Background Music by Israel & New Breed – Goodness of God
You crown the year with Your goodness, And Your paths drip with abundance. Psalm 65:11
It is my custom to spend the last day of every year in reflection, thanksgiving, and praise. Today, the above passage was my focus.
One of the things that jumped out to me was that God doesn’t just start the year, but he crowns it – completes and climaxes it with his goodness. The goodness of God speaks of his persona and actions. Essentially, his moral excellence and admirableness. The psalmist attests to this when he scribes:
You are good, and what you do is good. Psalm 119:68a
If you reminisce, I am sure you can recall a few instances of God’s goodness in your life this year through his presence, provision, and protection. I encourage you to do what the songwriter suggests: “Count your blessings, name them one by one and it will surprise you what the Lord has done”.
Another thing God throws into the mix is his abundance – more than adequate quantity or supply and I love the fact that this is not limited to a path or place. It is ongoing and currently happening. Friend, did you know that every track or route along which God causes you to travel or move overflows with abundance? I dare you to believe it and you will see it!
Perhaps like many, you had a challenging 2021 ridden with change, uncertainties, difficulties, lack, ill health, loss, and grief. I am confident that God can change your story. Things may not look so good now but we know God is the essence and source of goodness, and so your situation is an easy thing for him to resolve. I don’t know precisely when or how he’ll do it but he surely will in time. You just might be a step away from that path that drips with abundance, track with God, and watch him align you. It won’t be long before you see the evidence of his goodness and promises in fulfillment. #fulfilmentcomes #hollaapraise
You lead me in the path of life; I experience absolute joy in your presence; you always give me sheer delight. Psalm 16:11
When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”They answered, “Some say you are John the Baptizer, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”He asked them, “But who do you say I am?”Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God!” Matthew 16:13-16
This passage records a dialogue Jesus had with his disciples at a certain location. This is useful as you sometimes have to navigate crossroads that:
Challenge your understanding of certain things
Test your faith or conviction
Cross-examine you and contest your testimony as a witness
What do you do in those moments when life demands a response from you? Have you got a witness statement? Do you have an answer, rebuttal, or defence? How can you contribute to or become the solution to the dilemmas around you?
I’m grateful to God that Peter was perceptive and responsive. Unlike the other followers, he wasn’t caught up in the fast or first response race which didn’t produce the right answer. There are some scenarios where he’d been noted to be obnoxious and presumptuous but not here. He was able to wisely give an objective view based on his understanding. Like most people, Peter wasn’t perfect; in fact, he messed up quite a few times, but he knew to latch onto the grace provisioned by Jesus and consequently was restored.
Friend, the good news is that the same grace is still available to you right now. It doesn’t matter where you’ve been – Far country, Sodom and Gomorrah, Lodebar, Gehenna, or even the belly of the fish at the bottom of the sea, it reaches and can pull you out. No, you haven’t gone too far out of God’s range because His mercy and love extend to the heavens, His faithfulness reaches to the skies. His justice is like the highest mountains and his fairness like the deepest sea; He preserves both people and animals (Psalm 36:5-6). Aren’t you glad that God is a preserver and keeper who has no intentions whatsoever that any perish or languish? You can come on right home. There is a place for you under the shadow of his wings, why don’t you come and take cover?
Jesus said, “In the same way there is more joy in heaven because of one sinner who turns to God than over 99 good people who don’t need to.” Luke 15:7
Peter who was one among 72,12, and 3 had at this juncture worked with Jesus for a long time. It is evident he wasn’t in it just for the fame or benefits. Besides being agile and proactive, he was hardworking, and I believe that is one of the reasons he was always the first to be mentioned in the trio – Peter, James, and John, who were in Jesus’ inner circle. Friend, it’s not enough to be counted, you need to stand out, and to stand out, you need to go the extra mile. Learn, grow and practice through service.
Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:9
I am also grateful for second chances because we learn about Peter’s response after Jesus repeats the question. I believe in the gospel of election, but It is also possible that the other disciples had a similar impression about Jesus being the Messiah and Son of God but hesitated to speak up. Scripture categorises those who shared others’ opinions as – ‘they’. Each had the potential to share their conviction but only one dared to.
Jesus thereon distinguishes between inspiration and perspiration and attributes Peter’s revelation to the Father. In essence, he points out that the arm of flesh will fail as flesh and blood were not responsible for the answer. It is good practice to draw from the experiences and knowledge of other people but not at the expense of a personal conviction. Friend, if Jesus were to ask you the same question he asked the disciples, what would your answer be? Is your prayer, thanksgiving, praise, and worship based on a revelation or testimony? Be inspired and gain understanding.
But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty gives them understanding. Job 32:8
Would you say this prayer with me? Breathe on me Holy Spirit and give me understanding. There is much value in thinking before speaking and Peter shows that you don’t necessarily need to understand the full picture to make a valuable contribution; in any case, inspiration is the gamechanger. Would we have this account if he had joined the bandwagon? Selah! lt’s ok to break the flow and not go with the crowd. What people deem popular belief started with someone. Your personal belief may soon become popular if you firmly hold unto it.
Peter was a custodian of an insight that would later shape the church institution. The name Peter means a strong stone and rock, and his epistle depicts you as a living stone being built ( 1 Peter 2:5). Friend, do you have any idea who you are and what you carry? Why are you holding back? Start practicing! Do something!! Share your conviction!!!
For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live]. Ephesians 2:10
Friend, you’re a masterpiece and there’s so much passion, power, promise, potential, and purpose in you but until you maximise and release them, you will remain anonymous or second-best. Make up your mind today to not only have an answer but also be a solution.
This scripture brings back a lot of memories. It’s quite a familiar text and memory verse. As I made breakfast this morning, I reflected on the following:
Give us: Signifies the requesters’ confidence in the grantor’s capacity and capability to provide for them and theirs. What is your faith level? Do you believe God has, can, and will supply all your needs? Then ask!
Today: James notes in his book that no one but God knows what will happen tomorrow. Jesus further encourages us not to worry about tomorrow given that today has enough trouble of its own. Some people in planning ahead have lost focus of the present. There are areas you need God to come through for you now, today, and not tomorrow. What are those things you need an immediate response on? Is it your accommodation, utility, health, or job situation? Petition God for it, today!
Our daily bread: The Manna was a daily household provision that expired at the end of every day except on the Sabbath Eve when an additional portion was allowed. Jesus said, “tomorrow will worry about itself” which suggests He is well aware of it but more committed to providing what you need for today. Like me, you probably have a big list that needs to be prioritised and streamlined. Zoom in on your ‘daily bread’ – whatever that is.
As we finish off what is usually deemed the month of new beginnings and approach a different season, I want to remind you that God is on track with his plans for you and has you exactly where you need to be. Perhaps the month hasn’t turned out the way you anticipated or it somewhat did, but you’re hoping for more.
If anyone can relate, it’s Martha. During her one-to-one with Jesus – after He seemingly turned up late for his on-call shift, She said: “If you had been here, Lord, my brother would not have died”. I have a feeling that this might be your stance about now – if you had given me that job, business deal, loan, connection, or treatment? Or if my ‘heifer’ weren’t plowed, then this situation wouldn’t be as complex or complicated.
It may seem that all hope is lost right now; however, it’s important to take hold of your thoughts, words, and actions. Are they full of faith or fear? Do they engender hope or despair? Are your assumptions optimistic or pessimistic? Selah!
I love the fact that in the midst of the loss, pain, anger, frustration, disappointment, exhaustion, and mood swings, Martha had a ’knowing’ and perspective that things could turn, and for the better. She said:
But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask him for. John 11:22
Herein is today’s reflection:
But I know: This speaks of faith – a confident assurance and expression [verbalization] of something expected in spite of the current evidence. The ‘But’ contrasts the present experience and introduces an alternate reality or possibility. It counters the status-quo by motioning the new. Why don’t you put those words into the atmosphere? I may be sick but I know, might be broke but I know, may have fertility issues but I know!
For I know Him [and I am personally acquainted with Him] whom I have believed [with absolute trust and confidence in Him and in the truth of His deity], and I am persuaded [beyond any doubt] that He is able to guard that which I have entrusted to Him until that day [when I stand before Him]. 2 Timothy 1:12
And we know [are convinced] that every detail of our lives is continually woven together to fit into God’s perfect plan of bringing good into our lives, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose. Romans 8:28
Even now: I imagine Martha drew from the same leaf Pa Abraham did when: He believed and hoped, even when there was no reason for hoping, and so became. Rom 4:18. I believe his condition was so hopeless and dead no virility drug or therapy could help, hence the account that “he believed the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being what does not yet exist”.
You may be dealing with a ‘dead’ or ‘buried’ situation like a loved one in a coma or in the mortuary, homelessness, or hysterectomy but God can still turn it around, even now. Release your faith by decreeing that things will change for the better, the circumstances notwithstanding. It’s never too late, God can step into your now and create something new this very moment… at once … in a flash …. tout de suite…. straight away…instantly… immediately…even now!
I will make you well again; I will heal your wounds, though your enemies say, ‘Zion is an outcast; no one cares about her.’ I, the LORD, have spoken.” Jeremiah 30:17
The LORD heard the voice of Elijah, and the life of the child returned to him and he revived. I Kings 17:22
God will give you: What an amazing perspective to have especially when something has been taken from you. Do you believe that God will take or give? It was during his most trying time that Job shared that “The LORD gives and takes away. May his name be praised!” Whilst there’s some truth in this concept, Job maintained an attitude of praise and obedience. No wonder his narrative ended with: “The LORD blessed the latter years of Job’s life more than the earlier years”.
He received more because God gave more. God has always been and will continue to be in the business of giving, but if you do not believe that about him then it may not be your reality. Do you believe God will restore [ give you back] your life, finances, womb or whatever your desire? Then say it! God will give me perfect health, supply all my needs, and multiply my seeds.
I, the LORD your God, will make up for the losses caused by those swarms and swarms of locusts I sent to attack you. Joel 2:25
His divine power has given us everything we need to experience life and to reflect God’s true nature through the knowledge of the One who called us by His glory and virtue. 2 Peter 1:3
Whatever you ask: This connotes that there is no limit to what you can have provided you ask for it. If it is in the earth realm or beyond even to the highest heavens, God owns it all. A cattle on a thousand hills, silver or gold, or the glory of Lebanon, they’re all his. Jesus encourages us to ask:
Therefore I tell you, everything you pray and ask for —believe that you have received it and it will be yours. Mark 11:24
The good thing about this is that you are not constrained by your ask list or prayer points. Why? Because God can do exceedingly more than you can ask or think; hence, often supersedes whatever you ask. So what are you going to ask for?
I will certainly give you the wisdom and knowledge you requested. But I will also give you wealth, riches, and fame such as no other king has had before you or will ever have in the future!” 2 Chronicles 1:12
He asked to live a long time, and you promised him life that never ends. Psalm 21:4
One day Kish’s donkeys strayed away, and he told Saul, “Take a servant with you and go look for the donkeys. 1 Samuel 9:3
So far in this series, we have discussed that life happens to all kinds of people, the benefits of having somebody or people to journey along with, and why pursuit is critical to accomplishing anything significant. Today, we’ll look at one of the triggers God often uses to align people with purpose – Missing things.
You may have come across the saying that your strength lies in the area(s) of your test. Similarly, I believe that those places where people tend to struggle, experience shortfalls or have delayed fulfillment, are pointers to their callings, capabilities, or graces. In other words, their ‘power plants’.
Let’s talk about Pops Ab for a moment. He was a father of none as far as men could see, but God saw and said he was the Father of many. Now, it took a while for the spiritual reality to manifest in the natural, but in the fullness of time, it happened. Isaac was born and he begat the tribes from which the nations are birthed. What shall we then say about Aunt Han who was long bullied and ridiculed for her infertility till she could no longer speak audibly? But when God turned it around, she testified:
Those who were well fed are now starving, and those who were starving are now full. The childless woman now has seven children, and the woman with many children wastes away. 1 Samuel 2:5
I want you to pause right now to pray and prophesy those words into your life: Wherever there’s been lack, there’s superabundance, where you were delinquent, there’s an endowment, and in or through your weaknesses, strength emerges. #hollaapraise #fulfilmentcomes #privatejetcometh 💃🙌🕺
So then we can be confident that when things are seemingly missing or misaligned, all things work together! For Saul, the donkeys had to stray so he could connect and make acquaintance with the most powerful figure of his time – who by the way, was Aunt Han’s baby, receive counsel about his present and future, do and be things that he never would have. Friend, are you getting this?
We’ll explore this further but for now please note that there is a greater purpose for your challenges than you know. The ‘missing donkey’ is only a ploy for your divine appointment and upliftment. I encourage you to praise, pray, and prophesy through this season – this too shall pass. You will testify! Your mouth will be enlarged over your enemies!! Your head will be lifted in honour!!! If you believe and receive this, #hollaapraise because #fulfilmentcomes 🙌🙌🙌
That’s why I don’t think there’s any comparison between the present hard times and the coming good times (MSG).
For I reckon that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory about to be revealed in us (YLT).
For I am certainly persuaded that the afflictions of this time, are not worthy of the glory which shall be shewed upon us (BB). Romans 8:18
So Saul took one of the servants and travelled through the hill country of Ephraim, the land of Shalishah, the Shaalim area, and the entire land of Benjamin, but they couldn’t find the donkeys anywhere. 1 Samuel 9:4
Successful people are in constant quest and pursuit. Some are in search of opportunities, insights, and methods, while others are on the lookout for mentors, partners, and proteges. They engage in a cycle of continuous professional development – they never stop discovering or searching, little wonder they are always innovating and growing.
The above text shows that Saul took action after mobilizing his team. He realized that lost things are meant to be found much like the broken need be healed, or the ruined, restored. To emphasize the significance of pursuit, Jesus launched the A.S.K method during a coaching moment with the disciples. Here’s a breakdown of the method:
Ask (A): You won’t always be handed things on a platter. What you request or ask for is usually what you are given.
Seek (S): Making an effort or attempt at something automatically moves you from inactivity towards a journey of endless possibilities. Seekers are always finders; even when their expectations are seemingly unmet, that in itself is a learning.
Knock (K): Between you and your next level is a door. A knock indicates your readiness to be allowed entry, passage, or exit.
For many, their ‘deliverance’ or breakthrough is wrapped in their pursuit (ASK) and not just in a prayer meeting. I encourage you to proactively activate and facilitate your restoration. Do not leave things to chance, pursue! Pursuing is a recurring process – you may not find what you are after immediately, but you will, eventually.
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Matthew 7:7-8
Instrument of Praise is a Music Ministry which operates on a national and international scale ministering physical, emotional and spiritual healing to the afflicted....
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