I am 30 how about that?
Feels like a childhood veil was ripped off my rather bold personality(I am big mind you) and a new cloak of the BIG ONE(30 years on earth) has been put over me. I feel like I am in a new stage of very great responsibilities and a new level which will include; "wife-hood, motherhood, ministry-hood and entrepreneurship,etc. I believe its another level of deeper and newer dimensions with God,giving my tithe(myself included), time, etc to bless people and glorify God.
This is when I feel like a Josephine who may probably not rule over a nation but be put in charge of the Lord's business and being a faithful steward and custodian(God help me here because I am lacking). I don't know so much of what He will have me do but he sure will prepare and equip me for days ahead. I am EMERGING gradually thanks to God.
I feel so honoured to be alive. For people who have a strange religious belief about birthdays, I beg to differ because the birth of Christ brought joy, hope, restoration and grace to Israel. And since I have the mind of Christ, he chose one day on the Calendar of man to bring me to the earth. My birth was not a mistake,it brought joy and at thirty, instead of mourn I am being celebrated(not trying to boast in myself) by God and men. Check this out: if you think a day in anyone's life isn't worth celebrating, lie silent in the grave with cotton wools stuffed in every opening in your body and try to die...well I choose life as I am so glad to live because its not my time to live this side of life and the dead cannot praise the Lord(I live to praise the Lord). I am so glad to be alive at 30 and I look forward to another 30 years on earth doing God's will.
I wish I had a lot of money to throw a bash for just with few friends and family, but instead of moan over limited funds, I made the best of the day. I went to pick a small cake a dear friend made as my gift, then my bobo took me to see a movie(I am not used to visiting cinemas), then sat around at a tush BUKKA(never mind it was not TFC or Chicken Republic) to eat hot Amala and soup, took a long stroll and then headed home and made the day worthwhile. He made this birthday most exciting :) :) :))...yeah,ℓ☺ℓ excited to know he's the "best half" for the future.
I won't forget my usual Birthday Eve trend: "Limited amount of sleep, staying up to dance,sing,pray and take calls(really didn't dance so much this γεαr)."
My phone buzzed from the day before to 2am or there about when I slept-not even sure what time I dozed off-and by 5 or so I was awake to see my battery almost flat with so many messages still reeling in. My facebook page and "inbox" were simply overwhelming. It may sound like a tradition to have birthday wishes but I am sure many people mean so well to stop by to drop a line. The best of it all is that MOST messages are prophetic confirmations of the things God has said in the past established for the future.
It was a fun day and I look forward to GREAT days ahead,
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
God's love by Robert Lane
God's love for you never runs out or dries up. He doesn't love you on your good days and cease loving you on your bad days. He loved you even before you were born. "Everlasting love" not only refers to the length of time that God has loved you, but it refers to the quality of his love. There is nothing shallow to be found in God's everlasting love. It is out of the depths of his love that he drew your heart to his.
The MORNING DEW(Lengthy but read with caution)
I have been awake from about 3am,not for want of sleep neither is it a feeling of loneliness. I have found out that some faithful watch men may not give their eyes rest until their Jerusalem becomes a place of total rest in the earth and there I find myself (I don't mean to judge those who sleep through the night because God gives his beloved sweet sleep and I really love to sleep as well, LOL).
This morning, I ran a short study on Abraham and I realised that he was an imperfect man in many ways-who found grace in God and believed him by faith.
Do you know, Abraham agreed with Sarah to live a LIE because he feared he might be killed? He "selfishly" considered his life more than his "sister's". Sarah carried the identity of being his sister everywhere the soujourned, and hid from the natives of Egypt, Gerar etc that they were husband and wife. Abraham enjoyed novelty, gifts and comfort- was given a king's treatment- while his wife was captured for the king of the land. He forgot that God had promised to take him to his Promised land.
I learn some salient lessons: Self is such a powerful and deathly element which can ruin a lifetime investment. Every time I act by a selfish nudge, I pay for the consequences. Self does not care who weeps, dies or mourns on account of its actions,self deprives innocent people of peace . Abraham pleased him-SELF and exposed his wife to sin.
Basically, I cannot HELP God by some nice looking assumptions and human reasoning. Each time Abraham gave his wife to the king's of the land, he exposed them to sin, incurred God's wrath and bringing pain upon the people. In Genesis 12,Abraham strayed to Egypt during a famine,and handed over his beautiful wife to the king who in turn fashioned him with spoils(cattle,servants,etc). In Genesis 20, God appeared to Abimelech, -RESTRAINED him from sleeping with Sarah- and instructed he returned her to her "husband cum brother".
Lesson two: The things I call "white lies" are simply lies which lead to death. No matter how safe a decision is, irrespective of how widely accepted a pop culture is, it is on the broad road many blindly follow on the way to hades. REFRAIN!
Why do I say this? Its our human frailty to look for the shortest and easiest routes not minding the dangers on the way,it will bring death.
Factually, It was natural for Abraham to say they were siblings but God judged his motive-he feared men and sought their favour. God is SOVEREIGN, he can protect, he will provide all we require, he is able to secure and save so why would I lie (or fear) to go through a life controlled by Him?
Lesson three: (this one I took time to pray about) my actions could please me and hurt another. Guess what? Abraham's lie caused God to close wombs. Women could not bear children and the Bible doesn't give records on how long Sarah was with Abimelech. One lie brought a siege upon the land. It took God to warn Abimelech to release the woman so his people could be free. Back in Egypt,a similar action also caused widespread diseases on the land because of Sarah. The king was very crossed when he found out the truth ordering his men to lead them out of the land.
How many people have I hurt because I uttered some careless speech?,how many are in pain because I sowed discord and strife? Who have I hurt by an innocent looking decision? Not until Sarah left Abimelech's house, they people remained in bondage.
One action, many "deaths".
God knew how much damage that had caused Gerar so he came to their rescue,asking Abimelech to covet a prophet's blessing. Abraham the prophet had to pray and invoke blessings upon the land so healing could flow. I sincerely pray for everyone who's been hurt by an action done in ignorance that they may experience healing and God's unmerited favour through Christ Jesus, amen.
I also question Sarah for accepting to her husband's act of foolishness. A wise woman builds her home. I believe that in wisdom, she could have advised her husband not to expose her to sin- this kind of mistake caused Abraham to sleep with Hagar. One foolish decision can ruin a lifetime. Sometimes, we lose good sense of judgment when we are in "love".
Experience has shown me that in a relationship, the man and woman could see a black thing and call it white, one person could contract leprosy and the partner will romance it without detecting its a disease. To Sarah, their decision relished the moment. I have judged myself this morning especially when I agree to my husband to be's wrong decision and in prayer have I repented and asked the Lord to set our path straight again.
Lastly, God healed the land, restored their wombs and also redeemed Abraham and Sarah's reputation before the people. God also caused Abimelech to favour Abraham with land to make his abode.
In Genesis 20 verse 16, Abimelech said to Sarah,
" I gave your "brother" Abraham twenty-five pounds of silver to MAKE UP for any wrong that people may think about you. I want everyone to know you are innocent"
I know deep in my spirit that whoever reads this article will also find peace with God no matter the gravity of a situation. God is able to rebuild broken bridges, restore relationships, heal every sordid past(situation) and bring redemption wherever its needed. Ask Him for mercy and ask God for grace to DISCERN, to remain sensitive, and to be at peace with all men. Today is a NEW beginning and a new day. Jesus has made you whole amen.
This morning, I ran a short study on Abraham and I realised that he was an imperfect man in many ways-who found grace in God and believed him by faith.
Do you know, Abraham agreed with Sarah to live a LIE because he feared he might be killed? He "selfishly" considered his life more than his "sister's". Sarah carried the identity of being his sister everywhere the soujourned, and hid from the natives of Egypt, Gerar etc that they were husband and wife. Abraham enjoyed novelty, gifts and comfort- was given a king's treatment- while his wife was captured for the king of the land. He forgot that God had promised to take him to his Promised land.
I learn some salient lessons: Self is such a powerful and deathly element which can ruin a lifetime investment. Every time I act by a selfish nudge, I pay for the consequences. Self does not care who weeps, dies or mourns on account of its actions,self deprives innocent people of peace . Abraham pleased him-SELF and exposed his wife to sin.
Basically, I cannot HELP God by some nice looking assumptions and human reasoning. Each time Abraham gave his wife to the king's of the land, he exposed them to sin, incurred God's wrath and bringing pain upon the people. In Genesis 12,Abraham strayed to Egypt during a famine,and handed over his beautiful wife to the king who in turn fashioned him with spoils(cattle,servants,etc). In Genesis 20, God appeared to Abimelech, -RESTRAINED him from sleeping with Sarah- and instructed he returned her to her "husband cum brother".
Lesson two: The things I call "white lies" are simply lies which lead to death. No matter how safe a decision is, irrespective of how widely accepted a pop culture is, it is on the broad road many blindly follow on the way to hades. REFRAIN!
Why do I say this? Its our human frailty to look for the shortest and easiest routes not minding the dangers on the way,it will bring death.
Factually, It was natural for Abraham to say they were siblings but God judged his motive-he feared men and sought their favour. God is SOVEREIGN, he can protect, he will provide all we require, he is able to secure and save so why would I lie (or fear) to go through a life controlled by Him?
Lesson three: (this one I took time to pray about) my actions could please me and hurt another. Guess what? Abraham's lie caused God to close wombs. Women could not bear children and the Bible doesn't give records on how long Sarah was with Abimelech. One lie brought a siege upon the land. It took God to warn Abimelech to release the woman so his people could be free. Back in Egypt,a similar action also caused widespread diseases on the land because of Sarah. The king was very crossed when he found out the truth ordering his men to lead them out of the land.
How many people have I hurt because I uttered some careless speech?,how many are in pain because I sowed discord and strife? Who have I hurt by an innocent looking decision? Not until Sarah left Abimelech's house, they people remained in bondage.
One action, many "deaths".
God knew how much damage that had caused Gerar so he came to their rescue,asking Abimelech to covet a prophet's blessing. Abraham the prophet had to pray and invoke blessings upon the land so healing could flow. I sincerely pray for everyone who's been hurt by an action done in ignorance that they may experience healing and God's unmerited favour through Christ Jesus, amen.
I also question Sarah for accepting to her husband's act of foolishness. A wise woman builds her home. I believe that in wisdom, she could have advised her husband not to expose her to sin- this kind of mistake caused Abraham to sleep with Hagar. One foolish decision can ruin a lifetime. Sometimes, we lose good sense of judgment when we are in "love".
Experience has shown me that in a relationship, the man and woman could see a black thing and call it white, one person could contract leprosy and the partner will romance it without detecting its a disease. To Sarah, their decision relished the moment. I have judged myself this morning especially when I agree to my husband to be's wrong decision and in prayer have I repented and asked the Lord to set our path straight again.
Lastly, God healed the land, restored their wombs and also redeemed Abraham and Sarah's reputation before the people. God also caused Abimelech to favour Abraham with land to make his abode.
In Genesis 20 verse 16, Abimelech said to Sarah,
" I gave your "brother" Abraham twenty-five pounds of silver to MAKE UP for any wrong that people may think about you. I want everyone to know you are innocent"
I know deep in my spirit that whoever reads this article will also find peace with God no matter the gravity of a situation. God is able to rebuild broken bridges, restore relationships, heal every sordid past(situation) and bring redemption wherever its needed. Ask Him for mercy and ask God for grace to DISCERN, to remain sensitive, and to be at peace with all men. Today is a NEW beginning and a new day. Jesus has made you whole amen.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
PSALM one-one- zero-three
How my soul rejoices in my maker and my heart makes known His mighty works.
The Lord who's done awesome things is due of my praise.
I celebrate His goodness and wonderful works in my life. I am glad that I'm the only ME (Enobong Ekpott) anywhere in the earth and in this world,born and named thus on the day of the Lord.
To God a thousand days is like a day but He chose the 11th day of March in the number and Calendar of man to bring me into this world.
Interestingly, there are no two ME's because God in His awesome wisdom made my unique inner and outer parts to fit just me.
Not that I mean to boast in who I am, for my boast is in the Lord who's wisdom and magnificence supersedes man's.
I am God's master piece, I am wonderfully crafted, formed in His image,chosen by Him, and brought into this world at just the right time.
I didn't come earlier neither I'm I late in time. He chose me for this time to His glory. My birth just like others is one He celebrates with exceeding great joy.
I am an embodiment of God's great idea, I am not a mistake in creation,I am complete in Him. God formed me and nodded in approval because He loved the work he did in(and on)me.
My mother bore me for nine months, but before I was formed in her womb,God knew me. He needed the succour and warmth of her womb to safely carry me from day one till I was born.
As David would say,he made all the delicate parts and watched over my formation stages in the quietness of mama's womb.
He knew the day my Father and mother had "fellowship", God the omnipotent ordained daddy and mummy to make love so I'd emerge in nine months.
He knew my sex afore time,he chose me to be a woman and to him,I am so beautifully made.
He gave me distinctive and splendid features.
His workmanship is so flawless.
I am God's own, the apple of His eyes; his terrific design and His delight.
He guards jealously over me,he looks out for me,protects my members and sets his affection on me.
I am seated in the hollow of his arms basking in His safety and love.
As I grow a notch older , I know God's plans for me are good with a beautiful,well mapped out and glorious ending.
My future in Him is bright, sure and true; and my times are in His hands.
Unto Him be all the glory which is due to His name. Emmanuel!
The Lord who's done awesome things is due of my praise.
I celebrate His goodness and wonderful works in my life. I am glad that I'm the only ME (Enobong Ekpott) anywhere in the earth and in this world,born and named thus on the day of the Lord.
To God a thousand days is like a day but He chose the 11th day of March in the number and Calendar of man to bring me into this world.
Interestingly, there are no two ME's because God in His awesome wisdom made my unique inner and outer parts to fit just me.
Not that I mean to boast in who I am, for my boast is in the Lord who's wisdom and magnificence supersedes man's.
I am God's master piece, I am wonderfully crafted, formed in His image,chosen by Him, and brought into this world at just the right time.
I didn't come earlier neither I'm I late in time. He chose me for this time to His glory. My birth just like others is one He celebrates with exceeding great joy.
I am an embodiment of God's great idea, I am not a mistake in creation,I am complete in Him. God formed me and nodded in approval because He loved the work he did in(and on)me.
My mother bore me for nine months, but before I was formed in her womb,God knew me. He needed the succour and warmth of her womb to safely carry me from day one till I was born.
As David would say,he made all the delicate parts and watched over my formation stages in the quietness of mama's womb.
He knew the day my Father and mother had "fellowship", God the omnipotent ordained daddy and mummy to make love so I'd emerge in nine months.
He knew my sex afore time,he chose me to be a woman and to him,I am so beautifully made.
He gave me distinctive and splendid features.
His workmanship is so flawless.
I am God's own, the apple of His eyes; his terrific design and His delight.
He guards jealously over me,he looks out for me,protects my members and sets his affection on me.
I am seated in the hollow of his arms basking in His safety and love.
As I grow a notch older , I know God's plans for me are good with a beautiful,well mapped out and glorious ending.
My future in Him is bright, sure and true; and my times are in His hands.
Unto Him be all the glory which is due to His name. Emmanuel!
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