Contending for What we desire.

Just a few minutes to 12 o’clock AM, the fireworks at my local church began. We were all eagerly awaiting the dawn of the new year. Oh, how beautiful the fireworks were as the new year clocked in! God is set to glorify us in this new year, and we must remember that for everything we desire from the Lord, He will do it. But we have a role to play.

It is necessary for us to take charge of the new year from the start. Yes, you may have lost some opportunities last year, but thank God we didn’t lose our lives. It’s a new year, and the Lord is set to glorify us. For us to be in charge this year, the book of 1 Corinthians 16:9 tells us, “For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, but there are many adversaries.”

This verse reminds us that a great door has been opened to us this year for there are adversaries, so to get the adversaries off our part and take what's ours is the game plan. The Lord is ready to glorify and settle us. However, we must contend to claim what is ours,

Deuteronomy 2:24 tells us: Rise ye up, take your journey, and pass over the river Armon: behold, I have given into thine hand Sihon the Amorite king of Heshbon and his land, begin to possess it, and contend with him in battle.

"Whatever we desire this year, the Lord, has given it to us" Life gives us what we demand from it. Whatever we watch, God allows to happen, but when we contend and demand what we desire, God gives us what we desire.

As we resolve to write our new year resolutions, let us remember that the Lord is set to glorify us, but we must play our part and contend for what we desire. I strongly believe that as the Lord lives, His word will not fall to the ground, and whatever we ask in the name of Jesus according to His will shall be delivered to us.

Amen.

Happy New Year!

What are you most grateful for?

 Acknowledging the Goodness of God; What are you most grateful for? 

As the year comes to a close, many people gather for the traditional crossover service on December 31st. Some attend out of habit, others out of fear, and many more as a celebration. Regardless of the motivation, this night holds spiritual significance for numerous individuals.

As I reflect on the past year, I am reminded of God's goodness and presence in every aspect of my life. This is my second consecutive night of gratitude, and I am in awe of how far the Lord has brought me.

In acknowledging God's goodness, I don't feel the need to make requests. Instead, I flip through the pages of 2024, marveling at God's guidance and provision. There were moments when fear and uncertainty gripped me, but I pushed forward, and God proved faithful.

As I look back, I am reminded of 1 John 3:22, which says, "We have confidence that whenever we ask anything according to his will, he hears us." God has indeed answered my prayers and carried me through every season.

Today, I encourage you to acknowledge God's presence in your life throughout 2024. Reflect on His goodness and watch Him crown your year with blessings.

What are you most grateful for? I am thankful for God's goodness, which I have experienced in countless ways.

Stay Revived!

The goodness of God in the End of the year.

 The Goodness of God in the End of the Year; Grateful Hearts. 

I've discovered that the best moments to praise God aren't when we're comfortable. It's easy to praise Him when our desires are met, but what about when we're struggling and our joy is lost? God wants us to praise Him in every moment.

God desires our voices of thanksgiving to reach the well of salvation, drawing out the needs we require. Recently, the Holy Spirit whispered a new strategy to me: "Praise is your tool in hopelessness."

Instead of lamenting over losses, pain, and rejection, I've adopted a new strategy – the strategy of praise. The Holy Spirit wants us to take a new posture: a grateful heart that sees God as God, not just for what He can do.

A song has been stuck in my spirit: "I've got too many reasons to give you praise, oh God, you are good. Too many reasons to give you praise, for you are good." As I sing this song, I feel my heart expand, and I know the Lord has written a new song for me and he has also done so for you too. 

Let's take this posture of gratitude, magnifying the Lord's name for His goodness. As we do, we'll see His goodness in our lives, and we'll live in the fullness of Psalm 107:1 (AMP): "O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!"

Stay Revived!

God Can Be Trusted And He Does Not Fail.

 Look Into The Future With Faith And Expectations: God Can Be Trusted And He Does Not Fail.

Maybe we have often cliched this particular statement "God can be trusted, he does not fail" and so these words have become to some a greeting or a compliment. Most times these words do not come out of a place of trust and faith, neither hope nor belief but because we have nothing else to say to the one who has no other thing to look at, and then these words are blurred out.

I had stirred from one point of my bed to another and the holy spirit kept on whispering to my spirit I've made a provision beloved. There is a provision for that transport, there is a provision for the marriage, there is a provision for the food and clothing for next year. Hearing the words is so easy but standing firm and looking just only on the face of the one who had spoken this word to you that he would not fail is the base of our confidence.

I saw this statement on a friend's WhatsApp status and at that moment I knew the Lord was indeed speaking these words to me for this season. The scripture in Psalm 34:5 affirmed God's promises to us: 5 AMP:They looked to Him and were radiant; their faces shall never blush for shame or be confused. 

As long as we look unto God we shine forth. It is not just a light but looking at Jesus without needs and burdens, fears included we become radiant and our faces are eliminated of the shame and reproach the enemy plotted.

We speak with full confidence and in gratitude standing on his word in Philippians 4:4 As we look up to Jesus we no longer worry about those needs but on Thanksgiving we accept our answers because Thanksgiving is a confirmation that he has answered and he has heard us about what we have said to him.

Today as we reflect in this last Sunday of the year, we do it in Thanksgiving looking up to the light that makes our face shine bright. 

Beloved, stay in the consciousness that God can be trusted and He does not fail. 

Stay Revived!

Is God mindful of us?

"Mindful of Us: Trusting God's Plan''

A few years ago, I left Port Harcourt for Lagos, and each time I return, it feels like I’m coming back to a different Port Harcourt from the one I grew up in. This morning, I left my house to visit a friend. When I got to the POS, due to the yuletide season, it has been very difficult to make withdrawals with my ATM card, so I did a transfer and it was successful. The vendor attendant said he hadn’t received the cash, but I had been debited. I had done two transactions they all received theirs then why him, so I was puzzled as to why the POS guy said he hadn’t received his payment. I waited at the vendor’s shop for a while, and then the guy said he wanted to get something and would be back. I waiting for close to two hours and decided to call him When I called his phone to ask if he had received the cash so I could leave, he said, "Abeg, get out, I don’t know you."

I just burst into laughter because I felt no anger at that point. Although as I thought about it I was furious, I held myself back from saying anything because When I first entered a cab earlier, someone offered to pay for my transport. After the issue with the vendor, I called another cab, and when I checked my purse, I found the exact cash I needed for that ride.

As the cab moved, I couldn’t help but marvel at the consciousness of God for His children. The Lord was so sure of my encounter today, and He put everything in place to help me navigate the situation successfully. I asked myself, "Who are we that the Lord is so mindful of us?"

Psalm 121:5 (NIV) says, "The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand."

Friends, it’s wrong to think that the Lord doesn’t care about us or isn’t watching over us. Whenever anyone encountered the Lord in the Bible, we could see God’s mindfulness. 

 No wonder the book of Psalm 8:4 says, "What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" This scripture shows how amazed King David was when he thought about how God relates to humans.

It’s wrong to feel that we have been forgotten. As the year gradually comes to an end, we might think we haven’t achieved what we set out to do. But I am here to tell you that the Lord is mindful of you. Just because you haven’t gotten everything you wanted doesn’t mean you won’t get it. Hold on—it’s not over yet. God will still make it happen. He has invested so much in you to leave you hanging halfway, so stand still and know that He is the Sovereign Lord.

JESUS IN THE MANGER: ''Trusting God's Purpose for Our Lives"

 

"Blessing in the Manger: Trusting God's Purpose for Our Lives"

I was discussing with a friend about someone who gave birth in a hospital but didn’t have the funds to cover the expenses of childbirth. Thank God it ended in praise, and they were released. However, this is not the focus of my discussion today. Today, we want to reflect on the blessing of the manger.

Luke 2:7-12:

"And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid him in a manger because there was no place for them in the inn. And in the same region, there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.'"

It doesn’t matter where we find ourselves or were born—God doesn’t see us for these things. He sees us for what He has placed inside us and what He intends to do with our lives. I can just imagine how Mary must have felt giving birth to baby Jesus in a manger. Maybe she thought How could this be? How could this child, born in such humble circumstances, be the one to bring salvation to mankind? How could this child be the one to restore man to God?

The manger birth was part of God's plan to show how he calls people from nothing to something, from no one to someone. All Mary could do was trust God for the next phase. She believed in the plan, and at every step, she and Joseph obeyed the Lord’s command. This baby, born in a manger, changed the course of our lives and the future of Christianity. It is because of Him that we are here today.

Jesus came in such a humble way to show us that no matter where we have been or where we come from, God has a purpose for our lives. We all have a role to play in His plan. 

This is why I am so convinced that as long as we trust in the Lord with all our strength, leaning not on our own understanding, friends there is so much significance in the manger birth and how the Lord wants us to see Jesus in us and like Jesus trust him to bring our purpose to accomplishment, He will take us to the place He has prepared for us. It may not be easy, but the confidence we have in Him is that He who began the good work in us is able to complete it.

Psalm 138:8:
"The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O God, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands."

Stay Revived!

HAPPY CHRISTMAS PRESENCE

 

CHRISTMAS PRESENCE 

One of the things I love most about Christmas is the Christmas carols and movies that come with the season. As a child, I somehow felt that during Christmas, there was a fairy godmother moving around, spreading golden dust of joy and laughter. I always looked forward to the season.

It’s amazing to note that Jesus' birth wasn’t just the arrival of joy, but He lived a life that serves as a role model for Christians today, showing us how we should live. As we celebrate the anniversary of Jesus' birth, let us not forget to examine His life and realize that He is the "Dayspring from on high" that the prophet Zechariah spoke of in Luke 1:78-79 (KJV):

"Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the Dayspring from on high hath visited us, To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace."

Even before Jesus' birth, there was already a testimony of the works and significance of His arrival for mankind. In this season of yuletide, we should remember that it’s the loving kindness of God that led Him to send His Son to bring light and salvation to the earth. Through Him, we are no longer in darkness but are set in the light of Christ. When Jesus came, He illuminated the dark world, and it is He who guides our feet into the path of peace. Let us not forget that Jesus came to redeem, to save, and to spread His peace.

There is a peace that comes from the knowledge of God, and that peace cannot come from anywhere else but through salvation. As we mark another anniversary of Jesus’ birth, let’s not forget to reflect on our lives and make them right before the Lord, for He is ready to redeem, revive, and restore us. Amen.

Stay revived!

The Christmas Presence: The Gift of Jesus

The Christmas Presence: The Gift of Jesus

I waited patiently, updating my mail for news, but after staying there for so long, I thought maybe the miracle would be a gift item or an alert stating a need met. But none came through, not in the way I thought.

Perhaps, like me, you were expecting a grand miracle or something to make this Christmas special. But what if it didn't happen as planned? Does that disqualify our celebration?

The greatest miracle we could think of is the miracle of the coming of a king, not through natural circumstances, but supernaturally. Instead of focusing on unfulfilled expectations, I pondered the greatest gift to humanity - Jesus. God's greatest gift to me and us.

I love the Christmas season, but it hadn't felt like Christmas for two seasons. As I reflected on the reason for this season, I realized that it was the miracle I needed. The miracle is not in the decorations or festivities, but in the fact that Jesus came. The miracle is the love God showed us by giving us His Son for a greater cause.

As I pondered and reflected on this miracle, Jesus became fresh in my life again. His coming was no longer just an event that occurred thousands of years ago, but a fresh occurrence that transforms, renews, and helps me become the person He has called me to be.

God's word in John 3:16 remains living and fresh in our hearts: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." God's gift to us is life. Not the kind of life we celebrate and leave out but as we meditate on this life, we see our own life transformed by his hand. 

As we reflect on this miracle, we focus on Jesus, because we're not just celebrating a birth; we're reflecting on abundant life. Today, may the life Jesus brings reflect in our existence.

Merry Christmas!

Stay Revived!

"Start the Fire and I Will Stir It Up"

 "Start the Fire and I Will Stir It Up"

In the month of June, my local church had a midyear program, and during that season, the Lord laid a word in my heart: "Start the fire, and I will stir it up."

At the middle of the night, I woke up to the sound of burning dry bushes and paper at my right ear. But when I woke up, there was nothing but my sister sleeping across from me. The Lord spoke to me in the midst of a "fire." I felt a burning sound as if there was real fire close to me, but only to wake up and find nothing.

As I look back on those moments, I can understand those words. They were the words I needed in that moment of despair when I was just healed from a mental breakdown.

But as I take a look at the days that followed after that word from God, He had really prepared for each moment. The Lord does that for His people always, because He cannot do anything without an awakened man. He first awakens man to the reality He has ordained him for.

That was the reality He first awakened Gideon to when He called him a "man of valor." It's easy to always look as if we've got a plan and we've got everything covered, but what about the moments when there is no plan? The moment when people expect you to know what to do, but you're still trying to figure it all out.

Gideon could only think of feeding, and so when he was preparing what to eat, God's messenger said to him, "That man of valor." 

Judges 6:11-14 (NIV) said this about Gideon. 

11 The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. 

12 When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior."

13 "Pardon me, Lord," Gideon replied, "but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, 'Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?' But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian."

14 The Lord turned to him and said, "Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand. Am I not sending you?"

At that moment, God saw him as a man of strength. God was just saying to him, "Start the fire, and I will stir it up. Whatever it is you want to do, start the fire; I've got more for you. You've got the strength to start again. Just seek Me, and that plan you desire will pass.

As we prepare for the cross into the new year, I hear these same words: "Start the fire, and I will stir it up." It's been months since He gave me this word, and the Lord has stirred up great things in my life by just saying yes to Him.

God wants to stir up great things in our life, but we've got to say yes. 

Stay Revived!

By Guest writer.

Can God Spread a Table in the Wilderness?

Can God Spread a Table in the Wilderness?

It's so easy to doubt God's goodness, especially in moments of quietness or dry seasons. It's tempting to wake up each day and conclude that God has not helped, especially when the help does not come in the moments we desire or expect. 

During this holiday season, I stumbled upon an old journal from 2020 with a question inscribed on one page: "Can God spread a table in the wilderness?", I had written yes he can but Reflecting on it in 2024, I realized that I had taken four years to understand this psalms. In this four years, they were moments I had become the Isrealites. 

The Israelites, despite their track record of God's faithfulness, asked the same question. Psalm 78:19-21 (MSG) says:

19 They whined like spoiled children, "Why can't God give us a decent meal in this desert?

20 Sure, he struck the rock and the water flowed, creeks cascaded from the rock. But how about some fresh-baked bread? How about a nice cut of meat?"

21 When God heard that, he was furious - his anger flared against Jacob, and he lost his temper with Israel.

It was clear they didn't believe God, and had no intention of trusting in his help. However, God still provided for them.

Psalm 78:23 (MSG) says:

23 But God helped them anyway, commanded the clouds, and gave orders that opened the gates of heaven.

Yes, God can provide, even in the wilderness. Trust is the key that unlocks His provision. We must look reflect on every moment when He came through, be hopeful, and joyful, and rejoice in His faithfulness.

The end of our journey is the promised Canaan land, flowing with milk and honey. God has written out a plan to take us there, but it requires our commitment to trusting Him.

God needs our trust to unlock the wilderness seasons in our lives. Yes, God can spread a table in the wilderness.

Stay Revived!

"Refined by Fire: God's Presence in Our Trials"

Indeed, the words "You never left your own without help" resonated in my mind as I reflected on the consistency of God's love for us. There are times when we face challenges and feel that God has forgotten us. But friends, the Lord is always aware of the crises we will face, and that's why, even before they begin, He has already spoken to us in Isaiah 43:2:

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."

For every fire you're going through, God is always present, and He is our helper.

In the Bible, King Nebuchadnezzar ordered that everyone bow down to worship an idol at the sound of the drum. During this time, there were three Hebrew men—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—who loved and worshiped the Lord. They prayed and served God faithfully, not realizing the enemy was watching, looking for a legal reason to destroy them.

When the king's decree was given, and these men refused to bow down, I can imagine the enemy thought, "Let's see who will help them now," believing they were untouchable. But Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego remained unshaken. They were not afraid for their lives. They didn’t hesitate to continue worshiping God.

They must have thought, "Why should we worship an idol when it is the Lord who brought us here? He made us healthier and stronger without eating the king's food, and He is the one who protects us and favors us above all others." So, they decided to continue serving Him, knowing He would take care of them.

Friends, the challenges of life may seem overwhelming, as though they're about to knock us down. But we have assurance in the Lord. He is the fourth man in the fire, and He is willing to save and deliver us. God can change the situation that seems impossible. He is saying that yes, the fire will come, but it will not burn you; it will be a refining fire, a rebranding fire.

In Daniel 3:13-18, King Nebuchadnezzar, furious with rage, summoned Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He demanded, “Is it true that you do not serve my gods or worship the golden image I have set up?”

In Daniel 3:19-25, the king's anger intensified. He ordered the furnace to be heated seven times hotter than usual and commanded his strongest soldiers to tie up the three men and throw them into the blazing furnace.

Then, in Daniel 3:26-30, after throwing them into the fire, Nebuchadnezzar approached the furnace and called out, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!" The three men walked out of the fire, and the satraps, prefects, governors, and royal advisors gathered around them. They saw that the fire had not harmed their bodies; not a hair on their heads was singed, their robes were not scorched, and there was no smell of fire on them.

The fire was a demonstration of God's power. It was meant to reveal His glory in their lives. God is willing to show Himself through the trials we face when we remain faithful to His instructions.

So, do not grow weary—your help is here, and it is the Lord, mighty in power.

Stay Revived!

Letters To Abba: "Faithfully Yours"

 Letters To Abba: "Faithfully Yours"

I began journaling after hearing women I admired speak about how they identified God's voice through writing. As someone who loves writing, I wanted to hear God's words to me. So, I started writing letters to God, sharing my thoughts, feelings, questions, anxieties, and fears. I'd end each letter with "I love you, Abba."

One afternoon, after a month of journaling, I heard God's voice say, "I love you too." I was ecstatic! It felt so real, and life became more meaningful. This marked the beginning of my conversations with the Lord.

Sometimes, the Holy Spirit would be comical, giving instructions that I'd try to ignore. Other times, I'd see the repercussions of ignoring His voice. I'd often say, "I wouldn't be happy living a normal life," but hearing God's voice daily refreshed my life.

David's words, "Take not your presence from me" (Psalm 51:11), resonated with me. He had reached a point where God's voice was his "refreshing wine." When life gets exhausting, God's presence, person, and voice make us whole.

When Adam and Eve left Eden, God's presence was replaced with incompleteness and anxiety. God's voice is the anchor that steadies us during life's storms. The Bible is God's letter to us.

Have you ever flipped through the scriptures and wondered why these stories are being told? I've learned to substitute my name into biblical encounters, making the stories come alive. It reminds me that God speaks to me and had me in mind when He wrote the words.

Have you received a personal word from God for this season?

God loves to talk. He is the word. In the very first beginning he was introduced as "God spoke".He wants to speak to you and with you today. 

Stay Revived!

What if That Distress Was God's Mercy?

 

What if That Distress Was God's Mercy?

What if that distress was the Lord's way of extending a hand of mercy? 

What if the enemy and adversary are a means for God to draw us closer to Him? 

The common question that floods most Gen Z is why do I need God in my life? "I've got everything figured out." But is this really true?

There are times the world refers to God as not merciful enough or maybe He doesn't really care about humanity, as it was said about Him, but this was God's response to the Israelites' plight in the Judges. 

Judges 2:19-22 AMP

20 So the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel; and He said, Because this people have transgressed My covenant which I commanded their fathers and have not listened to My voice,

21 I from now on will also not drive out from before them any of the nations which Joshua left when he died,

22 That through them I may prove Israel, whether they will keep the way of the Lord to walk in it, as their fathers kept it, or not.

The Lord had already given His word to the Israelites. He would drive away the occupants of Canaan land for His beloved people, but when His beloved people found comfort, they sought not the Lord who had delivered them. The Lord saw that whenever the people became comfortable and far from their adversary, He became an abandoned God.

God had ultimate provision in the plan. Protection wasn't neglected. Favor and whatsoever we desire, but God wants us first. He doesn't want to lose us to the gods of the world. He wants us to constantly converse with Him.

God meant it when He said He would give us rest, but there are times we become business people with God. We make Him a trader. We pray because there is a need; we seek Him because He would be "able to get us our wants and needs."

At first, when I began praying and fasting at the beginning of 2024, it was because I needed help, and I just felt God would be the only one to do that, so I kept on praying. When it took time, and the job wasn't coming through, I became bitter, and there were days I wouldn't pray or study His word.

When we pray, do we see it as a means to communicate with God, or just a way to get our needs met? 

Do we seek Him only when we're in trouble, or do we delight in His presence, asking Him, "How are you, Abba?"

And so, instead of asking the "why's, when, how," we just press in Him, to seek Him because He had said in Jeremiah 29:13, "You would find me if you seek me with all of your heart." 

What would happen if we pressed into seeking God, not just for our needs, but for who He is?

Let's ask Him, "How are you, Abba?" and see how our lives transform.

Stay Revived!

What does it mean to say our Help comes from the Lord?

God, Our Ever-Present Helper

Holy Spirit, help me recall the things I have written. These were my prayers on the day I unknowingly deleted a post after hearing about troubleshoot errors on my page. Holy Spirit, help me. When this happened, I was numb, not knowing where to start in order to correct what had been done. Then, I relied on the Holy Spirit. As I picked up my system, the Holy Spirit worked on my mind, and I typed another message.

King David was a man after God's heart because he knew how to access the Lord at all times. Even as a great king, there were moments when he needed help and someone to rely on. "I will lift up my eyes to the hills—from where does my help come?" (Psalm 121:1, ESV). In this passage, we see his consistent trust in the Lord and his confidence that God would come to his aid. When he said he would lift up his eyes to the hills, he was referring to the Lord who resides in the Holiest of Holies.

Psalm 121:1-6
"I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?
My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber.
Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand.
The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night."

God is constant in His care for His children. As children of God, we should always remember David's proclamation because it reflects God's thoughts toward us. His watchful eyes are always on us, preventing us from falling. Because of us, He never sleeps nor slumbers. I can only imagine what would happen to any of us if the Lord were to slumber. We would all be lost, because it is not the will of the devil for God's people to be happy. He wants to see us hungry, dejected, astray, weary, and in despair. But I bring a reminder today that there is a God who searches through all the earth. He is the greatest searcher, and when He searches, He reminds us of His help exactly when we need it most.

The Lord will never allow the enemy to win the battle over our lives and souls. He is the Lord, and forever He reigns and rules as the victor.

So, whenever the enemy comes in like a flood, always call on the Lord, for He will raise a standard against him. Hallelujah!

How do I know my Shoe fits?

GOD'S PERFECT FIT;" THOSE SHOES WON'T FIT''

As I grew into my thirties, I realized that I might not be a very fashionable individual, but like several women, I love to own nice, exquisite clothes, bags, and most especially shoes. I only found out I loved fashion wear and styles once I conversed with my sister, and she mentioned it.

One of the distinct ways God spoke to me as a teenager was through dreams. During my early twenties, when I had to make an important relationship choice, the Lord spoke to me through dreams, using worn-out, oversized shoes to highlight the fact that He didn't want that relationship for me. 

There were times I would pick out an old, worn-out shoe, and there were times it would be an oversized or undersized shoe. To me, as long as the shoes looked beautiful on the outside, that was all that mattered. As I dived into the relationship, despite God's "no," I got to see why the Lord had said no.

God says "no" to us in His special way. When the Lord says, "My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways, for as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:8-9), that's God's own way of saying I know the perfect fit for you"

God doesn't want us to walk around in shoes that come off when we walk or shoes that leave blisters when we move. Shoes aren't just picked for their beauty; good shoes should ensure our comfort, no blisters, and no injuries when worn. The all-seeing God had already flipped the pages of the books written about us, and there are moments He goes out to say, "Beloved, those shoes don't fit."

These shoes could be beyond romantic relationships, friendships, business ideas, business deals, career paths, or locations – as long as they are choices that we have to live with each day. Trust the shoemaker. Trust in me with all of your heart; that is what the Lord is saying to me most times when I say, "But why no, or maybe I could manage."

There are times when God doesn't even tell us the "why" or "yes," and all He gives is the "no," "go," or "yes," and He just says, "Do you trust me?" When He says, "Those shoes don't fit," do you trust Him enough to give Him the wheel? Did He recently say to you, "Those shoes don't fit?" You're letting go of those shoes are you saying, "Lord, I trust you," and just like David, we affirm, "May I not be put to shame" (Psalm 31:17).

Stay Revived!

When will I be restored ?

A Word of Encouragement for Those Waiting on God

I recently spoke with someone who shared that she’s been sowing seeds of kindness and doing good for others but hasn’t seen any return or reward. Often, the blessings we hope for don’t come in the way we expect. That’s why God is a God of signs and wonders—He moves in ways that surprise us.

When I was a child, I used to imagine that the dry bones Ezekiel spoke to in his vision literally stood up and walked to Israel as living people. I thought the bones turned into humans and lived out in the world. Hahaha... I didn’t realize at the time that it was a vision God showed Ezekiel, symbolizing the revival of Israel.

Here’s what Ezekiel 37:10-14 says:

10 So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army.

11 Then he said to me: "Son of man, these bones are the people of Israel. They say, 'Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off.'

12 Therefore prophesy and say to them: 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: My people, I am going to open your graves and bring you up from them; I will bring you back to the land of Israel.

13 Then you, my people, will know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves and bring you up from them.

14 I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the Lord have spoken, and I have done it, declares the Lord.

As the year draws to a close, many people feel like things are not going the way they had hoped. They may feel like God is not hearing their prayers or that their situation is hopeless. We might wonder how any breakthrough can come from the dryness and lack we see around us. “Our bones are dry, our hope is gone,” we might say.

But even when we can’t see it, God is still working. He is saying to us that He will breathe life into everything that seems dead or hopeless. He’s declaring that restoration and joy are coming, and in due time, we will smile again. God doesn’t need years to change the story of someone’s life. Just as He restored Israel, He will restore everything we’ve lost this year. We will finish the year in joy and rejoicing.

The Lord is putting His Spirit in us, and we will live triumphantly. He will settle us in our own place of blessing and promise. When that happens, we will know that He is the Sovereign Lord.

God has not forgotten or neglected us. He is always present and ready to give us what we desire. He stands at the door of our hearts, knocking, waiting for us to come to Him. Speak to Him today, and He will answer.

Stay revived!

ITS NOT OVER YET

When I think of the life Ezekiel, I am amazed at how he walked with the Lord, that the Lord told him everything He did and wanted to do per time.

Yesterday, we discussed Ezekiel’s encounter with the dry bones in the valley. And how God commanded him to speak to the bones, and we reflected on how this story relates to us. Today, let’s focus on the process of transformation.

Ezekiel 37:7-9

7. So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone.

8. I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them, and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them.

9. Then he said to me, "Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.''

There are times when we go through struggles and trying times, and it may feel like we are neglected and forgotten; The Lord is working in the background, unseen. But just because we don’t see it, doesn’t mean nothing is happening. If you’ve been praying for something and haven't see it yet, note that there’s a sound of abundance of rain, and in due time there shall be an outpouring. The Lord God is at work.

Yes, it was a vision but I can just imagine how Ezekiel felt in his spirit when he heard the rattling sound and saw the bones coming together. God was working, even in the presence of the enemy. Ezekiel may have initially felt doubt, seeing how dry and lifeless the bones were, but out of these dry bones, something was happening. God was putting things together to fulfill His plan.

Sometimes, God’s plan for us may involve being in situations that feel uncomfortable. He may reposition us in ways we never expected, but that’s why He is God. He is working something out. Just like God led Ezekiel to a valley of dry, lifeless bones, He may lead us into places that seem hopeless, but that’s where God works—breaking the laws of nature to fulfill His purpose.

Remember how people questioned, “Can anything good come from Bethlehem?” Yet our Messiah came from there. This shows that even the most lifeless and dry things can be restored by the power of God.

Now, after the bones were restored, Ezekiel noticed they still had no breath, no life. The bodies were formed, but there was no movement, no sign of life. God then told Ezekiel to prophesy to the breath, saying, “Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.”

Sometimes, we go through a stillness, a form of pause before life is breathed into us, approaching these situations with God's word is our headway to a breakthrough, But don’t be weary of the enemy’s schemes. Because it shows that God is still cooking something up. Keep praying, keep pressing, because life is coming, those dry bones shall live.

Do not give up. Keep faith and trust in Him.

 You are not alone. He is working it out.

Stay revived!

Do you Trust me?

Why Has Everyone Received Their Miracles Except Me? 

Why has everyone received what they wrote in their prayer expectations for the year other than me? 

Tomorrow will be Friday, and I knew that no matter how late I stayed up, Saturday would come soon. So, I asked the Holy Spirit to wake me up in the night. When I woke up, I prayed and then went back to sleep. This morning, when I stepped out of my house, I wanted to pray and emphasize the prayers I had made. But as I began to pray, the Holy Spirit asked me a question: "Do you trust me?" This question came quietly in my spirit.

As I pondered this question this morning, I was reminded of the Lord's conversation with Ezekiel in The Valley of Bones. Ezekiel 37:1-6 (NIV):

1. The hand of the Lord was on me, and He brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones.
2. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, very dry bones.
3. He asked me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" I said, "Sovereign Lord, You alone know."
4. Then He said to me, "Prophesy to these bones and say to them, 'Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!'
5. This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: 'I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.'
6. 'I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin. I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord.'"

Whenever God wants to perform a wonder or a miracle, He looks for a willing partner. He searches for someone ready to cooperate with Him to bring His will to pass. When God wanted to restore life to the dry bones, He asked Ezekiel, "Son of man, can these bones live?" This question was meant to see Ezekiel’s stand and faith. God knew that these bones could come to life by His power alone— it was not within man’s power to do this, but with God, all things are possible. Ezekiel’s answer was perfect: "Sovereign Lord, You alone know."

The Lord wanted to see if Ezekiel trusted His ability to perform the miracle. Whenever God asks a question in the Bible, He already knows the answer. For example, when God asked Adam, "Where are you?" (Genesis 3:9) and "Where is your brother Abel?" (Genesis 4:9), He wasn’t asking for information. He wanted to see the response of the person being asked.

When God gives us instructions, He doesn't have to look at our strength. He wants us to believe and rely on Him to bring it to pass. When the Lord saw Ezekiel's response, He was eager to make it happen. God gave Ezekiel the exact words to speak to the bones, and when Ezekiel prophesied, the bones came together and were revived.

God is deeply interested in our daily lives, in every detail. 

Are there things in your life that have dried up? 

Are there miracles you're waiting for, and it seems like they’re not coming? These situations are no different from the dry bones Ezekiel encountered in the valley. God is waiting for you to speak. If you don’t speak, He will leave it, but He wants you to speak up and call life into those areas that seem dead, to receive God's light.

When I think about how bones came together and flesh appeared on them, it sends shivers down my spine. 

If God can bring dry bones to life, then what is it that He cannot do? It's not too late to speak life into those situations.

 Son of man, speak up! 

Prophesy to that situation and that sickness. Let it receive the life of God.

Stay revived!

Do you Believe in Miracles?

COURAGE FOR MIRACLES

We've dwelt on Joseph for the past two days. Joseph indeed thrived in toxicity and was able to actualize the word God gave him. I strongly believe it was God's miracle to Joseph. God did a miracle through Joseph, and yes, we've been celebrating his testimony.

God's word rightly says that men's testimony is the spirit of Prophecy (Revelation 19:10). So, beyond learning how Joseph rose above the plans of the enemy, we are celebrating God's miracle in his life. 

Not because we do not see our weakness, but because we draw strength from his miracles and therefore remind God that He did good thousands of years back, He is faithful enough to do a miracle in our life.

The Lord wants to do a miracle through this teaching, and for the very first time, before I dived into this story, He kept on saying "Miracle Tuesday." 

I had let the word linger in my heart until the weekend, but I am speaking it because I know that just like Joseph, we desire strength to birth our "dream." We want to rise from the toxicity and prison into God's divine plan for our lives. Can we just say amen this Friday?

We rise together in faith and say amen to every personal word of promise and biblical revelation God has given to us. We claim these words as our own. Today, the Spirit of God has confirmed this word, and He has broken the bonds.

As I pressed in my spirit while praying to God concerning the fear that had crippled me, there was a moment He said to me, "Get angry." And so,
I got angry and raised my voice in prayer. The Lord wants us to get angry today in our spirit and speak against what shouldn't be.

After my quiet time last weekend, during the morning hours, unexpectedly, a friend reached out and asked, "Can you send in your details? I want to give you a token." The same thing occurred the following day, and all I could say was, "God specializes in miracles."

Have you been believing God for a miracle? 

It was a miracle that a Hebrew boy found favor in the sight of everyone who saw him. The Bible consistently says, "And the Lord was with Joseph" (Genesis 39:2-3, 21-23). God is with us today, and this day will birth the miracle our heart desires.

Stay strong! 

Stay Revived!

Why Should I Be Courageous?

Why Should I Be Courageous? Satan, Be Gone! 

As a fan of Korean traditional movies, I've noticed a recurring theme in many war films. Whenever a messenger from the heroic side is attacked by the villains, the instruction is often "kill the messenger." Most times, they leave the message untouched or burn it if it's written. This is an old trick of the devil.

What is that message God once told you? Are you still holding on to it, or have you allowed the thorns of life to squash it?

Genesis 37:19-20 says, "Here comes that dreamer! Come now, let's kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we'll see what comes of his dreams." Joseph's brothers were angry about his dreams, and their plot was aimed at destroying those dreams. 

The enemy wasn't after Joseph; the main target was the message. It was the liberation mandate God had given to Joseph that the enemy felt they could stop.

The good news today is that the enemy can only work with the present, but God has a plan that goes beyond our current circumstances. As it says in 1 Corinthians 2:9, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind can comprehend what God has in store for those who love him."

The enemy knows that God has a great plan for His children, but the enemy can only strategize; they haven't figured out the way. The enemy wants you to wallow in depression so you can take your eyes off the "dream." That grief and pain that won't heal might be a resistance to the joy the Lord has for you. That fear eating you up daily is a hindrance to venturing into the realms of glory God is calling you into.

The enemy wants you to dwell in your present lack so you don't see God as your provider. The sickness that has defied the odds is a threat to the dream. But today, just like Joseph, we choose to partner with God.

I've recently felt this crippling fear that leaves a pain in my heart, but I'm taking it to God. *Satan, we say no more! 

We partner with God today. Yes, God wants this partnership because He knows that the life we so desire can be fulfilled if only we partner with Him.

You are the message God has sent to the earth, and how beautiful would it be when the world sees us transcending and basking in the glory of our messenger? 

And just like Joseph in Genesis 40:14-15, we come to a consciousness that we don't belong to that prison. The Lord has given us His word, and this is not His word. 

Today, we say Satan, no more!

Stay strong! 

Stay Revived!

How do you cope with toxicity?

Revived and Restored: I Came Out Strong. 

Have you ever felt like you're going through a tough time and you're not sure how to come out on top? 

We all face challenges, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But here's the thing: we're not alone in this feeling or in our struggles.

I recently had a conversation with a family member who was struggling with a toxic work environment. She felt hurt and frustrated and wasn't sure if God had a bigger plan for her. I could relate to how she was feeling. Dealing with overwhelming situations can suck out not just our strength but also joy from us. 

But as I was reflecting on our conversation, the Holy Spirit reminded me of Joseph's story. Joseph's story is a powerful reminder that God is always working everything out for our good, even when things seem tough.

Despite growing up in a toxic home environment, Joseph remained faithful and trusting in God. His brothers' hatred and jealousy didn't define him; instead, he focused on his dreams and God's plan for his life.

Genesis 37:4 says, "When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than them, they grew to hate him. They wouldn't even speak to him." 

Joseph's life was marked by challenges, but he never lost faith. He knew that God was working everything out for his good.

As I searched for moments where Joseph complained or cursed those who wronged him, I realized that his conviction and trust in God were stronger than his circumstances. 

Joseph knew something that we hadn't known. He saw the dreams God showed him as more real than his situation. Joseph's source of strength was God, and he focused on the big picture.

What if Potiphar's wife was part of God's plan to give Joseph the needed experience? 

What if Joseph's imprisonment was God's way of saying, "It's time for a new season"? 

The enemy may have thought he was ruining Joseph's life, but God was working everything out for his good and was using their conniving plot and plan to push Joseph to become. Joseph came out strong. 

God wants us to come out strong, even during challenges. He wants us to trust in His plan and focus on the big picture. As we navigate life's difficulties, let's remember that God is always with us, working everything out for our good.

May we encounter the same light and joy that gave Joseph strength during his darkest moments.

Stay strong! 

Stay Revived!

By Guest Writer.

Carried on God's wings

There are times when people tell me, "You are lucky," and I always respond, "I am not lucky; I am covered"

There are seasons in life when we question our calling and our assignment, and we sometimes feel that God isn't helping us when and where we want. During these moments, we may face situations that seem discouraging, but these may actually be God's way of shielding us from the enemy. The enemy’s plan is never to protect us or keep us from harm. His ultimate goal is to destroy us. Imagine, for a moment, if the Lord were to turn His eyes away for just a second—what would become of us? But God covers us.

Yes, you may have lost your legs in an accident, but God is the reason you did not lose your life in that accident. He knows that you will still walk again. You will heal. You are covered.

A few years ago, I tried to enter higher education. I attempted to get in three times, but each time I was unsuccessful. It seemed discouraging, but deep down, I knew it wasn't my time yet because God had told me in a dream to wait. He told me, "It's not yet time." So, I accepted and again I wasn't admitted. But then, on the fourth attempt, God revealed to me the school I was meant to attend—one that was one I had never applied to before. When the application forms came out, I applied for the one He wanted. Even though the results were released, and it seemed like I wasn't going to make it, there was this strong conviction I heard that it was time. Again, the Lord told me, "You will get in." And, just as He promised, I got in.

After I was accepted, God revealed to me why He had not allowed me to go to school earlier. He showed me a vision of what would have happened if I had gone to school before—What the enemy planned. God shielded me from what the enemy had planned. He covers his own.

Psalm 91:1-16

...For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day....

God's plans for you are never to harm you or delay you. His purpose for your life is supernatural. God is working to bring you into His perfect will for you. He wants to do things for you that only He can accomplish. Even when we go through difficult times, God is shielding us. Yes, you may have lost your business, but you can rebuild. God is the reason you did not lose everything. Yes, you may have lost a lot, but God is the reason you did not lose your life. He has covered you.

We are covered because we do not have the ability to accomplish anything on our own. It is only through God's grace and empowerment that we can achieve anything. We are covered for greater work. 

The call to Stand Firm: Why rise in prayers?

Elijah, a prophet from the Northern Kingdom of Israel, stood firm in defending the worship of Yahweh against the false worship of Baal. He was a prophet blazing with zeal and passion for the Lord. Elijah understood the power of serving Yahweh, a power that was evident even though he did not have the Holy Spirit living inside him. Today, the spirit of Elijah still moves among men, inspiring them in ways that transcend time. How is it that Elijah, who did not have the Holy Spirit in him, could stand firm for God, and yet we who have the Holy Spirit in us often fall short? Greater works we shall do, but only if we find God in the place of prayer.

The importance of prayer has been evident throughout history, from the days of old until now. Some possibilities cannot be realized until we awaken to the call of God. We have a role model in Jesus, whose life exemplified a fiery passion for God. If we desire to live a powerful life, we must follow the example of Jesus.

God is searching for men who are hungry, men who are willing to fill the void in their hearts with His presence. We all have a part to play in this mission. When it comes to prayer, there must be a driving force behind it—hunger for Christ and for His presence. We do not need the wrong philosophies of the world; instead, we need to break through the earthly laws and orders through prayer, bringing revival in the process.

Unfortunately, the spirit of error has infiltrated the Church, causing many to dilute and "anglicize" the Word of God. Some now believe the Word is subject to the world's happenings, and the spirit of error has become normalized even among the children of God. Many now think their own philosophies are enough to guide them, asking, "What do we need God for?" But this is where we must stir our hearts again, desiring the knowledge and presence of the Lord. It's time to reject the wrong messages circulating, messages that confuse God's people. We must rise up, reignite our fire, and deliver the earth and nature from the grip of the enemy.

It’s time for God’s watchmen to rise in prayer. We must become angry at immorality and at all things that do not reflect the power of the Lord. It’s time to stand up, take our positions, and pray with urgency. We cannot be afraid—this earth must be won for the Lord. The Spirit of God desires to partner with men to reveal His power to the world.

God gave power to His prophets of old, even though the Holy Spirit was not in them. How much more now, that the Spirit of God dwells within us? We need to pray, focus our minds on prayer, roar against the kingdom of darkness, and win the earth back to God. The fire of revival cannot be quenched.

Elijah was not afraid of the trials he faced; he stood alone to ensure that the counsel of the Lord was carried out on the earth. He knew the God he served. We must pray for souls to be saved, for the policies of this world to be changed, and for strategies to transform the earth. We are God's warriors in this end time, and we need the spirit of Elijah to rise up and bring God's people back to righteousness.

Certainly, the enemy will fight, but the earth belongs to the Lord, and His knowledge will spread. Arise, men of God! It’s time to take our place in prayer. Enough is enough of the devil's hold over God’s people. If we do not pray, many will never hear the Gospel, and the delay of His coming will continue. We must pray, speak to God, cry out to Him—enough of the devil's hold! Things must change, and people must be freed. God desires to give you freedom from the enemy. Great things are in store for those who love the Lord.

Stay revived

What Does it Take to be a Friend of God?

What Does it Take to be a Friend of God?

I once sang in a choir, and we had a call-and-response song: "Are you a friend of God?" The answer was, "I am a friend of God." The writer of that song was inspired by Abraham's walk with God. God called Abraham His friend, a mere mortal! (James 2:23 MSG)

James 2:23 MSGV had this to say about Abraham: 

23 The full meaning of "believe" in the Scripture sentence, "Abraham believed God and was set right with God," includes his action. It's that mesh of believing and acting that got Abraham named "God's friend."

But What Does It Take to Be a Friend of the Highest God? 

Abraham wasn't just a believer; he acted on his faith without hesitation. He obeyed God's instructions, and that's what made him a friend of God.

I recently had a conversation with a 9-year-old about God. I asked her, "What would you like to become?" She mentioned several professions, and I asked if she had asked God. She laughed, unsure if God could speak to her. I encouraged her to ask God to speak to her through dreams.

CAN GOD SPEAK TO US? 

Yes, He does. He loves it too. 

During the middle of the year, I attended this women's conference. Every speaker who taught from their experience described how finding God's voice changed their life. I used to be that confused little girl with many insecurities, but after attending this conference, I wanted to hear God's voice too. 

And yes, I have. 

God wants to speak to us more than we want to talk to him about.

As we grow in our knowledge of God and walk with Him, we come to a point where He calls us friends. I want God to be my friend, partner, and companion in life. Knowing God as God is beautiful but knowing Him as a friend is the best.

Studying Abraham's life, I noticed his prompt obedience. It was as if he was determined to please God. When God wanted to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, He told His friend Abraham. Lot was spared because Abraham had a "friendship" with God. Abraham was all out for God with the "what can I do for Him today attitude?" 

God wants to be our friend at all times and for all times. When we cultivate this friendship, we are open to daily benefits. So, I ask again, Can God call you His friend? 

Are you a friend of God? 

Stay Revived!

By Guest writer.

Why Find Gratitude in Adversity?

 Pressed But Not Crushed: Finding Gratitude in Adversity

Last week was World Thanksgiving Day, but I am still feeling grateful to God for His goodness and faithfulness. Maybe it's because I had filled my year with so much nagging, complaining, and questioning of God's goodness amid adversity.

A Year of Unexpected Challenges 

Some had recently asked me to describe my year in one word, I said "extraordinary" because the events were unexpectedly extraordinary. 

My family began the year with unexpected debt, which cost us our only valuable property. This threw us into unexpected crises and constant conflicts, testing our resilience and faith. The days were filled with tears and pains, and the enemy sought to steal our joy, but God's goodness prevailed.

Finding Strength in God's Goodness

I am praising God today, not because my year was perfect, but because the Lord held me throughout the trials and tribulations. I am praising God because His mercies said no to the enemy, and His goodness gave me the strength to persevere in adversity.

A Psalm of Thanksgiving

Psalm 124 MSG says: "If God hadn't been for us... we would have been swallowed alive by their violent anger... swept away by the flood of rage... We've flown free from their fangs, free of their traps, free as a bird." It depicts the overwhelming seasons I experienced during the year, and how God's goodness helped me navigate them.

Reflections on God's Faithfulness

When David spoke of "the flood," my mind went to the children of Israel crossing the Red Sea, surrounded by enemies. And here was God, doing what He does best - showing up and turning things around amid adversity.

As the psalmist said, "If the Lord had not been on my side, the enemy would have stolen my health." What about you? What are you most grateful for in 2024? Any miracle is a miracle, no matter how small, and it's a testament to God's goodness and faithfulness.

The year seemed tough, but what if the Lord wasn't on our side? What if the Lord wasn't in the picture? Do you think the enemy would have allowed the "little joy that transcends your soul"? The enemy tried to steal your joy, but the Lord said No!

I feel so much alive, like a bird, as I reflect on God's goodness and the many times He came through amid adversity. 

Indeed, what if the Lord had shut His eyes as we thought? 

What are you most grateful for? 

Stay Revived!

By Guest writer.

What is that Good short prayer that works?

Growing up, I had a very narrow view of prayer. I used to think it had to be serious—no smiles, no distractions. "If you don't kneel, God won't listen," I thought. Over time, my understanding of prayer evolved. It became a lifestyle for me, and I started to love the idea of talking to God about everything on my mind. But I know I'm not alone in feeling that prayer can sometimes be difficult or even intimidating. I once had a friend tell me that she didn’t know how to pour out everything to the Lord, and that’s a struggle many face. The truth is, prayer isn't as complicated as it seems. It’s simply about being open and honest with God, speaking to Him from the heart.

What Is Prayer?

At its core, prayer is a two-way conversation between God and us, based on His Word. In prayer, we bring our petitions, worries, and desires to God, trusting that He can answer. God knows we may feel anxious after we pray, but He encourages us not to worry. In Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV), He reminds us: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

There are a few steps to praying I would like us to consider and also apply in our daily lives, especially when we've prayed and are in the waiting season.

Easy Practical Steps to Prayer:

There are a few key steps that can help guide our prayer life, especially when we find ourselves in the waiting season:

1. Adoration and Praise: Begin by adoring God and blessing His holy name. Just like when you approach a king, eulogizing Him makes Him eager to hear your request. Praising God stirs God's heart up.

2. Confession and Thanksgiving: Confession is important as we acknowledge our mistakes and seek God’s forgiveness. Thanksgiving is essential, too—giving thanks for all God has done, is doing, and will do, even before the answers come.

3. Supplication (Making Requests): This is where we present our needs and desires to God. But remember, prayer goes beyond asking for what we want. It’s about seeking His will and trusting His timing.

Prayer goes beyond this, different types of prayer are essential

Intercessory Prayer: This is when you pray on behalf of others, interceding for people, nations, or situations. You don’t have to know them personally to pray for them. Intercession builds unity and encourages God’s intervention it consistently causes God to Intervene in the affairs of the parties involved. (1 Timothy 2:1-4, Galatians 6:2)

Silent prayer and Groaning: Silent prayer happens in the heart. Sometimes, words fail us, and all we can do is pray silently, trusting that God hears us. Groaning is when we pray beyond words, and the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf. 1 Samuel 1:12-13 and Genesis 24:45 show us how God understands our deepest cries.

Thanksgiving Prayer: Should we give thanks when we have not gotten the answers we desire? Even before we receive what we ask for, it’s important to give thanks. Thanksgiving is not just an expression of gratitude, but also a way to invite more blessings. King David exemplified this kind of prayer, praising God even before the answer came. After Presenting our prayers to God in faith we must wait in thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is an application for more, Thanksgiving sets us in line for the miraculous, it is appreciating God for what He has done, What He will do, and What He is doing.

Praying with Specificity

When we pray, it’s important to be specific. Don’t just offer vague prayers—be direct about what you want and need from God. And always back your prayers with God’s Word. Reading and knowing the Bible allows you to pray with authority, quoting verses that align with God’s promises. Praying in line with His Word accelerates results and strengthens our faith. Even Jesus prayed persistently, asking God for the same thing more than once. So, don’t give up—keep pressing in prayer until you see the answers. Prayer has transformative power—it lightens your heart, relieves worries, and brings you closer to God.

Trusting God’s Timing

Sometimes, it can feel like God isn’t listening, or that your prayers are going unanswered. But remember, there’s no time wasted in the Lord. His timing is perfect, and He makes everything beautiful in its season. God hears even the smallest requests. I remember during my service year, I asked God for a free ride one morning, and within minutes, I got exactly that. God hears us. No matter how small or big your request may seem, don’t give up. Keep pressing on in faith, and trust that God will answer.

Making prayer a lifestyle is one of the best things you can do. It changes everything, strengthens your relationship with God, and transforms your life. So, I encourage you to make prayer a priority. It’s not just about asking—it’s about connecting with God, growing in faith, and experiencing His love.

I pray that the Lord gives you the strength to partner with Him and give your life a fresh perspective. Amen, and God bless you!

Why Find Resilience in Adversity?

Pressed But Not Crushed: Finding Resilience in Adversity. 

I had an encounter with a cockroach some nights back, and I struck it thinking it was dead. When I woke up the next morning, It still struggled for breath. 

This sparked a conversation between me and my sister about the tenacity and strength of cockroaches to survive against all odds.

Cockroaches are notoriously resilient and can thrive in various environments. There's something we can learn from them if we pay closer attention. They move with the survive against all odds mentality and this inbuilt and innate characteristic is their key survival factor. 

As I reflected on every month of the year, I thought about my wins and losses. My losses stood out more to me. Before April, I had applied to over thirty industries in search of a job. I was either rejected or never received a response.

These rejections affected my self-esteem, making me question my abilities. I struggled to accept if I was good enough for anything.

God's word in 2 Corinthians 4:8-10 came as a reminder to me that:

"We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed." (ESV)

This passage is a reminder to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even amid uncertainty. By fixing our eyes on Him, we can find the strength to persevere and overcome adversity.

The Message version says, "We've been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we're not demoralized; we're not sure what to do..." But God knows what to do.

As I pondered on this, I realized that I might not know what I want to do with my life, but God knows what to do, and that's why He will always remain the all-knowing.

In a world surrounded by people fixing their identity from the kind of job they do or to their ability to earn a certain sum of figures of money, one with less will tend to shy away. 

But God wants to be the one who gives meaning to our lives. Not based on our crises or rejection but because of the love he has for us. 

As we go through today, be reminded that we are pressed but not crushed. We may face challenges, but with God's strength and our resilience, we can overcome them. We press on, trusting in God to take care of us. 

I KEVWE AM PRESSED BUT NOT CRUSHED. I... (YOUR NAME) AM PRESSED BUT NOT CRUSHED. 

Stay Revived!

By Guest writer.

The Kindness Paradox: Why kindness matters.

The Power of Kindness: A Reflection on God's Love and Our Actions

Not long ago, during a conversation with some colleagues, one person mentioned that she could only do something for someone if that person had done the same for her before. It got me thinking: has friendship become conditional? It seems that true kindness in relationships is becoming increasingly rare.

In today’s world, many people tie their kindness to expectations, hoping for something in return. Others may seem indifferent, focused only on themselves. This raises an intriguing question: what if God had applied the same logic? What if He had chosen not to send His only Son to die for us, expecting something in return? How different would life have been?

The kindness God showed by sending His Son to die for us is unparalleled. It is a love that cannot replaced. Kindness, at its core, is genuine care, consideration, and love for those around us. It is love in action. I often wonder where people have learned the type of kindness they claim to offer in friendships, relationships, and with family.

There’s a saying that "kindness is free," but true kindness—given without any expectation of reward—is both rare and precious. Kindness manifests through actions of care, patience, attention, and help, all aimed at ensuring others' comfort. Wherever kindness exists, love follows.

The birth of Christ is the greatest form of kindness, a lovestruck moment that changed the course of history. It is the reason we celebrate His birth and the reason we strive to emulate His example. Just as "Acts of Service" is considered one of the love languages, kindness is often displayed through our actions and reactions. It is a choice we make daily, and it’s not just about tolerance—it’s about embodying moral excellence.

For many, kindness doesn’t come easily. Past hurts and negative experiences can make it difficult to show compassion. However, God’s word reminds us in Luke 6:35 (NKJV), "But love your enemies..." As children of God, we must consciously choose to be kind and to radiate God's love in all we do. Our true identity can only be found in the Lord and in His Word.

I am reminded of a moment from my teenage years. One evening, I was walking home from a wedding when a young boy, around 5 or 6 years old, approached me. Although I couldn’t understand him, I assumed he was asking for money. As I tried to walk past him, he began following me. It wasn’t until I stopped that I realized he was ringing a bell. He handed me the bell that had fallen off my shoe, showing kindness when I least expected it.

I was struck by the boy’s act of kindness. Despite my initial indifference, he responded with love, not because of what he could gain, but because of the genuine care in his heart.

Another instance that comes to mind is a neighbor who, upon my arrival at a new home, consistently checked in on me. She never asked for anything in return; she simply showed kindness.

There are, of course, situations where people’s kindness has been taken for granted, and that can be disheartening. But this should never be a reason to stop being kind. True kindness is about giving to others, even when we know they cannot repay us. It’s about reflecting the love of Jesus, especially when we’ve been hurt.

When we choose kindness, we not only honor God but also create an environment that draws others to Him. Our actions build trust, strengthen relationships, and serve as a testimony to His love.

As Galatians 6:10 (NIV) says, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people..." Let us make a conscious effort to choose kindness, to show love and compassion to those around us, and to reflect God’s love in all that we do.