Category: Faith

The 7 Pillars of Wisdom by Rev.Kola Ewuosho

By on May 25, 2023in Faith, Rev.Kola Ewuosho

 Our decisions and habits are influenced by the knowledge and wisdom we possess. Knowledge and wisdom provide us with information and insights that can guide our decision-making process. They help us understand the potential consequences of our actions and enable us to make more informed choices. Developing good habits is often linked to having the right knowledge and understanding the principles that lead to positive behaviours. 

Hence, lacking the appropriate knowledge prevents the formation of beneficial habits. Consequently, without cultivating the right habits, the path you tread upon will fail to lead you to the destiny God has intended for you.

To begin with, it is important to grasp the existence of two distinct origins of wisdom. One source stems from hell, while the other originates from heaven. It is crucial to comprehend the workings of the adversary. He has been dispatched from the spiritual realm to this earthly domain.

Consequently, he exerts influence over the lives of all individuals through the manifestations of carnal desires. This serves as his point of entry. If each one of us would possess a deep understanding of the biblical teachings regarding our identity in Christ and actively cultivate personal growth, we would refrain from yielding to the desires of the flesh. The flesh, by its very nature, always tends to create space for the adversary.  One of the inclinations of the flesh is to foster a sense of independence from God. Recognizing this aspect is crucial, as it can significantly propel us forward to relying on God’s wisdom.

Throughout the book of Proverbs, wisdom is presented as a guiding principle for a fruitful and righteous life. It is associated with qualities such as knowledge, understanding, discernment, and the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 1:7 states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This verse emphasises that a reverential attitude toward God is foundational to acquiring wisdom.

According to Proverbs 9:1, “Wisdom has built her house, she has hewn out her seven pillars.” This scripture implies that there are seven pillars of wisdom, and those pillars need to be understood so that we can build the wisdom of God into our lives. 

Through my study of the Book of Proverbs, I have come to uncover seven essential elements that form the bedrock of wisdom. These pillars encompass: the fear of the Lord, knowledge, understanding, prudence, counsel or correction, instruction, and discretion.

Now, let us examine a practical illustration of wisdom, found in 1 Kings 3:9-14: “Therefore, give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?” The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. Then God said to him: “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked long life for yourself, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice,  behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you.  And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days. So, if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.”

Do you perceive the remarkable advantages that Solomon experienced by seeking wisdom? What was Solomon’s heartfelt desire? It was to bring pleasure to God. As he ascended to the throne following his father, he earnestly prayed, “God, grant me discernment and the capability to justly govern your people.” His plea was a request for wisdom.

As most of you are aware, Solomon is the author of the Book of Proverbs. It is evident that God truly bestowed wisdom upon him. This serves as a valuable lesson for us to grasp. By requesting wisdom, Solomon not only received it, but he was also granted wealth, long life, and numerous other blessings.

In conclusion, it is crucial to recognize that wisdom serves as a key that unlocks the door to various blessings and abundance in your life. 

We encourage you to obtain your copy of this powerful sermon series titled “7 Pillars of Wisdom”- by Rev. Kola Ewuosho by contacting us: office@uk.fowm.org 

The Overcomer’s Lifestyle Pt.1 – Rev. Funke Ewuosho

By on March 24, 2023in Articles, Faith, Rev. Funke Ewuosho

The first thing to establish in your heart and mind is that you are already an overcomer- you aren’t trying to be one, and you shouldn’t be trying to be one! We are told, “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” (1 John 5:4-5). Also, we belong to God; and the One who lives in us (i.e. Christ) is greater, mightier and stronger, than he (i.e. satan) who is in the world. (1 John 4:4). Jesus said we should be of good cheer- take courage, be confident, certain, and undaunted, because He has overcome and conquered the world for us; i.e. He has deprived it of power to harm us! (John.16:33). Satan is called the ‘god of this world’, but we are no more under his grip or control because we are now in Christ Jesus! “We know that we are held firm by God; it’s only the people of the world who continue in the grip of the Evil One.” (1 John 5:19c MSG). The Father has delivered us from the power of darkness and translated us into the Kingdom of His Son, Jesus Christ; and we have redemption and forgiveness of sins, through His blood. (Col.1:13-14). We’ve overcome the devil by the blood of the Lamb- Jesus Christ (Rev.12:11a); and are meant to reign in life through Him! (Rom.5:17). It’s therefore the time to “ARISE from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you–rise to a new life! Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you!” (Isaiah60:1 AMP)

Lifestyle can be defined as ‘the way in which a person lives’; i.e. your way or manner of life, rather than what you do every now and then, or short term. For instance, you could decide to have a healthy lifestyle; or just get into a short-term slimming program to look good for an upcoming event! Your lifestyle is also typically a reflection of your attitudes, values, or world view.

In this article, we shall be looking at some characteristics of an overcomer’s lifestyle.

  1. Faith

Faith is the victory that has already overcome the world; so the lifestyle of faith is a must for every overcomer! Faith isn’t a ‘panic button’ you suddenly press, when you’re in danger or distress. It’s meant to be a lifestyle- “The just shall live by faith” (Rom. 1:17c). Hence, the apostle Paul said, “The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God,” (Gal. 2:20b NIV). Someone said, faith isn’t faith until it affects your daily walk, speech, and how true; “For we walk by faith [we regulate our lives and conduct ourselves by our conviction or belief.” (2 Cor. 5:7 AMP)!

Living by Faith, is living by your conviction and belief in what God says; rather than by what you see, hear, feel or perceive by your natural senses. “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (Heb. 11:1 NIV). For instance, Abraham didn’t consider the deadness of his body or of Sarah’s womb. Rather, he considered God’s promise to him- hoping against (natural) hope; and indeed became the father of many nations.

It’s however, not enough to have faith in your heart. It must also be released- a. through your words; the spirit of faith is speaking what one believes. (2 Cor. 4:13). The woman with the issue of blood, “kept saying, If I only touch His garments, I shall be restored to health.” (Mark 5:28 AMP). Jesus taught His disciples to speak to mountains; and said they shall have what they say, if they believe.

And b, through actions: Jesus ‘saw’ the faith of the four friends, who broke through the roof of the building to bring their paralysed friend to be healed. (Mark 2:2-5).

  1. Living by the Word of God

‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” (Matt. 4:4c)

The Bible is not a religious Book; it contains the Word of God. God’s thoughts, will, plans, purposes, ways, etc are revealed in His Word. God’s thoughts and ways are different to ours and also higher than ours. (Isaiah. 55:8-9).

God’s Word is also a manual for living our lives here on earth. Living by His Word is patterning our lives thereafter and making it the final authority in our lives- by asking ourselves, “what does the Word say?”, and doing it despite our feelings, opinions, convenience, etc. For instance, during the Temptation, Jesus repeatedly replied to the devil, “it is written…”.  Living by the Word is having a ‘Word of God-Orientation’: always asking ourselves- ‘is this in line with the Word?’ It is judging our thoughts, words, actions, attitudes and behaviour by the Word. It’s also about judging our experiences by the Word. Someone said, any vision, dream, experience, opinion, belief-system, etc, that is not in line with the Word, should be disregarded! We must, however, also beware not to embrace the letter of the Word, but the spirit of it; because the letter kills! Remember, the devil also said to Jesus, “For it is written” (Matt. 4:6b).

  1. Fellowship with God

The Bible says “our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ”. (1 John 1:3c). We must cultivate a lifestyle of fellowship with God through three major means: worship, prayers and the Word.

  1. Prayers: fellowshipping with God in prayers is communing with Him. Many Christians only pray when they have challenges- even then, as a last resort! The Church in the Book of Acts continued steadfastly in prayers and they observed ‘hours of prayer’.

There are different kinds of prayers but we need to bring back the emphasis on daily devotional prayers. Also, I would recommend using the ‘Lord’s Prayer’ as a pattern, in the light of our New Testament reality. I’ve found it very comprehensive; it covers all vital areas including: worship, provision, forgiveness and protection (Matt. 6:9-13).

2.   Worship (which by implication, is also a type of prayer!). It’s also important to mention that- a, there are different dimensions of worship; b, worship must be in spirit and in truth (John. 4:24); and c, it’s done in faith (Heb. 11:6).

iii. The Word. Jesus said man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes out of the mouth of God. We must therefore attend to God’s Word, by meditating in it ‘day and night’. By so doing: a. we prosper in all our ways (Josh. 1:8; Psalm.1:1-3); b. “they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh” (Prov. 4:22); we draw so much spiritual strength (1 John 2:14b).

“But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint” (Isa. 40:31).

Another aspect of fellowship we must have as a lifestyle is fellowship with other believers, just like the early church! There has never been a time as needful to heed the exhortation- “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, especially now that the day of His return is drawing near”. (Heb. 10:24-25 NLT).

  1. Being Care-free, Anxiety-Free and Worry-free

“Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.” (1 Peter 5:7 AMP).

The Bible gives us a simple recipe for peace; it’s been anxious about nothing, but praying about everything- with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6-7). Someone said, thanksgiving is the highest form of prayer! I believe it’s also because it’s a demonstration of our faith that God has heard us, and that we shall have what we’ve asked for in prayer; like when Jesus gave thanks at Lazarus’ tomb.

Casting our cares on the Lord is an act and stance of faith that God will take care of things; and we enter into God’s rest concerning the matter (Heb. 4:3a). In that state, we’re no longer worried or anxious about, or afraid of, anything or any circumstance. Imagine Peter in prison, the night before Herod was to bring him to trial, between two soldiers, bound with two chains and sentries stood guard at the entrance; yet sleeping! (Acts 12:6).

It is a state of peace. Peace is- a. a shield that protects our heart and mind (Philippians4:7); b. a force that stills the raging storm (Mark 4:39); and c. a weapon against the enemy (Rom. 16:20). Peace is that powerful, because it’s a component of God’s Kingdom! (Rom. 14:17).

God always brings a message of cheer, no matter how terrible a situation is. Jesus said,

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). If we would, therefore, pay attention to His words rather than to what’s going on in the world, we would maintain our peace. “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, But a good word makes it glad.” (Prov. 12:25).

  1. Guarding your Thoughts.

“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” (Philippians 4:8 NLT). The mind can be a great battlefield; the enemy is constantly throwing thoughts like darts, at our mind. He wants us to accept those things so he can make them a reality in our lives; you eventually become what you think! In his discourse about our warfare, Paul talked about strongholds, arguments and high things that exalt themselves against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity (2 Cor. 10:4-5); and they’re all notably in the realm of the mind!

You must constantly challenge your thoughts- where are they coming from? Will they produce something positive or negative if acted upon? Are they in line with God’s Word? Etc. Naaman was so close to his miracle but was going to walk away from it, after coming all the way from his home because of his thinking! He said, “I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy. (2 Kings 5:11c NIV)

Your thinking can make or mar you; it can be your uplifting or downfall in life; it can make you rich or poor; it can keep you alive or kill you. So choose your thoughts carefully.

  1. Keeping your Tongue from Speaking Evil and Negativity

For “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit” (1 Peter 3:10).

Remember, the ten spies were reported to have brought an evil report when they brought a report of doubt, fear and unbelief. The report totally contradicted what God had said!

God said He will do to them just as they have spoken- they all died in the wilderness, except Joshua and Caleb. (Num. 14:28-30). Truly, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.” (Prov. 18:21).

  1. Walking in Love

Faith works (i.e. is activated, energized and expressed) through love. (Galatians 5:6c AMP).

Jesus said, “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.” (Mark 11:25-26).

Offence can hinder the prayer of agreement between believers from working. (Matt. 18:15-19). Husbands are told to treat their wives right, so their prayers may not be hindered! (1 Peter 3:7). Offence can hinder our gifts from being acceptable by God. (Matthew 5:23-24). One wonders if that had anything to do with why God rejected Cain and his offering?

Love’s characteristics are spelt out in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. Love is depicted as a debt; “Owe nothing to anyone– except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill the requirements of God’s law. Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law.”(Rom. 13:8,10 NLT). This is very much in line with Jesus’ parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18.

  1. Guarding Your Heart

“Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.” (Prov. 4:23)

Note that it is primarily our responsibility to keep our heart, and the ensuing verses seem to instruct us as to how to.

“Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech. Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.” (NLT). These verses also highlight what seem to be the ‘gates’ to the heart, namely, i. the mouth gate; ii. the ear gate; iii. the eye gate; and iv. your feet!

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

By on February 3, 2023in Faith, Personal Development, Rev. Funke Ewuosho, Spiritual Growth

 

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 !

By on January 26, 2023in Faith, Rev.Kola Ewuosho
Harvestime Church, Virginia Water (20th anniversary)

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 !

By on January 26, 2023in Faith, Rev. Funke Ewuosho
Harvestime Church, Virginia Water (20th anniversary)

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

HOW TO BREAK THROUGH BARRIERS

By on December 1, 2022in Faith, Inspiration, Rev. Funke Ewuosho, Uncategorized

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

By on October 21, 2022in Faith, 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

By on September 30, 2022in Faith, Rev. Funke Ewuosho, Spiritual Growth

“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. 

To order the full message in any format, please contact the office: office@uk.fowm.org 

Understanding Spiritual Warfare Pt.2 – Rev. Funke Ewuosho (study extract from message).

By on August 9, 2022in Faith, Rev. Funke Ewuosho, Spiritual Growth

”Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world”. 1 Peter 5:8-9(NKJV)

The very first thing to note is that you have an enemy; the devil. The enemy is not your friend, he is not your spouse or your brother. Usually, people are confused about who their enemy is because the same way God can use you, is the same way the devil also uses people. Sometimes people are used of the devil without them knowing that the enemy is using them. That is why we should be very tolerant and forbearing. 

It’s not everybody that’s a willing and conscious agent of the devil. For instance, you may have had a very bad day and  you’re feeling low, and throughout the day the enemy might have been pounding you with bad thoughts of you’re not good enough; etc. Then as you walked into a room, the first person that saw you says, my God, you look washed out; What would that do to you? It would make you feel worse, right?

Question: Did the person know what the enemy was saying to you the whole day?  

Of course not, but the enemy used them to make you feel even worse about yourself. It is therefore important to note that while the person did not want to be intrusive or invasive, it has affected you in the wrong way. That is why we do not wrestle against flesh and blood. We  should be merciful, compassionate, and gracious to people.

Even conscious agents of the devil, like the wizards and sorcerers are also deceived. Even though they act like they are conscious of what they are doing. The god of this age has blinded their minds and told them that they are the second in command to the him or promised them a rank.

The amplified bible says; ”Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion [fiercely hungry], seeking someone to devour. But resist him, be firm in your faith [against his attack—rooted, established, immovable], knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being experienced by your brothers and sisters throughout the world. [You do not suffer alone.]” 1 Peter 5:8-9 AMP 

John 10:10 says ”The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full”.   

Jesus is not the thief, the devil is the thief and they are not pursuing the same agenda. They are not drawn from the same ministry. Praise the Lord Jesus. 

The devil once told me when I was sick that God wanted to take me home. But I told him, God doesn’t need sickness to bring me home. In Hebrews 11:5 the Bible says ”By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, “and was not found, because God had taken him”. Which of the patriarchs went home with sickness and disease? Do not allow the devil to steal from you.

God said, if anyone attacks you it is not by His doing, He is not the one behind it. He said, ‘I will not put on you any of the diseases that I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord that heals you”. God is not the one putting sickness on you. He is the one healing you. Jesus went about doing good, healing all those who were oppressed of the devil, for God was with him. You see, these are basic things. They are fundamental things and we must settle these basic things in our minds. Do not allow the devil to steal from you.

To order the full message in any format, please contact the office: office@uk.fowm.org 

Overcome Your Fears

By on July 7, 2022in Faith

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 from trying anything new; from breaking new grounds and new territories. Fear will stop you from investing in anything or anyone. Isaiah 54:2-4, “Enlarge the place of your tent, And let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; Do not spare; Lengthen your cords, And strengthen your stakes. For you shall expand to the right and to the left… Do not fear, for you will not be ashamed; Neither be disgraced, for you will not be put to shame”.

The question is, “How much more would you be willing to do if you were sure, you would not fail?” Note that, the children of Israel didn’t enter the Promised Land because of fear! Fear is a product of unbelief, and it always leads to disobedience, if not overcome. To break through, you must confront and overcome your fears. Esther said “If I perish, I perish” but she never perished. The three Hebrews refused to bow to the image of gold and were thrown into the firey furnace. But they didn’t burn. If you do not bow to your fears, you will not burn! David’s mighty men broke through the garrison of the Philistines to get water from the well of Bethlehem. (1 Chron. 12)

Sometimes you’ll need to break through the enemy territory to get what you need or desire! Jesus said “Behold I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy and nothing shall by any means hurt you”. (Luke. 10:19)

God bless you!