21 Days of Praise: Day 15 - The Living Word

Welcome to Day 15 of our #21DaysofPraise series! Today was quite a struggle for me. However, “I will praise the Lord no matter what happens. I will constantly speak of his glories and grace. I will boast of all his kindness to me. Let all who are discouraged take heart. Let us praise the Lord together and exalt his name.” Psalm 134:1-3 (TLB).

See how that suits right into the moment. That’s God’s Word for you. It is a living, active force.

Praise for His Word

Today, I celebrate the incredible gift of God's Word. The Bible is not just a book; it is a living, active force that guides, comforts, and transforms us. Through His Word, God speaks directly to our hearts, offering wisdom, encouragement, and truth.

Verse of the Day: Hebrews 4:12

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” — (NIV)

“For we have the living Word of God, which is full of energy, and it pierces more sharply than a two-edged sword. It will even penetrate to the very core of our being where soul and spirit, bone and marrow meet! It interprets and reveals the true thoughts and secret motives of our hearts.” — (TPT)

Have you ever wondered what the world would be like without the Bible? Have you ever wondered what your life and hope for the future would be without the Word of God? Why do you study the Bible? And, must you?

I believe that without the Bible, it would be much harder to guide society—both for good and evil. The Bible provides a blueprint for living, sharing morals within a community, and teaching parents what values to pass on to their children. Without it, something else would need to fill that role.

A world without the Bible would be very different. Personally, without the Bible, my life would have been full of worries and tensions.

21 Days of Praise: Day 7 - Under His Wings

Welcome to Day 7 of our #21DaysofPraise series! As we reflect on God’s protection today, let’s remember that He is always watching over us, ready to shield us from harm.

Praise For Protection and Safety

Verse of the Day: Psalm 91:4 

“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” — (NIV)

"His massive arms are wrapped around you, protecting you. You can run under his covering of majesty and hide. His arms of faithfulness are a shield keeping you from harm." — (TPT)

In a world of uncertainty and chaos, it’s comforting to know that we can find refuge under God’s wings. He is our shield, our stronghold, and our safe place.

There have been so many “I-could-have-died” moments in my life where I’ve felt God’s protective hand. One recent instance stands out vividly. We were driving home from a Christmas trip when a trailer suddenly swerved into our lane. I had barely a second to react, having just smiled at the driver a mile back. Miraculously, the people around us screamed, and the trailer stopped just before almost crushing our car from behind. I knew without a doubt that God had intervened. His protection was evident, and I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude.

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.

Promise Me – Pastor Jerry Eze

Every time I click on the ‘New Post’ button to draft a blog post, a fixed sentence serves as a constant reminder for me:

“Amaka, remember your life is meant to showcase the glory and beauty of God.”

The statement helps me stay on course. Coming across this article on the Teens WhatsApp post this morning, where I serve as a facilitator, stirred me. Yes, I promise! 

‘Promise Me’ as written by Pastor Jerry Eze

Promise me that you will never abandon your Purpose to make ignorant folks happy.

Please promise me that you will value Divine Validation over what anyone feels or thinks about you.

Promise me that you will not sabotage yourself and miss your Divine Timing.

Promise me that you will always see the Best out of every situation.

Please promise me that against all odds you won’t let your dream die.

Dear Diary, This Is To One Million Souls

Like I told you yesterday; I also write this piece with swollen eyes and dried tears. The tears have stopped flowing but the traces are visible. What I'm about to share with you today radiates from a heart flooding with peace and joy.

I Will Wait For It

It's 4 am. I woke up crying. The fear is creeping back in. The memories all come flooding in so quickly. My pillow is soaked. I can't even stop the flood of tears from streaming down my cheeks.

It's all happening at once. So many emotions. So many thoughts. Feelings of anxiety. Feelings of victory. Feelings of the unknown and feelings of the known. Which is scarier? The unknown? Or the known? Knowing what once was. Knowing the fear, the loss, the pain. Knowing that the result was close by. Seeing the hope painfully built slipping away. Feeling so certain yet doubting the possibility.

Prayers For My Nigerian Parents

Today, I am totally grateful for my parents. I am praying for them. I hope you pray for those playing the parental role in your life.

For My Parents

Is today Parents' Appreciation Day? It just has to be because I am so much hinged on appreciating my parents on the blog today. But, is there really a national day as Parents Appreciation Day? Wait. Let me ask Mr. Google.

*goes to Google*
*types what day is parent appreciation day?*
*gasp*

No matter what date it is, we should never fail to celebrate our parents. Let's appreciate their important role in our lives. It's not easy.

He Needs Your Love Now, Even If You've Never Met Him (Pray For Your Future Husband)

You don’t become a praying wife and/or mother overnight.

Pray For Your Future Husband

I often pray for my future husband. But sometimes it can be hard to pray for someone you’ve never even met before! So what are you supposed to pray? How can you pray deeper, more meaningful, and powerful prayers for your future man?

When I got this book 'Prayer For Your Future Husband' written by my darling sister and friend, Frances (who is now known as Hephzibah), I immediately knew I was going to take up the challenge. But it lingered.

I finally did it. Fully.

This prayer challenge is near and dear to my heart, and has taught me a lot. I’m thrilled to share it with you! I hope that this will encourage you to pray for your future spouse, or the man that God has already blessed you with.

How To Experience Peace In Your Life Every Day

Father, You have promised that we can experience the kind of peace that passes all understanding. That's Your kind of peace, Lord. And it's the kind we crave.

Peace In Your Heart

It almost feels like we have to fight for our peace every day. It is becoming harder to find daily peace; not easier.

Our peace is so easily stolen. It takes just a simple glance on social media or a mounting to-do list for uncertainty and restlessness to rise up and overwhelm our hearts with anxiety. A long look at the success and joys of those around you can lure your heart into a never-ending longing for the possessions, personality and positions that we don’t have. Even a quick encounter with a difficult person can quickly take your days of peace.

Ah, it is crucial now more than ever that we allow the peace of God to dwell in our hearts.

May Peace Fill Your Heart

Remember peace is a gift from God and we must learn to defend it relentlessly everyday. Bible tells us, “Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the Devil” (Ephesians 6:11). There are so many events on a daily basis that will try and steal your peace. Stay guarded!

Rays Of Peace

I believe in the power of words. As a copywriter, I have learned to decree a creative word for each new month. I find that doing this helps me work productively and live consciously, as everything tends to manifest towards the declaration of the Word—from creating content to dressing up to living the moment. I have seen the Word become flesh.

You Cannot Afford To Be Distracted

In Chapter 7 of the book of Joshua, because of the sin of one Israelite, Israel could no longer stand before their enemies. They grew so weak. Choi. 

Stay Focused

Sin is so underrated. If only we knew how much time, power and focus we lose each time we go against God's word.

This Picture Perfectly Captures 2017 Prayer

I love pictures. I can stare at a new picture of me for days.

Within few seconds of looking at a picture, they can give you a chuckle or cause you to think. And sometimes even do both.

I came across one that I love. As I look deeply, I see how it is a perfect expression of my prayer for 2017.

Feel free to make it your prayer too.

When God Gives No Gift

Happy Boxing Day! Time to unwrap our gifts and enjoy our blessings. Shall we? :)

Where Is My Gift?

I remember asking a similar question, where is my gift? 

Even the MD acknowledged that I was perfect for the position. The interview went smoothly. And the audition swept everyone off their feet.

20 Keys For Quick Success

I wasn't joking on Monday when I said this is the time to Pursue, Overtake and Recover (POR). See, when you realize how much time has been wasted and how much have been stolen, you will understand how serious this Divine Speed deal is.

20 Keys For Divine Speed

You are an eagle. The speed of an eagle should be your life's standard. You are born to soar. You are blessed with the grace for divine speed. God is waiting on you to break new grounds, to discover new territories and to chart new courses.

Declare Your Season Of Fruitfulness

It's Friday! If I'd created a podcast today, I'd have voiced out a few prayers for this month. This is my season of fruitfulness! I know it in my spirit!

Season of Fruitfulness

What I've been dealing with and what I've been feeling from God is that He wants to destroy unfruitfulness and barrenness and wants to make this a fruitful month (and a fruitful year generally). 

Dear Diary, Nothing Is Working!

Last night I poured out into my private diary. I'm led to share it with you. I hate to feel this way. 

PRIVATE DIARY
Monday, 2nd November 2015
~~Nothing is Working~~

My phone is sick. The battery refuses to be charged up.  My wi-fi router wouldn't come on. My mobile data plan expired this morning. I managed to go to the cyber café, and that's how the very system I was using stopped working. I logged on to another system, and that's how SoundCloud kept insisting that my password was incorrect. Phew! Even though I knew it was the right one. I tried other likely passwords. No way. I tried and tried and got tired. *tears*

PHOTO: 6 Simple Steps To Have An Effective Quiet Time

Make it a lifestyle. Find a quiet place free from distraction, where you can be alone with God. And choose a particular time that is most suitable for you, be consistent with the same time everyday.

This is how I do. Presently, I use the Open Heavens Devotional Guide. You?

PODCAST: Prayer For A New Beginning

Do you feel like you're traveling down a dead end street, but the path to change seems too scary or just too hard to even consider?
Do you feel like every area of your life is changing so fast and you're just standing in the middle of it all, confused and blank? Yup, I’ve been there.

Pray with me.

Rays of prayer. . .

Happy New Beginnings!

*inhales* I love the smell of new beginnings. It's always fresh and super exciting. *giggles* I could have scheduled to post for Monday but this one is too hot for me to wait. We need it like right now. It is fresh from the oven. . . as e dey hot! 

NEW Beginnings

I bring Good News! God is starting something new this season. I'm not just saying. I am making a decree! This is not the normal truism but a prophetic word. It's better we key into it already!

PODCAST: Timing is Everything

It hasn't happened yet. And you're like;  "When, God, when?!" "For how long will I wait?!" You are tired. You are almost giving up. Hold on!

God knows what he is doing because He is never late. You have to understand that God is doing the very best for you right now.

Rays of hope. . .