TAKE YOUR MIND OFF OBSTACLES. – MARCH 2024 NEWSLETTER

Text: Philippians 4:8
INTRODUCTION
In life, obstacles are inevitable. Whether they come in the form of personal challenges, professional setbacks, or unexpected circumstances, they have the power to derail your plans and dampen your spirits.
Satan uses obstacles as an instrument to distract your attention from focusing on God’s promises for you.However, it’s how you respond to these obstacles that truly define your character and shape your future. Instead of allowing obstacles to consume you, it’s essential to find ways to take your mind off them, allowing you to regain perspective, resilience, and ultimately, move forward with renewed strength and determination.
Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things.” (NIV)
This scripture encourages believers to focus their minds on positive and uplifting thoughts, even in the face of adversity. By shifting your focus away from obstacles and onto things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable, we can cultivate a mindset of resilience and hope.
In this article, some points shall be discussed to encourage everyone on what to do when faced with obstacles.
1) Practice Gratitude
When faced with obstacles, it’s easy to dwell on what’s going wrong. However, practicing gratitude can shift your perspective and help you focus on what’s going right. Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for, whether it’s the support of loved ones, small victories, or moments of joy. By cultivating a grateful heart, you can find strength and resilience to overcome obstacles with a positive mindset.
Gratitude is a powerful antidote to negativity and despair. When you intentionally acknowledge and appreciate the blessings in your life, even amidst challenges, you invite a sense of abundance and hope into your hearts. Rather than allowing obstacles to overshadow your thoughts and emotions, gratitude redirects your attention to the countless reasons you have to be thankful.
In times of adversity, it’s crucial to remind yourself of the silver linings, no matter how small they may seem. Perhaps it’s the unwavering support of friends and family who stand by your side, offering encouragement and a listening ear. Maybe it’s the small victories you achieve along the way, signaling progress and resilience in the face of obstacles. Even in the midst of turmoil, there are moments of joy and beauty waiting to be discovered a sunset painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, a heartfelt conversation that leaves you feeling understood and cherished, or a simple act of kindness from a stranger.
Cultivating gratitude requires intentional effort and practice that go along with songs of praises and thanksgiving. It involves setting aside time each day to reflect on your blessings and express appreciation for the people, experiences, and gifts that enrich your life.

2) Engage in Mindfulness.
Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment without judgment. When you’re faced with obstacles, your mind often wander to the past or future, leading to stress and anxiety. By practicing mindfulness, you can anchor yourself in the present moment, allowing you to respond to obstacles with clarity and composure. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or simply paying attention to your surroundings can help you stay grounded and focused amidst challenges.
I love the confession of David in Psalm 23 with the emphasis on verse 4: “…Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me…” He refocused his mind, not on the obstacles, but to see God with him to overcome the challenges.
In today’s fast-paced world, our minds are often inundated with worries about the future or regrets about the past, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from the God who is always present in time of trouble. When obstacles arise, this tendency to dwell on what has happened or what might happen can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety, making it difficult to effectively address the challenges at hand.
Mindfulness offers a powerful antidote to this cycle of rumination and worry. By consciously directing your attention to the present moment, you can cultivate a sense of clarity and calm that allows you to navigate obstacles with greater ease and resilience. Rather than getting swept away by thoughts of what could go wrong or what has already occurred, mindfulness encourages you to fully engage with your current experience, free from judgment or attachment.

3) Pursue Purposeful Activities.
Proverbs 16:27 says, “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop; idle lips are his mouthpiece.” Engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment can help take your minds off obstacles and provide a sense of purpose. Whether it’s pursuing a hobby, volunteering, or spending time with loved ones, investing in meaningful activities can help you regain perspective and tap into your inner strength. Focusing on things that bring you happiness and fulfillment, you can navigate obstacles with a sense of purpose and resilience.
Amidst the challenges and setbacks you face in life, it’s essential to carve out moments of joy and fulfillment that nourish your souls and remind you of what truly matters. Engaging in purposeful activities not only serves as a welcome distraction from your obstacles but also infuses your life with meaning and vitality, empowering you to face adversity with renewed vigor and resilience.
One of the most effective ways to take your minds off obstacles is by immersing yourself in hobbies and passions that bring you genuine pleasure and fulfillment. Whether it’s painting, gardening, playing music, or pursuing outdoor activities, hobbies provide an outlet for creativity and self-expression, allowing you to escape the pressures of daily life and enter a state of flow where time seems to stand still. By devoting time to activities that ignite our passion and spark your curiosity, you not only recharge your mental and emotional batteries but also gain valuable perspective on your challenges, realizing that there is more to life than the obstacles you face.

Conclusion:
Obstacles are a natural part of life, but they don’t have to define your journey. By taking your minds off obstacles and focusing on gratitude, mindfulness, and purposeful activities, you can cultivate a mindset of resilience, hope, and strength. As you strive to align your thoughts with things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable, you can overcome obstacles with grace and determination, emerging stronger and wiser on the other side. Finally, seek first the kingdom of God and its righteousness… i.e., give your life to Jesus Christ, the only master and Friend that can help you overcome obstacles

Let’s pray
☆ The Lord will open your eyes to see beyond obstacles around you. He will grant you strength and courage to overcome obstacles. You shall always be on the winning side.
☆ The Holy Spirit will help your mind to be focused and remind you of the presence of God with you in your challenges. God will lift your hand up above the obstacles that may want to hider your progress. Amen.

John Aderogba for ROPMI.

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Walk with the Wise – February Newsletter

Topic: Walk with the Wise

Text: Proverbs 13:20

INTRODUCTION:

In the journey of life, the company we keep often shapes our path and influences our decisions, vision, and goals. One Spanish adage says, “Tell me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are.” The people you journey with will determine how far and successful you will be. Proverbs 13:20 wisely states, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” This scripture holds profound relevance in our contemporary lives, emphasizing the impact of our associations on personal growth and well-being.

This article will unveil some points that the world encourages you and energizes you as you navigate through the journey of life.

  1. Learning from Experience:

Walking with the wise provides an opportunity to learn from the experiences of those who have traversed similar paths. Learning from experience will launch you into understanding, courage, motivation, strength, and assurance that your journey will be successful. Furthermore, learning from experience will guide you against the circles of the ungodly. Psalm 1:1 depicts David’s desire to dwell in the circles of people with a positive focus, as shown in his life experience. Choose people with eagle eyes and like-minded people to help you keep your vision and aspirations moving. You need to get rid of VDP (very drained people) and surround yourself with VIP (very inspirational people) to keep you on the track as you move on in life. I want you to know that, during a challenging career transition, guidance from a mentor not only provided valuable insights but also served as a source of inspiration, ultimately leading to professional success. In the labyrinth of life, the point “Learning from Experience” stands as a beacon, illuminating the profound impact of shared experiences. To walk with the wise is to embrace a journey enriched by the collective wisdom gained from those who have traversed similar paths. This encouragement encapsulates a powerful dynamic that extends far beyond mere guidance. It is a transformative force that molds individuals into wiser, more resilient beings. As we stride forward, let us be mindful of the richness bestowed upon us by those who have walked the path before, for in their experiences lies the key to unlocking our own potential.

  1. Emotional Support and Encouragement:

One thing that provides quick healing during the time of trouble and confusion is the positive emotional support that comes from the people around you. The support gained from wise companions provides relief and peace of mind. Life is filled with ups and downs, and having a circle of wise individuals can offer encouragement during tough times. A friend’s wise counsel and empathetic understanding can be a beacon of hope, fostering resilience and fortitude. In times of adversity, the significance of emotional support and encouragement becomes particularly pronounced. Surrounding oneself with wise companions is akin to building a robust fortress against life’s inevitable challenges. These individuals, possessing a wealth of experiences and sagacity, contribute more than just companionship; they become pillars of strength during tumultuous times. The symbiotic relationship between emotional support and resilience is profound. As the storms of life rage, the encouragement received from wise companions acts as a sturdy anchor, preventing one from being swept away by the turbulent currents. It fosters not only the ability to endure but also cultivates an inner strength and fortitude that proves invaluable in navigating the unpredictable seas of existence. This support network is a source of inspiration, reminding us that, even in the face of adversity, there are allies who stand beside us, ready to lend a listening ear, offer sage advice, and impart the strength needed to weather life’s storms.

  1. Fostering Personal Growth:

One African adage says, “Another person’s wisdom could not make people consider an elderly man a mad man.” Walking with the wise inherently promotes personal growth. Engaging with individuals who possess wisdom, experience, and a positive mindset encourages self-improvement. Surrounding oneself with wise individuals creates an environment conducive to personal growth. In the context of a book club, the exchange of ideas and perspectives becomes a catalyst for intellectual stimulation and self-reflection. The exposure to different viewpoints not only broadens one’s horizons but also challenges preconceived notions, fostering a continual process of learning and adaptation. Moreover, the wisdom shared within such a community extends beyond the intellectual realm. Interacting with individuals who embody positive mindsets and resilience contributes to the development of one’s emotional intelligence and coping mechanisms. In essence, fostering personal growth through engagement with wise and intellectually stimulating individuals goes beyond the acquisition of knowledge.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Proverbs 13:20 serves as a timeless reminder of the profound impact our companionships can have on our journey through life. Choosing to walk with the wise is not just a prudent decision but a transformative one. From learning through shared experiences to receiving emotional support and fostering personal growth, the path alongside the wise is filled with opportunities for enlightenment and fulfillment. Finally, the best way to walk with the wise is to accept Jesus Christ, your Lord and Savior, and He will guide you to the right people who would make your journey smooth.

LET US PRAY:

1) Father, let your hand rest upon me and my family in all areas of our lives in the name of Jesus.

2) Lord, connect me with the right-minded people who will lift up my hand for success.

3) Father in heaven, open my eyes to opportunities around me. Amen!

John Aderogba for ROPMI.

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LORD, BREATHE AFRESH ON ME – JANUARY 2024 NEWSLETTER

INTRODUCTION:

The breath of God is evidence of His power and strength in the life of man, infusing life into him to function as a living being. In the rhythm of life, there comes a profound longing for renewal, a desire for God to breathe afresh on weary souls. There is a tendency for someone to lose strength and courage due to life’s situations and challenges. Everybody needs to examine oneself and desire refreshment in preparation for a new beginning. The essence of people going on vacation is to relax and refresh mentally and physically.

In Genesis 2:7, after God created man, he could not do anything until God breathed into man; then, great ideas and innovation began to flow through man. It is the same process when feeling worn out and stuck – one needs to go back to God and breathe afresh for new revelation and innovation. In this article, some points that encourage positioning oneself for the move of God will be well explained.

1) Breathing New Life into Your Daily Struggles:

Life’s challenges can weigh heavily on the human soul, and the plea for renewal becomes more poignant. The prayerful request to “refresh a steadfast spirit” acknowledges the need for resilience and unwavering commitment. This point encourages believers to draw strength from God, allowing Him to breathe new life into their daily struggles.

2) Seeking Divine Revival:

To revive means to bring back to life and reposition for greater value and functions. Just as Ezekiel called for the breath of life to revive the lifeless, individuals yearn for a spiritual revival. This point emphasizes the importance of actively inviting the divine breath into our lives, anticipating a revitalization of purpose and passion.

3) Position Yourself for the New Breath of God:

The instruction of Jesus Christ to his disciples when preparing them for the fresh breath of God through the Holy Spirit empowerment was that they should wait and position themselves for the move. The metaphor of the four winds in Ezekiel’s vision symbolizes the comprehensive nature of divine renewal. It speaks to the idea that God’s breath can come from every direction, touching every aspect of our lives if we are rightly positioned. Believers are encouraged to be open to transformative winds, allowing God to breathe afresh into their relationships, careers, and personal growth.

Conclusion:

The imagery of breath infusing life into lifeless bones paints a vivid picture of spiritual resurrection. This point delves into the idea that God’s breath has the power to bring new life, resurrecting dormant dreams and passions. It encourages individuals to embark on a journey of spiritual rebirth, trusting in the divine breath to bring forth a vibrant and purposeful existence.

Finally, the quick way to receive God’s breath is to be on God’s side. This can only happen if you give your life to Jesus Christ. If you have not encountered Jesus Christ, He is calling you today; kindly accept His invitation and be saved.

Let’s Pray:

  1. Lord Jesus, I thank you for how far you have led me.
  2. My Lord and my Father, breathe afresh on me with great ideas and innovation.
  3. Lord, let me operate under divine favor this year. Amen!

John Aderogba for ROPMI.

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