The Christian Migrant Network

MECHANICAL CHRISTIANS, A FLEXIBLE GOD

“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.”
Hebrews 4:14–15 (ESV)
 
Brethren, having grown up in the orthodox community I was very much convinced that, I was satisfied with my way of worship in the house of God. But in my late 30s, I begun to yearn for deeper spirituality. Not that I was not prayerful, in fact I spent more time in God’s presence at the chapel mostly every day if I can. My friends and some of the Priest I worked with could testify to this fact. I was also very active and involved in church leadership, having worked my way from the youth level into the Church Pastoral Council as an Executive member. In spite of all these I still felt some emptiness; my soul was yearning for something much deeper. This led me to start reading various spiritual books and listening to preachers outside my denomination. Then the Spirit of God begun to open my eyes to a whole new level of Christian faith life. I moved from being a mechanical Christian to a spirit-led lifestyle. I didn’t know how to fast for longer hours or days or for specific needs, I was also yearning to pray in the spirit for years but did not have the right direction, I didn’t understand when someone said I got a revelation from God or prophecies and the promises of God and much more. As Archbishop Fulton Sheen will say "The first subject of all to be studied is Scripture, and this demands not only the reading of it but the study of commentaries. ...Protestant commentaries, I discovered, were also particularly interesting because Protestants have spent more time on Scripture than most of us." That is the level God took me, spend more time reading scriptures and commentaries.
Even though I am still growing in the faith, I believe I am much better than I was and can now disciple my Children and other people (both young and old) on how to seek God deeper than just going to church on Sundays and weekdays. I didn’t understand why some people left the Orthodox church and joined the Protestants, Pentecostals or Charismatics. But now I understand and know that the Orthodox communities are sitting on a time bomb. We are losing our younger generation and need to act faster.
Brethren, over the period, I have seen many mechanical Christians (not only in the Orthodox communities but in the other communities as well) who yearn to have much intimacy with the Father (God) but are also not willing to commit time or find it difficult to let go the worldly desires. They simply do not want to die to the desires of the flesh, plus they do not want to be seen as being too spiritual. Some sit under the anointing of Spirit-led Preachers and Priest, but unable to tap into the anointing of these Men of God. It is just like Elisha’s servant Gehazi, who failed to obtain power from his master because of greed and disobedience (2 Kings 5). However, we also read from 2 Kings 2, how Elisha was patient to receive a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. If you want power from God, you need to commit to something. In today’s message, Pastor Jentezen Franklin teaches us on the necessity of moving beyond just living a normal Christian life. I pray that the Spirit of God will steer your hearts and move you to a different level in your Christian life. Let’s patiently listen to the end.
Shalom and Peace to you.
 
Maurice Luther
Founder, The Christian Migrant Network
thechristianmigrant@gmail.com

RE-EVALUATE YOUR PURPOSE FOR SEEKING GOD

22 The next day the crowd that had stayed on the far shore saw that the disciples had taken the only boat, and they realized Jesus had not gone with them. 23 Several boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the Lord had blessed the bread and the people had eaten. 24 So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went across to Capernaum to look for him. 25 They found him on the other side of the lake and asked, “Rabbi, when did you get here?”
26 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, you want to be with me because I fed you, not because you understood the miraculous signs. 27 But don’t be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend your energy seeking the eternal life that the Son of Man can give you. For God the Father has given me the seal of his approval.”
28 They replied, “We want to perform God’s works, too. What should we do?”
29 Jesus told them, “This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent.”
John 6:22–29 (NLT)
 
Everyone has a reason for going to a specific church to worship. While some attend church to seek for their spiritual needs, others also go to church for their material needs. Oh, and some even go there to find their future partners. Brethren, no one is here to accuse you of your motive. We can see from today’s reading, how the crowd went seeking for Jesus, not because they wanted spiritual food, but physical food to fill their stomachs. Unfortunately for them, they were dealing with the all-knowing God, who knew their intentions and the purpose for which they were seeking Him. It is the same in our time. However, Jesus in his response tell us the most important thing we need to do. Today, Rev. Fr. Blessed Ambang Njume (a Catholic Priest from Cameroon) throws more light on our scripture reading. I pray that the Holy Spirit will speak to you hearts and press this message down so that you will re-evaluate your purpose for seeking God. For the scripture tells us in Matthew 6:33 (ESV); “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Let’s now listen to today’s message.
Shalom and Peace to you.
 
Maurice Luther
Founder, The Christian Migrant Network
thechristianmigrant@gmail.com

GENERATIONAL FAITH SEED

15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”
John 21:15–19 (ESV)
 
God gave you a promise or showed you a vision of where He is taking you or that business. However, as you listen to me now things are not very clear and you are even much more confused and doubt if God actually revealed these things to you. You are going through health challenges which the doctors can’t seem to give you any better feedback. Your family seem to be going through difficult situations, your business seems to be fall apart, and you are not even sure what to do. Your finance seems to be in shambles. Everything seems so confusing and worrying. Brethren, today I bring you God’s reassuring words that, it is okay to feel the way you feel, however, do not lose your love for Jesus. In today’s reading, Peter and the other disciples were equally confused and still processing in the minds what to do then after Jesus was crucified. They went back fishing, and that is where they met the Lord again.
Do not feel like a failure because of the challenges you are going through. We all go through it many times; however, we do not remain on that level of discouragement for long. We go back into scriptures to encourage ourselves in the Lord. In today’s message from Pastor Jentezen Franklin, he says that some of us carry generational faith seed in our genes (that is, in our DNA), and the devil is afraid of such people so will continue to attack you till you give up. But brethren, if only you will hold on to God and stand strong, you will see His victory. God throws us an invitation without explanations, if only you will cling your ear to His voice you will hear and do as He tell you. Let us listen to today’s inspirational message from Pastor Franklin.
Shalom and Peace to you.
 
 
Maurice Luther
Founder, The Christian Migrant Network

BELIEVE GOD FOR OTHERS

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.
Matthew 18:10–14 (ESV)
 
God says to us today, I have never given up on anyone and never will I, so why do you give up on yourself, your loved ones and that hopeless situation. Trust me for anything, for I said to you “Everything is possible for the one who believes” (Mark 9:23) and I meant it.
In our scripture reading for today, popularly known as ‘the Parable of the Good Shepherd’; we read of how the Shepherd risked leaving 99 sheep on the mountain in other to search for just one that had gone astray and missing from the fold. Isn’t that how our loving Father in heaven treats us and many of us who went astray in the past. How then are we quick to give up on other people and do not believe that they can or will ever be saved. In his book “Prevailing Prayer”, Dwight L. Moody shares the testimony of Mr. George Muller and he wrote.
“Mr. George Muller, in an address given in Calcutta, said that in 1844, five individuals were laid on his heart, and he began to pray for them. Eighteen months passed by before one of them was converted. He prayed on for five years more, and another was converted. At the end of twelve and a half years, a third was converted. And now for forty years he had been praying for the other two without missing one single day for any reason whatsoever, but they were not yet converted. He felt encouraged, however, to continue in prayer, and he was sure of receiving an answer in relation to the two who were still resisting the Spirit.”
Brethren, I have met quiet a number of people who have this crazy notion that, there is no way some other person will ever change and get saved. But as for them, they can be saved and transformed. They have no believe for others and therefore will not even try to pray for their salvation. I want to tell such people by the authority of God’s word that you are wrong and will continue to be wrong because you are not God and can never be God. For His word says in the beginning scripture for today “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10). Allow those persons to say on their dying bed, I don’t think I can change.
In John 17:12 (NIV); Jesus prays to his Father (our God) saying “While I was with them, I protected them and kept them safe by that name you gave me. None has been lost except the one doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be fulfilled”. This should tell us, only God has the right to say, this person cannot be saved in this life. Judas Iscariot betrayed his Master, Peter also denied him three (3) times. Both the betrayal and denial were foretold by Jesus before his crucifixion. However, Judas chose to end is life, while Peter chose to seek forgiveness. God want’s all of us to be saved and he want us to believe for others to be saved and turned to God. We have many broken marriages, lost and unsaved husbands and wives, rebellious children, hopeless persons in our society and many more challenges; all because we have given up on people and situations, therefore have refused to commit to prayer. If God saved you, so will He save that other person, provided you will pray for them.
In conclusion, I like to share another testimony from Dwight L. Moody’s book “Prevailing Prayer.”
“About fifteen hundred mothers came together to pour out their hearts to God in prayer. One mother said, “I wish you would pray for my two boys. They have gone off on a drunken spree, and it seems as if my heart would break.”
She was a widowed mother. A few mothers gathered together and said, “Let’s have a prayer meeting for these boys. ”They cried to God for these two wandering boys, and now see how God answered their prayer.
That day, these two brothers had planned to meet at the corner of the street where our meetings were being held. They were going to spend the night in sensual pleasures and sin. About seven o’clock, the first one came to the appointed place; he saw the people going into the meeting. As it was a stormy night, he thought he would go in for a little while. The Word of God reached him, and he went into the inquiry room, where he gave his heart to the Savior. The other brother waited at the corner until the meeting broke up, expecting his brother to come. He did not know that he had been in the meeting. There was a young men’s meeting in the church nearby, and this brother thought he would like to see what was going on, so he followed the crowd into the meeting. He also was impressed with what he heard and was the first one to go into the inquiry room, where he found peace.
While this was happening, the first one had gone home to cheer his mother’s heart with the good news. He found her on her knees. “She had been knocking at the mercy seat. While she was doing so, her boy came in and told her that her prayers had been answered; his soul was saved. It was not long before the other brother came in and told his story – how he too had been blessed.
On the following Monday night, the first to get up at the young converts’ meeting was one of these brothers, who told the story of their conversion. As soon as he had taken his seat, another man jumped up and said, “All that my brother has told you is true, for I am his brother. The Lord has indeed met us and blessed us.”
Brethren, keep believing God for others and that hopeless situation even when you are not seeing any signs of change. And if you have given up praying for a loved one or any hopeless situation, go back to God again and continue praying with trust that He can and will answer you.
Shalom and Peace to you.
 
Maurice Luther
Founder, The Christian Migrant Network
thechristianmigrant@gmail.com

WHY GIVE UP?

Judges 20:1–48 (NKJV)
 
For three times the people of Israel went up against their brothers the tribe of Benjamin in a bloody civil war that didn’t need to happen. All the people of Israel asked for was the men who raped the Levite’s concubine and left her dead (Judges 19). Two times they were severely trashed by the tribe of Benjamin. It was only on the third occasion that the Lord came to their aid to defeat the Benjamites. Does it mean the Lord was not with them during the two times they were defeated? No. This is because from the beginning of their agenda, they sort the Lord and the Lord gave them a positive feedback, therefore, they were very certain the Lord was with them. In spite of the defeats, the people of Israel never gave up until the battle was won on the third account. What lessons can we draw from this passage.
Do not shield evil nor be involved in it. The tribe of Benjamin could have prevented this needless blood shed by giving up those bad nuts. In Proverbs 6:17–18 we read as part of the six things the Lord hates; “hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil”
Seek the face of the Lord in all your decisions. For three times the people of Israel enquired of the Lord. Even when they were defeated they still went before God to inquire. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Learn to encourage yourself sometimes. We all feel discourage one way or the other. Most especially when you are very certain this is a win for you or a done deal, only to find yourself disappointed. (1 Samuel 30:6)
Don’t give up at the first defeat. Rather, let your prayer and praise maximize even during defeat. The people of Israel, increased the tempo of their prayers. After the second defeat, they fasted, prayed the whole day and offered burnt offerings and fellowship offerings to the Lord (verse 26). Then, they enquired of the Lord whether they should still go up against their brother (the tribe of Benjamin). (Ephesians 6:18)
God answers in His own time so learn the virtue of patient. Many of us are always impatient and think we can rush God or squeeze his hands. If you want victory that will last for a lifetime then learn to be patient. Any victory without God’s help is short leaved victory, you will fight that battle again. God’s victory always comes with rest. (Isaiah 55:8-9)
Never neglect the assembling of the faithful (Hebrews 10:25). Inasmuch as praying alone brings result, community or corporate prayers are very important most times. We gather to encourage each other, pray for one another and socialize in the Lord. Let us break the habit of attending church only on Sundays. Join church groups that will help you build your faith and attend other church activities to fraternize with other members.
Show gratitude at all times. Be thankful to God even when things are not going as expected, and when victory or success or the blessings flow, increase your thanksgiving. In Judges 21:2-4; even though the people of Israel won the battle, they were grieved. This did not stop them from showing gratitude to God for the success. In being thankful, more blessings flow into our lives.
In conclusion, let us remember that God saves at His timing and not ours. He is never too late but brings deliverance at the right time when it is needed most. Ours is to pray and His is to answer at the appointed time.
Shalom and Peace to you.
 
Maurice Luther
Founder, The Christian Migrant Network
thechristianmigrant@gmail.com
 

ARE YOU STILL HOLDING ON TO THE PROMISE?

10 Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring my people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” 11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” 12 He said, “But I will be with you, and this shall be the sign for you, that I have sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain.”
13 Then Moses said to God, “If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” 14 God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’”
Exodus 3:10–14 (ESV)
 
We are thankful to God for a new month. I believe many of us are still looking up to God on how or whether your expectations or plans for the year will be met. I came today, with an encouraging word that, keep holding on and trust God’s promises.
In today’s scripture reading, we noticed how God appeared to Moses and commissioned him to go and liberate His people (Israel) from Egypt. The instructions or job description was very clear. The job came with an offer which was “I will be with you, and this shall be a sign for you…”. The job was an elevation from taking care of flocks for forty (40) years to leading about six hundred thousand men (Exodus 12:37) out of Egypt. The first largest migration on planet earth. He even had a magical staff, plus demonstration on how to use it. Moses, knew that there was a powerful force backing him. But let’s look at this? Was Moses qualified for the job? No. Technically, he was not qualified for the job, the only experience he had was guiding animals. This should tell us that total dependence on God is very important. You might not be qualified for a job, or position, but He can put you there. Sometimes an application you submitted long ago and was rejected, He just pops it up and blesses you with it. That is the God we serve.
After series of questions and finally accepting the offer, the journey to liberation was not after all smooth as Moses probably thought it will be. However, let’s remember one thing, God told Moses “But I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless a mighty hand compels him” (Exodus 3:19). It was one problem after the other, and even the Israelites threatening to deal with Moses, Aaron and the elders, because their stress level had increased. “That same day Pharaoh gave this order to the slave drivers and overseers in charge of the people: “You are no longer to supply the people with straw for making bricks; let them go and gather their own straw.” (Exodus 5:6-7) However, God continued to give His assurance that they will be liberated and leave the land of Egypt. We all do face such challenges when we are convinced we heard clearly from God about a dream or vision He gave us. However, the road seems unclear and we sometimes feel stuck along the line. There are times when you feel like giving up because people around you don’t seem to buy into the vision or do not understand what you are trying to achieve. No word of encouragement but all you hear is negative words.
Brethren, in the face of such opposition and discouragement, what do you do? I want to share with you some seven (7) points to help you stand firm on your convictions;
Remember the vision and God’s promises to you. He spoke to you and not anyone else, so hold fast and persevere (Hebrews 10:23, 36). “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.”
God is always working to accomplish his purpose even when we don’t understand or see (Exodus 7:4-5). “Then I will lay my hand on Egypt and bring my hosts, my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great acts of judgment. The Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I stretch out my hand against Egypt and bring out the people of Israel from among them.”
God does not release all the details of His plans and promises. It is not always straight-forward and easy (Isaiah 55:8-9). “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
We are to trust Him and him alone to keep his promises (Proverbs 3:5-6). “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”
Remember the sovereignty of God and His ability to move things at any time (Psalm 103:19). “The LORD has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all.”
God often times has an unexpected plan to meet our needs (Romans 9:17). “For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.”
God is never too late with His deliverance (Isaiah 60:22). “At the right time, I, the LORD, will make it happen.”
Brethren, it is okay to feel anxious and broken down and all that, but after all that, do as the bible say David did “He encouraged himself in the Lord” (1 Samuel 30:6). Remember these seven (7) points and trust God to come through for you. The troubles and challenges will come, but it cannot stop what God has ordained to happen in your life. “What heaven starts, hell can never stop it” (Samuel Rodriguez). I close with this great promise He gave us “I will never leave you, I will never forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).
Shalom and Peace to you.
 
Maurice Luther
Founder, The Christian Migrant Network
thechristianmigrant@gmail.com

WHOSE WORD IS IMPORTANT TO YOU?

‘His mother called his name Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.”’
1 Chronicles 4:9 (NKJV)
 
Many of us live our lives in worry, pains, and hurts because of negative words or comments from other people. Sometimes a close relative, best friend or other loved ones. These negative comments pierce our souls and pushes us down. While some are able to shake of these comments and rise up into victory, others live and feed on these comments sometimes for life and amount to nothing; allowing those negative words to take root and grow. They also intend become negative and bitter fruits out in the world. As our topic suggest, I want to once again find out from you “Whose word is important to you? Is it people around you, or God – your Father and creator. I want to share with you a reflection from UCB (United Christian Broadcasters) on our scripture for today. It is my prayer that you will be encourage and shake off negative comments passed by people and listen rather to what the word of God says about you.
“The name Jabez means ‘pain and trouble’. Perhaps that’s why no other parent in Scripture gave their child that name. But it’s a label he refused to wear and a name he refused to be defined by. A label usually tells you what is in a bottle; its contents and even its value. And when you accept the labels people try to put on you, you start to believe that’s who you really are and that you will never become anything more than that. The Bible says, ‘As he thinketh in his heart, so is he’ (Proverbs 23:7 KJV).
People will use past experiences to label and limit you. They will also use your physical, mental, and emotional characteristics to label and limit you. What should you do? Do what Jabez did – go to God! In the final analysis, His opinion about your past, present, and future is the one that matters most. Plus, He loves you and has a plan for your life.
Jabez prayed a prayer that changed his life, and it will change your life too. ‘“Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested’ (1 Chronicles 4:10 NKJV).
Jabez asked God for four things: blessing, influence, power, and protection. And God gave them to him. So, today you have a choice: believe what others say about you, or believe what God says about you. When you look at it that way, the choice is clear.”
Brethren, I believe this reflection is meant for you to start living again and live each day on God’s word and not on the words or comments of people around you. You are a Child of God and what He says about you supersedes any other comment passed by anyone around you. God loves you and you are so important to Him. Remember this always.
Shalom and Peace to you.
 
Maurice Luther
Founder, The Christian Migrant Network
thechristianmigrant@gmail.com

HONOUR AND INTEGRITY

7 So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD, and struck Job with painful boils from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head. 8 And he took for himself a potsherd with which to scrape himself while he sat in the midst of the ashes.
9 Then his wife said to him, “Do you still hold fast to your integrity? Curse God and die!”
10 But he said to her, “You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.
Job 2:7–10 (NKJV)
 
The book of Job happens to be one of my favorite books in the bible, and anytime I am going through difficult moments, I turn to those pages and read the entire book for strength and encouragement. I believe every child of God needs to read this book over and over again, because that book still speaks to us, especially when you are going through tough times. I have this quote I wrote in my journal and prayed to God about during my wilderness session; that “Lord, help me, so that anytime I am tempted to give up in life, I would remember the story of Job, and say to myself, I have not reached his level yet”. I think we should all remember this and tell ourselves the same words when we are tempted to give up in life during trail moments.
Brethren, my focus this morning is on maintaining honor and integrity during difficult or challenging moments with people around us. Be it, your family, partner or spouse, children, friends and loved ones. Or even sometimes in the corporate world, particularly Startups with promising visions. Like Jesus will ask his twelve apostles, “Will you also go away from me, too?” (John 6:67). It was the start of Jesus’ mission and based on some statements he made, the bible tells us many left. Just like the start of any new Startup which goes through financial challenges, and staff being to bounce out and not become committed to the vision. Suddenly, that vigor, energy and passion which was driving everyone, starts diminishing because of crisis. And people will not want to put in any effort again, but rather are interested in draining and squeezing the last oil out of the company and take it down and down, then ‘abandon ship’.
The first time I read the book of Job and came across the comment by Job’s wife, I was shocked and branded her to be truly wicked and insensitive. Why would a wife, not say any soothing words, but add to the pains of her husband? Brethren, that was my view for a very long time, until most recently I was studying about women characters in the bible and their roles. When I came to Job’s wife, the Spirit of God prompted me to read the text well and try to listen to comments from other preachers before I draw my conclusions. I did exactly that and this is what I found out.
Comments from preachers is divided on this subject. While some maintain that the woman was unkind with her words and therefore was cursed by God, others also believe she was expressing her feelings as a woman and therefore was the same woman whom God blessed again in the ending of the book of Job. It was interesting to read and listen to all those sermons and commentaries. At least, my eyes were opened and I began to have an open mind on this subject. Concluding on this subject, I chose to be neutral in my position based on the fact that;
I need to be empathetic towards a woman who had it all and all of a sudden, the family is struck with difficulties and she cannot comprehend.
The bible was not clear whether she was cursed by God and died or she abandoned Job and left. The only time we heard from her was in chapter 2.
Once again, the bible was not clear, whether she was the same woman God blessed in the ending of the book.
Brethren, my position changed on this subject and I still maintain a neutral position. A lot of things in life do not add up, they are mysteries and will continue to be mysteries to us. However, I will want to say that honor and integrity matters most, in trail moments or challenging times. Our life is full of relationships; therefore ‘Honor’ and ‘Integrity’ is very crucial especially when dealing with people. Remember, God boosted of Job to Satan, He said “Have you thought about my servant Job? No one in the world is like him! He is a man of integrity: He is decent, he fears God, and he stays away from evil.” (Job 1:8 (GW)). Job actually proved that and maintained his integrity from the beginning of his trial till the end. I already spoke about how people working for new companies or startups abandon ship during difficult moments. One thing we need to realize is that, abandoning the ship and leaving the captain does not destroy the vision. The vision is what drives the company or ship. The captain can be changed or the same captain can be revived with reviewed energy and the ship can also be repaired again because of the vision. Once it is re-launched, that is when they make a better voyage.
Am speaking to many of us who are always in the habit of abandoning ships and hopping onto another one. That lifestyle does not make you honorable and a person of integrity. Sometimes, the family or your spouse or your kid(s) will be going through difficult moments, and the best you can do is abandon them and run away. Leaving them to struggle all alone. One thing, I picked up early in life was never to give up on people no matter what the situation or circumstances. Because I am not their creator, God is. And God can change their circumstances or situations anytime. Remember Joseph, in Genesis 37, his brothers thought they were killing his dreams by selling him into slavery. They never knew they were rather speeding up the process. Mr. and Mrs. Potiphar also thought they were punishing him by putting him in jail, little did they know they were also pushing him closer to the crown of glory.
Brethren, let’s come to the new testament because we are still in the Easter mood. The Jewish leaders thought by bribing the soldiers and buying people to spread lies that “Jesus’ followers came during the night and stole the body...” (Matthew 28:12-15). They did not know it was the beginning of a revival. They also did not know that by persecuting the Apostles and the early Christians as we read throughout Acts of the Apostles, they were helping the spread of the gospel.
There are many at times we are prompted by the spirit of God to be watchful and seek God when we are confused and unsure what is happening. Other times, we are blessed to hear messages like this cautioning us like Gamaliel cautioned the Jewish leaders against killing the disciples of Jesus, saying that “if their ideas were of human origin, they would fall apart, but if it is from God you cannot stop it. You will only find yourself fighting against God.” (Acts 5:38-39). There are many of us like the Jewish leaders, fighting against God. We have no honor, we have no integrity. We are blinded by so-called principles that the world teaches, rather than seeing things from God’s perspective through reading of scriptures.  I thank Jesus for his words in Matthew 11:25 (NCV); he said “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the people who are wise and smart. But you have shown them to those who are like little children.”
In conclusion, I want to ask you, how far can you go with that family member, partner or spouse, that child, or that friend during difficult moments? Will you walk away, and abandon ship or stick with them through it all while looking up to God? Let us remember, we are not God and can never be God to know the future and what it promises. Read the entire story of Job and take a position.
Shalom and Peace to you.
 
Maurice Luther
Founder the Christian Migrant Network
thechristianmigrant@gmail.com

EVERYONE NEEDS A PROPHET TO SPEAK IN THEIR LIFE

“… Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Hear me, O Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem: Believe in the LORD your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall prosper.”
2 Chronicles 20:20 (NKJV)
 
33 Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. 35 As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.”
Luke 2:33–35 (NLT)
 
Brethren, I used not to believe in this so-called ‘Prophets and prophecies’ until I went through a season of wilderness. Before that period, I also noticed that my senior cousin who visited the family from time to time, always walked with one particular Man of God. I became curious and inquired from my elder sister. I was told he was a Prophet and the two of them always walked together, he was my cousin’s counselor. Knowing a little history of my cousin’s spiritual and business life, and how he bounced back into business amidst challenges in the past which almost led to his death, I then got interested in this subject of Prophets and prophecies. I started devouring the bible and studying the life of King David and also some key biblical characters who were linked to Prophets. In my personal findings, I noticed in the days of most of the Kings of Judea and Jerusalem, God always communicated to them through his Prophets. Those who obeyed succeeded, those who did not failed and suffered the consequences. Coming into the New Testament, we can also trace the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ through prophetic revelations. After His departure from the earth, prophetic revelations were carried through and amongst the disciples. Notably was the Prophet Agabus who prophesied of Paul’s arrest by the Jewish leaders and imprisonment (Acts 21:11). We also read of even women like the four daughters of the Evangelist Philip mentioned in Acts 21:8-9.
So, why are Prophets important in my life as a child of God. And even before that, what is a prophecy and who is a Prophet? According to Wikipedia, “Bible prophecy or biblical prophecy comprises the passages of the Bible that are claimed to reflect communications from God to humans through prophets. Christians usually consider the biblical prophets to have received revelations from God”. “In religion, a prophet or prophetess is an individual who is regarded as being in contact with a divine being and is said to speak on behalf of that being, serving as an intermediary with humanity by delivering messages or teachings from the supernatural source to other people”. Brethren, for us not to deviate from our main goal, I will entreat you to dig further through scriptures and other sources for more details on the subject of Prophets and Prophecies.
Now, getting the definitions clearly, let’s make some progress and connect a few pieces together. This might not be exhaustive, but at least will be a start for you. We can consider Abraham to be our first Prophet, who received a direct message or promise from God, believed it and walked by faith towards the fulfilment of this prophecy (Genesis 12:1, 15:18). Abraham also through revelation gave his first tithe to Melchizedek in Genesis 14:20 (NIV), “And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand. Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything”. Abraham, did this to show gratitude to God for victory in rescuing his nephew Lot with his family and the blessings of the spoils. This can only be done by revelation because, there are no traces in scriptures to tell us whether, Abraham knew the High Priest of Salem - Melchizedek. Then after Abraham’s account, through to the Exodus of the Jews, they knew of this prophetic word, which had been passed on from generation to generation. Joseph believed it, and by faith prophesied that God will honor His word, therefore admonished his brothers to carry his remains out of Egypt into the promise land (Genesis 50:24-25). We know this was also fulfilled in Exodus 13:19.
What we need to know is that, before, the establishment of a full prophetic order, like what came to be known as ‘a Seer’ or ‘the Prophets’, God spoke directly to devote men, who obeyed and followed the way directed by Him. Let’s note one important thing here. Abraham, acted directly on what God spoke to him about, he was not under any obligation to speak with the people who were with him about the promise of God. This is because there was no establishment of the Jewish people. Now having gotten this out of the way, we can now say Moses then became the first prophet which some biblical scholars also claim according to Exodus 4:14-16. By this time, a nation was in existence and Moses spoke as the ‘mouth piece’ of God and lead the people in order to take possession of the promise land. Someone might ask, what about Aaron. The scripture tells us Moses was a prophet of God and God made him a god to Aaron. Aaron could only act based on what Moses told him. Aaron became a prophet of Moses.
Now, after the establishment of the Kingship system amongst the Jewish people, Samuel became the very first established order of Prophets from that point forward (1 Samuel 3:20, 7:6-17). Brethren, stay with me as we make progress. Samuel, spoke into the life of Saul who became the first King of the Jewish people. He also spoke about his rejection as king and all these were fulfilled. The same Samuel, spoke into the life of David and anointed him King to replace Saul (1 Samuel 16). When David became King, Samuel had passed on, and we read that Prophet Nathan visited him to rebuke him of his relationship with Beersheba (2 Samuel 7:2). The Prophet Gad who appeared in 2 Samuel 24:18 and 1 Chronicles 21:9 is said to be David’s Personal Prophet. Aside this two Prophet, consequently, we read of David’s nine (9) personal encounter with God or inquiry of God in various situations (1 Samuel 23:1-3, 1 Samuel 23:4-5, 1 Samuel 23:10-11, 1 Samuel 23:12-14, 1 Samuel 30:8-9, 2 Samuel 2:1-2, 2 Samuel 5:17-21, 2 Samuel 5:22-25, and 2 Samuel 21:1). David was a Prophet, a Priest and King; and we can testify to this through scripture of how David prospered during his reign as King and successfully handed over the resigns to Solomon his son. David was a Prophet because he could hear directly from God any time he sorted God. Meaning that, he had a more deep, personal relationship with God. After David, we read of how other successive Kings, operated alongside the Prophets. Those who obeyed the Prophets were successful and we are told God gave them rest; however, those who disobeyed, suffered the consequences which eventually pushed Israel into exile.
Brethren, we fast forward into the new testament. Jesus’ birth, his suffering, death and resurrection; we are aware was foretold by many Prophets. At His christening in the temple, Simeon prophesied about his future. “Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.” (Luke 2:33–35 (NLT)). Before He was baptized, John the Baptist, spoke of Him “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.” (John 1:32-34) Let us note that, even as a God – Man, Jesus had prophet’s speaking into His life. Jesus as a Prophet, Priest and King also spoke into the lives of others. Notably, Peter; He said “I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18 (ESV) This was fulfilled in the life of Peter as he became the leader of the early Christians after our Savior went to Heaven. Subsequently, as I shared with you during my introduction, Prophets and prophecies never stopped during the early days of the Church. To-date we still have Prophet’s in our midst who keep speaking into our lives.
However, aside the Prophet’s, we area also blessed with God’s prophetic word which is the Holy Scriptures. We read in 2 Peter 1:19 (NCV); “This makes us more sure about the message the prophets gave. It is good for you to follow closely what they said as you would follow a light shining in a dark place, until the day begins and the morning star rises in your hearts.” As a child of God and an heir of the Kingdom of God, by faith you have also been conferred with Jesus’ three-fold ministry, which makes you a Prophet, a Priest and a King. As you pray, speak into your own life and that of children or family. It does not stop there, back it with faith and believe God for fulfillment. Anytime a prophetic word is also released into your life, you need to pray as well, and trust God to fulfill his word. “Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:20–21 (ESV)) In today’s first reading we read that King Jehoshaphat said to the people to “Believe in the LORD your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall prosper.” (2 Chronicles 20:20 (NKJV))
In conclusion, I want to remind us of Jesus’ word in Matthew 7:15 (ESV); “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” There are many still in operation in our time and are misleading a lot of Christian faithful’s and causing them to lose hope in the faith. My advice is simply this, learn to read the bible and study it for yourself. “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free” (John 8:32).
 
Shalom and Peace to you.
 
Maurice Luther
Founder the Christian Migrant Network
thechristianmigrant@gmail.com

THE RESURRECTION IS OUR PROOF AND HOPE

1 Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. 2 So she ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” 3 Peter then came out with the other disciple, and they went toward the tomb. 4 They both ran, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first; 5 and stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; he saw the linen cloths lying, 7 and the napkin, which had been on his head, not lying with the linen cloths but rolled up in a place by itself. 8 Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; 9 for as yet they did not know the scripture, that he must rise from the dead.
John 20:1–9 (RSVCE)
 
Christ is Risen, He is Risen indeed, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah. We thank God for this great favor of the resurrection, for the sake of humanity and Christianity. We Christians have something wonderful to share with non-Christians, that our Mighty Leader – Jesus Christ rose from the death to bring hope to everyone. This morning I listened to one of my favorite Catholic Priests on Youtube and I thought of sharing his message with you. His name is Rev. Fr. Blessed Ambang-Njume from Cameroon. On Fr. Njume’s Youtube page he states this description; “Know your faith; know God's word; live that word; win heaven for yourself. Faith is to be practiced. If you do not go to heaven, you have yourself to blame.” Anyone who has listened to Fr. Njume before will testify that, he does well by driving home the message of God’s word by relating it with our everyday life. In is message, he throws some light on why Christians go to church on Sunday. While he was explaining, this thought crossed my mind about the Sabbath being a Saturday or Sunday. This is my view which I share with you.
The Sabbath was instituted by God and was to be kept holy, however this same day was stained with a grievous sin by the same people for whom the Sabbath was established. But as Isaiah 59:7 tells us “Their feet rush into sin; they are swift to shed innocent blood. They pursue evil schemes; acts of violence mark their ways.” After shedding an innocent blood, they were actually in a hurry to go and celebrate this sacred feast. But thanks to God for the things He spoke of old through his Prophets. Jesus said in John 10:18 (ESV), “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.”
We thank Jesus for his resurrection on a day after the Sabbath (which is Sunday). After all, who goes about mourning the death of their loved one every other week. It simply means you cannot get over the death of that loved one. For this reason, we commemorate Good Friday every year and not every Friday. So, we rather celebrate his glorious resurrection every Sunday in a Joyful mode. Yes, it is true. We do not have it written in the bible that the Sabbath is meant to be Sunday, but remember the words of our Savior, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” (Matthew 5:17, ESV).  
Left to me, the Sabbath day which was meant to be sacred and holy day would rather be a Memorial Day of pain and regret for my sins which nailed Him (Jesus) to the cross and celebrate His victory every Sunday (which is a day after the Sabbath). For Jesus said in John 13:34, “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other.” This love feast is what we all celebrate every Sunday. God loves us all, whether you choose to celebrate him on Sunday or Saturday or even the weekdays. What matters is that you acknowledge Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. It is not by your works or deeds, but by His grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).
I pray that the Holy Spirit will help us to be Christians with a firm foundation in Jesus Christ through reading of holy scriptures, rather than doctrinal people. Christ is risen, let us go and celebrate and proclaim to the world. Amen.
 
MESSAGE FROM REV. FR. BLESSED NJUME
CATHOLIC MEDITATION: SUNDAY - 20 APRIL, 2025. (🕯EASTER SUNDAY - YEAR C 🕯 - JESUS IS ALIVE )
https://youtu.be/qttDFhpCZyE?si=mRNoKnQvUxKHiF3x
 
Maurice Luther
Founder the Christian Migrant Network
thechristianmigrant@gmail.com