KEEP YOUR FOCUS, STAND FIRM – SEPTEMBER 2025 ARTICLE

Topic: KEEP YOUR FOCUS, STAND FIRM

Text: 1 Corinthians 15:58

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” (NKJV)

Introduction

As we approach the end of the year; the month of September and the subsequent months, many people may experience feelings of tiredness, distraction, or even fear about the future. The excitement for the new year may have diminished due to the responsibilities of daily life, and once-vibrant goals may now fade.

Nonetheless, Scripture serves as a reminder that now is not the time for indecision. It is, instead, a divine invitation to realign and persevere in Christ. The Apostle Paul encourages believers to “be courageous, steadfast, and persevere in the faith” (1 Corinthians 16:13, NKJV).

This admonition to “Stand Firm and Keep Your Focus” emphasizes the significance of placing our hope, vision, and faith in Jesus Christ rather than relying on our own strength. He is the unchangeable Rock of Ages, a firm foundation in an unstable world (Matthew 7:24–25, NIV).

Rick Warren teaches in The Purpose Driven Life that proper stability is achieved by aligning our lives with God’s eternal purposes rather than the world’s fleeting concerns (Warren, 2002). Similarly, his Daily Hope Devotional encourages us to “trust God for the outcome” especially when our efforts seem insufficient or the future uncertain (Warren, 2025).

The Nigerian Baptist Convention Daily Devotional (2025) also urges believers to “focus and finish strong,” emphasizing that perseverance in faith leads to the Lord’s promised crown of life (James 1:12, ESV). In this way, daily devotionals and spiritual journals serve as guides, redirecting our attention from distractions to God’s unwavering promises.

As we near the conclusion of the year, let us approach this season with renewed determination rather than despair, remembering that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8, NKJV). Remaining steadfast in Him ensures that our efforts are not in vain, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up (Galatians 6:9, NIV).

  1. Stay Anchored in God’s Word

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105, NIV)

During times of uncertainty, one of the greatest risks is the absence of spiritual direction. Fear, discouragement, or the demands of life can easily overwhelm us without God’s guidance. The steady light of His Word grounds us in truth, stabilizes our emotions, and renews our thoughts.

Rick Warren reminds believers in his Daily Hope Devotional (2025) that “the Bible offers a consistent perspective in an unstable world.” Likewise, in The Purpose Driven Life (2002), he notes that our lives are designed to glorify God, and this purpose is best fulfilled through consistent engagement with Scripture.

The Nigerian Baptist Convention Daily Devotional (2025) exhorts Christians to “focus and finish strong,” emphasizing that our ability to endure through the final quarter of the year depends on clinging to God’s promises.

Practical devotion, whether through Bible meditation, journaling prayers, or recording answered petitions, helps us remain centered on God’s will. As the year winds down, recommit to Scripture reading daily. Let His Word be your foundation in the morning and your comfort at night. God’s promises remain unshakable, and His Word never fails.

  1. Guard Your Focus

“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.” (Proverbs 4:25, NIV)

Focus is not merely a mental exercise; it is a spiritual discipline. Life brings unavoidable distractions; financial pressures, family responsibilities, societal unrest, or personal struggles. The Nigerian Baptist Convention Daily Devotional (2025) warns that “Satan’s goal is to divide your attention so that your heart is no longer fixed on Christ” (p. 214).

Like Peter in Matthew 14:30 (NKJV), we begin to sink when our focus shifts from Christ to the storms around us. In The Purpose Driven Life (2002), Rick Warren stresses that a meaningful life prioritizes God’s eternal purposes above worldly expectations. When we trust Him for the outcome, peace replaces anxiety (Daily Hope Devotional, August 2025).

Spiritual growth resources, such as Donald Whitney’s Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life (2014), highlight that practices like prayer, fasting, and Scripture meditation strengthen resilience against distraction.

As the year progresses, consider setting practical commitments: read a book of the Bible each month, fast regularly, or join a Bible study group that promotes accountability. These practices keep us centered on Christ and rooted in the Word, which remains our most reliable guide.

  1. Stand Firm in Faith

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13, NIV).

Standing firm in faith means holding your ground in adversity. Paul reminded the Corinthian church that the Christian life requires vigilance and resilience. Our confidence must rest in God’s promises, not in our strength, achievements, or emotions.

The enemy seeks to weaken our confidence, sow fear, and drain us through discouragement. But God equips us with the strength to remain steadfast. Ephesians 6:13 urges us to “put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground” (NIV).

This firmness is not passive endurance but an active posture, clothed with truth, righteousness, peace, and faith. With these, we can resist the devil’s schemes and thrive even in hardship.

Rick Warren emphasizes in Daily Hope (2025) that endurance comes by shifting our focus from short-term goals to God’s eternal plan. Likewise, the Nigerian Baptist Convention Daily Devotional (2025) calls believers to finish strong by clinging to Christ.

 

Faith, as Warren explains in The Purpose Driven Life (2002), is learning to depend on God daily, not merely believing in Him. Through prayer, Scripture, and reliance on the Spirit, we can remain unshakable in life’s storms.

Standing firm is more than survival; it is spiritual progress. Anchored in His Word and empowered by His Spirit, we can finish the year with confidence in Christ’s victory.

Conclusion

As we enter the final months of the year, let us remember God’s unfailing faithfulness. “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6, NIV).

This truth assures us that the God who started His work of redemption in our lives has the power and determination to complete it. His promises remain unchanged, regardless of circumstances or emotions (The Holy Bible, NKJV).

Rick Warren affirms in The Purpose Driven Life (2002) that our faith journey is not about personal strength but trusting God to fulfill His purpose. His Daily Hope Devotional (2025) echoes this: “Trust God for the outcome.”

The Nigerian Baptist Convention Devotional (2025) similarly encourages us to “focus and finish strong.” We are reminded to fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2, ESV).

In these remaining months, let us stay rooted in Christ, standing firm in faith, and keeping our focus on Him. Believing in His faithfulness gives us the resilience to end the year knowing His plans will prevail.

Reflections

  • What distractions have pulled your attention away from Jesus lately?
  • How can you intentionally re-center your focus on God as you step into September?
  • In what area of your life is God calling you to stand firm in faith?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, as I enter September and the months ahead, help me to keep my eyes on You. Strengthen my heart to stand firm in faith, even when circumstances try to shake me. Anchor me in Your Word, shield my mind from distraction, and renew my spirit daily. I declare that I will finish this year with focus, faith, and fervor, standing on Your promises.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

References

  1. The Holy Bible (NKJV, NIV, ESV)
  2. Rick Warren, Daily Hope Devotional – “Trust God for the Outcome” (August 2025)
  3. Nigerian Baptist Convention, Daily Devotional – “Focus and Finish Strong” (August 2025)
  4. Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life (2002)
  5. J. Oswald Sanders, Spiritual Leadership
  6. Dee Brestin & Kathy Troccoli, Falling in Love with Jesus

John Aderogba for ROPMI

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HAIL HIM, THE BORN KING OF GLORY  – DECEMBER 2024 NEWSLETTER

Texts: Isaiah 9:6 and Luke 2 

INTRODUCTION

The celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth is a central event in the Christian faith, filled with awe, reverence, and joy. It marks the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Savior to redeem humanity. The birth of Jesus, foretold by prophets and heralded by angels, is not merely a historical event but a divine intervention that transformed the destiny of mankind. Through the lens of Scripture, particularly Isaiah 9:6 and Luke 2, we reflect on the significance of Christ’s birth as the King of Glory.

  1. The Prophecy of the King (Isaiah 9:6)

Isaiah 9:6 proclaims: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” 

This prophecy, written centuries before Christ’s birth, foretells the coming of a divine Ruler who would embody wisdom, power, and peace.

The birth of Jesus fulfilled this promise, revealing God’s faithfulness and sovereignty. Unlike earthly kings, His kingdom is not of this world but eternal, offering hope and salvation to all who believe. The child born in Bethlehem was not just a baby in a manger but the King of kings, destined to reign with justice and mercy.

  1. The Announcement to the Shepherds (Luke 2)

In Luke 2, we witness the angelic announcement to shepherds in the fields: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).

This moment signifies the inclusivity of Christ’s Kingdom. Shepherds, considered lowly in society, were among the first to hear the good news, emphasizing that Jesus’ glory is for all people, regardless of status.

The heavenly host’s declaration, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14), underscores the dual nature of Christ’s mission: to glorify God and bring peace to humanity. The shepherds’ response of worship and proclamation serves as a model for how we, too, should celebrate the King of Glory—with adoration and by sharing His good news.

  1. The Celebration of His Kingship

The birth of Jesus invites us to celebrate His kingship in three ways:

Through Worship: Just as the shepherds and wise men worshipped Him, we are called to bow before Him in reverence, acknowledging Him as our Savior and Lord.

Through Witnessing: The shepherds did not keep the good news to themselves; they shared it with others. Celebrating Christ’s birth includes proclaiming His love and salvation to the world.

Through Living in His Peace: Jesus, the Prince of Peace, brings reconciliation between God and humanity. Celebrating His birth means embracing His peace in our hearts and extending it to others.

CONCLUSION 

As we reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ, we echo the heavenly chorus:

“Hail Him, born King of Glory!”

The child born in Bethlehem is the fulfillment of prophecy, the Savior of the world, and the King who reigns in glory. His birth calls us to worship, witness, and live in the peace He brings.

This Christmas season, let us celebrate with hearts full of gratitude and voices lifted in praise, for unto us a Savior is born, and His name is Jesus.

Call to Action 

Finally, embrace the peace that Christ brings to the world by accepting Him as your Lord and Savior.

It’s Time to Pray 

  1. Thank God for His love towards you.
  2. Ask Him for His lasting peace in your life.

John Aderogba for ROPMI

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Be Courageous – SEPTEMBER 2024 Newsletter

Topic: Be Courageous 

Text: Daniel 6

INTRODUCTION

Courage is a virtue that is often misunderstood. It is commonly associated with acts of bravery in combat or the ability to confront physical danger. However, true courage, particularly within the Christian faith, lies in the steadfastness to trust in God’s promises and timing, even during periods of waiting for answers to prayer. This form of courage necessitates profound faith and a heart firmly grounded in the assurance of God’s unwavering love.

Throughout history, the Bible offers countless examples of individuals who displayed extraordinary courage in the face of adversity. One of the most notable figures is Daniel, whose unwavering faith serves as a timeless model of courage in the midst of uncertainty. Found in Daniel 6, his story of boldly continuing in prayer, even when his life was threatened by a royal decree, illustrates the kind of faith-fueled courage that all believers are called to embrace. His confidence in God’s deliverance was not only a testament to his personal conviction but also a profound example of what it means to remain steadfast when faced with life’s greatest challenges.

In this writing, we will explore what it means to be truly courageous as individuals on the journey of life, drawing upon the example of Daniel to understand the fundamental principles that strengthen and embolden us. Courage, in the biblical sense, is not merely the absence of fear, but the presence of faith—a deep trust in the unfailing promises of God.

1) Courage That Is Rooted in Faith 

The essence of courage lies in its deep foundation in faith. True courage, as demonstrated in the life of Daniel, does not arise from self-confidence or physical strength, but from an unshakable belief in God. Daniel’s courage was not based on his ability to avoid or manipulate danger, but on his trust in God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. Even when faced with a decree that threatened his life, Daniel’s faith was unwavering. The king’s law demanded that anyone praying to any god or man other than the king be thrown into the lions’ den, but Daniel remained steadfast in his practice of praying three times a day. His courage was fueled by his faith in God—not in the absence of danger, but in the knowledge that God could deliver him according to His divine will.

This profound relationship between faith and courage is illuminated by the words of Hebrews 11:1, which tells us that faith is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Daniel exemplified this faith, trusting in God’s plan and protection even though the outcome was not visible. He believed not in what he could physically perceive, but in the unseen power and promise of God.

In our own lives, we too face situations that test our courage. When we are waiting for answers to our prayers—especially in moments of deep uncertainty and desperation—our courage must be anchored in our faith. Like Daniel, we are called to believe that God is with us, even when the path ahead seems unclear. We must trust that He hears our prayers and is at work, orchestrating all things for our good. This faith gives birth to a courage that transcends human understanding, empowering us to face the lions in our own lives with boldness and confidence.

Courage founded on faith also invites us to embrace patience. It reminds us that God’s timing is perfect, even when we do not immediately see the outcome we desire. Just as Daniel trusted in God’s protection without knowing how or when deliverance would come, we too are called to trust that God is working behind the scenes, aligning everything according to His perfect will. Our role is not to manipulate outcomes but to remain faithful, knowing that God’s plans are for our ultimate good, even when they differ from our own expectations.

Thus, true courage is not merely about facing challenges with boldness; it is about standing firm in faith, knowing that God is with us in every trial. Whether or not we can see the solution, courage compels us to hold onto the hope and assurance that God will provide, and that His ways are higher than ours. Through faith, we can boldly step forward, confident that we are held in the hands of a loving and all-powerful God.

2) Courage Requires Perseverance 

Courage is not merely a fleeting emotion or a momentary act of boldness; it is a continuous, deliberate choice to trust in God’s sovereignty, no matter the circumstances. True courage is demonstrated through a lifestyle of persistent faith, just as we see in the example of Daniel. He did not pray once and stop, nor did he allow external pressures or fears to weaken his resolve. Instead, Daniel remained steadfast, seeking God’s face in prayer day after day, even when faced with the threat of persecution and when God’s response seemed delayed. His unwavering commitment in the midst of uncertainty highlights that perseverance is a vital component of courage.

In the same way, we are called to walk in courage through persistence, especially when the answers we seek from God are not immediate. Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” This scripture speaks directly to the heart of endurance. The challenges of waiting can often lead to weariness. It is in these moments of delay, when doubt begins to creep in, that we might question whether God will truly come through. Yet, this is precisely where courage is most needed—not in moments of immediate triumph, but in the long journey of faith, trusting that God’s timing is perfect.

Courage keeps us pressing forward, despite the silence, despite the setbacks, because it is rooted in the unshakable truth that God is faithful. Every act of perseverance, every prayer spoken in faith, is an act of courage that aligns us with God’s perfect will. Though we may not see the full picture, we trust that in due time, our efforts and steadfastness will bear fruit. God’s promises are sure, and our courage enables us to wait upon Him with hope, knowing that our perseverance will be richly rewarded.

Let us be people of courage, not swayed by temporary difficulties or prolonged waiting, but strengthened by the knowledge that God honors those who trust Him fully. As we persist in doing good, even when it seems unnoticed or unrewarded, we stand confident that God’s promises will be fulfilled in their season, and we will indeed reap the harvest He has prepared for us.

3) True Courage Brings Peace 

True courage is a profound and transformative quality, one that does not merely face danger but does so with a heart rooted in peace. Consider the example of Daniel, who, when cast into the lions’ den, exhibited a courage that transcended mere bravery. He did not panic, nor did he plead for his life, despite the imminent threat before him. His courage was not fueled by his own strength, but by his unwavering faith in God. It was the product of a life devoted to perseverance and trust, built over time through prayer and obedience to God’s will.

Daniel’s calm in the midst of peril reveals a deeper truth: courage, when born out of faith, produces an unshakable peace. He understood that his life was secure, not because he knew the outcome, but because he trusted in the hands of the One who held his future. Whether God chose to save him from the lions or not, Daniel’s heart was at peace, knowing that he was in the sovereign care of God.

This same peace is promised to all believers who fully place their trust in God. Philippians 4:6-7 exhorts us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This passage reminds us that when we approach God in faith, surrendering our worries and anxieties to Him, He responds by giving us a peace that defies human reasoning. It is a peace that stands firm even in the face of trials because it is rooted in the character of a faithful God.

True courage, then, enables us to release our fears and anxieties. It empowers us to stand firm, not because we are unafraid, but because we have entrusted our lives, our hopes, and our future to God. This courage comes from a deep conviction that God’s purposes for us are good and that His will is perfect. As we embrace this trust, we are freed from the burden of worry, and we rest in the knowledge that God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds, no matter what we face.

In a world filled with uncertainty and challenges, we can draw strength from the example of Daniel. His courage is a reminder that true peace does not come from the absence of danger, but from the presence of faith. As we grow in our relationship with God and learn to lean on Him in every situation, our hearts can be fortified by the peace that only He provides—a peace that transcends understanding and equips us to face life’s lions with courage and calm. Let this be a source of inspiration and motivation: to live courageously is to live in peace, knowing that we are held secure by the One who is greater than all our fears.

Conclusion

Being courageous, especially when waiting for an answer to prayer, is not about mustering up strength or bravado. It is about placing our complete trust in God, persevering in that trust, and allowing His peace to guard our hearts. Like Daniel, we must be willing to stand firm in our faith, no matter the outcome, knowing that our courage honors God and draws us closer to Him.

As we wait on God’s timing, let us remember the words of Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” With this assurance, we can face any challenge with the courage that comes from knowing our God is faithful and He will never leave us nor forsake us.

Finally,  you need to give your life to Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior because this is the bedrock for you to be courageous.

LET’S PRAY:

Say your prayer like Daniel did—pour out your heart to God. Just as God came through for Daniel and defended him, so shall God answer your prayers. Amen.

John Aderogba for ROPMI

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