Olabode Ososami's Blog, page 32
March 3, 2015
The House of the High Priest
Nehemiah 3:21 After him repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah the son of Koz another piece, from the door of the house of Eliashib even to the end of the house of Eliashib.
Heb_4:14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. 15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
Eliashib is the high priest and his house is mentioned in this text. It seems pieces of this house are in disrepair. Christ is our high priest …and He dwells not in temples made with hands …His place of dwelling is our heart. So what is the shape of your heart … how is the door to your heart, what kinds of thoughts do you admit into your heart? What can be said of the integrity and uprightness of your heart ? … is Christ dwelling in your heart or is your heart full of ambitions and lusts.? Check your heart and ask God to help you with sincerity. Like David you must pray for God to reveal the state of your heart so you may make needed adjustments.
Psa 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: 24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Verses for further meditation
Job 13:4 ; Deut. 8:17-18
Thoughts for Business and the work place
Be convinced on the value your business idea is contributing before selling it to others.
Suggestions for Prayer
O Lord, search my heart O Lord and help me on the way everlasting. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
March 2, 2015
Earnest Repairs
Nehemiah 3:20 After him Baruch the son of Zabbai earnestly repaired the other piece, from the turning of the wall unto the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest.
The work of Baruch is described as an earnest repair job. Why this unusual distinction? Earnestness suggests a deep sincerity, a seriousness … a weighty approach to matters, a purposeful and intense application.
People do not work in the same way. Do not judge others but do not expect that standards are the same. Do not copy others … instead ask God to help you set a high standard in earnestness. Earnest work is always noticed. God knows those who must be reserved for work that requires seriousness and work that must be left to jokers. Tell yourself you will be amongst those whose work will be described as earnest. Although we do not see any difference in Baruch’s assignment with that of others, nor are we told the result was very different from others. Indeed, there seems to be no difference in the reward of the work but there is still another judgment coming and a rewards ceremony in eternity. I sense then that earnestness will be mentioned and acclaimed. I pray your work will stand out even till eternity.
2Pe 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
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Verses for further meditation
Mat 25:28-29; Prov 14:23
Thoughts for Business and the work place
The market will recognize and inevitably reward the difference between an outstanding delivery and sloppy service.
Suggestions for Prayer
O Lord, let me standout in the work and assignments reserved for me. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
March 1, 2015
The Armoury
Nehemiah 3:19 And next to him repaired Ezer the son of Jeshua, the ruler of Mizpah, another piece over against the going up to the armoury at the turning of the wall.
Be not deceived. In business, in careers and in the family there are many battles. If the armoury is dilapidated, you will be in serious trouble. Be sure you have your armoury intact. If not, repair now … it will be too late when the times of attacks come. What is the armoury …what are the weapons?…
2Cor 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
Eph 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
Study these two scriptures. Note the importance of obedience fulfilled and that the armour is called a whole armour meaning no part is unimportant. Praying always. Christ alone is our armor. Read and reread and ask yourself …how prepared am I? Take time to repair and make vital adjustments. Your victory tomorrow will be determined by the state of repairs of the armoury, the gates to the armoury and the related walls are important even in times of peace …for there will be days of war.
Be confident in Christ and the knowledge that your armoury is well stocked and you have put on the recommended spiritual armour. .
Verses for further meditation
Ezekiel 38:7; 1 Cor. 14:8
Thoughts for Business and the work place
Value good preparation … you can hardly be over prepared.
Suggestions for Prayer
O Lord, keep me prepared for spiritual war. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
February 28, 2015
After him
Nehemiah 3:18 After him repaired their brethren, Bavai the son of Henadad, the ruler of the half part of Keilah.
I observe that God is a God of order and He deals with us in the specificity of assignments and timing. Do you see that there is a timing to that which He has ordained? One can only repair after the other has finished. Be careful of going before your time or disdaining the time allocated to you. You prefer another time, but God is the controller of the universe, and the timing of assignments belong to Him. We may have to wait until another has finished his part before we can play any role. Oftentimes we cannot repair until another has finished. All we can do is to hold on and wait for our time.
This is very difficult for many– because you are being pushed by your pride, gifts, successes and the false leadings of others, who think you are wasting time or slow, when you sense a need to wait. Many are slothful, there are others who love to procrastinate … and for many God has said go … but they tarry. Still, Moses is an example of one who went ahead of his time only to suffer. Others go ahead and succeed at what was never required. Remember, there are those who will take over when you finish, just as you took over from someone else … be humble to work hard in the time allocated to you, but learn to see the signs to hold on. Enjoy waiting on God. Learn to start and finish well in God’s time.
Verses for further meditation
Thoughts for Business and the work place
Timing is as important as the value of the best suggestion. Leaders understand the role of timing in execution and the virtue of balancing waiting and seizing the moment.
Suggestions for Prayer
O Lord, help me to know my timing and be sensitive not just to location but to the accurate timing of actions. Give me grace to bow out when that time also comes. May I not misjudge my timings. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
February 27, 2015
In your Part
Nehemiah 3:17 After him repaired the Levites, Rehum the son of Bani. Next unto him repaired Hashabiah, the ruler of the half part of Keilah, in his part.
Everyone has been specially chosen and positioned for a role. God knows exactly the part reserved for you. The greatest tragedy is missing your part or coveting the part that belongs to another. Envy, waste of energy and unnecessary pains can only come when we stray beyond our part. It becomes like an opera in which the soprano solo begins to sing the tenor part with gusto … soon a strain and confusion will set in. It may not be immediate, but there will be notes that just will not work for the soprano simply because they were written for a tenor.
Hashabiah repaired in his part …like all the others. Divine assignments and locations are specific …we must look for signs for divine positioning and signs that confirm God’s assignments for us. God will not make it too difficult for us to discern His part for us … the challenge is our obstinacy and sinful flesh that desires that which God has not wished for us … Lot chose the beautiful plains of Sodom, but Abraham chose the other part although this was on the rugged mountains. The part God has for you may not be the path of least resistance but soon He will send divine signposts to help you find your direction and there will be comfort. If you are on the wrong path or playing another’s role there will also be clear redirection … like the director of the play shouting at the actors on the stage … “Read the script !!!” The word of God, the Bible is the script …play your part in business. Sometimes, God must use stressful circumstances to force you back on the right road. It may take a while, but soon realise that God always knew what was best. Enjoy the part you were destined to play.
Verses for further meditation
Ezekiel 3:9; Isaiah 50:7-9
Thoughts for Business and the work place
Above all … be yourself and not somebody else …stay on your track.
Suggestions for Prayer
O Lord, help me to play the part meant for me. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
February 26, 2015
The House of the Mighty
Nehemiah 3:16 After him repaired Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, the ruler of the half part of Bethzur, unto the place over against the sepulchres of David, and to the pool that was made, and unto the house of the mighty.
The Word of God distinguishes between men and has its own hall of faith. Great men and heroes of the faith are mentioned. Men like David and his mighty men. God recognises that there are mighty men. But instead we see only broken down sepulchers and the house of those who should be called mighty in ruins. Men that God called to do great exploits living like there was no purpose to their existence. Do not live in a false modesty. It is not pride to be whom God has called you to be and God needs His mighty men in business, government and ministry. He needs men of valor in the financial markets. Do you sense God’s mighty men in disarray and pitiful ruins? Men, destined to stand in uncommon faith and exploits, hiding in caves.
Nehemiah the son of Azphuk repaired after the others … till the repairs reached the vicinity of the house of the mighty. I pray all that has been broken down in your life will be brought back to life. I pray that the destructions you see all around you will be repaired. I pray that as you begin that venture, you will witness the might of God and be as those that were called mighty in the word of God. May you be mighty in faith, boldness, faithfulness, loyalty, love, forgiveness and holiness by the special grace of God.
There are those that must be brought up to fulfil mighty destinies for God. You may be one of them.
Verses for further meditation
Eccles 7:21; Deut 5:24
Thoughts for Business and the work place
The value of feedback is invaluable … the best leaders seek after it in a 360 degrees circle, but watch who you permit in your circle.
Suggestions for Prayer
O Lord, may your greatness and might overflow in my life. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
February 24, 2015
The Gate of the Fountain
Nehemiah 3:15 But the gate of the fountain repaired Shallun the son of Colhozeh, the ruler of part of Mizpah; he built it, and covered it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and the wall of the pool of Siloah by the king’s garden, and unto the stairs that go down from the city of David.
There are many symbolic references to a fountain in the Bible. The first is wisdom: “The TEACHING OF THE WISE is a FOUNTAIN OF LIFE, turning a man from the snares of death.” (Prov 13:14 NIV). Be wise and value the teachings of the Bible. The book of proverbs is a good book to read before you start anything very important, and will help you make the right decision in life. Another reference to the fountain is the fear of God: “The FEAR OF THE LORD is a FOUNTAIN OF LIFE, turning a man from the snares of death.” (Prov 14:27 NIV) Do not believe those who say we should not fear God because fear is negative. There is a healthy fear that keep even the insane safe from fire. When our senses are dull we could enter dangerous deals mistaking folly for courage. Cultivate the fear of God, it will keep you away from many errors.
The fountain is also righteousness: “The mouth of the RIGHTEOUS is a FOUNTAIN OF LIFE.” (Prov 10:11 NIV)
In addition, fountains are used to refers to our relationship with God: “You are a garden fountain, a well of flowing water . . .” (Song 4:15 NIV), fountains are also used to represent the cleansing and renewal process that we often need : “On that day A FOUNTAIN WILL BE OPENED to the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, TO CLEANSE THEM FROM SIN AND IMPURITY.”(Zech 13:1 NIV)
Cleansing, wisdom, righteousness, relationship . . . this comes with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit … “For I will pour WATER on the thirsty land, and STREAMS on the dry ground; I WILL POUR OUT MY SPIRIT on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. (Isa 44:3 NIV). Do not leave the Holy Spirit out of your thoughts as you conceive business ventures. Let the Holy Spirit flow in all that we do.
Verses for further meditation
John 14:16; John 16:7
Thoughts for Business and the work place
All your associates will prove to be limited and can fail. There is an unlimited friend that sticks closer than a brother … embrace the Holy Spirit
Suggestions for Prayer
Come Holy Spirit … reveal the true interpretations that answer and comfort my daily questions. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
February 23, 2015
The Dung Gate (Part II)
Nehemiah 3:14 But the dung gate repaired Malchiah the son of Rechab, the ruler of part of Bethhaccerem; he built it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.
The Dung referred to in this Gate could have another spiritual meaning; and that is sin, which smells badly and destroys, our peace and must be put away. Christ died and paid in full also enabling the dying of the flesh of those who are His. We must be sensitive to dirt that must be put away from the heart.
Mathew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:
God’s word washes and cleanses our heart thus affecting our conscience, and strengthing our faith. Christ has done the work of removing the rubbish and emptying the rubbish bin of our lives. We need to accept this work and repair the altar of our fellowship with the Holy Spirit to remain cleansed, undisturbed and enabled to live above the pressures of the sin that can pull back into a quicksand. In personal life, ministry and in business, never forget you have a redeemer, the one who forgives sin and has paid completely for all the refuse and dung disposal. Do not embrace the dung for want of financing its disposal. Jesus paid it all. This is not license to sin, but a provision to encourage you to start afresh with an unburdened conscience.
Verses for further meditation
1 Peter 2:24; Isaiah 53:1-12
Thoughts for Business and the work place
Successful leaders have learnt how to start again … build on constructive failure. Failure gives you vital information on what will not work.
Suggestions for Prayer
O Lord, Keep me true; Lord Jesus keep me true. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
February 22, 2015
The Dung Gate (Part I)
Nehemiah 3:14 But the dung gate repaired Malchiah the son of Rechab, the ruler of part of Bethhaccerem; he built it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.
This gate is uniquely positioned. This gate’s unusual name derives from the refuse dumped here over the ages, where the prevailing winds would carry odors away. Why is this gate important? Why must this gate be repaired. Just imagine a home without a proper arrangement for refuse … it will be dirty, attracting flies … and soon disease.
In our lives, there are things we must make prior arrangements on how they must not be allowed to abide with us. Bitter thoughts, past matters, the ashes of previous burnings that will not allow new fires. We must master how to put things behind us. This gate is key.
Ecc_7:21 Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee:
In life, in business and in our interactions, we must learn how to discount the rubbish and hold on to the valuable. We must filter out the dross and expel dung and have them removed and burnt off …not allowing their stench and fumes to disturb our peace. There is a type of dung that people keep. Paul wrote of all his past gains and reputations indeed all things …
Php_3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
Anything that may stand in the way of your relationship with Christ, Paul called dung. Be careful, even in business, ministry etc. recognize the dung and make prior preparations on how you will get rid of it and its stench.
Verses for further meditation
Luke 15: 11-32; Phil 3:13-14
Thoughts for Business and the work place
Our body survives because our system knows how to attack viruses and flush out waste. Great leaders discard the valueless with ease. Practice getting rid of unproductive habits.
Suggestions for Prayer
O Lord, Strengthen me to put behind all that must be discarded from my life. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
February 21, 2015
The Valley Gate
Nehemiah 3:13 The valley gate repaired Hanun, and the inhabitants of Zanoah; they built it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and a thousand cubits on the wall unto the dung gate.
What does this “Valley Gate” and the lengthy pieces of wall leading up to and away from it mean for us as Christians ? The “Valley” is used symbolically in the Bible to mean a place of sorrow, of trials, of humbling experiences: “Even though I walk through the VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH . . .” (Ps 23:4 NIV). The Christian walk will entail troubles. Your business will not be exempt – set your heart to this truth that God who is with you will take you through the valley. The valley could be false accusation, it could be strange trials or worse, physical and health challenges. No one ever said that the road walked by a Christian is an easy one: “In this world you will have trouble.” (John 16:33a NIV). This must not discourage us however, for Jesus goes on to say: “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (Luke 3:5b)
In the natural also remember that nothing grows on high mountaintops. It is in the valleys that we see vegetation. It is no different in the Spiritual realm. Our Spiritual growth occurs when we are walking through the “valleys”, the trials and tribulations that will come to every Christian. Remember that we are admonished MANY TIMES to be thankful for our trials. Why?
“. . . Because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces Character; and character, hope.” (Rom 5:4).
Friends, we may not enjoy walking in the valley, but we can accept that it is a necessary part of our spiritual growth! Even for your business, the valley situations can be more valuable for future growth than the best seminars. Only respond appropriately. Be thankful …keep trusting God. Repair your faith wall. Let the word of God be a strong defense for you for the valleys of life.
Verses for further meditation
1 Peter 5:10; Psalm 23:4
Thoughts for Business and the work place
Disagreements and conflicts can foster creative insights that could only be incubated in such conditions.
Suggestions for Prayer
O Lord, Help me in the valley experiences. Amen
As Nehemiah’s wall was built, so will we see a reconstruction in all that may appear in distress and in waste. Nehemiah trusted and feared God, putting his faith in the Almighty whose strength is limitless to exceed all our expectations. Look out daily for Nehemiah’s Wall in 2015 and do invite friends to subscribe to the free email or social media posts.
I am praying someone with a burden to be used by God in building will receive a fresh vision and get the job done.
To subscribe to the devotional, please enter your email address (the left column) above the “subscribe” button (and enter on the green button). God bless you.
Recessionproofchristianlife.com is a privately owned blog/media site started in 2009 as the internet ministry of the author. It promotes the absolute authority and divine inspiration of the Holy Bible as the Word of God – Infallible and Sufficient.
