https://www.facebook.com/630642583456658/

Christ Apostolic Church - Oke Anu, 25 Kamoru Adeyemi Street, Orisumbare Idimu Titun, Lagos (2026)

05/04/2026

Join us this morning for our Easter Sunday Service as we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

Come with your praise, come with your joy, for He is ALIVE!

Let’s come together to celebrate the power of His resurrection!

Cac Okeanu

22/06/2025

*CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH Nigeria And Overseas*

*SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON*

Theme *PREPARING GOD'S PEOPLE for LEADERSHIP*

*JUN 22, 2025.*

*LESSON 23*

*Unit 3: Leadership Preparation In The Old Testament (II)*

_topic:_
*GOD PREPARES OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS FOR LEADERSHIP (III)*

_*Memory Scripture*_
1. When the LORD began to speak by Hosea, the LORD said to Hosea: "Go, take yourself a wife of harlotry and children of harlotry, for the land has committed great harlotry by departing from the LORD" (Hosea 1:2).

2. God equips those He calls, like Hosea and Joel, showing His transformative power in preparing leaders for their roles.

*BRIEF COMMENT*
One of the ways by which God prepares and equips His vessels is by giving them instructions and guidance. In carrying out thes instructions, His purpose is achieved, and the vessel himself understands God's ways and moves the more, preparing such person for more leadership and ministerial exploits in the future. Most times, God does not give another instruction to a man whom has not yet carried out the last one. An experience of walking with God and becoming better in Him largely includes receiving and promptly carrying out His instructions. How many structions from the Lord have you carried out? Are you one of His obedient servants, both in pleasure and in pain? Selah!

*DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS*
1. Obedience to divine instructions is one of the major ways by which God equips and prepares people for successful leadership.

2. Many times, God chooses to take us through experiences that equip us with a larger capacity for better and successful leadership, though we may not understand immediately.

*INTRODUCTION*

*TEXTUAL SOURCE: Hosea 1:2-3; 2:14-3:3; 6:3; Joel 1:1-7; 2:2,4,15; 3:1,18-21*
We give praise and adoration to God once again for the eternal benefits He daily provides through His Word. May His name be forever exalted. Amen!

God has been graciously leading us through a specific series, titled: "God Prepares Old Testament Prophets for Leadership," intended for both leadership guidance and the edification of His people. In the first part of the series, we witnessed how God prepared Isaiah and Jeremiah, and in the second part, we saw His unique preparation of Ezekiel, Daniel, and his companions for similar leadership roles.

This week, our focus turns to Hosea and Joel as we delve deeper into their lives. God is poised to reveal His insights to us on this matter. Are you prepared to receive His wisdom?

LESSON OUTLINE
*I. HOSEA'S PREPARATION*

*II. JOEL'S PREPARATION*

*LESSON EXPOSITION*

I. *HOSEA'S PREPARATION (Hosea 1:2-3; 2:14-3:3;6:3)*
The Word of God that came to Hosea the son of Beeri, in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel (1:1).
a) 1:1: God chose and equipped Hosea during a period of turmoil and idol worship, commissioning him to communicate His messages.

b) v. 2: When God instructed him to marry a harlot in order to preach against Israel's adultery, it was a unique and challenging task but portrayed God's sovereignty (cf. Psa. 115:3).

c) vv. 2-9: God loaded him with the needed insights and visions to convey the divine messages with clarity and authority.

d) vv. 4-5,8-9: God gave Hosea's children names to signify warning of impending judgement upon Israel. How has God been preparing you?

e) 2:14-3:3: The experiences God took him through fostered empathy in him, enhancing his ability to convey God's message. Amidst his tumultuous marriage, Hosea gained insight into God's enduring love and forgiveness.

f) 6:3: Hosea's obedience shows an example of one who has been genuinely discipled, thus facilitating his growth and endurance in the spiritual journey.

g) Hosea's life illustrates the importance of surrendering to God's preparation, leading to limitless potential in leadership and spiritual growth.

*II. JOEL'S PREPARATION (Joel 1:1-7; 2:2,4,15; 3:1,18-21)*
The word of the LORD that came to Joel the son of Pethuel (1:1).
a) 1:1: Joel's name meaning "Jehovah is God" suggests his upbringing in a home that honoured God. Added to this are his priestly references (1:9,13,14; 2:17) that indicate prior training and experience in the things of God.

b) 2:15; 3:1: Despite rebellion and idolatry in Judah and Jerusalem, Joel's steadfast relationship with God shows his cooperation with divine preparation and preservation.

c) 1:1-3: He received divine inspiration and visions, preparing him to proclaim God's intentions to Judah and Jerusalem, prior to Jeremiah, against prevailing godlessness.

d) 1:4-7; 2:2,4: Joel, having been prepared as God's vessel and mouthpiece, announced impending judgement greater than ever experienced. Only God's prepared vessel can speak for Him effectively.

e) 3:18: God utilised Joel's agricultural understanding through rigorous farming seasons, as part of his preparation for prophetic leadership roles.

f) vv. 20-21: Joel's prophecy left a lasting legacy of God's faithfulness and sovereignty, inspiring future generations to trust in God's promises and follow His ways.

g) Joel was indeed prepared by the Lord, whose name he bore, and appointed by Him to prophesy during the times of the Gentiles, covering the period from Nebuchadnezzar to the Antichrist. What is God preparing you for?

*LESSONS DERIVED*
1. Like Hosea, trust in God's sovereignty amid challenges, allowing Him to prepare you for His purposes through unique experiences.

2. Follow Joel's example by honouring God and seeking His guidance, even in turbulent times, to fulfil His purpose for your life.

*QUESTIONS*
1. And what significance does each name of Hosea's children have in relevance to the divine preparation of Hosea for his ministry to God's people?

2. How was Joel prepared for prophetic leadership, and what are the implications for Christians today?

*SUGGESTED ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS*

*ANSWERS TO QUESTION 1*
* The names of Hosea's children hold significant meaning in relation to Hosea's divine preparation for his ministry:
* Jezreel (Hos. 1:4) me means "God sows" or "God scatters." It symbolises God's judgement upon the house of Jehu for the bloodshed at Jezreel and the impending judgement upon Israel for their sins.
* Lo-Ruhamah (1:6) means "not loved" or "no mercy." It represents God's withdrawal of His mercy and love from Israel due to their persistent rebellion and idolatry.
* Lo-Ammi (1:9) means "not my people." It signifies the severance of the covenant relationship between God and Israel because of their unfaithfulness.
* These names serve as prophetic symbols of Israel's spiritual condition and impending judgement.
* They signify Hosea's role as a messenger of God's righteous judgement and impending restoration.
* They reflect his divine preparation to convey God's message to His people with profound symbolism and clarity.

*ANSWERS TO QUESTION 2*
* Refer to part 1.
* Joel was divinely called and commissioned (Joel 1:1-3), laying the foundation for his prophetic leadership.
* His historical and cultural background all worked in God's hands to prepare him for God's purpose.
* God prepared him through personal experiences.

*Implications for Christians Today:*
* Christians can learn from Joel's obedience to divine commission and vision, recognising God's specific call on their lives.
* Joel's emphasis on repentance and spiritual renewal highlights the importance of personal holiness and revival in the Christian walk.
* His foresight regarding the outpouring of the Holy Spirit encourages Christians to anticipate God's on-going work and empowerment in their lives.
* Joel's urgent call to prepare for the Day of the Lord serves as a reminder for Christians to live in readiness and anticipation of Christ's return.
* Christians can find hope in Joel's message of restoration, trusting in God's faithfulness and sovereignty in the midst of trials and challenges.

*LIFE APPLICATION*
A well-prepared leader only seeks to glorify God in all he does, and not self. God prepares His vessels to carry out His divine purpose, not their self-will. What instruction has He given to you? you? And, how well are you carrying it out? One of the ways to show your preparedness and maturity is by absolute obedience. Shalom!

*CONCLUSION*
In the school of preparation, carrying out the Master's purpose is non- negotiable. God wants to showcase only His prepared vessels who will lead His people to do His will and carry out His purpose, and not theirs. Are you one of such?

Christ Apostolic Church - Oke Anu

15/06/2025

MEMORY SCRIPTURE
The Word of the LORD came expressly unto Ezekiel the Priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the river Chebar; and the hand of the LORD was there upon Him.
(Ezekiel 1:3)
Leadership, like that of Ezekiel and Daniel, is guided by God’s wisdom, combining faith, vision and courage to illuminate the path for others.

DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READINGS
Mon. 9: The Father’s Word To Ezekiel (Ezk. 1:3)
Tue. 10: The Father Speaks To Ezekiel (Ezk. 2:1)
Wed. 11: The Father Makes Ezekiel Eat (Ezk. 3:1-4)
Thur. 12: The Father Equips Ezekiel (Ezk. 3:8-9)
Fri. 13: The Father Instructs Ezekiel (Ezk. 3:10-11)
Sat. 14: The Father Commissions Ezekiel (Ezk. 3:17-21)

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
God, the Father of all, never uses a vessel that He has not prepared ahead of time.

INTRODUCTION
TEXTUAL SOURCE: Ezekiel 1:1-3; Daniel 1:1-21; 6:10
A doration and honour be to God Almighty for unveiling His mind to us every time. In the last lesson, the journey began of how Gon PREPARES OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS FOR LEADERSHIP (I), and being the second part in the series, Isaiah and Jeremiah were our case studies.

In continuity, Ezekiel and Daniel will be our focus for this week. It is therefore our prayer that God, the ultimate Father, will reveal exactly His mind to us as regards what He wants us to learn from the lives and leadership styles of these O.T. prophets. May He also grant us the grace and willingness to put into practice what we learn at His feet, in Jesus name.

LESSON OUTLINE
1.GOD PREPARES EZEKIEL
2.GOD PREPARES DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS

LESSON EXPOSITION

GOD PREPARES EZEKIEL (Ezk. 1:1-3)
And the Word of the LORD came expressly to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the River Chebah; and the hand of the LORD was upon him there
(v.3).
a) v. 1-2: Ezekiel’s prophetic ministry started in the 30th year, likely of the Babylonian Empire. Despite being in Babylonia by the river of Chebar; God was with him, marking the beginning of his prophetic calling.
b) v. 3: The opening of the heavens signifies the start of Ezekiel’s prophetic journey; his divine encounter and calling to prophetic ministry.
c) v.2: After about 5 years in captivity, Ezekiel received his prophetic call. The exile experience served as preparation for Ezekiel’s future leadership role as a prophet (cf. 2 Kgs. 24:10-16).
d) v.3: His upbringing and religious teachings, along with the guidance of mentors (his parents, elders and priests), prepared him for his role as prophet, instilling in him a strong devotion to YAHWEH that he maintained even in Babylon.
e) v.3; cf. 18:14-16: Ezekiel’s steadfastness and dedication to YAHWEH. despite challenges in captivity, showcased his commitment to God and prepared him for prophetic leadership responsibilities
f) v.3b: His seeking heart and prior relationship with Yahweh positioned him for divine encounters and prepared him for his prophetic calling and leadership role.
g) v.3: By willingly accepting important tasks, such as the vision of the dry bones (37:1-14), he proved his readiness for divine missions and his commitment to fulfilling his prophetic calling.

GOD PREPARES DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS (Dan. 1:1-21;6:10)
But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank.
(1:8a)
a) v. 7: Changing their God-glorifying names to reflect the honour of Babylonian idols didn’t affect their stand for God. This an indication of having been rooted in YAHWEH by their parents, elders and priests (cf.Deut. 6:1ff; Prov. 22:6) before they were exiled.
b) Thank God for their godly mentors whose impacts helped them maintain their godly identity. Are you preparing those children around you to firmly stand for God even when and where you won’t be there with them?
c) v. 8: Their refusal to eat the king’s delicacies shows a deep understanding and adherence to the Law (cf. Lev.11). A typical Jewish boy should be able to recite the Torah by age 6. What is your child’s relationship with the Bible?
d) Obviously, God had a hand in their exile (cf. Am. 3:6; Rom. 8:28). He knew ahead and had given them enviable qualities (vv. 4,17-20) that were later discovered. He knows and has the best (Jer. 29:11); follow His lead.
e) V.18-21: After three years of training, Daniel and his friends emerged healthier, wiser and more intelligent, relying on Yahweh rather than Babylonian education for their qualifications, showing God’s role in preparing them for His task.

f) 6:10: Daniel’s unperturbed attitude to enemies threat proved his unwavering stand for God. A true child of God, deeply nurtured and prepared by the Father, cannot be intimidated by any enemy.

LESSONS DERIVED
God, as the sovereign Father, holds exclusive authority to determine how, when and where He prepares His children for leadership responsibilities.
God knows your destination. Cooperate with Him to be prepared correctly for what lies ahead.

QUESTIONS
Discuss how God prepared Ezekiel for prophetic leadership.
What lessons have you learnt from how God prepared Daniel and his friends?

08/06/2025

MEMORY SCRIPTURE
Then He said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!”
(Luke 24:25)
God equips the called, moulding leaders like Isaiah and Jeremiah through trials and doubt to fulfil His divine plan.

DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READINGS
Mon. 2: Ezekiel Guides The People (Ezk. 12:8)
Tue. 3: Ezekiel Obediently Uses God’s Word (Ezk. 12:8&9)
Wed. 4: Ezekiel’s Guidance Is A Sign (Ezk. 12:10-11)
Thur. 5: Ezekiel Obeys As The People’s Guide (Ezk. 12:7)
Fri. 6: Onslaught Against The Disobedient (Ezk. 12:13)
Sat. 7: Only A Godly Alliance Succeeds (Ezk. 12:14)

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
Godly leaders who remain focused on guiding people in God’s way, will and word are covered and empowered by His grace.

INTRODUCTION
TEXTUAL SOURCE: Isaiah 6:1ff; Jeremiah 1:4-10
We are grateful for the last lesson, where we learnt how God got Ezra and Nehemiah ready to lead His people in preparation both physically and spiritually. We saw how God, Who cares deeply, used skilled men, like Ezra and Nehemiah to bring back His people to know and understand His Word. They helped restore the people o Jerusalem and rebuild its walls, with the people listening and obeying.
Today’s lesson, “GOD PREPARES OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS FOR LEADERSHIP (I)”, helps us see how God warns, restores and rescues His people through chosen prophets. These prophets led, guided and directed God’s children back to His love and grace. God never stops leading and guiding His people, which is why He gave us His Spirit, the Holy Spirit, to continue showing us the way of the Lord. Today, as we remember Pentecost, let us trust that the Spirit of God will always be with us. Amen.

LESSON OUTLINE
ISAIAH’S PREPARATION
JEREMIAH’S PREPARATION

LESSON EXPOSITION
ISAIAH’S PREPARATION (Isaiah 6:1ff)
And he touched my mouth with it, and said: “Behold, this has touched your lips; your iniquity is taken away, and your sin purged”
(v.7).
a) V. 1: Isaiah’s encounter with the holy God amidst spiritual decline under King Uzziah revealed God’s sovereignty over human affairs enlightening Isaiah about his role in God’s divine plan.
b) vv. 1-4: His vision of God’s majesty and holiness deeply imparted him fostering reverence and understanding of God’s character. It also underscored the significance of acknowledging sinfulness and repentance (cf. v. 5; Psa. 99:9).
c) v.5: His humble confession of his sins before God showed he was ready for his prophetic duty (cf. Psa.51:3;Lk.5:8).
d) vv. 6,7: His purification through the live coal symbolised his sanctification for prophetic seryice (cf. Lev.8:15;1 1 Pet. 1:22).
e) v. 8: His immediate response, Here am I! Send me, to God’s call proved his willingness to serve, like Samuel (1 Sam. 3:4) and Ananias (Acts 9:10).
f) vv. 9ff: His grasp of God’s Word as conveying a dual nature of salvation and judgement (Heb. 4:12; 2 Cor: 2:15-16) empowered him to faithfully deliver His message.

JEREMIAH’S PREPARATION (Jer. 1:4-10)
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations
(v. 5).
a) v. 4-5: The Word of the Lord reached Jeremiah, revealing that he was chosen and ordained for his prophetic role, even before birth. This shows God’s initiative and foreknowledge in selecting him. You have been in the mind of God ever before you came into existence.
b) v. 6: Jeremiah, like Moses and some other biblical figures, showed humility and felt unworthy when called by God, revealing true partnership with God (Exod. 3:11-12; Jdg.6:15).
c) vv. 6-8: He was hesitant and unsure of himself, but God reassured him of His presence and support. This in itself went a long way to equip Jeremiah for the task of prophetic leadership.
d) v. 9: God empowered Jeremiah by touching his mouth, symbolising divine authority, and this enabled him to speak God’s Word with power (Exod.4:11-12; Isa. 6:7).
e) v. 10: Jeremiah had been prepared by God with the prophetic ministry’s dual nature of uprooting sin and ungodliness and building up righteousness and obedience (Ezk. 33:7-9; Acts 20:20-21), hence his successful mission among God’s people.
LESSONS DERIVED

God not only owns the people but also the messenger He calls, guiding them to lead others rightly.
God calls, prepares and sends His mouthpiece. Open your heart and let God speak to you.

QUESTIONS
Are our prophetic leaders effectively guiding the people according to God’s expectations today? If not, what suggestions do you have for improvement?
Do you believe there are individuals who cannot be used by God to lead His people, today?

01/06/2025

*CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH Nigeria And Overseas*

*SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON*

Theme *PREPARING GOD'S PEOPLE for LEADERSHIP*

*JANUARY TO DECEMBER, 2025*

*JUN 01, 2025.*

*LESSON 20*

*Unit 3: Leadership Preparation In The Old Testament (II)*

_topic:_
*GOD PREPARES EZRA AND NEHEMIAH FOR RESTORATION LEADERSHIP*

_*Memory Scripture*_
For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel (Ezra 7:10).

God shaped Ezra and Nehemiah into leaders of restoration. This shows His divine ability.

*BRIEF COMMENT*
Numerous individuals who claim to be leaders place great importance on personal accomplishments like wealth, possessions, and status, considering them to be the ultimate goals in life. Nevertheless, authentic leadership, bestowed upon us by the Creator of the cosmos, resides in our unwavering devotion to living in accordance with divine principles. True leaders are set apart by their unwavering commitment to adhering to divine guidance and imparting the teachings of Christ to others, encouraging them to align their lives accordingly. This is what made Priest Ezra to stand out in his generation. You can be better in this generation and beyond, if you follow suit.

*DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READINGS*
*Mon. May 26:* Lead With Sensitive And Smart Heart (Ezra 8:15)
*Tue. May 27:* Seek Wisdom: God's Guidance Imparts (Ezra 8:16)
*Wed. May 28:* Understand Your Crew: And Their Parts (Ezra 8:17a)
*Thur. May 29:* Persuade With Truth: Let It Start (Ezra 8:17b)
*Fri. May 30:* Pray Earnestly From The Heart (Ezra 8:18-20)
*Sat. May 31:* Believe In Cleansing: Never Depart (Ezra 8:21-23)

*DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT*
1. The most effective instrument that a leader can employ in building godly disciples and his leadership role is the Word of God.

2. Leaders aren't just tasked with assessing the level of legal understanding and obedience but with teaching, judging and enforcing the Law of the Lord, like Ezra did.

*BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Deuteronomy 6:1-25*

*AIM AND OBJECTIVES*

*AIM:* To show how teaching and understanding the Word of God are essential for nurturing effective and biblical disciples.

*OBJECTIVES:* By the end of this lesson, learners are expected to:
i. have developed more interest in reading, meditating on, and doing God's Word for proper discipleship and discipline; and

ii. be more dedicated and committed to teaching the undiluted Word of God as understood and exemplified.

*INTRODUCTION*
*TEXTUAL SOURCE: Ezra 7:1-10; Nehemiah 1:1-11-2:1-8*
We praise God for the previous lesson, *"MORDECAI GUIDES ESTHER IN BECOMING A GODLY LEADER,"* which taught us about God's purposeful guidance in preparing Mordecai to mentor Esther for her role as queen and to save His people from destruction.

Today, our focus shifts to *"GOD PREPARES EZRA AND NEHEMIAH FOR RESTORATION LEADERSHIP."* Through the lives of Ezra and Nehemiah, we shall learn how God equips His servants for leadership, guiding them to reveal His will through His Word. Ezra and Nehemiah exemplified commitment to following God's directives in their leadership and ministry. As leaders today, we are called to lead God's people in accordance with His will, way and purpose alone. May we uphold this responsibility faithfully, in Jesus' name. Amen.

*LESSON OUTLINE*
I. EZRA'S PREPARATION

II. NEHEMIAH'S PREPARATION

*LESSON EXPOSITION*
*I. EZRA'S PREPARATION (Ezra 7:1-10)*
For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel (v. 10).
a) vv. 1-5: Ezra's divine call and lineage. Ezra hailed from a priestly lineage, setting him for leadership. God's choice of lineage often signifies a divine call to leadership (cf. Ex o leadership (cf. Exod. 28:1; Num. 16:3).

b) vv. 6,9: ...the hand of the Lord his God was upon him (divine presence and anointing), hence his uniqueness (v. 10; cf. Gen. 39:2-3; 1 Sam. 18:14; Acts 7:9-10; 9:31; 2 Tim. 4:17). Anointing is essential for leaders' fulfilment (1 Sam. 16:13; Isa. 61:1).

c) v. 6: God helped him to be a teacher who knew the Law of Moses very well (ERV). What a great quality essential for restoration leadership!

d) v. 10: God enabled Ezra to prepare his heart to seek and obey His Law, granting him deep understanding. This is essential for effective leadership (Prov. 4:23).

e) v. 6: Despite being in a foreign land, he devoted himself to studying and obeying God's Word. Devotion to God's Word is central for effective leadership and restoration (Jos. 1:8; Psa. 119:105).

f) vv. 8-9: Despite his status, Ezra willingly sacrificed his position to serve God's people. Sacrificial service is fundamental for restoration leadership (Mk. 10:45; Php. 2:3-4).

g) v. 10: He showed he was ready to lead and teach God's laws. Willingness is highly important for leaders chosen by God (Heb. 13:17; 1 Pet. 5:2). Leaders must prioritise God's will and statutes for estoration and spiritual growth (Deut. 6:6-7; Jas. 1:22-25).

h) Ezra's determination and love for, and practice of God's Word equipped him for leadership (cf. 2 Tim. 3:16-17). The love for God's Word leads to effective leadership and restoration (Psa. 119:97; Jn. 14:15).

*II. NEHEMIAH'S PREPARATION (Neh. 1:1-11-2:1-8)*
And the king granted them to me according to the good hand of my God upon me (Neh. 2:8).
a) 1:1; 2:8: Nehemiah's humble service in the palace positioned him for divine assignment, aligning his heart with God's favour, driven by his deep concern for Jerusalem (Psa. 90:17; Prov. 21:1).

b) 1:2-4: Nehemiah's deep concern for Jerusalem's welfare led to an empathetic response. This shows the heart of a godly leader (Rom. 12:15).

c) vv. 3-4,5-9: Nehemiah's response to the city's distress displayed empathy and grief, leading him to fervent prayer for God's intervention (cf. Rom. 12:15; Jas. 5:16).

d) vv. 5-11: Nehemiah's fervent intercessory prayer acknowledged God's sovereignty, seeking His favour and aligning with His will (cf. Jas. 4:10).

e) 2:1-2,4-8: Despite his sorrow, Nehemiah found favour with the king and was encouraged by divine intervention. God helped him to secure approval for his plans (cf. Psa. 20:4; Prov. 16:7; 22:11). This enhanced his position to fulfil his mission.

f) 2:3,8: Nehemiah's reverence for heritage and acknowledgment of God's hand in his success reflected his reliance on God's promises (cf. Mal. 4:6; Jas. 1:17).

g) God prepared Nehemiah for his God-given task of leadership and Nehemiah himself was cooperative with God in the process. We need such as we prepare for what the Lord has prepared for each and everyone of us to do for Him in the world.

*LESSONS DERIVED*
1. Teaching God's love and laws leads to true repentance, confession and transformation for God's glory.

2. Nehemiah prayed, planned and acted swiftly for his people's restoration, showing prayer alongside planning and action.

*QUESTIONS*
1. Do we have leaders today like Nehemiah who can stand in the gap for the people?

2. Why do we have leaders today who fail to pray and plan before acting? What are the consequences of this neglect?

*SUGGESTED ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS*

*ANSWER TO QUESTION 1*
i. Yes, there are leaders today who exhibit qualities similar to Nehemiah, but they are relatively few in number.

ii. Many modern leaders lack the commitment and selflessness seen in Nehemiah, prioritising personal gain over the welfare of the people.

iii. Majority of today's leaders are selfish, self-centred, and driven by greed, neglecting the wellbeing of others.

iv. Genuine leaders who stand in the gap for their people are valuable but not always easy to find.

v. Some leaders contribute to the calamities faced by their followers and add to the problems of their mentees instead of offering solutions.

vi. Many are not willing to take risks on behalf of their mentees, but are only interested in what they can get rather than what they can give out.

vii. Yet, despite challenges, there are individuals striving to fill the role of standing in the gap for their communities.

*ANSWER TO QUESTION 2*
Reasons for Failure to Pray and Plan:
* Lack of spiritual grounding, or regeneration.
* Absence of consciousness of God in their activities.
* Reliance solely on personal understanding, forsaking God's guidance.
* Failure to prioritise the Word of God as their guiding force.
* Deficiency in the fear of God, leading to moral lapses.
* Forgetting their accountability to God for their leadership.
* Tendency to be judgmental and lacking compassion towards others.
* Overconfidence in their own abilities, neglecting humility and dependence on God.

*Consequences of Neglecting Prayer and Planning:*
* Leadership failures due to lack of divine guidance.
* Disappointment from both God and the people they lead.
* Incomplete projects, or initiatives due to inadequate foresight.
* Lack of success in leadership endeavours, leading to stagnation.
* Absence of the Holy Spirit's guidance in leadership decisions.
* Increased likelihood of negative outcomes and moral compromises when God is excluded.

*LIFE APPLICATION*
A church was once called upon to pray and intercede for a member of his church who was seriously ill. Upon arriving at the sick man's location, he scrutinised him and asked, "When was the last time you paid your tithe and offering, and how much did you contribute?" The sick man, in agony, did not respond. The man's relatives questioned the pastor about the relevance of tithes and offerings to the situation. However, his reply further astonished everyone present. He stated, "Before I offer prayers or address your situation, you must settle at least six months' worth of tithes and donate #20,000 towards the on-going church project." He then added, "Considering your condition, I understand you may be unable to fast or attend prayer gatherings. So, you should purchase a tin of Bournvita tea, milk, and a crate of eggs so that I can intercede on your behalf."

It is essential to remember that, regardless of the positions we hold, we will one day be held accountable to God Who places us there. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of God's presence and how we interact with those under our care. We should be sensitive to their well-being.

*CONCLUSION*
Ezra and Nehemiah had played a prominent role in carrying out their God-given responsibilities. They submitted themselves to God Who prepared them for the restoration of His people and fulfilled His purpose for their leadership. They didn't fail God, their generation and themselves. Be another Ezra and Nehemiah to learn God's law, be rooted in it as you enforce and teach it to others. Be concern about the wellbeing of others.

25/05/2025

“A child can always teach an adult three things: to be happy for no reason, to always be busy with something, and to know how to demand with all his might that which he desires.”

“Never miss an opportunity to tell your child – I love you”.

Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.

Christ Apostolic Church - Oke Anu

05/04/2026

22/06/2025

15/06/2025

08/06/2025

01/06/2025

25/05/2025

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category