by Jeanie | Dec 25, 2016 | Uncategorised
She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:21
Last Christmas, I shared that Jesus fulfilled all righteousness even to his birth. He could have easily emerged given his track record – an all-powerful God who spoke things into being. Yet he chose to follow the due process of being conceived and born.
Joseph was contemplating breaking off his engagement to Mary following the revelation that she was pregnant and he had nothing to do with it. Imagine this heart to heart over a hot drink, at a local coffee shop.
Joseph: Babe, we planned to wait until the wedding night. What happened? Who did it?
Mary: Sobbing bitterly with her head down she said: I promise you honey, I kept my vow to you. I have known no man but I haven’t been the same after one angel visited me, and said something about God being with me and giving me great favour. My monthly visitor has since vanished. I remember him saying God had a wonderful blessing and surprise for me, that I would become pregnant and give birth to a son and call his name Jesus.
Joseph: An angel? Who else saw him? How come you never told me? Exactly how has God favoured you? As for the blessing and surprise, is it this pregnancy? Have you ever heard of such a thing? Why you of all the maidens in Jerusalem?
Mary: Jo, I don’t know but I told the angel I had never slept with a man.
Joseph: Did you sleep with a ghost then? How did this happen Mary? I need to know!
Mary: The angel just said, the Holy Spirit will come on me, and God’s power will rest upon me. For this reason the holy child will be called the Son of God. That’s all I know, Jo and I have no idea when the Holy Spirit came. I need you to get through this – you promised you would love me forever, no matter what.
Joseph: I love you Mary but this is difficult. What will I say to your parents? How do I explain my innocence to the priest, synagogue and community? Drink up; I need to go do some thinking.
I am certain Jo had a hard time sleeping that night , and when he could no longer resist the urge to sleep, he dozed off and an angel appeared to him in a dream and spoke these words:
Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife: God was revealing he knew Joseph even from his ancestry. He also addressed the issue of fear and assured him Mary was the trophy! Take her home! That’s a word for somebody 
Don’t be afraid! I have good news for you, a message that will fill everyone with joy. Luke 2:10
Because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit: Meaning special planning went into what Mary carried. She was infused and completely filled with a God-seed, which over time took root and began to grow. Worth more than stock, bond, cash, or any security, this was heaven’s investment on earth. God was in other words saying, manage my portfolio, Jo! Do you have any idea what you carry?
Flesh and blood give birth to flesh and blood, but the Spirit gives birth to things that are spiritual. John 3:6
She will give birth to a son: A son is not only a male child but an heir and true representative of the father. A son can stand in and speak on behalf of his household. Is it any wonder that Jesus would announce ‘‘I and my father are one’’? He had vested power and authority to establish the will of the father on earth. Friend, what you are about to bear is divine, extraordinary, and significant!
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given. Isaiah 9:6a
You are to give him the name Jesus: A name is more than a label or brand. In ancient times, a person’s name was linked to their reputation and served as a character identifier. There were other male children born about this time but Jesus’ name set him apart. The difference between you and they is your name. I am glad I know a name that opens doors and makes things happen for me. Your name could be a game-changer!
His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. This is why God has given him an exceptional honor- the name honored above all other names- so that at the name of Jesus everyone in heaven, on earth, and in the world below will kneel and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. He was named Jesus, the name the angel had given Him before He had been conceived. Isaiah 9:6b, Philippians 2:9-11, Luke 2:21
He will save his people: God foreknew his people would need deliverance and made provision for it. Outcasts would later connect and benefit, but the bottom-line is that he came for his own. Salvation is all about preventing ruin, destruction, loss, or harm. It is synonymous to redemption where a rescue operation is undertaken to recover, restore and repair the violated, damaged, incarcerated and blemished. God will through you birth something that will become a source of healing or preservation for masses.
They said to the woman, “We now believe not only because of your words; we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man truly is the Savior of the world.” John 4:42
by Jeanie | Nov 12, 2016 | Uncategorised
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And God cares what happens to it even more than you do. He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head! So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. Mathew 10:31
Two for one… bargain… sales… discount… savers …. Black Friday! As I was reflecting on the words of Jesus, ‘Achikota Ekwe Onu’ kept resounding in my spirit. You may have figured this is neither Hebrew nor Greek rather an Igbo term for bric–a–brac – a collection of valued miscellaneous items.
It is pronounced ‘archie-co-ta –equi – onu’ and sounds like a tongue-twister, but really isn’t. It may pass for a ‘tongue’ however I don’t recommend you use it to revamp your prayer language 
One of the things I love about God is the identity he has given each of his children. We are a group and kin of believers yet each joint supplies – everyone has a mandate, role, and part to play. This is nicely portrayed in the story of the Exodus. Israel was the people – the nation – the apple of God’s eye and there was Moses – the prophet, spokesman, leader and deliverer. The Israelites were exiles in Egypt, yet God gave them light in Goshen. God is pro individualism and collectivism.
For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession. As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you! Deuteronomy 7:6, 1 Corinthians 12:20-21
If it seems you are always overlooked, ignored, and undermined, you are unique and valuable! Your situation or surrounding may not echo this truth and that’s why God is telling you through this journal. If God could zoom in and handpick Gideon who was the least in a family of the weakest clan in Manasseh, then he can locate you. As a matter of fact, he has and your star will soon appear for the visibility of many!
They asked, “Where is the one who was born to be the king of the Jews? We saw his star rising and have come to worship him. “Then the people who have God’s approval will shine like the sun in their Father’s kingdom. Let the person who has ears listen! Matthew 2:2; 13:43
In the chattering of multitudes, Jesus heard Bartimaeus. In the midst of many, Jesus singled Zacchaeus out for a private meal. Jesus was ministering to many until one woman captured his attention by her faith. Once again, Jesus put his public ministry on-hold to speak to her.
The cost of an item is usually an indication of its intrinsic worth. God so loves us he gave us his best. I am so glad he didn’t create an auction listing or set –up a back street car boot sales. Chances are, someone else incapable of persevering like him may have won the bid or paid a cheaper price which wouldn’t have brought us this far. If 2 sparrows are only worth a penny and yet God looks out for that which is valued at half-a penny- how much more you?
Has God forgotten to be gracious, or has He in anger withdrawn His compassion? Selah. Psalm 77:9
No, he’s good and his mercy endures through all generations. You are worth much more than the sparrows and this is evidenced in the price for your ransom. Jesus further illustrating the value of man and his special love did this:
9 He went on from there and entered their synagogue. 10 And a man was there with a withered hand. And they asked him, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?”—so that they might accuse him. 11 He said to them, “Which one of you who has a sheep, if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not take hold of it and lift it out? 12 Of how much more value is a man than a sheep! So it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” 13 Then he said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And the man stretched it out, and it was restored, healthy like the other. Matthew 12:9-13
Here, Jesus makes a comparison between man and sheep. Sheep was a commercial commodity in bible times so this resonated with the Pharisees and temple worshippers. A man’s wealth was measured by the amount of livestock, silver and gold he owned.
What Jesus does here is profound because he emphasizes on the order and priority of creation. It is man over animal and not the other way round! Right from the days of Adam, man has always taken precedence and will continue to. Most times people treat fellow humans far lesser than they would a Gucci, a Ferrari or house. You are worth more!
After Jesus established that fact, he restores order to the man’s life. See, this man had a disability that which placed him in a different category to the crowd. He was below the measuring line. If there was a contest, he couldn’t participate and even if he dared, the outcome was almost certain. He was weak and dry- lacking adequate nourishment and strength to progress and excel. Ever felt like that? Not measuring up spiritually, financially, socially, academically, professionally, physically, mentally…etc.
I heard a word: Stretch forth your hand! These were same words Jesus spoke to the man bringing alignment to that which was imperfectly and badly positioned. Your change has come! God is reordering some things in your life – he will normalize and balance it all out for you!
God loves you so much and is concerned about you much more than he is about anything else. You are worth more than half-a-penny!
by Jeanie | Oct 14, 2016 | Uncategorised
I am encouraged by a passage I just read about in Matthew 15.When the woman of Cana first approached Jesus – she had a prayer, a wish and desire that her daughter be delivered. Each time I hear this I preached, there always comes this exposition that Jesus was rude. Why? Because he did not respond – now that doesn’t translate dismissal or nonchalance towards the lady.If you follow the story, you will discover that Jesus was building capability within this woman. For every time the Master said No, she had a yes – her faith was being developed. A lesson for someone out there who may be experiencing roadblocks and disappointments – Don’t give up! Your miracle is underway- in the making and about to manifest.
Who would have thought this woman would receive her breakthrough even against the will of Jesus’ aides –the folks with VIP access, rainmakers. Have you been told to go away? Have received an ‘Unfortunately’ correspondence? Stay put and file away the letter because life’s about to get better.
Fast forwarding to the main part. The woman returned with a new strategy: offered worship then made a petition. While she worshipped, she said ‘Lord help me’! I love the idea of storming heaven and going up the mountain with nothing but a sword and staff. You may have fulfilled all righteousness but that may never get you the answer you need.
Worship paves the way. Worship is the password, the codebreaker and the access to your next level.
What is worship?
Worship is much more than an act, it is a lifestyle reflective of the worth or quality of the object. In Christendom, the object of our worship and devotion is God. It is possible to offer worthless worship – this is when one talks the talk but falters at the walk. Jesus said:
These people say they honour me, but their hearts are far away. Their worship is worthless, for they teach their man-made laws instead of those from God. Matthew 15:8-9
Here’s two of many things you can expect to happen when you worship:
- Hear God’s voice: The voice of the Lord is manifest when he is hallowed and reverenced. Do you want to hear God and watch him move in a spectacular way? Worship! AscribeAscribe to the LORD, O sons of the mighty, Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 2Ascribe to the LORD the glory due to His name; Worship the LORD in holy array. 3The voice of the LORD is upon the waters; The God of glory thunders, The LORD is over many waters. Psalm 29: 1-3
- Led by God: There is a path … gateway or portal that will guide you to God’s best for you. The secret to the path is in God. When you come close, you are shown this pathway. You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” Psalm 16:11
Be relentless, get your heart right and love on God:
- Many, LORD my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare. Psalm 40:5
- My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness And of Your salvation all day long; For I do not know the sum of them.Psalm 71:15
- I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. Psalm 77:11
- How great are Your works, O LORD! Your thoughts are very deep. Psalm 92:5
- How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings. Psalm 36:7
- Who does great and unsearchable things, Wonders without number Job 5:9
Read more about worship here.
Related journals:
Worship – Part 1
Worship-Part 2
by Jeanie | Sep 23, 2016 | Uncategorised
His parents answered, “We know he is our son, and we know he was born blind. But how he can now see or who opened his eyes, we do not know. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews. For the Jews had already determined that anyone who confessed Jesus as the Christ would be put out of the synagogue. John 9: 20 -22
Today, people still deny the power of God to embrace the world’s influence. They fear they who kill the body, but do not reverence he who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. With growing social media and networks, people prioritise and pursue various relationships while neglecting fellowship with God and sometimes excommunicating him. They are more afraid of being put out of church than being refused entry into heaven. Jesus called them ‘a faithless and perverse generation’; Moses and Paul concur with a slight variation – “crooked and perverse generation”. What a tag!
What does it mean to be faithless, crooked and perverse?
Faithless
The faithless are:
- Unbelieving; not giving credit.
- Not believing on God or religion; specifically, not believing in the Christian religion.
- Not observant of promises or covenants.
- Not true to allegiance, duty, or vows; perfidious; treacherous; disloyal; not of true fidelity; inconstant, as a husband or a wife.
- Serving to disappoint or deceive; delusive; unsatisfying.
By implication, the faithless are traitorous, double-crossing and back –stabbers. In essence, they are wicked.
Wicked
The Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary defines it as:
- Having a wick; — used chiefly in composition; as, a two-wicked lamp.
- Evil in principle or practice; deviating from morality; contrary to the moral or divine law; addicted to vice or sin; sinful; immoral; profligate; — said of persons and things; as, a wicked king; a wicked woman; a wicked deed; wicked designs.
- Cursed; baneful; hurtful; bad; pernicious; dangerous.
- Ludicrously or sportively mischievous; disposed to mischief; roguish.
The wicked are highly immoral and offensive, ethically bad in principle or practice, intensely or extremely bad and unpleasant in their dealings. These people constantly arouse aversion or disgust either by their values or actions. A wicked woman will starve or disrespect her husband and set a bad example for the children, a wicked man is an infidel who is generous outdoors but refuses to provide, protect, and please his wife and kids; a wicked child is disobedient to parents, ungrateful, insolent and roams the street causing havoc.
The LORD observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. And if wicked people turn from their wickedness, obey the law, and do what is just and right, they will save their lives. Genesis 6:5; Ezekiel 18:27
Crooked
The crooked are:
- Characterized by a crook or curve; not straight; turning; bent; twisted; deformed.
- Not straightforward; deviating from rectitude; distorted from the right.
- False; dishonest; fraudulent; as, crooked dealings.
- By implication, a crook.
A crooked person always has bumps, bends, and angles about them. The crooked is never straightforward – there is always a curve or slope to their life. Their story never adds up and anything they touch become misaligned. They are odd, misshapen, dishonest, immoral and evasive.
Society is full off crooked and corrupt criminals who invade countries, impoverish them to enrich themselves. Ahab’s who don’t mind forfeiting their kingdom for Naboth’s’ vineyard. Governments that seek their good above that of their people. Politicians who make empty promises. Law enforcements who without conscience or remorse go on a killing spree. Lawyers who pervert the course of justice. Companies who exploit their workers. Pastors who never tire from receiving seed offering but neglect the well-being of their flock. They are 419ers, The Grifters, Ocean’s thirteen who challenge you to catch them if you can.
The crooked heart will not prosper; the lying tongue tumbles into trouble. The LORD detests people with crooked hearts, but he delights in those with integrity. Proverbs 17:20; 11:20
Perverse
To be perverse is to:
- Turn away from the right; willfully err; be wicked; be perverted.
- Be obstinate in the wrong; stubborn; intractable; hence, wayward; vexing; contrary.
This category of people actually know right from wrong but are resistant to guidance or discipline. They tend to do the opposite of what is considered moral, proper, right, normal, or required. Perverse people oppose and contradict good behaviour. They have warped thinking, depraved minds and engage in indecent acts. Perverse people bribe, steal, abort, lie, and cheat – all things questionable and forbidden. You might have one sitting right next to you.
They have corrupted themselves; they are not His children, because of their blemish: a perverse and crooked generation. Whoever walks uprightly shall be delivered; but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once. Deuteronomy 32:5; Proverbs 28:18
I keep pondering on how the parents of this young man responded to the kindness of Jesus. They denied him having just received a healing miracle. I would like to the think that their community is not much different from what we have now – the shame, pain, insults and lack they would have suffered due to their predicament. In a moment, they received a grace that displaced the disgrace and what? Their response is “we do not know!” How ungracious and ungrateful?
The good news today is no matter how faithless, wicked, crooked or perverse you have been, you can, with the help of the Holy Spirit change your ways by trusting, obeying God and walking uprightly and in integrity.
by Jeanie | Sep 6, 2016 | Uncategorised
A lot of Christians today are quick to judge -eager to pick a stone and slay forgetting they too have motes, shortcomings, and sins. The father chastens whom he loves but his steadfast love endures – never ceases – He may be angry for a moment but his favour lasts a last time.
Is the 21st century Christian bewildered bewitched or, backslidden? Are we hanging onto the law or grace – Is there a balance?
Grace! Grace!! Grace!!! – Go and sin no more ……. Come onto me all ye that labour and are heavy-laden……
Are we really Christ-like in our actions today? Are we righteous? Are we true disciples? Have we become over-zealous and unbalanced in our actions?
Do we do unto others as we wish it to be done to us – Do we mete out the measure we’d be happy receive … Jesus said — whatever you do to any of these brethren – that you do also onto me.
Would you cover me? Would you protect me? Would you defend me?
