Goldworldpad

Why I am a Christian

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 21:00:00 +0000

I recently had a conversation with a friend who didn't want to discuss religion with me. I had asked him why he believed what he believes. I didn't get an answer to my question but he rather went ahead to tell me how he discussed religion with only open minded people. I was a bit taken aback because this meant that he didn't think of me as an open minded person.

When you're born into an extended family with multiple worldviews then, you've got to be opened minded. You grow up with uncles, aunties, cousins, grandparents and other relatives who are Christians, Muslims and African traditionalists. You grow up in an environment where all these worldviews play an important role in your socialisation process.

You learn to respect each worldview and the people who practice them so that you can live peacefully with everyone. This interaction between different worldviews continues even in the larger community and schools.

I'm a Christian but I'm not a Christian because I was born into a Christian nuclear family. I'm a Christian because it's the sole worldview that answers my questions and God has proven his word over and over again in my life.

There have been times that I nearly lost my faith in the Christian God because although I had been to church all my life, I didn't understand the essence of what I believed. Then in senior high, I had to study Christian Religious Studies which almost caused me to lose whatever faith I had left. We debated the Bible in class and pointed out the loopholes we saw. It made me question if the Bible was really God's word. We studied the letter and not the spirit filled word.

As though everything was trying to make me lose my faith, I studied Religious Studies at the university as a minor. However, this turned out to be such an eye opener. I was introduced to more worldviews than before. As I studied these worldviews I began to see the differences between their beliefs and the Christian faith. I realised that I had been lied to in junior high where I was taught that all monotheistic religions worshipped one God.

This inspired me to read more about these other religions so that I would be better placed to defend my faith. I also had to grow in my knowledge of the word of God and Footworksinternational.org has been such a blessing to me in this light.

After searching, I decided to be a Christian because Christianity is the only worldview that offers forgiveness, love, justice and redemption. God knows of my sinful nature and so He has provided a ransom for my life. Through my faith in Jesus, my old sinful nature is done away with and I'm freed from sin. It is only in Him that the meaning of life is found and outside him, there is no life and relationship with God. It is through Jesus that I have the assurance of my salvation, I know my final destination. I know that life isn't meaningless neither does it end in death.

In Islam, I could never know whether I qualified to enter paradise after my death because entry into paradise depends on my goodness. My bad and good deeds must both be weighed to determine where I spend eternity. In Hinduism, I never know how much sin I have to pay for and how many lifetimes would be enough to pay for everything.

In Christ, I know why I have a sinful nature and how Jesus has taken care of this nature because he decided to take my place and receive my punishment! I am justified and cleansed because he gave his life for me. I'm a new creature who is growing in her new nature and life.

While I respect all other worldviews, I believe that everyone needs Jesus. You don't lose anything by making Jesus the Lord of your life; you rather gain everything and become who you've always been meant to be. I respect all worldviews but that doesn’t prevent me from sharing the truth with them. Jesus is the only way to God, there is no other path that leads to salvation.

There is a scenario that one pastor used to explain the truth of Christianity, let me ask you the question he asked;

if you’re walking on a road and then, you get to a point where the road branches into two; and there are two people at this point where one is dead and the other one is alive, who would you ask for directions from?

The answer is so obvious, isn’t it? I’m a Christian because Jesus is alive. It is an undisputed fact that Jesus died and rose again and continues to live. Do you know that the gospel could have been dismissed and crushed in its early days if the authorities could have produced the body of Jesus? In order to rubbish everything the Apostles and early believers were testifying of, they only had to bring the body of Jesus to uncover their lies but the authorities and people of other faith couldn’t because the tomb of Jesus was empty. Jesus is alive! For those who say that Jesus was substituted on the cross, don’t you think that the authorities in the day the Jews, the Romans and other unbelievers could have easily used this to shut the mouth of the early Christians?

Just think about it, why would many people especially the apostles who had been with Jesus die for a lie? Why would they insist to the point of death that Jesus Christ was alive? They chose to die than renounce their faith because they were bearing witness to the truth, Jesus is alive.

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched--this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 1 John 1:1, NIV

There is no name given under the heavens that a man should be saved but Jesus. He is the way, the truth and the life. He is the one you need today. I’m a Christian because Jesus is alive and answers all my questions. If you doubt me, I give you an invitation to sincerely pray and ask Him to show you the way to God.

WHEN YOU’RE WAITING IN THE WILDERNESS

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 06 Apr 2017 21:00:00 +0000

Don’t you love it when everything in your life is great? I bet you do. I love the good times too, when everything goes according to plan and I understand my situation. I would love for life to be all smooth sailing but it’s not always so. There are times that you are thrust into a season of waiting or into the wilderness.

The wilderness season is a very difficult one that we all wish we never have to go through but have to sometimes. It sucks to be in a place where nothing makes sense because you just don’t know what to do to make things better. You pray, you fast and meditate on scripture but nothing seems to work from the physical stand point. Your situation doesn’t look any different after everything you try to do to make it better. You throw your hands in despair and want to give up because you don’t see any light at the end of the tunnel. You don’t see the promises of God coming to pass in your life and then, doubt sets in.

You blame yourself for being the cause of your predicament. You begin to think that God is out to get you for something that you have done. You feel unworthy of His love and just want to give up.

Do you remember the life of David and Joseph? These two men understand what it means to be in the wilderness season when everything looks bleak and there is no hope. They know what it means to be forsaken and forgotten both figuratively and in reality.

David as a little boy had to live as a shepherd in the wilderness where nature was his companion. He had no friends but his sheep, the plants and wild animals. He could have been sad about it and complained about how neglected he felt but he didn’t. In the wilderness he was trained to become a warrior and a king. God used his season in the wilderness to mould his character and to bring him closer to Himself. In the wilderness, David learned to trust in God and not man. He had to be separated from people so that he would grow closer to God. The wilderness season was not punishment but a season of preparation. His training in the wilderness built his faith to a point where when all of Israel had forgotten their covenant with God, he hadn’t. He had seen the goodness of the Lord as he stayed out alone on the field tending to his flock. The wilderness trained him and grew his faith in God to the point where he could slay Goliath with just a sling and a stone. The wilderness taught him how to be a giant slayer.

The wilderness season taught him perseverance and honour. When Saul sought him to kill him, he persevered and didn’t despair because he knew that what God had purposed concerning his life would come to pass. He learned to honour authority because the wilderness taught him that God was in control of all things and that it is He who set up earthly authority. Therefore, when he had the opportunity to kill his enemy, Saul, he didn’t. He knew God would take care of dealing with Saul as He deemed fit.

David persevered and like Abraham trusted that God was able to accomplish that which He had promised. He knew delay wasn’t denial. The wilderness prepared him to be a great ruler and warrior. The wilderness taught him to revere God. The wilderness didn’t take away his joy but built him up and made him responsible. The wilderness caused him to rely on God and not on his own strength.

On the other hand, Joseph’s situation moved from worse to worst. He was sold to be a slave by his brothers, and when he had thought his situation was improving because, Potiphar had placed him in charge of his household; he was falsely accused and thrown into jail. He spent many years in prison without any hope of getting out.

In the prison (wilderness), his faith in God didn’t diminish. Yes, he must have struggled and doubted God sometimes but he didn’t give up. He grew closer to the Lord in fellowship and developed his spiritual gifts, interpretation of dreams and wisdom. He helped others despite his situation. He knew just like David and Abraham that God could be trusted absolutely. He knew that God never left His promises unfulfilled. In the end, the word of the Lord concerning his life did come to pass. He became a very powerful man.

You see, the wilderness is a place to mould and shape you to become who you truly are. It is a period of training and pruning. Waiting can be tough but it has so many benefits. Don’t give up on the promises of God concerning your life. Keep those promises you have discovered in His word and those given by prophecy because the vision is yet for an appointed time. All things will work out for your good in the end. Don’t be so cast down but trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding for He has plans to prosper you and give you an expected end. Stand firm on the word of God and don’t give up.

3 Surprising Easy Steps to Overcome Any Fear

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 21:00:00 +0000

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

Fear can be overwhelming and crippling if it is not quickly dealt with. However, as overwhelming and crippling as fear is it can be overcome.

What are your fears? Know your fears and don't keep them hidden but uncover them to the light of God's word. Fear can be disastrous to a believer and so don't ignore it, deal with it.

One story in the Bible serves as a great example. Job had fears. He was afraid of losing his family, his wealth, his peace and his health. Years ago, whenever I read the story of Job I wondered why God would allow such evil things to befall such a godly man. I mean, how could God have handed over a man that loved him so much over to the devil to torment? But now, I understand why bad things happened to him.

Job in his long lamentations over what had befallen him tells why he was experiencing such bad things.

Job 3:25 For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me.

Everything he was experiencing had been as a result of his fears. Remember God works with faith while the enemy works with your fears. No wonder there can be a thousand and one bad thoughts that cross your mind each day just to cause you to be afraid.

Don't be afraid.

What are you afraid of?

Write down your fears. Are you afraid you'll remain sick or fall sick? Are you afraid you may never be able to pay your bills, get married or have children? What are you afraid of?

Now, that you have identified your fears don't hush them or sweep them under the carpet because they won't go away. Deal with your fears making use of your faith. It's time to confront your fears and overcome them!

Faith comes by hearing and hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17)

Read the Bible and find out what it says about your fears. When you know the truth, God's truth concerning your fears, it will set you free from it. Apply the word of God to take away your fears. Darkness has no option but to disappear under the light.

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. Romans 8:15

Don't believe the lies of the enemy but subject them to the light of God's word. For example, if you’re afraid of not being able to have kids, search the scriptures to know God’s will concerning childbirth. This is what God's word has to say about infertility:

Exodus 23:26 "No one shall suffer miscarriage or be barren in your land; I will fulfil the number of your days.

Deuteronomy 7:14 "You shall be blessed above all peoples; there shall not be a male or female barren among you or among your livestock.

Psalm 128:3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine In the very heart of your house, Your children like olive plants All around your table.

Hebrews 11:11 By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised.

What are you afraid of? Confront your fears and overcome them with the word of God! Search the scriptures to find out what the word of God says about your situation and meditate on it in faith. Kick out your fears with the word of God.

How do you deal with fear?

How to Receive Answers to Your Prayers

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 30 Mar 2017 11:35:00 +0000

Ever wondered why God doesn’t answer your prayers? Are you discouraged because you seem to get nothing out of your prayer life? I’ve been in that place before where doubted whether God was going to answer my prayers at all. However, thanks be to God for His word which assures us that He listens to and responds to our prayers.

In my personal prayer life, I’ve learnt some strategies that have helped me to grow in faith to trust God to answer my prayers. The following are 8 steps to receive answers to your prayers.

1. Identify what you need to pray about.

You need to identify what you pray about or are believing God for in prayer. If you pray about nothing in particular, that is what you’ll get, nothing. You won’t even be able to determine whether or not when God answers your prayer because you don’t know what you want.

2. Research scriptures to find out what God's word saying concerning that need.

After you have identified what you want, it is time to search the scriptures to find out what God’s word says about your situation or need.

3. Write down what the word of God has to say about it and personalise it

And then when have found out what His word says about your situation, it is now time to write down every scripture that says something about your situation. Personalise what the word of God has to say and replace the pronouns or names with yours.

4. Pray the word of God back to Him

Stand on the word of God to pray. Have faith in the word of God and pray as well as meditate on it until you catch a revelation from it. The Bible says in James 5:16 that “…The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” Persevere in prayer.

5. Be specific in your prayer

When you pray, be specific. Don’t pray without focus but pray concerning the need or situation you have identified. For example, when you pray that God should bless Mr. A and Mrs. B, you have to be specific. What areas of their lives do they need to be blessed in? Identify that and specify it in prayer. When you’re specific in prayer, it will help you know when God answers your prayer.

6. Believe the word of God absolutely in faith

Hoping that God will answer your prayer isn't faith, but rather faith is knowing for sure that God has answered your prayers. Trust that God has answered for your prayers and thank Him for it as you wait for its manifestation. Receive whatever you have prayed for and by faith, see it accomplished.

7. Listen to God after you’ve prayed

Don’t pray and just leave the presence of God without listening to what He has to say. Prayer is communication with God, therefore, listen to what the Spirit of God ministers to you in prayer. Listen and act on whatever He tells you to do. He may ask you to sow a seed, reach out to someone or something else. Obey what He asks you to do and follow whatever guidance He gives you.

Perseverance: Adding to your Faith Patience

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 16 Mar 2017 12:58:00 +0000

In this culture of instant gratification and easy access to almost everything, it's difficult to wait for anything. This can deeply affect our walk of faith as we tend to want everything to be simple and go according to our plans. We leave no room for taking a detour or room for waiting.

We're sometimes like spoilt brats, well most of the time, who will get on the floor and scream our hearts out because what we want isn't allowed or there is a delay. Like a broken record we keep repeating our needs and trying to persuade God so that we can get what we want. This sometimes takes an ugly turn as we scream at God about how we deserve what we want and we start to recount what we have done and continue to do for others in his name. We scream out about how he hates us and doesn't want us to have fun or anything pleasurable. We know these are lies but we may choose to sometimes believe it.

We forget that we need to persevere and hold onto the end as he himself did. He had to endure very harsh things for the joy that was set before him. He had to focus on the end result in order to endure the harsh process.

You need to persevere and hold on. Don't give up for you'll reap your rewards.

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Galatians 6:9, NKJV

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2-4, NKJV

Be encouraged and don’t give up. Have faith and persevere because, in the end, all things will work out for your good. What are you trusting the Lord for today?

Dealing with Mental Health and Suicide

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 06 Mar 2017 12:16:00 +0000

This is not one of my usual posts as it borders on an issue I haven't dealt with before on the blog. So, last month there was very sad and bad news. An 18-year-old girl hanged herself in her room at her hall of residence.

One of her roommates came back from lectures and found her dead, and hanging. She left a note apologising to her parents for not being the person they expected her to be. Now, what could have caused such a young girl to hang herself? She comes from an affluent family; her dad is even a member of parliament. The media loves to speculate and so they’ve cooked over a thousand and one reasons why she must have committed suicide. Then after week, another young female student in a different university jumps from the balcony of her room in the wee hours of the morning, committing suicide! Once again, no one knows why she did it. This was followed by another suicide! There has been much speculations and theories for why these young people resort to suicide.

However, this post isn't to discuss their stories or theories. Mental health is a subject that is shredded in superstition in my country, Ghana. Much attention isn't given to it. To most people, depression isn't even an ailment nor does it exist. They feel depression is a western thing not a Ghanaian or African thing. Yet, more and more young adults and adults suffer from depression. They're mentally and emotionally tormented.

Some even hear voices and can't seek the help they need because they’re taught to believe that though it isn't normal to feel depressed, there is no treatment. The country lacks psychologists and psychiatrists who can treat people suffering from depression. Though universities and senior high schools have counsellors they are not readily accessible. I was in the university for seven years; fours for my Bachelor's degree, one year as a teaching assistant and two years for a Masters of Philosophy Degree as well as a graduate assistant but never did I hear of the university counsellors! I know they are on campus but the majority of students don't know where to find them. Who knows, if these young girls had received counselling they may not have bought into the devil's lies and taken their own lives.

It's time as a nation and a people we take mental health seriously and started finding ways to provide treatment for those who need it. We mustn’t wait until more people kill themselves before we act! The time to act is now. I must say it saddens me when I see people with dementia abandoned on our streets. These people are also humans. They need to be catered for not left on their own to live in filth on our streets.

If you’re reading this and feel that everyone will be better off without you alive, I want you to know that this isn’t true. The families of these young people are in much pain and some carry the guilt of not having been able to stop their children from taking their own lives. Things don’t get better because you’re not around, in fact, they get worse. Don’t buy into the lies of the enemy. God loves you so much. Jesus came that you’ll have life more abundantly. The devil, on the other hand, has come to steal and to kill. Don’t buy into his lies. God isn’t mad at you and the world isn’t a better place without you. Know for sure that, your life matters to God and to those around you. Don’t give up on yourself, dig in your heels and seek for help. This one too shall pass, hold on and don’t give up. I’m praying for you that the peace of God which is beyond all understanding takes over your mind and envelopes your entire life. Remember God loves you and is rooting for you.

To all those you’re not going through this, together let's make a difference and help people with depression and dementia. Let them know that there is hope, they can be cured and made whole again. Be nice and kinder to people because you never know what they are going through and how your kindness would go a long way to impact them.

God is love therefore let’s live to love as His children who have been born by His Spirit.

Have you ever gone through a period of depression and hopelessness? How did you deal with it? Are going through anything right now? Share it so we can agree with you in prayer to over it.

Redefining LOVE From Biblical Perspective

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 22:00:00 +0000

What really is love? Has the definition of love changed over the years? Trying to define love in this age is a pretty complex endeavour. I mean, what kind of love are you trying to define in the first place? Is it the love of self or others or material things?

In the age of selfies and social media, is love what it was years ago? Is love even an emotion or a decision? However, the definition of love is quite simple but complex in its execution. According to the Bible, God is love, as a result, any definition of love must find its source from Him.

How does God define love?

In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:9, NKJV

Love is a verb hence, God, in order to define love demonstrates it to humanity and every creature. God takes on the flesh of man to die in the stead of man. God through Christ Jesus shows us how to love. Love is giving 100% even if its subject doesn't deserve it. We don't deserve God's love but he loves us anyway.

Love gives without expecting anything in return. Jesus loves us unconditionally even when we treat him badly or ignore him he continues to love us.

Love means you'll get hurt by the person you love most. We've hurt God badly and continue to hurt him but he continuous to love us despite everything we do. Look at how Jesus was scourged, spat on and insulted because he chose to love us. But he bore all our sins because love bears all things.

Love is patient and kind

Although Jesus was maltreated, betrayed and called names, he continued to patiently lavish us with his love to the point of death.

Love is not easily angered and believes all things

Jesus, although scourged, mocked, betrayed and crucified believed in the redemption of man. He knew who we would become through his love and so didn't seek personal gratification but the happiness of his beloved. He suffered to ensure that his beloved didn't have to suffer. He took her place and paid her ransom so she could live freely.

Love covers a multitude of sins

Love holds no grudges and covers the faults of his beloved. Love forgives.

Love is God.

Love is Jesus.

Love is grace.

How do you define love?

How to Start Your Day Right: 4 Easy Steps to Have a Great Day

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 23:25:00 +0000

How do you start your day? Do you start the day feeling tired or weary? Does your day start badly? There were times when I dreaded mornings. I dreaded facing my mornings and just wanted to stay in bed just a little bit longer. I would wake up all drained and unexcited. This made my day miserable although some days were better than others. I just had to do something about it and do some soul searching. Oh, boy was I glad I did!

Did you know that there is a great way to start your day so you can stay grounded, happy and accomplish more?

After praying and analysing my habits I came to know what I had to do to make my mornings happy and to start my day right. I realised that how I started my day largely depended on how I ended the previous day. What you do before you go to bed can determine what kind of day you'll have the next day. So this is what I did.

Four Things To Do To Start Your Day Right

1. I ended each day praying in the Spirit and listening to faith-based sermons or motivational messages. I usually fall asleep listening to these sermons and I always wake up refreshed and ready for each day.

2. I realised that planning my day the night before makes me focused and helps me get more done.

3. Start your day early. I realised that when I woke up early, I had enough time to pray and study the word of God or listen to the word. Prayer and the word helped me to keep my eyes on God and the bigger picture throughout the day.

4. Before bed and after devotion in the morning, I read out my daily affirmations. These affirmations remind me of whose I am and who I am. They cause me to stay grounded and grow in the revelation of God's word.

These are the four things I do to start my day right. How do you start your day?

How to Develop Intimacy with the Lord

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 16:00:00 +0000

James 4:8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you….

Do you want to hear from God more clearly? Do you want to develop your relationship with God and mature? Do you wish to experience Him on a personal level and bask in His presence always? I bet you want more out of your relationship with the Lord but simply don't know where to start. I mean, you consistently hear people speak about how the Lord speaks so clearly to them but you've never experienced it and wish you could! You know, it's possible to grow closer to the Lord and be intimate.

I love Sid Roth's show, It's Supernatural. I love listening to men and women of God describing their experiences with the supernatural and Jesus. I sometimes fall asleep watching video recordings of the show so that I'll experience such a supernatural encounter as the guests! I love how the show illustrates how experiencing the supernatural is easy and is for everyone. It shows how intimacy with the Lord is for everyone and can be achieved.

In order to encounter or experience growth in your relationship with the Lord, there are some simple things you can do although there isn’t any formula.

Spend Time with God

How do you grow closer to your friends or family? The answer is simple, you spend time with them. So in order to develop intimacy with the Lord, you need to spend time with Him. You need to speak to Him and listen to His response so you get to know Him better. You must learn to shift your attention from yourself and your needs to focus on Him.

Jesus while on earth, spent long periods of time with the Father. He made time to consistently and intentionally meet with Him; he fellowshipped with the Father through prayer. Hence, Jesus shows us one way to develop and grow in intimacy with the Lord. Prayer or having conversations with God helps you to grow closer to God. This time spent in prayer isn't focused on asking God for anything but rather in worship and chatting with Him.

Study and Meditate the Word of God

Secondly, spending time in the word helps you to know the Lord better. God speaks and directs through His word. The more of the word you know, the more you’ll grow in your relationship with him.

John 8:32 "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

The focus here isn’t to fill yourself with knowledge of the word but to get a personal revelation of the word in your spirit. Mere knowledge of the word doesn’t foster a healthy relationship with the Lord as the Pharisees indicate. You must understand the word of God and trust the word absolutely. It is trust that builds intimacy and keeps any relationship and your relationship with the Lord requires your trust in Him.

You need to meditate on the Word until you grasp a personal revelation for yourself. Aside personally reading the word on your own, you also need to listen to sermons either audio or video. The more of the word you know the more you will know the Lord. Fill your mind and spirit with the word

Trust the word of God

Abraham had such a great relationship with the Lord because he absolutely trusted in His word. Abraham believed that God was able to accomplish His words even when his circumstances indicated the opposite. His unflinching faith caused him to obey the word of God even when it meant sacrificing his only son, Isaac. He had faith in God concerning the birth of Isaac.

Who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, "So shall your descendants be." And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb. He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. Romans 4:18-21, NKJV

Absolute trust leads to obedience. Abraham obeyed God because he trusted Him. When God came to earth in the form of a man in Genesis, He spent a long time chatting with Abraham and revealing to Him what He would do to Sodom and Gomorrah.

And the LORD said, "Shall I hide from Abraham what I am doing, "since Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? “For I have known him, in order that he may command his children and his household after him, that they keep the way of the LORD, to do righteousness and justice, that the LORD may bring to Abraham what He has spoken to him." Genesis 18:17-19, NKJV

When you trust God, He also trusts you as you yield yourself to the spirit and reveals Himself to you. Develop intimacy with the Lord by trusting Him. Faith is what God needs from us for without faith it is impossible to please Him. Through faith, prayer, obedience and the word you'll foster a relationship with the Lord and grow your intimacy with Him.

What ways are you developing your intimacy with the Lord?

How to Flourish

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 23:20:00 +0000

What’s your word for the year? Do you ever pick a word for each year? Well, I don’t. I go with the Lord’s word of the year for our ministry, Footworks International. Our word for the year is; flourish and establishment, isn’t that great? I love the word flourish, I mean who doesn’t want to flourish and be established? So, I did a little digging into the Bible to see what God’s word has to say about flourishing. I found really great scriptures that filled me with so much hope and joy that I couldn’t help but share them with you. The Lord wants you to flourish because you’re His righteousness in Christ Jesus.

The word of God is replete with wonderful scriptures about God’s plans and will for believers. Hence, it’s no surprise that He wants us, His children to thrive. Thrive is a synonym for flourish. As you read the scriptures below, know that if you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and personal saviour then God calls you His righteousness. God sees you as righteous due to the obedience of Christ Jesus, consequently when scripture says the righteous shall flourish, it means you will flourish. Don’t let your current state of mind make you feel or think otherwise.

For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21, NKJV

Read and meditate on the following scriptures on flourishing;

Psalms 72:7, KJV

In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.

Psalms 92:12, KJV

The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.

Psalms 92:13-14, KJV

Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing.

Proverbs 11:28, KJV

He that trusteth in his riches shall fall; but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.

Proverbs 14:11, KJV

The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.

Three ways to flourish this year and always

1. Fill your mind and spirit with the word of God. Make time to personally study the word of God and to listen to sermons.

"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Joshua 1:8, NKJV

. 2. Meditate on the word of God and confess the word of God to yourself repeatedly. Focusing on the word of God and repeatedly confessing it will help you to digest and get personal revelations into the word.

3. Surround yourself with godly friends who will encourage you to be all that the word says. People that build your faith and not those whose negativity and logic seek to kill it.

If you continuously abide in the word and make your relationship with the Lord a priority, you will always thrive and flourish in all that you do. Get your free printable here

What’s your word for the year?

Does God Use Illness or Disease to Discipline Believers?

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 00:08:00 +0000

Do you find yourself in constant pain? Are you in and out of the hospital more times than you would want? Do you suffer from a chronic disease? Do you feel that God is using illness or disease to discipline you? Do you feel your ailment is a punishment from God? There was a time in the past when I felt like this.

During this time, I was always sick with one illness or another. Prior to this, I was a very healthy teenager who rarely got sick but my final year in high school changed everything. I stopped being healthy and became sick.

I remember, feeling so awful that I felt God was punishing me for something I had done or was teaching me a lesson with my illness. My parents took me to the doctors who put me on many meds. I got better after several months but even at the university I easily fell ill.

And like how some perceive illness, I thought God was either punishing me or using my ill health to discipline me. I felt, I just had to endure it, take my meds and learn to see and know what He wanted me too. Have you ever thought likewise? Do you feel you're ill because it's the Lord's will for you?

If you do just like I did, then I want to tell you that you're wrong. I carried these thoughts for years until my third year in the university when I got to understand the word of God. I found out that I didn't have to be sick though sometimes I may feel sick. I found out that sicknesses do not come from God and that Jesus bore all my illnesses when He was whipped! Glory! What happy day that was when I got this revelation! I was set free from the enemy who wanted me to believe contrary to what the Word of God says.

God’s Will for Your Health

The prophet Isaiah speaks of God's will concerning our health in the Old Testament.

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5, KJV

This was fulfilled in the New Testament when Jesus came to heal and set free all those oppressed by the enemy.

How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. Acts 10:38, KJV

Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. 1 Peter 2:24, KJV

God Doesn’t Use Disease to Discipline You

God is light in Him is no darkness and so God can't use something Jesus came to destroy to teach you a lesson or punish you. It's time to know the heart of God concerning your health and stop feeding on the lies of the enemy. I don't recall any place in the New Testament where sickness was described as a tool used by God. See sickness for what it really is and get treated by the word and/or medication. There are two ways you get sick either through demonic activities or natural causes such as when your body breaks down due to fatigue or from some harmful habits.

God won't use the tool of the enemy to punish you because He is light and doesn't operate with darkness. All His promises are ye and amen. God loves you and wants you to be healed and live in divine health.

Does God allow sickness? Share your thoughts, I would love to connect with you.

Why Your New Year Resolutions Fail and How to Fix it

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 23:39:00 +0000

Every new year offers you the opportunity to start over. It presents you with a clean canvas so you can paint new pictures and dream big. It brings with it hope and anticipation of the future. It is the perfect time to start over and to dream big dreams again.

If you’re like me, then you like to put down some resolutions for the year. You jot down all the projects and things you’d like to do and change just to forget all about them after a week or two. You then go through the rest of the year without taking a look at those resolutions until the last week of December. You make new resolutions and promise to stick to them this time but we both know you won’t.

The resolutions you write down to improve your life, to try new things and to make changes never become reality. They remain, sadly, only on paper as they're usually just wishful thinking on your part. This happens because you lack the strategies to implement them.

There is a better way to plan strategically for the year to ensure that you achieve your goals. Instead of resolutions, set S.M.A.R.T. goals and prepare an action plan to achieve your goals. S.M.A.R.T goals are goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely.

Why do my resolutions fail?

Here is what I've learned about why most resolutions fail.

1. They are not specific.

2. They lack specific strategies to implement them.

3. They are not things that you are passionate about.

4. Resolutions are not placed where they can always be seen to serve as a reminder.

5. There are no set timelines to achieve them.

6. They're not realistic.

What do I do to accomplish my goals/resolutions?

So, instead of making resolutions I believe you should set goals and have actionable steps to accomplish each of them. The following are five ways to accomplish your goals:

1. Set monthly, quarterly or yearly goals.

2. Break each goal down

2. Set deadlines

3. Place your goals where you can always see them.

4. Be resolved to work on them until they are accomplished.

How do you accomplish your goals? How do you get a lot done in the year?

Why You Shouldn't be Afraid of the Future

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 23:00:00 +0000

The future is sometimes scary when viewed from the perspective of the present. Depending on your current circumstances, it may look dark, blurry and hopeless or at best uncertain, but as a child of the Almighty God, you don't have to be afraid of what the future holds.

You don't have to be scared of the future no matter how dark and hopeless your present situation or circumstances are. You can trust that the Lord has wonderful plans in stock for you. He is working and will work everything out for your good. He will turn your mess into a message so that you can shout of His goodness from the rooftop to encourage others. You can rest in Him and be assured of the future. Here are some scriptures on what the Lord has in stock for your future.

Jeremiah 29:11, NET

For I know what I have planned for you,’ says the LORD. ‘I have plans to prosper you, not to harm you. I have plans to give you a future filled with hope.

Isaiah 55:8-13, NET

“Indeed, my plans are not like your plans, and my deeds are not like your deeds, for just as the sky is higher than the earth, so my deeds are superior to your deeds and my plans superior to your plans. The rain and snow fall from the sky and do not return, but instead water the earth and make it produce and yield crops, and provide seed for the planter and food for those who must eat. In the same way, the promise that I make does not return to me, having accomplished nothing. No, it is realized as I desire and is fulfilled as I intend.” Indeed you will go out with joy; you will be led along in peace; the mountains and hills will give a joyful shout before you, and all the trees in the field will clap their hands. Evergreens will grow in place of thorn bushes, firs will grow in place of nettles; they will be a monument to the LORD, a permanent reminder that will remain.

Philippians 1:6, NET

For I am sure of this very thing, that the one who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Psalm 23:6, NET

Surely your goodness and faithfulness will pursue me all my days, and I will live in the LORD’s house for the rest of my life.

Matthew 6:25-34, NET

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Isn’t there more to life than food and more to the body than clothing? Look at the birds in the sky: They do not sow, or reap, or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you more valuable than they are? And which of you by worrying can add even one hour to his life? Why do you worry about clothing? Think about how the flowers of the field grow; they do not work or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his glory was clothed like one of these! And if this is how God clothes the wild grass, which is here today and tomorrow is tossed into the fire to heat the oven, won’t he clothe you even more, you people of little faith? So then, don’t worry saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ For the unconverted pursue these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But above all pursue his kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. So then, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own.

James 1:7, NET

All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change.

Romans 8:28, NET

And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.

Your future is certain and so don’t worry and take hold of what the Lord has in stock for you. What scriptures give you hope for the future? I would love to know.

Scripture Verses for Planning for the Future

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 26 Dec 2016 15:39:00 +0000

We consistently plan for the future especially at the beginning of a new year. We make resolutions to change our lives and positively work towards achieving our dreams. It's good to plan but how can our plans be godly or biblical? Are believers to make plans for their lives or wait to see the Lord’s plans unfold for them?

Some believers are scared of planning for the future because they feel planning may not allow them to walk by faith. However is it biblical not to plan? What does the Bible say about planning for the future?

It's very important to plan for the future because our God is a God who plans and executes His plans. Look at creation, it started with planning. He didn't randomly create but followed a pattern. When the creation process was interrupted by man's disobedience, He planned and brought in the redemptive plan. It took Him thousands of years to prepare man and bring him to a point where he could accept and understand His redemptive work.

So as you plan for the future, here are some scripture verses on making plans for the future.

Luke 14:28-31, WEB

For which of you, desiring to build a tower, doesn’t first sit down and count the cost, to see if he has enough to complete it? Or perhaps, when he has laid a foundation, and is not able to finish, everyone who sees begins to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build, and wasn’t able to finish.’ Or what king, as he goes to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand?

Proverbs 16:3, ISV

Entrust your work to the LORD, and your planning will succeed.

Proverbs 15:22, WEB

Where there is no counsel, plans fail; but in a multitude of counselors they are established.

Proverbs 27:23, WEB

Know well the state of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds

Proverbs 21:5, WEB

The plans of the diligent surely lead to profit; and everyone who is hasty surely rushes to poverty.

Proverbs 6:6-8, WEB

Go to the ant, you sluggard. Consider her ways, and be wise; which having no chief, overseer, or ruler, provides her bread in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest.

Proverbs 28:19, NET

The one who works his land will be satisfied with food, but whoever chases daydreams will have his fill of poverty.

Learn from the ant and strategically plan for the future. Count the cost of your plans and be willing to pay the price to achieve your dreams. Just making plans and not working to fulfil them defeats the purpose of planning. I pray that these scriptures encourage you to make the sacrifices that are required to make your dreams become a reality.

After you're done planning, pray and commit your plans to the Lord. It is God who establishes all plans and gives wisdom.

What are your plans for the future? Let’s share and hold each other accountable.

10 Scriptures to Meditate on When You're Lonely

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 11:53:00 +0000

Loneliness is a universal emotion, by this I mean everyone at one point or another has felt or feels lonely. We feel lonely even when we are surrounded by family and friends. There are times that we just want to be alone or feel lonely.

This happens especially when we go through tough and rough times or when no one appears to understand us. I have been in this position much more than I would like. However, whenever I've found myself feeling lonely, there are some bible verses that I go to for comfort. They reassure me that I'm not alone and that I'm loved. They bring things into perspective as these scriptures cause me to focus on God, not myself. They assure me of God's constant love for me. I pray you find as much comfort in these scriptures like I do.

Isaiah 43:1-5

But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place. Since you were precious in My sight, You have been honored, And I have loved you; Therefore I will give men for you, And people for your life. Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your descendants from the east, and gather you from the west.

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'

Psalms 147:3

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Psalms 91:15

He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him.

Romans 8:35-39

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: "For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter." Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 Peter 5:7

Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

John 14:18-20

"I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” A little longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also. "At that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you.

Matthew 28:20b

…I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you."

1 Samuel 12:22

"For the LORD will not forsake His people, for His great name's sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you His people.

Meditate on these scriptures when you feel lonely or sad. Know that God is always with you and he will never leave you or forsake you. There is also nothing that can separate you from his love for you, find comfort in this.

What are your go to scriptures for comfort? I would love to add them to my list of comfort scriptures so share yours in the comment section.

2016: TOP #10 POSTS on Goldwordpad

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 19 Dec 2016 00:43:00 +0000

This year has been a great year for learning and growing. It has also been a year of trusting God through the highs and lows of life. It was a year of facing reality but choosing faith instead. I’m sure everyone has a story to tell of 2016. Some memories are good, nice, and happy while others are painful, sad and overwhelming. Yet, the one thing that has remained constant through it all is Jesus.

Goldworldpad has been great because of you. Thanks for sticking with me throughout this year. Here are the TOP 10 blog posts on Goldworldpad. Take the opportunity to catch up in case you missed any of these awesome posts!

#10

Learning to Trust Again

The Promises of God are yes and amen

Today, I had one of those days that God totally pulls the floor out from under you. Well, literally if you get what I mean. There I was so pumped up about how I had so much faith and had grown so much in trusting God over these couple of months.

However, as I read Smith Wigglesworth’s book, On Prayer, Power, and Miracles, God drew my attention to something I hadn’t noticed, a little more about that later in the post. Let me share with you what the Lord ministered to me as I read this book.... Continue reading

Chase Your Dreams

The route to fulfilling your dreams may be lonely, long, tiring and rough but in the end, it will be worth it. The route to barely getting by or being average is packed with multitudes of people but never leads anywhere. All your sweat in the traffic and the pollution that you suffer affect you negatively. They leave you worn out, unhappy and unsatisfied. Continue reading

Do Christians and Muslims Worship the Same God?

Growing up I was taught about Christianity, Islam and indigenous African Traditional Religion. I was taught that we all believed in the same God but approached him through different ways. Thus the conclusion is that God was same but ways of worshiping him differed. I believed this as a child and this is being taught not only in some parts of Africa but throughout the world. While I now believe that there is indeed only one God I do not believe that all religions... Continue reading

#7
22 Scriptures for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is very important in the life of every believer. It causes God to move gloriously in your life. It shows you reliance on God. Also being thankful kills the spirit of ungratefulness and it keeps you focused on God. Thanksgiving makes you realise the presence of God in your life. It is worship to God. It is the cure for bitterness and disillusionment. Begin and end each day with thanksgiving. Thank God for His goodness in your personal life, family, friends, church etc. Continue reading

All Things are Possible to Him Who Believes

Through faith, we have confidence in what we hope for. Faith is how we tap into the supernatural. The currency of the supernatural is faith. God responds to faith, not tears or emotions. By faith, the whole world was willed to Abraham. By faith in Jesus, we become born again. By faith anything is possible. Faith determines how far you can go and what you can achieve. Faith opens the supernatural and causes changes in the physical realm. Faith is more powerful than all the knowledge of the world. Continue reading

5 Scriptures to Encourage You

Life can get tough sometimes and the future looks bleak. You might be overwhelmed and so feel like giving up but you don't have to give up. Dig in your heels and keep going. You're never too far from achieving your goals and overcoming your obstacles! These are five Scriptures to encourage you. You can absolutely trust in the Word of God! Everyone and everything may fail you but, never God. Continue reading...

The Right Addiction

I paid a friend a visit and as we left her house so she could see me off, we used the route shortest to the main road. As we came out of her gate we saw three young boys either 19 years or just above. They were smoking weed and drinking an alcoholic beverage. Continue reading

Change Your Mirror

When you look in the mirror who do you see? Do you see an ugly person, overweight and unlovable? Do you see a skinny person who has eating disorders?

Do you see a drug addict who will do anything for a quick fix? Do you a depressed individual who hears voices? It is as though everyone is out to get you. The voices get so loud that you can't hear yourself think. All around you, there is fear and people are out to get you. They don't see what you see neither do they hear and feel what you hear and feel. Why can't they hear, see and feel what you feel? There must be something wrong with them! Continue reading...

6 Scriptures to Encourage You to Pray Without Fear or Doubt

Ever wondered if prayer was worth it? Have prayed time and time again with no answer? Do you ever wonder if God answers your prayers? Many believers including myself have felt this way or asked one or two of these questions. There are times that it may appear that you pray and pray but still get no answer. However, you can be sure that no prayer of yours is wasted. God listens to your prayers and it delights Him to hear from you. Continue reading

5 Reasons Why You Must Pray in Tongues

You cease to be a mere human being when you accept Jesus as your Lord and personal savior. You take on the nature of divinity and become a spirit being. In the spirit, we speak a language that is individually given to us by the Holy Spirit. Speaking in tongues makes a very great difference in every believer’s life. Below are five reasons why you must speak in tongues. You should speak in tongues because Jesus said it will be a sign that follows believers. Continue reading...

What are your personal favourite blog posts on the blog? Has the blog made an impact on your life? I would love to hear from you, can’t wait to connect with you.

3 Reasons Why You Should Give

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 23:33:00 +0000

Christmas is a season to give and to show love to others. We celebrate Christmas because God on this day gave humanity the ultimate gift of Himself. He descended to earth and took on flesh to dwell among us so that He would deal with the problem of sin once and for all.

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14, NKJV

Although the season has been so commercialised, it is important to focus on the importance of Christmas, which is giving. This is the season to make others happy. It’s a season to be selfless and share the love of God with others. To remind us of the importance of giving in this season, I’ve put together some scriptures to help.

The focus of Christmas is giving. However, we are supposed to give out of love. We have to follow God’s example because God gave us Jesus out of love and not compulsion. It doesn’t profit a believer when he gives without love.

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:3

Let love be your reason for giving! These are three reasons why you must give this season.

1. Give because it is the Lord’s good pleasure that we do so

So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

Honor the LORD with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase. Proverbs 3:9

For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have. 2 Corinthians 8:12

Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so. Proverbs 3:27

The wicked borrows and does not repay, But the righteous shows mercy and gives. Psalm 37:21

2. Give because God rewards you when you give

"Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you." Luke 6:38

A man's gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men. Proverbs 18:16

The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself. Proverbs 11:25

As it is written: "He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever." Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness. 2 Corinthians 9:9-10

3. Give because everything you have is a gift from God

But who am I, and who are my people, That we should be able to offer so willingly as this? For all things come from You, And of Your own we have given You.

1 Chronicles 29:14

Do you know what would make this holiday really special? Let me tell you. It will really be great if we can focus on giving to those who can’t afford to give us anything in return, wouldn’t that be cool? Make someone happy this season by sharing and spreading the love of the saviour.

What’s your reason for giving this season?

All the scriptures were taken from the New King James Version of the Bible

Why Your Life Sucks and How to Fix It

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 12 Dec 2016 23:56:00 +0000

Do you feel stuck in life? Do you feel that nothing is working out for you? Does everyone else seem to be doing so much better than you? Have you tried different approaches but nothing seems to be working? Have you prayed and fasted and fasted and cried but nothing is changing in your life? Are you at your wits end and really simply just want to be happy? Do you really want all things to work together for your good? I, bet, you want your life to be great and not suck, right?

Let me tell you why your life sucks. Ouch! That sounds kind of harsh, doesn’t it? I mean you’re a bible believing, tongue speaking Christian, so what’s the problem? The problem is that you have the wrong mindset! You think the wrong thoughts!

As a man thinks in his heart so is he! Proverbs 23:7

You are what you think

What you think is what informs your choices, actions and speech. You can’t think the wrong thoughts and have a great life. Your life is simply a mirror of your thoughts.

What are you thinking?

What are the thoughts going through your mind? Are your thoughts in line with the word of God or are they based on the flesh?

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

It is time to change your thoughts!

The first step to straightening up your life is to recognise the importance of your thought life. You need to change your thoughts by replacing them with positive and godly ones. The way to control your actions or reactions lies in controlling your thoughts. Filter what stays in your mind and allow only the positive and godly thoughts to stay.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8

You can change your life and your situation by changing your thought pattern.

You need to take back all the territories in your mind that the devil as taken by focusing on thinking positive and godly thoughts. The battle is won first in your mind. The battle rages in your mind and so you must bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

How to renew your mind

Focus on the word of God and meditate on it. You can change your thoughts by asking God for help in prayer. Meditate on His word – that is read the word, say it over and over again and think on it until it becomes part of you.

The strongholds in your mind can be overcome by the word of God. You have already been set free by Jesus and so meditate on His goodness. Fill your thoughts with positive and godly things.

What are you thinking? How can you change what you are thinking?

If God was Santa

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 15:08:00 +0000

I love Christmas and I always have since I was a kid. The holiday ambiance is great. The holiday lights, Christmas trees, holiday shopping, holiday decoration, music, the food, getting to see family and friends…. I could go on and on about why I love Christmas.

Growing up, I loved how we always travelled 16 hours just to spend time with my granny. I loved seeing all our extended family coming together for a family gathering every year! Now, we don’t get to make that 16 hour journey anymore because granny went to be with the Lord in my second year at the university. Looks like I got all caught up in reminiscing. So let's go to today’s post…

If God was Santa

I loved Santa Claus is coming to Town when I was young. I sang along whenever it was played on radio, TV or when we put on the Christmas carol DVD. But I just heard it a couple of days ago and it got me thinking. One verse stood out to me

He’s making a list

And checking it twice

Gonna find out who’s naughty and nice

Santa Claus is coming to town

This part of the song brought to mind how sometimes we confuse God with Santa. Kids really believe that they have to be good so they can get a gift from Santa on Christmas day. Sadly, many Christians act the same way with God. They live as though the blessings of God are dependent on their good behaviour. They feel as if God is taking records of their bad deeds and keeping them so that He can punish them.

When they face trials and hardships, they see it as a punishment from God. Some even believe that God gives them chronic sicknesses to punish them and teach them lessons.

This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 1 John 1:5(KJV)

God is light and in Him is no darkness hence He can’t use sickness to punish you or discipline you. Jesus came to heal the sick and set captives free so why would God do the opposite after Jesus paid the ultimate price?

How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. Acts 10:38 (KJV)

God isn’t Santa

God isn’t out to get you and isn’t holding grudges against you. He doesn’t bless you because you have been good but because you’re His child and Jesus has ransomed you. You can trust that He will not withhold from you His blessings. You only have to position yourself to receive them. Look at God through the mirror of His words not your thoughts or your experiences.

God is a Good God

God is a good God who loves you. Renew your mind with the word of God and position yourself to receive all His goodness. Don’t let your thoughts and experiences blind you. See through the eyes of love and silence the bad thoughts in your mind. Be intentional, focus on His word and trust Him.

Open your heart and receive God's goodness this Christmas. Focus on Him and watch all things become possible to you. If God was Santa, what do you think would happen?

6 Scriptures to Encourage You to Pray Without Fear or Doubt

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 23:13:00 +0000

A couple of months ago, a friend asked me to pray for her. She asked that I pray for her because she felt God wasn’t listening to her. She thought God was mad at her and so wasn’t listening to her. If you’re like her, I want to assure you that God isn’t mad at you. Read 3 Reasons Why God isn’t Mad at you to find out more.

You need to persist in prayer even when you’re not getting answers. Know for sure that God answers prayers and in His time He’ll make all things beautiful for you.

Here are some scriptures to help you pray without fear or doubt.

And all things, whatsoever you shall ask in prayer, believing you shall receive.

Matt 21:22

And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. "Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:23-24

"For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. Mark 11:23-24

For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers. 1 Peter 3:12a

The LORD is righteous in all His ways, Gracious in all His works. The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfil the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them. The LORD preserves all who love Him, But all the wicked He will destroy. Psalm 145:17-20

The LORD is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous. Proverbs 15:29

Pray in faith because God responds to our faith. Continue to persist and stand in prayer. What are your favourite scriptures for encouragement? What scriptures put to rest all your doubts or fears?

Come to God as You Are and Be Transformed

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 01 Dec 2016 23:00:00 +0000

Come to God as you are. God loves you just as you are. These two statements are used time and time again to reach out to unbelievers with the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is true that God loves you just as you are but does He want you to stay the same when you accept Jesus as your Lord and personal saviour?

God wants you to come to Him as you are

God doesn’t require that you put your life in order before you come to Him. If you could have straightened out your life by yourself, Jesus wouldn’t have come to die to redeem you.

Jesus hung out with sinners

Jesus came to save a dying world controlled by darkness, Satan. When Jesus came to earth, He hung out with sinners. He spent time with thieves, drunks, tax collectors and the list goes on. He taught them the word of God which transformed their lives from the inside out. God isn’t interested in behaviour modification but a recreation or rebirth of the human spirit. Jesus deals with the nature of sin (the seed of the devil planted in man because Adam disobeyed God) in man so that man is free to live the divine life God had originally purposed for man to live before time began.

Zacchaeus was a sinner

People hated Zacchaeus because he was a tax collector who perhaps swindled them. He was wealthy and may have acquired his wealth through dubious means through extortion through tax collection. However, Jesus saw beyond his present condition of sinfulness. Jesus saw what forgiveness and love would transform him into.

Jesus dines with Zacchaeus

Jesus called out to Zacchaeus to come down from the tree and proceeded to his house to dine with him. Jesus ministered the word and Zacchaeus listened to the sermon, he was changed. His heart was broken as he realised his sinfulness. He broke down and repented of his sin.

Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold." Luke 19:8

An encounter with Jesus changed him totally and him transformed into a new man.

Come as you are and be changed

Zacchaeus didn’t remain the same after he encountered the word of God. He became a new man. His heart became right and he began to live right.

Saul (Paul) was a murderer

Saul was a devoted Pharisee who terrorised believers. He was there when Stephen was martyred. He imprisoned many Christians but on his way to Damascus, he met Jesus. This encounter changed and transformed him. He was changed from a persecutor of the church into a defender of the faith. He began to preach the gospel and won many people into Christ.

You can’t stay the same after you encounter Jesus, the word of God

The gospel transforms you and gives you a new identity. It changes you from the inside out. You can’t continue to live in sin after you’re born again. You’re totally transformed by the spirit of God. Hence, you can’t continue to live a life contrary to the word of God. Jesus saves you and deals with your nature of sin. He makes you a slave of righteousness.

But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. Romans 6:17-18, NKJV

Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God. 1 John 3:9, NKJV

Come as you are and be changed and live the life God has for you.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17, NKJV

How has the gospel transformed you? I’d love to hear from you, don’t leave without saying hello.

God Wants You to Prosper

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 23:56:00 +0000

God wants you to prosper in every area of your life. He wants you to prosper both spiritually and physically. It delights your Heavenly Father to see you prosper in your faith walk with Him, in your health, in your relationships, and in wealth.

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be healthy, even as your soul prospers. 3John 1:2

Faith Produces Prosperity

From the Old Testament to the New Testament, the Bible is filled with men and women who walked with God and were prosperous in all areas of their lives as a result. It is the Father’s good pleasure to bless His children and give them good things. When we live in prosperity, it brings glory to Him.

Abraham, the Father of Faith, was Prosperous

Abraham, the father of faith was prosperous because he walked with God. God blessed and prospered everything that he did. The blessings of God affected even his nephew, Lot.

Abram was very rich in livestock, in silver, and in gold. Genesis 13:2, NKJV

Lot also, who went with Abram, had flocks and herds and tents. Now the land was not able to support them, that they might dwell together, for their possessions were so great that they could not dwell together. Genesis 13:5-6, NKJV

God was with Joseph

Joseph was prosperous because the Lord was with him. In every season of Joseph’s life, God blessed him and caused him to prosper no matter his circumstances. Even as a slave in Potiphar’s house he found favour with his master and God blessed him. Also when his situation worsened as he moved from slave to prisoner, the Lord was with him and blessed and prospered him. God blessed and prospered him and finally promoted him to be the second commander-in-chief of Egypt.

The LORD was with Joseph, and he was a successful man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD made all he did to prosper in his hand. Genesis 39:2-3, NKJV

The keeper of the prison did not look into anything that was under Joseph's authority, because the LORD was with him; and whatever he did, the LORD made it prosper. Genesis 39:23, NKJV

When you walk with God and abide in him, he causes all you do to prosper.

Behold, I have set before you today life and prosperity, and death and evil. Deuteronomy 30:15

In Christ Jesus we have life and because we have chosen life, Jesus, God prospers us in all things.

How to Become Prosperous

This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Joshua 1:8

Confess the word of God over your life and abide in the word of God. When you abide in the word, it causes you to prosper and bear fruits. God expects us to take charge of the earth and dominate it. This can’t be done with a poverty mindset. You have to wholly believe the word of God as it is able to prosper you. Live the word and as you do so you will prosper.

My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

God wants you to prosper.

PS: How has the Lord prospered you recently?

16 Scripture Promises to Remember When You are Afraid

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 22:00:00 +0000

We are daily bombarded with bad news everywhere we turn. News channels carry mainly bad news. The news of terrorist attacks, wars, storms, earthquakes, famines, shootings, kidnappings etc. are streamed 24/7. These can cause fear to take hold of us if we allow it. In order to deal with fear, you have to stay your eyes on the word of God. Remember these 16 scriptures when you are afraid.

1. Matthew 10:29

Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

2. John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

3. Isaiah 8:11-12

For the LORD spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying. Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.

4. Isaiah 12:2

Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

5. Romans 8:15 CEB

You didn’t receive a spirit of slavery to lead you back again into fear, but you received a Spirit that shows you are adopted as his children. With this Spirit, we cry, “Abba, Father.”

6. Proverbs 3:21 -24

My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion: So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck. Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

7. Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

8. Hebrews 13:6

So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

9. Psalm 118:6-7

The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me. The LORD taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me.

10. Psalm 34:7

The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him,

11. Isaiah 41:10

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.and delivereth them.

12. Isaiah 43:1

But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.

13. Philippians 4:6

Do not be anxious about anything; but under all circumstances, by prayer and entreaty joined with thanksgiving, make your needs known to God. TCNT

14. 2 Timothy 1:7

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

15. Joshua 1:9

Have I not given you your orders? Take heart and be strong; have no fear and do not be troubled; for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go, BBE

16. Luke 12:22-26

And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment. Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?

Meditate on these scriptures when you are afraid. Don't be afraid because God is in you and with you. What are the scriptures you meditate on when you are afraid? Share to encourage someone.

I am not ASHAMED of the Gospel: Will You Stand For God in the Face of Opposition?

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Mon, 21 Nov 2016 22:00:00 +0000

The spirit of political correctness has taken over many Christians. Many believers live out this philosophy because they don’t want to offend others. They would rather keep the gospel of Christ to themselves than risk offending others. So I ask, “What do you stand for?”

It’s time to stand for God. It’s time to put aside the fear of offending others and take a stand for the gospel wherever you are. Choose to stand for God and do not withhold the truth from others. Who knows, you may have been put where you are for such a time as this!

Esther stood for God

Esther could have chosen to please her husband and not God but she chose to stand with God. She put her life on the line by going to the king uninvited because it was either she stood with God or the world. She could have allowed her position, wealth and her prestige to blind her and prevented her from standing up for God’s people but she didn’t. It is time to realise that God has placed you where you are for a reason and a purpose. He has put you where you are so that you can point others to Him. He has placed you where you are so that you can help your Christian brethren.

No matter where you are you can change lives with the gospel

Let’s take a look at the life of Joseph. His faith in God was evident for all to see. He didn’t hide his faith and spoke about it. Even in prison, he was not ashamed to use his spiritual gift of interpreting dreams to help others. After all the betrayal and hardships Joseph had suffered he could have decided not to stand with God but he chose stand for Him. You can change lives with the gospel no matter where you are.

The gospel of Jesus is the answer the world is searching for

It’s time to stand for the gospel. Don’t keep quiet, share the gospel and stand with God not the masses. The world is filled with much pain, suffering, war, death, fear, violence, hatred and godlessness. The answer to all man’s problems is the gospel of Jesus Christ. Don’t keep silent, speak the gospel, defend the gospel and help save people from eternal damnation. When you keep quiet and do not share the gospel or stand for God, you are acting out of fear not love. If you love those around you, you’ll give them the gospel.

Stand for God in the face of opposition

The Apostles stood for God even though they faced death. They were not afraid to lose their position, their reputation and even their very lives. Make where you are count as a believer by choosing to always stand for God. If you’re a student reach out to your classmates or course mates. At your work place, let the light of the gospel shine. Don’t be afraid of offending people but rather be afraid of what will happen if you don’t tell people about Jesus, they’ll be eternally lost.

Use your position or influence to advance the kingdom of God. Our ultimate goal as Christians is to give people the gospel of Jesus. Don't put your job above the gospel. The work of God must be done.

Are you ready to stand for God? Have you ever had to choose between God and someone or something?

All Things Are Possible to Him Who Believes

noreply@blogger.com (gold Adjo) — Thu, 17 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000

"If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." Mark 9:23

Anything is possible if you believe that the Lord is able. Faith is the requirement for changing things in this realm. Faith never fails.

What is faith?

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1, NKJV

Now faith is the assurance that what we hope for will come about and the certainty that what we cannot we cannot see exists. Hebrews 11:1, ISV

Through faith we have confidence about what we hope for. Faith is how we tap into the supernatural. The currency of the supernatural is faith. God responds to faith not tears or emotions. By faith the whole world was willed to Abraham. By faith in Jesus we become born again. By faith anything is possible.

Faith determines how far you can go and what you can achieve. Faith opens the supernatural and causes change in the physical realm. Faith is more powerful than all the knowledge of the world.

Faith makes the impossible possible

Faith defies human logic and nature. It changes everything. Anything is possible if you’ll dare to believe. Anything is possible because God is your father; with Him all things are possible. And because He is your father you can achieve what the natural man cannot achieve through faith.

When you believed in Jesus, you became a new creature. The divine life of God began to work in you and as a result you’re not subject to satan. You have the nature of God. You have also been given a measure of faith, Romans12:3. However it is up to you to exercise and grow your faith. Read this article to learn 5 Ways to Grow Your Faith as a Christian.

You are the only person who can limit you

If you focus on the natural and not on the supernatural, you’ll limit God’s power in your life. Faith believes that the impossible is possible. Have faith and absolutely trust in God. He is able to do exceedingly and abundantly more than you can ever think of or ever ask.

Anything is possible, only believe. What are you trusting the Lord for in the years ahead?