WHAT IS IN A NAME?
Anchor Verse: Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name. (Philippians 2:9)
A name defines and helps form one’s identity. A name therefore, is an integral part of a person’s embodiment. Names carry authority, they are symbolic and wields prestige. Everything in life has a name attached to it, whether a living or non living thing. Today, we will be looking at the importance of a name which has been highly lifted above every other name in heavens and on earth. That name is JESUS!
In most societies, royal names are very influential and nobody dares to toy around with them. People buy into a concept or idea not because they totally agree with the idea but because of the name associated with it. Some names carry power and are mostly used as symbols. For example, “the young man is a lion”. This signifies how strong the young man is. Others may say “she is just a dove” meaning she is very gentle and calm.
Now, above all the symbols, influence, power and authority that most names possess, God gave His Son Jesus a name that is above every other name in this world. As a result, all authority and power is vested solely upon Him. That is, anytime the most influential name in the world is mentioned, such a name is subject to the name of Jesus.
You know what? Most Christians do not understand the power behind the name of Jesus, if they truly do; they will not be fidgeting at any slightest shake up from the wicked one. The bible tells us in Philippians 2:10-11 At the name of Jesus every knee would bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Oppression is a name but it is subject to the name of Jesus. Cancer is the name of a sickness but the name of Jesus is greater than it. Adversity is also a name but Jesus is greater than it. Understand this, the name of Jesus is a strong weapon in your hands, if only you recognize and use it appropriately. Have you ever wondered why, whenever you encounter an evil personality in a dream, and shout JESUS! Such a thing immediately leaves you. It is because; you mentioned a name that is stronger and greater than it.
Do you actually understand the privilege you have to gain access to the name of Jesus? Are you applying it in your life and situation? Or do you just have head knowledge of the name? I enjoin you today to start utilizing the priceless weapon that has been given freely to you. When you are faced with a challenge or you are being oppressed, confront it with the name of Jesus. Mentioning the name of Jesus against any work of satan is like placing a plastic container against a blazing fire, what do you think will eventually happen? It will melt away.
Morris Chapman’s song “Your Name” explains it further:
Jesus, Your name is power,
Jesus, your name is might
Jesus, Your name will break every stronghold
Jesus, your name is life
Jesus, Your name is holy
Jesus, Your name brings light
Jesus, Your name is above every other
Jesus, Your name is life
WHAT ARE YOU LIVING FOR?
So then, every one of us shall give account of him/herself to God. Romans 14:12.
A life can only become fruitful when it fulfills or is fulfilling God’s purpose for creating it. Everything in life has a purpose, and God in His infinite wisdom designed all things to function in its place while bringing glory to Him.
The spoon in your kitchen is fulfilling its purpose anytime you eat with it. The chair in your home is fulfilling its purpose anytime you sit on it. Now, can God boast of you that, He is enjoying the benefits of creating you, the same way you are enjoying the things you bought with your money?
Come to think of it, water is created for drinking, fire is there to cook our food, the trees gives shield, brings forth fruit and is a source of wood for us, the sun brightens our day and night come so we can have rest. All the animals in the forest and the fishes in the sea remain purposeful, meeting the demands of their Creator. How about you? What are you living for?
Romans 8:19 says “For the earnest expectation of the Creature is waiting for the manifestation of the sons of God. You are created specifically for something very unique. You are created to be a solve a need. Have you discovered it? The reason for frustrations in life is basically, as a result of functioning in a different purpose. A life that is not fulfilling its purpose has a vacuum, it has a longing, and it is never satisfied. Even the objects that men designed have their specific purposes, how much more, men and women who are made in the image and likeness of God.
When you desire to find out the purpose and uses of a particular product, you contact the manufacturer for information. In the same way, God is the only One who can reveal your divine purpose to your heart. Do you have a relationship with Him? Do you have faith in His saving grace? Can God rightly say you are living out your purpose here on earth to please Him?
There is no time to procrastinate further. Today is that day, have a rethink, come to the Lord now and start fulfilling your purpose of being here. Let your life count for eternity.
Send an email to icarediscipleshipcenter@gmail.com to speak with a mentor for further guidance.
LESSONS FROM THE FIG TREE.
Anchor Verse: Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ (Luke 13: 6-9)
The story of the Fig tree is very instructive and evenly related to our lives. The fig tree was extremely important for both nutritional and economic values in ancient times. The bible used fig tree severally in the bible to depict the prosperous times and times of famine in Israel. See (1 Kings 4:25, Jeremiah 5:17).
It is important to note that, the Fig tree in our text was planted for the sole purpose of bearing fruits. When the owner of the vineyard came to take fruits from the fig tree, he was not happy that the tree had no fruits. So, he ordered the keeper of the vineyard to cut down the tree as it was using up the soil for nothing.
Coming to your own life today, are you fruitful or is your life like the fig tree? You do not exist by mistake you know, but to be purposeful and live meaningfully.
Similar to the disappointment displayed by the vineyard owner, God is displeased when we do not bear fruits expected of us. Will you be happy if you plant a tree and it fails to bear fruits for you? I bet you won’t.
Jump into action today, prepare and work towards impacting your generation positively. Do not live behind your shadows, there is more to life than just passing by. God wants you to use those skills and talents He deposited into you to change lives and build the world. Don’t wait to start tomorrow, the time is NOW!
Be fruitful with your life while it is day, for night will come when you cannot work again.
Love (2)
Anchor Verse: My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. (John 15:12-13)
Walking in love is synonymous with walking in light. When we light up our corners, the world becomes a better place. God requires us to love one another as we love ourselves but that is truly not always the case in action. Sometimes, we see ourselves despising more than we love. When believers walk in love towards everyone, this world will become warm and habitable. You know why? Whosoever you love, you will not kill, slander, hate, reproach, backbit, steal from, spite, disdain or humiliate.
Love is truly the ultimate. Walking in love overcomes and wins evil. If we must be like Jesus, we must endeavour to love like Him.
Sadly, many Christians are waxing cold in their love towards fellow men. This may be as a result of wickedness which is prevalent in our world today. You may ask, how can I love someone who frustrates my efforts each time I want to express love or care towards him/her? Lets see 2 Corinthians 12:9 My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.“ You have to depend on Gods grace to help you to love others. On your own human effort, it is entirely difficult.
Jesus clarifies it better in the story of the Good Samaritan. (kjkk) The traveller was left deeply wounded and would have died if not for the compassion of the Samaritian, who we could refer to as a sinner. Do you extend a hand of care to those in need around you? How would you want to be loved? Extend same love to someone today.
Take Action: Make a list of all those persons who you really do not love, whose characters irritate you. Pray over their names and ask God to remove hatred/unforgiveness in your heart towards them. Ask God to help you to show them practical love.
Love Wins!
Love
Anchor Verse: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these. (Mark 12:30-31)
Love is the main basis of the Christian faith. Jesus died on the Cross of Calvary to redeem mankind from the bondage of satan as a result of His unconditional love for man. God demands that we shall walk in same pattern of love towards Him and towards people around us. The love of God towards us can be likened to the love between a husband and his wife. Love is pure, passionate, kind and peaceful.
How can anyone establish a relationship with a person he/she doesn’t have an affection for? To have a personal relationship with Jesus, there first must be a genuine love in your heart for Him. It is that love that will spur you to live for Him, obey His commandments, serve Him, be proud of Him anywhere, and tell your friends of His amazing grace.
Do you love Jesus with all your heart? Is your heart opened to know more about Him?
Sometimes, the complexities of life pushes us to question God’s love for His children. The truth is, God’s love can never be measured. All through the ancient times till date, Gods love has been evident in every facet of mans life. The question is not whether God loves us, it should be, do we reciprocate the love God showers on us?Take Action!: Reflect over your life, have you experienced Gods love in any area of your life? Now, do you love God as much as He loves you? How do you plan to show God that His love for you will not be in vain?