STANDING ON THE PROMISES TODAY

 STANDING ON THE PROMISES TODAY

"Behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not one thing hath failed thereof." (Joshua 23:14)

These are the parting words of Joshua, a warrior-leader who had witnessed God's faithfulness across decades—from the Exodus to the conquest of Canaan. As he stood at life's edge, he didn't reflect on personal achievements but on God's flawless track record. This declaration isn't merely ancient history; it's a living testimony to the character of our God, who is "the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations" (Deuteronomy 7:9).

The Nature of Our Faithful God

God's faithfulness is not contingent on our circumstances, feelings, or perceptions. It is His immutable nature. As the psalmist declares, "Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds" (Psalm 36:5). And again, "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?" (Numbers 23:19).

When Joshua spoke, he recalled specific promises made to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-16), Moses (Deuteronomy 1:8), and the generation at Kadesh-barnea (Deuteronomy 1:20-21). Each had been fulfilled precisely. Today, we stand on an even greater array of promises—promises of salvation, presence, provision, and eternal hope through Jesus Christ.

Our Anchor In Uncertain Times

We live in days of shifting sands—economic uncertainties, relational fractures, global unrest, and personal anxieties. Yet, like Joshua, we can look back and declare: He has not failed. Consider the promises that anchor us:

· His Presence: "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" (Hebrews 13:5; see also Deuteronomy 31:6).

· His Peace: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid" (John 14:27).

· His Provision: "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19).

· His Power: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness" (Isaiah 41:10).

The apostle Paul, facing his own departure, echoed Joshua's confidence: "I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day" (2 Timothy 1:12).

Living In Light of His Faithfulness

Joshua's testimony calls us to a response:

1. Remember: "I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old" (Psalm 77:11). Keep a personal record of God's faithfulness.

2. Trust: "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). His past faithfulness guarantees future fulfillment.

3. Hope: "Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast" (Hebrews 6:19). Our hope isn't wishful thinking; it's secured by His character.

4. Declare: Like Joshua, bear witness to others. "Let the redeemed of the LORD say so" (Psalm 107:2).

The Ultimate Fulfillment

Joshua saw the fulfillment of the Promised Land—a shadow of the greater rest to come. We await the complete fulfillment of all promises in Christ, when "there should be time no longer" (Revelation 10:6) and every word is consummated. Until then, we walk by faith, holding to the assurance that "all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us" (2 Corinthians 1:20).

Be encouraged today. The same God who brought Israel through the wilderness, who fulfilled every promise to Joshua, who raised Christ from the dead, is your God. His nature has not changed. His word has not expired. His faithfulness is your inheritance. As the psalmist proclaims, "Thy faithfulness is unto all generations" (Psalm 119:90).

Therefore, set your feet upon the Rock. Review His promises. Remember His past faithfulness. And face tomorrow with the unshakable confidence that not one word has failed—and not one word will. He is, forever, THE FAITHFUL GOD.

© December 12, 2025

Pastor Emmanuel Obu

The Apostle of Joy

WHAT REAL FAITH IS

WHAT REAL FAITH IS 

Polycarp’s final words remind us that long obedience is not a burden but a joy-filled testimony. “Eighty and six years have I served Christ, nor has He ever done me any harm…” That sentence alone silences our complaints and recalibrates our perspective.

When trials come, do we view them through the lens of God’s faithfulness? Or do we subtly accuse Him of neglect when life turns dark? Polycarp didn’t flinch. He had spent a lifetime walking with Christ, so when the flames of martyrdom came, he stood firm in the heat of faith, not fear.

His faith wasn’t forged in a single moment of courage but through decades of consistent, quiet trust. His endurance wasn’t found in his strength but in the dependable goodness of his King. We often fear suffering because we forget how trustworthy our Saviour is.

The real test of our theology comes when it costs us something. Will we bless God when our obedience invites pain? Or will we reframe the gospel to serve our comfort?

Enjoy the full quote: 

"Eighty and six years have I served Christ, nor has He ever done me any harm. How, then, could I blaspheme my King who saved Me? I bless Thee for deigning me worthy of this day and this hour that I may be among Thy martyrs and drink the cup of my Lord Jesus Christ." – Polycarp

Reflection Question:

In what current challenge are you tempted to question God's goodness rather than remember His long history of faithfulness? 

THE BROKEN PITCHER

 

THE BROKEN PITCHER

A pitcher stood by the well so dry,  

Its purpose firm, its frame held high.  

It carried water, cool and sweet,  

For weary hands and tired feet.  

But time and toil wore cracks so thin,  

Till one last drop could not stay in.  

A sudden slip—a crash, a sigh—  

Its shattered pieces scattered nigh.  

"Oh, Lord," it mourned, "I'm torn, undone!  

My work is past, my strength is gone."  

But soft the Master's voice replied,  

As gentle hands the fragments pried:  

"Dear child, I know your grief, your pain,  

But brokenness is not the end.  

I take the pieces, small and weak,  

And mold them where My grace will speak."  

For in His hands, the fragments shine,  

Rebuilt with mercy, love divine.  

No crack too deep, no break too wide,  

For He who heals and fills inside.  

So if you feel your strength is spent,  

Your heart is bruised, your joy is rent,  

Remember—God makes all things new,  

His strength is proved in vessels broke through.  

Rise up, dear soul, though torn you be,  

For Christ restores—and you’ll see:  

The cracks but let His light pour through,  

A vessel shaped for glory anew.

The Apostle of Joy 

© August 7th, 2025

THE MYSTERY OF EASTER

THE MYSTERY OF EASTER

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is a profound mystery that has puzzled the powers of darkness for centuries. Unbeknownst to Satan and the forces of hell, their greatest triumph would become their ultimate downfall. In killing Jesus, they unwittingly unleashed the very plan of God's redemption.

God had an ace up His sleeve - the resurrection. Through Jesus' death and resurrection, the power of death and hell would be broken forever. The devil's victory was short-lived, as Jesus' triumph over the grave would shatter the chains of darkness.

On the third day, Jesus rose from the dead, demonstrating His power over sin, death, and the devil. This pivotal event unveiled God's master plan, showcasing His wisdom, love, and sovereignty.

The mystery of Easter reveals God's profound love for humanity. Through Jesus' sacrifice, we have been set free from the bondage of sin and death. This Easter, let us reflect on the depth of God's love and the magnitude of His redemption because the mystery of Easter is a testament to God's ingenuity and love. 

May we continue to marvel at the wonder of His plan and bask in the joy of His redemption.

© Emmanuel Obu

April 19, 2025

Emmanuel Obu is a clergy and a brands and communications strategist based in Lagos. He is the Chief Design Officer at Design Turf Limited - an innovative and ideas agency with a design thinking outlook and MD at Hashtag Creative Media Agency Ltd - a full fledge media agency.

LESSONS FROM A CHANCE MEETING

 *LESSONS FROM A CHANCE MEETING*

The sun's early morning rays cast a warm glow over the bustling Redemption City in Mowe, signaling the start of another day of worship and fellowship at the annual Convention. As I walked through the crowds, I felt invigorated after my morning prayer walk, and I decided to visit my siblings who were also attending the Convention.

After checking in on my sister and dad, I headed to the apartment where my younger brother was staying with a friend. As I arrived at the parking lot, I was surprised to see my former Pastor, Pastor Bankole Onabanjo, sitting in his car with his daughter, Mayowa. The poor phone signal at the Redemption City was making it difficult for him to make a call. We exchanged brief pleasantries, and I promised to catch up with him later.

As I was about to leave, I asked to see Pastor (Mrs.) Onabanjo, and Mayowa offered to take me to their lodge. As we walked, I asked Mayowa about school, assuming she was still an undergraduate. _"How's school?"_ I asked, expecting a routine response. But instead, the entire family burst out laughing, and Mayowa's face lit up with a wry smile.

I was taken aback, feeling embarrassed and wondering if I had said something funny. It was then that they broke the news to me: Mayowa was actually pursuing her PhD in Europe, having already completed her Master's degree. I was stunned, feeling like I had been living under a rock. How could I have been so out of touch with the progress of someone I had known for so long?

As I reflected on this encounter, I realized that it held valuable lessons for me. Firstly, it taught me the importance of not judging people based on my past experiences with them. Mayowa was no longer the young girl I had known years ago; she had grown and evolved, achieving great things. I needed to update my perception of her and recognize her newfound accomplishments.

Secondly, this encounter highlighted the danger of assumptions. I had assumed Mayowa was still that cute, adorable little girl that used to run around the church in her ever-gleeful mood, without bothering to ask or find out more. This assumption had led to my embarrassment and surprise. It was a humbling reminder to always ask questions and seek clarification, rather than relying on assumptions.

Thirdly, this experience reminded me of the importance of staying connected with others and celebrating their successes. I had lost touch with Mayowa's progress, and it took a chance meeting to bring me up to speed. I realized that I needed to make a conscious effort to stay in touch with friends and acquaintances, and to rejoice in their achievements.

Lastly, this encounter reminded me that people grow and evolve over time. The saying that the _"young shall grow"_ is indeed true. As everyday passes, we are all growing and changing in various ways. This realization should inspire us to be more understanding, patient, and supportive of one another.

As I left the Onabanjos' lodge, I felt grateful for the encounter and the lessons it had taught me. It was a reminder that life is full of growth, surprises, and new experiences. As the Apostle of Joy, I am reminded that joy is not just a feeling, but a choice. Let us choose to rejoice in the growth and successes of others, and to stay connected with them along the way.

May we always be willing to learn, adapt, and grow. May we never assume we know someone or something, but instead, always ask questions and seek clarification. And may we always choose to rejoice in the successes of others, even as we celebrate our own.

*© January 28, 2025*

*Pastor Emmanuel Obu*

*The Apostle of Joy*