The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • Mothers and Your Full restoration

    Mothers and Your Full restoration

    Text:  Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons …… said, Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right hand and the other at your left in your kingdom. (Matthew 20:20, 21)

    One of the principal promises of God in the Year 2024 is that there shall be full restoration in lives, homes, marriages, enterprises and nations. This promised full restoration shall herald a new song, a new beginning, surprising elevations, economic revivals, financial breakthroughs, unstoppable dancing and endless rejoicing for all that are yours this year in the name of Jesus Christ (Joel 2:25). It is therefore apt to ask if you are you experiencing challenging times or finding it difficult to make ends meet, please note that it is not over with you. This is your year of full  restoration. Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5). Your morning of joy is here. You are going to bounce back to health and prosperity. God is going to restore you physically, occupationally, economically and spiritually in the name of Jesus Christ.

    From our text, Salome, mother of James and John, came to Jesus Christ with her two sons, James and John. She made a plea, not for herself or for any personal benefit but, for seats in His kingdom for her two sons. She was selfless, good and kind. As a result of her plea, the destinies of the sons were changed for good and were fully restored. Her two children, James and John, were of the inner caucus in the ministry of Jesus Christ alongside Simon Peter, the team known as the boarneges, sons of Thunder (Mark 3:17). John was the beloved of Jesus Christ (John 21:20), who used to lean on Him (John 13:23-25) and was the person who Jesus entrusted the care of His mother to, at His point of passage.

    It is pertinent to ask you: how are you treating the physical and spiritual mother figures in your life? Do you realize that the grace to change destinies are in the hands of mothers? While it is good to pray and fast for prosperity and a long life, while it is not out of place to visit the mountain top for marathon prayers, while it good to go for camps and retreats for spiritual rejuvenation, while it is not out of place to observe vigils and the likes, the needful step that facilitates prosperity, promotion, good health and longevity is to honor mothers. “Honour your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise so that it may go wel, with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” (Ephesians 6:2,3). Prayers are mere noise in the ears of God without due attention of children to their mothers. If you desire that your prayers should have express attention, it is incumbent on you to reverence and honour your wife (1 Peter 3:7). A man who honors his wife is wise and shall have great dividends for that act. Why? Women are the agents of good things and the means to receive favour from God, and a life of ease and peace as needed icing. “Whoso finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favour”. (Proverbs 18:22).

    Beloved, one of the things you need to do for your full restoration this year is to return to the mother figures in your life (your aunt, biological or adopted mother, spiritual mother etc), celebrate and appreciate them, not only yesterday, which was the Mothering Sunday, but always. As the Lord lives, who gives honor to His word than His name (Psalm 138:2), you shall be fully restored to your rightful position and benefits in the name of Jesus Christ.

    Read Also: No Nigerian should be in captivity, Speaker Abbas tells security agencies

    In addition to that, kindly note also that motherhood is an awesome privilege; it is a responsibility and a blessing, if rightly invested into. What determines the benefits which are obtainable by man is the investment of mothers in their divine responsibilities. God created mothers as changers of destinies and agents of national rebirth and blessings. Nigeria was blessed in the beginning because mothers took their motherhood responsibilities seriously. Then, mothers sacrifice all of their time, talents, possessions and treasures for the betterment of their children. The country is presently filled with loafers, louts, drug addicts, kidnappers, corrupt elements etc, as evidenced from the calibre of leaders we have in positions of authority across the board because of the failure of mothers, owing to the misplacement of their priorities. Motherhood is not about age but it is in maturity, responsibility and sacrifice. Destiny changing mothers are compassionate, endearing, intuitive, protective, mindful, dutiful, selfless, responsible, caring, loving and Godly. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the US said, “All that I am, I owe to my angel mother”.

    During this Lenten season, and as the Mothering Sunday was celebrated yesterday, God is calling on children to honor their mothers daily and for husbands to always reference their wives in other to open the gates of their full restoration this year. Further to that, God is speaking to mothers, the changers of destinies, to return to Him and plead for mercy where they have failed God, pray for forgiveness where they have abdicated their divine responsibilities of care for their husbands and children as a result of their lure for pecuniary issues of life. Nigeria shall surely be a better place in the name of Jesus.

    Prayers: Lord, make our mothers sources of blessings and agents of divine changes for the world in the name of Jesus Christ

  • Pastor Chris’ Healing Streams: All Your Questions Answered

    Pastor Chris’ Healing Streams: All Your Questions Answered

    A wave of anticipation surges across the world as the countdown continues for the 10th edition of the Healing Streams Live Healing Services with Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, scheduled to take place from Friday, March 15th, to Sunday, March 17th, 2024.

    Renowned Christian minister Pastor Chris Oyakhilome is gearing up to lead the upcoming Healing Streams Live Healing Services, an event anticipated by millions worldwide seeking spiritual healing and restoration.

    The event will take place from Friday, March 15th, to Sunday, March 17th, and registration for the event is available on the Healing Streams’ website for free.

    As believers all around the world wait for the Healing Streams Live Healing Services to begin, let us go over some frequently asked questions related to the event.

    1. Who is Pastor Chris Oyakhilome?

    Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, a highly respected leader in the Christian community, is the founder and president of Christ Embassy, also known as LoveWorld Inc. 

    With a global following of around 13 million believers, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has dedicated his life to spreading the message of Christianity through his impactful sermons, teachings, and philanthropic efforts. 

    He is renowned for his dynamic preaching style and commitment to promoting unity and love among believers worldwide.

    2. What Are the Healing Streams Live Healing Services?

    The Healing Streams Live Healing Services are transformative events organized by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome and designed to offer participants an encounter with the power of divine healing and restoration. 

    These services provide a platform for believers to come together in prayer, worship, and fellowship to receive spiritual rejuvenation and physical healing.

    3. When and Where Will the Services Take Place?

    Scheduled to take place from Friday, March 15th, to Sunday, March 17th, 2024, at 3 PM (GMT+1), the Healing Streams Live Healing Services will be broadcast globally, allowing participants from all corners of the world to join remotely or gather at designated centers. 

    These centers serve as hubs where believers can come together to experience the services in a communal setting.

    4. What Can Participants Expect from Pastor Chris’ Healing Streams?

    Participants can expect a series of powerful sessions led by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, during which prayers for healing and restoration will be offered. 

    These sessions are characterized by an atmosphere of faith, expectation, and anticipation as attendees open their hearts to receive divine intervention and experience the miraculous touch of God.

    5. How Can I Register?

    Registration for the Healing Streams Live Healing Services is accessible through the event’s official website, where interested people can find detailed instructions on how to sign up and participate. 

    Participants can also register at local LoveWorld centers or through affiliated ministries and organizations.

    6. Are There Testimonies from Previous Editions of the Healing Streams?

    Indeed, there is.

    Bobbie’s journey from Australia is a testament to the life-changing impact of the Healing Streams Live Healing Services events.

    After suffering from various health challenges for over a decade, Bobbie experienced a remarkable turnaround in her health following her participation in a previous Healing Streams gathering. 

    Through the prayers and ministry of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, she received divine healing and restoration, significantly improving her overall well-being.

    Read Also: Pastor Chris and His Nephew: A Family Legacy of Faith

    Pastor Samuel’s story from the Fiji Islands is another powerful testimony to the miraculous healing power of God experienced during Healing Streams Live Healing Services events. 

    Struggling with mobility issues due to a debilitating leg condition, Pastor Samuel found hope and restoration through his participation in a Healing Streams session. 

    Through the prayers and anointing of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, he witnessed a supernatural intervention that restored mobility to his legs, enabling him to walk again and reclaim his independence.

    Liza’s journey from China is yet another testament to the transformative power of faith and prayer experienced during Healing Streams events. 

    After suffering a stroke that left her paralyzed, Liza faced numerous physical and emotional challenges. 

    However, her life took a dramatic turn for the better when she attended a Healing Streams Live Healing Services gathering led by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome.

    Through the ministry and prayers offered during the event, Liza experienced a miraculous healing that restored mobility to her paralyzed limbs and brought hope and joy back into her life.

    7. Can I Participate if I am Facing Challenges or Doubts?

    The Healing Streams Live Healing Services welcomes people from all walks of life, irrespective of their current circumstances or beliefs. 

    Whether you are facing physical ailments, emotional struggles, or spiritual challenges, you can join the services and experience the transformative power of God’s healing love.

    8. How Can I Share This Opportunity with Others?

    Sharing information about the Healing Streams Live Healing Services with friends, family, and acquaintances is a meaningful way to extend the invitation to others who may benefit from the event. 

    By spreading the word through word of mouth, social media, or community outreach efforts, you can help connect more people to this life-changing spiritual healing and renewal opportunity.

    9. What Happens During Pastor Chris’ Service?

    During the Healing Streams Live Healing Services, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome delivers impactful sermons, leads fervent prayers, and facilitates moments of worship and praise. 

    The services are characterized by an atmosphere of faith, expectancy, and divine presence, creating an environment conducive to spiritual encounters and miraculous interventions.

    10. How Can I Stay Connected After the Event?

    Staying connected with the Healing Streams community is essential for continued spiritual growth and engagement beyond the event. 

    Participants can access various resources, including online platforms, social media channels, and digital content libraries, where they can find teachings, testimonies, and inspirational messages to nourish their faith and deepen their relationship with God.

    The upcoming Healing Streams Live Healing Services with Pastor Chris Oyakhilome offer a unique opportunity for people seeking spiritual healing and renewal to come together in a global gathering of faith. 

    As believers anticipate the transformative encounters and miraculous interventions that await them, they are encouraged to register for the event, share the opportunity with others, and prepare their hearts to experience the life-changing power of God’s healing love.

  • Theme: Beware of alternatives! (4)

    Theme: Beware of alternatives! (4)

    • By: Henry O. Adelegan
    • Text:”….. one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part…..” (Luke 10:42)

    Mary and Martha, the sisters of Lazarus had the problem of choice when Jesus Christ visited them at their house at Bethany – they were torn between taking care of Jesus Christ and sitting at His feet to listen to His word. They were caught in the web of choice between temporality and eternity. Martha chose the former. She went to the kitchen and was preparing Jesus’ meal while Mary chose the latter, she sat at Jesus’ feet to listen to the word of God. This drew the ire of Martha who apparently was so distressed and “distracted with much serving” and frustrated that her sister didn’t help out in the kitchen but sat at Jesus’ feet while she did all the work. Jesus then replied her that the choice that Mary made was the only needful thing while her own part was needless. He added that the choice of Mary was not only needful but it’s a part that no one could ever take from her.

    Mary of Bethany was a lady who knew the right way and pursued it without counting the cost or minding whose ox was gored (Luke 9:62). One day, Jesus Christ visited her family with the disciples at Bethany and while all were seated to eat, Mary had the option of either using her costly perfume on herself or ‘wasting it’, as Judas Iscariot assumed (John 12:5-6). Mary broke the costly ornament on Jesus Christ and also used her hair to rub it on His leg. She chose the best of the available options and was acknowledged by Jesus Christ that she chose wisely. She voted for the manna from above, she chose Jesus Christ who is “….. the bread of life….” (John 6:35) and had the guarantee of never to hunger or thirst. Mary chose to meditate on the word of God and strained herself to do all that was written therein hence she had good success (Joshua 1:8 cf 2 Timothy 2:15). She didn’t lose her reward as Jesus Christ promised that “….Wherever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman has done, be told for a memorial of her” (Matthew 26:13).

    Read Also: Theme: Beware of alternatives! (3)

    By “choosing the best”, Jesus meant that those whose priority in life is Christ, the knowledge of Him, and nearness to Him have chosen what will last through eternity, such as the “gold, silver and costly stones” referred to in 1 Corinthians 3:11-12. From this incident, we learn that those who are distracted with mundane and earthly cares are building upon the foundation with “wood, hay and straw,” materials which will not stand the fire that comes to us in times of testing, nor will they be remembered in eternity. It is incontrovertible that some people vote for things that are needless, like Martha, as against the things that are needful; a lot of people opt for things that have temporal value to ways of eternal life while others choose to be selfish as against being selfless. Jesus Christ encourages us to “Labour not for the meat which perishes, but for that meat which endures unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him has God the Father sealed”. (John 6:27).

    Are you serving at the tables or learning at His feet? Are you concerned and troubled about pecuniary gains and benefits for yourself and your family as against the kingdom of God and it’s righteousness? Are you living for yourself alone or using what God has blessed you with for the benefit of other people? It needs be said that the choices you make today will determine your peace and how you will be rewarded here on earth on the morrow and of course when this world shall be no more. Jesus Christ is the way, He is the truth and He is the life. Choose Him today as the master of your life, ask Him to forgive your sins, accept Him as your Lord, ask Him to come into your life and allw Him to take over the driver seat of your life, you will never regret your decisions today and in the future. 

    Prayer: Lord, give me grace to be like Mary of Bethany and not her sister Martha. When my life ends here, make me worthy of your heavenly crown, in Jesus’ name

  • Theme: Beware of alternatives! (3)

    Theme: Beware of alternatives! (3)

    • Text: James 1:2 -4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds

    When the journey of this topic started two days ago, it was brought to the fore that what makes or mars the destiny of a life, family, enterprise or nation is the rightness or wrongness of the choices made. Success in life, peace and prosperity are not about what seemed right to you but it is on the exactitude of your decisions. James, from our text, apprised us, that whenever we get to a critical point of decision making and we are have the choice of disgust, we must pick on the option of praises to God. Some of the alternatives you must therefore avoid are, not servicing God, fear or doubt, putting trust in any human being, disobedience to God, following the world, laziness, pride, selfishness, greed, wickedness etc.

    Kindly note dear beloved in Christ that, “…… the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear”. (Isaiah 59:1,2). Jesus Christ is the same today, as He was yesterday and shall be forever (Hebrews 13:8). All that He did yesterday, as recorded in the Holy book, He is able and willing to do much more for you today if only you can choose to do what is right and not what you like. There is a large reservoir of blessings waiting for you in this country, if you are willing and obedient (Isaiah 1:19,20).

    When you make the right choice, God will go into your past years and shall restore your business fully. In Luke 5:1-11, Jesus had an encounter with Simon Peter, a professional fisherman who experienced an unsuccessful fishing expedition. Jesus met him and requested for his boat and time. Peter had the choice to say NOT TODAY because he had worked all through the night and must be exhausted, but he said, I choose the option to work with You. His choice paid off. Jesus took him to the deep. When they got there, He asked him to cast his net at the right side. When he did, all the fishes that the sea have denied him since he started the fishing business were restored to him from the bank of the sea.

    Besides that, right decision making is the guarantee of restoration of health. In 2 Kings 5, there was a very successful man named Naaman who was terribly ill and the sickness made him a social outcast. One day, he encountered the Restorer and was asked to go and dip his body seven times in the dirty River Jordan but he refused because of the availability of more dignifying rivers. When he was eventually prevailed on to follow the right choice, he went to the River Jordan, dipped his body in it and all all that Jordan (the descender) took from him since birth were restored. His skin went back to when he was a baby.

    Read Also: How Wigwe saved me after my dethronement – Sanusi

    Beloved, when you choose right, you shall get to your position of destiny. Potiphar’s wife wanted to derail the destiny of Joseph with her sexual advances. Joseph had the alternative of sleeping with her and end his life as the Chief housekeeper but he decided to flee (Gen. 39:7-20). He was consequently moved into the prison. As a result of his choice, the Restorer went into the bank of his life, revisited his past dreams and he became the Vice President in a strange land (Gen. 42:39-44).

    When you choose right, your testimonies will change. Hannah had been going to Shiloh yearly for prayers without a child. She had the option of not going to Shiloh and conclude that Praying is a scam, but she didn’t. One year, she returned to Shiloh and met with the Restorer. She wanted one child but the full restorer went to the bank of her life and gave her 6 (1 Samuel 1). 

    During this time of Lent, please ask God to come into your life, repent of your sins, ask Him to open your eyes to your past errors, pray for grace to amend your ways, choose the right things and it shall be well with you in the name of Jesus,

    Prayers: Lord, give me by the power of the Holy Spirit to be able to make the right choices in the name of Jesus Christ.

  • Beware of alternatives!(1)

    Beware of alternatives!(1)

    • Text: James 1:2 -4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds

    What makes or mars the destiny of a life, family, enterprise or nation is the rightness or wrongness of the choices made. It is not about what seems right but it is on the exactitude of your decisions under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Proverbs 16:25 says that “there is a way that seemeth right unto a man but it is the way of death”. As there are right ways and associations which have the capacity to lead to your Promised land, there are also the wrong paths and people that have the power to derail your life purpose. If you desire heavenly blessings here and a place in heaven when the labor of the laborers shall end, you must be very intentional about doing what is right and associating with the right people, under divine leading, and not do what you like or befriend anyone who appears good. You must incline your ears and heart to the voice of the Holy Spirit. Prophet Isaiah said in Isaiah 30:21 that, “And your ears shall hear a word behind you saying, This is the way, walk in it, when you turn to the right hand, and when you turn to your left”. The choice you make will either make you or mar your life.

    Your decision concerning who to marry for instance is a determinant of whether you will endure marriage or enjoy it. Lots of people are in marital bondages today because their decisions were made based on outward beauty, seemingly promising careers and wealthy family background to the neglect of the more important inner Christian values. Any decision taken without divine leading will lead ultimately to challenges and a crash. Paul told the Romans in Romans 8:6 that, “To be carnally minded is death but to be spiritually minded is life but to be spiritually minded is life and peace”.

    The choice of what career to pursue or who to partner with in business can either bring out your stardom or elevate your nuisance value. Everything in life is about choices, and your life success is hinged on your deliberate intention to do what is right and not what you like.  The children of Issachar were men of understanding because they knew what they were supposed to do hence all their brethren were at their command (1 Chronicles 12:32). When you follow the right path, God will bless you beyond your imagination because, “He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that can ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). When you take the right steps, God will restore your past years and great shall be your reward. Joel 2:25 says, “And I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you”.

    James, supposedly the half brother of Jesus Christ, a man who had experienced the gruesome murder of a brother in the presence of Mary their mother, the Saviour who was accused of what He never did and was deserted by all He assisted and brought joy to their lives. James wrote, with a benefit of hindsight, that, dear brothers and sisters, whenever you get to a life crossroad, whenever you encounter troubles or people gang up against you and you are faced with the choice of asking, “Lord, Why me?”, he declared that the option to be picked is praises to God. He concluded it that with that right decision, you shall grow into maturity and you shall lack nothing.

    Dear beloved, the first alternative which you must be wary of is not serving God. God said in Exodus 23:25, 26, that, “You must serve the Lord your God. If you do so, I will bless you with food and water, and I will protect you from illness. There will be no miscarriages or infertility in your land, and I will give you long lives”. You were created to serve God with all your heart, soul, body and strength (cf Mark 12:30). Anyone who does not serve God will shortchange His divine blessings, will not be protected from sicknesses, will experience miscarriages of the good things of life, will have testimonies of failure at the edge of breakthroughs and live a frustrated life. The second thing you must be wary of is the alternative of Fear or doubt. James 1:6-8 says that, “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed of the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the God”. Fear or doubt makes things very difficult for children of God. It also makes prayers said not answered; but when you have faith that tomorrow shall be alright, the mountains and challenges in your life shall be moved. This shall be your portion during this season of Lent in the name of Jesus Christ.

    Read Also: Tinubu seeks support for Africa’s battle against arms proliferation, others

    The third choice you must flee is when to put your trust in any human being. In Jeremiah 17:5-10, God said that, “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord. That person will be like a bush in the wastelands; they will not see prosperity when it comes”. When you put your trust in God absolutely, He will open your eyes to see good when it comes and great shall be your heritage.

    During this time of Lent, you need to ask God to come into your life, you must repent of your sins, ask God to open your eyes to your past errors, pray for grace to be able to amend your ways and it shall be well with you in the name of Jesus Christ.

    Prayers: Lord, give me by the power of the Holy Spirit to be able to make the right choices in the name of Jesus Christ.

  • Theme: His Grace will raise you!

    Theme: His Grace will raise you!

    Text: “… by the grace of God I am what I am…..” 1 Cor. 15:10

    • By: Henry O. Adelegan

    The Grace of God in human race is what qualifies the unqualified for higher posts, lifts to glorious positions and uploads to enviable honour. Whenever grace steps in for a person, every form of disabilities are overlooked. Moses, like Apostle Paul, had a terrible background (Exodus 2:11-15) but when grace stepped in for him, his  story changed (Isaiah 60:15). Esther was a lady that was unqualified to be a Queen but the grace of God qualified the unqualified Esther and made her a Queen over Babylon. Joseph too experienced His grace from the moment he was born as a special son to his parents (Gen. 37:3), and it was grace that lifted him to become the Prime Minister in Egypt, even without any certificate in Economics or a degree in either Law or Public Administration, and God uplifted him to become a global celebrity(Gen. 41:40-44).

     When grace steps into the race of a man, it puts an end to sufferings, it perfects the ways of the helpless, it stabilizes tumultuous relationships, it boosts weak economies, it strengthens the weak and it settles the hopeless. 1 Peter 5:10 attests to it that, “the God of all grace, who has called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that you have suffered a while, shall make you perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you”. It is pertinent to note that human efforts are without enviable result in the absence of His grace. It is His grace that validates your race; and without His grace on you, your life, endeavors and struggles shall be fraught with endless struggles and end in disgrace. No wonder Solomon declared that “the race is not to the swift, battle not to the strong, riches not to men of understanding and favor not to men of skill but time and chance happens to them all.”(Eccles. 9:11). When His Grace steps in for you beloved, the power of God shall give you direction and do exceedingly abundantly above all that you are thinking or asking for (cf Ephesians 3:20). When His grace is on you, there is no height you cannot scale, there is no position you cannot attain and there is no possession you cannot acquire.

    This explains why the Psalmist said in Psalms 127:1 that except the Lord gives grace to build a house, they build in vain that took a loan to buy a land, and that if the Lord does not keep you, your human security is a mere social status symbol and amounts to nothing. Why? It is His grace that has the capacity to change the game of life and turn an underdog to a celebrity and turn challenges of life into testimonies! Jesus Christ said in Matt. 6:33 that when you seek first the kingdom of God and pursue His righteousness, grace shall be provoked on your behalf, the game of life will change and you shall have more than you bargained for because all your physiological, safety, belongingness, esteem and self actualization needs shall be added unto you. Why? It is His grace that has the capacity to change the game! It therefore doesn’t matter the challenges you are passing through in your race now, I have good news for you: the grace of God in your race shall change the story. I therefore declare that the grace of God shall speak for you in the race of your life today and grant you full restoration that shall astound your enemies and friends in the name of Jesus Christ.

    Read Also:‘Exposing kids to healthy living will raise their wellness’

    Saul was a man with a heinous antecedent before Jesus Christ encountered him on his way to commit more atrocities against the early church in Damascus. It was following that incident that his name was changed from Saul the persecutor to Paul the Apostle (Acts 9:1-19,13:9). From our text, Paul the Apostle informed the church in Corinth that he towered above the other disciples and echoed it that his elevation to that high pedestal was not affirmed on neither his works nor his worth but by the grace of God. The grace of God found him out, the grace of God changed his life story and the grace of God lifted him up. I am confident that your story of lift up by grace shall be next. Nigeria shall be better and stronger. God will give our leaders the needed wisdom to steer the affairs of the country and the past glory of Nigeria shall be fully restored in the name of Jesus Christ.

    To enable His grace change the game for you during this season of Lent, please cry to God to forgive your past sins and surrender your life to Jesus Christ, cry to Him to help you, don’t consider that you have apprehended, forget the things which are behind, remain resolute in Christ Jesus and press on towards the goal to win the prize which has been set before you. As the Lord lives, His grace shall rest on you this month of March 2024, the game of your life will change for the best and your story shall be to His glory in the name of Jesus Christ.

    Prayer: Oh Lord, let your grace change the game of my life for your glory in the name of Jesus Christ.

  • Cost of living: Nigeria is facing reality –Adegbite

    Cost of living: Nigeria is facing reality –Adegbite

    Rev Stephen Adegbite doubles as the executive secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) and the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos State Chapter, in this interview with ADEOLA OGUNLADE, he speaks about the state of the nation, facelift by NCPC, the need for brotherliness in the face of daunting challenges in Nigeria. Excerpts

    Some pastors think that CAN is no longer relevant, what would you be telling people who hold this opinion?

    Church leaders who are holding this view are exhibiting what I call self-aggrandizement. Anybody who feels that the body of Christ is not recognised does not know what they are talking about. By the time he has a problem; he will run back to CAN. The government, church, and society, recognise CAN.

    Everybody has the right to say whatever they like to say but we know what we are doing, we know God is on our side and we know we will continue to be the umbrella body of Christians in the nation and Lagos State.

    Last Saturday, if you saw the number of people that gathered at LAWNA Olorunda Ketu, you would know that those saying CAN is irrelevant don’t know what they are saying.

    We will continue to bring people to the knowledge of Christ.

    Some religious leaders have been accused of being part of Nigeria’s problem. How do you react to this?

    There are two types of ministers, there are ministers that call themselves and there are ministers that God called. If God called you, you would not be a problem to your nation and your church. But if you call yourself, you will want to satisfy your belly, and that is the type of minister that will be involved in inimical activities that are injurious to the existence of our nation and the church.

    I would say that everyone should fear God and remember that one day, you give an account of your stewardship. It is only the blessings of God that will last, anything that is not from God, we must know that we should not encourage such. We must not live in affluence to the detriment of other people.

    There are Nigerians who think some faith leaders do not speak truth to power because they are on the payrolls of the government or some political leaders…

    That is not correct. Some of the people saying this, if investigated you will know that they have romanced government and officials secretly and they believe nobody knows what they have done. But you know that you can deceive me, but none of us can deceive God. On the last day, we are going to take stock of our lives, and the people you think will be in heaven may not be there because of what they have done on earth. God is a righteous judge and he is the only one that knows the heart of men and will judge accordingly.

    The Catholic Bishops and an Anglican Bishop voiced that the people are hungry, frustrated, and can no longer be pacified. What is your view of the current situation?

    There is no doubt things are tough for people, that is why we encourage churches and well-meaning Nigerians to offer help and be our brothers’ keepers. I do that and will continue to as long as I’m living. Whatever we have is not ours but entrusted in our care and when we die, we do not even know what will happen to whatever we have.

    Let me say to you that what is happening in Nigeria is not limited to Nigeria, there is a global economic recession. We must admit that if you switch on your TV set you will see the reports of Japan, China, America, England etc. We know the prices of goods and services now. I slept in a hotel in New York. I paid 250 dollars without a meal or complimentary breakfast, so what are we talking about?

    We are not the worst off in this present quagmire. Nigeria is facing reality and we cannot continue to live a borrowed life, it is what we have that we must spend and that is what Mr. President is trying to do. Yes, we see the pains the people are going through and we identify with them but we must exercise patience for Mr. President to fix the nation. It is very easy to destroy, but rebuilding is not an easy task. Let us give the president more time and very soon we will come out of the woods and Nigeria will smile again. Let us use the period of Lent to pray for God to hearken to our cries and heal our land. Let us be our brother’s keeper.

    What is the latest on Christian pilgrimage this season in Nigeria?

    We are going to start operations by the end of April, we are going to make procurement, and there will be room for people to make applications and there will be interviews for those we will select to work with us. Pilgrimage this season will be given a facelift and we will start two pilgrimage exercises. The first will be the Easter pilgrimage and that will be at the end of April to July, when we close that report, we submit it. The main pilgrimage will be held from November to February, and this will be the pattern of pilgrimage moving forward. Pilgrimage is not a jamboree it is a spiritual journey, a spiritual programme, and activities will be involved.

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    Is NCPC looking at Israel or what is the alternative?

    Israel is open now so we can begin to go back. For anyone embarking on a pilgrimage, the intention is to visit Jerusalem and other places in Israel. Wherever we go, we must be close to Jerusalem which is the prayer and admiration of people. We can go to Greece, Athens and some places we can discover, but Jerusalem remains number one. That is why when you come back, we give you JP, meaning Jerusalem pilgrim.

    A Nigerian preacher said there was no prayer she offered whenever she visited Jerusalem that was not answered. The question some asked was, do you have to go on a pilgrimage for all your prayers to be answered?

    No, God answers prayers everywhere, but what we are saying is, if God has blessed the land and commanded that people should observe pilgrimage, we should obey God. That we should visit where Jesus was born; where he grew up as a young man; where he died; and where he was resurrected. Israel is surrounded by 14 countries who are enemies and they still survive. The land is located in a desert but what they have can feed everybody and still have a surplus, as they even export to the outside world. So, that is a blessed land and when God has blessed something, you cannot curse it.

  • Friends, members celebrate James two years after demise

    Friends, members celebrate James two years after demise

    Friends, well-wishers, and associates of the late founding General Overseer of El-Shaddai Covenant Ministries, Dr. James O. James, have paid glowing tributes to his memories on the second anniversary of his death.

    James, a former lecturer at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Kaduna, according to them, was an inspirational and selfless leader who affected destinies and families in no small way.

    They spoke at the second anniversary of his demise at the Lagos headquarters of the church with the theme ‘No gree for drugs.’ 

    At the Founder’s Day 2024, they said James lived an exemplary and impactful life.

    His wife, Dr Temitayo James, said being married to him was the best thing that happened to her after salvation. According to her, “He had a heart for God and the people. He lived with the mindset of making changes. He was an angel who did good all the days of his life.”

    The founder of Fountain of Life Assembly, Bishop Dare Oshowo, his friend of over 40 years, said James was a committed servant of God who served his generations.

    He urged Christians to live one day at a time, knowing God could call them home any day to render an account.

    Oshowo, said James, though dead, was still speaking through his impact and changing lives, saying living was not about acquisition, but transforming people.

    Assistant General Overseer (South) of the Ministries, Dr. Oyeleke Ajiboye, said his thriving business was a reflection of the teachings and mentorship of James, who he described as an inspirational father.

    He said the legacies of James would continue to reverberate for years to come, stating the transformed lives and destinies were testimonies of his commitment to the works of God. 

    To help tackle the scourge of drug abuse in society, the event held a panel session on the prevalence of the menace.

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    Pastor Keji Hamilton, a former drug addict, and band member of late Afrobeat singer, Fela Anikulapo, said drug addiction was a spiritual problem that required the church to take decisive actions.

    A Consultant Psychiatrist at Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, Dr. Sunday Amosu said the society was sitting on a keg of gunpowder based on the prevalence of drug addictions, even in mission-based tertiary institutions.

    He said many of them have students battling addiction that are desperately hidden away from the public. The psychiatrist said something must be done to assist youths break away from the destruction of drugs.

    Dr. Abiodun Kawonise said it was important for parents to become aware of the symptoms of drug addiction so that they can seek help early.

    Mr Olakunle Babalola, a dedicated public health professional, said substance drugs remained a major challenge for many youths, stating that most ladies battle the issue while society keeps paying attention to the guys.

  • Stop blame game, cleric counsels religious leaders on  economy

    Stop blame game, cleric counsels religious leaders on  economy

    Centre for Righteous Living (CRIL) has appealed to religious leaders to stop their blame game and adopt a strategy that can help save the country from sinking.

    President, CRIL, Solomon Aderibigbe Adegbolagun, said this recently in a statement tagged, ‘Deliverance for Nigeria,’ made available to The Nation.

    Adegbolagun, said “The religious leaders must with their followers cry up to God to deliver Nigeria as the disciples did when a storm was about to sink their boat on the Sea of Galilee. Jesus in response stilled the storm”.

    According to the Centre, religious leaders must leverage Ramadan and Lent, as a season of reverence, fasting, and soberness, in seeking divine solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.

    “During the process, God will reveal the ways out if we pray in faith with clean hands and pure hearts,” he said.

    Adegbolagun also urged traditional rulers to stop spreading negative information about the government.

    Accordingly, it stated that while traditional rulers speak truth to power and suggest ways out through the instrumentality of their office, they must be positive about the government.

    “You cannot afford to bring down the nation by your unguided words. Today’s problem is a long-time problem not created by this government. But we voted for them because they promised they could fix the problem. Therefore, let’s give the government a reasonable time to perform. After all, the president said that it would be difficult initially. But the latter will be glorious,” CRIL stated.

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    Speaking further on ways the government can win the people over, the Centre stated that the government should be honest and truthful with Nigerians. It also urged the government to organise regular meetings with the people to explain both the successes and failures of the administration.

    Adegbolagun also urged the government to look beyond politics to engage the services of all Nigerian experts across all political parties and creeds.

    “Government must be seen to be actively sorting out the people’s immediate problems. The government must be seen running the state with frugality. All expenses must relate to the current financial situation. The size of government should be reduced to reflect current realities,” CRIL advised.

    Adegbolagun also called for collaboration on the part of all Nigerians to rescue the country from the imminent collapse occasioned by the free fall of the Naira and the rising cost of living pushing more Nigerians into multidimensional poverty.

    He urged the Federal Government to urgently address the rising cost-of-living crisis before it results in anarchy.

  • AYRA STARR: Living in different places has shaped my mind

    AYRA STARR: Living in different places has shaped my mind

    Young, pretty and musically talented, Ayra Starr is not only the face of Afrobeats but fashion and style. The 21-year-old songster, who started off as a model at the age of 16, has become a beacon of hope for a new generation of African artistes. For the first time, she was nominated in the Best African Music Performance category at the just-concluded 66th Grammy Awards where she spoke about her journey to music world. OLAITAN GANIU captures her chat.

    THE RISE AND RISING

    I’m constantly trying, constantly bettering myself, to show people I didn’t come perfect. I do have down and negative times where I’m in my head, I’m tired, or I’m not motivated. So, in a way, it’s sort of a selfish thing where I make those songs for I do have down and negative times where I’m in my head, I’m tired, or I’m not motivated. So, in a way, it’s sort of a selfish thing where I make those songs for myself. I have songs that I make for the future. Music is therapy for me.

    Definitely, I’m not afraid to be seen trying, and that’s like my whole M.O. (motivation) because I’m not perfect, and I want that to inspire people. I didn’t know how to do riffs and runs last year; I had to learn it. I didn’t know how to learn choreography in one day, but now I’m doing that. I didn’t come knowing any of this, and I had to learn along the way. This is me documenting. When I say my age, I want people to be aware that I didn’t know anything. I’m just figuring this out.

    CALL ME WORKHOLIC

    After the world tour, my schedule is still packed with other stuff to do. I’m enjoying it to be honest. I had a two-day break and I could sit in one place. I’m just very used to the chaos of it all. I’m a proper Lagos babe, so I’m always buzzing for what’s next.

    I feel like living in different places has really shaped my mind. I really know how to adapt to places, people as well as situations. And you can hear that in the music. I know how to try and do different things. I know how to put different cultures and different worlds into what I’m doing. In ‘Stability’ for instance, you can hear the French aspect of my life. I grew up listening to (Congolese singer and composer) Awilo and I sampled that. I mixed that with Lagos life — proper Afrobeats vibes.

    MY LOVE FOR NUMBERS

    To be honest, it (numbers) comes very naturally to me. I don’t know what it is yet. I’ve not tapped into that aspect of my life. I think it might make sense in the third album where I’ll be able to answer this question.

    But I just like numbers. Right now, my favorite number is eight. I say eight all the time. I don’t even know why eight is just my number now. And with ‘19 & Dangerous’ and the tour called ‘21’, it’s just me relating everything to my age and where I am currently in life. It’s just showing people that [what’s happening in my life] is a very present movement and activity. I want people to know that, yeah, I did that when I was 19.

    It’s less of me showing off and bragging and more about me being present. There were a lot of people that were 19 at that time. There were a lot of people that were 20, or 29 but could relate to what I was saying. With 21 now, I want to associate it with a feeling and less of a number.

    TYLA INFORMED ME ABOUT MY GRAMMY NOMINATION

    I was alone in my hotel room. I remember just speaking to God, asking him to let me be nominated. If I was nominated, I’d be so grateful because I’d know that all my hard work was not in vain.

    This nomination came at one of my low days. I was unmotivated, doubting myself. It was cold, and I was just tired. I was like, I just want rice and stew, abeg. I’m just tired, abeg [meaning please]. Next thing I know, I started getting calls. Tyla sent me a message. So even before I found out, people had started messaging and congratulating me. After I checked, I just knelt down and thanked God.

    PREGNANT WOMAN PROMISED TO NAME HER BABY AFTER ME

    Singing “Rush,” the acoustic version, with my fans. I met this fan that was pregnant and she sent her baby scan and she wanted to let me know she’s naming her baby Ayra. I loved it so much, it made me so happy. That and just spending time with my team and my friends and being on stage. Every minute of being on stage is very memorable.

    TOURING THE WORLD AND ITS MANY CHALLENGES

    I’m human at the end of the day, and you get tired, overwhelmed, sick. I had the flu every two business days. I lost my voice. There are a lot of challenges on the road, but we can’t let that stop us. The thing about touring is that the world isn’t stopping for me. I still have my family, my younger sister that wants to talk to me every day, I still have my younger brother. I have friends to keep up with. I have to be a human being outside of this. It’s not necessarily a challenge; it’s just something I’m aware of, and sometimes it can be hard.

    I’ve been touring for a while, but doing my own [tour] was a different feeling. Like people bought tickets to see me. I’m the reason they’re there. There’s no time to mess up. It’s a different type of pressure. At a certain point, during the Europe tour, I was just like, I’m so relaxed because it’s my stage, they’re here to see me you know. If I fall down, it’s all part of the vibe. It’s an experience for them. They’re ‘gonna’ talk about it years from now. It happened already but I’m over it. But it wasn’t during this tour. I just got up immediately. I couldn’t let that weigh me down.

    I PREFER MODELLING BUT MY MUM FORCED ME TO DO MUSIC

    wanted to do modelling because everyone told me I couldn’t do it, like I’m not tall enough, and I told them, “watch me.” And I ended up doing it. When I look back, I’m so proud of little Ayra too. It’s because of her that I’m here now. It’s because of that 16-year-old girl that didn’t give up and kept going. I used to do cover (songs) on Instagram. My mum and her friends used to force me to do covers. I uploaded one cover on Instagram —  I didn’t even like the video. But something just kept telling me to post it and I did. Not up to 6 hours later, (Marvin Records CEO) Don Jazzy reached out. Three days later, he signed me.

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    MEETING WITH MY INTERNATIONAL IDOLS

    Everything has been memorable — meeting Kelly, David. Like the Nigerian girl in me wanted to call him Mr. David, but he was like “no Ayra” and I was like “no sir but….” [Laughs.] All these people, they’re human beings, and we forget that sometimes. They’re regular humans with their lives, making music and doing what they love.

    David was an amazing person. He was so free. After every lyric I recorded, he’d whisk me up in the air. He was so hyped and happy. Then Kelly was like the most amazing human being. I’m so blessed to know her. She is an inspiration to me and everything to me. Even before she recorded the verse, I’d loved her for a long time.

    I don’t know how she does it, whenever I’m feeling low or down, she just knows. She’ll send me a random message or voice memo telling me to keep going. She’s the most amazing human being; I love her so much. She’s like my big aunty, she’s my friend. She’s a friend.