Eight Kinds of People You Cannot Fall In Love With

Eight Kinds of People You Cannot Fall In Love With

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Who do you fall in love with? I will address that by telling you who not to fall in love with. You see, everybody has a purpose in your life, and when you fail to discern that purpose, it will lead to abuse or you end up being abused.

1. Don’t fall in love with the same sex

Now, forget about all the propaganda and agitation going on around the world, this lifestyle is clearly forbidden in the scripture. It was specifically mentioned in the scriptures as unnatural. How can you fall in love with same-sex and then devise means of sleeping together?

Worse followed. Refusing to know God, they soon didn’t know how to be human either––women didn’t know how to be women, men didn’t know how to be men. Sexually confused, they abused and defiled one another, women with women, men with men––all lust, no love. And then they paid for it, oh, how they paid for it––emptied of God and love, godless and loveless wretches (Romans 1:26-27 Message)

It is a practice you must not dabble into as a child of God and if you are already into it, you must seek help immediately. I minister around in churches and when I make altar calls for people with these issues, I am amazed at how such lies and perversion have crept into churches. I once had to do training for certain denominations on how to handle this kind of scenario when a committed member is suddenly discovered as living the gay lifestyle.

Now listen to me, when you start finding yourself attracted to the same sex and with sexual feelings, don’t ever accept the lie of the devil that you were created that way. God is not an author of confusion. Male and female created he them. There is nothing like Adam and Steve or Eve and Eva!

2. Don’t fall in love with your pastor

A lot of ladies like their pastors. It is understandable because he is anointed and you hear him all the time while he is covered with God’s glory. In fact, the scripture says anointing attracts!

Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee. (Song of Songs 1:3 KJV)

But you need to understand that your pastor is another woman’s husband! You can like him, but when that likeness is bothering on obsession, and you are falling in love, it is time you caution yourself.

You also need to understand that your pastor is first of all a man before he is a man of God. He has all the strengths and weaknesses as well. He does not live in heaven. When you have been going for counsels every day, and you are falling in love, and your pastor is enjoying your presence daily, it is better to withdraw because there are counsels that can cancel a man’s destiny.

When you know you have developed feelings for your pastor, what are you still doing with him every day in a counseling session that has not finished? You need to help yourself and help your pastor as well. In fellowships on campuses, care must be taken particularly not to use your position to defile people you are meant to lead.

3. Don’t fall in love with your lecturer

In your bid to pass an examination, don’t end up in the bed of your lecturer. There are no ways you want to explain it, it is a dangerous trend to take.

4. Don’t fall in love with your sibling

You won’t be able to get married to your sibling, so why indulge in unnecessary games and tell yourselves you are in love? If you have been sexually involved with a sibling or you still involved, that is what the Bible describes as incest. Even society frowns at it. You can go to God and ask Him to forgive you and He will forgive once you are genuinely repentant.

5. Don’t fall in love with a minor.

Those feelings you have for a three-year-old or a five-year-old child are demonic and you need to seek help so that you don’t end up becoming an abuser and end up messing up that child’s life. Leave that little cousin alone! Leave that innocent niece alone and stop kissing her all the time! Stop putting her on your laps! You need to confront yourself.

Be real with your feelings because it doesn’t happen in one day, it is progressive. That is why the Bible says judge yourself that you not be judged.

6. Don’t fall in love with your parents’ age mate

Don’t fall in love with a married man who is as old as your father or a woman who is as old as your mum because of the mammon spirit. Promises of going to Dubai, shopping in London, allowance of hundreds of thousands every month are not worth the agony and regrets that will later follow a person that gives his or her body out as a commodity! Your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost; it is not something to trade for money. How would you be another woman’s headache, sleeping with her husband, and then think you will have God’s support?

If everything is about seed and harvest, what then will happen to your own home? The next time he comes telling you that you are the one he loves, tell him he is not only lying, but he is lying in state. Tell him to go keep his money and go back to his wife. That is how to live right and trust God as your provider and stop looking at a mere man as your Jehovah Jireh!

7. Don’t fall in love with an unbeliever

Don’t fall in love with a man or a lady that does not know God. Don’t even pray about it, because it won’t work out and God will not answer that prayer. Don’t bother to say you will convert him or her because you are not the Holy Spirit that converts. You have not even converted yourself!

Don’t become partners with those who reject God. How can you make a partnership out of right and wrong? That’s not partnership; that’s war. Is light best friends with dark? Does Christ go strolling with the Devil? Do trust and mistrust hold hands (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 Message)

8. Don’t fall in love with an abuser

Finally, but not exhaustively, don’t fall in love with an abuser! Why would you stick with the one that is constantly abusing you physically, sexually, verbally, or emotionally? Why stick with the one that you know is in it for the money? Why stick with a person that slaps you today and begs you after only to come the next day to donate more slaps? Why degrade yourself to be trampled upon and slept with at will? Why fall in love with a person who is not in love with you but using you? Why cope with the one that tells you you are ugly and stupid?

Why are you so generous with your body that you sleep with the one that hates your guts? Who called you into such philanthropy? Child of God, you are more than that! You need to raise your shoulder and walk out of that relationship. If you cannot walk out, then run or even fly away but by all means, free yourself like a bird out of the snare of the fowler, and go into the newness that God has for you!

Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped. (Psalms 124:7 KJV)

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I fall in love with the right person.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Lord, help me to fall in love with the right person.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY 
Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee (Proverbs 4:5-6 KJV)

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Pray in the spirit

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Psalms 102



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Dear Pastor, I don’t Like Fasting. Am I missing out?

Dear Pastor, I don’t Like Fasting. Am I missing out?

Reading Time: 4 minutes

And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? as long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days. No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new piece that filled it up taketh away from the old, and the rent is made worse. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles (Mark 2:19-22 KJV)

In the scriptures, there are different kinds of fast. There is the regular fast where you don’t eat anything but can drink water or juice. Then there is the partial fast. This is omitting specific meals or refraining from specific types of food. Daniel had this type of fast at a time.

Then there is the full fast or dry fast wherein you completely refrain from both food and water for short periods of time. Paul had this type of fast. Esther called for this type of fast as well.

And then there could be a sexual fast as described in 1Cor 7. A fast could be as a result of personal instruction from God or proclaimed by the local assembly.

Fasting is powerful and Jesus mentioned it as one of the three things that can turn a life around in Matthew Chapter 6. Praying, Fasting, and Giving! No demonic power anywhere can withstand those three!

In Matthew 6:3, Jesus said ‘But when thou doest alms…,’ (or when you give)

In Matthew 6:6, Jesus said ‘But thou, when thou prayest…’

In Matthew 6:16, Jesus said ‘Moreover when ye fast…’

But the question I really want to address this morning is, apart from a generally proclaimed fast, when do I fast personally? When do I know that there is a need for me to fast?

The disciples of Jesus were reported to him, that they have not been fasting. And Jesus replied with a powerful and insightful statement in verse 20.

But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.

Jesus Christ is saying when you come to some seasons in your life, and it as though the bridegroom has been taken away from you, then shall you fast!

In those times in your life, when things seem not to be working again, then shall you fast.

In those times of your life, when you pray, and your prayer seems to bounce back, and it looks as though the bridegroom has gone on honeymoon, then shall you fast.

In those seasons of your life, when it looks like the bridegroom has been taken away, and in reality, it actually is like there is no groom for you while you are growing older, then shall you fast.

In those times of life, when you know you ought to pray and yet your mouth will not open in prayer, and Jesus Christ seems far away, then shall you fast.

In those times of your life, when every relationship breaks, and none is ever looking good, then shall you fast.

In those times of your life, when three or four weddings that looked promising were cancelled, and the groom cannot be found, then shall you fast.

Jesus went further to say in verses 21 and 22

No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new piece that filled it up taketh away from the old, and the rent is made worse. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles (Mark 2:19-22 KJV)

That is, a new season requires a new approach. You cannot glide into your destiny on the wings of old strength. You need to make power available in the place of fasting and prayer. A new piece of cloth must not go on an old garment, or else there will be complications. You cannot import an old unbelieving boyfriend into your new life. New wine must go into a new bottle!

The grace of God over your life must not be spilled on the platform of sentiments. You cannot continue with sexual promiscuity in your newfound life with Christ.

Fasting will not give you more power to overcome the issues, it will open your eyes to see, know and understand the counsel of God for that particular season.

Fasting will not bribe God in any way, it will only get your soul humbled and in the right frame to understand and follow God’s counsel. It will break yokes and rejuvenate you!

Are you in a season of your life, when it looks like Jesus Christ has been taken away from you and nothing seems to be working? Then shall you fast….and pray…with God’s word!

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I receive the grace to discipline my flesh.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Oh Lord, help me to pay the price now

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
1 Cor 9:27 (CEV) I keep my body under control and make it my slave, so I won’t lose out after telling the good news to others.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Go on a fast

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Matt 6



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How To Get God To Answer Your Prayers

How To Get God To Answer Your Prayers

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Temiloluwa ensured that everyone around her felt her sadness and displeasure. She sighed sadly, squeezed her face, hissed many times, kept a low profile and didn’t give much attention when spoken to. God had not answered her prayers. This was like the hundredth time she had asked for Tina, her friend, who was failing miserably at school. Her last test score was poor and the rest of the class made fun of her when the teacher announced the scores.

Wasn’t God supposed to answer prayers? Wasn’t He the All-Powerful and Great God? The All-Knowing, All-Seeing and All-Doing God? She couldn’t help but wonder why God didn’t want Tina to do well at school.

‘You have been sighing and frowning since you came back from school and all morning too,’ her mother said to her later that day. ‘What’s going on with you? Care to share?’

‘It’s God,’ Temiloluwa replied.

‘What about God?’

‘He doesn’t want to answer my prayers.’

‘What have you been praying for?’

‘I have been asking Him to help Tina pass her exams and tests at school.’

‘And how do you know so?’ her mother asked again.

‘She failed the test again yesterday. Doesn’t God answer prayers anymore?’

‘Of course, He still answers prayers and will always do so.’ Her mother wondered why she would ask such a question.

Then why hasn’t He answered my prayers? Why is Tina still failing her tests?’

‘Is she studying as she should? Does she listen in class and understand her lessons?’

‘She does, mum. She sits beside me in class.’

‘Have you tried asking her what the problem is and maybe help her study after school?’

Temiloluwa paused and thought about this. She had never asked Tina that. ‘No, mommy. I have never asked her what the problem was.’

‘There goes your answered prayer.’

Have you ever felt like Temiloluwa?

Apart from praying for someone, you can always ask them what the problem is and see if you can help. That can be your answered prayers sometimes.

Temiloluwa asked Tina what the problem was and discovered that Tina felt timid in asking questions when she didn’t understand the lessons. With this knowledge, Temiloluwa was able to explain and teach her friend, and in no time, Tina’s grades improved at school.

Answered prayers, right?

Have a blessed day, God bless you. Amen.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for the many ways you answer my prayers. You are the All-Knowing, All-Seeing, and All-Doing God. Blessed be Your name. Amen.

Read yesterday’s article here



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Stress in Marriage: How Couples Can Handle It

Stress in Marriage: How Couples Can Handle It

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Stress can simply be defined as a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances.

This definition helps us to understand that stress is a tension or strain and it could be mental or emotional. It could also be physical or spiritual.

Jesus talked about those who are weary and heavy laden

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 NLT

Usually, since we are spirit beings, any strain on our spiritual life will have a way of impacting our whole being. Whatever affects our relationship with God affect the whole of our being.

Chief among the things that causes stress or strain on our relationship with God is sin.

So it’s possible, to have an unconfessed sin in your life and be doing through stress as a result.

Or maybe we fail to put our trust in God, or maybe we are walking in the flesh or not following the leading or guidance of the Holy spirit. All this causes us stress which will eventually cause a strain in our marriage.

A good example of this is when Abram and Sarah decided to get pregnant by Hagar and gave birth to Ishamel. There was so much strain and tension in the marriage.

Anger, strife, malice, not walking in love and all other works of the flesh also causes stress in marriage

There are some other stressors in marriage that are not as a result of sin but are the once we put on ourselves.

I will mention a few of them.

1. Financial pressure
2. Dealing with in-laws
3. Comparison
4. Doing beyond ourselves
5. Not minding our business
6. Not being able to say No
7. Being Unforgiving to our spouse
8. Not being open and transparent.
9. Unrealistic expectations
10. Ungratefulness

Now let’s handle these stressors one by name. To open our eyes to how these simple issues can bring about and cause  a lot of stress to our marriage thereby causing a strain in our relationship with our loved one.

1. Financial pressures and not being able to manage our finances.

We know that money answereth all things

A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things. Ecclesiastes 10:19 KJV.

Our ability to cut our coat according to our cloth will go a long way to determine whether we will be putting a lot of stress on our marriage or not.

Delaying gratification, being able to save a little portion for the rainy day no matter his small, being prudent, living on a budget and not being sentimental are all very good virtues.

2. Dealing with in-laws.

This requires a lot of wisdom, tact, patience and working together with your spouse to make sure you are always together on the same page. The most important person in this equation is your spouse. The covenant of marriage places your spouse above your parents.

You honor your parents, bible is very clear about that but you also don’t dishonor your spouse for the sake of your parents or in-laws. There is no one answer fits all but whichever way, follow the bible and follow the Holy spirit guidelines.

There may be times you have to sacrifice beyond what you normally would have, if you are sure God is leading you, obey. God usually rewards such acts tremendously.

Let me stop here today. I will continue tomorrow by God grace.

May God grant us more understanding beyond this teaching.

God bless our marriage.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I am a wise spouse. I know how to relate with people.

PRAYERS FOR THE DAY
Lord, give me wisdom

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
1 Peter  3:7  Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Forgive where necessary

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
1 Pet 3



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Better Together: Challenging Each Other To Be Better

Better Together: Challenging Each Other To Be Better

Reading Time: 2 minutes

We are constantly on a journey of improving ourselves better and our skills as husbands and wives. I said skills because it takes mastering the skills of living successfully with each other.

There’s an art of talking, listening, being tolerant, handling in-laws, handling finances, being romantic, being kind and generous, being submissive to one another, praying together. They are all arts that have to be mastered in marriage.

Always remember that the marriage is made up of individuals with different ideas, opinions, viewpoints, and different ways of reasoning. Give each other space to express their individuality in the context of marriage.

Challenging each other to be better is first of all recognizing each other’s uniqueness. It is not about making your spouse your puppet, where all initiatives are dead, but about recognizing your differences and appreciating them.

You should draw each other closer to God. A closer walk with God will make the couple better, they will make one another better spouse. Encourage each other on their daily study of the word, meditation in the word, obedience to the word which is very important.

Obeying the word you read or doing what God ask you to do is more important than reading the word. Encouraging each other to have quality time alone with God is very essential not just in becoming a better christian but in becoming a better spouse.

‘And we beholding him are being transformed from one level of glory to another as by one spirit’. That is God’s word. The transformation occurs in our spirit and it is evident in our outward lives.

Rom 12:1 (Amp) “I appeal to you therefore, brethren and beg of you in view of (all) the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies (presenting all your members and faculties) as a living sacrifice holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God which is your reasonable ( rational intelligent) s ice and spiritual worship.

As you obey God, your marriage will begin to take a new toll. Marriage in the eyes of God cannot and is not meant to be lived by an non-spiritual person. It takes being spiritual and dead to the flesh to have a successful marriage.

God bless your marriage.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I will be exalted because God exalts the humble.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Lord, surround me with people that will aid my destiny in Jesus name.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. (Proverbs 13:20 KJV)

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Discuss who you will be accountable to.

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Psalms 69-70



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How To Have Faith For Healing

How To Have Faith For Healing

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Sade stood afar watching how the crowd pushed towards the table stand where some girls stood, sharing fliers for a singing audition. She loved to sing but wasn’t so sure she would make an audition. Her toothbrush was her microphone and her younger brother was no help at all. So it was as though her faith was low. She moved towards the crowd, biting her lips and clenching her fists. 

“Here goes nothing”, she told herself as she got closer.

There was a lady in the bible who felt just the way Sade did. A woman with a long-standing health issue stood where Jesus was. She had heard of how Jesus had been healing people and wondered if He would heal her. But she had faith!

The woman thought, “If I can even touch his coat, that will be enough to heal me.” Mark 5:28 ICB

After much deliberation, she found her way through the thick crowd around Jesus and touched the hem of His garment. Instantly she was healed and Jesus knew someone had touched Him. He asked who had, the woman came forward, told Him her condition and He further prayed for her (Mark: 5:29-34). Now that’s faith there!

I’m sure the woman too said, ” Here goes nothing”, as she went ahead to touch Jesus’ garment. Just like Sade did too.

You never know what will happen if you don’t take that much-needed step. Are you still unsure of taking that step forward to accept Christ as your Saviour and Lord? You think He will reject you or that you are not good enough for Him? Jesus Christ will never reject anybody that comes to Him. He loves you more than you could ever imagine. Simply have faith.

So, take a bold step today and touch the hem of His garment, let Him help you. May the help of God always find you, Amen.

Prayer:
Lord, Jesus, like the woman with the issue of blood, I hold on to the hem of your garment. I have faith, and I receive all that I need right now. In Your mighty name, I pray, amen 

Action plan:
Reach out to Jesus today and always. Touch His garment daily and as much a stout need to.

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Dear Pastor, We’ve Been Kissing, Are We Cool?

Dear Pastor, We’ve Been Kissing, Are We Cool?

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Yes, we’ve only been kissing, nothing more.

If as singles not yet married, you are not cool at all!

You are more like carrying fire in your bosom! 

Okay pastor, show me in the scripture where kissing is wrong!

Well, you will never find anywhere in the scripture where the Bible says ‘thou shall not kiss! In fact, if the Bible says anything about it, it is the fact that we can kiss one another with a holy kiss! Why then do we make so much issue and big deal on what the scripture says we are advised or commanded to do?

So, let’s take a look at the scriptures.

Greet one another with an holy kiss. (2 Corinthians 13:12 KJV)

Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. (1 Thessalonians 5:26 KJV)

Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you. (Romans 16:16 KJV)

So why would Pastor say that I should refrain from kissing my fiancé or fiancée when the Bible permits us of such? Ok, let’s take a deeper look.

It is true that the Bible says, we should kiss one another with a holy kiss, but you need to understand the cultural context under which that is said!

The Jews normally kiss one another with a kiss.

If you remember, Jesus was even saying at a time nobody offered him a kiss. That is because a kiss at the side of the mouth is a form of greeting in Jewish culture.

Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. (Luke 7:45 KJV)

If you also see the scriptures above, they use the word “greet” and “salute” with a kiss. This Jewish cultural practice dates back to the Old Testament days.

And his father Isaac said unto him, Come near now, and kiss me, my son. (Genesis 27:26 KJV)

Having established that this is a Jewish cultural practice, we can understand that this is not our culture in this side of the world. The western world is also a little bit disposed to greeting with a kiss without lust attached. But in a place like Nigeria, we don’t greet with a kiss!

In our culture, (even though this is fast disappearing) when a boy wants to greet his father, in some part of Nigerian culture, he prostrates. A girl kneels down! As the lady grows older, she is taught to genuflect when she wants to give something to an older person.

My point? There are holy kisses and there are unholy kisses! The Jewish kiss is holy because it is a form of greeting! The Nigerian kiss is unholy because it is not a form of greeting! Period!

If I walk into a meeting to preach with my wife beside me, and one of the ushers grabs my wife and plants a kiss saying “welcome ma,” I am going to remove my suit and fight real good! 

Somebody will say, “but you are a pastor,” and I will say “Yes, and that is why I am fighting!” Why is that example funny? Because we don’t greet with kissing in this part of the world!

That is why we often do it behind doors!

If I am kissing my wife behind the church and you bump into us, you will have to apologize. If I bump into you kissing a girl you are not married to, you are still the one that will apologize!

The problem with kissing as we see it in this part of the world and why we say you should avoid it as much as possible, is that it will lead you into some other sexual sins! Before you know it, you are involved in Jericho trap!

Whatever you did the last time you met, will not satisfy you the next time you meet because intimacy will increase when two people are in love, which will keep calling for more physical expression. That is what the law of progression says. Sincerely, there is nothing wrong with a peck, but the question is will you stay on that alone? Your body will call for more!

I usually tell ladies, you cannot submit your lips to a guy for kissing like you are submitting a paper in the exam hall. If the guy is hungry, let him go to the market and buy Kpomo (a type of meat from cowhide). Must it be your mouth he turns into food?

As Married Couples, don’t stop kissing one another in marriage. Do it regularly and at all times! 

Singles, wait for your time, okay? Don’t fan the embers, stay off every form of iniquity!

A lady came into my office years ago with her mouth doubled up like she’s been hit. I said, “what’s wrong with you, who hit you?” She hesitated and she knew she couldn’t lie. So she said, “it is one rough kisser!” Can you imagine? 

That one is not a Jewish kiss, nor Nigerian kiss, that is a German kiss! Just kidding!

When you are married, if you like, you can decide to kiss from morning till evening. God will say, “Well done!” But not before marriage! 

The power of life and death lies in your mouth, keep it well. Your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost! Respect it!

Married Couples, don’t stop kissing one another in marriage. Do it regularly and at all times! Singles, wait for your time, okay? Don’t fan the embers, stay off every form of iniquity and God will help you.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I discipline myself. I put my body under.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Ask for grace to stay chaste in thoughts, words, and deeds.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
1 Corinthians 9:27 (KJV) But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Decide to stop kissing

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
1cor 9



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Love Languages In Marriage – Part 2

Love Languages In Marriage – Part 2

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Good morning everybody, we are continuing our topic of love language in marriage. Couples should go all out to speak the language of their spouse unreservedly since our aim in marriage is to place our spouse.

It will be good to always look for creative ways to speak the love language our spouse understands. Marriage is a place where we serve each other. We don’t think of ourselves first. We allow and trust God through our spouse to take care of us

That is why it becomes imperative for us to learn and understand our spouse love language.

3.  Words of Affirmation

Here, words mean a big deal to your spouse. In speaking his/her love language, you want to be careful of what is said, how it is said, when it is said, your body language, your tone, pitch and everything surrounding the words you say.

Here, it means a lot to your spouse when you give words of encouragement. Words that will uplift him/her. You might not be able to provide all the money in this world but your reassuring words makes them feel loved.

Your thoughtful words keeps him/her going. In times of stress, needs, bills to pay, weakness etc, your words are like magic.

Speaking negative, derogative, harsh and hard words or sermonizing or nagging your spouse could be counterproductive.

Please watch for those other than your spouse that speak gently, softly and tenderly to you. Avoid them, it could be a danger spit for the devil to exploit. An emotional affair could develop if you are not

discerning and careful.

Never look forward to anyone’s company or enjoy any ones company other than your spouse.

4. Quality time

If the love language of your spouse is quality time, then love mean time. Not only quantity but quality of time.

Your spouse will appreciate being present with him/her. Your presence and not just present matters to them.

Create memories. Go out for outings together, dinners, vacations, go to seminars together and just spend time together. However, what you spend your time on also matters.

Quality time means time of getting to know your spouse better, listening them talk, being sensitive to them, trying to understand them and knowing how to react and respond.

The lord will help is all. If could be challenging since usually opposite temperament will always attract and some time our love languages are different or we want our love language expressed in a different way from that of our spouse.

Our male female differences, the background we grew up in and other factors are responsible for this.

As a matter of rule, watch out for people of the opposite sex you spend too much time with.

5. Gifts

Your spouse feels love is not complete until it is expressed in buying of gifts. Something must be given to show you care. It has to cost you. More often than not, the thoughtfulness behind the given will mean more to your spouse. So its nor about the gift, but you taking the pains of know the appropriate gift to buy at what time or occasion. Example you wife just deliver a baby, and you got her a a sexy gown. She probably can’t even wear it because of breast feeding.

Find out our favorite color, scent, her size, her preference, her need. What is the point buying your wife high heels when she is pregnant or buying your husband an expensive office suitcase when he needs a belt and doesn’t go to office but works from home.

In all these love language, we all need the help of the holy spirit to lead and guide us. Lest our good works become evil spoken of. We get offended and not appreciated because it didn’t meet our deepest desire.

The holy spirit is our helper, when we call on him he will help us even in performing our duties of speaking our spouse’s love language.

May God grant us understanding.

God bless our marriage.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I learn to speak my partners love language.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Pray for wisdom to speak the love language of your spouse

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Eph 5:25 ESVHusbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having
cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Speak your spouses’ love language

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Eph 5

Letters To God

Letters To God

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Dear God
Well, you start writing a letter with the word “Dear” and God much likes it when you call Him that.

Have you ever wondered how writing a letter to God would be like? It’s pretty much simple. Just pick a writing pad, notebook, or something to write on and start to write.

After starting with a “Dear God”, you tell Him why He is so great and powerful, why you love Him, and why people praise and worship Him.

Then begin to thank Him for what He has done for you, your parents, siblings, friends and people around you. It’s good to thank Him for not only what He has done for you but for others too.

Move on to laying your requests before Him. Tell Him what you need and it’s not like He doesn’t know but He wants you to still say it. He says you should ask Him of anything and He will answer, that it’s what He hears you say that He will do.

Ask in faith and not in fear, knowing that your heavenly Father is able to do far more than you can ever imagine. Ask knowing that He hears your prayers.

“Behold, I am the Lord , the God of all flesh; is there anything too difficult for Me?”
(Jeremiah 32:27) AMP

Then bring in some more praise and worship as you thank Him for a time in His presence. Thank Him for answered prayers. Give Him the glory and honor due to His name. Don’t forget to close with a faith-filled “In Jesus’ name.”

Of course, you should put your name at the end because all letters end with the name of the writer.
How about you write a letter to God write now, starting with ‘Dear God.”

May the Lord answer all your prayers. Amen.

Prayer:

Lord, I come before You in praise and worship. I adore and exalt Your name.

Action plan:

Write out your prayer list before you start your letter so that you can remember all that you want to write to God.

Read yesterday’s article here



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Must God Speak Before I Choose Who To Marry?

Must God Speak Before I Choose Who To Marry?

Reading Time: 4 minutes

A lot of people are at a loss when it comes to this issue of knowing who to marry. A large number are bothered that God has not ‘shown’ them anybody particularly or ‘spoken’ to them in clear terms, yet they have fallen in love with someone and they feel the peace of God about it. Can that be God? No dream, vision, voice, or any spectacular direction, yet it looks like it is God. Is that possible?

A lot more have believed the lie of the devil that God is not really with them in their relationship because they did not hear God tell them who to marry or see anything.

Well, God did not promise to show all of us a dream or vision. He did not promise that He would speak to all of us in an audible voice or in some spectacular way.

However God did promise that He would LEAD all of us!

My dear, that is all you need. Stop bothering yourself. You don’t need to hear a voice. You don’t need to see a dream. You don’t need to fall into a trance before knowing who to marry. The person that sees five dreams in a day is not more spiritual than you that sees nothing. In fact, for all I care, you that don’t dream at all may be more alert to hear God, because the one that hears God through dreams only will be knocked to sleep each time he needs to hear God. Imagine a brother that needs to make a decision, and then he tells you, give me some time, let me go and sleep!

Deliver yourself; stop being intimidated by some overly excited dreamer, allow God to lead you to who to marry the way He wants to. If you are given to dreams, that is great, but don’t feel superior to others around you.

So how do I know I am a child of God when I don’t dream, and I don’t have any spectacular encounter?

Here is the answer.

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (Romans 8:14 KJV)

There can be leading without some audible voice. All you need to do is to follow. The Lord is my shepherd!

Thank God for who He is that can abandon ninety-nine other sheep to look for me!

The real deal then is to be led.

God can lead you into a relationship without hearing a single voice or seeing any vision!

But you know you are led.

So, how do I know if I am being led?

How do you know you are really born again? How do you know Jesus really exists? Have you see him before? How do you know there is a God in heaven? Did you hear His audible voice or did you see Him in your vision seated on His throne with Cherubims and all that? Why then do you believe in Him?

Because you simply know within yourself that God is. You may not be able to prove it, but you just know in your ‘knower’ that God exists. You know in your ‘knower’ that Jesus died for your sin. You were not there in Golgotha with him physically, but you just know it happened deep within you.

That is what is referred to as ‘Inner witness.’

Inner witness! That is the primary way God speaks to His children. No voice, no vision, no trance, nothing, but just this knowing that comes with an unexplainable peace, too deep and assuring that you cannot put it into words!

Don’t let the devil come to you and tell you that the reason you have a troubled marriage is because you didn’t have any dreams or hear a voice about who to marry!

Do you know that when you have had twenty-five dreams about a particular lady and yet this inner witness is not there, you are not supposed to proceed? This inner witness, the peace of God, is most important!

See it described in the scripture

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7 KJV)

I like it particularly in Amplified version

And God’s peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Did you see that? That peace of God, that transcends every understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds. Garrison! Mount guard! Those are military terms. That is exactly what happens when you allow the peace of God and you are led by Him. His leading is a like a soldier protecting you. You know why? God will never lead you wrong! Glory to God! He will not lead you into misery! Thank God for His leading.

God is the one that can re-order our steps when we have made mistakes; He is the one that will lead us into our wealthy place. Stay with God and you will never regret. Don’t be led by your feelings which can be fickle, be led by the Holy Spirit, and you will be protected!

This morning, as God’s servant, I speak God’s leading into your life. I speak His peace into your life! May you experience His leading in Jesus name!

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I am a child of God. I am led of God

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Pray that God lead you by His peace

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
God’s Spirit beckons. There are things to do and places to go! (Romans 8:14 Message)

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Read Kenneth Hagin’s book – ‘Following God’s plan for you life’

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Rom 8



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The Five Love Languages For Married Couples

The Five Love Languages For Married Couples

Reading Time: 3 minutes

The concept of the five love languages is very popular. I have written about this topic before but it bears repetition. Sometimes, we think we know something until we hear it again and again.

We don’t fully understand a subject matter until we have taken time to think about it.

The topic of love languages in marriage is so important that the understanding of it will literally solve major issues of your marriage.

Every couple should take time out to ask themselves what their love languages are.

Love language by definition is just how you perceive love. It is the language spoken to you that makes you know that you are loved by that person.

For example, if the language you understand is English and someone is trying to communicate with you something important in Spanish, you will not understand nor respond as you ought because they are not speaking your language and you have not learnt that language.

The same thing happens in marriage. Love needs to be expressed for it to be appreciated. So if your wife or husband is speaking or communicating love to you in a language that is not what you speak or understand, you don’t feel their love.

There are basically 5 love languages. Studies have shown that you can have a combination of more than one love language.  For further study, you can read Gary Chapman.

They are

1. Physical touch
2. Acts of service
3. Words of affirmation
4. Quality time
5. Gifts

Let’s begin with:

1. Physical touch

This love language is spoken not only in words, thoughts but more so by touching. For a person whose love language is physical touch, there must always be contact. Your spouse feels special when you touch them. You put your hands around their shoulders when talking to them and they feel loved. A kiss early in the morning, or a hug each time you see them, makes them feel fulfilled. My husband loves it when I stroke the back of his head whenever he is driving and I constantly touch him when we are together.

When your spouse’s love language is physical touch, even when he/she is angry and you speak this language, they calm down. Such spouse respond to touch and body contact a lot.

This is also a pointer to what is to be avoided by anybody that is not your spouse. It is easy to fall in love with anybody speaking your love language to you.

So with this knowledge also comes the responsibility of avoiding persons who want to speak your love language to you other than your spouse.

2. Acts of service

This is your love language when you love things to be done for you. You love it when your spouse helps you do your personal stuffs and also do for you what you are supposed to do.

For example, when your spouse helps you do your chores, helps with the kids, wash the car, do laundry or pay to help someone else do it for you.

It shows that your spouse is thoughtful and concerned. He/ she has not left you all alone to sweat it out, slave away or figure how to get your work done.

Some spouse enjoy work. In fact they have extra energy for work. That is the reason some people who are not disciplined and have this love language often fall on love with the house helps, messengers and the likes.

If your spouse is not speaking this language, you have to let them know it makes you feel loved. Let them make arrangements to someone to help out at a fee.

Let me stop here today.

God bless your marriage.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I learn to speak my partners love language.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Pray for wisdom to speak the love language of your spouse

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Eph 5:25 ESVHusbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Speak your spouses’ love language

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Eph 5

How To Hear What Your Lover Is Not Saying

How To Hear What Your Lover Is Not Saying

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Words are powerful. Words are eternal. They don’t die.

Jesus said words are spirits.

Joh 6:63 KJV It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

Nations have gone to war because of words spoken and battles have been known to come to an end because of words.

Jesus also said that words reveal what is in a man’s heart.

Luk 6:45 AMP The upright (honorable, intrinsically good) man out of the good treasure [stored] in his heart produces what is upright (honorable and intrinsically good), and the evil man out of the evil storehouse brings forth that which is depraved (wicked and intrinsically evil); for out of the abundance (overflow) of the heart his mouth speaks.

You can decode a man’s attitude from his words. His words, when analysed will show you where he is going.

This morning, I want to show you a few words that men who claim to be your lover often say that show something is defective somewhere. They let you know that your relationship or marriage needs some attention and counsel. Here are a few of those statements that your lover may not be saying.

1. I am not a religious freak. I don’t like church stuffs. I can’t be a fanatic.

What he is really saying: I don’t want to be spiritual. I will not always go to church. I don’t believe in God that much. Once we are married, you will have to stop going to church as you do now.

The implication: Your spiritual life will be depleted. You will not be on the same page. Without a good foundation of spiritual life and relationship with God, you will be limited, you will do a lot of things with struggles and you will never be able to enter the fullness of God’s blessings for your life.

2. There is nothing wrong with sex as long as we love ourselves, although I am not insisting. Even pastors are messing up.

What he is really saying: I will soon get you. It is a matter of time. I will wait for you to get emotionally connected with me and fall in love hopelessly and then you won’t be able to say No. How will I be in a relationship without having sex? ‘You never know anything!’

The implication: His word already reveals his heart. If you stay in a relationship with such a person, you will soon compromise. It is just a matter of time. If you value your relationship with God, you will disconnect from any tiny appearance of compromise before you become entangled and fall in love.

3. Let’s keep our relationship to ourselves for now. I don’t want any pastor or parents to know. Don’t even tell too many of your friends for now. I am a private person and I don’t like being discussed all over the place. Let it just be between the two of us. When the time comes to go public, I will let you know.

What he is really saying: I don’t want to go all the way with you. I don’t want any commitments; all I want is sex! Let’s make the casualty to be only you and not involve any authority figure that will tie me down.

The implication: He will not walk the aisle with you. He is not interested in marriage and there is no point wasting a few of your years with him. A good courtship is not supposed to operate as a secret cult!

4. I really love you and that is why you are number one out of all my girlfriends. You are the one I want to get married to.

What he is really saying: I have other girlfriends that I sleep around with. Be careful so I won’t change my mind about you because I have so many of them in my hands.

The implication: He is manipulating you with that statement and he may not get married to you eventually. Even if he does, there would not be an automatic disconnection with his girlfriends especially if they are sexually involved. You will have to contend with that after marriage and practically fight battles that could have been avoided. As a child of God, you are to be loved and adored by your husband. The moment you are being threatened this way, something is not quite right. Don’t stay under a manipulative man; that is not God’s plan for you.

5. Even though, I am married, I don’t love my wife. I don’t know why I have not met you before I got married. You are my true wife. I will find a way to leave that woman and marry you. You are so caring, loving and I can do anything for you. Just stay with me, I will give you anything you want and I will marry you eventually.

What he is really saying: You think it is so easy to leave the mother of my children? You are just a baby, and I will keep on giving you paltry sums of money to get what I want. I will rent a house for you and buy you a car and I will visit you there for sex. The day you say you are no longer interested, I will collect my car and my house.

The implication: Adultery is not worth it. You will simply waste your youth and practically stop your life. It will look sweet initially but soon turns into gravel in your mouth. Disconnect from such relationships because God doesn’t want you there.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I am wise. I have a better understanding of my lover. I know what my lover is saying and not saying.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Pray that God will show you what your lover is not saying.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. (John 6:63 ESV)

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Review all your relationships and follow God’s instructions to find out what your lover is not saying.

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Jer 29



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How To Worship Without Distracting Others

How To Worship Without Distracting Others

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Remember we said that prayer is like a one-on-one session with God? It’s time alone with God and not open to anyone or anything to cause any distraction. Distracting someone in prayer is not cool at all.

So, when you see someone praying maybe during church service or not, it’s not the time to start distracting them. It’s not cool to make a joke then or nudge them to look at someone or something irrelevant or trivial.

Don’t tap someone who is praying and say “Hey, look at Tom’s torn jeans” or “See how messed up Susan’s hair is.” It’s really not cool to make jokes about people’s looks, clothes, or social status. And not even during prayers. And God doesn’t want you to do so.

When you do so, you are distracting them from God – you break their connection to God at that time. This prevents them from hearing or receiving a message from God at that time.

Just like you shouldn’t allow anyone or anything to break your focus during prayer, you shouldn’t do so to others too. Let them enjoy the same blessing you receive from praying to God. Don’t be a stumbling block in their path; stop distracting them.

Prayer is an important ingredient to any Christian’s life. It’s important in your life. May the Lord give you a heart of understanding. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer:
Lord, I don’t want to be a stumbling block in the paths of people during their praying time; help me not to be distracting people. Help me to remain focused on You during prayer. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Action plan:
When next you feel the urge to talk to someone and make a joke during prayers, ask the Holy Spirit for help. And don’t do it.

Confession:
My children are true worshippers. They worship God in spirit and in truth. They will not be distracting others in their worship.

Read yesterday’s article here

Worshipping God By Speaking in Tongues

Worshipping God By Speaking in Tongues

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Speaking in tongues isn’t just for praying alone as most people would think. As much as the Holy Spirit blessed you with this gift to pray to God, He also gave you the ability to worship God by singing and speaking with the same tongues.

You can be speaking in tongues and be worshipping God with it. Have you ever heard adults in church saying people should worship God in another language, our heavenly language? You see, it is something that the Spirit of God empowers believers to do – not just adults, but children also.

While worshipping God in tongues, the Holy Spirit can magnify it for you and lead you to start singing in tongues as well, as worship to God. You may not know what you are singing, but you shouldn’t be bothered by this because God knows what you are singing. You are not singing rubbish; no you are not! You are only worshipping God in the language of heaven and all heaven is dancing along with you. How amazing is that? Angels dancing as you sing; very amazing.

The benefits of doing this are, worshipping God in tongues takes the burden of constructing words for worship. You also, won’t need new words to worship God with because you are speaking or singing in a language that is divinely renewing itself. Unlike using an earthly language that everyone knows what a word means. A heavenly language can mean so many things at different times. The third thing about it is that it helps you keep your focus on God.

Hallelujah! May the Spirit bless you with a massive gift of tongues to worship the King of kings. Amen.

Prayer:
Lord, give me a stream of tongues that I may release my worship through them to you. I want to sing songs and worship in tongues to you. In Jesus’ name, I ask. Amen.

Action Plan:
If you have the gift of tongues, use them to sing to God. If you don’t, find someone to minister it to you. or ask the Holy Spirit for it.

Read yesterday’s article here



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Affairs in Marriage: Five Ways To Handle It – Part 3

Affairs in Marriage: Five Ways To Handle It – Part 3

Reading Time: 3 minutes

So here is the concluding part of our series on Handling affairs in marriage.  Let me just delve into today’s teaching and get it over with.

Like I said earlier, the Grace of God needs to be embraced in an abundant measure to effectively help with handling affairs in marriage.

 4. A lot of teachings

It is good for the spouse of the erring couple to surround the spouse involved in an affair with a lot of good teaching materials. It is the truth from inside those books that God will use to set him/her free. It is the truth that set free

Joh 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

No matter your good words it will not be as effective as God’s word. Let good lead you to specific materials and tapes of anointed men and women of God. There is virtually every book on every topic you are looking for on telegram, books on handling affairs in marriage inclusive. Download them and let the spouse involved in an affair, read them.

Transformation only comes by renewing the mind.

Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

It will also be helpful if the erring spouse can have some time of sober reflection, this has a good part to play in handling affairs in marriage.

5. A lot of prayers

This becomes very important. Intercession must be going on for the spouse involved in affair as much as the erring spouse should also be doing a lot of prayer for himself or herself.

Prayers for the help of God, Mercy, forgiveness, Grace to crucify the flesh and not yield to its dictates must be said as often as possible by the erring spouse. Faith and hope must also be kept alive because if the devil succeeds in getting the erring spouse to a point of defeat, this will help in handling affairs in marriage. A point where he/she feels despondent or a feeling of ‘there is no point’, ‘ let give up’, the battle has been lost.

But keep hope alive and encourage the erring spouse that with God all things are possible. The grace of God can make strong. The flesh cannot have dominion over you because Christ has already died for you. Prayer is a game-changer when it comes to handling affairs in marriage

We are not of them that give up. Christ never gave up even though the pain and the price he paid was so much. He won the victory. He won the battle. So we have the victory. We are only enforcing our victory because the devil is a liar.

The devil seeks to kill, steal and destroy. The erring spouse must just be encouraging  to stand his ground.

Psa 30:5 For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.

There will be great joy, if you endure the discipline of enforcing your victory and you’re finally able to handle and put a stop to affairs in marriage.

Jas 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

When you learn to submit to God and his principles and ways of doing things, you will resist the devil and he has no choice but to flee, and this will help a great deal in handling affairs in marriage.

Resist him no matter how strong the temptation is or long the addiction has been. You resist him in the name of Jesus. Use every weapon to resist him. The blood of Jesus, communion, the word, prayers and he will flee.

God bless you.

May God grant us more understanding and give us grace to do. God surround our marriage in Jesus name.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I will be faithful to my partner.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father, help me to keep my marriage vows.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
James 4:7 (ESV): Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he
will flee from you.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Open up to your spouse, if need be.

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Js 4



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How To Move On After Disappointments

How To Move On After Disappointments

Reading Time: 4 minutes

I remember many years ago, as a young Christian, I was praying and trusting God for some things. God answered me very clearly and told me to forgive so and so. Now, these people really hurt me, and I felt justified walking in an unforgiving spirit. But then God gave me two scriptures and said if I want to move forward in life, I have to forgive.

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19 ESV)

The second scripture God gave me was:

To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices (2 Corinthians 2:10-11 KJV)

  1. I had to listen to God and it was only then I was able to move forward.

2. From the above scriptures, a few things are clear.

3. People will hurt you, as long as you are human and you are in the days of your flesh.

4. You will like to get even, born again or not.

5. Don’t get even; don’t avenge yourself.

6. God will avenge you, He will fight for you and that is when it is sweetest.

7. If you stay in unforgiving mode, Satan will use it as loophole to cause havoc.

You are not to be ignorant of how the devil operates.

A third scripture I will like you to see is here:

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses (Matthew 6:14-15 KJV)

Now, you don’t want to find yourself here. You don’t want to find yourself in a place where God will not forgive you. And yet, the only way not to get there is to forgive people easily! Now as you read this, I really want you to check yourself out. Are you holding a few people in your heart without forgiving them? Well, it could slow you down, literarily!

It could cause delays in marriages, it could cause relationships not to work out, and other havocs can be wrecked. That’s why I tell people; don’t start another relationship immediately after one has just ended. Give yourself a break, at least, six months. Why? When you rush into another relationship with hurts, wounds, bitterness, and an unforgiving spirit, you will end up frustrating that other person, and the relationship will still not work out. You cannot establish a relationship on a foundation of hurts, wounds, and bitterness!

When you stay in unforgiving mode, it’s like moving away from God’s protective arm into the terrain of the devil. A lot of us fast and pray fervently, but hear me and hear me well, if you don’t forgive, you will never be able to enjoy the fullness of God’s blessings. I come to you this morning, by the Spirit of God and by His grace which He has endowed me with and I speak into your life and destiny, ‘Forgive!’

Yes, I know you are hurt! Yes, I know you were jilted. Yes, I know you were raped. Yes, I know you were defrauded. Yes, I know you were abandoned when it is just a few days before the wedding. Yes, I know there has been a divorce. Yes, I know you were cheated. Yes, I know you were wrongfully accused. Yes, I know your spouse cheated on you and manipulated you…and the list goes on.

But you cannot afford some bitterness. It is too expensive for you! You need God now, don’t you? You yourself are not perfect, are you? The only way God can overlook, forgive and forget your own imperfections and cause His mercy to avail for you is when you forgive that person.

There are some of us that hold our parents in derision. You are wrong to do that. But my parents are not born-again! You see the scripture never says you should honour your born-again parents! He said you should honour your parents! That is how to last on the planet earth! So that your days will be long! In fact, a particular translation says, honour your parents so that God can say well done to you!

Some of you are having delays in marriage because you are walking in disobedience.  If your parents have ever said wrong words to you because you were at loggerheads with them, go back to them and apologize. Humble yourself, so that you won’t slow yourself down. Dishonoring your parents and refusing to forgive them can cost you your life! Read your Bible very well.

Go back to them, buy a gift, prostrate or kneel down and ask them to bless you! That act alone will be better off than ninety days of fasting and prayers, which might not yield results because of an unforgiving spirit.

Forgive your spouse. You will do yourself a lot of good if you do that. If you don’t forgive him or her, your prayers will be hindered. Don’t block God’s blessings over you at this time. Why waste your time praying? Isn’t that a religious spirit at work? Married couples, be quick to forgive each other! Don’t allow strife in your family. If you have been in prolonged hurt and strife, it is dangerous. End it today and allow God’s blessing to flow in your family. Leave your ego behind and obey God. Take your wife out, buy her a gift and apologize! Go to your husband and kneel down and ask for forgiveness. It is not old-fashioned; it is scripture!

Let go and let God! Let it be a beginning of a new day for you and yours! Let go of everybody you are holding in your mind. Burn your little black book of offenses and stop recording hurts. Delete them not only from your memory but from recycle bin as well. Guard your heart with all diligence for out of them are the issues of life.

May God help you and give you strength to forgive all you need to forgive in Jesus name!

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CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I have a forgiving attitude. I am quick to forgive.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Lord, give me the grace to let go of all who have hurt me

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: (Matthew 6:14 KJV)

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Let go and let God

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Matt 6



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How To Worship God Through Songs

How To Worship God Through Songs

Reading Time: 2 minutes

You can worship God through songs. Lovely songs that come from deep within you. You release these songs to Him as much as the Holy Spirit impresses them on your heart. You sing songs that speak of His goodness, mercies, great deeds, and much more.

These songs don’t even have to be known ones that you have heard before. They could be new, just given to you by the Spirit of God because that is what God wants you to say to Him at that particular moment.

Sometimes, the Holy Spirit won’t even allow you to write them down. He just wants you to sing them at that moment for God. Wonder why He says He is jealous? He can be that jealous and wants only you to sing those songs or just a song for Him.

Singing to God is something David was known for. The bible is full of the Psalms He wrote to God as worship to the great and mighty God.

Be like David and let the Holy Spirit give you songs that God wants only you to sing to Him. Isn’t that a wonderful thing? God giving you a unique song to sing to Him just for Him only. Hallelujah!

God loves it when children sing for Him. Your sweet voice is what He wants to hear first thing in the morning, during the day and even at night before you sleep. He waits to hear your voice worship Him with songs.

May the Lord receive your worship. Amen.

Prayer:
Mighty God, I raise my voice in worship to you. Let my voice and song(s) be sweet to Your ears. May Your Spirit give me the words to sing to You only. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Action Point:
Find, rehearse and sing beautiful songs in worship of the God of the whole universe. Tell Him why You love Him. He is waiting to hear you sing.

Confession:
I will sing praise unto God all day. I will not be an ingrate, complaining or grumbling.

Read yesterday’s article here



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Signs Your Lover May Backslide After Marriage

Signs Your Lover May Backslide After Marriage

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Yesterday, we began this discussion, pointing out tell-tale signs to look out for, so that your lover who is on fire today, may not backslide after marriage. If you missed it, see it here.

Our anchor scripture remains:

2Pe 2:20-22 (MSG)  If they’ve escaped from the slum of sin by experiencing our Master and Savior, Jesus Christ, and then slid back into that same old life again, they’re worse than if they had never left.  [21] Better not to have started out on the straight road to God than to start out and then turn back, repudiating the experience and the holy command.  [22] They prove the point of the proverbs, “A dog goes back to its own vomit,” and, “A scrubbed-up pig heads for the mud.”

What are other things to note in the area of relationships?

7. When you meet a new person in a church setting, beyond falling in love with some height or some hot legs, find out how involved he is in church. Is he or she a worker in that church? How long has he or she been in the church? Does the pastor know him or her personally?

Is he filled with the Holy Spirit? All these do not guarantee a successful or stress-free marriage, however, they go a long way to establish some credibility and spirituality of the person involved.

This is a better approach than meeting someone in church and on the same day, you are in his house! You must learn how to protect yourself!

8. You need to know that being born again can be genuine and yet the guy or lady is still involved in some sharp practices. When you are born again, your spirit is regenerated, but your mind is in the process of being renewed as you listen to God’s word.

This often takes time and is determined by how studious you are in the word and how much time you give to the study of God’s word. In the process of the mind being renewed, a lot of ‘sinful’ mistakes can happen.

As long as they are not habitual, God will forgive and you will be okay. But when you do something habitually and unrepentantly, the conscience becomes seared and a religious spirit takes over.

9. When you see obvious character defects, don’t close your eyes to them especially when he or she says he will change later. Marriage changes nobody.

Anybody that tells you he or she will change later is deceiving you. What do you do when you see character defects? Seek help! Don’t keep quiet.

10. If during courtship or after marriage, you suddenly discover you never knew who you were in the same boat with, here is what to do. In courtship, take a pause on everything until you find a solution. For example, if the issues has to do with physical violence or physical abuse, don’t just keep quiet thinking that marriage will soften him.

Don’t walk down the aisle into that kind of marriage, or you might need to soon run up the aisle and out! If you are getting slaps in courtship, guess what will happen in marriage? In marriage, divorce is not the first option. Look for a Christian marriage counselor or marriage therapist for help.

11. If you are in a distant relationship or some online dating, you need to know that you will not have a distant marriage and you will not live online.

The reality must dawn on you never to make life-involving decisions without knowing the person very well. It is wrong for you to fall in love with a stranger. Something is not quite right with falling in love with an online profile or some voice over the phone! Marriage is not a game! It is a covenant!

12. Finally, we are all projects in the making in the hands of God. Nobody is perfect, but there are things that are unbecoming for a child of God. When you see some of these things, it is time to seek help, or if intense, run for your life!

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I have divine wisdom from God to make decisions.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Pray and ask God to show you what you don’t know about your life

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. (Jeremiah 33:3 KJV)

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Take an inventory of all the relationships in your life

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Ps 69



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Handling Affairs in Marriage – Part 2

Handling Affairs in Marriage – Part 2

Reading Time: 3 minutes

We started on the topic of Handling affairs in marriage difficult. We started on this topic yesterday and I established the fact that it is a difficult situation to handle for the spouse.

It is better prevented than experienced.

Handling affairs in marriage is difficult. The pain and hurt of the betrayal of an affair is in different categories. There are more painful experiences than others.

Imagine the pain of someone having a full-blown sexual affair with your house help or having an affair with your sister or brother or with your best friend or even with someone who needed your help and offered to help.

The pain of being cheated and taken for a fool is best described as a dagger piercing ones soul.

That is why, the spouse of the erring spouse must allow the Lord heal his/her soul completely.

The first response is that of frustration and revenge.

It is to be noted that our response to handling this issue (i.e handling affairs in marriage) can never be in the flesh. If we must handle things well, we should never allow our flesh to gain ascendancy over our spirit.

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:1 KJV

The only way to avoid condemnation is to walk in the spirit.

The devil seeks to accuse us to God even in the midst of that very difficult situation. He wants to accuse us so that the unity and agreement needed as a couple to break the backbone of lust is broken.

When the spouse that is supposed to stand in the gap to the erring spouse is bitter and offended against the spouse that needs help, how will there be total victory and complete deliverance?

Hear me, I am not saying or pushing the responsibility to be free in the hands of the other spouse, I’m only saying it puts the enemy to shame faster.

Imagine if someone comes to accuse your son to you for stealing your money expecting you to flog him, it will be the son’s privilege and he will forever be grateful if you don’t join the outsider to condemn him but show him mercy.

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: Matthew 6:14 KJV

The outsider cannot do anything except the father agrees with the outsider to punish his son.

I am not undermining disciplining a child when wrong. It is just an analogy to tell us you don’t have to join the enemy in disciplining or correcting your son. You will punish your son but not in the presence of the outsider. It is a family issue and should be handled as such.

Likewise handle the erring spouse infidelity as such. Once again, this is done by being in the spirit.

Let’s continue on the issue of handling affairs in marriage

3. Walk in the spirit

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. Galatians 5:16 KJV

If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Galatians 5:25 KJV

Our flesh is what seeks expression when we feel we have been violated. The flesh wants to respond in retaliation. The flesh wants to fight back but we must go by the way of the cross when it comes to the issue of handling affairs in marriage.

It takes unconditional love to forgive and keep forgiving even when the erring spouse is in the wrong.

Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?  Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Matthew 18:21 – 22 KJV

It takes a conscious walk in the spirit to do this. If it were not possible, Jesus would have not said it. But that he said it means it is possible.

Jesus will definitely give us grace. This Grace is available for us if we will embrace it. If we are willing and obedient, he will give us this grace to forgive.

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. James 4:6 KJV

Let’s trust God to help us. No matter how far stretched we are, God still has more Grace to give to us.

I will stop here today and continue tomorrow on handling affairs in marriage

God bless our marriage and protect us from the powers of darkness.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I will be faithful to my partner.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
My Father, help me to keep my marriage vows.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
James 4:7 (ESV): Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he
will flee from you.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Open up to your spouse, if there be any issues

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Ps 70

Five Nevers in Handling Affairs in Marriage

Five Nevers in Handling Affairs in Marriage

Reading Time: 2 minutes

It is difficult and hard when your spouse has been involved in an affair or affairs. It takes a lot of maturity and God’s love shed abroad in our hearts to properly handle the situation.

It will take God and the willingness of the erring spouse to denounce this habit, turn a new leave and become an instrument against affairs in the hands of God.

Such change is very possible when the erring spouse knows how to appropriate the grace, mercy, and blood of Jesus. No devil has the power to make any of us do what we don’t want to do.

For example, the deliverance of Saul was complete and total. Never did he go back again to persecuting the church. So the determination of the erring spouse is more important than what the spouse does or does not do.

Despite the reaction of the spouse, total victory is still a reality.

However, for the sake of support and those who are not so strong, here are things the spouse of an erring spouse is not to do.

  1. Never allow a feeling of revenge overtake you.

The devil is a bad devil and would love to exploit any situation, but the bible says we should resist him.

So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7 NLT

You may be tempted to also pay your spouse back in the same coin, to also cheat and have an affair. The temptation will be strong but please do not yield to it.

Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Romans 12:19 NLT

Keep yourself in the love of God.

2. Never try to blow your own trumpet.

The devil is full of different strategies that he never seeks to give up. Even when it is obvious he has lost the battle, he still wants to try, peradventure he could still win some grounds.

God should still remain the center of focus and not man. So it is better to continually give all the glory to God. Don’t think it is because you are smart or gifted that you discovered. It is God that made it happen. He gave you the wisdom.

Don’t also think you are standing because you are righteous, it is of the Lord’s mercy.

So rather than blow your trumpet of being the good cop over all the years, thank God for the grace to be faithful. We are all a product of God’s help.

Thank God you made yourself available for God to use you in being so forthright, disciplined, and focused.

We all are a product of God’s Mercy.

I will stop here today, and continue tomorrow by the grace of God.

It is my prayer that God will give us more understanding in Jesus’ name.

God bless your marriage.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I will be faithful to my partner.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
My Father, help me to keep my marriage vows.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
James 4:7 (ESV): Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Open up to your spouse, if there be any issues

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
Ps 66-68



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