Tag: Akubueze Bible Study Question

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!

4 things to know about the nature of God

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God’s nature as neither an author of confusion nor order is rooted in His character of holiness, wisdom, and sovereignty. In 1 Corinthians 14:33, it’s stated that God is not a God of confusion but of peace, emphasizing His desire for order and harmony in all things. Additionally, James 3:17 highlights the wisdom that comes from God, characterized by purity, peace, gentleness, and openness to reason, demonstrating His commitment to clarity and understanding. Therefore, God’s nature is inherently consistent with principles of orderliness and coherence, reflecting His divine wisdom and the perfection of His plans for creation.

 

  1. God’s Word affirms His nature as a God of order. In 1 Corinthians 14:33, it’s stated: “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” This verse underscores God’s inherent nature of bringing order and harmony rather than confusion. It reflects His desire for coherence and tranquility in all aspects of life, including within the community of believers. This assurance provides a foundation for trust and confidence in God’s sovereignty, knowing that His plans and purposes are characterized by clarity and direction.

 

  1. God’s sovereignty ensures His plans unfold with purpose and coherence. Proverbs 19:21 states: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” This verse emphasizes God’s ultimate authority and control over all things, including the fulfillment of His plans. While humans may have various intentions and aspirations, it is ultimately God’s will that prevails. This truth brings assurance that even amidst uncertainty or apparent disorder, God’s sovereign hand is at work, guiding events according to His divine purpose. Therefore, believers can trust in His wisdom and providence, knowing that His plans are established in perfect order and will ultimately come to fruition.

 

  1. Disorder and confusion often arise from human sin and rebellion against God’s design. Romans 1:28 states: “Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind so that they do what ought not to be done.” This verse highlights the consequences of human disobedience and rejection of God’s truth. When people turn away from God and His ways, they descend into spiritual darkness and moral confusion. As a result, disorder and chaos become prevalent in their lives and societies. This passage underscores the correlation between sin and disorder, emphasizing that the rejection of God’s order leads to confusion and chaos. Therefore, it reaffirms that God is not the author of confusion but stands for order and righteousness.

 

  1. God’s acts and commandments consistently promote order and righteousness. Psalm 119:133 says, “Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.” This verse reflects the psalmist’s desire for God to guide him in walking according to His commandments. Throughout the Bible, God’s commandments are portrayed as the pathway to righteousness and order. By following God’s precepts, individuals align themselves with His divine order and experience the blessings of obedience. Conversely, when people stray from God’s commandments, they invite disorder and chaos into their lives. Therefore, this verse underscores the importance of adhering to God’s Word as the foundation of a life characterized by righteousness and order. It reaffirms that God’s acts and commandments are inherently aligned with the principles of order and righteousness, further supporting the assertion that He is not the author of confusion.

 

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.

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.

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).

 

Reasons why faith in God can grow when you walk in love

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Here are a few reasons why faith in God can grow when you walk in love:

 

  1. Walking in love reflects the character of God: 1 John 4:16 says, “And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.” When we walk in love, we are embodying God’s very nature, which can help us grow closer to Him and deepen our faith.

 

  1. Love enables us to fulfill God’s commandments: In John 14:15, Jesus says, “If you love me, keep my commands.” Walking in love with others is a way of obeying God’s command to love one another, which can lead to a stronger faith in Him.

 

  1. Love fosters a sense of unity and community: Romans 12:10 encourages us to “be devoted to one another in love.” When we show love and kindness to others, we contribute to a sense of unity and connectedness within the body of Christ, which can strengthen our faith in God.

 

  1. Love overcomes obstacles and challenges: In 1 Corinthians 13:7, it says that love “always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” Walking in love can help us overcome personal struggles, conflicts, and adversities, leading to a deeper trust and faith in God’s faithfulness.

 

  1. Love is a reflection of God’s love for us: 1 John 4:19 reminds us that “We love because He first loved us.” When we experience and share love with others, we are participating in the love that God has shown us, which can increase our faith in His love and provision for us.

 

Overall, walking in love can lead to a growing faith in God by reflecting His character, enabling us to fulfill His commandments, fostering unity and community, overcoming challenges, and reminding us of His unconditional love for us.

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?

Success Calls For Planning and Dedication

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Success Calls For Planning and Dedication

Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” This verse points to us that success takes PLANNING, effort, and dedication. It’s not enough to have a good idea; we need to put in plans and hard work (diligence) to see results. And rushing through things can often lead to mistakes and lost opportunities.

 

It is interesting that the idea captured in the verse above appears at several places in scripture. For example, Proverbs 14:23 says, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” 

 

This verse emphasizes the importance of putting our words into action, rather than just talking about what we want to do. Another relevant verse is Ecclesiastes 11:6, which says, “Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let your hands not be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well.” This verse highlights the importance of both planning and taking action.

 

So, in summary, the scripture stresses the ingredients of planning, diligence, and persistence in our work, and to avoid being hasty or idle. With these in place, we can achieve success which could be “profit” or “increase”, as the case may be.

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.