• You are faithful,
    You are good Lord
    You are faithful, You are good Lord 🙏💗
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  • Do you follow the instruction of the Lord?
    The love of the Lord is so good that He will never leave us as He finds us, He will always lead, guide and teach us to better places.
    Do you follow the instruction of the Lord? The love of the Lord is so good that He will never leave us as He finds us, He will always lead, guide and teach us to better places.
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  • Matthew 20:1-16

    And Jesus continues with the lesson of the first being the last with this parable. A landowner is the comparison this time. The Kingdom of God is like a landowner seeking employees in the early morning. He hires them for a denarius for the day. This was the typical amount for a day's wages for a laborer so this wouldn't have been unusual. The unusual bit would come later.

    But then Jesus adds to the story that this owner then returns to the market another 4 times to hire workers for the same amount he paid workers for all day. And at the end of the day this landowner lines up those he hired and begins paying them by starting with the latest hired and chosing to pay all workers a full day's wage.

    Now Jesus did this as part of a lesson, explaining that those who worked and bore the heat of the day would complain. But the truth is a denarius was a fair wage for the period of a full day. And the owner was well within his rights to pay what he wished.

    The idea was that what was given was the same reward whether one came early or one came late. The big picture is Jesus is making it clear that the reward of eternal life goes to even those who show up late. In context, Jesus is saying that the Kingdom is going to be open to the groups the nation of Israel considered beneath them and as a result would be jealous of those who are brought into the kingdom even if they were not brought in from the beginning as Israel was.

    Even today, non messianic Jews are extremely jealous in defending their position before God as His original people and cannot grasp that from 70 AD to current times there's been no temple at which to offer sacrifice. No real Aaronic priesthood either. The thought of anyone entering into God's kingdom apart from the nation of Israel is repugnant to them, let alone the idea someone would be entering before them.

    And some of the apostles really continued to struggle with this concept of Gentiles being welcomed into God's Kingdom. Especially Peter, who was part of the problem that became known as the first great heresy of the church. It took the Apostle Paul to correct him. So the Catholic notion of an infallible Peter is entirely fictional.

    It took 2 consecutive visions from God to get Peter off his butt to go speak with Cornelius. Even then, Peter hesitated to share the gospel with a Gentile. And even after this, Peter shares in the heresy and even Barnabas is carried away.

    Jesus is using the national pride of Israel against them. He knows their jealousy regarding others who joined the Kingdom. The first century Jews were zealous for their nation while at the same time having what they considered good reasons to despise other nations.

    The faithful Jews who did receive Jesus heard Him when He taught that ALL nations would be blessed with the gift of being able to turn to Him and believe. They heard him. And this was one of the great failures of Peter and some of the other believers.

    On the day of judgment, the faithful witnesses will be standing behind the believers of today for their reward. Not because we earned it, but because God has mercy. Jesus is the prophet foretold by Moses.

    Deuteronomy 18:15-19
    [15] “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your countrymen; to him you shall listen. [16] This is in accordance with everything that you asked of the Lord your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly, saying, ‘Do not let me hear the voice of the Lord my God again, and do not let me see this great fire anymore, or I will die!’ [17] And the Lord said to me, ‘They have spoken well. [18] I will raise up for them a prophet from among their countrymen like you, and I will put My words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them everything that I command him. [19] And it shall come about that whoever does not listen to My words which he speaks in My name, I Myself will require it of him.

    Moses knew the Messiah would be rejected and God says if any Israelite does not listen to Him, God would require their punishment and they will be utterly cut off from the people of God.

    Brothers and Sisters in Christ, we are the new Israel. We are the saints, we are the last who became first. We are not better than the Jews, we are not worse off. We are saved by grace through faith. We should with our very last breath be sharing the gospel with everyone.




    [1] “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. [2] When he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius for the day, he sent them into his vineyard. [3] And he went out about the third hour and saw others standing idle in the marketplace; [4] and to those he said, ‘You go into the vineyard also, and whatever is right, I will give you.’ And so they went. [5] Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour, and did the same thing. [6] And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing around; and he *said to them, ‘Why have you been standing here idle all day long?’ [7] They *said to him, ‘Because no one hired us.’ He *said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’ [8] “Now when evening came, the owner of the vineyard *said to his foreman, ‘Call the laborers and pay them their wages, starting with the last group to the first.’ [9] When those hired about the eleventh hour came, each one received a denarius. [10] And so when those hired first came, they thought that they would receive more; but each of them also received a denarius. [11] When they received it, they grumbled at the landowner, [12] saying, ‘These who were hired last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day’s work and the scorching heat.’ [13] But he answered and said to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for a denarius? [14] Take what is yours and go; but I want to give to this last person the same as to you. [15] Is it not lawful for me to do what I want with what is my own? Or is your eye envious because I am generous?’ [16] So the last shall be first, and the first, last.”

    Matthew 20:1-16 And Jesus continues with the lesson of the first being the last with this parable. A landowner is the comparison this time. The Kingdom of God is like a landowner seeking employees in the early morning. He hires them for a denarius for the day. This was the typical amount for a day's wages for a laborer so this wouldn't have been unusual. The unusual bit would come later. But then Jesus adds to the story that this owner then returns to the market another 4 times to hire workers for the same amount he paid workers for all day. And at the end of the day this landowner lines up those he hired and begins paying them by starting with the latest hired and chosing to pay all workers a full day's wage. Now Jesus did this as part of a lesson, explaining that those who worked and bore the heat of the day would complain. But the truth is a denarius was a fair wage for the period of a full day. And the owner was well within his rights to pay what he wished. The idea was that what was given was the same reward whether one came early or one came late. The big picture is Jesus is making it clear that the reward of eternal life goes to even those who show up late. In context, Jesus is saying that the Kingdom is going to be open to the groups the nation of Israel considered beneath them and as a result would be jealous of those who are brought into the kingdom even if they were not brought in from the beginning as Israel was. Even today, non messianic Jews are extremely jealous in defending their position before God as His original people and cannot grasp that from 70 AD to current times there's been no temple at which to offer sacrifice. No real Aaronic priesthood either. The thought of anyone entering into God's kingdom apart from the nation of Israel is repugnant to them, let alone the idea someone would be entering before them. And some of the apostles really continued to struggle with this concept of Gentiles being welcomed into God's Kingdom. Especially Peter, who was part of the problem that became known as the first great heresy of the church. It took the Apostle Paul to correct him. So the Catholic notion of an infallible Peter is entirely fictional. It took 2 consecutive visions from God to get Peter off his butt to go speak with Cornelius. Even then, Peter hesitated to share the gospel with a Gentile. And even after this, Peter shares in the heresy and even Barnabas is carried away. Jesus is using the national pride of Israel against them. He knows their jealousy regarding others who joined the Kingdom. The first century Jews were zealous for their nation while at the same time having what they considered good reasons to despise other nations. The faithful Jews who did receive Jesus heard Him when He taught that ALL nations would be blessed with the gift of being able to turn to Him and believe. They heard him. And this was one of the great failures of Peter and some of the other believers. On the day of judgment, the faithful witnesses will be standing behind the believers of today for their reward. Not because we earned it, but because God has mercy. Jesus is the prophet foretold by Moses. Deuteronomy 18:15-19 [15] “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your countrymen; to him you shall listen. [16] This is in accordance with everything that you asked of the Lord your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly, saying, ‘Do not let me hear the voice of the Lord my God again, and do not let me see this great fire anymore, or I will die!’ [17] And the Lord said to me, ‘They have spoken well. [18] I will raise up for them a prophet from among their countrymen like you, and I will put My words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them everything that I command him. [19] And it shall come about that whoever does not listen to My words which he speaks in My name, I Myself will require it of him. Moses knew the Messiah would be rejected and God says if any Israelite does not listen to Him, God would require their punishment and they will be utterly cut off from the people of God. Brothers and Sisters in Christ, we are the new Israel. We are the saints, we are the last who became first. We are not better than the Jews, we are not worse off. We are saved by grace through faith. We should with our very last breath be sharing the gospel with everyone. [1] “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. [2] When he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius for the day, he sent them into his vineyard. [3] And he went out about the third hour and saw others standing idle in the marketplace; [4] and to those he said, ‘You go into the vineyard also, and whatever is right, I will give you.’ And so they went. [5] Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour, and did the same thing. [6] And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing around; and he *said to them, ‘Why have you been standing here idle all day long?’ [7] They *said to him, ‘Because no one hired us.’ He *said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’ [8] “Now when evening came, the owner of the vineyard *said to his foreman, ‘Call the laborers and pay them their wages, starting with the last group to the first.’ [9] When those hired about the eleventh hour came, each one received a denarius. [10] And so when those hired first came, they thought that they would receive more; but each of them also received a denarius. [11] When they received it, they grumbled at the landowner, [12] saying, ‘These who were hired last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day’s work and the scorching heat.’ [13] But he answered and said to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for a denarius? [14] Take what is yours and go; but I want to give to this last person the same as to you. [15] Is it not lawful for me to do what I want with what is my own? Or is your eye envious because I am generous?’ [16] So the last shall be first, and the first, last.”
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  • HOW CAN WE TALK WITH JESUS

    Talking with Jesus is simply praying. You do not need fancy or big words. Just talk to Him out loud or in your mind like you would talk to a close friend or a loving father. Be honest about your feelings, your worries, and your joys.

    Steps to Start a Conversation:

    - Find a quiet place: Go somewhere with no distractions so you can focus your mind.

    - Be yourself: Do not try to sound holy or perform. Jesus wants your real, honest heart.

    - Share what is on your mind: Tell Him what makes you happy, and tell Him what hurts.

    - Listen and be still: Prayer is two-way. After you speak, pause, quiet your thoughts, and read the Bible to hear His guidance.

    - Adoration: Praise Jesus for who He is and His goodness.

    - Confession: Tell Him your mistakes and ask for His forgiveness.

    - Thanksgiving: Thank Him for the good things in your life.

    - Supplication: Ask Him for help, strength, or healing for yourself and others.

    HOW CAN WE TALK WITH JESUS Talking with Jesus is simply praying. You do not need fancy or big words. Just talk to Him out loud or in your mind like you would talk to a close friend or a loving father. Be honest about your feelings, your worries, and your joys. Steps to Start a Conversation: - Find a quiet place: Go somewhere with no distractions so you can focus your mind. - Be yourself: Do not try to sound holy or perform. Jesus wants your real, honest heart. - Share what is on your mind: Tell Him what makes you happy, and tell Him what hurts. - Listen and be still: Prayer is two-way. After you speak, pause, quiet your thoughts, and read the Bible to hear His guidance. - Adoration: Praise Jesus for who He is and His goodness. - Confession: Tell Him your mistakes and ask for His forgiveness. - Thanksgiving: Thank Him for the good things in your life. - Supplication: Ask Him for help, strength, or healing for yourself and others.
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  • GOD'S GOODNESS IS MY CONSOLATION

    Psalm 119:76

    "May your goodness be my comfort, as you promised your servant!"

    The psalmist is going through a time of affliction. In the midst of his suffering, he relies not only on his circumstances, but on God's goodness and his promise.

    God's comfort does not depend on the absence of trials. It comes from the certainty that God remains good, even when times are tough. His goodness becomes an inner strength when everything around us seems uncertain.

    Consider the words "as you promised" more closely. The psalmist's faith, therefore, rests on a promise. God does not ask you to ignore your pain, but to go through it by clinging to his Word.

    So, don't let your difficulties define your hope; remember what God has promised. His goodness hasn't changed because your situation has changed. Rely on His Word and let His faithfulness be your comfort. Stand firm, for God is good.

    Lord, in my times of trial, remind me of Your goodness and Your promises. May Your faithfulness be my comfort, and may my heart remain attached to You in the mighty name of Jesus.

    #MyConsolation🏼
    #SpiritAndLife
    GOD'S GOODNESS IS MY CONSOLATION 📖 Psalm 119:76 "May your goodness be my comfort, as you promised your servant!" The psalmist is going through a time of affliction. In the midst of his suffering, he relies not only on his circumstances, but on God's goodness and his promise. God's comfort does not depend on the absence of trials. It comes from the certainty that God remains good, even when times are tough. His goodness becomes an inner strength when everything around us seems uncertain. Consider the words "as you promised" more closely. The psalmist's faith, therefore, rests on a promise. God does not ask you to ignore your pain, but to go through it by clinging to his Word. So, don't let your difficulties define your hope; remember what God has promised. His goodness hasn't changed because your situation has changed. Rely on His Word and let His faithfulness be your comfort. Stand firm, for God is good. Lord, in my times of trial, remind me of Your goodness and Your promises. May Your faithfulness be my comfort, and may my heart remain attached to You in the mighty name of Jesus. #MyConsolation🙏🏼 #SpiritAndLife🔥
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  • ENTER HIS PRESENCE WITH THANKFULNESS

    Psalm 100:4-5

    "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him and bless his name! For the Lord is good; his love endures forever, and his faithfulness continues through all generations."

    Psalm 100 calls the whole world to come before God with joy, gratitude, and praise. The psalmist bases this invitation on three certainties:

    - God is good
    - His goodness endures
    - His faithfulness never changes.

    Gratitude does not depend on what we are experiencing today, but on who God is. Even when circumstances are difficult, his goodness endures and his faithfulness remains intact.

    Looking to God's faithfulness changes how we face the future. He who was faithful yesterday will be faithful again tomorrow.

    Praise then becomes a declaration of faith: “Lord, I don’t understand everything, but I know that you are good and faithful.

    This morning, take a few moments to remember your faithfulness. Thank you for what you have already done, for what you are doing now, and for what you will yet accomplish. Gratitude prepares your heart to see God’s work in your life.

    Lord, thank you for your goodness and faithfulness. Teach me to praise you in every circumstance and to move forward with confidence, knowing that your faithfulness endures from generation to generation.

    #GratitudeToGod🏼
    #SpiritAndLife
    ENTER HIS PRESENCE WITH THANKFULNESS 📖 Psalm 100:4-5 "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him and bless his name! For the Lord is good; his love endures forever, and his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100 calls the whole world to come before God with joy, gratitude, and praise. The psalmist bases this invitation on three certainties: - God is good - His goodness endures - His faithfulness never changes. Gratitude does not depend on what we are experiencing today, but on who God is. Even when circumstances are difficult, his goodness endures and his faithfulness remains intact. Looking to God's faithfulness changes how we face the future. He who was faithful yesterday will be faithful again tomorrow. Praise then becomes a declaration of faith: “Lord, I don’t understand everything, but I know that you are good and faithful. This morning, take a few moments to remember your faithfulness. Thank you for what you have already done, for what you are doing now, and for what you will yet accomplish. Gratitude prepares your heart to see God’s work in your life. Lord, thank you for your goodness and faithfulness. Teach me to praise you in every circumstance and to move forward with confidence, knowing that your faithfulness endures from generation to generation. #GratitudeToGod🙏🏼 #SpiritAndLife🔥
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  • THE LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN IN A CHALLENGING WORLD

    By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah

    Introduction

    We are living in a world that is changing rapidly. Values are shifting, truth is being questioned, morality is being redefined, and many people are under pressure to compromise their convictions just to fit into society.

    Yet, the Christian is called to live differently.

    Jesus never promised His followers a life without challenges. In fact, He said, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NKJV).

    The Christian life is not a promise of the absence of trouble; it is a promise of God's presence in the midst of trouble. We may walk through difficult seasons, but we do not walk through them alone.

    A challenging world requires Christians who know their God, understand their identity, stand firmly on God's Word, and refuse to allow the darkness around them to extinguish the light within them.

    1. THE CHRISTIAN MUST KNOW WHO HE IS

    One of the greatest dangers in a challenging world is losing your identity.

    The world constantly tells us who we should become, what we should value, what success should look like, and what standards we should follow. But the believer must derive his identity from God, not from society.

    1 Peter 2:9 says:

    «“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.”»

    You are not merely a product of your environment. You are God's possession.

    When you know who you are in Christ, you will not need the approval of everyone around you to feel valuable.

    Your identity is not determined by your failures, your past, your social status, your possessions, or people's opinions about you.

    You belong to Christ.

    2. THE CHRISTIAN MUST STAND ON GOD'S WORD

    A changing world needs an unchanging standard.

    Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

    God's Word gives us direction when culture becomes confusing. It gives us conviction when compromise becomes attractive. It gives us hope when circumstances become discouraging.

    The Christian who neglects Scripture will eventually become vulnerable to the philosophies of the world.

    We must therefore become students of the Word.

    Do not build your life solely on what people say. Build it on what God has said.

    People can change. Circumstances can change. Governments can change. Economies can change. Relationships can change.

    But the Word of our God stands forever.

    3. THE CHRISTIAN MUST REFUSE TO CONFORM

    Romans 12:2 says:

    «“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”»

    There is a difference between living in the world and becoming like the world.

    Jesus prayed for His disciples in John 17:15-16. He did not ask the Father to remove them from the world but to preserve them while they remained in it.

    This means Christianity is not an escape from society. It is a divine assignment within society.

    We are called to influence the world without allowing the world to influence our convictions.

    You can work in a corrupt environment without becoming corrupt.

    You can live among people who compromise without compromising.

    You can be surrounded by darkness and still carry light.

    4. THE CHRISTIAN MUST DEVELOP SPIRITUAL STRENGTH

    A challenging world requires spiritual strength.

    Ephesians 6:10 says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.”

    Our strength does not come merely from personality, education, wealth, connections, or experience.

    There are battles that human strength cannot win.

    Therefore, we must strengthen our relationship with God through prayer, worship, fasting, the study of Scripture, fellowship, and obedience.

    A weak spiritual life makes a believer vulnerable to temptation, fear, discouragement, bitterness, and compromise.

    Prayer is not simply an emergency telephone call to God. Prayer is fellowship with our Father.

    We must learn to seek God not only when we need something from Him but because we desire Him.

    5. THE CHRISTIAN MUST LEARN TO FACE TRIALS WITH FAITH

    Challenges are part of the journey.

    James 1:2-4 teaches believers to count it joy when they face various trials because testing produces patience and spiritual maturity.

    This does not mean that pain is pleasant. It means that God can use difficult seasons to produce something valuable in us.

    Sometimes God changes the situation.

    Sometimes He gives us grace to endure it.

    Sometimes He uses the situation to change us.

    Whatever the case may be, we must refuse to allow adversity to destroy our faith.

    Your trial is not the end of your story.

    The fact that you are going through something does not mean that God has abandoned you.

    David passed through valleys and still testified of God's presence.

    Daniel faced the lions and discovered that God was with him.

    The three Hebrew young men entered the fiery furnace, but they were not alone.

    God remains faithful in the fire.

    6. THE CHRISTIAN MUST GUARD HIS HEART

    Proverbs 4:23 says:

    «“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.”»

    The world constantly feeds our hearts with fear, hatred, lust, greed, envy, anger, and materialism.

    If we are not careful, what surrounds us will eventually influence what is within us.

    That is why believers must guard what they watch, what they listen to, what they celebrate, what they meditate upon, and the relationships they cultivate.

    Not everything that is popular is profitable.

    Not everything that is trending is godly.

    Not every opportunity is an assignment from God.

    A Christian must learn to say NO when necessary.

    7. THE CHRISTIAN MUST BE LIGHT IN A DARK WORLD

    Jesus said in Matthew 5:14:

    “You are the light of the world.”

    Notice that Jesus did not say, “You will become light someday.”

    He said, “You are the light.”

    Light has no argument with darkness. It simply shines.

    The world does not necessarily need Christians who shout the loudest; it needs Christians whose lives demonstrate the reality of Christ.

    Your workplace should experience your integrity.

    Your family should experience your love.

    Your community should experience your kindness.

    Your generation should see Christ through your character.

    We preach with our mouths, but we also preach through our lives.

    8. THE CHRISTIAN MUST LOVE PEOPLE IN A HURTING WORLD

    A challenging world is also a hurting world.

    People are carrying wounds that we cannot see. Some are fighting silent battles. Some have lost hope. Some have been disappointed by life, relationships, institutions, and even religion.

    The Christian must therefore become an instrument of God's love.

    Jesus said in John 13:35:

    “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

    Our Christianity must not become merely a collection of religious activities.

    We must love.

    We must forgive.

    We must encourage.

    We must help.

    We must show compassion.

    Sometimes the greatest sermon you will preach is the kindness you show to someone who is hurting.

    9. THE CHRISTIAN MUST KEEP HIS EYES ON ETERNITY

    One of the reasons believers compromise is that they become too attached to temporary things.

    Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:18 to focus not merely on the things that are seen, but on the things that are eternal.

    This world is not our final destination.

    Our possessions are temporary.

    Our positions are temporary.

    Our earthly achievements are temporary.

    But eternity is forever.

    Therefore, we must live with eternity in view.

    Do not gain the whole world and lose your soul.

    Do not sacrifice your relationship with God for temporary pleasure.

    Do not exchange eternal treasures for temporary applause.

    10. THE CHRISTIAN MUST NEVER GIVE UP

    Perhaps the greatest testimony in a challenging world is simply refusing to quit.

    Galatians 6:9 says:

    «“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”»

    There may be moments when you feel tired.

    There may be moments when your prayers seem unanswered.

    There may be moments when you wonder whether your faith is worth the struggle.

    But keep going.

    Keep praying.

    Keep believing.

    Keep serving.

    Keep loving.

    Keep trusting God.

    Your present struggle does not cancel God's purpose for your life.

    CONCLUSION

    The life of a Christian in a challenging world is not always easy, but it is possible by the grace of God.

    We are called to live differently—not because we are better than others, but because Christ has called us to represent Him.

    We are called to stand when others fall.

    To shine when others walk in darkness.

    To speak truth when falsehood becomes popular.

    To demonstrate love when hatred increases.

    To maintain faith when circumstances become difficult.

    And to remain faithful until the end.

    Remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:16:

    “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

    Beloved, the world may be challenging, but God is still faithful.

    The culture may be changing, but God's Word has not changed.

    The pressure may be increasing, but God's grace is sufficient.

    The darkness may be growing, but your light can still shine.

    Therefore, stand firm.

    Stay prayerful.

    Stay in the Word.

    Stay holy.

    Stay humble.

    Stay faithful.

    And above all, keep your eyes on Jesus.

    PRAYER

    Father, in the name of Jesus, give me the grace to live faithfully in this challenging world. Strengthen my heart when I am weak, guide me when I am confused, preserve me when I am tempted, and help me to remain a light wherever You have planted me. Let my life bring glory to Your name. May I never compromise my faith, abandon my calling, or lose sight of eternity. In Jesus' name, amen.

    — Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah
    #LifeofaChristian
    #PJCares
    THE LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN IN A CHALLENGING WORLD By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah Introduction We are living in a world that is changing rapidly. Values are shifting, truth is being questioned, morality is being redefined, and many people are under pressure to compromise their convictions just to fit into society. Yet, the Christian is called to live differently. Jesus never promised His followers a life without challenges. In fact, He said, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NKJV). The Christian life is not a promise of the absence of trouble; it is a promise of God's presence in the midst of trouble. We may walk through difficult seasons, but we do not walk through them alone. A challenging world requires Christians who know their God, understand their identity, stand firmly on God's Word, and refuse to allow the darkness around them to extinguish the light within them. 1. THE CHRISTIAN MUST KNOW WHO HE IS One of the greatest dangers in a challenging world is losing your identity. The world constantly tells us who we should become, what we should value, what success should look like, and what standards we should follow. But the believer must derive his identity from God, not from society. 1 Peter 2:9 says: «“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.”» You are not merely a product of your environment. You are God's possession. When you know who you are in Christ, you will not need the approval of everyone around you to feel valuable. Your identity is not determined by your failures, your past, your social status, your possessions, or people's opinions about you. You belong to Christ. 2. THE CHRISTIAN MUST STAND ON GOD'S WORD A changing world needs an unchanging standard. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” God's Word gives us direction when culture becomes confusing. It gives us conviction when compromise becomes attractive. It gives us hope when circumstances become discouraging. The Christian who neglects Scripture will eventually become vulnerable to the philosophies of the world. We must therefore become students of the Word. Do not build your life solely on what people say. Build it on what God has said. People can change. Circumstances can change. Governments can change. Economies can change. Relationships can change. But the Word of our God stands forever. 3. THE CHRISTIAN MUST REFUSE TO CONFORM Romans 12:2 says: «“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”» There is a difference between living in the world and becoming like the world. Jesus prayed for His disciples in John 17:15-16. He did not ask the Father to remove them from the world but to preserve them while they remained in it. This means Christianity is not an escape from society. It is a divine assignment within society. We are called to influence the world without allowing the world to influence our convictions. You can work in a corrupt environment without becoming corrupt. You can live among people who compromise without compromising. You can be surrounded by darkness and still carry light. 4. THE CHRISTIAN MUST DEVELOP SPIRITUAL STRENGTH A challenging world requires spiritual strength. Ephesians 6:10 says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” Our strength does not come merely from personality, education, wealth, connections, or experience. There are battles that human strength cannot win. Therefore, we must strengthen our relationship with God through prayer, worship, fasting, the study of Scripture, fellowship, and obedience. A weak spiritual life makes a believer vulnerable to temptation, fear, discouragement, bitterness, and compromise. Prayer is not simply an emergency telephone call to God. Prayer is fellowship with our Father. We must learn to seek God not only when we need something from Him but because we desire Him. 5. THE CHRISTIAN MUST LEARN TO FACE TRIALS WITH FAITH Challenges are part of the journey. James 1:2-4 teaches believers to count it joy when they face various trials because testing produces patience and spiritual maturity. This does not mean that pain is pleasant. It means that God can use difficult seasons to produce something valuable in us. Sometimes God changes the situation. Sometimes He gives us grace to endure it. Sometimes He uses the situation to change us. Whatever the case may be, we must refuse to allow adversity to destroy our faith. Your trial is not the end of your story. The fact that you are going through something does not mean that God has abandoned you. David passed through valleys and still testified of God's presence. Daniel faced the lions and discovered that God was with him. The three Hebrew young men entered the fiery furnace, but they were not alone. God remains faithful in the fire. 6. THE CHRISTIAN MUST GUARD HIS HEART Proverbs 4:23 says: «“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.”» The world constantly feeds our hearts with fear, hatred, lust, greed, envy, anger, and materialism. If we are not careful, what surrounds us will eventually influence what is within us. That is why believers must guard what they watch, what they listen to, what they celebrate, what they meditate upon, and the relationships they cultivate. Not everything that is popular is profitable. Not everything that is trending is godly. Not every opportunity is an assignment from God. A Christian must learn to say NO when necessary. 7. THE CHRISTIAN MUST BE LIGHT IN A DARK WORLD Jesus said in Matthew 5:14: “You are the light of the world.” Notice that Jesus did not say, “You will become light someday.” He said, “You are the light.” Light has no argument with darkness. It simply shines. The world does not necessarily need Christians who shout the loudest; it needs Christians whose lives demonstrate the reality of Christ. Your workplace should experience your integrity. Your family should experience your love. Your community should experience your kindness. Your generation should see Christ through your character. We preach with our mouths, but we also preach through our lives. 8. THE CHRISTIAN MUST LOVE PEOPLE IN A HURTING WORLD A challenging world is also a hurting world. People are carrying wounds that we cannot see. Some are fighting silent battles. Some have lost hope. Some have been disappointed by life, relationships, institutions, and even religion. The Christian must therefore become an instrument of God's love. Jesus said in John 13:35: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Our Christianity must not become merely a collection of religious activities. We must love. We must forgive. We must encourage. We must help. We must show compassion. Sometimes the greatest sermon you will preach is the kindness you show to someone who is hurting. 9. THE CHRISTIAN MUST KEEP HIS EYES ON ETERNITY One of the reasons believers compromise is that they become too attached to temporary things. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:18 to focus not merely on the things that are seen, but on the things that are eternal. This world is not our final destination. Our possessions are temporary. Our positions are temporary. Our earthly achievements are temporary. But eternity is forever. Therefore, we must live with eternity in view. Do not gain the whole world and lose your soul. Do not sacrifice your relationship with God for temporary pleasure. Do not exchange eternal treasures for temporary applause. 10. THE CHRISTIAN MUST NEVER GIVE UP Perhaps the greatest testimony in a challenging world is simply refusing to quit. Galatians 6:9 says: «“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”» There may be moments when you feel tired. There may be moments when your prayers seem unanswered. There may be moments when you wonder whether your faith is worth the struggle. But keep going. Keep praying. Keep believing. Keep serving. Keep loving. Keep trusting God. Your present struggle does not cancel God's purpose for your life. CONCLUSION The life of a Christian in a challenging world is not always easy, but it is possible by the grace of God. We are called to live differently—not because we are better than others, but because Christ has called us to represent Him. We are called to stand when others fall. To shine when others walk in darkness. To speak truth when falsehood becomes popular. To demonstrate love when hatred increases. To maintain faith when circumstances become difficult. And to remain faithful until the end. Remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Beloved, the world may be challenging, but God is still faithful. The culture may be changing, but God's Word has not changed. The pressure may be increasing, but God's grace is sufficient. The darkness may be growing, but your light can still shine. Therefore, stand firm. Stay prayerful. Stay in the Word. Stay holy. Stay humble. Stay faithful. And above all, keep your eyes on Jesus. PRAYER Father, in the name of Jesus, give me the grace to live faithfully in this challenging world. Strengthen my heart when I am weak, guide me when I am confused, preserve me when I am tempted, and help me to remain a light wherever You have planted me. Let my life bring glory to Your name. May I never compromise my faith, abandon my calling, or lose sight of eternity. In Jesus' name, amen. — Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah #LifeofaChristian #PJCares
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  • DAY 18 - Morning
    Theme: LOVE THAT CHOOSES: Making Daily Decisions That Strengthens The Marriage

    Morning Reflection
    Protect Your Friendship

    Good morning,
    Before you became husband and wife, you were two people who discovered something special in each other.
    Friendship.
    But sometimes marriage becomes so occupied with responsibilities that friendship quietly disappears.
    You discuss school fees.
    You discuss the children.
    You discuss electricity bills.
    You discuss work.
    But when did you last simply laugh together?
    When did you last sit and talk about nothing important?
    Friendship is not an optional extra in marriage.
    It is part of the foundation.

    God's Word
    "A friend loves at all times." — Proverbs 17:17

    Today's Love Action
    Spend some time together today doing something neither of you considers a responsibility.
    Take a walk.
    Share a meal.
    Tell jokes.
    Listen to music.
    Simply enjoy each other's company.

    Let's Talk
    What did you enjoy doing together before marriage that you could bring back into your relationship?

    Prayer
    Lord, restore the friendship in our marriage. Help us enjoy one another again and not allow responsibilities to steal our companionship. Amen.

    From The Counselor's Chair
    A couple can share a house, children and finances and still become emotionally distant. Friendship keeps the heart connected.

    Marriage Nugget
    "Don't become such good partners in managing life that you forget to be friends."

    Remember
    In marriage, it is not about winning the argument; it is about winning each other's hearts.
    DAY 18 - Morning Theme: LOVE THAT CHOOSES: Making Daily Decisions That Strengthens The Marriage 🌅 Morning Reflection Protect Your Friendship Good morning, Before you became husband and wife, you were two people who discovered something special in each other. Friendship. But sometimes marriage becomes so occupied with responsibilities that friendship quietly disappears. You discuss school fees. You discuss the children. You discuss electricity bills. You discuss work. But when did you last simply laugh together? When did you last sit and talk about nothing important? Friendship is not an optional extra in marriage. It is part of the foundation. 📖 God's Word "A friend loves at all times." — Proverbs 17:17 ❤️ Today's Love Action Spend some time together today doing something neither of you considers a responsibility. Take a walk. Share a meal. Tell jokes. Listen to music. Simply enjoy each other's company. 💬 Let's Talk What did you enjoy doing together before marriage that you could bring back into your relationship? 🙏 Prayer Lord, restore the friendship in our marriage. Help us enjoy one another again and not allow responsibilities to steal our companionship. Amen. 🌿 From The Counselor's Chair A couple can share a house, children and finances and still become emotionally distant. Friendship keeps the heart connected. 💎 Marriage Nugget "Don't become such good partners in managing life that you forget to be friends." Remember In marriage, it is not about winning the argument; it is about winning each other's hearts.
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  • A WORD FOR YOU.
    (Insights For Life)


    Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; Deuteronomy 7:9 KJV


    GOD IS A FAITHFUL GOD!
    There are many times we loose faith or trust. Our hopes fades and our minds become weak as a result of pressures, failures and frustrations we experience in life. Our mood and emotions change, our words change - we no longer speak God's Word. Even our commitment to serving God change because nothing seems to align. I'm pretty sure you have once experienced this scenario in your life? But have you noticed that in ALL OF THESE CHANGES, THERE IS ONE CONSTANT, CONSISTENT TRUTH, OUR GOD REMAINS FAITHFUL.

    If God was a man, I'm sure He would constantly react and consequently change as we change our moods, emotions, faith, words and commitments. But he is not - He never reacts, He never changes to good or bad. He remains the same - EVER FAITHFUL.

    Our scripture reference today says: KNOW IT, that our God, HE IS GOD, THE FAITHFUL GOD. You must know and accept this very truth. No matter the situation you find yourself, this truth must be settled within you that God is always FAITHFUL.
    God is not looking for acknowledgement or endorsement to prove he is faithful. He is ever-faithful with or without it. YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT ONLY HELPS YOUR DISCOURAGEMENT AND ENHANCES YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS.

    Today, I encourage you to know it, believe it, declare it and live by this truth: that no matter what happens to me or around me; GOD IS EVER FAITHFUL. In the midst of all the troubles and challenges, failures and frustrations, GOD REMAINS FAITHFUL. He is faithful before, during and after your experiences and expectations. This is how to live right in the kingdom. By this, you create an unbreakable relationship between you and the ever faithful God. God bless this week for you. He will honour your labour with favour in Jesus precious name. Be blessed, Stay refreshed!


    #AwordForYou
    #InsightsforLife
    #nnamdicaezarsammyministry
    #NCSM
    #DewChurchGlobal
    #LifereFreshingMinistry
    #IAMADEW
    A WORD FOR YOU. (Insights For Life) Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; Deuteronomy 7:9 KJV GOD IS A FAITHFUL GOD! There are many times we loose faith or trust. Our hopes fades and our minds become weak as a result of pressures, failures and frustrations we experience in life. Our mood and emotions change, our words change - we no longer speak God's Word. Even our commitment to serving God change because nothing seems to align. I'm pretty sure you have once experienced this scenario in your life? But have you noticed that in ALL OF THESE CHANGES, THERE IS ONE CONSTANT, CONSISTENT TRUTH, OUR GOD REMAINS FAITHFUL. If God was a man, I'm sure He would constantly react and consequently change as we change our moods, emotions, faith, words and commitments. But he is not - He never reacts, He never changes to good or bad. He remains the same - EVER FAITHFUL. Our scripture reference today says: KNOW IT, that our God, HE IS GOD, THE FAITHFUL GOD. You must know and accept this very truth. No matter the situation you find yourself, this truth must be settled within you that God is always FAITHFUL. God is not looking for acknowledgement or endorsement to prove he is faithful. He is ever-faithful with or without it. YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT ONLY HELPS YOUR DISCOURAGEMENT AND ENHANCES YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS. Today, I encourage you to know it, believe it, declare it and live by this truth: that no matter what happens to me or around me; GOD IS EVER FAITHFUL. In the midst of all the troubles and challenges, failures and frustrations, GOD REMAINS FAITHFUL. He is faithful before, during and after your experiences and expectations. This is how to live right in the kingdom. By this, you create an unbreakable relationship between you and the ever faithful God. God bless this week for you. He will honour your labour with favour in Jesus precious name. Be blessed, Stay refreshed! #AwordForYou #InsightsforLife #nnamdicaezarsammyministry #NCSM #DewChurchGlobal #LifereFreshingMinistry #IAMADEW
    Love
    1
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  • Good morning family, just want to let you know that God is able to do what no man can do. Just give all your problems and he gonna solve it. He promised us in Psalm 91.
    Good morning family, just want to let you know that God is able to do what no man can do. Just give all your problems and he gonna solve it. He promised us in Psalm 91.
    Praying
    1
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