Topic: Spiritually Motivated? [Saturday 17, September 2016]
Memorise: Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. – Romans 8:37
Read: Romans 8:33-39 (KJV)
33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.
34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 51, Psalms 61
MESSAGE:
Motivation is the act of providing someone with a reason to act in a certain way. Christians can motivate or encourage one another to have greater confidence in God and to be very bold in living out their faith. Spiritual motivation drives away the spirit of fear and helps to develop the boldness required for the correct application of God’s Word to life situations. No leader can achieve anything without boldness. It takes courage to follow God. It takes courage to obey God. Anyone who lacks courage will be full of fear. If you are afraid, you cannot take any progressive stride.
A hireling fears and hides when the sheep is confronted by wolves because he thinks of his safety before anything else. A shepherd on the other hand is bold and resists any wolf even at the risk of his own life. In John 10:11, Jesus says,
“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.”
A true shepherd is not afraid of danger. Some pastors or leaders are not available when their members are in distress; but that is when you should be there to stand with them in faith and prayer, and guide them properly. You cannot allow a strange beast to take advantage of your flock. You must fight all intruders and send them packing. This takes boldness; your ability to be bold in the face of danger enhances your power base. Some leaders are very chickenhearted. Every little situation gets them into a panic. Meanwhile, 2 Timothy 1:7 says,
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
Therefore, be spiritually motivated because the Spirit that God has deposited within you is of power and sound mind.
Do you know that even great leaders suffer from fear? One outstanding leader with a great congregation in Bible times who lacked boldness was Joshua. As near perfect as he was, Joshua was afraid. He was afraid to stand in Moses’ shoes. He was afraid when he realised that he was asked to finish the assignment that his predecessor – Moses, with all the anointing to open and shut Heaven could not finish. He got scared whenever he thought of the sudden promotion he got from being a servant to a national leader with millions of followers. He was afraid when he remembered that he was called to lead an unruly congregation who were capable of revolting and stoning their leaders to death. Why are you afraid? Do not look at the nature of the assignment. Do not look at the size; do not look at the fierce looking faces. Do not focus on the situation of lack of resources. Focus on the One who has called you, He will see you through. Ask for the Spirit of boldness to manifest in every area of your life from today. The battle is already won and you are more than conqueror!
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the boldness to face all my fears in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
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Saturday, 17 September 2016
Friday, 16 September 2016
Open Heavens 16 September 2016: Friday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – The Source of Satisfaction
Topic: The Source of Satisfaction [Friday 16, September 2016]
Memorise: But godliness with contentment is great gain. – 1 Timothy 6:6
Read: 1 Timothy 6:3-11 (KJV)
3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 49:23-50:46, Psalms 60
MESSAGE:
Satisfaction is a state of contentment or fulfilment that only God can bring into reality. The scripture advocates that children of God should cultivate contentment. We are therefore expected to be contented spiritually, financially, materially and in our marriages. We should be contented with the things and people that God has put around us. Satisfaction is made possible as a result of God’s good provision made available through the atoning death of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ecclesiastes 3:13 says:
“And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.”
The above passage indicates that contentment or satisfaction is a gift from God; it does not develop from the desire of man. As a matter of fact Ecclesiastes 5:10 says,
“He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.”
Covetousness and accumulation of wealth has its attendant problems. One of such problems is a lack of satisfaction. Those who love money will never be satisfied with what they have, no matter how much they have, they will continue to desire more. I once had a friend, who at the age of 70 had so much money in one of his several bank accounts; he could not exhaust it for another 200 years. Whenever you visit him, you will meet him planning to invest some more. The rich are ever striving with each other. They will say, “Mr. A has just built another house or bought another car, I must follow suit”. They are never satisfied. Satisfaction is a precious virtue that every believer must have. Are you caught in the rat race for earthly possession? Ask God to give you satisfaction or contentment without which that wealth will become a deadly trap.
Whenever wealth comes as a blessing within the context of holiness and the fear of God, such wealth is always accompanied by contentment or satisfaction. This is why Psalms 17:15 says:
“As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.”
Because the source of the blessing is God, satisfaction is naturally inclusive in the package. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 goes on to say:
“6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”
This passage shows that a child of God should be more concerned about the source of blessing and the attending satisfaction than accumulation of wealth.
Prayer Point: Father, you are my Source, please let my propensity come with contentment in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: But godliness with contentment is great gain. – 1 Timothy 6:6
Read: 1 Timothy 6:3-11 (KJV)
3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 49:23-50:46, Psalms 60
MESSAGE:
Satisfaction is a state of contentment or fulfilment that only God can bring into reality. The scripture advocates that children of God should cultivate contentment. We are therefore expected to be contented spiritually, financially, materially and in our marriages. We should be contented with the things and people that God has put around us. Satisfaction is made possible as a result of God’s good provision made available through the atoning death of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ecclesiastes 3:13 says:
“And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.”
The above passage indicates that contentment or satisfaction is a gift from God; it does not develop from the desire of man. As a matter of fact Ecclesiastes 5:10 says,
“He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.”
Covetousness and accumulation of wealth has its attendant problems. One of such problems is a lack of satisfaction. Those who love money will never be satisfied with what they have, no matter how much they have, they will continue to desire more. I once had a friend, who at the age of 70 had so much money in one of his several bank accounts; he could not exhaust it for another 200 years. Whenever you visit him, you will meet him planning to invest some more. The rich are ever striving with each other. They will say, “Mr. A has just built another house or bought another car, I must follow suit”. They are never satisfied. Satisfaction is a precious virtue that every believer must have. Are you caught in the rat race for earthly possession? Ask God to give you satisfaction or contentment without which that wealth will become a deadly trap.
Whenever wealth comes as a blessing within the context of holiness and the fear of God, such wealth is always accompanied by contentment or satisfaction. This is why Psalms 17:15 says:
“As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.”
Because the source of the blessing is God, satisfaction is naturally inclusive in the package. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 goes on to say:
“6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”
This passage shows that a child of God should be more concerned about the source of blessing and the attending satisfaction than accumulation of wealth.
Prayer Point: Father, you are my Source, please let my propensity come with contentment in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Thursday, 15 September 2016
Open Heavens 15 September 2016: Thursday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – You are not Condemned
Topic: You are not Condemned [Thursday 15, September 2016]
Memorise: For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. – 1 John 3:20
Read: Genesis 3:6-10 (KJV)
6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
7 And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.
8 And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden.
9 And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?
10 And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 47:1-49:22, Psalms 59
MESSAGE:
Self condemnation is a natural phenomenon that feeds on the human awareness of guilt. In the book of Genesis 3:10, Adam and Eve disobeyed God and without anyone scolding them, they were condemned in their hearts:
“And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.”
Self condemnation is not the same as sorrow for sin. Sorrow for sin leads to repentance but self-condemnation leads to fear, inferiority complex and low self-esteem. The Bible teaches that God has offered us forgiveness of sin through the death of Jesus Christ. Self-condemnation produces feelings of shame, disgrace, fear, terror, and depression, according to Ezra 9:6, that says:
“…O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face to thee, my God: for our iniquities are increased over our head, and our trespass is grown up unto the heavens.”
And Isaiah 6:5:
“Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.”
Self-condemnation could sometimes be very dangerous in cases where it develops into depression, because it has succeeded in sending some people to their early graves. In Matthew 27:5, Judas Iscariot suffered from serious guilt and self-condemnation,
“And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.”
May the Lord deliver a user of this devotional suffering from guilt and self-condemnation today in Jesus’ name. Furthermore, 2 Corinthians 7:10 says:
“For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.”
The sorrow of the world is synonymous with guilt and self-condemnation, the Bible says it brings death. Guilt defiles human life, produces feelings of anguish, despair, shame and disgrace. Guilt also produces feelings of unworthiness as in the case of the prodigal son in Luke 15:21. In the Name that is above all other names, the power of self-condemnation is broken in your life today.
Prayer Point: Father, please let your perfect love drive away every iota of self-condemnation in my life in the name of Jesus.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. – 1 John 3:20
Read: Genesis 3:6-10 (KJV)
6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
7 And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.
8 And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden.
9 And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?
10 And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 47:1-49:22, Psalms 59
MESSAGE:
Self condemnation is a natural phenomenon that feeds on the human awareness of guilt. In the book of Genesis 3:10, Adam and Eve disobeyed God and without anyone scolding them, they were condemned in their hearts:
“And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.”
Self condemnation is not the same as sorrow for sin. Sorrow for sin leads to repentance but self-condemnation leads to fear, inferiority complex and low self-esteem. The Bible teaches that God has offered us forgiveness of sin through the death of Jesus Christ. Self-condemnation produces feelings of shame, disgrace, fear, terror, and depression, according to Ezra 9:6, that says:
“…O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face to thee, my God: for our iniquities are increased over our head, and our trespass is grown up unto the heavens.”
And Isaiah 6:5:
“Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.”
Self-condemnation could sometimes be very dangerous in cases where it develops into depression, because it has succeeded in sending some people to their early graves. In Matthew 27:5, Judas Iscariot suffered from serious guilt and self-condemnation,
“And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.”
May the Lord deliver a user of this devotional suffering from guilt and self-condemnation today in Jesus’ name. Furthermore, 2 Corinthians 7:10 says:
“For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.”
The sorrow of the world is synonymous with guilt and self-condemnation, the Bible says it brings death. Guilt defiles human life, produces feelings of anguish, despair, shame and disgrace. Guilt also produces feelings of unworthiness as in the case of the prodigal son in Luke 15:21. In the Name that is above all other names, the power of self-condemnation is broken in your life today.
Prayer Point: Father, please let your perfect love drive away every iota of self-condemnation in my life in the name of Jesus.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Wednesday, 14 September 2016
FG is not persecuting GEJ and his wife says Lai Mohammed
Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has said the Federal Government is not persecuting former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife Patience. Reacting to reports of $15 million found in an account owned by Patience Jonathan, Lai Mohammed said it will be wrong for anyone to claim that the Federal government was probing the former first family as it was Patience Jonathan herself who came out to claim the foreign currency found in a strange account operated by a former aide of Jonathan.
He said this in an interview with journalists in Oro, Kwara State yesterday tuesday September 13th.
“If you look at the history of Mrs. Patience Jonathan’s issue, I think she was the one that came out to claim that the money found in the accounts of one of the aides to the former President, her husband, belonged to her. It was not the EFCC that claimed so. She claimed that the money that the guy was being prosecuted for belonged to her. It was only then they later found an extra $5m in another account. It is not as if anybody has gone out to probe Mrs. Jonathan directly or indirectly. Rather Mrs. Jonathan was the one that said ‘that money for which you are accusing Mr. X actually belongs to me. So, you cannot start talking of prosecution or persecution”he said
LIB
He said this in an interview with journalists in Oro, Kwara State yesterday tuesday September 13th.
“If you look at the history of Mrs. Patience Jonathan’s issue, I think she was the one that came out to claim that the money found in the accounts of one of the aides to the former President, her husband, belonged to her. It was not the EFCC that claimed so. She claimed that the money that the guy was being prosecuted for belonged to her. It was only then they later found an extra $5m in another account. It is not as if anybody has gone out to probe Mrs. Jonathan directly or indirectly. Rather Mrs. Jonathan was the one that said ‘that money for which you are accusing Mr. X actually belongs to me. So, you cannot start talking of prosecution or persecution”he said
LIB
Open Heavens 14 September 2016: Wednesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Well Grounded?
Topic: Well Grounded? [Wednesday 14, September 2016]
Memorise: That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, – Ephesians 3:17
Read: Matthew 13:3-9 (KJV)
3 And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;
4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:
5 Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:
6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.
7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:
8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.
9 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 44-46, Psalms 58
MESSAGE:
To be well grounded is to be stable, firm and immovable. Stability is the state of being in a firm or unwavering situation, whether spiritually, physically, or emotionally. Stability is an important element of a settled life before God. God is popularly called Everlasting Rock, the Rock of Ages. God is very stable and dependable; you can completely rest in His love. That is why Hebrews 13:8 says:
“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
Therefore, stability in the life of Christians is based on God’s unchanging nature. 2 Samuel 7:16 says:
“And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever.”
Stability is required in order to resist and repel spiritual assault by the enemy, stability depends upon firmness of faith, and stability is a very important aim of the Christian ministry. An unstable Christian is a baby in the Lord who is yet to find his or her proper footing. Whenever they are exposed to the misbehaviour of other Christians, especially those considered as more mature than they are, it shakes them to the foundation of their belief. They usually look up to fellow men or women as their perfect examples, and therefore put much premium on such people. Consequently, the fall of such individuals may affect them to the point of taking a decision to stop serving God. They are easily tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine according to Ephesians 4:14:
“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;”
Are you well grounded in the faith? Are you stable and dependable? Are you settled in your mind about important doctrines of the Bible? Or are you a confused person that is not very sure of what you believe? One of the terrible weaknesses of unstable Christians is the danger of falling victim to fake prophets and false teachers. Some have many ‘fathers and mothers in the Lord’; they are therefore eating regularly from different spiritual pots, making themselves victims of doctrinal confusion. I pray that God will establish you and plant your feet on the Rock of Ages forever in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, please make me immovable, plant my feet on the Rock forever in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, – Ephesians 3:17
Read: Matthew 13:3-9 (KJV)
3 And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;
4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:
5 Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:
6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.
7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:
8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.
9 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 44-46, Psalms 58
MESSAGE:
To be well grounded is to be stable, firm and immovable. Stability is the state of being in a firm or unwavering situation, whether spiritually, physically, or emotionally. Stability is an important element of a settled life before God. God is popularly called Everlasting Rock, the Rock of Ages. God is very stable and dependable; you can completely rest in His love. That is why Hebrews 13:8 says:
“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
Therefore, stability in the life of Christians is based on God’s unchanging nature. 2 Samuel 7:16 says:
“And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever.”
Stability is required in order to resist and repel spiritual assault by the enemy, stability depends upon firmness of faith, and stability is a very important aim of the Christian ministry. An unstable Christian is a baby in the Lord who is yet to find his or her proper footing. Whenever they are exposed to the misbehaviour of other Christians, especially those considered as more mature than they are, it shakes them to the foundation of their belief. They usually look up to fellow men or women as their perfect examples, and therefore put much premium on such people. Consequently, the fall of such individuals may affect them to the point of taking a decision to stop serving God. They are easily tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine according to Ephesians 4:14:
“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;”
Are you well grounded in the faith? Are you stable and dependable? Are you settled in your mind about important doctrines of the Bible? Or are you a confused person that is not very sure of what you believe? One of the terrible weaknesses of unstable Christians is the danger of falling victim to fake prophets and false teachers. Some have many ‘fathers and mothers in the Lord’; they are therefore eating regularly from different spiritual pots, making themselves victims of doctrinal confusion. I pray that God will establish you and plant your feet on the Rock of Ages forever in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, please make me immovable, plant my feet on the Rock forever in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Patience Jonathan tells EFCC: Lift restriction on my accounts, the $15m is for medical bills
Dame Patience Jonathan, the wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, said she was using her $15m, which was frozen in four companies’ accounts, to settle medical bills while she was out of the country.
She, therefore, urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and Skye Bank to lift the restriction on the accounts.
Patience said this in a letter with reference number GA/Abibo/00226/2016, written by her lawyers, Granville Abibo (SAN) and Co, which was addressed to the Acting Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu.
The PUNCH had reported that the four accounts belonged to the following companies: Pluto Property and Investment Company Limited, Seagate Property Development and Investment Company Limited, Trans Ocean Property and Investment Company Limited and Globus Integrated Service Limited.
A houseboy, a driver and other domestic workers of a former Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs to Jonathan, Waripamowei Dudafa, were named as directors, but Patience’s $15m was lodged in the accounts and she was given a platinum card and exclusive access to the accounts.
The letter read in part, “It is noteworthy to emphasise that the said accounts, which were in US dollar denomination, were card-based accounts and our client is the sole signatory to these accounts.
“However, our client has been operating the said accounts using the cards for her medical bill payments and purchases for her private purposes without any let or hindrance.
“Our client was therefore surprised when the said cards stop functioning on July 7, 2016, or thereabout. Our client immediately, thereupon, contacted Skye Bank Plc through our solicitors.
‘‘It was only then that the bank officials informed our client that the said accounts were placed on a ‘No Debit Order’ following investigations and instruction from your commission and this is without notice to our client by either the bank or the commission.
“It is in the light of the foregoing that we urge you to use your good offices to vacate the ‘No Debit/Freezing Order’ placed on the said accounts.”
Patience, who described herself as a law-abiding citizen, said despite all the explanations she offered to the Lagos Zonal Office of the EFCC, the detectives in charge refused to heed her request.
She, therefore, urged Magu to intervene immediately.
She added, “Despite the foregoing, our client, who is a law-abiding citizen, has watched with surprise how efforts are being made surreptitiously to indirectly harass or harangue her and short-change her of her personal funds in breach of her fundamental human rights.
“We urge you sir, to kindly intervene to stop the untoward and wrongful actions of your officials to embarrass, inconvenience and short-change our client.”
However, a detective in the EFCC said, “We got a relevant court order to freeze those accounts and we have evidence which we will present in court on Friday.
“We did not know that the accounts belonged to Patience Jonathan at the time we froze them. The accounts do not bear her name neither do they carry her BVN (Bank Verification Number). So, how can she accuse us of harassment?
“She has a separate account in Skye Bank with the title ‘Patience Jonathan’, which has a balance of $5m. If she claims she needs money for medical treatment, then the $5m should be alright.”
In a thanksgiving service held at the State House chapel in Abuja on February 18, 2013, Patience had said she underwent seven surgical operations within one month in Germany, adding that the doctors had given up hope on her survival.
She had stated, “I remember when Chief Obasanjo was the President of the country, I was close to his late wife, Stella. We worshiped together in this chapel. It was a painful moment for me that time when she (Stella) died and her corpse was brought here.
“That was how my corpse would have been brought here.
‘‘It was not an easy experience for me. I actually died, I passed out for more than a week. My intestine and tummy were opened.
“I am not Lazarus but my experience was similar to his. My doctors said all hope was lost.’’
FG not persecuting Jonathan, Patience –Mohammed
Meanwhile, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has said the Federal Government, under President Muhammadu Buhari, is not persecuting Jonathan and his wife, Patience.
Speaking in an interview with journalists in Oro, Kwara State, on Tuesday, Mohammed said it would be wrong to submit that the Federal Government was probing Jonathan or Patience.
He said, “If you look at the history of Mrs. Patience Jonathan’s issue, I think she was the one that came out to claim that the money found in the accounts of one of the aides to the former President, her husband, belonged to her.
“It was not the EFCC that claimed so. She claimed that the money that the guy was being prosecuted for belonged to her. It was only then they later found an extra $5m in another account.
“It is not as if anybody has gone out to probe Mrs. Jonathan directly or indirectly. Rather Mrs. Jonathan was the one that said ‘that money for which you are accusing Mr. X actually belongs to me. So, you cannot start talking of prosecution or persecution.”
The minister said the Federal Government was concerned about the current national economic recession and had initiated measures to address it.
He stated that the current campaign of the Federal Government, ‘‘Change begins with me,’’ was not only for the people but also for the leaders.
Mohammed also said it was incorrect to accuse Buhari’s government of being partisan, selective and vindictive in its anti-corruption war.
He said Buhari would also not spare any APC member accused or guilty of corruption.
He said, “People have always said that no APC politician had been investigated. The question is ‘those who are those being prosecuted today, for what reasons are they being prosecuted?
“It is wrong to say that the government is only investigating and prosecuting PDP members. We have not even started investigating the oil and gas industry. It is not about going out to investigate PDP. No!
‘‘We lost about 15,000 people. Nobody can, in honesty, accuse the FG of being one sided.’’
Patience must explain her source of wealth, says CACOL
Also, a civil society organisation, Coalition Against Corrupt Leaders, has said Patience must explain how she came about the funds with which she reportedly built a N10bn hotel in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The hotel, which is known as Aridolf Resort Wellness and Spa, Yenagoa, was inaugurated by Patience in April 2015, barely a month before the end of her husband’s tenure.
But CACOL, which recalled in a statement on Tuesday that Patience was only a Permanent Secretary in Bayelsa State at a time, said the ex-President’s wife must be made to explain the source of her wealth.
The statement by the group’s acting Media Officer, Abiodun Rabiu, quoted the Executive Chairman of CACOL, Debo Adeniran, as saying the EFCC needed no further petition to invite Patience for questioning.
CACOL asked, “How did she (Patience) get the money and even the ones stacked in her accounts? That is what we, Nigerians, want to know. As far as we can understand, she was just a civil servant. So, as a civil servant, how did she manage to acquire such a luxurious property that is worth that amount, because she would have earned less than 10 per cent of the amount even if she had been a Director or Permanent Secretary in the Bayelsa State Civil Service all of the entire years she has spent on earth?”
Punch
Tuesday, 13 September 2016
The 10 biggest firms making more money than most countries in the world
The 10 biggest corporations have a combined revenue that is bigger than a list of the poorest 180 countries, including Ireland, Indonesia, Israel, Colombia, Greece, South Africa, Iraq and Vietnam, according to Global Justice Now.
And three of the companies - Apple, Shell and Walmart - are richer than Russia, Belgium and Sweden.
The campaign group has urged the British Government to stop supporting corporations and support its people instead.
A whopping 69 of the biggest 100 economic entities are corporations and not countries, and out of the top 200 an even bigger proportion of 153 are firms
Read more here
http://www.express.co.uk/finance/city/710237/10-biggest-firms-making-more-money-than-most-countries-in-the-world-COMBINED
.
And three of the companies - Apple, Shell and Walmart - are richer than Russia, Belgium and Sweden.
The campaign group has urged the British Government to stop supporting corporations and support its people instead.
A whopping 69 of the biggest 100 economic entities are corporations and not countries, and out of the top 200 an even bigger proportion of 153 are firms
Read more here
http://www.express.co.uk/finance/city/710237/10-biggest-firms-making-more-money-than-most-countries-in-the-world-COMBINED
.
Open Heavens 13 September 2016: Tuesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Child by Grace
Topic: Child by Grace [Tuesday 13, September 2016]
Memorise: But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: – John 1:12
Read: 1 John 3:1-3 (KJV)
1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 41-43, Psalms 57
MESSAGE:
The reference to Christians as children of God by the New Testament describes their status and privileges as the adopted children of God. By this, believers are no longer slaves but children of God by grace. In this respect, Galatians 4:7 says:
“Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.”
And Romans 8:15 says:
“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.”
These Bible passages confirm that Christians are children of God by grace and not by merit. I pray that the grace of Abba Father will always be available to work in your favour in Jesus’ name.
Ephesians 2:8-9 says our salvation is entirely by grace, not works. This is why God chooses the most unlikely people for Heavenly assignments, Just like He chose a persecutor like Saul as a divine vessel (Acts 9:10-18). If it wasn’t for grace, many of us would never have been called to salvation, much more become servants of the Most-High God. In Jeremiah 1:4-5, God told this great prophet that he was chosen even before he developed as a foetus in his mother’s womb. Before His birth, he had been ordained. God has blessed many with beautiful talents and abilities, and when they engage such talents, you would be amazed at the results they will birth. As the Potter, He is free to do what He likes with His clay (Romans 9:20-21). He may decide to give someone a beautiful voice, while He gives hands that can play the guitar or piano to somebody else. What is most important is yielding totally to the Lord and allowing Him to have His way in your life. Has the Lord endowed you with some talents or unique abilities? Are you effectively and effectually employing them in serving Him? Always remember that you were chosen not because you are special, but by grace. You are a product of divine choice, so learn to glorify God in everything you do. 1 John 3:1-2 says:
“1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”
Being called children of God is a privilege that changed our status from darkness to light; we are now led by the Spirit of God to do His will. We have also become heirs of God (Romans 8:17). We are fellow citizens with the saints and household of God.
Prayer Point: Father, please let me enjoy the grace of sonship forever in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: – John 1:12
Read: 1 John 3:1-3 (KJV)
1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 41-43, Psalms 57
MESSAGE:
The reference to Christians as children of God by the New Testament describes their status and privileges as the adopted children of God. By this, believers are no longer slaves but children of God by grace. In this respect, Galatians 4:7 says:
“Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.”
And Romans 8:15 says:
“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.”
These Bible passages confirm that Christians are children of God by grace and not by merit. I pray that the grace of Abba Father will always be available to work in your favour in Jesus’ name.
Ephesians 2:8-9 says our salvation is entirely by grace, not works. This is why God chooses the most unlikely people for Heavenly assignments, Just like He chose a persecutor like Saul as a divine vessel (Acts 9:10-18). If it wasn’t for grace, many of us would never have been called to salvation, much more become servants of the Most-High God. In Jeremiah 1:4-5, God told this great prophet that he was chosen even before he developed as a foetus in his mother’s womb. Before His birth, he had been ordained. God has blessed many with beautiful talents and abilities, and when they engage such talents, you would be amazed at the results they will birth. As the Potter, He is free to do what He likes with His clay (Romans 9:20-21). He may decide to give someone a beautiful voice, while He gives hands that can play the guitar or piano to somebody else. What is most important is yielding totally to the Lord and allowing Him to have His way in your life. Has the Lord endowed you with some talents or unique abilities? Are you effectively and effectually employing them in serving Him? Always remember that you were chosen not because you are special, but by grace. You are a product of divine choice, so learn to glorify God in everything you do. 1 John 3:1-2 says:
“1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”
Being called children of God is a privilege that changed our status from darkness to light; we are now led by the Spirit of God to do His will. We have also become heirs of God (Romans 8:17). We are fellow citizens with the saints and household of God.
Prayer Point: Father, please let me enjoy the grace of sonship forever in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Monday, 12 September 2016
Open Heavens 12 September 2016: Monday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – The Almighty God
Topic: The Almighty God [Monday 12, September 2016]
Memorise: For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. – Romans 9:17
Read: Exodus 5:1-4 (KJV)
1 And afterward Moses and Aaron went in, and told Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Let my people go, that they may hold a feast unto me in the wilderness.
2 And Pharaoh said, Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD, neither will I let Israel go.
3 And they said, The God of the Hebrews hath met with us: let us go, we pray thee, three days' journey into the desert, and sacrifice unto the LORD our God; lest he fall upon us with pestilence, or with the sword.
4 And the king of Egypt said unto them, Wherefore do ye, Moses and Aaron, let the people from their works? get you unto your burdens.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 38:7-40:16, Psalms 56
MESSAGE:
God is the creator of Heaven and earth. He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, the first and last, the one who knows all things and can do all things. All power in Heaven and on earth belongs to Him, which is why He is called the Almighty God. Though it is not possible for man to fully comprehend God, but a better understanding of His creative power, wisdom and authority can be made visible by considering the works of His hands according to Psalms 8:3-4:
“3 When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; 4 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?”
Consequent to the almightiness of God, whenever He says yes, one cannot help but wonder why anyone would try to oppose Him. But from time immemorial, human beings have been found in opposition to the Almighty God, all to their own detriment. Striving against God is the fruitless opposition of the ungodly to God’s will and purpose and to the struggle of the righteous as they seek to obey God’s commandments.
Many so-called Christians today are equally striving against God by holding a worldview that is contrary to the Word of God and by their sinful words and immoral actions. Incidentally, some are ignorantly striving against God like Apostle Paul in Acts 26:14
“And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.”
It does not matter who anybody may do, if God says yes, no one can say no. God says in Isaiah 46:10
“…My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:”
Also Proverbs 19:21 says:
“There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.”
Do not resist the Holy Spirit, or be found arguing with God. Don’t ever try to attack God’s people or practice unbelief, lest you be found guilty of striving against God!
Prayer Point: Father, please don’t let me ever be found in opposition to your Word in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. – Romans 9:17
Read: Exodus 5:1-4 (KJV)
1 And afterward Moses and Aaron went in, and told Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Let my people go, that they may hold a feast unto me in the wilderness.
2 And Pharaoh said, Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD, neither will I let Israel go.
3 And they said, The God of the Hebrews hath met with us: let us go, we pray thee, three days' journey into the desert, and sacrifice unto the LORD our God; lest he fall upon us with pestilence, or with the sword.
4 And the king of Egypt said unto them, Wherefore do ye, Moses and Aaron, let the people from their works? get you unto your burdens.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 38:7-40:16, Psalms 56
MESSAGE:
God is the creator of Heaven and earth. He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, the first and last, the one who knows all things and can do all things. All power in Heaven and on earth belongs to Him, which is why He is called the Almighty God. Though it is not possible for man to fully comprehend God, but a better understanding of His creative power, wisdom and authority can be made visible by considering the works of His hands according to Psalms 8:3-4:
“3 When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; 4 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?”
Consequent to the almightiness of God, whenever He says yes, one cannot help but wonder why anyone would try to oppose Him. But from time immemorial, human beings have been found in opposition to the Almighty God, all to their own detriment. Striving against God is the fruitless opposition of the ungodly to God’s will and purpose and to the struggle of the righteous as they seek to obey God’s commandments.
Many so-called Christians today are equally striving against God by holding a worldview that is contrary to the Word of God and by their sinful words and immoral actions. Incidentally, some are ignorantly striving against God like Apostle Paul in Acts 26:14
“And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.”
It does not matter who anybody may do, if God says yes, no one can say no. God says in Isaiah 46:10
“…My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:”
Also Proverbs 19:21 says:
“There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.”
Do not resist the Holy Spirit, or be found arguing with God. Don’t ever try to attack God’s people or practice unbelief, lest you be found guilty of striving against God!
Prayer Point: Father, please don’t let me ever be found in opposition to your Word in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Sunday, 11 September 2016
Between The Journalist And The Spokesperson By Reuben Abati
In the past few weeks, my colleagues who have taken over as spokespersons for the Muhammadu Buhari government and the All Progressives Congress have found themselves in the line of fire, as they are accused of destroying their old reputation as truth-tellers, courageous journalists and activists of the Fourth and Fifth Estates of the Realm.
It is the same old accusation. Once a journalist crosses into government and becomes a spokesperson, he or she is called all kinds of names: traitor, turn-coat, hustler. Readers and fans feel betrayed. The defender of the people’s interest is accused of “joining them” to go and “eat”.
This is the dilemma of every Nigerian journalist who has taken up the job of spokesperson in whatever governmental capacity. I was abused, vilified and called all kinds of names, but it wasn’t so different with my predecessors nor has it been any easier for my successors. My favourite on this subject was a poem published online titled “The Death of Reuben Abati’s pen” (I don’t remember the author) but Pius Adesanmi was charitable to me in another piece in which he argued that I really didn’t need the job, but my “arrogance” could be tolerated. Pius, o kare oh.
In other parts of the world, journalists also get appointed as spokespersons. The assumption is that a journalist who has spent years communicating with the public, will be able to write, articulate views, understand the media system and the technology of the practice, cultivate his or her colleagues and forcefully defend the interest of the appointing system. But this is precisely where the problem lies. A journalist is required to be independent: free from partisan political involvement, be completely unbiased, and defend the underprivileged, the powerless, the displaced, and all victims of the oppressive, negligent or indifferent state.
The primary job of the journalist is neither advertising nor propaganda: his job is to shed light so the people can see the way, and their oppressors can be constantly reminded that there are barking and wailing watchdogs who will not permit oppression, or utter irresponsibility in the use of power. The journalist is to tell the truth so forcefully and forthrightly, the truth will cause the oppressor pain and distress, but at the same time set the people free. To jump from this background into government or a political propaganda assignment could definitely attract criticisms. The more prominent and influential the journalist is, the more controversial his new role could be. People put a tag on you over time, they don’t imagine you could assume another role in the public space, and when you do, they don’t see it as a new assignment, they use your original role to define your present.
And in the age of technology where every word that is written or spoken is eternally lodged in cyber-memory, you really can’t win the argument. I was hunted with articles I had written on fuel subsidy removal (my revision based on new facts and understanding was considered convenient). In the same manner, today’s men are facing the same heat, as tomorrow’s men would.
The simple truth is that the job definition of a spokesperson is not the same as that of a journalist. When you take up a job as a spokesperson, you have elected to defend the interest of the appointing authority, in this case, the person or organization you speak for, and in the case of a country, the national interest, the definition of which is probably one of the most contentious issues in public policy. If it is a political assignment, then you have the added baggage of being accused of endorsement: something a journalist doing basic reportorial work is not supposed to do, and if as a journalist, you become a brand ambassador, you have also again crossed the line, you have become a commercial face, not a dispassionate dispenser of truth who can investigate the truth and deliver it not minding whose ox is gored.
As a spokesman or brand ambassador, you definitely have no opinion of your own. You are a vehicle, a compromised special purpose vehicle: you speak according to directives, and in the name of the authority you work for. It took me some time to figure that out, when you work for government, you are not expected to sound like an activist in the corridors but you can make a lot of significant inputs. “When you eat, you don’t talk”, that was how some people rationalized it, unfortunately, not knowing that a lot of serious talking actually goes on in government.
What was not properly acknowledged is that the knowledge acquired working in the public sector is quite different from that of the private space: you will certainly as a former private sector person gain access to the inner workings of government. You will build a new network. You gain access to new knowledge and opportunity to contribute to the process of change - you are definitely better positioned to do so from within - except that forces of ethnicity, nepotism, cronyism and even the insecurity of key players could limit your ability to ensure the triumph of good reason in such an environment that is dominated by vicious search for advantages, rustic thinking and competition driven by fear and greed. But still, a spokesperson must do the job. You must be ready to take the bullet for your boss. You are a fall guy. You prevent unnecessary news if you can. It is not your job to tell the media - go and shoot. You are a spin master, a spin-doctor: you help the media to get the facts about government’s efforts, and persuade them not to “kill.” Even if the heavens are falling and every one is lamenting about the falling weight of heaven, it is your job to give the ordinary people hope. You must let them know that something is being done on their behalf.
To defend the ordinary people is at the base of the assignment: if you work inside government, you don’t throw people into despair, you reassure them, if you work outside government, you give the government people hell, so as to promote the same people, two sides of the same coin. On both sides, the most important element is the people-element, their rights, their relevance, because it is the reason government and society exist.
I admit the whole thing is delicate; it is a walking-a-tight-rope scenario. How do you convince the people you are serving their interest when they see you actively defending the government, the political head and his political party, in the name of giving hope? They would tell you pointedly you are lying to keep a job. The critical point is that government is not a media house. The rules of engagement are different. And that is why every government spokesperson becomes a target of virulent criticism. Where does this lead us to then? It is this: that the people’s mind works differently from government’s mind, particularly in developing countries.
The challenge is to find a synergy. And that synergy lies in government serving the people’s interest: not populism, but meeting the people’s expectations, keeping promises and being seen to be actually working, accepting responsibility, not shifting blames or goal posts, and having a good team. The last point is important- having a good team. You can interpret this whichever way you want, but a political leader must have around him, people who are ready to take the fall for him. They must be willing to shield him, and not throw him under the wheels. When you have ministers who don’t speak up and are virtually absent, or spokespersons who are busy hiding their necks and faces, then there is a problem. Can you imagine some government spokespersons at a critical hour posting Rio Olympics pictures, or talking about fashion or some other irrelevancies when they should be on their Oga’s case?
May be what we are dealing with is actually a conflict of roles. A journalist in government still thinks he is perhaps a journalist and in his mind, he is torn between two conflicts. Those who manage to walk the tight-rope carefully come out looking clean, those who stick their necks out get bruised: but whichever way, much reputational damage is incurred. But the painful fact of the Nigerian reality is that the entire Nigerian journalism establishment is in cahoots with the partisan establishment. There are more sponsored spokesmen outside than within, with the people outside perpetually peeping inside and the whole concept of professional independence trampled afoot as the media digs deep into Nigerian politics and business for easy profit. This must be a subject for another day.
All told, the fortunes of the government make the difference. The ambition of every political leader is to be popular with the people, to win elections and to be taken seriously. Nobody in a leadership position wants to end up badly. Every leader wants to make an impact and be remembered positively. The rub of it is that what the people see is what they believe, and this may be different from what they get to know in the long run. When a government does well, the people will know and acknowledge its achievements.
Unfortunately, Nigerian democracy in the last 16 years has suffered greatly from the rise of competitive propaganda, but the simple local logic is that if a lie travels twenty years ahead, one day, the truth will catch up with it. That is not to discount the fact that Nigerians only appreciate their present in the future. We condemn everything that is before us, only to look back a few years later and regretfully revise history. My take is that Nigeria is not an easy country to govern. How easily can anyone govern a country where everybody including the uneducated are vocal experts on every subject from football to politics, foreign exchange and governance?
When you are a spokesperson though, speak. Every job has its own definition. And when you are in the kitchen, don’t complain of heat. The same people who criticize and talk about “doing the job with wisdom” know the truth, and one way or the other, the truth gets told.
It is the same old accusation. Once a journalist crosses into government and becomes a spokesperson, he or she is called all kinds of names: traitor, turn-coat, hustler. Readers and fans feel betrayed. The defender of the people’s interest is accused of “joining them” to go and “eat”.
This is the dilemma of every Nigerian journalist who has taken up the job of spokesperson in whatever governmental capacity. I was abused, vilified and called all kinds of names, but it wasn’t so different with my predecessors nor has it been any easier for my successors. My favourite on this subject was a poem published online titled “The Death of Reuben Abati’s pen” (I don’t remember the author) but Pius Adesanmi was charitable to me in another piece in which he argued that I really didn’t need the job, but my “arrogance” could be tolerated. Pius, o kare oh.
In other parts of the world, journalists also get appointed as spokespersons. The assumption is that a journalist who has spent years communicating with the public, will be able to write, articulate views, understand the media system and the technology of the practice, cultivate his or her colleagues and forcefully defend the interest of the appointing system. But this is precisely where the problem lies. A journalist is required to be independent: free from partisan political involvement, be completely unbiased, and defend the underprivileged, the powerless, the displaced, and all victims of the oppressive, negligent or indifferent state.
The primary job of the journalist is neither advertising nor propaganda: his job is to shed light so the people can see the way, and their oppressors can be constantly reminded that there are barking and wailing watchdogs who will not permit oppression, or utter irresponsibility in the use of power. The journalist is to tell the truth so forcefully and forthrightly, the truth will cause the oppressor pain and distress, but at the same time set the people free. To jump from this background into government or a political propaganda assignment could definitely attract criticisms. The more prominent and influential the journalist is, the more controversial his new role could be. People put a tag on you over time, they don’t imagine you could assume another role in the public space, and when you do, they don’t see it as a new assignment, they use your original role to define your present.
And in the age of technology where every word that is written or spoken is eternally lodged in cyber-memory, you really can’t win the argument. I was hunted with articles I had written on fuel subsidy removal (my revision based on new facts and understanding was considered convenient). In the same manner, today’s men are facing the same heat, as tomorrow’s men would.
The simple truth is that the job definition of a spokesperson is not the same as that of a journalist. When you take up a job as a spokesperson, you have elected to defend the interest of the appointing authority, in this case, the person or organization you speak for, and in the case of a country, the national interest, the definition of which is probably one of the most contentious issues in public policy. If it is a political assignment, then you have the added baggage of being accused of endorsement: something a journalist doing basic reportorial work is not supposed to do, and if as a journalist, you become a brand ambassador, you have also again crossed the line, you have become a commercial face, not a dispassionate dispenser of truth who can investigate the truth and deliver it not minding whose ox is gored.
As a spokesman or brand ambassador, you definitely have no opinion of your own. You are a vehicle, a compromised special purpose vehicle: you speak according to directives, and in the name of the authority you work for. It took me some time to figure that out, when you work for government, you are not expected to sound like an activist in the corridors but you can make a lot of significant inputs. “When you eat, you don’t talk”, that was how some people rationalized it, unfortunately, not knowing that a lot of serious talking actually goes on in government.
What was not properly acknowledged is that the knowledge acquired working in the public sector is quite different from that of the private space: you will certainly as a former private sector person gain access to the inner workings of government. You will build a new network. You gain access to new knowledge and opportunity to contribute to the process of change - you are definitely better positioned to do so from within - except that forces of ethnicity, nepotism, cronyism and even the insecurity of key players could limit your ability to ensure the triumph of good reason in such an environment that is dominated by vicious search for advantages, rustic thinking and competition driven by fear and greed. But still, a spokesperson must do the job. You must be ready to take the bullet for your boss. You are a fall guy. You prevent unnecessary news if you can. It is not your job to tell the media - go and shoot. You are a spin master, a spin-doctor: you help the media to get the facts about government’s efforts, and persuade them not to “kill.” Even if the heavens are falling and every one is lamenting about the falling weight of heaven, it is your job to give the ordinary people hope. You must let them know that something is being done on their behalf.
To defend the ordinary people is at the base of the assignment: if you work inside government, you don’t throw people into despair, you reassure them, if you work outside government, you give the government people hell, so as to promote the same people, two sides of the same coin. On both sides, the most important element is the people-element, their rights, their relevance, because it is the reason government and society exist.
I admit the whole thing is delicate; it is a walking-a-tight-rope scenario. How do you convince the people you are serving their interest when they see you actively defending the government, the political head and his political party, in the name of giving hope? They would tell you pointedly you are lying to keep a job. The critical point is that government is not a media house. The rules of engagement are different. And that is why every government spokesperson becomes a target of virulent criticism. Where does this lead us to then? It is this: that the people’s mind works differently from government’s mind, particularly in developing countries.
The challenge is to find a synergy. And that synergy lies in government serving the people’s interest: not populism, but meeting the people’s expectations, keeping promises and being seen to be actually working, accepting responsibility, not shifting blames or goal posts, and having a good team. The last point is important- having a good team. You can interpret this whichever way you want, but a political leader must have around him, people who are ready to take the fall for him. They must be willing to shield him, and not throw him under the wheels. When you have ministers who don’t speak up and are virtually absent, or spokespersons who are busy hiding their necks and faces, then there is a problem. Can you imagine some government spokespersons at a critical hour posting Rio Olympics pictures, or talking about fashion or some other irrelevancies when they should be on their Oga’s case?
May be what we are dealing with is actually a conflict of roles. A journalist in government still thinks he is perhaps a journalist and in his mind, he is torn between two conflicts. Those who manage to walk the tight-rope carefully come out looking clean, those who stick their necks out get bruised: but whichever way, much reputational damage is incurred. But the painful fact of the Nigerian reality is that the entire Nigerian journalism establishment is in cahoots with the partisan establishment. There are more sponsored spokesmen outside than within, with the people outside perpetually peeping inside and the whole concept of professional independence trampled afoot as the media digs deep into Nigerian politics and business for easy profit. This must be a subject for another day.
All told, the fortunes of the government make the difference. The ambition of every political leader is to be popular with the people, to win elections and to be taken seriously. Nobody in a leadership position wants to end up badly. Every leader wants to make an impact and be remembered positively. The rub of it is that what the people see is what they believe, and this may be different from what they get to know in the long run. When a government does well, the people will know and acknowledge its achievements.
Unfortunately, Nigerian democracy in the last 16 years has suffered greatly from the rise of competitive propaganda, but the simple local logic is that if a lie travels twenty years ahead, one day, the truth will catch up with it. That is not to discount the fact that Nigerians only appreciate their present in the future. We condemn everything that is before us, only to look back a few years later and regretfully revise history. My take is that Nigeria is not an easy country to govern. How easily can anyone govern a country where everybody including the uneducated are vocal experts on every subject from football to politics, foreign exchange and governance?
When you are a spokesperson though, speak. Every job has its own definition. And when you are in the kitchen, don’t complain of heat. The same people who criticize and talk about “doing the job with wisdom” know the truth, and one way or the other, the truth gets told.
31.4m Frozen In Bank Accounts Mine, says Former First Lady Patience
Former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, is claiming ownership of the $31.4 million involved in an alleged fraud case before a Federal High Court in Lagos.
Counsel to the first defendant in charge, with case number FHC/337C/16, Mr. Gboyega Oduwole, informed the court that Mrs. Jonathan filed a fundamental application against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), claiming ownership of the money.
The EFCC had taken former presidential aide, Amajuoyi Azubike Briggs, former Skye Bank official, Damola Bolodeoku, Pluto Property and Investment Company Limited and Avalon Global Property Development Company Limited to court in an alleged $31.4 million fraud involving the companies without addresses.
Others also charged include Seagate Property Development and Investment Company Limited; Trans Ocean Property and Investment Company Limited, Avalon Global Property Development Company Limited and Globus Integrated Services Limited.
According to an application filed on September 6, this year, with file number FHC/L/C5/1233/16, Mrs. Jonathan is asking the court to make an order for the enforcement of her fundamental rights, in terms of reliefs she sought, and naming as defendants, the EFCC and Skye Bank Plc.
The former first lady asked the court to make a declaration that the fund standing to the credit of four of the companies and an account in her own name in Skye Bank belonged to her.
She also asked the court to declare that the action of the respondents in placing a No Debit/Freezing Order on the said accounts without any order of a competent court of law or prior notice to her, to be in breach of her fundamental rights as contained in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
http://www.newsmath.com/31-4m-frozen-bank-accounts-mine-former-first-lady-patience-jonathan-tells-court/
Counsel to the first defendant in charge, with case number FHC/337C/16, Mr. Gboyega Oduwole, informed the court that Mrs. Jonathan filed a fundamental application against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), claiming ownership of the money.
The EFCC had taken former presidential aide, Amajuoyi Azubike Briggs, former Skye Bank official, Damola Bolodeoku, Pluto Property and Investment Company Limited and Avalon Global Property Development Company Limited to court in an alleged $31.4 million fraud involving the companies without addresses.
Others also charged include Seagate Property Development and Investment Company Limited; Trans Ocean Property and Investment Company Limited, Avalon Global Property Development Company Limited and Globus Integrated Services Limited.
According to an application filed on September 6, this year, with file number FHC/L/C5/1233/16, Mrs. Jonathan is asking the court to make an order for the enforcement of her fundamental rights, in terms of reliefs she sought, and naming as defendants, the EFCC and Skye Bank Plc.
The former first lady asked the court to make a declaration that the fund standing to the credit of four of the companies and an account in her own name in Skye Bank belonged to her.
She also asked the court to declare that the action of the respondents in placing a No Debit/Freezing Order on the said accounts without any order of a competent court of law or prior notice to her, to be in breach of her fundamental rights as contained in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
http://www.newsmath.com/31-4m-frozen-bank-accounts-mine-former-first-lady-patience-jonathan-tells-court/
Open Heavens 11 September 2016: Sunday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Spiritual Specialization
Topic: Spiritual Specialization [Sunday 11, September 2016]
Memorise: For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. – Romans 12:3
Read: 1 Corinthians 12:4-12 (KJV)
4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 36:1-38:6, Psalms 55:16-23
MESSAGE:
God in His infinite wisdom specifically created the universe and everything in it with diversity in His mind. Consequently, the difference between people, their special gifts, needs and characters is obvious all through creation. Individualism stresses the differences between people and recognises the special gifts of individuals. Now the Bible teaches that the diverse gifts in the lives of individuals in the body of Christ are specifically designed to be used for the benefit of all. To this end, 1 Corinthian 12:4-6 say:
“4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.”
We are encouraged not to personalise God’s gifts in our lives, but rather to recognise that we are incomplete in ourselves and we need cooperation and fellowship with others in the body of Christ to function as a complete whole. God wants His children to live by this biblical injunction so that no one will be proud, and to enhance mutual respect in the Church of God, which will promote peace and unity in the body of Christ. Physical and spiritual development will go on unhindered. Passages of the Bible like Romans 12:6-8, would then become realistic and practicable:
“6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; 8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”
One person operates in the word of wisdom, another in the word of knowledge; one is the gifts of healing, and yet another in the working of miracles and prophecy. They should cooperate with each other with the understanding that one and the selfsame Spirit is at work in each individual to accomplish the ultimate purpose of God.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the unction to function with total humility and submission in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. – Romans 12:3
Read: 1 Corinthians 12:4-12 (KJV)
4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 36:1-38:6, Psalms 55:16-23
MESSAGE:
God in His infinite wisdom specifically created the universe and everything in it with diversity in His mind. Consequently, the difference between people, their special gifts, needs and characters is obvious all through creation. Individualism stresses the differences between people and recognises the special gifts of individuals. Now the Bible teaches that the diverse gifts in the lives of individuals in the body of Christ are specifically designed to be used for the benefit of all. To this end, 1 Corinthian 12:4-6 say:
“4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.”
We are encouraged not to personalise God’s gifts in our lives, but rather to recognise that we are incomplete in ourselves and we need cooperation and fellowship with others in the body of Christ to function as a complete whole. God wants His children to live by this biblical injunction so that no one will be proud, and to enhance mutual respect in the Church of God, which will promote peace and unity in the body of Christ. Physical and spiritual development will go on unhindered. Passages of the Bible like Romans 12:6-8, would then become realistic and practicable:
“6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; 8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”
One person operates in the word of wisdom, another in the word of knowledge; one is the gifts of healing, and yet another in the working of miracles and prophecy. They should cooperate with each other with the understanding that one and the selfsame Spirit is at work in each individual to accomplish the ultimate purpose of God.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the unction to function with total humility and submission in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Saturday, 10 September 2016
The true meaning of recession by Reuben Abati
There have been interesting arguments over Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun’s observation that “recession is just a word”, and NAN MD, Bayo Onanuga claiming that reports of hardship in the land is exaggerated propaganda. I think we need to break down the subject further from a layman’s perspective. Recession is a word, no doubt, but it is more than a word, it is an experience: the experience that the majority of Nigerians is going through.
If you are at a significant remove from that experience, it may be difficult to know how it feels, and if you are an economist, you are likely to be conveniently obsessed with textbook ideas.
Recession is when Nigerians begin to shift the traditional dates for social parties. You know we love parties a lot. Virtually every weekend, there is one party or the other, very loud celebrations where people wear the famous aso ebi, and the Naira becomes a flying object, being thrown all over the place, at the musician, the celebrant, and her friends and family, with so much joy floating in the air, and plates of jolloff rice, eaten half way and left to waste, area boys having their own share of the fun, and Nigerians showing the world that life is indeed for the living.
Sometimes, these parties make no sense: imagine a man throwing a big party to “turn the back” of his great grandfather who died 50 years ago (!) – a great grandfather he never knew, or a lavish party to celebrate the purchase of a second-hand car. Those things are very rare these days. And when some parties are held, the date on the invitation card is during the week: can you imagine being invited to a wedding on a Monday? I have seen that happen. The event was over and done with before 5 pm. Smart way to save money in a season of recession. There were guests of course, but not the kind of crowd you’d get at a typical Nigerian party on a Friday or Saturday. The celebrants actually confessed they didn’t have the means to feed too many people. That is what recession has done. Nobody boasts anymore about “declaring surplus” - a once-upon-a-time very famous phrase in this country!
When I was much younger, my friends and I used to gate-crash parties. Bored, with not much to do, we would dress up and go from one party to the other. It was called “mo gbo mo ya” – I heard and I came. In those days, all you needed was to go to a party to which you had not been invited, and without knowing anybody, you took a seat and before long, someone would come along and ask if you had eaten. In a matter of minutes, whatever you wanted would be placed before you. Drinks? Some friends used to boast about “finishing” a carton of beer, and they would have their fill and quietly sneak away. Try that these days and you would know that recession is more than a word. Virtually every party is now strictly by invitation. Even when it is not boldly stated on the invitation card, you’d get to know the truth when you attempt to gate-crash.
Parties are now organized with such strict protocols, it is like trying to access Aso Villa. You would be screened, your bag will be checked, and don’t think it is Boko Haram attack they are afraid of, they just want to be sure you are not gate-crashing, and if you don’t have an invitation card, you would of course be turned back. There are some exceptions of course, where the protocol is a matter of security: particularly at those parties where there would be many VIPs. Nigerian VIPs don’t like to mix with just anybody.
Even if you manage to gatecrash, nobody will attend to you. What operates at parties these days, is a KYG (Know-Your-Guest) system. After sitting down, someone has to identify you as his or her guest. You don’t get served food, unless your host or hostess gives specific instructions. And you can’t drink a carton of beer anymore at your host’s expense! I certainly can’t remember when last I saw anyone getting drunk at other people’s expense at a party. Even close friends of celebrants, the ones who are a bit comfortable, go to parties these days with their own small cooler of drinks. The celebrant will offer you one or two bottles. If you want more than that, the ushers could become hostile or they could tell you pointedly: “drinks have finished.” I have had on one occasion to give the ushers, money to go and get me the drink of my choice. But once upon a time in this country, drinks don’t stop flowing at parties. The host will be so ashamed he or she would order more drinks and apologize to no end.
Where I come from, local women used to go to parties with cellophane bags, hidden away somewhere, and when they are served food, they would pull out the cellophane bag and pour food into it, all of that is done under the table. Next thing: they will start harassing the ushers: “we have not eaten here oh. Nobody has given us drinks: drinks they have moved to their collection cellophane bags! But party organizers have also learnt to be vigilant: they serve table to table; map out the space carefully and monitor the tables. Before 2019, perhaps a time will come when ushers will take your photograph, or there will be CCTV monitors at social events, just so you don’t come back and say you have not been served. That is change. That is recession. If you are a man-about-town, you can’t fail to notice this: that something has indeed changed in the social circuit. But there is that one per cent crowd, whose pockets are still so deep, if you get invited to their parties, it is like going to a surplus-declaration event, what Nigerians call “too much money.” Even that is changing though, people are learning to be careful, so they don’t get invited to come and explain how they came about so much money.
Recession is when you now read in the newspapers virtually every week about people committing suicide. Nigerians are so fun-loving we were once described as the happiest people on earth. Right now, we will fail the test. Suicide used to be so rare in this country. It was considered impossible. Why would anyone want to kill himself? I used to hear people say: “eba is sweet oh, I can’t come and die” or “life is for the living”, or “e go better”. People are not so sure anymore. In the past month, there have been reports about two foreigners doing business in Nigeria who have also committed suicide. Every reported suicide in recent times, has been tied, one way or the other, to the recession in the country. One man had an argument with his wife over school fees and housekeeping money and he went and ended it all. Another man actually left a note saying he had to kill himself because there is too much hardship in the country. Marriages are collapsing. Domestic violence is on the rise.
Husbands that are out of work can no longer maintain their families, they can’t pay school fees, they have become useless in their own homes, they are helpless. Their wives want to leave, even when they are not too sure of the next destination. There are at least two celebrated cases of women who have either slain their husbands or wounded them badly. In both cases, there was that notorious thing about a second woman in the background. Sharing what is not enough for one person with another woman, in a season of recession, could be a crime, but the biggest dysfunction is that of the pocket. One woman, a lawyer oh (!) stabbed her husband in the neck. Another after having sex with her husband, and putting him to sleep, got a machete and butchered him. The man is presently in what Yorubas call, “boya o ma ku, boya o maa ye” condition. Whether he would live or die is uncertain.
Recession is when companies are retrenching everyday or closing shop and SMEs are dying. In the last one year, high unemployment figures have been announced. Banks have had to shed weight; the foreign exchange crisis has forced many companies to downsize or abandon Nigeria, investors are taking their funds out of the country, many states of the Federation are so much in distress, they have stopped paying salaries. Civil servants cannot even afford a bag of rice, because their minimum wage is N18, 000 and a bag of rice is N22, 000 or higher in some places. Recession is when Nigerians now steal pots of soup and basic food items, and they can’t buy rams for Sallah, and they are told “don’t worry, change begins with you!” Every worker who has lost his or her job in the last one year is not the only one affected, the knock-on effect has brought anguish to other dependants, who now have a bread-winner behaving like a bread seeker. That is recession. That is hardship.
Recession is when enjoyment spots that used to be filled up every Friday evening are now empty. Nigerians used to celebrate what they call “Thank God it is Friday.” In Lagos, Friday evenings used to be the boys’ night. Husbands didn’t go home early. These days, husbands go home early and Fridays have become slightly boring. Recession is when prostitutes reduce their charges. I have it on good authority, from those who know, that even prostitutes have had to embrace change. And old girlfriends now demand pension benefits. Recession is when families which used to run the generator 24 hours and boast that their children can’t stand heat, have had to adjust, and run the generator only from 12 midnight, or before. Recession is when men come out and complain that their wives no longer allow them to touch them: “Are you mad? With the way things are, all you think of is sex?” Kama Sutra rites are best enjoyed only in happy lands. Recession is when in spite of all this, the breweries in Nigeria are posting unbelievable record profits and smiling to the banks. The men go home and privately drown their sorrow in bottles. Mrs Adeosun, this is the true meaning of recession.
If you are at a significant remove from that experience, it may be difficult to know how it feels, and if you are an economist, you are likely to be conveniently obsessed with textbook ideas.
Recession is when Nigerians begin to shift the traditional dates for social parties. You know we love parties a lot. Virtually every weekend, there is one party or the other, very loud celebrations where people wear the famous aso ebi, and the Naira becomes a flying object, being thrown all over the place, at the musician, the celebrant, and her friends and family, with so much joy floating in the air, and plates of jolloff rice, eaten half way and left to waste, area boys having their own share of the fun, and Nigerians showing the world that life is indeed for the living.
Sometimes, these parties make no sense: imagine a man throwing a big party to “turn the back” of his great grandfather who died 50 years ago (!) – a great grandfather he never knew, or a lavish party to celebrate the purchase of a second-hand car. Those things are very rare these days. And when some parties are held, the date on the invitation card is during the week: can you imagine being invited to a wedding on a Monday? I have seen that happen. The event was over and done with before 5 pm. Smart way to save money in a season of recession. There were guests of course, but not the kind of crowd you’d get at a typical Nigerian party on a Friday or Saturday. The celebrants actually confessed they didn’t have the means to feed too many people. That is what recession has done. Nobody boasts anymore about “declaring surplus” - a once-upon-a-time very famous phrase in this country!
When I was much younger, my friends and I used to gate-crash parties. Bored, with not much to do, we would dress up and go from one party to the other. It was called “mo gbo mo ya” – I heard and I came. In those days, all you needed was to go to a party to which you had not been invited, and without knowing anybody, you took a seat and before long, someone would come along and ask if you had eaten. In a matter of minutes, whatever you wanted would be placed before you. Drinks? Some friends used to boast about “finishing” a carton of beer, and they would have their fill and quietly sneak away. Try that these days and you would know that recession is more than a word. Virtually every party is now strictly by invitation. Even when it is not boldly stated on the invitation card, you’d get to know the truth when you attempt to gate-crash.
Parties are now organized with such strict protocols, it is like trying to access Aso Villa. You would be screened, your bag will be checked, and don’t think it is Boko Haram attack they are afraid of, they just want to be sure you are not gate-crashing, and if you don’t have an invitation card, you would of course be turned back. There are some exceptions of course, where the protocol is a matter of security: particularly at those parties where there would be many VIPs. Nigerian VIPs don’t like to mix with just anybody.
Even if you manage to gatecrash, nobody will attend to you. What operates at parties these days, is a KYG (Know-Your-Guest) system. After sitting down, someone has to identify you as his or her guest. You don’t get served food, unless your host or hostess gives specific instructions. And you can’t drink a carton of beer anymore at your host’s expense! I certainly can’t remember when last I saw anyone getting drunk at other people’s expense at a party. Even close friends of celebrants, the ones who are a bit comfortable, go to parties these days with their own small cooler of drinks. The celebrant will offer you one or two bottles. If you want more than that, the ushers could become hostile or they could tell you pointedly: “drinks have finished.” I have had on one occasion to give the ushers, money to go and get me the drink of my choice. But once upon a time in this country, drinks don’t stop flowing at parties. The host will be so ashamed he or she would order more drinks and apologize to no end.
Where I come from, local women used to go to parties with cellophane bags, hidden away somewhere, and when they are served food, they would pull out the cellophane bag and pour food into it, all of that is done under the table. Next thing: they will start harassing the ushers: “we have not eaten here oh. Nobody has given us drinks: drinks they have moved to their collection cellophane bags! But party organizers have also learnt to be vigilant: they serve table to table; map out the space carefully and monitor the tables. Before 2019, perhaps a time will come when ushers will take your photograph, or there will be CCTV monitors at social events, just so you don’t come back and say you have not been served. That is change. That is recession. If you are a man-about-town, you can’t fail to notice this: that something has indeed changed in the social circuit. But there is that one per cent crowd, whose pockets are still so deep, if you get invited to their parties, it is like going to a surplus-declaration event, what Nigerians call “too much money.” Even that is changing though, people are learning to be careful, so they don’t get invited to come and explain how they came about so much money.
Recession is when you now read in the newspapers virtually every week about people committing suicide. Nigerians are so fun-loving we were once described as the happiest people on earth. Right now, we will fail the test. Suicide used to be so rare in this country. It was considered impossible. Why would anyone want to kill himself? I used to hear people say: “eba is sweet oh, I can’t come and die” or “life is for the living”, or “e go better”. People are not so sure anymore. In the past month, there have been reports about two foreigners doing business in Nigeria who have also committed suicide. Every reported suicide in recent times, has been tied, one way or the other, to the recession in the country. One man had an argument with his wife over school fees and housekeeping money and he went and ended it all. Another man actually left a note saying he had to kill himself because there is too much hardship in the country. Marriages are collapsing. Domestic violence is on the rise.
Husbands that are out of work can no longer maintain their families, they can’t pay school fees, they have become useless in their own homes, they are helpless. Their wives want to leave, even when they are not too sure of the next destination. There are at least two celebrated cases of women who have either slain their husbands or wounded them badly. In both cases, there was that notorious thing about a second woman in the background. Sharing what is not enough for one person with another woman, in a season of recession, could be a crime, but the biggest dysfunction is that of the pocket. One woman, a lawyer oh (!) stabbed her husband in the neck. Another after having sex with her husband, and putting him to sleep, got a machete and butchered him. The man is presently in what Yorubas call, “boya o ma ku, boya o maa ye” condition. Whether he would live or die is uncertain.
Recession is when companies are retrenching everyday or closing shop and SMEs are dying. In the last one year, high unemployment figures have been announced. Banks have had to shed weight; the foreign exchange crisis has forced many companies to downsize or abandon Nigeria, investors are taking their funds out of the country, many states of the Federation are so much in distress, they have stopped paying salaries. Civil servants cannot even afford a bag of rice, because their minimum wage is N18, 000 and a bag of rice is N22, 000 or higher in some places. Recession is when Nigerians now steal pots of soup and basic food items, and they can’t buy rams for Sallah, and they are told “don’t worry, change begins with you!” Every worker who has lost his or her job in the last one year is not the only one affected, the knock-on effect has brought anguish to other dependants, who now have a bread-winner behaving like a bread seeker. That is recession. That is hardship.
Recession is when enjoyment spots that used to be filled up every Friday evening are now empty. Nigerians used to celebrate what they call “Thank God it is Friday.” In Lagos, Friday evenings used to be the boys’ night. Husbands didn’t go home early. These days, husbands go home early and Fridays have become slightly boring. Recession is when prostitutes reduce their charges. I have it on good authority, from those who know, that even prostitutes have had to embrace change. And old girlfriends now demand pension benefits. Recession is when families which used to run the generator 24 hours and boast that their children can’t stand heat, have had to adjust, and run the generator only from 12 midnight, or before. Recession is when men come out and complain that their wives no longer allow them to touch them: “Are you mad? With the way things are, all you think of is sex?” Kama Sutra rites are best enjoyed only in happy lands. Recession is when in spite of all this, the breweries in Nigeria are posting unbelievable record profits and smiling to the banks. The men go home and privately drown their sorrow in bottles. Mrs Adeosun, this is the true meaning of recession.
Open Heavens 10 September 2016: Saturday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – You Need Encouragement
Topic: You Need Encouragement [Saturday 10, September 2016]
Memorise: These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. – John 16:33
Read: 1 Kings 19:1-6 (KJV)
1 And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the prophets with the sword.
2 Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time.
3 And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there.
4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.
5 And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat.
6 And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 33:14-35:19, Psalms 55:1-15
MESSAGE:
Based on human experience, life is generally believed to be hard, laborious, burdensome, and full of sorrow. A combination of several factors may be responsible for the dilemma faced by human beings. First among these factors is recorded in Revelation 12:12:
“…Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath,…”
And 1 Peter 5:8 followed up by saying
“…your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”
Furthermore, Genesis 3:17 says,
“…cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;”
The implication of these passages on unregenerate human beings is so great that Job 14:1 had to say,
“Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.”
When a higher responsibility such as marriage, parenthood, civil or spiritual leadership is added to the ordinary troubles of life, the result is better imagined than experienced. For the above reasons, every human being needs divine encouragement and support daily. In the Name that is above all other names, beginning from today, you will receive divine support and encouragement to carry on in life in Jesus’ name.
Indeed, God promises continual support for his people, particularly when they become weary, depressed or disillusioned. Several passages of the Bible affirmed God’s encouragement for His children. Moses, Joshua, Abraham, David, kings and prophets of Israel, our fathers and mothers of faith were not abandoned at critical moments in their lives. God was always there to give the required support and encouragement when it mattered most. This could be seen clearly in God’s pronouncement in Isaiah 41:10 that says,
“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.”
However, Bible records show that we have a responsibility to carry out in order to merit God’s encouragement. You must first be born again and make meditation on the Word of God a habit (Joshua 1:8-9). Then you must invite the Holy Spirit who is the counsellor, into your life. Thereafter, you will begin to experience God’s encouragement. Isaiah 40:30-31, says that God’s encouragement brings renewed strength and an ability to do exploit. This is the secret of my success as the General overseer of the RCCG. I enjoy tremendous support and encouragement from the Almighty God always. It is only by His support and encouragement that any man can succeed.
Prayer Point: Father, please encourage and support me so that I may fulfil my destiny in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. – John 16:33
Read: 1 Kings 19:1-6 (KJV)
1 And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the prophets with the sword.
2 Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time.
3 And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there.
4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.
5 And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat.
6 And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 33:14-35:19, Psalms 55:1-15
MESSAGE:
Based on human experience, life is generally believed to be hard, laborious, burdensome, and full of sorrow. A combination of several factors may be responsible for the dilemma faced by human beings. First among these factors is recorded in Revelation 12:12:
“…Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath,…”
And 1 Peter 5:8 followed up by saying
“…your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”
Furthermore, Genesis 3:17 says,
“…cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;”
The implication of these passages on unregenerate human beings is so great that Job 14:1 had to say,
“Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.”
When a higher responsibility such as marriage, parenthood, civil or spiritual leadership is added to the ordinary troubles of life, the result is better imagined than experienced. For the above reasons, every human being needs divine encouragement and support daily. In the Name that is above all other names, beginning from today, you will receive divine support and encouragement to carry on in life in Jesus’ name.
Indeed, God promises continual support for his people, particularly when they become weary, depressed or disillusioned. Several passages of the Bible affirmed God’s encouragement for His children. Moses, Joshua, Abraham, David, kings and prophets of Israel, our fathers and mothers of faith were not abandoned at critical moments in their lives. God was always there to give the required support and encouragement when it mattered most. This could be seen clearly in God’s pronouncement in Isaiah 41:10 that says,
“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.”
However, Bible records show that we have a responsibility to carry out in order to merit God’s encouragement. You must first be born again and make meditation on the Word of God a habit (Joshua 1:8-9). Then you must invite the Holy Spirit who is the counsellor, into your life. Thereafter, you will begin to experience God’s encouragement. Isaiah 40:30-31, says that God’s encouragement brings renewed strength and an ability to do exploit. This is the secret of my success as the General overseer of the RCCG. I enjoy tremendous support and encouragement from the Almighty God always. It is only by His support and encouragement that any man can succeed.
Prayer Point: Father, please encourage and support me so that I may fulfil my destiny in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Friday, 9 September 2016
Open Heavens 9 September 2016: Friday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Godliness and Contentment
Topic: Godliness and Contentment [Friday 9, September 2016]
Memorise: But godliness with contentment is great gain. – 1 Timothy 6:6
Read: 1 Timothy 6:6-10 (KJV)
1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.
2 And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 32:1-33:13, Psalms 53-54
MESSAGE:
Godliness implies a kind of reverence for or devotion to God which produces a practical awareness of God in every aspect of life. True godliness is a way of life that permeates every aspect of life, from appearances to actions. A godly person cannot help but transmit and radiate godliness in a way that anybody who comes in contact with him or her will immediately feel the presence of God. Consequently, deceptive godliness in speech or action is not compatible with the Word of God. According to 2 Timothy 3:5, apparent godliness may not be genuine; the passage calls it “Having a form of godliness”. Meanwhile Titus 2:11-12 says:
“11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;”
From the above passage, it is clear that godliness can be interpreted as a measure of the level of sanctification of a child of God. The Bible in a few cases used the term “walking with God” to indicate the level of godliness of some fathers of faith. Examples of godliness in the Bible include Enoch in Genesis 5:24:
“And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.”
And Noah in Genesis 6:9:
“….Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.”
God demanded godliness from Abraham in Genesis 17:1
“…I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.”
And Abraham in turn confirmed compliance in Genesis 24:40 with the statement
“…The LORD, before whom I walk…”
Other examples of godliness include Simeon in Luke 2:25, Anna in Luke 2:37, and Cornelius in Acts 10:2. Therefore, godliness is mandatory as an evidence of knowing God and being known by Him.
According to 1 Timothy 6:6, godliness should be accompanied by contentment. The Bible teaches that sorrow for sin is a sign of godliness and godly living demands self-discipline. The benefits of godliness cannot be over emphasised, 1 Timothy 4:8 tells us that godliness is profitable unto all things, both in this life and in eternity. Today’s memory verse emphasises that godliness with contentment brings great gain. It is also a sure defence against covetousness and all manners of trials and temptations which is the main source of backsliding and apostasy in the Church of God today. May the Lord have mercy!
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace to live above covetousness and greed in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: But godliness with contentment is great gain. – 1 Timothy 6:6
Read: 1 Timothy 6:6-10 (KJV)
1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.
2 And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 32:1-33:13, Psalms 53-54
MESSAGE:
Godliness implies a kind of reverence for or devotion to God which produces a practical awareness of God in every aspect of life. True godliness is a way of life that permeates every aspect of life, from appearances to actions. A godly person cannot help but transmit and radiate godliness in a way that anybody who comes in contact with him or her will immediately feel the presence of God. Consequently, deceptive godliness in speech or action is not compatible with the Word of God. According to 2 Timothy 3:5, apparent godliness may not be genuine; the passage calls it “Having a form of godliness”. Meanwhile Titus 2:11-12 says:
“11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;”
From the above passage, it is clear that godliness can be interpreted as a measure of the level of sanctification of a child of God. The Bible in a few cases used the term “walking with God” to indicate the level of godliness of some fathers of faith. Examples of godliness in the Bible include Enoch in Genesis 5:24:
“And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.”
And Noah in Genesis 6:9:
“….Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.”
God demanded godliness from Abraham in Genesis 17:1
“…I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.”
And Abraham in turn confirmed compliance in Genesis 24:40 with the statement
“…The LORD, before whom I walk…”
Other examples of godliness include Simeon in Luke 2:25, Anna in Luke 2:37, and Cornelius in Acts 10:2. Therefore, godliness is mandatory as an evidence of knowing God and being known by Him.
According to 1 Timothy 6:6, godliness should be accompanied by contentment. The Bible teaches that sorrow for sin is a sign of godliness and godly living demands self-discipline. The benefits of godliness cannot be over emphasised, 1 Timothy 4:8 tells us that godliness is profitable unto all things, both in this life and in eternity. Today’s memory verse emphasises that godliness with contentment brings great gain. It is also a sure defence against covetousness and all manners of trials and temptations which is the main source of backsliding and apostasy in the Church of God today. May the Lord have mercy!
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace to live above covetousness and greed in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Barack Obama chides 'wacky' Trump after Putin jibe
Barack Obama has chided Donald Trump as "wacky" and "uninformed" after the Republican candidate said Russia's President Putin was a better leader.
Speaking in Laos, Mr Obama said that every time Mr Trump spoke it became clearer that the Republican contender was not qualified to be president.
In a televised forum on Wednesday, Mr Trump had praised Mr Putin's "great control" and 82% approval rating.
Mr Trump and rival Hillary Clinton had taken questions from military veterans.
http://www.bbc.com/news/election-us-2016-37305760
INEC postpones Edo governorship election by 2 weeks
The Independent National Electoral Commission INEC has postponed the Edo State governorship election by two weeks. The spokesman to the INEC Chairman, Rotimi Oyekanmi, confirmed the postponement.
This decision comes hours after the electoral body had insisted it was still going ahed with the Saturday September 10th election despite an advise from the police and the DSS that the election should be postponed due to some security threats.
LIB
This decision comes hours after the electoral body had insisted it was still going ahed with the Saturday September 10th election despite an advise from the police and the DSS that the election should be postponed due to some security threats.
LIB
Thursday, 8 September 2016
Open Heavens 8 September 2016: Thursday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Do You Need Deliverance?
Topic: Do You Need Deliverance? [Thursday 8, September 2016]
Memorise: And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; – Mark 16:17
Read: James 5:13-15 (KJV)
13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 29:24-31:40, Psalms 52
MESSAGE:
Deliverance implies the rescue or liberation of a person from danger, suffering, bondage and sin. It also indicates freedom from people, forces or circumstances that are overwhelming. Sometimes, deliverance involves the expulsion of an evil spirit or spirits from a person. Deliverance focuses on captives, prisoners of war, slaves, debtors, suspected criminals, deportees, exiles, condemned sinners, and the oppressed. These people are often treated with great cruelty and indignity. Another focus of deliverance includes individuals dominated by the influence of a demon. Deliverance should be taken seriously; many are presently suffering due to ignorance of the influence of the devil in their lives.
Being a victim is especially pathetic because it is quite difficult and practically impossible for anyone in this situation to make any progress in life or be delivered by self-help. Consequently, experiences of stagnancy, failure, fruitlessness, sickness, misfortune, etc., are possible indications that deliverance is required. I prophecy into the life of a user of this devotional that is experiencing any of these evil conditions, you shall be delivered today in Jesus’ name. Incidentally, hope for deliverance is certain because there is a powerful Saviour and Deliverer, His name is Jesus. All power in Heaven and on earth belongs to Him. Every person and circumstance of life is subject to His authority, and demons are powerless before Him. Matthew 17:18 says;
“And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.”
At the Word of Jesus or at the mention of His name by a disciple, demons flew out and people were delivered. Once again, I decree in the name of Jesus, receive deliverance from every form of bondage now. Matthew 10:1 says;
“And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.”
Do you need deliverance of any kind? Accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, make every effort to avoid self-destructive behaviours of immorality and sin. Then seek a true disciple of Jesus with delegated power and authority over demons, who will call upon the name of Jesus for your deliverance. Intensive prayers with a word of command will dislodge the stronghold of the enemy in your life today in the name of Jesus.
Prayer Point: Father, please set me free from every bondage of the devil today in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; – Mark 16:17
Read: James 5:13-15 (KJV)
13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 29:24-31:40, Psalms 52
MESSAGE:
Deliverance implies the rescue or liberation of a person from danger, suffering, bondage and sin. It also indicates freedom from people, forces or circumstances that are overwhelming. Sometimes, deliverance involves the expulsion of an evil spirit or spirits from a person. Deliverance focuses on captives, prisoners of war, slaves, debtors, suspected criminals, deportees, exiles, condemned sinners, and the oppressed. These people are often treated with great cruelty and indignity. Another focus of deliverance includes individuals dominated by the influence of a demon. Deliverance should be taken seriously; many are presently suffering due to ignorance of the influence of the devil in their lives.
Being a victim is especially pathetic because it is quite difficult and practically impossible for anyone in this situation to make any progress in life or be delivered by self-help. Consequently, experiences of stagnancy, failure, fruitlessness, sickness, misfortune, etc., are possible indications that deliverance is required. I prophecy into the life of a user of this devotional that is experiencing any of these evil conditions, you shall be delivered today in Jesus’ name. Incidentally, hope for deliverance is certain because there is a powerful Saviour and Deliverer, His name is Jesus. All power in Heaven and on earth belongs to Him. Every person and circumstance of life is subject to His authority, and demons are powerless before Him. Matthew 17:18 says;
“And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.”
At the Word of Jesus or at the mention of His name by a disciple, demons flew out and people were delivered. Once again, I decree in the name of Jesus, receive deliverance from every form of bondage now. Matthew 10:1 says;
“And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.”
Do you need deliverance of any kind? Accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, make every effort to avoid self-destructive behaviours of immorality and sin. Then seek a true disciple of Jesus with delegated power and authority over demons, who will call upon the name of Jesus for your deliverance. Intensive prayers with a word of command will dislodge the stronghold of the enemy in your life today in the name of Jesus.
Prayer Point: Father, please set me free from every bondage of the devil today in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Wednesday, 7 September 2016
Our Daily Bread devotional, September 7, 2016 - She Did What She Could
Topic: She Did What She Could [September 7, 2016]
Read: Mark 14:3–9, Bible in a Year: Proverbs 1–2; 1 Corinthians 16
She did what she could. Mark 14:8
When her friends say thoughtless or outrageous things on social media, Charlotte chimes in with gentle but firm dissent. She respects the dignity of everyone, and her words are unfailingly positive.
A few years ago she became Facebook friends with a man who harbored anger toward Christians. He appreciated Charlotte’s rare honesty and grace. Over time his hostility melted. Then Charlotte suffered a bad fall. Now housebound, she fretted over what she could do. About that time her Facebook friend died and then this message arrived from his sister: “[Because of your witness] I know he’s now experiencing God’s complete and abiding love for him.”
During the week in which Christ would be killed, Mary of Bethany anointed Him with expensive perfume (John 12:3; Mark 14:3). Some of those present were appalled, but Jesus applauded her. “She has done a beautiful thing to me,” He said. “She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial” (Mark 14:6–8).
“She did what she could.” Christ’s words take the pressure off. Our world is full of broken, hurting people. But we don’t have to worry about what we can’t do. Charlotte did what she could. So can we. The rest is in His capable hands.
Prayer: Lord, help us not to define our self-worth by what we do for You, but by what You have done for us. Show us how we can show Your love to others.
This message was written by Tim Gustafson [Our Daily Bread Ministries.]
Read: Mark 14:3–9, Bible in a Year: Proverbs 1–2; 1 Corinthians 16
She did what she could. Mark 14:8
When her friends say thoughtless or outrageous things on social media, Charlotte chimes in with gentle but firm dissent. She respects the dignity of everyone, and her words are unfailingly positive.
A few years ago she became Facebook friends with a man who harbored anger toward Christians. He appreciated Charlotte’s rare honesty and grace. Over time his hostility melted. Then Charlotte suffered a bad fall. Now housebound, she fretted over what she could do. About that time her Facebook friend died and then this message arrived from his sister: “[Because of your witness] I know he’s now experiencing God’s complete and abiding love for him.”
During the week in which Christ would be killed, Mary of Bethany anointed Him with expensive perfume (John 12:3; Mark 14:3). Some of those present were appalled, but Jesus applauded her. “She has done a beautiful thing to me,” He said. “She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial” (Mark 14:6–8).
“She did what she could.” Christ’s words take the pressure off. Our world is full of broken, hurting people. But we don’t have to worry about what we can’t do. Charlotte did what she could. So can we. The rest is in His capable hands.
Prayer: Lord, help us not to define our self-worth by what we do for You, but by what You have done for us. Show us how we can show Your love to others.
This message was written by Tim Gustafson [Our Daily Bread Ministries.]
Open Heavens 7 September 2016: Wednesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – He Shall Surely Return
Topic: He Shall Surely Return [Wednesday 7, September 2016]
Memorise: Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.– Acts 1:11
Read: Acts 1:8-11 (KJV)
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 27:1-29:23, Psalms 51
MESSAGE:
One of the chief messages of the Bible is that Jesus Christ will return visibly and in glory at the end of history. First to raise the dead, judge the world, and then destroy all evil and opposition to God. He will thereafter consummate His kingdom. Christians are encouraged to be prepared for the second coming of Jesus Christ with eagerness and joy. Several passages of the Old Testament Bible predicted the second coming of Jesus, Daniel 7:13-14 says:
“13…one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven… 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.”
Also, several passages of the New Testament Bible foretold the second coming of Jesus. In Acts 1:11, two angels announced the second coming of Christ by saying:
“…Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.”
However, because at least two thousand years have passed without the actual fulfilment of this prophecy, unbelievers and Christians alike are beginning to doubt the reality or possibility of rapture or the second coming of Jesus Christ. Brethren, do not be deceived, JESUS IS COMING BACK AGAIN. This truth is very important to the continued relevance of the Church of God in general and that of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in particular. Focusing on the second coming of Jesus Christ should be our duty, in order to realign the worldview and mindset of Christians and unbelievers alike with the Word of God. The matter is settled in Heaven and the earth has witnessed the fulfilment of almost all the signs of the end time as recorded in the Word of God.
We are witnesses to the increased knowledge, false prophets, wars and rumours of wars, famines, and earthquakes, the re-gathering of the nation of Israel, man’s inhumanity to man extreme wickedness, and diverse forms of immorality. The second coming of Jesus will occur unexpectedly at God’s appointed time. Be warned, be watchful and be ready.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace not to get weary while waiting for Your second coming in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.– Acts 1:11
Read: Acts 1:8-11 (KJV)
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 27:1-29:23, Psalms 51
MESSAGE:
One of the chief messages of the Bible is that Jesus Christ will return visibly and in glory at the end of history. First to raise the dead, judge the world, and then destroy all evil and opposition to God. He will thereafter consummate His kingdom. Christians are encouraged to be prepared for the second coming of Jesus Christ with eagerness and joy. Several passages of the Old Testament Bible predicted the second coming of Jesus, Daniel 7:13-14 says:
“13…one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven… 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.”
Also, several passages of the New Testament Bible foretold the second coming of Jesus. In Acts 1:11, two angels announced the second coming of Christ by saying:
“…Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.”
However, because at least two thousand years have passed without the actual fulfilment of this prophecy, unbelievers and Christians alike are beginning to doubt the reality or possibility of rapture or the second coming of Jesus Christ. Brethren, do not be deceived, JESUS IS COMING BACK AGAIN. This truth is very important to the continued relevance of the Church of God in general and that of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in particular. Focusing on the second coming of Jesus Christ should be our duty, in order to realign the worldview and mindset of Christians and unbelievers alike with the Word of God. The matter is settled in Heaven and the earth has witnessed the fulfilment of almost all the signs of the end time as recorded in the Word of God.
We are witnesses to the increased knowledge, false prophets, wars and rumours of wars, famines, and earthquakes, the re-gathering of the nation of Israel, man’s inhumanity to man extreme wickedness, and diverse forms of immorality. The second coming of Jesus will occur unexpectedly at God’s appointed time. Be warned, be watchful and be ready.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace not to get weary while waiting for Your second coming in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Tuesday, 6 September 2016
This devaluation ‘be like’ 419!
By Henry Boyo
The IMF and other respectable international financial agencies and local economic experts have commended the recent devaluation via a floating naira exchange rate, as an ‘investment’ that would ultimately yield great dividends. We are encouraged to believe that the new forex regime will recharge our economy and sustain inclusive growth with increasing job opportunities, and also reduce our almost total dependence on crude oil, by facilitating the actualisation of a diversified economy.
It is also suggested that devaluation will create a level playing ground to attract investors to build more refineries and similarly, immediately encourage marketers to import fuel to reduce the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation’s present monopoly.
Nonetheless, the promise that the new policy would attract the much needed forex inflow is probably the most notable claim by supporters of a much weaker naira. Consequently, the Central Bank of Nigeria trusts that the estimated $10bn-$15bn hurriedly evacuated from Nigeria, when oil prices slumped, will be channelled back by foreign portfolio investors. Sadly, however, the present level of uncertainty and insecurity induced by our socio-economic tensions may not encourage a quick return of such hot money, for now.
Traditionally, portfolio investors primarily target the exceptionally high returns on the CBN and the Federal Government’s loans. Thus, such investors may borrow at lower rates, below five per cent from offshore banks and reap a net harvest of 10 per cent plus in Nigeria, even when the proceeds from these loans are not socially impactful.
Unfortunately, the clearly elevated level of insecurity and naira rate instability may also deter potential ‘foreign direct investors’, whose operations invariably add value to our industries and infrastructure while supportively creating more jobs. Thus, the sharp naira depreciation with a floating exchange rate may not immediately propel the expected return of over $10bn earlier scrambled away from Nigeria. Consequently, it is clearly misleading to insist that a bountiful inflow of dollars will soon stabilise the exchange rate, as often speculated by some experts.
Incidentally, barely eight hours after the commencement of the new forex floating rate, the cost of its ‘yet to be realised speculated ‘regenerative’ benefits’, had already made horrendous dents on our economy. For a start, Nigeria’s erstwhile celebrated $510bn Gross Domestic Product, immediately crashed below $350bn, while per capita income crashed from over $1000 to well below $600 to deepen mass poverty. In addition, the dollar value of all equity listed on the Nigeria Stock market also plunged from almost $48bn on Friday, June 17 to below $25bn on Monday, June 20.
Invariably, all asset values denominated in naira, also immediately fell below 60 per cent of their dollar purchasing values overnight! Similarly, the equally celebrated $25bn plus accumulated national pension funds lost over $10bn, just like that, to imperil the future welfare of our senior citizens.
Furthermore, all outstanding dollar denominated loans will henceforth also require almost 50 per cent more naira to service and repay, while additional assets will be demanded to supplement existing collaterals. Consequently, widespread default on foreign loans and outstanding import bills will be common. Thus, billions of dollars credit lines, which hitherto supportively restrained the cost of raw materials imports to local industries, may also be cut to further instigate higher operational costs which will also challenge the export competitiveness of Nigeria’s real sector.
The naira value of all external public sector debt obligations will similarly increase and raise the ratio between annual debt service charges and total actual income well beyond the precarious level of N35 on every N100 revenue. Worse still, if the 2016 budget deficit of N2tn is additionally captured, we may ultimately need to allocate over 50 per cent of earned revenue annually to service our national debts in the near future!
Although the NNPC management has remained unexpectedly reticent on the impact of the new forex policy on fuel prices, however, the pump price of petrol cannot remain at the pegged price of N145/litre, if crude price remains steady above $45/barrel and the naira exchanges for N280=$1 or more. Indeed, unless the NNPC accommodates a new round of subsidies, petrol price will exceed N200/litre.
Nevertheless, since budget 2016 made no provision for subsidy, a deregulated price regime based on a floating exchange rate will certainly spike petrol price and correspondingly propel inflation well above 20 per cent to reduce consumer demand while conversely raising the cost of funds, with a collateral adverse impact on investments and job creation.
In addition, the recently established electricity tariff structure, earlier predicated on N197=$1, will become unsustainable, and a further hike in electricity tariff will be inevitable.
Sadly the celebrated 30 per cent 2016 capital budget will also suffer, as the significant import components usually required for infrastructure may now require an additional loan of N300bn or more to fully implement. Consequently, public expectation for urgent infrastructural remediation will sadly remain on hold.
Regrettably, our desire to diversify economy away from crude oil will also become severely challenged by increasingly irrepressible production cost, which will invariably sustain inflation well beyond the current 16 per cent. The CBN will therefore be compelled to raise monetary policy rate to levels that will push cost of funds well above 30 per cent, to unwittingly make import substitutes more competitive. Ultimately, real sector operations will become crippled and any hope of economic diversification will gradually fade.
On the security front, the fiscal allocations voted to increase the capacity of the security agencies, will become inadequate and require additional appropriation to implement. Sadly, however, our presently parlous financial state will obviously make such supplementary allocation a challenge, unless we further deepen an already oppressive debt burden.
In truth, we were all literally cut to size with a stroke of the pen by government’s precipitate approval of the new forex policy. Invariably, any offshore expenditure we all make hereafter will require almost 50 per cent more naira to fund. Ultimately, the question must be why we readily surrendered a pound of our flesh in return for a platter of clearly unrealistic promises and benefits, just like a gullible victim of a 419 scam.”
The above article was first published soon after the CBN’s decision to float naira exchange rate in June 2016. Ironically, Nigerians immediately lost over $30bn from the grossly depreciated international currency value of stock market capitalisation and the national pension funds in the hope of attracting an uncertain $15bn from characteristically predatory, nimble footed foreign portfolio investors! Sadly, these values will increase as the naira exchange rate plunges below N300=$1.
However, two months after the naira float, the National Bureau of Statistics has expectedly confirmed that Nigeria’s economy had indeed recorded unyielding negative growth rates between January-June 2016. Thus, in place of growth, the unfortunate reality is that the wheels of the economy were, sadly, already actually in a reverse gear during the period preceding the odious devaluation, which inadvertently further spiked the prices of most goods and services well beyond the levels which existed before the naira crash.
Invariably, an inflationary pressure will subsist for the rest of 2016 while the collateral of higher MPR and cost of funds, rising poisonously beyond 30 per cent will dampen any hope of early economic recovery and certainly restrain the creation of more job opportunities. See also, “Economy: The flood gates have been breached”, published on June 20, 2016 at www.lesleba.com.
Sadly, any frenzied attempt to stimulate spending and regenerate the economy with selected sectoral cash interventions, may also ironically challenge the CBN’s attempt to restrain inflation in a market that is already threatened by the unusual burden of persistent excess naira liquidity. Consequently, if the naira exchange rate also continues to slide, it will certainly be a miracle for the CBN to achieve its prime mandate for price stability.
- Henry Boyo
The IMF and other respectable international financial agencies and local economic experts have commended the recent devaluation via a floating naira exchange rate, as an ‘investment’ that would ultimately yield great dividends. We are encouraged to believe that the new forex regime will recharge our economy and sustain inclusive growth with increasing job opportunities, and also reduce our almost total dependence on crude oil, by facilitating the actualisation of a diversified economy.
It is also suggested that devaluation will create a level playing ground to attract investors to build more refineries and similarly, immediately encourage marketers to import fuel to reduce the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation’s present monopoly.
Nonetheless, the promise that the new policy would attract the much needed forex inflow is probably the most notable claim by supporters of a much weaker naira. Consequently, the Central Bank of Nigeria trusts that the estimated $10bn-$15bn hurriedly evacuated from Nigeria, when oil prices slumped, will be channelled back by foreign portfolio investors. Sadly, however, the present level of uncertainty and insecurity induced by our socio-economic tensions may not encourage a quick return of such hot money, for now.
Traditionally, portfolio investors primarily target the exceptionally high returns on the CBN and the Federal Government’s loans. Thus, such investors may borrow at lower rates, below five per cent from offshore banks and reap a net harvest of 10 per cent plus in Nigeria, even when the proceeds from these loans are not socially impactful.
Unfortunately, the clearly elevated level of insecurity and naira rate instability may also deter potential ‘foreign direct investors’, whose operations invariably add value to our industries and infrastructure while supportively creating more jobs. Thus, the sharp naira depreciation with a floating exchange rate may not immediately propel the expected return of over $10bn earlier scrambled away from Nigeria. Consequently, it is clearly misleading to insist that a bountiful inflow of dollars will soon stabilise the exchange rate, as often speculated by some experts.
Incidentally, barely eight hours after the commencement of the new forex floating rate, the cost of its ‘yet to be realised speculated ‘regenerative’ benefits’, had already made horrendous dents on our economy. For a start, Nigeria’s erstwhile celebrated $510bn Gross Domestic Product, immediately crashed below $350bn, while per capita income crashed from over $1000 to well below $600 to deepen mass poverty. In addition, the dollar value of all equity listed on the Nigeria Stock market also plunged from almost $48bn on Friday, June 17 to below $25bn on Monday, June 20.
Invariably, all asset values denominated in naira, also immediately fell below 60 per cent of their dollar purchasing values overnight! Similarly, the equally celebrated $25bn plus accumulated national pension funds lost over $10bn, just like that, to imperil the future welfare of our senior citizens.
Furthermore, all outstanding dollar denominated loans will henceforth also require almost 50 per cent more naira to service and repay, while additional assets will be demanded to supplement existing collaterals. Consequently, widespread default on foreign loans and outstanding import bills will be common. Thus, billions of dollars credit lines, which hitherto supportively restrained the cost of raw materials imports to local industries, may also be cut to further instigate higher operational costs which will also challenge the export competitiveness of Nigeria’s real sector.
The naira value of all external public sector debt obligations will similarly increase and raise the ratio between annual debt service charges and total actual income well beyond the precarious level of N35 on every N100 revenue. Worse still, if the 2016 budget deficit of N2tn is additionally captured, we may ultimately need to allocate over 50 per cent of earned revenue annually to service our national debts in the near future!
Although the NNPC management has remained unexpectedly reticent on the impact of the new forex policy on fuel prices, however, the pump price of petrol cannot remain at the pegged price of N145/litre, if crude price remains steady above $45/barrel and the naira exchanges for N280=$1 or more. Indeed, unless the NNPC accommodates a new round of subsidies, petrol price will exceed N200/litre.
Nevertheless, since budget 2016 made no provision for subsidy, a deregulated price regime based on a floating exchange rate will certainly spike petrol price and correspondingly propel inflation well above 20 per cent to reduce consumer demand while conversely raising the cost of funds, with a collateral adverse impact on investments and job creation.
In addition, the recently established electricity tariff structure, earlier predicated on N197=$1, will become unsustainable, and a further hike in electricity tariff will be inevitable.
Sadly the celebrated 30 per cent 2016 capital budget will also suffer, as the significant import components usually required for infrastructure may now require an additional loan of N300bn or more to fully implement. Consequently, public expectation for urgent infrastructural remediation will sadly remain on hold.
Regrettably, our desire to diversify economy away from crude oil will also become severely challenged by increasingly irrepressible production cost, which will invariably sustain inflation well beyond the current 16 per cent. The CBN will therefore be compelled to raise monetary policy rate to levels that will push cost of funds well above 30 per cent, to unwittingly make import substitutes more competitive. Ultimately, real sector operations will become crippled and any hope of economic diversification will gradually fade.
On the security front, the fiscal allocations voted to increase the capacity of the security agencies, will become inadequate and require additional appropriation to implement. Sadly, however, our presently parlous financial state will obviously make such supplementary allocation a challenge, unless we further deepen an already oppressive debt burden.
In truth, we were all literally cut to size with a stroke of the pen by government’s precipitate approval of the new forex policy. Invariably, any offshore expenditure we all make hereafter will require almost 50 per cent more naira to fund. Ultimately, the question must be why we readily surrendered a pound of our flesh in return for a platter of clearly unrealistic promises and benefits, just like a gullible victim of a 419 scam.”
The above article was first published soon after the CBN’s decision to float naira exchange rate in June 2016. Ironically, Nigerians immediately lost over $30bn from the grossly depreciated international currency value of stock market capitalisation and the national pension funds in the hope of attracting an uncertain $15bn from characteristically predatory, nimble footed foreign portfolio investors! Sadly, these values will increase as the naira exchange rate plunges below N300=$1.
However, two months after the naira float, the National Bureau of Statistics has expectedly confirmed that Nigeria’s economy had indeed recorded unyielding negative growth rates between January-June 2016. Thus, in place of growth, the unfortunate reality is that the wheels of the economy were, sadly, already actually in a reverse gear during the period preceding the odious devaluation, which inadvertently further spiked the prices of most goods and services well beyond the levels which existed before the naira crash.
Invariably, an inflationary pressure will subsist for the rest of 2016 while the collateral of higher MPR and cost of funds, rising poisonously beyond 30 per cent will dampen any hope of early economic recovery and certainly restrain the creation of more job opportunities. See also, “Economy: The flood gates have been breached”, published on June 20, 2016 at www.lesleba.com.
Sadly, any frenzied attempt to stimulate spending and regenerate the economy with selected sectoral cash interventions, may also ironically challenge the CBN’s attempt to restrain inflation in a market that is already threatened by the unusual burden of persistent excess naira liquidity. Consequently, if the naira exchange rate also continues to slide, it will certainly be a miracle for the CBN to achieve its prime mandate for price stability.
- Henry Boyo
Open Heavens 6 September 2016: Tuesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – The Lord is in Charge
Topic: The Lord is in Charge [Tuesday 6, September 2016]
Memorise: The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice! – Psalms 21:1
Read: Daniel 4:30-35 (KJV)
30 The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty?
31 While the word was in the king's mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; The kingdom is departed from thee.
32 And they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field: they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee, until thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.
33 The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles' feathers, and his nails like birds' claws.
34 And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation:
35 And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 25-26, Psalms 50:16-23
MESSAGE:
To be in charge or in control is the exercise of authority and restraint over individuals, events, situations, or circumstances of life. The Bible stresses the fact that God is sovereign over all creation; He has absolute authority and control over everything in Heaven and on earth. But a limited degree of control over creation is delegated to humanity. However, man has gained tremendous knowledge of the universe over time and this has translated to an increase level of authority and control over situations and circumstances in life. Man has acquired advanced knowledge in computer science, geography, medicine, mathematics, genetic engineering, archaeology, and space technology, to mention but few. As a result of these achievements, humanity has wrongly assumed that they are the master of the universe and therefore in ultimate charge.
Contrary to this human belief, the Bible teaches that God controls the affairs of Heaven and earth. Deuteronomy 4:39 says:
“Know therefore this day, and consider it in thine heart, that the LORD he is God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: there is none else.”
Also, Daniel 4:35 says;
“And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?”
From these passages, it is clear that God is unquestionable; He does as He pleases in the distribution of His mercies, blessings, and favour. He gives strength, He makes great, He promotes, He gives knowledge and wisdom, all at His pleasure.
The Lord controls human hearts, He controls time and seasons, He removes kings and sets up others in their place. He controls the weather and fixes human destiny (Daniel 2:22). He is the source of every creation, the Fountain of life, the Channel of goodness from whom all blessings flow. All hail the true Master of the universe, the Redeemer of human kind and the Saviour of the whole world. Matthew 25:34 says:
“Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:”
Prayer Point: Father, please silence every opposition to your authority as the master of the universe in my life in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice! – Psalms 21:1
Read: Daniel 4:30-35 (KJV)
30 The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty?
31 While the word was in the king's mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; The kingdom is departed from thee.
32 And they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field: they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee, until thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.
33 The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles' feathers, and his nails like birds' claws.
34 And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation:
35 And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 25-26, Psalms 50:16-23
MESSAGE:
To be in charge or in control is the exercise of authority and restraint over individuals, events, situations, or circumstances of life. The Bible stresses the fact that God is sovereign over all creation; He has absolute authority and control over everything in Heaven and on earth. But a limited degree of control over creation is delegated to humanity. However, man has gained tremendous knowledge of the universe over time and this has translated to an increase level of authority and control over situations and circumstances in life. Man has acquired advanced knowledge in computer science, geography, medicine, mathematics, genetic engineering, archaeology, and space technology, to mention but few. As a result of these achievements, humanity has wrongly assumed that they are the master of the universe and therefore in ultimate charge.
Contrary to this human belief, the Bible teaches that God controls the affairs of Heaven and earth. Deuteronomy 4:39 says:
“Know therefore this day, and consider it in thine heart, that the LORD he is God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: there is none else.”
Also, Daniel 4:35 says;
“And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?”
From these passages, it is clear that God is unquestionable; He does as He pleases in the distribution of His mercies, blessings, and favour. He gives strength, He makes great, He promotes, He gives knowledge and wisdom, all at His pleasure.
The Lord controls human hearts, He controls time and seasons, He removes kings and sets up others in their place. He controls the weather and fixes human destiny (Daniel 2:22). He is the source of every creation, the Fountain of life, the Channel of goodness from whom all blessings flow. All hail the true Master of the universe, the Redeemer of human kind and the Saviour of the whole world. Matthew 25:34 says:
“Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:”
Prayer Point: Father, please silence every opposition to your authority as the master of the universe in my life in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Monday, 5 September 2016
Winning Wisdom: Satan Doesn't Know Your Destiny
Topic: Satan Doesn't Know Your Destiny [5/9/2016]
Text: 1 Corinthians 2:6-8
Have you ever had the feeling that Satan knows your future and the beautiful destiny God has for you, and that is why he is doing all he can to make you fail in life? Well, that feeling is not the truth. It's just Satan giving you a chill to make you apprehensive, and make you think that he is all-knowing. Satan is a spirit who is just only wiser than the natural man. And like the natural man, he can only guess or forecast what the future will be, by using present and past indices and antecedence. He does not know the truth about the future. Only God knows your destiny, because He only is Omniscient.
Your destiny can only be revealed by God and when God does reveal it, it is to gods - you and I. (1 Corinthians 2:9-10). If Satan knew that Jesus' death will lead to the salvation of men, he would never have attempted killing him. None of the princes of this world knew about Jesus' destiny and even Satan, who is the head of the princes of this world, never knew (John 14:30). "For had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (1 Corinthians 2:8).
Satan cannot stop you from fulfilling your destiny. All he has been doing and will still do will only aid you fulfill your destiny. Just like he thought killing Jesus will stop him from being the Saviour of the world, he is still thinking that bringing challenges your way will stop you from fulfilling purpose. But it is written concerning you, "and we know that ALL THINGS work together for good to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are the called ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE" (Romans 8:28). Satan is not a militating factor in your destiny, because he knows nothing about it.
Keep winning daily.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for keeping the details of my life away from Satan. Now I know that all he is doing is to aid me to fulfill destiny. I live in this light, unafraid of whatever he brings my way, because I know it is all working together for my good, in Jesus' name. Amen.
#Prophecy23.9.16 #SapeleCity
By Ese Ehimare Dave
Text: 1 Corinthians 2:6-8
Have you ever had the feeling that Satan knows your future and the beautiful destiny God has for you, and that is why he is doing all he can to make you fail in life? Well, that feeling is not the truth. It's just Satan giving you a chill to make you apprehensive, and make you think that he is all-knowing. Satan is a spirit who is just only wiser than the natural man. And like the natural man, he can only guess or forecast what the future will be, by using present and past indices and antecedence. He does not know the truth about the future. Only God knows your destiny, because He only is Omniscient.
Your destiny can only be revealed by God and when God does reveal it, it is to gods - you and I. (1 Corinthians 2:9-10). If Satan knew that Jesus' death will lead to the salvation of men, he would never have attempted killing him. None of the princes of this world knew about Jesus' destiny and even Satan, who is the head of the princes of this world, never knew (John 14:30). "For had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (1 Corinthians 2:8).
Satan cannot stop you from fulfilling your destiny. All he has been doing and will still do will only aid you fulfill your destiny. Just like he thought killing Jesus will stop him from being the Saviour of the world, he is still thinking that bringing challenges your way will stop you from fulfilling purpose. But it is written concerning you, "and we know that ALL THINGS work together for good to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are the called ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE" (Romans 8:28). Satan is not a militating factor in your destiny, because he knows nothing about it.
Keep winning daily.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for keeping the details of my life away from Satan. Now I know that all he is doing is to aid me to fulfill destiny. I live in this light, unafraid of whatever he brings my way, because I know it is all working together for my good, in Jesus' name. Amen.
#Prophecy23.9.16 #SapeleCity
By Ese Ehimare Dave
Open Heavens 7 September 2016: Wednesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – He Shall Surely Return
Topic: He Shall Surely Return [Wednesday 7, September 2016]
Memorise: Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.– Acts 1:11
Read: Acts 1:8-11 (KJV)
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 27:1-29:23, Psalms 51
MESSAGE:
One of the chief messages of the Bible is that Jesus Christ will return visibly and in glory at the end of history. First to raise the dead, judge the world, and then destroy all evil and opposition to God. He will thereafter consummate His kingdom. Christians are encouraged to be prepared for the second coming of Jesus Christ with eagerness and joy. Several passages of the Old Testament Bible predicted the second coming of Jesus, Daniel 7:13-14 says:
“13…one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven… 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.”
Also, several passages of the New Testament Bible foretold the second coming of Jesus. In Acts 1:11, two angels announced the second coming of Christ by saying:
“…Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.”
However, because at least two thousand years have passed without the actual fulfilment of this prophecy, unbelievers and Christians alike are beginning to doubt the reality or possibility of rapture or the second coming of Jesus Christ. Brethren, do not be deceived, JESUS IS COMING BACK AGAIN. This truth is very important to the continued relevance of the Church of God in general and that of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in particular. Focusing on the second coming of Jesus Christ should be our duty, in order to realign the worldview and mindset of Christians and unbelievers alike with the Word of God. The matter is settled in Heaven and the earth has witnessed the fulfilment of almost all the signs of the end time as recorded in the Word of God.
We are witnesses to the increased knowledge, false prophets, wars and rumours of wars, famines, and earthquakes, the re-gathering of the nation of Israel, man’s inhumanity to man extreme wickedness, and diverse forms of immorality. The second coming of Jesus will occur unexpectedly at God’s appointed time. Be warned, be watchful and be ready.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace not to get weary while waiting for Your second coming in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.– Acts 1:11
Read: Acts 1:8-11 (KJV)
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 27:1-29:23, Psalms 51
MESSAGE:
One of the chief messages of the Bible is that Jesus Christ will return visibly and in glory at the end of history. First to raise the dead, judge the world, and then destroy all evil and opposition to God. He will thereafter consummate His kingdom. Christians are encouraged to be prepared for the second coming of Jesus Christ with eagerness and joy. Several passages of the Old Testament Bible predicted the second coming of Jesus, Daniel 7:13-14 says:
“13…one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven… 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.”
Also, several passages of the New Testament Bible foretold the second coming of Jesus. In Acts 1:11, two angels announced the second coming of Christ by saying:
“…Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.”
However, because at least two thousand years have passed without the actual fulfilment of this prophecy, unbelievers and Christians alike are beginning to doubt the reality or possibility of rapture or the second coming of Jesus Christ. Brethren, do not be deceived, JESUS IS COMING BACK AGAIN. This truth is very important to the continued relevance of the Church of God in general and that of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in particular. Focusing on the second coming of Jesus Christ should be our duty, in order to realign the worldview and mindset of Christians and unbelievers alike with the Word of God. The matter is settled in Heaven and the earth has witnessed the fulfilment of almost all the signs of the end time as recorded in the Word of God.
We are witnesses to the increased knowledge, false prophets, wars and rumours of wars, famines, and earthquakes, the re-gathering of the nation of Israel, man’s inhumanity to man extreme wickedness, and diverse forms of immorality. The second coming of Jesus will occur unexpectedly at God’s appointed time. Be warned, be watchful and be ready.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace not to get weary while waiting for Your second coming in Jesus’ name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Open Heavens 5 September 2016: Monday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – The Good side of Wealth
Topic: The Good side of Wealth [Monday 5, September 2016]
Memorise: The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. – Proverbs 22:7
Read: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 (KJV)
9 And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow.
10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 22:11-24:10, Psalms 50:1-15
MESSAGE:
Wealth is generally interpreted as the abundance of goods or money. However, Biblical reference to wealth is always within the framework of economic, social, cultural, spiritual and political settings of the people. Therefore, terms such as ‘rich’ and ‘poor’ are relative to the context in which they are used in the Bible. Wealth is mostly attached to people or nations but the Bible also mentioned wealthy individuals such as Abraham, Job, David, Solomon, the Queen of Sheba, etc. The New Testament Bible occasionally mentioned wealthy individuals such as Joseph of Arimathaea, the rich man in Luke 16:1, Cornelius in Acts 10, Prisca and Aquila, etc.
However, positive references to wealth are few in the Bible; references to personal wealth almost always carries some negative implication. Many statements of Jesus could be viewed as unfair criticisms of wealth. In Mark 10:23-25, He said it is extremely difficult for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God. In Mark 4:19, He said the quest for wealth chokes God’s Word. Matthew 6:24 and some other Scriptures says, one cannot serve God and Mammon. In Luke 21:1-4, a poor widow is more generous than rich people. 1 Timothy 6:10 declares that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. To wrap it up, Luke 6:24 concludes by saying “woe to you who are rich”. Revelation 3:17:18 says;
“Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed….”
However, there is a good side to wealth, having material prosperity or being wealthy is not a ticket to hell after all. God has created an abundance of good things for human enjoyment, but those who have material wealth should understand the true nature of earthly riches and acknowledge God as the source of all blessings. Hence, riches should be thankfully received, and Christians must value Heavenly riches more than earthly wealth. Those that are wealthy in this world must be generous to the poor and ensure that their hearts are not set on their wealth. Finally, in appreciation to God for His blessings, they should devote their riches to God’s service by sponsoring the gospel and the work of the ministry.
Prayer Point: Father, please send poverty far away from me and make me a divine treasurer.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Memorise: The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. – Proverbs 22:7
Read: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 (KJV)
9 And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow.
10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 22:11-24:10, Psalms 50:1-15
MESSAGE:
Wealth is generally interpreted as the abundance of goods or money. However, Biblical reference to wealth is always within the framework of economic, social, cultural, spiritual and political settings of the people. Therefore, terms such as ‘rich’ and ‘poor’ are relative to the context in which they are used in the Bible. Wealth is mostly attached to people or nations but the Bible also mentioned wealthy individuals such as Abraham, Job, David, Solomon, the Queen of Sheba, etc. The New Testament Bible occasionally mentioned wealthy individuals such as Joseph of Arimathaea, the rich man in Luke 16:1, Cornelius in Acts 10, Prisca and Aquila, etc.
However, positive references to wealth are few in the Bible; references to personal wealth almost always carries some negative implication. Many statements of Jesus could be viewed as unfair criticisms of wealth. In Mark 10:23-25, He said it is extremely difficult for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God. In Mark 4:19, He said the quest for wealth chokes God’s Word. Matthew 6:24 and some other Scriptures says, one cannot serve God and Mammon. In Luke 21:1-4, a poor widow is more generous than rich people. 1 Timothy 6:10 declares that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. To wrap it up, Luke 6:24 concludes by saying “woe to you who are rich”. Revelation 3:17:18 says;
“Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed….”
However, there is a good side to wealth, having material prosperity or being wealthy is not a ticket to hell after all. God has created an abundance of good things for human enjoyment, but those who have material wealth should understand the true nature of earthly riches and acknowledge God as the source of all blessings. Hence, riches should be thankfully received, and Christians must value Heavenly riches more than earthly wealth. Those that are wealthy in this world must be generous to the poor and ensure that their hearts are not set on their wealth. Finally, in appreciation to God for His blessings, they should devote their riches to God’s service by sponsoring the gospel and the work of the ministry.
Prayer Point: Father, please send poverty far away from me and make me a divine treasurer.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
Sunday, 4 September 2016
#Ondo2016 Rotimi Akeredolu emerges as APC candidate
Towards election in Ondo state, A former president of the Nigerian Bar Association, Rotimi Akeredolu has emerged the governorship candidate of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State. He emerged the flag bearer following the state party's primary election held amidst tight security in Akure, the state capital Saturday September 3rd.
LIB..
LIB..
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