DON’T LOSE HOPE – JUNE 2024

Topic: DON’T LOSE HOPE

Text: ROMANS 12:12

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Introduction

As you look forward to the light of this year, you start with the hope that everything will be alright. You then launch your plans and goals for the year, ready to execute them one after the other. But as you journey through the first half of the year, you begin to encounter various challenges and triumphs that shape your faith and resilience. All the obstacles you experience are orchestrated by the Devil to shift your attention from focusing on what God is about to do in your life. Reflecting on Romans 12:12, you will find guidance and encouragement to navigate these experiences. This verse encapsulates a powerful message of hope, patience, and faithfulness, which can profoundly impact your life. In this article, we shall explore three key points through the lens of our experiences from January to June.

  1. Joyful in Hope

The beginning of the year often brings renewed optimism and fresh resolutions. However, as months progress, unforeseen difficulties can dampen our spirits. Yet, Romans 12:12 calls us to remain joyful in hope. This joy is not superficial happiness but a deep-seated confidence in God’s promises. From January to June, we may have faced personal struggles, health concerns, or global crises. Despite these trials, maintaining joy in hope reminds us that God’s plans are greater than our immediate circumstances.

In the midst of economic uncertainties or personal losses, finding joy can seem daunting. But through faith, you can hold onto the hope that God is working all things for our good (Romans 8:28). By focusing on His promises and the eternal perspective, you can cultivate a joy that sustains us even in the darkest times.

  1. Patient in Affliction

Patience is a virtue that is often tested during times of affliction. The first half of the year might have brought various forms of suffering, be it illness, relational strife, or financial hardship. Romans 12:12 encourages us to be patient in these afflictions. Patience involves trusting God’s timing and His purposes, even when we cannot see the immediate outcome.

During these months, you might have found yourself questioning why certain trials occur. It is in these moments that patience becomes a testament to our faith. Biblical examples, such as Job and Paul, illustrate the power of enduring suffering with a steadfast heart. Their stories remind us that patience in affliction is not passive resignation but an active trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness.

  1. Faithful in Prayer

Prayer is our lifeline to God, especially during trying times. Romans 12:12 calls us to be faithful in prayer, underscoring its importance in sustaining our hope and patience. From January to June, consistent and earnest prayer can transform our perspective and bring peace amid turmoil.

Prayer is not merely a ritual but a dynamic conversation with our Creator. It allows us to pour out our hearts, seek guidance, and find solace. The first half of the year may have challenged your prayer life, but faithfulness in prayer ensures that you remain connected to the source of your strength and hope. By committing to regular prayer, you will align your hearts with God’s will and receive the grace to persevere.

Conclusion

Reflecting on Romans 12:12 in light of your experiences from January to June, you see a powerful blueprint for navigating life’s challenges. Being joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer are not just idealistic concepts but practical actions that sustain us. As we move forward, let us hold onto these principles, trusting that God is with us through every trial and triumph. By embracing this verse, we can face the rest of the year with renewed strength and unwavering hope.

Let us pray

1) Thank God for His grace and mercy over you.

2) Ask for God’s divine guidance for the second half of the year.

3) Commit your plans and visit to God and ask for divine strength to execute them.

4) The Lord will open heaven and rain down His favor upon you in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

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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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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