Category: Spiritual Growth

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

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. 

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).

”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 

Your Sense of Value is Rooted in Your Identity – Rev. Funke Ewuosho

SPIRITUAL IDENTITY  

Your sense of value is rooted in your identity. This is true naturally and spiritually. Whether you’re dealing with poor self-esteem, a poverty mentality, or an abundance mentality, it is all rooted in your identity. For instance, it would be hard for Prince Charles to struggle with a poverty mentality because of his identity as a royal.  So, when you’re looking at whatever thing you’re struggling with, it can be traced back to your identity. We all come from different backgrounds, we didn’t choose our parents or the family into which we were born or even the circumstances in which we were born.  But we can choose Christ. Praise the Lord! We can all embrace a spiritual identity. In Christ, we are all on a level playing field. Hallelujah!  

Who are you? In the bible we see how Moses identified with his natural identity when God called him to go to Pharoah – he saw himself as a stammerer. Gideon also identified with his natural identity when he said he said that his clan was the weakest and poorest, and that he was not eloquent.    

Who does God say you are? Look at John the Baptist in John 1:19-23; when he was asked who he was, he said in verse 23, ”I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, make straight the way of the Lord”. That was his spiritual identity. He located himself in the Word of God. He located himself in the plans of God for his life.  

John 1:19-23: Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ. “And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.”  Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?” He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord,” ’as the prophet Isaiah said.” 

In Romans 11:13, Apostle Paul said “For I speak to you Gentiles; in as much as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry.”  Furthermore, in all the letters Paul wrote (except his epistle to the Philippians, Philemon and the First and Second Thessalonians) he would refer to himself as an Apostle. He took his office very seriously, so we must know our spiritual identity. 

2 Corinthians 5:16 –18 (NKJV). “Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 

A lot of people want to tie us to our natural identity. The enemy wants to keep pulling us back and binding us to our natural identity. And unfortunately, for most of us, we are only conscious of our natural identity. Yet it is no match when it comes to spiritual warfare. We can’t go into spiritual warfare with our natural identity.  This explains why when it comes to sin being unravelled and uncovered, we usually wonder how somebody of a ‘high level’ could be caught in a sinful act. Our natural identity is no match when it comes to sin because the flesh is weak.  

If any man be in Christ he is a new creation, old things have passed away (2 Corinthians 5:17). The New Living Translation says that we are to stop evaluating others from a human point of view. 

I pray that we will be delivered in Jesus’ Name, May we stop evaluating ourselves and others from a human point of view.