OVERWHELMING VICTORY

‘’The one who loves us gives us an overwhelming victory in all these difficulties’’ - Romans 8:37 (GW)

There are challenges that appear extremely overwhelming and insurmountable. These challenges can be described as "mountains" on the path of man. The Holy Spirit recorded many examples of such mountain-like issues in the Bible. For instance, in 1 Samuel 17:1-51, everyone in Israel were intimidated, embarrassed and terrorized by an overwhelming mountain-like creature called Goliath for forty days. The elements of fear and intimidation oozing out of that mountain succeeded in paralyzing the entire nation of Israel. Everyone was traumatized by the threat of a 9 feet, 9 inches Big Unfriendly Giant who had impressive track records of conquering whosoever dared to confront him. But one day, God raised a mountain climber, giant killer, and a licensed overcomer in David, the son of Jesse. He addressed the intimidating mountain, deleted Goliath and terminated the long time harassment/embarrassment in the land of Israel (1 Samuel 17:46, 51). What an overwhelming victory!

Beloved, what is that mountain-like challenge or Goliath that is standing before you today? It doesn't matter how many people the mountain or giant has conquered, but as the Lord lives, you and your household will not be conquered by it. God is ready to raise another set of giant killers/ mountain movers in our generation. Do you want to be one of them? Are you really interested? If your answer is in the affirmative, then I can assure you that what has swallowed others will not swallow you. You cannot be humiliated by Goliath again. Rather, you will be inducted into the league of more than conquerors and start experiencing overwhelming victories on every side. 

The wonderful hymn below describes our overwhelming victory and overcoming status in Christ Jesus:

MORE THAN CONQUEROR ARE WE By C.H Morris

Conqueror and overcomers now are we

Thro’ the precious blood of Christ we’ve

Victory

If the Lord for us, we can never fail

Nothing against His Mighty power can ever

Prevail

CHORUS:

Conquerors are we,

Through the blood of Jesus

God has giving us victory

Thro’ the blood of Jesus

Thro’ the Lamb for sinners slain

Yet who lives and reign again

More than conquerors are we

More than conquerors are we.

In the name of Israel’s God

We all onward press

Overcoming sin and all unrighteousness

Not to us, but unto Him the praise shall be

For salvation and for blood brought victory

Unto him that overcometh shall be power

Here to eat of hidden manna sent

From heaven over yonder be the

Victors palm shall bear

And a robe of white and golden crown 

Shall wear.

May every giant problem threatening our peace, harassing, and intimidating us and our household perish like Goliath this day in Jesus name. And may our overwhelming victory and overcoming status be evidenced on all sides till we see Christ in glory. 

On behalf of my esteemed father in the Lord, Pastor E. A. Adeboye, I would like to invite you to the 73rd Annual Convention 2025 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. Theme: THE OVERCOMERS. Date: 4th to 10th August 2025. Venue: The Redemption City of God, Mowe, Ogun State.

Good morning and God bless you.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE BEAUTIFUL BRIDE’S HAND

'Let us rejoice, be happy, and give him glory because it’s time for the marriage of the lamb. His bride has made herself ready. Then the angel said to me, “Write this: ‘Blessed are those who are invited to the lamb’s wedding banquet.”  - Revelations 19:7-9 (GW)

In the Merchant of Venice, William Shakespeare narrates the story of a father who left a will on how his daughter's hands should be given out in marriage. The will stipulates that all the suitors must choose correctly from one of three caskets to have his daughter's hand. The three caskets were labelled gold, silver and lead respectively. Whosoever picks the right casket, gets the beautiful bride's hand. The following inscription were boldly written on the caskets: The Gold Casket- "Who chooseth me shall gain what many men desire", The Silver Casket - "Who chooseth me shall get as much as he deserves", The Lead Casket - "Who chooseth me must give and risk all he hath".

The first suitor, the Prince of Morocco, chose the gold casket, the second suitor, the Prince of Arragon chose the silver casket. They both rejected the lead casket because of the baseness of its material and the uninviting nature of its slogan: "Who chooseth me must give and risk all he hath. The last suitor - Bassanio, carefully considered his choice, he eventually chose the lead casket and won the beautiful bride's hand.

"There’s far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can’t see now will last forever"- 2 Corinthians 4:18 (MSG)

Beloved, the hand of the beautiful bride is still available to be won. The Father of all fathers has not changed the method on how to give out the hand of the beautiful bride to man. Therefore, it is wrong to believe that seeking God's kingdom first is an expired or obsolete method for winning in the race of life. Heaven is still saying: “Beware, all that glitters is not gold’’. indeed, there is far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we cannot see now will last forever (1 John 2:15-17, Colossians 3:2). Please do not allow the fake gold and attractive materials of this world to make you loose the hand of your beautiful bride in destiny. Stop acting foolishly like the Princes of Morocco and Arragon. Rather, choose the casket of lead which is loaded with salvation, sanctification and all the fruits of the spirit so that we can be numbered among the Bassanios of this world that will reunite with Christ at the Marriage Feast/Supper of the Lamb (Rev 19:7-9) 

The chorus of this wonderful hymn below asked us a question that require sincere and urgent response: Are you going to be at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb?

THE MARRIAGE SUPPER By Frank A. Breck

1  In the souls bright home, beyond the sky,

In a land where the ransomed never die,

There will be a royal banquet by and by,

’Tis the great marriage supper of the Lamb.

Refrain:

Are you going to be there

Are you going to be there,

At the great marriage supper of the Lamb?

With your wedding garment on,

Will you meet the loved ones gone,

At the great marriage supper of the Lamb?

2 Oh, the bride shall shine in bright array

With her tears all forever wiped away–

There will be a great rejoicing on that day–

At the great marriage supper of the Lamb. 

3 From all sin forevermore released,

They will come from the west and from the east,

For all nations will be gathered at the feast

Of the great marriage supper of the Lamb. 

4 We shall praise him by the crystal tide

When the Lamb that was slain is glorified–

And the ransomed church of God shall be the bride,

At the great marriage supper of the Lamb.

May we never miss the great marriage supper of the Lamb in Jesus name.  But, if you have never met the Lamb of God who was slain for the remission of our sins, then I urge you to do so today and you will be qualified to attend the marriage supper of the Lamb. A word is enough for the wise. I hope you will choose wisely today.

On behalf of my esteemed father in the Lord, Pastor E. A. Adeboye, I would like to invite you to the 73rd Annual Convention 2025 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. Theme: THE OVERCOMERS. Date: 4th to 10th August 2025. Venue: The Redemption City of God, Mowe, Ogun State, Nigeria. 

Good day and God bless you.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE DIVINE PARDON

"Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool... "- Isaiah 1:18‭-‬20 (NIV)

Several years ago, a man was convicted for robbery and murder. He was sentenced by the Judge to die for his crime. His close friends however managed to get presidential pardon for him. But surprisingly, when this man was informed of this pardon he refused to accept it. The matter was referred to the Supreme Court and the Chief Judge ruled as follows: "A pardon is a piece of paper, the value of which depends upon its acceptance by the person implicated. It is difficult to see a person under the sentence of death who refused to accept a pardon; but, if it is refused, it is no pardon. So, the man who rejects his pardon must die."

Death sentence was passed on all human being when Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden (Romans 3:23 & 6:23). In order to rescue man from this terrible judgement, God issued a divine pardon sealed with the blood of His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ (Hebrews 9:12). This pardon is the gift of eternal life (John 3:15, 10:28, & 17:3). However, anyone who rejects this pardon for any reason will have to face the music. He/she will experience the agony of second death or eternal separation from God (2 Thess 1:8-9).

Beloved, there is a divine pardon for you. Have you truly accepted the pardon? Have you received the gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus or are you still gambling with your eternal destination? Please note that it is not wise to allow the sentence of death to be executed when there is a valid pardon with your name boldly written on it. Therefore, I urge you to please accept this divine pardon so that you can escape the terrible judgement of death hanging on the soul of every man. 

"God's message is this: By Christ's death, God was bringing people of the world back to Himself, as His friends. He would no longer hold their sins in His thoughts. This is the message that God want us to tell people. So, we speak to people on behalf of Christ. It is like this: When we speak, God Himself is speaking to you. On behalf of Christ, we say to you, ‘Please come back to God, as His friends!’" - 2 Corinthians 5:19‭-‬20 (EASY)

This powerful hymn below describes the divine pardon that God issued to man:

GONE IS ALL MY DEBT OF SIN by M.S. Shafer,  1915.

Gone is all my debt of sin,

A great change is wrought within,

And to live I now begin,

Risen from the fall;

Yet the debt I did not pay—

Someone died for me one day,

Sweeping all the debt away—

Jesus paid it all.

Refrain: 

       Jesus died and paid it all, yes,

       On the cross of Calvary, Oh

       And my stony heart was melted

       At His dying, dying call;

       Oh, His heart in shame was broken

       On the tree for you and me, yes,

       And the debt, the debt is canceled,

      Jesus paid it, paid it all.

Sinner, not for me alone

Did the Son of God atone;

Your debt, too, He made His own,

On the cruel tree.

Come to Him with all your sin;

Be as white as snow within;

Full salvation you may win

And rejoice with me.

May God melt every stony heart and replace it with a heart of flesh that will no longer reject His divine pardon again In Jesus name, Amen.

On behalf of my esteemed father in the Lord, Pastor E. A. Adeboye, I would like to invite you to the 73rd Annual Convention 2025 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. Theme: THE OVERCOMERS. Date: 4th to 10th August 2025. Venue: The Redemption City of God, Mowe, Ogun State.

Good day and God bless.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE MATHEMATICS OF GOD & MONEY

"You can’t worship two gods at once. Loving one god, you’ll end up hating the other. Adoration of one feeds contempt for the other. You can’t worship God and Money both" - Matthew 6:24 (MSG)

Several years ago, a man was given an unusual assignment to build an ark that is 450 feet long, 75 feet wide and 55 feet high. He accepted this unusual challenge and set out to work even when it did not make sense to everyone around. In a bid to complete the task before the timeline, he recruited several labourers, craftsmen and other artisans to assist on the project. While the project was ongoing, the man spent quality time explaining to all the labourers the importance of the ark and also encouraged them to prepare to join him on the ride when the project was completed, but no one believed him. They were only interested in the project because of their earnings from the work. 

After several years of hard work, the task was eventually completed, and everyone who worked on the project was handsomely rewarded. In fact, some of the workers were given awards for being the longest serving staff, and most committed worker on the ark project. They were all happy working on the project and they left the project site thereafter. After many days, while they were celebrating and enjoying the money they made from the project, the floor gates of heaven broke loose and rain began to fall. Within a few minutes, everything on the earth was completely submerged, and the ark began to float. Only the man, his family, all the different species of animals and fruits on board the ark survived the flood. The question is, where were those people who worked tirelessly for several years to build the ark. The obvious answer is, they got the pay and missed the place.  

There are two categories of people in our world today: Those who are working for the pay and those who are working for the place. In the mathematics of God’s kingdom, the pay and the place are mutually exclusive options. These two choices cannot exist at the same time. They are distinct and separate, one can only pick one at a time. This was exactly what our Saviour told His disciples during his sermon on the mount (Matthew 6:24-33). This kingdom mathematics is still very relevant in our world today. 

The scripture is full of examples of those who do not understand this powerful kingdom mathematics of God and Money. Some of these people believed they could eat their cake and still have them. They wanted to get to the place but they were being lured away by the size of the pay. They couldn't say ‘no’ to the evil carrot of immediate gratification and ungodly money that was being dangled before them. They eventually received their pay but forever bade farewell to their place.

For example, all the workers that helped Noah to build the ark only received their pay but missed their place in the ark (Genesis 7:21-23). Imagine how those hard working labourers who built the ark that floated eventually sank like lead in the days of Noah. Have you forgotten how that potential prophet of God - Mr. Gehazi collected his pay from Naaman and mortgaged his place of glory as a prophet in the catalogue of destiny (2 Kings 5:20-27). Also, you will recall how the Chief Accountant of Jesus Worldwide Ministry - Mr. Judas Iscariot missed the place of power, honour and glory at the very crucial minute when he chose to collect the pay of 30 pieces of silver from the Jewish High Priest (Acts 1:16-19, Matthew 25:14-16). They all got their pays but missed their place of glory in the corridor of destiny. Hmmm! What a terrible error!

Beloved, it is unfortunate that many have not learned from the examples above. Indeed, many still love money more than God. This is evidenced in their attitude and disposition towards money. They are willing to serve and worship money instead of serving God alone wholeheartedly. They can do anything to get money at the expense of their eternal destination. There is a first class ticket to the colony of lepers in the pocket of many believers like their senior brother and mentor - Gehazi.  

Dear friend, do you really understand this kingdom mathematics of money and God? Are you working for the pay now at the expense of the place in the ark of safety? Why will you sell your birthright because of a plate of pottage and bread like Esau (Genesis 25:31-34)? Why will you labour so hard with your Noah here on earth and still miss the flight of the saint to the Place of Rest in Heaven? Why will you allow the temporary pleasures at the transit station of this world to make you lose your place of glory with God? 

"The thing you should want most is God’s kingdom and doing what God wants. Then all these other things you need will be given to you" Matthew 6:33 (ICB)

This special hymn below re-echoes the salient teaching of Jesus Christ on the Mount of Olives:

VAIN ARE ALL TERRESTRIAL PLEASURES By David E. Ford, 1828 

Vain are all terrestrial pleasures,

Mixed with dross the purest gold:

Seek we, then, for heav’nly treasures,

Treasures never waxing old.

Let our best affections center

On the things around the throne:

There no thief can ever enter;

Moth and rust are there unknown.

Earthly joys no longer please us;

Here would we renounce them all;

Seek our only rest in Jesus,

Him our Lord and master call.

Faith, our languid spirits cheering,

Points to brighter worlds above;

Bids us look for His appearing;

Bids us triumph in His love.

May our light be always burning,

And our loins be girded round,

Waiting for our Lord’s returning,

Longing for the welcome sound.

Thus the Christian life adorning,

Never need we be afraid,

Should He come at night or morning

Early dawn, or evening shade.

May we not allow the transient pleasures and enjoyment of the world make us lose our place in the Mansion that the saviour has gone to prepare for us. 

On behalf of my esteemed father in the Lord, Pastor E. A. Adeboye, I would like to invite you to the 73rd Annual Convention 2025 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. Theme: THE OVERCOMERS. Date: 4th to 10th August 2025. Venue: The Redemption City of God, Mowe, Ogun State.

Good day and God bless you.  

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE SARDIS CHURCH SYNDROME

“Write this to the angel of the church in the city of Sardis: ‘The One Who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars, says this: I know what you are doing. I know people think you are alive, but you are dead.’’ Revelation 3:1 (NLV)

In today’s world, it is possible to deceive everyone around us that we are spiritually alive when we are actually spiritually dead. This is what I perceive the Holy Spirit is referring to as the Sardis Church Syndrome. This syndrome manifests wherever outward appearances, religious activities, and human evaluations mask  the true state of our relationship with God. 

In Revelation 3:1, God’s diagnostic x-ray machine uncovered several symptoms of the Sardis Church Syndrome among the congregants in the Sardis City Church. The congregation in Sardis Church (Parish/Area/Zonal/Provincial/Regional Headquarter) appeared extremely vibrant and alive whereas they were spiritually dead. They had a reputation for being active and full of life, but inwardly they were disconnected from their source and anchor - God. They placed more emphasis on activities than on spirituality. They value collection more than connection. It appears many good things were happening on every side for them but in the real sense, nothing was actually happening from the stand point of God. They were growing numerically and financially but they were marching backward spiritually on the wheel of Ichabor. What a paradox!

Unfortunately, many of those deadly Sardis Church Syndrome that the Holy Spirit diagnosed in Chapter 3 of Revelation are still being displayed by many believers in the church today. Many people still believe that their spiritual life can be evaluated or assessed solely on their outward appearances, activities or expression of faith like church attendance, church activities, financial commitment or good deeds. They seem not to understand that these things alone don’t guarantee a vibrant walk or relationship with God. According to Matthew 7:21-23, it is possible for someone who performs religious activities like preaching, singing, prophesying, casting out demons and doing miracles, to still be far from God’s will. This scripture clearly buttresses the fact that outward success and religious activity do not automatically indicate that we are in right standing with God. Therefore, it is wrong to rely on our perceived good performances, excellent deeds, humans' applause and accolade, level of involvement in church activities, or spiritual gifts as a sign of being in God’s favour. The truth is that true spiritual life is only found in doing the will of God at all times not occasionally. Unlike man, God does not look at what others see; He examines the heart not the height (1 Samuel 16:7, Jeremiah 17:10).

Beloved, please take a moment today to carefully reflect on your spiritual life or walk with God. Are you truly aligned with God’s will, or are you merely going through the motions? Are there any symptoms of the Sardis Church Syndrome in your walk with God? Are you truly who you claim to be, or are you one of those green snakes under the grass in the Kingdom? Please surrender yourself to God’s diagnostic x-ray machine of mercy and grace today before it will be too late.

This hymn below re-echoes the need to eliminate every Sardis Church Syndrome by seeking a closer and genuine walk with God till our chapter on earth is finally closed (Rev 3:4): 

O FOR A CLOSER WALK WITH GOD By  William Cowper, 1772

O for a closer walk with God,

A calm and heavenly frame,

A light to shine upon the road

That leads me to the Lamb!

Where is the blessedness I knew,

When first I saw the Lord?

Where is the soul refreshing view

Of Jesus, and His Word?

What peaceful hours I once enjoyed!

How sweet their memory still!

But they have left an aching void

The world can never fill.

Return, O holy Dove, return,

Sweet messenger of rest;

I hate the sins that made Thee mourn

And drove Thee from my breast.

The dearest idol I have known,

Whate’er that idol be

Help me to tear it from Thy throne,

And worship only Thee.

So shall my walk be close with God,

Calm and serene my frame;

So purer light shall mark the road

That leads me to the Lamb.

May God help us to eliminate every Sardis Church Syndrome in our walk with Him and bring us back to the centre of His will, never to go astray again. And may our walk with God be truly close and genuine till we finish our journey on earth in Jesus’ name, Amen.

On behalf of my esteemed father in the Lord, Pastor E. A. Adeboye, I would like to invite you to the July 2025 Holy Ghost Service. Theme: DESTINED FOR GREATNESS (Part 3) Subtitled: HELPERS OF DESTINY. Date: 4th July, 2025. Venue: The Redemption City of God, Mowe, Ogun State. Time: 6pm (WAT).

Happy new month, Good day and God bless you.  

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https:// okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE ENERGY OF FOOLS

"If you get more stubborn every time you are corrected, one day you will be crushed and never recover" Proverbs 29:1 (GNT)

Several years ago, two ships collided on the Sea and hundreds of passengers died on that fateful day. Investigation later revealed that the accident was not caused by technical fault or bad weather. Several people perished simply because the two captains were too stubborn to change direction. They both knew that their ships were heading towards each other and may soon collide. A little change of direction by either of them would have averted the tragedy. However, neither of them was willing to change course and give way to the other. They were too stubborn to yield and by the time they came to their senses, it was too late. 

A German proverb describes stubbornness as the energy of fools but God describes it as a capital offence that attracts instant destruction. The story of Saul, the first king of Israel clearly affirms this truth. King Saul's obstinacy to God's instructions triggered his dethronement as king in Israel (1 Sam 15: 23). The glorious ship of his destiny sank like a stone into the ocean of stubbornness  and there was nothing anyone could do to remedy the situation. His stubbornness made God use His divine bit and bridle on him. King Saul died on mount Gilboa together with his three sons, personal assistant, chief of staff, bodyguards and others in one day. Then, his body was taken away, dismembered and hanged on the wall of Beth Shan (1 Sam 31:1-13). Hmmmm! What a terrible ending!

"Refusing to obey is as bad as the sin of sorcery. Being stubborn and doing what you want is like the sin of worshiping idols. You refused to obey the Lord’s command, so he now refuses to accept you as king.” 1 Sam 15:23 (ERV)

Unfortunately, many people in this generation have not learned from that terrible mistake of king Saul. Rather, they have decided to make king Saul their mentor. They are stubborn to wise and godly counsels despite repeated warnings. They do not seem to understand that every act of man's stubbornness adds fuel to the fire of God's wrath and judgement (Rom. 2:5).

"You’re not getting by with anything. Every refusal and avoidance of God adds fuel to the fire....Make no mistake: In the end you get what’s coming to you— Real Life for those who work on God’s side, but to those who insist on getting their own way and take the path of least resistance, Fire! "- Rom. 2:5-8 (MSG)

Beloved, I hope king Saul is not your mentor. Hope you are not manifesting the energy of fools. Hope you have not turned your back on God like those stubborn Israelites (Deut 9:6-8). I hope you are not like those stiff-necked Jews in Corinth who rejected Christ and even went as far as maligning the Way (Acts 19:9). Please do not forget that everyone who stubbornly rejects God's Sweet Will on earth will be doomed for the rest of eternity. This article may be the last warning God is sending to you before He will eventually turn you over to the hardness of your heart. Friends, time is running out. Please repent today and yield totally to His Sweet Will before it will be too late. 

"Stubbornness and stupidly are twins" - Sophocles

This wonderful hymn re-emphases the need to desist from displaying the energy of fools in the journey of life:

SWEET WILL OF GOD By C. H. Morris, 1900.

My stubborn will at last hath yielded;

I would be Thine, and Thine alone,

And this the prayer my lips are bringing,

"Lord, let in me Thy will be done".

Refrain:

      Sweet will of God, still fold me closer,

      Till I am wholly lost in Thee;

      Sweet will of God, still fold me closer,

      Till I am wholly lost in Thee.

I’m tired of sin, footsore and weary,

The darksome path hath dreary grown,

But now a light has ris’n to cheer me;

I find in Thee my Star, my Sun.

Thy precious will, O conqu’ring Savior,

Doth now embrace and compass me;

All discords hushed, my peace a river,

My soul a prisoned bird set free.

Shut in with Thee, O Lord, forever,

My wayward feet no more to roam;

What pow’r from Thee my soul can sever?

The center of God’s will my home.

May God rescue everyone displaying the energy of fools and drowning in the ocean of stubbornness all over the world in Jesus name, Amen.

Good day and God bless you.  

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE FAITHFUL GARDENER

"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." Revelation  22:12

A gardener was taking his visitor round the castle and the beautiful, well-groomed fields. The visitor commended the gardener and his wife for the way they were keeping the gardens. He asked, "By the way, when was the last time the owner of this garden was here?". "Several years ago", the gardener replied. The visitor asked, “Then why do you keep the gardens in such an immaculate, lovely manner?” The gardener replied, “Because I’m expecting him to return.” The visitor asked again “Is he coming next week?” “I don’t know when he is coming, but I am expecting him today.” The gardener replied.

One of the most significant promises Jesus Christ made to the Church in the last chapter of the book of Revelation is about the timing of His return to the world. The phrase "I come quickly" should keep every gardener on his/her toes till the owner of the garden eventually shows up. The gardeners must work tirelessly for their master everyday as if He would return by the end of that very day. They must consider themselves highly privileged to be among the few people that God has entrusted His garden to. Their commitments in serving God joyfully and faithfully at all times should not be in doubt. They must be loyal to their master and look forward to seeing him again when He returns. 

Unfortunately, the number of faithful gardeners in this generation is very small. Many of the gardeners around today are no longer working for the owner of the garden but for themselves. They have turned the garden to business centres by commercializing almost every activity around them. Immediate gratifications, earthly rewards or "What is in it for me" mentality, are now the driving forces of many gardeners in this generation. Many people are more committed in their place of work than in the garden of God. They work extra hours in their offices but never spend an extra minute in the garden for God. This is quite absurd. 

Beloved, are you one of the few faithful gardeners around? Are you still keeping the garden or have you walked away in search of presumed greener pastures that do not exist? Have you commercialized your gifts and talents in the garden? Will the owner of the garden find you still standing and working faithfully for Him when He returns? Please be sincere with yourself!

Friends, there is no doubt that the owner of this garden is on His way. The events unfolding all around the world today clearly reaffirms this fact. Yes, Christ's second coming is very imminent. Hence, it is crucial  for us to realign ourselves with Him and stop commercializing our efforts in the garden.   

"Jesus Is Coming Soon" is the title of a wonderful hymn that reiterates the fact that Christ's return is imminent:

JESUS IS COMING SOON By R. E. Winsett

1) Troublesome times are here

Filling men’s hearts with fear.

Freedom we all hold dear now is at stake.

Humbling our hearts to God

Saves from the chastening rod.

Seek the way pilgrims trod.

Christians awake!

Refrain:

Jesus is coming soon!

Morning or night or noon;

Many will meet their doom.

Trumpets will sound.

All of the dead shall rise;

Righteous meet in the skies,

Going where no one dies.

Heavenward bound!

2) Love of so many cold,

Losing their home of gold,

This in God’s Word is told, evils abound.

When these signs come at last,

Nearing the end at last,

It will come very fast,

Trumpets will sound.

3) Troubles will soon be o’er.

Happy forevermore

When we meet on that shore

Free from all care.

Rising up in the sky;

Telling this world goodbye,

Homeward we then will fly.

Glory to share!

May God help us to keep watching and serving faithfully until He returns to take us to our home of gold above, Amen

Good day and God bless. 

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE CLEFT OF THE ROCK

"You hide them in the safety of your presence from the plots of others; in a safe shelter you hide them from the insults of their enemies. .... The LORD protects the faithful, but punishes the proud as they deserve. …" - Psalms 31:20, 23 -24 (GNB)

A submarine was being tested and had to remain submerged for many hours. When it eventually returned to the harbour, the captain of the submarine was asked, "How did the terrible storm last night affect you?" The captain looked at everyone in surprise and exclaimed, "Storm? We didn’t even know there was one because the submarine sailed deep down into the cushion of the sea"

The response of the captain above summarizes the testimony that all those who genuinely put their trust in God will share throughout their sojourning in this world. In Psalms 91, God categorically affirms that He will jealously hide His children under His protective shadow where the storm of life (e.g. untimely death, disaster, sorrow, accident, sickness etc) cannot reach them. The oceanographers called that safe place "the cushion of the sea" while God simply described it as "The Cleft Of The Rock" in Exodus 33:21-23 or "The Strong Tower" in Proverbs 18:10. The place is so safe that no harm can reach us nor any disaster come near our tent whenever we are abiding therein. The waters beneath the place are never stirred or troubled by raging storm of life. What a safe place to be!

Friends, are you currently sailing on a stormy sea financially, physically, academically, emotionally? Are you surrounded by some wild and hungry sharks? Please let not your heart be troubled by the roaring of those stormy seas and wild beasts therein. Rather, put your trust in God and He will be your shield against every storm of life till you see Christ in Glory. No matter how loud the sound of terror and agony may be all over the world, your destiny will remain unruffled and God will keep you in perfect peace. Irrespective of the negative news and evidences around us today, If God is truly your shelter, your entire family will sail/swim in glory throughout this year and beyond like everyone in that submarine above. And as long as you remain under the shadow of the Almighty God, no plague can come near your dwelling because God will hide you and your household securely in the cleft of the rock and cover you protectively with His hand as He did to Moses (Exodus 33:21-23).

"God said, “Look, here is a place right beside me. Put yourself on this rock. When my Glory passes by, I’ll put you in the cleft of the rock and cover you with my hand until I’ve passed by....." - Exo. 33: 21-23

This old time hymn below re-echoes the need to trust God to keep us safe and secure from the turbulent storm of life: 

ROCK OF AGES, CLEFT FOR ME By A. M. Toplady

Rock of Ages, cleft for me,

Let me hide myself in Thee;

Let the water and the blood,

From Thy riven side which flowed,

Be of sin the double cure,

Save me from its guilt and power.

Not the labor of my hands

Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;

Could my zeal no respite know,

Could my tears forever flow,

All could never sin erase,

Thou must save, and save by grace.

Nothing in my hands I bring,

Simply to Thy cross I cling;

Naked, come to Thee for dress,

Helpless, look to Thee for grace:

Foul, I to the fountain fly,

Wash me, Savior, or I die.

While I draw this fleeting breath,

When mine eyes shall close in death,

When I soar to worlds unknown,

See Thee on Thy judgment throne,

Rock of Ages, cleft for me,

Let me hide myself in Thee.

As we approach the end of the first half of year 2025, my prayer is that the Rock of Ages shall continue to cleft for us. We shall enjoy a turbulence-free sail in the remaining journey of this year. No matter the degree of turbulence on the sea of life around us  (through insecurity, flooding, fire outbreak, kidnapping, etc), we shall be jealously preserved by God from all evil occurrence. And when we finish our race on earth, we will rise to meet our Saviour in the sky.  

Good day and God bless.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

For more articles, please visit -https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

WAITING AT THE TRAIN STATION

"Remember this: We are waiting for Jesus Christ to return to this world. When He comes, that will make us very happy. Everyone will see how great Jesus Christ is. He is our great God. He is the one who saves us from our sins" - Titus 2:13 (EASY)

A story was told of Eizaburo Ueno - a professor of agronomic engineering at Tokyo University who took a dog named Hachito as a pet. The Professor went to work by train every day and Hachiko became his faithful companion. Every morning he accompanied him to the train station and in the afternoon he went back to meet him when he returned. The pair continued the daily routine until one fateful day when the professor did not return. He had suffered a cerebral hemorrhage while giving a lecture to his class. However, day after day, regardless of weather, Hachiko kept going back to the train station at the same time the afternoon train was expected to arrive. For nine years, nine months and fifteen days, Hachiko waited faithfully for his master's return at the train station. 

There are two categories of believers in every generation. The first category are those who have enjoyed the companionship of their master like Hackito and are eagerly waiting at the train station for Him to return. There is an unbreakable bond of loyalty and devotion between these set of people and their master. They have what I call "The Hachiko's Mentality" that Apostle Paul mentioned in Titus 2:13. 

The second category of people are those who have wandered away from the train station of eternal life. They have no genuine encounter or their depth of devotion to the master is very shallow. Unfortunately, many people are in this category in every generation. Many have left the train station in search of fishes like Simon Peter. They have even succeeded in luring many careless ones along with them (John 21:3). Their quest and insatiable appetite for worldly gains has dragged them away from the train station like Gehazi and Judas Iscariot (2 Kings 5:20-21). Some believe their master has died like Professor Ueno and will never return again.

"So, Gehazi followed after Naaman..." 2 Kings 5:21

Beloved, Unlike Professor Ueno who never returned to the train station to meet Hachiko, Jesus Christ will definitely return as he has promised us (Rev 22:7,12). His coming is imminent. But the question is, will you still be waiting for Him patiently like Hachiko at the train station till He returns. I hope you have not wandered away like Simon Peter. Will Christ meet you at the train station when he returns? 

One hymn that re-echoes the question that Jesus Christ asked in Luke 18:8 on the subject matter is titled "Will Jesus Find Us Watching "

WILL JESUS FIND US WATCHING by Fanny Crosby

1. When Jesus comes to reward His servants,

    Whether it be noon or night,

    Faithful to Him will He find us watching,

    With our lamps all trimmed and bright?

 

Refrain:

         O can we say we are ready, brother?

         Ready for the soul’s bright home?

         Say, will He find you and me still watching,

         Waiting, watching when the Lord shall come?

 

2. If, at the dawn of the early morning,

    He shall call us one by one,

    When to the Lord we restore our talents,

    Will He answer you, "Well done?"

 

3. Have we been true to the trust He left us?

    Do we seek to do our best?

    If in our hearts there is naught condemns us,

    We shall have a glorious rest.

 

4. Blessed are those whom the Lord finds watching,

    In His glory they shall share;

    If He shall come at the dawn or midnight,

    Will He find us watching there?

My prayer is that you and I shall never stray away from the train station until our master returns. The mercy of God that restored Simon Peter back to the train station shall locate and restore everyone who has wandered away from the train station in Jesus name, Amen. 

Good day and God bless you.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE LOVING NATURE OF GOD

“...I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer,.... This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty" - Matthew 5:43-45 (MSG)

A man while walking in a desert stumbled upon a snake that had become hopelessly wedged between some fallen trees. The man decided to help the snake, but in the process the snake tried to bite him. The man tried to free the snake a second time. Again, the snake tried to bite the man. Finally, on the third attempt the man succeeded in setting the snake free. And still, the snake coiled and attempted to strike its liberator. The man’s companion, who was observing the scene at a safe distance, asked the man why he continued to risk his life to free the snake. The man responded, “The snake was attempting to strike because that is its nature. My nature is to love. Should I cease to love because the snake attempts to strike?”

In Matthew 5:43-45, our Saviour told us categorically that we must love people who are unlovable. That is, people who wants to bring the worst out of us. People who deliberately harm us without any justifiable reason. They attack and vomit their venom upon anyone that crosses their path. Do we still have such people around us today?  The answer of course is a capital "yes". But God wants to demonstrate His nature of love to them through us. We are to respond to them with energy of prayers and not hatred, bitterness or revenge. We must not allow their unlovable nature to suppress the loving nature of God in us.

Beloved, have you been bitten recently by people with the nature of a snake? Is someone making life extremely difficult for you at work or in your neighbourhood, business or ministry? Hope you are not planning to retaliate or seek revenge? Why not respond like the man in the above story? Why not do what our Saviour did when he was being crucified on the Cross of Calvary (Luke 23:33-34). He responded to them with the energy of forgiveness, prayers and love. You can do it too. It's not stupidity or foolishness, it is simply God's way of manifesting His nature to the world. And who knows whether through good dispositions, show of love and prayers, that fellow may eventually come to embrace the Light of this world (Jesus Christ) and be saved.

"And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, ... Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do...." - Luke  23:33-34

The lyrics of a wonderful old time song below speak volume on the subject: 

LOVE YOUR ENEMIES

Big bad Saul had a lot of hate.

Tried to send a spear though a man named Dave.

Dave in a cave had to make a choice.

He chose to listen to the heavenly voice.

Chorus:

       If you love those who love you, God is not impressed.

       If you love those who BUG you, that’s when you’ll be blessed.

       Look him in the eye and love the meanest guy.

      Jesus will be pleased.

       Pray for those who persecute you.

       La la la la la la la la love ----- your enemies.

Bloody man dying on the Jericho Road

Priest and the Levite just turned up their nose

Good Sam, what a man, stopped to help that guy

Bound up his wounds so he wouldn’t die.

Now we'll sing a song about deacon Steve,

Willing to die for what he believed in

Got stoned, broken bones, but before he died

Prayed for the guys who tore up his hide.

No one could do it like Jesus could.

Whipped and slapped and nailed to the wood.

Sin couldn’t win ‘cuz the Lord, He forgave

And we got the power

We got the power

We got the power when He popped through the grave!

May God help to truly demonstrate His true loving nature to all the snakes and scorpions around us in this generation till Christ returns to take us Home. Amen.     

                                                   

Good day and God bless.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE QUICK-FIX SYNDROME

‘’Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us get rid of every burden and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and let us run with patient endurance the race that is laid out for us. Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who is the author of our faith and the one who brings it to its goal……' Hebrews 12:1-2 (EHV)

In a steamboat race, one of the leading boats suddenly began to fall behind. The coal in the oven had been exhausted. Then, the sailor took some of the ship’s cargo and tossed it into the oven. When he saw that the cargo burned like coal, he fueled his boat with the materials he had been assigned to transport. Although he ended up winning the race, he burned his cargo.

Life is a steamboat race and many people are running to win at all cost. The spirit of competition and quick-fix syndrome has made many sailors devise several ungodly means of surviving and keeping their vessels going in a such time like this. Many are ready to cut corners just to win their race and be applauded. Like Esau, they are willing to mortgage their souls, forfeit their birthrights, and throw their integrity in the waste bin for worldly riches and gains that are transient (Gen 25:29-32).

Beloved, I hope you have not burnt your cargo/luggage like Esau. Hope you have not misplaced your priorities in life like Esau. I hope you have not thrown your birthright and right standing with God into the trash just for a single meal like Esau. Remember how he wept bitterly to claim it back, but the damage was irreversible (Heb 12:16-17). His cargo had been burnt by the strange fire in the oven of ungodliness and profanity.  

"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world [wealth, fame, success], but forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?"- Matthew 16:26

Your life is too precious to be wasted, so don't throw your soul into the oven of hell for any reason. Don't let any worldly competition make you deep your hands into things that will cause you to cry like Esau when you reach the golden shore. Your cargo may look like coals but they are not coals. Don't throw caution into the wind nor embrace the "quick fix" approach. But, rather go after God wholeheartedly and your story will change for good.  

Friends, are all your cargoes still intact? Are your cargoes of salvation, consecration, sanctification, and holiness still intact, or have you thrown them into the oven? Have you thrown your virginity, dignity, and integrity into the oven? What about the seven locks of hair on your head? Where is the aura of God's glory and presence you used to carry? Are you sure you have not offloaded it into the oven? If you have, I urge you to please retrace your steps to where you lost them. Repent and plead for mercy today because without genuine repentance, I'm afraid your ship will soon capsize in the middle of the sea of life. 

This special song below reiterates the question that our saviour asked in Matthew 16:26:

WHAT WOULD YOU GIVE IN EXCHANGE? By F. J. Berry

Brother afar from the Savior today,

Risking your soul for the things that decay;

O if today God should call it away,

What would you give in exchange for your soul?

Refrain:

       What would you give? What would you give?

       What would you give in exchange for your soul?

       O if today God should call it away,

       What would you give in exchange for your soul?

Mercy is calling you, won’t you give heed?

Must the dear Savior still tenderly lead?

Risk not your soul, it is precious indeed;

What would you give in exchange for your soul?

More than the silver and gold of the earth—

More than all jewels thy spirit is worth!

God, the Creator, has given it birth!

What would you give in exchange for your soul?

If, when you stand at the bar by and by,

When you are weighed in the balance on high,

You should be sentenced forever to die!

What would you give in exchange for your soul?

It is my prayer that God will help us to be among those faithful sailors who will reach the Golden Shore with our cargoes intact when the race of life is over. May the strange oven of this world not consume or burn our labour, rewards, and testimonials. 

Good day and God bless you.  Amen

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE WOLF IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING

“Be wary of false preachers who smile a lot, dripping with practiced sincerity. Chances are they are out to rip you off in some way or other. Don’t be impressed with charisma; look for character... A genuine leader will never exploit your emotions or your pocketbook…..’’ - Matthew 7:15-17 (MSG)

Once upon a time, there lived a cunning and hungry wolf. Every time he got close to the sheep, they recognized him and ran away, or the watchful shepherd chased him away with his dogs. One day, the wolf had an idea. “If I look like a sheep, maybe they won’t recognize me”. He found the wool of a sheep that had died and pulled it over his body. When evening came, the wolf followed the sheep into the stable. The shepherd didn’t notice the intruder when he counted his sheep before closing the stable door. 

The wolf waited patiently until everyone had slept. Then, in the dark, he crept up to one of the sheep. “Now you’re mine,” he thought and licked his lips. But at that moment, the shepherd came back into the stable. He had forgotten to select a sheep for the market the next morning. Not recognizing the wolf, the shepherd reached for him and pulled him by his wool. The sheepskin pulled away from the wolf and the shepherd could hardly believe his eyes. “A wolf!” he shouted, startled. The wolf was caught and his plan failed.

In Matthew 7, the Holy Spirit affirms that there are many so-called ‘’anointed’’ wolves in sheep’s clothing everywhere. Events unfolding all over the world today corroborate the above assertion. We are living amid hungry and cunny wolves. These wolves have strategically positioned themselves and their families in politics, religious and government establishments, etc. They have mastered the art of deception and are seriously gaining grounds in their chosen endeavors. Their greatest selling point is charisma since they lack authentic fruit which is character. These hungry wolves craftily leverage on their affluence, social connections, exposures, qualifications, and impressive oratory skills to perpetuate their wicked and heinous acts. They exploit innocent sheep around them callously and lick their lips with great excitement. It is quite sad and unfortunate! 

Friends, are you one of the ‘’anointed’’ wolves in sheep’s clothing in town? Please pay attention to this Yoruba proverb that says, ‘’If a lie has gone on for twenty years, the truth will catch up with it in just one day.’’. No matter how many years you have succeeded in deceiving everyone around you, the cat will soon be out of the bag. Yes, the shepherd’s hand is coming towards you and you will soon be exposed. This deception business of yours cannot continue forever. Sooner or later the truth will come out and will lead to unpleasant consequences for you. That is why it is always better to be honest and authentic at all times. Please repent and make your way right with God and man today. 

Beloved, are you one of those sheep that have been deceived and exploited by those so-called ‘’anointed wolves’’ in town? Please be wise and make a U-turn today. Stop being cowed by the fabricated charisma and eloquence displayed by them. You are too important to God to be used as a specimen in the laboratory of greed and deception of these anointed wolves in town. 

The hymn below reechoes God's warning to us in Matthew 7:15-23:

Beware Of False Prophets by Authority, O.A.U

“Ye shall know them by their fruits” if they truly come from God. Are they living by the truth as revealed in God’s word?

Refrain:

Beware of false prophets who say they are of God. They come in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are wolves; 

So do not be received by their many words; 

Beware Beware Beware.

Don’t just look at Mighty signs, wonders, and miracles they do. Prove them by the Book divine, and you’ll know if they are true.

Anyone approved by God speaks, and it doth come to pass, standing on the living Word, holy every moment pass.

It is my prayer that you and I never become specimens in the laboratory of greed built by these hungry and anointed wolves in this generation. And everyone deceived and held captive in their slaughter slabs shall be delivered this day in Jesus name. Amen

Good day, and God bless.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE SPECIAL INVITATION

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me, watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” - Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG)

There is a story of a woman who married a man against the strong protest of her parents. After the wedding, the couple moved far away, alienating the bride from her parents. The husband turned out to be totally irresponsible and unfaithful. Within few years he died, leaving his wife and little son penniless.  In desperation the young widow scratched out a miserable living. The only real moment of joy for mother and son came when she held him in her lap and told him about her father's home. She would speak of the rich, green lawn and beautiful trees. She would tell of the love of her parents and of the security she felt at home. Though, the boy had never seen his grandpa's house, he was eagerly looking forward to going home. Then, one day the woman received a letter. Recognizing the handwriting she quickly tore open the envelope. In it she found a cheque along with a note containing two simple words: Come home!.

The above story is a good specimen of the special invitation that Jesus Christ dispatched to everyone stranded, worried, confused today (Matt 11:28-30). Unfortunately, some of these people have been lured away from their heavenly father's reach and life has become extremely burdensome for them. Hence, this invitation is very crucial for God to intervene and usher those special children of His back home. 

This special invitation was addressed to two different categories of people: those who had at one time experienced the love of the Father of all fathers, like the poor woman in the above story. Secondly, those who have never partaken of the blessing in our heavenly father's house like the widow's little boy. The invitation is meant to reconnect everyone who honours it to the endless flow of God's unforced rhythms of grace and mercy that can turn the worst sinners to saints. 

Beloved, are you tired, troubled, confused, discouraged, burdened or worried? There is a special invitation for you from Jesus Christ. How I wish you will not ignore the invitation today (Hebrews 2:3). Are you a backslider? Have you been lured away from your father's warm embrace and loving reach? Jesus Christ is calling you again. The truth is unless you honour His invitation of salvation and closely walk with God, life may remain a sea of burdens and an avalanche of disappointments. Friends, I urge you to please honour God's invitation and go back home. If you do, heaven will put together every broken or torn piece of your life and build a mighty edifice out of it to the glory of His name.   

The lyrics of this wonderful hymn below re-echoes the wordings of the special invitation that our Lord and Saviour sent to us in Matthew 11:28-30: 

SOFT AND TENDERLY JESUS IS CALLING By Lamartine Thompson

Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling

Calling for you and for me;

Patiently Jesus is waiting and watching

Watching for you and for me!

 

Refrain:

          Come home! come home!

          Ye who are weary, come home!

           Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling,

           Calling, O sinner, come home!

Why should we tarry when Jesus is pleading

Pleading for you and for me?

Why should we linger and heed not His mercies

Mercies for you and for me?

Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing

Passing from you and from me;

Shadows are gathering, death-beds are coming.

Coming for you and for me!

Oh, for the wonderful love He has promised

Promised for you and for me!

Though we have sinned, He has mercy and pardon

Pardon for you and for me!

As you honour God’s special invitation, the Great Burden Bearer will help you carry all your burdens and your long awaited answers of peace, victory, fruitfulness, joy and promotion shall be delivered speedily in Jesus name. As the Lord lives, every remaining month of this year shall be full of landmark testimonies for you and your household on every side. 

Happy new month, Good day and God bless.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

IS YOUR GOVERNOR AN INGRATE?

"When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now" - John  2:9-10

During the wedding at Cana, the wine suddenly finished and some servants were mandated to carry out damage control operations. Jesus told them to fetch several gallons of water into the six waterpots and thereafter draw it out to serve the Governor of the feast. They did and as soon as the Governor tasted the wine, he was so excited and began to shower praises on the bridegroom. The servants that Jesus used to brew the wine might have felt very disappointed. Instead of getting some encouraging words or rewards for their labour, they were ignored by the Governor and everyone on the high table. They must have said to themselves: "This is not fair! This Governor is an ingrate. He could not even say "thank you" to us for all our efforts in fetching several gallons of water that eventually turned to wine? He just ignored us and started talking to the bridegroom who knew nothing about what we did to get the best wine to the high table?"  

Friends, has God ever used you to supply wine to someone on the high table who in turn refused to reward or appreciate you? Do you feel bad that your efforts was not appreciated? Please note that your service is unto God and not to man (Eph 6:7). The one who send you to go fetch water knew how best to say "thank you" to you for the wine you are serving. No man can appreciate you more than God who engaged you. God is the best employer and the great rewarder of men (Heb 11:6)! The truth is your Governors/Chairman/CEO may be an ingrate. He/she may ignore your contributions. Even your Pastor, friends, colleagues, parents, business partner, siblings, children may not remember to appreciate you. But God is not unjust to forget your labour of love. As the Lord lives, your reward is on the way so please wait patiently for it. Don’t be discouraged by the action and inaction of those men/women on the high table (Jer 31:16). You stand the risk of losing your divine reward when you concentrate more on getting the applause of man. So, keep your gaze on God and God alone.

This wonderful song  reiterates the need to keep serving faithfully even when no one is willing to appreciate, reward or celebrate us:

GO, LABOR ON; SPEND, AND BE SPENT By Horatius Bonar

Go, labor on; spend, and be spent;

Thy joy to do the Father’s will;

It is the way the Master went;

Should not the servant tread it still?

Go, labor on: ’tis not for nought;

Thy earthly loss is heav’nly gain;

Men heed thee, love thee, praise thee not;

The Master praises, what are men?

Go, labor on; your hands are weak,

Your knees are faint, your souls cast down;

Yet falter not; the prize you seek

Is near, a kingdom and a crown.

Go, labor on while it is day,

The world’s dark night is hastening on;

Speed, speed thy work, cast sloth away,

It is not thus that souls are won.

Men die in darkness at your side,

Without a hope to cheer the tomb;

Take up the torch and wave it wide,

The torch that lights time’s thickest gloom.

Press on, faint not, keep watch and pray;

Be wise the erring soul to win;

Go forth into the world’s highway,

Compel the wanderer to come in.

Press on, and in thy work rejoice;

For work comes rest, the prize thus won;

Soon shalt thou hear the Master’s voice,

The midnight cry, Behold, I come!

May God grant us grace to serve faithfully till Christ returns. And when the trumpet shall sound, the reward for all our labour on earth shall be delivered to us on the golden shore in Jesus name, (Amen).

Good day and God bless you. 

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com

THE CONFUSED CHAMPION

".. It’s no light thing to know that we’ll all one day stand in that place of Judgment. That’s why we work urgently with everyone we meet to get them ready to face God. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God’s work of making things right between them" - 2 Corinthians 5:11 (MSG)

On the 13th of January, 2012, the massive Costa Concordia cruise ship with more than 4,200 passengers and crew on board was sailing off the coast of Italy on a tour of the Mediterranean Sea. The captain deviated from his planned course and the ship struck a reef near the shore. After taking on water for a while, the ship began to sink. Abandoning his duty to the passengers and crew, Captain Francesco Schettino left the ship instead of remaining to make sure everyone could be rescued. The captain was later arrested and jailed for 16years for his failure to do his duty, resulting in the deaths of more than thirty people. (CNN, July 17, 2013)

This earthly ship of ours has struck a reef and may soon sink like the massive Costa Concordia cruise ship. Like in the days of Noah, the flood of judgment is fast approaching the earth and many unrepentant crew and passengers may soon be doomed for the rest of eternity. The fact that we are surrounded by these people should stir us up to do everything possible to rescue them for Christ before it will be too late. Unfortunately, many believers have abandoned their friends, colleagues and family members in the sinking ship to perish. Like captain Schettino, we have stylishly reassigned our primary duties of soul winning/witnessing/evangelism in the sinking ship of this world to other passengers and crew. It is obvious that our callous hearts have fully grown and become like that of an Ostrich in the wilderness. Yes, our bowels of compassion that Jesus filled to overflow is now completely empty. This is very sad!  While sinners are sinking into Hell daily, many believers are raising their shoulders in church every Sunday like a confused champion. But they fail to understand that there can never be a champion in a sinking ship. That is the bitter truth!  We cannot be rejoicing on going to Heaven alone when multitudes around us are going to spend eternity in Hell fire.

Friend, I hope you have not abandoned your unbelieving relations, colleagues or friends in this sinking ship/boat. If you have, then, you are one of those confused champions in town. Don't wait until you are arrested like Captain Schettino or be swallowed by fish like Jonah before you do the Lord's bidding. Jesus Christ rescued you so that you can help Him rescue every other drowning soul that crosses your path from Hell. You will give account for every soul that God put on board the ship with you (Ezekiel 33:7-9).

Beloved, I strongly perceived God is giving many Jonahs a second chance to go back to their Nineveh and declare His judgment to everyone in that ship/city/street/town/village. Are you one of those Jonahs? I hope you will not blow this opportunity again. If you do, the consequences could be very grievous and you may not be able to bear it. Please go and preach the gospel to those helpless folks in the sinking ships around your neighbourhoods, schools, offices, markets etc. The Lord of the harvest himself will go with you and give you mighty harvest in Jesus name. 

This special hymn below re-echoes the scriptures in Matthew 9:37 about engaging more believers for the end time rescue operations:

A CALL FOR REAPERS by J. E. Thomas

The harvest is white and the reapers are few,

While thousands are dying in sin,

And the Savior above is calling for you,

To gather the lost ones in.

Refrain:

        Gather them in, the golden grain,

        Go gather from fields of sin;

       The harvest is white and the gleaners are few,

        O reapers! Gather the last ones in.

The Lord of the harvest appeals unto you,

To go out in the fields of sin,

And tell to the world this Gospel so true,

And winning the lost ones to Him.

The Savior is with us, so bury your fears;

Your labors will not be in vain;

In the morning sow seed and bathe them in tears,

Returning at eve with grain.

When life’s work is done and we gather at home,

With millions now waiting us there,

Every soul we have won will add a bright star

To the beautiful crown we shall wear.

My prayer is that the Lord of the Harvest will pour a fresh fire and passion for lost souls in our hearts. As Jonah was singlehandedly used to rescue the entire inhabitants of Nineveh, Holy Spirit will empower us and use us mightily to rescue multitudes from this sinking ship before Christ returns.  And when life's work is over, we shall wear a crown decorated with uncountable stars in the City of Gold in Jesus mighty name. 

Good day and God bless you.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

https://okanlawontaiwo.blogspot.com