HUMANITY IS TIMED

Humanity is a concept that is difficult to define, but at its core, it refers to the collective existence of all human beings on this earth. As we journey through life, it is important to recognize that our time on this earth is limited, and we must make the most of the time we have. In this discussion, we will explore the concept that humanity is timed, drawing from various scriptures to illustrate this point.

One of the most well-known scriptures that speaks to the concept of the limited time we have on this earth is found in the book of Ecclesiastes. Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 says, "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted."

This passage highlights the fact that there is a time for everything in life, including birth and death. It is a reminder that our time on earth is limited, and we should make the most of the time we have. We must use our time wisely and purposefully, as each moment is valuable and cannot be regained.

Another passage that speaks to the concept of time is found in the book of James. James 4:14 says, "You do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes."

This verse emphasizes the fragility of life and the fact that we do not know what tomorrow will bring. It is a reminder that we should live each day to the fullest and make the most of the time we have. We should not take our time on earth for granted, as it is a gift that can be taken away at any moment.

In addition, the book of Psalms provides a beautiful description of the brevity of life. Psalm 39:4-5 says, "Lord, make me to know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am! Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing before you. Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath!"
This passage speaks to the fact that our time on earth is fleeting and that our lives are like a breath that appears for a moment and then vanishes. It is a reminder that we should use our time wisely and make the most of the time we have.

Furthermore, the book of Job provides a powerful illustration of the concept that humanity is timed. Job 14:5 says, "Man's days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed."
This passage emphasizes the fact that our time on earth is predetermined, and we cannot exceed the limits that have been set for us. It is a reminder that we should use our time wisely and purposefully, as each moment is valuable and cannot be regained.

In conclusion, the concept that humanity is timed is a powerful reminder that our time on this earth is limited. We must use our time wisely and purposefully, making the most of every moment. As we strive to make the most of our time, let us be guided by the wisdom of scripture, which reminds us that our lives are a gift, and we must cherish every moment.

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The Key to Effective Peace in a Nation like Nigeria

 

The Key to Effective Peace in a Nation like Nigeria

Peace is essential for the development and progress of any nation. In Nigeria, there have been several challenges that have threatened the peace and stability of the country. However, there is hope for effective peace in Nigeria, and this hope can be found in the scriptures.

One of the key scriptures that speak to the issue of peace is found in the book of Psalms. Psalm 34:14 says, "Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." This verse highlights the importance of actively pursuing peace. It is not enough to simply desire peace; we must actively seek it out and pursue it.

Another scripture that speaks to the issue of peace is found in the book of Isaiah. Isaiah 32:17 says, "The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever." This verse highlights the fact that peace is the result of righteousness. When people live righteously, they are able to experience true peace.
Furthermore, in the New Testament, the book of Romans gives guidance on how to achieve peace. Romans 12:18 says, "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." This verse emphasizes the fact that each individual has a role to play in achieving peace. We must do our part to live in peace with others, regardless of our differences.

One of the most famous scriptures that speak to peace is found in the book of Matthew. Matthew 5:9 says, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." This verse highlights the fact that those who actively seek to make peace are blessed and considered children of God.

In light of these scriptures, it is clear that the key to effective peace in Nigeria is for individuals to actively pursue peace and live righteously. This means turning away from evil and doing good, seeking peace and pursuing it, and living at peace with others as far as it depends on us. It also means being a peacemaker and actively working towards peace in our communities and nation.

In conclusion, as Nigerians, we must look to the scriptures for guidance on how to achieve effective peace in our nation. We must strive to live righteously, actively pursue peace, and work towards being peacemakers. Only then can we experience true peace and stability in our nation.

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The weight of God's glory

The weight of God's glory is a profound and awe-inspiring concept that is woven throughout the Scriptures. The glory of God refers to the radiant, majestic, and incomprehensible splendor of His being, which is the source of all goodness, truth, and beauty. This glory is beyond human comprehension, and yet it is revealed to us in various ways through His creation, His Word, and ultimately in the person of Jesus Christ.

The weight of God's glory is the tangible and overwhelming sense of His presence and power that can be experienced by those who seek Him with a humble and contrite heart. It is the recognition that God is the ultimate authority and source of all things, and that our purpose in life is to glorify Him in all that we do. The weight of God's glory is also a reminder of our own limitations and frailty, and the need for us to rely completely on His strength and wisdom.

One of the most significant passages in the Bible that speaks to the weight of God's glory is found in Exodus 33:18-23. In this passage, Moses asks God to show him His glory, and God responds by saying, "I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name 'The Lord.' And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. But," he said, "you cannot see my face, for man shall not see me and live." And the Lord said, "Behold, there is a place by me where you shall stand on the rock, and while my glory passes by I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will take away my hand, and you shall see my back, but my face shall not be seen."

This passage illustrates the overwhelming and powerful nature of God's glory. Even the mere sight of His face would be too much for mortal man to bear. Instead, God chooses to reveal His glory in a way that Moses can handle, by allowing him to see the afterglow of His passing. This encounter with God's glory leaves Moses speechless and trembling, a testament to the weight of His majesty.

Another passage that speaks to the weight of God's glory is found in Isaiah 6:1-4. In this passage, the prophet Isaiah is given a vision of the throne room of God, and he sees the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filling the temple. Seraphim stood above Him, each having six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one cried to another and said: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!"

Isaiah's vision of the throne room of God is a vivid illustration of the weight of God's glory. The sheer magnitude and grandeur of the scene leave Isaiah feeling unworthy and unclean. He recognizes his own sinfulness in the presence of such holiness and is overwhelmed by the weight of God's glory.
Finally, in the New Testament, we see the weight of God's glory manifested in the person of Jesus Christ. In John 1:14, it says, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." In Jesus, we see the fullness of God's glory revealed in human form. He is the perfect representation of God's character and nature, and through Him, we can experience the weight of God's glory in a tangible and transformative way

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The Tongue as the Tool of Lifting

Scriptures: Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." - Proverbs 18:21

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." - Ephesians 4:29

"The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly." - Proverbs 15:2

The tongue is a powerful tool that can be used to either lift up or tear down others. As Christians, we are called to use our tongues in a way that reflects the love and grace of Jesus Christ.

In Proverbs 18:21, we see that the power of life and death is in the tongue. The words we speak can either bring life and encouragement or death and discouragement. We are responsible for the words we speak and the impact they have on others.

In Ephesians 4:29, we see that our words should be used to build up others and give grace to those who hear. Our speech should be edifying and uplifting, rather than tearing down or destroying others. When we speak words of encouragement and love, we can help others to feel valued and appreciated.

In Proverbs 15:2, we see that the tongue of the wise commends knowledge. When we speak with wisdom and understanding, we can help others to grow and learn. Our words can be used to inspire and motivate others to pursue their dreams and goals.

In conclusion, the tongue is a powerful tool that can be used to either lift up or tear down others. As Christians, we are called to use our tongues in a way that reflects the love and grace of Jesus Christ. When we speak words of encouragement and wisdom, we can help others to grow and thrive. Let us be mindful of the words we speak and the impact they have on others.

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The Church as a Transformative Clinic

Scriptures:
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." - Hebrews 10:24-25

"Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted." - Galatians 6:1
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." - 2 Corinthians 12:9

The church is not just a building or an institution but a community of believers who have been transformed by the grace of God. As such, the church has the potential to be a transformative clinic, where people can come to find healing, restoration, and hope

In Hebrews 10:24-25, we see that the church is called to stir up one another to love and good works. The church is a place where we can encourage one another, challenge one another, and hold one another accountable. By meeting together regularly, we can provide support and care for one another, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

In Galatians 6:1, we see that the church is also called to restore those who have fallen into sin. Rather than casting out or condemning those who have made mistakes, the church is called to restore them in a spirit of gentleness. 

This means walking alongside them in their journey of healing and restoration, offering grace and forgiveness as needed.

Finally, in 2 Corinthians 12:9, we see that the church is a place where weakness can be turned into strength. Our weaknesses and vulnerabilities are not something to be ashamed of, but rather an opportunity for the power of Christ to be made manifest in our lives. The church is a place where we can be vulnerable, transparent, and honest about our struggles, knowing that we will be met with love and support.

In conclusion, the church has the potential to be a transformative clinic, where people can come to find healing, restoration, and hope. By stirring up one another to love and good works, restoring those who have fallen, and embracing our weaknesses and vulnerabilities, we can create a community that reflects the love and grace of Jesus Christ.

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The Scars Become the Healing

The Scars Become the Healing

Scriptures:

"But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds, we are healed." - Isaiah 53:5
"And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death." - Revelation 12:11

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." - Psalm 147:3
The scars that we carry from past hurts and trauma can often feel like a burden that we have to bear for the rest of our lives. However, the Bible teaches us that through the scars, we can find healing and redemption.

In Isaiah 53:5, we see that the wounds and scars of Jesus Christ bring us healing. Jesus was pierced for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities. The punishment that should have been ours was taken upon himself, and through his wounds, we are healed. The scars of Jesus Christ, which were once a symbol of shame and pain, have now become a source of healing and redemption for all who believe in him.

In Revelation 12:11, we see that the scars and wounds of believers are also a source of victory. The blood of the Lamb (Jesus) and the word of our testimony can conquer even the most significant challenges and trials that we may face. The scars and wounds that we carry are not a sign of defeat but a testimony to the power and faithfulness of God.

Finally, in Psalm 147:3, we see that God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. The scars that we carry may be a result of our own mistakes or the actions of others, but God is able to bring healing and wholeness to even the deepest wounds.

In conclusion, the scars that we carry do not have to be a burden that we carry for the rest of our lives. Through the scars of Jesus Christ, we can find healing and redemption, and our own scars and wounds can become a testimony to the power and faithfulness of God. Let us trust in God's ability to heal and restore, even in the midst of our deepest pain and brokenness.

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Cultural Hindrance to the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Scripture: "But when some were stubborn and continued in unbelief, speaking evil of the Way before the congregation, he withdrew from them and took the disciples with him, reasoning daily in the hall of Tyrannus." - Acts 19:9

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is meant to be a universal message of salvation for all people, regardless of their cultural background. However, cultural hindrances can often get in the way of people receiving the message of the Gospel. These hindrances can take many forms, including traditions, customs, and beliefs that conflict with the teachings of Christ.

In Acts 19:9, we see an example of cultural hindrance to the Gospel. The passage describes how some people in Ephesus were stubborn and continued in unbelief, speaking evil of the Way (the Christian faith) before the congregation. These individuals were likely influenced by the cultural beliefs and practices of their society, which were at odds with the message of the Gospel.

As a result of this cultural hindrance, the apostle Paul withdrew from these individuals and instead focused his efforts on those who were open to receiving the Gospel. He reasoned daily in the hall of Tyrannus, preaching the message of Christ to those who were willing to listen.

This passage teaches us that cultural hindrances to the Gospel are not a new phenomenon. In fact, they have been present since the early days of the Christian church. However, it also teaches us that we should not give up in the face of cultural opposition. Instead, we should continue to proclaim the message of Christ to those who are willing to hear it, just as Paul did in the hall of Tyrannus.

In conclusion, cultural hindrances can pose a significant challenge to the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. However, we should not be discouraged by these obstacles. Instead, we should rely on the power of the Holy Spirit and continue to proclaim the message of Christ to all people, regardless of their cultural background.

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