Daily Devotionals

In the parable of the talents in Matthew 25, Jesus teaches us about the importance of maximizing the gifts and abilities that God has given us. Just as the master entrusted his servants with talents, God has entrusted each of us with unique abilities. It’s our responsibility to recognize and develop these talents. You are to use them to serve God and mankind, bringing glory to God. Whether it’s a talent for leadership, creativity, or healing, every gift has a purpose in God’s kingdom. It is a manifestation of the Spirit, given for common good (1 Corinthians 12:7).

Consider the story of Oluremi, a young woman who is passionate about music. She realized early on that her ability to sing is a gift from God, and she owes it to Him to maximize its potential. Despite obstacles and doubts, she pursued her goal of becoming a worship leader. Through dedication and perseverance, Sarah honed her musical skills and eventually began leading worship at her church. Her heartfelt worship touched the lives of many, drawing them closer to God. Your teaching gift, writing gift or prophetic gift can become a big deal if you embrace the discipline to get really good at it.

As we reflect on the parable of the talents, let’s consider how we can identify and cultivate our God-given abilities. Through prayer, self-reflection, and seeking wise counsel, take intentional steps to discover and develop the talents that God has entrusted to you. By using your gifts to serve others and glorify God, you can fulfill your purpose and make a meaningful difference in the world. Let’s not bury our talents out of fear or insecurity but instead, let’s step out in faith and boldly use them for the advancement of God’s kingdom.

In pursuing our mission-driven work, we must recognize the importance of building a supportive network. You cannot do this alone. You need to curate a network consisting of like-minded individuals or organizations who share your goals and values. You should move away from any “holier than thou” attitude that casts you as the one-man army doing the Lord’s work. Collaboration and collective impact are key. Together, we can achieve far more than we could alone. Through mutual support, encouragement, and resource-sharing, we can amplify our efforts and make a greater impact in our communities and beyond.

Consider the story of a group of volunteers who came together to address homelessness in their city. Individually, they struggled to make a significant impact. However, by forming a network and pooling their resources, they were able to provide shelter, meals, and support services to those in need. Two are better than one; they will always have a good reward for their labor (Ecclesiastes 4:9). Their collective efforts not only helped alleviate homelessness but also inspired others to join their cause, resulting in even greater impact over time. Building and joining a network of like-minded people is the key to compounding your impact over time.

Relationships are an essential part of being human. As you embark on your mission-driven work, prioritise the development of a supportive network. By fostering partnerships, sharing resources, and collaborating with others who share our vision, we can multiply our impact and effect positive change in the world. Look for shared core values that are meaningful. Speaking in tongues isn’t a core value, for instance. Integrity is a core value. Psalms 133 describes the effect of joining with others who share our core values as being equivalent to the anointing. Together, we can accomplish more than we ever imagined, making a long-term difference in the lives of the people we serve.

Nigerians are making waves globally, especially in music, with Afrobeats captivating audiences worldwide. Universal Music Group (UMG) , the largest record label in the world with $10 billion in revenue per year, acquired a majority stake in Mavin, a Nigerian music powerhouse, for a significant sum. Some of the biggest churches in the world are headquartered in Nigeria. Similar success stories abound in film, fashion, startups, and academia. Despite this, Nigeria itself struggles with poverty and instability. The paradox begs the question: why does a country with such talented individuals lag behind?

Nigerians excel individually, but there’s a lack of collective identity. Instead, a mindset of “I Better Pass My Neighbour” prevails, fostering individualism over communal progress. This echoes Judges 21:25, where without a king, everyone did as they pleased. In modern Nigeria, this leads to lawlessness and disregard for governance. Without a unified vision, progress remains fragmented, hindering the nation’s advancement. The challenge lies in fostering a sense of national unity and shared purpose, where each Nigerian works not just for personal gain, but for the collective prosperity of all.

It’s been argued that it’s better to be an average citizen of a great country than to be a great citizen of an average or mediocre country. Instead of pursuing individual greatness in a mediocre nation, you should prioritize national impact. Nigeria’s potential is vast, but it requires collective effort and visionary leadership to realize. By working for the peace, glory, and advancement of your nation, you create a better future for all. Let’s reject the status quo and strive for systemic change. Together, we can transform Nigeria’s global success into local prosperity. Heed the call to pursue God’s will for your nation, placing the common good above personal success.

The Bible makes it clear that each and every one of us is free to do whatever we want. However, we do not have the freedom to choose the consequences of our actions. As Nigeria deals with its severe economic crisis, a closer look reveals that it is the result of decades of economic mismanagement. The day of reckoning has arrived, and it is not a pleasant sight to see. With inflation at 30% and food inflation at 35%, the economy is hurting, exacerbating the situation. Recent protests reflect widespread dissatisfaction with economic conditions, as Nigerians express their concern about rising prices and declining living standards.

Nigeria’s economic crisis has exposed flaws in the country’s institutional capacity to develop and implement effective policies. Petty politicking, institutional fragmentation, and bureaucratic inefficiencies have hampered the government’s ability to address systemic economic challenges and respond effectively during crises. In theory, the two main causes of the economic downturn, subsidy removal and Naira floating, are good ideas. However, the system is corrupt and lacks transparency and accountability. Details around the subsidy removal remain shady and riddled with controversy. The general feeling is that people are suffering for nothing, with no end in sight.

Citizens have taken to the streets, urging the government to press a magical button that will return things to normal. That will not happen because there is no button to be pressed. Nigeria is a poor and mismanaged country. And now, the bill is due and we all have to live through it. The Nigerian crisis is primarily a leadership problem. Something you can handle because you are the salt and light of our world. We must reject political or tribal narratives that promote further disunity. This is the time to pray and ask the Lord for mercy, wisdom, and strength to rebuild the desolation of many generations.

There is always money to be made. The problem is that one’s mind may be too dull to recognise it. The Holy Spirit may be attempting to direct your attention towards relationships, activities, and pursuits that could fatten your wallet, but nothing will happen because you can barely see, hear, or understand with your heart. Poverty and lack are never the result of external circumstances. While it may be easier to accumulate wealth in certain countries than others, you are ultimately responsible for your financial situation. Wealth creation starts with the mindset and attitude that we bring to the table. The first step is to become mentally wealthy.

Indeed, wealth creation begins in the mind. Just as Proverbs 24:3-4 advises, “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.” This verse underscores the importance of wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in building a prosperous life. Without these qualities, opportunities for financial breakthrough may go unnoticed, and potential avenues for success may remain unexplored. Therefore, it is crucial to cultivate a mindset that seeks wisdom and understanding, enabling you to recognize and seize the opportunities that lead to abundance and prosperity.

Building on the theme of growth and learning, the story of Joseph from the Bible offers a powerful example of how knowledge and insight can uncover opportunities. Through his ability to interpret dreams, Joseph gained favor with Pharaoh and rose to a position of authority in Egypt. Not only did he foresee the impending famine, but he also devised a plan to store grain, positioning Egypt for prosperity during the crisis. Joseph’s story reminds us of the importance of developing our skills and perception to recognize opportunities, even in challenging circumstances. With the right mindset and understanding, you too can seize the opportunities that come your way.

The world around you reflects the people who inhabit it. If you are struggling with a society that is full of greed, lust, and corruption, it means that your world is full of corrupt people. It is simple to proclaim oneself a saint while declaring others sinners. However, correct Christian teaching demonstrates that one must look within. 2 Corinthians 13:5 suggests that you test and evaluate yourself to see if you are in the faith and embracing your life as a committed believer. It is simple and convenient to declare that elected officials in government are evil and corrupt. However, thinking you are a saint might not be correct.

It is time to look inwards. You must also consider the corruption in your own life, or the corruption you enable. According to the Apostle James, a good religion should prepare you to be undefiled by the world (James 1:27). Your Christian values are not determined by your circumstances. God’s unchanging word defines the standards. Your goal is not to be the least corrupt person in the office; rather, you want to follow biblical principles and demonstrate an understanding of stewardship. Do we contribute to a society that’s rotting from within? What actions can we take to prevent the decay of our communities?

In theory, you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood. You are supposed to destroy the works of the devil in your community, not join them! Bring light to the world, not leave it in darkness! It’s not just about pointing fingers; it’s about understanding your role as the salt and light of your world. You have to take on some responsibility for the way things are going around you. Each of us plays a part in the collective well-being of our society. It’s time to build rather than dismantle, to contribute positively, and to stand against the corrosion that threatens the very fabric of our nations.

Setting out on a mission requires more than just intention; it also necessitates unwavering determination and relentless pursuit. Too often, we are intimidated by challenges or discouraged by setbacks. However, cultivating a relentless mindset can help us overcome obstacles and stay focused on our goals. You begin by setting clear and specific objectives. Define what success looks like for your mission and break it down into actionable steps. This clarity will provide a roadmap to guide your efforts and keep you on track, even when faced with challenges. It is hard to commit to a cause you do not understand.

The Twelve had a thorough understanding of their mission. When faced with persecution, they resolved to obey God rather than men (Acts 5). This type of understanding is essential to resilience. Understand that challenges, setbacks, and failures are unavoidable. But, you can keep going as long as you know where you are going and have God’s support. Instead of dwelling on setbacks, consider them opportunities for growth and learning. Embrace a resilient mindset that will allow you to recover stronger and more determined than ever before, just like the apostles.

In addition, surround yourself with a network of like-minded people who share your vision and values. The book of Acts of the Apostles contains numerous references to friends and associates (companies), including Acts 4:23, Acts 13:13, and others. You must seek out mentors, peers, or colleagues who can offer guidance, encouragement, and accountability as you progress. Their support can strengthen your resolve and help you overcome obstacles with greater confidence. Nonetheless, please take breaks as needed, as Jesus advised (Mark 6:31). The world can wait while you take a nap. By implementing these strategies, you will be able to face the challenges of your mission.

What does it take to become a true “son of God,” as described in Romans 8:18-19? How can we embody the qualities required to fulfill this noble calling? To be sons of God means more than just a title; it’s about being spiritual beacons, to serve as the salt and light of your world. Bringing light and solutions to challenges you can find in your community. This transformation calls for dedication, humility, and a strong desire to live according to God’s principles. We can become vessels of His love and instruments of His peace, using our creativity and spiritual gifts to have a positive impact on those around us.

Manifesting as a son of God on earth isn’t solely about displaying visible signs of power or performing extraordinary feats fueled by prayer and fasting. While these practices are essential, there’s a deeper requirement outlined in Jeremiah 9:23-24. The passage emphasizes that true glory comes from understanding and knowing the Lord—embracing His attributes of righteousness, mercy, and justice. This means embodying these qualities in our daily lives, demonstrating compassion, fairness, and integrity in all our interactions. Becoming a son of God isn’t just about outward displays of creativity and your gifting. It’s about living in alignment with God’s character.

Amidst the journey of striving to become sons of God, do not be misled by the allure of external displays of power and diverse manifestations of spiritual gifts. Instead, focus on cultivating the value system that aligns you with God’s heart and purposes. The great works performed by Moses, such as leading the Israelites out of Egypt, were rooted in his deep understanding of the ways of God (Psalms 103:7). Thus, true transformation comes from embracing God’s character and wisdom, allowing His principles of righteousness, mercy, and justice to guide our actions and decisions. These principles get us on the path of becoming true sons of God.

There is no set procedure for entering into relationships. Sometimes you initiate a relationship, sometimes circumstances lead you to one, and sometimes relationships initiate you. Nevertheless, you need to consider understanding your relationships. You need to try and figure out the meaning of your connection to certain people, places and events. You have to go beyond the emotional and scrutinize the connections in your life, and how such connections are changing the dynamics of your life. Analyzing our interactions with people, places, and events helps us understand ourselves and the world around us. This introspection enables us to navigate relationships more deliberately and cultivate deeper, more meaningful connections.

Approaching relationships with understanding is not about calculating a “return on investment” (ROI) in relationships. Healthy relationships should not be transactional in nature. However, simply “going with the flow” in relationships is not safe or healthy. There are numerous negative and retrogressive relationships that one may find themselves in, and unless the relationship is examined objectively, one may become trapped. Relationships are fundamentally emotional. However, it may be detrimental to relationships if they remain emotional. You want to move from emotion to comprehension. When you approach your relationships from a place of understanding, you will foster quality relationships.

Take time to reflect on the connections that shape your life. Consider how these relationships affect your thoughts, behaviors, and overall well-being. A spiritually minded person is not expected to act on emotion. Emotions are important, and God gave us them for a reason. However, a true Christian will act from a place of understanding. If you find yourself struggling with certain people, places, or events, it may be time to pray and try to figure out why. Remember that relationships are two-way streets; putting in the time and effort to understand them will pay off in terms of personal growth and relationship harmony.

Every now and then, someone appears out of nowhere and becomes an instant sensation, an overnight success. You are suddenly in the spotlight. However, nothing happens overnight. Take Michael B. Jordan, for example. Despite his youthful appearance, he’s been in the acting game for over 25 years—longer than LeBron James’ NBA career. He’s worked across various platforms, from network television to Hollywood blockbusters, showcasing a blue-collar work ethic throughout. Success stories often appear to be overnight sensations, but they are typically the result of years of hard work and dedication. You will need to accept this reality. That it will take time for everything to come together.

With God’s guidance, opportunities abound, and success awaits those who persevere. However, it’s essential to uphold your end of the bargain. Many have faltered despite achieving success, unable to navigate the challenges that accompany it. Consistent effort and dedication are key to continued growth and prosperity. Yet, to truly thrive, one must exercise discernment and good judgment in every endeavor. There are numerous stories of people who couldn’t get out of their own way, and as a result, more success led to problems and, eventually, failure. The Bible says sound judgment and discernment will give life to your soul and grace to your neck (Proverbs 3:21 -22).

Amid life’s challenges, there’s hope for improvement and better days ahead. However, true success hinges on sound judgment and discernment. Without these, even the brightest opportunities can lead to downfall. Remember the cautionary tales of those who squandered success due to poor choices. Proverbs 2:11 reminds us that discretion will protect us and understanding will guard us. So, as you journey towards your goals, cultivate wisdom and discernment. Seek guidance from God and trust in His wisdom to navigate life’s twists and turns. With sound judgment as your compass, you’ll find true success and fulfillment on your path.