CHANGE THE BATON – MAY 2024 NEWSLETTER

Topic: CHANGE THE BATON

Text: Ecclesiastes 3:1

INTRODUCTION

In the race of life, we often find ourselves running with a baton that represents our dreams, aspirations, and responsibilities. However, there comes a time when we must pass on this baton, embracing change and transformation along the way. This journey of passing the baton is not always easy, but it is essential for personal growth and fulfillment.

To change the baton could be: a change of strategy, location, ideology, friends and associates, a rearrangement of your focus, a change of job, a change of environment, and moving with the season.

There is time for everything. Ecclesiastes 3:1, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” This timeless verse reminds us that change is an inevitable part of life. Just as there are seasons in nature, there are seasons in our lives where we must let go of certain things and embrace new beginnings. The key is to recognize when it is time to change the baton and move forward with courage and faith.

Imagine a young professional who has dedicated years to climbing the corporate ladder. They have poured their heart and soul into their work, achieving success and recognition along the way. However, despite their accomplishments, they begin to feel a sense of restlessness and dissatisfaction. The baton they have been carrying no longer brings them the same sense of fulfillment it once did. They realize that it is time for a change, but the thought of letting go is daunting. This is the struggle of the individual. It is always difficult to let go of our way of doing things, even if it doesn’t yield good results.

In this writing, some points will be explained to encourage you on what to do at every crossroad.

1) Embracing Growth:

Within the dynamic fabric of life, change stands as the catalyst for growth and the harbinger of personal evolution. If you embrace growth in your life, it will rearrange your orientation and launch you into a new realm that will enlarge your capacity for a new move. This will expand your focus and connect you to your breakthrough.

Analogous to the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly, our journey towards self-actualization necessitates a willingness to embrace transformation. Rather than remaining tethered to the safety of the known, we must summon the fortitude to venture beyond our comfort zones and seize upon the myriad possibilities that lie beyond. By courageously confronting change, we unfurl our wings to soar towards the zenith of our potential, embodying resilience, adaptability, and boundless determination along the way.

2) Letting Go:

What is letting go? Let go of old ideas and methods to embrace new ones. Also, let go of your past failures and obstacles to set your focus right. Holding onto the past can hinder your progress and prevent you from moving forward. Sometimes, letting go of the baton is necessary to make room for new experiences and blessings in your life. While it may be difficult to release what is familiar, doing so allows us to open ourselves up to the infinite possibilities that lie ahead. Many people remain in a spot because of their inability to let go of their stereotyped way of doing things. Some are also redundant because of their egoistic character that prevents them from embracing new shifts that come with the change of time and season. For you to experience breakthroughs and advances in life, you must let go of something and drive yourself to change the baton.

3) Trusting in Divine Timing:

In moments of uncertainty, it is essential to trust in God’s plan for our lives. This trust is grounded in the belief that every event in our lives occurs according to a divine schedule. The Book of Ecclesiastes eloquently reminds us, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). This biblical wisdom assures us that our experiences, whether joyful or challenging, unfold in accordance with a higher purpose, and you need to key into this purpose to know when to change the baton at the appropriate time.

When we surrender control and place our faith in God’s timing, we acknowledge that our understanding is limited and that there is a greater plan at work. This act of surrender allows us to relinquish our anxieties and fears, providing a sense of peace and clarity. It is through this faith that we can navigate life’s transitions with a sense of calm, trusting that each phase of our journey is purposeful and guided by divine wisdom.

Conclusion:

Change is not always easy, but it is necessary for personal growth and fulfillment. As you journey through life, you must be willing to change the baton, letting go of the past and embracing new beginnings. By trusting in divine timing and having the courage to step into the unknown, you can unlock the full potential of your life and experience true joy and abundance.

Finally, with Jesus Christ in your life, it will be easy for you to embrace spiritual sensitivity that will encourage you to make a move to change the baton.

Prayer:

1) This season will change for your good.

2) The Lord will raise a voice of divine favor that connects you to your destiny helper.

3) Everything will turn around for your good.

4) God will grant you grace for visibility and favor shall be your new name.

John Aderogba for ROPMI

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Let us not become weary in doing good – April 2024 Newsletter

Text: Galatians 6:9

Scripture Text: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Introduction

“Try It Again” means there is hope, your victory is sure, you can make it. Moreover, it helps you gather momentum, leads you in a clear direction, and signifies you’re a winner. “Winners never quit…”

Life is an intricate tapestry woven with threads of adversity, each challenge serving as a litmus test for our resilience and steadfastness. Whether we find ourselves in pursuit of lofty dreams, grappling with formidable obstacles, or simply navigating the turbulent currents of everyday existence, the allure of capitulation often beckons with a seductive whisper. Yet, amid the tumult, the timeless wisdom of scripture echoes, reminding us of the paramount significance of perseverance and the divine assurance of eventual recompense for those who tenaciously press on. In this writing, we embark on a journey to explore three profound insights to contemplate when confronted with the daunting specter of surrender.

1) Resilience in Adversity:

Life inevitably presents us with challenges, but our response to adversity defines our character and trajectory. In the face of setbacks or failures, it’s natural to feel disheartened and tempted to abandon our pursuits. However, it’s precisely during these trying moments that our resilience is put to the test. Rather than succumbing to defeat, we must persevere with unwavering resolve. As the adage goes, “fall seven times, stand up eight.” Every setback serves as a chance for introspection, development, and a resurgence with greater fortitude.

2) Faith in the Process:

Having faith in the process means believing in the journey towards our goals, even when progress seems slow or obstacles arise. It involves embracing the journey’s ups and downs, understanding that growth often requires patience and resilience. Rick Warren explained in the writing that; “If you want to make it in a career, you have to respectfully show audacity. Sometimes, following God’s dream for your life requires audacity, too.” Audacity is the courage to think big, to show initiative, and to take risks for a dream while facing the possibility of failure. Like a marathon runner who trusts in their training regimen to carry them across the finish line, we must trust that our consistent efforts will lead us to success. This unwavering belief empowers us to stay focused and committed, regardless of the hurdles we encounter, knowing that each step forward brings us closer to our desired outcome.

3) Learning from Failure:

Rick Warren asserts in his daily devotional that; “Your witness to the world will come out of your weaknesses, not your strengths.” Sometimes, failure gives you the opportunity to discover the hidden treasure within you. In my elementary school days, most of the subjects that I always failed later became my best subjects and made me discover my teaching abilities. Because during the process of corrections done by my teachers, it opened me to the in-depth understanding and systematic ways of approaching my failure. When I became a classroom teacher, the areas of my failure then became my unique technique of making good students, mostly in Mathematics. Learning from failure involves recognizing that setbacks are not the end of the road but rather crucial milestones on the journey toward success. With each failure, we gain valuable insights and lessons that contribute to our personal and professional growth. Rather than being discouraged by our mistakes, we should view them as opportunities for improvement and development. As Thomas Edison famously remarked, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work,” underscoring the significance of persistence and resilience in the face of adversity. By embracing failure, learning from it, and adapting our strategies accordingly, we pave the way for future achievements and progress.

Conclusion:

In a world where instant gratification is often prized above perseverance, the message of “try it again” may seem counterintuitive. However, the scripture reminds us of the importance of persistence in the face of adversity. By cultivating resilience, faith in the process, and a willingness to learn from failure, you can overcome any obstacle that stands in your way. So, the next time you feel like giving up, remember the words of Galatians 6:9 and try it again. Your perseverance will eventually lead to a bountiful harvest of success. Finally, the only one who cannot fail is the Lord Jesus Christ. He is always ready to help you if you give him a chance. Accept Him as your Lord and Savior, and it shall be well with you. Let’s pray:

1) The Lord shall grant you the strength and courage you need to succeed.

2) You shall be divinely motivated and elevated.

3) You shall always be on the winning side in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.

 

John Aderogba for ROPMI

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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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