TEXT: Genesis 37:1-7, I Jn 1:8-9

REFERENCE: Genesis 37:8-9, 18-20, 31-36, 49:22

MINISTER:PASTOR GHANDI OLAOYE

As an introduction to this sermon, it is important to note that "whatever God has purposed, no man can stop it."(Pastor Olaoye). Sometimes however, we can become a hinderance to our dreams if we refuse to accept the ways of the lord. When we begin to live in ungodliness, unforgiveness, stubborness and a reprobate mind, we then become a roadblock on the way to our success. So through the hardness of our hearts, we can be a hinderance on the Pathway to our Glory. But if we remain in the plan of God for our lives, and sincerely live our lives for Him, we would encounter some roadblocks and challenges on our way to glory. This should not come as a surprise though, because it is all part of the process. Negative situations, painful ordeals, thorns and wounds of life are all compaions on the pathway to glory. But if we abide with the lord, we are sure to emerge victorious and fulfill God's purpose for our lives.

On the other hand however, we may fall into  sin in course of our walk with God. This should not deter us from fulfilling God's purpose for our lives, because all we need do is acknowledge that we have sinned, confess and forsake such sins. For God has promised to forgive us (I John 1:8-9). So all we have to do, is to remain faithful to God and keep His commandments. Let us not be a hinderance to our own success by our attitudes and lifestyles. It is important to always evaluate your relationship with God and makes sure you are always in right standing with Him. Make sure your spiritual life is right. Because when the spiritual life is settled, nothing can hinder us in the physical. Make sure your prayer life is right, make sure your personal altar with God is not messed with. Make sure the word of God still moves you; that you have not gotten to the point where you begin to question and doubt God's word. A point where you begin to ask questions like: Do I really need to pay my tithes? Do I really need to live a consecrated life? Or Can I stand on the ropes as far as my faith is concerned, with one leg in and one leg out? The scripture says let him that thinketh he stands, take heed lest he falls (I corinthians 10:12). Make sure you are always in right standing with God.

Moreso, for us to get to the pathway of greatness, we have to keep revisiting our dreams, visions and godly ambitions in order for them to come into manifestation. This is because time, siuations and circumstances can erode our dreams. Hence, we have to keep igniting our dreams, our visions and our goals in accordance with God's word. We need to get in the habit of revisiting our dreams. Revisiting our dreams in the place of prayer and meditation on God's word keeps us connected to those dreams and prevent us from swaying away into the wrong direction. Even when crisis come our way to try and pull us away from our purpose, we need to respond in the light of God's word. For "it is the crisis management that makes the difference." (Pastor Olaoye). So when crisis come our way, we have to be careful to deal with it in the light of God's word. For when we do, our victory and breakthrough is always assured.

Even in the mist of afflictions and attacks we must understand that "you can take my coat (afflict me, try to destroy my dreams), but you cannot take away my vision and dreams (Pastor Olaoye). This is because my vision is within me. So afflict the body, the external, but as long as the internal (my soul, my spirit) is right with God, it will not be afflicted or affected. So, you may go through pains, obstacles, difficulties and all. but if we stay true to God and His ways, such afflictions, pains and obstacles will eventually lead us to our destinies. Pain will always lead to gain if we stay true with God. Obstacles are a part of the process to fulfilling our dreams. We just have to remain faithful to God and regardless of what difficulties we encounter or what afflictions are meted out against us, we will still come into the place that God wants us to be.

In the book of Genesis chapter 37:33-35, we see Jacob grieving over his son, Joseph, whom he thought was dead. Like Jacob, we often times grieve over things that God is still working out for our favor and our own good. Jacob thought that Joseph, his son was dead. But what he did not know was that God had just launched him into his destiny. There are times when we cry and mourn over situations because we think the worst has happened. But on the contrary, God was actually working things out for our favor, in the "meanwhile." We just need to draw closer to God and begin to see things from His own perspective.

In conclusion, regardless of our many obstacles, trials, temptations, afflictions and sufferings, we need to keep growing spiritually, mentally and emotionally above our situations and cicumstances. Because, "If I keep on growing spiritually, I will not be at the same level with my enemies (walls, obtacles, hinderances, even the devil)-paraphrased-Pastor Olaoye.

 

STUDY QUESTION

WHAT DO YOU THIN ARE SOME OF THE POSSIBLE OBSTACLES ON YOUR PATH TO GLORY AND HOW CAN YOU DEAL WITH SUCH IN THE LIGHT OF GOD'S WORD?

TEXT: Genesis 37:1-7, I Jn 1:8-9

REFERENCE: Genesis 37:8-9, 18-20, 31-36, 49:22

MINISTER:PASTOR GHANDI OLAOYE

As an introduction to this sermon, it is important to note that "whatever God has purposed, no man can stop it."(Pastor Olaoye). Sometimes however, we can become a hinderance to our dreams if we refuse to accept the ways of the lord. When we begin to live in ungodliness, unforgiveness, stubborness and a reprobate mind, we then become a roadblock on the way to our success. So through the hardness of our hearts, we can be a hinderance on the Pathway to our Glory. But if we remain in the plan of God for our lives, and sincerely live our lives for Him, we would encounter some roadblocks and challenges on our way to glory. This should not come as a surprise though, because it is all part of the process. Negative situations, painful ordeals, thorns and wounds of life are all compaions on the pathway to glory. But if we abide with the lord, we are sure to emerge victorious and fulfill God's purpose for our lives.

On the other hand however, we may fall into  sin in course of our walk with God. This should not deter us from fulfilling God's purpose for our lives, because all we need do is acknowledge that we have sinned, confess and forsake such sins. For God has promised to forgive us (I John 1:8-9). So all we have to do, is to remain faithful to God and keep His commandments. Let us not be a hinderance to our own success by our attitudes and lifestyles. It is important to always evaluate your relationship with God and makes sure you are always in right standing with Him. Make sure your spiritual life is right. Because when the spiritual life is settled, nothing can hinder us in the physical. Make sure your prayer life is right, make sure your personal altar with God is not messed with. Make sure the word of God still moves you; that you have not gotten to the point where you begin to question and doubt God's word. A point where you begin to ask questions like: Do I really need to pay my tithes? Do I really need to live a consecrated life? Or Can I stand on the ropes as far as my faith is concerned, with one leg in and one leg out? The scripture says let him that thinketh he stands, take heed lest he falls (I corinthian 10:12). Make sure you are always in right standing with God.

Moreso, for us to get to the pathway of greatness, we have to keep revisiting our dreams, visions and godly ambitions in order for them to come into manifestation. This is because time, siuations and circumstances can erode our dreams. Hence, we have to keep igniting our dreams, our visions and our goals in accordance with God's word. We need to get in the habit of revisiting our dreams. Revisiting our dreams in the place of prayer and meditation on God's word keeps us connected to those dreams and prevent us from swaying away into the wrong direction. Even when crisis come our way to try and pull us away from our purpose, we need to respond in the light of God's word. For "it is the crisis management that makes the difference." (Pastor Olaoye). So when crisis come our way, we have to be careful to deal with it in the light of God's word. For when we do, our victory and breakthrough is always assured.

Even in the mist of afflictions and attacks we must understand that "you can take my coat (afflict me, try to destroy my dreams), but you cannot take away my vision and dreams (Pastor Olaoye). This is because my vision is within me. So afflict the body, the external, but as long as the internal (my soul, my spirit) is right with God, it will not be afflicted or affected. So, you may go through pains, obstacles, difficulties and all. but if we stay true to God and His ways, such afflictions, pains and obstacles will eventually lead us to our destinies. Pain will always lead to gain if we stay true with God. Obstacles are a part of the process to fulfilling our dreams. We just have to remain faithful to God and regardless of what difficulties we encounter or what afflictions are meted out against us, we will still come into the place that God wants us to be.

In the book of Genesis chapter 37:33-35, we see Jacob grieving over his son, Joseph, whom he thought was dead. Like Jacob, we often times grieve over things that God is still working out for our favor and our own good. Jacob thought that Joseph, his son was dead. But what he did not know was that God had just launched him into his destiny. There are times when we cry and mourn over situations because we think the worst has happened. But on the contrary, God was actually working things out for our favor, in the "meanwhile." We just need to draw closer to God and begin to see things from His own perspective.

In conclusion, regardless of our many obstacles, trials, temptations, afflictions and sufferings, we need to keep growing spiritually, mentally and emotionally above our situations and cicumstances. Because, "If I keep on growing spiritually, I will not be at the same level with my enemies (walls, obtacles, hinderances, even the devil)-paraphrased-Pastor Olaoye.

 

STUDY QUESTION

WHAT DO YOU THIN ARE SOME OF THE POSSIBLE OBSTACLES ON YOUR PATH TO GLORY AND HOW CAN YOU DEAL WITH SUCH IN THE LIGHT OF GOD'S WORD?

TEXT: ROMANS 1:20, MARK 2:18-22

MINISTER: PASTOR OLUMIDE OGUNJIYIGBE

The God of the bible is a God of newness. In this time and season of Fall, the lord is preparing His church for spiritual renewal, one in which everything in our lives that is not of God shall fall off to make way for the newness of God. From our text, Jesus used an example of wine and wineskins to illustrate that we cannot combine our old fleshy ways with the new ways of God. The purpose of God for our lives is that we would be transformed into new wineskins, filled with new wine. Wineskins are made from the skin of dead animals. By analogy, the lord wants us to be dead to ourselves and filled with a new wine (a fresh out pour of the Holy spirit). This fresh out pour is essential for:

1. A new consecration to live a holy life: The active work of the holy spirit makes it possible for us to live for God.

2. A new and rich character: This refers to something rich and genuine. Something real within-Proverbs 27:19

Your true character is what you are when you are under pressure. It is who you are when no one is watching. It also refers to what you do with the responsibilities that God has given you.

3. The provision of power: Acts 1:8

4. For passion: What are you passionate about?

HINDERANCES FROM RECEIVING A NEW WINE

1. Old wine skin: Used up and worn out. To receive a new wine, we have to get rid of the old wine skin

2. Not daily spending time in His presence

3. Lack of desire for a new wine. Jesus said only those who thirst after righteousness shall be filled.

4. Pride: This prevents us from seeing that we need God in our lives. It is a feeling of self-sufficiency.

THE NATURE OF OLD WINE SKINS

a. Hard and callous

b. Easily cracked

c. Explodes under pressure

d. Dry and brittle

REASONS WHY WE BECOME OLD WINE SKINS

1. Sin: Hebrews 3:8

2. Selfishness: Job 42:10

3. Bitterness: Don't let the bitterness of your life turn you into a bitter person. Let the bitterness of your life turn you into a better person.

4. Wrong thinking: Change begins with the renewing of our mind.

5. Unforgiveness: Living in unforgiveness undermines the influence of God upon our lives

6. Non or inconsistent devotional life.

"The best revelation you can ever have is the one you receive yourself"-Pastor Ogunjiyigbe

THE NATURE OF NEW WINE SKINS

a. They are elastic and pliable.

b. They are easily molded and shaped.

c. They are receptive to a new wine.

HOW TO BECOME A NEW WINE SKIN

1. New birth-II Corinthians 5:17

2. Constant renewal and re-dedication of our lives in the place of prayer and constant meditation on the word. This comes through bathing in the presence of God.

NOTE: Old wine skins become new through the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

HOW TO CHANGE FROM AN OLD WINE SKIN TO A NEW WINE SKIN

1. Repentance: Until you own up to where you are with God, you will never have any changes in your life. Psalm 51:10, Acts 3:19.

2. Through the filling of the Holy Spirit: Acts 10:44, Acts 19:6

3. Through the word of God: Ephesians 5:22-26

4. Learn to wait upon the lord: Isaiah 40:31

5. Learn to be a good worshipper and worship God in spirit and in truth. Worship creates and changes the atmosphere.

DISCUSSION QUESTION: Why is it necessary for us to constantly renew ourselves spiritually?

TEXT: LUKE 12:16-34

REFERENCES: I CORINTHIANS 15: 51, LUKE 19:2,8, I CHRONICLES 1: 7-12

MINISTER: PASTOR GHANDI OLAOYE

As Christians, we must understand that what God wants to give us is not basically material but spiritual. It is God's first and utmost desire to give us the KINGDOM. Our God is able to provide daily material needs for us. But these material needs should be secondary to us. They should not be the focus of our lives or  journey as Christians. The most important thing which the lord wants to release to us is His KINGDOM. Hence, the reason Jesus said, "But seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you."-Matthew 6:33.

Moreso, we must understand that God wants to first have a great relationship with us, before adding material needs and other desires which may have. This is because a great relationship with Him is essential for inheriting the Kingdom, and God wants us to have this Kingdom mentality in all we do. A Kingdom mentality leads to a Kingdom lifestyle which will ultimately lead to inheritance of the Kingdom. We must contstantly understand that though we are in the world, we are not of the world. Hence, while we are living in a secular world, we must live by the standards of a heavenly world-the Kingdom of our God. Also, when we let go off our focus as believers-the kingdom-and begin to seek material things, we become lost and separate from God. But if we seek God first, He will abundantly provide the material needs we crave for. This however, does not mean that we should strive to live for God only because we want Him to bless us with a new car or a new house. We must never forget that God searches the heart. So, if you try to use Him to get your wishlist, you might end up being disappointed, depressed and dejected. So serve God for who He is and not for what you can get from Him.

In addition, God wants us to first have the Kingdom(heavenly) life because it is more important than earthly possessions. In the book of Luke 12:16-32, Jesus shared two basic views with us: The SECULAR and the SPIRITUAL (KINGDOM/ HEAVENLY) view. He then goes on to emphasize that we need to chase after God with all we have and let go off the secular way of life. This is because the love of power, wealth, fame and fortune; fast money, fast cars and all hedonistic life style leads us far away from God. Also, in a bid to become materially comfortable, many despise the lord and compromise their faith; a decision which leads to destruction in the end. For what shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and lose his soul? Nothing, absolutely nothing!

NOTE: Earthly possessions will fade away, but the kingdom of God is forever. So why not seek that which is eternal, than chasing after that which is ephemeral. Be wise! Choose God over the world. He will never fail you! His promises are sure to come to pass; for if He said it, He will definitely do it. "No jot or tittle of His word will pass away, even if heaven and earth pass away(paraphrased)"-matthew 5:18

Furthermore, we must understand that the people of this world hold tenaciously to the things of this world, because there hope is in this world and in this world alone. So, they live for the right here and right now, without considering the consequences of their actions. This is why they are prepared to kill, cheat, lie and covet, just to lay hold on earthly possessions. But as believers, we must understand that this world is not our home, we are just passing by. There is life after this life, we would meet our savior someday. He promised to come back for us. Therefore, we must live with the end in mind. We must live as people who have a two fold life: The HERE and the HEREAFTER. Chasing after material things is a reflection of an attitude which shows that we don't look beyond this world.

The KINGDOM LIFE looks beyond ths world. The Kingdom life is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. The Kingdom life is doing the will of God, seeking the will of God and going after the will of God. The Kingdom life asks for souls and not money. The Kingdom life asks for righteousness and not for millions. The Kingdom life seeks God and not self. The Kingdom life lives for heaven and not for the earth. In the book of I Chronicles 1: 7-12, we see Solomon make a great and wise use of the opportunity God gave him. He was given the freewill to ask God for anything. But rather than ask for the death of his enemies, or for wealth and fame, he simply asked God for the wisdom to lead God's people rightly. In response, God gave him wisdom and then added wealth, fame, power and influence to it. Even God Himself commended Solomon for asking wisely. This shows that if we ask God for the things of the Kingdom, He would also add to us the things we didn't ask for. He might even add to us the material things we didn't ask for.

In conclusion, Jesus said, "in my father's house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would have told you..."-John 14:1. There is a better place beyond this world, which the lord has prepared for us. But in order to get there, we must begin preparation from right here and right now. And this can only be done by living the Kingdom life. But the Kingdom life begins with a Kingdom mentality. This means that we must first change the way we think, Romans 12:2, talked anout not being conformed to this world, but being transformed by the renewing of our minds. So for instance, we must first begin to change the way we think about money, wealth, fame, and this world, and start looking at life from the perspective of the word of God. It is then and only then, shall we begin to manifest the life of the Kingdom of God. We also need to seek the help of the holy spirit and constantly stay in God's word to live as ambassadors of Christ in a world of sin.

Action Point: Make up your mind to live for God, ask God for the help to live for Him, start studying God's word with the help of the holy spirit and begin to practice what you read. You will begin to see a change in your life. Those worldy things that tend to draw you, will begin to lose their grip on you, because you will gradually begin to understand that your life and where God has prepared for you (HIS KINGDOM) is more important than whatever the world has to offer.

TEXT: GENESIS. 2:18, LUKE 6:46-49

REFERENCE: PSALMS. 11:3, I CORINTHIANS 3:11, I TIMOTHY 6:19, II CORINTHIANS 6:14

MINISTER: PASTOR OLUMIDE OGUNJIYIGBE

INTRODUCTION

From our text (Luke 6:46-49), Jesus emphasized the importance of foundations. It is important to note that for every venture, family, relationships, etc, the foundation upon which it is built is very essential. Marriage is a foundational institute created by God. It was one of the first things created in the Garden of Eden. However, owing to failing statistics on the marriage institution, a lot of people are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with the institution. This is reflected in increased divorce rates, and sadly, the church is not left out in this disheartening statistics. In a smilar vein, people have begun to deal with marriage with the same attitude they deal with inanimate objects. Hence, we find people who change partners like they change clothes and disposable plates and spoons. Some have even become scared of marriage. So in today's world, we find people who are ready to co-habit as life partners, have sex and do the same things that married people do, but with no intention to commit to the marriage institution. This is wrong and is not what God intended for relationships. Regardless of the currenrt failing statistics on the marriage institution, it is important to note that marriage is not something to be scared of. To ensure a succesful marriage, we must return to the author of the institution-God-for direction. Also, in order to pick the right parnter, we must diligently and carefully seek the face of God.

UNDERSTANDING THE VALUE OF GODLY PARTNERSHIP-Ecclesiastes 4:9, Matthew 11:28-29

i. Benefits of Partnership (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

a. It brings purpose to your life.

b. Brings high productivity to your life.

c. It brings protection into your life.

d. It brings power to your life.

e. It also brings peace to your life.

A succesful marriage partnership depends on a succesful partnership with God. It is also important that we carefully analyze our relationships before getting married. They say love is blind, but marriage does open those eyes. So do not let love blind your eyes, for if you do, you might not like what you see after your eyes are opened, two or three years down the line in the marriage. Below are some questions you can use in analyzing the relationship you have with your partner before deciding whether to settle down with them or not.

i. Are you mutually attracted: This includes attraction in the following areas: spiritual, emotional, intellectual and physical.

ii. Do you share common values?

iii. Do you have genuine friendships? This friendship should not based on physical beauty or handsomeness, wealth, fame or any other things that could fizzle away.

iv. Is your partner responsible? Remember: "Don't marry someone you can live with, marry someone you cannot live without."

v. Do you have a family background that compares to one another? For example are your family values the same?

vi. Are there unresolved hurts and hang-ups in your life? Such hurts and hang-ups if not resolved could potentially harm your marriage down the line. There have been cases of people who broke up years after marriage, just because the other partner still dealt with a painful experience either from childhood or a previous relationship(s). This should be avoided. If you have any of such issues, ensure you deal with it and make sure it will not crop up somewhere along the line to destroy your marriage.Don't marry a rebound. Mend before you marry.

vii. Do you have compatible life challenges?

viii. How often do you fight and how quickly do you resolve the conflict? Learn about conflict resolution before marriage, not after marriage. Boundaries should be set before marriage.

ix. Do you sincerely respect and admire your partner? Make sure you observe unlikable traits during dating and courtship, and deal with them before marriage. Observe unique characteristics in your partner before marriage, so that you don't end up unhappy with such characteristics after marriage.

x. Lastly ask yourself this question: Do you want your children to look like your partner?

2. God is a God of Process: From the creation of man to the coming of our lord and savior Jesus Christ and all through the bible, we see that God does things in an orderly manner, observing certain processes and procedures in all He does. Hence, He requires that in choosing the right life partner we follow the right processes in order to keep us from avoidable hurt and pain.

THE PROCESS/PATHWAY TO PICKING THE RIGHT PARTNER

i. Take your time-Psalm 106:13

Time is the only way many character defects are detected.

"Many have missed the purpose of God by acting in a hurry"-Pst. Olumide

ii. Ask for God's guidance: James 1:5

Don't pray your will to God, ask Him for His perfect will. Commit your ways unto the lord, trust also in Him and He shall bring it to pass-Psalm 37:5

iii. Seek the insight of godly people-Psalm 37:30

iv. Listen and look for the peace of God-Colosians 3:15

v. Stay connected to the body of Christ: Don't let your relationship and/or marriage disconnect you from God.

vi. Participate in premarital or preparation courses-Proverbs 4:11

3. PITFALLS TO AVOID WHEN CHOOSING A LIFE PARTNER

i. Immaturity: Whether it is spiritual, mental, or emotional, immaturity should be avoided. Look to see for signs of immaturity in your partner. Don't marry a person who is immature in their ways. They would pull you backwards especially when you do not have the strength to carry them along the path of maturity.

ii. Insecurity

iii. Impatience

iv. Isolation: When your relationship seems to be taking you away from friends and family, especially those in the household of faith, it is a sure sign that sooner than later you will find yourself doing the wrong thing with your partner. This should be totally dealt with especially in the courtship/dating years, because after you settle down as husband and wife it may be hard to reverse. The key is to find out why he/she does not like you hanging around your friends and family, especially those who share the same faith with you. For example, find out why he doesn't like going to church with you and why he pulls you away from church. ASK MANY QUESTIONS. KNOW WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW. BE WISE!

v. Don't ignore these pitfalls: Ignoring these pitfalls is also a pitfall to avoid.

vi. Avoid premarital sex and co-habiting: The secular society thinks differently about this, but God's word is very clear on this. No sex before marriage. Don't live together if you are not married. Don't try to get around it. Just obey God's word and it will pay off both in the short run and in the long run.

vii. Take care of unresolved internal pain(s).

"It is better for you to hurt your way through a disappointing break-up, than to hurt your way for a lifetime, through a disappointing marriage"-Pst. Olumide.

POINTS TO NOTE

1. A hurtful break-up is better than a hurtful marriage.

2. Purpose to be the right person in the relationship.

3. Have a significant assurance of your life partner before marriage. Note that 100% assurance may not be possible, but let your assurance be significant enough.

4. Also, don't over-analyze the situation. It may lead you to the paralysis of analysis.

Marriage is honorable in all-Hebrews 13:4

5. After saying "I do", put about 200% effort to make the marriage the best it can be. Also strive to bring the best out of yourself. Because sometimes, bringing the best out of yourself can help your partner bring the best out of him(her)self.

6. Make sure you deal with buyers remorse. After you get married, whoever you get married to becomes the right one.

Finally, marrying the right person does not mean marrying the perfect person. There are bound to be challenges along the way, but regardless of what happens, pray, believe and trust God for a better life with your spouse. And always know that even if your spouse may not be perfect in every way you want them to be, they are just right for you. Sometimes working to help each other deal with the imperfections in your lives, could help strengthen the union. Also remember that when you finally choose the right partner, God's favor is bound to follow-Proverbs 18:22. Enjoy your marriage in God. If you are not married, just wait on the lord. Peace.

DATE:SEPTEMBER 11, 2011

TEXT: II TIM. 3: 12-15, 4: 1, Col. 3: 1-7, Romans 8: 11-12, Matthew 5:29

MINISTER: PASTOR GHANDI OLAOYE

As believers it is important that we know what we believe and hold onto our faith. This is because in the absence of total adherence to our faith, it becomes a lot easier for us to give in to fallacies and deception. The Apostle Paul in his letter to Timothy, urged him to steadfastly hold unto the faith that he has known from his childhood. We live in a world that is constantly changing, and we are increasingly being jostled by varying philosophies, most of which are in total contradiction to God’s word. Hence, it becomes imperative to tenaciously hold unto God’s word, and constantly apply it in all we do. This is necessary for us not to be deceived by what we see in today’s world, and to remain rooted in the word of God.  We are not to be swept off our feet by the deceitful waters of ungodliness camouflaged in man’s philosophies, popular culture and secular standards. We are also not to be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. A man who doesn’t know who he is will easily be deceived into being who he is not.

Furthermore, in order for us to steadfastly hold onto God’s word, we must mortify the desires and deeds of the flesh. This involves being transformed in our mind, paradigm and thought pattern. Our old man (the nature of sin) must be gotten rid off in order for us to put on the new man (the nature of God). Though we live in this world, we are not of this world. Being saved, we are no longer meant to live according to the standards of this world. More so, self-righteousness cannot take us to heaven. The scripture records that the righteousness of man is like a filthy rag before God. So to live righteously according to the standards of God, we must be determined to live according to the word of God. The desires of the flesh are the things which define the mortal secular world in which we live in. We must starve these desires and not feed them. Except we mortify the desires of the flesh, we cannot walk in God’s righteousness.

The book of Matthew chapter 5:29, tells us that we are meant to destroy whatever will lead us to hell. The use of the eye and other physical parts of the body doesn’t literally mean that we should pluck out our eyes or cut off our eyes. It just means that we should get rid of things that can possibly lead us to hell regardless of how pleasurable they are.

WAYS IN WHICH WE CAN MORTIFY THE DEEDS OF THE FLESH

1.       Don’t feed those desires: Killing those desires will keep us from walking in such desires. If your problem for instance is alcohol, it is advisable to keep away from the bar or gatherings where alcohol is consumed so we are not tempted.  The same applies to any other sinful habits one may have.

2.       Renew your mind: Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2). First, understand that as a Christian, the way you thought as an unbeliever should not remain the same when you become a believer. This realization should lead you to an actual change in the way you think. The mind of Christ should replace the mind of the flesh in your life. Also note that a mere one time change is not just enough. There has to be a constant renewal, more like a continuous upgrading of one’s mind in accordance with God’s word so that we don't go back to the old ways we have denounced.  This could be achieved through juxtaposing one’s thoughts and life with God’s word and checking to see if such thoughts and lifestyles are in consonance with God’s word.

3.       Don’t be pretentious:Don't pretend as though these desires are not within you. Acknowledging that we live in a sinful world in which are constantly been tempted, helps us guard ourselves from falling into temptations.Except you see the need for a change, you will never make that change.

NOTABLE SCRIPTURE: Romans 8:13: If ye live according to the flesh ye shall die, but if ye through the spirit do mortify the deeds of the flesh ye shall live.

Remember: Kill those desires before they kill you.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

From a personal point of view, how can adherence to God's word help you live a godly life in an ungodly life?

Is it practical to live righteously in world filled with so much evil?

YOUR OPINIONS AND COMMENTS WOULD BE APPRECIATED

 

 

DATE:SEPTEMBER 11, 2011

TEXT: II TIM. 3: 12-15, 4: 1, Col. 3: 1-7, Romans 8: 11-12, Matthew 5:29

MINISTER: PASTOR GHANDI OLAOYE

As believers it is important that we know what we believe and hold onto our faith. This is because in the absence of total adherence to our faith, it becomes a lot easier for us to give in to fallacies and deception. The Apostle Paul in his letter to Timothy, urged him to steadfastly hold unto the faith that he has known from his childhood. We live in a world that is constantly changing, and we are increasingly being jostled by varying philosophies, most of which are in total contradiction to God’s word. Hence, it becomes imperative to tenaciously hold unto God’s word, and constantly apply it in all we do. This is necessary for us not to be deceived by what we see in today’s world, and to remain rooted in the word of God.  We are not to be swept off our feet by the deceitful waters of ungodliness camouflaged in man’s philosophies, popular culture and secular standards. We are also not to be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. A man who doesn’t know who he is will easily be deceived into being who he is not.

Furthermore, in order for us to steadfastly hold onto God’s word, we must mortify the desires and deeds of the flesh. This involves being transformed in our mind, paradigm and thought pattern. Our old man (the nature of sin) must be gotten rid off in order for us to put on the new man (the nature of God). Though we live in this world, we are not of this world. Being saved, we are no longer meant to live according to the standards of this world. More so, self-righteousness cannot take us to heaven. The scripture records that the righteousness of man is like a filthy rag before God. So to live righteously according to the standards of God, we must be determined to live according to the word of God. The desires of the flesh are the things which define the mortal secular world in which we live in. We must starve these desires and not feed them. Except we mortify the desires of the flesh, we cannot walk in God’s righteousness.

The book of Matthew chapter 5:29, tells us that we are meant to destroy whatever will lead us to hell. The use of the eye and other physical parts of the body doesn’t literally mean that we should pluck out our eyes or cut off our eyes. It just means that we should get rid of things that can possibly lead us to hell regardless of how pleasurable they are.

WAYS IN WHICH WE CAN MORTIFY THE DEEDS OF THE FLESH

1.       Don’t feed those desires: Killing those desires will keep us from walking in such desires. If your problem for instance is alcohol, it is advisable to keep away from the bar or gatherings where alcohol is consumed so we are not tempted.  The same applies to any other sinful habits one may have.

2.       Renew your mind: Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2). First, understand that as a Christian, the way you thought as an unbeliever should not remain the same when you become a believer. This realization should lead you to an actual change in the way you think. The mind of Christ should replace the mind of the flesh in your life. Also note that a mere one time change is not just enough. There has to be a constant renewal, more like a continuous upgrading of one’s mind in accordance with God’s word so that we don't go back to the old ways we have denounced.  This could be achieved through juxtaposing one’s thoughts and life with God’s word and checking to see if such thoughts and lifestyles are in consonance with God’s word.

3.       Don’t be pretentious:Don't pretend as though these desires are not within you. Acknowledging that we live in a sinful world in which are constantly been tempted, helps us guard ourselves from falling into temptations.Except you see the need for a change, you will never make that change.

NOTABLE SCRIPTURE: Romans 8:13: If ye live according to the flesh ye shall die, but if ye through the spirit do mortify the deeds of the flesh ye shall live.

Remember: Kill those desires before they kill you.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

From a personal point of view, how can adherence to God's word help you live a godly life in an ungodly life?

Is it practical to live righteously in world filled with so much evil?

YOUR OPINIONS AND COMMENTS WOULD BE APPRECIATED

 

 

TEXT: Pro. 27:15-16, Ecc. 7:26, I Cor. 13:1-8, James 5:16, Eph. 4:32, I Pt. 3: 1-2, I Pt. 3:7, Pro. 31:10-10, 25:11

REFERENCE: I Tim. 2:9-10, I Pt. 3:1-2, I cor. 11:15, II Cor. 3:18

MINISTER: PST. OMO GHANDI OLAOYE

Today, we continue with the series, Marriage in God's Perspective: The Role of the Woman. The focus from last Sunday was how the woman is expected to adorn herself in marriage, what this adornment entails, and how she can attain the level of adornemt the bible recommends. We would also take look at what God expects of a wife, when her husband is unbecoming in his attitudes. Come with me as we review this revelatory message from God's servant, Pastor Mrs. Omo Ghandi Olaoye!

In addition to what was stated in earlier posts, every godly woman is expected to pay attention to the way she adorns herself in order for her to be attractive to her husband. This adornment is not just an adornment of the physical appearance but also an adornment of character and personality. However, she is also expected to pay attention to the way she looks on the outside, doing so with modesty. She is also not expected to focus only on her outward beauty but also on her inner beauty. When a woman begins to focus excessively on how she looks on the outside, thereby attracting undue attention to herself, she is unconsciously taking the focus away from God and making herself the center of focus. This is not right and should therefore not be the practice in marriages. Modesty is a sign of submission to God. When a woman dresses modestly she is simply submitting herself to the word of God and to her husband. Indecent adornment on the part of a woman is a sign of dishonor to her husband. A woman who dishonors her husband does not have style, and lacks self-esteem, hence the reason she does all she can to reveal her physical body. Adorning herself modestly is a sign of respect to her husband and honor to God. Inner beauty for a woman is more important than outer beauty, because the inner beauty of a woman reflects her true personality. This inner beauty must be shown in the way she conducts, adorns and carries herself. More so, if the inner beauty of a woman is messed up, no amount of material or outward adornment would be enough to conceal or correct it.It is also important to note that outward embellishments may attract someone to you outwardly, but sooner than later, your inner character and personality would begin to surface. Your outward adornment can never prevent your inner character from coming out. In a case where a woman ignores her character and focuses on her outward appearance, she would only exude repulsion rather than attraction.

Just as a  mirror reveals to the woman how she looks on the outside, offering her a way of checking her physical appearance, so does the word of God mirror the inner personality and appearance of a woman. Hence, the woman should always use the word of God in checking and fixing her inner faults and imperfections. Also, the woman is expected to be a gentle spirit and be of a kind-heart regardless of the attitude of her husband.

In Proverbs 31:26, the virtuous woman was praised for the wise use of her tongue. Every woman should learn to use her tongue wisely at all times. Also, in the book of I Corinthians 11:15, the bible says the woman’s hair is her glory. In a similar vein, the man is also the glory of the woman and a head over her.  So, just as a woman takes good care of her hair, preserves it and wouldn’t do anything to destroy it, so should she honor and cater for her husband, not doing anything to dishonor, degrade or destroy him.

However, some women find it difficult to submit to their husbands because of their husbands' bad attitude. This shouldn’t be obtainable in any godly marriage. A woman who finds her husband to be disorderly and unbecoming in his conduct, should pray for him and look up to the hills (God) from where her help would come. Every godly woman should constantly be on her knees concerning her husband in order for him to come into the person that God has created him to be. In another vein, a husband’s bad attitude may be the result of his wife’s equally bad attitude. In this case, for such a woman to see a change in her husband she must be willing to first make a change. Even in a chaotic home, where a wife is being mistreated, she must learn to maintain a godly attitude, letting go and letting God to intervene. She shouldn't consider divorce. Divorce is not the best and only solution; it is not the will of God for any marriage. Regardless of what happens in the marriage, good or bad, the woman must learn to maintain a godly attitude and demeanor in the marriage. This is not easy to do, but every woman can if they will only ask God for the grace.

Furthermore, most relationships start up with physical gestures of romance, which are outward expressions of a person’s love for another. But when these relationships finally end in marriage, those same physical gestures alone will not be sufficient to keep the marriage going. Rather, spiritual fruits are necessary to maintain peace and harmony in any marriage. Let us not let the same fire of love with which we started the union, fade off with the progression of time. We must pay attention to the spiritual aspects of the marriage institution, because the institution needs the spiritual aspect to thrive. Marriage is a spiritual union, and it therefore needs spiritual means to keep it going. This will include prayer and constant adherence to God’s word and instructions concerning marriage.

My prayer is that no matter what you are going through at this time, may the mercy and grace of God be revealed in your marriages in Jesus name. And may your marriage be just what God intends it to be. Amen.

Comments are welcome. Let us know what you think about the series so far and in what way(s) it has been a blessing to you. Don't forget to join our services online for more powerful teachings and bible expositions. Thanks and God bless.

 

TEXT: Pro. 27:15-16, Ecc. 7:26, I Cor. 13:1-8, James 5:16, Eph. 4:32, I Pt. 3: 1-2, I Pt. 3:7, Pro. 31:10-10, 25:11

REFERENCE: I Tim. 2:9-10, I Pt. 3:1-2, I cor. 11:15, II Cor. 3:18

MINISTER: PST. OMO GHANDI OLAOYE

Today, we continue with the series, Marriage in God's Perspective: The Role of the Woman. The focus from last Sunday was how the woman is expected to adorn herself in marriage, what this adornment entails, and how she can attain the level of adornemt the bible recommends. We would also take look at what God expects of a wife, when her husband is unbecoming in his attitudes. Come with me as we review this revelatory message from God's servant, Pastor Mrs. Omo Ghandi Olaoye!

In addition to what was stated in earlier posts, every godly woman is expected to pay attention to the way she adorns herself in order for her to be attractive to her husband. This adornment is not just an adornment of the physical appearance but also an adornment of character and personality. However, she is also expected to pay attention to the way she looks on the outside, doing so with modesty. She is also not expected to focus only on her outward beauty but also on her inner beauty. When a woman begins to focus excessively on how she looks on the outside, thereby attracting undue attention to herself, she is unconsciously taking the focus away from God and making herself the center of focus. This is not right and should therefore not be the practice in marriages. Modesty is a sign of submission to God. When a woman dresses modestly she is simply submitting herself to the word of God and to her husband. Indecent adornment on the part of a woman is a sign of dishonor to her husband. A woman who dishonors her husband does not have style, and lacks self-esteem, hence the reason she does all she can to reveal her physical body. Adorning herself modestly is a sign of respect to her husband and honor to God. Inner beauty for a woman is more important than outer beauty, because the inner beauty of a woman reflects her true personality. This inner beauty must be shown in the way she conducts, adorns and carries herself. More so, if the inner beauty of a woman is messed up, no amount of material or outward adornment would be enough to conceal or correct it.It is also important to note that outward embellishments may attract someone to you outwardly, but sooner than later, your inner character and personality would begin to surface. Your outward adornment can never prevent your inner character from coming out. In a case where a woman ignores her character and focuses on her outward appearance, she would only exude repulsion rather than attraction.

Just as a  mirror reveals to the woman how she looks on the outside, offering her a way of checking her physical appearance, so does the word of God mirror the inner personality and appearance of a woman. Hence, the woman should always use the word of God in checking and fixing her inner faults and imperfections. Also, the woman is expected to be of a gentle spirit and a kind heart regardless of the attitude of her husband.

In Proverbs 31:26, the virtuous woman was praised for the wise use of her tongue. Every woman should learn to use her tongue wisely at all times. Also, in the book of I Corinthians 11:15, the bible says the woman’s hair is her glory. In a similar vein, the man is also the glory of the woman and a head over her.  So, just as a woman takes good care of her hair, preserves it and wouldn’t do anything to destroy it, so should she honor and cater for her husband, not doing anything to dishonor, degrade or destroy him.

However, some women find it difficult to submit to their husbands because of their husbands' bad attitude. This shouldn’t be obtainable in any godly marriage. A woman who finds her husband to be disorderly and unbecoming in his conduct, should pray for him and look up to the hills (God) from where her help would come. Every godly woman should constantly be on her knees concerning her husband in order for him to come into the person that God has created him to be. In another vein, a husband’s bad attitude may be the result of his wife’s equally bad attitude. In this case, for such a woman to see a change in her husband she must be willing to first make a change. Even in a chaotic home, where a wife is being mistreated, she must learn to maintain a godly attitude, letting go and letting God to intervene. She shouldn't consider divorce. Divorce is not the best and only solution; it is not the will of God for any marriage. Regardless of what happens in the marriage, good or bad, the woman must learn to maintain a godly attitude and demeanor in the marriage. This is not easy to do, but every woman can if they will only ask God for the grace.

Furthermore, most relationships start up with physical gestures of romance, which are outward expressions of a person’s love for another. But when these relationships finally end in marriage, those same physical gestures alone will not be sufficient to keep the marriage going. Rather, spiritual fruits are necessary to maintain peace and harmony in any marriage. Let us not let the same fire of love with which we started the union, fade off with the progression of time. We must pay attention to the spiritual aspects of the marriage institution, because the institution needs the spiritual aspect to thrive. Marriage is a spiritual union, and it therefore needs spiritual means to keep it going. This will include prayer and constant adherence to God’s word and instructions concerning marriage.

My prayer is that no matter what you are going through at this time, may the mercy and grace of God be revealed in your marriages in Jesus name. And may your marriage be just what God intends it to be. Amen.

Comments are welcome. Let us know what you think about the series so far and in what way(s) it has been a blessing to you. Don't forget to join our services online for more powerful teachings and bible expositions. Thanks and God bless.

 

TEXT: Pro. 27:15-16, Ecc. 7:26, I Cor. 13:1-8, James 5:16, Eph. 4:32, I Pt. 3: 1-2, I Pt. 3:7, Pro. 31:10-10, 25:11

REFERENCE: I Tim. 2:9-10, I Pt. 3:1-2, I cor. 11:15, II Cor. 3:18

MINISTER: PST. OMO GHANDI OLAOYE

Today, we continue with the series, Marriage in God's Perspective: The Role of the Woman. The focus from last Sunday was how the woman is expected to adorn herself in marriage, what this adornment entails, and how she can attain the level of adornemt the bible recommends. We would also take look at what God expects of a wife, when her husband is unbecoming in his attitudes. Come with me as we review this revelatory message from God's servant, Pastor Mrs. Omo Ghandi Olaoye!

In addition to what was stated in earlier posts, every godly woman is expected to pay attention to the way she adorns herself in order for her to be attractive to her husband. This adornment is not just an adornment of the physical appearance but also an adornment of character and personality. However, she is also expected to pay attention to the way she looks on the outside, doing so with modesty. She is also not expected to focus only on her outward beauty but also on her inner beauty. When a woman begins to focus excessively on how she looks on the outside, thereby attracting undue attention to herself, she is unconsciously taken the focus away from God and making herself the center of focus. This is not right and should therefore not be the practice in marriages. Modesty is a sign of submission to God. When a woman dresses modestly she is simply submitting herself to the word of God and to her husband. Indecent adornment on the part of a woman is a sign of dishonor to her husband. A woman who dishonors her husband does not have style, and lacks self-esteem, hence the reason she does all she can to reveal her physical body. Adorning herself modestly is a sign of respect to her husband and honor to God. Inner beauty for a woman is more important than outer beauty, because the inner beauty of a woman reflects her true personality. This inner beauty must be shown in the way she conducts, adorns and carries herself. More so, if the inner beauty of a woman is messed up, no amount of material or outward adornment would be enough to conceal or correct it.It is also important to note that outward embellishments may attract someone to you outwardly, but sooner than later, your inner character and personality would begin to surface. Your outward adornment can never prevent your inner character from coming out. In a case where a woman ignores her character and focuses on her outward appearance, she would only exude repulsion rather than attraction.

Just as a  mirror reveals to the woman how she looks on the outside, offering her a way of checking her physical appearance, so does the word of God mirror the inner personality and appearance of a woman. Hence, the woman should always use the word of God in checking and fixing her inner faults and imperfections. Also, the woman is expected to be a gentle spirit and be of a kind-heart regardless of the attitude of her husband.

In Proverbs 31:26, the virtuous woman was praised for the wise use of her tongue. Every woman should learn to use her tongue wisely at all times. Also, in the book of I Corinthians 11:15, the bible says the woman’s hair is her glory. In a similar vein, the man is also the glory of the woman and a head over her.  So, just as a woman takes good care of her hair, preserves it and wouldn’t do anything to destroy it, so should she honor and cater for her husband, not doing anything to dishonor, degrade or destroy him.

However, some women find it difficult to submit to their husbands because of their husbands' bad attitude. This shouldn’t be obtainable in any godly marriage. A woman who finds her husband to be disorderly and unbecoming in his conduct, should pray for him and look up to the hills (God) from where her help would come. Every godly woman should constantly be on her knees concerning her husband in order for him to come into the person that God has created him to be. In another vein, a husband’s bad attitude may be the result of his wife’s equally bad attitude. In this case, for such a woman to see a change in her husband she must be willing to first make a change. Even in a chaotic home, where a wife is being mistreated, she must learn to maintain a godly attitude, letting go and letting God to intervene. She shouldn't consider divorce. Divorce is not the best and only solution; it is not the will of God for any marriage. Regardless of what happens in the marriage, good or bad, the woman must learn to maintain a godly attitude and demeanor in the marriage. This is not easy to do, but every woman can if they will only ask God for the grace.

Furthermore, most relationships start up with physical gestures of romance, which are outward expressions of a person’s love for another. But when these relationships finally end in marriage, those same physical gestures alone will not be sufficient to keep the marriage going. Rather, spiritual fruits are necessary to maintain peace and harmony in any marriage. Let us not let the same fire of love with which we started the union, fade off with the progression of time. We must pay attention to the spiritual aspects of the marriage institution, because the institution needs the spiritual aspect to thrive. Marriage is a spiritual union, and it therefore needs spiritual means to keep it going. This will include prayer and constant adherence to God’s word and instructions concerning marriage.

My prayer is that no matter what you are going through at this time, may the mercy and grace of God be revealed in your marriages in Jesus name. And may your marriage be just what God intends it to be. Amen.

Comments are welcome. Let us know what you think about the series so far and in what way(s) it has been a blessing to you. Don't forget to join our services online for more powerful teachings and bible expositions. Thanks and God bless.