Friday, 15 August 2014
Wednesday, 13 August 2014
The late General Sani Abacha was neither Hausa nor Fulani. He was KANURI.
The Kanuris are some of the most prominent tribes/ethnic groups in Nigeria.
Predominant States/Regions
-The Kanuris are found in the areas that covers the historic Kanem and Bornu Empires (Kanem-Bornu). Kanuris are predominant in two states in northeastern Nigeria: Borno and Yobe.
-In addition to these states, Kanuris are also found outside Nigeria, and these include western Chad, northern parts of Cameroon and southeast Niger.
-Kanuri cities in Nigeria are: Maiduguri, Damaturu, Chibok, Bama, Damboa, Monguno, Konduga, Guzamala, Marte, Kukawa, Jere and others.
Prominent People of the Tribe
Some of the most prominent people in Nigeria are Kanuris and they are as follows:
-Saninegeria Mohammed Abacha, former Nigerian military ruler
-Air Marshal Al-Amin Daggash (retired), former Chief of Defence Staff
-Sir Shettima Kashim Ibrahim, former Minister for Social Services and Education and the first Nigerian Governor of the Northern Region
-Ibrahim Imam, Nigerian politician
-Shettima Ali Monguno, educationist, politician and former minister. He was kidnapped by Boko Haram in May 2013 but was later released.
-Mohammed Yusuf, founder of the Boko Haram sect
-Abubakar Shekau, current leader of the Boko Haram sect
-Zannah Sulloma Bukar Dipcharima, Nigerian politician and former transport minister
-Ahmed Khalifa Zanna, Nigerian senator
-Ali Ndume, Nigerian senator
-Hamza Al-Mustapha, major and former Chief Security Officer to General Abacha
-Habib Bama (Shuabu Bama, Habib Mamman), an ex-soldier and Boko Haram member
-Waziri Ibrahim, businessman and politician
-Baba Gana Kingibe, politician and former minister
-Adamu Ciroma, former minister of finance. Ciroma is specifically of the Bolewa tribe in Yobe State but the Bolewas are historically part of the old El-Kanemi Empire. Same goes for the Shuwa tribe where the late Major-General Mohammed Mamman Shuwa hailed from. Shuwa was assassinated by unknown gunmen in November 2012.
-Engineer Bunu Sheriff
-Senator Ali Modu Sheriff
-Kam Salem, former Inspector-General of Police
-Major-General Abba Kyari (retired)
-Colonel Kur Mohammed
-Alhaji Abba Habeeb
- Alhaji Muhammed Goni
-Brigadier Zakariya Maimalari
-Lt. Col. Abogo Largema
-Hajiya Ammuna Ali
-Alhaji Goni Aji, appointed Head of Service of the Federation
-Dr. Baba-Kura Kaigama
-Dr. Buka Shaib
-Professor Nuhu Alkali
Traditional Ruler/Head/Leader
-The paramount ruler of the Kanuris is the Shehu of Borno, the head of the Borno Emirate. The current head is Shehu Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi.
Language/Dialects/Subgroups
-There are various dialects and subgroups amongst the Kanuris. Some of these subgroups consider themselves to be non-Kanuris. These include the Mangari, Beri Beri, Bilma, Bla Bla and Tumari.
- The Kanuri language, which was derived from Kanembu, is the language of the Kanuri people. There are various dialects of the Kanuri language and these include Kanembu itself, Manga Kanuri (the speakers are called Mangari), Tumari Kanuri and Central Kanuri.
-For centuries, the Kanuri language has been written using the Ajami Arabic Script.
Interesting Things About The Kanuris
- The Kanuri people are also called Yerwa, Kanowri and Kanouri.
- The Kanuri people consider the Lake Chad to be the greatest blessing and gift from God to them. However, Lake Chad is now an ecological disaster waiting to happen as it has shrunk several times its original size.
- In other places, especially southeastern corner of Niger Republic, the Kanuris are also called the Beri Beri.
- In the 1950s, a movement of nationalists based in Bornu carved out areas of Nigeria, Chad, Niger and Cameroon and they declared it to be theirs. They called it Greater Kanowra. The area they carved out for themselves was larger than half of Nigeria.
- The Borno-Yobe Peoples Forum is an umbrella body for the Kanuri people.
-The Kanuris are mainly sedentary farmers who engage in farming, fishing (in the Lake Chad basin). They are also into various commercial activities and engage in the processing and trading of salt.
Religion/Religious Practices
-The Kanuris are predominantly Muslims of the Sunni Islam branch. Islam was introduced to the Kanem-Borno Empire in the 11th century. Other faiths include Christianity and traditional African religions.
CREDITS AND REFERENCES
- Eric Teniola, Boko Haram, the Nigerian Government and the Agony of the Kanuris, Premium Times, 1st May, 2014.
Open Heavens Devotional - Wednesday 13th August, 2014.
FOOLISH COMPARISON.
Memorise:
For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. 2 Cor 10:12.
Read: 2 Corinthians 10:12-18.
10 For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.
11 Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.
12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.
13 But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.
14 For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ:
15 Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,
16 To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand.
17 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
18 For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MARK 14:43-16:8 and JOB 21:1-16
Message
One of the greatest temptations facing the human race today is that of comparison. Making comparisons about virtually everything has become part of life from childhood to old age. We compare family background, physical appearance, intelligence, character, abilities, endowments, life achievements etc.
It has systematically turned life in general to a kind of competition. Even little children are known to tell lies in order to measure up on the comparison scale of their mates. Have you compared yourself to others and didn’t quite measure up? Have you ever thought that you are not as beautiful, handsome, smart, capable, charming, gifted or as godly as your friends? Going into this kind of comparison makes it so easy to think that if you had more or knew more, you would be secure and happy. But as a matter of fact, people who have it all, even the most endowed individuals in the world, still struggle with feelings of insecurity.
In the beginning, God created Adam and Eve in His own image. He blessed them and gave them dominion over all creation. He provided everything that anyone could desire for them. He gave them intimacy and attention, He also gave them beauty, security, significance, and purpose. Nevertheless, Satan confused Eve by giving her feelings of insecurity that pushed her to take her eyes away from her precious inheritance and focus on the forbidden fruit. Comparisons will always make you ignore what you have and focus your attention on what you lack. It will push you to doubt God and yourself, convincing you to seek for solutions outside of God’s provision. By making comparisons, you will become convinced that something is missing in your life and that kicking against God’s commandment will make you be “like God”. The Lord will help you to recognise Satan’s lies and overcome his temptations in Jesus’ Name.
Do not fall for the lies of the devil anymore; learn to refute his temptations with the truth. Always appreciate and thank God for His wonderful provisions and promises. Believe the word of God in Colossians 2:10 that says, you are complete in Him. As you hold on to the word as a weapon against the schemes of the devil in your life, the word of God will work for you in Jesus’ Name.
Prayer Point:
Father, please let my focus always be on your provisions and promises in my life with praise and thanksgiving to you.
Tuesday, 12 August 2014
LESSONS IN YOUR ROOM . . .
A friend said thus: In bed, I was asking myself; "what are some of the Secrets to Success in Life?"
I found the answer right there in my very room.
The Fan said,"be Cool",
The Roof said, "Aim High",
The Window said, "see the World,
The Clock said, "Every Minute is Precious,
The Mirror said, Reflect before you Act.
The Calendar said, "be up to Date.
The Door said, Push Hard for your Goals.
The Rug said "Kneel down and Pray."
The Toilet said "Flush the Bad Habits that will deter you from becoming someone Influential in life!
The holy book Laughed and said, "Read me for Direction".
Send this to MOTIVATE people who are important to you, like I just did....
Have a splendid week ahead!!!
Monday, 11 August 2014
The Boy Who Would Be King, The Story of SANUSI LAMIDO SANUSI
Dr. Catherine Hamlin
Australian obstetrician/gynecologist Dr. Catherine Hamlin has spent much of her life living in Ethiopia where she has revolutionized care for a childbirth injury called obstetric fistula. Dr. Hamlin, who celebrated her 90th birthday this year, has been nominated for the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize for her work building the world's only medical center dedicated to providing free repair surgery to poor women suffering from this devastating condition -- one that affects more than two million young women around the world.
When Dr. Hamlin first moved with her husband, Dr. Reginald Hamlin, to Ethiopia in 1959 to establish a midwifery school, they had never encountered an obstetric fistula as the condition is very rare in developed countries due to modern obstetric techniques such as Caesarean section. They soon learned that fistulas were common in Ethiopia and in much of the developing world. An obstetric fistula is a medical condition in which a hole or fistula develops in the birth canal area after a difficult or failed childbirth. Most often, the child dies and the fistula renders the woman incontinent. Due to the leaking which occurs and the resulting odor, women are frequently ostracized from their families and communities.
Recognizing the great need for fistula treatment, the Hamlins founded the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital in 1974 to provide free fistula repair surgery to women in need. Since then, they have treated 35,000 women with a success rate of 95 percent. Dr. Hamlin has spent years building up local expertise in the surgical procedure and has since opened additional medical centers in other Ethiopian cities. Now established as the global center of expertise on fistula repair, surgeons come from around the world to be trained by Dr. Hamlin and her associates.
To help prevent more women from developing fistulas in the first place, Dr. Hamlin established the Hamlin College of Midwives in 2006. Globally, there are over 300,000 maternal deaths every year, 99 percent of which occur in poor countries, and for every death, at least 20 women suffer severe complications from childbirth. Complications in pregnancy and childbirth remain the leading cause of the death among adolescent girls in many developing countries. In a country like Ethiopia which has fewer than 200 OB/GYNs for a population of nearly 100 million people, midwives offer the best hope of providing front-line maternal care to women, especially those in rural areas.
Dr. Hamlin's work put obstetric fistula on the global health agenda, and her work has been internationally recognized by governments and professional medical societies around the world. At Dr. Hamlin's 90th birthday party earlier this year, her son, Richard, declared that "Catherine has one son and 35,000 daughters.” Dr. Hamlin, who lives in a cottage at the hospital and continues to be active in its day-to-day work, has trained many to carry on her important mission. At her party, Dr. Hamlin told those who had gathered to celebrate the life of this remarkable woman: "We have to eradicate Ethiopia of this awful thing that’s happening to women: suffering, untold suffering, in the countryside. I leave this with you to do in the future, to carry on.”
Dr. Hamlin's life-changing work is possible due to the support of donors from around the world through two charitable organizations
Understanding Our Inheritance - Part 1
Dearly Beloved,
- There
are some biblical understanding that Christians unconsciously plan to
grasp when they get to heaven, one of which is our inheritance in God.
Interestingly, understanding the world of angels and the role they play in our salvation sheds light on this subject. (Heb. 1:14)
- My
mentor in the faith once said, ‘If you
are not rooted in the knowledge of angels, you won’t know about your
inheritance as they models of our inheritance. You would hardly understand Christ
as you ought without it. Angels were ministers/representatives of the Lord before
he came. They are the anointed ones (Eze 28:14) before The Anointed One (i.e.
Christ) came.
- Angels are enjoying their inheritance in this
present creation/world. Man would primarily enjoy his inheritance/reward in the
world to come but mainly has the days of his sojourn in the flesh to prepare
for it.
- Mankind
is currently being tried while angels have been tried and some of them kept
their estate (i.e. remained under covering/authority) while others like Satan
and his cohorts didn’t (Jude 1:6). Satan remains the ruler/prince of this world
(Jn. 14:30), and we need to understand the realm of angels to
discern and beat him. The following is therefore a brief appraisal on angels.
-
There
are angels of God’s footstool that handle earthly/carnal ministrations. Those
that kept not their estate (Jude 1:6) and fell in this class of angels became
demons which are lesser in fabric/ministry than all other angels. They are
described as angels of the realm of the living soul (the realm of man) in Ps.
103:22. They specialize in deceiving and oppressing unbelievers and young
believers. They toss young believers to and fro (Eph. 4:14) and promote
doctrines of demon but are lesser than seducing spirits described in 1 Tim. 4:1.
They can be cast out with the
authority in the name of Jesus according to Mark 16:17
- There are angels who
handle a higher grade of spiritual things than angels of his footstool. While moving from the earth heaven wards,
they are the angels of the outer court
of heaven, angels of the first heaven. Those that kept their estate were
called Principalities, Powers, Might
& Dominion in Eph. 1:21 while Col. 1:16 called this same class of
angels as Principalities, Powers,
Thrones & Dominion. They are war-like in operation. Ps. 103:22 described them as dwellers in places of his dominion. Isa. 14:13 described them as
‘Stars of God’. Some out of them that were deceived by Satan were described as
a part of our main enemy in Eph. 6:12 i.e. Principalities
and Powers, here, in a fallen state.
They specialize in ensuring believers don’t come into the arena of Spiritual
Knowledge (i.e. Sonship)
- There are angels who handle a higher
grade of spiritual things than angels of the first heaven, i.e. than dwellers
in the places of his dominion. They are the angels of holy place of heaven, angels of the second heaven. They are called Seraphs and in different places
described as Hosts of Heaven, Sons of fire or Stones of fire. They make up the ‘mount of congregation’ described
in Isa. 14:13. Ps. 103:21 described them as ministers of the Lord. Because of
The Lord’s operations in their midst, He is called The Lord of Host = Isa. 6:3. Such was the angel encountered by
Prophet Isaiah in Isa. 6. They burn and are not given a face like Cherubs to
behold God and therefore use their wings to veil their face = Isa. 6:2. They
are part of the class of angels with names (spiritual operations) that Apostle
Paul compared the Lord Jesus with after resurrection by stating ‘… every name
that is named’ in Eph. 1:21. Because
the holy place makes up part of the tabernacle (Heb. 9) where Seraphim’s minister
with the oracles of God, Seraphs are part of the company of angels Paul was
referring to in Heb. 1:4 when he compared this class of angels with Christ by
saying ‘…the Lord was made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent
name than ‘they’ (i.e. Seraphs and
Cherubs). Eph. 6:12 described those that fell out of them as rulers of the darkness of this world
and spiritual wickedness in high
places. Like priests of the holy place, their loins are girded and are
partially clothed (Dan. 10:5-6). They limit potential sons from becoming established
in Spiritual Knowledge, in their Priestly calling. Their operations can’t be
cast out like Mark 16:17 counsels, but rather, a believer must WRESTLE with
them by WALKING AGAINST THEIR COURSE, WALKING EXTENSIVELY IN THE SPIRIT (Eph. 6:12/2:2)
-
There are angels
who handle the most superior grade of spiritual things in the heavenly realm, higher
than angels of the second heaven in make. They are the angels of the third heaven, the most holy place. They are called Cherubs
and in different places, they are described as Sons of the morning, Sons of the beginning = Isa. 14:12/Job 38:7.
Ps. 103:20 confirmed them as angels that excel in strength, that can represent
and act as a witness or ambassador of the Lord. They glow and shine are
therefore called Cherubs of Glory = Heb. 9:5. John the Baptist was described as
a shining light because of the prophetic
nature of a cherub that he engaged while witnessing about the Lord. Satan was a
Cherub who had a height/light advantage. He was decked with precious stones
with which he ministered light/knowledge unto seraphs (Eze. 28:13-14) before he
fell. Cherubs are equipped with eyes
within and without and are endowed with a
face to administer spiritually inclined blessings (Jer. 1:18/Exo. 25:20/Eze.
28:14). Satan later used and still uses his face to curse/limit nations (i.e. limit
souls) since he fell = Isa. 25:7/Rev. 22:3/Rev.12:14. Like the high priest that
ministers in the most holy place, Cherubs are always clothed with a garment
down to the foot, and girt themselves about with a golden girdle. Most angels
in operations in the Book of Revelation were Cherubs, including those who spoke
like the Lord would have personally did i.e. Rev. 1:13 e.t.c. The ministry of the face of Christ (the
hidden wisdom of Christ – 1Cor.2:7) is the only antidote to the ministry of his
face, which is the operation of a high wisdom. Any believer that comes into
the arena of knowledge (i.e. Sonship) and desires to inherit the throne would
have to go through the tough hurdle of overcoming Satan’s wiles (i.e. overcome
the stature of his perverted spiritual wisdom – Eze.28:12/17) by walking
against their course which is synonymous to wrestling with them. Completing
this warfare syllabus is the litmus test before all heavens and before the
Godhead that a believer has attained the status is an overcomer and is superior
to angels/has laid hold of eternal life. Seraphs as earlier explained and also
Cherubs are the only grade of angels that Apostle Paul was referring to in Heb.
1:4 when he compared Angels with Christ by saying ‘…the Lord was made so much
better than the angels, as he hath
by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than ‘they’. The process of terminating the reign (Rom. 5:14) of the only
fallen cherub, Satan, is still ongoing and is premised on the raising of a
company of first fruits/overcomers called the Man-Child in Rev. 12:5-8. The
true church (Isa. 66:8/Rev. 12:2) would be responsible for raising that Man
Child, who would be a Man because of
the formation of Spiritual Stature of the knowledge/wisdom of Christ in them (Eph.
4:13) and a Child because of the
meek nature of the lamb that made them compatible with the throne/receive the
kingdom (Lk. 18:17/Matt. 11:29)
Some Scriptural references
Rev. 1:1 ‘The
Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his
servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel (a cherubim) unto
his servant John’
Rev. 1:8 ‘I
am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the
Almighty’. (THIS WAS A CHERUBIM SPEAKING ON BEHALF OF THE LORD UNTO JOHN, AS AN
AMBASSADOR/REPRESENTATIVE/MINISTER, SPEAKING AS THE LORD WOULD SPEAK)
Heb. 1:7 ‘And of the angels he saith, Who
maketh his angels spirits (referring to Cherubs), and his ministers a flame of
fire’ (referring to Seraphs).
1 Tim3:16 ‘And without controversy great is the
mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the
Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory’. (i.e. angels came
into a high degree of Glory before man and were before man, so they had to be
given that honor)
Isa. 14:12 -15 ‘How art thou fallen from heaven, O
Lucifer, Son of the morning (an angel of the third heaven)! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into
heaven (the realm of authority over the earth that Satan stole from Adam), I
will exalt my throne above the Stars of
God (angels of the first heaven): I will sit also upon the Mount of The Congregation (angels of
the second heaven), in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the Heights of The Clouds (i.e. above the
angels of the third heaven); I will be like
the most High’ (the kind of likeness that only man was called to inherit, that
which Christ attained on our behalf = Heb. 1:3/2Cor.3:18
Eze. 28:14 Thou art
the anointed cherub that covereth (blesses); and I have set thee so: thou wast
upon the holy mountain of God (holy place); thou hast walked (ministry of dispensing light/knowledge) up and down in the
midst of the stones of fire (i.e. Seraphs).
Eph. 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked
according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air (i.e. the realm of authority
over the earth which was stolen from Adam, the place where believers would meet with Christ at his second coming after
it would have been cleansed of his enemies = 1Thes.4:17), the
spirit that now works in the children of disobedience
Dan. 10:13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia (i.e. a fallen Seraphim, a Ruler of
the darkness of this world/spiritual wickedness in high places) withstood me
(i.e. the holy seraphim described in Dan. 10:5-6) one and twenty days: but, lo,
Michael (i.e. a cherub), one of the chief
princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.
Rev. 12:7 And there was war in heaven (i.e. the
air, realm of authority over the earth): Michael and his angels fought against
the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels (i.e. Satan and angels of the first and
second heaven which he deceived), And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in
heaven (i.e. the air was cleansed of its usurped authority). And the great
dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan,
David, A type of an overcomer in the
Old Testament, understood the heavens/the angelic realm
Ps. 18:12 At the brightness that was before him,
his thick clouds (i.e. Cherubs) passed, hail stones and coals of fire (i.e. Seraphs).
Ps. 78:14 In the daytime also he led them with a cloud (i.e. a Cherubim), and all the
night with a light of fire (i.e. also a Cherubim, because they can manifest and
carry out the ministry of a seraph, they can switch to a lower operation).
Ps. 19:1 The heavens (plural) declare the glory
of God; and the firmament shoes his handiwork.
Ps.115:16 The heaven (i.e. the air/realm of
authority over the earth that Satan stole from Adam), even the heavens (i.e.
the first, second and third heaven), are the LORD’s: but the earth hath he
given to the children of men.
Ps. 80:1 Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou
that lead Joseph like a flock; thou that dwells between the Cherubs, shine
forth.
Bless You!
THIS RACE
THIS RACE
Those who start firstDon’t always end first
Those who run the race
Don’t always win the race
The greatest heroes
Don’t always win the battle always
The strength of a man
Often doesn’t determine his ability
Neither does wisdom
Determine ones Satisfaction
It does not also determine
A meal on your table
Wealth is not also
Determined by your level of understanding
Your smartness
Does not always bring wealth
Your educational status
Also doesn’t determine your favour
It doesn’t also determine
Your level of grace
Your skill
Doesn’t always make you popular
So when you boost do it
In the lord and in the knowledge and
Understanding of him.
Princess Ebunoluwa
SAY NO TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
SAY NO TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: THE MAN WHO LEARN THE HARD WAY
"Even goats can bite when pushed to the wall"- 'Yoruba Proverb.
I have come again with this funny story to prevent men from laying hands on women. I promise you will all have a good laugh. If you do not laugh, don't read anything I write again!:
There was a short-tempered man who always beat up his wife at every slight provocation. He had literally turned her into a punching bag. She would cry endlessly after each round of merciless beating and sustain several degrees of avoidable injury. She would sometimes wear dark sun-shades and tie scarf to conceal the numerous scars on her face and her swollen head. She was so quiet, unassuming and loving that she never reports the domestic brawl and incessant beating to her parents, his husband's parents, neighbours who normally overhear their periodic fights or even his or her 'nosy' friends. She would even cover up his unbecoming violent acts by saying she fell from the staircase, had a fatal domestic accident or even mistakenly collided with the wall in the midst of bleak darkness at night. It doesn't matter whether she looks as though she was crushed by a trailer on top speed or appear to have fought a Lion! She then thought and resolved vehemently within herself to stop this constant pummelling someday soon before her wicked, heartless and unchanging husband would send her to her early grave.
One fateful day, she served him food and a Jar of water but did not bring him the glass cup on time. After a few exchange of tough words from him, he landed her a very dirty, blistering hot, unprovoked and resounding slap. She saw a million stars and her cheeks shone like expensive diamonds. Her eyes became dizzy and every image appeared blurry. Her husband looked like five people in her hazy view. She became infuriated and moved towards him. She momentarily grabbed his groin with so much energy. His face was expressionless and revealed shock and astonishment. He couldn't beg for mercy or weep as a 'big man'. He started grunting and bleating like a starving goat. He was too dazed to respond. He opened his mouth wide ajar, gulped a volume of air and could not mutter any word. His head alone started sweating like a chilled bottle of coke.
He suddenly screamed on the highest pitch of his newly found voice. The more he appealed to her, the more pressure she applied on the held area. He said: 'Darling please, you are pressing those 'balls' too hard and holding my 'wired bush' with the 'device', (O ti bu'run mo), its really painful . She responded: 'I know, I want it to pain you severely, you wicked man'. He tried to free himself to no avail as she would not let go of the grip. She started 'remote controlling' him and he moved at her pace. She used the groin to pull him around the sitting room area. If she moves backwards, he follows her and when she moves forward, he followed her obediently. He held his stomach as he felt excruciating pains in his tummy. His eyes were very red. His eyeballs started to rigmarole in its socket and his gaze perambulated the space without focus. He promised never to lay his hands on her again but she would have none of it. He said he was even willing to sign his own death warrant and transfer his savings up to the last penny to her in other to regain his freedom but she would not be consoled. He asked her what she wanted but she kept mute. He called her 'Aunty', 'Mummy', 'Uncle' and 'Daddy' but she remained adamant. She rolled, squeezed and spinned it with all her strength to teach him a lesson in cruelty. The twenty minutes within which his 'John calypso' was in the captivity of the infuriated grip of her hands were like eternity. He went down on his knees after the unforgettable encounter. He was later admitted in the hospital where he was on admission for 4 weeks. He didn't experience erection for 9 months afterwards due to the damage caused. He has since stopped laying his hands on women or anything feminine; not even a 'She-goat'.
'Tosin Ayo,
Thursday, 7 August 2014
The Jukuns
In the past, there was a very interesting tradition among the warrior-like tribe of the Jukuns of Wukari in Taraba State (then of the old Benue-Plateau State). The Jukuns were headed by a king called the Aku Uka (Not in the picture), and they believed that the health of Jukunland was directly linked to that of the Aku Uka the King. So after about every five years or thereabout, an Aku Uka was buried. An Aku Uka was not supposed to live for more than seven years. Usually, what the Jukuns do is to encourage the king to commit suicide or they will assist him to join his forefathers. The essence of this tradition was in the premise of the Jukuns that their community needs to be renewed from time to time and they believed this was done by changing the leader at regular intervals. Interesting, isn’t it?
PRIDE WILL MAKE YOU THE WRETCHED AND FETISH SOCIETAL DREG'S WIFE!
Welcome to the weird, strange but true stories from the stable of the 'word bank'.
PRIDE WILL MAKE YOU THE WRETCHED AND FETISH SOCIETAL DREG'S WIFE!
She was a very brilliant, pretty but arrogant lady in a secondary school. She always teased and mocked a very dirty, ugly-looking, fetish, short, unattractive and uneducated Artisan and manual labourer in her school. She thoroughly despised him and made no pretence about her open disdain for him. She calls him a 'low life', doesn't even see him as a Scallywag but a despicable scum of the earth in dire strait and an unimaginable deplorable condition. He knew of her mockery of him and decided to teach her a lesson in 'humility'. He blew the 'powder' of sexual fetishism over her ignorant face and that was it! He used 'Africa magic' on her and he became all she saw! Her emotional fate sealed forever! She showcased the unsellable cartel as her newly found love! She fought friends, folks and family over her 'unpalatable' marital choice and moved into his bosom without any further education!
Fast forward fifteen years later, she is one of the seven women who bore the 'herbalist without a shrine' eight children! She soaks poverty and mellows in lack! Any keen observer would marvel at the disparity in class, personality, serenity, elegance and social fibre of this 'couple'. She looked far better than the Jejune she ended up with. No one could fathom the meeting point of the pedestrian pole and our 'arrogant beauty'. They were not compatible one bit but it was a marriage made in the Shrine all the same! It was a classic tale of the Beauty and the beast! All entreaty to the 'remote control' husband proved abortive as he can't even remember where the padlock of perversion and inordinate affection locking her destiny was any longer! Stay humble and prayerful, lest you end up as the wretched herbalist's bride! This is Africa where not every leaf is a vegetable!
'Tosin Ayo,
(The 'word bank').
SOVEREIGN OVER US By Michael W. Smith
There is strength within the sorrow
There is beauty in our tears
And You meet us in our mourning
With a love that casts out fear
You are working in our waiting
You're sanctifying us
When beyond our understanding
You're teaching us to trust
Your plans are still to prosper
You have not forgotten us
You're with us in the fire and the flood
You're faithful forever
Perfect in love
You are sovereign over us
You are wisdom unimagined
Who could understand Your ways
Reigning high above the Heavens
Reaching down in endless grace
You're the lifter of the lowly
Compassionate and kind
You surround and You uphold me
And Your promises are my delight
Your plans are still to prosper
You have not forgotten us
You're with us in the fire and the flood
You're faithful forever
Perfect in love
You are sovereign over us
Even what the enemy means for evil
You turn it for our good
You turn it for our good and for Your glory
Even in the valley, You are faithful
You're working for our good
You're working for our good and for Your glory
Your plans are still to prosper
You have not forgotten us
You're with us in the fire and the flood
You're faithful forever
Perfect in love
You are sovereign over us
There is beauty in our tears
And You meet us in our mourning
With a love that casts out fear
You are working in our waiting
You're sanctifying us
When beyond our understanding
You're teaching us to trust
Your plans are still to prosper
You have not forgotten us
You're with us in the fire and the flood
You're faithful forever
Perfect in love
You are sovereign over us
You are wisdom unimagined
Who could understand Your ways
Reigning high above the Heavens
Reaching down in endless grace
You're the lifter of the lowly
Compassionate and kind
You surround and You uphold me
And Your promises are my delight
Your plans are still to prosper
You have not forgotten us
You're with us in the fire and the flood
You're faithful forever
Perfect in love
You are sovereign over us
Even what the enemy means for evil
You turn it for our good
You turn it for our good and for Your glory
Even in the valley, You are faithful
You're working for our good
You're working for our good and for Your glory
Your plans are still to prosper
You have not forgotten us
You're with us in the fire and the flood
You're faithful forever
Perfect in love
You are sovereign over us
|| SOVEREIGN OVER US ||
Flo Speaks
# Talent comes naturally. Skill however, comes by the working of that God-given talent.
# Skill is sustained by knowledge, Anointing is sustained by God. However when 'Skill' and 'Anointing' converge, the 'super - ordinary' comes to life.
# Only when your gift (aka talent) has been turned into a 'skill' will it bring you before Kings and not mere men.
# Skill and Anointing make a power pair. Character however, is THE definitive factor.
Selah
#FLOspeaks
Saturday, 2 August 2014
THE SPINSTER'S SATURDAY SONG
Its another saturday
Sing with me, its another saturday
A day another spinster exits 'Spinsterhood'
That's how they marry in millions and engage in many thousands
Day climbs days, weeks swallow weeks...
Friends, foes, folks and family send you wedding invites weekly
You adorn your 'societal robes' and grace their glorious day
Your income wanes over incessant purchase of 'Aso ebi'
You are the unsolicited Photographer, 'Photo-journalist' and PRO of your younger friends' nuptials...
You update, upload and uplift other people's marital events...
You recently started rejecting gracious offers from friends to be their CBM: Chief Bride's Maid
You have performed creditably in this role timelessly in not less than fifteen weddings!
Every saturday is 'O wa nbe' things
Sing with me, its another saturday
A day another spinster exits 'Spinsterhood'
That's how they marry in millions and engage in many thousands
Day climbs days, weeks swallow weeks...
Friends, foes, folks and family send you wedding invites weekly
You adorn your 'societal robes' and grace their glorious day
Your income wanes over incessant purchase of 'Aso ebi'
You are the unsolicited Photographer, 'Photo-journalist' and PRO of your younger friends' nuptials...
You update, upload and uplift other people's marital events...
You recently started rejecting gracious offers from friends to be their CBM: Chief Bride's Maid
You have performed creditably in this role timelessly in not less than fifteen weddings!
Every saturday is 'O wa nbe' things
That God remembers your neighbour should be signs that He is in the neighbourhood...
Instead of staying to be found, you are the one searching for what is not missing...
You drive past many men across miles to the prayer mountains seeking a man!
You sit beside the brother but his 'crunchy coat' does not impress you
You detest process and prospect, all you crave is prosperity and progress!
Your haughty nature blinds and blindfolds you...
You are not myopic of the rich and the good-looking but only the struggling and the rugged...
You are only hyperopic and hypermetropic of the influential and the affluent
When your contemporaries woo your kind, you suddenly develop astigmatism: distorted vision
When young Bachelors befriend you, you 'height' and 'eye' them
You cannot wait for a man to get a good job...
But you can wait 8 whole years for an imaginary groom to come back from America!
You asked God for a good man and he sent you one...
But you said you only like him as a friend!
Instead of staying to be found, you are the one searching for what is not missing...
You drive past many men across miles to the prayer mountains seeking a man!
You sit beside the brother but his 'crunchy coat' does not impress you
You detest process and prospect, all you crave is prosperity and progress!
Your haughty nature blinds and blindfolds you...
You are not myopic of the rich and the good-looking but only the struggling and the rugged...
You are only hyperopic and hypermetropic of the influential and the affluent
When your contemporaries woo your kind, you suddenly develop astigmatism: distorted vision
When young Bachelors befriend you, you 'height' and 'eye' them
You cannot wait for a man to get a good job...
But you can wait 8 whole years for an imaginary groom to come back from America!
You asked God for a good man and he sent you one...
But you said you only like him as a friend!
Predatory as a Panther, Pretty and Proud as a Peacock
Puffy as a soaked bread, picky as a Pick-comb
As tall as the skies, as selective as the saint
You bestride the women folk like a Legend
Madam Professional spinster of no mean stature
Statutorily single lady of no mean repute
The 'Senior girl' who dresses and decks up like an Astronaut
She walks like she doesn't pee and talks like she doesn't wee wee!
She wants the cooked meal, not the raw deal
She wants to lick the stew with neither ingredient nor preparation!
Single, searching; not seeing because of standards...
You scream for help in religious camps because you are now thirty-something
You made prospective husbands hopeless boyfriends in distant past...
Let me ask you Madam 'I can't date a broke ass':
Was your father driving a Range Rover Sport when he met your mother?
Has he built that mansion before he tied the knot?
How many guys' vision have you assisted?
Great things have little beginnings,
To lick it, you must cook it!
To reap it, you must plant it!
To be found, you must be 'findable'!
Lower your shoulder! see correctly!!
Don't settle for less but reduce the stakes!!!
Made men are not found, they are made!
Wealthy men are not to be sought; they seek their match!
Stop looking; start seeing!
Be a wife or keep on dancing to the melodious tune of the Spinster's saturday song!
Was your father driving a Range Rover Sport when he met your mother?
Has he built that mansion before he tied the knot?
How many guys' vision have you assisted?
Great things have little beginnings,
To lick it, you must cook it!
To reap it, you must plant it!
To be found, you must be 'findable'!
Lower your shoulder! see correctly!!
Don't settle for less but reduce the stakes!!!
Made men are not found, they are made!
Wealthy men are not to be sought; they seek their match!
Stop looking; start seeing!
Be a wife or keep on dancing to the melodious tune of the Spinster's saturday song!
'Tosin Ayo,
(The 'word bank').
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - SATURDAY, AUGUST 2ND, 2014
DISCIPLINE YOUR MIND FOR SUCCESS *RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*
PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME
PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME
Train me, GOD, to walk straight; then I'll follow your true path. Put me together, one heart and mind; then, undivided, I’ll worship in joyful fear (Psalms 86:11 MSG).
When you want to chart a new course, create new vistas, attain a new level of prosperity, or set new goals for growth, you have to learn to use your mind. Your mind is a tool that can be disciplined. You can teach it to focus in one direction,instead of vacillating in thoughts. This way, you’ll be able to use your mind to prepare your heart to accomplish greater things. Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” By staying your mind on the Lord, you’re disciplining your mind to focus on the Word of God concerning you and what you're doing. The result is that you’ll experience the extraordinary peace of God that gives rest and prosperity.
Take your mind away from anything and everything that distracts, and focus your attention on God. Choose to only be around those who love the Lord, and discuss only with those who’ll inspire you. Keep away from people who’ll deflate your faith, and try to talk you out of what you want to achieve. Set time aside for study and meditation on the Word. To stay your mind on God, you have to stay your mind on His Word. Joshua 1:8 says, “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”
In addition, speak in other tongues at every opportunity you have to be alone because you’re about something; you want to birth new visions and ideas. Keep at it, and soon enough, you'd receive the note of victory in your spirit and know that everything is settled, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).
PRAYER
Dear Father in the Name of the Lord Jesus, I thank you for the opportunity to hear and receive your Word. I’m guided aright and know what to do at any point in time. My mind is stayed on your Word because I trust you; therefore, my peace is boundless. Amen.
Dear Father in the Name of the Lord Jesus, I thank you for the opportunity to hear and receive your Word. I’m guided aright and know what to do at any point in time. My mind is stayed on your Word because I trust you; therefore, my peace is boundless. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY
Proverbs 1:33 Living Bible (TLB)
33 But all who listen to me shall live in peace and safety, unafraid.”
Proverbs 1:33 Living Bible (TLB)
33 But all who listen to me shall live in peace and safety, unafraid.”
Hebrews 12:2 Living Bible (TLB)
2 Keep your eyes on Jesus, our leader and instructor. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterwards; and now he sits in the place of honor by the throne of God.
2 Keep your eyes on Jesus, our leader and instructor. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterwards; and now he sits in the place of honor by the throne of God.
DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 6:15-7:1-6 Psalms 60-63
2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Ephesians 5:9-16 Isaiah 53
1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 6:15-7:1-6 Psalms 60-63
2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Ephesians 5:9-16 Isaiah 53
OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL - SATURDAY 2 AUGUST 2014.
THEME : A LOVING & PERMANENT GUEST.
MEMORISE : Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
MATTHEW 6 : 26.
MATTHEW 6 : 26.
READ : JOHN 7 : 38 - 39.
38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MATHEW 21 : 28 - 23 : 36 & JOB 14 : 18 - 15 : 6.
Based on the fact that the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Jesus after His baptism ( Luke 3 : 22 ), the dove is used as an emblem of the Holy Spirit. A study of some characteristics of the dove will therefore give us insight on the Person of the Holy Spirit. The most striking characteristic of the dove is that it is one of the cleanest birds on Earth. God the Holy Spirit is pre-eminently holy. Holiness is so essential to His nature that His name consists of the word “Holy”. Whenever the Holy Spirit moves, He convicts the heart of men of sin, of righteousness and of judgement ( John 16 : 8 ). He is a clean Spirit, and to be a friend of His, you have to move close to Him in holiness.
Another characteristic of the dove is that it is gentle in manner ( Matthew 10 : 16 ). Why is the dove gentle in manner? In my research into the nature and habits of the dove, I came across this truth: “One reason for the gentleness of the dove is because the bird has no gall. Gall is considered by naturalists of old as the source and fountain of contention, the bitterness of the gall being supposed to infuse itself into the spirit.” There is no bitterness in the Holy Spirit. The fruit of the Holy Spirit, among other things, is gentleness ( Galatians 5 : 23 ). To come close to the Holy Spirit is to come close to meekness and gentleness. Someone once said, “Nothing is as strong as gentleness and no one is gentler than the Holy Spirit”. The gentleness of the Holy Spirit must not be seen from the perspective of weakness because in His gentleness lies His strength, and in His strength lies victory, deliverance, prosperity, healing, salvation, promotion, protection and all that you need now and in future. Another characteristic of the dove is that it is swift of wing. The main strength of a dove is its wings. Upheld by its wings, a dove can fly for many days so that other birds pursuing it are unable to overtake it. The Holy Spirit is very swift in His dealings and He is never at a loss of what to do. As a swift and prompt Spirit, God the Holy Spirit attends to the needs of the people of God. He prays with us while we pray, He guides us in our choice of a life partner and He helps us in our business transactions. The best business is one whose senior partner is God the Holy Spirit. Invite Him into your business. He assists us in our inadequacies, comforts us in our sorrows and cheers us in our despondency. He guides us in our difficulties and He quickens us when our faith is weak. Cast your burdens upon the Holy Spirit. Let Him take over your burdens, for He cares for you.
PRAYER POINT :
Lord delight in me. Bless me. Fix your gaze upon me and transform my life for better today.
YOLANDA ADAMS LYRICS
"I'm Grateful"
I woke up this morning, closed in my right mind
Counting all the blessings I've had in my lifetime
I'm so fortunate to have someone like God
Heavenly Father
Counting all the blessings I've had in my lifetime
I'm so fortunate to have someone like God
Heavenly Father
When I was having so many problems
No one but Him could help me solve them
He stepped in and He made everything okay
And for this I'm so grateful
No one but Him could help me solve them
He stepped in and He made everything okay
And for this I'm so grateful
I'm grateful, so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I don't mind sharing my testimony
To anyone who hear it 'cause I'm lead by the spirit
And it's possible that something I might say
To help along the way
To anyone who hear it 'cause I'm lead by the spirit
And it's possible that something I might say
To help along the way
Been through the storm but here I'm still standing
On solid ground I keep on landing
That's why I have so much faith in God
For His love I'm grateful
On solid ground I keep on landing
That's why I have so much faith in God
For His love I'm grateful
I'm grateful, so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
Yes, I'm grateful, yeah, I'm thankful
He spared me, He gave another chance
He spared me, He gave another chance
I'm grateful, so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful, I'm so thankful
To be in the land of the living
I'm grateful
Friday, 1 August 2014
FAITH
Star Pupil
Ann Spangler
Remember the story of the Gentile woman who begged Jesus to heal her demon-possessed daughter? Instead of casting out the demon, Jesus seemed to ignore the request. (Keep in mind that in Jesus’ culture, men did not talk to women they did not know, and Jews did not talk to Gentiles.) Annoyed, the disciples urged Jesus to send her away. He appeared to comply, stating that his mission was to the Jews only. But she would not give up. Then he went further, insulting her by comparing Gentiles to dogs, a common view among his contemporaries. Instead of taking offense, she simply said, “That’s true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their masters’ table” (Matthew 15:27).
We are relieved that Jesus finally heals the woman’s daughter, but many of us view the story with unease. It seems to put Jesus in an unflattering light.
But remember that Jesus was a rabbi. And rabbis used various methods to instruct their disciples. Kenneth Bailey, an expert in Middle Eastern New Testament studies, suggests an interesting interpretation. What if Jesus was giving his disciples an object lesson in faith? What if he was testing this woman and in the end commending her as one of his star pupils so his own disciples could learn something, not only from a woman but also from a Gentile?
(1)Here is how Bailey paints the scene, just after Jesus makes the comment about dogs: “Will she reply with a corresponding insult against the haughty Jews who despise and verbally attack Gentiles, even those in pain? Or is her love for her daughter, her faith that Jesus has the power of God to heal, her confidence that he has compassion for Gentiles and her commitment to him as Master/Lord so strong that she will absorb the insult and press on, yet again, with her request?”
(2)We see in this woman’s story an encouragement not only to persist in prayer but to continue to believe in God’s love and compassion in the midst of circumstances that may cast him in an unflattering light. Today, may her story impel us to continue to pray for those we love.
Prayer for Employment
#SpeakLife
Our Heavenly Father is very interested in you and desires the very best for you. It is His will that you prosper and be in health as your soul prospers (III John 1). Be aware that God is not limited to meet your need or bless you through a paycheck, although He can certainly use a paycheck to do so. Always remember that God is your source and you are His very own child.
Keep the Word first place in your life. Do what God told Joshua in Joshua 1:8: “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”
We join our faith with yours as you pray this prayer:
“Father, in Jesus’ Name, I seek Your wisdom and trust You to direct me in seeking the job that is best for me. I will walk in mercy and truth and lean not unto my own understanding. Thank You for opening wide a door which no man can shut and for giving me favor.
Keep the Word first place in your life. Do what God told Joshua in Joshua 1:8: “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”
We join our faith with yours as you pray this prayer:
“Father, in Jesus’ Name, I seek Your wisdom and trust You to direct me in seeking the job that is best for me. I will walk in mercy and truth and lean not unto my own understanding. Thank You for opening wide a door which no man can shut and for giving me favor.
“It is my desire, Father, to be debt-free and owe no man anything except to love him, according to Your Word. I am willing to work with my own hands, so that I lack nothing. I praise You that it is Your will that I am self-sufficient financially and have an abundance to meet all of my needs, with enough left over to give generously to others.
“I will not fret or have anxiety about anything, Father, for Your peace mounts guard over my heart and mind. Because You are my source, I have confidence, comfort and encouragement in Your provision. I thank You, Father, for supplying my need of employment according to Your riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Scripture References: Proverbs 3:3-5; Revelation 3:8; Psalms 5:12; Romans 13:8; I Thessalonians 4:11-12; II Corinthians 9:8 (The Amplified Bible); Philippians 4:6-7 (The Amplified Bible); II Corinthians 1:3 (The Amplified Bible); Philippians 4:19.
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