Author: Admin HC

DEVELOPING INNER STRENGTH BY REV. FUNKE EWUOSHO PT.1

The times we’re living in presently, can validly be called the end-times. The apostle Paul described those times, in 2 Timothy 3:1 (AMP) as, “perilous times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear].” There’s therefore no time like now, that we would need to develop inner strength! We must understand that this isn’t about brute force or having a strong will, but having a strong spirit. A strong spirit would, however, impact every other aspect of our lives. For instance, a believer who has developed a strong spirit, will also be strong in their will and emotions! Hence Paul prayed for the Ephesians, to be empowered by God, with inner strength through His Spirit (Eph. 3:14-16 NLT). We must also make it a point of utmost necessity, to pray the same for ourselves regularly.

Let’s now look at some reasons why we should develop inner strength:

  1. To rise above challenges:

But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles,” (Isaiah 40:31a). To mount up also means to soar; which is “to go above normal level or to coast through the air.”

It isn’t God’s will or plan, for His people to be overwhelmed or subdued by challenges; but to always be on top of them. The Bible says, “You shall laugh at destruction and famine, (Job 5:22a); and “When they make [you] low, you will say, [There is] a lifting up;” (Job 22:29a AMPC).

  1. For endurance:

“But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength …. they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31).

The race we’ve been called to participate in, as Christians, requires endurance; because it is a lifelong race! We are told to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and the finisher of our faith; who endured the cross and such hostility from sinners (Hebrews 12:1-3). Jesus said it is those who endure to the end that shall be saved (Matthew 24:13)!

We need endurance when our faith is being tried and tested; so that our trials can produce the best in us and accomplish the best for us (James 1:2-4)!

When we don’t see immediate answers to our prayers; endurance is needed to stay on course, so we may receive, in the end, what God has promised us (Hebrews 10:36). According to the Message Bible, “But you need to stick it out, staying with God’s plan so you’ll be there for the promised completion.” Abraham obtained the promise, “after he had patiently endured.” (Hebrews 6:15).

Jesus told a parable to the effect that people ought to pray, and not faint or lose heart or give up (Luke 18:1). After Elijah declared, “there is the sound of abundance of rain,” he

persisted in prayer until the cloud appeared (1 Kings 18:41-44)!

iii. To overcome adversity:

It has been said, “tough times don’t last, but tough people do!” This is very much in line with the scriptures; “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.” (Prov. 24:10). Times of adversity or crisis might not be avoidable, but you can avoid falling into pieces. According to the Message Bible, “If you fall to pieces in a crisis, there wasn’t much to you in the first place.” Also, it doesn’t matter how many times you fall, as long as you get up again- “for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again,” (Prov. 24:16a NIV).

We need inner strength, not only to withstand in the evil times; but also to remain standing when it’s all over (Eph. 6:13)! The Amplified Bible says, “and, having done all [the crisis demands], to stand [firmly in your place].” The times of sickness, is an example of evil or adverse times; and we’re told, “The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness,” (Proverbs 18:14). We must remember that God made man in His image and after His likeness (Gen. 1:27); and since God is Spirit (John 4:24), man is also a spirit! Man is not a mind or a physical body; though he has a mind and a body. Proverbs 18:14 clearly separates the spirit from the body; the NLT says, “The human spirit can endure a sick body,”. There has been instances where doctors had given up on a sick patient, only for them to survive the sickness- owing to a strong spirit. It takes more than ‘will power’ to conquer adversity; you need a healthy spirit! Therefore, we mustn’t develop our minds and our bodies, at expense of our spirit.

iv. To endure and overcome testing and temptations:

“God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.” (James 1:12 NLT).

So much has been said about ‘overcoming’, to the point where many believers haven’t learnt to endure testing and temptations! We often hear words like, “if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen;” but the Bible has a lot more to say about enduring temptations! The Bible says God will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear; but will make way of escape, so “that you may be able to bear it.” (1 Cor. 10:12-13). Until I read this over and over again; I used to interpret God making a way of escape, to mean, ‘getting out of the situation!’ I then realised it actually says, “that you may be able to bear it.” Remember, love “bears all things,” and “endures all things.” (1 Corinthians 13:7). The Bible also says the trying of our faith works patience, and we should allow patience to finish its work (in us)- “So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well–developed, not deficient in any way.” (James 1:2-4). Imagine if Joseph had gotten out of the prison before Pharaoh sent for him? Faith isn’t just about receiving, but also refusing! Remember, “By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter,” (Hebrews 11:24); and some folks didn’t accept deliverance, “that they might obtain a better resurrection.” (Hebrews 11:35c). This, however, isn’t talking about accepting sickness or diseases, or what Christ has already borne for you and redeemed you from! Rather, you’re to resist the devil and to give him no room at all (James 4:7; Eph. 4:27).

Also, note it says, God won’t allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear or to “be pushed past your limit;” (1 Cor. 10:13 MSG). That tells me, firstly, there’s a divine ‘filter’ in heaven, and the enemy can’t just throw anything he wishes at us. Remember the temptation of Job; God repeatedly warned satan not to touch his life (Job 1:12; 2:6)!

Satan isn’t allowed to tempt you beyond what you can bear or “your ability and strength of resistance and power to endure.” (AMP).

This suggests that what we can bear varies from one person to another, which is

determined by how much inner strength you had developed before the testing or temptation. The wise man had already built his house on the rock, before the storms came (Luke 6:47-48)! “He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord. His heart is established; He will not be afraid,” (Psalms 112:7-8a). Our hearts must have been established before the evil tidings come; or else we would be afraid!

We encourage you to purchase this sermon series by contacting us : office@uk.fowm.org.

REACHING FORWARD TO THE THINGS WHICH ARE AHEAD. PT.2

  1. GOAL SETTING:

If wishes were horses, beggars would ride!” We must set goals to accomplish those things which are ahead of us; or else they would remain in the realm of intentions, wishes, desires and aspirations! There’s a need to develop an action plan to motivate and guide you toward your goal; like the saying, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.”

Goals are more deliberate than desires and momentary intentions; because they require a commitment of your thoughts, emotion, will and behaviour towards attaining them.

In setting your goals, you must, (a) know and identify specifically, ‘those things which are ahead’ of you; (b) set goals that are focused on what you need to do to accomplish them; and (c) how you intend to get those things done- that is, the path you plan to take to where you’re going!

Interestingly, a story that comes to mind is that of ‘The Shrewd Manager’ who was about to lose his job: he said to himself, ‘What shall I do now? My master is taking away my job. I’m not strong enough to dig, and I’m ashamed to beg— I know what I’ll do so that, when I lose my job here, people will welcome me into their houses.’ And he clearly laid out the path he planned to take to achieve his goal and executed it. (Luke 16:3-7).

Another story was that of the ‘Prodigal son’ after he had lost everything and was starving, he came to his senses and said, ‘I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ So he got up and went to his father. (Lk. 15:17-20a).

A study listed 5 Step Process for Goal Setting:

  1. Set goals that motivate you.
  2. Set Smart goals. (Specific, Measureable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound).

iii. Put Goals in Writing.

  1. Make an action plan- it can help you focus on the steps it’ll take to reach your goal.
  2. Stick to it!

7.  VISION:

You must have a vision of those things which are ahead of you. You must be able to ‘see’ them, even though they are still ahead; like the people of faith- “but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them” (Heb. 11:13b). The people building the Tower of Babel had a picture and an objective in mind; to build a great city with a tower that reaches into the sky- that will make them famous and keep them from being scattered all over the world; and they were united and resolved to do it and they began to do it!

This is where most people fail, even before starting out- no picture, no objective, no unity, no resolve and no action!

Hear what God said, “Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.” (Gen. 11:6 KJV).

According to Merriam-Webster, vision is defined as, “the act of power of imagination.

When you apply vision to the future, you can create a mental picture that can be used to direct your actions. The Bible says, “If people can’t see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves;”(Pro. 29:18b MSG). Vision serves as a guide and can be used to provide a sense of purpose- “When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild.” (NLT) or, “cast off restraint;” (NKJV).

The revelation of God’s Word and of His will for you can be used to create this mental picture. Joseph was sold as a slave by his brothers, and was falsely accused and wrongly jailed; yet he maintained his joy, his

peace, and inner strength, because he had a knowledge of God’s will! (Gen. 45:7-8a).

Vision gives you a vivid, imaginative conception and anticipation of those things which are ahead of you! God says His plans are plans to give you a future “an expected end.” (Jer. 29:11 KJV)

When you’re able to ‘see’ those things which are ahead of you, then you can become a reality! God told Abram, “for all the land which you see I give to you and your descendants forever..” (Gen. 13:14-17). He said to Jeremiah, “You have seen well, for I am ready to perform My word.” (Jer. 1:12). Elisha asked for a double portion of Elijah’s anointing; and he said, “if you see me when I am taken from you, it shall be so for you; but if not, it shall not be so.” (2 Kings 2:10). The Bible says we shall be like Jesus when He is revealed, “for we shall see Him as He is.” (1 John 3:2c).

  1. MOTIVATION:

Motivation is derived from the word ‘motive’, which denotes needs, desires, wants or drives within the individuals. It is what stimulates people to actions to accomplish their goals, or to perform a task or their behaviour- though some people probably may not be aware of their motivation!

Motivation is defined by needs, values and goals; which are considered the building blocks of motivation that lead to action. You must therefore set goals that motivate you; or else you won’t achieve them!

Are your goals motivated by your needs or your values? A study highlighted 4 types of motivation

  1. Incentive motivation– being motivated by external rewards.
  2. Fear motivation– i.e. being motivated by the fear of an undesirable outcome.

iii. Power motivation– i.e. being motivated by the need for power- e.g. to accomplish your goals or desires.

  1. Social motivation– i.e. being motivated by what others think about you or the desire to be accepted by others.

Jesus told His disciples to be careful not to do their good deeds with the motivation of being seen and praised by people; or else, they would have no rewards from God. (Matt. 6:1).

The Bible says God weighs our actions (1 Sam. 2:3c); I believe the scale on which He weighs our actions, is our motives!

Love should be our motivation in the operation of spiritual gifts and what we do for others. (1 Cor. 13:1-3). The Apostle Paul said, “For the love of Christ controls and urges and impels us,” (2 Cor. 5:14a AMP). Love must be our motivation for desiring spiritual gifts- and not power or performance. (1 Cor. 12:31). Our motive for service mustn’t be to please men, but the fear of God; it’s the absence of this that makes people engage in eye-service.

We must see ourselves as serving Christ and not people; and knowing our reward comes from Him. (Col. 3:22-24). Joseph’s motivation was the fear of God, in his services at Potiphar’s house. The biggest test of his motivation came, when master’s wife asked him to sleep with her; he refused and said to her, “How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Gen. 39:9).

  1. HARD WORK & PRODUCTIVITY:

To accomplish your goal, you can’t wish away hard work! A person who is diligent in his business, will stand before kings and not unknown people. (Pro. 22:29).

There can be no productivity without hard work- “[It is] the hard-working farmer [who labors to produce] who must be the first partaker of the fruits.” (2 Tim. 2:6 AMP).

We must avoid idleness. To be idle is to spend time doing nothing, avoiding work and being lazy. Idleness is a state of inaction or inactivity.

In the parable of the labourers; when Jesus saw people standing idle in the market place, He hired them to work in His vineyard. (Matt. 20:3-7). The Bible says we should learn from the ants, who, though having no leader, labour all summer, gathering food for the winter. (Pro. 6:6-11). Another example of a hard worker is the proverbial virtuous woman; “she always works hard.” (Pro. 31:17 CEV), “And does not eat the bread of idleness.” (Pro. 31:27c).

Being idle isn’t just spending time doing nothing, it’s also spending time doing anything that has no purpose or effect or something pointless- e.g. engaging in idle chatter. The Bible admonishes us to live purposefully, making the very most of the time. (Eph. 5:15-16 AMP).

Hard work is rewarding- “Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.” (Pro. 31:31 NLT).

  1. ASSOCIATION & RELATIONSHIPS:

Like the saying, “No man is an island entire of itself;” you therefore need to be in the right company to accomplish your goals in life.

The Bible says, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.” (Eccle. 4:9-10,12 NLT). Could this also be why Jesus always sent out His disciples in twos; and they also followed in that pattern afterwards!

Peter and John were arrested after the healing of the man at Gate Beautiful and detained till the next day. Immediately after their release, they went to the other believers and when they heard the report; they all raised their voice together in prayer to God. They left the prayer meeting full of the Holy Spirit and boldness to preach God’s word- regardless of what they had just experienced! (Acts 4:23-31). No wonder the Bible says, “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another,” (Heb. 10:24-25a NLT)

The company you keep has more influence on you than you can imagine or are ready to admit! Hear this, “Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people, or you will learn to be like them and endanger your soul.” (Pro. 22:24c-25 NLT). Your company can make or mar you- “He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed.” (Pro 13:20); so choose wisely!

We encourage you to purchase this sermon series by contacting us : office@uk.fowm.org.

REACHING FORWARD TO THE THINGS WHICH ARE AHEAD. Part 1

 

The words of apostle Paul come to mind; “but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,” (Philippians 3:13c). We’ve talked and heard so much about the need to forget the past, and that is indeed very important; but it’s time to place a greater emphasis on what lies ahead of us! The past is gone, and while we may have valuable lessons to learn therefrom; we have so much more ahead of us to reach forward to.

The past has the power to hold us down and to repeat itself; but we must break free, so as to lay hold on the things which are ahead of us. The enemy doesn’t so much care about your past; but he’s very much afraid of your future; so the fight is about your future! Joseph was a dreamer (his dreams had to do with his future), and that was why his brothers wanted to kill him- they said, “We shall see what will become of his dreams!” (Genesis 37:20c).

The things ahead of us can right past wrongs, turn bad situations around, turn failure into success, etc – things that would make the past pale into insignificance; and that is why we must reach out for them. In this article, we shall be talking at the things we need to accomplish this goal.

  1. ENERGY:

Reaching forward to the things which are ahead, would require great effort. In the NIV, it says, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal” (Philippians 3:13-14a). Those two underlined words, connote application of force and pressure! The woman with the issue of blood “came in the press behind, and touched His garment.” (Mark 5:27c KJV).

Paul prayed that the Ephesians be empowered with inner strength through the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 3:16). We must run towards those things which are ahead of us without being tired or weary (Isaiah 40:31); and we must pray without giving up (Luke 18:1).

  1. FOCUS:

but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,” Notice he said, “one thing I do;” Jesus told Martha, “you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed,” (Lk. 10:41-42.) The Psalmist said, “One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek:” (Psa. 27:4b). Two, you must forget the things which are behind; change your focus- stop looking backward! Anyone who runs looking backwards or sideways can’t win the race; because the finishing line is always ahead and not behind! God told Israel,

Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing,” (Isaiah 43:18-19a). We’re told it isn’t wise to ask, “Where are the good old days?” (Eccles. 7:10 MSG). We must stop recalling the past, but should always seek something better and bigger. (Heb. 11:14-16).

We must be running, with our eyes focused on the goal. You must always reach forward- even if you fall or fail, fail forward! As it is written, “Do not rejoice over me, my enemy; When I fall, I will arise;” (Micah 7:8a). And, “for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again,” (Pro 24:16b NIV).

In focusing on our goal, we must let go of certain ‘weights’ (Hebrews 12:1-2). Weights are not necessarily sinful or unlawful; but they not helpful or beneficial or expedient. (1 Cor.10:23)- e.g. distractions, some habits, some relationships, entertainments, etc.

  1. DETERMINATION:

It’s “the quality of being determined (i.e. firmly set in one’s decision or course of action, especially with the aim of achieving a particular goal); having a firmness of purpose.

Determined people are extremely motivated and unlikely to quit or change their mind; they have a very strong desire, resolve and the will power) to achieve their goals. They persevere and continue working toward achieving their goal, regardless of the challenges they may face. We’re told to endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” (2 Tim. 2:3). Jesus is a perfect example of determination- “Because of the joy awaiting Him, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now He is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (Heb. 12:2c NLT). Paul was another great example; he said he was ready not only to be jailed at Jerusalem but even to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus, and the brethren couldn’t persuade him not to go! (Acts 21:13).

  1. DISCIPLINE:

It’s been said to be one of the most important personality traits in everyone’s life. It refers to a set of rules and regulations which are to be followed while undergoing any task or activity.

Hear this- “An athlete who refuses to play by the rules will never get anywhere.” (2 Tim. 2:5 MSG). Self-discipline helps you stay focused on your goals. It also enables you to stay in control of yourself and of your reaction to any situation; self-discipline (or self-control) is one of the fruit of the Spirit! (Gal. 5:22). Jesus demonstrated self-discipline in enduring the cross and disregarding its shame- more so when He challenged come down from the cross to prove He was indeed God’s Son! (Matt. 27:40).

Discipline must be maintained as a lifestyle, and not just for a short period; like a muscle, it becomes stronger, the more you train it. It can also help boost your self-esteem, because it helps you accomplish your set goals!

A study listed 10 habits of highly disciplined people:

  1. They commit- they’re true to their words.
  2. They avoid temptations.

iii. They take care of themselves- they know that things like, sleep, good nutrition and exercise, not only impact their health; but also their mood, work performance and relationships!

  1. They work at developing habits- they don’t see a disciplined life as being synonymous to a deprived life.
  2. They set boundaries- they know their limitations and say no to distractions.
  3. They enjoy routine- it enhances efficiency and self-management.

vii. They lead with their mind over their mood- they stick to their routine and don’t let their feelings get in the way.

viii. They clearly define their goals- they know that if a goal is too vague, it’s unlikely to be achieved.

  1. They live by deadlines- they don’t just set goals; they give themselves strict timelines to keep them on track along the way.
  2. They keep their eye on the prize- they can defer immediate gratification, in the pursuit of greater long-term gains.

5. DECISION:

Moses said to the Israelites, “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live;” (Deut. 30:19c).

Somebody said, ‘If you don’t choose, you will lose!

Decisiveness is needed to accomplish your goal. Abram was told to leave his country, his father’s house and family, to a land he didn’t know; and he got up and left! God’s promises to Abram were contingent on his leaving. (Gen. 12:1-4).

Unlike Abraham, Lot lingered when the angels came to rescue him and his family out of Sodom- they had to drag them out of the city to safety. (Gen. 19:16).

No matter how great the things ahead of you are; you must decide to go for them and to pay the necessary price. However, it’s your determination and a lifestyle of discipline will help you sustain your decisions!

We encourage you to purchase this sermon series by contacting us : office@uk.fowm.org.

 

Rev. Funke Ewuosho

Happy 20th Year Celebration Harvestime Church !

God gave instructions and we came in obedience to carry out His purposes in the United Kingdom: “Go and create a forum where My people can flow with Me in understanding and Wisdom”. The assignment is an Apostolic one and His grace is sufficient to reach many nations, using Harvestime church as an Apostolic base. Over 20 nations have been reached through the grace of God upon this church, and upon Fountain of Wisdom Ministries globally. At Harvestime church, people have been saved, healed and discipled for God’s kingdom. The following scriptures capture a part of the church’ assignment: read 1 Timothy 2:1-7. In this passage, Apostle Paul was speaking about his calling and encouraging Timothy, a spiritual son to pray all manner of prayers for all men. God desires all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. This captures what has been happening at Harvestime church in the many years we have been here. Different people have been impacted and many have come from various nations, cultures and tribes. Countless souls have and are being saved and coming to the knowledge of the truth. Prayers, soul winning, teaching, discipling people, and raising leaders as they identify their gifts and callings continue to be at the core of who we are as a church. To God be all the glory. The doors of some nations have opened to us in the past two decades, through the lives of those who have been blessed at Harvestime. Rev. Funke and I have travelled as far as Latin America and touched many nations there. As expected, God confirmed His Word with signs and wonders as the sick were prayed for and God healed them. This goes on everywhere we have preached and taught the Word of God. We also visited India, as well as other African nations too.

At a certain time, Harvestime church had over 15-20 nations represented in her membership including: Europe, Latin America, Africa, Australia, India, Fiji Islands, the Caribbean Islands, and more. People have come from all over to be impacted by God through His Word and His Spirit. To God be all the glory. Read Mark 16:15-20 and Matthew 28:18-20 Many have been saved, baptised in water, received the infilling of the Holy Spirit and are doers of the Word of God. To God be all the glory! Philippians 2:13-16 (NKJV) “for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.” God’s grace has sustained the work of the ministry and church, through all the trials and tribulations. He wants His people to fulfil the purposes He has for them. They can only fulfil their destiny as they mature in Christ. Every challenge has become an opportunity for maturity in the character of Christ as we learn to forgive, overlook offences, and love one another with the love of God. His grace is sufficient for us. To Him be all the glory. Amen.

Rev. Kola Ewuosho

Harvestime- 20 years…. And still counting !

Wow; it’s 20 years already- 20 years of God’s faithfulness, goodness and mercies!

We’ve come a very long away as a church; and though, physically, we might look smaller and less than what we ‘should’ (or would love to) have been in our 20 years of existence as a church; we have a lot to be thankful to God for! First of all, for keeping us all these years; and like Israel, we can say: “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side,” ….. when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us alive, when their wrath was kindled against us; then the waters would have overwhelmed us, the stream would have gone over our soul; then the swollen waters would have gone over our soul.” Blessed be the Lord, Who has not given us as prey to their teeth. Our soul has escaped as a bird from the snare of the fowlers; the snare is broken, and we have escaped. Our help is in the name of the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 124:1-8 NKJV)

God promised to take the Israelites into a land flowing with milk and honey; but not everyone He brought out of Egypt saw the fulfilment of that promise! Rev. Kola and I immensely thank those who have stayed with us, through thick and thin; while we also warmly welcome those who just came on board!

Today, we are seeing the generation of people that will experience the fulfilment of God’s purposes, promises and prophecies concerning Harvestime and the FOWM in the United Kingdom. So let’s work together, drawing inspiration and strength from the words of apostle Paul- “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:12-14 NIV)

Grace and peace be multiplied to you all.

Yours truly in Christ’s love,

Pastor Funke

Kingdom, Power & Glory

Study extract from message by Rev. Funke Ewuosho

Mathew 6:13 NKJV

And do not lead us into temptation but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. Amen

Psalm 145:10-13 (NKJV)

”All Your works shall praise You, O Lord, and Your saints shall bless You. They shall speak of the glory of Your kingdom, and talk of Your power, to make known to the sons of men His mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of His kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures throughout all generations.”

The kingdom of God is supernatural

First of all, the kingdom of God is supernatural, it is a spiritual kingdom, it is not physical and it is not worldly.

The kingdom of God is universal

God’s kingdom is universal. It includes and covers all. It is present and occurring everywhere. There is no part of the universe where you do not see the kingdom of God. And because the kingdom of God is universal, it has rules, laws and principles that are also universal: for example; the law of sowing and reaping, the law of giving and receiving and the law of work.

The kingdom of God operates by seed principle

God’s kingdom operates by the seed principle. See the parable of the sower and the parable of the mustard seed. Everything in the kingdom of God starts as a seed. God gives seed to the sower. Everybody has something that God has given to them to sow.

We must sow the seed because seeds do not amount to much if they are not sown. They do not germinate unless they are sown. It is when seeds are sown that they generate a harvest. The tiniest of all seeds will become a mighty tree, but it must be sown.

Still under the sowing principle, we must always plant the right seed for the desired or intended harvest because it is whatever a man sows that he will reap. If you want to reap love, you plant love.

The kingdom of God is everlasting

God’s kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, from generation to generation.

The kingdom of God has mysteries

The kingdom has mysteries. In Mark 4:11 And He said to them, “To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables.”

HOW TO BREAK THROUGH BARRIERS

1. An encounter with Jesus 
That is one thing that will position and empower you to break through every barrier in your life! “So we have stopped evaluating others by what the world thinks about them. Once I mistakenly thought of Christ that way, as though He were merely a human being. How differently I think about Him now! What this means is that those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old is gone. A new life has begun!” (2 Cor. 5:16,17 N.L.T) Philippians 3:3  
 
2. Change 
It is said that you can change without growing but you can’t grow or make progress without changing! Change is a necessary thing we must learn to love and embrace. Everyone who broke through barriers embraced changes. You need to change the way you think- “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” (Pr. 23:7) 

3.Overcome your fears! 
Overcome the fear of people, the fear of failure, the fear of death, the fear of the future, the fear of the unknown, the fear of rejection, etc. Fear will keep you in bondage to the devil, to people, to circumstance, to the status-quo and even to yourself! Fear will hold you back from breaking through! Fear will keep you in mediocrity. Fear will stop you and hurt you”. (Luke. 10:19) 

4. Hard work and diligence 
“Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings. He will not stand before unknown men” (Pr. 22:29). God rewards diligence. People reward diligence. Diligent people get promoted, e.g. Joseph, as a slave in Potiphar’s house and even as a prisoner!  

5. Cultivating Healthy relationships 
There are things you can never break through as a one-man riot squad. In God’s economy, there is nothing like a self-made man. In the maturing process, we move from dependence to independence and then to inter-dependence! We need others as much as they need us! A healthy relationship is not a dependent or independent one but an inter-dependent one.  

6. Help the Dreams of Others 
What you make happen for others, God (through others) will make happen for you. Jesus said “And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise!” (Luke 6:31) You can’t afford to be selfish. 7. Humble Yourself 
“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble”. (James 4:6) We have been talking about breaking through barriers – but those would be barriers, which are put in your way by satan, people or circumstances, not the one put there by God Himself!, that the power of Christ might rest upon him. (2Cor 12:9). 
 
8. Pray 
Learn to ask for God’s help in the areas you need changes, in the areas of your weakness, in the areas you need breakthroughs, etc. It, however, takes humility to ask for help. When some nations came against Jehoshaphat, the Bible says, he feared and set himself to seek the Lord. (2 Chron. 20:3). When Paul and Silas were in prison, the Bible says they prayed and sang praises. (Acts 16:23-26). When Peter was kept in prison by Herod, the church prayed to God constantly for Peter to be released (Acts 12:5).  

Recommended message: ‘Breaking Through Barriers’ by Rev. Funke Ewuosho, if you want to order your copy (MP3 or CD), please contact us: office@uk.fowm.org

God bless you! 

Salvation Package- Rev. Kola Ewuosho

[Study extract from message]

Alot of us think salvation is about getting saved so that one day when we die, we go to heaven. No, it is a whole package that contains so many things that so many believers are now waking up to. Our salvation package starts with our contact with God through His mercies, through hunger for Him, and by faith we make contact with Him. By His word and by His spirit, He has a package for us wherein His divine provisions have been made. From our eternal redemption to His divine protection, His divine provision, to His divine direction and His divine attention. He makes His divine assignment known to us through the flow of his divine wisdom. We experience this divine flow of power. Every challenge we face in life, can be traced back to our salvation package. Think about it. 

There are three phases that I look at in this series. The first phase is you encountering God at salvation at the point of getting born again; the second phase is you growing through process; and the third phase is you manifesting the fullness of Christ.

First of all, embrace the fact that your salvation is not just one thing, it is a multidimensional thing; divine healing, divine protection, divine direction and divine provision. Everything that God has made available to you in the salvation package belongs to you. So, the provision involves all Jesus paid for through his death, burial, and resurrection.

Each aspect of the salvation package has its provisions, its demands, and God’s expectations, as He delights in seeing us get the results, he has prepared for us to get. You see, God delights in seeing you get the results he has designed for you to get.

The demands on us involves our obedience to the Word of God. Our knowledge plays a vital key in all aspects of this package.

Renewed Mind

We can only to access what belongs to us in the salvation package, with a renewed mind.

Our minds have some degree of reproductive potential or creative potential, such that whatever you feed into your mind, your mind has a way of staying with it until it attracts it. That is what people do not understand. The evil that the news carries today is designed by the god of this world to ensure that evil keeps happening at a heightened level, because everybody who hears it, dwells on it and they attract more of it to themselves.

Joshua 1:8 (NKJV) ”This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” It gives you a practical way to think and talk the Word. This therefore means your speaking, you are thinking, and your acting must be based on the Word.

At least now you know that if you leave yourself to your natural vices, will keep pumping into you the incorrect information and making the wrong deposits into your soul.

Key scriptures for further reading:

Isaiah 53:3-12

Psalm’s 91

Romans 12:1-3

Hebrews 12:1-2

Romans 8:29-30

For more insight, contact us at office@uk.fowm.org to get this message  

 

Entering Your Season of All Round Rest Pt.1 [Study extract from message]- Rev. Funke Ewuosho

“And the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of those countries when they heard that the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. Then the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet, for his God gave him rest all around”. 2 Chronicles 20:29-30 (NKJV)

In the story of Jehoshaphat, the Bible says that when they heard that the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of those countries. Hallelujah! Verse 30 says then the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet, because his God gave him rest all around.

The NIV translation says, ‘and the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace for his God had given him rest on every side’. God will give you rest on every side. There will be nothing that will make you to be agitated, to be disturbed. There will be quiet, there will be peace, because the Lord has given you rest all around, In Jesus’ mighty Name. 

 In Judges 13, when the prophetic word came to Samson’s mother that she was going to have a baby and that the baby was going to be a Nazarite, Samson’s mother informed her husband (Manoah). When Manoah heard what had happened, he prayed to God to let that angel come back again so he could guide them on what they were required to do to raise him well. 

 The Bible says the angel returned and he gave them guidance on how to raise Samson. There is always something for you to do for you to enter into rest. Praise the Lord. There is nothing in God that is automatic. Some people say, “well, if God said it, then it should just happen”. Instead, you must ask yourself; how can I participate? What should I do?

The first thing is to know is that it is God’s will for you to have rest. You must establish the fact that it is God’s will for you to have rest for you to come into the place of resting. Matthew 11:28-30 (NKJV) ”Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”  God wants to give you rest. Amen.

Anxiety and rest do not mix; therefore, you need to deal with anxiety. 1 peter 5:7 (AMP) says, ”casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]”.  All your anxieties, all your worries, cast them on the Lord, so that you are carefree. If He has your cares, you do not have them. If you have them, He does not have them. So, make your choice. 

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