being that has the right of free choices and can therefore say Yes or No to his maker. God does not force man to do anything because He created him in His image and likeness. It is man’s prerogative to determine his destiny. He is free to choose light or darkness, righteousness or sin, heaven or hell, a life of relevance or pleasure, etc.
God created us simply to reflect His glory. He created us to extend the atmosphere of Heaven to earth. He made us in His image so that we can love Him and worship Him wholeheartedly. He created us so that we will partake with Him the fulfillment and joy of creation. How are you reflecting your Maker to your world? Jesus is the express image of the glory of God (Colossians 1:15-18). Accepting Him as Lord and Savior is critical to manifesting the glory of God.
Have a blessed new month in Jesus name.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Human beings are flesh and blood but God is a Spirit (John 4:24). God doesn’t have a physical body like we humans but He has a form. He has eyes (2 Chronicles 16:9), has feet (Isaiah 66:1), has hands (Deuteronomy 26:7-8), has a back part (Exodus 33:23), has ears (Isaiah 59:1-2),etc. After God formed man out of the dust of the earth, He breathed into his nostrils the breath of life thereby transfering a part of Himself into man. Human beings are the zenith of God’s creation, created in His image and likeness. Below are some vital truths of how we share in the divine order:
1) Ability to relate: Animals associate while humans relate. Mere associating is a superficial way of relating; a relating that is limited to the mind. God is a Spirit and to worship Him must be in Spirit and in truth. God is looking for relationships that transcend just body and mind hence He created man in His image to be able to relate with Him spiritually. It is only those whose spirits have been recreated in Christ that can truly worship God. God is a relational God, always coming daily to meet Adam( the first man) in the cool of the day for fellowship. He made an helper for Adam because He affirmed that it is not good for man to be alone.
2) Ability to create: It is true that God didn’t finish the work of creation in the six days of creation. God created the raw materials of the earth and left the finished products to man. He created the vegetation, the trees and left creation of furniture, buildings, etc to man to complete. In essence, man is co-creator with God. The ability to create resides in him. There is something every man and woman is wired to produce and contribute to creation. I pray you discover and deploy yours in Jesus name.
3) Ability to lead: After God created the earth, He gave man dominion over the works of His hands. He leased the earth to mankind to oversee and superintend and He gave him the capability to function as the ruler of the earth. “The heaven, even the heavens are the Lord’s but the earth He has given to the children of men” (Psalm 115:16). We are to rule over the earth and its elements in cooperation with God. Unfortunately, after the fall of man, he lost part of this rulership power which was restored back after Christ resurrected from the grave.
4) Ability to imagine: God gave a renewed, enlightened and supersonic mind to Adam (the first man) at creation. Adam named all the animals at creation. He had such a robust and fertile imagination. Whatever name Adam deemed fit to call animals, so be it. This fertile and robust imagination was contaminated when Adam disobeyed, and contaminated mankind with the virus of sin. It is true whatever you are able to conceive and believe and act upon will become a reality with time in your life (Mark 9:23).
5) Ability to choose: Man is the only creation in God’s order that has a free choice. When God touches the lion, he bows and roars. When He touches the sheep, they bow and bleat and the list goes on. Man is the only created being that has the right of free choices and can therefore say Yes or No to his maker. God does not force man to do anything because He created him in His image and likeness. It is man’s prerogative to determine his destiny. He is free to choose light or darkness, righteousness or sin, heaven or hell, a life of relevance or pleasure, etc.
God created us simply to reflect His glory. He created us to extend the atmosphere of Heaven to earth. He made us in His image so that we can love Him and worship Him wholeheartedly. He created us so that we will partake with Him the fulfillment and joy of creation. How are you reflecting your Maker to your world? Jesus is the express image of the glory of God (Colossians 1:15-18). Accepting Him as Lord and Savior is critical to manifesting the glory of God.
Have a blessed new month in Jesus name.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Handling Temptation (October 2012).
“But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and sin when it is full-grown, brings forth death” (James 1:14-15)
The process of sin and death starts with temptation and enticement. For Satan to plunge the whole mankind into sin, he started with tempting Eve. It is true temptation in itself is not sin but tempting offers and situations must be avoided like a plague. The human flesh has cravings and desires, and Satan who is the mastermind behind temptation knows every individual’s tendencies. He knows those who are inclined and weak towards jealousy (King Saul), women (King Solomon), greed (Gehazi), pride (King Nebuchadnezzar), cheating and lying (Jacob), anger (Moses), etc. If temptation is not nipped in the bud, it produces sin and death. An African folktale tells about a hunter who went hunting and found a fancy lion cub. It appealed to him so much that he brought the cub to the village. When the villagers saw the little lion, they told the hunter to return it to the bush. But the hunter was adamant saying it is young, harmless and he can handle it. He kept the lion cub in a safe place and began to feed it with chicken. As the lion grew, he started feeding it with goats and still insisted on keeping it. As the lion was growing so was the lion’s appetite for blood and flesh. Long story made short, the lion eventually mauled the hunter and his entire family.
Temptation starts with an evil, ungodly desire. If succumbed to, it becomes sin. When sin is full grown like the lion cub, it kills. I pray you and I always find grace to stop the process of temptation becoming sin and producing death. Below are ways of overcoming temptations:
1) Acknowledge divine grace always: Grace is a lifter and also an upholder. None of us is a match to the cravings of the flesh and to Satan’s enticements, but the grace of God in us puts us over and above. “When its sin versus grace, grace wins hands down” (Romans 5:20, MSG). We are not alone during temptation, we must always realize our sufficiency is of God, and when temptation knocks on our door, we should remember divine grace.
2) Cultivating a habit of regular prayer: Jesus instructed His disciples to pray, “Lead us not into temptation and deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:13). The truth is anyone can yield to temptation but prayer is a fortress that builds up our inner defenses and also provides us with spiritual covering and protection.
3) Exercise in Godliness: The word ‘exercise’ in 1 Timothy 4:7 where we are instructed to exercise ourselves in godliness is from the Greek word ‘gumnaze’ where the word gymnasium emanates. The Bible enjoins us to work out spiritually and become spiritually fit. Job’s way of working out spiritually is by compelling his eyes not to look lustfully at a woman not his wife (Job 31:1). David’s way of working out was to memorize and deliberately hide God’s Word in his heart (Psalm 119:9,11).
4) Have a strategy: Temptation always have a pattern. We all have vulnerable moments when we are most prone to yield to sin. Know your weak moments because the tempter knows it. The Bible says we must be mindful of Satan’s schemes so that he doesn’t outwit us (2 Corinthians 2:11). Be proactive when it comes to handling temptation.
5) Flee temptation: Undoubtedly, the best way to handle temptation is to flee from it. We should allow the fear of God permeate deep into us such that whenever we are tempted to sin, the only thing we should consider is the way out of it. You cannot bring fire into your bosom without having your clothes burnt, neither can you walk on hot coals without having your feet seared (Proverbs 6: 27-28).
CONCLUSION: Handling temptation successful starts from having a right heart. Genuine salvation in Christ gives the recipient a heart transplant. The heart of stone is removed and a heart of flesh that loves God is implanted. Receive Jesus today and allow Him to keep working on your heart.
Have a blessed new month.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Delete ReplyReply ForwardSpamMovePrint Actions NextPrevious
The process of sin and death starts with temptation and enticement. For Satan to plunge the whole mankind into sin, he started with tempting Eve. It is true temptation in itself is not sin but tempting offers and situations must be avoided like a plague. The human flesh has cravings and desires, and Satan who is the mastermind behind temptation knows every individual’s tendencies. He knows those who are inclined and weak towards jealousy (King Saul), women (King Solomon), greed (Gehazi), pride (King Nebuchadnezzar), cheating and lying (Jacob), anger (Moses), etc. If temptation is not nipped in the bud, it produces sin and death. An African folktale tells about a hunter who went hunting and found a fancy lion cub. It appealed to him so much that he brought the cub to the village. When the villagers saw the little lion, they told the hunter to return it to the bush. But the hunter was adamant saying it is young, harmless and he can handle it. He kept the lion cub in a safe place and began to feed it with chicken. As the lion grew, he started feeding it with goats and still insisted on keeping it. As the lion was growing so was the lion’s appetite for blood and flesh. Long story made short, the lion eventually mauled the hunter and his entire family.
Temptation starts with an evil, ungodly desire. If succumbed to, it becomes sin. When sin is full grown like the lion cub, it kills. I pray you and I always find grace to stop the process of temptation becoming sin and producing death. Below are ways of overcoming temptations:
1) Acknowledge divine grace always: Grace is a lifter and also an upholder. None of us is a match to the cravings of the flesh and to Satan’s enticements, but the grace of God in us puts us over and above. “When its sin versus grace, grace wins hands down” (Romans 5:20, MSG). We are not alone during temptation, we must always realize our sufficiency is of God, and when temptation knocks on our door, we should remember divine grace.
2) Cultivating a habit of regular prayer: Jesus instructed His disciples to pray, “Lead us not into temptation and deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:13). The truth is anyone can yield to temptation but prayer is a fortress that builds up our inner defenses and also provides us with spiritual covering and protection.
3) Exercise in Godliness: The word ‘exercise’ in 1 Timothy 4:7 where we are instructed to exercise ourselves in godliness is from the Greek word ‘gumnaze’ where the word gymnasium emanates. The Bible enjoins us to work out spiritually and become spiritually fit. Job’s way of working out spiritually is by compelling his eyes not to look lustfully at a woman not his wife (Job 31:1). David’s way of working out was to memorize and deliberately hide God’s Word in his heart (Psalm 119:9,11).
4) Have a strategy: Temptation always have a pattern. We all have vulnerable moments when we are most prone to yield to sin. Know your weak moments because the tempter knows it. The Bible says we must be mindful of Satan’s schemes so that he doesn’t outwit us (2 Corinthians 2:11). Be proactive when it comes to handling temptation.
5) Flee temptation: Undoubtedly, the best way to handle temptation is to flee from it. We should allow the fear of God permeate deep into us such that whenever we are tempted to sin, the only thing we should consider is the way out of it. You cannot bring fire into your bosom without having your clothes burnt, neither can you walk on hot coals without having your feet seared (Proverbs 6: 27-28).
CONCLUSION: Handling temptation successful starts from having a right heart. Genuine salvation in Christ gives the recipient a heart transplant. The heart of stone is removed and a heart of flesh that loves God is implanted. Receive Jesus today and allow Him to keep working on your heart.
Have a blessed new month.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Delete ReplyReply ForwardSpamMovePrint Actions NextPrevious
Monday, October 1, 2012
The Incredible Power of Hope
“For there is hope for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its tender shoots will not cease” (Job 14:7).
Hope and faith are intertwined. The line between them is very thin. However, while hope is futuristic, faith is more about the present. Hope is to cherish a desire with anticipation. A dream is defined as a cherished hope. While hope holds the future in view, faith downloads portions of the future into present reality. While faith obtains, hope sustains and upholds the desires till they become realities.
A notable Christian author said when there is hope in the future, there is power in the present. Hope is also rightly defined as faith in the future. People commit heinous crimes, commit suicides and engage in several ungodly acts partly because they don’t have confidence in the future. Hope, when it is alive and based on the truth of the Word of God is a very potent force (Ecclesiastes 9:4). Below are some considerations about hope:
1. Hope is a necessity: Hope is waiting on God for the fulfillment of His Word and promises to us. There is need to wait on the Lord because God will not make all His plans for us happen overnight or within one year. God does not make overnight successes, rather He makes people successful over many nights. Joseph, though had the promise had to wait 13 years to become Governor of Egypt. Abraham had to hope against all hope for 25 years before the fulfillment of his son, Isaac.
2. God is a God of hope: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13). Apostle Paul affirmed in this scripture that God is a God of hope. He further prayed that the church will abound in hope. God has some desires concerning His church that He is anticipating on. He is hoping His church will come to maturity and also to the fullness of Christ. He is patiently and long-sufferingly hoping that His church will align herself fully to His will.
3. The consummation of our faith will occur by hope: Consummate means complete in every detail. The conclusion of every genuine Christian is glorious and honorable. There is a day of glory awaiting every true Christian. We look forward to this glorious day of transformation and translation by hope (1 John 3:2-3). Three virtues: Faith, Hope and Love transcend time into eternity. One of the three is hope in Christ. Jesus Christ in us is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27). We have the hope of resurrection that as Jesus rose from the grave, we will also rise to a glorious dawn whenever we leave this part of eternity.
4. Hope does not disappoint: False hope disappoints but genuine hope based on God’s Word does not disappoint. It was revealed to Simeon in Luke 2:25 that he was going to set his eyes on Jesus, the Messiah. This hope kept Simeon alive till Jesus was brought into the temple in Jerusalem for dedication. The Bible says surely there is a future and a hope, and the expectations of the righteous shall not be cut off (Proverbs 23:18). It is God's intention to perform His good word for our future and also bring us to a desired haven (Jeremiah 29:10-14).
5. Hope is an anchor: Our hope in Christ is like an anchor that holds in the storm (Hebrews 6:19). Just like the ship is anchored to the shore and isn’t swayed nor carried away by the waves of the sea, hope will not allow us to be carried away by the storms of life. We live in perilous times, darkness has released its fangs and it’s on the rampage but the Bible enjoins the Christian to arise and shine the light of God. One sure way to arise is to arise in hope because our Redeemer, Jesus Christ lives forever.
CONCLUSION: Hope is powerful if only it is focused on God and His word. Many people operate in false hope that will not bring them a successful outcome. What is your hope based upon? Is it based on Christ the solid rock?
Have a blessed new month in Jesus name.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Hope and faith are intertwined. The line between them is very thin. However, while hope is futuristic, faith is more about the present. Hope is to cherish a desire with anticipation. A dream is defined as a cherished hope. While hope holds the future in view, faith downloads portions of the future into present reality. While faith obtains, hope sustains and upholds the desires till they become realities.
A notable Christian author said when there is hope in the future, there is power in the present. Hope is also rightly defined as faith in the future. People commit heinous crimes, commit suicides and engage in several ungodly acts partly because they don’t have confidence in the future. Hope, when it is alive and based on the truth of the Word of God is a very potent force (Ecclesiastes 9:4). Below are some considerations about hope:
1. Hope is a necessity: Hope is waiting on God for the fulfillment of His Word and promises to us. There is need to wait on the Lord because God will not make all His plans for us happen overnight or within one year. God does not make overnight successes, rather He makes people successful over many nights. Joseph, though had the promise had to wait 13 years to become Governor of Egypt. Abraham had to hope against all hope for 25 years before the fulfillment of his son, Isaac.
2. God is a God of hope: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13). Apostle Paul affirmed in this scripture that God is a God of hope. He further prayed that the church will abound in hope. God has some desires concerning His church that He is anticipating on. He is hoping His church will come to maturity and also to the fullness of Christ. He is patiently and long-sufferingly hoping that His church will align herself fully to His will.
3. The consummation of our faith will occur by hope: Consummate means complete in every detail. The conclusion of every genuine Christian is glorious and honorable. There is a day of glory awaiting every true Christian. We look forward to this glorious day of transformation and translation by hope (1 John 3:2-3). Three virtues: Faith, Hope and Love transcend time into eternity. One of the three is hope in Christ. Jesus Christ in us is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27). We have the hope of resurrection that as Jesus rose from the grave, we will also rise to a glorious dawn whenever we leave this part of eternity.
4. Hope does not disappoint: False hope disappoints but genuine hope based on God’s Word does not disappoint. It was revealed to Simeon in Luke 2:25 that he was going to set his eyes on Jesus, the Messiah. This hope kept Simeon alive till Jesus was brought into the temple in Jerusalem for dedication. The Bible says surely there is a future and a hope, and the expectations of the righteous shall not be cut off (Proverbs 23:18). It is God's intention to perform His good word for our future and also bring us to a desired haven (Jeremiah 29:10-14).
5. Hope is an anchor: Our hope in Christ is like an anchor that holds in the storm (Hebrews 6:19). Just like the ship is anchored to the shore and isn’t swayed nor carried away by the waves of the sea, hope will not allow us to be carried away by the storms of life. We live in perilous times, darkness has released its fangs and it’s on the rampage but the Bible enjoins the Christian to arise and shine the light of God. One sure way to arise is to arise in hope because our Redeemer, Jesus Christ lives forever.
CONCLUSION: Hope is powerful if only it is focused on God and His word. Many people operate in false hope that will not bring them a successful outcome. What is your hope based upon? Is it based on Christ the solid rock?
Have a blessed new month in Jesus name.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Thursday, August 9, 2012
The Daniel Generation (August 2012)
“As for these four young men, God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams” (Daniel 1:17)
Daniel was one of many Jewish captives in Babylon during the time of King Nebuchadnezzar. He was a Jew who operated as a top public servant for about 60 years in the organized world system of Babylon and Medo-Persia. He earned the respect of the 4 kings that he served as adviser and counselor because he solved very knotty problems for them. He rose from a chief administrator position in King Nebuchadnezzar’s cabinet to the third position in the entire country in King Belshazzar’s cabinet (Daniel 2:48; Daniel 5:29). He prospered in the reign of King Darius and King Cyrus of Medo-Persia (Daniel 6:28).
A Daniel corporation of our day is the fast food chain Chick-fil -A which was founded by Truett Cathy. It is the largest privately owned fast food chain in the USA with over 1600 branches in 39 states. The owners of this corporation are Christians who are resolutely upholding Biblical values, for example the restaurants don’t open on Sundays. This corporation is one of the envy of its industry with a sales figure of $4.5 billion in 2011. These days, God is set on raising Daniels in all spheres of life that will excel. Below are some vital points why Daniel excelled in Babylon.
1. Daniel didn’t forget his heritage: As a young trainee in King Nebuchadnezzar's palace he maintained his spiritual convictions and persuasions. The king’s strategy was to totally overhaul the young men’s thinking, language, diet and identity by teaching them for 3 years the Babylonian way. Though Daniel learned the culture of the Babylonians, he was never overtaken nor contaminated by it. He adjusted well to a foreign land and culture without compromising the law of his God. He demonstrated being in the world and not being a part of it.
2. Daniel had a prayer life: It was Daniel’s habit to kneel three times a day in prayers (Daniel 6:10). He carried his spirituality to the marketplace. He harnessed physical and spiritual resources to make a difference in Babylon. Though very intelligent, he went beyond his natural intelligence to employ spiritual resources to solve national problems (Daniel 2). Because of his prayerfulness, he carried God’s presence which became his glory and shield when thrown in the lion’s den.
3. Daniel had integrity: He stood as a powerful witness of God in the foreign heathen land of Babylon. When his detractors conspired against him, they could not find any fault in him (Daniel 6:4-5). His life was above reproach. He was a man of impeccable character. Another word for character is control; Daniel had control over his natural appetites and cravings.
4. Daniel modeled excellence: He attracted enemies in his workplace because he was extremely good on his job. As an old man on the job, he was still preferred over and above younger people because of his excellent spirit (Daniel 6:3). Because he was a problem solver for the kings he worked for, interpreting dreams and revealing God’s mind to them, he was not easily replaceable on his job which was why he lasted six decades as a top public servant in Babylon and Medo-Persia. Many who will like to boycott patronizing Chick fil A because of its Biblical values may not be able to because of their nice waffle fries and chicken sandwich. When you are very good in what you do, you become indispensable.
5. Daniel faced grave opposition: Because of his devotion for God, his favor with the powers that be and his influence, he was conspired against by his colleagues who plotted to throw him in the lion’s den (Daniel 6:4-5). The CEO of Chick-fil- A granted a recent interview where he stated his company’s belief in the Biblical traditional marriage of male and female. Mayors of major cities, corporations, politicians, gay rights activists, etc have risen up strongly against this Daniel Corporation.But Daniel triumph over his enemies because God was with him.
God is seeking to raise Daniels in this generation. Daniels are those believers that will be uncompromising in their convictions in the marketplace. Because of their resoluteness in standing for God, He will endow them supernaturally with problem solving skills and also promote them to positions of prominence and authority, so that they will be a voice and mighty witness for Him in a depraved and dark world. Dare to belong to this generation today and you will experience the glory of God in your life.
Ade(Gboyega) Esan
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Daniel was one of many Jewish captives in Babylon during the time of King Nebuchadnezzar. He was a Jew who operated as a top public servant for about 60 years in the organized world system of Babylon and Medo-Persia. He earned the respect of the 4 kings that he served as adviser and counselor because he solved very knotty problems for them. He rose from a chief administrator position in King Nebuchadnezzar’s cabinet to the third position in the entire country in King Belshazzar’s cabinet (Daniel 2:48; Daniel 5:29). He prospered in the reign of King Darius and King Cyrus of Medo-Persia (Daniel 6:28).
A Daniel corporation of our day is the fast food chain Chick-fil -A which was founded by Truett Cathy. It is the largest privately owned fast food chain in the USA with over 1600 branches in 39 states. The owners of this corporation are Christians who are resolutely upholding Biblical values, for example the restaurants don’t open on Sundays. This corporation is one of the envy of its industry with a sales figure of $4.5 billion in 2011. These days, God is set on raising Daniels in all spheres of life that will excel. Below are some vital points why Daniel excelled in Babylon.
1. Daniel didn’t forget his heritage: As a young trainee in King Nebuchadnezzar's palace he maintained his spiritual convictions and persuasions. The king’s strategy was to totally overhaul the young men’s thinking, language, diet and identity by teaching them for 3 years the Babylonian way. Though Daniel learned the culture of the Babylonians, he was never overtaken nor contaminated by it. He adjusted well to a foreign land and culture without compromising the law of his God. He demonstrated being in the world and not being a part of it.
2. Daniel had a prayer life: It was Daniel’s habit to kneel three times a day in prayers (Daniel 6:10). He carried his spirituality to the marketplace. He harnessed physical and spiritual resources to make a difference in Babylon. Though very intelligent, he went beyond his natural intelligence to employ spiritual resources to solve national problems (Daniel 2). Because of his prayerfulness, he carried God’s presence which became his glory and shield when thrown in the lion’s den.
3. Daniel had integrity: He stood as a powerful witness of God in the foreign heathen land of Babylon. When his detractors conspired against him, they could not find any fault in him (Daniel 6:4-5). His life was above reproach. He was a man of impeccable character. Another word for character is control; Daniel had control over his natural appetites and cravings.
4. Daniel modeled excellence: He attracted enemies in his workplace because he was extremely good on his job. As an old man on the job, he was still preferred over and above younger people because of his excellent spirit (Daniel 6:3). Because he was a problem solver for the kings he worked for, interpreting dreams and revealing God’s mind to them, he was not easily replaceable on his job which was why he lasted six decades as a top public servant in Babylon and Medo-Persia. Many who will like to boycott patronizing Chick fil A because of its Biblical values may not be able to because of their nice waffle fries and chicken sandwich. When you are very good in what you do, you become indispensable.
5. Daniel faced grave opposition: Because of his devotion for God, his favor with the powers that be and his influence, he was conspired against by his colleagues who plotted to throw him in the lion’s den (Daniel 6:4-5). The CEO of Chick-fil- A granted a recent interview where he stated his company’s belief in the Biblical traditional marriage of male and female. Mayors of major cities, corporations, politicians, gay rights activists, etc have risen up strongly against this Daniel Corporation.But Daniel triumph over his enemies because God was with him.
God is seeking to raise Daniels in this generation. Daniels are those believers that will be uncompromising in their convictions in the marketplace. Because of their resoluteness in standing for God, He will endow them supernaturally with problem solving skills and also promote them to positions of prominence and authority, so that they will be a voice and mighty witness for Him in a depraved and dark world. Dare to belong to this generation today and you will experience the glory of God in your life.
Ade(Gboyega) Esan
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Sunday, July 1, 2012
A Highway for God (July 2012).
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness, prepare the way of the Lord, make straight path in the desert, a highway for our God” (Isaiah 40:3)
The prophet Isaiah in the above text was telling the people of his time to make preparation for the visit of God. John the Baptist also echoed the same words in Matthew 3:3 as he prepared the Israelites for the coming of Jesus Christ the Messiah. In the days of Isaiah when kings want to travel, they sent two sets of messengers ahead of them – the herald and the repairer of the breach (Isaiah 58:12). The herald is the announcer announcing the intending coming of the king. The second sets of messengers are the repairers of the breach. Their own job is to repair broken bridges, build new bridges, patch the highway, expand the highway the king will be travelling in and generally make the route of the king more expansive and totally devoid of encumbrances. The king will not usually travel till the highway is prepared, and the reason for this is because the king usually have a large retinue accompanying him with treasures, goodies, etc. Whenever a king arrives, it is said he has come in all his glory. The queen of Sheba had camels that brought gold, spices and special stones (2 Chronicles 9:1).
In like manner, God wants to come into our lives with His blessings and fullness but there is need for us to prepare the highway He will travel in. Below are three vital areas we need to prepare in our lives for His visit:
Prepare the way in your heart: The doorway of God into our lives is our heart. Jesus said, “Behold I stand at the door and knock, if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20). If the doorway of our heart is wide open for God, it means it is wide open for the heavy duty blessings He wants to deliver. The Bible enjoins born again believers to keep vigilant watch over their hearts because that is where life starts (Proverbs 4:23, MSG). Our hearts must allow God room to operate by regularly meditating on Him.
Prepare the way in your priorities: Our priorities are things we give utmost attention to. Our time, talents and treasures flow in the direction of our priorities. Our lives center on our priorities. Jesus commands us to make God and His kingdom our priority (Matthew 6:33). In God, all things hold together and He alone should be the threshold of our lives. Chinua Achebe, the African author said things fall apart when the center cannot hold. When things become the center of our lives, other aspects of our lives become displaced. Jesus alone is the Center that can hold all facets of our lives together (Colossians 1:17). Put Him right where He should be today!
Prepare the way in your expectations: It is common knowledge that when an important guest is coming to visit our homes, churches or communities, we make preparations in the form of adjustments. We clean, renovate, cook meals, and generally get prepared because we are EXPECTING a VIP. If we are truly expecting the VIP of VIPs in our lives, our conduct will reflect it. Our aim in preparing for special guests is to please and make them glad. Our life goal and aim should be to please our Maker. The Bible says God travels the Highway of Holiness and no darkness is in Him at all (Isaiah 35:8). What adjustments have you made in 2012 to warrant the coming of the King with His fullness into your life?
Conclusion: The coming of Jesus is imminent, and it is only those who are prepared for His coming that will be raptured and not be ashamed at His coming. The five foolish virgins were left out of the wedding banquet with the Bridegroom because they were unprepared. The five wise ones who had made adequate preparations were granted entrance (Matthew 25:1-12). In what areas of your life are you coming short and need to make adjustments? Receive the grace of God to make the preparations and adjustments today and you will be glad you did. The King is eager to come as you make Him a glorious highway.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
The prophet Isaiah in the above text was telling the people of his time to make preparation for the visit of God. John the Baptist also echoed the same words in Matthew 3:3 as he prepared the Israelites for the coming of Jesus Christ the Messiah. In the days of Isaiah when kings want to travel, they sent two sets of messengers ahead of them – the herald and the repairer of the breach (Isaiah 58:12). The herald is the announcer announcing the intending coming of the king. The second sets of messengers are the repairers of the breach. Their own job is to repair broken bridges, build new bridges, patch the highway, expand the highway the king will be travelling in and generally make the route of the king more expansive and totally devoid of encumbrances. The king will not usually travel till the highway is prepared, and the reason for this is because the king usually have a large retinue accompanying him with treasures, goodies, etc. Whenever a king arrives, it is said he has come in all his glory. The queen of Sheba had camels that brought gold, spices and special stones (2 Chronicles 9:1).
In like manner, God wants to come into our lives with His blessings and fullness but there is need for us to prepare the highway He will travel in. Below are three vital areas we need to prepare in our lives for His visit:
Prepare the way in your heart: The doorway of God into our lives is our heart. Jesus said, “Behold I stand at the door and knock, if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20). If the doorway of our heart is wide open for God, it means it is wide open for the heavy duty blessings He wants to deliver. The Bible enjoins born again believers to keep vigilant watch over their hearts because that is where life starts (Proverbs 4:23, MSG). Our hearts must allow God room to operate by regularly meditating on Him.
Prepare the way in your priorities: Our priorities are things we give utmost attention to. Our time, talents and treasures flow in the direction of our priorities. Our lives center on our priorities. Jesus commands us to make God and His kingdom our priority (Matthew 6:33). In God, all things hold together and He alone should be the threshold of our lives. Chinua Achebe, the African author said things fall apart when the center cannot hold. When things become the center of our lives, other aspects of our lives become displaced. Jesus alone is the Center that can hold all facets of our lives together (Colossians 1:17). Put Him right where He should be today!
Prepare the way in your expectations: It is common knowledge that when an important guest is coming to visit our homes, churches or communities, we make preparations in the form of adjustments. We clean, renovate, cook meals, and generally get prepared because we are EXPECTING a VIP. If we are truly expecting the VIP of VIPs in our lives, our conduct will reflect it. Our aim in preparing for special guests is to please and make them glad. Our life goal and aim should be to please our Maker. The Bible says God travels the Highway of Holiness and no darkness is in Him at all (Isaiah 35:8). What adjustments have you made in 2012 to warrant the coming of the King with His fullness into your life?
Conclusion: The coming of Jesus is imminent, and it is only those who are prepared for His coming that will be raptured and not be ashamed at His coming. The five foolish virgins were left out of the wedding banquet with the Bridegroom because they were unprepared. The five wise ones who had made adequate preparations were granted entrance (Matthew 25:1-12). In what areas of your life are you coming short and need to make adjustments? Receive the grace of God to make the preparations and adjustments today and you will be glad you did. The King is eager to come as you make Him a glorious highway.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Divine Wisdom (June 2012)
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17)
Divine wisdom is heavenly wisdom which is from above and also above all (John 3:31). This is in clear contrast to demonic and diabolical wisdom (James 3:15-16) and also human and intellectual type of wisdom. Divine wisdom produces peace and pleasantness (Proverbs 3:17), and it cannot be compared to human, common sense wisdom.
The Bible Knowledge commentary defines wisdom as being SKILLED in Godly living. Skill is the ability to do something dexterously or very well. By divine wisdom, we are able to handle life challenges and issues very well. We have the right perspective to life by the wisdom of God. By divine wisdom we rule, reign and live life maximally and limitlessly.
Below are some truths about divine wisdom:
Divine wisdom is a personality: In Proverbs 8:22-31, wisdom was presented as a personality who worked with the Creator while creating the universe. Divine wisdom is the foundation on which everything that will endure and last is built. Jesus Christ is the Wisdom and also the Power of God (1 Corinthians 1:24). By wisdom God founded the earth and by understanding He established the heavens (Proverbs 3:19). Jesus is the Wisdom of God who was there at the beginning when God created the world. To possess Christ is to possess divine wisdom.
Divine wisdom is steeped in mysteries: “But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7). “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! (Romans 11:33). God’s mysteries are deep, unfathomable realities that cannot be accessed or comprehended by the human mind. The deep things of God (His wisdom) are only revealed and made manifest by the Spirit of God. As our fear and reverence of God increases, we are able to access divine wisdom which beautifies, enlightens and enhances our lives.
Divine wisdom versus human wisdom: The foolishness of God commences where human wisdom ends. To the human, unregenerate mind the preaching of the gospel (divine wisdom) sounds nonsensical, but therein lies the salvation and deliverance of mankind. Human wisdom doesn’t work miracles but divine wisdom is altogether miraculous. Divine wisdom isn’t against rational thinking; divine wisdom understands human wisdom but human wisdom does not understand divine wisdom. To access divine wisdom, one must be willing to lay aside his/her human wisdom. “Don’t fool yourself. Don’t think that you can be wise merely by being up to date with the times. Be God’s fool – that’s the path to true wisdom. What the world calls smart, God calls stupid” (1 Corinthians 3:18-19, MSG)
CONCLUSION: God doesn’t want His children to operate human/intellectual wisdom alone. Human wisdom is not sufficient to handle the issues and challenges of life, and also to live life limitlessly as God desires for His children (John 10:10b). God is calling His children to a deeper and closer walk with Him where He will divulge and regularly impart them with His wisdom that will make them shine as stars in this present world. As we desire this Wisdom above rubies and gold, we become an astonishment to our world.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Divine wisdom is heavenly wisdom which is from above and also above all (John 3:31). This is in clear contrast to demonic and diabolical wisdom (James 3:15-16) and also human and intellectual type of wisdom. Divine wisdom produces peace and pleasantness (Proverbs 3:17), and it cannot be compared to human, common sense wisdom.
The Bible Knowledge commentary defines wisdom as being SKILLED in Godly living. Skill is the ability to do something dexterously or very well. By divine wisdom, we are able to handle life challenges and issues very well. We have the right perspective to life by the wisdom of God. By divine wisdom we rule, reign and live life maximally and limitlessly.
Below are some truths about divine wisdom:
Divine wisdom is a personality: In Proverbs 8:22-31, wisdom was presented as a personality who worked with the Creator while creating the universe. Divine wisdom is the foundation on which everything that will endure and last is built. Jesus Christ is the Wisdom and also the Power of God (1 Corinthians 1:24). By wisdom God founded the earth and by understanding He established the heavens (Proverbs 3:19). Jesus is the Wisdom of God who was there at the beginning when God created the world. To possess Christ is to possess divine wisdom.
Divine wisdom is steeped in mysteries: “But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7). “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! (Romans 11:33). God’s mysteries are deep, unfathomable realities that cannot be accessed or comprehended by the human mind. The deep things of God (His wisdom) are only revealed and made manifest by the Spirit of God. As our fear and reverence of God increases, we are able to access divine wisdom which beautifies, enlightens and enhances our lives.
Divine wisdom versus human wisdom: The foolishness of God commences where human wisdom ends. To the human, unregenerate mind the preaching of the gospel (divine wisdom) sounds nonsensical, but therein lies the salvation and deliverance of mankind. Human wisdom doesn’t work miracles but divine wisdom is altogether miraculous. Divine wisdom isn’t against rational thinking; divine wisdom understands human wisdom but human wisdom does not understand divine wisdom. To access divine wisdom, one must be willing to lay aside his/her human wisdom. “Don’t fool yourself. Don’t think that you can be wise merely by being up to date with the times. Be God’s fool – that’s the path to true wisdom. What the world calls smart, God calls stupid” (1 Corinthians 3:18-19, MSG)
CONCLUSION: God doesn’t want His children to operate human/intellectual wisdom alone. Human wisdom is not sufficient to handle the issues and challenges of life, and also to live life limitlessly as God desires for His children (John 10:10b). God is calling His children to a deeper and closer walk with Him where He will divulge and regularly impart them with His wisdom that will make them shine as stars in this present world. As we desire this Wisdom above rubies and gold, we become an astonishment to our world.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
The Little Foxes (May 2012)
“Catch us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines, for our vines have tender grapes” (Songs of Solomon 2:15)
The book of the Songs of Solomon is about the love relationship between a woman (the Shulamite) and King Solomon. The book is essentially about love, intimacy and relationship. In the above scriptures, the two lovers affirm that little things affect their relationship and they express their determination to get rid of the little foxes. A dagger is small compared to a sword but it can kill as well. In reality, what affects our relationship with God, spouse, family members and other loved ones are seemingly little insignificant things. These little foxes have potential to wrought great damage in our lives because we don’t pay serious attention to them. We think they don’t really matter, and because of our carelessness these little things are allowed to fester and become great things impairing on our lives adversely. They are weeds allowed to grow which eventually choke good seeds in our vineyards. Highlighted below are some little foxes:
1. The fox of ingratitude: An African proverb says that the person that was done good, and never came back to offer thanks is like a thief that stole from someone. The fact is that humans hate ingratitude and God also hates ingratitude (Luke 17:17-18). Ingratitude robs our relationship of intimacy. A Christian who is always offering thanks and gratitude to God will always sense His presence in an unusual manner. The antidote for spiritual dryness, stagnation and lack of interest in the things of God in a Christian’s life is to always count his blessings (not losses) and offer thanks to God for them always.
2. The fox of bitterness: The Bible makes it clear that unchecked bitterness chokes the grace of God in our lives and can cause devastation that will affect many including generations coming after (Hebrews 12:15). We should borrow a cue from the life of Naomi who became justifiably angry and bitter after losing a husband and two children in a foreign land. A woman called pleasantness (Naomi) changed her name to Mara (bitterness) because of the adversities and pain life had inflicted on her. However, Naomi refused to allow bitterness to fester in her. And because she refused to nurse bitterness in our soul, God changed her story making her to rather nurse a baby (Obed) at old age (Ruth 4:16-17). Naomi through faith in God and her willingness to help our daughter in law (Ruth) turned a bitter experience to sweet experience.
3. The fox of evil thoughts: Many Christians pay little attention to their thought life. The general assumption is that it doesn’t really matter what I think. Many do not fully realize how impactful our thoughts affect our lives. Many do not see a correlation between their predominant thought patterns and the direction their life takes. Where the mind goes is where the man will go. The Good News Translation of the Bible says “Be careful how you think, your life is shaped by your thoughts” (Proverbs 4:23). The forces whether good or evil that governs our lives are released from within us (Matthew 12:35). Cain harbored envious thoughts against his brother Abel and it resulted into murder. Amnon harbored lustful thoughts against his half sister (Tamar) and consequently raped her. King Nebuchadnezzar harbored prideful thoughts and he was turned to an animal for seven years as a result. Evil thoughts will always produce evil actions.
Other little foxes that have great potential to wrought serious devastation on our relationships and lives that often escape our attention include doubt, prayerlessness, carnality or worldliness, discouragement, self pity, gossip and excessive sorrow. Receive grace in this month of grace to unplug and undo these foxes from your vineyards in Jesus name. Have a blessed new month.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
The book of the Songs of Solomon is about the love relationship between a woman (the Shulamite) and King Solomon. The book is essentially about love, intimacy and relationship. In the above scriptures, the two lovers affirm that little things affect their relationship and they express their determination to get rid of the little foxes. A dagger is small compared to a sword but it can kill as well. In reality, what affects our relationship with God, spouse, family members and other loved ones are seemingly little insignificant things. These little foxes have potential to wrought great damage in our lives because we don’t pay serious attention to them. We think they don’t really matter, and because of our carelessness these little things are allowed to fester and become great things impairing on our lives adversely. They are weeds allowed to grow which eventually choke good seeds in our vineyards. Highlighted below are some little foxes:
1. The fox of ingratitude: An African proverb says that the person that was done good, and never came back to offer thanks is like a thief that stole from someone. The fact is that humans hate ingratitude and God also hates ingratitude (Luke 17:17-18). Ingratitude robs our relationship of intimacy. A Christian who is always offering thanks and gratitude to God will always sense His presence in an unusual manner. The antidote for spiritual dryness, stagnation and lack of interest in the things of God in a Christian’s life is to always count his blessings (not losses) and offer thanks to God for them always.
2. The fox of bitterness: The Bible makes it clear that unchecked bitterness chokes the grace of God in our lives and can cause devastation that will affect many including generations coming after (Hebrews 12:15). We should borrow a cue from the life of Naomi who became justifiably angry and bitter after losing a husband and two children in a foreign land. A woman called pleasantness (Naomi) changed her name to Mara (bitterness) because of the adversities and pain life had inflicted on her. However, Naomi refused to allow bitterness to fester in her. And because she refused to nurse bitterness in our soul, God changed her story making her to rather nurse a baby (Obed) at old age (Ruth 4:16-17). Naomi through faith in God and her willingness to help our daughter in law (Ruth) turned a bitter experience to sweet experience.
3. The fox of evil thoughts: Many Christians pay little attention to their thought life. The general assumption is that it doesn’t really matter what I think. Many do not fully realize how impactful our thoughts affect our lives. Many do not see a correlation between their predominant thought patterns and the direction their life takes. Where the mind goes is where the man will go. The Good News Translation of the Bible says “Be careful how you think, your life is shaped by your thoughts” (Proverbs 4:23). The forces whether good or evil that governs our lives are released from within us (Matthew 12:35). Cain harbored envious thoughts against his brother Abel and it resulted into murder. Amnon harbored lustful thoughts against his half sister (Tamar) and consequently raped her. King Nebuchadnezzar harbored prideful thoughts and he was turned to an animal for seven years as a result. Evil thoughts will always produce evil actions.
Other little foxes that have great potential to wrought serious devastation on our relationships and lives that often escape our attention include doubt, prayerlessness, carnality or worldliness, discouragement, self pity, gossip and excessive sorrow. Receive grace in this month of grace to unplug and undo these foxes from your vineyards in Jesus name. Have a blessed new month.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
Monday, April 2, 2012
The Redemptive Power in the Blood of Jesus (April 2012).
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” (Ephesians 1:7).
In this month of Easter, it is important for us to revisit the cross of crucifixion and the precious blood that flowed from it. The blood of Jesus flowed from seven major parts of His body: His head, back, side, two hands and His two feet. Each of this flow of blood from His body holds significant meaning for the Christian. There are no coincidences with God.
HIS HEAD: The Roman soldiers twisted a crown of thorns and placed it on Jesus’ head. They also struck His head with a reed (Mark 15:17-19). His scalp was battered, bruised and mangled, and blood flowed freely from His head. The head of a man is the pinnacle, crown and chief of his/her life. Whatever falls on the head whether blessings or curses affect the destiny of the person. Jesus carried the curse of our lives on His head when He was crowned with thorns; thorns signify a curse. A token of frustration, hardship, pain and defeat. Jesus was crowned with thorns and released the crown of glory on our heads.
HIS BACK: Jesus’ back was beaten with scourge. A scourge is a whip with many tentacles that has bones and metals attached to it. It is more of a weapon than a whip. His back was totally disfigured, He became an object of horror through the beatings, and from His appearance one would scarcely know He was a man(Isaiah 52:14, NLT). Jesus needed to shed His blood from His back because of our healing, wholeness and health. He was beaten so we could be whole, He was whipped so we could be healed (Isaiah 53:5).
HIS HANDS: The hands of Jesus were nailed to the cross, the nails pierced His hands and blood flowed freely from His hands. Our hands are symbols of labor, productivity and wealth (Proverbs 10:4). When Jesus shed His blood through His hands, He was breaking the yoke and power of poverty from our lives. He was revoking the curse that God placed on mankind after the Fall of Man (Genesis 3:17-19). Jesus paid the price through His blood to remove poverty in our lives and release prosperity.
HIS FEET: Blood also flowed freely from the feet of Jesus when they were nailed to the cross. God released a prophecy in Genesis 3:15 after the Fall of Man that the serpent (Satan) will bruise the heel of the Seed of the Woman (Jesus), while the Seed of the Woman will in turn bruise the head of the serpent. Satan in masterminding the death of Jesus confirmed prophecy when blood flowed from the heels of Jesus. In turn, Jesus smashed his head (Satan) through the cross. Jesus’ feet was bruised so that our feet will be strong for trampling on demonic powers (Luke 10:18-19). The feet are a symbol of dominion.
HIS SIDE: The side of Jesus was pierced with a spear, and blood and water came out (John 19:34). The blood and water that flowed from Jesus’ side is the double cure for sin. Augustus Toplady writing by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit penned the hymn “Rock of Ages”. The blood and the water that flowed from His side signify the forgiveness and cleansing of sin which is only possible at the cross of Jesus Christ.
CONCLUSION: Dearly beloved, for the blood to be efficacious, it has to be shed and applied. Jesus has shed His blood for mankind, it is our responsibility to apply it by believing in the redemptive work of Christ on the cross. Is your faith solely and firmly on the cross of Christ? If not,make adjustment in this Easter season before it is too late. Happy Easter in advance.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.pittsburgh.net
In this month of Easter, it is important for us to revisit the cross of crucifixion and the precious blood that flowed from it. The blood of Jesus flowed from seven major parts of His body: His head, back, side, two hands and His two feet. Each of this flow of blood from His body holds significant meaning for the Christian. There are no coincidences with God.
HIS HEAD: The Roman soldiers twisted a crown of thorns and placed it on Jesus’ head. They also struck His head with a reed (Mark 15:17-19). His scalp was battered, bruised and mangled, and blood flowed freely from His head. The head of a man is the pinnacle, crown and chief of his/her life. Whatever falls on the head whether blessings or curses affect the destiny of the person. Jesus carried the curse of our lives on His head when He was crowned with thorns; thorns signify a curse. A token of frustration, hardship, pain and defeat. Jesus was crowned with thorns and released the crown of glory on our heads.
HIS BACK: Jesus’ back was beaten with scourge. A scourge is a whip with many tentacles that has bones and metals attached to it. It is more of a weapon than a whip. His back was totally disfigured, He became an object of horror through the beatings, and from His appearance one would scarcely know He was a man(Isaiah 52:14, NLT). Jesus needed to shed His blood from His back because of our healing, wholeness and health. He was beaten so we could be whole, He was whipped so we could be healed (Isaiah 53:5).
HIS HANDS: The hands of Jesus were nailed to the cross, the nails pierced His hands and blood flowed freely from His hands. Our hands are symbols of labor, productivity and wealth (Proverbs 10:4). When Jesus shed His blood through His hands, He was breaking the yoke and power of poverty from our lives. He was revoking the curse that God placed on mankind after the Fall of Man (Genesis 3:17-19). Jesus paid the price through His blood to remove poverty in our lives and release prosperity.
HIS FEET: Blood also flowed freely from the feet of Jesus when they were nailed to the cross. God released a prophecy in Genesis 3:15 after the Fall of Man that the serpent (Satan) will bruise the heel of the Seed of the Woman (Jesus), while the Seed of the Woman will in turn bruise the head of the serpent. Satan in masterminding the death of Jesus confirmed prophecy when blood flowed from the heels of Jesus. In turn, Jesus smashed his head (Satan) through the cross. Jesus’ feet was bruised so that our feet will be strong for trampling on demonic powers (Luke 10:18-19). The feet are a symbol of dominion.
HIS SIDE: The side of Jesus was pierced with a spear, and blood and water came out (John 19:34). The blood and water that flowed from Jesus’ side is the double cure for sin. Augustus Toplady writing by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit penned the hymn “Rock of Ages”. The blood and the water that flowed from His side signify the forgiveness and cleansing of sin which is only possible at the cross of Jesus Christ.
CONCLUSION: Dearly beloved, for the blood to be efficacious, it has to be shed and applied. Jesus has shed His blood for mankind, it is our responsibility to apply it by believing in the redemptive work of Christ on the cross. Is your faith solely and firmly on the cross of Christ? If not,make adjustment in this Easter season before it is too late. Happy Easter in advance.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.pittsburgh.net
Pleasing God (March 2012).
The dictionary defines pleasing someone as giving pleasure or satisfaction to the person. Pleasing someone also means gratifying the person. It’s awesome that a mighty God who is the Beginning with no beginning and the Ending with no ending seeks to be gratified by mortal, finite and failing Man.
The utmost desire of every child of God should be to please Him. We are able to accomplish this desire when we first discover what pleases Him and then exert ourselves to do these things in the power of the Holy Spirit. Below are some already known truths of things that please God:
1. Walking by faith: Faith is simply having an unwavering mind in God and His promises. Abraham pleased God by his faith. He came to a state of full persuasion that what God has promised him, He will deliver. His faith was credited to him as right standing with God. What we feed on determines whether we have faith in our hearts or fear. Excessive feeding on God’s word will birth more faith in us (Romans 10:17).
2. Generosity towards others: God is benevolent and kind. He spreads His goodness and generosity to all, even to those who hate Him. Whenever He sees this attribute in us, He is pleased. The scriptures say,” Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God” (Hebrews 13:16). God considers reaching out to the needy, doing acts of kindness, helping others, and generally extending blessing to others as acts of worship.
3. Genuine Repentance: The Bible says the angels in Heaven rejoice over every sinner that truly repents on earth. The angels rejoice because they see the joyous mood of God over a repentant sinner. The prodigal son was received back home with pomp and pageantry after having a true change of mind which resulted in a change of lifestyle. Will you make Heaven happy today by repenting and accepting Christ as Lord and Savior if you have not done so?
4. Walking in the Spirit: The human nature work contrary to the Spirit of God in our lives. Those who walk according to the falling human nature cannot please God (Romans 8:8). On the contrary, when born again believers tune to the Holy Spirit within them always to help counter the indulgences of the human nature, this action pleases God. When our conduct is controlled by the Holy Spirit, God becomes the controller of our lives.
5. Witnessing for Christ: Jesus is the sacrifice of God for the sins of the world. Humankind is not saved by good works but by faith in Christ. God needs mouthpieces that will tell the entire world that salvation from sin and its consequences is found solely and only in Jesus Christ. The Bible says the feet of those who declare Jesus saves to a dying world are beautiful. God is pleased when we witness about Christ.
CONCLUSION: Other acts such as a continuous life of praise and worship; standing for truth, righteousness and justice; serving faithfully with one’s gifts and talents, honoring God’s servants, etc also pleases God. May your life begin to please your God in Jesus name.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
The utmost desire of every child of God should be to please Him. We are able to accomplish this desire when we first discover what pleases Him and then exert ourselves to do these things in the power of the Holy Spirit. Below are some already known truths of things that please God:
1. Walking by faith: Faith is simply having an unwavering mind in God and His promises. Abraham pleased God by his faith. He came to a state of full persuasion that what God has promised him, He will deliver. His faith was credited to him as right standing with God. What we feed on determines whether we have faith in our hearts or fear. Excessive feeding on God’s word will birth more faith in us (Romans 10:17).
2. Generosity towards others: God is benevolent and kind. He spreads His goodness and generosity to all, even to those who hate Him. Whenever He sees this attribute in us, He is pleased. The scriptures say,” Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God” (Hebrews 13:16). God considers reaching out to the needy, doing acts of kindness, helping others, and generally extending blessing to others as acts of worship.
3. Genuine Repentance: The Bible says the angels in Heaven rejoice over every sinner that truly repents on earth. The angels rejoice because they see the joyous mood of God over a repentant sinner. The prodigal son was received back home with pomp and pageantry after having a true change of mind which resulted in a change of lifestyle. Will you make Heaven happy today by repenting and accepting Christ as Lord and Savior if you have not done so?
4. Walking in the Spirit: The human nature work contrary to the Spirit of God in our lives. Those who walk according to the falling human nature cannot please God (Romans 8:8). On the contrary, when born again believers tune to the Holy Spirit within them always to help counter the indulgences of the human nature, this action pleases God. When our conduct is controlled by the Holy Spirit, God becomes the controller of our lives.
5. Witnessing for Christ: Jesus is the sacrifice of God for the sins of the world. Humankind is not saved by good works but by faith in Christ. God needs mouthpieces that will tell the entire world that salvation from sin and its consequences is found solely and only in Jesus Christ. The Bible says the feet of those who declare Jesus saves to a dying world are beautiful. God is pleased when we witness about Christ.
CONCLUSION: Other acts such as a continuous life of praise and worship; standing for truth, righteousness and justice; serving faithfully with one’s gifts and talents, honoring God’s servants, etc also pleases God. May your life begin to please your God in Jesus name.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Fruitfulness in Affliction (February 2012).
"And the name of the second he called Ephraim: For God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction” (Genesis 41:52)
Fruitfulness simply means being productive and being profitable. In the above scripture, Joseph named his second child Ephraim which means fruitfulness. Joseph rose to Prime Minister position in Egypt where he was a slave and a prisoner. Despite his travails and hardship in the land of bondage, God favored Him and His gifts brought him to limelight.
The essence of this write-up is to highlight the fact that despite our circumstances in life, we can live fruitful lives which in turn will bring deliverance and breakthrough to us. The Israelites despite being in Egypt the place of bondage were fruitful and they multiplied and were so numerous in the land that the new King Pharaoh became intimidated by them. The Bible says the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew (Exodus 1:7, 12-13). Leah, the first wife of Jacob kept on having baby boys in a bad marriage where she was unloved by her husband and in serious rivalry with her sister, Rachel (Genesis 29). Jacob was extremely fruitful in the employment of Laban who cheated him for twenty years; his fruitfulness eventually brought him his deliverance from the grip of Laban(Genesis 30-31).
In all the above scenarios, the common thing about all the personalities was that despite their ugly circumstances, they were still able to get enviable results. Below are some ways by which we can prosper and be fruitful in unpleasant situations:
Discover what you have in your hands and begin to use it: One definition of Fruitfulness is to maximize returns on what has been given. We all carry seeds of destiny that has been given to us to create a desirable future. For Joseph it was his ability to dream. For the widow of the prophet in 2 Kings 4:1-7, it was a little despised jar of oil. For Moses, it was the rod in his hand. For Tim Tebow, the American quarterback footballer, it is his willingness to openly demonstrate his faith by kneeing on one foot and praying after every touchdown by his team that has led to “tebowing” becoming a word recognized in the English language. May God open our eyes to recognize Heaven’s deposit in our lives. Once discovered it is up to us to develop and deploy the gift accordingly.
Have a right mindset: Our lives gravitate towards our predominant thoughts. The quality of our minds determines the quality of our lives. Not too long ago, a lady who had immigration challenges approached me to pray for her for divine intervention. While talking to her, I realized she felt her breakthrough and deliverance lie solely in regularizing her papers. I tried explaining to her that though it was important to regularize her papers, she could still go ahead and get good financial returns with a gift she has. Her mind was firmly set on immigration papers as the meal ticket she requires and she was unwilling to do something about a gift that could reward her very handsomely. Her mind was set wrongly. Joseph was described as a prosperous slave in Potiphar’s house because he carried God’s presence and also had the mindset of a king (Genesis 39:2).
Keep on keeping on faithfully: It was Joseph’s faithfulness, a right mindset, his willingness to always serve his gift and talent and the favor of God that made him Prime Minister in the same country he was once a slave and a prisoner. He became fruitful in the land of his affliction, and that fruitfulness turned to his deliverance and promotion (Scripture reference: Genesis 39-41). When the heavenly deposit in you matches up with faithfulness in you, God will leverage on that to bring the desired deliverance to you. Moses was said to be faithful and dependable as a servant of the most High (Numbers 12:7).
CONCLUSION: To be fruitful in affliction, one needs God’s presence. This presence is made manifest on us after receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. It is not so much what we can accomplish by ourselves, what makes success is what God can do through a yielded and obedient life. Go ahead and be fruitful against all odds. Have a blessed new month.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
Fruitfulness simply means being productive and being profitable. In the above scripture, Joseph named his second child Ephraim which means fruitfulness. Joseph rose to Prime Minister position in Egypt where he was a slave and a prisoner. Despite his travails and hardship in the land of bondage, God favored Him and His gifts brought him to limelight.
The essence of this write-up is to highlight the fact that despite our circumstances in life, we can live fruitful lives which in turn will bring deliverance and breakthrough to us. The Israelites despite being in Egypt the place of bondage were fruitful and they multiplied and were so numerous in the land that the new King Pharaoh became intimidated by them. The Bible says the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew (Exodus 1:7, 12-13). Leah, the first wife of Jacob kept on having baby boys in a bad marriage where she was unloved by her husband and in serious rivalry with her sister, Rachel (Genesis 29). Jacob was extremely fruitful in the employment of Laban who cheated him for twenty years; his fruitfulness eventually brought him his deliverance from the grip of Laban(Genesis 30-31).
In all the above scenarios, the common thing about all the personalities was that despite their ugly circumstances, they were still able to get enviable results. Below are some ways by which we can prosper and be fruitful in unpleasant situations:
Discover what you have in your hands and begin to use it: One definition of Fruitfulness is to maximize returns on what has been given. We all carry seeds of destiny that has been given to us to create a desirable future. For Joseph it was his ability to dream. For the widow of the prophet in 2 Kings 4:1-7, it was a little despised jar of oil. For Moses, it was the rod in his hand. For Tim Tebow, the American quarterback footballer, it is his willingness to openly demonstrate his faith by kneeing on one foot and praying after every touchdown by his team that has led to “tebowing” becoming a word recognized in the English language. May God open our eyes to recognize Heaven’s deposit in our lives. Once discovered it is up to us to develop and deploy the gift accordingly.
Have a right mindset: Our lives gravitate towards our predominant thoughts. The quality of our minds determines the quality of our lives. Not too long ago, a lady who had immigration challenges approached me to pray for her for divine intervention. While talking to her, I realized she felt her breakthrough and deliverance lie solely in regularizing her papers. I tried explaining to her that though it was important to regularize her papers, she could still go ahead and get good financial returns with a gift she has. Her mind was firmly set on immigration papers as the meal ticket she requires and she was unwilling to do something about a gift that could reward her very handsomely. Her mind was set wrongly. Joseph was described as a prosperous slave in Potiphar’s house because he carried God’s presence and also had the mindset of a king (Genesis 39:2).
Keep on keeping on faithfully: It was Joseph’s faithfulness, a right mindset, his willingness to always serve his gift and talent and the favor of God that made him Prime Minister in the same country he was once a slave and a prisoner. He became fruitful in the land of his affliction, and that fruitfulness turned to his deliverance and promotion (Scripture reference: Genesis 39-41). When the heavenly deposit in you matches up with faithfulness in you, God will leverage on that to bring the desired deliverance to you. Moses was said to be faithful and dependable as a servant of the most High (Numbers 12:7).
CONCLUSION: To be fruitful in affliction, one needs God’s presence. This presence is made manifest on us after receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. It is not so much what we can accomplish by ourselves, what makes success is what God can do through a yielded and obedient life. Go ahead and be fruitful against all odds. Have a blessed new month.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Towards a Successful and Fulfilling 2012 (January)
Welcome to the leap year of 2012. It is our year of harvest. As we LEAP into this year, kindly consider the points below to enjoy a successfully 2012:
1)Love God, align yourself with Him and worship Him: God travels the Highway of Holiness (Isaiah 35:8). Anything or anyone that will break your fellowship with God is an enemy. Run from them. Strive towards holiness by grace (Romans 6:14). Note that holiness or unrighteous living starts from the mind. Watch your mind this year (Proverbs 4:23). Jesus can return in 2012, we will not be left behind at the Rapture in Jesus name. The scriptures says we should worship God in spirit and in truth because God is a Spirit (John 4:23-24). This means our spirit man must be alive in Christ, we must be born again, and be sincere in our hearts when we worship God. Extolling and exalting God’s attributes regularly in worship is therapeutic and health to the soul. God’s desire is genuine worship and nothing else. Anyone who commits to meeting this desire of His will be tremendously blessed as a result.
2. Exit from the past: God is more interested in our future than in our past. The past is the past and it is gone forever. 2011 is gone forever. Learn your lessons and move on. Many are stuck in past failures, victories, successes, etc and this de-motivates them to reach for the future. In a time of hopelessness and captivity, God told the Israelites to forget the past as He is set to do a new thing in their lives (Isaiah 43:18-19). Apostle Paul’s main and constant goal was to keep forgetting the past and keep pressing towards the good future God had for him (Philippians 3:12-14).
3) Aspire to written down Goals: Regardless of whether you achieved all, some or none of your written down goals last year, set new ones again this year. Prayerfully set spiritual goals, financial goals, educational goals, family goals, career goals, etc. The NLT Bible in Proverbs 16:9 says, “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps”. Many Christians in the guise that their future is in the hand of God never plan and set goals. It is easier to steer a moving vehicle than a stationary one. Those who jumpstart the journey of life by goal setting are easily guided and directed to God’s will and ways. Someone once said that not all good ideas are God’s ideas, but all God’s ideas are good ideas. In 2012, you will have to unlearn, learn and relearn to accomplish new levels because of the rate at which knowledge is growing in the 21st century. However, good ideas will yield some good results and are therefore desirable. Much more desirable is God’s idea; just one idea from Heaven is enough to set us on a successful path forever. This year, seek good ideas but much more seek to know the mind of God.
4) Personal responsibility: Don’t play the blame game this year. Desist from pointing fingers at others for your failings and failure. Desist from passing the buck and complaining about who helps you and who doesn’t. The only constant Help you need is the Almighty God. Adopt this maxim this year, “If it’s going to be, it’s up to me”. Do your best and trust God to give you all the help you need. The Bible says whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for there is no work or device or knowledge in the grave where you are going (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Give 2012 and your destiny the best you can deliver. Diligence, according to Proverbs 12:27 in the NKJV version is defined as man’s precious possession. In other words, being able to persevere on a task and assignment and bring it to an accomplished end is a better asset than gold.
CONCLUSION: Apostle Paul became the great apostle by the machinery of the grace of God (1 Corinthians 15:10). The grace of God is the lubricant of the Christian journey. This year, do not waste His grace but exploit it maximally to effect the necessary changes in your personal life and also to do the aforementioned. Have a blessed new year!
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
1)Love God, align yourself with Him and worship Him: God travels the Highway of Holiness (Isaiah 35:8). Anything or anyone that will break your fellowship with God is an enemy. Run from them. Strive towards holiness by grace (Romans 6:14). Note that holiness or unrighteous living starts from the mind. Watch your mind this year (Proverbs 4:23). Jesus can return in 2012, we will not be left behind at the Rapture in Jesus name. The scriptures says we should worship God in spirit and in truth because God is a Spirit (John 4:23-24). This means our spirit man must be alive in Christ, we must be born again, and be sincere in our hearts when we worship God. Extolling and exalting God’s attributes regularly in worship is therapeutic and health to the soul. God’s desire is genuine worship and nothing else. Anyone who commits to meeting this desire of His will be tremendously blessed as a result.
2. Exit from the past: God is more interested in our future than in our past. The past is the past and it is gone forever. 2011 is gone forever. Learn your lessons and move on. Many are stuck in past failures, victories, successes, etc and this de-motivates them to reach for the future. In a time of hopelessness and captivity, God told the Israelites to forget the past as He is set to do a new thing in their lives (Isaiah 43:18-19). Apostle Paul’s main and constant goal was to keep forgetting the past and keep pressing towards the good future God had for him (Philippians 3:12-14).
3) Aspire to written down Goals: Regardless of whether you achieved all, some or none of your written down goals last year, set new ones again this year. Prayerfully set spiritual goals, financial goals, educational goals, family goals, career goals, etc. The NLT Bible in Proverbs 16:9 says, “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps”. Many Christians in the guise that their future is in the hand of God never plan and set goals. It is easier to steer a moving vehicle than a stationary one. Those who jumpstart the journey of life by goal setting are easily guided and directed to God’s will and ways. Someone once said that not all good ideas are God’s ideas, but all God’s ideas are good ideas. In 2012, you will have to unlearn, learn and relearn to accomplish new levels because of the rate at which knowledge is growing in the 21st century. However, good ideas will yield some good results and are therefore desirable. Much more desirable is God’s idea; just one idea from Heaven is enough to set us on a successful path forever. This year, seek good ideas but much more seek to know the mind of God.
4) Personal responsibility: Don’t play the blame game this year. Desist from pointing fingers at others for your failings and failure. Desist from passing the buck and complaining about who helps you and who doesn’t. The only constant Help you need is the Almighty God. Adopt this maxim this year, “If it’s going to be, it’s up to me”. Do your best and trust God to give you all the help you need. The Bible says whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for there is no work or device or knowledge in the grave where you are going (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Give 2012 and your destiny the best you can deliver. Diligence, according to Proverbs 12:27 in the NKJV version is defined as man’s precious possession. In other words, being able to persevere on a task and assignment and bring it to an accomplished end is a better asset than gold.
CONCLUSION: Apostle Paul became the great apostle by the machinery of the grace of God (1 Corinthians 15:10). The grace of God is the lubricant of the Christian journey. This year, do not waste His grace but exploit it maximally to effect the necessary changes in your personal life and also to do the aforementioned. Have a blessed new year!
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
From Glory To Glory (December 2011)
“There are also celestial bodies and terrestrial bodies, but the glory of the celestial is one and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for one star differs from another star in glory” (1 Corinthians 15:40-41).
The word glory in the greek is the word “doxa” and this means dignity, honor, beauty, majesty, magnificence, opulence. The above scriptures tell us about the glory of the sun, the moon and the different stars. Also, glory also refers to shining beauty as of a star. When something is operating at its fullest potential, it can be said to be displaying it’s glory for example the sun shining brightest at noon can be said to be in its full glory. Also, anyone optimizing his / her potential and achieving continued success can be said to be displaying glory. Below are some vital truths about glory:
1) Mankind is the zenith of the glory of God: Creation talks about the glory of God (Psalm 19:1-2). The above scripture refers to the glory of celestial and terrestrial bodies. Despite the magnificence of God’s creation, the pinnacle or apex of the glory of God is displayed through man. David echoes this clearly in Psalm 8:5-6, “For you have made him a little lower than the angels and you have crowned him with glory and honor. You have made him to have dominion over the works of your hands. You have put all things under his feet”. This also means every man carries some glory that God bestowed.
2) We are partakers of the glory of God: When Jesus was entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, He rode on a donkey that was made available to Him. As He entered Jerusalem, people came from all over and threw their clothes and palm trees on the road. The donkey was stepping on human clothes and was dignified because Jesus was riding on it. Everyone who truly submits to Jesus will surely become honorable with the honor of God, dignified with the dignity of Christ, and beautified with the beauty of Christ. Christ living in us is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).
3) We are reflectors of the glory of God: The glory the moon manifest is sourced from the sun. The moon does not generate energy on its own but the sun shines on it and its beauty is manifest. As the sun shines on the moon, the moon reflects that glory and it shines back on earth. In like manner, as we gaze on God’s glory with unveiled minds and walk in the light of His Word, His Holy Spirit shines on us and we reflect that beauty to the world around us. Scripture reference: 2 Corinthians 3:18. We are His conductors reflecting light from the Source.
4) God is glorified as we shine: When one looks up to the sky on a glorious night and see stars shining in their brilliance and also singly against a dark background, the beauty and splendor talks about the wisdom, creativity and greatness of God. The Christian in a dark and depraved world is the star that is to shine the wisdom, love, patience, creativity, power, mercy and knowledge of God to a dark and ignorant world. As we shine, God is tremendously glorified (Matthew 5:16).
CONCLUSION: As the year gradually comes to a close, the one desire in the heart of God is that His children will shine. The more we shine, the more we bring glory to God. The songwriter says, "When we walk with the Lord, in the light of His Word, what a glory He sheds on our way". Walking with the Lord in genuine worship of His person,submission to His will and confidence in His word will cause our paths to shine more and more(Proverbs 4:18). Glory is in varying degrees and cadre as the scripture above portends, as we team up with the King of glory, we manifest more of His glory.
Happy blessed December in Jesus name.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
The word glory in the greek is the word “doxa” and this means dignity, honor, beauty, majesty, magnificence, opulence. The above scriptures tell us about the glory of the sun, the moon and the different stars. Also, glory also refers to shining beauty as of a star. When something is operating at its fullest potential, it can be said to be displaying it’s glory for example the sun shining brightest at noon can be said to be in its full glory. Also, anyone optimizing his / her potential and achieving continued success can be said to be displaying glory. Below are some vital truths about glory:
1) Mankind is the zenith of the glory of God: Creation talks about the glory of God (Psalm 19:1-2). The above scripture refers to the glory of celestial and terrestrial bodies. Despite the magnificence of God’s creation, the pinnacle or apex of the glory of God is displayed through man. David echoes this clearly in Psalm 8:5-6, “For you have made him a little lower than the angels and you have crowned him with glory and honor. You have made him to have dominion over the works of your hands. You have put all things under his feet”. This also means every man carries some glory that God bestowed.
2) We are partakers of the glory of God: When Jesus was entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, He rode on a donkey that was made available to Him. As He entered Jerusalem, people came from all over and threw their clothes and palm trees on the road. The donkey was stepping on human clothes and was dignified because Jesus was riding on it. Everyone who truly submits to Jesus will surely become honorable with the honor of God, dignified with the dignity of Christ, and beautified with the beauty of Christ. Christ living in us is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).
3) We are reflectors of the glory of God: The glory the moon manifest is sourced from the sun. The moon does not generate energy on its own but the sun shines on it and its beauty is manifest. As the sun shines on the moon, the moon reflects that glory and it shines back on earth. In like manner, as we gaze on God’s glory with unveiled minds and walk in the light of His Word, His Holy Spirit shines on us and we reflect that beauty to the world around us. Scripture reference: 2 Corinthians 3:18. We are His conductors reflecting light from the Source.
4) God is glorified as we shine: When one looks up to the sky on a glorious night and see stars shining in their brilliance and also singly against a dark background, the beauty and splendor talks about the wisdom, creativity and greatness of God. The Christian in a dark and depraved world is the star that is to shine the wisdom, love, patience, creativity, power, mercy and knowledge of God to a dark and ignorant world. As we shine, God is tremendously glorified (Matthew 5:16).
CONCLUSION: As the year gradually comes to a close, the one desire in the heart of God is that His children will shine. The more we shine, the more we bring glory to God. The songwriter says, "When we walk with the Lord, in the light of His Word, what a glory He sheds on our way". Walking with the Lord in genuine worship of His person,submission to His will and confidence in His word will cause our paths to shine more and more(Proverbs 4:18). Glory is in varying degrees and cadre as the scripture above portends, as we team up with the King of glory, we manifest more of His glory.
Happy blessed December in Jesus name.
Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
http://gboyegae.blogspot.com
www.rccgpittsburgh.net
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