BE DILIGENT – September 2023 Newsletter

Text: Proverbs 10:4

Introduction

This marks the beginning of a new season and the last stretch of the year. Many people have earnestly prayed for things to take a better turn in their lives, yet breakthroughs remain elusive. The word “diligent” carries profound significance; it signifies persistence, hard work, and the commitment required to attain our goals. Diligence holds utmost importance in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to careers and hobbies. It distinguishes successful individuals from those struggling to achieve their aspirations.

Proverbs 10:4, an enduring verse from the Book of Proverbs in the Bible, imparts a profound lesson on the significance of diligence. It states, “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment in realizing our dreams. In this article, we will delve deeper into the concept of diligence, exploring its significance and offering practical insights on how it can pave the path to success as we approach the year’s end.

The Breakdown of the Writing

1) The Value of Consistent Effort

Diligence involves the unwavering and sincere application of effort towards a specific task or goal. There’s an African proverb that says, “Anyone who tastes the honey extracted from inside the rock will not mind the edge of the axe.” Let’s recall the story of the blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46-52; even amidst distractions, obstacles, and opposition, he persisted and cried out for help when he sensed Jesus passing by. His unyielding effort resulted in Jesus attending to him and restoring his sight. Similarly, in 1 Samuel 1:1-20, Hannah demonstrated relentless determination in her prayers to God, despite being mocked and misunderstood by the priest. Her diligence eventually led to her celebration and blessings.

Being diligent means refusing to give up, even when faced with obstacles or setbacks. It means maintaining focus on your goals and consistently working towards progress. It’s natural to feel discouraged when things don’t go as planned, but diligence requires us to keep pushing forward, even when our motivation wanes.

2) Diligence Leads to Wealth

The latter part of Proverbs 10:4 declares, “But diligent hands bring wealth.” While wealth often refers to financial prosperity, it can also encompass richness in experience, knowledge, and relationships. Diligence, when applied across various facets of life, can lead to success and abundance. Jacob’s story in Genesis 29:15-20 exemplifies how diligence can lead to wealth. He toiled for seven years to marry Rachel, and when faced with deception, he worked another seven years to attain his goal. Jacob’s diligence and hard work ultimately brought him wealth and success, making him a prosperous shepherd with a large family, abundant flocks, and numerous servants.

To be diligent in our pursuits can lead us toward a more prosperous and fulfilling future. In business, diligence can be the defining factor between success and failure. Many entrepreneurs face initial setbacks, but those who remain truly committed learn from their mistakes and persevere until they achieve success.

Conclusion

In our personal lives, diligence is essential in our relationships, health, and spiritual growth to yield positive results. Your diligence will drive you to seek a deeper connection with God through Jesus Christ and His plans for you. As Paul stated in Philippians 3:10, the desire to know Jesus and the power of His resurrection is the heartbeat of a diligent person. I encourage you to come to Jesus, make Him the Lord of your life, and allow Him to guide your focus and lead you to a successful path.

Let’s Pray

1) Lord Jesus, I thank You for Your love and grace upon me. Thank You for provision, safety, and abundant blessings.

2) My God and Father, I ask for forgiveness and mercy for any wrong steps I may have taken in my aspirations and ambitions.

3) Lord, I ask for Your guidance to sustain me on life’s journey. Help me to embrace diligence in my work as I await the manifestation of Your unstoppable blessings and favor. Amen.

John Aderogba, for ROPMI.

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ARISE AND PRAY – AUGUST NEWSLETTER

ARISE AND PRAY

Text: Luke 22:46

INTRODUCTION:

I’d like to commence this writing with the lyrics of a song: “Prayer is the key, prayer is the key, prayer is the master key, Jesus started with prayer and ended with prayer, prayer is the master key.” Prayer forms an essential foundation of faith in the life of every Christian. It serves as a means of communicating with God, expressing gratitude, seeking guidance and forgiveness, and finding solace. Toney Evans emphasizes that “The fuel that ignites the spiritual spark is prayer. Progress in the journey of faith is impossible without a prayer life, yet many Christians neglect it under the false assumption that they can get away with it.” (Pg.6).

Jesus Himself esteemed prayer and often spent solitary moments with God in prayer. In Luke 22:46, He urged His disciples to “arise and pray.” Aware that Satan, the accuser of believers, would assail His disciples, Jesus awakened their understanding of the significance of prayer. If Jesus Christ, the almighty and triumphant Master, could allocate time for fervent prayer, how much more should an ordinary person like you? Toney Evans further expounds, “When we truly grasp the vital importance of regular, sincere, private, and thoughtful prayer, we open ourselves to learning more about how to pray.” (pg.12).

There exists a profound connection between prayer and spiritual growth – regular prayer strengthens faith, enhances comprehension of God, and enriches the relationship with Him. When you rise and pray, you receive a stream of grace, forgiveness, and serenity, equipping you to conquer distressing circumstances. Prayer shifts the focus away from ourselves, providing clarity and purpose, enabling us to discern God’s plan for our lives. In this article, I will highlight certain points to invigorate your prayer life. These points are as follows:

  1. ARISE
  2. PRAY

The Breakdown of the Writing:

ARISE:

To arise signifies awakening mentally with a complete readiness to take action. It also involves taking decisive measures against a distressing experience that has long burdened you. This is reminiscent of what Jabez did in 1 Chronicles 4:10: “Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.’ And God granted his request.” (NIV). Jabez’s discomfort with his circumstances impelled him to rise and entreat his Creator. In Luke 22:46, Jesus questions His disciples, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.” These words hold a potent message for us today, encouraging us to “ARISE” in our spiritual journey. The term “ARISE” can be broken down into an acronym, representing four pivotal actions that deepen our connection with God and guard against the snares of temptation and despondency.

A – Acknowledge God’s Presence: Begin by acknowledging that God is perpetually with you. Similar to Jesus’ counsel to His disciples, maintain awareness of God’s presence in your life. This awareness keeps you centered on Him, enabling you to seek His guidance in daily pursuits.

R – Renew Your Relationship: “ARISE” entails renewing your relationship with God through prayer, scripture reading, and seeking His purpose for your life. Regularly engaging in these spiritual practices enhances your bond with God, allowing Him to reshape you from within.

I – Intensify Your Faith: As you “ARISE,” your faith should intensify. This entails trusting God even in complex or uncertain circumstances. Just as Jesus encouraged His disciples to pray, cultivate an unwavering belief that seeks God’s wisdom in all situations. By doing so, you can overcome the temptations that come your way.

S – Seek Strength in God: While you “ARISE,” seek strength from God. Trials and despondency may loom large, but with God’s strength, you can withstand them. Rely on His power and solicit His aid to resist temptation.

Bruce Wilkinson inquires, “When was the last time you were certain that God worked through you in such a way?” (Pg.16). If your answer is negative, it’s time to arise and propel yourself into the realm of breakthrough.

E – Empowered by God: Being empowered when you “ARISE” means tapping into the strength and guidance of a higher power. It allows you to develop a deeper sense of purpose, faith, and clarity, which can have a positive impact on every aspect of your life. Instead of feeling helpless or overwhelmed by life’s challenges, you can become more confident in your ability to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. When you arise, you can connect with the divine and cultivate a sense of inner peace that empowers you to live more fully and authentically.

PRAY:

To pray involves establishing earnest communication with God, activating your covenant rights through communion. E.M. Bounds asserts, “Prayer is not a sporadic or short-lived endeavor. It is not a voice that remains unheard and unnoticed in silence. It is a voice that reaches God’s ears and endures as long as God’s ear is open to sacred pleas, as long as God’s heart beats for holy matters.” (pg.9). While God is ever prepared to deliver, provide, and defend, He expects you to acknowledge His almighty power over your challenges. Toney Evans explains, “Prayer must be a constant presence in our lives because of its pivotal role. One reason prayer holds immense importance is that it signifies faith.” (pg.9).

Throughout the Bible, numerous instances illustrate seeking God’s guidance through prayer. James 5:16 emphasizes the power of the prayer of a righteous person. Hannah, the mother of Samuel, prayed for a son, and her request was granted (1 Samuel 1:10-11). Moses’ intercession for the Israelites led to God’s merciful response (Exodus 32:11-14). The apostles fervently prayed for Peter’s release in Acts 12:1-11, and God answered their plea by sending an angel. Serious prayer demands dedicated space. Find a tranquil environment devoid of distractions, focusing your heart and mind on God. You can use prepared prayers or recite the Lord’s Prayer, but the key is to communicate from your heart with authenticity. Intercede for others, and you’ll witness transformation in your own life. Prayer significantly impacts your journey with God. As you arise and earnestly pray, you gain strength and encouragement from the Lord. Ensure that prayer becomes an integral part of your daily routine. While praying, remember that you are connecting with the Father, who listens and responds. Armed with this assurance, you can pray confidently, aware that your Father loves and attends to you.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Jesus’ words in Luke 22:46 prompt us to “ARISE” in our spiritual quest. By recognizing God’s presence, renewing our relationship with Him, intensifying our faith, and seeking strength from Him, we can navigate life’s trials and avoid succumbing to temptation and despair. Matthew 6:6 encapsulates this sentiment: “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Ultimately, Jesus is the answer to our prayers, and you should create space in your life for Him to abide. Welcome Him today, and He will guide you through.

IT’S TIME TO PRAY:

  1. Acknowledge God’s goodness and express gratitude for His love.
  2. Seek God’s mercy and favor.
  3. Present your specific prayer requests.

References:

  1. Bruce Wilkinson, “The Prayer of Jabez: Breaking Through to the Blessed Life,” Multnomah Publishers Inc., Oregon, ©2000.
  2. E.M. Bounds, “Purpose In Prayer,” Moody Press, Challenge Publications, 1978. Jos, Nigeria, ISBN 978-137-300-8.
  3. Toney Evans, “Speak Out in Prayer,” Moody Press, Chicago, USA, ©2000, ISBN 0-8024-4368-0.

Written by:

John Aderogba, ROPMI.

 

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MOVE ON WITH A VICTOR’S MIND – July Newsletter

MOVE ON WITH A VICTOR’S MIND.

Text: Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV).

Introduction:

We are in the second half of the year already, and the journey is like a big mountain for many people because of the circumstances around them. Life is filled with ups and downs, victories and defeats. It is during times of adversity that our true character is tested. However, as believers, we have a powerful source of inspiration to help us overcome any obstacle and move forward with a victor’s mind. The Bible, a timeless guidebook, offers wisdom, encouragement, and examples of individuals who triumphed over adversity.

This article will explore some points that can inspire everyone to move on with Victor’s mindset. Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV) “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

The breakdown of the writing.

  1. Forget The Past: The first step towards moving on with a victor’s mind is to let go of the past. In his letter to the Philippians, apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of forgetting what is behind. Dwelling on past failures, disappointments, or hurts can hinder our progress. Instead, we should learn from our mistakes, seek forgiveness, and embrace the grace of God. By releasing the burdens of the past, we open ourselves up to new opportunities for growth and success.
  2. Strain Towards What is Ahead:

Moving on requires intentionally focusing on the future. Paul encourages us to strain toward what lies ahead, indicating the need for perseverance and determination. We should set goals, make plans, and work diligently towards them. While challenges may arise, having a clear vision of what lies ahead allows us to stay motivated and push through obstacles. By keeping our eyes fixed on the prize, we can move forward with confidence and purpose.

  1. Press On Towards Your Goal:

“If you don’t set a goal, you have nowhere to go.” Your goal will defiantly drive you to a successful end. The journey toward victory can be challenging. It requires endurance, resilience, and unwavering faith. Paul emphasizes the need to press on toward the goal. This means we must not give up or lose hope, even in adversity. God has called us to a higher purpose, and we can overcome any obstacle with His strength. By relying on His guidance and grace, we can persevere and achieve the prize that awaits us.

Conclusion:

Moving on with a victor’s mind is not always easy, but it is possible when we draw inspiration from the Bible. The text from Philippians 3:13-14 reminds us to forget the past, strain towards what lies ahead, and press on towards the goal. By applying these principles to our lives, we can overcome setbacks, embrace new opportunities, and ultimately achieve the victory that God has prepared for us. So, let us hold onto these words of wisdom, trusting in God’s faithfulness, and move forward with a victor’s mindset. Finally, you need Jesus as your Lord and Savior. He’s the only one that can lead you to a successful journey if you let him have His way in your life. Give your life to Him today. Let Us Pray: My God and Lord, I thank you for your life and grace upon my life. Thank you for your faithfulness over me. Dear Jesus, I put you in front of my journey as I go in this second part of this year and beyond. Guide me thou great Jehovah to and grand me wisdom and supernatural help win all the battles ahead of me. Amen

John Aderogba for ROPMI.

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