Revisiting The Evergreen Tree

Sometimes, we can go through situations we have been through before, and even when we know how faithful God was in the past, we still have fear, doubts, etc, deep in our hearts. That means we need to constantly be reminded of who God is, and His word should take priority over every situation we face.

As I type this post, I recall a time when I was filled with anxiety and fear, and the experience I had with the "Evergreen Tree". I searched out a post that helped to remind me of who God is and what He can do. He exceeded my expectations then. I hope that as you read this, you will get some comfort or encouragement if you are in a situation of anxiety, doubt or unanswered questions.

Each time I took a walk, that tree caught my eye. Since my mind was filled with so many thoughts, I could not place why the tree appealed to me. One day, I had to stop and take a hard look at the tree. It was then I realized why it always stood out. In the midst of dry, deserted, leafless and barren-looking trees, it stood tall, fresh and evergreen.

It was one of those periods when my mind was clouded with anxiety and unanswered questions. I had some sleepless nights worrying and running scenarios in my head. But that day as I looked at the tree, how it looked, and the way it stood out, I found myself getting back on track. I do not want to belittle God by likening Him to anything, but when I thought about what the tree meant in the midst of the other trees, I could not help but be reminded of the consistency of God.

He is the God that does not change. He is the same yesterday, today and forever [Hebrews 13:8]. We live in a world where things are ever changing but He still remains the same in every facet. He said it, “I am the LORD, and I do not change” [Malachi 3:6], and this word is true.

 

He never says a word and changes His mind. All His promises have been tried and proved true. When He speaks today a word or a promise, He does not change His mind. ”God is not a man, so He does not lie. He is not human, so He does not change His mind. He has never spoken and failed to act. He has never promised and not carried it through [Num. 23:19].

 

He remains the same [Psalm 102:27]. The God that was spoken of before now is still the same God today. God does not need to prove to us that He is God. He is the Lord, the God of all the peoples of the world [Jeremiah 32:27]. If we come to Him in prayer and He does not answer the way we want, He does not stop being God. In fact, it only means He has better plans for us.

 

Seasons will come and go but He will always be there. There will be periods of joy and laughter. There will be periods of trials and disappointments. But in all of these He is still the God who gives good and perfect gives and does not change like shifting shadows [James 1:17].

 

Even when all else fails, He will never fail. Most times, we go to Him as the last resort instead of the first. Yet He receives us, and attends to us. He hears our prayers, He sees our tears, and like a loving Father, He is always willing to restore us what seemed to be lost or taken from us [Joel 2:25].

 

There are times when we may not be able to feel His presence, but He will never leave us or forsake. He Himself said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” [Hebrews 13:5] It is not only when we feel blessed that He is with us. At those times when we feel alone, or deserted, He is so close, watching over us, putting a protective hedge around us that we will go on to see the goodness ahead of us.

 

God is self-sufficient. He knows how to fulfill His promises in our lives. When He does it, it is in a way that no man can take the glory. It may not be the way and time we plan, but He sure knows how to make things beautiful in its own time.

 

No matter what else changes around us, God in all His greatness and might and majesty will never change.

Having been reassured of the love and consistency of God, I finally cast my cares upon Him and started having a good night’s rest.

No matter where you are, may you be reminded that God is the never-changing God.

 

Remain blessed.

Like When A Baby Cries

While the ladies awaited the call of their babies for immunization, the babies and the nannies were at the nursery in the clinic. Most of the mothers were lost in endless chatter until the shrill cry of a baby rang in the room. For a split second, the mothers were quiet. Then one of them jumped up, left all she was doing and ran towards the nursery. Once she picked up her baby, the ladies resumed their discussions. And yes, that's all it takes – just the cry of a baby, and the mother responds displaying her love, her compassion, tenderness, and providing the appropriate solution in response to that cry.

To the ordinary ear, all babies cry alike. But to the “trained” ear, the ear of a mother, every baby’s cry is distinct. Not only does the mother differentiate between her baby’s cry from another’s, she can also differentiate what each cry represents.

If mothers are so apt in identifying the cry of their babies, how much more does God hear, understand and respond to the cry of His children? Do you think He doesn’t see your tears (both the ones shed and the ones you could not shed)? He is a Father who loves you deeply and unconditionally. He is the one who hears your voice and your cries [Psalm 116:1]. He does respond quickly - even though it may seem like a long time to you. He works out His best for you according to His sovereign plan and impeccable timing. His work is accomplished even when it does not seem like anything happening.

I remember crying to God to make my relationship with a widower work out. Looking back, I am glad that though He heard my cry, He did not give me what I requested for in my limited sight. So though it seems that He has not responded to your cry as you desire, it may just be because He has a better plan for you.

Thanks be to God, a Father who keeps track of all your sorrows. He has collected all your tears in His bottle. None of them have fallen to the ground to be forgotten. He has recorded each one in His book that they may be brought to His remembrance at the appropriate time [Psalms 56:8].

Beloved, all the tears that you shed "are" remembered by God. If "properly" shed - shed in sorrow, in grief, or in pain, without murmuring or complaining, they will be remembered for your good. And yes, that's all it takes – just your sincere cry, whether voiced out or in your heart, your loving Father will respond, displaying His love, and providing the appropriate solution in response to that cry.

Remain Blessed.

NB: I will be reading and signing "Against The Perfect Will" on Saturday, 25th of August. Details are as follows:-

Details of the reading are:

Date: Saturday, August 25 2012
Time: 3 – 5 PM
Venue: Patabah Books, Adeniran Ogunsanya (Shoprite) Shopping Mall (Ground Floor), Surulere, Lagos.

I look forward to seeing you there. Please share this invitation with book-loving friends and family. If you already have a book and would like it to be signed, this will be a great opportunity.

Chocolate-Smeared Baby

She walked through the door and stared at me for a moment. Her beautiful, brown eyes shone with excitement as she realized I was the one standing in the room. Her heart-melting smile revealed her six beautiful teeth. Her arms were outstretched, awaiting me to carry her and sweep her off her feet. She was running towards me as she always does when she sees me after I have been away from work.

But for a moment, I was hesitant. I did not immediately run to her. There I was dressed in my favourite white shirt, and she was running to me with hands and mouth smeared with chocolate and all what not. In the split moment of my hesitancy, I said, "this is the end of this white shirt, but it is nothing compared to my daughter." Then I walked towards her, lifted her up and gave her a peck. It was one of those moments when I had to remind myself that God has been more than good to me.

As I reflected on this incident, I recalled the words of Jesus, "Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." [Matthew 19:14 NASB] God does not expect us, as we come into His presence, to have worked hard to become free of sin and be perfect. He is such a loving father who receives us with open arms when we come to Him. My daughter was not self-conscious, no, she did not even know she was covered in chocolate, nor she did not know what the smears could do to my white shirt. In the same vein, our gracious God wants us to come boldly into His throne of grace, just as we are, for there we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. 

Understand that your heavenly Father loves you unconditionally. Nothing can separate you from this love He has for you. If we know how to love and give good gifts to our children, then I believe our heavenly Father, who is love, can do much more than we can ask or think.

And so as I make my requests known to Him, I am no longer coming into His throne of grace with sin-consciousness. I know He loves me. I know His arms are always opened wide to receive me. I know that when He looks at me He sees me as the apple of His eye, His righteousness in Christ Jesus, and not one smeared with sin. I am coming to Him just as I am, this time naked and not ashamed.

What about you?

Remain blessed.

He Cares About Every Detail

I like it when I receive an apt word of encouragement, especially when I am waiting on God and I have alot of questions. I was reading the bible when I stumbled upon "The LORD your God will drive those nations out ahead of you little by little..."[Deuteronomy 7:22a, NLT]. I was concerned. We are speaking of a God who can wipe out a nation in one second. We are speaking of a God who had parted the seas, and had provided manna and quail for His people. I wondered, why couldn't He drive out those nations in one go to enable the Israelites have rest once and for all?

The verse went on as follows: "...You will not clear them away all at once, otherwise the wild animals would multiply too quickly for you..." That was when it all began to make sense. Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save. He was more than able to drive out the nations ahead of the Israelites,but He did not. In His love, wisdom and foresight, He did it little by litttle. God cared so much for His people that He did not drive out the nations occupying the promised land all at once knowing that if He did that, the wild animals would grow in number and would threaten the safety and livelihood of His people.

 

There are some times when you may wonder why God is allowing a challenge to remain. You might be wondering why there are delays in seeing the physical manifestation of the answers to your prayers. It could be a small or a big issue, but you know God can handle it in one second if He chooses to, yet He has not done so. The passage today is a reminder that God cares about the details of our lives. He does not want the presence of the "wild animals" to interfer with the promised land, nay, the answer to the prayer we have brought before Him.

Do you desire something that God has not given? Are you praying yet it seems God has not answered? God has a perfect timing and may be concerned about the "wild animals", such as unforgiveness, unresolved issues of the past, self condemnation, double-mindedness, or some area of your life He needs to refine. Or He just may be waiting for the appointed time when the testimony will be ripe, while blessing you in preparation.  But no matter what may be the cause of the delay, He loves you and cares about every detail of your life. And He will not give you more than you can bear.

Remain blessed.

Speaking of Reserves

Drained of My Reserve

It’s been I while I did blog rounds or responded to comments on my blog – and it might be so for a while. As I carried myself into the house that 11pm, exhausted and drained of my reserve, I slumped on the bed and asked God “why?”. I followed up with murmurings and complaining about how hectic and demanding my job had been. But before I drifted off to sleep, I recalled that only 2 weeks ago I was on bended knees committing my work into His hands. I prayed for opened doors, opportunities, and for moments to bring out the workaholic in me. I realized that He had answered my prayers, yet I was complaining. I pondered on how much this job has been a blessing to me. Then I flashed back to six yrs ago when I prayed for this job and He gave it to me on a platter of gold.

 

Most of the things I have complained about were once categorized as blessings to me. They were once prayer requests. Sometimes we go to God in prayer, and forget that we must be prepared for what we are requesting for.

Now I have quit complaining and I am thanking God for the strength He has given me to face the demanding times, for the wisdom He has given me to overcome challenges, for the creativity He has put in me to add value to the system, and more importantly for answering my prayers.

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How far can we go on reserve?

For those who live at the Lekki/Ajah axis of Lagos and have to shuttle to and from that area everyday will understand the apprehension of the driver when he said, “my fuel is on reserve, can it take us to VI?” I had a knowing deep down that we will get to VI with enough fuel to take him to the filling station the company uses. He asked me why I was so sure, and I shared an experience with him which I am sharing with you today.

My mother and I left the wedding ceremony and started our journey back home which was 25km away. We were halfway on our journey when she noticed the fuel was on reserve. I asked her if it was a problem. She said no. She assured me that since we did not have traffic jams, it would be a smooth ride home and she can always fill up her tank.

About 10km towards home, we approached a traffic jam. This was unusual. I could not understand why it had to happen on the day the fuel was on reserve. There was a very bad, marshy spot that was getting most cars stuck hence the traffic jam. People waited for their turns to find a safe place to pass through. Our car was a Mercedes Benz 200 (1982 model) and before the car should quit, it should give 3 warnings on the “R” sign. We had already seen the first one as we left the wedding. While waiting for our turn, we saw the 2nd warning. We could only be hopeful.

After about 20 minutes, we were able to move. Then we saw the 3rd and final warning on the dashboard. We knew we had to move fast otherwise, we would be stuck in that unknown place. But as we moved, we fell into the bad, marshy spot and there we were struggling to get out until the fuel finally finished. There was no help from anywhere because around us were frustrated, angry people all trying to get to their destinations. Stuck in the mud, I told my mother that there was nothing we could do except pray. In my mind I hope a motorcycle would pass by and we could ask the rider to bring us some fuel. Or some good Samaritan would come and help us push the car or give us fuel. I thought of all the options through which God would come through for us, but none of them worked out.

 

When the road had cleared and as dusk began to draw nigh, my mother attempted to start the car. As she did so, the car started as if there was nothing wrong with it. The car moved out of the bad marshy spot as if it was plain ground. We thought the car would jerk to a corner, but no - the car took us straight home. You cannot imagine the joy and excitement my mother and I shared as the car moved with ease. We could not thank God enough.

When I told the driver that the car could take us, I did not respond because I had a knowledge of how cars work. My response was based on a knowledge of what God can do. When it seems we cannot go on, when it seems we have exhausted all our options, or when it seems we have reached a dead end, that is when we see His manifestation - right on time. He works in such a way that you cannot dispute who is at work. He does it His own way – His ways are perfect. Those miracles and testimonies that God gives us, when we think on them, they are to act as faith boosters, especially in times when we doubt if He is really with us or what He can do.

And prayer works!

The Shortcut

Several years ago...It had been six months since I finished University, awaiting NYSC, so all funds had been cut. After those seemingly long months of waiting on God for a financial breakthrough and it was not forthcoming, I sought to find a solution for myself. One Friday, I called a friend whom I knew was financially okay. I asked for some help. He agreed to give me some money but on the condition that we go out on a date. Sunday evening, I indulged him and he gave me N3000 (equivalent of about $20).

On Monday, I took my N2500 (now short by the transport money), full of excitement that my immediate problems of fixing my hair and my nails will be solved. I had to walk through my department in school, which was near the salon I was going to. To my greatest surprise, I received 2 pieces of information I was not expecting. The secretary in my department said she planned to call me that Monday for she received the information late on Friday.

The first was that a scholarship I had applied for in my second year, which I had lost hope that it will ever come through, had suddenly come through and I would be paid N50,000.

The second was a lecturer needed someone to help a company with a quick study. I accepted it knowing that it would take me only 2 days to do the work. In my mind, I valued the job as a N20,000 job and felt that with enough management, this could last me three more months. On acceptance, I was told that I would be paid N250,000 on completion of the study (of which I had to give a little part of the money with the lecturer that helped me get the job).

As I received those pieces of information, I took a seat, pondered and wept. I said “If only I had waited on God just 2 days, I would have known that He had already answered my prayers”. N3000 (which resulted in me devaluing myself) was nothing compared to what God had in store for me.

I am sharing this story specifically for someone who has been waiting on God for an answer. Now you are at that point where you want to take the “shortcut” – the alternative that seems to solve the immediate problem without considering the future implications. Your Loving Father is telling you to hold on. Do not underestimate what He can do. Do not create your own testimony. You have waited this long, though counting the times that has passed. Believe that God's grace is sufficient to take you further.

When Esau sold his birthright [Genesis 25:29-34], he was thinking of solving the immediate problem - his hunger. He was consumed by his situation that he did not understand what He was giving up.

Beloved, what may be someone else’s miracle may be your shortcut. You know that thing you desire, and hopefully those words of peace that God has spoken to you concerning that which you desire. In my case if only I had waited 2 days, I would have known God had already answered my prayers. He has already answered yours and I do not know how much longer you need to wait to see the physical manifestation of your answered prayer. But do not forget this one thing: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. The Lord isn’t really being slow about His promise, as some people think [2 Peter 3:8-9]. What He has in store for you is worth the wait, for He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that you can ask or think.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Related devotional on "From The Heart Of A Loving Father":

Remember Your Rights As A Child Of God.

I Testify Of God - God Is Faithful To Answer Prayers

Beloved EROLyrics Readers, today you will read the first installment of the Testimony Series (I Testify Of God) mentioned here. I hope you are blessed like I am with this testimony of God's faithfulness in answer to prayer. I could not leave any part of it out. If you have something to share, please feel free to drop me a message at esurunma@gmail.com.

About Myself (Testimony Sharer chooses to remain anonymous)

I am a blogger. I am a Christian who came to know Jesus during my junior years in secondary school. I am married to the most adorable young man, and have been for a little over two years. I am young and independent minded and I have since discovered that life is nothing if I don't give it my all. There's no better way to serve God than to be the best that I can be in every sphere of my life. I'm comfortable with the person that I am but definitely not complacent. I have learnt that it is possible to enjoy where I am on the way to where I am going. I love to read. Books are on my list of top ten favourite things therefore it is no surprise that I equally love to write as well! I am working on becoming one of Nigeria's greatest authors.

What My Testimony Is About
My testimony is one of triumphant faith and restoration of glory. It is about God's faithfulness in answer to prayer and God's dedication to us when we act in faith, to bring to pass the desire of our hearts. This testimony is in no way conclusive because it is all still a work in progress but I believe in celebrating even little victories. After all, great victories are made up of a series of smaller ones.

Details of My Testimony

By the time I was getting married a little over two years ago, it was with the understanding that I would be moving in with my husband into a house that was built by him. The only problem I had with this arrangement was the fact that his mother was staying in that same house. He assured me that within 3months of our moving in, she would relocate to a city in the south-south part of Nigeria where she would be helping to take care of her own ailing mother.

After about six months, it became clear that this was not going to happen. The house was still under construction even though we lived in a portion that was already complete but we could not completely settle in until the other parts of the house were completed. We were staying in the guest bedroom since the master bedroom was on the side of the house that was yet to be completed.

To cut a long story short, living with my Mother-in-Law (M-I-L) was a study in extreme patience. I learnt that in the beginning she and her son (my husband) had a deal to purchase the land as a joint effort but after that he took over the main work of construction.

The work on the house cost him so much money that it was becoming a burden, but he was bent on finishing it so that we could settle in and begin to build our home. This was not to be because he and his mother constantly quarreled. There was no end to the complaints and the fights. Family members often came to arbitrate their issues.

And just as I feared, I got drawn into their fights. I was accused of controlling my husband and preventing him from caring for their mother. This of course is not true. In one of her raves, she cursed our unborn children. I spent many nights crying myself to sleep. Even though my husband stood up to his mother, she proved to be too domineering. She later resorted to chasing the workmen away whenever they came to work on the house. She said she was not yet dead and we wanted to take over her property (remember that the house does not belong to her solely).

Resentment and bitterness grew in my heart towards her. I became rather withdrawn and there was hardly anything that could make me laugh. I fell sick often. My life seemed to be filled with gloom. My husband at this time worked in another city so I was alone most of the time. He visited home about twice every month, a few days each time. Many times I felt like packing my stuff and returning to my parents but I knew that was not wise.

My mother became worried for me and she often encouraged me. She had suggested that we move out of the house but my husband was not willing to let go of his huge investments. The house is a fairly large one with four bedrooms. Most of the work has been done leaving mostly finishing jobs like tiling the floors etc. So it was easy to understand his reluctance.

I prayed and sought God's face.

Through His word, I saw that I had sinned by allowing bitterness to enter my heart. I repented and asked God to forgive me and I forgave my M-I-L. I determined in my heart to love her no matter what because according to God's word, His love has been shed abroad in my heart. I also prayed that my husband would see the wisdom in leaving the house for his mother and starting afresh.

One evening, after yet another quarrel, my husband decided that enough was enough! I was overjoyed. He finally decided that we were going to leave the house, investments and all. They were not worth his peace of mind.

That was the first answer to prayer.

Now came the real challenge.

The company he worked for then had huge investments in the Niger-Delta region and because of the activities of militants coupled with gross misappropriation of funds the company was running aground. He was being owed salaries and allowances for close to a year. He had spent all his savings on the house and now we were depending on my own income solely which of course was barely enough to live on let alone take on other projects.

At the time the decision was made to move out, Hubby had resigned from his job and essentially spent most of his time at home preparing for a professional exam.

We needed him to get a new job, preferably in the same city where we lived and we needed to get a new place. We were specific about the kind of job, the position and the remuneration. We were also specific about the new place, the kind of building, the location, amenities, neighbours etc.

This decision was made in the month of May of last year and by June we started looking for our dream flat. The entire exercise would have been laughable if it hadn't been an exercise in faith. We met with several agents, went to look at dozens and dozens of flats which we didn't like because they did not fit in with our check list.

One day in September, we were driving through an area that looked nice enough for us and that was how we saw this building which was freshly completed. We knew this because workmen were still milling about the place. We made enquiries only to be told it was not yet for rent. We entered in anyway and took a tour and we were impressed with what we saw and immediately, we knew we wanted to stay there. We left our number with the supervisor of the site asking him to call us up once the building became available.

In October, the following month, my hubby got a phone call from a company to which he had applied earlier in the year and he was asked to come in for a chat. The result of that chat was that he was offered a job!!!

The amazing thing is this - they needed someone who had experience in the use of Project Management software. It happened that while the manager was clearing his desk, he saw my hubby's resume and his eyes fell on the portion that said he could use the software. The manager was amazed that he hadn't seen it before and demanded that my hubby be called in immediately. You would not call the meeting he had with them an interview because they merely had a chat and at the end of it they asked if he could start right away. He did not want to sound desperate so he asked them to give him 2 weeks.

He had been trained in the use of that software early that year around the time when he had made up his mind to resign from his old job. The training would have cost huge sums of money but he got some kind of grant to attend it at no cost. Little did we know that that training was going to pave the way for a bigger, better appointment. He had also had the intention of shifting his career focus from Civil Engineering to Project Management. Most of the other companies he had applied to didn't take him because they thought he had no experience. But this company was not only willing to take him as a young Project Management personnel but they put in place for him a program that would help him get enough training to perform satisfactorily on his job. He was offered a pay that was only slightly less than what we wanted, this would be upgraded upon confirmation six months after resumption. And the best part, the job is in the same city where we live!

Two weeks after we got the job, we got a phone call informing us that the flat was now available for rent. Perfect timing huh? Still we barely had enough money to pay for the rent and agency fees. The good thing though was that since he now had a job, we had access to certain funds that we would otherwise not have had. It is amazing the kind of favour we received as we sought to raise funds for the rent. In 2days, we were able to raise the entire money required. This could not have been anything short of a miracle! People offered to help us out even without our asking.

In November, we paid our rent and by this weekend, we would be moving into our flat. The building is brand new just like we asked for. The rooms are as standard as we desired them to be. The neighbourhood is relatively safe and accessible to our places of work. The roads are in good condition and the drainage is sound. We are close to two main markets so that shopping is a breeze. Our neighbours are young couples just like us and already we have started working together. We wanted nice and co-operative neighbours. We got exactly what we asked for and even more!

After two years, I can finally say I have come home. Our wedding gifts are yet to be opened, 2 years after marriage! They are still piled up in the corner of the store. This is for the simple reason that we had not yet settled down. I am overexcited!

My M-I-L I have left in God's hands. I know that in leaving that house, we have not lost anything rather we have gained everything. The God who supplied resources for that one, will supply resources for this one and the one we intend to build. Amen.

What I Learnt From This Experience

Through this experience, I have learnt that God expects us to love people even though they are unkind to us. My mother-in-law is one of the most difficult people I have ever had to live with. Her children bear witness to this and her husband left her because of this. She is overbearing, domineering and with an acerbic tongue. I am not saying this to put her down, I am merely saying it as it is. I am also not saying that my hubby and I are perfect people. We do have our faults and are quick to apologize when we are wrong.

My M-I-L's attitude towards me was not enough reason to be bitter and resentful. Indeed, I suffered a great deal because of this. But when I allowed the love of God flow through me to her, my world brightened up. All the gloom left. I felt healthier and lighter! I learnt patience because it took a lot for me to never talk back at her.

It is interesting to note that in recent times, my M-I-L and I have an improved relationship. When she talks to me now, I find that she has lost some of that bite in her voice. In spite of all she had done, I still buy her gifts and offer to do some of her laundry. Even though she is reluctant, she often accepts my gifts and allows me to help her with a few things. She probably notices that I no longer resent her.

I also learnt that God truly does honour faith. Faith does not mean standing idly by while we 'hope' that things will change. Faith means thrusting out and doing what we need to do to bring about change and the Lord will help us complete it.

We did not have money for a flat but we knew were going to get a flat and we set out deliberately to look for the flat of our dreams. When we found the flat, the money we needed for it came.

I also learnt that if we seek promotion then we must prepare for it. My hubby needed a career change (apart from the fact that he desperately needed a new job) and he took his time to study and train for the role. The training paid off eventually because when God's favour brought him the job, he was ready with the right skills to fill in the space.

Words To Anyone Going Through A Similar Experience

For anyone going through any of these things I would say have faith in God. Hold on to that faith and act accordingly. Every little act of faith opens the way for more acts of faith until we arrive at the destination which we seek.

Love is always the answer. I see that now and I pray that my heart will be open to receive more of God's love so that I can give more of it away.

Thank you.

Some "Physical" Characteristics of God

I know You for I’ve seen You

You are real, Oh King

In every part of my being

I see You in Your creations

I see You in all that You do

Your eyes watch over me with loving kindness

Your ears hear me, even my thoughts and whispers

Your face shines upon me day and night

From Your mouth proceeds all I need for life;

Your strong, mighty hand keeps me safe

Your heart is set on me for always

From Your breath power emanates

From Your voice great things originate

I know You for I’ve seen You

In all that You do

And I want You to know

I love You so.

The Inspiration

In my days of ignorance I asked a friend, “Does God truly look like us? I imagine Him to be one giant sitting on a golden seat with a golden scepter in His hand, with Jesus sitting by His right hand.” She laughed. She replied, “I see God in everything and everyone around me because they were created out of Him.” Then she added, “Please do not try to give God something from your imagination – that would be making Him look like an idol. God is much more than that.”

Then I did not understand her but today I know that God is much more than that imagination of mine. There are so many facets of God. Today I’d like to share with you some things about God, what I title "Some Physical Characteristics of God". Do you have any to add to this? 

The Eye(s) of God

Beloved, you can live and sleep in peace because the eye of God is upon you [Psalm 34:15]. They run to and fro throughout the whole earth, that He may show himself strong on behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him [2 Chronicles 16:9]. The ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He ponders all his goings [Proverbs 5:21]. He sees everything that is going on. His eyes preserve knowledge [Proverbs 22:12]. Whosoever touches you touches the apple of His eye [Zechariah 2:8].

The Ear(s) of God

Did you ever wonder if God hears you? Call upon Him any day any time for as long as you live for He has inclined His ears unto you [Psalm 116:2]. His ears are not heavy that He cannot hear [Isaiah 59:1], His ears are open to your prayers [1 Peter 3:12].

The Face of God

Part of your daily prayer should be let the face of the Lord shine upon you. When He shines His face upon you, His graciousness goes with it [Numbers 6:25]. No matter what you are going through, seek His face and you shall be saved from that circumstance [Psalm 80:3]. There is restoration when we seek His face [1 Kings 13:6].

The Mouth of God

Whatever comes from the mouth of God is established. That is why we need to hold on steadfastly to the Word of God. He has made us know that man does not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from His mouth [Deuteronomy 8:3]. You shall sit under your vine and under your fig tree (enjoy the most prosperous tranquility); no one shall make you afraid, for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has said it [Micah 4:4].

The Nostrils of God

There is so much power in God – it even exudes from His breath. At the blast of the breath of His nostrils, the channels of waters were seen, and the foundations of the world were discovered, at His rebuke [Psalm 18:15]. Those that plow iniquity and sow wickedness, by the breath of His nostrils are they consumed [Job 4:8-9].

The Hand and Arm of God (and HIS right Hand)

The Hand of God is mighty [Joshua 4:24]. When it is upon us, we are strengthened and we can do great things [Ezra 7:28; Acts 11:21]. His arm is mighty, strong is His right hand and high is His right hand [Psalm 89:13]. The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: He turns it wherever He wills [Proverbs 21:1]. Therefore no barrier is too great for you to overcome because He can make things happen in your favour. The Lord’s hand is not shortened that it cannot save [Isaiah 59:1]. No matter how deep in sin or in any situation you feel you are, know that His hand can reach you and deliver you. From the hand of God, you will eat and drink and enjoy good in your labour [Ecclesiastics 2:24].

The Voice of God

We are instructed to hearken diligently to the voice of the Lord [Exodus 15:26] for many blessings will follow. When God thunders marvelously with His voice, He does great things which we cannot comprehend [Job 37:5]. His voice is powerful and full of majesty [Psalm 29:3-9].

The Heart of God

Your body is the temple of the Lord – there the Holy Spirit resides. The Heart of God shall be there perpetually [1 Kings 9:3].

The mind of God
God knows well the plans He has in mind for you: plans for your welfare, not for woe! plans to give you a future full of hope [Jer29:11(NAB)]. Thanks Telekinesys :-).

Got some to share? :-)

Have a glorious week ahead.

Thanks to all of you who responded to Queen. She even went ahead to drop a thank you line to all of you. Please read her response to your comments HERE.

It is Time - For Restoration

I remember that day of baby dedication. The couple came on stage and after prayers upon their babies, they were told to make a statement. They narrated the numerous miscarriages the woman had yet after many years she had twins. That can only be of God. Our Almighty God is a restorer.

The devil has come to steal, kill and destroy. He has come to steal time, joy, kill dreams, and destroy possessions. But Jesus Christ had come so we will have life and have it more abundantly [John 10:10]. Everything the devil can take and has taken from you, HE will restore.

Our God can do anything and no one can stop HIM [Job 42:1]. Job was a man that lost practically every thing he possessed. He was blameless—a man of complete integrity. This shows that being blameless does not exempt you from being visited by the devil. Despite all Job lost, despite all the time that elapsed (and seemed wasted) the Lord restored his fortunes. In fact, the Lord gave him twice as much as before [Job 42:10]. That is how God restores.

Beloved, the years may have passed you by in some areas of your life. But I want you to know God’s promise for you. HE says, “I will give you back what you lost to the swarming locusts, the hopping locusts, the stripping locusts, and the cutting locusts. Once again you will have all the food you want, and you will praise the Lord your God, who does these miracles for you. Never again will you be ashamed.” [Joel 2:25-26] HE will make it up to you. HIS restoration is much more than food. HE will do a miracle for you and take away the shame that has come with the lost years. Is it your finances, job, promotion, spouse, children, relationship, possessions, trust in God, dreams, peace, joy and happiness? What ever it is, HE will restore much more than you imagine. HIS way is perfect [2 Samuel 22:31]. HE has made everything beautiful for its own time [Ecclesiastics 3:11]. No matter what you face that seem to contradict God’s plan, these should not be barriers to believing in HIM, but rather opportunities to discover that God gives lasting solutions to life’s problems. When HE restores, HE restores completely.

There is restoration for you today. The time has come. Wherever you are God can reach you. Whatever your situation is, it is not too difficult for HIM. Open your heart to HIM and trust HIM. HE is never late.

Have a blessed weekend ahead.

Daddy and Daughter

From Daddy to Daughter
Daddy:
Maybe you do not know
But you are very special to me
Consider that We took out time
To prepare a place before your arrival
To justify why you should be here
To give you an irreplacable purpose:

Maybe you do not know
But I have a special place for you in My Heart
Consider your worth and uniqueness
Without you, there is vacuum on earth
Without you, he is incomplete
You're so soft yet so strong;

Come and tell Daddy
Did he touch you
Did he hurt you
Did he make you cry;
Or
Does he adore you
Does he care for you
Does he love you the way I do?

Come, my daughter, come
Do you know the way I love you?
Do you know how much I love you?
You are the apple of my eye
I have loved you with an everlasting love
No one, not anyone, should make you feel
Any less than you are worth.

Come, my daughter, come
Let me wipe your tears of today and yesterday
Let me show you the meaning of true love
Let me prepare you daily for your king
Let my strength be made perfect in your weakness
Let me give you the life you've always dreamed of.

Daughter Rita: Hmmm! Daddy, I have searched everywhere for love and I have been disappointed. I am tired. I am coming to you now now...

I was thinking on the words for a post on the relationship blog. The topic I had been shying away from writing was sex. So as I was thinking on the words, He reminded me of our journey as Father and Daughter and the words He said to me during my heartbreak. I never knew I would ever heal or that one day He would give me a husband who is better than I could dream of. I know He has something special in His heart for all His children, even specially for women.

This poem I share is dedicated to all women - broken, heartbroken, unbroken, mended, healed, whole, young, old. There is nothing that compares to the love of God. He is the master mender. May you experience daily the heart and hand of God in your life.

Oh! Happy New Year everyone and God bless you...

Ode To My Father

If I was the most moral of ladies
I would have said that was why You blessed me with a wonderful husband;
If I had not missed work purposely
I would have said that was why You gave me the promotion;
If I had not partied the night before exams
I would have said that is why You blessed me with good grades;
If I had woken up early
I would have said that is why You kept a parking space just for me;
If I had passed my driving test
I would have said that is why You preserved me and my car in Lagos road;
If I had a white-colored past
I would have said that is why You allow people listen to me;
If I have never missed a day of prayer and bible study
I would have said that is why You surround me with favour;

I can go on and on about ways that I have fallen short
Even of my own expectations
Yet, never for one day did You turn your back on me
You have been there – faithful, loving and true;

It suddenly hit me, so profound yet true
That You have loved me even before I had thought of loving You
And it is not by my works, my morality, what I did or did not do
But simply You love me and Your Grace has been there for me;

I thought I was the only one You loved that much
But when I looked around me, I realized You are consistent
Your love is there for everyone
No wonder you make the sun and moon shine on the righteous and the unrighteous;

Thank you for Your unconditional love
I have tried to reciprocate, but can anything compare to Your Love?
All I can try to do is obey You
Which has not been easy in this my walk with You;

I just want to say Thank You
For Your Love
That extends to each and every one of us
And is always there for us inspite of ourselves.

I tried to count my blessings…and I could not keep count. They were just too many. Thank You, My Loving Father.

These are the songs in my heart
I Pour My Love On You
Unrestrained

Your Daughter Whom You Love,
Rita

I AM

I Am:
I Am your exceedingly great reward
Who will never leave you nor forsake you
Who opens doors which no one can close
I Am;

I Am your creator
Who watched you and knit you in your mother's womb
I neither sleep nor slumber
Who says I will not remember you;

I Am the Lord above all things
My ways are not your ways
I Am not a man that I should lie
Have I spoken and it did not come to pass?

I have loved you with an everlasting love
I daily load you with blessings
I give beauty for ashes
I have my way in the whirlwind and in the storm;

I will always be with you
Whether you can feel my presence or not
I Am the Lord your God
With me nothing is impossible;

I Am so mindful of you
See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands
Your walls are continually before me
Nothing can separate you from this love I have for you
You are the apple of my eyes;

I Am,
I Am That I Am
I Am for you
I Am.

Jehovah-Suddenly

Dear Father, I pray for the person reading this post. He/She may have seen Your face as Jehovah-Hope. He/She may be trusting you for something. I pray that You, Jehovah-Suddenly visits him/her. Suddenly, things will happen in favor of this person. Suddenly, You will give him/her reason to testify that his/her joy will be full. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Dear Father,
All my loved ones have unique names I give to them. You are no exception. I started this year calling You Jehovah-Hope (The God that gives hope). Yes You give hope. How else can I explain things like the woman ditched twice a day before her wedding still trusting in You for a husband, or the man who applies for jobs for the umpteenth time despite several rejections, or the lady with countless miscarriages still believing in you though the doctors say it is futile? And you came through for them. I personally have beheld Your miracles as “Jehovah-Hope”. I felt I was going to spend this year calling You Jehovah-Hope, not knowing You have a different facet You wanted to show me.

I just want to say Thank You. In a short space of time, you have sprung so many surprises at me. You have reassured me of Your love despite my doubts and negative confessions. You have opened doors I never knew existed. You have made me stand before kings. You have filled my heart and mouth with testimonies. A post is not enough to describe the contents of the table of blessings you prepared for me out of the blue.

Suddenly, You did a new thing. Now I have seen another part of You I was not used to – the fact that You can do a new thing: customized for me, something that never existed before, even in my mind. Now I call you Jehovah-Suddenly (The God that does a new thing suddenly). You are faithful to Your Word.

Once again I say, Dear Father, I pray for the person reading this post. He/She may have seen Your face as Jehovah-Hope. He/She may be trusting you for something. I pray that You, Jehovah-Suddenly visits him/her. Suddenly, things will happen in favor of this person. Suddenly, You will give him/her reason to testify that his/her joy will be full. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Something on Testimonies

For some time, I thought it was vain to talk about those good things God has done for me. I also felt I was living in past glory when I kept thinking about His love, mercy and faithfulness from time past. In recent times, I have begun to appreciate more the things He has done for me. The testimonies are endless. Just when I was thinking that I would have to stop dwelling on and sharing testimonies, I stumbled upon this:

Blessed are they that keep Your testimonies and seek You with their whole heart [2].
I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, as much as in all riches [14].
Remove from me reproach and contempt, for I have kept Your testimonies [22].
Your testimonies also are my delight and my counselors [24].
I have held fast unto Your testimonies; O LORD, put me not to shame [31].
Incline my heart unto Your testimonies, and not to covetousness [36].
I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed [46].
I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto Your testimonies [59].
Quicken me according to Your lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of Your mouth [88].
I have more understanding than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation [99].
Your testimonies have I taken as a heritage forever, for they are the rejoicing of my heart [111].
I am Your servant; give me understanding, that I may know Your testimonies [125].
Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore does my soul keep them [129].
Your testimonies that You have commanded are righteous and very faithful [138].
The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting; give me understanding, and I shall live [144].
Concerning Your testimonies, I have known of old that You have founded them forever [152].
I may have persecutors and enemies*, yet do I not depart from Your testimonies [157].
My soul hath kept Your testimonies, and I love them exceedingly [167].
I have kept Your precepts and Your testimonies, for all my ways are before You [168].

All lines here are taken from Psalm 119, 21st Century King James Version of the Bible. The verses are the numbers at the end of each line. The line with asterisk (*) was rephrased.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things [Philippians 4:8].

In This 2009, We Will…(3)

For the previous posts in the "In This 2009 We Will…" series, please visit "We Will Pray For Others" and "We Will Worship the Lord".

I understand the pressures most singles face, whether male or female. While the world concludes that it is either being too "bad", or being too busy or being too "good" that is delaying settling down, they do not see the heart-breaks, patience or wisdom taking place.

I share with you my experience to introduce the message for this post. I call the period of waiting for my King a dark period. Years had gone by and I was not dating anyone. No guys were even glancing my way. I felt hopeless.

Mother called me one morning. She dreamt one of her daughters got married. I was the next on the waiting list. She said that coincidentally, when she woke up, she received a call from a friend who had a brother that wanted to marry me. I brought out my checklist. He fitted ALL of my expectations (including some I did not include) except one – he was not a Christian.

Rita: Mummy, I do not think he is the one for me. He is not a Christian.

Mother: My daughter, what is all this Christianity about? When did you become a Christian sef? What if this is an opportunity to bring someone to God? (Please do not judge my mummy here, lol. She is the best mother ever. She was probably under pressure herself J).

Rita: Let me think [more like pray] about it. I will get back to you.

Two weeks later, my answer was "No". It was hard and painful to say no in a time when everything was bleak. I heard words like, "You will end up never marrying. Your time has passed. Your younger ones will leave you and get married. You will forever live miserably." But I had consulted Daddy in Heaven. He had given me the answer of peace. I had dreamt years back, and I wondered why mother's coincidence was contradicting my dream. But then the Lord said to me, "Write the vision plainly on tablets, so that a runner can carry the correct message to others. This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed." [Habakkuk 2: 2-3].

As I write this post, my eyes are filled with tears because I cannot believe I was able to trust Him despite the pressures. A post is not enough to talk about the blessing He brought to me under the designation "husband". He is indeed a Faithful Father.

In this 2009, We Will Know God for Ourselves.

So often we rely on our parents, pastors or friends for their "godly" counsel. While that is good, it is now time to let go of our dependence on others and know God for ourselves.

At every stage towards receiving physically your heart's desires, you will be faced with decisions. It might be as simple as "Should I leave my house this morning?", as biting as "Do I sow a seed in the life of this person?" or as sleep-haunting as "Should I spend the rest of my life with this person?" Every response to decisions will lead you towards or away from where you should be regarding receiving what He has in store for you. While some decisions may seem easy to make, most will (and should) require seeking God.

How will we know it is God speaking to us? His sheep hear His voice. You know more about a person by spending time with the person. You also know about a person by reading the person's writings. Same principle applies with God. For more about hearing the voice of God, please read "How Do I Hear His Voice?" and "Five Hindrances to Hearing From God".

Let it be said of us that we are noble, not only to receive the word of God with all readiness of mind, but also search the scriptures daily to know for ourselves [Acts 17:11].

Enjoy a blessed week ahead.

 

 

In the Traffic Jam

I had promised myself I will never live in Lagos, not after encountering several hold ups that have almost made me miss a flight. Well, today I am in Lagos. That was what happened when I took a blogging break.

On one fateful day, I got stuck in a traffic jam. The road was completely blocked. Vehicles were aligned at different angles. There was disorder. Even pedestrians found it difficult wriggling their way through. Bike men could not move. It was that serious. Shouting and complaining was not going to solve anything so like my counterparts, I put off the car and started reading newspaper to pass the time.

About 10 minutes later, out of nowhere, a siren started blowing. I laughed sardonically, wondering how the vehicle would pass. In my heart I prayed it was the governor, so he can experience what others are experiencing (don’t get me wrong, Gov. Fashola is trying well well and I am proud we have someone like him). But to my greatest disappointment, yet amazement, not only did the siren vehicle pass, the whole convoy moved freely. Series of other cars passed and finally a way was made to ease the traffic.

I was mouth agape as this incident happened. How was it possible that they could make a way in that situation?

If man can make a way in such a tight traffic jam, imagine what God will do with situations that seem difficult and impossible?

The statement has roots from the word of God:

Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth...I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. [1]

Why should you believe this word? Simply because God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. [2]

Yes, God will make a way where there seems to be no way. Behold, He is doing a new thing in your life. When it happens, you will say this is a dream come true.

He will make a way in the wilderness, which means He will make a way through the greatest difficulties.

And He will produce waters in the desert. You that once lacked in some area will have in such abundance that you will be a blessing to others. Those people your miracle touched will have reason to honor and praise God.

Nothing is impossible with God [3]. Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. [4]

Have a blessed weekend ahead.

Bible References:
[1] Isaiah 43:19 AMP
[2] Numbers 23: 19 NLT
[3] Luke 1:37
[4] Heb 10:23 NLT

A Time To Keep

I remember when she told me about her fiancé. She showed me the gifts he bought. She told me how loving, kind and generous he was. She told me the places he took her to. She told me the pet names he called her. You can’t imagine what it was like seeing them together in public.

I envied the passion and fulfillment in her voice when she spoke about him. He was the man of every woman’s dreams. His acts, as she had listed to me, became the yardstick for judging mine. Mine was nothing close to this man she described. Glaring was the fact that mine did not call me pet names. He had to go.

When shortly afterwards she got married to someone else, I was curious. How could she leave someone who was so perfect? I inquired. It was then the truth came out. He was not so perfect. He had his shortcomings. After hearing in details about the other side of him, I realized that though mine was not perfect, he was a blessing from God. Simply saying kind words to him changed him to an affectionate, lyrically-tongued man.

Many a times, we build our expectations based on what we get from our senses. If only we could see what we have through the eyes of God, we might just realize that we are possessors of God’s great and precious promises. Maybe we’ll become conscious that we have what others want.

Your desire may be “Do something new in my life” while your heart whispers “It is A Time to Keep”.

There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven:
...A time to keep and a time to throw away…
Ecclesiastics 3:1; 6b.

Indeed it is a time to keep: relationships with friends or siblings that could be mended; love grown cold due to neglect and hurt yet could be healed, jobs that seem demanding or not up to par yet are God’s gifts; memories of God’s goodness drowned in new expectations; and do I mention admission pending the visa to that school that is a form of escape? The list of things to keep is endless.

The grass on the other side may not always be as green as you hope. After leaving all you had for it, you might turn back to meet a shut door that will not be opened again.

But if you think it is a time to throw away, please speak to a person who longs for what you have.

You may desire something new in your life, but all it might take may be for you to do something new [different] in yourself. Then you will see that what you already have is worth keeping.

Speaking of keeping, your belief and trust in God is one thing to keep at all times. Keep your hope and faith alive and set your mind on Him, for He is faithful that promised [1]. Keep your relationship with Him alive because His love has been the only love that never hurts you or leaves a door shut in front of you. Because of the joy awaiting Jesus Christ, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame [2]. That joy was simply the joy of your acceptance and faith in him, the joy that grace, reconciliation and salvation will come to you.

Happy Easter! Enjoy God’s Sweet, Sacrificial, Unconditional and Unfailing Love.

Please note: This post does not suggest that if you are facing a situation that is detrimental to your physical, spiritual or emotional well being, that you should stay in it. It just might be for you “A Time to Throw Away”.

Bible References
[1] Hebrews 10:23b
[2] Hebrews 12: 2b paraphrased.