Are you a minister, pastor, church worker, or leader, and do you live in Ibadan? You are cordially invited to “Equip” a Minister’s Conference with Rev Femi Oduwole and Rev Gbeminiyi Eboda as part of our 9th anniversary convention.
Rev Dunamis and Sophia Okunowo will also be hosting us. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Kindly register HERE
Don’t miss it. Spread the word!
You know how it feels to think, “This time is different,” only to have it turn out exactly like the last time? Different person, same cycle. You begin with optimism. They look promising. They make the appropriate statements. However, the warning signs appear later on. You feel drained and confused. You begin to wonder once more, asking yourself why you keep ending up here.
Now let’s be honest. It is not that you do not know better. It is not that you are desperate. But if you look closely, you will probably notice a pattern. You keep falling for people who do not choose you the way you deserve to be chosen. People who take from you more than they give. People who feel good in the moment but never bring you peace. And when it keeps happening, you wonder if the problem is you.
Sometimes, it is not that you want the wrong thing. Something deep inside you still responds to what is familiar, not what is healthy. For example, if you grew up never feeling emotionally safe, chaos might feel normal to you. If you never felt seen or affirmed, attention from anyone—even the wrong one—feels like love. And without knowing it, your wounds start picking for you. You are not choosing from a place of wholeness; you are choosing from a place of lack.
Breaking the Pattern in Relationships
There are also spiritual parts to this. Sometimes, the reason the same kind of hurt keeps coming back is because there are still doors open. It might be a soul tie, even if the relationship was not sexual. You gave someone access to your heart, and they still have influence over how you see love. Or maybe you made a quiet vow in your heart after being hurt—something like, “I will never need anybody” or “Love never stays”—and now you unknowingly live from that place. Those things do not just go away on their own. You have to bring them to God and let Him break them off your life.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Now, here is what to do. First, slow down and ask the hard question: “What in me keeps being drawn to what keeps breaking me?” That question is not about shame—it is about self-awareness. Until you understand the root of your patterns, you will keep blaming the people, but never actually heal. Second, you need to take back your heart from past connections. You do not need a special service or anointing for this. Just sit with God and say it clearly: “God, I give back to you every part of my heart that I gave away. I break every emotional and spiritual tie in Jesus’ name.” Say it even if you do not feel different yet. Freedom starts with obedience, not feelings.
Also, maybe it is time to quit relationships or stop dating while you are still starving for love. A starving heart cannot choose well. Everything looks like a meal when you are hungry. Take time to be with God. Let Him retrain your heart. Learn to recognize what peace feels like. Learn to recognize what healthy love looks like. Just because someone gives you butterflies does not mean they are from God. Peace is not boring. Peace is safe.
Lastly, be honest about your “type.” If your type keeps breaking you, maybe it is time to let God change your taste. You do not need someone who keeps you on edge. You need someone who keeps you grounded. But until you believe that you deserve more, you will keep accepting less.
This is not about getting it perfect. It is about getting honest. God is not mad at you for how many times this has happened. But He is inviting you to pause, reflect, and let Him heal the reason you keep ending up here. You do not have to keep repeating this cycle. You are not too far gone. You are not too damaged. You can learn a new rhythm. And when your heart is healed, your choices will start to look different, too.
Are you a minister, pastor, church worker, or leader who lives in Ibadan? You are cordially invited to “Equip” a Minister’s Conference with Rev Femi Oduwole and Rev Gbeminiyi Eboda as part of our 9th anniversary convention.
Rev Dunamis and Sophia Okunowo will also be hosting us. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Kindly register HERE
Don’t miss it. Spread the word!
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV)
Whether you’re preparing for love or already walking in it, gratitude can dramatically shift the atmosphere of your relationship. Gratitude is more than a polite “thank you.” It’s a posture of the heart that opens your eyes to the beauty in others, softens your reactions, and builds a deep emotional connection.
1. Gratitude Shifts Your Focus
Instead of dwelling on what your partner (or future partner) isn’t doing, gratitude helps you focus on what they are doing right. For singles, this cultivates contentment and healthy expectations. For couples, it eases tension and increases appreciation.
Phil 4:8 [NIV] 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
2. Gratitude Silences Complaining
A thankful heart doesn’t murmur. Complaining weakens intimacy. Gratitude builds it. Choose to celebrate small acts—whether it’s a text message, a thoughtful gesture, or simply being present.
James 3:10 – “Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.”
3. Gratitude Invites Joy
Thankfulness releases joy into your relationship. You become easier to be around. When you’re grateful, you’re not bitter, entitled, or always frustrated.
Pro 17:22 [NIV] A cheerful heart is good medicine,but a crushed spirit driesup the bones.
4. Gratitude Softens Conflicts
Arguments lose their fire when gratitude is present. You’ll respond in love instead of anger. For singles, this helps in forming wise, respectful friendships. For couples, it becomes a glue in tough seasons.
Colossians 3:13-14 [NIV]Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
5. Gratitude Honors God in Your Love Life
God is pleased when we recognize His goodness, even in relationships. Whether you’re waiting or already committed, gratitude shows your trust in God’s process and His provision.
Psalm 100:4[NIV] Enter his gates with thanksgivingand his courts with praise;give thanks to him and praise his name.
Questions for reflection:
Am I grateful for the people God has placed in my life?
Do I express appreciation regularly or only see faults?
How would my relationship look if I practiced daily gratitude?
Are you a minister, pastor, church worker, or leader, and you live in Ibadan? You are cordially invited to “Equip” a Minister’s Conference with Rev Femi Oduwole and Rev Gbeminiyi Eboda as part of our 9th anniversary convention.
Rev Dunamis and Sophia Okunowo will also be hosting us. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Kindly register HERE
Don’t miss it. Spread the word!
5 Types of Lovers Who Are Really Enemies
Not every person who claims to love you has your best interests at heart. Some relationships, though cloaked in affection, can be destructive and toxic. These “lovers” may appear caring on the surface, but their actions reveal a lack of genuine love and respect. Here are five types of lovers who, despite their outward charm, may actually be enemies disguised as partners.
1. The Controlling Lover
A controlling lover seeks to dominate every aspect of your life—your decisions, friendships, finances, and even thoughts. They often justify their behavior as concern or care, but it stems from insecurity or a desire for power. This type of lover disregards your autonomy and diminishes your sense of self-worth. Ephesians 6:12 warns us about spiritual battles, including those fought through manipulation: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against… the powers of this dark world.” A controlling lover operates out of selfish ambition rather than sacrificial love, making them an adversary to your freedom and growth.
2. The Deceptive Lover
Deception is poison in any relationship, and a deceptive lover thrives on lies, half-truths, and hidden agendas. Whether they’re unfaithful, dishonest about their intentions, or concealing harmful habits, this type of lover erodes trust and creates chaos. Proverbs 12:22 declares, “The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in people who are trustworthy.” A deceptive lover cannot provide the safety and security that true love requires—they are more focused on protecting themselves than nurturing the relationship.
3. The Selfish Lover
A selfish lover prioritizes their own needs, desires, and comfort above yours. They view the relationship as a means to fulfill their own wants, whether emotional, physical, or material. Instead of serving and sacrificing, they demand and take without reciprocating. Philippians 2:4 reminds us, “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” A selfish lover drains rather than enriches your life, leaving you feeling used and undervalued.
4. The Abusive Lover
An abusive lover inflicts harm—whether verbal, emotional, physical, or spiritual—and uses fear and intimidation to maintain control. Their actions reflect cruelty rather than love, violating the biblical mandate to treat one another with gentleness and respect (Ephesians 4:31-32). Abuse is never acceptable, and staying in such a relationship puts your well-being and dignity at risk. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Use God’s Word as a guide to recognize abuse and seek help immediately if you find yourself in this situation.
5. The Indifferent Lover
While overtly harmful behaviors like control or abuse are easier to identify, indifference can be equally damaging. An indifferent lover shows little interest in your feelings, dreams, or struggles. They prioritize work, hobbies, or other relationships over you, leaving you feeling neglected and unimportant. Revelation 3:16 describes lukewarmness as something God despises: “Because you are neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” A truly loving partner invests time and energy into the relationship, while an indifferent lover leaves it to wither away.
Final Thought:
It’s crucial to discern whether someone claiming to love you is genuinely committed to your well-being or merely masquerading as a partner. Relationships should reflect Christlike love—selfless, sacrificial, and uplifting—not manipulation, deceit, or neglect. If you recognize these traits in someone you’re involved with, prayerfully evaluate the relationship and seek godly counsel. Remember, God desires for you to experience love that honors Him and builds you up, not tears you down.
Proverbs 4:23 advises, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Protect yourself from lovers who act as enemies, and trust God to lead you to a relationship rooted in truth, respect, and unconditional love.
Are you a minister, pastor, church worker, or leader, and you live in Ibadan? You are cordially invited to “Equip” a Minister’s Conference with Rev Femi Oduwole and Rev Gbeminiyi Eboda as part of our 9th anniversary convention.
Rev Dunamis and Sophia Okunowo will also be hosting us. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Kindly register HERE
Don’t miss it. Spread the word!
Forgiveness Is Not Amnesia
“Just forgive and forget” sounds great until you’ve been hurt by someone you love. However, it’s important to forgive.
But can we really “forget”? Or what does “forgive and forget” really mean?
Here’s the truth:
Forgiveness is not amnesia. It’s not pretending it didn’t happen. It’s choosing not to weaponise what happened. That’s what “forgive and forget” really means.
Many relationships—friendships, courtships, marriages—break down because one or both parties never learned how to forgive well.
Dear singles, you can’t afford to carry the bitterness of your ex into the world of your future spouse.
You can’t keep your heart locked up and expect intimacy to bloom. Yes, people have hurt you. Lied to you. Played with your heart. But if you don’t forgive well, their offence becomes your prison.
Married couples would have found out, by experience (lol), that forgiveness is not a one-time decision—it’s a daily discipline.
You can’t do life with someone closely and not bump into their weaknesses.
Some days, you’ll need to forgive the tone.
Other days, you’ll need to forgive the forgetfulness.
And sometimes, it’s something deeper.
So here’s what forgiving well looks like—whether in marriage, friendship, or anything in between:
1. You stop replaying the scene to justify your anger.
2. You choose healing over rehearsing.
3. You set boundaries, but not bitterness.
4. You learn to confront with humility, not hostility.
Forgiveness doesn’t mean they were right. It means you’re ready to heal.
It doesn’t always restore the relationship to what it was, but it restores your heart to peace.
You don’t forgive because they deserve it.
You forgive because you deserve freedom.
Relationships only thrive where forgiveness flows freely. Not because we’re perfect, but because we’re learning to love like Jesus.
Are you a minister, pastor, church worker, or leader, and do you live in Ibadan? You are cordially invited to “Equip” a Minister’s Conference with Rev Femi Oduwole and Rev Gbeminiyi Eboda as part of our 9th anniversary convention.
Rev Dunamis and Sophia Okunowo will also be hosting us. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Kindly register HERE
Don’t miss it. Spread the word!
One of the most powerful yet simple acts a couple can engage in is praying together. In a world where marriages are constantly under pressure, prayer becomes a binding force that strengthens not only your relationship with God but also with each other. Prayer invites God into the center of your relationship, aligning your hearts and goals with His will.
The scriptures remind us of the power of agreement in prayer:
Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.”(Matthew 18:19, ESV)
This verse isn’t just about agreement in general, but it speaks specifically to the kind of unity that comes when two people seek God by praying together. When a husband and wife come together before God, they cultivate spiritual intimacy, which naturally spills over into emotional and physical connection.
Many couples underestimate how prayer transforms conflict. When disagreements arise, as they inevitably will, prayer shifts the focus from “who’s right” to “what’s righteous.” It humbles both hearts, encouraging forgiveness and grace.
This is why James said
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.James 5:16 (NIV)
When you pray with your spouse, you are not only fighting for your marriage but also modeling a godly union that your children and others can look up to. You show that your relationship is not based merely on feelings or circumstances but on the unchanging foundation of God’s Word.
A study by the National Association of Marriage Enhancement found that less than 1% of couples who pray together daily end up divorcing. That statistic isn’t magic; it’s the fruit of prioritizing God together. Prayer opens the door to God’s peace, wisdom, and strength, which are all necessary for navigating the ups and downs of life and marriage.
Take a few minutes today to hold your spouse’s hand and talk to God together. You don’t need fancy words, just a sincere heart. Thank Him for each other, lift up your needs, ask for His guidance, and declare His promises over your marriage.
A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NLT)
Let Christ be that third strand in your marriage. When you pray together, you braid your love with God’s power—and that is not easily broken.
This message is for singles, too. Now is the time to build your altar of prayer. Let God shape your heart, your desires, and your expectations. Pray for your future spouse, even if you haven’t met them yet. Ask God to prepare you to be the kind of partner who brings spiritual strength into a marriage. A strong foundation in prayer while you’re single will prepare you to thrive in unity when you’re joined with another.
