The Nation Newspaper

Category: Worship

  • Understanding the healing covenant!

    From scriptures, we discover that Jesus introduced Himself as the Great Physician. As it is written: But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance (Matthew 9:12-13; Jeremiah 8:19-22).

    Interestingly, Jesus’ healing ministry covers all manner of sicknesses and diseases, and all through His earthly ministry, He never referred any case brought to Him. That is what makes Him the Great Physician.

    However, we must understand that healing, health and wholeness are exclusive reserve for the redeemed. That was why Jesus called it the “Children’s bread” when the woman of Canaan requested for her daughter’s healing. The Bible says:

    Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it to dogs. And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table. Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour (Matthew 15: 25-28).

    If healing is the children’s bread, then we, as children of God are entitled to it because no parent would see his/her child hungry, yet say: “I will give you food tomorrow.” Instead, he/she would feed the child immediately. In the same vein, God would not postpone our healing because just as food is “now” to a hungry child, healing is also “now” to a sick believer.

    Also, we serve a loving and responsible Father, Who is hurt when we are sick and wants us healed instantly. That is why He said:

    For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me (Jeremiah 8:21).

    Therefore, in the name of Jesus Christ, I decree your “now” healing package delivered!

    Furthermore, we recognize from the opening scripture that the Balm in Gilead is the great prescription of this Great Physician.

    But, what makes this Balm so great?

    We understand from scriptures that God’s Word is the Balm in Gilead. It is written:

    My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh (Proverbs 4:20-22).

    Again, we saw in scriptures that everyone who heard Jesus preach was made whole, instantly:

    And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judaea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases; And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed. And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all (Luke 6:17-19).

    However, it is not enough to know the great prescription of the Great Physician, we must administer it as prescribed before we can enjoy the benefit therein. This is because buying drugs prescribed by the doctor from the pharmacy does not guarantee one’s healing; it is taking it that does. Similarly, finding the Word does not guarantee our healing, it is putting it to work that releases the healing virtues therein.

    Furthermore, it is important to know that every provision of scriptures, including healing, health and wholeness are delivered based on covenant. That is, certain conditions must be met before they can be fulfilled and until our part is played, God is not committed. Remember, knowing what the provisions are, is mere information. However, knowing what to do to actualize them is revelation and that is what establishes a covenant with God.

    What, then, is a covenant?

    A covenant is a deal enacted by God, based on well-defined terms, and sealed with an oath. It is God swearing by Himself that if we would do as commanded in scriptures, He would make available to us the provisions therein. In other words, engaging a covenant simply means knowing the terms of acquiring scriptural provisions and committing to same for their delivery. When these terms are met, we commit God to perform.

    For this teaching, let us explore the vital terms attached to the healing Covenant

    • We must be born again: Redemption is our guaranteed access to the overcomer’s world. This is because whatever is born of God overcomes every issue of life, including sicknesses and diseases (1 John 5:4; John 1:12; John 3:7).

    Also, as stated earlier, healing is the children’s bread and as such, it is not our entitlement until we become God’s children, which is what being born again is all about. Remember, just as no one can access an inheritance in a family he does not belong to, we cannot access God’s healing virtue until we become part of His family (1 John 3:1-2).

    • Be filled with the Holy Spirit: We must be filled with the Holy Spirit before we can enjoy God’s healing, health and wholeness. As it is written: But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you (Romans 8:11).

    When we become filled with the Holy Spirit, our environment and body are secured from any form of satanic assault. This is why the Bible says that when the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him (Isaiah 59:19; Matthew 3:11-12).

    Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Lord? If you haven’t, you can do so as you say this prayer: “Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Deliver me from sin and satan to serve the Living God. Today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me! Now I know I am born again!” For further reading, please get my books: The Healing Balm, Keys To Divine health, Miracle Seed, All You Need To Have All Your Needs Met, Exploring The Riches Of Redemption, Understanding Your Covenant Rights and Possessing Your Possession.

    I invite you to come and fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have five services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 7:35 a.m., 9:10 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:20 p.m. respectively.

    I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria; or call 7747546-8; or E-mail: feedback@lfcww.org

     

  • ‘Why Nigeria needs healing’

    The eradication of sins and corruption will usher Nigeria into a season of healing that will result in all-round transformation, the coordinator of Elim Christian Ministry crusade, Pastor Job Ikhaila, has stated.

    Ikhaila told reporters last Wednesday that Nigeria will not change until God takes His place in the hearts of men and tackle the fundamental issue of sinfulness.

    He spoke ahead of the 3-day crusade by the interdenominational group with the theme The greatness of His Power at the National Stadium, Lagos.

    The crusade holds from 25th-28th November by 5pm daily.

    Australian preacher, Pastor Martin Duffy and Bishop Abraham Olaleye are expected to minister at the crusade, which will also feature a ministers’ conference slated for November 25th by 12noon.

    Ikhaila said: “Almost every sector of the nation has been destroyed by sin. If God takes away sins from us, Nigeria will thrive.

    “The nation needs healing and we believe that is what will happen at the crusade.”

    The ministers’ conference, he explained, is organised to bring down the walls of denominationalism and division that have rendered the church ineffective.

    According to Ikhaila: “Without unity, there won’t be blessing and the nation will not move forward. When we pray as ministers in unity, God is committed to stretching His hands.”

     

  • Rule with fear of God, Anglican diocese urges leaders

    Rule with fear of God, Anglican diocese urges leaders

    The Diocese of Omu-Aran, Anglican Communion has asked leaders to rule with the fear of God as well as initiate and implement masses-oriented programmes.

    The Diocese said elected leaders must work hard to justify the confidence reposed in them to remain worthy before men and God.

    The church stated these in a communiqué at the end of third session of the second synod of the diocese.

    The communiqué was signed by the Diocesan Bishop, Rt Rev. Philip Adeyemo and chairman, Communiqué Committee,

    Mr. J.S. Bamigboye (SAN).

    It lauded the federal government for its anti-corruption and

    anti-terror efforts and urged it not to relent.

    It also decried the deaths of Muslims pilgrims during the stampede at Mecca and pleaded with the Saudi Arabia authorities to avoid a repeat of the tragedy.

    The synod also urged Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah

    Ahmed to concentrate efforts on the development of rural areas to enhance adequate food production and create jobs for the jobless youths.

    It also called on the state government to improve the salaries of teachers and civil servants.

    The communiqué said: “The Synod notes that a strong weapon in our bid to stamp out corruption is by compelling public officers to make their declaration of assets open to the public for general scrutiny.

    “It commends the worthy examples of the President and his vice and enjoins others to follow suit.

    “The Synod notes with concerns the call for fresh National Conference by ex-political office holders under the Northern Re-Awakening Forum.

    “Rather the Synod calls on the Federal Government to implement the Report of the 2014 national conference in which about 500 eminent Nigerians participated. The implementation will assuage all grey areas militating against our unity as a nation.”

  • How youths can save Africa, by Adefarasin

    Youths in Africa must task their minds to work out solutions to the myriad of challenges facing the continent, the Global Advisory Board Member of African Diaspora Nation Organisation, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, has declared.

    Adefarasin spoke at the launching of the organization in Lagos that attracted over 180 aspiring change agents, civil society groups, captains of industry and religious leaders.

    He said the liberation of Africa lies with young minds.

    The popular preacher urged African youths to reconcile, organise, mobilise, educate and rebuild their fatherland as no one could do it better than them.

    He stressed that young people and civil society groups are the changes Africa has been waiting for, urging them to spearhead efforts to save the continent.

    Founder of the organisation, Kwabena Boateng, said it was established to serve as a guiding light for renaissance in the global African community.

    He said: “We need to identify the strongholds and dividing walls that inhibit meaningful connections between various constituencies of the global African community.

    ‘’We must not only identify the mental strong holds dividing walls but tears them down.”

     

  • ‘Why kids should take over from founders’

    The General Overseers of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, (RCCG) Pastor Enoch Adeboye has appealed to the federal government to set workable targets that the states, players in the private sector and all can key into to move the nation forward.

    He noted that countries in the western world that made headway in the scheme of things had workable targets that everyone was moving towards.

    The televangelist said: “We are of age to set workable targets for ourselves and if we set it, our development will be fast forward like Singapore.”

    He spoke at the special thanksgiving and prayer programme organised by the RCCG, Headquarters, Throne of Grace, Ebute-Metta, Lagos.

    While appreciating the anti-corruption stance of the federal government, he said President Buhari must not give in to pressure by corrupt individuals who want him to lower the tempo and drive to rid Nigeria of graft.

    According to him: “We must continue to make efforts to recover stolen funds for development and individuals who have looted our common wealth should be punished so that others would learn.”

    He challenged Nigerians to exhibit the virtues of hard work, patience, fear of God and walking in love.

    These, he said, will make the task of building a better Nigeria easier.

    Adeboye noted that although Nigeria can do better, the nation is on the threshold, pointing out past experiences of failure and poverty are veritable lessons to learn from to move forward.

    Adeboye, who was represented by His Special Assistant on Personnel and Administration, Pastor Johnson Odesola, said: “We must begin to think, work hard, pray and support the government as they work hard to deliver on their campaign promises.”

    He added: “I have travelled to many countries and I have not seen a nation as great and hard working as Nigeria which gives me hope that with the right system in place, things will get better.

    “I believe that we will experience breakthrough spiritually, financially, in sport and the economy will fare better, our position in the eye of the world will change in terms of good behavior and Nigerians will be passionate about doing good things.”

  • Eight-year-old launches kiddie’s dictionary 

    Jesus Evangelical Assembly Ikeja, Lagos will on November 28th played host to exceptionally talented kids under the aegis of Young Public Speakers (YPS) club.

    Three young talents will showcase their works at the third edition of the group’s flagship programme tagged Raising young leaders.

    Six-year-old Mojola will present her polished skills in fashion and beauty while eight-year-old Dideolu will launch his kiddie’s dictionary of 218 words.

    Folajimi and Omodara will be present their art exhibitions just as Misimi will be on ground to wow all with her album lunch.

    According to the creators of the concept, Mr. and Mrs. Adeniyi Oluwajobi said the club is open to kids from 6-12 years.

    On what informed the club, they said: “We have also discovered that it is easier to rise to global excellence and prominence if proper attention is paid to one’s innate skills and endowment.

    “Every member of YPS club is assisted to uncover and develop their special abilities.

    “Annual projects are executed under the guidance of a renowned mentor in that specific area of ability.

    “All our activities are geared towards making it impossible for any member of the club to fail to rise to stardom.

    “They are trained to be the best and nothing less, leading the pack always.”

  • Nigeria overdue for workable targets, says Adeboye

    Nigeria overdue for workable targets, says Adeboye

    The General Overseers of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, (RCCG) Pastor Enoch Adeboye has appealed to the federal government to set workable targets that the states, players in the private sector and all can key into to move the nation forward.

    He noted that countries in the western world that made headway in the scheme of things had workable targets that everyone was moving towards.

    The televangelist said: “We are of age to set workable targets for ourselves and if we set it, our development will be fast forward like Singapore.”

    He spoke at the special thanksgiving and prayer programme organised by the RCCG, Headquarters, Throne of Grace, Ebute-Metta, Lagos.

    While appreciating the anti-corruption stance of the federal government, he said President Buhari must not give in to pressure by corrupt individuals who want him to lower the tempo and drive to rid Nigeria of graft.

    According to him: “We must continue to make efforts to recover stolen funds for development and individuals who have looted our common wealth should be punished so that others would learn.”

    He challenged Nigerians to exhibit the virtues of hard work, patience, fear of God and walking in love.

    These, he said, will make the task of building a better Nigeria easier.

    Adeboye noted that although Nigeria can do better, the nation is on the threshold, pointing out past experiences of failure and poverty are veritable lessons to learn from to move forward.

    Adeboye, who was represented by His Special Assistant on Personnel and Administration, Pastor Johnson Odesola, said: “We must begin to think, work hard, pray and support the government as they work hard to deliver on their campaign promises.”

    He added: “I have travelled to many countries and I have not seen a nation as great and hard working as Nigeria which gives me hope that with the right system in place, things will get better.

    “I believe that we will experience breakthrough spiritually, financially, in sport and the economy will fare better, our position in the eye of the world will change in terms of good behavior and Nigerians will be passionate about doing good things.”

  • Varsity confers awards on Opara, others

    Rescue Mission Theological University will on December 5 confer Honorary Doctorate Degree (PhD Honoraris) on distinguished Nigerians who have contributed greatly to philanthropy and champion social changes in Accra, Ghana.

    The Executive Secretary of Nigeria Christian Pilgrimage Commission (NCPC), Kennedy Opara; Imo Speaker, Acho Ihim; Hon Emeka Lloyd (Owerri North federal Constituency) amd CEO Ceecon Oil and Gas, Chima Anyanso, will be recipients of the award at the convocation ceremony.

    Others include: CEO Waterstone Nig Limited, Harvey Igboanugo; General Overseer Hallowed Chapel International, Apostle Jude Odim; High Chief Victor Nwankwo and Chief Andrew Chukwu Eze-Igbo Ga West Constituency Ghana.

    The African Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Greg Stevens, said the awardees will help to support philanthropic activities of the institution in the continent, especially the RMTU Scholarship Fund with which it assists students from poor homes.

    The Chancellor, Professor Bob James, is expected to confer the awards on the recipients.

    Names of the awardees will be enshrined in the university’s Hall of Glory as one of those championing societal development in Africa.

  • Antidotes to life failures

    No one loves to fail; yet everyone fails at one point or the other. But failure is never the main thing. The main issue is how it is handled and converted to riches.

    This is what Dr Peter Obadan sets out to achieve in his new book Surmounting failure (Biblical perspective). The 207-page book admits that failure is inevitable but surmountable.

    Failure, according to the author, “connotes inability to realise hopes, expectations, aspirations or objectives which gravitates to a calamitous end if not handled with great care.”

    He adds: “There is always bitterness in failure but the ability to surmount it makes you a hero. That capability to overcome failures gives you the quantum leap that yields results in geometric progression.”

    The author begins with himself, showing how he failed in several ventures in life. Yet, he rose to the pinnacle of life, becoming the first executive deputy governor of Edo State.

    Without going through tertiary education, Obadan also qualified as a Chartered Accountant (UK) at a time graduates failed the examination woefully.

    He writes people fail because of cultural obstacles, generational debt, environmental essentialism and self-defeatism. These four critical factors, Obadan insists, have been bringing down even the bravest of men.

    To succeed, the author says people believe in God and follow divine vision. There must also be self-belief and great determination.

    But in all, he says being in Christ remains the best “insurance” against failure. Christ, according to him, already paid the ‘premium” for failures with his blood.

    This book easily qualifies more or less like a mini autobiography. The author alludes a lot to personal struggles and triumphs.

    This gains attentions and wins readers over to his side because the stories strike a chord.

    It also confers credibility on Obadan as an overcomer that deserves the attention of others. The book is a great contribution to Christian literature with the capacity to usher readers into a season of victory over failure.

    It is written in simple, friendly language, reading more or less like a warm letter from a father to his beloved children.

    In it, readers will learn how to prevent avoidable failures and learn from inevitable failures.

    It is laden with scriptural references that will further help believers to handle the treated issue.

    The author deserves a pat on the back for standing up to pass on his experiences as an elder statesman.

    Like most creative works, the book is not free from imperfections. There are typographical errors and a few grammatical misconstructions.

    Aside from these, it is a brilliant effort which readers will find enjoyable and helpful.

  • Thousands for prayer walk

    A prayer conference with the theme Talitha Cumi is slated for the National Stadium, Lagos from November 19-21.

    It is organised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) South West region in collaboration with the Coalition of Christian Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Patriotic Civil Societies.

    The conference is designed to offer prayers for peace, stability and progress in the nation as well as victory over Boko Haram terrorists.

    The climax will be a walk on Saturday 21 from Yaba to the National Stadium expected to attract thousands of Christians across the state from 8am.

    A statement by the organisers said the participants are expected to attend the conference fasting.