True Meaning of Christmas

Hi Readers,

Happy New Month. I know (it's coming late, but it is better late than never). Wow, this year is ending already...just like that! It seems like yesterday that we started the year. In everything, I am grateful to God for 2014 (through the storms, trials & I'm counting my many blessings). This year isn't over yet! I am confidence that God still have a lot in stock for us. I pray that the promises and blessings remaining before the year is over will not pass us by in Jesus name (Amen).

Merry Christmas

Eku odun keresimesi (Yoruba)

Felix Navidad (Spanish)

Joyeux Noël (French)

Yay! It's the Christmas season. I love Christmas (especially Christmas songs & movies). I can spend the whole day doing nothing but either listening to the songs or watching the movies (a loyal fan to Hallmark Channel...lol). However, I have been thinking and reflecting on what Christmas really means to me. To some people, it's about the songs; caroling; the movies; the gift; Christmas shopping; the special Christmas dishes or even the time spent with loved ones. Don't get me wrong, those are good reasons to love the Christmas session but what about days before Christmas or after Christmas.

I won't go in detail about the meaning of Christmas or the reason why we celebrate it on December 25th...that isn't my concern here. I want us to understand that Christmas (Christ Mass) is all about Jesus. To me, it's about celebrating the birth of Jesus. We shouldn't forget that ever irrespective of what we are doing this season and beyond. As we all celebrate Jesus, remember His names: Emmanuel (God with us); Prince of Peace (no matter what's going on around us, our mind is at rest because He is in control); Everlasting Father; etc. 

It is about his unconditional & unending love towards us. So, as we enjoy our time with family and loved ones, please remember those who are without their family and those who are either ill or don't have access to daily needs. Show someone love this season: it might be giving some food to that shelter in your neighborhood, giving a warm coat to someone who doesn't have, visiting an orphanage home. Whichever way it is, let us remember to emulate the lifestyle of Jesus while he was on earth. 

Image via Google 

Have a great & merry Christmas!

What are you thankful for? (Thanksgiving Edition)

Hi Readers,

I know it's been ages (about 3 months since my last post), I have really missed writing blog post. I had to take a break from blogging & social media for personal purpose but guess what? I'm back! Oh yes, in full force (smiles). Anyways, I believe everyone is doing good & all is well with you all. 

Some months ago, I was nominated by various people to say what I was thankful for but since I was temporarily away I couldn't do it. I think it is a perfect time now besides it is the holiday period & it's thanksgiving week here in America (for my non-American readers see this link). Therefore, this blog post will be about thanksgiving & sharing few of the numerous things I am thankful for. 

1. I am grateful for the gift of life (sleeping; waking up; breathing in & out; etc). I believe that my situation will not remain the same forever because there's hope (Ecclesiastics 9:4).
2. I am grateful that I have roof over my head, food to eat, coat to keep me warm, etc. Mein, I just can't imagine how those homeless people are surviving in this season.
3. I am grateful to God for good health. It might seems like it's nothing but it is worth celebrating because "health is wealth". When you're sick, there is no way you can work or function.
4. I thank God for my family (parents and siblings). They are always there to support me anytime, any-day.
5. I am grateful for friends that have become or becoming "family". I cannot mention names because they are just too much (many of whom I haven't met physically...oh yes). They are awesome! I tell people that God has blessed me with some amazing people...thank you all for being there for me *winks*
6. I am grateful for my undergraduate gradation this year. To cut the long story short, God showed himself strong and faithful.
7. Thank God for wisdom, direction and strength that was made available for me the past three months while studying for a major exam. All glory to God!
8. Thanks be to God for technology and reliable internet...you are useful to me on a daily basis (daily devotional, music: spotify, watching messages online, staying connected with people, tv shows, etc).
9. I an grateful to God for new mercies, grace, strength, word and for helping me grow on a daily basis. 
10. Most importantly, I am thankful to God for sending Jesus to the world to die for my sins, cleanse me with his blood and bringing me into His marvelous light.

In conclusion, I will encourage you to have a heart of gratitude irrespective of the situation around you. Remember, the Bible says (1 Thessalonians 5:18; Amplified Verse) Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will]. Don't allow your circumstances to take away your level of thankfulness. 

I'll encourage you to make a list of what you are grateful for & a make a list of what you are expecting/praying to happen...thank God for those things & see how things will work in your favor. I'd dare you to make to thanksgiving your lifestyle (make it a must to thank God for *at least* one thing in a day). Feel free to share/comment on what you're thankful for...on that note, Happy Thanksgiving! 

via Google images

Have a great day
Stay Blessed!

Health Promotion Edition: Ebola Virus

Hi Readers,

Happy Monday! How is everyone doing? I believe all is well with you all. Well, I am back again but this post will focus on health. I'm sure that virtually all of you are aware of the disease outbreak in West Africa caused by the Ebola virus. 

After a conversation with a friend yesterday, I got the motivation to put some information together for people who have little or no understanding on this issue. This post will not focus on the political aspect or the responsibility of the government. Rather, it will create awareness, educate and address myths/misconceptions about this virus. 

What is Ebola? 

"Ebola virus disease (also known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever) is a rare and deadly disease. The disease is native to several African countries and is caused by infection with one of the ebola viruses (Ebola, Sudan, Bundibugyo, or Taï Forest virus). It is spread by direct contact with a sick person’s blood or body fluids. It is also spread by contact with contaminated objects or infected animals".

What are the symptoms?

They include fever, headache, joint and muscle aches, sore throat, and weakness, followed by diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Skin rash, red eyes, and internal and external bleeding may be seen in some patients. Also, symptoms might be similar to malaria, typhoid fever, etc. Symptoms only appear from 2-21 days of exposure.

Myth 1: Can I have Ebola by touching or hugging anyone?

• No, The virus only spread through direct contact with sick person's blood or body fluids (such as urine, excrete, pus, saliva, vaginal secretion, etc). It can also follow contact with infected animals and contaminated objects. However, avoid touching or hugging someone who has the virus or showing signs

Myth 2: Will showering with salt-water help?

• No, salt-water bath has nothing to do with the virus. On the other hand, it can even put you at risk (might even cause death) if the salt content in the water is high.

Myth 3: Can I use hand-sanitizers in preventing Ebola?

• No! As I stated above, Ebola is a virus & hand-sanitizers are anti-septics (they reduce the chance of bacteria infection or contamination). So, rubbing hand-sanitizers or installing it in your office will do you no good. However, making sure you do the necessary prevention (See below)

How can it be prevented?

Follow the guidelines in the picture 

via tlcafrica.com

Remember, YOUR “AGBO” (traditional herbs) WON’T  HEAL YOU!

I hope you found this post highly educative. God will continue to protect us from all evil & disease. No sickness & disease shall come near our households in Jesus name (Amen)

Disclaimer: this information is compiled from the center for disease control and prevention (CDC). For more information, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/vhf/ebola/

Have a great week

Stay Blessed!

YASM LAX 2014 Convention: "Ignite & Recharge"

Hi Readers,

Happy New Month of August! I decree that God will restore and perfect all that concern you and I in Jesus name (Amen). I believe everyone is doing well. One new thing I'm trying to do is to write at least one blog post once a month. Is it possible? Of course it is #smiles

This new blog post will be about my experience during the last convention. I will be sharing with you what I learnt from my recent trip to Los Angeles, CA last month. I attended the 6th annual convention of Young Adult & Singles Ministry (YASM) of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), North America (click here for more information http://rccgnayasm.org/) . The theme for the convention was "Ignite & Recharge". The event took place in Radisson hotel, LA from July 10-12. While, this was my first time of attending YASM convention but I can say it won't be my last. This is because I loved every bit of the convention & met amazing people #smiles. 

I have various things that made this convention very memorable from day 1 to the last day. It was an awesome experience (from the word, worship, sport, Black tie event, etc).
Outreach Event (Day 1): The outreach event was done through Union Rescue Mission (click here Union Rescue Mission). I had the opportunity to be one of the people that fed the homeless people ice cream & cold water because it's hot. Did I say homeless people in LA? Yes, I did! I was surprised as well to know homelessness is everywhere. I got to see the part of Los Angeles where the media never show. This volunteer experience made me realize how blessed I am to have cold water in the summer or to be able to turn on the A/C whenever I want. Little things which some of us take for granted are well appreciated by other. I was able to have more clarification in my future path (soon to be reviled). I truly know the best is yet to come.

Image via urm.org

Worship: The worship experience throughout the program was awesome. YASM choir ministration was great as well as the worship concert with Cobhams Asuquo. However, I still can't get over the anointing and power felt through Jonathan Nelson (click the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVZJ3_J-dh0).

In addition, the ministration from numerous man of God such as Pastor Peter Balogun (Guest ministration from Nigeria), Pastor James Fadele, Pastor Dare Adeboye, Pastor Leke Adeboye, etc. will not be forgotten. Here are the few insights & quotes from those ministration.

• The only source of ignition is through salvation in Christ Jesus.
• For every child of God  that expect to be ignited & recharged, there is a season of preparation. Such a person can either be the source of the ignition or can be ignited from the fire. However, he/she cannot be a source of ignition unless he/she is ignited.
• Every child of God need to constantly recharge himself/herself so that he/she won't run out of the fire
• Through constant fellowship with God, prayer, praise & worship as well as surrounding one's self with the people who are connected to the source are ways to get ignited (2 Corinthians 6:14-18)

Question to self

1. Are I making an impact in the lives around you? 
2. Am I surrounded with people that have the fire?
3. Am I still connected to the source of the ignition (i.e, is my salvation still sure)?

There is a need for young people in this generation to follow their passion in order to be involved in the ministry. The passion for things of God needs to grow stronger because it creates fire & open doors for achievement (Acts 2:1). Passion also increases willpower and energizes one for excellence.

“A passionate person with limited talent will outperform a passive person who possesses greater talent.” John. C. Maxwell

My favorite quote from the convention: “Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live.” Norman Cousins

I implore  you to support Union Rescue Mission or a similar ministry God has laid in your heart either monetary, in prayer or whatever way you can. Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 25:42-45, NLT

 For I was hungry, and you didn’t feed me. I was thirsty, and you didn’t give me a drink. I was a stranger, and you didn’t invite me into your home. I was naked, and you didn’t give me clothing. I was sick and in prison, and you didn’t visit me.’ “Then they will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and not help you?’ “And he will answer, ‘I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.’

For more information & updates, please visit

RCCGNA Singles Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/rccgnasingles/
or like RCCGNA-YASM TV https://www.facebook.com/RCCGYASMTV

Have a great day
Stay Blessed!

World Cup Edition: God is our Referee

Good Morning Readers,

Happy New Month of July (Oh It's July already!). Glory be to God for his protection, love and mercy towards us. It is my prayer that the Almighty God will take you higher and perfect everything about you in this month in Jesus name. 

So, as many know (I hope you know that it's World Cup session..yay), this year the Brasil (Brazil) hosted 89 countries  in Rio de Janeiro (the second largest city in Brasil). Of course, I have been watching the football (soccer) game and supporting my birth country (Nigeria) and country of residence (USA). Oh well, they both made it to the group of 16 [Proud of them both :) ]

However, God place an encouraging word in my heart  to share with y'all early this morning. I believe the Holy Spirit will give you the exact word and reveal himself to you while reading this post in Jesus name (Amen).

As i mentioned earlier, I have been watching the World Cup 2014 and I am highly surprised by the performance of some countries. Just like any football match, you are not yet declared a winner of the game until the game duration is expired.The whole game can change even if there was a goal in the last 1 minute or 30 seconds of match. The game in this scenario represent the battles, challenges, trials of life & God is our referee. 

This scenario is similar to our christian journey, we all have to keep fighting until we have fully overcome. Remember the story of Jesus who was tempted of the devil (Matthew 4:1-11). The devil didn't give up the first or second time but Jesus overcame. If the devil didn't give up suddenly on the Son of God (Jesus), how much more you & I? The bible says it is not who began the work but it is the person that finish strong & complete the race that will be rewarded (2 Timothy 2:1-5, Amplified Verse) and emphasizing verse 5 And if anyone enters competitive games, he is not crowned unless he competes lawfully (fairly, according to the rules laid down)

In conclusion: don't give up before your blessing. Will temptations come? Yes, it will and also will your blessing. Do you how many years Abraham waited after God has promised him a child of his own? So, don't be discouraged because the appointed and the set for your blessing is near. However, the blessing won't come until God knows you're ready and capable for it. My understanding is that God will not bring your way what will occupy you to the extent of taking you away from him. He is not a wicked God. Just because you are not yet to "score" doesn't make you a loser. Remember, the last second to the end of the match matters as well...so don't be discourage before the "game is over". 

Thank you for taking your time to read this post, God is in control. The rest of the year, victory is yours in Jesus name (amen)


Have a great week
Stay Blessed!

Father's Day Edition

Hi Readers,

Happy New Week and Happy (belated) Father's day to all father's out there. I am forever grateful to my Heavenly father for everything (words cannot express it all), my earthly father for care, love and support as well as my Spiritual fathers (thank you all for being my support and spiritual guidance).

While talking to a friend on Father's day, God dropped something on my mind which I will like to share with you. It is my prayer that the Holy Spirit will minister to you as you read this post in Jesus name (Amen).

Since we are in a month that celebrates Fathers, I will concentrate this month's post on father (family). The role of a father cannot be ignored. There are several benefits attached to their role, to the family as well as in the society. Looking into the Bible, God has given each the Man and woman different responsibility to perform. God has given fathers (men) the authority to lead/direct his family. I believe mothers (women) are to assist/help the man (Genesis 2:20-22). In addition, husband/fathers are advised not to provoke their child and to love their wives as Christ loves the Church. This is a form of unconditional love, a love that will always show affection and not use bitter/harsh words (Colossians 3:19-21; Ephesians 5:25-27). Also, wives/mothers are advised to be submissive to their husband because they are the head of the wife (Ephesians 5: 22-23). Although, I have heard people (especially women) saying the woman is "the neck". I strongly believe that both the head (man) and "the neck" or "the rest of the body" need to be in agreement for things to work. The bible says in Amos 3:3 that two cannot work together except they agree. 

There are blessings attached to a man who fears  and obey God. The blessings are not only for the husband/father/man but includes his family (wife and children). Psalms 128:1-6 says "Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the Lord. The Lord shall bless thee out of Zion: and thou shalt see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life.Yea, thou shalt see thy children's children, and peace upon Israel". This is the foundation layout by God in regarding to family.

However, there are several dysfunctional family in the society we live in today. Some are separated, divorced, or just living together unhappy and thousands of children are either living with single parents, either their dad or mom only. Situations such as these are becoming popular and divorce rate is even increasing even among Christians. This is not what God expects from us, we (Christians) are to show good example, set apart from the world and show the light of God. The question is: are we showing that light ? Is the light of God reflecting in our lives, family or even in the church? The Church is suppose to be a place of healing for the people of the world but this is not so. It should be a place where dispute are being settled. But instead, the church itself is getting dysfunctional. Spiritual leaders are more concerned about their well-being or are even dealing with their own "issues". So, if the church is dysfunctional then there is no hope for family or individual who need help (healing or counselling). 

How can we correct this "dysfunctionality"? How can we (the Church) get rescued or revived from this "crisis"? The church must be restored before restoring individual, family and the society as well. Yes, I believe in the power of prayer but remember we must also do the "works" because faith without works is dead (James 2:14-20). 

I pray for revival starting from the church, to family and to the society in Jesus name (Amen). If you have any suggestion/idea on what can be done, please don't hesitate to write email at praise1ojek@gmail.com 

Have a great week.
Stay Blessed!

NO TO REGRETS!

Hello Readers,

Good Morning & happy Sunday, I believe everyone is doing great. I know I have been away for a while, and you guessed right...A lot has happened in my life since my last blog post. To God's glory, another year was added to my life and yes! I finally graduated from University. To crown it all, my spiritual life and daily walk with God growing each day. I feel so blessed!

So I took time out to reflect on the previous years and some of the challenges I faced in my life and at some point I felt like I had some form of  regrets. I'm actually not sure 'regret' is the right word to use but if I given another chance, I know there are a  few things I would have done better. However,  those situations made me stronger and shaped me into the young God-fearing woman I am today because I refused to give up and braced myself through it all. Of course, I didn't come out those challenges by my strength,  God saw me through them and also blessed me with some amazing friends who were always there to encourage me. I'm blessed with so many wonderful friends and that's the reason I always tell people that God placed these lovely friends (some that I haven't physically seen)  into my life for a purpose.

Fast forward to last night, I was watching a YouTube video when I stubbed upon a a post titled "I have regret" by Sisi Yemmie  (Please refer to this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZftEcpOkrv4 for more info). The video was about regrets and after watching it,  I realized how much I have grown and the lessons learnt from past experiences.  I also learnt not to dwell on unpleasant issues forever but to accept them as a learning process. Yesterday (the past) is gone but what really matter is how I handle today which will also affect the future. 

Looking forward, I can proudly say that I am grateful for those situations because they remind me of the Bible verse that says (paraphrasing) God will not allow you to be confronted with situations you cannot withstand...He is a faithful God (1 Corinthians 10:13). Having a true and loving father (God) made a difference in everything. I can truly say that if not for God...I will probably be in a depressed mode (Yes, I am serious). Also, surrounding myself with family and friends who believe in God as well made a significance difference. When you are going a situation that seems bigger than you, place them before God. Remember, he has promised never to leave nor forsake you (Isaiah 42:16).

In conclusion, I will share this quote with you: "The regrets of yesterday and the worries of tomorrow are the two major distractions of today's blessings; stay focused on here and now (today)" ~ Reverend Moses Sowale

Have a great week.
Stay Blessed!