He That Watereth

Public sector looting, especially in places like Nigeria, baffles with its senselessness. It’s not just corruption for financial gain; it’s corruption that cripples nations from within. Unlike corruption in the West, where the motive might be to make a buck, the looting here is like a man stealing blocks from his own house every night. The result? A nation left without essential infrastructure—no stable power, inadequate healthcare, crumbling roads. The impact is staggering, and the paradox is bewildering. It’s not just financial loss; it’s the erosion of the very foundation of a nation, leaving its people stranded in the ruins.

Corruption in the West, while present, often involves individuals skimming off profits from shady deals, yet the projects get completed. Here, corruption seems almost nihilistic, robbing the country not just of money but of its very structure. The paradox lies in the lack of logic. Why loot funds meant for development and then suffer the consequences of living without basic amenities? It’s not just a financial loss; it’s a systemic collapse that leaves a nation in shambles. As we watch these events unfold, it’s a call to reflection. You need to look within and consider how you’re a part of the problem.

You may consider yourself to be upright in heart, but you are already inclined towards that very mentality. To fully understand this illogical behaviour, consider Philippians 3:19 ‭(ESV)‬‬, “Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.” The corrupt mentality reflects a fixation on immediate gains, even if it means undermining the very foundation of society. To avoid such a fate, you must hold values higher than material gains, resisting the temptation to serve the insatiable god of your own desires. In Nigeria, we don’t serve God and the people. We serve our selfish ambitions.

While some believe the Bible imposes strict limits, it actually encourages freedom. Ecclesiastes 11:9 advises, “Rejoice, O young person, in your youth; let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes.” However, it comes with a caution: be aware that every choice faces divine judgment. The essence lies in responsibility — consider the consequences before acting. The question is not whether you can do anything, but whether you’re ready to bear the weight of your choices. Each decision shapes your journey; choose wisely.

As you watch your world, situations may arise that challenge your integrity. You may be tempted to lie or ignore wrongdoing. The big question arises: Are you willing to live with the consequences of your actions? Jesus issued a profound warning, questioning the value of gaining the world but losing your soul (Matthew 16:26). It’s not like you can’t use lying, stealing, cheating, or manipulating others to get to the top. The issue is that every action will be judged, according to Ecclesiastes 11:9. So, before you violate any biblical teaching on integrity, work ethics, productivity, sexuality, or marriage, are you ready to face the consequences of such actions?

This is a reminder that temporal gains can’t outweigh the eternal cost of compromising your principles. As you navigate life’s complexities, consider the lasting impact of your choices. The soul’s value far exceeds fleeting worldly achievements. Choose the path that aligns with enduring principles. The call is not just to avoid certain actions; it’s an invitation to embrace a path of wisdom, understanding the gravity of choices, and being ready to face the profound consequences that echo beyond the immediate. In the long run, you will discover that nothing beats remaining steadfast on the path of righteousness.

Pray and plan, but true progress begins with that first step. As Helmuth von Moltke wisely stated, “No plan survives first contact with the enemy.” Steve Blank echoes, “No business plan survives first contact with a customer.” Even the most detailed plans demand adjustments. In the initial stages, lacking real-world experience, gaps exist in your understanding. So, venture out, experiment, and learn. As you take action, the fog of uncertainty clears, revealing insights that no amount of planning can provide. Don’t fear course corrections; they are the refining fire shaping your journey to success.

As a result, continuing to make plans without being open to market feedback is a poor decision. You have to try things and see what works. Isaac had to dig a couple of wells before he got to Rehoboth (Genesis 26:17-22). Apple designed and launched a number of devices before finding massive success with the iPod and then the iPhone. If you have limited market exposure and experience, you must design and test a large number of ideas over a two to three-year period. You have to start selling the red cups before you realize the market demand is for black cups.

Ecclesiastes, in its timeless wisdom, notes that one who waits for perfect conditions will never sow or reap (Ecclesiastes 11:4). In the morning of your venture, sow your seed—take the first step. The cautious observer may hesitate, but the risk-taker reaps the rewards. Continual assessment of external factors can paralyze progress. Instead, in the evening, persist without withholding your hand. The outcome is uncertain; this or that might prosper, or both. Embrace the uncertainty, for therein lies the beauty of growth. Your business breakthrough and financial success is the compounding rewards of your effort over time. These things take time.

Each step of your mission journey serves as a classroom, a space for continuous learning. As you take actions towards getting things done in your mission, you will not always have favourable outcomes. But, even obstacles can become stepping stones. Every endeavour, whether successful or unsuccessful, serves as a tutor, leading you closer to the heart of your mission. Accept each lesson, because even mistakes contribute to your progress. Approach each day with a desire to learn, just as if you were in school. The road to success is paved with knowledge gained through both successes and failures. You have to trust the process.

In the classroom of your mission, resilience is the cornerstone. Winston Churchill’s wisdom rings true: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” Challenges are not roadblocks, but rather detours that help to shape your character and test your dedication. The greatest challenges you face will also serve as your greatest learning opportunities. Ecclesiastes 9:11 affirms that everyone is affected by time and chance, and that setbacks are a normal part of life. What really matters is how you respond. Growth is painful. Accept the pain that comes with maturing into the person capable of carrying out your purpose.

You have to cast your bread upon many waters, you must never withhold from taking on another challenge. This is not the season to be timid. Persevere in the face of adversity, and be resilient. These are the things that will determine whether you achieve your dreams or not. Remember the story of Joseph. From the pit to the palace, his path was woven with setbacks and triumphs. His dreams faced mockery, yet his resilience turned them into reality. In the moments of deepest despair and confusion, he held on to God and his convictions. Hold fast to your mission. Your success story is still unfolding.

In pursuing your mission, flexibility is key. Your initial plan is a guide, not a rigid path. Ecclesiastes 11:6 encourages sowing seeds in the morning and evening, hinting at diverse approaches. Likewise, in your mission, go wide with varied strategies. You can’t predict which idea will flourish, so give yourself permission to try many within the boundaries of your mission. Some ventures will become winners over time. It’s like scattering seeds; not all will sprout immediately, but some will grow into mighty trees. Be flexible, explore widely, and let the evolving landscape of your mission guide your journey.

In the pursuit of your mission, clarity in setting goals is crucial. Define your objectives clearly and comprehensively. And then you must create an exhaustive list of potential strategies to achieve those goals. Recognize the limitations of your current knowledge and perspectives. You do not know what you do not know at the initial stages. This is why you must remain humble and grounded. Maintaining a culture of gratitude, prayer, and meditation will help you stay on track. As you try different things, you’ll get a sense of what works and what doesn’t.

Let’s remember the words of Winston Churchill: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” Embrace the understanding that your mission is a dynamic, evolving journey. The path to success isn’t always linear; it’s marked by twists, turns, successes, and failures. Be flexible in your approach, continually adapting to new insights. Set clear goals, explore diverse strategies, and understand that progress might be gradual. Have the courage to persist, for it’s the unwavering commitment to your mission that truly counts. Embrace the process, stay resilient, and watch your mission unfold over time.

Unlock the treasures of your creativity and spiritual gifts across diverse fields and passions. Ecclesiastes 11:1-2 urges casting your bread upon the waters, implying a wide reach. In your journey, allocate a portion to many ventures, for after many days, the return unfolds. This ancient wisdom advocates exploration before deep commitment. Like scattering seeds in various soils, explore multiple paths. Go wide, embracing diverse interests and passions. You never know where your efforts will flourish. The unpredictability of life makes Ecclesiastes’s counsel timeless—diversify your endeavors for unforeseen days and unexpected blessings.

In the bustling city of Lagos, young Ayodeji dreamt of dazzling stages and bright lights. He believed his destiny was to be an entertainer, drawing inspiration from the vibrant arts scene around him. However, life took an unexpected turn when Ayodeji got his hands on a computer. Intrigued by the endless possibilities, he began experimenting with programming. To his surprise, coding felt like an art form—a way to bring his imaginative visions to life. Ayodeji found joy in creating digital worlds and interactive experiences. He realized that while he once aspired to take the center stage, his true calling was in the quiet dance of algorithms.

Ayodeji’s journey teaches us that exploration opens doors we didn’t know existed, and that our true calling can be found in things we don’t realise we’re looking for. This demonstrates the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 11:1-2. You, too, can cast your creative bread into the digital waters and find fulfilment in unexpected places, as he did. Devote a portion of your passion to different fields. Who knows what undiscovered wonders await? Going wide before going deep is more than just a strategy; it is a way of discovering hidden potential. Dive into a new field, pursue a new passion, and watch the magic of your creativity unfold.

In our journey with God, two approaches stand out. Some view it as a transaction, a give-and-take based on performance. Others understand it as a relationship, seeing God as a loving Father. Both are valid, yet love surpasses all. You can follow the “legalistic” path of rewards and consequences. Alternatively, you can choose to act out of genuine love for God, serving Him wholeheartedly. While the former is like a business deal, the latter reflects a deep connection. In your faith, strive for the more excellent way — love. It transforms duty into devotion, making your journey with God truly enriching.

In our walk with God, love should permeate every aspect, especially in our act of giving. It’s not meant to be a legalistic obligation or a mere transaction. While giving can be framed as a command or a business-like deal, these approaches can somewhat dilute the spiritual essence of giving. The purity of giving is in the love that propels it. When your giving is an outpouring of love for God and others, it does something to the soul. Giving as a command or business transaction is the reason churches are well funded, but their members are mediocre-in-spirit, without an iota of eternal life in their souls.

Guarding your soul is a personal responsibility, as emphasized in the Bible: “Guard your heart with all diligence, for out of it flows the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23). Your freewill giving, devoid of compulsion, is a genuine measure of spiritual growth. Let your giving be a heartfelt expression of devotion, enriching both the giver and the receiver. If you desire to give to God, let it spring from love, understanding, and a willing heart (2 Corinthians 9:6-15). Never succumb to pressure or give beyond your capacity at the moment. Such constrained giving not only constricts the soul but also leads to spiritual impoverishment.

Proverbs 22:3 (ESV) states that “the prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” The word “simple” in this verse does not refer to humility, but rather to their stupidity. It refers to a simpleton, a person with little common sense or intelligence. A simpleton is the opposite of a genius. Christians are usually “simple”, not “prudent” about economic affairs. A kind of ignorant naivety, a blind belief that everything will be fine. If you are serious about watching your world, you must be prudent and knowledgeable.

The Bible asks that we “watch and pray.” You keep a watch by seeking out the relevant data, facts and information. Do not merely pray and confess the word. Also remember to set a watch. In the tumultuous landscape of Nigeria’s economic future, projections from the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) indicate a potential drop in inflation to 21.5% by 2024, down from the 24.5% recorded in 2023. According to the report, launched on January 24, 2024, this optimism is anchored on several factors. However, amidst these positive indicators, there are ominous shadows.

Food inflation, fueled by credit costs, security issues, and internal displacement, remains a serious threat. The removal of fuel subsidies is expected to increase core inflation by raising transportation and energy costs. Things will improve in the long run, but as a creative, business-minded Christian, don’t be a simpleton who ignores all facts and prays blindly. Follow Joseph’s prudent management style. We are urged to manage resources wisely, diversify our income streams, and seek stability in the face of economic shifts. Ignorance lacks both virtue and valour. In your financial planning, you are encouraged to be prudent, anticipating risks and taking precautions to protect your economic well-being.

In challenging times, our reactions often lean towards frustration rather than prayer. It appears that we would rather cry, shout, kick about, and complain, rather than pray about the circumstances. While church attendance and support for God’s work may continue, the question lingers: are you still truly a Christian? Is your faith a living force in your daily life, or have you outgrown the reliance on spiritual sustenance? In the midst of life’s troubles, it’s a crucial reflection on whether faith remains an active, guiding force or has become a ritual divorced from your everyday reality.

In the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced world, finding a moment to sit down and have a sincere talk with Jesus becomes a rare commodity. A scenario whereby prayer is nothing more than a formality. The serene conversations where we pour out our concerns, bottlenecks, hopes, and aspirations seem elusive. We have inadvertently replaced the calming silence where we draw strength from the Lord with the noise of our own frustrations. In the midst of life’s challenges, the precious practice of sitting in quiet communion with Jesus often gets lost in the relentless clamor of our daily pursuits.

In your reactions to adversity, and through your conduct during hard times, the core of your beliefs is revealed. Showcasing whether you merely profess faith or actively live it. Do you have faith in the Almighty God to see you through, or have you become your own god? As a creative and quick thinker, you are more likely to lean on your smarts and wits over the leading of the spirit. If you are rich in cash and materials, you are likely to turn to then over saying a word of prayer. Your smarts, money, and friends should never replace your reliance on God.

If you can articulate the mission that motivates your business endeavours and commit to taking action on it every day. You will succeed both critically and financially. It’s almost automatic; money always takes care of itself. The problem is that you lack clarity about your mission; you’re not sure what you should be doing in business. This lack of clarity punishes you because you are compelled to pursue “opportunities” everywhere. You cannot succeed beyond your level of clarity. Confusion always creates the conditions for failure. The next level in your pursuits requires more clarity.

Reduce your confusion by getting clear on what you’re doing in business. This starts with defining your business mission. Make it concise and impactful like a tweet. In 140 characters, blend your product or service with the customers you aim to serve. For instance, “We help customers achieve [primary benefit].” This approach, beyond avoiding corporate jargon, directs attention to the genuine value your business offers. It’s not just about what you do; it’s about how you enhance the lives of those you serve. Simplifying your mission this way ensures clarity, making it easier for you to know, understand and comprehend exactly what you’re doing in your business or career.

According to Proverbs 4:25, “Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you.” If you can express exactly what you’re doing in 140 characters, you’ll have an advantage in life. It means that you know exactly what you need to do every day. The great secret of our Lord Jesus was that his mission was simple and universally understood: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” No confusion. There are no complicated spiritual wordings or deep speech that people would not understand. Keeping things simple will help you grow faster and make more money.