PROF. BEN ONYEUKWU (REV.)
NCE(Eng.) ND/HD (Journalism) DIP, BA, (Theology) MA, PhD
CREATING
YOUR OWN WORLD
OF HAPPINESS
BY THE POWER
OF THE
HOLY SPIRIT
CREATING YOUR OWN
WORLD OF HAPPINESS BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
©Rev.
Prof. Ben Onyeukwu 2018
Tel;
08037346939, 09097626503
All
Rights Reserved No
part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form,
or by any means, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.
Abridged Edition
ISBN 978-978-50154-1-6
Published
{2018} by:
Hour of Glory Publishing
Press
P. O. Box
1184, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
For Social Crusade articles and Bible Lessons
written by the author visit:
Churchoftheholyghost.blogspot.com; or
benonyeukwu.blogspot.com:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Preface
I
Acknowledgement
ii
Dedication iii
CHAPTER ONE
DISCOVER WHO
YOU ARE AND WHAT YOU
CAN DO THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT
CHAPTER TWO
DIG- UP YOUR
CREATIVE DEPOSIT THROUGH
BALANCED EDUCATION
CHAPTER THREE
CREATE YOUR
OWN WORLD THROUGH THE POWER OF
SPOKEN WORD
CHAPTER FOUR
IMBIBE THE
CULTURE OF HARDWORK AND DEPENDENCE
ON THE
SUPERNATURAL STRENGTH AS YOU VENTURE
CHAPTER FIVE
HAVE A FAIR
KNOWLEDGE OF WHAT TO BELIEVE AS
YOU WORK
CHAPTER SIX
MAINTAIN A
GOOD SELF-ESTIMATION AND REPORT
WELL OF YOURSELF
CHAPTER SEVEN
FIND-OUT THE
“WHERE” AND “WHAT” OF YOUR
ASSIGNMENT
ON EARTH
CHAPTER EIGHT
DISCARD THE
UNDESIRABLE FATE THAT SEEKS
TO CONTROL YOUR DESTINY
CHAPTER NINE
BUILD-UP A
SOLID FOUNDATION FOR YOUR WORK
THROUGH
PRAYER
REFERENCES
PREFACE
This book, “CREATING
YOUR OWN WORLD OF HAPPINESS BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT” is a body of
inspired and researched principles of GOD’s WORD designed to be a practical
guide to the Christian way of inventiveness and achievements. Those who have
already made up their minds against CHRIST and HIS kingdom may not notice the
relevance of the project. However, beyond the Christian audience which the work
targets, people of all walks of life and religions can equally find help from
the biblical insight it offers. The
nine-chapter book is a compendium of:
§ What makes;
§ Words, conduct and
Actions;
§ Beliefs and Mental System;
§ Divine Purpose and Destiny;
and
§ Essential Prayer Tips;
of one who must achieve in the NAME of the
LORD.
In other words, this gospel discourse carries precepts
that are a must for the Christian attainment of goals in fields of human
endeavor, and are specifically treated in simple topical statements in each of
the nine chapters. Citations of men of GOD who hold grips of achievements in
the world are deliberately put in place to demonstrate the objectivity of the
piece. Therefore,
it is the advice of the writer that the reader reads this book devotionally,
and plan to make Heaven as he plans to
make economic success, {Matthew 6:33)
Prof.
Ben Onyeukwu (Rev.) {Principal Pastor} Church of the Holy Ghost Mission,
Nigeria.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The GOD and FATHER of our
GREAT LORD and SAVIOUR , JESUS CHRIST, who is the MAKER and KING of the
universe is worthy of all adoration and praise for HIS immense grace and
inspiration that brought about this work, in spite of all odds. To HIM, the
ROCK of my soul is the Honour and Glory, forever and ever, Amen.
Worthy of mention in this work is a
great saint of GOD, the Rev. Dr. B.C. Mbata, the Medical Director, Totalcare Medical
Centre, Owerri, whose encouragement and sponsorship made my Bachelors Degree
programme possible. My brother and friend, Rev. Isa Osumah, of the blessed
memory, former pastor, The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Owerri, will
never be out of my memory for his financial and moral support that remain the
foundation of my achievements for the LORD in the gospel ministry.
Also, my biological sister, Madam
Ngozi Nwaiwu (nee Enwereama) will ever be mentioned anywhere my gospel is
preached on earth for her invaluable contributions and support.
Finally, my tribute of love goes to
my beloved wife, sister and friend, Rev. Dr. (Mrs) Joy Ben Onyeukwu and our
children, for their un-equal love, inputs and motivations that triggered off my
pen for this work. May the LORD continue to bless and keep them in the path of
love and faith, Amen.
Prof.
Ben Onyeukwu (Rev.}
DEDICATION
This
book is dedicated to my father, Elder Rufus Enwereama of the blessed memory,
and my mother, Deaconess Beatrice Enwereama, also of the blessed memory, both
of Ndiuhu Umuegbe, Alaenyi Ogwa in Mbaitoli L.G.A, of Imo State Nigeria, in
recognition of their parental care and love that raised me. To GOD is the glory.
CHAPTER 1
DISCOVER WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT YOU
CAN DO THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT
DISCOVER WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT YOU
CAN DO THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT
Findings show that no one rises above the perception
of oneself. The way one perceives, thinks and feels of oneself plays a major
role in one’s life, and, to a great extent determines one’s success or failure
in life. In other words, where one’s self-image is negative, one projects
negatively, and where such a picture of oneself becomes positive, one’s line of
action takes a productive route. In the words of Peale, “without a humble, but
reasonable confidence in one’s own powers, one cannot be successful or happy.
But, with sound self-confidence, one can succeed. A sense of inferiority and inadequacy
interferes with the attainment of one’s hopes, but self –confidence leads to
self-realisation and successful achievement.” Worthy of note, also,
is that human abilities come from two main sources; the natural and the
supernatural. The natural source of ability is “ego-centric,” that is, an
absolute dependence on the human-self. Similarly, but higher than the natural
source of ability, is the supernatural source, which is “Theo-centric” or
GOD-centered , and speaks of GOD’s bank of strength from which individuals can
draw additional powers, with a view to enhancing human performances. Furthermore, man
is “theomorphic,” which means, he is like GOD. And, GOD is “anthropomorphic,”
and this means HE is like man. The Scripture is obvious that GOD made man in
HIS own image and likeness, (Genesis 1:26). The words, “image “and “Likeness” speak
of resemblance and attribute. The image of GOD in man, apart from the physical
similarity is dimensionally three, namely; the natural image, the moral image
and the power image. The “natural image” of GOD in man has to do with the
location of such capacities as the power of reason, memory, self-direction or
will and immortality. GOD’s “moral image” in man speaks of HIS holiness and
right relationship with HIM, as well as freedom from sinful tendencies. HIS
“power image” demonstrates the fact of man’s given authority to have dominion
over all other creatures, (verse 27). However,
the point of man’s limitations came into force at the time of his depravity.
From the moment of Adam’s original sin, man lost to some extent, the
potentialities of sound reason, memory, self-direction, and the power of
immorality, since he now dies. Though, he can still reason, but not in full
capacity. He can equally memorize, not without traces of deficiencies. He can
also exercise his will, yet not always correct. The moral image of GOD in man
since the reign of sin is best evaluated on the basis of his ethical
shortcomings. The injustices, social vices and disorder in human society are
clear manifestations of man’s moral fall. The pitfall that associates itself
with the “power image” of GOD in man from the time of sin at the Garden of Eden
is noticeable in all spheres of human endeavour, as it informs man’s inability
to perform optimally in whatever he does. Thus, the Bible records that, “all
have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD,” (Roman 3:23). Nevertheless,
one’s discovery and appropriation of the redemptive work of CHRIST through
repentance automatically puts one into a higher pedestal of the wheels of
progress, since all things are possible
to one who believes, (Mark 9:23).
CHAPTER 2
DIG-UP YOUR CREATIVE DEPOSIT THROUGH
BALANCED EDUCATION
Creativity is the capacity to originate or discover
new ideas or things. It is a mixture of realistic and imaginative thinking
which often result in novel solution to problems. Every normal human being is created with
creative deposit as a gift from GOD. This gift may remain latent or shattered
where one lacks balanced education or exposure. By balanced education, the
training of the total man; spirit, soul and body is in focus. This presupposes
that it is only when one is given a complete dose of the tutorial that keeps
one in line with precepts of the Holy Scripture, as well as the training that
one requires for one’s career that one is said to have balanced education that
would enable one make maximum impact in the NAME of the LORD. So, one who is
intellectually groomed, bat lacks training in GOD’S WORD is half-baked and does
not qualify for DIVINE innovativeness.
The foundation of the training that takes cognizance
of the total man hinges on repentance and change. And so, the Christian life
begins with a resolution to repent. We determine to turn from the ways of the
world to follow JESUS CHRIST in new ways, to totally turn our lives around. In
the words of Kennedy {1989:6} “repentance is the grace given by GOD through HIS
HOLY SPIRIT, so, HIS salvation is not of human work, {Eph. 2:8}. But by the POWER of the HOLY SPIRIT and the
grace that is given, we are enabled to turn and resolve to go in a new way.
Christianity is supposed to change us. In fact, it has been said that if your
religion does not change you, then you had better change your religion because
change is what Christianity is all about. Also, an intimate knowledge of CHRIST
is paramount in the setting of the correct goal(s) for one’s life. What is the
goal of your life? What are you living for? What really is the goal of your
existence? What was your goal in the past years? If you are living for success,
fame or money you are living for the wrong goal. If you are living for any goal
that does not transcend this world, you are a fool, and I urge you to
reconsider. In other words, the ideal Christian scale of preference in goal
setting begins from seeking first the kingdom of GOD, HIS righteousness, and
then allowing HIM to bless our work, (Matthew 6:33).The Apostle Paul’s goal is
stated in his epistle to the Philippians in many different ways. He was:
·
Seeking “the Excellency of the knowledge” of CHRIST,
·
To “win” HIM… to possess CHRIST,
·
To be “found” in HIM,
·
To have “CHRIST’s righteousness through faith” … not through
the law,
·
To “know” HIM-intimately and intensely,
·
To know the “POWER of CHRIST in HIS resurrection”,
·
To Know the fellowship of HIS sufferings,”
·
to share with HIM,
·
to “be made conformable to HIS death,”
·
to be continuously transformed,
·
To “attain to the resurrection of the dead.”
All of these are simply stating Paul’s goal which was
to become like CHRIST. How Christ-like are you? Do you love HIM supremely? For
one to really dig-up the best of the creative nuggets that enables one flow in
the inventiveness of the HOLY SPIRIT, one’s love for CHRIST and HIS WORD must
not be compromised, (Philippians 3:7-14).
CHAPTER 3
CREATE YOUR
OWN WORLD OF HAPPINESS
THROUGH THE POWER OF THE SPOKEN WORD
Words are expressions of thoughts. They stand as
outputs that display one’s worldview. By words, one’s standing and ideology can
readily be pictured. One who is negative in words can hardly project
positively, as one who is positive in words can hardly fail. Words are living
organisms, and one who conceives them carries with one living things that are
capable of re-producing lives. In the words of JESUS, words are spirit and
life, (John 6:63). They are used to create and re-create things or lives. Here
the principle of …”let there be light’ comes to play, (Genesis 1:2). So, when you venture, be
positive in words. Learn to say only those things that represent your interest
in what you seek to achieve. Ensure that your faith declaration are based on
GOD’s WORD, and not on the quotes of great men, bearing in mind that, it is the
WORDS of GOD, empowered by the force of the HOLY SPIRIT that gives life to your
project and not the words of men. Always remember that being positive in words,
is being definite, sure and leaving no room for doubt. This portrays the
attitude of GOD at creation, and should be your attitude, if you wish to
succeed, (Genesis 1).
Tilton
(1992:53-54) remarks that, “by speaking the WORD, you release the ability of
GOD to work for you. An untapped and limited treasure of dreams, visions, and inspired
ideas are within your spirit, and only you have the authority to offer it to
others. All you must do is to speak forth this treasure. Your words release
what is in your spirit, whether it is good or bad. Your dreams and visions are
released as you speak, because words have both substance and influence. They
can bring situations under control or put them in disorder. Speaking your
dream, at least to yourself will help you believe it and fulfill it. When you
talk positively about your dream, you not only release its substance, but you
release the angels to work for you, causing your dream to come to pass.
The Hebrew word “bara” means to create, and
expresses an absolute creation as in the case of the Latin word, “creatio
exnililo,” which means, “created out of nothing.” However, the concept
of things being created out of nothing in the writer’s view makes the world and
its fullness worthless. In fact, things that exist today were called out of the
supernatural substances that were part of the living organisms in GOD, and were
translated into designs of natural realities, which GOD, in turn, called out by
the force of HIS WORD. In other words, everything came out of GOD, and not out
of nothing. In the same way, your words can enforce existence. New ideas,
dreams, aspirations or visions that you conceive by the HOLY SPIRIT can be
brought into physical realities in form of establishments, by the power of your
own word, as you work. This is one of the attributes which you share with GOD,
use it well, (Genesis 1:26)
CHAPTER
4
IMBIBE THE CULTURE OF HARD-WORK AND DEPENDENCE ON THE SUPERNATURAL
STRENGTH AS YOU VENTURE
The chapter before this shows that declarations of
faith in the WORD of GOD is vital in any venture which seeks to invoke the
blessings of the LORD. However, this chapter draws attention to the fact that
faith without work is dead, (James 2:17). Onyeukwu (2008:3), stresses that
faith is a three-step thing. It must be conceived, confessed, and acted upon.
Faith declaration is the second step of faith, and the third step is that one
must go to work. A farmer must sow before the reward of harvest. A pastor must evangelize,
before the reward of membership. A fisher must venture at the sea-shore, before
the harvest of fish. So, there is the principle of no work, no pay, in the
exercise of faith. In line with this, Tilton, (1992:59) opines that “even
powerful faith cannot accomplish your dream until you take action. Your dreams
must be hooked up with action or they will go nowhere. You can have a dream,
believe GOD’s WORD, even soak it in prayer and plan or lay it out, but until
you begin to move toward that dream, you will never see any results. You must
release your faith through action. You can talk about faith as an act all day
long, but until you actually act upon faith, it will not be released.
Having noted
the foregoing, Peale cautions against over-dependence on the human strength.
“Everyone should work hard, but there is no virtue in over trying or over
pressing to such an extent that one does not work efficiently”. One should give
one’s job all that one has got. Of course, one must do so. But, one should do
this in a relaxed and easy manner. Also, one should learn to take a positive
attitude towards every problem. In fact, in direct proportion of the intensity
of the faith which one musters, one will receive power to meet one’s situations
when one learns how to draw from the “Higher power”, that is, the everlasting
GOD, the LORD, the CREATOR of the ends of the earth, who neither faints nor
grows weary. HIS understanding is unsearchable. HE gives power to the weak, and
to those who have no might, HE increases strength. Even the youths shall faint
and be weary. And the young men shall utterly fail. But, those who wait on the
LORD shall renew their strength” ..., (Isaiah 40:28-31).
Hard work is encouraged in the GOD’S WORD with
following the lines, “Whatever your hand fines to do, do it with your might” …
(Eccl. 9:10). But, one should also note that, “unless the LORD builds a house,
they labour in vain who build it” … (Psalm 127:1). This implies that success
comes from GOD, and that as one labours, one should place implicit confidence
on HIM, and not just on one’s self-strength of education, creativity or human
connections. For all these are bound to fail, where GOD is absent.
In this connection, Peale further renders that, “GOD
is the source of all energy in the universe; atomic energy, electric energy and
spiritual energy; indeed every form of energy derives from the creator. Contact
with GOD establishes within us a flow of the same type of energy that
re-creates the world and renews springtime every year. When in spiritual
contact with GOD through our thought processes, the Divine energy flows through
the personality, automatically renewing the original creative act. When contact
with the Divine energy is broken, the personality gradually becomes depleted in
the body, mind and spirit. An electric clock connected with an outlet does not
run down and will continue indefinitely to keep accurate time. Unplug it, and
the clock stops. It has lost contact with the power flowing through the
universe. In general, the process is operative in human experience, though in a
less mechanical manner. Therefore, one who desires to record maximum
achievements in one’s field of endeavour, must as a matter of commitment get
oneself connected to the Holy
Supernatural Source of Power. ‘For in HIM we live and move and have our
being’…,(Acts17:28). Don’t miss the link!
CHAPTER 5
HAVE A FAIR KNOWLEDGE OF WHAT TO BELIEVE AS YOU WORK
Please, reflect that without faith, it is impossible
to please GOD, for one who comes to HIM must believe that HE is, and that HE is a re-warder of those
who diligently seek HIM, (Hebrews 11:6). Unbelief hinders the release of GOD’s
power and blessings, since it discredits and lowers HIM to the level of a mere
mortal man. GOD does not treat the sin of unbelief with levity. This, HE
stresses strongly that no one pleases HIM in the state of unbelief. To succeed
in any venture anywhere, WITH GOD, one must get rid of the scourge of unbelief.
This is just one side of the coin. The other side of the same coin is that one
believes the correct things of what the Bible teaches. For instance, one may
believe in the un-limitedness of GOD’s power, and yet does not believe that the
same GOD can exercise such power through one. But, the Scripture remarks that,
“GOD is able to do exceeding, abundantly above all that we ask or think,
according to HIS power that works in us,” (Ephesians 3:20).
Believing what GOD’s WORD says about one is the secret of un-usual achievements. Without mincing words, all things are possible with one, who believes, (Mark 9:23). The climax is that all legitimate assignments are accomplishable when CHRIST becomes the SOURCE of one’s strength, (Philippians 4:13). The power for success is already vested in man, especially those in CHRIST. No one fails in life that believes GOD’s report for oneself. Satan fights acidulously to make one discard the corporate power that one shares with GOD. But, you should resist all his efforts with great vehemence. Do not allow him to pull you down or put you out of GOD’s purpose, for you are up and he is down. You are enthroned, he is dethroned. You have GOD, he is an orphan. You are above, and he is beneath. So, learn to push him over to his proper place, which is under your feet, (Romans 16:20). Tilton (1992:37) therefore, is right, as he remarks that, “by believing you can succeed, you release GOD’s POWER to help you accomplish your vision. Many dreams do not become realities because people do not expect them to do so. However, when you truly believe your vision is possible, you leave wishful dreaming behind and prepare for results.”
Furthermore, disregard every satanic insinuation which seems to suggest that to carry out ventures on earth are useless, since the world is passing away, and its fullness kept for fire. (2 Peter 3:7). This is just as deadly as the concept the since CHRIST’S return at the rapture is imminent that ventures are meaningless. Those who believe these misconceptions are ignorant of the DIVINE scale of preference. In GOD’s order of activities, it is SUBDUE ON EARTH, (Genesis 1:28), before the RAPTURE, (I Thess 4:16). Therefore, you are duty-bound to subdue the earth, by making socio-economic contributions that could benefit mankind, as you get ready for the return of the LORD.
Believing what GOD’s WORD says about one is the secret of un-usual achievements. Without mincing words, all things are possible with one, who believes, (Mark 9:23). The climax is that all legitimate assignments are accomplishable when CHRIST becomes the SOURCE of one’s strength, (Philippians 4:13). The power for success is already vested in man, especially those in CHRIST. No one fails in life that believes GOD’s report for oneself. Satan fights acidulously to make one discard the corporate power that one shares with GOD. But, you should resist all his efforts with great vehemence. Do not allow him to pull you down or put you out of GOD’s purpose, for you are up and he is down. You are enthroned, he is dethroned. You have GOD, he is an orphan. You are above, and he is beneath. So, learn to push him over to his proper place, which is under your feet, (Romans 16:20). Tilton (1992:37) therefore, is right, as he remarks that, “by believing you can succeed, you release GOD’s POWER to help you accomplish your vision. Many dreams do not become realities because people do not expect them to do so. However, when you truly believe your vision is possible, you leave wishful dreaming behind and prepare for results.”
Furthermore, disregard every satanic insinuation which seems to suggest that to carry out ventures on earth are useless, since the world is passing away, and its fullness kept for fire. (2 Peter 3:7). This is just as deadly as the concept the since CHRIST’S return at the rapture is imminent that ventures are meaningless. Those who believe these misconceptions are ignorant of the DIVINE scale of preference. In GOD’s order of activities, it is SUBDUE ON EARTH, (Genesis 1:28), before the RAPTURE, (I Thess 4:16). Therefore, you are duty-bound to subdue the earth, by making socio-economic contributions that could benefit mankind, as you get ready for the return of the LORD.
CHAPTER 6
MAINTAIN A GOOD SELF-ESTIMATION
AND REPORT WELL OF YOURSELF
One of the objectives of this gospel project is to see
that every mental inhibition that militates against the success of the reader
is subdued. Now recall that the introductory part of this work carries the
message that no one goes above the heights of one’s self-reflection. This
factor influences and determines one’s productivity or otherwise in the course
of human endeavour. GOD’S WORD re-enacts this truth as it puts forth that “as
one thinks in one’s heart, so is one”, (Proverb 23”7). Negative
thoughts are Satan’s masterpiece against humanity. Thoughts of inferiority and
un-worthiness are such weapons he uses in pushing people from grace to grass.
Thoughts like, “I don’t think is possible , “ it is unbearable ,” no one admires me,” “I have no money,” “ I am poor,”
“ I am not educated enough,” “I have no one to help me,” and more, are such
demoralizing projections which demons inject into the mental processes of HIS
prisoner of thought. For GOD’S sake, don’t allow such demonic manipulations to
lodge within you. Imaginations of failures and misfortunes come from the world
of darkness and not from GOD. Remember also that what controls one’s thinking
faculty, controls one’s entire life. So, don’t allow negative thoughts to reign
over you, for they will destroy you. Instead, “whatsoever things that are true,
whatever things that are honest, whatsoever things that are pure, whatsoever
things that are lovely, whatsoever things that are of good report, and
whatsoever things that are praiseworthy, think on these things, (Philippians
4:8) Try
as much as possible, not to report the undesirable which your mental lens may capture
in the process of creating the world of your dream, which is what you seek to
achieve. Make sure you don’t look at obstacle as bigger than you are. In other
words, see yourself as greater than problems that may show-up as you venture.
Always have at the back of your mind that, the weapons of your warfare are not
man-made, but mighty through GOD, in pulling down every stronghold of the Evil
One, (2 Cor.10:4). You should not behave
like the ten spies who reported they saw the occupants of the Promised Land as giants
and they themselves as grasshoppers. Rather, you should take your stand with
the other two spices who said, “We are well able to possess the land”, (Numbers
13:31-33). The information here is that you build-up a positive image of
yourself, as well as refrain from evil reports which Satan tries to hinder you
with. This is because; ‘your confession is
your possession’.
CHAPTER 7
FIND OUT THE “WHERE” AND “WHAT” OF YOUR ASSIGNMENT ON EARTH
The story of the encounter of JESUS with the Apostle
Paul on his way to Damascus is a recipe that portrays a sincere attitude of inquiry
of one who desires to know the WILL of GOD for one’s life. One of the missing
links in modern Christianity is the lack of the knowledge of individual
mission. To many, it does not matter what one does or where one does it,
provided it is done in the NAME of the LORD. But, to the Apostle Paul, it was
of great importance to ascertain from the very beginning GOD’S master plan for
one’s life, (Acts 9:6). GOD’S
WORD kicks against mindless business engagements that undermine the WILL of
GOD, and this, it expresses as follows; “Now listen, you who say, today or
tomorrow, we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, and carry on
business and make money, whereas, you do not even know what will happen
tomorrow … Instead, you ought to say, if it is the LORD’S WILL, we will live
and do this or that … (James 4:13-14). For the purpose of clarity, understand
that the inquiry of the Apostle led the specificity of the “where” and “what”
of his assignment on earth. The New King James version (NKJV) of the Bible puts
his question in this manner, “LORD, what do you want me to do? And, in answer
to this hearty search, the LORD said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and
you will be told what you must do, (Acts 9:6). Now, notice that there is a
specific place to go (arise and go into the city) and there is also a specific
reason for the place (and (there) you will be told what to do … (verse 6).
One who ventures by the HOLY SPIRIT in any field of human endeavour must learn to submit to HIS directives or leading, if one desires to make progress at work. This is because, where HE leads, HE prepares ground and makes necessary contacts that one requires for exploits. Also, ascertain that the details of the Divine Blue Print (DBP) of the “what” of the mission of Saint Paul on earth came to light in the very WORDS of the LORD in Acts of the apostles (26:16-18), and I quote, … “I have appointed you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness” … unquote. Yes, it is the path of progress to find out from the beginning what GOD has in stock for one’s life, whether one is to venture in engineering, journalism, teaching, pastoral, politics, music or whatever. It is not the best to beat about the bush in venture, as this often leads to frustrations, defeats and fruitlessness. Be on a mission, Mason (2000:19) advises. Have a definite sense of direction and purpose for your life. Successful lives are motivated by dynamic purpose. GOD can only bless your plan and direct you in accomplishing it, if you have one (from HIM).
One who ventures by the HOLY SPIRIT in any field of human endeavour must learn to submit to HIS directives or leading, if one desires to make progress at work. This is because, where HE leads, HE prepares ground and makes necessary contacts that one requires for exploits. Also, ascertain that the details of the Divine Blue Print (DBP) of the “what” of the mission of Saint Paul on earth came to light in the very WORDS of the LORD in Acts of the apostles (26:16-18), and I quote, … “I have appointed you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness” … unquote. Yes, it is the path of progress to find out from the beginning what GOD has in stock for one’s life, whether one is to venture in engineering, journalism, teaching, pastoral, politics, music or whatever. It is not the best to beat about the bush in venture, as this often leads to frustrations, defeats and fruitlessness. Be on a mission, Mason (2000:19) advises. Have a definite sense of direction and purpose for your life. Successful lives are motivated by dynamic purpose. GOD can only bless your plan and direct you in accomplishing it, if you have one (from HIM).
CHAPTER 8
DISCARD THE
UNDESIRABLE FATE THAT SEEKS TO CONTROL YOUR DESTINY
Fate is the belief that unseen powers or gods control
all events and everything that happens to everyone that lives on earth. In this
order, it is believed that every event leading to one’s fortunes or misfortunes
is determined by these forces and cannot be resisted. It also suggests that
one’s destiny is decided and fixed before birth and remains unchangeable. However,
the Christian concept of fate holds that such unseen forces, which are referred
to as demons have no power over the redeemed sons and daughters of GOD, but
could be allowed by GOD to buffet one who deviates from the truth or that GOD HIMSELF
may even decide to visit the erring individual with misfortunes as a result of his
sins or those of his father or forefathers, (Exodus 20:5). Let it be clarified,
as well that as GOD visits the iniquity of the father upon the children of
those who hate HIM, HE also shows mercy to thousands of those who love HIM and
keep HIS commandments, (verse 6). This is why it is out of place to believe
that the Christian who loves GOD, by dint of repentance and commitment is under
the curses of his forefathers or controlled by fate. The message here, is that,
CHRIST HAS redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us,
…(Galatians 3:13).
So, what is known today as “family curses” are best and biblically described as the “curses of the law”. From the Old Testament times, when people or nations deviate from the law of GOD, problems set in, as a measure of correction or punishment from the LORD. Here lies the root-cause of the human problems or setbacks. The effects are noticeable in families of people of all walks of life and religions. This is why in some families where there is economic boom; there could be problem of infertility or premature death. Where there is fertility, there could be economic setback or such things. No doubt, this is the crux of the matter. But, the Christian who worships GOD in spirit and in truth is never subjected to these curses, or his destiny determined by the verdict of fate. For your information, beware of the unhealthy teaching on deliverance which goes on nowadays in the name of “Family Liberation.” The proponents of this teaching hold that hardship experienced by Christians come as a result of the curses of forefathers. Admittedly, curses come on the off springs of forefathers who were involved in idol worship and rebellion against the LORD since HE visits such grandchildren with the iniquity of their great grandparents to third and fourth generations, (Exodus 20:5). But, there is nowhere in the Bible that the believers in CHRIST are said to be under such curses. When once one becomes a child of GOD by new birth, one becomes part of new creation, old things (including curses of the forefathers) have passed away, and behold, all things have become new, (2 Corinthians 5:17). Therefore, take your place in CHRIST, and discard the undesirable fate that seeks to control your destiny.
So, what is known today as “family curses” are best and biblically described as the “curses of the law”. From the Old Testament times, when people or nations deviate from the law of GOD, problems set in, as a measure of correction or punishment from the LORD. Here lies the root-cause of the human problems or setbacks. The effects are noticeable in families of people of all walks of life and religions. This is why in some families where there is economic boom; there could be problem of infertility or premature death. Where there is fertility, there could be economic setback or such things. No doubt, this is the crux of the matter. But, the Christian who worships GOD in spirit and in truth is never subjected to these curses, or his destiny determined by the verdict of fate. For your information, beware of the unhealthy teaching on deliverance which goes on nowadays in the name of “Family Liberation.” The proponents of this teaching hold that hardship experienced by Christians come as a result of the curses of forefathers. Admittedly, curses come on the off springs of forefathers who were involved in idol worship and rebellion against the LORD since HE visits such grandchildren with the iniquity of their great grandparents to third and fourth generations, (Exodus 20:5). But, there is nowhere in the Bible that the believers in CHRIST are said to be under such curses. When once one becomes a child of GOD by new birth, one becomes part of new creation, old things (including curses of the forefathers) have passed away, and behold, all things have become new, (2 Corinthians 5:17). Therefore, take your place in CHRIST, and discard the undesirable fate that seeks to control your destiny.
CHAPTER 9
BUILD-UP A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR YOUR WORK THROUGH PRAYER
Prayer is the surest and strongest source of energy on
earth, and a foundation laid through it never falls. This is because GOD
becomes the CORNERSTONE of such an establishment. In fact, prayer is a constant
and daily necessity. JESUS remarks that, “men ought always to prayer and not to
faint; (Luke 18:1). Weakness in
prayer is weakness in undertaking. And a business without a backup in prayer is
on a sinking ground. When one says no to prayer, one says yes to demonic
setbacks or total victory over one’s engagements. “Since the time of John the
Baptist, the kingdom of Heaven suffers violence and the violent takes it by force,”
(Matthew 11:12). This underscores the fact that prayer is a forceful means that
forces satanic obstacles out of one’s way to the blessings of GOD. However,
one’s attitude to prayer may hinder or promote answers to prayer. We do not pray
for praying sake, but pray to obtain answers or solutions to our human problems.
This informs the reason for cataloguing in this chapter, what the writer calls,
“Five Essentials of Prayer.”
1.
Prayer Requires Faith:
Every approach to GOD requires faith. This is because no one pleases HIM
without faith, (Hebrew 11:6). But, on a specific note, the power of faith shall
save the sick … (James 5:15). Nevertheless, in a wider application, the prayer
of faith does not only bring healing to sick individual, but also to sick
establishments. The opposite of
the prayer of faith is the prayer of doubts. The Apostle James advises that one
prays in faith. For one who prays in doubt is like a wave of the sea driven and
tossed by the wind, (James 1:6). This implies that one gets nothing out of
prayer, where one prays in doubt or unbelief. In practical terms, the prayer of
faith is the prayer that believes GOD for results, (Mark 11:22-23).
2. Prayer Requires Righteousness: To approach
a righteous GOD in prayer, the character of righteousness is essential. This
endorses the fact that GOD gives special attention to the prayer of the
righteous, (James 5:16), but does not listen to that of a sinner, (John 9:31).
One who prays in sin makes useless of one’s precious time and energy, since
such is an exercise in futility. GOD’s way of establishing HIS people is the
way of righteousness, (Isaiah 54:14). And, one who takes to the part of righteousness
takes to the path of a guaranteed success. For sure, righteousness is GOD’s ingredient
for exaltation, whereas sin brings a disgrace, (Proverb 14:34)
3. Prayer Requires God’s will: A
purposeful prayer is the one prayed in line with the WILL of GOD. Not every motivation
in prayer tallies with the LORD’S WILL for the individual who prays. When one
prays out of selfishness, one prays amiss, and receives no answers, (James 1:3). But, when one prays by the prompting
of the HOLY SPIRIT, one prays in accordance to HIS WILL and in turn receives
definite answers from one’s prayer, (1 John 5:14). Also, a reasonable prayer
goes for need and not wants, since it is the WILL of GOD to supply every need
(and not want) according to HIS riches in glory, by CHRIST JESUS, (Philippians
4:19).
4. Prayer Requires Purity of Heart: Only
sincere prayer warriors can attest to the fact that without purity of the
heart, prayers go nowhere. This, the Psalmist confirms as he writes, “if I
regard iniquity in my heart, the LORD will not hear, (Psalm 66:18). One who
harbours malice, unforgiveness, bitterness and rancor in the exercise of prayer
cannot receive GOD’S attention. This is because only the pure in heart, shall
see GOD, even in answer to prayers, (Matthew 5:8). In this case, one who kneels
down in prayer, must as a matter of commitment conduct a self-search of one’s
heart, and ensures that every form of iniquity is weeded off the heart to avoid
needless hindrances, (11 Corinthians 13:5)
5. Prayer Requires Authority:
The expression, “whatsoever you shall ask the FATHER in my NAME, HE will give it to you” (John 16:23) brings to focus that the authority of prayer is the NAME of JESUS. The authority (or key) that opens the Kingdom of Heaven is vested in the NAME of JESUS, since it is the only NAME by which every kneel bows, of things in Heaven, on earth, and things under the earth, (Philippians 2:10). The emphasis here, is that every obstacle from demons, men and agents of hell is stoppable at the mention of the NAME of JESUS. But, be informed that one who prays in the NAME of JESUS must be in good standing with HIM, else, unpleasant consequences may crop-up, as a result of counter-attacks from Satan, who is fully aware that one without CHRIST is defenseless, (Acts 19:13-16).
The expression, “whatsoever you shall ask the FATHER in my NAME, HE will give it to you” (John 16:23) brings to focus that the authority of prayer is the NAME of JESUS. The authority (or key) that opens the Kingdom of Heaven is vested in the NAME of JESUS, since it is the only NAME by which every kneel bows, of things in Heaven, on earth, and things under the earth, (Philippians 2:10). The emphasis here, is that every obstacle from demons, men and agents of hell is stoppable at the mention of the NAME of JESUS. But, be informed that one who prays in the NAME of JESUS must be in good standing with HIM, else, unpleasant consequences may crop-up, as a result of counter-attacks from Satan, who is fully aware that one without CHRIST is defenseless, (Acts 19:13-16).
MAY GOD CROWN YOUR ENDEAVOUR WITH SUCCESS!
REFERENCES
Peale
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Nkwocha,
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H.U.C., Emenogu, B.C. {1997}, Understanding
the Child:
A Psychological Perspective, Cape
Publishers
International Ltd, Onitsha Anambra
State, Nigeria.
Kennedy,
D. J.{1989}, I am Resolved, Corel Ridge Ministries,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, U.S.A.
Onyeukwu,
B.L. {2008}, The Truth Shall Set You Free, Hour of
Glory Publishing Press, Nigeria.
Ajah,
P.O., The True Religion: Which? Assemblies of God Press,
Nigeria.
Tilton,
R. {1992}, Climbing Your Ladder of Success, Christ for all
Nations Ministries, Port
Harcourt, Nigeria.
Mason,
J.L. {2000}, Let Go of Whatever Makes You Stop,
Spiritual Life Publications, Port
Harcourt, Nigeria.
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