Living a Life that Glorifies God: A Biblical Perspective

Introduction:

As Christians, one of our highest callings is to live our lives in a way that brings glory to God. This means honoring Him in all that we do, reflecting His character, and pointing others to His goodness and grace.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of glorifying God is woven throughout Scripture, reflecting the fundamental purpose of human existence. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, the apostle Paul writes, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." This verse underscores the comprehensive nature of glorifying God—it encompasses every aspect of our lives, from the mundane to the extraordinary.

Furthermore, Psalm 86:12 declares, "I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever." Here, we see the psalmist's commitment to glorify God wholeheartedly and perpetually, recognizing God's sovereignty and worthiness of praise.

Practical Application:

1. Living a Life of Holiness: To glorify God, we must strive for holiness in our thoughts, words, and actions. Romans 12:1 exhorts us to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is our true and proper worship. This involves aligning our lives with God's moral standards and seeking to honor Him in everything we do.

 

2. Serving Others with Love: Jesus teaches us in Matthew 5:16, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." When we selflessly serve others with love and compassion, we reflect the character of God and draw attention to His goodness and grace.

 

3. Sharing the Gospel. Proclaiming the gospel message is a powerful way to glorify God, as it reveals His redemptive plan for humanity. 1 Peter 2:9 describes believers as "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." Sharing the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ glorifies God by proclaiming His mercy and grace to a lost and broken world.

 

4. Prayer and Worship .Regular prayer and worship are essential components of a life that glorifies God. Through prayer, we express our dependence on Him and acknowledge His sovereignty over our lives. Psalm 115:1 reminds us, "Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness."

 

Conclusion:

Living a life that glorifies God is not merely a religious duty but a profound privilege and joy. As we align our lives with His will, seek to honor Him in all that we do, and proclaim His goodness to the world, we fulfill our purpose as His beloved children. May we echo the psalmist's declaration in Psalm 145:1-2, "I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever."

 The Tomb is Empty, You            are Free For Life

 

By the authority vested in the resurrected Lord Jesus Christ, I declare that every evil counsel devised against you shall be utterly defeated. Just as the Lord declared in Isaiah 7:7, "It shall not stand, neither shall it come to pass," I decree that every plan of the enemy to bring chaos and destruction into your life shall be nullified.

 

As we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we affirm that His victory over sin and death is also our victory. Through His resurrection, we have been given authority and power to overcome every obstacle and challenge that comes our way.

 

May this month of April be a season of divine intervention and supernatural breakthroughs in your life. Just as the Lord thwarted the plans of Judah's adversaries, so shall He protect and prosper you in the face of opposition.

 

Walk in the confidence of your identity as a child of the risen King. May the resurrection power of Jesus Christ manifest in every area of your life, bringing restoration, healing, and abundance.

 

This is the prophetic declaration for April: you are more than a conqueror through Christ who strengthens you, and no weapon formed against you shall prosper. Rejoice in the victory of the resurrected Savior, for His triumph is your triumph, now and forevermore. Amen.

 

Yemi Ayetigbo

        Finding Hope in Challenging Times

 

In the face of adversity, maintaining a sense of hope can be challenging but essential for resilience and well-being. Here are some strategies to cultivate hope during any time you can't cope with challenges of life:

 

1. Practice Gratitude:Despite the challenges, focus on the things you are grateful for in your life. Gratitude can shift your perspective and remind you of the positive aspects, no matter how small they may seem.

 

2. Stay Connected:Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or community members. Sharing your struggles with others can provide comfort, perspective, and solidarity.

 

3. Set Realistic Goals:Break down your long-term goals into smaller, achievable steps. Celebrate each milestone reached, no matter how small, as it contributes to your progress and sense of accomplishment.

 

4. Seek Inspiration:Engage in activities that inspire and uplift you, whether it's reading motivational books, listening to uplifting music, or watching inspirational movies. Surrounding yourself with positivity can fuel your hope.

 

5. Practice Self-Compassion:Be kind to yourself during tough times. Recognize that it's okay to feel overwhelmed or discouraged, and treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a friend in need.

 

6. Focus on Solutions: Instead of dwelling on problems, channel your energy into finding solutions and taking action. Even small steps forward can lead to positive change and reinforce your sense of agency.

 

7. Embrace Flexibility: Accept that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of life. Cultivate flexibility and adaptability in your approach to navigating difficult situations, knowing that resilience comes from bouncing back stronger each time.

 

8. Find Meaning:Reflect on the lessons and growth opportunities that come from adversity. Sometimes, challenges can lead to personal transformation and a deeper sense of purpose or meaning in life.

 

9. Engage in Self-Care:Prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental well-being by engaging in activities that promote self-care, such as exercise, mindfulness, hobbies, and spending time in nature.

 

10. **Hold onto Faith:Whether it's through spirituality, religion, or a belief in something greater than yourself, holding onto faith can provide comfort, guidance, and hope during difficult times.

 

Remember that hope is not just a passive wish, but an active mindset and choice to believe in the possibility of a brighter future, even when faced with adversity. By incorporating these strategies into your life, you can nurture and strengthen your capacity for hope, resilience, and optimism, even in the darkest of times.

      A Bountiful Harvest*

The concept of a bountiful harvest is deeply ingrained in human history and culture, often symbolizing abundance, provision, and blessings. This theme resonates across various civilizations and religions, with the Bible offering profound insights and references to the significance of a fruitful harvest.

One of the most iconic references to harvest in the Bible is found in the book of Genesis, where Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dream of seven fat cows being devoured by seven lean cows, and seven plump ears of grain consumed by seven withered ears. This prophetic dream signifies seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. Through Joseph's wisdom, Egypt prepares for the famine during the years of plenty, highlighting the importance of foresight, stewardship, and wise planning in times of abundance.

In the Book of Exodus, the Feast of Harvest, also known as the Feast of Weeks or Pentecost, is celebrated as a time of thanksgiving and offering of the first fruits of the harvest to God. This feast commemorates the Israelites' journey from Egypt to Mount Sinai and the giving of the Law. It symbolizes not only the physical provision of the land but also the spiritual blessings of obedience and covenant relationship with God.

The Psalms are replete with references to harvest, portraying it as a time of joy, gratitude, and praise. Psalm 65:9-13 speaks of God's abundant provision, where the valleys are clothed with grain, and the hills are covered with the bounty of the harvest. The Psalmist declares, "The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing." (Psalm 65:13, NIV)

In the New Testament, Jesus often uses agricultural imagery to convey spiritual truths, drawing upon the familiar experiences of his audience. In the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-23), Jesus compares the reception of the Gospel to different types of soil – some yielding a bountiful harvest, while others are unfruitful due to thorns, rocky ground, or shallow soil. This parable underscores the importance of cultivating a receptive heart to receive and bear fruit from the Word of God.

*Furthermore,* in the Gospel of John, Jesus refers to himself as the true vine, and his followers as branches. He emphasizes the necessity of abiding in him to bear fruit, declaring, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5, NIV) This metaphor underscores the vital connection between believers and Christ, resulting in a bountiful harvest of spiritual fruitfulness.

*In conclusion* , bountiful harvest in the Bible transcends mere agricultural abundance, offering profound spiritual insights into God's provision, faithfulness, and the rewards of obedience. It reminds us to be grateful for the blessings we receive, to steward them wisely, and to cultivate a heart receptive to the Word of God, yielding a bountiful harvest of righteousness and spiritual fruitfulness.

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The importance of Church Drama Unit to the church 

A church might consider having a drama unit for several reasons, as it can be a valuable addition to the church community and its mission. Here are some potential benefits:

Engaging Worship: Drama can enhance worship services by providing creative and visual elements that engage the congregation on a deeper level. Biblical stories and messages can be brought to life in a way that resonates with people and helps them connect with the message.

Effective Communication: Drama can be a powerful tool for effective communication. It allows for the presentation of complex ideas, moral lessons, and biblical stories in a way that is easily understandable and relatable to the congregation.

Reaching Different Audiences: Not everyone learns or connects with spirituality in the same way. Some individuals are more visually oriented and respond better to dramatic presentations than to traditional sermons or lectures. A drama unit can help reach a broader audience within the church community and potentially attract new members.

Youth Engagement: Drama can be particularly appealing to young people. Having a drama unit can provide an avenue for youth to get involved in church activities and express themselves creatively while learning about their faith.

Community Outreach: Drama can be used as a tool for community outreach and evangelism. A church drama group can perform skits or plays at local events, schools, or other community gatherings, effectively conveying the message of the church to a wider audience.

Fostering Talent: A drama unit can provide a platform for members of the church to discover and develop their acting and storytelling talents. It can also serve as a means of fostering a sense of community and collaboration among church members.

Enhancing Special Services: Drama can be particularly valuable during special services and events, such as Christmas pageants, Easter dramas, or other holiday productions. These performances can draw larger crowds and make the events more memorable.

Building Relationships: Working together on drama productions can help build relationships and a sense of belonging among church members. It provides opportunities for teamwork and collaboration, fostering a supportive and close-knit community.

Teaching Moral and Spiritual Lessons: Through drama, churches can effectively convey moral and spiritual lessons that resonate with the audience. Dramatic presentations can create emotional connections and leave a lasting impact on individuals.

Creativity and Innovation: Incorporating drama into church services can bring an element of creativity and innovation, making the worship experience more dynamic and exciting.

It's important to note that while a drama unit can offer many benefits to a church, it should be implemented thoughtfully and in alignment with the church's overall mission and values. The content and style of the drama should be consistent with the church's teachings and beliefs, and consideration should be given to the preferences and needs of the congregation.
By Yemi Ayetigbo

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The Power of Positive Self-Talk During Difficult Times

In the face of challenges and adversity, it's easy to succumb to negative thoughts and self-doubt. However, maintaining a positive outlook and speaking positively to oneself can make a significant difference in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.

Positive self-talk is the practice of consciously affirming oneself with optimistic and encouraging statements, even in the midst of difficulties. It involves replacing negative thoughts with constructive and empowering ones, fostering resilience and a sense of self-belief.

Research has shown that the way we talk to ourselves internally greatly influences our emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. By cultivating a habit of positive self-talk, individuals can enhance their mental and emotional resilience, reduce stress levels, and improve their ability to cope with challenges.

When faced with a setback or obstacle, instead of dwelling on the negative aspects or doubting one's capabilities, practicing positive self-talk involves reframing the situation in a more constructive light. For example, rather than saying, "I can't do this; it's too difficult," one could say, "I am capable of overcoming challenges, and this setback is an opportunity for growth and learning."

By shifting the focus from limitations to possibilities, individuals can approach challenges with a mindset geared towards finding solutions and making progress. Positive self-talk not only boosts confidence but also fosters a sense of agency and empowerment, enabling individuals to take proactive steps towards achieving their goals.

Moreover, the effects of positive self-talk extend beyond the individual's mental and emotional well-being to their performance and outcomes. Studies have demonstrated that individuals who engage in positive self-talk are more likely to persevere in the face of adversity, exhibit greater creativity in problem-solving, and ultimately achieve better outcomes.

Incorporating positive affirmations and self-encouragement into daily routines can help reinforce a positive mindset and build resilience over time. Techniques such as visualization, where individuals imagine themselves successfully overcoming challenges, can further enhance the efficacy of positive self-talk.

It's important to note that practicing positive self-talk does not mean ignoring or denying the existence of challenges or difficulties. Rather, it involves acknowledging them while choosing to respond in a constructive and empowering manner. By reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth and viewing oneself through a lens of kindness and self-compassion, individuals can navigate life's challenges with greater ease and confidence.

In conclusion, speaking positively to oneself, especially during difficult times, is a powerful tool for building resilience, enhancing well-being, and achieving success. By harnessing the power of positive self-talk, individuals can cultivate a mindset of optimism, strength, and perseverance that propels them forward in the face of adversity.

GREATER EXPLOITS

 

Daniel 11:32: He will flatter and win over those who have violated the covenant. But the people who know their God will be strong and will resist him.

WHAT TO NOTE ABOUT GREATER EXPLOITS?

1. You are created for progressive exploits, no matter what the situation is.

Proverb 4:18: Aramaic Bible in Plain English

But the way of the righteous ones is like the shining light, and the light progresses until the day is established.

 

2. You cannot do a greater exploit if you do not have any exploit you are already doing.

Matthew 13:12: New International Version
Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.

 

3. Without power and Holy Spirit, we cannot do exploits in this kingdom

 New Living Translation
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

 

4.It takes supernatural power to do exploit

Act 2:2-5: ² Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. ³ They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. ⁴ All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues^[a] as the Spirit enabled them.

 

5. Those who do exploits are those who made their minds to become living sacrifice.

Romans 12:1-2: Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. ² Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

 

 6. You cannot do exploit except you separate yourself from the crowd

 Berean Literal Bible
Acts 19:11: And God was performing extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul,

 

7. Power to do exploits are reserved to those who believe

Mark 16:17-18; ¹⁷ And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues.¹⁸ They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover

 

ENEMIES OF GREATER EXPLOITS

 1. Whenever you are about to do exploits, be rest assured that oppositions will arise.

1 Cor. 16:9: English Standard Version
for a wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.

 

2. An uncoordinated lifestyle will prevent greater exploits

2 Tim 4:10: Amplified Bible
for Demas, having loved [the pleasures of] this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia.

 

3. Evil association and communication

1 Cor.15:33: New King James Version
Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”

 

4. A canal man cannot do greater exploits

Romans 8:7-9: ⁷ because the old sinful nature within us is against God. It never did obey God’s laws and it never will. ⁸ That’s why those who are still under the control of their old sinful selves, bent on following their old evil desires, can never please God.

⁹ But you are not like that. You are controlled by your new nature if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that if anyone doesn’t have the Spirit of Christ living in him, he is not a Christian at all.)

 

5. Fear and self-pity syndrome

1 John 4:18: English Standard Version
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

2 Tim. 1:7: New Living Translation
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

 

HOW TO DO GREATER EXPLOITS

1. You must know and believe what you know about God to do greater exploits

Daniel 11:32: He will flatter and win over those who have violated the covenant. But the people who know their God will be strong and will resist him.

 

2.You must stay connected to the source of power

John 15:7-8: ⁷ But if you stay in me and obey my commands, you may ask any request you like, and it will be granted! ⁸ My true disciples produce bountiful harvests. This brings great glory to my Father.

 

3. You must refuse to be average in kingdom’s business

Col. 3:23: ²³ Work hard and cheerfully at all you do, just as though you were working for the Lord and not merely for your masters,

 

4.You must hate what Jesus hates and like what He likes

Heb.12;2: New Living Translation
We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honour beside God’s throne.

 

5. You work with faith you have and not hold God responsible for everything.

1 Thes. 2:9: Don’t you remember, dear brothers and sisters, how hard we worked among you? Night and day, we toiled to earn a living so that we would not be a burden to any of you as we preached God’s Good News to you.

 

BENEFITS OF DOING GREATER EXPLOITS

1. A fulfilling and overcomer’s life

Rev. 3;21: New International Version
To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.

 

2. A life of influence and power

Exo. 7:1: New Living Translation
Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pay close attention to this. I will make you seem like God to Pharaoh, and your brother, Aaron, will be your prophet.

 

3. A life of protection from enemies

2 Samuel 7:1: King James Bible
And it came to pass, when the king sat in his house, and the LORD had given him rest roundabout from all his enemies.

 

4. Ability to see and know what others do not see or know

Ezekiel 8:3-4: English Standard Version
He put out the form of a hand and took me by a lock of my head, and the Spirit lifted me up between earth and heaven and brought me in visions of God to Jerusalem, to the entrance of the gateway of the inner court that faces north, where was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provokes to jealousy.

And behold, the glory of the God of Israel was there, like the vision that I saw in the valley.

 

5. Eternal rewards with crown and stars

Revelation 22:12 “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Guarding Against Deceptive Paths: Navigating Physical and Spiritual Scams with Vigilance."

Scrolling through my bank statement after a busy of work, although it was more of a habit than a commitment to financial accountability, I discovered to my surprise that some huge amounts of funds had been transferred from my account in badges of small amounts, I couldn't believe my eye, I was sweating and shivering at the same time, then I managed to put myself together and call my bank who sympathized with me and put my account in restriction and promised to investigate the incident.
After some time, I began to reflect and drew some lessons from the whole scenario and I came up with some life lessons that may be of great help to my readers:
1. Scammers don't come across as enemies, they often come as friends.
2. They always present themselves as helper, offering you the help you have been waiting for
3. Scammers pretend to make themselves vulnerable so you can be vulnerable to them too
4. Scammers know what you don't know and use that information to their advantage to prey on you
5. They are never angry, even when you vent your anger due to your situation
6. They are very patient, always looking for a leading response from you
7. They take the advantage of your situation to further defraud you
Just to mention a few of their nature, but on a deeper thought, I began to relate the incident to my existence and these questions began to flood my mind
What am I doing with my life?
Is my life exposed to those spiritual scammers?
Have I been able to identify possible life scammers?
How am I guiding against these spiritual scammers?
Are the things are called treasures treasures or I am just being scammed
What about the values, culture, and traditions inherited from my predecessors, are they real substance or are they just a scam?
The way I practice my religion and all the generational teachings around heaven, hell, money, tight, offering, sin, etc are they all scams?
The advice to work hard to leave a great inheritance for those you don't know how they will handle it, is it a scam too?
I can go on and on with these questions
My question to you the reader of this article is could it be that you have been scammed as a result of your place of birth, religion, exposure, education, culture, and beliefs?
I like to encourage you to take time out and thoroughly think this through with an open mind.
Anyone who fails to fulfill the purpose between the port of entry and exit of this world must have been scammed by one or any combination of all I mentioned above.
Good for Thought by Yemi Ayetigbo

                    REJECT DISTRACTION 

Welcome to new month. 

This is a clear message for you the reader of this publication, you must make up your mind to reject any form of distraction this month.

"You are too distracted to recognize your time of visitation." These words echo through the ages, a profound message for all of us. We often find ourselves chasing one vision after another, but we fail to follow the divine instructions that guide our path.

It's as if every destination appears identical because we haven't discerned our unique path in life. We are constantly distracted, missing the divine opportunities that come our way, opportunities that could shape our destiny.

Your distraction not only affects your own progress but also distracts those around you. The call is clear: "Your distraction is distracting us; please, find focus for once." Our desire to conform to the world has left us without identity, without a niche, and without guiding principles. We've become shapeless in our quest to fit into everything.

It's time to break free from this cycle of distraction. The weight of responsibility is great, for countless souls are tied to your destiny. Your distraction is delaying their manifestation, and the world is in need of your purpose.

Let us heed the call to greatness, for this is your month of potential and achievement. We are not alone on this journey, and our actions have a profound impact on the lives of others. By turning our attention from distraction to divine purpose, we can step into the destiny that awaits us.

Yemi Ayetigbo's message serves as a guiding light, leading us towards focus, purpose, and fulfillment. Rise to the occasion, recognize your divine visitation, and embrace the greatness that awaits. It's time to get focused and reach for the next level in your endeavors, for this is truly your month of greatness.

SPEAKING