Do you know where your are going?

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: Do you know where your are going?

I heard the story of the woman driving through a snowstorm just outside of Denver.
She was completely lost and struggling under the hazardous weather conditions.
She was relieved when she happened upon a snowplow.
Since she was lost she decided to follow the truck and kept as close to the machine as she could while it removed snow from the road.
At times the blowing snow almost cut off her view, but she kept following it.

After some time, the snowplow stopped and the driver got out and came back to her car. "Lady, where are you going?" he asked.

"I’m on my way to Denver." she replied.

The truck driver replied, "Well, you’ll never get there following me! I’m plowing a parking lot!"

Before we let others lead us, it would be helpful to know their direction.

Far too many people in the world, just trying to find a place to fit in, they are following people, that they have no idea of where they are going or leading them to.

Only interested in being in the popular crowd, or jumping on the next big craze and one day they wake up like the lady in the story and realize they've been going in circles for far to long.

Proverbs 3:3-6 NKJ
3. Let not mercy and truth forsake you;
Bind them around your neck,
Write them on the tablet of your heart,
4. And so find favor and high esteem
In the sight of God and man.
5. Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
6. In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct[a] your paths.

You see, before you can let someone direct your paths, you have to be willing to give up control and let them do what you ask them to do.

One of the most difficult things to do in any single situation is to relinquish our control to someone else and depend totally on that person to lead and guide us.

Most of the people don't have a problem doing it in any given single situation, but to give up control and let it happen your whole life through is a different story.

And that keeps a lot of people from living the life that God has already prepared for them in advance,

And it's not any old life, but life on the grand scale, the bible calls it, "abundant life" with the parameters set by Gods supernatural capabilities, instead of mans limited ones!

Which leads me to the question, how much do you want out of life?

Also followed up with another question, how much do you want of God?

Because the second question, determines the first one each and everyday, your whole life through. YOU NEED GOD

LET US PRAY
FATHER LORD JESUS CHRIST, PLEASE LEAD US TO THE RIGHT DESTINATION, MARITALLY, SPIRITUALLY, PHYSICALLY, ACADEMICALLY, IN ALL WE DO AND PLAN IN JESUS NAME

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

What is the Purpose of Trials in Our Life?

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: What is the Purpose of Trials in Our Life?
      
TEXT: “Come and see what our God has done, what awesome miracles he performs for his people" Psalm 66:5

Job, probably the oldest book in the Bible, asks this question. Job’s friends accuse him of a hidden sin, since God seems to be punishing him with tragedies. Is this true? Are tragedies punishment from God? The Bible says, absolutely not!

Tragedy Can Bring Us to Jesus

We have false expectations if we believe that good deeds are always rewarded, and evil is always punished in this life. We live in a fallen world, corrupted by sin. Disease and disasters are a natural result (see Romans 8:20-22). Yet our problems and needs are the very things that can cause us to seek God and draw closer to Him.

Jesus was asked this question by his followers: "Why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents' sin?" "It was not because of his sin or his parents' sins," Jesus answered. "This happened so the power of God could be seen in him." (John 9:2-3).

God's Power Revealed

Then Jesus healed the man and restored his sight. According to Jesus, this man had lived in darkness all his life for this one moment: so that the healing power of Jesus culd be revealed, and he would see that Jesus is the "Light of the World" that leads us out of darkness. Because of this miracle in his life, he was able to say, "Yes, Lord, I believe!" and he worshiped Jesus" (John 9:38). And because of his testimony, many others believed as well.

Only God Can Do the Impossible

Many people turn to God only when they are in a hopeless situation. Seeing God's loving care and power helps build our faith. Our testimony of GOd's miracles in our own life may be critical in helping someone else to believe. "But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even thought we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead...So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness towards us." Ephesians 2:4-7

God's greatest miracle is how he gives us a new life in Christ. Each believer is a beautiful painting, illustrating God's grace and power to save. Ephesians 2:10 says we are His Masterpiece, his greatest work. So let's glorify our Creator and proclaim his power to the world!

LET US PRAY
FATHER IN JESUS NAME, THIS WEEK LET YOUR GLORY BE SEEN IN OUR SITUATION IN JESUS NAME

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

National Conference "Sleeping Delegate" Dies

One of the delegates of the National Conference currently being held in Abuja, a retired police Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Hamma Misau has died at the National Hospital in Abuja.

Mallam Misau, who passed from the undisclosed illness at the age of 67, became famous after the photo of him sleeping during the conference went viral in the social media.

Speaking with Sahara Reporters, cousin to the deceased, Barrister Mohammed Hamma, confirmed the information adding that a Muslim funeral will be soon held in Bauchi.

House boy beheads judge in Ogun state

Barely 24 hours after a policeman ran amok and killed self, wife and five others, a house boy has toed his line beheading his former master, a High Court judge in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Details soon

National Confab Delegate Blasts Pastor Bakare & Femi Falana For Rejecting Allowance

A delegate to the on-going National Conference, Moshood Salvador, has blasted Pastor Tunde Bakare and a human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, for rejecting their own share of the "jumbo pay" at the conference.

He said he has engaged professors and other professionals to facilitate his work at the conference and asked why anyone would expect him to reject such "small money" that doesn't even mean anything to him. He had also dismissed the decision of Pastor Bakare and Falana to donate their own allowance to charity.

Moshood Salvador, a former member of the House of Reps, insisted that Pastor Bakare, Femi Falana and any other person who supported their view that the money is too much is just playing to the gallery...

He claimed that since the conference started, he had spent more than the bi-weekly allowance of N1.5m for his aides and researchers. Speaking on Wednesday in Lagos, during the public presentation of his memoir titled: “Hon. Moshood Salvador’s Memoir: Beyond the Dream,” he said to him such money is not big.
“It is only when we don’t love this nation that we will be talking about money. On the issue of jumbo pay, I don’t know anything about it. Those saying they are going to donate that allowance to charity are only playing to the gallery.
“I have rented an apartment of about N800,000 a month. I have employed the services of a media team, researchers and they are there in my private office in Wuse, Abuja, conducting research and surfing the web to get information."
What I can see here is that those who have billions in Nigeria don't know that N12m is BIG money to others.

This Nigerian Pastor Has Not Had Séx In 13years, No Bath Too

13 years no bath nor séx: is this pastor now very dirty and already smelling? Below are the answers:

Prophet Wale Olagunji who heads Divine Seed of God Chapel Ministry in Ibadan, Oyo State does not smell and in fact he moves about doing his daily activities and even looks neater than most people who takes their bath every day. How possible is that? The prophet said God spoke to him in year 2000 that he should stop taking his bath and separate himself from his wife.

And since 2000 till date Prophet Wale Olagunji has not taken his birth and has not "touched" his wife...


Below is what the pastor told City People about the "price" he is paying:
QUEST: Some years back, you came out that God instructed you to stop having your bath, is it true. And are you still on it?
ANS: Yes, it is 13years now to be precise. Early 2000 the Lord told me to stop taken my bath, separate myself from my wife and that I should stop taking all those soft drinks and wines. And since then, diligently, I have observed all those things.
Whoever God wants to use for certain purposes on earth, there is a serious price attached to that calling. So I believe that is the price I am paying. As I am talking to you now, I have not taking my bath, if you want me to show you evidence, I will show you if you doubt all I am saying; I have not taking my bath since 2001 till this moment.
Hmmm...this one is really, really wonderful!

Fake Pastor Caught With Human Skull During Prayer

The Oyo State capital, Ibadan, has been in the news for all the wrong reasons in the last one week and the gory stories continue to unravel. First it was the discovery of a horror forest where human bodies and skeletons were discovered in a community. Few days after that discovery, a man who disguised himself as a mad man was arrested with human tongues and other body part.

The latest that is coming from the ancient city is that a man who disguised as a Pastor has been nabbed after he was discovered to be in possession of a human skull. The preacher, dressed in white garment and going about preaching at the top of his voice and receiving money from people, was arrested at Agbowo Junction.

A man approached the fake Pastor to pray for him but during the prayer the man observed something inside his bag. After the prayer, the man made as if he wanted to give the Pastor some money but he immediately grab his bag and while dragging the bag, to the surprise of everyone, a human skull drop...

A mob, having been attracted by the shocking discovery, descended on the fake Pastor and beat him to a pulp as others who had begged the Pastor to pray for them watch with shock.

But for the intervention of policemen attached to the Kajorepo Police Division, the fake preacher would have been beaten to death and even set ablaze. He is now in police cell, answering questions about his activities.

PREPARE FOR RAPTURE OF THE CHURCH

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: PREPARE FOR RAPTURE OF THE CHURCH

TEXT: 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 KJV
For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Read 1Cor 15:51-52


What is the rapture?

- First let me say what the rapture is.
- The word rapture is derived from the Latin word raptu, which means caught away or caught up.
- The word described in our text refers to the catching up of the church from the earth to meet the Lord in the air.
- It only involves the faithful of Jesus church, not the ones who play church.

So What Will The Rapture Look Like?

- Our text says, the dead in Christ will rise first.
- All the ones who died in Christ will rise first to meet the Lord in the air and then we who are alive and remain will be caught up with the Lord together.
- We will all visibly be united with Christ and united with loved ones who have died before.

- Following the rapture of the church is the Tribulation period or the day of the Lord.

Will Christians Go Through The Tribulation Period?

- This is a question that has been debated for many years, by great scholars.
- There are four major views right now concerning the rapture and they are:

a. The Post tribulation view which states that the church is going through all the tribulation.
b. The Mid Tribulation view states the church will only go through half of the tribulation
c. The Pre Tribulation view states that the church will not go through any of the Tribulation
d. The Partial Rapture view states that only those sanctified will be taken before the tribulation, and the rest of the church will go through the tribulation.


- My personal opinion is the Pre Tribulation theory that clearly states in scripture that we will not go through any of the tribulation.
- Let me give you some reasons why I believe this to be true.
- Rev 3:10 says, since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth.
- Christ promises to keep the faithful from the hour of trial that is to come upon the whole earth.
- I Thess 1:10 says, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
- Paul promise to the church in Thessalonians was that they would be rescued from the coming wrath which is the tribulation hour.
- Also when you read from Rev 4 right through to 22 the term church or churches disappear.
- The bride of Christ appears in Chapter 19 with Christ in Heaven, ready to come down to earth
. . . CONTINUE NEXT TIME

LET US PRAY
FATHER WHATEVER THE CASE MAY BE, HOW EVER THE SITUATION LET YOUR MERCY SPEAK FOR ME. DONT LET ME MISS THE RAPTURE IN JESUS NAME

SAY AMEN
GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

WE SHOULD LIVE AS SONS OF THE DAY

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: WE SHOULD LIVE AS SONS OF THE DAY

TEXT: Thess 5: 5-11

WATCHFUL AND SOBER...
1. We are "children of light" and "children of the day" - 1Th 5:5
a. Because we follow Jesus, the "light of the world" - Jn 8:12; 12:35-36

b. Because we are now in Jesus, and walk in the light - Ep 5:8; 1Jn 1:5-7

c. Because we cast off works of darkness, and seek to walk properly - Ro 13:11-14

2. We are to be watchful for His coming - 1Th 5:6
a. For no one knows the day nor hour - cf. 1Th 5:2; Mt 24:36, 42

b. Watchfulness includes prayer - cf. 1Pe 4:7

c. Watchfulness includes repentance, and strengthening what we have - cf. Re 3:2-3 On the other hand, "sleep" in our text refers to spiritual laxity - 1Th 5:6-7

3. We are to be sober - 1Th 5:6-8a
a. The word "sober" means to be temperate or abstinent, especially in regards to wine

b. It usually used in a more general sense to be sober-minded, watchful, circumspect - Barnes

c. Note how Jesus relates this to watching for His coming in Lk 21:34-36 We should certainly take the promise of Jesus' coming seriously, not frivolously

LET US PRAY
FATHER LORD JESUS HELO ME TO BE WHOM YOU WANT ME TO BE FOR YOUR GLORY IN JESUS NAME

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

Preparing for the Return of Jesus

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: Preparing for the Return of Jesus

Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

INTRODUCTION
In the book of Thessalonians we saw where Paul discussed "the Comfort of Christ's Return".
How we ought to be comforted by the facts and events of His coming, especially as it
relates to loved ones who have died in the Lord (1 Thes 4:13-18).

Of course, the comfort of Christ's return presumes that we are prepared for it.
Whether we are among those who have died prior to that great event or we are among
those who will be alive when He comes... are we prepared?
Will He find us ready when He comes? Will we be ready should we die before He comes?
As we come to the final chapter in Paul's epistle to the Thessalonians, we find him
telling how Christians can be 'Preparing for the Return of Jesus' (1 Thes 5:1-11).

Proper preparation for the coming of Jesus takes into account that...

HE WILL COME AS A THIEF IN THE NIGHT (VV 1-4)
FOR SOME, BUT NOT FOR OTHERS
The Lord's coming will be a surprise for many as the 'thief in the night picture' clearly
illustrates (1 Thes 5:2; cf 2 Peter 3:10).
But for those who heed the warnings of Scripture, the 'Day' will not overtake them as
a thief (1 Thes 5:1-2,4) because they will be ready for His coming, though we don't
know when it will be; and because they will have taken to heart the words of
Scripture we shall be considering.

FOR SOME IT WILL BE AN INESCAPEABLE DESTRUCTION
Jesus will come when some are saying "peace and safety!" (1 Thes 5:3). In all the
troubles and tribulations a sudden lull will occur. People will be saying, "peace and
safety!" When Jesus comes it will be with "sudden destruction" (1Thes 5:3). Terrible
signs will occur prior to His coming (Matt 24). Just as labour pains come upon a
pregnant women. There will be no time - nor any way - to escape this destruction,
which is described in more detail in the second epistle to the Thessalonians
(2 Thes 1:7-10).
This day will be one of glory for those who are ready (2 Thes 1:10). That is for those
who now 'sleep in Jesus' (1 Thes 4:13-16) and for those prepared for His coming when
He does descend (1 Thes 4:17-18).
What will this 'day' mean for us, when the Lord comes as a "thief in the night"?

Will it be a day of destruction or a day of delight? It depends whether we are prepared for His coming.

And if you prepared then practice, daily forgiveness, holiness, faithfulness, and abide with the law of God, ready to do what is right every second, let Jesus be your role model, run away from sin, ready to throw away your sinful life and embrace true christian life, love your Bible and read it, go to church and guide your self with prayer and fasting, be friendly to faithful brother and as sister in the lord to help you grow and expect Jesus coming daily
I urge you to give your life to Jesus today, tomorrow can be too late, delay is dangerous.

PRAY THIS PRAYER
LORD JESUS CHRIST, I THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVE TO SAVE ME. I SURRENDER TO YOU, I CONFESS MY SINS, I ACCEPT YOU INTO MY LIFE, WRITE MY NAME IN THE BOOK OF LIFE AND REMOVE MY NAME FROM THE BOOK OF HELL. HELP ME TO BE FAITHFUL TO THE END OF MY LIFE. THANK U LORD FOR SAVING ME. AMEN

GOOD MORNING FRIEND

Why Does God Allow Bad Things to Happen to Good People?

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: Why Does God Allow Bad Things to Happen to Good People?
 
TEXT: “Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways!” Romans 11:33

Thousands of people throughout history have asked this question. It is hard to understand how a good and loving God can allow bad things to happen to his children.

We Need a Right Perspective

As finite creatures living within the bounds of space and time, we have a limited view of our circumstances. On the other hand, God is infinite and all-knowing, and can see things that we can not. He can see into the future and knows the ripple effects of a present-day event. “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9

God’s priorities are eternal, not temporary like the things of this world. What is “bad” and who is “good”? The “bad” thing you experience may be the one thing that brings you, or someone else, to eternal salvation through Christ. In God’s view, that is the ultimate “good.”

Can we Trust God?

Often we are like a small child getting a vaccination. All the child knows is that his parents are allowing someone to inflict pain on him. He doesn’t understand that this painful event is preventing him from getting a horrible disease that may cause his death. What seems bad can actually be good. “God is good and His faithful love endures forever.” Psalm 106:1 The Bible tells us that God is good, righteous, holy, loving and completely in control. Will you believe this to be true no matter what happens?

God Wants The Best For You

Joseph suffered for years as a result of being betrayed and sold into slavery by his own brothers. But in the end he said, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good...so I could save the lives of many people.” Genesis 50:20 In the same way, God knows your name and your troubles. He has not fallen asleep or grown weary. When you trust in Him, He will give you the strength to make it through. (Isaiah 40:26-31)

“We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans 8:28 When your life seems to be falling apart, you need to hang on to the unshakable truth of who God is. Trusting and resting in his perfect love will help you overcome your fear with faith. Then we all can say with the apostle John: “We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love.” 1 John 4:16

SHARE THIS WITH SOMEONE TODAY FOR COMFORT

LET US PRAY
FATHER LORD JESUS CHRIST. HELP US TO HOLD ON TO YOU IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCES AND KEEP US FROM EVIL OCCURRENCES WITH YOUR LOVING POWER. AMEN

GOOD MORNING FRIENDS

THIS LOVE WAS DEMONSTRATED AT CALVARY

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

. . . CONTINUE FROM LAST FRIDAY'S MEAL

TOPIC: THIS LOVE WAS DEMONSTRATED AT CALVARY

TEXT: 1john 4:7-12

A. God's love can never be fully understood, but it can be seen! It is best seen at the cross!

B. He Stood In The Gap - 2 Cor. 5:21- For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him!………….HE TOOK YOUR PLACE!

C. He Saved Us From Hell - It is His death on the cross, the death that released His precious blood, that opened the door of salvation for every sinner who will come to God. 1 Pet. 1:18-19;

Eph. 1:7- In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace!; Col. 1:14- in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.;

Heb. 9:12-14. …………….. Rev. 1:5- To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood!

Thank God for the Blood of the Lord Jesus!!!!!

LET US PRAY
LORD JESUS, LET ME SEE AND FEEL THE DEMONSTRATION OF YOUR LOVE ONCE AGAIN IN MY LIFE THIS WEEK IN JESUS NAME

GOOD MORNING FRIENDS

CROSS IN THE LIFE OF CHRISTIAN

TOPIC: CROSS IN THE LIFE OF CHRISTIAN

TEXT: Matthew 16:24 KJV
Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

Matthew 10:38 KJV
And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.

WHAT IS CROSS?
The Brutality of the Cross
Although the symbol of the cross appears in much pagan history prior to Jesus, the crucifixion cross has historical meaning due to the fact that crucifixion was a real, historical method of execution. As an instrument of death, the cross was detested by the Jews, when considering Jesus. How could the Messiah be executed on a cross? After all, the Greek and Roman Empire executed thousands of criminals and captives in just this manner (Alexander the Great executed two thousand Tyrian captives in this way, after the fall of the city). This form of punishment was usually reserved for such crimes as treason, desertion, robbery, piracy, assassination, and other such crimes. It continued in the Roman empire until the day of Constantine, when it was abolished as an insult to Christianity.
CROSS IS TRIBULATION AND TRIAL OF CHRISTIAN IN GOOD FAITH NOT BECAUSE OF THEIR SINS

Might be, hatred/ joblessness/ poverty/ disease/ sickness/ failure/ lack/trial of faith/ etc
Cross are tribulation

LETS SEE WHAT THE SCRIPTURE HAS TO SAY ABOUT THIS
John 16:33 KJV
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.

Acts 14:22 KJV
Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
SO HERE THE BIBLE IS CONFIRMING THAT WE CANT ESCAPE TRIBULATION AS WE JOURNEY TO HEAVEN
1 Thessalonians 3:4 KJV
For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.
WHAT TO DO WHEN CARRYING CROSS
2 Thessalonians 1:4 KJV
So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure:

Ephesians 3:13 KJV
Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

READ ROMANS 12:9-21
OUR TRIBULATIONS AND TRIALS SHOULD BRING JOY AND COMFORT
2 Corinthians 7:4 KJV
Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.
PURPOSE OF OUR TRIBULATIONS AND TRIALS
2 Corinthians 1:4 KJV
Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

Romans 5:3-5 KJV
And not only so , but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; [4] And patience, experience; and experience, hope: [5] And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
WHAT WE SHOULD NOT ALLOW TRIBULATION TO CAUSE FOR US
Romans 8:35-39 KJV
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.
CONCLUSION
Deuteronomy 4:29-31 KJV
But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him , if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. [30] When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the Lord thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; [31] (For the Lord thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.

Why Go To Church?

IOI MEAL
TOPIC: Why Go To Church?

Every Sunday many people go to church while others are sleeping or engaged in other weekend activities. Since our weekends are limited, should we spend part of it in church? Let's look at some of the popular reasons for not going first.

Excuse: Church is boring.
"It is repetitious, predictable and a meaningless ritual. I would rather sleep in. I work hard all week and I deserve it!"

Answer: Church is repetitious but so is life. The days of our lives are structured around cycles of work, eating, family and recreation times. Any of these activities can become boring if we don't strive to find something interesting or enjoyable about them. Sunday mornings at church are a time to make new friends and renew old ones; to learn about the Bible and share problems as well as to thank God for another week of life.

The objective in going to church is to seek to build our relationship with God and others. Many people go to church to fulfill an obligation through some ritual and so are reduced to actions without meaning. Church worship is all about an encounter with God and others that changes who we are.

PLEASE GO TO CHURCH TOMORROW, WHERE YOU WILL REALLY SEE TRUTH NOT OTHERWISE

GOD BLESS YOU IN JESUS NAME
GOOD NIGHT

WHAT ARE THE FACTS ABOUT GOD'S LOVE

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: WHAT ARE THE FACTS ABOUT GOD'S LOVE

TEXT: 1JOHN 4:7-12

Intro: There is nothing like the love of God! It is the most overwhelming thing I have ever encountered in my life. It is the greatest thing God ever did for any of us! The reason I can say that is this, because He loved us, He was moved to do everything else that He has done. Allow me to say that John's epistle has a 4-fold purpose.

That our joy might be full. (1:4)

That we might not sin. (2:1)

That we might know that we have eternal life. (5:13)

That we ourselves might love others.(4:11)

1 John is the great book of love. It is mentioned 46 times in 135 verses. It was written to combat a heresy known as Gnosticism. The Gnostic believed that knowledge was power. They felt that they had a special knowledge of God and His ways. John is writing to put them into their place! And, as he does, he tells the rest of us about a great God with a great love for great sinners. It's that great love of that Great God that I want to address for a few minutes. Let the Lord speak to your heart as we consider the thought, What Are The Facts About God's Love.

I. V. 7-11 THIS LOVE IS DESCRIBED IN THE CONTEXT

A. It Is Unspeakable - I can't understand it, or why, but I know I have experienced it and I can never be separated from it - Rom. 8:38-39

B. It Is Unending - Jer. 31:3…I have loved you with an everlasting love! God's love is eternal!

C. It Is Unselfish - Ill. It asks for nothing in return! However, it leads man to repent and turn to God in love - Rom. 2:4; 1 John 4:19- We love him because He first loved us!

D. It Is Unmerited - Cannot be earned or deserved!. (Ill. His love is based in His grace!) (Ill. Jesus and Jerusalem - Matt. 23:37.)

E. It Is Unconditional - It is not based on what we can or cannot produce, it comes from the heart of God. Man can never reach a place when he will not be loved by God! God loved us first, He loved us anyway and He loves us eternally!

F. His love is Supernatural, it is Sacrificing, it is Satisfying
. . .CONTINUE TOMORROW

LET US PRAY
FATHER LET YOUR LOVE FIND ME OUT FOR SALVATION, REDEMPTION AND BLESSING IN JESUS NAME

GOOD MORNING FRIENDS

Can My Marriage be Rescued?

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: Can My Marriage be Rescued?

The Lord Jesus Christ is relevant to your hurting marriage. He wants to save it! Will you let Him?

Here’s what you can do right now – today and every day after – to usher in Christ’s healing work to your heart and home.

1. Accept His Daily Presence
Jesus Christ is relevant to daily life because He is with you day and night. His relevancy is real because His presence is real. He can change your marriage because He is present in your marriage.

Consider His words: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). And, “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. …you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you” (John 14:16-17).

2. Be Honest
Set aside time daily to be with God. But don’t just go through the motions, take off your mask! Be honest with Him as you pray, read His Word, and listen to His voice. He knows your heart already, so make your communication with Him genuine. This will guide you as you work to become sincere and gentle with your spouse.

Consider Hebrews 10:22: “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith.” And 1 Peter 4:8: “Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.”

3. Forgive
Jesus Christ introduced new concepts to humanity – unconditional love and repeated forgiveness. You ask how you can love your spouse? Look to Jesus. You ask how you can forgive him or her yet again? Look to Jesus. Because of His forgiveness of your sins, you are free to forgive your spouse’s … again and again and again.

Consider John 13:34: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” And Colossians 3:13: Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

LET US PRAY
FATHER LORD JESUS CHRIST, PLEASE HELP ME TO DO ALL THAT IS RIGHT WITH MY SPOUSE, CLOTH ME WITH HUMILITY AND GODLINESS IN JESUS NAME

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

Strengthen Your Marriage with this 3 Question

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: Strengthen Your Marriage with this 3 Question
      
Text: “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desires of the flesh. ” Galatians 5:16

How can you build a stronger marriage that ultimately glorifies God? This questions will guide you toward a stronger godly marriage. And as today’s scripture tells us, it all starts with living in the power of the Holy Spirit.

1. Are We Lovingly Honest with Each Other?

We are called to “speak the truth in love” and grow “in every way more and more like Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15). A healthy marriage is built on mutual trust. Dishonest actions such as keeping secrets, telling partial truths, or hiding information about finances or relationships can hurt your spouse.

If you are concerned or hurt because of dishonesty in your marriage, use the example of Jesus to be lovingly honest with your spouse. Jesus often used scripture to speak the truth to others. Use scripture to remind your spouse of the covenant the two of you made before God and point out the expectations God has for each spouse. By doing this, you aren’t approaching your spouse with your emotions and accusing them, but you are approaching them with the word of God.

2. Are We Forgiving Each Other?

In all close relationships, people will offend each other. But the Bible tells us to “make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you.” We must remember that the Lord forgave us, so we must forgive others. (Colossians 3:13)

In strong marriages, forgiveness should be asked for and freely granted. We shouldn’t hold a grudge. Holding a grudge will quickly build an emotional wall between you and your spouse, and worse yet, it will invite Satan into your marriage (Ephesians 4:27)!

3. Are We Defending Each Other?

Speaking badly of your spouse to others can hurt your spouse emotionally and have a negative impact on your relationship with them. Make it your goal never to insult, correct or humiliate your spouse in front of others. This is a direct violation of the commands to love and respect each other.

If you must correct your mate, wait until later when you’re alone. In Matthew 18:15, Jesus says "If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense.” Use this example in your marriage by pointing out an offense privately, not in front of other people. Your husband or wife should be able to trust you to be considerate of their feelings

LET US PRAY
GOD HELP ME TO BE WHOM YOU WANT ME TO BE AND BLESS MY MARRIAGE

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

QUESTION YOU MUST ASK YOURSELF TO BE A PERFECT SPOUSE

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: QUESTION YOU MUST ASK YOURSELF TO BE A PERFECT SPOUSE

Scripture: Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. (Ephesians 5:21)

Believe it or not, finding the “perfect” spouse starts with being the kind of spouse you desire. today we’ll focus on looking inward.

1. Am I Becoming the Person God Wants Me to Be?

We should always strive to become more Christlike not a “Christian” in name only, but a true follower of Jesus. Whether you are new in the faith or have been following Christ for years, you should always seek to learn more about our Lord and grow in your love for him. Submit to the Lordship of Jesus Christ in your life, and let him make you into the person He wants you to be, for His glory. (Philippians 1:6)

2. Am I Able to Love and Lead God’s Way? (Men)

Husbands are commanded to love their wives “as Christ loved the church” (Ephesians 5:25-28) -- sacrificially and unselfishly. The only way to do this is through the power of the Holy Spirit living in us. The Bible calls husbands to “love their wives as their own bodies” because “He who loves his wife loves himself.” (Ephesians 5:28) The Bible says “no one ever hated their own body,but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the Church.” (Ephesians 5:29)

3. Am I Able to Submit and respect? (Women)

All of us, men and women, are to submit to each other (Ephesians 5:21), and ultimately to God. God specifically calls wives to submit to husbands (Ephesians 5:22), and respect them (Ephesians 5:33). God calls husbands to lead. The Bible says “the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church” (Ephesians 5:23). That means, as a wife, you must “submit yourself to your own husbands as you do to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:22). Are you willing to submit to your future husband and respect him as God has called you to? This means you must trust the leadership that God has given your husbandeven if you don’t always agree. Encourage him, pray for him, and stand by him as a godly wife.

LET US PRAY
DEAR LORD JESUS, COME INTO MY LIFE AND TURN MY IMPERFECT TO PERFECTION FOR A PEACEFUL UNION IN JESUS NAME

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

HANDLING UNBELIEVING PARTNER

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: HANDLING UNBELIEVING PARTNER
      
TEXT: The Christian wife brings holiness to her marriage, and the Christian husband brings holiness to his marriage.” 1 Corinthians 7:14

Perhaps you, or someone you know, is married to a non-Believer. The Bible has advice for God’s people about this. The Bible teaches, “Don’t become partners with those who reject God” (2 Corinthians 6:14). But if you’re already in this situation, be encouraged! The Bible says the godly life of a Christian can testify to unbelieving spouses, who “will be won over [to God] by observing your pure and reverent lives” (1 Peter 3:1-2).

Advice to Those Not Yet Married

Find out where your partner stands spiritually -- and only move forward when you know their life has been given to Christ. The Apostle Paul asked, “How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can a Believer be a partner with an unbeliever?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15). Seek God’s wisdom and get advice from mature Christ-followers on whether to continue the relationship. Marriage is one of the most important partnerships people enter into. Don’t simply trust your feelings. The Bible tells us “the heart is deceitful above all things” (Jeremiah 17:9) No matter what your feelings say, make your decision based on the wisdom in God’s word.

Advice to Those Who Are Married

The Apostle Paul wrote, “If a Christian man has a wife who is not a Believer and she is willing to continue living with him, he must not leave her. And if a Christian woman has a husband who is not a believer and he is willing to continue living with her, she must not leave him (1 Corinthians 7:12-13)*. If you are married to a non-Believer, be encouraged: your Christian example and godly living could help your spouse decide to follow the Lord, as well. Go to God in prayer for your spouse and pray that they will accept Christ.

*Please note that other Scripture and actions could be applicable if you are in an extreme situation, such as an abusive relationship. We encourage you to seek further biblical and in-person Christian guidance. Feel free to contact us for prayer.

Be Who God Wants You to Be

God made you to serve Him. You can do this by being a good example to win over your spouse. While you pray for your spouse or significant other, allow God to build you into the person He wants you to be. Spend time with God daily and learn how you can be a godly spouse.

LET US PRAY
FATHER LORD, HELP ME TO BE A SOURCE OF BLESSING AND JOY, NOT A LIABILITY AND A BURDENSOME, GIVE ME A PEACEFUL AND GODLY MARRIAGE AND HOME IN JESUS NAME

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

BOKO HARAM STRIKES AGAIN: Three Large Explosions Rock Maiduguri

The attackers, shooting sporadically at anything in sight, arrived at about 7:20 a.m. Friday through an area called Fori, near the Army's main base called Giwa Barracks.

Their attack is believed to be a retaliation for the current pounding of the base of the insurgents in Sambisa, Barga and several others hidden in the savannah north and central parts of the state.

While residents in Maiduguri were preparing to go about their duties, they were greeted with heavy bullet sounds from the Giwa Barracks end of the town which is not very far from the State Government House and polo area.

Those who saw some of the attackers said they were dressed in military uniform.

Students at the University of Maiduguri also reported hearing sustained gunfire throughout the morning. The campus is near the barracks and it was not clear if the university was separately targeted.

An airforce jet fighter arrived exactly an hour after the attack started and has continued to drop bombs at targeted areas.

The major roads leading to major government facilities have been taken over by armed policemen.

Heavy shooting was still been heard at the time of this report while several soldiers living around the State hotel were seen dressing up with their bullet proof vests and jumping into their trucks to repel the assault which is believed to have started from a village close to the barracks.

Morning prayer for you

FROM IOI. LET US PRAY

Father in Jesus name
I thank you for the grace you gave us to sleep and wake up to life again, I acknowledge this great privileged and I give glory to your name in Jesus name
Lord Jesus forgive our since and have mercy on us today,
Send your rain of blessing and favour in to our lives and destiny today,
Lord Jesus, bless the work of our hands and cause whatever we lay our hands on to prosper today,

Every spirit of lack and want is cast out and replace with abundance of Gods provision in Jesus name
I ask for a delivery of good news, letter of joy, promotion, sound health, deliverance, breakthrough, and our daily bread today in Jesus name,

Let all our enemy be scatter, all blockage to our overflowing joy and miracle be remove by fire, let your glory fall, let your name be praise

Prepare us physically and spiritually for your kingdom, watch our steps with your love and protect us from falling today in Jesus name

Make us all rapturable if the trumpet sound today as we expect daily in Jesus name

Thanks you Jesus, in Jesus name I pray

AMEN

send this to your friends

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

Pope Francis Opens Door To Same Séx Unions?

Pope Francis reaffirmed the Catholic Church's opposition to gay marriage on Wednesday, but suggested in a newspaper chat that it could support some types of civil unions. The Pope reiterated the church's teaching that "marriage is between a man and a woman." However, he said, "We have to look at different cases and evaluate them in their variety."

States, for instance, justify civil unions as a way to provide financial security to cohabitating couples, the Pope said in a wide-ranging interview published Wednesday in an Italian daily. State-sanctioned unions are thus driven by the need to ensure rights like access to health care, Francis added.

A number of Catholic Bishops have supported civil unions for same-sex couples, including Pope Francis when he was Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 2010, according to reports in National Catholic Reporter and The New York Times.

Behind closed doors, pope supported civil unions in Argentina, activist says...

But Wednesday's comments are "the first time a Pope has indicated even tentative acceptance of civil unions," according to Catholic News Service.

Pope Francis, who marks his first year in office on March 13, has sought to set a more tolerant tone for his 1 billion-member church and suggested that a broad range of topics are at least open for discussion.

Last January, Pope Francis recalled a little girl in Buenos Aires who told her teacher that she was sad because "my mother's girlfriend doesn't like me."

"The situation in which we live now provides us with new challenges which sometimes are difficult for us to understand," the Pope told leaders of religious orders, adding that the church "must be careful not to administer a vaccine against faith to them."

The Vatican later denied that those comments signaled an opening toward same-séx unions.

Last June, Pope Francis famously refused to judge gay priests in comments that ricocheted around the world. He has also said that the church should not "interfere" in the spiritual lives of gays and lesbians.

In this latest interview, Francis also addressed several other controversial issues, including the Catholic Church's ban on contraception, the role of women and the devastating clergy séxual abuse scandal.

On contraception, the Pope praised Pope Paul VI for having the "courage" to "go against the majority" when restating the ban in 1968. But he added, the church must be "merciful" and "attentive to concrete situations."

Contraception and church's ban on divorced Catholics receiving holy communion, will likely be addressed at major meetings of Catholic bishops in Rome in 2014 and 2015.

“We must give a response. But to do so, we must reflect much in depth,” the Pope said Wednesday.

I Rapéd My Daughter So I Can Make It Big ––Father Confesses

A 42-year-old man, Pedro Anegbe, has told an Ebute Meta Magistrate’s Court that a spirit asked him to rapé his 15-year-old daughter in order to get a good job. He said the voice ordred him to rapé the girl shortly after he lost his job and was idle at home.

Mr Anegbe was arraigned on two counts for defiling his 15-year-old daughter (name withheld) at their home on Ifelodun Street, Fatolu Ipaja, Lagos State.

The magistrate, Olanrewaju Olatunji, asked Anegbe why he rapéd his daughter. See his response below:
“I am actually living with my wife and three children. I have two girls and a boy. She is my first born. I have had séx with her just two times. The first was on January 27, 2014. But I cannot remember the date of the second one.
“I did it because I thought it was God talking to me, but later I knew it was an evil spirit. The voice said I needed power. To get the power, the voice said I must damage some things...
“I started destroying the clutch and brake of the vehicle I was given to drive. Then the voice told me I should stop delivering money to the owner of the vehicle after each day’s work. I stopped and I was sacked.
“I became idle after I lost my job. The voice came again, saying I should have séx with my daughter or else I would not get another job. That was why I slépt with her.”
The Investigating Police Officer, Sgt. Bakare Murtala, told the court his findings in the course of investigation. “The defendant is the biological father of the girl. She told us her father had sexually harassed her. We asked him about his daughter’s allegation and he confessed to the crime. He said he had rapéd her twice.”

However, despite his admission, Me Anegbe pleaded not guilty to the charge of rape.

The Magistrate asked him: “You have confessed that you raped your daughter, why then did you still say you were not guilty of the crime after the charge was read to you? Don’t you understand the charge or what is the problem?”

He replied: “I am just forcing myself to talk, because the voice said I should not say anything,” Anegbe said.

The magistrate ruled, “This is a bailable offence, but it is a family matter. The defendant is to be remanded in prison pending legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution.”

The matter was adjourned till April 4, 2014, to get the DPP's advise on how to handle the "family matter".

The Pastor's Husband I'm Married To Can Marry Several Wives ––Actress Foluke Daramola

Actress Foluke Daramola remarried last year amid controversy after her marriage to Mr Sobowale crashed. It is said she was responsible for the sudden collapse of the marriage of a female pastor in Redeemed Church, Pastor Olubunmi, as she went ahead to get married to the woman’s husband, Kayode Salako.

But Foluke is still trying hard to set the record straight in her own way:

You recently celebrated one year of your marriage, how has it been?
I can’t just thank God enough for bringing my ‘crown’, Olukayode Ezekiel Salako to my life. He has made me a contented and complete woman.I feel the best I can feel in life, I am very delighted and happy for having one of the best men of our time as my hubby.

Our readers will want to know how you and Mr Salako met and got hooked?

We never started out as lovers. We are both activists, my platform is called AARA, Action Against Rapé in Africa, and he runs Fasholamania platform and Change Agents of Nigeria, he was just starting Change Agents of Nigeria and he needed a popular face to identify with the platform and I was introduced to him by a casual friend of both of us that knew what we both do in activism. We met and we discovered we have a lot in common, and the rest is history.

In a Blackberry posts, you said people could not believe your marriage would last a year: why?
Yes. That was what I posted. The reason for that is simply because of the controversy that surrounded our marriage and another reason is the general belief that celebrities, especially the ladies, don’t sustain their marriages. So, our marriage lasting a year is a sign that haters and critics got it all wrong about us and are shocked and surprised to see us growing stronger everyday.

What’s the difference between this marriage and your previous one?
Firstly, I was very naive and immature in my first marriage. I will say, I was desperate because many of my friends were getting married then and I thought marriage was the ‘in-thing’, so, I guess I didn’t really know who and what I was going into.

But this one is based on spiritual conviction,true love, deep and mature understanding between two adults in love, ready to be together forever. We have both been married before and I guess that helped us to love and appreciate each other.

There is, or was a general notion that he chased his wife away because of you?
It’s not something I want to discuss, because my husband has told me sternly not to discuss his former marriage on the pages of newspapers. He’s capable of marrying more than one wife if he so wishes, so, I don’t see how or why he has to chase his wife out for me.

Besides, did he chase her or she left of her own volition? or then, should I say the person my ex hubby is married to chased me out of my former home as well? Well, I decided to walk out of my former matrimonial home for personal reasons

Popular Pastor Arrested for checking Female Member’s Virginity With His Finger

The spiritual leader at Jesus Is The Way Evangelistic Ministry in the Olorunsogo area of Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, Pastor Adekunle Kayode has been arrested by police over allegations of séxual assault levelled against him.

34-year-old Pastor Kayode was said to have inserted his finger into the vagina of a female member in a bid to, according to him, check if she is still a virgin. However, it is suspected that his action is a "ritual".
"There was also a drama when the victim received ‘holy spirit’ which propelled her to reveal the misdeeds of the pastor who has indulged in this ungodly act for years.
“Another suspect arrested for similar offence is Onatade Oluwasegun of 4, Sheriff Onatade Street, Obantoko for conspiring with the said pastor to use the victim for a ritual purpose.
“The father of the victim alleged that the duo were fond of dipping their fingers in the victim’s private part even when she was menstruating for reasons best known to them.

“She also claimed that the pastor recently confirmed her virginity status when she was to take part in a church programme. The victim has also claimed that Oluwasegun used a charm while attempting to rape her as directed by the pastor possibly for a ritual but she miraculously escaped.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, the pastor’s arrest was carried out when the lady narrated her ordeal to her father who then informed the police of the incident.

Meanwhile, it was disclosed that Police have recovered charms from the pastor within the church premises.

“The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State, Ikemefuna Okoye, has directed that the matter be transferred to the SCID, Eleweran for further investigation,” the PPRO confirmed.

You Better Beware Satan Is Trying To Destroy And Kill You

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: You Better Beware Satan Is Trying To Destroy And Kill You

Peter 5:8-11(Contemporary English Version)

8 Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone to attack. 9 But you must resist the devil and stay strong in your faith. You know that all over the world the Lord followers are suffering just as you are. 10 But God shows undeserved kindness to everyone. Thats why he appointed Christ Jesus to choose you to share in his eternal glory. You will suffer for a while, but God will make you complete, steady, strong, and firm. 11 God will be in control forever! Amen.

INTRODUCTION

Jesus is the Good Shepherd and He described Satan as a Thief whose whole purpose in life is to Steal, Kill, and Destroy the Flock of God. Yes, His purpose in life is to steal the sheep and lead them into strange pastures where the grass looks greener, but in reality it has been poison and laced with false doctrines and false teaching.

➣ Satan will lead you into strange pastures where Pit Holes has been dug to Trap you and Rob you of your Joy.

➣ Satan will lead you into strange pastures where Cess Pool has been dug to Drown you and Rob you of your Holiness, Righteousness, and Sanctification.

➣ Satan will lead you into strange pastures where Hornets has been stirred up to Sting you and rob you of you Love, Happiness, and Peace.

➣ Satan will lead you into strange pastures where the Enemy is hiding and awaiting to Ambush and pierce your heart with Fiery Darts laced with Lies and Slander.

➣ Satan will lead you into strange pastures where Smiling Face will greet you, but in reality they are awaiting an opportunity to Cut your Throat and Kill you.

The Devil.... He is like a roaring lion seeking to devour all whom he can. He is a is anger, ferocious, and cruel roaring lion looking for someone to destroy.

He want to destroy and kill you and all of your offsprings. You better beware of his trick and trickery.

Satan He is....

➣ The accuser of our brethren. Rev. 12:10
➣ The adversary and the roaming lion. 1 Peter 5:8
➣ The angel of the bottomless pit. Rev. 9:11
➣ The evil spirit. 1 Samuel 16:14
➣ The father of lies. John 8:44
➣ The murderer of the righteous. John 8:44
➣ The old serpent. Rev. 12:9; Rev. 20:2
➣ The power of darkness. Col. 1:13
➣ The spirit that worketh in the children of disobedience. Ephes. 2:2
➣ The tempter. Matthew 4:3; 1 Thes. 3:5
➣ The god of this world and the wicked one. 2 Cor. 4:4
➣ The unclean spirit and wicked one. Matthew 12:43
➣ The Prince and Ruler of the darkness of this world. Ephes. 6:12; John 12:31; John 14:30; John 16:11;
Scripture says he roams about roaring in anger and cruelty and ferociousness of his strength, seeking someone to attack and devour.

How can Satan devour a person?

➣ Jesus tells us in one of the most shocking statements ever made about man.

➣ He said that a person who does not trust and follow God as his Father is actually being led and following the devil as his father.

➣ In other words, Jesus says that all unbelievers have the devil as their father.
. . .CONTINUE NEXT TIME

LET US PRAY
FATHER IN JESUS NAME, PROTECT ME AND MY FAMILY FROM THE EVIL PLANS OF THE ENEMY AND GIVE ME VICTORY ALWAYS TILL THY KINGDOM COME AMEN

GOOD MORNING FRIENDS

7 LIES WE BELIEVE AS A PASTOR

IOI CHRISTIAN MORNING MEAL

TOPIC: 7 LIES WE BELIEVE AS A PASTOR

Here are seven lies we often believe as pastors:

1. I’ve got this.
The enemy loves it when we begin to think we have completely figured out life or ministry. He loves us to place total confidence in ourselves. Self-confidence, if unchecked, can lead to arrogance, a sense of superiority and a lack of dependence on God.

2. That didn’t hurt.
Sometimes we pretend that what the person said or did to us doesn’t hurt. We can even spiritualize it because we wear the “armor of God.” In reality, most pastors I know (this one included) have tender feelings at times … some days more than others. We are human. Maturity helps us process things faster, but we never outgrow a certain vulnerability when working with people.

3. I’m above that.
If a pastor ever thinks, that’s too small for me to be concerned about, watch for the fireworks to begin. The devil will see some points he can put on the board. Equally dangerous, when we as pastors believe we are above temptation of any kind, we have the devil’s full attention.

4. I’m in control.
It would be easy to dismiss this one with a strong spiritual response. Of course, Jesus is in control. Hopefully every Bible-believing pastor reading this “Amens” to that truth. But how many times do we believe we have more authority than we really do … or should? Danger.

5. I’m growing this church.
We must be careful not to take credit for what only God can do. I can’t imagine God would let this lie continue long without equally letting us “believe” (and experience) that we are responsible for declining this church.

6. If I don’t do this, no one will.
We stifle spiritual growth of others when we fail to let them use their spiritual gifts. Additionally, we deny the hand and foot their individual role within the body. And, sadly, we often burn out ourselves and our family.

7. I’ve got to protect my people.
I once had a pastor say he couldn’t allow “his” people to believe that God still speaks to people today other than through His Word, because there are too many “strange voices” out there. There are, and I believe the Bible is the main source of His communication, but God still speaks. If He doesn’t, let’s quit suggesting people pray about how much God wants them to give to the building fund. When we try to protect “our” people by keeping them from His provision, we make them our people and keep them from fully understanding that they are really His children. Let us instead teach them how to know God more intimately and discern His direction. His sheep know His voice.

I’m sure there are many other lies we can fall prey to as pastors. Exposing them can help us from being distracted by them and allow us to call on His strength to overcome them.

What other lies have you seen pastors believe?

LET US PRAY
FATHER LORD HELP US ALL TO MAKE YOU ALL IN ALL IN OUR MINISTRY AND NOT TO SEE OUR SELF AND DEPEND ON OUR POWER IJN

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

3 Questions for Being the Perfect Spouse

IOI SPECIAL FOR GODLY COUPLE

TOPIC: 3 Questions for Being the Perfect Spouse
      
Scripture: Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. (Ephesians 5:21)

1. Am I Becoming the Person God Wants Me to Be?

We should always strive to become more Christlike not a “Christian” in name only, but a true follower of Jesus. Whether you are new in the faith or have been following Christ for years, you should always seek to learn more about our Lord and grow in your love for him. Submit to the Lordship of Jesus Christ in your life, and let him make you into the person He wants you to be, for His glory. (Philippians 1:6)

2. Am I Able to Love and Lead God’s Way? (Men)

Husbands are commanded to love their wives “as Christ loved the church” (Ephesians 5:25-28) -- sacrificially and unselfishly. The only way to do this is through the power of the Holy Spirit living in us. The Bible calls husbands to “love their wives as their own bodies” because “He who loves his wife loves himself.” (Ephesians 5:28) The Bible says “no one ever hated their own body,but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the Church.” (Ephesians 5:29)

3. Am I Able to Submit and respect? (Women)

All of us, men and women, are to submit to each other (Ephesians 5:21), and ultimately to God. God specifically calls wives to submit to husbands (Ephesians 5:22), and respect them (Ephesians 5:33). God calls husbands to lead. The Bible says “the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church” (Ephesians 5:23). That means, as a wife, you must “submit yourself to your own husbands as you do to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:22). Are you willing to submit to your future husband and respect him as God has called you to? This means you must trust the leadership that God has given your husbandeven if you don’t always agree. Encourage him, pray for him, and stand by him as a godly wife.

LET US PRAY
FATHER MAKE ME A GOOD HUSBAND
LORD MAKE ME A GOOD WIFE
LORD JESUS GIVE ME ALL THE QUALITY I NEED TO MAKE A GOOD FAMILY IN JESUS NAME

GOOD MORNING BRETHREN

3 Questions for Finding the "Perfect" Spouse

FOR THE SINGLES WHO ARE STILL SEARCHING FROM IOI.

Topic: 3 Questions for Finding the "Perfect" Spouse

Text: “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?.” 2 Corinthians 6:14

God made us to desire human companionship in the form of a husband or wife. A husband and wife are made to share each others’ lives intimately in ways that no-one else should. In a godly relationship, spouses can improve each other, look out for one another, and build each other up in the Lord.

You might think that God has a perfect spouse planned for you. However, as disappointing as it is, no-one can ever be a perfect spouse; “no one is righteous” (Romans 3:10) or perfect. Only Jesus “committed no sin” (1 Peter 2:22).

So what can you look for in a spouse?

1. Is He or She a Follower of Jesus?

The most important thing to desire in a spouse -- and in yourself -- is a close relationship with, and submission to, the Lord. Although no one can be perfect like Jesus, we should still try find someone who is Christlike -- and we should try to be Christlike ourselves.

2. What Is Your Goal for the Relationship?

What do you want in a marriage: Do you want him or her to make you “happy”? Do you want him or her to meet your needs? Do you just want to physically be with someone?

The role of a spouse is not to “complete” the other or to constantly fulfill the other’s desire to be “happy”. No human can complete another -- only God can fulfill our lives. The goal of a marriage -- indeed, the goal of your life -- should be “for the glory of God” ( Corinthians 10:31).

3. How Is God Leading You?

How do you pray for your future spouse? Do you pray for God’s leading in selecting him or her? God can guide you in everything and that includes the important question of marriage and to whom.

There is no one way to know if God has led someone to an ideal potential spouse. But when you are walking a Christ-following life and seeking counsel from fellow Christians, you can often tell if furthering your relationship into marriage will help you both continue to lead godly lives.

Prayer Points
• thank God for blessing humans with the gift of marriages
• Tell God to protect you and guide you as you seek a spouse
• That, if God plans for you to marry, He will protect and guide your future spouse
• That God will help you and your future spouse grow closer to Himself
• That your lives and relationship will be used to the glory of God