I intend to share with you one of the scriptures that God revealed to me as a young Christian this morning.
Praying this scripture opened me up to the supernatural. As if the curtains of the heavens were drawn, I became aware of many things, including His direction for my life and His specific desires for me at each moment.
Here is the scripture.
Jer 33:3 (KJV) Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
You know what I love about this? It’s the fact that God promised to answer your prayers immediately, without any delay.
Call upon me, and I will answer you…
Notice that He didn’t promise to fulfill your request, but He simply said He would answer your call!
He will respond! How will he respond?
He is going to reveal things to you!
Great Things! Mighty Things!
Which you don’t know.
The reality is that what you don’t know is more than what you know. Yet, what you know determines your progress in life.
God said He would show you!
Let’s take a look at other translations.
Jer 33:3 (MSG) ‘Call to me and I will answer you. I’ll tell you marvellous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.’
Wondrous things and marvelous things that you can’t figure out alone, He said He will show you!
People of God, get ready for God this year to show you marvelous and wondrous things, and you will know it is God showing you because they are things you could not figure out on your own!
This will give you an advantage in life and propel you beyond your contemporaries!
I pray that this year will be a year of revelations and insights that will advance you massively in Jesus’ name!
Shrouded Secrets, Resolute Exploits: The Chronicles of Sola’s Triumph
Sola, a devout and committed member of her village community, met George at a bustling market festival. George, known for his street smarts and charming demeanor, pursued Sola persistently. He often suggested they prove their love through physical intimacy, claiming it was customary in the village. Despite George’s persistent attempts, Sola remained steadfast in her beliefs and commitment to her faith, consistently refusing his exploits and advances.
The village, while vibrant and close-knit, had its share of issues. Families were under stress due to economic hardships and social pressures. Sola’s home life was particularly strained. Her father, a hardworking farmer, struggled with poor harvests, and her mother, who sold handmade crafts, was equally stressed. The constant financial struggles often led to heated arguments between her parents, creating an unbearable atmosphere for Sola. In her search for peace, Sola found herself spending more time with George, seeking solace from the turmoil at home.
George’s early years were marked by constant struggle and hardship. His father left when he was just a toddler, forcing his mother to raise four children alone. Living in a dilapidated hut on the outskirts of the village, basic necessities were often a luxury. George’s mother sold vegetables in the market, but her earnings were meager, and many nights, the family went to bed hungry.
Moreover, Growing up without a father figure, George had to fend for himself, taking on odd jobs around the village. By his teenage years, he had fallen in with a group of young men from troubled backgrounds. They found solace in each other’s company but also engaged in risky behavior to gain respect, and validation and prove their exploits. George, usually at the forefront of these challenges, felt intense peer pressure to prove himself, especially when it came to Sola.
One fateful day, after another intense argument at home, Sola visited George, hoping for respite. George greeted her warmly and offered her freshly tapped palm wine. Trusting George despite her doubts, Sola took a sip, unaware it was drugged. As the drug took effect, Sola felt dizzy and disoriented. George coaxed her to rest, and as her consciousness faded, she was vaguely aware of being moved.
Hours later, Sola awoke in a haze, with George and three other men standing around her. Despite her condition, Sola mustered her strength to fight back, using self-defense techniques taught by her mother, who did exploits in martial arts. However, her strikes were weak and unsteady. Overpowered and outnumbered, Sola realized the men intended to assault her. The vibrant sounds of the village festival outside contrasted cruelly with her plight.
Despite the overwhelming odds, Sola managed to escape the hut, bruised and traumatized. She stumbled back home, where her parents, noticing her disheveled state, immediately embraced her, providing the comfort she desperately needed.
Sola’s story spread quickly through the village, leading the elders to convene a council. George and his accomplices were summoned and faced severe punishment for their actions. This incident sparked a broader discussion about trust, relationships, and the influences of external pressures on the village’s youth.
Amid the turmoil, however, it was revealed that Sola had recently won a dancing competition and was chosen to do more exploits by representing her village in an inter-village competition. This achievement highlighted her resilience and the potential to rise above her challenges.
Lessons Learned
Trust and Values
Sola’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of misplaced trust and the importance of upholding personal values despite external pressures. It’s crucial to be discerning about whom you trust and allow into your life, especially when their values and intentions differ from yours.
Avoiding Vulnerable Situations
It’s essential to avoid putting oneself in vulnerable situations. Meeting people in safe, neutral locations can help maintain personal safety and prevent potential harm.
Seeking Healthy Support
Finding healthy outlets for support, such as friends, mentors, or community leaders, can provide the comfort and guidance needed without compromising safety. Sola’s turn to George for solace due to her stressful home environment highlights the importance of seeking support in healthy ways.
Trusting Instincts
Trusting one’s instincts can often prevent dangerous situations. Sola had initial doubts about George’s intentions but ignored them, leading to her traumatic experience.
Value Alignment in Relationships
Building relationships with individuals who share similar values and beliefs can create a stronger, more supportive network. Sola’s values clashed with George’s, leading to conflict and ultimately, harm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sola’s story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of maintaining personal integrity in the face of adversity. Moreover, her resilience and ability to overcome such a traumatic experience serve as an inspiration to others, emphasizing the importance of trust, values, and the support of a caring community.
Between Love and Lies: The Struggle of Marital Deception
In the heart of the expansive Savanna, where Acacia trees stretch towards an endless horizon, lies the village of Kabira. This close-knit community is home to Juma, a renowned storyteller, and his stunning wife, Nia. Their love story, filled with romance, challenges, and profound lessons, has consequently become a cherished legend in their village.
Juma’s Gift for Storytelling
Firstly, Juma was celebrated far and wide for his extraordinary ability to tell stories. His voice, rhythmic like a drumbeat and flowing like a river, brought to life the history and legends of their people. From ancient heroes’ epic journeys to the mischievous deeds of spirits, Juma’s tales captivated everyone in Kabira.
Nia’s Beauty and Wisdom
Nia was equally admired for her unparalleled beauty, wisdom, and exceptional skill in weaving intricate patterns into the village’s garments. Moreover, her creations were more than just clothing; each piece told a story of love, tradition, and dreams. Nia was also known for her kind heart and deep understanding of the human spirit.
Their First Meeting and Marriage
Juma and Nia met by a tranquil riverbank, instantly enchanted by each other. Their courtship was a dance of affection: Juma shared warrior tales, and additionally, Nia gifted woven garments. They married in a grand village ceremony, blessed with songs, dances, and heartfelt gifts, sealing their deep connection and love.
The Trials and Tribulations; Early Challenges
As with all great stories, Juma and Nia’s marriage faced trials. The initial days were filled with joy and laughter, but soon the challenges of life surfaced. Juma’s temper, quick to flare when his artistic flow was interrupted, clashed with Nia’s calm and patient demeanor. Consequently, their harmony was disrupted, leading to frustrations and misunderstandings.
A Divine Dream
One evening, after an exhausting day, Juma’s frustration boiled over when Nia did not prepare his favorite meal. Their argument continued into the night, and for the first time, they went to bed with unresolved anger. That night, Nia was visited in a dream by Jesus, who gently reminded her that marriage requires patience, understanding, and appreciation of the small things.
Renewed Purpose
Nia awoke with a renewed sense of purpose and shared her dream with Juma. Recognizing the wisdom in Jesus’s advice, Juma promised never to let anger linger between them. They agreed to resolve their disagreements before the night ended, no matter how challenging the conversation might be.
Working Their Marriage
Juma and Nia paused their disagreements to approach them calmly, using kind words to strengthen their bond. Daily compliments fostered goodwill: Juma admired Nia’s weavings, and she praised his stories. Nia thrived on Juma’s affirmations, feeling cherished, which deepened their emotional connection and reinforced their love and appreciation for each other.
A Tragic Turn
Despite their best efforts, their story took a tragic turn. Juma began to struggle with writer’s block, feeling the weight of his inability to captivate his audience. Determined to regain his spark, he devoted all his energy to his craft, inadvertently neglecting Nia in the process.
Nia’s Loneliness
Feeling increasingly overlooked and unappreciated, Nia tried to communicate her needs to Juma. However, Juma, absorbed in his struggle and feeling overwhelmed, dismissed her concerns. His frustration and impatience consequently led to more frequent arguments.
The Temptation
In her vulnerability, Nia found herself drawn to Kato, a charming trader who had recently arrived in the village. Kato was attentive and kind, providing a temporary refuge from Nia’s troubles at home. One evening, after another heated argument with Juma, Nia sought solace in Kato’s company.
The Encounter
Under the moonlit sky, Nia and Kato sat by the riverbank, discussing their lives and dreams. Overwhelmed by her emotions and the comfort Kato provided, Nia almost gave in to the temptation. Although she brushed off the incident, Kato pursued her once more.
The Discovery
One evening, Juma stumbled upon Nia and Kato holding hands intimately by the riverbank. Heartbroken, he confronted the situation. Furthermore, he reported the matter to the village elders. Nia, facing scrutiny, explained her vulnerability and Juma’s neglect.
The Resolution
Consequently, the village elders decided Kato should be sent out of the village. The community rallied around Juma and Nia, offering support as they navigated the difficult path ahead. Nia confessed everything to Juma, and they both apologized for their actions, vowing to rebuild their marriage on trust, love, and understanding.
A Timeless Message
• Effort and Patience: A happy and enduring marriage requires effort and patience.
• Willingness to Grow: Growth is essential for a lasting relationship.
• Resolving Conflicts with Kindness: Addressing disagreements with kindness is crucial.
• Preventing Anger from Festering: Never let anger linger unresolved.
• Daily Appreciation: Regularly show appreciation for your partner.
• Enduring Love: “May your love be as enduring as the Baobab tree, and may your marriage be blessed with joy and harmony.”
Secrets To Keep Love Alive. It’s beautiful seeing newly wedded couples. The love spark is impressive.
There is a love wave, love current, and all the love vibes around them. They set out to profess their eternal love for each other.
They are deeply in love and could never imagine hurting each other not to talk of harming themselves whether emotionally or verbally.
The question is what happened? At what point did they start to deviate from the love zone?
Really, no husband or wife starts out overnight from being loving to being rash, unkind, abusive, and insensitive.
There must have been little actions or in-actions here and there, that crept into their love affair.
The Bible talks about little foxes that destroy the vine, the tender vine.
Our marriages are like these vines that are very tender. Little foxes are like poisons slowly released that will eventually destroy the marriage. We, therefore, need to place close attention so that we don’t allow these foxes.
Here are three things not to do if you want to keep love alive in marriage.
Secrets To Keep Love Alive
1. Don’t blame
‘It’s his fault
‘She is very disrespectful’
‘He’s not kind and loving’
She’s lazy and overly sensitive
‘He’s always hurting’
Stop the blame game. You have a choice, either you keep blaming and remain hurt, bitter, and full of regret, and revengeful.
When you keep on blaming the other person you focus on their negatives.
You become blind to their positive sides and you put him/ her on edge.
Remember, when you were in love, it was because you were blind to their negatives and only focused on how good, handsome & lovely they were.
Do the same now. Blaming your spouse continuously is poisonous.
I am not asking you to keep completely silent on your spouse’s weakness but rather confront each other respectfully and lovingly.
Remember you have your own faults too. Forgiveness and mercy are reciprocal in marriage.
Secrets To Keep Love Alive
2. Don’t Compare
The grass always seems greener on the other side. Never fall for the comparison trap.
Don’t compare other couples or marriages with your own.
Yes, you can learn from them but never compare.
The truth is you never know that other husband or wife.
Every good marriage you admire sacrificed on their path to get to where they are now.
So rather than compare and blame your spouse for not being like husband A, work on your own marriage, pay your own price, and make your own sacrifices.
Secrets To Keep Love Alive
3. Don’t withdraw
The withdrawal syndrome is one thing that destroys a marriage fast.
It’s a temporary shield you build around yourself to avoid confronting and dealing with issues.
Don’t withdraw into work, yourself, your passion, activity, church project, children, porn, friends, outings, or keeping late nights.
When you hide in withdrawal, you have created a vacuum for the devil to fill in your home.
You need to understand each other’s temperament and know how to lovingly respect each other’s differences.
Extroverts and introverts are very different and handle issues differently.
Give each other space. Allow your spouse to grow without nagging them.
Be patient with your demands. Don’t expect your wife to change overnight. Let the fruit of the spirit grow and manifest in your life.
Allow your marriage to grow. Let it blossom.
If you are presently experiencing a not-too-pleasant moment in your marriage, let grace flow towards you now, releasing peace, strength, and courage to you.
I pray for you, may God’s love and a fresh love for your spouse be shed abroad in your heart now in Jesus’ name.
Confronting a Secretive Spouse: 9 Strategies. The story of King Henry VIII of England and his second wife, Anne Boleyn is a historical example of a secretive spouse that ended in a bad way Henry VIII was known for his secrecy and his tendency to keep things from his wives. He kept secret his desire to divorce his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, and his infatuation with Anne Boleyn. He also kept secret the fact that he was having an affair with Anne’s lady-in-waiting, Jane Seymour, even as Anne was pregnant with his child. Eventually, Anne was falsely accused of adultery and treason, and she was executed. Henry VIII’s secrecy and infidelity ultimately led to the downfall of his marriage to Anne and the upheaval of the entire English monarchy. A few secrets here and there resulted in many woes and agonies that are generational shifting! But this morning, let’s consider some biblical strategies!
Confronting a Secretive Spouse: 9 Strategies
What do you do with a secretive spouse? This will apply to both singles who are in relationships and those married.
Pray for your spouse
Pray for your spouse’s heart to be open and for their willingness, to be honest with you. Pray for the strength and guidance to handle the situation in a godly manner.
In Genesis 18:16-33, Abraham intercedes for his wife Sarah, asking God to bless her and make her fertile, despite her old age. Through his prayer, God fulfilled his promise and Sarah gave birth to Isaac. God answers prayers!
Communicate openly
Talk to your spouse about your concerns and feelings in a respectful and loving way. Ask them to be open and honest with you and to share their struggles.
In the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:6-13, we see the consequences of not communicating openly and honestly with one another.
Seek accountability
Encourage your spouse to seek accountability from a trusted friend, mentor, or counselor.
The story of David and Nathan in 2 Samuel 12:1-14 illustrates the importance of accountability. God sent Nathan all the way so David can have the opportunity to repent!
Practice forgiveness
Forgive your spouse for their secrecy and be willing to extend grace to them. Without forgiveness, you won’t be able to help.
The story of the prodigal son shows that forgiveness is powerful.
Colossians 3:13 “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Read the Bible together
This may sound simplistic, but it is life-giving! Spend time reading the Bible and praying together. This will help to strengthen your relationship and build trust between you.
Confronting a Secretive Spouse: 9 Strategies
Attend church together
Make it a priority to attend church services together and to grow in your faith together. That will afford you a common ground for open discussions.
Hebrews 10:25 “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Seek help
Consider seeking the help of a counselor or therapist to work through any issues that may be affecting your relationship if you are unable to move forward. Do not keep quiet!
James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Practice humility
Humble yourself and be willing to admit your own faults and mistakes. It is possible the secrecy of your spouse is fueled by your own attitudes and approach. It takes humility to admit.
James 4:6 “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
Be patient
Be patient and understand that change takes time. Pray for your spouse and be willing to wait for them to change.
James 5:7-8 “Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.”
Confronting a Secretive Spouse: 9 Strategies
In conclusion, these nine biblical strategies can help couples confront and overcome secrets in their marriage. By following these principles, couples can work towards building a strong and lasting relationship based on trust, honesty, and transparency. It’s important to remember that marriage is a sacred bond, and by following these biblical strategies, couples can protect their relationship from the devil’s deception.
