The Nation Newspaper

Category: Worship

  • Unveiling our heritage in Christ from the word!

    Unveiling our heritage in Christ from the word!

    By Dr. David Oyedepo

    Welcome to another impactful week! I hope you were blessed by last week teaching. This week, we shall focus on: Unveiling our Heritage in Christ from the Word!

    It is important to understand that according to God’s plan for the redeemed, we have a robust heritage in Christ. From Scriptures, we discovered that God’s Word is a spiritual mirror that reveals who we are in God’s perspective in redemption and when we walk in that light; we will obviously walk in liberty. For it is written, But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed (James 1:22-25). Also, God’s Word is likened to water that shows us who we are, what we carry and what we can do. It is written, As in water face [answereth] to face, so the heart of man to man (Proverbs 27:19; see also Ephesians 5: 26; Isaiah 55:1, 11).

    Furthermore, the Word says, Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father (John 14:12). This connotes, we have a most elastic destiny in Christ, all we need is to keep going and making progress.

    What is the Word Saying about us?

    • Everyone that is Born Again is Redeemed to Enjoy Health and Vitality: The Bible says, Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed (Isaiah 53:4-5; see also Matthew 8:17). Thus, redemption entitles us to live a sickness and pain free life. The same way He took the place of Barabbas in death and he walked home free is the same way He took our place in sickness and disease so we can walk free from them for life.
    • We have been Redeemed to Live the Overcomer’s Life: As it is written, For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith (1 John 5:4). This means, we have been redeemed to live the overcomer’s life through the instrumentality of faith which has capacity to crush every gang up of hell against our lives. It is written, Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked (Ephesians 6:16). Never assume faith; consciously cultivate it because faith comes by hearing and understanding the Word of God. The Bible says, So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17). Remember, we do not overcome because we are born again; we overcome because our faith is actively alive. However, our victory is guaranteed if we are born again and we engage with the Word of faith. So, we are not just free because we are born again, we are free because we take responsibility to build our faith against the gang ups of hell in our lives. As it is written, Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place (2 Corinthians 2:14).
    • We have been Redeemed as the Light of the World for Dominion: It is written, Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house (Matthew 5:13-15). We have been redeemed as light in the world of darkness; that means we have been redeemed a pacesetter, a pathfinder and a trailblazer (Isaiah 60:1, 3). So, every child of God is redeemed a light to the world and can only remain lighted by the Word. For it is written, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth (John 1:1, 9, 14).

    In conclusion, unveiling your heritage in Christ from the Word can only be possible when you are born again. Are you born again? If you are not, this is an opportunity to do so. Simply say the following prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Today, I accept You as my Lord and personal Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me! Now, I know I am born again! For further reading, get my books: In pursuit of Vision, Following The Path Of The Eagle, The Breakthrough Power of Vision and Understanding Divine Direction. I invite you to fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have three services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. respectively. Also, you can join our live services via Facebook: David Oyedepo Ministries International, Twitter: @Davidoyedepomin, Instagram: davidoyedepomin, YouTube: Domi Stream, Hebron 95.9 FM, Winners World App, Impact Africa TV (on Startimes and NigComSat), Domi Radio and via the Church Satellite. I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria, call 01-4548070, 01-4548280, or E-mail: dphprints@gmail.com.

  • Daddy Freeze apologizes to Bishop Oyedepo over video

    Daddy Freeze apologizes to Bishop Oyedepo over video

    Adeyinka Akintunde

    Popular broadcaster, Ifedayo Olarinde, known as Daddy Freeze has apologised to Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of Living Faith Church worldwide, over the offensive video on him which is currently on social media.

    Daddy Freeze acknowledged that he never intended to embarrass or malign Bishop Oyedepo, but to correct some doctrinal errors of the Bishop, which he disagrees with, but he has since grown.

    In his words “My attention has been drawn to a video I release two years ago while addressing some pertinent issues that arose back then. I apologise for the delivery of my message and for any insult to the person of Bishop David Oyedepo. I did not intend to dishonour, disrespect, and disregard the person of Bishop Oyedepo. If you see the intention to the contrary it is regretted.

    Read Also: Daddy Freeze: Divine direction is one thing needful (2)

    “My method of addressing doctrinal issues have long since evolved to a more scriptural and less confrontational approach. I was and still very passionate in my quest to address what I believe are unresolved doctrinal issues however from a more amiable perspective.

    “I am of the firm belief that for our faith to thrive we as Christian believers should be open to absorbing new theological and doctrinal frames of reference as against the faith model that is subsumed in unchallengeable beliefs. This I believe can be achieved in love for the furtherance of our faith so help me God.”

  • Examining keys to divine direction!

    Examining keys to divine direction!

    Bishop David Oyedepo

     

    WELCOME to another exciting week! I hope you were blessed by last week teaching. This week, we shall focus on: Examining Keys to Divine Direction!

    From Scriptures, we understand that God is ready to guide our paths in life. It is written, And I will bring the blind by a way [that] they knew not; I will lead them in paths [that] they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them (Isaiah 42:16). However, there are certain conditions that must be met before we can be divinely directed. As it is written, For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord (Isaiah 55:8). God does not just lead everybody on the earth; He leads only His sheep.  Jesus said, My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me (John 10:27). Certain keys must be put in place for us to enjoy divine direction.

    What are the Keys to Divine Direction?

    • Be His Son: Before we can be led by God, we must be born again. As it is written, Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3). We need to be born of the Spirit because a spiritually dead man cannot perceive the things of God. The Bible says, For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God (Romans 8:14). God only leads His sons, not the sons of the devil. Thus, accepting Jesus as your Lord and personal Saviour is the ticket for divine direction.
    • Meekness: We need a meek spirit to be directed by God. David said in Psalm 25:9, The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. This means meekness of heart must be in place before God can show us His ways; which are higher than ours. The Bible described Moses as the meekest man of all men on the earth and so, he had access to the ways of God. The Bible records, Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth (Numbers 12:3; see also Psalm 103:7). Thus, there cannot be meekness without the fear of the Lord (Psalm 25:12).
    • Faith: We need faith to be directed by God. Paul said, For we walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). Divine direction is not for those who walk by sight but for those who will trust God to lead them aright. It is faith that makes a man seek God for divine direction. For it is written, But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6). The reward of those who diligently seek God is divine direction.
    • Fellowship with the Holy Spirit: A continuous fellowship with the Holy Spirit is another requirement that must be met if we desire divine direction. As it is written, But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things (1 John 2:20; see also John 16:13). The Holy Spirit is to show us the things to come; but before He can do that, we must first know Him and enjoy communion with Him. We also have to be conscious of His indwelling presence in us because the Holy Spirit is a Person; we can talk to Him, ask Him questions and seek His help.
    • Quietness: We need quietness to enjoy divine direction. Not just a quiet outer environment but much more a quiet spirit. Avoid a rowdy spirit for God is a Spirit and He communicates with our Spirit. The Bible says, God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). Since our fellowship with God is in the spirit, we need to create quietness around us so we can have a sweet fellowship with the Father where He can instruct us in the way to go (Isaiah 30:15). Also, great strength is released to us when we are quiet, as a calm spirit enhances hearing from God (1 Kings 19:11-12).
    • Walk in Love: Walking in love opens us up to the secrets of God. This is a condition in which we live without malice, anger and we are relaxed with others, loving them unconditionally. We also need to embrace liberty of the spirit and one of its manifestations is walking in love. It is written, Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty (2 Corinthians 3:17). Our conscience must be free from all manner of entanglements; including disobedience which quenches the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19).
    • Be Open: We need openness of heart for divine direction. This implies that we should not be set in our own ways like concrete. We must be willing to adjust to God’s instructions if they contradict our actions. For it is written, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3-4). Therefore, we should keep a sensitive and tender heart before God (2 Chronicles 16:9). We should allow God to direct our path for He knows it better than us (Proverbs 16:9).
    • Worship/Praise: This must become our lifestyle if we must enjoy constant direction. As it is written, But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel (Psalm 22:3). Thus, His voice of direction will come clearly to us when we give Him the praises that His heart loves.

    In summary, these keys will only manifest when you are born again. Are you born again? If you are not, this is an opportunity to do so. Simply say the following prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Today, I accept You as my Lord and personal Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me! Now, I know I am born again! For further reading, get my books: In pursuit of Vision, Following The Path Of The Eagle, The Breakthrough Power of Vision and Understanding Divine Direction.

    I invite you to fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have three services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. respectively. Also, you can join our live services via Facebook: David Oyedepo Ministries International, Twitter: @Davidoyedepomin, Instagram: davidoyedepomin, YouTube: Domi Stream, Hebron 95.9 FM, Winners World App, Impact Africa TV (on Startimes and NigComSat), Domi Radio and via the Church Satellite. I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria, call 01-4548070, 01-4548280, or E-mail: dphprints@gmail.com.

     

  • Cleric tasks NASS over Chinese loan

    Cleric tasks NASS over Chinese loan

    Our Reporter

     

    A FAITH-BASED non-governmental organisation, Centre for Righteous Living (CRIL), has called on the National Assembly to not discontinue its probe on the controversial Chinese loan.

    The President of CRIL, Rev. Solomon Adegbolagun made this known at a press conference in Lagos, yesterday where the group expressed concern over the conditionality attached to Chinese loan capable of compromising the national sovereignty and called for transparency in the manner such huge loan is expended.

    While acknowledging government drive to develop the nation’s infrastructure, the group, which touched on burning current national issues, urged the Federal Government to ensure that loan obtained outside the shores of the country are not misappropriated or embezzled by governmental officials.

    Adegbolagun said, “We therefore call on the National Assembly  to investigate the details of the loans, find out its terms and conditions and implications for the Nigeria State. We are not against taking of loans for national development, but the issue of local content is crucial to Nigerian professionals. This and other pertinent areas of the loan condition must be properly scrutinized by the national assembly. We don’t want what is happening in some African countries to happen in Nigeria, where Chinese have taken over some sensitive aspect of the economy of those countries.

    “Loan is good if it is properly channelled. By the grace of God, very soon, we will begin to see train running from Lagos to Ibadan, that’s an improvement. The question is, who are the engineers? Are they Nigerians?”, he said.

    On the issue of CAMA Act 2020 affecting the church and NGOs, should be reviewed.

    “We are not against CAMA Act 2020 but the Section that states that the trustee can be removed by the Registrar of Corporate Affairs Commission.”

     

     

     

     

     

  • Assemblies of God, to create Abuja Central District

    Assemblies of God, to create Abuja Central District

    Our Reporter

     

    ASSEMBLIES of God International Worship Centre Gwarimpa, Abuja, said it has concluded all arrangements to receive the General Council led by General Superintendent, Rev. Professor Paul Emeka to create Abuja Central District, from the existing Abuja District.

    The Secretary of the Church, Engr. Etim Asuquo, gave this indication on Saturday during a chat with newsmen in Abuja.

    Asuquo, added that the General Superintendent, Assemblies of God, Nigeria, Rev. Prof. Paul Emeka, and the Executive Committee Members of the General Council of the Church, will be coming from Enugu state for the inauguration.

    He said the “Inauguration Service”, is part of the activities of the church to bolster its stand on the gospel.

    The secretary said the creation of the new District will also help in the growth of the church.

    “This will also help in the establishment of more churches, to help spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.

    “We are passionate about evangelism and spreading the gospel of Christ. We will continue to do what is necessary to bring the gospel closer to the people.”

     

  • Anglican Bishop says CAMA should be amended

    Anglican Bishop says CAMA should be amended

    By Adeola Ogunlade

    The Diocesan & Missioner, Arch Diocese of Lagos Anglican Communion, The Rt. Rev. Dr. Humphrey B. Olumakaiye, has charged the President of Nigeria, President Mohammadu Buhari and all other leaders to brace up in prayers, serve in sincerity and integrity, give us a better leadership, the one that can be trusted to grow our dear nation, and then, look into the said law and do the needful.

    He said this ahead of the church Second Session of the Thirty-fourth Synod of The Diocese of Lagos, Anglican Communion, scheduled to hold at Our Saviour’s Church, TBS, Lagos, from Sunday, 6th September to 8th September, 2020.

    The Synod Tagged: ‘Pray, Serve and Grow’,

    He said that the church is praying for the leadership of this country and is imperative that they serve the country selflessly and with sincerity of purpose so that the nation can overcome its socio-economic challenges

    On the CAMA act, the Bishop said that The church is not shying away from checks and balances, prudence and accountability but the government is expected to build the trust and confidence of the citizens by acting decisively on this issue and also the need to look at the complaints and make amends where necessary.

    God bless Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    He said “We are all aware of the raging controversy over the amended Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA 2020) which was recently signed and assented to by President Muhammadu Buhari. It should be made clear that the church isn’t saying that the government shouldn’t make law for the citizens; indeed the government exists to make laws for the good of the people who elected them to serve but such law must be with all sincerity and without prejudice.

    He noted that those who have raised their voices in protest to the implementation of this law, have right to do so and this, when investigated is as a result of lack of confidence in the leaders of our nation from the past to the present for obvious reasons.

    He stressed that the truth is that churches and NGOs have registered under the law and so ought to abide by its regulations; however, before the law was amended, the relevant stakeholders should have been properly briefed and their input requested.

    “Regardless of good intentions, the seed of suspicion has been sown by the controversial aspect of the law of Section 839, sub-section 1 & 2, whereas we are in a country where the government is not faithful in keeping with the promises they made in their manifesto for election into offices”.

    “Our leaders have not shown to us that they can be trusted; the rate of embezzlement and fund misappropriation is greatly alarming. Tribalism and religious preferences have dealt severely witah the nation’s growth and economic development”.

    He said “our leaders have not been putting a round peg in a round hole, so how can they convince the church that there will be transparency with the CAMA law. That popular maxim says, “He who comes into equity must come with clean hands.”

    Olumakiaye added that the church is not shying away from checks and balances, prudence and accountability but the government is expected to build the trust and confidence of the citizens by acting decisively on this issue and also the need to look at the complaints and make amends where necessary.

  • MFM resumes service

    MFM resumes service

    By Adeola Ogunlade

    The Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) International Headquarters, Onike, Yaba, Lagos and all her  branches, zones and regions in Lagos and Ogun states will reopen for worship on Sunday, 13 September, 2020.

    The Chairman Media Committee, MFM, Pastor Oladele Bank-Olemoh said this in a statement made available to The Nation yesterday in Lagos said that the Worship sessions at the International Headquarters are: Ist Service: 7:00 – 8:30 am; 2nd Service 9:30-11:00am and  3rd Service: 12noon – 1:30pm.

    It is recalled that the governments of both states had directed churches to open  since 9 and 16 August respectively in both neighbouring states, after the national lockdown occasioned by the novel Covid-19 in March.

    He said “Worshippers are expected to adhere to safety and prevention protocols of the use of face masks, hand wash and or the use of sanitizers and temperature checks.

    “Attendance of one session is sufficient for blessings. Worshippers at any of the services are expected to leave immediately to allow other worshippers for the next services,” the church leadership admonished.

    He noted that the Ministry further informed her viewers that the transmissions of her broadcasts on MFM Television and on all online platforms will also continue for the benefits of members and worshippers who were advised by the government to remain at home and countries where church services are yet to reopen.

    “The MFM Ministries is happy to announce that the broadcasts on Lagos Television will also continue,” the statement read.

  • CAN, MGPNI to build monument in Lagos

    CAN, MGPNI to build monument in Lagos

    By Adeola Ogunlade

    Christian Association of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter and Minsters of God Prayer Network International (MGPNI) has concluded plans to build a monuments in Apa Kingdom, the first place where missionaries landed in Badagry, Lagos.

    The National President of Minsters of GOD Prayer Network International, Bishop Bola Oyegbami announced this last week at a Mini Crusade held at Apa Kingdom. The event tagged God releasing Badagry APA Kingdom/Lagos State into Greatness. The event brought together christains and church leaders from across Lagos which features special prayers for Apa Kingdom, the church and the nation in general.

    She said that Apa Kindom is the origin of the present day Christianity in Nigeria. The first effective Christianity was preached here on ground in Apa kingdom. A bronze staff handed over  by the white British missionary is still in existence here before 1840.

    She noted that the site of the staff though ruin and dilapidated, we jointly declare it a place of monumental tourist center.  A center where an edifice would be built. The bronze staff would be conspicuously displayed at the center of the edifice for the people to view it.

    She added the monumental centre came at the instance of Christian leaders in Lagos and in the government and its will help to bring investment into the area and youths in the community will be gainfully engaged

    She cited the scripture says that this scepter unto the people. We call on everybody and lagos State government to build this masterpiece and make it happen soonest

    She charged Christians in Nigeria to ask God for repentance for all sins and iniquities, especially for the murdered of white missionaries here and all the innocent blood crying for vengeance. We also for mercy and blood of Jesus to silence them in Jesus name.

    In his response, the King of Apa Kingdom, Oba Oyekan Ajose Illufemiloye said that the community renounced all covenant, dedications that bring backwardness and desolation into their land.

    Ilufemiloye, who spoke through the Christian Association of Nigeria, Apa District Head, Badagry, Pastor Awhanto Solomon said we destroy all satanic foundations bringing limitations and hindrance to development. Any sacrifice that brought bondage is reversed in Jesus name. Blood of Jesus bring fresh fire and anointing upon this land and environment

    He said we lay a new foundation today in Christ and rededicate our lives to the Lord on Christ Jesus. We rededicate our lives and land to God in Jesus name.

  • Adamawa CAN Chairman tests negative

    Adamawa CAN Chairman tests negative

    By Onimisi Alao, Yola

    The Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Adamawa State, Bishop Stephen Mamza, has recovered from Covid-19.

    He tested positive two weeks ago and publicly announced it, declaring that he was going on isolation and to concentrate on treatment against the disease.

    The CAN chairman, who is also the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Yola, came to the public again yesterday, this time to announce that he had regained his health.

    “I have been certified free of Coronavirus and I want to use this opportunity to thank very sincerely all people of goodwill who have been praying for me in order that I get well and I want to assure everybody that I’m now physically well,” he said.

    Bishop Mamza, who is a member of the Adamawa State COVID-19 Containment Committee, urged citizens to continually adhere to laid down protocols to curb the spread of the virus.

    He said, “Coronavirus is real; there is no doubt about it and there is a need for the public to take the necessary precautionary measures, especially the protocols which include wearing of face mask, washing of hands with running water and maintaining social distancing.”

    He commended health workers for their “relentless efforts” in the frontline of the fight against the virus, but scored government low on the capacity of the health sector to effectively handle the COVID-19 pandemic.

    He said, “I think Nigerians need to appreciate the efforts of the health workers, those in the frontline collecting samples, those in the lab, doctors and nurses at various treatment centres.

    “This is why I feel very sad when I hear that medical doctors will be going on strike. This is not when such should happen. The government should please attend to the needs of the doctors immediately so that there will be no strike.”

    He called for an immediate upgrade of all health facilities in the country, saying, “COVID-19 has exposed our weaknesses in terms of health facilities in Nigeria. Our bad sides have been seen and we have a lot to learn and also improve.

    ”It is God that has been helping us because nobody expected that the virus will be mild in Nigeria and Africa in general, having heard what happened in Europe and other parts of the world.”

  • Requirements for Accessing Vision!

    Requirements for Accessing Vision!

    Dr. David Oyedepo

    Welcome to September! I have no doubt that many of us must have encountered God’s prosperity plan for our lives all through the month of June, 2020. My prayer is that your financial life will take a new turn as you apply the biblical principles and your encounter will be for a lifetime, in Jesus name (Amen)! This week, we shall focus on: Requirements for Accessing Vision!

    From Scriptures, we discovered that the vision of the book (The Bible) is sealed to any man, no matter how learned, until some conditions are fulfilled. God’s plan for all His children is in the Word. As it is written, And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed: And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned (Isaiah 29:11-12). Every genuine vision leads to enthronement. Therefore, we have the responsibility of ascertaining the genuineness of our vision before launching out in its pursuit.

    What are the Requirements for Accessing Vision?

    Be Born Again: In the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus, the Bible records, Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?… (John 3:3-8). It is common knowledge that only like creatures hears one another. For instance, only a sheep can hear the bleating of another sheep. To a human being, a sheep is just bleating but to the sheep, they are communicating. Again, a barking dog is not just barking but speaking with another dog in their language. In the same vein, God is a Spirit and it would take a spirit being of like nature to hear what He is saying (John 4:24). This means that when we become born again, we become spirit beings with the innate capacity to hear what the Spirit of God is saying. Therefore, until we are born again, we cannot hear or see what the Holy Spirit is saying or showing to us (John 16:13).

    We must be Spiritual: It is one thing to be born again and yet another to be a spiritual. ‘Being spiritual’ connotes walking in the fear of God. It is written, What man is he that feareth the Lord? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose (Psalm 25:12). This means, we cannot live carnal lives and access divine plan. For it is written, But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:14). A natural man, no matter his level of education or knowledge, cannot access vision. He must be spiritual in order to access it. Therefore, we must tune in spiritually to hear what the Spirit of God is saying and showing because He can speak to us at any time.

    Maintain a Quiet Spirit: God can only access us with His plan and purpose for our lives when we maintain a quiet spirit. The Bible says, But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price (1 Peter 3:4). Many of us are overburdened with issues. We are so anxious about matters that makes our spirit man crowded and noisy. Thus, we miss out on the still small voice of God that is meant to open up the next phase of our destinies. God said, Be still and know that I am God… (Psalm 46:10).

    Possess a Grateful Heart: Every time we give God thanks for the present, we commit Him to secure our future. As it is written, Because they regard not the works of the Lord, nor the operation of his hands, he shall destroy them, and not build them up (Psalm 28:5; see also Malachi 2:2-3). From these scriptures, we understand that whenever we recognise God’s intervention in our situation and give Him thanks, He builds us up and takes us to the next phase of our destinies. Sometimes, we attach the positive happenings in our lives to our efforts rather than to God, thereby blocking access to the next chapter of our lives. This explains why some are stagnated in life.

    Engage the Force of Prayer and Fasting: God still visits His people on the altar of prayer and fasting. Scripture says, Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke (Isaiah 58:6-12).

    Through Word Encounters: The Bible is the Word of God in print (Isaiah 34:16). Thus, when He speaks to us from His Word on any issue of concern, it will always culminate in testimonies. We cannot hear from God and doubt Him. The Bible says, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not (John 1:1-5). This simply means that God dwells in His Word.

    In conclusion, being born again is the only way to unveil the requirements for accessing vision. Are you born again? If you are not, this is an opportunity to do so. Simply say the following prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Today, I accept You as my Lord and personal Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me! Now, I know I am born again! For further reading, get my books: In pursuit of Vision, Following The Path Of The Eagle, The Breakthrough Power of Vision and Understanding Divine Direction. I invite you to fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have three services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. respectively. Also, you can join our live services via Facebook: David Oyedepo Ministries International, Twitter: @Davidoyedepomin, Instagram: davidoyedepomin, YouTube: Domi Stream, Hebron 95.9 FM, Winners World App, Impact Africa TV (on Startimes and NigComSat), Domi Radio and via the Church Satellite. I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria, call 01-4548070, 01-4548280, or E-mail: dphprints@gmail.com.