Category: ABBA 24

Sincere dating allows us to be original and confident

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Sincere dating allows us to be original and confident in the person we are.

 

First of all, let us look at the word DATING. Dating is a form of romantic courtship typically between two individuals with the aim of assessing the other’s suitability as a partner in an intimate relationship or as a spouse. 

  To be sincere means to be original, truthful, genuine, to be pure, to mean what one says or does, not lying. 

  In a relationship, dating is a very crucial period when partners try to know each other better. In some partners, the dating period determines the success or failure of their relationship. In the dating period, some partners claim who they are not, and that is why some spouses after their marriage will say ‘ I didn’t know that he/she is like this ‘. They have been pretending to be who they are not. Prov 12:22  says that the Lord detests lying lips but delights in people who are trustworthy.

 

Here are some reasons why sincere dating allows us to be original and confident in the person we are.

 

1) Sincere dating helps partners to build trust in each other. When you are sincere, your partner believes in whatever you say or do without any doubt or fear.

 

2) It helps us to be who we are. In some dating where sincerity is lacking, some partners will tell themselves many lies, and after their marriage, they will be surprised to see a different personality apart from whom they claim to be. It is better to be proud of whom we are. In Psalm 139:14, the Psalmist says ‘ I praise you Lord for I am fearfully and wonderfully made’.

 

3) It makes us to be confident anytime anywhere without being afraid of being exposed.

 

4) It inculcates self-esteem and self-respect.

When you lied about your real identity and your partner came to know, you have sold your self-esteem and self-respect. You will be ashamed of the outcome of your lies.

 

5) Sincere dating helps your partner to defend you anytime knowing fully that you are who you said you are. If someone comes to gossip about you,  your partner will defend you at all costs.

 

6) Sincere dating helps you to face any challenges in marriage.

If you are sincere during the dating period, if gives you the confidence to face any challenge that occurs in marriage knowing fully that the problem is not coming as a result of insincerity during dating.

In Ruth 1:1-end, the bible tells a story of Naomi and her daughters-in-law. Because sincerity had existed in their relationship, when challenges came upon them, Ruth didn’t abandon her mother-in-law and the bible told us how God rewarded her at last.

 

In conclusion,

Sincerity is the bedrock of any relationship. It builds love, confidence, and originality among partners.  It makes spouses to be happy and proud of each other.

May God help us to be sincere in life and in our relationship. Amen.

To pray for others is to pray for yourself.

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To pray for others is to pray for yourself.

 

To pray for others is to pray for yourself.There is a game my teacher in Sunday School introduced me to when I was younger. The game is called “angel and mortar.” In this game, the names of everyone in the room will be written on different pieces of paper and wrapped in such a way as to conceal the names. Each one of us would then pick up a name of a person already wrapped in a paper. 

 

After this, we would spend a particular period of time praying for the person we picked in our personal time with God. The game was conducted in such a way that the people we were praying for would not even be aware that we picked their names. At the end of the stipulated period, we would each then give our prayer partners special gifts they would appreciate. It was always a surreal experience and it was so much fun.

 

But beyond that, it was always fulfilling because it was a privilege to see someone you had prayed for doing better. The basis for this game as taught by our Sunday school teacher was the story of Job. The Bible says that God instructed Job to “pray for his friends,” after which his fortunes were restored. Now, it’s interesting to know that God did not tell Job to pray for himself before he would be restored. God rather told him to pray for his friends for his (Job’s) restoration (Job 42:7-10).

 

This teaches us that there is power when we pray for others and not just ourselves. Firstly, praying for others rids us of our natural selfishness. You know, there was a time I got so insecure around my younger sister. I was literally jealous of her. However, I was shocked to the bone when the Holy Spirit instructed me to pray for her. In my mind, I was like, “What in the world, God! That’s someone who is literally better than me in everything. How do I pray for someone to increase higher when I am so low?” But then, the Holy Spirit helped me and I did begin to pray for her. And God has come and is still coming through for me in various ways.

 

Intercession is a great thing. The Holy Spirit intercedes for us (Rom. 8:26-27). So does Jesus (Heb. 7:25), and He desires us to imitate and imbibe His nature. Truly, when you pray for others unselfishly and from your heart, God hears and He comes through for them – but not without coming through for you in an even greater way! God is pleased when we pray for each other. 

 

It shows that we are truly walking in love and we are truly concerned about one another’s well-being. It shows God that though we have our own problems, we are setting them aside, so we can bring to Him the problems of others. It shows that we are carrying one another’s burdens (hence fulfilling God’s law of love) (Gal. 6:2). What can make God happier than that? 

 

When God sees a heart that truly loves unselfishly and comes to Him – as a Father that cares – with the burdens of others, He will bless such a heart. 

 

Pray for someone today!

What prayer does to the praying soul

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  1. Prayer fosters intimacy with God: Through prayer, we communicate with God and develop a personal relationship with Him. This intimacy helps us grow in faith and trust in Him.

 

“And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” (Matthew 6:7-8)

 

  1. Prayer increases our reliance on God: By bringing our concerns, worries, and thanksgiving to God in prayer, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and strengthen our faith in His provision and guidance.

 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

 

  1. Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s will: When we pray consistently, we seek to align our desires and intentions with God’s plans for us. This alignment deepens our faith as we trust in His perfect will for our lives.

 

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” (1 John 5:14)

 

  1. Prayer brings about spiritual growth: Praying regularly helps us remain connected to God and His Word, leading to spiritual growth and maturity in our faith.

 

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18)

 

In conclusion, prayer is a powerful tool that strengthens our faith by fostering intimacy with God, increasing our reliance on Him, aligning our hearts with His will, and promoting our spiritual growth in Him.

Praying for others impacts our spiritual life

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YES, this statement is true because praying for others has a way of also impacting our own spiritual journey in ways we can never imagine. When we lift up the needs, struggles, and joys of others in prayer, we are exercising empathy, compassion, and selflessness. This act of putting others before ourselves is a reflection of the love of Christ and His teachings, which places emphasis on the importance of caring for and praying for one another.

 

One biblical example I would like to point out is the story of Job. Despite facing immense suffering and loss, Job prayed fervently for his friends, even though they had not been supportive or understanding of his own trials. In Job 42:10, we read, “And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he had prayed for his friends. And the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.” By praying for others, Job not only demonstrated his faith and obedience to God but also experienced restoration and blessings in his own life.

 

Another example is found in the book of James, where we are instructed to pray for one another so that we may be healed. James 5:16 states, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” This scripture emphasizes the interconnectedness of praying for others and receiving healing and restoration in our own lives.

 

Furthermore, the act of praying for others can also cultivate a spirit of gratitude and humility within us. As we reflect on the needs of those around us and bring them before God in prayer, we are reminded of the abundant blessings and grace that we have received. This sense of gratitude can deepen our relationship with God and increase our awareness of His presence and provision in our lives. Philippians 4:6 encourages us to present our requests to God with thanksgiving, acknowledging His faithfulness and goodness.

 

Also, praying for others can lead to a greater sense of unity and community within the body of Christ. When we pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ, we are strengthening the bonds of fellowship and mutual support that characterize the Church. Galatians 6:2 urges us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Through our prayers for others, we are sharing in their burdens and joys, demonstrating our love and commitment to the family of God.

 

Praying for others is not a waste of time. It is a beautiful way to love your neighbor and be a full partaker of the blessings that come with obedience.

God is neither an author of confusion nor disorder

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 God is not the author of confusion but He is the God of order. Here is what the verse says:

 

1Cor.14.33 For He [Who is the source of their prophesying] is not a God of confusion and disorder but of peace and order. As [is the practice] in all the churches of the saints (God’s people), (AMP)

 

From the way God works, we can see that indeed, He is a God of order. Take a peek at the story of creation. It shows us that God did not just create the universe in a second. Of course, He is God and would have just commanded everything to appear at once without anyone barking at Him or restraining Him. But still, He chose to create each element of the universe one at a time (See Genesis 1). Why did He do this? I believe it is because He intends to teach us something. He intends to let us in on His nature. He intends to tell us something – He is a God of ORDER!

 

Consider the human body too. In my field of study, I have learned that humans are made up of billions of tiny atoms which are organized into cells. These cells are further organized into tissues; which are organized into organs; which are still organized into systems that make up the human body. Now this is the same for every normal human on Earth. One of the striking characteristics of living things that continues to amaze scientists is their organization – their order. Now, Someone created humans. And He created them in His image and likeness (Gen. 1:27). Who does the award go to? GOD! And if the product is a magnificent embodiment of order, what would you expect of a perfect Manufacturer?

 

Look at how the stars are aligned; how the sun shines every morning; how flowers open up and close as they behold the sun; the metamorphosis of a butterfly. Boy, you can’t help but marvel at the God of order. He is not just a God or order but He establishes His nature in Heaven and on earth (Job 25:2)

 

Now, as humans, we have been created in God’s image and after His likeness. Not only that, but, we are born of Him (1 Jn. 5:1). Since this is so, He expects us to be people of order (Prov. 28:2).

 

God does not expect us to be people who rebel against authorities, constantly stir up conflicts, are disorderly at work, or cannot even keep a room neat and tidy. God expects us as His children to do things well and orderly as His representatives and ambassadors here on earth (2 Cor. 5:20). 

 

Also, God is not a God of confusion. A confused mind is not in tandem with a true Christian’s mind because we have the mind of Christ – and that is not a playground for confusion (1 Cor. 2:16). If you’re confused today, why don’t you ask God to make your mind more like His? Then, also renew your mind with His Word. Cease overthinking and trying to reason everything out (that is not to say, do not reason at all), but just cast your worries on God (1 Pet. 5:7). You know why? Because He cares for you. Yes, you!

 

So, today, why don’t you imitate God’s nature of order in your activities? Ask yourself, how can I show God’s nature of order by the way I behave? And then go do God’s thing through you. You’ve got this!

Walking in love builds a sense of community and unity

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Faith in God grows when you walk in love because love is at the core of a relationship with Him. In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” When we prioritize love in our daily interactions with others, we are embodying the essence of God’s commandments and showing our faith in action. By actively seeking to love and serve those around us, we demonstrate our trust in God’s plan and His ability to work through us.

 

Furthermore, walking in love helps us to see God’s hand in our lives and in the world around us. 1 John 4:12 states, “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.” When we choose to love others unconditionally, we open ourselves up to experiencing the presence of God in our hearts and in our relationships. This deepens our faith and strengthens our connection to Him as we witness His love flowing through us and touching the lives of those we encounter.

 

In addition, walking in love cultivates a spirit of humility and surrender, which are essential components of faith. Philippians 2:3-4 encourages us to, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” By putting the needs and well-being of others before our own desires, we demonstrate our trust in God’s plan and acknowledge His sovereignty over our lives. This act of selflessness and submission strengthens our faith as we surrender our will to His and trust in His perfect love and wisdom.

 

Moreover, walking in love builds a sense of community and unity among believers, creating a supportive environment for spiritual growth. Galatians 5:6 affirms that “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” As we come together in love and fellowship, we are able to encourage one another in our faith journeys and bear each other’s burdens. Showing love and compassion to our brothers and sisters in Christ helps us to build a strong foundation of faith that is rooted in mutual support and accountability. This collective expression of faith through love strengthens our individual beliefs and helps us to grow together as a unified body of believers.

Walking in love is a demonstration of faith

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Certainly! Walking in love is often seen as a demonstration of one’s faith in God because it reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ and the essence of Christianity. Walking in love can foster the growth of faith in God as it aligns with His nature and teachings.

1 John 4:12 (NIV): “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is made complete in us.” This verse suggests that when we love others, we manifest God’s presence in our lives, which deepens our awareness of Him and strengthens our faith.

Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV): Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” By imitating God’s love, as demonstrated through Jesus Christ, we draw closer to Him and grow in our understanding of His character, leading to increased faith.

1 Corinthians 13:2 (NIV): “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” This verse emphasizes that love is foundational to all other spiritual gifts and virtues, suggesting that walking in love is essential for genuine faith.

Galatians 5:6 (NIV): “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” This passage implies that true faith is demonstrated and validated by acts of love, suggesting that as we walk in love, our faith becomes more authentic and robust.

Colossians 3:14 (NIV):”And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Love is portrayed as the unifying force that holds together all other virtues, indicating that as we cultivate love in our lives, our faith and other spiritual qualities are strengthened and integrated.

By actively practicing love towards others, in accordance with biblical teachings, individuals not only reflect God’s character but also deepen their relationship with Him, resulting in the growth and maturation of their faith.

The Unique Power Of Patience

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According to Prov 14:29, A patient man has understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly. 

The above passage exposes patience as an attribute of a man with great understanding. A patient man is considered to have great understanding which is in contrast to a quick-tempered man who displays foolishness at a slight anger.

 

Patience is a virtue that justifies one as a man of great understanding. It helps one to display maturity instead of folly which is the quality of a bad-tempered man.

 

Patience enables one to think or reason before acting, not taking actions that are destructive or unreasonable.

 

 Col 3:12 “… clothe yourselves with … and patience”. encourages us to be patient especially when dealing with others who might be difficult to handle. Knowing fully well that patience is Christ’s quality. He is described as being lowly and so meek. This virtue makes one Christlike and shows one as being understanding.

 

In conclusion, I consider a patient man as a man of understanding. Whosoever possesses this gift of the holy spirit is a man of understanding.

According to Proverbs 14 vs 29 “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” Patience is a virtue from the Holy Spirit. Patience enables us not to make mistakes, as a high temper one will always commit blunder. Patience grants us the understanding to count the cost and evaluate the consequences before embarking on the task.

 

 Romans 12 vs 12 says we should be patient in tribulations and continue in instant prayer because God is always there for us to make us go through and come out victorious.

 

Galatians 6 vs 9 encouraged us not to be tired in well doing, in due season (being patient), we will reap good result. 

1 Corinthians 13 vs 4 showed us that Love is patient. It is love that fosters patience.

 

As I grow older, I seek patience and a better understanding of how the world works.

A patient man will always get away with many things.

 

A foolish man will destroy himself just like Nabal. Abigail a woman of patience acquired great understanding and saved herself from destruction (1 Samuel 25).

 

In conclusion, a man of patience will always continue to get more understanding in handling matters and situations. We can keep our hopes high by being patient. Foolishness can be seen in a lack of patience which is usually costly. Mistakes made out of a lack of patience may not be easy to correct. A patience man will get more knowledge and understanding (Proverbs 4 vs 7).

 

The Satisfaction Of The Appetite For Success

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The Satisfaction Of The Appetite For Success

1) It is a good thing to desire great things, that is, to have an appetite for success.

 

2) It is not enough just to have an appetite for success. Due diligence and hard work must be put in to satisfy your appetite and guarantee your success.

 

3) There is a reward for your efforts. When you put in much into life, you will enjoy true fulfillment and satisfaction. 

 

To explain further,

1) Having an appetite for success:

The word, “appetite” means, “a strong desire, eagerness or longing for something.” An appetite for success would mean a strong desire, eagerness or longing to succeed. Now, success to me is living your most fulfilled life – becoming all that God wants you to be to the fullest. 

 

To truly succeed in life, you need to be hungry for it. Let’s take an example with food. You would agree that once you are hungry or you crave a particular food, you become restless and that particular food becomes the only thing on your mind. You can do whatever you can within your means to satisfy that craving. Once you get it, however, you feel satisfied. But where did it all start? From a longing; a craving; a strong desire and an appetite. 

 

God’s Word says we are to hunger and thirst after righteousness (Matt. 5:6). We are to have a “healthy” appetite for it. God wants us to be hungry to become His best for us. We see Jesus having an appetite to succeed in His mission. The apostles did too, and so did the prophets and great men and women of God (Jn. 4:34, Acts 4:20, Jer. 20:9). 

 

He says that when we have this hunger – this appetite, we will be filled. We will become successful. 

 

But is that all that there is to it?

 

2) Working towards satisfying your appetite:

 

In God’s Word in Prov. 13:4, we see two kinds of people: The sluggards; slothful or lazy people, and The diligent or hardworking people.

 

Now, the Bible tells us that having an appetite will lead to us being filled. But how? By moping at God till He gives us this success? No! Rather, by working out our salvation with fear and trembling as He enables us (Phil 2:12-13). So, there is a place for work. Not just any kind of work, but hard work. 

 

If you truly desire success, then you must be willing to put in the yardwork, beyond just having the mere appetite for it. If you desire much in life, then you must put in much (Mk. 4:24). Staying idle complaining about the economy, or whining about how your parents never provided enough will only make you end in penury. 

 

No person who became truly successful did not work hard for it. God worked and still does so (Gen. 1:1, Jn. 5:17, Phil. 2:13). So did all the people He used. In fact, when we practically did not need to till the ground for it to yield, God’s command was to ‘work’ it (Gen. 2:15). If we are to be truly productive and not mere good-for-nothings, then we must work. And not just any sort of work that dishonors God, but legal and noble work.

 

So, we see that it does not just end in having an appetite, it takes work to satisfy that appetite. The cup won’t lift itself miraculously to your lips to quench your thirst, you know. 

 

What then happens when we put in the work?

 

3) Enjoying the satisfaction of your success:

The last words of Prov. 13:4 have something to say about the one who is diligent. It says such a person will, “prosper and be satisfied” according to the New Living Translation. Other translations use the words, “will be abundantly supplied,” “made fat,” “will have something to show for their lives” and ” shall be made rich.”

 

So, this makes us understand that success does not just end in a longing or just working your life out. But God promises that your appetite and hard work will be rewarded with an abundance; with fatness; with something meaningful to contribute to society and with satisfaction and fulfillment.

 

After Jesus had completed His mission on earth (with a strong hunger backed up by loads of work), He received His reward of having a name above every other name. He is seated at God’s right hand and remains the most important person in the whole of history (Phil 2:5-11). Now, that’s some reward for an appetite backed up by hard work. I know He is satisfied and fulfilled. God gives such to the one who has proved himself/herself worthy.

 

With that said, Proverbs 13:4 teaches us that success must be driven by a healthy appetite, backed up with due and appropriate action and carries with it a reward of abundance and fulfillment to the one who has played his/her part.

 

How do you plan on being a success today?

Laziness and complacency hinder progress in life pursuits.

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According to Proverbs 13:4, “The soul of the lazy man desires, and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich.” The following points can be deduced:

 

  1. Diligence and hard work lead to fulfilling life goals.

 

  Laziness and complacency hinder progress in life pursuits.   Proverbs 13:4 states, “The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the soul of the diligent is made fat.” This verse highlights the importance of diligence and hard work in achieving one’s desires. The Bible consistently emphasizes the value of diligence, as seen in Proverbs 10:4, “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” In practical life, those who work hard and remain dedicated to their goals are more likely to experience fulfillment and success, while those who procrastinate and lack discipline often struggle to make progress (Proverbs 10:4, 12:24; Colossians 3:23).

 

  1. Laziness and complacency hinder progress in life pursuits.

 

    The latter part of Proverbs 13:4 emphasizes the consequence of laziness: “The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing.” This message resonates with Proverbs 19:15, “Laziness casts into a deep sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger.” In everyday life, complacency and a lack of effort can lead to stagnation and missed opportunities. Whether in personal growth, career advancement, or any other pursuit, laziness often serves as a barrier to progress and achievement (Proverbs 20:4, 26:16; Hebrews 6:12).

 

  1. Perseverance and determination can help overcome the challenges and difficulties in life.

 

   According to Proverbs 13:4, perseverance and determination are essential for success. This principle is buttressed in Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” In practical life, obstacles and challenges are inevitable, but those who persevere with diligence and determination are more likely to overcome these hurdles and achieve their goals, whether in their careers, relationships, or personal growth (Romans 5:3–4; Luke 5:12; James 1:12). 

 

   In conclusion, by drawing from these biblical principles and applying them to real-life situations, individuals can cultivate a mindset of diligence, perseverance, and determination, ultimately leading to greater fulfillment and success in their endeavors.