2025: Year of FIRE

This is officially my first blog post of the year, as every other published post you have read in the last few months (my third pregnancy journey series) was scheduled from the later end of last year. So, welcome to a brand new year!

I am practically basking in the euphoria of a new season, and it feels just right at this point.

Favour, Increase, Renewal and Exploits

First family picture of 2025. Cross Over Service.

Imagine me screaming “this girl is on fireeee!!!” at the top of my high-pitched voice right now. Would you block your eardrums? You better not. Haha! This post almost feels like I’m screaming the same thing at the moment.

I AM ON FIRE IN 2025.

I AM ON FIRE IN 2025.

I AM ON FIRE IN 2025.

Let me break it down for you. FIRE isn’t just a word; it’s an acronym for all that I’ve been spoken over the year by my Heavenly Father, my Spiritual Fathers, and the priest of my family. 

Here is what I’m stepping into:

How to Balance Ministry and Family

How can I balance ministry and family? It’s a question that burns in the hearts of a lot of pastors, pastors’ wives, and ministry workers. I hope this video provides some answers for you. 

I got my husband on this one. God has given us a family and he has called us to ministry. Can we balance both? Let’s talk.

LATEST POST: 

How Do You Know a Christian Brother is Serious About You?

 

Stay inspired.

See ya!

Posted by Nwamaka Onyekachi

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Heart Rays . . . giving light.

21 Days of Praise: Day 21 - A Heart of Praise

Woohoo! We’ve come to the final day of our #21DaysofPraise series! Today, we focus on cultivating a lifestyle of continuous praise. Praising God isn’t just for special moments or certain days; it’s a daily practice that transforms our hearts and lives.

Living a Life of Praise

Verse of the Day: Psalm 34:1

“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” — (NIV)

“I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises.” — (TPT)

Praise is a fundamental aspect of our relationship with God, and understanding its importance can deepen our worship and connection with Him. Why do we praise God?

1. Because of Who He Is:

God is worthy of our praise simply because of who He is. He is the Creator of the universe, the King of kings, and the Lord of lords. His majesty, holiness, and sovereignty command our reverence and adoration.

2. Because of What He Has Done:

We praise God for His mighty acts and wonderful deeds. From creation to salvation, God’s works are awe-inspiring. He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem us, and this ultimate act of love and sacrifice is a central reason for our praise.

21 Days of Praise: Day 19 - Sovereign Over All

Happy Sunday! Today, my heart is so full. I just want to scream and dance. Let's focus on the sovereignty of God on this 19th day of our #21DaysofPraise series. He is in control of all things, and His rule extends over EVERY aspect of our lives. Hallelujah!

Praise for His Sovereignty

Happy Sunday, happy family picture. Freshly taken today. 😊

Verse of the Day: Psalm 103:19

“The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.” — (NIV)

“Yahweh has established his throne in heaven; his kingdom rules over all.” — (TPT)

There are no limits to God’s rule. This is part of what it means to be God. He is sovereign over the whole world, and everything that happens in it. He is never helpless, never frustrated, never at a loss.

Sovereignty is all about God’s divine control over everything that happens. Nothing is outside the control of His loving hand—not the schemes of the wicked (even the plans of history’s most evil dictators), not natural disasters, not the workings of demons (or even Satan), and not even my own free will. Romans 8:28 tells us that all things work together for the good of God’s children, and verses 38-39 imply that nothing is beyond the control of God’s sovereign hand.

21 Days of Praise: Day 14 - Growing in Grace

Welcome to Day 14 of our #21DaysofPraise series! Today, we praise God for the spiritual growth we experience through His grace. As we walk with Him, He transforms us, molding us into His likeness and deepening our understanding of His love and truth.

Praise for Spiritual Growth

After hours of “tongue-ing” together..

Verse of the Day: 2 Peter 3:18

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” — (NIV)

“But continue to grow and increase in God’s grace and intimacy with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. May he receive all the glory both now and until the day eternity begins. Amen!”— (TPT)

Reflecting on my life, I can see how God has been at work, growing my faith and shaping my character. He does this in different ways using three catalyts:

1. People
2. Circumstances (especially pain)
3. Spiritual Disciplines

People: It seems just the right people come into my life at just the right time to mentor, support and invest in me. Shout out to The Women at the Well Ministries who came into my life just when I was navigating singlehood.

Pain: God uses heartbreak to bring me to a place of total dependence upon Him. When things are going great and all is well, if I am not careful I soon forget that I need God and can develop a “self-dependent” attitude. But when I am faced with trials and trouble, I get to the place where I desperately need Him. And because I need Him, I rely on Him, abiding in Christ and receiving all the life-giving resources I needed all along. I celebrate my pain (a little too much) because there in lies my growth and victory!

21 Days of Praise: Day 12 - Great is thy Faithfulness

Welcome to Day 12 of our #21DaysofPraise series! Today, we celebrate the faithfulness of God. 

Praise for His Faithfulness

God is too faithful!

Verse of the Day: Lamentations 3:22-23

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” — (NIV)

“The Lord’s loyal kindness never ceases; his compassions never end. They are fresh every morning; your faithfulness is abundant!” — (TPT)

Throughout my life, God’s faithfulness has been a constant source of comfort and strength. His unwavering love and mercy are renewed every morning, and for that, I give Him praise.

Reflecting on my journey, I can see countless instances where God’s faithfulness has carried me through, especially from being single to married. I have really come a long way - from crying over heartbreaks upon heartbreaks to being married to Kachi. I am in awe of how my life has become so much better every passing day. God has faithfully kept His word; He has never failed me yet.

21 Days of Praise: Day 10 - Strength in the Storm

Can I let you in on a secret? This #21DaysofPraise series is a strategic one for navigating through our storms. Today, as we focus on the power of praising God even in the midst of life’s challenges and trials; We are reminded that no matter how fierce the storm, God is greater, and He is with us, guiding us through to the other side.

Welcome to Day 10! 

Praise in the Storm

Thinking about the day and place this particular picture was taken always makes me laugh. 😂

Verse of the Day: Psalm 27:1 

“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” — (NIV)

“The Lord is my revelation-light to guide me along the way; he’s the source of my salvation to defend me every day. I fear no one! I’ll never turn back and run from you, Lord; surround and protect me.” — (TPT)

It's Friday, often tagged “Flashback Friday” by social media marketers. So, let's take a little flashback to… when no one understood what I was going through, including myself.. 

Everything seemed to be falling apart—relationships, finances, career. I felt like I was drowning in my troubles. But in the middle of this chaos, I chose to praise God. I would sing worship songs and read Psalms of praise. I would share encouraging words to help those struggling too. It was quite a journey.

How do we navigate life’s storms when friends are distant, our safe havens have disappeared, and we’re tossed about with nothing left? You lose your job. You’re struggling in multiple classes. Your home feels like a war zone. You’ve just been diagnosed with a serious illness. Your church is facing major challenges. There is depression. And so on. 

Are You Aware That God is Seriously Gushing Over You? Check These Out!

Have you ever considered that God is utterly and completely in love with you? Yes, you! Sometimes, we get so caught up in our daily lives and struggles that we forget this truth. Let’s remind ourselves just how deeply and passionately God loves us. 

Verses to Embrace God’s Love

It is my desire to lavish my love on you. 

1 John 3:1

Simply because you are my child and I am your Father. 

1 John 3:1

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could. 

Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect father. 

Matthew 5:48

21 Days of Praise: Day 8 - Standing on His Promises

Welcome to Day 8 of our #21DaysofPraise series! Today, we focus on the incredible promises of God. His promises are sure and steadfast, providing us with hope and assurance in every situation. 

Praise for God's Promises

This picture right here is a symbol of me standing on God’s promises. 

Verse of the Day: 2 Corinthians 1:20

“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ. And so through him the ‘Amen’ is spoken by us to the glory of God.” — (NIV)

“For all of God’s promises find their ‘yes’ of fulfillment in him. And as his ‘yes’ and our ‘amen’ ascend to God, we bring him glory!” — (TPT)

When I am feeling distant from Jesus, wondering if He truly cares, if He notices my dilemmas, the antidote is not sheer willful determination to have more faith. This only leads me to despairing guilt.

Instead, I turn to the truth of God’s promises. I fill my mind with the truth of all He’s promised me, and soon, that truth begins to create feelings of love, joy and hope in my heart.

As we meditate on God’s promises today, let’s be encouraged by the truth that His Word never fails. His promises are our anchor in the storms of life, and they provide us with hope, strength, and direction.

One particular promise that has always held me up is found in Jeremiah 29:11: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

21 Days of Praise: Day 6 - Led by His Hand

It’s Day 6 of our #21DaysofPraise series! Today, we turn our hearts towards thanking God for His guidance. Every step we take, every decision we make, is shaped by His loving hand guiding us through life’s journey.

Praise for His Guidance and Direction

Verse of the Day: Psalm 32:8

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” (NIV)

“I hear the Lord saying, ‘I will stay close to you, instructing and guiding you along the pathway for your life. I will advise you along the way and lead you forth with my eyes as your guide.’” — (TPT)

In life, we often face crossroads and difficult decisions. During these moments, God’s guidance becomes our most precious resource. He promises to instruct and teach us, providing the direction we need to navigate our journey.

There have been countless times in my life where I didn’t know which path to take. One such time was when I faced a major career decision. I was struggling with what path to follow. I was torn and unsure, but as I prayed and sought God’s guidance, He provided clarity. Through His Word, the counsel of friends, and a deep sense of peace, I knew the direction to take. His guidance was like a gentle whisper, leading me on the right path.

21 Days of Praise: Day 2 - The Gift of Salvation

Welcome to Day 2 of our #21DaysofPraise series! Today, we are focusing on the incredible gift of salvation that we have through Jesus Christ. 

Praise for Salvation

Verse of the Day: Ephesians 2:8

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God." (NIV) 

“For by grace you have been saved by faith. Nothing you did could ever earn this salvation, for it was the love gift from God that brought us to Christ!” (TPT)

Reflecting on the gift of salvation fills our hearts with gratitude. It's not something we could ever earn; it's a gift freely given by a loving God.

I remember the moment I truly understood the depth of God's grace. It was during a church service when the speaker spoke about how Jesus made her life anew. It was a vibrant speaker who came to the Teens' church at the time. She spoke passionately about how the sacrifice on the cross was for each of us individually. I was smitten – both by her delivery and her conviction. I felt a weight lift off my shoulders as I wholeheartedly accepted this truth and embraced the freedom and joy that come with salvation.

21 Days of Praise: Day 1 - In Awe of His Creation

Welcome to the first day of our #21DaysofPraise series! Over the next three weeks, we will journey together in praising God for His many blessings and attributes. Today, we begin by focusing on the beauty and majesty of God's creation.

Praise for Creation

Praising God for the beauty and majesty of His creation.

Verse of the Day: PsaIm 19:1

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."(NIV)

“God’s splendor is a tale that is told, written in the stars. Space itself speaks his story through the marvels of the heavens. His truth is on tour in the starry vault of the sky, showing his skill in creation’s craftsmanship.” (TPT) I love it!

As I look around at the world God has made, I am filled with awe and wonder. The intricate details of a flower, the beautiful colours on butterflies, the vastness of the night sky, the power of the ocean waves—all of these speak to the greatness of our Creator.

There is so much about basking in that awe. Such moments are precious. Like when I am at the beach. Ah! 

One of my most profound moments of worship happened during a walk on the mountains (a peep into our honeymoon). As I stood on a peak, looking out over the expanse of valleys and forests below, I was overwhelmed by the beauty of it all. In that moment, I couldn't help but lift my hands and praise God for His magnificent creation.

How To Pour From An Empty Cup When You’ve Been Called

Have you ever heard the phrase, “You can’t pour from an empty cup”? Oh, well. It is not written in the Bible and I have been asked to inspire you so that you can destroy that empty cup - the particular one you’ve been trying to fill.

Pouring Yourself

As a Christian. Wife. Mother of two beautiful girls. Author, blogger, teacher, speaker, and book lover. I am heavy on SELF CARE this year. I said it here. Yeah.

HeartRays (This blog) has been my safe space to share all things Christian - singlehood, (un)employment, marriage, fashion, motherhood and conservative issues since 2014. I believe in bold truth-telling, authenticity and purposeful living.

Each time I am privileged to look back on this journey, I am utterly thankful and filled with courage to just keep showing up. Blogging is a form of self-care. I only realized this a few minutes ago. Immediately I decided to draft this blog post, I started getting it.

It was a lightbulb moment when I realized that sharing my life (whether by writing, speaking or taking photographs) is a form of self care. I imagined it like a cup being poured out and the Holy Spirit tells me, “no girl, rivers of living water are flowing out of you!” 

Dear Diary, No One Understands What I’m Feeling (Including Myself!)

This morning after prayers, I received an update on a certain recent happening that got me getting into my feelings. 

“She is coming tomorrow.”

What I’m Feeling Now

It’s hard to explain. There are probably things in life that are not meant to be described but meant to be felt. And sometimes, you can’t even understand why you are feeling the way you do. Like, you don’t understand your experience in that moment somewhat. 

I just finished crying myself out. Nobody beat me. Lol. But I’m in a challenging season.

I closed my eyes to talk with Him and the tears just flowed and flowed. I believe He understands me. He sees all my struggles, and He knows what’s going on in my mind.

DIARY: November To Remember (2021)

As you know, it’s been my custom every year since 2017 to share each day in November  with you by a sentence or two.

November To Revival

I tagged November 2021 as “Revival”. Everything on my mind was leading me to get my fire back. For some reasons, I felt as though I wasn’t burning or even if I was, then I wasn’t burning hot enough. I was becoming lethargic and complacent in a number of things that I was too tired of using “nursing mother” as an excuse. 

I can’t fast. Why? I’m a nursing mother.

I can’t attend this and that. Why? I’m a nursing mother.

I can’t do this and that now. Why? I’m a nursing mother. 

Days before the start of the month, I decided to decide that this year’s November To Remember would be a REVIVAL. 

How To Practically Live Daily For God

Living life, in this earthly realm, is a constant war against darkness and the kingdom of darkness. We have no choice even if we try to live in denial. We are fighting every day.

Living Daily For Jesus

The day of judgment is swiftly approaching, and if our eyes are open, we can see that already the righteous judgements of God are being visited upon the earth. A friend of mine recently said, "We are having a rude awakening before the great awakening." I believe it.

It's been an awakening experience for me these past days. My heart is vehemently turned to the things that matter most.

Have you ever felt a mysterious stirring within you, as if your hidden personal destiny was to engage in a noble war against the forces of darkness? This is God calling you to live for Him.

Navigating Extra Year In A Nigerian University Humbles You

Hi sweets. Welcome to the coolest month of the year! You don't have to argue. June is the coolest month of the year. Say "kool" and then, say "joon". Got you!

I will be hitting the big three-0 on the 26th day of the coolest month. And like I told you last week, I will be sharing lessons from being a 20-something just before my journey into 30s begins.

This is the first lesson. I hope it inspires you in some way. Happy reading!

Extra Year Experience

At 20, I was to graduate from the university of Nigeria, Nsukka but I failed two final-year courses that kept me back in school.

I still claim to have graduated at 20 whenever I'm asked because technically speaking. . .yeah?

Nearly all my course mates had graduated and were moving on for NYSC when I found myself in the exam hall with a pen and paper writing ACC411 and ACC401. (Or, was it ACC402? I can't even remember. Lol). I am laughing about it right now but it wasn't funny at 21.

Dear Diary, The Thieves Couldn't Shake It Off

Since Sunday was Easter and yesterday was Easter Monday, can we also say today is Easter Tuesday. Lol. Anyway, Happy Easter Sweethearts!

I Live For Jesus

I feel the world pulling you away from your beliefs, and there are more distractions and temptations than ever before. But there’s hope if you put Jesus at the center of your life. And live for him.

You know I had tried to live for Jesus in my own strength, right? But it was exhausting and discouraging. Until I began relying on the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ life became free to flow through me. Now, I have what my heart longed for most — an intimate relationship with God.

I find that the nearer I draw close to God and come to know Him more, the greater His desires naturally become mine. Obedience to His will becomes easier. His instructions become a priority.

10 Best Bible Verses To Drive Out Fear Amidst Coronavirus Outbreak

As at today, people all over the world are wearing protective face masks as a preventative measure against the spread of the coronavirus. Some are almost bathing with hand sanitizer every minute in order not to take chances at touching their faces with the virus. Everyone is being too careful. It's getting really scary out there.

Bible Verses Against Fear

One of the hardest things about this moment is the uncertainty. Plans that were made months/years ago are now being cancelled, with doubts about rescheduling because everything is so up in the air.

Coast to coast, large public gatherings have been prohibited. Employees have been told to work from home, universities have moved all classes online and primary schools have closed for sanitizing. The stock market has seen meteoric crashes. The naira to dollar exchange rate is becoming more than a nightmare.

As the number of confirmed cases of illness grows, so too does the nation's collective uncertainty. Public anxiety is high, and everyone is trying so hard to curtail fear.

Can You Choose What To Forget?

For a very long time, remembering whatever we choose has been almost effortlessly done so well. However, forgetting whatever we choose seems almost impossible.

This year, I am making a decision have made a decision to INTENTIONALLY forget what should be forgotten.

Choose To Forget

Every day. In each moment. Life is constantly giving us opportunities to make choices as to what we remember. Each day holds many different moments; some painful, joyful, confusing, happy, peaceful, angry and loving. It is up to us as to which ones we remember.

Our memories can't hold all these moments, so the ones we choose to remember are important, for we will learn and grow from them. It is a little like selecting the best picture from a stack of proofs.

Easy but not very simple.

Or, is it just me? Do you tend to also have clearer memories of the moments you really really want to forget?