Category Archives: Reflections

Faith and culture, News & Trends, Reflections, Thoughts, Trends and the Bible

Magnanimous Generosity: The Kenyan Church Loving its Neighbor!

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PhotoCredits: QuoteMaster

It is now over a year after the first case of COVID 19 was reported in Kenya. Since then, today’s official government reports indicate that over 6000 people have tested positive for the virus.

To curb the spread of this pandemic, the government of Kenya instituted physical (not social) distancing, the mandatory use of masks in public, the washing of hands, the establishment of quarantine facilities for those traveling from high-risk contact areas, the restriction of passenger travels from abroad, the suspension of all forms of social gathering including religious gathering, the implementation of a dusk to dawn curfew and the cessation of travels to and from Nairobi, among other measures. The net result of these measures has been the paralyzing of all non-essential services and travels.

While the government’s daily briefings focus on those infected with COVID 19, it does not reveal the number of Kenyans whose lives have been affected due to the pandemic by means other than direct infection. Reports indicate that in Nairobi alone, 84% of its 5 million residents have had their daily lives greatly impacted by COVID 19. More particularly, the 54% rate of unemployment is largely attributed to the pandemic. A report released on the 30th of June by TIFA Research shows that “among those who had been earning prior to the crisis, almost all (96%) report that they are now earning either ‘very little’ or ‘nothing’ relative to what they had been earning before”. This report also reveals that the economic interventions by the government to buffer Kenyans against financial hardship have not been felt by the ordinary citizen. With no direct and concrete social aid from the government, life has become more arduous for the poor majority.

In the midst of this, the church in Kenya has stood with their communities and continued to shine the love of Jesus Christ through various activities aimed at alleviating the pain of its neighbors. In a recent report by Shahidihub Africa, 56.67% of the churches across the 33 counties surveyed were involved in helping the poor with food; 42.86% had a targeted support of basic needs to the most vulnerable including the elderly and the people living with disabilities; 21.08% extended help with basic needs to those affected by natural calamities, while 17.56% offered similar support to Children Homes within their neighborhood.

The material support highlighted above is significant as the church itself has been financially hit by the crisis (For more on this, see Shahidihub Africa). Their own financial vulnerability has not, however, deterred them from generously tending to the vulnerability that surrounds them. The survey found that 11.71% paid rent for those who had lost their jobs. Of note is the fact that the survey does not show whether the beneficiaries were Christians or not. These churches have given materially, not because they are financially rich but because they love giving. Like the Macedonian churches in the midst of severe suffering and trials, their extreme poverty catalyzed rich generosity (2 Cor.8:1-5).

More importantly, it is precisely this love and generosity that validates their commitment to the gospel. Beside material support, churches have also enhanced spiritual services to foster spiritual growth, comfort, compassion, and reconciliation. Some of the noted activities include prayer support [82.20%], counseling (personal problems, conflicts, job losses) [64.40%] and the sharing of the gospel [57.61%]. The heightening of spiritual services and engagement during this pandemic indicates the Church’s hunger for God and its deep-rooted hope. Through prayer, support, counselling and sharing the gospel, individuals and families have had their lives considerably ameliorated in the face of what is proving to be a difficult time.

Lastly, through reaching out to those affected, the Kenyan Church has demonstrated the integrity of the gospel. It has embodied the idea that the gospel does not concern solely of the sharing of the word or meeting the needs of the people but dynamically is comprised of both. They have shown that their presence in a community is not simply to target individuals with a religious agenda but to extend love having fully considered the personhood of the individual. The depersonalization of a human being is irreconcilable with the revelatory and transformative encounter with the person of Jesus. Therefore, though church buildings remain closed and gathering for worship services remain suspended, the church according to this survey, is as active as it has ever been. As Deon K. Johnson, Bishop-elect of the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Missouri, so succinctly concludes:

“The work of the church is essential. The work of caring for the lonely, the marginalized, and the oppressed is essential. The work of speaking truth to power and seeking justice is essential. The work of being a loving, liberating, and life-giving presence in the world is essential. The work of welcoming the stranger, the refugee and the undocumented is essential. The work of reconciliation and healing and caring is essential. The church does not need to “open” because the church never “closed”. We who make up the Body of Christ, the church, love God and our neighbors and ourselves so much that we will stay away from our buildings until it is safe. We are the church.” (Bishop-elect. D. K. Johnson, June 2020).

Guest Contributor: Birgen K. M. Araap Cheruiyot;

Ph.D (Religious Studies) Student; McGill University, Montreal, QC.

Research Interests: Hebrew Bible; Old Testament Ethics; Immigration & Public Policy

 

Birgen K. M. Araap Cheruiyot

Leadrship, News & Trends, Reflections, Thoughts, Trends and the Bible

Equipping and Empowering the Laity for Ministry Support

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PhotoCredits: Lay RenewalMinistries

The recently released poll report by the ShahidiHub Research & Consulting (under ShahidiHub Africa Ltd) shows various ways in which the church has been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. It reveals how pastors have continued their connectedness with their members after the ban on religious gathering, as a health measure against the spread of Covid-19.

The report shows pastors/church leaders who did not transition to online platforms, followed up on their members through WhatsApp (69.29%); Phone Calls (58.05%), and SMS (50.56%). However, 13.11% expressed that it has been hard to follow up on their church members during this period.

Other ways in which pastors and other church leaders have reached out to their members include cautious home visits; provision of hard copies of Bible study/ family devotional materials to members; follow-up through the leaders of life/Cell-group (home churches), and availing to members the preaching/sermon texts with guided questions.

The survey further found out that the church has continued to spread of the good news during this period. The outstanding activities to the society during this extraordinary period include: Prayer Support [82.20%]; Counseling (personal problems, conflicts, job losses)- [64.40%]; Reaching out with the Good News [57.61%]; Helping the poor with food stuff [56.67%]; Pastoral presence during bereavement process and burials [55.50%]; Supporting the vulnerable (Elderly, persons living with disabilities) with basic needs [42.86%]; Helping deal with matters of domestic violence [34.19%]; Helping those affected by natural calamities with basic needs [21.08%]; Supporting Children Homes with basic needs [17.56%]; and, Paying Rent for those who’ve lost jobs [11.71%].

Having these statistics in mind, it is evident that pastoral care has been a necessary and urgent need during this Covid-19 season. The closure of churches did not result in the lessening of pastoral activities. In fact, it has emerged that pastors and ministry leaders have become busier during this partial lockdown period. The question then is, with the current overwhelming pastoral ministry needs, how can the church effectively dispense its pastoral duties to its members? My proposition is that laity training/equipping, and empowerment are necessary for effective pastoral ministry and discipleship.

The church needs to cultivate the laity’s ability to theologize in order to mitigate some of the pastoral challenges currently being experienced. Equipped and empowered laity will be beneficial for several reasons. First, empowered laity will compensate for the strained pastor-congregation ratio. Many churches in Kenya (especially in rural areas) experience this ratio mismatch of pastors and congregations. These churches do not have enough pastors to provide leadership and shepherding to every group in the church. In this widespread scenario, the few available pastors are already strained and overstretched.

Therefore, there is a need to empower the laity to lead, teach, and support other church roles and responsibilities. It is lamentable that some churches are not utilizing some of the resource persons in their congregation. If Apostle Paul’s analogy of the body is correctly applied, various gifts in a congregation will be fanned into flame and have a vibrant body of Christ. Overreliance on the clergy overburdens them thereby making them ineffective in the ministry. Such ministry ineffectiveness produces milk-dependent and spiritually immature Christians.

Second, empowering the laity is not only for their personal good but also for the good of their circle of friends. It should be appreciated that in Africa generally and Kenya in this case, most people get their social support from friends and family members. Seeking professional counselling has not yet found wide societal acceptance in our context. Since most counselling happens at the peer and family level, there is need to train and empower the laity in order to enhance effective social support. Their training should encompass basics of counselling.

Third, laity empowerment will strengthen believers’ spiritual growth. Emphatically, the Great Commission mandate is about making disciples. Biblical teaching is a necessity for effective discipleship making. The COVID-19 situation has pointed out the weakness of pulpit and clergy-centered ministry. Believers should be empowered to personally gain their spiritual muscles and growth from the mines of the scripture, and not over-rely on Sunday-to-Sunday spoon-feeding.  However, this does not undermine the place of the pulpit ministry. If properly utilized, the pulpit offers a strategic platform for empowering the laity and promoting the priesthood of all believers.

Fourth, by training/equipping and empowering the laity, the church will be implementing the biblical principle of delegation. It took Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, for Moses to make sense of the delegation principle. Moses kept doing ministry from morning till evening to the detriment of his self. Jethro advised, “…what you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone” (Exodus 18:17,18 NIV). Apostle Paul’s advice to Timothy and Titus also reinforces the place of delegation in church administration (cf. 1 Timothy 3:1-10, Titus 1:5). Therefore, equipping and empowering the laity will not only ease and make pastoral work effective but also delightful.

GUEST CONTRIBUTOR:

Name: Leonard Too

Education Qualification: Bachelor of Education (BED-UON)-2014; MDIV-BS (AIU)-2018; PhD Biblical Studies Student (Africa International University). 

Leonard K. Too

“…it is evident that pastoral care has been a necessary and urgent need during this Covid-19 season. The closure of churches did not result in the lessening of pastoral activities. In fact, it has emerged that pastors and ministry leaders have become busier during this partial lockdown period.”

“It is lamentable that some churches are not utilizing some of the resource persons in their congregation. If Apostle Paul’s analogy of the body is correctly applied, various gifts in a congregation will be fanned into flame and have a vibrant body of Christ.”

“The COVID-19 situation has pointed out the weakness of pulpit and clergy-centered ministry. Believers should be empowered to personally gain their spiritual muscles and growth from the mines of the scripture, and not over-rely on Sunday-to-Sunday spoon-feeding.”

Exodus, Leadrship, Reflections, Thoughts

A CALL TO SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP

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In this write-up, we are looking at the call to spiritual leadership, through the example of Moses (in Exodus 3:1-14). We will reflect on the life, and call of Moses- the prophet, priest, lawgiver, and leader.

Moses’s 40-year leadership experience has a lot to teach us today on how God raises, equips, and uses leaders to accomplish his purposes.

This all happened in a context when the people of Israel were facing oppression in a foreign land. The goal is to learn some leadership principles that we can apply in our lives, families, church, and workplaces.

Leadership principles we can learn from the life of Moses:

I. Spiritual Leadership Begins with an Encounter with God–

Moses’ call to leadership began with an encounter with God during the burning bush experience (Ex. 3). Moses heard God’s voice and responded to it.  In Mt. Horeb, God revealed himself to him…

God’s call comes with demands. Often God’s call to himself demands that we leave a life of sin, self-centeredness, and pride and cling to God. Moses’ calling involved liberating the nation of Israel in Egyptian slavery.

God begins by working/renovating the heart of the leader. This is an important step in spiritual leadership.

Read: Hearing God Speak

Read Hindrances to Hearing God

II. At His Timing, God Raises Leaders-

God raises/sends leaders at God’s appointed time in history (Read Ex. 3:7-10).

Israelites had cried to God for over 400 years for their deliverance from the tyrannical powers of Pharaoh, but, it took several generations for that to happen. In other words, they had to wait for the revelation of God’s appointed time.

God had- Seen their misery…heard their cries…and was concerned… and had come to rescue them. Even now, God still lives, cares, and delivers…

Moses had prematurely sought to correct an injustice by killing an Egyptian but it backfired, because he was doing it his own way (not God’s way), and at the wrong time.

In leadership, the concept of timing (seasons) is important. David understood this truth when he refrained from killing King Saul, when the right opportunity presented itself. David knew that he had been anointed by God, and although king Saul hunted him down, David knew that Saul’s hatred would not erase God’s anointing over his life. He exclaimed, “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, or lift my hand against him; for he is the anointed of the Lord.” 2 Sam. 24:6

Severally, during his ministry, Jesus sought to maintain secrecy of his work (Mk. 5:43; 7:36; 8:25), and identity (Mk. 1:25,34; 3:12; 5:7). Why? Although he had nothing to hide about his work and identity; Jesus knew that his time (God’s appointed time) had not yet come. God executes his eternal plans at his based on his calendar, not ours.

We need wisdom to be able to understand the timings; and in most cases, to slow down for our own good. It is possible that you may be a God-appointed leader, but you need to wait for God’s timing.  Present failure may not mean disqualification or denial by God, but that perhaps you have to wait, or ask God to prepare you more, or God is calling you now to another assignment.

God plans what we are to do and also, he has organized the right time for us to do it.

As we seek wisdom on God’s timing for us to lead, we need to remember to support those God has presently chosen to be at the front-line.

III. God Raises leaders for Particular Situations–

All situations are in God’s hands. In the hands of God who is all-knowing and wise. And based on this, God, in his wisdom and knowledge, raises leaders, and equips them will requisite skillset and ability to confront the situation at hand.

The situation at hand in Moses’s case was the mistreatment Israelites were going through. God raised up Moses through his life experiences to be able to face this task when the time has fully come. God shapes/prepares leaders to be able to handle people, and situations of success and failure.

Preparation period for service took 80yrs, in these years God equipped him for his next assignment. In the household of Pharaoh, he received good education, though pagan. In the wilderness, he must have learned in solitude to conquer self and be a servant (Ex. 2:16-17).

He prepares us by equipping us with what is required in order that his purposes prevail. In the time of Esther, he gave Esther beauty and orchestrated events in order she may be elevated to the palace, so that she may rescue Jews from the danger of annihilation. He gave Nehemiah to administrative skill, and position at the kings court in preparation for the rebuilding of the broken walls of Jerusalem.

Remember, that also God can raise evil/pagan leaders! He can use them to judge, or to display his power and purposes (he is the same God who raised up Pharaoh, and Moses).

He raises leaders with a heart for a cause at hand. Often, these leaders have gone the same journey (in one way or another) God is asking them to take others.

So, some leaders are raised to bring healing, peace, manage, justice, expand, and other are raised to punish sin, restore, destroy. God knows when and how to raise these leaders at various seasons. He raised Moses to lead the nation of Israel through wilderness but chose Joshua to settle them in the promised land. He gives these leaders grace to manage, and steer through the challenges of leadership.

These leaders identify a cause/need and within it create their legacies.

IV. God often Chooses the Unlikely-

Men look for qualified people, but God chooses the unqualified so that he can qualify them.

Based on his self-assessment, Moses felt inadequate to lead the nation of Israel. He knew he was not a perfect leader. It was, ‘no way,’ ‘not me.’ ‘wrong address.’ He lacked self-confidence.

He Gave a Number of Excuses (Ex. 3:11-15; 4:1-16)

  • I’m a nobody– ‘Who am I?’ (3:11)- He thought of himself as unworthy and inadequate. He did not have any to appear before; he cannot command a hearing. But God promised his presence (3:12).
  • I don’t have all the answers (3:13)- This was an hypothetical question (suppose…). He imagined people asking him questions about God/theology… in response God revealed his name and that Moses’s role will be of a messenger (3:14).
  • Will they really listen or believe? Fearful or ridicule or embarrassment, Moses wondered if he will win their respect (4:1). But this was also an imaginary scenario of what if… such and such/so and so…. See Lord’s response in 4: 2-4, 6-7.
  • I’m not gifted in speech (4:10)- See Lord’s response- 4:11-12. If you’re here and this is your excuse, then count on God’s power.
  • I’m not qualified as others (4:13)- He was simply saying ‘God send/use someone else.’ I’m from the villages of Midian; I’m busy; there are many others who are qualified; nani (Swahili for so and so) has grown up children; nani has a degree/or is a consultant in that area; nani did that program before; I have never gone to a bible college etc Here, God accommodated Moses’ desire (4:.14-17) but Aaron later became a snare to Moses(Ex 32:4; Num. 12:1-2). Moses didn’t need Aaron but God himself.

Gideon also felt inadequate like Moses. He was fearful and certain that he did not have any influence over his family, clan, tribe (Judg. 6:15). So how could he lead the entire nation? But just like to Moses (Ex. 3:12), God promised him his presence (Jdg. 6:16).

As Paul puts it, God chooses the “weak of this world” to accomplish great things for his glory (1 Cor. 1:26-29). He raises the inadequate so that they can depend on him. He chooses the humble so that he can, in his own ways, raise them up in a way that confounds many.

Today, we have wronged concluded that a leader has to be persuasive, have good looks/voice, dynamic, well-polished accent, TV type, and with high social media following.

Leaders who feel inadequate (who feel they need God or else they fail) end up being the best leaders ever.

AW Tozer wrote, “A true and safe leader is likely one who has no desire to lead, but is forced into a position of leadership by the inward pressure of the Holy Spirit and by the press of the external situation.”

They are willing to lead after God. Such leaders lead with spiritual understanding of themselves, people, work, and God.

V. When God Raises Leaders He Also Raises Helpers-

In Moses’ case, God raised Aaron and Miriam. He raised people who can complement Moses in his gifting, abilities, and personality.

In the life of Paul, God raised ministry associates like Timothy, Titus, Epaphroditus etc.

But be cautious suggesting other people to God because a calling is an individual matter. Moses pushed God to a compromise, and as a result he was given Aaron who later became a thorn in the flesh.

From time to time God brings along our way people to support the God-given vision entrusted to us.

We may not all be leaders at the frontlines, but we need to support those the Lord has anointed at a particular time.

Concluding Thoughts

God still raises spiritual leader even today! But sometimes, sadly, we trash God’s choice and enthrone our own!

Raising of spiritual leaders in every generation is a sign of God’s faithfulness to his people.

May we rely on God and seek his guidance as we suggest and elect leaders to lead God’s church in our generation.

Spiritual leadership is God-appointed, not self-assumed.

Have you ever felt that God was calling you to do something beyond you? I.e. be a BS/SS leader, to church council/board? Consider the life of Moses and be encouraged to assume the task.

Related Leader as Shepherd 

Also read: Leader as Servant 

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Attitude Transformation, Christmas, Exodus, FAITH HOPE AND LOVE, Inspiration, Philippians- Homiletical Outlines, Reflections, Uncategorized

The Lord will Fight for You…

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In several instances the Bible presents Yahweh as Warrior; a mighty Warrior who’s strong in battle. He wages his own wars and wins.

In life we are faced with many battles. As a matter of fact, spiritual warfare is one of the inevitable battles we must face and win because our union with Christ gives us power, strength, and victory.

Few weeks into the wilderness, during the exodus from Egypt, the nation of Israel found themselves trapped between an enemy behind them and a mass of water (Red Sea) before them.

Related, read One more night with the frogs

They had heeded the call of God through Moses to journey to the Promised Land. In a great way, God had demonstrated his power against the powers of Pharaoh and his gods.

But now God’s chosen people were in for a new colossal challenge. With their enemies advancing quickly in pursuit of them, their options to escape and life were dwindling by seconds! It was a real defining moment!

The only available option was to either to surrender to Pharaoh’s might and be slaves forever or fight a losing fight and die.

But Moses provided the third option. He brought in the God-perspective; a perspective that the people were blind to.

Moses knew something about God’s power and presence. He knew God is a miracle worker, a way-maker and performs the impossible. He knew that God presence means victory. He knew that God is a sure and near help to everyone who calls on Him.

These thoughts (though written years later) must have been going through the mind of Moses:

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea– (Ps. 46:1-2).

And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me–               (Ps. 50:15).

A horse is prepared for battle but victory belongs to the Lord (Prov. 21:31).

He therefore courageously told the complaining and terrified crowd, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on” (Ex. 14:13-15).

This situation also speaks to our situations today…

Four Principles to help/assure us in times of need:

  1. Fear Not (vv. 13)

For sure, fear had crippled the Israelites when the saw the Egyptian army pursuing them. Behind them was an enemy, in front of them was a great sea. The only option, which Moses refocused them to see, was to look up.

Fear is something dangerous in your life. It paralyzes your potential and kills your faith. Fear leads to doubt, complaining, self-pity, and faithlessness. In your situation replace fear with faith and confidence in God. Make a deliberate decision to look up to God in faith. Rise above your fears and believe that you will make it by faith. Remember, God did not give you the spirit of fear but of courage, sound mind and love. Fear not.

Why should we not fear? It should be because God is on our side. We have seen God’s hand and faithfulness the far we have come. Choosing to response in fear does not solve the situation at hand; it only makes you more and more vulnerable to the enemy.

  1. Stand firm and be still (vv.14)

God wants us in our very time of need to be unmoved and to be still. To be unmoved by the number of the enemies, to be unmoved by the weapons they have, and to be unmoved by the powers ‘they’ claim to possess. On our side is a mighty Warrior.

Stand firm because you have a strong Deliverer. On your side is the One who is mighty in battle; the One who shields you in the day of battle.

  1. Be still (vv.14)

Be still because God is in control. Be calm and have a serenity of heart because the battle belongs to the Lord. He will fight for you (be sure to be engaged in battles that God is involved in). He will ensure your bones are not broken. Be still. Be still because by your own efforts you cannot win.

Be still and trust in the Lord, “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:5,6).

  1. The Lord will fight for you (vv. 14)-

This is a wonderful promise. The Lord shall fight for you.

You have the One who is an enemy to your enemies on your side. Worry not; for victory is your portion. Engage Him in your battles and he will fight for you.

  1. Therefore move/go forward (vv. 15)-

The next order from God to Moses was “God forward!” God wanted his people to take steps of faith; not by walking round the challenge but by going through it. Lack of faith can make us stagnate in one level and be comfortable with the status quo. As they edged to the coastlines of the sea Moses raised his rod and lo and behold the waters parted!

The people walked right in the middle of the sea with the mass of water against them. Move forward, don’t get stuck in the past with its entanglements like unforgiveness, but move forward with hope, optimism, and confidence in God.  In whichever circumstance, sober up and move on…

-The Lord will fight for you; because the battle belongs to the Lord!-

Attitude Transformation, Manna for Today, Reflections, Thoughts, Uncategorized

The Role of Holy Spirit in the Spiritual Formation of a believer-  

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Spiritual formation is, “the ongoing process of the triune God transforming the believers and character toward the life and character of Jesus Christ- accomplished by the ministry of the Spirit in the context of biblical community” (Pettit, Foundations of Spiritual Formation, 24).

Spiritual formation process is a synergy of the divine initiative and our human response (Phil 2:12-13; 1 Thess. 5:23). It involves developing right relationship of love with God (vertical relationship) and with fellow men (horizontal relationship).

God is actively involved in bringing a sinner to Christ and consequently in the spiritual formation (sanctification process) of the infant Christian as s/he progresses to maturity in Christ.

The role of the third Person of the Trinity (Holy Spirit) in the spiritual growth of a believer is paramount.

Here are ways in which the Holy Spirit is involved in the Spiritual formation in the life of a believer:  

  1. He convicts the world of sin, righteousness and judgment. He brings sinners to salvation. So he is involved in the conversion/turning to God experience.
  2. He gives believers an inward assurance of salvation.
  3. He indwells believers to bring an inward-out change.
  4. He illuminates God’s truth/mysteries (Jn. 14:26) for understanding.
  5. He is the power that enables believers to bear witness (Jn. 15:26; Acts 1:8; Rom 8:26). He gives power and boldness required for witness.
  6. He intercedes for believers (high priest role) in accordance with God’s will (Rom. 8:26-27).
  7. He distributes gifts to believers as he wills for the edification of the church (1 Cor. 12:11). The church is not only the people of God, and the body of Christ, but also the temple of the Holy Spirit.
  8. He is deeply grieved by sin in the lives of Christians (Eph. 4:30).
  9. The Spirit applies redemption to us (Jn. 14:26; 16:7).
  10. The Holy Spirit gives us regeneration or new spiritual life (Jn. 3:5-8). He is the “giver of life”; all living creatures are recipients of the life-giving principle of the Spirit of God.
  11. He sanctifies us (Rom. 8:13; 15:16; 1 Pet. 1:2). He is the source of holiness. Helps believers live holy lives.
  12. He empowers believers for service (Acts 1:8; 1 Cor. 12:7-11).
  13. He produces in us the fruit of Holy Spirit (Gal 5:22-23); that are signs of sanctification.
  14. He provides spiritual guidance to believers in the ways they should go (Acts 15:28).

Read here for other ways God guides believers.

Also, Hindrances to hearing God’s guidance.

Questions to ponder:

  • Spiritual formation process is a synergy of the divine initiative and our human response (Phil 2:12-13). What are some of the steps we can deliberately take to achieve spiritual maturity. What is the believer’s role in spiritual formation?
  • Do believers in Christ make deliberate efforts to grow spiritually?
  • Formation is the primary task of the church. Do you think the church is faithfully discharging this mandate?
FAITH HOPE AND LOVE, Leadrship, Reflections

Hindrances to Discerning God’s Guidance

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“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go, I will counsel you and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8)

The Word of God promises that God will guide us in the way we should go.

While we firmly uphold this promise, we need to take note of some hindrances in discerning God’s guidance in our lives. They are:

  1. Unholy life–

Sin separates. It creates enmity between God and man; and in human relationships. A sinful heart does not delight itself in seeking God’s will because God’s guidance involves walking in the paths of righteousness (Ps. 23:3). Sin is a hindrance to surrender, and embracing God’s sovereign rule over our lives.

2. Self will–

In the Lord’s Prayer, we are commanded to pray, “Your kingdom come and your will be done…”

God’s will is what we should constantly desire to accomplish or to be accomplished in the world just as it is in heaven. But as a prerogative, we first need to dethrone our own/self will for God’s will to prevail. It is illogical to expect God to be your guide when all you’re doing is holding up tightly to your own will. God is not there to rubber-stamp your ways/will; He is there to guide those whose hearts are fully surrendered to his will.

Therefore, as individuals, we need to overcome the desire to doing things ‘my way’ and let God have his own way in our agendas. Naturally, human will and its way of doing things is conditioned by culture, past experience, and tradition. Dethroning our self will need courage for it to bring forth surrender and humility. An attitude of surrender makes us cede ground/control so as to allow Spirit’s guidance. In order to overcome self-will we need a total surrender and desire to follow God’s path; the way of wisdom and righteousness.

God delights in guiding those whose hearts are loyal to Him and have surrendered their will.

 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.” (Prov 3:5-7)

3. Influence of others-

Being surrounded by a network of people is something good. The value of friendships and relationships can’t be overestimated.

But it matters what type of friends surround you.

Friends come in all shapes and forms. Some friends, in their pride, pretend to know every solution to your predicaments. These ‘professional’ experts in every life-matter can land you into a big trouble because all they have to offer is limited to their experience, convenience, knowledge and predictions. I’m talking about the self-proclaimed ‘professors’ of love/ marriages/health in your life who claim to have power to discern every aspect and detail of your life. Beware of them!

Some friends can massage your ego by telling you what your itching ears want to hear. They can suppress or compromise truth to sustain their friendship with you. They can be economical with truth; or lack courage to confront a situation truthfully. They can also pressure you to make certain decisions.

As a result they become a hindrance towards your discernment of God’s leading in your life. The point is not that you do away with friends, but that you be cautious whom you listen to. They should be godly; friends who walk by faith; people who are able to discern God’s move in your life and offer biblical solutions.

“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of God, and on his law he meditates day and night.” (Ps. 1:1-2)

4. Ignorance of God’s word–

God has given us his holy Word to be our sure guide. It is our life-manual. We consult it when we are in the crossroads of life. It teaches us, corrects us, directs us, rebukes us and leads us in the righteous path. God’s will is revealed in his Word.

But there is a big problem if you are ignorant on what is written in there. Ignorance of God’s word deprives us of having a Christian worldview that in turn influences our actions, reactions, decision, emotions, convictions, affections and how we interpret the world/reality around us.

Ignorance of God’s word makes it hard to discern God’s way or leading in our lives.

5. Busyness of life

Discernment of God’s leading often comes when we spent time off our busy schedules and to have a time of reflection and solitude. From time to time we need to get out of our activity-packed schedules and seek to hear the small still voice of God.

6. Impatience

Sometimes an answer to a prayer can ‘delay’. This will certainly need patience; a fruit of the Holy Spirit. God is not in a hurry; He was, He is, and He shall be. He does things at his appointed time; and his timing even in answering our prayers is the best. Those who wait upon the Lord shall be rewarded and strengthened.

Impatience can breed a fertile ground for self-will. Impatience over God’s promise made Abraham and Sarah in their sunset years to doubt God and execute a back-up plan/plan B to address their childlessness situation.

Discerning God’s guidance may take time, and more time; so developing this fruit of the Spirit is necessary.

7. Fleshly desires– (related to the first one)

Not all of our desires are evil; some can be good.

In Galatians 5:16-21, desires of the flesh act in contrast to the ways of the Spirit. In discerning God’s guidance we need to beware of the lust of the eye, lust of the flesh, and the pride of life (Gen 3; Matt 4:1-11; 1 Jn 2:15); we are not immune to temptations in these areas. You want to discern God’s guidance? keep in step with the Spirit of God by living a holy life.

He will guide You!

Read here on Hearing God’s Voice and Discerning His will

Attitude Transformation, Inspiration, Reflections, Sermons, Thoughts

CHRISTIAN LIFE AS A RACE

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kenya

When Apostle Paul likened Christian life to a race, he was certainly drawing his metaphoric language from the ancient Greek Olympic games that started way back in 776BC. Traditionally, the Olympic games took place after every four years; but in a major city like Corinth, where Paul’s audience lived, major games were hosted after every two years. This analogy therefore served well to illustrate profound biblical truths in familiar terms. I hope it also does today.

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. 27 No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize (1 Cor. 9:24-27).

How does this athletic metaphor enrich our understanding of Christian life?  

  1. There is a course marked out for every Christian to run–                                            www.hdnicewallpapers.com                                                  You see, God’s call to salvation does not invite us to a life of inactivity. Rather, we are called to run a race that is marked out for us. Simply, there is a race that you must run. Christian life is not like boarding a matatu with a ticket at hand and waiting to arrive at your destination. No, hapana. It demands focus on what is marked out before you; the race has to be run irrespective of distractions, discouragements, obstructions, and interference that the enemy might place on your path.
  2. Run in such a way as to get the prize– In a race there are false runners (pacesetters), who unsustainably begin the race so fast that within a very short period of time they bow out. Likewise, there those who snail their way through for the purpose of just earning a participation certificate. Paul exhorted his audience to run the race not just for the purpose of participation, but more importantly to WIN the prize. Winning the prize is important. It is glorious! The prize rewards all the toils, self sacrifice, and cumulative efforts spend during the preparation. Genuinely, a christian should not just run the race for the purpose of getting to heaven; but to win the prize that is kept in store for the faithfuls in that glorious day.

Elsewhere, Paul says, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:14). Run the race marked out for you with a goal, and a purpose. A focus fixed on a particular goal helps one overcome distractions from within and without. We are to fix our eyes on Jesus the author and perfector of our faith (Heb. 12: 2). In the words of apostle Paul he committedly presses on, “to take hold of that which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Phil. 3:12).

  1. Any true athlete goes into strict training– This can’t be exaggerated. Any successful athlete knows that to produce record-shattering results, time has to be invested in preparations. This is the tough part of the Olympics. It demands discipline, self-denial, sacrifice, patience, long suffering, forfeiting your privileges, and determination. How does Paul accomplish this?
    1. He focuses on the Crown– It sounds repetitive here but the fact is, it is easy to lose focus in preparation unless we keep in mind the bigger picture of winning the glorious reward. In Paul’s day, athletes competed to win a crown/wreath of olive leaf which, of course, withers within a very short period of time. Perhaps the winner could also have enjoyed other favors and incentives like monetary allocations, honors, recognition, and relieve from taxation. But as Christians we run the race marked out for us in order to receive a crown that lasts forever. In this case, the focus on the crown/prize makes him give up what is good now and settle for the best that lies ahead. Like a boxer, Paul is not without aim, he is not beating the air because of his deliberate end-goal.
    2. He beats his body–                                                                                                           athlete 2                     You can’t win a race with an overweight. The plus-size weight has to be worked on. Otherwise winning will remain a dream. We must pay the price of hard work if we want to win. We must master our bodies, desires, and affections. Part of the weight we have to shed off to stay “fit” includes “everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles” Heb. 12:11.
  2. Beware of disqualification–

Here Paul is clearly not talking of salvation; because every believer, through repentance and faith in Christ, is enlisted to the race. Disqualification or specifically “disapproval” can be construed in relation to the prize. It is disqualification for the prize not the race. The aspect of disqualification is serious because then the strict training in preparation and the running becomes in vain. Therefore the rules (God’s terms) must apply (2 Tim. 2:5). Paul was conscious of this reality.

I pray that when we finish running our race of life we shall say like Jesus, “it is finished” or like Paul, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race” 2 Tim. 4:7.

But for now, there is a race to be run, there is preparations to be made, there is a prize to be won!

crown

Reflections, Thoughts, Uncategorized

The Heart of Man

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heart of man

Last week I visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial site in Kigali town and got to understand the extent and the heartbreaking background of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. In this site were buried about 250, 000 people who died in the 1994 genocide that claimed over 1,000, 000 people in about 100 days. In our (my guide/friend and I) tour around the busy facility, I could observe many people who were overcome by emotions and breaking down in tears. Their painful memories (of the death of their loved ones at their helpless watch, rape, murder, deportation, untold injustices and inhuman activities) are still fresh in their minds. Their wounds are still in the process of healing two decades later.

The whole experience reminded me of several truths from the Bible that I want to share.

  1. The heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked (Jer. 17:9)- The issue of murder, of the minority Tutsi by the majority and ‘powerful’ Hutu in Rwandan genocide story, is not a Rwandan problem but a human problem. We are not unaware of other genocides that have happened in human history and in different parts of the world. The problem is a heart-problem. Naturally, the heart of man is unrighteous, full of hatred, division, and wickedness.

Apostle Paul quoted several scriptures in Romans 3:13-18 to show the vileness of the component parts of the whole of human nature, “their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit. The poison of vipers is on their lips. Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness. Their feet are swift to shed blood; ruin and misery mark their ways, and the way of peace they do not know. There is no fear of God in their eyes.” In short, all men are sinners and man’s inner being is controlled by sin. And the inclination of man’s heart to evil is evident in our world today.

  1. The danger of words– The genocide in Rwanda like many other genocides and violence was inflamed by propaganda, verbal abuses, ethnic prejudices, messages full of hate and animosity, as well as broadcasts that degrade other tribes or people groups. Words, like fire, have power to destroy if not contained.

Apostle James wrote, “the tongue is also a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body” (Jas. 3:6). He adds that the tongue “is a restless evil, full of deadly poison” (Jas. 3:8). The mouth speaks the contents of the heart; “for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matt. 12:34); “Can a fig-tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water” (Jas. 3:12).

  1. The role of justice in healing– For true healing to occur, justice has to be pursued. The planners, sponsors, and perpetrators of war, whether direct or indirectly, needs to be pursued and be held responsible for their actions. This is the path that Rwanda also took.

God is a God of justice and judgment; “But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!” Amos 5:24.

  1. The power of truth, forgiveness, and reconciliation– For two decades, Rwandans have been rebuilding lives and healing their wounds. This has happened through open confessions by the perpetrators on their role in the war and more importantly asking for forgiveness. This has hugely contributed to the healing of the nation and in developing harmonious relationships. It is said that time heals, but that may not be actually true; forgiveness heals.

In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus charges us to reciprocate forgiveness we have received, “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us” Matt. 6:12. The message of forgiveness is a message of love and acceptance. In addition, God has given us the ministry of reconciliation; reconciling men to God through Christ (2 Cor. 5:18). The heart-problem needs a Mediator/ Reconciler between man and God, who is Jesus Christ. And the church/Christians are called to be ambassadors of Christ in the ministry of reconciliation.

  1. God is doing a new thing– In the words of Apostle Paul, God’s people had long been, “hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Cor. 4:8-9). The problems that many people here have gone through has not eclipsed their hope in Christ. You could see this hope alive in their churches services and in individual testimonies. God is using his church and the cross to bring about unity, healing, reconciliation and community transformation. God has also given the people of Rwanda political leaders that are committed at bringing people together. Evidently, God is at work transforming his people into the likeness of Christ.

#God Bless Rwanda.

heart of man 2

Reflections, Sermons, Thoughts, Uncategorized

WHAT DO YOU HAVE THAT YOU DID NOT RECEIVE?

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gift

It is very easy in life to adopt a false view of ourselves. On one hand, a wrong estimate of who we are can lead us into low self esteem and on the other hand the danger is an inflated ego. The Bible gives us a crystal-clear picture and truth of who we are in Christ. Here is a short verse that has been helpful to me.

1 Cor 4:7- “For what makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?”  

You might rightfully want to ask yourself, “What is it that makes me different from other people? Could it be: wealth, family, education, power, personality, beauty, strength, diligence, intelligence, job, health, or talent?

Probably you might be tempted to think these things have ‘made’ you what/who you have become; but a honest analysis will show that God is indeed the one who has made all the difference. He is the one in whom all things hold together. All things in our possession have been RECEIVED (except our sin nature). It’s all about the grace of God. From God we have received grace upon grace.

istock-

The idea that you have received everything  should cause us to:

Be humble-“What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?”  1 Cor 4:7. Obviously, there is no point of boasting of what you were give. But the issue of pride is a heart problem.  A heart full of pride says, “I deserve it all”; it is all about my powers, my education, my investment, my talent.  It is “my” and “I” because it is all about me (not about others, not about God). Therefore, knowing the origin of what we have should cause us to be humble and only boast in God.  Pride slowly creeps into our hearts the moment we forget that all we are and have is by the favor of God.

Be Thankful- There is no better way to appreciate a gift that has been given to you other than by giving thanks. God has given us so much that we owe him lots of thanks. He has blessed us with all we need, both material and spiritual blessings. Through his power we are provided for- “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness” 2 Pet 1:3. The thing we give back to God after receiving is a thankful heart.

Give praise – We praise him because he is the Giver of all good things; “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows Jas 1:17. This understanding should make us praise his name. The purpose of what has been received is for the magnification of his name.

We have many things to praise God for- salvation, life, healing just to name but a few. David in the Psalm 103:1-2 wrote, “Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits”. Has God satisfied your life with good things? Praise Him.

 Trust in the God of grace- – Grace has been defined as unmerited favor. To the question, “For what makes you different from anyone else? 1 Cor 4:7 I suggest it is the grace of God. God has given his grace to different people as he determines and as it pleases him. How special are you that God saved you and has not saved others? It is all by grace! It is not based on any merit. Every blessing we posses is a receive grace and gift from God; and if we desire something in life we should ask God, the one who gives us freely and generously.

Discover how rich we are- you can imagine how much you have received (physically and spirituall)from the Lord for the days you have lived under the sun. You are simply blessed!  As a child of God you have one spiritual blessing after another,  you have: forgiveness of sins, redemption, justification, sanctification, wisdom and understanding, Eph 1. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich” 2 Cor 8:9. And so the poor should say “I am rich”, the sinner “I am forgiven”, and the weak “I am strong” because of what the Lord has done.

Love more– The fact that we have received all should challenge us to love (people and God) more.  In relation to God we are all debtors, “The more God has given the more we are in debt. Why should a man boast that he is deeper in debt than another?” However the debt we have should be that of love, “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another” Rom 13:8. Believers should not be like storage tanks to God’s blessings but vessels that convey the same blessings to others.

Give God glory– The understanding that God has given us all things should make us to give God all the glory. Because we realize it is not by our strength but by God’s mighty hand and outstretched arm.  It is not by the chariots or horses but by the name of the Lord our God (Ps 20:7). Giving God glory involves acknowledging that it is not by my sword and my bow but by the power of the Lord Almighty (Ps 44:6). “Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory because of your love and faithfulness” Ps 115:1. Let God be glorified.