Volume 4

Written and Authored by Sarah Agha and MMFF group

COPYRIGHT
Copyright © 2019 by Sarah Agha and MMFF

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof

may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever
without the express written permission of the publisher
except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

ISBN: 978-978-979-936-7

Printed in Social Media

First Printing, 2020

Bible quotations are from New King James, Amplified and The Message bible translations, except
otherwise cited.

DEDICATION
This Volume is dedicated to women who take up positive courses that outlive them. Impacting
their world and leaving their footprints for others to see and follow.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The success of a project is truly tied to many factors supplying their parts.

A war is won not only because of it's commanding officer but because subordinates, ammunition
and communication were duly imployed to ensure success.

This volume as the volumes before it is a product of the dedication, commitment and labour of
many.

"My Married Female Friends" forum is an interactive unit on social media where women
share thoughts and dealings in discussions that go on. From these discussions these books were
birth. A number of women serve as anchors for these discussions and ensure the smooth running
of the platform.

I am eternally grateful for the dedication to this call to the women that make up the editorial
board of this platform. Namely, Sisters Cynthia Njeakor, Goodness Nkanta, Teegee Akande,
Uloma Bekolo, Motunrayo Amadu, Lipem Tecky, Fisayo Adeoye Adesina, Augustina Honest-
Dateme, Sarah Bassey, Mabel Ajayi, Temitope Ocholi, Precious Iweha,Taiwo Amole, Ene
Bolanta and Sarah Agha.

These great women labour to bring balance by the Word of God to our many discussions inspite
of their many commitments. The heavens remain open over you all in Jesus name.

To our committee of poets: Sisters Ene Bolanta, Chimromma Francis-Elelegu and Hamdalla
Adelaiye, more inspiration in Jesus name.

Aunt Simidele Ogunnaike and Aunt Kemi Olu-Obashoro, thank specially for making time for us
despite your many challenges. You are a blessing.
Sisters Arit Abolade Abolaji, Hamdalla Adelaiye and Chimromma Francis-Elelegu, thank you
for always responding to the call serve. More Wisdom, more grace , more Anointing.

Our "Book Writing Committee", you are a great team! Your continued labour has brought this to
pass. God enrich and en-grace you more. What you make happen for others, God would make
happen for you.

I appreciate everyone who made a comment, added a dimension and brought light to these great
truths. I say to you, SEED TIME AND HARVEST SHALL NOT CEASE.

Family and friends who stuck with us through this process, we all would share alike. God is a
just God.

To every reader, you make this work worthwhile. God bless you.

Volume 4 starts with Mary the mother of Jesus and ends with The Widow with the two copper
coins.

All praise and Glory is unto God the giver of light!

Sarah Agha

MMFF convener

for the team

INTRODUCTION
David killed Goliath! At the time he did this, there was a reigning king in Isreal called Saul.
Who.lived many more years before David eventually became king. But the four remaining giants
were killed by David's men.

Why?

Jesus spent time with ordinary men and after He left, the testimony from the leaders after the
disciples got filled with the holy spirit and were doing mighty works was 'Acts 4:13

[13]Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned
and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with
Jesus."

Why?

We all have a link with who we associate with. David's men were with a leader who had killed a
giant, they knew killing a giant could be done. Their leader killed one with a sling and stone. By
association the learnt and drank into that grace.

Jesus' disciples were with Him as He worked many miracles, they had even gone out two by two
as trainees and came back with testimonies. Though He had left for heaven, they had already
learnt from Him. They had to obey God rather than men even at the threat of death. Their
leader has done it before. He both worked miracles and laid down His life. They could!

There is a reason why the instruction was given that:Proverbs 22:28

[28]Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.

It is because fathers pass on legecies.

The study of these women is to arm us with stools to win where others have won. And learn to
not hit the same stone they did.

An African proverb said, 'when the person ahead kick hard mistakenly at a stone in the way, the
ones behind have no need to hit that stone again".

This proverb is aptly explained by the scripture in Romans 15:4

[4]For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through
patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

These women won victories by making some choices, as we study them we learn of the inner
workings that informed such decisions. Light comes! Grace is received!

Some made wrong choices. Studying them show us the right way to handle such situations
should they come away.

Life is a school. Keep learning, what you learn and apply codes that grace in those that hear,
read and or associate with you. Nothing just happens.

Make the right choice ALWAYS.

TABLE OF CONTENT

TITLES
1. VIRGIN MARY

2. MAMA ANNA

3. LADY SYCHAR

4. SINFUL LADY

5. FAITH-FILLED WOMAN

6. VENGEFUL HERODIAS

7. CARE-GIVING JOANNA

8. PERSISTENT WOMAN

9. LADY MARTHA

10. QUIET MARY

11. SISTER SALOME

12. POOR WIDOW

Poems by Sis Ene Bolanta and Sis Hamdalla Adelaiye and Sis Chimromma

VIRGIN MARY
Facilitated by Sis Fisayo Adeoye Adesina
POEM

THE SONG OF MARY

“OH, HOW MY SOUL PRAISES THE LORD.

HOW MY SPIRIT REJOICES IN GOD MY SAVIOR!

FOR HE TOOK NOTICE OF HIS LOWLY SERVANT GIRL, AND FROM NOW ON ALL
GENERATIONS WILL CALL ME BLESSED.

FOR THE MIGHTY ONE IS HOLY, AND HE HAS DONE GREAT THINGS FOR ME.

HE SHOWS MERCY FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION TO ALL WHO FEAR HIM.

HIS MIGHTY ARM HAS DONE TREMENDOUS THINGS!

HE HAS SCATTERED THE PROUD AND HAUGHTY ONES.

HE HAS BROUGHT DOWN PRINCES FROM THEIR THRONES AND EXALTED THE
HUMBLE.

HE HAS FILLED THE HUNGRY WITH GOOD THINGS AND SENT THE RICH AWAY WITH
EMPTY HANDS.

HE HAS HELPED HIS SERVANT ISRAEL AND REMEMBERED TO BE MERCIFUL.

FOR HE MADE THIS PROMISE TO OUR ANCESTORS, TO ABRAHAM AND HIS CHILDREN
FOREVER.”

LUKE 1:46 - 55 NLT

MEET HER
We are looking at a young girl- well nurtured, cultured and pure; a lover of God who at that time
of her life was engaged to the most eligible bachelor on the block! She was living every woman’s
dream until the Divine Interruption. I am talking about MARY, THE MOTHER OF JESUS.
Her story is one of the most popular and most controversial one you will find in history; it
appears in almost all the major religious books and there are many versions to the story of this
young girl.

God had a plan of redemption through which He was going to reconcile man back to himself.
After the fall of Adam, God knew the reconciliation would not be legally possible without a
sacrifice for which He gave His son. If Jesus had shown up grown, the process would have been
spooky, so He had to be born as a child but without the participation of a man so that this seed
would not be corrupted/tainted with the same adamic nature from which mankind was to be
redeemed; this is where Mary came into the picture.

With God, we see patterns and pathways in the spirit - using the lowly things of this world to
confound the wise. So here again we see God aimed at an unlikely girl from an obscure village.

From her conversation with the angel, Mary was not shocked at the declaration of the coming of
the Lord (obviously she was a student of the law, she knew about the promise of the Messiah like
many other Jews), she was only shocked at the manner in which He was to come; it was one
unheard of - a virgin being pregnant without the fun act of sex.

Mary displayed faith, she believed regardless, she chose to participate with God even though it
was strange and unpopular.

True, this woman had the honor of an angelic visit. She also had to wait to experience what
intimacy with a man meant until after the birth of her first-born son.

She lived with the information given her at his 8th day declaration, that an arrow would pierce
her heart.

How? When? What type?

What a word to receive about your son.

Then she had to run off at night from the sword and by that act, had a great weight on her heart
of the many lives taken by Herod during the search for her son.

All of Israel's nursing mothers’ and mothers of toddlers lost their babies!

Then, she came back and her son, who is the Son of God, had to be treated like a Son of man.
She had to believe that this growing child who talks, plays and poops like everyone is the
Messiah!

For she did conceive Him without a man. But he seemed so human!

She had to live as normal as possible herself. For she carried a secret not to be shared with
anyone.
She lost him when He was twelve (12) years old; and a search ran on for three days. She hid his
comment in her heart. Thank God, He meekly followed and submitted to their leadership. Then,
when he turned thirty (30), she saw, heard and witnessed her Son live out His calling. At the
young age of thirty-three and half (33½), she witnessed her Son marred beyond recognition.

What agony! What pain!

No mother gets accustomed to the pains of her child. A mother seems to feel it more than the
child, right?! But, the height of pain is to watch your child die!

Mary watched this live!

He spoke to her, her Son called out to her at the point of hid death and made provisions for her
even at His death throes!

Then, she had the joy of hearing about the resurrection. She was there at the ascension.
Afterwards she experienced the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

Mary grew from a young girl to a mother. She was a wife to a carpenter and had other children.
Children both male and female.She heard her other children speak funny to Jesus when He
started His ministry. She went with them once to speak to Him, but he didn't come out to actually
meet with them.

Mary lived life after her visitation by the angel. She had to make daily decisions. At a point,
there was no mention of Joseph again, he may have died. So, she may have become a widow at
some point. At a time when her God-man child was still alive!

What expectations did she have?

From all these, it bears mentioning that beyond that divine experience you have had, you still
have a life to live out; decisions to make. In them all, trust in the Lord with all your heart and
lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your
path.

So far, we have learnt about Sarah leaving everything familiar alongside her husband to go to a
land they did not even know, we've learnt about Rebecca accepting to marry a man she had never
seen before, and now Mary accepting to be pregnant without the knowledge of a man.

Let's conclude today's study by asking this question - what is the strangest thing you've ever done
believing God?

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

MIRACLE JOB!
I've done several strange things in my journey of faith. However, the one that leaped at me as I
read your question is one regarding a job interview, I attended several years ago.

It was a mass recruitment exercise into a bank. I had passed the test and got invited to the first
stage of the interview. The second and final interviews were going to happen the same day, but I
didn't get invited to it. I packed my things and left together with the others who didn't get invited.

On my way home, the Spirit of God chastised me for giving up too easily rather than standing
my ground and fighting for what I had believed for (I had believed God for this particular job).
So, I repented and told the cab guy that was taking me home to turn around and take me back.

When I got back, I just walked up straight to the staff coordinating the interviews and told him I
was here for the final interview. He asked where I was coming from and I said “well, I stepped
out and I'm back”. Up till now as I speak, I don't know how it happened (because they had a list
of persons who were invited), but I was called in for the final interview and I got the job!

God really uses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise. Yielding to God, however
foolish the instruction seems always pays off in the end.

Sis T.

ANOTHER MIRACLE JOB!

After wedding with my heartthrob on May 14, 2005, in Abuja, I knew I was joining him shortly
in Kano.

I spent 5 months extra in Abuja after our wedding before I finally joined him in October. Within
those months, he gave me an information to come to Kano and write a test and apply for a
teaching appointment with the government which I did.

I finally joined him by October. As at then, I was already 3 months pregnant.

On getting to Kano, I asked about the test results. My husband suggested I should check with the
teachers’ management board. I went to the board and was told that the interview was conducted,
names were shortlisted.

I felt disappointed and came back home. By this time, I was already 7 months pregnant.

As I was thinking about the whole thing, I heard a voice telling me, 'go back to the board'. The
following day I told my husband, I'm going back to the board, he said, okay. That was how I
went back to the board and re-presented my case. At that point, I was directed to the recruitment
department. I met one Malam T. who was in charge of recruitment. I told him my story, he then
told me that another interview would be conducted, that I should try and attend. I asked for his
phone number and kept calling to know the fixed date of the interview. The day finally came, I
went for the interview. I answered what I knew to answer. List came out, my name was not there,
and I went back to Mallam T. I never knew this Mallam T. from anywhere else.

The man said I should not worry; I should go home and wait.

I went back home, full of expectation. All I knew in my heart was that I will get the job.

This happened between October and January.

He called me one day towards the end of January and asked if I will be able to teach basic
science, that there was no vacancy for Biology which I applied for. I told him no problem, I will.

Few days later, he called again that I should come for my appointment letter and in the letter, I
was given the Biology that I applied for. Waoh!!! My joy knew no bound.

It was many years later that I knew from him that it was his slot that he gave to me.

O my God! In fact, I didn't know how to thank God enough.

I did that job for more than 10years and resigned on my own terms.

Sis G.

UPLINE TOUCH
Little was said in the scriptures about Mary's parents and her upbringing but one thing that can
be inferred from her story is that she must have been a diligent student of the law being a Jew
and she must have had a vibrant relationship with God.

The background to her story is that under the mosaic law, if a virgin engaged to be married is
found pregnant for anyone else besides her husband to be, the penalty is death by stoning
(Deuteronomy 22:20 -21). This was the risk staring Mary in the face as the Angel Gabriel
declared those words to her.

Mary's decision makes one wonder on what ground this young girl accepted God's will. The
angel didn't promise her anything she just surrendered her life. Indeed, we should walk by faith
and not by sight and those who observe lying vanities forsake the mercies of God. What if she
just focused on peoples’ opinion about her, on the possibility of being stoned? She would have
missed the plan of God for her.
She could have said no but she accepted regardless, God needed a virgin for an assignment and
that was all for Mary, she responded in faith damning the consequences. She must have looked
like a joke explaining to Joseph about her pregnant state and did God come through for her? Yes,
He did; an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream corroborating the information Mary shared with
him about the pregnancy and also instructed him on what to do.

Mary's resolute/reckless trust in God is something to ponder on, she didn't ask for time from the
angel to think it through, no plans, no what ifs, no strategy - her plain response was - "I am the
Lord's servant, may your word to me be fulfilled".

This brings our minds to the story of Esther as well who showed up in the king's court without
being called to plead the cause of her people, if the king had not raised his scepter to her, the
penalty would have been death, yet she damned the consequences and showed up.

Over and over again we see ordinary women take a stance for God and His word, regardless of
the risks and the consequences involved and thereby rewriting history. We really can't go far in
our walk with God until we become RESOLUTE, FIERCE and CONVINCED about what we
stand for.

Rounding up today's study, let’s ponder on the scripture below:

John 14:15 - "if you love | honour |respect Me, you will obey My commandments |will |
instructions.

SIDELINE CONNECTION
JOSEPH

Mary at this point of angelic visitation was engaged to Joseph - an honourable man that also
feared the Lord.

When Joseph discovered his fiancee's mysterious pregnancy, he actually sought out ways of
leaving Mary secretly knowing fully well she will be stoned to death if done publicly - yeah, he
loved her that much. He felt betrayed, how would his Mary do this to him but whilst he was still
planning his exit, an angel visited him in a dream and just as we saw Mary respond in simple
faith, Joseph responded likewise, he accepted the honour of fathering the Lord Jesus Christ with
no hesitation.

What a beautiful picture, a man and his wife to be - so yielded, such willingness and readiness to
do God's will. Little wonder God sought out these pair for his assignment. There's something
about willingness, availability and promptness that gets God all the time. We can see an example
also with Abraham and at some point, God swore by Himself to him.
ELIZABETH

Another connection Mary had was with her relative Elizabeth - a woman who despite her
barrenness served God faithfully alongside her husband. Elizabeth was a huge support system for
Mary.

The kind of people we are attached to actually have huge impacts in our lives, if one does not
have family members like Joseph and Elizabeth, there is need to forge such relationships, get
involved in your local church, join a department, a small group or an online community like
MMFF that will encourage, challenge and inspire you to be all that God wants you to be.

CHILDREN

The most popular of her children is Jesus. The Son of the living God. Son of God and Son of
man; but she had other children, male and female.

Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and the brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon?
And are not his sisters here with us?' And they were offended at Him (Mark 6:3).

Two of his brothers wrote the book of Jude and James.

FAMILY AND FRIENDS

25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of
Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.

There is a mention of a sister, she had family. For Jesus was assumed to be with his cousins on
the trip back from Jerusalem. Mary Magdalene was a friend. A supportive one at this time of
need.

Relationships are very important.

SOME PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

TESTIMONY 1

For a while into our marriage, my husband and I worked for ourselves, it was quite challenging,
we were in debts and sincerely our financial life was so out of shape. A particular Sunday about
5 years ago, someone mentioned in passing that our pastor just moved to his personal house quite
far away. The following Monday, I woke up with a nudging in my heart that we should go help
out our Pastor, I told my husband about it and he was wondering why Monday morning.
Eventually we chose to obey, we called for directions and we went.

On getting there, there were clutter littered everywhere, the family needed help and I kept
wondering why there was no one to help them move. My husband and I worked ourselves out,
came back another time to help out as well. It was during one of our trips there that that my
husband had the leading for us to relocate to that area as well - I was so against it, I felt
instability wasn't what we needed in our lives at that point in time. Eventually we moved and it
was like our career and financial life collapsed but shortly afterwards like few weeks after this
time, my husband got a contract and since then, it's been one breakthrough after the other, we
take on building projects, start other businesses and it's been amazing.

Obeying divine instructions can be subtle, challenging, unlikely and risky like it was with Mary
but one thing I've learnt thus far is that NO ONE CAN REALLY OUTDREAM GOD. His end
results are always bigger, better and more beautiful.

Sis F

TESTIMONY 2

My experience also happened a while back, my husband insisted on taking a decision I felt was
unwise. Despite my arguments, he insisted that morning, we argued, we fought, and he stormed
out of the house in anger that morning.

I was enraged with anger, I felt the man was asking for trouble and I was willing to give it to
him. Whilst at this, I had a nudging to call a close single friend of mind. I told her everything that
happened expecting her to tell me that my husband was wrong. She paused for a while and said
to me to go and break bread on the issue. I felt disappointed at her response, but I went ahead to
break bread, while breaking bread, I broke down crying, I cried for a while and eventually
prayed for him.

My husband came back home in the evening shocked and shaken. While driving, his car brakes
failed and he was headed for a ditch, just before getting to the ditch, a young boy ran across the
road and he knocked him down. It was a big deal, but God saved us, the boy got well, and my
husband was preserved.
In retrospect, the enemy wanted to take undue advantage of our anger, but God in His mercy
spoke to me through my friend.

Sis F.

PUNCHLINE
Mary displayed a level of humility and courage that's stunning. HUMILITY in the sense that
there was ease of submission to the strange request God was making of her and COURAGE in
the sense that she damned the consequences, the risk of death by stoning should she be found
out.

She believed the Word of God but without fear of asking clarifying questions. She was not a
religious young woman. She was truly a believer.

Mary had to come to a place of believing in her own Son as God.

A boy she had bath, fed and carried.

John 3:16 applied to her as well.

No short cut to heaven; not even for her.

She had to believe in her heart and confess with her mouth the Lord Jesus.

She must have forgotten that He felt like a supple child and looked to Him in faith.

That is great humility.

Another thing here that's worthy of emulation is her PROMPT obedience! I know some of us
would have thought it through logically first but one thing is sometimes you don't have that
luxury of time to think things through.

Case in point is the story of the widow of Zarephat - a prophet showed up on her doorstep
demanding her only meal in fact the very last one, thank God she yielded promptly, her
preservation was coded in that only meal.

Mary was a mother that knew the potential of her child. She encouraged her son-Jesus to
walk in his destiny as was the case at the wedding in Canaan. She learnt everything about her son
Jesus, the reason why He had to come and what He needed to do here on earth from the angel.

When events started unfolding, she was never in Jesus' way. She was right there from the cradle
to the cross giving support to her son. It must have been tough on her to see her miracle baby
being crucified, she was present in those horrifying moments, took it all in. She didn't allow her
emotions overtake her, she didn't try to talk Jesus out of the ordeal, she knew what the will of
God is and was committed to the end.

To our children, let's draw on the anointing upon their gifts that God has given them. Let's trust
God for the lives and purposes of our children as we diligently parent them to the end.

She showed;

 Strength of character
 Consistency in her faith
 Value for relationships
 Heart of service
 She was a good mother. Her children shared the same faith. They served their brother.
Jude called himself a bond servant of Jesus Christ.
 She stored up the word (of God) in her heart. We do need that always. Especially words
about our children.
 She let matters go. She understood the language of Jesus and didn't allow offence. Like
at the marriage in Canaan and when she came looking for Jesus.
 Simplicity.
 She didn't show off to the world that she is the chosen vessel. No pride.

Even when the road was difficult, she worshiped. (Luke 1:46-47).

Following him to the cross indicated faithfulness and devotion.

After saying YES to the call, she obediently followed to fulfill purpose to the end.
That applies to us in our call to marriage, family, mission, relationship, church, health, school
etc

 She was sacrificial.

God came at a specific time. In the sixth month. God of seasons. A time when Mary's plan to
be married was in Top Gear. She dropped hers and followed God's plan for her. Where and how
is my place in God's arrangement?

 Mary was favoured.

What heart, attitude and life do I have to be in God's memory?

After the announcement she didn't argue why me but how because in her innocence she knew
Virgins must have sex to get pregnant. But the extraordinary strategist and impossibility
Specialist had His plans. Sometimes they come in ways one may not understand. She was set
even when it wasn't clear to let go and let God. “Be it unto me as you have said”……that’s trust.

Another thing is that the angel spoke to Joseph in a dream when he questioned Mary's condition.
If we align with Jesus and pray over issues in marriage, He can talk to our husbands to see
reasons with us.
THE CALL
This study should be a reflective moment for us. How willingly or promptly do we obey God's
instructions, do we start to think, analyze and go on to obey when the request is making only a
bit of sense? This is what some of us do sometimes and we miss God. This is challenging us to
be BELIEVERS when it doesn’t make logical sense. Amen

PRAYER POINTS

Mary was landed with a project that was unheard of, her words were "Be it unto me according to
your Word".

 Let’s pray for a heart that would submit to the OMNISCIENCE OF GOD! THE ONLY
WISE GOD.
 We should ask questions that indicate that we want to participate with Him FOR THAT
PROJECT, THAT IDEA; ASK How He plans to have us see it to pass.
 Pray for clarity.
 He promises that we would hear a voice say, this is the way, walk thou in it. Listen!
MAMA ANNA
Facilitated by Sis Temitope Ocholi
POEM

Pain.....

Deep anguish

More than words can dare to utter

My husband is gone

Life as I know it is changed forever

Yet in this I sought the Lord

In my pain I drew nearer to him

His heart and will became my purpose for living

In meeting his need I am fulfilled

The honor of beholding the promise

The joy of praying and waiting

My pain drove me to him

But in my scars, I am found and beheld the very Son of God.

By Sis Ene Bolanta

MEET HER
Anna was the daughter of Phanuel, from the family of Asher. Her name means “Favour” or
“Grace”. She was a prophetess and one of the first to bear witness to Jesus. She got married to
the love of her life, but that bliss was short-lived as she lost him after just 7 years of being
married!

Ha! What tragedy! What agony must have ripped her heart. What intensity of pain she must have
felt! It would probably have been bearable if she had a child to hold; it would have been
comforting.

There was no record of her having had a child. She must have experienced delay in childbearing.
Being a Prophetess, she loved God and must have prayed and hoped for a child until this tragedy
struck! Now, her hope of cradling her own child in her bosom was dashed. For her husband, her
beloved had left her, a childless widow!

She was a Prophetess…

To a very large extent, we can only assume/project and/guess based on the available information.

She was a prophetess...when did she step into that role? Into that calling. (God puts the gifts in us
when He was creating us (Jeremiah 1:5) Before her husband died? Or after? Was he an obstacle
in any way?

Well, her husband died, and she was childless. “How could you have allowed this to happen to
me despite my commitment and devotion to you?” she probably asked. Yet, silence…

We may never be able to understand why we have to go through some really painful experiences
or loss (though we love God) on this side of eternity. But one thing is sure; God is ever faithful.

1 Corinthians 10:13 (ISV) says

“No temptation has overtaken you that is unusual for human beings. But God is faithful, and He
will not allow you to be tempted beyond your strength. Instead, along with the temptation He
will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to endure it.”

Some of these mysteries, we can only understand in the sweet by and by.

Question:

Have you ever faced a situation you felt was unfair to you? How did you handle it or pull
through it?

TESTIMONIES

Some personal testimonies shared.

TESTIMONY 1

One of the things that struck me the most about Anna is the way she was able to get over her
pain and loss yet still love and serve God.

It's easy to serve God when all is rosy, but it takes faith to give thanks even when it seems there's
nothing to be grateful for.

I have an experience to share, while I was in school I had an exam officer that was so evil, he
was sleeping with the girls in class and collecting money from the boys, we were 3 girls in my
class and the other two didn't mind. I refused to give in and that's how he was withholding my
results and changing my grades, I tried to get the authorities' attention to it, but nobody was
interested.

Finally, that's how things went on, I felt God could have changed things or exposed the man's
evil or vindicated me at the end but none of those happened.

What did I do? I reminded myself that this God is my Father and He loves me, I reassured myself
that everything will still work out for my good.

After school I went for a bank interview and they were so interested in my result, how they
couldn't reconcile what was on paper with my person, I wasn't even asked the routine questions
and I got that job.

The point I'm trying to make is this: resting in the love of the Father and letting go of all hurts
and pains helps one get through difficult times and come out stronger.

Sis E
TESTIMONY 2

This had to do with a relationship/friendship I have with this individual. I have known this
person for many years now and this person is a God lover and a disciple of Christ but struggles
with unforgiveness and letting things go. Whenever we have issues in the relationship, this
person keeps bringing up the things done in the past that I thought we had dealt with, I mean the
person does so over 80% of the time.

At a point I considered letting go of the relationship but I sensed that because of the purpose of
the relationship of God bringing us together, I was not to leave the relationship, later on too, I
found out the person felt same way. I bent over backwards so many times, made numerous
adjustments, don't misunderstand me, this person also made some adjustments, but it took a long
time. There was an attitude or behavior of this person that I pointed out on different occasions,
but this person kept justifying why the person responded that way. Eventually after over 13years
of relationship the person owned up to that tendency.

So, here was the thing that happened, we had a disagreement one time in the relationship which I
did own up to where I erred but the person kept referring to the past of something that occurred
over 12years ago. Personally, I thought we had moved past that, but I guess not from what the
person said. Anyways, while seeking Holy Spirit on what to do, I heard in my heart to sow a
huge financial seed to this person because one way this my friend appreciates being blessed is
through financial giving....I have come to understand that.

So, in obedience I did so, I sowed this huge financial seed that cost me somewhat, I humbled
myself, apologized again to the person and said this financial seed was being sown to put a stop
to referring to the past whenever issues arose between us. The person was truly amazed and
blessed and we both prayed together.

This was humbling for me because I usually do not have issues owning up and taking
responsibility for my actions but God used this to show me that there are times when we may
have been wronged but humility and love means we go above and beyond to make things right
with others. I am quite relational by God's grace; however, God used this relationship to stretch
me and to also make me to be more accommodating towards others. I tell you, it's only by the
grace of God.

I am sure quite a number of us can relate with what I have just shared.

When we reference the scripture that says love covers a multitude of sins, it is not just a cliche.
One will have to be tried and tested and proven to pass that test over and over again to really say
of a truth, love covers a multitude of sins.

Sis T
UPLINE TOUCH
One of the most intriguing things about this woman was her total devotion to God despite her
loss.

How old was she really at this recorded incidence?

1. she may have lived let's say 12 years till she got married

2. then she lived with her husband for seven years and he died.

3. She had been a widow for 84 years...

Giving us like 103 years (possibly)!!! Verse 36 actually says she was of GREAT AGE...

After her husband died, she gave herself totally to God! She ran into His embrace and soaked
herself in His love. Wow! What a rare response to calamity. The Bible records that she lived in
the temple courts afterwards until she was 100 plus years, praying and sometimes fasting,
waiting on God for the manifestation of the promised Messiah.

So, what was she fasting and praying about? And at that advanced age?!! Obviously, she was
waiting for the coming of Messiah, but what was really the content of her prayers? Why did she
need to pray about it in the first place? Won't God do what He would do? Most especially, what
concerns the salvation of the human race? His original plan that He had been incubating since the
time of Adam?!...

What is the necessity for these kinds of prayers?

The passage gives or reminds one of another perspective about fasting and prayers:

When you fast and pray, YOU ARE SERVING GOD.

Even, if it is for your benefit or not.

Anna threw herself into the service of God.

In spite of her loss, her hurt, her pain, she never got bitter, or angry, or discouraged from serving
God. While it is true that she did not see His promise to her come to pass (where child-bearing
was concerned and her husband’s length of days), she trusted God wholeheartedly, knowing that
He is a faithful God and able to do what He said he would do. She intensified her service in the
kingdom. God found in her, a participant with Him to birth His plan and purpose of redemption
for mankind.

Anna lost her husband early; no mention of when they married, she lost him, her love after 7
years. She never left the temple, God's presence afterwards. She stuck with God.

Isaiah 54:10 –

Though the mountains be shaken, and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not
be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you.

Anna held unto this promise, she didn't allow despair set in, she threw herself into His embrace
and soaked herself in His endless love.

How did this woman come to believe God and His promise so unwaveringly? Is it possible that
she had a personal encounter with God and received this promise personally? Or all she had that
kept her going was the general promise of the Messiah made to the Jews? (as found in Isaiah
9:6,7 among others) I wonder…

She never gave up at any point of her long waiting. And she did wait long! She was unrelenting;
spent possibly over 60 years in the temple praying and waiting before the manifestation came.
Wow... Mama Anna, You rock!

Oh, how one admires Mama Anna’s faith!

It would have been safe to say she had the gift of faith if she had belonged in our dispensation.
But Jesus hadn't even been born at that time!

Back in the day, the temple in which Mama Anna worshiped had four successive courts, each
more exclusive than the one before it.

THE OUTER COURT:

Was known as the court of the Gentiles. This was the only place where non-Jews were allowed.

THE INNER COURT:

Was divided into two sections;

a) The Women Court (where Anna worshiped) and

b) The Court of Israel.

Both Jewish men and women could enter the Women Court, but only Jewish men were allowed
in the Court of Israel.

THE COURT OF THE PRIESTS

This court surrounded the actual temple building and was accessible only to those of the
Levitical priesthood.

Even though Anna had relinquished a normal lifestyle, spent hours of every day in prayer, and
gone without food as a sign of devotion, she was still not allowed access to the actual temple.
Despite being relegated to the outer court for women, she never let that restriction squeeze her
heart or strangle her love for God. The customs of her time may have restricted the physical
location of Mama Anna’s worship, but no earthly regulation could bind her actual worship or
devotion to God.

She lived in the temple perpetually though not 24hours, at least initially because menstruation
would have made her impure to enter the temple and she would have to wait seven days of
purification to end but after menopause, she had unrestricted access.

Wow. What a challenge to us today! What are the restrictions we feel are placed around us today
as women? Don’t let that douse the fire of your love for God and devotion to Him.

Rev. Mrs Funke Ewuosho used to say paraphrased “If you know you have a call of God upon
your life” (we all do anyway), “yet feel restricted because no one has given you the microphone
or pulpit to mount, think again! No one has collected your Bible from you, neither have they shut
your mouth from praying to God or impacting people on a one-on-one basis.” You can start
affecting lives right now from wherever you are and with whatever resource you have at your
disposal, sisters.

Be challenged to emulate our Mama Anna! Let nothing stand in your way of fulfilling purpose!
Amen.

Prayer:

Lord, please help us crucify our flesh and build our character through patience and long-
suffering. Help us to believe and wait long enough to see the manifestation of what you have
promised. May we never run ahead of You in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Question:

•Have you had to wait a long time to receive something the Lord promised? What does it feel
like to wait and hope for years and years?

•Describe Anna’s lifestyle (verse 37). What aspects of it seem attractive or foreign to you?
RESPONSES

Some personal testimonies shared.

TESTIMONY 1

I waited a long time to be married and then a bit to have children.

Both situations had the tendency to cause depression, withdrawal and or ingratitude.

They did rear their head every now and again.

I have experienced varying levels of each, but I learnt how to snap out of it and check what
triggered it. For my kind of person, I don't easily get depressed, withdrawn or ungrateful. There
almost always has to be a trigger.

One major such triggers for me is having fellowship with unwholesome materials. Films or
books.

Those hours devoted to those materials had me putting my heart guard down and before I can say
jack, I am wondering what's so hard about these needs biko.

But, in so much as I keep my heart connection to God, I find, I don't come down with depression,
anger, loneliness, or ingratitude.

Truly the joy of the Lord is one's strength. In that place of God connection, one gets to say
confidently! The Lord is my shepherd, I have everything I need for though it tarries, it shall
surely come. They did for me!

Most times now, I wonder how I went through those times, but those times did happen. 'The ever
present Help' stayed ever present.

Sis S

TESTIMONY 2

I have found that during the waiting period, one can choose to be bitter or better. However, the
choice to be better is by the grace and mercy of God. It's not by power, not by might but by the
Spirit of God.
For me personally, the period I had to wait for our first child helped solidify my faith and trust in
God where my children are concerned. I sincerely do not fear where the future of our children is
concerned. During the time of waiting for our children, God in His mercy helped me meditate
and declare certain scriptures over our children and their future.

My husband and I had to wait for 3years, not by choice but that God will glorify Himself and
now He has blessed us with two boys, as my husband and I just wanted two children.

In my case, I was diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), however, God healed
me of it, and He used medical science to cure the disease. All praise and glory to His name.

From my personal encounter, I had to literally obey every prompting of the Holy Spirit and God
glorified Himself.

Truly it was by God's grace that I was able to accomplish that.

Sis T

TESTIMONY 3

I got married in November 2016 and being a lover of children, I wanted to have them
immediately, I even told my husband that I want to finish birthing before I pursue any career.
Hmmmmm little did I know that God's plans were different, 6 months into our marriage I started
getting depressed cutting off from friends and family that are always asking about pregnancy, so
I decided to start pursuing my fashion career while I waited.

Fast forward to February 2018 we did a fertility evaluation where it was discovered that I was
born with an incurable genetic disorder (endometriosis) that will make conception
difficult/impossible. I cried for weeks telling my husband that God should just take my life if I
can't have children. I thank God for the man He gave me; my husband constantly reminded me
of the promises of God, told me not to rely on a doctor's report; he said "God wants to glorify
Himself through us, we are going to have great testimonies" He constantly reminded until I
came out of that zone, to the point where I learnt to praise God even in my pain.

Since then I stopped crying and decided to believe for myself, we are still waiting but I can't
explain the joy and peace that has so filled my heart and God has truly surprised me in my
fashion business. "If our faith needs an explanation then it cannot sustain us through life" the
story of Anna is a reminder that we should be focused and give no room for distraction.

Sis C
TESTIMONY 3

I was born with an incurable disease, at least by medical standards. Many doctors predicted that I
was going to die before my 25th birthday. But I met the Lord as a teenager and my life turned
around!

I had always been a fighter, never letting anything pull or weigh me down. But after I met the
Lord, I learned that Christ had fought and won for me and that all I now need do is to stand my
ground and enforce the victory that has been won for me!

Oh, how I had to resist the devil over my health! It was a long-drawn battle but guess what? I
won and am still winning!!! Today, I am approaching 40 and still counting.

On my last birthday, while having my praise party, the Holy Spirit reminded me about all that
the doctors had said about me and how they had predicted I won't live long. Yet, I have outlived
some of them. What an irony!

The life of faith is an interesting one because head or tail, WE ALWAYS WIN!!!

Sis T

SIDELINE CONNECTION
The part of Anna's life that seemed strange was that she had no family mentioned. No relative
whatsoever! What a lonely life she must have lived? How did she become so secluded? Surely,
she must have had siblings, cousins (like Mary had Elizabeth), nieces and nephews, in-laws??

Well these weren't mentioned but we have it on record that she was the Daughter of Phanuel.

FATHER: Her father gave her out in marriage as at due.

HUSBAND: She had her husband for seven years. After his death, she who wasn't a Levite
chose the temple.

HER TRIBE: She was from the tribe of Asher. It sure was no small clan. But we have no
record. Though its inferable that at her great age many of her relatives may have long gone.

OTHERS WHO WERE WAITING: For she spoke to them afterwards.

PRIESTS: Surely, there were priests ministering to God in the temple.

In the temple, deep called unto deep.

Other 'waiters' were there as mentioned above. Worthy of note is Simeon.

SIMEON: At about the same period that she was waiting upon the Lord for the manifestation of
the promised Messiah, this man called Simeon was living in Jerusalem and he had also waited a
long time to see the “special one” that would save Israel. The Holy Spirit was with him and had
assured him that he wouldn’t die until he had seen the Messiah that God had promised to send.

Forty days after Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph took him to the temple to dedicate him to God
as the custom was in those days, being the firstborn child. That same day, the Holy Spirit spoke
to Simeon and instructed him to go to the temple so he could receive physically the promise he
had prayed and waited for- the Messiah and Savior of his people, Jesus the Christ.

Simeon went as instructed and when he saw the child Jesus, he took him from Mary and held
him in his hands. He gave thanks to God and prophesied over the child talking about His mission
and how He would die.

While Simeon was speaking to Mary about her son (presumably in the Women’s Court), the
Holy Spirit nudged Anna as well and she came to the place where they were. As soon as she saw
the boy Jesus, she began to give thanks as well and went about speaking to other people (who
were also waiting for this promised Messiah) about him.

Why were only Anna and Simeon mentioned in the Bible, of all the people who were waiting for
the “consolation of Israel”? I believe the reason is that both of them were actively engaging with
God to see this promise come to pass. As a result, when the manifestation came, they were the
first to “handle it".
Why didn't she remarry?

How come she had no place she could call her home after her husband passed?

It’s hard to think living in the temple was that cozy or was it just the life of hardness she chose?
To help her focus on her service to God like the Levitical Priests?

She didn't remarry probably because she felt it would be a distraction for her. She must have
decided she was going to give herself wholly to praying and seeking God's face daily in the
temple and like Paul, she must have felt remarrying was going to slow her down where following
her passion was concerned.

This woman may have discovered her calling even while she was still married to her husband. It
could have been a decision she made not solely as a result of her husband's demise. She followed
her heart, which had her chasing after her passion which was dwelling in God's presence and
seeking His face. Praying for His coming. Could that have been what God "called" her to do? Is
it possible she couldn't have fulfilled the call while her husband was alive? Is this why she did
not remarry? God needed her undivided attention and no distractions?

Another hypothesis is that she could have been scarred by her previous experience of loss and
could not bear the thought of the possibility of going through that again.

There’s also the issue of delay in child-bearing from the previous marriage. What if she believed
she was the problem? She probably thought it unfair to take another man through that experience
of dashed hope again...

But if she could believe God for the fulfillment of His promise of sending the Messiah, why
wouldn't she believe him to settle her in this area as well?

This stirs up a thought and question...

Is it true that some of us do selective believing?

For instance, it was easy for us to believe that Jesus shed His blood for the remission of our sins,
and that if we confess and forsake our sins, He's faithful to forgive and cleanse us. We believe
that when we said the sinner's prayers, we got saved! Yet, we find it hard to believe that Jesus
also shed his blood for our healing. He took the stripes upon His back for our healing! When we
received Him as Lord, sicknesses lost the right to attack our bodies...

All these though are conjectures from her story.

But from what transpired in the temple, we realize that God aligns one with others of the same
direction in life. If you look around you long enough, you will find that God always brings Judah
to her own people.

May we run into His embrace when night comes.

May we soak ourselves in His love.

May we never leave His presence.

May we find grace and strength to worship at our darkest. Amen.

PUNCHLINE
Looking into the life of Mama Anna, several of her traits jumps at one:

Her spiritual sensitivity. The Bible recorded that she received the message from the Holy Spirit
and gave those messages to people in the temple. (verse 36).

Yes, indeed...she had a heart connection with God despite physical limitations.
Anna is a beautiful example of perseverance in patience! It goes to show that she truly loved
God. Tests, temptations, offence all come to show how deeply rooted our love for God is.

Anna may have endured ridicules, jeering, gossip and all sorts from family and friends. In those
days, not being able to conceive was considered a curse from God. She was rooted in her
commitment to God.

People take offense easily when the Pastor preaches a message that shines light on their lives.
They become bitter and leave the church.

Families have been torn to pieces because of bitterness.

Colleagues at work become enemies, friends are separated too because of bitterness. It looks like
God is blessing every other person and leaving you behind. Sorry for personalizing this, just
making direct examples.

Our hearts and attitude at this time will show how much we love God. The bible says;

Hebrew.6.12 –

Don't drag your feet. Be like those who stay the course with committed faith and then get
everything promised to them.

Waiting is not easy, but there is a promise attached to it.

She was a woman of unwavering faith.

To stay praying for 84 years is a long time to stay on a given course whose result one isn't
exactly seeing. But she was undivided in her focus. Unbending in her assurance that the Messiah
will come. Fervent and consistent until He showed up.

Questions:

1) A man of God once said God will do nothing on the earth except with the permission of man.

2) Do you agree? Give reasons with scriptural bases for your answer.

Read Ezekiel 22:29-31

PROFFERED ANSWERS

Q1

We have often heard that statement before... but framed differently....that God would not do
anything on earth unless there is someone "birthing" that purpose here on earth; someone
agreeing to His will on earth... Matthew 6:10 says "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on
earth."

What is the content of such prayers that involve "birthing" God's will on earth:

1. It serves for resisting, standing against the devil and his hosts...(they don't want to see that will
of God come to pass; they are actively against the furtherance of God's kingdom)

2. It serves to prepare we the people, the population concerned for that move/will of God.

Among others

This brings to mind:

Acts 1:4.... Jesus commanded the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the gift of the Holy Spirit...

Acts 1:14...."These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication..."

Acts 2:1...And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one
place"...

So, though, Jesus had promised the Holy Spirit which would certainly be, they were still praying!

THE CALL
Mama Anna's devotion and zeal to set aside every other pleasure of life and focus on service to
God in prayer and fasting to birth His purpose of sending the Messiah is a challenge for us today,
to live for something larger than ourselves.

She spent all those long years praying, not for her personal needs (she had plenty!) but for the
coming of God's kingdom.

Mama Anna, cut a niche for herself in a dispensation that gave little room to women. That is
daring to be!

For one not a Levite, she entered into a calling that was not exactly for her clan. That is breaking
limitations!

She stayed in a place not so convenient as a habitation. That is forsaking it all to follow!
She dared to speak up when she saw a child, how can this normal looking child of humble
parents be the long-awaited Messiah?! That is believing against all odds!

She outlived many to see the Messiah, out-waited many and touched Him in the flesh and out-
lasted her obstacle to speak in His presence! That is faith!

This is the victory that overcomes, even our faith.

The challenge to us as we round up on this study is to stretch ourselves beyond our immediate
needs and concerns. What tugs at your heart in your immediate environment? Perhaps in your
nation? Or even other nations of the world?

Can you take up that burden and find promises in God's Word that addresses those concerns and
choose to be the one to stand in that gap until you see the manifestation of God's promise in that
area?

PRAYER POINTS

Anna chose to wait to see the salvation Israel. She denied herself the pleasure of another
husband.

Let's take stock.

 What are you holding onto that is making you say no?

She separated herself. There is always a separation required of us. To maximally enjoy God.

 Take a minute to ask, what would you have me do Lord?

Anna, spoke with confidence of all that God showed her.

 Pray, that we would speak out when it is time to speak.

We would not be afraid to be His voice.

LADY SYCHAR
FACILITATED BY Sisters Sarah, Hamdalla, Chimromma, Arit and Teegee.

POEM

Its dawn once again

I go through the motions

All the mundane activities

Just something to distract from the gaping hole within me

I went for water

As I've always gone before

There I met him

A condescending Jew I first thought

That I can handle

My defences were all in place

Right words, targeted retorts

But he saw me

I mean the real me

Beyond my walls and facadesHe saw my torn and parched soul

Earnestly in need of saving

In his words I found hope

I received a fresh slate

Such Joy!

Bubbling and overflowing

I can't tame it

Even those who judge and criticize me have to hear this

Hope, light and life in receiving him we are born anew

By Sis Ene Bolanta

A TESTIMONY

I remember clearly the events that happened around the time I got born-again.

Just like that, young pretty Arit, pride of my mum and teachers in school and church had decided
to become wayward. Once the darling, I had suddenly become the black sheep. I could see the
disappointment in their eyes. My mum's heart broke every minute I could tell, she only held on
to the hope that I had not given up on my education. I could hear her every prayer and cry to God
for the salvation of her daughter (we slept together and those prayers had become my torment).
But still I strayed. From the men to alcohol, to cigarettes, to metaphysics....... Every vice was an
adventure I was willing to try out and soon I could hardly be bothered about the unapproving
stares from the adults in my community. Even the judgemental attitude of friends who all
suddenly became weary of me. It all pushed me more into my darkness. I kind of felt good
knowing the more I strayed, the worse they would feel and I couldn't be bothered. Soon I realised
it was best to avoid them all and their sanctimonious attitudes and religious standards. Na dem
know......
When I finally found Jesus, the one person who did not judge what I had become but would
salvage me from all the mess that such a young me had gotten myself trapped in, I couldn't hold
back a second. Overwhelmed with his love and the healing of the guilt I had carried for so long. I
was willing to speak of Jesus to everyone who came my way. I was bursting forth with the
testimony of his redemption. It was the only thing I could talk about. Everyone had to know what
great love I had found. That one person who didn't give me the disapproving look, who didn't
treat me with contempt, who didn't judge me for what I had become. Jesus was my pride, my
redemption and everyone had to know. I had found light and I no longer had to live in shame. A
great love had found me and I was no more a disgrace. There was hope for a bright future. I
finally had a message that was valuable to the world and no one could stop me from telling it.
Amazing Grace!!!

SIS A.

MEET HER

Scriptural reference: John 4 :5 - 42

We have in the course of our study been told how the nation of Israel split into two after
Solomon's death following Rehoboam's (his son's) wrong choice. The 12 tribes split into Israel
(with Samaria as capital) and Judah (with Jerusalem as capital).

Both nations revolted against God but Israel was the first to be overthrown and taken over.

Hosea (from our study of Gomer) prophesied it's fall.

Hosea 11:5

[5] He shall not return into the land of Egypt, but the Assyrian shall be his king, because they
refused to return.
Its fulfilment is detailed in 2 Kings 17:6

[6] In the ninth year of Hoshea the king of Assyria took Samaria, and carried Israel away into
Assyria, and placed them in Halah and in Habor by the river of Gozan, and in the cities of the
Medes.

The king of Assyria actually replaced the inhabitants of Samaria with non-Israelites.

2 Kings 17:24

[24]And the king of Assyria brought men from Babylon, and from Cuthah, and from Ava, and
from Hamath, and from Sepharvaim, and placed them in the cities of Samaria instead of the
children of Israel: and they possessed Samaria, and dwelt in the cities thereof.

These people initially had no regard for the God of Israel, so God showed them His hand and
that caused the king of Assyria to ask that a priest be sent from the captives to teach them
Jehovah's ways.

So, the new Samaritans had the below report:

2 Kings 17:33-34

[33] They feared the LORD, and served their own gods, after the manner of the nations whom
they carried away from thence.

[34] Unto this day they do after the former manners: they fear not the LORD, neither do they
after their statutes, or after their ordinances, or after the law and commandment which the
LORD commanded the children of Jacob, whom he named Israel;

This background is to show us why the Jews were not identifying with Samaritans. They were
non-Jews, but their abode was between two Jewish domains.

Jesus was crossing over from one Jewish domain to the other with Samaria between them when
he had to stop at this well.

John 4:3-4

[3] He left Judea and departed again into Galilee.

[4] And he must needs go through Samaria.

Samaritans had lived in this land for many years already hence they knew the stories of the land.

This woman came to draw water at noon, and a Jewish man spoke to her.
We were not told her name, but we do know that she was a non-Jew.

Jesus came over to a dividing land to find a woman with a need.

Okay, she may not have been aware of her need before this but she did acknowledge that she was
with a man not her husband.

Were the men dying? Was she divorced? Or was she just a loose woman? These could be
inferred.

Though for the purpose of this study, we would stay with the details as given in the Bible.

But:

She was a woman not afraid to air her views.

She was honest enough to acknowledge what was real. She said she had no husband.

She didn't recant what was said of her when it was true.

She knew some history of her land.

She was open to information.

She was quick to receive truth.

she was quick to believe and quick to share with others her encounter with the Lord.

She didn't hoard the good news from others. She shared, she told her whole town about her
encounter.

One would probably have paused to ponder and turn this encounter over and over again in one’s
head to see what you can make of it, before you come around to consider sharing with maybe a
close friend... But the whole town?!

She didn't care what anyone would say about her or her testimony. She probably didn't have
much credibility considering the lifestyle she had led...

Yet that didn't hold her back.

She went all out. Holding nothing back.

We are set to study about a woman meeting up with a strange man at a strange place
ACCIDENTALLY (or was it?).

A man who was not supposed to talk to her but did.

Gender, race and society seemed against her, but love found her.

This woman drew more than water from the well. She encountered life!

Why this is even more epic is because this occurred when salvation was for the Jews.

"a bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully
bring forth justice.'

Isaiah 42:3 NRSV-CI

But by something crying out in her, she broke through and touched AGAPE before the message
'go ye into all the world was declared'!

This woman was so impacted by her encounter with Jesus, she let her entire community know
about it....a massive explosion of salvation of souls it was, through just one woman that truly had
an encounter with Jesus.

The take home and challenge for us is this....we must be relentless in spreading the Gospel at
every given opportunity since we have truly encountered Christ.

The Lord never gives up.

You are invited to look into this woman with the mind to see.

For see we will as she did!

UPLINE CONNECTION

Her story is found in the Gospel of John; John 4:4–26.

John 4:28-30 and John 4:39-42, she was quick to spread the news of her meeting with Jesus, and
through this, many came to believe in Him. Her continued witnessing is said to have brought so
many to the Christian faith.

The woman of Samaria is one who met Jesus at the well and had a divine encounter that turned
her life around completely.

She woke up a sinner that day and went to bed as an evangelist.

She was indeed minding her business, looking for water from the well but in her heart, she
carried the pain of disappointments, broken relationships and trusts. Infact she was in an
undefined relationship with a man who even though was not her husband was sharing her bed.

At the well she met the Master whom she did not know but Who knew her and the deepest and
darkest spots of her life. He offered her the living water, offered her a new and fresh lease on
life. He gave her hope where there was none. She received strength in her inner man.
Amazingly her encounter thrusted her to the fore front as a great evangelist who went and
brought her whole village to Christ.

From the way this woman won her entire village or community for Christ, one can deduce that
her transformation was so contagious because she would have been known in her community as
a loose woman seeing she had 5 husbands previously. One can only just imagine that when she
ran to tell her community, they actually saw the transformation on her vividly or physically....just
like night and day. This must have propelled them to go see this Prophet she talked about. Her
transformation must have been something else, authentic and so visible.

She started in the natural, speaking of earthly things.

Once she understood her state and the One she spoke with she believed, left her bucket and gave
it her all.

Jesus knew the deepest and darkest secrets of her life, but he did not condemn her. He made
room for her to turn over a new leaf, how often do we judge and condemn those who are so way
out in sin?

Our Savior came to save such.

He does not offer judgement but mercy, salvation and hope.

She really needed a change in her life but probably did not see a way out. She must have felt
there was no way God would want someone like her. Ah! the Messiah everyone was expecting
reached out to her of all people; bypassing so many holy and righteous people.... Awesome God.

By the norm, the odds were against her

A Samaritan

A woman

Had five failed marriages

Was co-habiting

In all these she needed to be saved from this cycle of bad decisions, lost hopes and dreams.

I am sure this is not the life she dreamed of... but life happens.

In Christ she found rebirth; a fresh start He is still calling out to us to come to the well of
salvation and drink even today.... It is never too late to lay all bare before Him and receive the
salvation, freedom, hope, comfort and joy He freely gives.
QUESTION

How come when Paul got converted? People, even Jewish Christians doubted his conversion and
sought to kill him? Thank God for using Barnabas to rescue him. Compare Paul's conversion
with this woman of Samaria; how come when she went back to her people to come see this
Prophet, they did not doubt her, but went with her? Could it be because of their individual
processes or just God's sovereign way?

PROFFERED ANSWERS

God's ways are not our ways.

His thoughts are not our thoughts.

Was Jesus' encounter of this woman by chance? Not so.

He needed to go through Samaria. He was weary and sat at the well...... but he didn't drink (even
afterwards his disciples offered him meat, he didn't eat), rather he fed a woman whose life was
experiencing spiritual draught and for whom God had a mission. A woman who was living with
a man who was not her husband. Through her the city of Sychar, a people described as those who
followed after other gods would come to know the Lord.

Specific numbers are not given, those in doubt in Sychar were not highlighted in the story, how
the people fared afterwards is not told. The testimony here is this woman fulfilled her mission to
spread the gospel in the land of Sychar and maybe beyond (who knows). A seed was planted that
day in the hearts of as many that heard her, God will cause the growth and give the increase.

Paul also had a one moment encounter like this woman. And consumed also by zeal, straight way
went on to declare Christ.

And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the
disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that
he is the Son of God.

Acts 9:19 - 20 KJV

Paul had a greater mission. A mission to the Gentile nations. There were things he had to
undergo to prepare him for what lay ahead. Things he had to suffer to equip him better for the
work. His mission was also great.
But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me,
as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;

Galatians 2:7 KJV.

The things he suffered was the reason he could testify such as is written in Romans:

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the
love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

Romans 5:3 - 5 KJV

None of them sinned less, but one having a higher mission than the other had to undergo more
opposition in the field of training to equip him.

The testimony of this woman is written in one chapter of the bible, Paul wrote more than one
epistle..... Manuals which we all read to equip us for ministry today.

Does this mean one was more important than the other? No.

As children of God in missions, great and small, both of them allowing themselves to be
consumed with the zeal of God's truth preached the word relentlessly.

Based on the assignment God has for an individual, there are certain processes that individuals
will have to go through that is or are linked to their assignment. Another person that comes to
mind is Joseph.

So, for us living in the times that we are in, we have to learn to focus on the specific assignment
God has for us. If we do not know what that specific assignment is, we can start from the
general assignment Jesus gave His disciples which is to go into the world and preach the Gospel
making disciples of every nation. Every specific assignment God has for us, stems out of this
actually.
SIDELINE CONNECTIONS

Connection No.1: 5 EX-HUSBANDS AND A BOYFRIEND!!!!!

“16 He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.”

17 “I have no husband,” she replied.

Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband.

18 The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband.
What you have just said is quite true.”.” (John 4:16-17)

Someone earlier asked? What would make a woman have 5 ex-husbands and a current
boyfriend? Death? Divorce? Promiscuity? The Bible doesn’t say. But we can infer that for her to
settle for a boyfriend eventually, implies that she had had enough of the husband issues. She still
needed acceptance, companionship, love, hope, friendship… you name it.

Though her being with a man who wasn’t her husband was a society no-no, she was willing to
take the risk.

Yet, she was not satisfied. She was still empty.

Connection No.2: THE PROPHET (John 4:19)

It was a hot afternoon.

Around noon actually. The woman of Samaria went to the well to get some water. This was a
very odd timing because women usually drew water from the well at evening time as shown in
the following passage:

‘He had the camels kneel down near the well outside the town; it was toward evening, the time
the women go out to draw water.’

Genesis 24:11 NIV

But dear Samarian woman most likely went at this odd hour to avoid having issues with others
like judgmental eyes, gossips, whispers, bad attitude.

She wasn’t expecting to meet any one there….

But then she saw him, a fine Jewish gentleman (my thoughts actually); seated by the well.

She must have thought, ‘phew, Oh! A Jew! I would just quickly fetch my water and leave quickly
before I receive a spite!

You could have just imagined the surprise when Jesus asked her “Will you give me a drink?”
(John4:7)

(JAWS WIDE OPENED!!!!!)

She answered “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?”
(John4:9)

This was too much to comprehend;

• Bad enough, the Samaritans suffered severe rejection from the Jews; to the Jews, the
Samaritans were of impure blood, half-Jews of mixed race with foreigners, they were like ‘dogs’.
Therefore, Jesus asking her for water was beyond her imagination.

• Also, this woman was what I call, ‘a rejected of the rejected’, as in, she was rejected among her
own people as well, because of her life choices.

How worse could her situation have been?

Yet, a pure breed Jew, not just an ordinary one, a Prophet, not just an ordinary one, but the
expected Messiah, didn’t see her as a rejected Samaritan woman who had a boyfriend/lover, but
as someone who qualified for living water so she would never thirst again!

He told her everything, everything she ever did. He knew EVERYTHING ABOUT HER, yet,
HE STILL OFFERED HER LOVE. What a reckless love!!!

It’s only unconditional love that can make a person damn all consequences and do something
beyond what he or she could not do before. She must have felt loved unconditionally.

Connection No.3: HER VILLAGE PEOPLE! (Samaritans of Sychar)

39 Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony,
“He told me everything I ever did.”

40 So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two
days.

41 And because of his words many more became believers.

42 They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have
heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Saviour of the world.” (John4:39-
42)

The woman was a witness!!!!!! Her personal experience with Jesus must have been so
overwhelming liberating! And she testified.

The people from whom she avoided the city well by getting under the scourging hot afternoon
sun to fetch water, became her first congregation, her first converts for Jesus. She obeyed the
Acts 1:8 command “you shall be my witnesses from Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria”.

Her village people believed her story! Little did she know that her people were like her as well,
longing for acceptance, longing for a Saviour. They showed their eagerness for that living water
by asking Jesus to stay 2 more days with them!

He sure did!!!!

What is your testimony?

What is that encounter with Jesus?

Who have you told?

Who has it brought to Christ, the living water?

Are you somehow in her situation? Feeling rejected? Unloved? Unaccepted?

Come to the river of life.

Come all you who hunger and thirst...

QUESTION

Five ex-husbands, one boyfriend; what is the reality of such a woman in today's church? If she
ran into your church congregation one Sunday saying she had an encounter with the Lord and a
message from Him, what would our reaction be?
PUNCHLINE
Text: John 4: 1 - 42

She was a victim of sin and man's judgement.

She had accepted her fate and found a way to live with it. Even if it meant isolating herself from
the decent public and finding comfort in the arms of the very next man. She had made her choice
and she lived with it.

Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

Proverbs 14:34 KJV

She identified light.

This Man at the well wasn't here to make amorous advances. There was something different in
the way He spoke and the content of the conversation He engaged her in. He must be a prophet.

In Him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the
darkness comprehended it not.

John 1:4 - 5 KJV

She had knowledge.

It’s often easy to assume that because someone lives a life society disapproves of, then they lack
knowledge. This woman knew the truth about the Messiah. She might not have lived an excellent
life, but she had knowledge of the truth.

And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

John 8:32 KJV

She had to make a choice.

She had constantly been offered the choice of a man's physical pleasure and satisfaction. Now
she was being offered spiritual satisfaction and redemption. She had to make a choice. Go back
to the boyfriend and continue to live a life of sin and reproach or accept this truth she was being
offered and be free to live in light and peace. She chose light.

And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord , choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether
the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the
Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord .

Joshua 24:15 KJV

She testified.

She didn't wait to process the day's event. She didn't think about the reaction of those who had
constantly judged her lifestyle. She was free. Finally, free from sin and guilt and darkness and
she would testify. Everyone had to know. Everyone else in Sychar needed to have a taste of this
water that would forever satisfy their thirst. She wouldn't be selfish with the truth and keep it to
herself, even from those who had judged her so harshly. Consumed with zeal she ran into the
village and testified.

And his disciples remembered that it was written, the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.

John 2:17 KJV

Probably the highlight of this study for most of us is the success of the woman's testimony in
converting the people in her city. However, the story highlights a lot of things that could have
stopped her from evangelizing the way she did.

What are those things that are a limitation to evangelism in the church and to us as individuals
today?

Even in small groups where the Bible is being studied, it’s difficult for many of us to share our
thoughts or even our testimonies.

Is there anything we are learning from the life of the Samaritan woman today???

This woman did not wait to be schooled on ideals of evangelism as it is today in many
denominations. Many of us are waiting to finish bible school or a discipleship course before we
can share the Word.

The efficacy of our evangelism does not depend on our perfect strategies or patterns but in the
power of God over his Word.

Someone once said: 'People listen more to witnesses than to teachers; when they listen to
teachers, it is because they are witnesses.'
Evangelism and discipleship are still the major missing keys within the Body of Christ today. It
is important that as we win souls and raise disciples for Christ, that we do so with the mind of
raising those disciples to win souls and disciple others for Christ.

May we receive boldness like the early church in Acts to preach the Gospel and raise disciples
for Christ.

THE CALL

The story of the woman of Samaria connotes a call to evangelism. Evangelism and effective
discipleship are major missing keys in the Body of Christ today.

When we read John 4:1- 4, we see Jesus being very strategic. John 4:4 says, it was necessary for
Jesus to go through to Samaria. Nothing takes God unawares and nothing just happens. Jesus
while on earth was quite intentional on how He lived His life here on earth.

How come when He got tired, He chose to go to that well in Sychar, Samaria? It was divinely
orchestrated and Jesus being One Who did all that He did as He was led by Father God, knew
that salvation was coming to the people of Samaria. How intentional are we when it comes to
evangelism and discipleship? Are we strategic in the way we win souls and disciple others? Do
we set realistic goals to witness to others about Jesus and then disciple others?

So, we see from this woman of Samaria that there are some evangelism techniques that we can
glean from her:

She had a personal encounter with Jesus Christ.

To be effective in evangelism and discipleship, we MUST have our own personal encounter(s)
with Christ. We cannot rely on the encounters of others.

She was real, authentic and asked Jesus questions.

She was not religious, having a form of godliness and denying the power thereof. Religion does
not ask questions; it is legalistic and dogmatic and not open-minded. This woman was open-
minded. One of the reasons one can deduce that she was open-minded is that when Jesus said
that “whoever drinks from the water that He gives shall never thirst again, she asked Jesus to
give her that water (John 4:13-15)”. It is important that we enquire of the Lord through the Holy
Spirit on the different strategies and techniques to use in evangelism and discipleship. There is
nothing wrong in attending evangelism and discipleship classes or teachings or even bible
school, so long as we apply those principles taught. Again, religion does not apply the practical
knowledge of God's Word and ways.
She was knowledgeable about the covenant the Jews had through their forefathers (John
14:12).

How knowledgeable are we in regard to God's ways that we are ready to give an answer for the
hope that we have? (1 Peter 3:15). In being a witness for Christ all that is required for starters, is
to have an encounter with Christ based on His Word that no one and nothing can take from you.
Such encounters include but not limited to the revealed (rhema) Word of God.

Encounters also include seeing visions, God revealing Himself and purpose for you through
dreams, angelic visitation, outpouring of the Holy Spirit, Christ appearing Himself to people.
This list is not exhaustive.

This woman was bold and unashamed to tell others about Jesus Christ The Messiah that
she encountered.

She just could not keep silent, she just had to let that Light that she encountered shine through.
Through her own encounter, her town's people also had their own encounters and testified of The
Messiah.

Questions for us to ponder on in our hearts sincerely:

How committed are we in doing our part to be witnesses for Christ and making disciples of every
nation? Matthew 28:18-20.

Do we set strategic goals to win souls for Christ and disciple others with the intention that those
we disciple also disciple others?

How excited or enthusiastic do we get when we hear that someone recently got born again? Do
we rejoice from the depths of our hearts just as much as we will do when God does something
personal for us like healing or financial breakthrough?

We are in the dispensation where God is expecting that we The Body of Christ will take our
rightful place of spiritual authority over the nations of the earth. Do you know that there are
about 5.9 million people globally that have never heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Let the
passion and desire to see people saved break our hearts because this is what breaks God's heart.

Lady Sychar is more than a beautiful story, she is a pattern of how we should love God enough
to let Him give us of the water of life and that love will propel us to go into the world and preach
the gospel.

What happened to Paul's cry of 'the love of God constraints us'.

He laid out his strategy plainly for us all to see.

1 Corinthians 9:16,19-22

[16] For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me;
yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!

[19] For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain
the more.

[20] And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the
law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law;

[21] To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the
law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.

[22] To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men,
that I might by all means save some.

The target was to win some.

God would have no one miss the way, Paul chose to align himself with God's heartbeat.

There's a call out for us all today.

2 Corinthians 5:14

[14] For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then
were all dead:

2 Corinthians 5:15

[15] And that He died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves,
but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

May we continually have eternity imprinted in our hearts and minds so that we will choose to do
our part to win souls and disciple others. God did not save us just for ourselves. He saved us so
that with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can win others to Christ.

PRAYER POINTS

Having encountered grace and forgiveness, let us ask for a fresh desire to see souls saved like
this woman of Samaria.
We catch a fresh hunger for lives to turn to Jesus. We would take up our cross and preach the
cross

She went out into all her world and she preached the gospel,

So, will I

She gave her testimony

So, will I

She acknowledged Jesus openly

So, will I

She was not ashamed of the gospel

Neither will I

She refused to look on doubtful faces.

Neither will I

She went as she was, not coloring

So, will I

She spoke the truth 'come see a man...'! She pointed out only Jesus.

So, will I

God bless us all abundantly.

SINFUL WOMAN

FACILITATED BY SISTERS SARAH, GOODNESS AND AUGUSTINA

POEM

All they saw was my sin

Past, present and the hope of more future sins

Imperfect we all are

But the magnitude of my obvious flaws helped them feel better with theirs

Beyond redemption I was considered

Hopeless

I was written off completely

Then I heard of Him

He who is love personified

His love is pure; patient and kind

It gives hope and pulls me from my filth

No sin or wrong is bigger than His love

He knows everything yet still loves fiercely

By Him I am strengthened

I have hope and can live again

And so, despising all I sought Him out

Though I had to walk through the harshest of stares and heaviest of condemnations

I didn't mind

My eyes were fixed on the One who could restore me

He drowned my sins and deepest fears in the ocean of His love

I am thrilled and amazed I can't stop the tears

He deserves my all, my best and everything I've got

All my life's worth at His feet I lay

My tears, my hair, even the best of fragrances

Still falls short in expressing my love and adoration

To the One who has so generously lavished His love on me.

By Sis Ene Bolanta

Personal testimonies
This reminds me of my own personal salvation experience. I had heard about Jesus growing up
attending an Orthodox congregation but never had a personal relationship with God. Then in
year 2000, after I had finished university and I was serving my oldest sister and her husband in
their home, caring for their infant and taking care of their home, I had a personal encounter with
Jesus. No one was there just me before my Saviour. I just said "Lord, I am tired of fornicating
and I repent of my sins, come into my heart". That day my sins were forgiven...is it not amazing
that year 2000 that I got saved coincides with the phrase we use that over 2000 years ago, Jesus
was crucified for the sin of mankind? My life never remained the same again after that day.

However, after I got saved, I just sensed within me that there was more to God than I had heard
previously, and I prayed that God would connect me to a local church where God's Word was
preached undiluted. God in His mercy did hear and answer me and in 2002 during my NYSC in
Kano, God connected me, and the rest is history. I always like to go back to my foundation
because that is the root of it all....in this case it includes my spiritual foundation, my new birth in
Christ. This has helped me maintain my focus on Christ and has also kept me grounded. My
spiritual foundation is an offshoot of the rest of my walk with God till date.

Sis T.
MEET HER

This story is told in Luke 7:36-50.

Her name was not given, nor her lineage. We assume she is a Jew and is a known woman.

She came upon an occasion where Jesus was sitting at the table with many pious looking people
all around.

Her advance to such a place in itself is daring.

Not a word from her mouth was recorded.

She displayed her thoughts in a vibrant way.

Was this her first encounter with Jesus? Maybe.

On this occasion she displayed passion born of repentance and gratitude.

She cried so profusely that her tears were enough to wash a man's feet.

She was humble enough to go on her knees untie her hair and let her tresses serve as both a wash
rag and a drying towel! She valued this man enough to 'waste' a priceless perfume on His feet.

Was her action premeditated? It's possible.

Was her abandon fake? No way!

We were given a glance into the workings of her heart when Jesus asked Pious Simon a question.
'Who would love more?' One who is forgiven much or one who is forgiven little?

The obvious answer is one who is forgiven much.

Forgiven at a time when all gazes spelt condemnation.

Her label was written in bold letters. In fact, Simon wondered how a man said to be a Prophet
could miss the bold letters. Her sins were ever before those who knew her.

But she came as she was.She sought out a man that she believed would look at her with love and
forgiveness.

How did she know that Jesus would not condemn her?
Luke 7:37 shows that this woman had heard of Jesus previously and knew about Him. One can
only assume that she knew Jesus was not judgmental like those around her, she knew Jesus was
gracious and would receive her just as she was, and she gave Him her best...the alabaster
oil/ointment/perfume.

Had she heard about the woman caught in the very act?

What exactly was her sinful life?

"The woman with the sinful life".... If it were written nowadays by many of us, we would
probably give the details of what those sins entailed. God was/is not interested in the
broadcasting of the sins. As long as the person involved acknowledges them him/herself and
turns to God, the next person has no business in knowing (unless He wants to use the sharing to
help another person overcome his/her own challenges).

God's love is indeed a mystery...

But she came into His presence. She sought Him out. She knew He'd see beyond her looks; He'd
hear beyond her circulating story and understand her heart.

Her heart called out to love.

She was a hungry woman. Looking for forgiveness and acceptance.

She poured out her heart through her tears and her gift.

She put action to her heart by coming, showing, touching and receiving His love.

Love saw her.

Love defended her.

Love identified her and loved her.

Her story wretches the heart.

It shows just how much we don't see behind the heavy face-painting of a call girl.

Truly,

There's no shadow He won't light up

No Mountain He won't climb on

Coming after a lost soul.

There's no wall He won't kick down

No Lie He won't tear down, chasing after the hungry soul.

He meets us from afar off.

She was bold enough to come and He IS LOVE enough to forgive and to save.

Halleluyah!!!

The story of this woman teaches us that in our following God, we must be willing to give up that
which we hold so dearly, our time, our marriages, our spouses and children, our belongings, in
fact our everything. Sometimes, we think we are willing to do so, until we are tested. So, let
each of us examine ourselves today. Have we really forsaken all to follow Jesus?

You know...it's easy when you grow up in a Christian home with a tongue speaking mum and a
bible reading dad, it's easy to become complacent and take salvation lightly.

It's also easy to feel you know God...

Yet the relationship may not be clearly and truly defined...

Even if it is defined... you may not function optimally...

But you find that most of the people who are passionate about God, go all out, no turning back,
they are like Paul, who after the Damascus experience, went "crazy" for God.

So, when we hear testimonies and personal encounter experiences as shared by people who have
blessed us with their life stories... we see in them another Paul the apostle.

Forgiven much... love much...

This gets one thinking. What happens to those who have been Christians... you know.... all the
way?

It is still necessary to have an encounter, An experience....

It doesn't have to be dramatic. It's just a deliberate desire to know God more, continuously... not
to have a global approach to God... but a personal one...

An encounter that makes you really come to appreciate the salvation that you have been given...

It is very important to understand where we stand with God. Growing up in a Christian home,
growing up as a Christian and having a personal encounter.

It's like saying being morally upright and being born again. Two very different things.
In studying the book of Mark, chapter 10 tells the story of the rich man who came to Jesus asking
the way to eternal life.

This man had kept all the commandments from his childhood....... He walked uprightly as the
bible would put it. But Jesus said to him, (in the Matthew 19 version of the story), if thou would
be made 'perfect'! He's story is saddening.

Perfection actually comes through a personal encounter. Salvation is personal. By the grace of
salvation God works in us personally so that we are made perfect and blameless before Him in
love. A person experiences this manifestation of God's love and power when he/she willingly,
consciously and deliberately surrenders to God.

It is only a personal encounter that can bring an absolute submission in worship and service like
the woman in the story we are studying.

God is making that demand of us daily and so many of us are holding on to things we cannot let
go. No matter how much we think we have come to know God there is so much we cannot
surrender. Especially our material possessions.

At some point in this walk with Christ He will demand all, as He did of Abraham and even as He
did of the rich man who came to Him seeking eternal life.

What is that thing that we really cannot let go of? It’s a personal question. What are those
possessions that we cannot forsake? There is always a call to forsake all to follow Jesus.

But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 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,

Philippians 3:7 - 8 KJV

UPLINE TOUCH

"The Woman Who Lived a Sinful Life".

This was the only way she could be addressed.

Could it be that this woman committed so many obvious sins for her to be addressed this way?
Rahab had a specific obvious sin and she was addressed by that particular one “Rahab the
harlot”.

True to how she was addressed, she had no personal relationship with God (Jesus) though she
was a Jew. But from the step of faith she took to meet Jesus at the Pharisee's house, it is obvious
that this woman knew inside of her that something was missing in her life.

There was a void that needed to be filled. There was a hunger that needed to be satisfied.

She must have been tired of her way of life.

She must have heard about Jesus as earlier mentioned.

She must have been planning to go to Jesus and was looking for an opportunity to do so.

Her action brings to mind what the woman with the issue of blood did. That woman despised the
shame of her predicament, she pushed through the crowd, not minding how people will react
about her unpleasant smell. She had a thought in her heart, and she focused on achieving it-
touching the helm of the Master's garment and she got her healing.

This same focus is seen in the sinful woman. She did not care what Simon and all the people in
the house at that time would think of her or whether they would even allow her access to Jesus.
But she went because she had a purpose in her heart, and she succeeded!

The tears that this sinful woman cried was not a show she put up, it was an outflow of a broken
and a contrite heart which the Bible says God will not despise. If it was a show, Jesus would
have known.

As a Jew, she knew the tradition of feet washing for visitors. But how could she as wretched as
she looked physically as Simon described her, dare to ask for water from a rich man to wash
Jesus’ feet?

She caught the revelation that her tears will serve as the water, and her hair as the towel, then she
went an extra mile by breaking the alabaster box and pouring the oil and anointing Jesus' feet.
Wow! She really longed for Jesus' mercy and forgiveness and she got it! Glory to Jesus!

For this sinful woman as she wept, she felt the release and the relief of being free and forgiven, it
didn't matter who was watching or what people thought. Once you catch a revelation or have an
encounter, it’s like a new step up. God's mercy and forgiveness is deep.

She had no connection with God in terms of personal relationship, though a Jew. But she found
Jesus by her faith coupled with action and she got her salvation.
Honestly from the story of this sinful woman, the woman with the issue of blood, blind
Bartimeus, Zaccheus etc, there is no barrier that one cannot break to meet with Jesus and obtain
salvation.

She just came to Jesus just as she was; she drew near to Him and He drew near to her. Thinking
of her story, the word "focus" comes to mind. She was focused on reaching Jesus and doing that
which was in her heart....to wash His feet.

Lessons to learn here;

In our relationship with God or in seeking God, we must keep our spiritual eyes and heart
focused on Him.

Isaiah 26:3, says "He will keep in perfect peace he whose mind is stayed on Him because he
trusts in Him".....we should also look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. While it is
great to be inspired by others that are godly and have godly or spiritual mentors or influences, the
greatest influencer still remains Jesus Christ. No matter how Spirit filled anyone is, the best of
human is still human, and the truth is we do not always walk in the Spirit. This is why our gaze
must be on Jesus Christ alone. We are to honour everyone, but at the end of it all, we must look
to Christ and focus on Him. That is what this woman did, and her sins were forgiven and I am
sure also that those around her had a different perception and perspective of her just because of
her encounter with Jesus.

Another lesson to learn is for us to be like Jesus and be always willing to extend mercy to others
no matter how far they have strayed.

Sometimes, if we are not careful, we tend to be judgmental without even knowing it.

No matter how far we may have strayed or sinned, true repentance that produces godly sorrow is
always the way back to God.

May the Lord help us all to turn every excuse to use.

Take some time to think about the debt Jesus has cancelled for you. Think of specific sins for
which He has forgiven.

How can you best express your gratitude?

QUESTIONS

1. Can you be open in expressing your love for Jesus?

2. How do we show love to those who have lived or still live sinful lives?
Who needs forgiveness more?

PROFFERED ANSWERS.

1. Can you be open in expressing your love for Jesus?

When we look at ourselves before we raise our hands to love and worship Him, then we are not
ready to express love to Him fully yet, something needs to go. We are to come just as we are.

No inhibitions, no additives.

The Bible says in Luke 9:26,

For whoever is ashamed of Me and my words, of him the son of man will be ashamed when he
comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s and of the holy angels.

Psalm 139:7 says

"where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?

He already knows you, come as you are!

2. How do we show love to those who have lived or still live sinful lives?

1 Cor. 13:4--8

Love suffers long and is kind. Does not envy

Love does not parade itself

Is not puffer up

Love does not behave rudely

Does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil

Does not rejoice in iniquity, hut rejoices in the truth

Bears all things, hope all things endures all things...

Eph 4:32 says,

And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ
forgave you.

Eph 5:2

And walk in love as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice
to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.

Being a support system for someone just getting to know Christ and pointing them back to God
goes a very long way, by support system I mean being patient with them, being kind, shielding
them from unnecessary judgment as much as you can ( the way little plants are kept in a nursery
to grow well with all the right nutrients), not trying to control their lives and treat them like our
puppets, yes it is good to encourage young believers to grow but it MUST be done by the leading
of the Holy Spirit.

Being led by the Spirit is truly the best and safest way in being understanding and loving.

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to
the family of believers.

PEOPLE ARE HURTING!!!!

Forget the Praise the Lord!!!!

Forget the Oh Glory to God!!!

A lot of believers are faced with different challenges... and have no one to turn to else they
appear weak…or they appear that they are not truly born again... some want to keep up the
appearance of a 'spiritually high' believer.

We forget that Romans1:2-5 says that it is our challenges that will build us up to become
balanced.

Even as a strong believer, Jesus still said to his disciples;

John 16:33 NLT

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many
trials and sorrows (some translations have many troubles) But take heart, because I have
overcome the world.”

Troubles may not just be emotional or financial. It could be, how do I juggle up morning
chores... preparing kids for school... church activities.... getting early to work.... meeting up work
demands.... etc .. personal prayers...personal goals…personal peace...

Joyce Meyer, when speaking in 'Battlefield of the mind’, made a funny comment "Oh how I
used to hate the proverbs 31 woman! How could anyone be like her?" (paraphrased)

But after so many years... she said she can now read that passage and say oh yeah I've got this
one.... and this one!

It took a balanced and non-judgmental husband of hers to be with her... and God used him to get
her to be what she is now.... just by him being beside her....

Generally speaking, in life...

Those who are strong, what have you become to the weak?

Have you become all things to all men so that you may win some?

Or have you kicked them out with your righteousness?

We should not wait for the pastors, elders or leaders of the congregation to meet needs of others.
If every believer or disciple of Jesus determines in their mind to impact at least one other person
especially those in the household of faith, I tell you our eyes will be opened to those crying on
the inside. Sometimes, we get so absorbed with our own issues.
SIDELINE CONNECTION

This woman was described as a woman who lived a sinful life.

Since she would need to 'do' these sins for others to see or against other. It goes to say, she had
relationships.

THOSE WHO KNEW HER MANY SINS.

She was known and judged by these and hence, condemned. Guilty!

We really need God's help not to be judgmental because due to the sinful nature, we tend to be so
critical and judgmental of others.

Sometimes we use the scripture that says "speaking the truth in love" to excuse judgmental or
critical behavior towards others. The scripture admonishes that when we correct others or speak
the truth, it should be done with tenderness or courtesy. To put it simply, our motives for
speaking the truth or correction should be borne out of agape love for the other person.

Now, those who are mature in their faith can easily be recognized, for they don’t live to please
themselves but have learned to patiently embrace others in their immaturity. Our goal must be to
empower others to do what is right and good for them, and to bring them into spiritual maturity.

Romans 15:1 - 2 TPT

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to
the family of believers.

Paul did this a lot... from Galatians to Ephesians ... to everywhere he went. He reminds us
always that there would always be the weak and the strong among believers... within the
church... and he will always say... strong.... lift up the weak.

Galatians 6:1 - 3, 10 NIV

Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that
person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens,
and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks they are something when they
are not, they deceive themselves.

THOSE SHE SINNED WITH

Hmmmm....were they here at this meeting. Some likely were. She was seeking her own
forgiveness. It was a personal decision, she made it alone.

THOSE SHE SINNED AGAINST

These group may well be represented here as well, some looked with disdain, anger or even
bitterness. She sought the ultimate forgiveness that would enable her live right by God and by
them after her encounter.

Zaccheus is a good example of what a changed life can entail. He returned all he took, he made
moves to give.

She was not going to let their anger stop her now though.

'Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me' was her silent cry.
SIMON

He saw the obvious stamp of her sinful life, he looked on her with condemnation. That was not
strange to her. She came uninvited to his home. That should stir anger in him as well. Such a
filthy woman he thought. But for the sake of those around, he could only see. He couldn't turn
her out or away.

JESUS

He was her target audience, she had her eyes gazed on Him. Her focus was unbroken, unshaken
and undivided. Let all men cast stones at her, to Jesus she was set to go. She knew it would be
her loss if she considered the stares that would follow the murmurings that would come. The
name calling as she passed by, the whistling behind her back. She didn't care. Whatever was left
of that little faith in her said 'just this one more time and I will be free" propelled her forward.
She didn't care if she would be rejected.

It cost her, her essence, remember everyone knew her as the woman in the city who was a sinner.
There was nothing else to hide it was all there anyway, so...

It was a determined walk she took to freedom.

Luke 7:37 says, “when she knew Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee's house, she brought an
alabaster flask of fragrant oil”.

This popular song says

Just as I am without one plea, but that thy Blood was shed for me,

And that thou bidst me come to thee, O lamb of God, I come, I come.

She came, she knelt, she wept, she loved MUCH!

JESUS LOVED HER RIGHT BACK!

By accepting her sacrifice, by allowing her touch, by siding with her.

He spoke peace to her and for her. He did not watch from the sideline as others misunderstood
her intent. He spoke up for her, righting their perception of her; for their own sake.
See how Jesus handled the judgement of Simon.

He didn't even make mention of it, He just gave the guy a new perspective to the matter if he
would take it.

Often times, the outside befuddles one's perspective. Samuel fell prey of that too in his time. He
was so emphatic as to say 'surely, the Lord's...' God quietly called him to order.

Man looks to the outside, but God sees the heart. This man's tendency is as old as time.

Simon needed a new perspective, Jesus patiently offered it.

Our perception of people/words/opinion may be clouded.

It’s OK to listen a little more, ask the Holy spirit what is unsaid.

When Jesus was talking to Simon, she must have held her breath what Jesus will say to her or
what response she will get. There was an aura Jesus had around Him that caused people to come
around him. Naturally, we are drawn towards acceptance. This woman must have been listening
to Jesus from afar... and what she was hearing was different...

When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at His teaching, for He
taught with real authority—quite unlike their teachers of religious law.

Matthew 7:28 - 29 NLT

Jesus was not judgmental... it was a call of acceptance.. .. what she desired most.

So, she must have felt at ease. Otherwise fear would not have allowed her to clean His feet with
her tears.

In Luke 7:47 she heard Jesus say to Simon 'her sins which were many, are forgiven...'

Hallelujah! What a Saviour.

THE ONLOOKERS

Many in the multitude may not have known her, she didn't care. She was going to make a
spectacle of herself no matter the interpretation these people would spin on it. They had their
own issues, she had hers and she was going to end her problem by laying it all down.
PUNCHLINE

JUDGE NOT

Many of us would have responded to this sinful woman just as the Pharisee did.

It is easier to look more with judgement than love at people whose lives have been devastated by
sin.

However, Jesus looked at her and Simon and saw the same thing; their need for forgiveness and
He gave it freely.

Simon's response was not recorded but the woman's response was evident in her tears and kisses.

THERE IS FORGIVENESS FOR ALL

This story is included in scripture just so we can see the forgiveness given to one sinful woman.
It’s included so we can know that no matter how sinful, how broken, how entrenched in error we
might be, forgiveness is available if only we seek it in faith.
Is there any of us who is really strong? Any of us not plagued with challenges? Is there any of us
who has really overcome to the level that we can judge anyone? We have all been confronted by
challenges that should enable us to be empathetic to what others are going through.

The problem of Christians today isn't really about identifying with challenges, but with their
weaknesses (the sins that so easily besets) and that's why we hide under the cover of hypocrisy
that gives us the right to judge others.

Sometimes we want to sound all perfect and put together. No need to put up a front. There is
healing for all.

DON'T LET THE CROWD/PAST EXPERIENCES SHUT YOU UP/OUT

Sometimes people do not want to open up in larger crowds due to fear of rejection when they
share their thoughts and opinions or even sometimes due to shame. Shame is the major one and
the truth is one has to deliver oneself from what others think of them.

Jesus Himself did not care what people said of Him while going on the cross but kept His gaze
focused on God, that's how we should also. However, in keeping His focus on God, He carried
His trusted friends with Him, even though they slept off. Jesus was teaching us that no one can
exist or go on certain journeys of life on their own; you need support from others. However,
those others have to be trusted ones.

There are people who may have opened up in times past to others either individually or in a
group and they got burnt or betrayed and as a result, they shut down and kept to themselves, but
you see, that's another trap of the enemy that one should not fall into.

When you see Peter, he betrayed Jesus but repented and Jesus even sent a word of
encouragement to Peter when Jesus was on the cross. Judas, however, chose not to repent after
betraying Jesus and we see his end.

RECEIVE HELP

God always surrounds people with help and support but then the question is whether we as
people will receive the help, He sends our way. God never intends for us to be destroyed by the
devil and so He sends help in different forms; would we recognize and receive the help He sends
us?

God NEVER leaves anyone desolate....it is not in His nature to do so.... He always provides help
through people, but the question is whether we actually accept the help when presented.
Sometimes people seek for help or counsel and when the counsel is provided, they do not accept
it because it is not what they want to hear,

This woman received help graciously.

She accepted His forgiveness.

THE CALL

"Therefore, I say to you, her sins, which are many are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom
little is forgiven, the same loves little". Luke 7:47

Lift up your heart.

We've been looking at the woman who lived a sinful life. How could it be that she was only
known by her lifestyle and not her name? I guess at some point her lifestyle began to define who
she was. But praise be to God Who she encountered and had a change by the forgiveness she
received.

We all need God in different areas of our lives.

Let's come to him in humble submission.

PRAYER
Praise God for the power of forgiveness in your life.

God is still ready to forgive you, no matter how frequently or how seriously you have sinned.

Confess any self-righteousness that has crept into your life.

Ask God to protect you against pride, to enable you to see your sins and believe in His desire
and power to forgive you.

Jesus. I thank you. I praise your holy Name for your love for me. Despite how good I thought
I was.... I was just nothing but an empty vessel. But you still showed me I was worth it.

I had questions... I still have struggles... yet, You still say to me, you'll get through this one.
Just trust Me.

I keep running.... You keep chasing...

Lord, when others rejected me, You embraced me, what was untouchable in me You touched.

Thank you, Lord.

Thanks for Your grace upon our lives.

Thank you for what You have done this week.

Hebrews 4:15 - 16 NLT

This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for He faced all of the same testing we
do, yet He did not sin. So, let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will
receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.

Thank you, Lord, for the kind of Person you are.

The kind of God You are. Help me know You more.

Let there be a release of grace upon our lives. Grace to overcome. Grace to break loose. Grace
to be free.

Thank you, Lord.!

We will be open enough to receive help when You bring it our way. Whatever is hindering us
from receiving such help let Your mercy say no and speak for us and may we receive Your
grace to receive such help.

Oh God when we pray for help! Give us the grace to know when Your help has come; and the
humility to accept that your help is here!!!! Amen.
 Lord, make me a woman who loves much. A woman who is not afraid to fall at Your feet
bathing them with tears.

Amen.

CARE-GIVING
JOANNA
Facilitated by Sis Omolade Eruotor
POEM

Power, Class and Wealth

were as common as sand in my world

Still I was plagued by sickness

Money stood worthless in finding a cure

Then I met Him

My illness had no choice but to bow

In Him I found joy, peace, contentment and a reason for living

I just couldn't stay away from Him

His words gave me purpose and direction

With my earthly riches I gladly gave for His needs

They don't measure in any way to how transformed I am

Even seeing Him killed and buried

Did nothing to dampen my hope

For as surely as He declared it He arose

Lord in life and Master over death

By Sis Ene Bolanta

MEET HER

Key scriptures: Luke 8:1–3; 24:10

The meaning of her name is- “The Lord gives graciously”. Evidently the gracious giving of God
was a character trait she took on also.

It's important to know that Joanna was a woman of high rank in Herod's court, constantly in the
midst of 'important people' - in that particular context. She was a wealthy woman accustomed to
an atmosphere of worldliness, wealth and power. Living in Herod Antipas’ courts exposes one to
learning how to navigate the powerful currents of intrigue that swirled continuously around his
throne. Remember our last Character Herodias? Joanna was in this very court it's possible Joanna
was aware of all the power play that went on in the palace.

She was married to Cuza, the manager of Herod’s vast estates, she was 'well-connected' in other
words. Both husband and wife in the corridors of power is heavy ties to power.

She was among a group of women who traveled with Jesus and His disciples supporting His
ministry out of her own means, and then present at Jesus' resurrection along with Mary
Magdalene and Mary, the mother of James.

Joanna experienced healing at Jesus' hands and in response gave herself totally to Jesus,
supporting His ministry, and following Him wherever He went; anyone with the disease in that
time was an outcast, unclean, separated from friends, family, and all that was familiar.

We don't know how long this ailment was and possibly if there was little or no hope for a cure,
before Jesus stepped into the scene and cured her of the spiritual or physical malady; most
disease was thought to be caused by spirits or demons, it’s possible even though she was
wealthy, she may have still suffered some ridicule or public embarrassment. She may have been
stigmatized by those close to her and in her community.

She may have searched for cure in various places.

She may have had a tensed marriage.

She may have had friends and acquaintances loyal to her for just her wealth.

All these assumptions may or may not be the case, but one question begs to be answered, what
took hold of this wealthy woman to submit her resources for the work of Christ on earth?

For, a wealthy woman who devoted her substance like this is an interesting individual...
Something must have prompted such action in her life. Thank God her husband did not
apparently interfere.
UPLINE TOUCH

What was Joanna's encounter with Christ and how did she become so sold out that she became
one of the financiers of Christ's ministry on earth?

There isn't a reference as to when and why Joanna decided to follow and support Christ's
ministry, however we can safely deduce that she was delivered of some infirmity whether
physical or spiritual; and decisions that followed are products of spirit, soul and body
healing/transformation.

This deduction is based on the fact that, when one is healed it's most likely that:

Appreciation of some sort follows.

This can be taken a notch higher by that individual following Christ with the crowd wherever
he/she goes to see more miracles.

A further stretch will be listening to His sermons, parables and teachings and allowing them to
change you from the inside out (becoming a disciple).

One can become a witness and give to the furtherance of the Gospel.

Joanna went through all and probably more of these phases in her walk with Christ. She was
involved in Christ's ministry from her first encounter to His Ascension.

Though Joanna would have realized the escalating risks that faith required, however, there is not
the slightest evidence she flinched from them. Unlike Nicodemus, she made no effort to hide her
admiration for Jesus.

Joanna experienced Christ's joys and pains and lived for Him here on earth, she must have made
sacrifices, not just monetary. For, although she was rich, it’s not only material giving that is a
sacrifice. She may have had to let go of certain relationships that were not beneficial or
contributing to the call of God on her life. We were not given details, but we know that there is
always a 'dying to the flesh and all its desires'. For the religious and political intrigues of her
time, she truly aligned herself with the 'unwanted' side.
Her giving of her substance to the perpetrator's cause speaks of an allegiance.

She put her money where her mouth was. That in itself speaks of commitment.

Going by the process outlined, she went from hearing of Jesus to hearing Him for herself, then
being touched/healed by Him and then following Him.

By continually exposing her heart to His word, following His train she must have to grow by the
Word.

1 Peter 2:2

[2] As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby:

Her faith grew, she gave to what she believed.

This could have even jeopardized her work in Herod's court. It’s possible also that she may have
had to let go of some political privileges.

Or she managed to juggle it all together.

Truly, she is an example of a believer in word and deed. Evidently, she exercised strength and
showed capacity to minister in various aspects.

The woman, who followed Jesus all the way. She reminds me of the parable of the man, who
found treasure in a field, he went back sold everything he had just to buy that one field.

Joanna was comfortable, judging from her background, money wasn’t really a problem, but it
couldn’t buy her healing.

She didn’t follow Jesus for what she could get, she also ministered to Him. She did not walk
away after receiving her healing, she stayed till the very end.

From the introduction Joanna could have chosen to remain in her comfortable apartment with
servants waiting on her, serving Jesus at her convenience, but no, she left all that and walked
with Jesus from city to city. Indeed, her wealth could have also been an excuse but rather it
became a catalyst for ministry that changed the whole course of the human race towards a
glorious end.

She didn’t give up. I believe, she was among the women who stood at the foot of the cross and
watched Jesus die, and even went ahead to prepare spices too, to anoint His body after this death.

She was truly a firm believer.

We trust that God would help us make the decisions we need especially in these end times, to
fulfil the purpose for which we have been created and as we do so enjoy wonderful fellowship
with the Holy Spirit whom Christ gave us to guide us in life.

SIDELINE CONNECTION

In the two places Joanna's name was mentioned, she was with a company of friends. I see that
she understood the place of keeping a close circle of those that are like minded. Along with these
women, she provided for Christ and the disciples' needs from their own purse.

Perhaps her gifts made it just a little easier on this Teacher Who had no place to lay His head
(Matthew 8:20). We know that Judas held the purse but there would have been times when what
they needed came from her own purse. I believe if Joanna became proud in her eyes, there may
have been mention of it, however there wasn't. It's definitely for a purpose that her role was
mentioned alongside other Sisters; we all need our own company.

If we can examine ourselves, who are our close friends, and how do we contribute to the
furtherance of God's kingdom personally and corporately?

Another issue is whether or not her faith cost her dearly or little in either her marriage to Cuza or
at Herod's court; this is a matter for speculation. Since nothing of this sort was mentioned, I
choose to believe that God gave her wisdom to navigate and balance her roles.

Notwithstanding, this also points to some realities where families have been affected due to the
woman, wife and mother not finding the right balance.

The Word and the Holy Spirit must become our mainstay, in case we find ourselves or someone
we know heading towards an imbalance.

God designed us, He knows how we are wired, what we can handle and how we can go about
'HIS WORK'. Remember that nurturing our family is part of 'HIS WORK' for us.

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth
not; and it shall be given him. James 1:5 KJV

If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom
is profitable to direct. Ecclesiastes 10:10 KJV

Prov 31...we see qualities of a woman relevant in various aspects of life.

Finding a balance in what we do, even in things we do for God, truly requires wisdom from God
to balance every area of our lives with no part suffering.

Her selfless service and devotion also scream out to me, as much as it’s good to seek things from
God, it’s more blessed to just minister to His needs from all He has given without any ulterior
motive.

May we continually take advantage of the grace made available to us and give our very best to
God always.

Lord we receive grace and wisdom to know how to execute Your assignment for us here on
earth. Amen.
PUNCHLINE

No disease or deformity was beyond Jesus’ healing power.

He removed paralysis (Mark 2:3 – 12).

He stopped bleeding (Mark 5:25 – 29).

Those who were mute, and blind could speak and see (Matthew 9:27 – 33; 20:29 – 34; Mark
8:22 – 26).

Fevers left bodies at His touch (Mark 1:30 – 31).

He restored shriveled limbs (Mark 3:1 – 5; Luke 13:11 – 13).

Those possessed by evil spirits of one sort or another found relief and deliverance at Jesus’
hands. (Matthew 12:22; Mark 1:23 – 26; 9:17 – 29).

That same Jesus still heals today.

Sometimes through the remarkable ability and knowledge of modern medicine and doctors.
Sometimes without any human intervention. Sometimes by allowing the sick one come home to
heaven if he/she so wills.

Always divine, if not miraculous and always with His loving, all-pervasive touch.

Our joy may not come at a certain time 'T’ but I tell you without doubt it will surely come.

He has promised, He said it, He has sworn by His Word which NEVER RETURNS VOID.

Weeping may remain for a night but rejoicing comes in the morning. — Psalms 30:5.

Where morning dawns and evening fades you call forth songs of joy. — Psalms 65:8.

Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our
days. — Psalms 90:14

You who dwell in the dust, wake up and shout for joy. — Isaiah 26:19

Joanna wasn't mentioned in so many verses yet, from herE one can deduce that one's impact
needn't be in so many words but in the quality of impact:

Her gift brought her before kings.

Her diligent followership made room for her.

Her genuineness stood her out.

Gratitude may have been a stimulant, but she grew in her faith by looking unto Jesus. It ’s still
true today.

Her being a prominent figure tells us we actually can hold political office.

Let's not shy away from government.

That is the place to further the cause of this change, birth in us by salvation and growth.

We must rise up not with the Feminist mindset but propelled by the Holy ghost.

Please, if you have any leading to go into government on any level...don't allow present societal
narratives hinder you. Trust God who put that desire in you to bring it to fulfillment.

Until you do what you are designed to do, you will not be fulfilled.Look for like-minded
believers who possibly share similar visions or may also be on the same path. God always leads
us by His Spirit.

Joanna was in politics and was not ashamed to be seen in the company of Jesus, unlike
Nichodemus a ruler of the Jews, visiting Jesus by night.

We also read that she was among those that went to anoint Jesus body and heard from the angel
firsthand that He has risen.

She was one of the women that had been healed of a sickness and disease not disclosed and she
later on became a disciple of Jesus. This shows that unlike so many others that are looking for
the hand of God, she not only saw God's hand through healing, but she also chose to give
something back in appreciation. She chose to serve Jesus and His disciples.

She contributed her quota, allowed her joint supply not minding what people would say or think
of her.

In serving Jesus and His disciples, she gave of her own personal belongings and property to
advance the work of the Kingdom. She was a giver by nature and not just a taker. We know that
scripture says it's more blessed to give than to receive, however, our motive for giving must be
kingdom driven and not out of being cajoled or out of eye service or lip service. Our giving
should be borne out of a revelation and understanding of God's love for us and also our love to
Him.

Just as the saying goes..."we can never out give God". I will add my own personal thought and
opinion here now; Joanna's nature of giving may have been one of the reasons she is mentioned
in scripture. She gave to advance God's kingdom. Jesus went about preaching the gospel along
with His apostles, and she ministered to Jesus and His apostles through her giving. She made a
huge investment in God's kingdom by giving from her personal means. She got to know God for
herself.
THE CALL

Joanna’s own life would have been so altered by Christ that she may have hoped to influence
Herod on his behalf.

"How has our relationship with God propelled us to saving the lost around us, whether of high or
low status (by world standards)?

The healing she received and got from Jesus was so massive for her that, she devoted her life and
time to the support of Jesus' ministry. Joanna's support must have been from the deliverance she
had received and felt an indebtedness to Jesus.

We have received so much from the Lord. Eternal life, Salvation, peace, joy and hope. We are
made righteous not because of what we have done or didn't do, simply because of His love. In
fact, we love because He first loved us even while we were yet sinners.

There is so much He has done that we can never pay for. We owe Him our lives.

He has given us what we don't deserve and has not treated us the way we deserved.

Let that thought birth in us gratitude and indebtedness for such great love.

Joanna was probably among the women present at the crucifixion. Like the others who went to
the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body, she must have fallen on her face in awe of the angels who greeted
her with astonishing news: “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; He
has risen!

The resurrection of Christ has ushered us into a realm of possibilities even in the face of
unprecedented occurrences in our individual lives. As long as Christ overcame death (the devil's
most powerful threat) there is nothing that can stand against us; all we do is take our place in
Christ.

LET'S TAKE OUR PLACE IN CHRIST; THE PLACE OF PURPOSE, STRENGTH,

VICTORY ...

HIS PROMISES ARE TRUE!

HIS LOVE IS BOUNDLESS!!

We ask whoever has any form of health challenge to stand on the Word for total healing.

Jesus came for our freedom from all limitations, that covers health challenges.
Today, we speak to your body and call you healed.

From the top of your head to the soles of your feet YOU ARE HEALED in Jesus name.

Is there any child with any form of health challenge, parents lay hands on that child and
appropriate the finished work.

Mark 16:18b

[18].... they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

Lay hands and speak.

We have encouraged ourselves to be Evangelists here. As you go know that Mark 16:17-18

[17] And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they
shall speak with new tongues;

[18] They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them;
they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

You are God's hands on earth.

Use them.

Around you today. Are those who need your giving, withhold not your hand!
PERSISTENT
WOMAN
Facilitated by Sis Lipem Tecky

POEM

Your love

So deep and unfathomable

Potent enough to change hopeless situations

Way bigger than all the devil's pranks

I sought Your face

My daughter earnestly needs a miracle

But you spoke not a word

My mind was resolute

"Send her away" people said

Still I stayed put

And you said nothing

Yet in your silence your love reached out

Beyond the words you eventually said

I saw all love left unsaid

Raw power, mighty and alive

And great faith was birthed in me

Even just a tiny crumb from you

Is more than enough to make my daughter whole.

Sis Ene Bolanta

MEET HER

The story of this Greek woman, Syrophoenician by nationality is found in Matthew 15: 22-28
and Mark 7: 25-30

The Bible records that she had a daughter who had an unclean spirit. She heard of Jesus and she
besought Jesus to cast out the spirit out of her daughter, but the Master completely ignored her!
The reason ...''she doesn't belong to us...''!

He only came for the lost sheep of Israel, so she didn't deserve His attention, nor does she
deserve to enjoy the blessings of the children of Israel.

Little did the Master know that this woman wasn't ready to take No for an answer even with
''legal'' proof!

She came to get the healing of her daughter and she was not leaving without her request being
granted.

Even when Jesus wanted to show her the reason her request couldn't be granted, her answer
made His jaws to drop!

She said, '' Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their master’s table''.

Even the fact that Jesus qualified her as dog did not stop, frustrate nor intimidate her.

Hmmm!

But let us look at examples that come to mind in present day:

You need money. You are "forced" by pressing circumstances to go and borrow from "friends
and family". Just as she/he was handing you the money, she/he goes something like "I don't
understand how you cannot plan your finances and budgets; everybody will come and borrow
from me as if I have a tree of money in my backyard or am I a bank? If I am careless like you
people, will I be able to get something for you now?" What will you do?

You had to buy something on credit...as soon as she/he thinks you are out of earshot, you heard
the person say despairingly "Oniranu, Onigbese" (creditor in English)...
You go to a man of God to see Him, he tells you to wait...the next thing, one hour becomes two
and two becomes four hours...

There are many scenarios, what will you do?

Just thinking......could it be that she already envisaged that she might meet with opposition or
resistance?...

...And already told herself, NO SHAKING today!

One can't even fathom how she got that VERY SMART answer for Jesus. Jesus just had to give
it to her, the credit....Amazing!

God, give me the right heart, the right attitude, the right disposition, the wisdom to say the
right things, the right words for my situation in Jesus' Name. Amen!

Bringing this home...

Do you easily take No when you desperately need a Yes?

What is our reaction when our faith is being tested?

Do we have patience and believe that God will do it for us?

How many times have we missed our blessings that comes in disguise as insults, troubles and we
lose them due to anger and impatient?

Most times we miss our blessings because we don't see far, beyond what we can feel. Though
Jesus said No, this woman pleaded her case until she got what she wanted. Though she did not
deserve it and was told she had no right to it!

Think about that...

We will never know the internal workings of this woman; her thought processes, her thinking,
her conclusions etc... we can only guess... though we see the result of those thought process in
the way she behaved, implored and believed. It'll be good to know what really went on in her
mind...

The woman had really suffered...seeing the way her daughter suffered...it must have been
agonizing.
KJV: my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.

NIV: my daughter is... suffering terribly.

AMP: my daughter is miserably and distressingly and cruelly possessed by a demon...

What was her heart position in her approach?

She was humble...

She was also humble enough to acknowledge her need, as soon as Jesus came into their 'area'.

There is a trend to notice with all these women who have had encounters with Jesus, there was
no joke or distraction! They were not shy to ask.

She worshipped Him and knelt before Him and prayed to Him...

She was persistent...she kept crying after Jesus and the disciples...AMP version of the Bible
described the cry as "loud, troublesomely urgent"...(to bring it closer home, we know how some
children can be: you said "no" now, the next minute they are back for the same thing!)

She said, "have mercy on me" verse 22; "Lord help me" verse 25.... She fell on the mercy of
God.

She had wisdom because immediately attention (- or +) was given to her, she rushed to Jesus,
kneeled to pray/worship.

She maximized her door of opportunity.

She personalized the matter.

A mother's heart, a mother's cry... go and look up other miracles where fathers came asking for
help...they did not personalize it as their own problem. This is not trying to say they were not as
concerned...it's just that, there is another level or dimension when mothers are concerned.

Examples of fathers

Matthew 17:15 "Lord have mercy on my son..."

Matthew 9:18 "my daughter is even now dead..."

Women are carriers, the way they respond or bring out something is different from men. From
the moment, you carry something inside you, it becomes part of you, it becomes you. Men tend
to be very logical and tend to be very realistic about problems. They call it as it is. Rarely will
you see a man that says another one’s problem is as their own. Rare but, they are there.
Many fathers actually brought forth their children's problems to Jesus. These ones really made
effort in humility, no ego, no man-thing. They needed help and they reached out, they got help.
That's why the Bible tells us that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Whether
man or woman, child or adult.

What comes to mind is that whichever way you present your case to Jesus and your heart is right,
He shows mercy.

He was benevolent to the one who said don't bother to come under my roof. He comforted the
one who was told the child had died. He reached out to the father whose son the disciples prayed
for. He met each where they were so long as their hearts were right.

Her confidence is also striking, she trusted in Jesus' power to heal.

She had heard and likely seen Jesus healing others. She believed!

She was ready to prove her case and she got justice.

Isaiah 41:21

[21] Produce your cause, saith the LORD; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of
Jacob.

Matthew 11:12

[12] And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence,
and the violent take it by force.

This woman was violent in her approach, so she got it.

That is an audacious faith that won't back down. She had had enough.

Why would Jesus say No?!

God sometimes says no:

To expose our intentions

To measure the level of faith

To teach us patience and perseverance

To enable us appreciate more the favour we receive from Him.

Timing.

This is a lesson for every one of us to learn, that if someone tagged 'dog" by our Saviour and
Messiah could get her request granted, how much more we, the covenant children of God?
Christ came to redeem the whole of humanity. As long as she was willing to press and insist
bringing forth her strong reasons based on natural laws; how much more spiritual laws based on
a better covenant.

His great and precious promises purchased by the Blood of the Lamb are "Yes and Amen in
Christ". No wonder God said we should come BOLDLY to the throne of grace that we may
OBTAIN mercy AND FIND grace in every time of need.

Now, we've been qualified and made partakers of the inheritance in Christ. Why then should we
cower in fear like slaves instead of boldly laying claim on that which is rightfully ours in Christ
Jesus!

Matthew 7:7-11

[7] Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto
you:

[8] For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it
shall be opened.

[9] Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?

[10] Or if he asks a fish, will he give him a serpent?

[11] If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall
your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

God is so merciful. We are truly blessed and highly favoured by God in Christ.

UPLINE TOUCH

From her origins, this woman was Syrophoenician, a Gentile nation that did not know God.
Therefore, they were not entitled to the blessings of the children of God.

But this woman found grace!

She heard about Jesus the Saviour and aligned herself to Him; 'Son of David', she called him.
Meaning she had heard enough to know His identity, His origins and what He could do. She
believed what she heard, she believed in Him that's what led her to look for Him and found Him
where He was trying to hide. She connected herself.

Jesus said to her to wait for the children to be filled before the dogs could eat from the remnants.
The Message version says ''He said, "Stand in line and take your turn. The children get fed first.
If there's any left over, the dogs get it.'' Does this mean this woman had to wait until Jesus died
and rose before, she could get her request granted?

This woman plugged in!

Jesus was serious about not attending to her. See what the disciples said in Matthew 15: 23 when
she was bothering them,

23 Would you please take care of her? She's driving us crazy."

His answer:

24 Jesus refused, telling them, "I've got my hands full dealing with the lost sheep of Israel."

Even the disciples wanted him to take care of her, so they can have peace, but He said no.

But through her perseverance, she broke through the limitations.

She plunged in!

Indeed, God is no respecter of persons. Jesus honoured her faith and granted her heart's desire.
Her faith was that strong and it enabled her get access to the crumbs, because even crumbs could
deliver! Wow!

Are we benefiting from our relationship with God from the access we have to the table? If
crumbs could deliver a soul that was vexed with an evil spirit, what of the main food?

Let not get familiar with God or His presence in such a way that we miss our blessings.

SIDELINE CONNECTION

Much is not said about her relationship except the daughter that made her to seek Jesus.

TO HER DAUGHTER
Because of her daughter's need for deliverance, she went out of the norm. She broke protocol!
Cultural diversity or religious inclination or political affiliation held no bounds on her. She may
have known Jesus came only for His own at that time, that didn't deter her. She made a move.

She was a good mother. Surely, she sought for healing elsewhere but in vain until she heard
about Jesus and believed He could heal her.

We may not be able to check in on her many different relationships but her execution of her duty
to her daughter and the price she was willing to pay is a pointer to her personality somewhat.

She didn't wallow in self-pity over her daughter or close her ears to cures. She had her ears out
for solutions.

AS A GENTILE WOMAN IN A JEWISH COMMUNITY

She was a Gentile woman living in a Jewish community, but she was able to listen in to what
was happening around enough to 'hear' about Jesus and then to sought Him out.

She was informed enough to know at what time His path would lead through her domain, she
was on time.

She honoured their treatment of Rabbis enough to be respectful towards Jesus.

Her nationality was not inviting of a more positive response, but she came as she was. No put
off, no leaving it for another day.

TO THE DISCIPLES

His disciples didn't whisper their irritation, but she didn't stop to address them.

She was focused on purpose.

She was able to identify that the busy-body disciples who felt she was bothering them could not
stop her.

'But Jesus gave her no reply, not even a word. Then his disciples urged him to send her away.
“Tell her to go away,” they said. “She is bothering us with all her begging.”

Matthew 15:23 NLT

She would have ignored them, thinking, "a beg make una commot for road ooo, no be una I de
find...."(translated-please shift, I have a target)

Honestly, she pestered Jesus and the disciples into her miracle.

TO THE CROWD

Others were clamoring for Jesus' attention, she didn't assume the group was too much that she
couldn't be heard herself. She was not intimidated by multitudes.

She didn't assume others have more serious needs. The crowd could be noisy, and there may be a
serious press. She pressed in until she could be heard above other voices.

TO HER OWN GENTILE COMMUNITY

She wasn't going to allow the fear of what 'her town's people' would say. She shunned the shame
and went where the answer was.

Talking of 'where the answer was' we know in times of need; we all seek answers. Mothers are
able to go out of their way for the welfare and happiness of their children. As a result of that, the
devil sometimes ''help'' them with ideas that are not godly.

God is able to heal that child, to deliver him/her or to establish him/her. We need not put our
hands in evil. What you compromise to get, you will keep compromising to keep or else you
will lose it which might eventually happen in the long run.

It might not be a child but your husband, your brother, your sister, etc.

Carry the burden to Jesus, because He alone is able to change ANY situation. Let's pay the price
in humbling ourselves in prayer and fasting, to see that giant fall in the life of our loved ones. If
we have faith, God will honour it just like He did with this Gentile woman. He is no respecter of
persons.
PUNCHLINE

What can we draw from the attitude of this woman?

The first thing that catches one's attention is her answer to Jesus. What a smart woman! You
know these kinds of people that always have an answer ready for you at the tip of their tongue?

1 Peter 3:15
[15] But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every
man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

Tenacious faith, focused faith, unwavering faith, faith that moves mountains and barriers (her
nationality was a barrier), the kind of faith Jesus is asking us to have.

Today, I want us to reflect on how we allow and have allowed things, circumstances, situations
to shake our faith, to tells us, "this one won't be possible", "wait on the line till your turn comes",
"you are not qualified for this", "this isn't for people like you", "due to evidence, proof, norms,
legal papers, you can't have, afford, or get this/that"!

How many times have we turned our backs because our request seemed not to be attended to?

If we want it, we can get it if we continue to press on to the final destination. Having our eyes on
Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, not on circumstances.

This woman really represents the heart of a burden bearer...like an intercessor...

If we are actually to face this thing called intercession, we must be willing to take the flak...
What the person we're interceding for is facing, we should be willing to bear it which may
include sickness, extra travel, extra expenses, insults, just name it. So long as you get solution
standing in the gap for the person.

Standing in the gap....

It is so true that for God's Kingdom to come on the earth upon any situation, God must find a
man/woman standing in the gap in the place of prayer, intercession asking for the intervention of
God. His arms are never too short to save.

There is no special qualification to become one. All one needs is to say "Lord, I am available. I
desire to see your Will done in every situation as it is done in heaven. Use me Lord".

Standing in the gap....

You take a position in the Spirit and you don't back off until you see the manifestation. You
focus on the greatness of God's power, what He has done before and what He is able to do. You
don't let the magnitude of the problem to overwhelm you.

God is no respecter of persons.

We all should be willing to pay the right price for any situation to turn around. God is a God of
knowledge by whom actions are weighed.
"Paying the price " if it is so easy, everyone would pay the required price.

Paying the price is not cheap. The results we desire won't fall on us like ripe cherries just because
we wish it. Apart from the price Jesus already paid, what will it cost us to access our victory?

It may cost us:

LENGTH OF TIME OF PRAYING IN TONGUES: to break some things in the spirit.

SLEEPLESS NIGHTS STUDYING AND MEDITATING IN THE WORD: because God's word
is not a talisman. Power can only be released when you have fellowshipped with the Word. Are
we willing to give up our sleep and other things that do not matter (things that are not
important?)

DILIGENTLY PARTAKING OF THE BODY AND OF THE BLOOD OF JESUS: How many
believers are doing this on a regular basis as Jesus instructed? Are we not missing out when we
do not partake of the covenant meal?

WAITING TO RECEIVE INSTRUCTIONS THAT WE SHOULD ACT ON: Can we pay the
price to hear His voice?

FASTING: It has a powerful effect in the spirit. Jesus said some things won't go except by
fasting. Can we deny the flesh, give up our meals and set our hearts/faces to seek the Lord?

These things sound so simple. Yet you discover that a lot of us struggle to keep up with them. It
is not by power nor by might, but by the help of His Spirit. The Holy Spirit is always ready to
help us if we ask Him.

Jesus, the Son of God Almighty (the pattern Son) paid His own price.

He often woke up long before morning to pray and fellowship with the Father.

He fasted, denied His flesh.

He partook of the bread and the cup.

So, we should emulate the example He showed to us.

Jesus said, narrow difficult and uncomfortable is the way that leads to life (victory,
breakthrough, peace, promotion). He added that only a few find it. Applying this scripture to our
day to day living feels scary. It calls for a rising up on the inside.

What price are we willing to pay? It's not too late to begin. God is ever faithful!
THE CALL
From our study on the Syrophoenician Woman, the Lord is calling us to have faith in Him,
prayer and intercede.

She heard about Jesus: Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17.

Never get tired of hearing His word, because every day there's a new revelation, a new unfolding
of His word that brings light and life. The more we hear the more our faith get stronger. The
more we hear the more His power, ability, greatness, might, become a reality to us. Our faith
becomes deeply rooted and unwavering when we hear and continue to hear His word. She heard
enough about Jesus to know He could heal her daughter, though she wasn't ''qualified'' for it.

We are called to be deliberate in our study of the Word and in prayers.

Any worry, any anxiety, any issue is never too big or too small to bring to God.
Do not be anxious for anything, but by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your
requests be made known to God - Philippians 4:6

Standing in the gap....

I'm looking for a man who will stand in the gap - Ezekiel 22:30

Let's bring our families, our businesses, jobs, sick children, rebellious children, cities, Nations to
God and ask for His help. He is able! But He needs someone to stand in the gap, someone who
wants to see that situation change, someone who wants to see His kingdom come.

We can start now!

FAITH-FILLED
WOMAN
Facilitated by Minister Simi Ogunaike and Sis Motunrayo Amadu
INTERACTIVE TESTIMONIES

The woman with the issue of blood!

This Bible story stirs me to pray.

It brings me so much hope as well as so many memories.

The woman with the issue of blood, a name I gladly named myself, it was my reality at the time,
and I couldn't deny it. A reality that seemed impossible to change.

In 2009, four months after my wedding I was diagnosed with multiple uterine fibroid. I guess the
medical term has become so common so many take the symptoms for granted. I considered the
option of surgery when the consultant told my husband and I what I was up against. Especially
the fact that with the size and number of the growths in my uterus, conception might be a
challenge. After the visit to the doctor, I went home to pray and seek God on the matter and the
God said to me clearly "There would be no surgery".
I was excited. That automatically meant that God would heal me. The fibroids would dry up. I
had heard a few testimonies about that happening. It didn't matter what the sizes of my own
fibroids were, God was going to dry them up. So I called my sisters and asked them to join me in
the prayer for healing. God had said no to surgery. He would heal me. After all I am a servant
working in his vineyard I thought.

Fibroid humbled me. It became my reproach. It became my nightmare, my plague. First it was
the back pain. Then my period started to drag from five days to six. Then the heavy flows
started. ALWAYS (super, the blue one) was just a panty liner under layers of cotton wool, tissue
paper and whatever was possible to hold my blood. I would have to change almost every hour.
At some point I was using a size 5 baby diaper. The one week or more of period flow I was
restricted indoors. If I sat down to watch TV for a while, when I stand blood would just be
dripping down my legs. As long as I was under my period I would stain everything, my clothes,
furniture, bedsheets, mattress (I woke up everyday to wash out the blood from the sheets,
underlay and even the soaked mattress. I don't know where all the blood was coming from. I was
always weak. Always tired. Constantly disgusted with myself and my situation. I would stand in
under the shower to bath and a pool of blood would gather under my feet. Sometimes a hot mass
would drop out, blood in big clots like I was having a miscarriage. My tears were as much as my
bleeding. 9years I lived in that torture. My period was in 20days intervals. Sometimes it went on
for about 8days or more.

After the delivery of my first son which was a caesarean section, the consultant told me I would
have blood flow for a few days, and it would stop. Mine was almost 3months. I was using pieces
of ankara to hold my blood. I would stand to do chores in my kitchen, and I would black out. The
doctors recommended blood transfusion after the surgery, I insisted I would only take blood
from my husband who was the only family member around.

He was only allowed to donate a pint of blood. Afterwards my sisters thought it would be better
to go home to Warri and stay with my family so I could rest. So, I went with my baby. While in
Warri I had my packed cell volume checked in a hospital that had an automated machine, my
PCV was 16%. The entire hospital was stunned. Doctors couldn't believe a nursing mother with
that PCV was not in coma, I walked into the hospital that day and walked out. I was a walking
miracle but yet God would not take the fibroids away.

I don't know how my husband coped with the shame of the many times my clothes would be
drenched in my own blood in public. There was no better test for love.

I cried and prayed!!! I couldn't fast. For nine years as a missionary I never fasted past 12noon.
Even that was a challenge. I constantly had to take in water and food to enable me energy to
work.
The story of the woman with the issue of blood gave me hope. I would read, and pray and cry
reminding the Lord what he had done for the woman. If only I could touch the helm of his
garment, I thought. Sometimes I felt all of this was punishment for my sins, the devil would
torture me with thoughts that God never really did forget and I had to pay for my sins somehow.
But I was only alive thanks to the mercy of God.

In the midst of all of this I conceived my second son, eight years after the first. I remember my
first meeting with my consultant. I told him I was opting for a caesarean hysterectomy. My
doctor told me it was impossible. Not with my case. I would bleed to death. Because this was
my second cesarean delivery. But even as the pregnancy was approaching full term, I insisted.
My consultant (a former medical director of the federal medical center) called other consultants
to speak with me. I spoke with friends who were doctors, one of them said to me it was suicidal.
I told her God would perfect his work. My two sons would be born in the midst of fibroid
(growths that even my doctor had said some of them had formed calcium coatings around
themselves and become cysts. If you hit them in my tummy then they felt like rocks). God had
kept my sons. They grew full term in my anemic condition even when doctors said it was
impossible. So I was certain a caesarean hysterectomy wasn't impossible. This was the end of the
journey for me and fibroid and bleeding.

I remember when the papers were brought to me for signing before surgery, the nurse looked at
me like I wasn't alright. How could I be? 9years of blood flow like I had had and you would be
walking in the realm of the impossible.

This God does impossible things. I remember the first words my consultant said to me as I
slowly regained consciousness after surgery "all was removed and your baby is well". All, oh my
all........ The doctors monitored me meticulously for 72hours. They were afraid I was going to
bleed. Not a drop. After delivery I only had to use the pad for about 3days and there was little or
no bleeding.

I did not get an instant miracle to my situation as I had thought I would. But often when I tell my
story of 9years with fibroid, it sounds like a fairy tale.

I can't remember even getting healed of anemia, a 16% PCV. I was on Astymin and Astyfer for
about two weeks (I got tired of taking them). I was never admitted in hospital, never transfused. I
don't know how God did it. But he did. Now I know that every time I prayed; I did touch the
helm of His garment.

There is no cut out process for miracles with God. That's why I know no one can teach me to
have faith. The word of God like this story we are studying stirs up a confidence in you that
makes you certain without doubt.
Many times, it’s easy to write and say this is how it should be done, the reality is a different
matter. I remember many times in the midst of my ordeal I accused God of being mean and not
bothered about my situation. How could he watch me suffer such reproach, such shame, such
pain. It felt worse because as a missionary I felt I was entitled to some benefits from God. There
were too many days I was too depressed to utter a word of prayer. I was confined to my home,
sitting on the floor so I won't stain my sofa or bed. But my light affliction, which is but for a
moment, worked for me a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

2 Corinthians 4:17

Even now as I write, with tears running down my ears as I remember, my own testimony and yet
again this story of the woman with the issue of blood reminds me that God is more than able to
settle my present challenge if I only just believe.

He knows,

He understands, He is able.

Virtue still daily flows from his throne of mercy. If we can focus on Him and trust Him and hold
on to the testimonies from His Word which we read.

Sis A.

I'd never known a mild menses. I started menstruation by age 13 going on 14.

I was the odd one out. Those were the days of tissue paper, I finished rolls of it. My number of
days were longer. I seem to be the only one with stains every month, I cut classes to sit by the
toilet to avoid taking permission to go to the toilet. I don't travel at those times. I started using
pads way before all my classmates. I felt odd, I wondered what I was doing wrong.

Thank God, in His mercy, I never had pains of any sort. Sometimes, I felt, I would rather trade
the pain for the flow. Thank God, for not answering that desire. Not as if I knew what the pain
was. But that would stain the bed, the chair and disgrace me in public.

So, this woman went through this continuously literally. It affects your self-esteem, it affects
your persona, it affects your reputation.

Many thought I was clumsy, that was why I was stained so often. Many taught me different
methods to use the sanitary towels. As the years progressed so did the flow. They went
progressively heavier until I couldn't go to work on menses days. I didn't travel around those
times if I could avoid it; and if I must, I'd cover the chair and possibly inform the driver quietly
at the onset of the journey that may need many stops. My menses was never private. I would
stand at the back of the church during service, only sitting briefly, if I just changed pad. I'd be
wearing a fresh pad and in no time have blood dripping down my legs IN PUBLIC!
I knew shame and embarrassment. I had to schedule events I had control over to no-period times.
Like my wedding. Without fail, my menses must flow every month. The clammy feeling, the
discomfort, the smell of blood and the self-conscious feeling that others are aware of all these.

I can understand this woman well. Eventually, I found I had fibroids. Which I told my hubby
before our marriage. I longed to be pregnant just so I could rest for 9 months and possibly more.

Before I had the fibroids removed, my PVC which I knew nothing about was 10%. I was taken
to the hospital for heavy blood flow. It was a wonder! I was just dancing in church that same
day, rejoicing that I was turning 40 that year. It was a Sunday; just before the heavy flow.
Removing it didn't reduce the flow but mercifully I was pregnant after 6months and had another
long time to rest form menses.

But my gist is, what this woman went through was pure torture. Add seclusion to the equation, it
was a crippling situation. Years and years of it!

She could have been bitter. She rose above it.

Resentful, she dusted herself of that.

Envious, Sse couldn't afford to stay there.

She chose to live, forgive and clean up.

She did more than what was physically obvious. It flowed from inside out. She never gave up.
The lure to despair is very close. I've been there. You are tired of it all. It was frustrating to tie
your life around a few days of peace. One can get so irritable, you may acquire a label because
you were caught on one of your worse days.

Thank God for her. She had a fighting spirit. A never-give up stance.

Not the blood, the stench, the stain or the crowd deterred her from reaching for help.

Sis S.

I can totally relate with our sister on having heavy menses and soiling one's clothes. I had that
too but thank God for Mirena IUD birth control that I am using currently and that has drastically
reduced my menses. My menses is not usually monthly, it is quite irregular and when it comes,
it is heavy. It was when I got married and we were planning for children that I was diagnosed of
PCOS (poly cystic ovarian syndrome), which I was cured of by God's mercy. I have shared my
story before on this.

I remember about 12years ago on this particular day that I was to go on a street evangelism with
a group of others I normally went out with weekly; I was the only female in the midst of 4-5
males. My menses had started, and my flow is usually heavy and can last 7-14 days. Usually
when I am on my menses, I usually feel so uncomfortable and very self-conscious. I almost did
not want to go out for evangelism that day due to this, but I pressed through and refused to allow
my natural state to stop me from advancing God's kingdom. I just asked the Lord for help to keep
my mind from focusing on my menses while being out on the field and He did help me.

Anyways, we went out that day and God moved greatly with signs and wonders following. I had
to change myself in between all of these, there were times as I was speaking to others about
Christ that this self-consciousness will rise up but by God's grace and mercy, He helped me keep
my focus on preaching Christ to others. The self-consciousness tried to get in the way but God
helped me. Guess what?? It was after the whole event on my way home, that my clothes got
stained because I sat in a car....before now I was standing throughout. Truth is, I heard within me
to take the bus because if I was in the bus, I could have stood, but I went in a car.

So, me staining my clothes at the end of this event was as a result of me not obeying the
prompting I received in my heart, which I repented of at that time. Truth is shame was about to
grip me and then the enemy was telling me if you had stayed home, this would not have
happened. But God in His mercy that would not allow me to go down in condemnation reminded
me that He actually spoke to my heart to take the bus but I didn't and that was when I repented of
disobedience. Thank God for His mercies because that is how the enemy would have stolen the
joy of the signs and wonders that happened that day.

So, the part of pressing through and being determined just like this woman, I can relate with. I
could have allowed my physical condition become a hindrance in furthering God's Kingdom and
touching lives on that very day, but the mercy of God said NO.

Glory hallelujah!

Sis T.
POEM

I spared no expense

A cure to this issue I resolved to find

Time and time again I tried

My hopes were dashed again and again

Yet I pressed

My all is gone

There's nothing more to seek the cure

Pain and shame are my constant companions

I've become an object of jest, of pity and even disgust

Thoughts of defeat and helplessness plague me

Yet I press further

One I met who is like no other

Love, compassion and power I see in his eyes

He's such a one I could damn all consequences to meet

In his presence ability embraces willingness

He's so powerful even the thread on his hem carries his essence

One touch I thought

That's more than enough

And oh yes! It was

The issue of twelve years was dealt a final blow

He's mighty, He's powerful and He loves me

BY SIS ENE BOLANTA

MEET HER

Her story is found in Mark 5:25-34

Her name, age, marital status and if she had children were not mentioned....it means it is
applicable to anyone... whatever your age, race or socio-bio-demographic data...just following
the principles of God's Word and the result will be the same.

Her problem was used to describe her! She had an ISSUE (We all have one issue or the other).

She was not the only one whose problem over took her real identity.

Remember blind Bathemeaus,

Note that, "issue" here may have a double meaning, an issue of blood...a problem with blood
flow.

The problem had been for long - 12 years!

What could this problem have been? Fibroid? Polyp? A clotting disorder (hematological
palavers)? Dysfunctional uterine bleeding? The list can go on...

She had suffered as a result of various "treatments" from those who could have helped her
(especially in those days with no way of properly investigating/evaluating what is the underlying
cause) even if the cause was known, somethings just defy scientific discoveries.

She had no money, no savings left; because of this issue/problem: it had drained her dry. She
could not even go to any other doctors/physician, if they told her there was a superb physician
somewhere who had helped so-so person; she wouldn't have the means....she needed help
seriously.

Despite all her efforts above, her condition grew worse; it was ongoing. It didn't reduce neither
did it remain the same, it increased!!

BUT something happened! SHE HEARD OF JESUS!!

Before this encounter with Jesus, she was defined by her issue.

It is people that give us these definitions. Can we define ourselves too? Can we stop or prevent
such definitions?

It is so true that people do define us, or sometimes we allow others define us, and we also define
ourselves.

We have to come to a point whereby as new testament disciples of Jesus, we define ourselves
based on who God says we are and who the Word of God says we are. This can only be received
out of a revelation of God's Word.

See the example of Jesus again; He first asked His disciples, who do others say I am? The
disciples said some say You are Elijah, Moses etc and then Jesus asked, who do you (My
disciples) say I am? Then Peter responded, "You are The Christ (Messiah), Son of the Living
God". What was Jesus' response? Jesus responded by saying "flesh and blood did not reveal this
to you but My Father in heaven". Jesus went ahead to say, "upon this rock I shall build My
Church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it". When Jesus said upon this rock, I will
build my Church, Jesus was not saying upon Simon Peter He will build His Church. Jesus was
saying upon that revelation that Peter had which was from Father God, Jesus was going to build
His Church.

So, the Church (which we all know is not just the physical building) because as a born again
believer and disciple of Jesus,( you and I are the Church), is being built by Christ Himself. Check
out Philippians 2:13 and 2 Corinthians 3:18....this buttresses the aspect of revelation of what
God's Word says we are or are becoming.

We must not allow situations and people to define us, but rather the word of God. We have to
consciously take our definition from the Word. Confess who He says we are and reject every
other word that is contrary to His word in our lives, homes, children, husband, workplace, nation
you name it. His word transcends any boundary at all levels. He honors His word even above
His name.

We have a choice.

When people define us,

We have a choice to identify with it or say to them, "That's not me!"

But when we define ourselves, negatively (as a man thinks in his heart, so he is), that is the most
destructive of definitions. Because you become a slave to that negative definition. They become
strongholds.

What's the way out??

Sing and believe...

I am no longer a slave to fear...

I am a child of God.

They need a scraping out and a replacement with a big placard of what God says. That too has to
become a strong hold in one’s heart. So, we will no longer be defined by problems, negativity or
our sinful nature.

2 Cor 5: 17 If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature behold all things have become new.

Problems, negative pasts, pain, unforgiveness should not define us, His salvation, grace, healing,
mercy, love and joy should define us.

For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to
work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill
your purpose] for His good pleasure.

PHILIPPIANS 2:13 AMP

And we all, with unveiled face, continually seeing as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are
progressively being transformed into His image from [one degree of] glory to [even more]
glory, which comes from the Lord, [who is] the Spirit.

2 CORINTHIANS 3:18 AMP

It's interesting how what matters most to humans is what other humans say or brand us to be
despite they know so little of who and how we have been designed; and GOD the creator of
every being, Who is the fullness of all has said we are His own and chosen for a special purpose.
Yet, this means so little or is not so much believed by us.

Our natural tendencies or personalities can affect how we allow others define us or how we
define ourselves. We can actually turn this around based on God's Word.
Now, studies have shown that there are predominantly 4 personality types, whether they are
grouped under colour (red, green, blue, yellow) or Type A, Type B, Type C, or Type D or
whether grouped as D, I, S, C personalities or sanguine, melancholy, choleric or phlegmatic
personalities. I will not go into details of these types as we can all do some research on them
ourselves if we are not familiar with them. We all are born with natural tendencies and through
these natural tendencies or personalities types, we view ourselves or judge ourselves and we are
also viewed and judged by others through these tendencies.

However, as new testament disciples of Jesus Christ, the ultimate goal is for us to be Spirit
controlled. How can we do so? Romans 12:1-2 gives us the answer.

So, regardless of your natural tendencies, personality type or temperament, one has to strive to be
Spirit controlled. This woman did not let the label of society or her natural predicament stop her
from accessing the healing power of Jesus.

How many times have you found yourself being nudged by the Spirit of God to do something
and then you tell yourself, who am I to do such a thing? Sometimes we even hide under the guise
of "being humble or humility" What is humility? Humility is simply taking one's place under
God's order of things wherever you find yourself. Philippians 2:1-11 is a scriptural basis for this.

Now, there are some personality types that are naturally expressive, not lacking choice words to
say, or those we might say like to talk (like Peter) ; there are others that can be critical in giving
feedback, that sometimes seems judgmental; there are other natural personality types or natural
tendency that seems to be peaceful that it seems they can be taken advantage of or "pushovers"
or not wanting to address issues; there's the other natural tendencies that seems confident or
appears domineering. However, all of these are tendencies that we were born with and these can
actually be flipped around to advance God's kingdom.

The bottom-line is being moderate in all things like scripture says, which is to be Spirit
controlled.

For instance, for those that like to talk, Proverbs 10:19(in a multitude of words, sin is not
lacking) you can pray "Lord, help me to know what to say, how to say it and when to say it".
Choose to use this talking ability to preach Christ and advance His Kingdom.

For those that have the tendency to give critical feedback that sometimes seem judgmental,
Colossians 4:6 can be one of your guiding principles....let your speech always be gracious....

For those that always want to keep the peace and not address issues when they arise, scriptures
like speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) or perfect love cast out fear (1 John 4:18) are
good guiding principles.
For those that appear confident and may be domineering (though we have been given dominion
over the earth), scriptures such as pride goeth before destruction (Proverbs 16:18) or humble
yourself under the mighty hand of God (James 4:10) or 1 John 5:14-15 (this is the confidence we
have in God) can be guiding principles. The truth is these scriptures can actually be applied on
all the natural tendencies/personality or personality types because the goal is to be Spirit
controlled.

In as much as we know or understand people's natural tendencies/personality, we should no

longer know one another after the flesh (2 Corinthians 5:16).

Indeed, it is so easy to fall in line with these definitions.

...you will hear people say "that is how I am; that is how I am created"...

...yes, we may have been born with those personality types, but just like every other thing sin and
Satan is corrupting them ...for his own use/purpose.

Finally, 1 Corinthians 9:20-22.

To the Jews I became as a Jew, so that I might win Jews [for Christ]; to men under the Law, [I
became] as one under the Law, though not being under the Law myself, so that I might win those
who are under the Law. To those who are without (outside) the Law, [I became] as one without
the Law, though [I am] not without the law of God, but under the law of Christ, so that I might
win those who are without law. To the weak I became [as the] weak, to win the weak. I have
become all things to all men, so that I may by all means [in any and every way] save some [by
leading them to faith in Jesus Christ].

1 CORINTHIANS 9:20 - 22 AMP

The wicked flee when no one pursues them, But the righteous are as bold as a lion.

PROVERBS 28:1 AMP

May God help us to be like Christ...

UPLINE TOUCH

We do not really know what her God-connection was prior to this recorded event.

We do know however that this event marked a turning point in her life and we can safely say that
a GOD-RELATIONSHIP began that day (if none existed prior to then).

What actually started this whole relationship/contact with Jesus?

SHE HEARD of Jesus.

All (Almost, maybe) of our Christian experiences and processes begin with HEARING.

1. Faith comes by hearing - Rom 10:17

2. How can they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in
Him of whom they have not HEARD?...And how shall they hear without a preacher?

So,

MIRACLES Mark 7:25

SALVATION

FAITH

HEALING

DELIVERANCE

ALL began with HEARING...

If you look at Jesus’ ministry it blossomed, relied on that power of the "hearing" process.
In many places, the Bible says, "His fame spread abroad, roundabout"; "and the news spread
abroad" etc. Mark 1:28; 6:14; 7:38.

Two studies ago, we studied the woman of Samaria...

1. her salvation was after hearing from the Lord Jesus himself...

2. the other Samaritans in the village came to know Jesus by hearing from the woman and then
from the Lord Jesus himself. "...now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard
Him ourselves..." John 4:42.

In the last study: we saw that "the sinful woman" came because she had heard of Jesus.

Here, we are seeing how this woman came "when she heard of Jesus".

The foregoing is to say this: WE ARE ALL HEARING ALMOST ON A DAILY BASIS, SO
WHAT NEXT AFTER HEARING?

This woman's hearing produced this awesome encounter we are studying about...

Mark 4:3-9;13-20 describes the outcomes of our hearing...

It could be stolen, scorched, choked, or received, understood, "done”, practiced & producing
fruits.

Hebrew 4:2: " For unto us was the gospel preached as well as unto them: but the word preached
did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it"

Mark 4:24

"Consider carefully what you hear"...HIV

"...Be careful what you are hearing. The measure of thought and study you give to the truth you
hear will be the measure of virtue and knowledge that comes back to you - and more besides will
be given to you who hear.". Amplified
SIDELINE CONNECTION

She lived a relatively lonely life

She must have had a frustrating relationship with her husband if she had one. Imagine having
only a few days of rest in between blood flow...and this deprived them of that sexual intimacy
between a husband and wife. Unless the husband chose to be unclean perpetually with her, he
would not even be able to touch her, sleep on the same bed or even eat food prepared by her!

Similar treatment is what she would have experienced with even her family members talk less of
neighbors...she would be avoided by everyone.

No meaningful conversation with anyone...no deep connection with anyone. It was a life that
should only exist in our imaginations, not to be experienced. It was a sad one.

She actually risked ALL by coming in the crowd alongside others...she must have disguised
herself to achieve this feat of touching Jesus' garments.

She had suffered shame, reproach, rebuke and maybe angry outbursts in the past from self-
righteous people. This is evident in her reaction in Mark 5:33...why would she be so frightened
and trembling? When Jesus turned with eyes blazing, (with the whole crowd silent and looking
on) and roared 'who touched Me?' Peter even tried to say 'Master, see how everybody is pressing
you and you are still asking this kind of question?" Paraphrased. She cowered in fear!

But she came out. Suppose she didn't come out, what would have happened? We probably will
never have heard of her.

But she took another bold step of faith despite the fact that she was afraid and owned up; her
miracle was confirmed, and she was truly blessed.
At the point that Jesus asked that question she must have felt vulnerable, who wouldn't?! After
all she had been through.

Vulnerable is truly what we all feel when our pain, our dark secrets and weaknesses are open to
all.

In fact, in her case she stepped out in spite of what anybody will say or think. Hallelujah!

This woman pressed through all these physical, emotional, relational, societal and mental
obstacles to get to her desired destination.

What could have pushed this woman to Jesus? She had felt abandoned, rejected and lonely and
still remained in that state but she didn't. That same thing that was meant to hold her down was
the very thing that pushed her to Jesus, she ignored all the consequences, she had just had it and
couldn't take it anymore.

Relating it with us today, how do we handle issues?

Do the things we face today drive us back to God's arms or take us away from Him.?

The message for us women here, and as many who have the opportunity to read her story to take
home is don't lose your faith and confidence in God, He is more than able. We must keep
our eyes glued to Him. In His word there is great power to keep us through whatever our
travails are.

Your situation most times will label you. We hear altar calls every now and again for "Awaiting
Mothers" or "Single Sisters". Even the bible addressed the last woman we studied a " Sinner". It
called Rahab a "Harlot". The names didn't stop them. They did not let the shame hide them.

The devil will manipulate your situation so you can lose your esteem and confidence in God.

The reality is never as simple. But the word of God is the only anchor. The only encouragement,
the only hope. Our succor when all else fails.

Someone, be encouraged to press on! Don't mind the crowd, they will always be there. Just press
on, there is still virtue on the helm of His garment.
PUNCHLINE

Mathew 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48

A woman had an issue of blood for 12 years - she was having a flow of blood for literally every
day with little less than 7 days break. Making her perpetually unclean by the tradition of her
time. Leviticus 15:19, everything she touched was unclean.

Implication:

She was excluded from a meaningful life, family gatherings, basic interactions of our natural
human existence for 12 years!

She had become a guinea pig in the hands of medical practitioners and the situation over a 12-
year period only got worse.

What would be the state of her mind? Did she have any strong family support to support her
through this phase? She must have grown weary and weak physically, anemic - our life is in the
blood. It was probably not painful but stressful, embarrassing, shameful, depressive, worrisome,
she must just have wondered why her? Her thoughts and her heart must have been all muddled
up. She was financially broke by reason of seeking help.

Just then the news started filtering through a crack in the wall from where she sat in seclusion the
various miracles Jesus had been doing. She heard about the miracle of the demoniac man of
Gadarenes on the other side of the sea of Galilee. Faith surely comes by hearing - Rom 10:17.
The testimonies gave her hope and brought faith.

Now faith without works is dead. So, faith brought an action plan ('she thought to herself, if I
might touch the edge of His garment, I shall be made whole'). Faith put strength in her weak,
frail, anemic body. Faith brought boldness to do the unthinkable - she was going to go through
the crowd in her unclean state. She refused to be bound by the yoke that tradition had put on her
for 12 years.
Faith gave her an idea to clad herself in a cloak to hide her face as she pressed through the crowd
that throng after they had heard that Jesus had just crossed over to Galilee by the sea and how He
healed the demoniac man of Gadarenes. Jarius had even caught up with Jesus to raise his 12-
year-old only daughter that lay sick at home. How many of them just came to see Jesus of that
crowd and how many like the lady with the issue of blood came with faith to receive of Jesus or
make demand of Him like Jarius.

She had to press through not just the crowd but through the pain and shame of 12 years of being
ostracized, of meeting disappointment going from one doctor to another, her fear that she might
be identified and blocked from getting close to Jesus. Zealous people who would not give her a
chance to act upon her faith plan.

Zealous seeming good intentioned people determined to uphold the law. She had to keep her
focus on her action plan. Thank God for the faith she was able to exercise. Imagine what she
went through and the growth she experienced in order to come into this kind of faith that in her
time when exercised could have cost her life if they knew an 'UNCLEAN WOMAN' was
defiling them as she pressed through.

Then by an act of God’s grace and mercy she was able to get hold of His cloak and the power of
God flowed through to her and right there and then the flow of blood ceased. Glory to God in the
highest! She knew she was healed. Jesus knew someone touched him with intent. Mark 11:23.
She did not doubt her intent. She had said to herself based on what she had believed about Jesus
that she was going to be whole. And wholeness she received.

Her faith was not wishful thinking, it was not about rehearsing where she had been these past 12
years, it looked forward to what she truly desired - wholeness.

Her faith took responsibility, she got up and PRESSED through the crowd. Her faith acted upon
a rhema Word.

Her faith brought her to the feet of her Lord and Master where she unburdened the pain and
shame of these last 12 years and He now said to her daughter your faith has made you whole, go
in peace.

You don't have to be afraid again. When we touch Him by faith, we will be made whole. Jesus
has finished the work of our redemption. We must arise and press beyond our natural
experiences, our doubts and unbelief and touch the helm of His garment!

Jesus's definition of this nameless woman was daughter.....

She is a child of God. He declared she had faith!

He declared her healed and declared peace on her.

It's not as if He did not know she was unclean and all what not.

Again He showed us that He sees differently ..... Even what she herself did not see.

Such a beautiful contrast of how we name ourselves or allow others to tag us compared to He
who made us and has the blueprint of our constitution, our potential, our capabilities and
abilities.

In fact, it seems He consistently in all His creations sees 'AND IT WAS GOOD!'

Check out how he handled Moses.

It was Moses who mentioned what he thought he was. Not so with God.

Check out Jeremiah, God only mentioned what He sees him as.

It is still true today as it was at the creation. God's statement when He finishes a project is still,
'...And it was good...'!

But she took a bold step of faith and touched the hem of His garment and heaven took note of
her. She stepped out of her comfort zone risking it all to touch Jesus.

She was desperate for the touch of God. Or... to touch God... A reversible equation...if we can
use that to describe the experience and she got it!!!

How desperate are we concerning what we desire of Him?

Are we willing to take bold steps of faith and risk it all to touch heaven?

What do I need to press through to get my miracle/divine touch/ divine intervention??

THE CALL

Mark 5:28..."...if I may TOUCH but his clothes, I shall be made whole"

Mark 6:56..."...and as many as TOUCHED him were made whole"

Mark 5:30..."...and Jesus immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him...and
said 'Who touched my clothes?'"

We have a promise above that as many as will touch Him will be made whole. The CALL today
is to seek to touch Him and let Him touch us in any and every area of our lives.

Let no one think that she has it all in place or has "arrived". There is MORE! And MORE!!!

Commit your own issues to God NOW.

Ask for the kind of faith to change those situations. "I believe, help thou my unbelief"

"If I may but touch the hem of His garment, I will be made whole"

How did she know "touching" is where her miracle lies? Ask for wisdom/inspiration to know
what to do to bring about solution/deliverance/open doors

Jesus' mother told the servants "do whatever He tells you to do"....

Ask Jesus to tell/show you what to do.

PRAYER

"Help me God, please, take me deeper in Jesus' Name; let me experience that deep".

So, how do we TOUCH Him and be touched by Him.?

The FIRST step is to give Him our lives, surrendering ALL to Him. Becoming a child of God
(being born again) is the first touch by us and of His that gives birth to subsequent touches.
HALLELUJAH!
If you are yet to receive Him, let NOW be your time!

Repeat the following words.

Lord Jesus, I reach out and touch You. I accept your love and mercy and I repent of my
wicked ways of unbelief, sin and separation from Your grace.

Wash me, take me, fill me, use me.

In Jesus name.
VENGEFUL
HERODIAS

Facilitated by Sis Sarah Bassey

POEM

Beauty, affluence and splendor have I never lacked

For as long as I've known all I wanted was always provided

Even my craziest of whims were never turned down

Grandpa in a bid to secure power and rule ordered infants slaughtered

Pity and compassion are for the weak and faint hearted

The strong go after the goal and make it happen

So when the prophet dared to speak against me

I laughed to myself 'cause he just made a death wish

No one crosses me and ever gets away with it

Patiently and tactfully I crafted a plan

One so foolproof the prophet was bound to fall

And now my revenge is final, his head is on a platter

Scheming and cruel you could want to tag me

I don't care i am a princess of power, what I want I always get

Sis Ene Bolanta

MEET HER

HERODIAS

(Matt. 14:3 - 11; Mark 6:17 - 28)

which is the feminine form of Herod. Her name means "song of the hero". See a bit of her
background.

Her grandfather and father in-law Herod the great, had a number of sons among whom are;

Aristibulus,

Herod Philip I and

Herod Antipas.

Aristibulus was Herodias' father.

From the biblical account, Herodias is married off to Herod Philip I, one of her uncles! They
both had a daughter - Salome. On one occasion Herodias and Philip played hosts to Antipas (her
second uncle), she falls in love with him, divorces her husband, Philip, and marries Antipas.

When John the Baptist saw this, he didn't waste time to confront them with the truth.

Leviticus 20:21

"'If a man marries his brother's wife, it is an act of impurity; he has dishonored his brother.
They will be childless.

Herodias loved the power, the influence that came with being a queen, the wife of Herod. Ha!
Nothing will make her step down, relinquish that position, or give up her crown. She was going
nowhere. So, she fought the truth, she plotted how to dispose of John the Baptist permanently,
who wants to put.

Mark.6.17

For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in
prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, whom he had married. (NIV).

Only God knows what she must have told her husband about John. For, though Herod feared
what the people would do if he harmed John the Baptist, for the sake of peace he had John
arrested.
Herodias not only knew the truth and fought it, she also wanted her husband to wallow in this
error with her. See, Herod loved to listen to John. Herodias feared that she may lose everything if
Herod woke up one day and changed his mind about her or about John. This made her all the
more determined to see John the Baptist dead.

Hatred and bitterness will definitely take us farther than we can imagine! That was what
Herodias felt for John. Even after he was arrested, she still wasn't satisfied - he must die!!!

She waited for a perfect time to hatch her evil plan. Here comes Herod's birthday, the high and
mighty from far and wide had been invited. Herodias might have also known her husband enjoys
sensual music and seductive dancing. She used her only child and daughter as her instrument and
weapon. Salome danced at the party and entertained the guests.

She pleased her stepfather with her dance, he gave her a blank cheque, to ask for anything, even
up to half of his kingdom.

She runs to her mother, " what shall I ask for?" Alas, Herodias took advantage of that timing and
asked her daughter to demand for John's head. Herod didn’t like that at all, he also couldn't
refuse. He ordered that John be beheaded and his head brought in on a platter. Hmmm...and
when John's head was brought in, Salome took it to her mother. The end of John the Baptist.

Please don't be too quick to dismiss this woman, check:

As queens of our husbands’ dynasty, knowing how powerful women are, how do we use our
influence over our husbands, children, in-laws, relations etc. Any streaks of manipulation?

What is our attitude towards correction? Remember we truly don’t know it all. When we make
mistakes do, we own up, ask for forgiveness and truly repent?

Remember the blessings of the fathers are handed down to the children, what are we handing
down, consciously and unconsciously to our children? Murder wasn't new to Herodias; her
grandfather was the same Herod who wanted to kill Jesus as a baby. Now she dragged her only
child into it.

How is our attitude when God sends us to correct somebody?

Our lives are building blocks of choices we make every day. Every day is an opportunity to make
it right, to walk righteously.

QUESTION

Why couldn't King Herod say no to the killing of John the Baptist?
PROFFERED ANSWER

He valued his oath before his nobles and also valued pleasing the wrong deed of his wife over
that of the life of a righteous man. A righteous man that he himself listened to and knew he spoke
truth as bible records.

Fear is a killer indeed. Proverbs 29:25 says the fear of a man is a snare.

To drive this point home to us on an individual basis; what is that one thing or person you are so
afraid of that makes you choose to do what is wrong in God's sight or influence others in the
wrong direction? Perfect love casts out fear, so the bible says, but have we come into revelation
knowledge about this? God's love has been made perfect in us through the finished work of
calvary.

How do we face or confront our fears? Consider and ponder on these scenarios:

When you're bidding for a contract and the norm is to "settle" or "wet" the hands of those in
charge. Do you out of fear of not getting the contract choose to compromise or do you choose to
look to God as Your Source to settle you?

When it seems you are due for a promotion at your job, do you choose to compromise by
'sucking' up to your supervisors and those above you in authority to get the promotion or do you
choose to believe God's Word that says promotion comes from above?

Do you cower under any sort of pressure and compromise the truth by lying or being deceptive?

When you are not receiving the emotional attention and affection due to you by your husband, do
you feed this need by confiding in another male that 'seemingly' gives you the attention you
deserve.

We have to allow the truth of God's Word confront the true states of our hearts on all issues -
Jeremiah 17:10

May God help us make the right choices all the time... Let us not be over sentimental about
issues.... We may be surprised if we knew the effect of some of our actions or inactions in the
long term....

Galatians 5:16(NIV)

16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
UPLINE TOUCH

Obviously, Herodias did not have a relationship with God. She may have known God by head
knowledge, but she had no regard for Him. Power and fame became her God.

We see how we have made 'gods' of so many things and people. Ultimately these 'gods' will
always cause us to glorify selfish desires.

Yeah, it's so easy to say this woman did not have any God connection, neither did she fear God.
But come to think of it, when you love a child, you will certainly want to see that child do well,
so you will be on the lookout to keep that child from making mistakes that will jeopardize their
lives and future, right?

One can only assume that's what God did by sending John the Baptist, to call Herodias to order,
retrace her steps, not make the same mistakes her grandfather made.

Hebrews 12:6

Because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son."
(MSB)

Proverbs 3:11

But don't, dear friend, resent GOD's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction.

Proverbs 3:12

It's the child He loves that GOD corrects; a father's delight is behind all this. (MSB).

Acts 17:30

"God overlooks it as long as you don't know any better--but that time is past. The unknown is
now known, and he's calling for a radical life-change. (MSB)

Sadly, she didn't.

Romans 1:20, no man is excused. Everything around us bears witness that God is.

She must have had opportunities to turn to the Living God, but rather she chose to be a god to
herself and some around her.

PRAYER

LORD, I remember ways I have influenced or strongly advised my husband, friends or family on
issues. My intent at that moment may have been to protect or do good but the
content/timing/approach may not be a right. Or sometimes understanding what great influence I
have on my husband, friends and children, I have manipulated this for my own selfish interests. I
repent.

I receive grace daily to give help and guidance by the Spirit and not by emotions. Amen.

His mercies are new every morning, receive fresh grace.

SIDELINE CONNECTION

Herodias was born into the corridors of power and politics. She understood the power play, she'd
be politically relevant if she married Antipas, who was next in line to the throne. She craved
power and would do anything to get it. Soon as she knew Antipas had feelings for her, she
wasted no time in leaving her husband. She wrecked another woman's marriage because Antipas
was still married too. They both divorced their spouses and married each other.
DON'T BE A RIDER - Her relationships with her husband was built on the foundation of
selfishness and self-centeredness. She rode on their wings to get to where she wanted to be. Sad
to say she was a user, an opportunist.

Evaluating our relationships with family and friends in what ways do we try to make everything
be about us?

Herodias' relationship with Salome is not one to be emulated. Salome was a tool, in fact weapon
in her mother's hand. What she couldn't do she used her daughter to accomplish. After all it was
Salome who went to ask for John's head.

Exerting ourselves on our children and make them fulfil what was or is lacking in our lives is not
a good idea. You didn’t study medicine, so your child must grow up and study medicine and that
child wants to be a blogger. Let them find joy in their God-given destinies.

Some women use their children to collect money from their husbands. excess for themselves.
They use the excuse that if they don’t do it that way, they might not get anything from the
husband. As a woman, it is expedient to have some financial independence. This will mitigate
against such negative behavior.

There are other women who drag their children into the web of crisis, when they have issues with
their husbands. Leave those children out of it, they are not your apprentices!

We say we don't want to quarrel in front of the children, but we involve them in our cold war.

She failed to protect her daughter, when she was invited to come and dance before guests.

How are we exposing our children? This generation has so many lions prowling around and
looking for whom to devour.

WHO ARE YOU TO TALK TO ME - Herodias didn’t consider John to be anything. Who was
he to tell her who to marry? What was his business? Who did he think he was? Pride made her
undermine John and so despised God. Let's remember that God resists the proud, but gives grace
to the humble.

What's our reaction when that brilliant idea is dropped from another person's suggestion?

At the center of everything we do is our hearts! That's the first place God looks at, no wonder
David cried to God in Psalm 51:6 ”create in me a clean heart O Lord, and renew a right spirit
within me

On a daily basis let our prayer be, God give me a clean heart and a clear conscience before you.

QUESTION
1. How do we go about pleasing our spouses in relation to God's instructions? Do we choose to
do an obviously wrong thing or, something that violates our conscience only to please our
spouse?

2. Is only the wife who gives a negative counsel to blame if he does what she said?

PROFFERED ANSWER

Question 1

The best way to approach this is found in Ephesians 5:22 where wives are admonished to submit
to their husbands as unto the Lord. So, the next question is, what does "submit as unto the Lord
really mean?"

To submit as unto the Lord means to yield to our husbands as if we were yielding to the Lord.
We all know that God is good and in Him there is no variation of darkness meaning the root or
foundation of evil is not from God. Yes, God created satan but the evil ways of satan was not
from God.

So, since we know that God is not the author of evil, then we are to submit or yield to our
husbands so long as in our yielding to them we do not sin against God. We must understand and
recognize the place of God in our lives and the place of our husbands. A husband is not to play
God in the wife's life and no bible believing wife should allow her husband to take the place of
God in her life.

So, if a husband is instructing or asking a bible believing wife to do something that violates
God's Word, such a wife has the backing of heaven if she chooses not to yield to the husband in
that regards. We should be sincere and ask ourselves who we truly have reverence for and are
afraid of? Is it the One that has the power to condemn body and soul to eternal damnation when
we violate His statutes or the one that only has the power to hurt us bodily and emotionally?
Sometimes, we hide under the guise of "I had no choice".....there's always a choice to make, the
question becomes whether we choose the choice that glorifies God at the end of it all.

What is it that you are afraid of? Being asked by your husband to leave the marriage simply
because you will not do his requirements in obedience to God? Or what hold does your husband
have over you that makes you live in so much fear of him? You have the power in Christ Jesus to
be delivered and set free. We must be willing to forsake ALL and that includes ALL that we hold
so dearly in pursuit of obedience to God. The truth is that it is not easy on the flesh, our natural
self but our spirit can handle it, so long as we yield to the Holy Spirit.

Whatever we give up for the sake of the kingdom, including our spouse or children, we will get
back much more. See what Jesus did, He laid down His life for all and He has been given the
Name above all names. There's nothing we give up for God that we do not attain back and even
much better; look at Abraham and Isaac.

So, according to scripture, we are to yield and submit to our husbands so long as what our
husbands are requiring of us are in line with scripture.

Often times, society is always blaming the woman. It's saddening that other women even join in
blaming such a wife. Thank God that since we know better, we can change that kind of thinking
and mindset and be bible believing women that do not castigate or pull-down other women. We
can see such women as if it was us and then reach out in love and compassion.

To add to this, if a bible believing wife is choosing not to do the request asked of her by her
husband because it is in violation to God's Word, the wife must do so with regard for her
husband still because the bible admonishes that the wife respects her husband. It is important for
every wife to know her husband and such knowledge is not just head knowledge.

Ask yourself, "what posture do I need to have to show respect to my husband?" Then use that
posture or attitude in communicating to him respectfully why you are unable to carry out that
request because it violates God's Word. This is just a simple example without going into
intricate details.

Question 2

If we go back to creation, Genesis 3 to be precise, God made everyone, the serpent, Eve and
Adam to be responsible for their actions and each received the consequences of their actions.
There's nowhere in scripture that God makes people bear the consequences of the actions of
others....one of the reasons is largely due to the free will God has given humans.

Jesus could have made excuses that because His trusted friends were not there for Him in His
time of dire need, He could have been bitter or could have chosen to be upset and bitter.

Yes, as wives we are heavy influencers on our husbands and the world around us, but any
husband or person that chooses to be influenced by the negative influence of his wife or any
other will be held liable and accountable. No amount of excuse is good enough to choose to do
the wrong thing.

Romans 1:20 states clearly that God has made His invincible nature known to man since the
creation so that man is without excuse. So, even for those that claim they are not Christ
followers, God's invincible nature has been made known to them as well. The book of
Ecclesiastes mentions that eternity has been written in the hearts of men.

So, even in this case of Herodias, Herod chose to still align himself with Herodias' negative
influence and also the fear of going against his oath and had John the Baptist’s head cut off. He
had the choice to say no to killing a holy man and face the shame of going against his oath and
the fear of losing Herodias as wife. He made the choice to commit murder and he will be held
liable for that if he didn't repent of it before taking his last breath and scripture did not mention
he repented of it. He chose the pleasure for the moment over eternity, so he chose to make that
choice.

Therefore, we should choose to pursue good and not evil, however, if we choose to influence
others negatively, we suffer the consequences as well as those that choose to follow the negative
influence and the reverse is the case also also when we influence for the good of all....God's
Word is a double edged sword. This also applies to us as women and wives if we allow
ourselves to be influenced whether positively or negatively.

However, thank God for His grace and mercy, because when we repent of such evil ways, God
forgives us and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. The Word of God that gives us hope each
time......repentance is always the way back to God no matter how far we have erred or strayed
from God. However, let's not take the grace of God for granted by continuing in sin.

God's grace is more than sufficient for us to be kingdom and divine influencers in our homes and
the world around us all to God's glory. May we receive that grace.

Opposition to truth cannot be excused on the basis of ignorance , because from the creation of
the world, the invisible qualities of God’s nature have been made visible, such as his eternal
power and transcendence. He has made his wonderful attributes easily perceived, for seeing the
visible makes us understand the invisible. So then, this leaves everyone without excuse.

Romans 1:20 TPT

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He also has planted eternity in men's hearts and
minds [a divinely implanted sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under
the sun but God alone can satisfy], yet so that men cannot find out what God has done from the
beginning to the end.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 AMPC

The advertisement companies who display almost nude women on billboards have a strong
influence on the viewers, it doesn't mean they are responsible for the viewer’s choice to be
sexually perverse.

In the same way, you wives must accept the authority of your husbands. Then, even if some
refuse to obey the Good News, your godly lives will speak to them without any words. They will
be won over by observing your pure and reverent lives.
1 Peter 3:1 - 2 NLT

The bible clearly explains that a godly woman without words has the grace to influence their
husbands even to godliness just by their actions.

As a wife and mother, we hold a sensitive position in the family. The influence of our actions
daily on our husband, children and even the unborn child in the womb cannot be
overemphasized. Yet, you cannot be held responsible for the choices they go on to make in life.
We must use the power of that influence as a home builder and a godly woman to encourage
them towards God.

PUNCHLINE

In life, we are either learning what to do, or what not to do from people's experiences, how they
live or have lived their lives. What we have done since the inception of this study is put our lives
side by side Herodias' see where she missed it and we learn to do right by the Holy Spirit. She
was graced with many 'tools', as I would love to call them, sad to say, she didn’t use any of them
well.

Today, take time out and sincerely bare all before God, SINCERELY asking for help! All it
takes is just one mistake to destroy one's destiny.

Herodias had the opportunity to have repented but didn’t, she also stood in the way of her
husband's repentance.

Romans 15:4

For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through
patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

Proverbs 9:9

Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase
in learning.
This study is not judging any woman or undermining anybody. It's only meant to expose that
area of our lives where we need help and open up to God sincerely for help. We are gate keepers,
we rock the cradle so we rule the world, we have so much power embedded inside of us, we
must choose to use it well.

It's a brand-new day and there is a fresh release of grace and mercy to rewrite that story about
you!

SOME LESSONS TO PAY ATTENTION TO.

We need to constantly stand in the gap for our husbands. 2 Timothy 2:1 encourages us to pray
for all men, for kings and those in authority. That captures our husbands: the kings, priests and
prophets of our homes.

We must continue to pray that they are led of God, for every decision that centers or bothers on
our families.

She had watched or heard of her grandpa’s massacre of all children below 2years.

Such things deaden the senses. She is used to senseless killings. Her own grandma and uncles
were slaughtered. So, killing another human is really no big deal. "It's just one guy", she
reasoned.

Our lives are movies played out live for our generations. She watched, she learnt and when
opportunity presented itself, she executed what she saw.

Our reactions reflect our exposure most times, until we allow our minds to be renewed. In
unguarded moments, you go back to learned habits.

Set godly pictures before your children.

We may really need some major factory reset... and a total mental diversion...

Romans 12:2 NLT

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person
by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good
and pleasing and perfect.

In setting godly pictures before our children. This also applies to when we talk about our spouse
in a negative way in front of the children especially in their absence.

There is need to break off negative inherited patterns in the place of prayer.
Herod the great showed examples of wanton murder; his great-granddaughter repeated a similar
thing years later.

Evil begat evil and good can also begat good. Antipas himself had an evil heart, no wonder he
was also attracted to Herodias who had an evil heart. This just confirms that no one should ever
be held responsible for the actions of others. God does not even do that.

Herodias and Herod....

Herodias had the intent for murder but lacked the instrument to carry it out.

Herod had the instrument...his intent was not that strong because he still feared the people and
somehow still liked listening to John the Baptist.

In the final analysis, Herod committed the murder because he gave the command for the
beheading.

If this were to be a court case, would the punishment be "shared"?

The point, actually, is not to absolve Herodias of fault but to also lay it on Herod himself as well.

Why and how?!....

Salome danced; she pleased Herod; Herod promised her up to half of the kingdom; Salome ran to
Herodias who instructed her to ask for John's head.

Now, how and when did a man's life become less than half of a kingdom?!!

This reveals the depravity and lack of regard for human life and their well-being displayed and
still being displayed till today by a lot of people in position of power and authority.

Herod's lack of value or misplacement of values; his respect of persons (his guests); his overrated
opinion of others led him to the final order. Yet, Herodias is the one seated at the ‘high table’ of
John’s death. She master-minded it all. From a grudge to bitterness, it then grew to hatred and
full-blown murder. See the scriptures on this matter.

1 John 3:15

Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life
abiding in him.

I John 2:11
But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know
where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

She already killed him in her heart, before John died physically.

Herod was too weak to say no! First Herodias made him arrest John, then he couldn’t resist
Salome’s dance, finally he succumbed to the pressure of wanting to impress people. Blown by
every wind of doctrine.

When we are being pressurized by "Herodiases" to do wrong, when we are being tempted...if we
really do not want to do it...there is always a way of escape God has made for us if we ask Him
for it...and that includes fleeing.

Like in Herod's case, if he wanted, he could have set a record by saying the life of a man is more
than half of a kingdom...("what shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and lose his own
soul"..."what shall a man give in exchange for his own soul")

Yes, as women we do have the power of influence, there's no denying that, but our husbands and
children will give account for their actions; scripture says we will all give account. So, we can
only do our part as Godly wives and women to win our husbands, children and others over to
God through our godly and positive influence but we are not responsible if they choose to go the
wrong part and we should refuse how society has blamed the woman or wife when things go
wrong in the home or marriage.

Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil,
neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust,
and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished,
bringeth forth death.

James 1:13 - 15 KJV

We are often drawn by our lust for wealth, for power, for position, for material possession;
lust/pride has no cares whose Ox is gored. It tramples on whatever is on its way to achieve its
aim. Even if it meant the head of John the Baptist.
THE CALL

Mark 6:18

For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.”

Emphasis is on the first line, “For John had been saying to Herod...” what has God been saying
to you? Herod would have been exempted from this sin if he had heeded to John’s message.
Herodias would have been remembered for a different reason had she heeded the rebuke from
God's servant.

Lord Jesus, we thank you for the many opportunities You give us to make it right with you.
You have never run out of love or patience for us.

Thank You for all the “John the Baptists” You bring to us at every junction of our lives to
keep us from falling from grace and to help us live righteously.

Lord Jesus we bring our lives before You, we bare it all, naked, with nothing to hide because
You see it all, we come by the blood and appeal to Your divine mercy that You forgive us for
everyone we have beheaded in our hearts, in all the ways we have despised correction, lived
hypocritically, we have been selfish and self-centered. Forgive us for the many times we have
succumbed to worldly pressures, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye and the pride of life.

Who shall ascend into the hills of the Lord, and who may stand in His holy place? It is he that
has clean hands and a pure heart. We cry out to you Lord, create in us a clean heart, renew a
right spirit within us. We ask for a heart that beats and pants after You, that genuinely loves
and seeks to do right. Lord Jesus wipe the slates of our hearts clean, let’s have a fresh start
with You.

Make us godly pictures to our children and others in our sphere of influence, we would make
right choices and show good examples of accurate decision-making patterns. May we be quick
to embrace the way of escape shown to us even when it's F.L.E.E!

In the same way Lord, as we choose to be positive and godly influences to our husbands,
children, family members and others, we pray also for the hearts of those that we are
influencing that their hearts will not be hardened. We pray also that they will not take Your
Word for granted or be familiar with the grace of God upon us just like the people from
Jesus' hometown in Nazareth who commonized Jesus as the carpenter's son and as such
Jesus could only heal a few sickly people. (Mark 6:1-6)

May the hearts of our husbands especially and also our children be receptive to You and Your
Word so that they do not become casualties in the hands of the enemy. Thank You Father
God because You watch over Your Word to perform it (Jeremiah 1:12).

We receive grace to positively influence our husbands, children and everyone connected to us
directly or indirectly. Bridle our tongues! Let our words always be seasoned with salt and give
grace to the hearer. Order our steps in Your word at all times.

Thank You Father. In Jesus mighty name we have prayed. Amen!

LADY MARTHA
Facilitated by Sisters Kemi Olu Obashoro and Sarah Agha

SOME REAL-LIFE NARRATIONS

Martha Martha - There are so many schools of thought around this lady. In our present-day
lingo, we will say Martha has a bit of OCD...

How can she sit still when her mind is on the run, pinpointing so many things to be put in place?

In a way I can relate to her, I am an organization freak with perfection tendencies - your brain
seems to be on an overdrive, every task I picked needs to be over flogged. It's always an issue to
have people visiting in my house especially if they need to stay overnight.

The sincere issue is it is very TIRING and FRUSTRATING to be in Martha's place - she's
wondering how can Mary be calm and unnerved with so many work to be done?

My liberation started (am still a work in progress though) when Rev Funke Ewuosho said in one
of her messages that 'chore never finishes'. Live and let others live she said. Consciously I'm
beginning to self-talk to take things easy and learn the art of PRIORITIZING. I'm gradually
learning to breathe, raise my legs and just enjoy the moments.

Sis F.

At a point, waking up and making sure the children are prepared and made ready for school took
the place of having some fellowship time with God.

During church service, I get preoccupied with making sure my song list is tight, or making sure
others are looking/acting like they should.
It came a time when making sure the home was looking superb seemed more important than
spending time with the occupants of the home, after which I am tired out and needing my bed.

I love books and films, sometimes when these are my first cravings such that I am so engrossed,
I’d rather not read my Bible or go for fellowship.

Danger sign on! Many more distracting issues! Let me not talk about phones/social media.

I've been in many and still have issues now and again. So, Martha is a real discussion for me.

Sis S.

I believe our minds have been somewhat conditioned to believe that the priority on God's list is
what we can and are willing to do for Him.

Yes, we count it a great privilege to know the Lord and have a relationship with him as so we
think that we have to show our appreciation by the so much we must do for Him.

Truth is all that God needs is 'you'. At His feet, just 'you'. It’s hard to understand this, but hymns
like 'I need thee every hour' and 'Nearer my God to thee' comes to mind. God needs us seated at
His feet learning. Kneeling at His feet in worship so we can learn of Him and receive from Him.
So many times, we assume our love for Him is sufficient to drive our commitment to Him, but it
truly is not. Rather the power of the Word He releases upon us as we stay close to Him is what
we need, hourly, daily. That in itself grows our love for Him more and more.

I thought I had what it took for this race until early this year when the Lord said to me "Stand
still". I have struggled with these two words all year. Because I am wired to believe I have to be
in constant motion. I have to do. I have to work. I have to minister. I have to write, and all of this
must be perfect to reflect God.

Then I realized, I can hardly even obey God's instruction to stand still. My relationship with God
was defined by doing. I thought I needed to do. Sometimes I depend on my strength to do.
Sometimes I am led by my own wisdom to do.

But now I'm struggling to stand still. Just be at the feet of Jesus like Mary and learn, drink of
Him, know Him, harken to Him and hear Him clearly. The difference in my relationship with
Him is so much different now. In a few months of trying diligently to stand still, I have achieved
so much more than I achieved in previous years of doing it on my own strength. This time, I
didn't get to do anything just stand and see the power of God work. (Many times, I get tired of
standing; not doing, it’s boring and exhausting. It looks like my world has become slow; nothing
is happening because physically I am not doing the many things my mind is conceiving per
minute. But so much is. Spiritually I experience a shift, a depth in this relationship with Jesus an
outpour of God's power. I feel Him much closer.)
We really must try to change our mindsets of what our relationship with God should be like. Like
Sister Sarah Agha said, prioritize. Seek God, search for Him with all your heart and searching for
Him is not in activity. I'm not saying it isn't necessary to serve, but like Martha, maximize the
time of fellowship when you have an opportunity to be at His feet. Know the season and
understand what the right thing to do is.

This story of Martha greatly ministers to me. It gives more clarity to what the Lord has been
trying to teach my very restless spirit. It has helped me to understand the ability to make perfect
does not lie with me but with God. With my acute OCD tendency, that has been a hard lesson.

Sis A.

Philippians 1:6 (AMP)

I am convinced of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to]
perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus [The time of His return]

When I was much younger, one of my labels from friends and family was perfectionist. I always
wanted everything to be correct, right, good, perfect.

It was very good when things went right. I felt perfect.

But whenever it went wrong...

I was always distressed. Why did it not go as I planned? Am I not a child of God? A good girl?
Those were usually my thoughts.

Soon after several experiences of things going wrong... some very wrong...

I gradually began to give up my perfectionist tendencies... because each time I tried harder... it
got all the more frustrating.

This morning as I read the bible commentary on this verse. The answers to my questions then
came. Let me share with you. As soon as we think we have to be the ones to perfect and
complete what God wants to do in us, we allow satan to distract us in wrong thinking.

Let's believe Philippians 1:6, which promises us that God has begun His good work in us; and
He is the One Who will finish and bring it to completion. Remembering this will encourage us
when things seem to be taking a long time or when we make mistakes and become discouraged
with ourselves. (Joyce Mayer Battlefield of the Mind Bible)

God is the one doing the perfecting, not you or me. Give God the chance to do His work!

Sis C.
POEM(MARTHA)

Perfect!

That's how I like everything to be. Making sure that everyone is satisfied and happy, is my delight.

Unexpectedly, the Master visited our home, it called for a banquet of rich food and choice wine!!!!

Floor swept and mopped,

Chairs and tables dusted and polished.

And the cuisine, oh!!! the cuisine had to be top notch!! The best in all of Bethany!!!

Every one on their toes;

we were entertaining a great prophet and his twelve disciples!!!

Sweating and diligently cooking, arranging, correcting, instructing, all to make the banquet a success.

And there sat Mary, my sister at his feet!!! All the work seemed nothing to her, the hungry guests were
of little importance.... Mary sat at the master's feet, listening.

Master, my sister is lazy! Abandoning the kitchen work to me! Ask her to get up and help!!!

But the Lord said to me, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is
only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from
her.”

Later on in life, having known the Master more, death came to my family, my brother Lazarus was taken
away from us.
What a shame!!! A friend of the Messiah? People mocked.

If only the master were here!

Indeed he came!!

People mocked some more, he made the blind see, couldn't he had stopped Lazarus from dying?

To their amazement and to His glory,

The tomb stone was rolled away!

Jesus raised Lazarus, my brother from the dead, after 4 days.

Hallelujah!!!

He is indeed the resurrection and the life!!

MEET HER
MARTHA; her name means Lady which contributed to her character, personality and qualities as
a person. Lady Martha was a very active, competent and vibrant woman. She was in charge and
carried out all the affairs of her household. The Event Planner, Event Manager and the total
workforce all rolled up in one woman. What energy!!! One can only imagine her frustrations,
worry and anger in her while going about her chores.

Lady Martha was described as a woman who had the heart to serve because she genuinely loved
Jesus and was willing to serve Him and all His disciples who came to her house. The pressure
was too much for her as she was filled with the feeling of being ignored and unappreciated. Lady
Martha was also confused and distracted, conned into believing her ceaseless activity would
produce something of lasting impression and importance.

Lady Martha is a typical every day you and I.......as familiar as the face gazing at us in the
mirror. We tend to take up that 'Lady' of the house name and unconsciously overstretch ourselves
to the point of worrying and getting worked up in the house even in our offices.........Oga
Madam.

What do you think Lady Martha should have done differently?

As women, we should depend on the help of the Holy Spirit to direct us in going about our daily
activities.

Romans 8:26

For the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don't even know what we should pray for,
nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be
expressed in words.

We should learn to

 Ask for help when we think and know we need one as directed by the Holy Spirit

Phil 4:13 For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength that I need.

 Strategize and prioritize all your daily activities.

 Delegate and outsource if need be.
UPLINE TOUCH

Luke 10:38-42, John 11

Luke 10:38
[38] Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain
woman named Martha received him into her house.

Lady Martha had a relationship with Jesus.

She was so close to Him, that she opened her door wide for Him and His disciples.

She recognized Him as Lord.

Luke 10:40

[40] But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou
not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

She had honour in her heart for Jesus. His visits to her home and love for her family didn't let her
change her esteem of Him.

She called him Lord.

She talked to Him of the issues of her heart.

Luke 10:40

[40] But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou
not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

She gave Him room to have a say in her home.

Luke 10:40

[40] But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou
not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

This was her home, but she wanted his take in what was happening in it.

She allowed him Him instruct her.

Luke 10:41-42

[41] And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled
about many things:

[42] But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken
away from her.
Her opening her heart to reveal what was simmering in it is a vulnerable state, that is the way to
allow healing, a new perspective or purity to be restored. That truly is how open we should be to
our Master. When there is offence, go in repentance and a willingness to understand what's in
there. Allow the searchlight of God show you all the dark areas. Martha did not pretend, she
spoke up before it became a hideous secret.

She accepts the Word.

This showed up in John 11, she still had a relationship with Jesus, even though, he seemed not to
be on her side in Luke 10:41-42. She let that word draw her closer not away from Him.

She is confident of God's love for her and hers.

John 11:5

[5] Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.

John 11:3

[3] Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.

No matter issue she presents it to God.

John 11:3

[3] Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.

She made moves to reach out to God.

She does the extra inspite of her sorrow. She is the one in mourning, but she gets up and goes out
to meet the Master.

John 11:20

[20] Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat
still in the house.

She is confident of the ability of God.

John 11:21

[21] Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.

She KNEW, sickness wouldn't stand in the presence of Jesus. She not only knew, she said it out
loud.

John 11:22

[22] But I know that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.

She KNEW Jesus for who He is.

In a time when others were looking for a Messiah riding on a red horse, she recognized Jesus!

John 11:27

[27] She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which
should come into the world.

Even when doubt assails her, she lays it bare.

John 11:39-40

[39] Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him,
Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.

[40] Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see
the glory of God?

This woman had a real relationship with Jesus. Her love for him was deep. She believed in Him
as the Messiah. Trusted in His power. Relied on Him in times of her deepest need.

Knowing who Jesus was, she was always willing to serve. Always wanting to be hospitable.
Ensuring all went well........ Relating this to today's Christian woman; not only does she ensure
the welfare of her family and ministers, but also serves in church, she is a steward (an usher), she
is in the welfare team, she decorates the church, she is in the sanitation unit. She does all this
because she loves the Lord.
But she never makes as much time to increase in her knowledge of Him. To grow in Him. She
trusts in the blessings of service, but much more are the blessings of growing in the knowledge
of Christ.

That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings,
being made conformable unto His death;

Philippians 3:10 KJV

Many of us miss out of exercising the power of God because we don't have depth in knowledge
of His word. And this goes beyond the many verses of scripture we can recount. How often do
we make time to sit and learn at His feet? There are so many of us so busy at church services we
don't have time to join in the bible study or hear the message. We are so overworked in our
homes our personal devotion time suffers because we are often exhausted.

Are all of these things important? Yes! What Martha was doing was very important but there was
something that was most important. The word!

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

John 1:1 KJV

Distracted

Luke 10:40 NRSV-CI

But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, “Lord, do
you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help
me.”

John Paul II said, "do not be too busy doing the work of the Lord and forget the Lord of the
work."

Service is a gift of the Holy Spirit. The point then is, what is my level of distraction in the service
of the Lord?

Distraction can be our activity level. Does my church activity level or domestic activity level
overwhelm my relationship with the Lord?

The command to 'Seek ye first the kingdom..." permeates through all spheres of our lives. It
should be the guiding light of our day, our finances and our activity.

Kingdom focus should be a priority when we think of the day, not the many things we have to do
for the day.
When we have settled it in our hearts, that 'I will seek the kingdom first' that helps you to set
the :

proper time to start your day

tone for your day

keep kingdom in focus throughout the day

All these are not new and do sound simple. But we forget them as we get overwhelmed with left
over work from the past day or new sets of chores for the present day.

SIDELINE CONNECTION

Lady Martha was a family woman.

It seems she was the older of the sisters. She kept the house and kept them together. She created
an atmosphere in her home where others can be comfortable. She watched over and kept tab of
relationships of her family members. Hence, she could boldly send a message to say Jesus should
come over as one who He loved was sick. Her sister Mary was the one who washed Jesus' feet
with her hair. Martha gave her household the freedom to express themselves without fear.
Martha was a community woman.

When she had a need to send an urgent message to Jesus, someone was on hand to help out.
When there was death in the family, she was not left alone to grieve, many community people
came to be with her. When Jesus was close by, she had people around to inform her.

She seemed a strong, independent woman.

She could hold her own, because, when she went out to seek out Jesus, people, didn't assume she
was going to the grave to weep or any other mischief. They trusted her to do the needful.

She is a good communicator.

She had a way of speaking her mind. Maybe, before she had fully processed it all. But, one in
relationship with her would know where she stood on issues. No grey areas. She actually told
Jesus; the corpse should be stinking by then!

She let go of past matters.

She is willing to concede ground, if you give her a new perspective. Or was this just Jesus? Not
likely! She was honest enough to make a shift towards the truth of what Jesus was revealing to
her. She had a spirit that doesn't just wallow in self-pity that leads to pride, a spirit that
acknowledges the truth and yields to its saving grace.

Her relationship was still intact with her sister at Lazarus' death. She went to tell her Jesus had
arrived town.

PUNCHLINE

Lady Martha was totally in charge. A strong and independent woman and a no-nonsense one at
that. She even dared to challenge Jesus for not rebuking her sister in not helping her in the
kitchen. She confronted Jesus about her brother too. What a woman!

Lady Martha seem to have worked out her faith directly and actively, questioning, challenging,
asking Jesus to rectify whatever had gone wrong. Her spirituality was like that of Jacob, who
wrestled all night with an ANGEL....

Isaiah 43:1
But now, this is what the Lord says, He who created you ,Jacob, He who FORMED you, Isreal;
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine. (MLK
version)

Even God acknowledged and took great pride in referring to Jacob's audacity in this passage. His
name even had to change from Jacob to Israel after his struggle with the angel.

Lady Martha had all these attributes and strength. She was well capable in her childlike faith and
innocence in the relationship she had with Jesus. She showed what it is like to have a relationship
with Jesus so solid and close that no posturing or hiding is necessary. Lady Martha seemed free
to be herself in His presence. Are we truly bold in God's presence? How free are we to discuss
issues with Him?

God, grant us the grace and boldness to come to Your throne of grace and mercy in our
time of need in Jesus name Amen.

Jesus was her friend, and nothing was going to stop her from addressing her issues where Jesus
was concerned. Luke 10:38-42; John 11:1-12:3

How have we changed our stance from being unduly worried and frustrated after encountering
Jesus?

Has your name changed from being frustrated to Mrs Joyful? A weak woman to a STRONG
COMPETENT woman?

Lady Martha is worthy of admiration.

Are we in relationship with Jesus? Where do we pour out our angers and cares? Take it to the
Lord in prayer dear. God is forever faithfulness. He is waiting.

Isaiah 40:27 - 31 NLT

O Jacob, how can you say the Lord does not see your troubles?

O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights? Have you never heard? Have you never
understood?

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary.

No one can measure the depths of his understanding.

He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.

Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion.
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary. They will and not faint.

Other lessons to note are that

If she hadn't forgiven Jesus or her sister, she would have closed herself off of her miracle of
resurrection.

There were many reasons for her to be offended in Jesus.

Aside for the matter with Mary, suppose she had let that simmer, it would have been difficult to
continue a sweet relationship with her family.

But worse would be the fact that she would not be able to freely send for Jesus.

She did forgive and she could send for Jesus.

Then, she now asked Jesus to hasten over to heal the 'one He loved', He didn't show up until the
'one He loved' DIED!

Healing was (and still is Jesus') job and specialty.

He seemingly didn't have any reason to not show up at such an urgent call. But He didn't.

She could have been offended. She wasn't.

Especially, because there was no simmering grievance, she could make allowance or trust there
was a good reason. Then, after Jesus was told that Lazarus was dead, instead of hastening over to
come comfort the family, He was stopping everywhere to heal 'others'!

How unfeeling of Him!

But rather than sit and bemoan Jesus' seeming inconsiderate manner, she rushed out to welcome
Him over. Not even waiting at home for Him to come over was good enough. She suspended her
mourning to go out to meet Him.

Matthew 11:6

[6] And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in Me.

That truly is a large heart.

Here is this lesson in short form: - FREE OTHERS AND YOU WILL BE FREE.

She believed in the love of God for her.

Loving another doesn't stop them hurting you. But it sure helps cover a multitude of sins.

Mark 12:30

[30] And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all
thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

A major reason Martha held on to a firm believe in Jesus' good heart is that she believed He
loved her.

John 11:5

[5] Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.

There was no ambiguity about His heart of love. Hence, she knew that Love would settle this
matter in a way or the other.

Lesson here is:- Trust in the love of God for you. Even when it is in rebuke.

His commandments are not grievous.

WORK AT INTERNALISING TRUTHS

Another lesson is that, by all indication this woman speaks as she thinks it. Beautiful as this is, it
can have its down sides. She may not process matters deeply all at once.

Check out her discuss with Jesus.

John 11:21-27,39-40

[21] Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.

[22] But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.

[23] Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.

[24] Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.

[25] Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he
were dead, yet shall he live:
[26] And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

[27] She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which
should come into the world.

[39] Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him,
Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.

[40] Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see
the glory of God?

She was quick to agree and declare who the Lord is and what He is able to do.

But she had not internalized this truth. She knew Him, knew what He is capable of but the reality
was not one that was deep seated to the point of doubting the contrary rather than doubt God.

This is so real in our day of knowledge. We often mouth many truths that have not become
beliefs in us. When it comes time to apply the Word, our mind, the physical fact on ground just
blocks out the declaration.

Hence, Jesus again repeated what He had said to her. Not a new truth, He reiterated what He had
already told her.

READ CAREFULLY

Matthew 13:20-23

[20] But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and
anon with joy receiveth it;

[21] Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution
ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

[22] He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of
this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
[23] But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and
understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty,
some thirty.

Lesson from this in a few words:

That truth you heard needs to become flesh to produce 30, 60, and a 100 fold.

Labour to enter His rest of believing.

Psalms 62:11

[11] God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God.

Romans 10:17

[17] So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

She not only had a sense of responsibility. She also sought Him without imitating another.

We didn't hear of her following Jesus everywhere but she must have shown her devotion in her
own way. Served when He needed a place to stop over. Her sister washed His feet with her hair
and tears, she didn't concoct her own more extravagant expression to compete with Mary's.

2 Corinthians 10:12

[12] For we dare not make ourselves of the number or compare ourselves with some that
commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves
among themselves, are not wise.

Wow! That is true freedom.

THE CALL

We all are (from this life presented to us) invited to check our insides.

Have you truly believed what you said of God?

Do you truly believe "You are the healed of the Lord", "The Lord shall supply all your needs",
"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want?' Our actions in trying times show what we truly
believe. So, Brethren, you may want to say humbly like that father "Lord, I believe, help my
unbelief"!

Ask for grace to internalize truths such that when issues show up, you can say "I am not careful
to answer you, Oh ......., My God who I serve is able to deliver me...".

Are you offended?!

Well, so sorry for whatever happened, but your freedom is tied to your forgiveness. Make up
your mind to let the pain GO! Tell the hurt, it no longer has power over you. The healer is here to
reach that hurt.

Forgive in Jesus name.

Have you had a relationship with God where you choose what you bring to Him? Repent!

Take it all to the Lord in prayer.

The hymn below captures it well.

What a friend we have in Jesus

All our sins and griefs to bear

And what a privilege to carry

Everything to God in prayer

Oh, what peace we often forfeit

Oh, what needless pain we bear

All because we do not carry

Everything to God in prayer

Have we trials and temptations?

Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged

Take it to the Lord in prayer

Can we find a friend so faithful

Who will all our sorrows share?

Jesus knows our every weakness

Take it to the Lord in prayer

Is Jesus your friend?

If you are yet to make Jesus your friend.

Now is your day. Martha enjoyed a rich friendship.

So, can you.

QUIET MARY
Facilitated by Sis Taiwo Amole
POEM

AT HIS FEET (MARY OF BETHANY)

He spoke, the sound of his voice so deep.

Soothing, encouraging, healing, delivering.

Tender eyes, full of mercy.

He looked at me, oh! what peace filled my soul.

I am encapsulated, I am engulfed in his love, and transformed by his grace.

And so, I sit at his feet, drinking every word, losing myself that I may find the real me, I have become his
disciple.

His tears, his tears flowed, as he watched me cry, he cried with me, he mourned with me, for death had
come to steal my joy.

But then He said,

I am the resurrection! I am the life!

And proved it; he raised the dead back to life after 4 days.

And so I took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed His feet, and wiped them with my
hair.

The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume, and I worshipped him in surrender to a greater
love.

A greater mercy, a greater grace.

I will forever remain, at his feet.

Sis Chimromma Francis-Elelegu

MEET HER

Please read Matthew 26:6 - 13; Mark 14:3 – 9; Luke 10:38 – 42; John 11:1 – 12:11. The
account in John gives a full picture.

Mary had a sister (Martha) and a brother (Lazarus; yes, the one that was raised from the dead).
As siblings, they lived together in a town called Bethany and were friends of Jesus (imagine
that). They were not only friends of Jesus, but they demonstrated a 'different kind of love'
towards Jesus and Jesus loved them.

Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.

John 11:5 NIV.

In all the accounts of Mary that we read, we saw a quiet woman, likely single, loved her family
and loved Jesus. She was one person that gave all her 'attention' whenever Jesus was around
them. One time she forgot about food, drinks etc and stayed at the Master's feet to learn. She left
Martha to do all the chores, so much so that Martha complained. I had thought Mary was being
unfair too, but Jesus was invited to judge the matter and He said:

Luke 10:41 - 42 NIV.

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few
things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken
away from her.”

Mary chose only 'one thing'.

Her love for Jesus was deep. When Lazarus died, the Master knew before anyone. He arrived at
their home in Bethany and Martha ran to meet Him well before He arrived at their home. Mary
stayed at home. This act demonstrates a somewhat calm person, even in the face of deep sorrow.
It took Martha going back to call her that the Master had asked of her; then she got up and went
to Him.

Her discipline in staying 'put' is truly admirable in certain circumstances like learning at the
Master's feet, not very quick to run out.

She broke down crying when she saw the Master. At this point, the Master Himself started
crying (the love that cannot bear the pain of the other).

This same Mary started saving money, it was estimated as 'a year's wages', so much was the
value of the money; and what did she do with it? She didn't buy a new car, clothing etc; she
bought a very expensive bottle of perfume.

She didn't ask the Master to use it little by little because it was expensive, she was profuse, she
poured it ALL on Him and used her hair to wipe His feet.

Wow!! This expression of love was deep. You got to love what Jesus told all the 'Economists'
around; Mary was intentional, and her name would be engraved on GOLD anywhere the Gospel
is preached.

Mary knew many things that others didn't know about Jesus: how did she know it was more
important to just sit and listen to Him teach?

How did she know His death was around the corner?

Part of the conclusion as to how she may have known was her probably being an attentive and
deep-thinking listener. She listened well and thought deep. As she paid attention to the heart of
the matter, instructions came to her and lead her on a prophetic role she could play. Her sitting
there was not a 'show-womanship' or a way of avoiding house chores. She truly 'chose the best
part'.

Between good and God, she chose God.

Her result showed it was not taken away from her, for she foresaw what many were 'uninformed'
about.

She had inside information. She needed to do something special.

Christians must try to understand deeply the difference between good and God. It’s a major
challenge in the body of Christ and even the world at large. Now we understand better the rich
benefits of learning at the feet of the Master. Mary is truly a woman of great virtue, and
relationship plays a huge role in that difficulty of choosing between good and God.

Do you please your parents or God?

Should Mary assuage Martha's frustration or do what she knew was best at the time (or even for
Martha); be a good hostess or be an ardent listener who is hungry?

She chose well. Thank God.

In Mary we see a woman who understood that relationship with God comes before activities to
God. The balance which the Word and the Spirit will be our guide.

Mary knew Jesus and she loved Him. She expressed the love profusely.

The 'magnitude' of this Mary's act after all this is that, she wasn't one of the heavy talkers, she
seemed a home girl and definitely not in sync with the inner circle of the Pharisee.

Her brother's resurrection was still a bustling news.

Many had come to believe in Jesus. How wonderful!

John 11:45-47,49-52,57

[45] Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did,
believed on him.
Though some busy body recounted the whole gist to the Pharisees and why not? They are the
leaders really. But rather than be eased, they were incensed and afraid of the fall out this may
bring. They had a dilemma on their hands.

[46] But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees and told them what things Jesus had
done.

[47] Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, what do we? for this
man doeth many miracles.

At the end of their deliberation death was determined as the final bus stop. A conspiracy was
rolled out to see the end of this.

[49] And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye
know nothing at all,

[50] Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the
whole nation perish not.

[57] Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a commandment, that, if any man
knew where he was, he should shew it, that they might take him.

Mary didn't know this was happening backstage but she may have picked the right timing in the
spirit that the day of sorrow drew near. A man who could raise a 4-day old dead. He should have
power over death.

Her day to 'do' came. She had prepared, opportunity came. She did!

The beautiful thing is that this death brought us all in!

[51] And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus
should die for that nation;

[52] And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of
God that were scattered abroad.
UPLINE TOUCH

She was totally devoted to Jesus. Jesus had her full attention when He visited their home. Mary
was probably hungry and had pending house chores. But she chose the 'one thing'.

Luke 10:39 NIV

She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said.

Also, her gesture of pouring a very expensive perfume on Jesus was criticized by many and Jesus
responded:

Matthew 26:10 NIV

Aware of this, Jesus said to them, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful
thing to me.
She was sacrificial in her giving to God. Small or moderate was not ideal, she went for the 'best'.

Mark 14:3 NIV

While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came
with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and
poured the perfume on his head.

She was prophetic and knew things of the spirit. Spiritual things are borne of the spirit and
usually come from deep & consistent fellowship with God through His Holy Spirit. She probably
knew Jesus' death was close. She probably knew the timings of the spirit; that Jesus had a short
time left with them.

Mark 14:8 NIV

She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial.

Mary was not given to much words. If we compared how many times she talked with her sister,
she can be described as 'quiet'. We learn and hear more when we are 'still' or 'quiet'.

James 3:2 NIV

We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to
keep their whole body in check.

Father help us to be still and hear you speak to us even in the face of screaming distractions
SIDELINE CONNECTION

CONCERNING JESUS

Mary was rebuked when she poured the expensive perfume on Jesus' head. She didn't reply,
however. It took Jesus' rebuking those people on her behalf. She probably didn't take offense
easily. Another person would have faced all those who castigated her and given them a piece of
her mind. How often do we take offence when people judge us wrongly?

Her ignoring their comment brings this scripture to mind 'like a lamb before its shearers, He
answered not a word'. This lady was focused on her assignment, she did not pay attention to the
naysayers. For her, she was probably determined not to be bothered by slights, comments,
approvals or disapprovals. She was going to do all that was in her heart.

She did.

She wasn't even going to give explanations to those not concerned with it for the One who is on
the receiving end knows all things.

He did.
Mary's kind of love was also expressed in a nice way. When we love or want to give, what do we
give? Leftovers, tattered it clothing's, barely good anymore??? Her gift was worth a year's
earnings. That is a lot to give. She probably worked, saved and sacrificially bought a very good
perfume. What do we minister when we give?

CONCERNING HER FAMILY

Mary, her sister (Martha) and brother must have been very hospitable. That was one house that
Jesus used to visit. It was Martha who opened her home to Jesus, but we see a picture of a
relaxed Jesus in His fellowshipping with them all.

What is our relationship like with friends, neighbours etc?

Luke 10:38 - 39 NIV

As Jesus and His disciples were on their way, He came to a village where a woman named
Martha opened her home to Him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet
listening to what He said.

With her sister and family, they seem a close-knit family. Between them they shared the love of
Jesus as a family. Each member loved Him individually and all of them loved Him collectively.
As far as it was obvious, it wasn't a competitive love. It was both lavish and yet pure. A love
uninhibited and yet holy. As a family, they served together, were willing together and bond
together in fellowship with their source.

That is a height to attain for as a family unit. That all members of our home would have a
personal relationship with Jesus and we all can serve with one heart in truth. So that when we
each have a revelation of who He is, we can each stand in the day of trial and temptation. Each of
them, faced their issues and each had a revelation of Him.
PUNCHLINE

When we think about Mary, her sacrificial giving comes up in our hearts and Jesus mentioned it
that she'll continually be remembered.

Mark 14:9 NIV

Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will
also be told, in memory of her.”

She wrote her name on the sands of time because she gave sacrificially. I believe there is a type
of giving that touches God. The motive and heart behind our giving matters a lot. She gave from
her heart and there was 'no holding back'.

Be a sacrificial giver.

2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under
compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Be spiritually minded
Romans 8:5 - 8 KJV

For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit
the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life
and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of
God, neither indeed can be. So, then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

Emphasis is on verse 8. Mary was spiritually minded, so she was able to please God.

Love Him.

Some of us may say, but I love Him already.

John 14:23 KJV

Jesus answered and said unto him, if a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will
love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

There are many ways to demonstrate this love, I believe it can take root from the scripture above.
When we keep His commands, we are automatically filled with love for Him.

Prioritize what is really important.

Matthew 6:33 KJV.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added
unto you.

Be grounded in His love

Ephesians 1:6

[6] To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

Only one thing is needful, Mary chose that thing. Will you?
THE CALL

How much do we really love God? Let’s ask ourselves sincerely, how much of ourselves/ time/
energy/ love/ heart/ possessions are we willing to give Him? Do we give only because of what
we expect to get from Him?

Jesus summed up ALL the commandments as:

Mark 12:30 NIV.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and
with all your strength.’

Love God extravagantly!!!! Look for an opportunity to love God today and always!!!

How busy are you? Are you 'still' enough to hear Him? The Holy Spirit is always speaking. He
wants to reveal things to us.

Jeremiah 33:3

Call to me, and I will answer you, and will show you great and difficult things, which you don’t
know.’
Let us have simple and teachable hearts.

Truly from the life of Mary, we can deduce that God wants a personal walk with each of us.
Your husband may have a vibrant walk, that's awesome. You both could have a vital connection
to God, that is great. Yet, you as an individual must spend time with God alone as well.

Cultivate intimacy with Him on a personal level and listen to hear what He would say to you.

You have a commitment to unite your family in the fellowship and service of Jehovah. Mary,
Martha and Lazarus were each loved by Jesus and He loved them all collectively. Yet, each had
a personal dealing with Him, each had different expressions of love for Him, each had different
depths in their walk with Him.

Here is the question:

Is your walk the general one? Or have you made a commitment to have a vital walk for yourself
with Him?

This would require time, sacrifice, persistence and concentration.

We receive grace to develop our intimacy with Him one on one!

SISTER SALOME
Facilitated by Sisters Sarah Agha, Chimromma Francis-Elelegu and Arit Abolade.

POEM

My sons....

How they delight my soul

What wouldn't I do for them?

Then they left

Forsaking all just to follow Him

What sort of Man is this?

In seeking to know Him I went close

His words....

Oh! They pierce the heart and ignite the bones

All seems possible with Him

He even speaks of an eternal kingdom

My sons....

Totally sold out to Him

Giving up all just to follow

Too forward you may presume but boldly I asked

The unspoken thought on everyone's heart

That my sons sit with Him on heaven's throne

On His right and left

But God's ways are not ours

Surely He rewards but far beyond human logic

In following I must recklessly abandon all

For in losing everything I find the very best

Sis Ene Bolanta

MEET HER

There is a bit of supposition as to her name but on the premise of two scriptures, it is very
probable that her name is Salome.

Here are the scriptures that back up the supposition about her name.

Mark 15:40

[40] There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary
the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;

And

Matthew 27:56

[56] Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the
mother of Zebedee's children.

Since this occurrence in scripture is about the same event, it can be agreed that the mother of
Zebedee's children is Salome.

So, we meet Sister Salome. Salome means Peace.

Her sons are well known especially the famous John. Who calls himself the disciple that Jesus
loved. Well, Jesus at the start of His ministry recruited followers in a way that isn't the norm. He
found some of them at their offices and a few were recommended by those already brought in.
But for James and John, He called them away from their father's business place. Two young men
who are business associates with their father left home one morning and by evening or whatever
time of day when their father came back, he was alone!

The only explanation to a mother was that her sons have followed a Man who seemed not to
have a roof over His head. She may have heard rumours of this man from Galilee who performs
miracles. He was rumoured to have left a thriving family carpentry business to start preaching
the kingdom.

But why doesn't He have a house? Would her sons now be sleeping under the bare moon? They
sure would. Who is this man they followed? Would they have a change of mind and come back
home? Is there hope of them joining him from home? What kind of abrupt recruitment was this?

At the end of all this 'follow, me', what would be the reward?

She has just 'lost' two strapping sons. She must have wondered about grandkids, the future of her
children, the end of their sacrifice. We were not told how this situation was handled when
Zebedee arrived home. But as parents, we naturally tend to hope for a good job, a profitable
venture and a good end for our children. In one day, two of her sons left home!!! Imagine the
emotional turmoil.

Eventually, she became a follower of Jesus. Was it by conviction, or was it to be close to her
kids? Was it a way to secure and ensure the future of her children or was it a heart longing for
God?

We trust God to help us see into the heart of this woman, a mother and a follower.

But just for something to chew on, she made bold to ask for a chunky profit for her children.

In a group of 12 close men, she was bold to ask that her sons be preferred!

Matthew 20:21

[21] And He said unto her, what wilt thou? She saith unto Him, Grant that these my two sons
may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom.

Was she being selfish? Maybe, but was it wrong? Imagine you have access to Jesus, won't you
want as least, to get Him to help your children? Haven't we all prayed that our children are the
head and not the tail? We often declare that our children are better than their equals.

How does this compute? The distinct thing about Salome isn't the fact that she made a request. It
was the kind of request. The women we have studied in the last few weeks have shown a certain
level of wisdom in the fact that they knew what they wanted and were focused on that.

Many preachers label Mrs. Zebedee a selfish woman.

Imagine us as mothers being given an opportunity to have a minute with Jesus. What would our
request be? Surely, money would be part of it. We want our children to grow to be successful, be
married to wonderful partners, have great jobs, and not die before their time.

But this woman, even with the understanding of all her sons needed at that time, asked only one
thing - that which is of eternal value. It speaks volume of her person/personality.

In business school, students are taught to master an excellent one minute elevator pitch as we
target every opportunity to speak with possible investors. If you met someone who can change
your life and business and all you had was just one minute with him/her in an elevator, what
would you say?

Same thing applies here: We actually hope for such opportunities. It is a desire in our heart: A
chance to pitch our heart desire. The beautiful thing about Salome was that she had a short, clear
and focused answer to give.

And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering
unto him:

Matthew 27:55 KJV

In the time of Salome there were many women, all with different needs, always around Jesus.
Serving, desiring, all seeking one minute alone with Him. Many would have asked for wealth,
healing, a better marriage, as they saw first-hand the miracles that Jesus did. All these are
needful. Very important, but like Mary who focused on the most important, I think Salome
sought the most important of the Lord.

What Salome did is not too different from what we do when we pray, though hers is just so
different because her prayer point was publicized. What she did was a prayer. Long and short of
it: during our prayer times, what do we ask on behalf of our children? Amazingly, eternity with
the Lord is not a prayer point that many focus on today.

Lord, give me a place with You at the end of all of this. Make room for me in your kingdom.
Don't let me live for You on earth and perish in hell, help me to be right with You when it is
my time to go home.

How many Christian women are praying this for themselves and their families. Okay, yes we do
pray, but how often is it a point of prayer for us? Is it an essential? There was a price to pay for
what Salome demanded for her sons but from their testimony in the Bible did Jesus honour her
request? Jesus didn't give her a direct answer, He asked the recipients if they were ready to drink
of the cup he was to take.
Matthew 20:20 - 23 KJV

Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring
a certain thing of him. And he said unto her, what wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that
these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom.
But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I
shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him,
We are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the
baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give,
but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.

The picture played out in the passage is that she came to Jesus with her sons. Imagine what
conversations they had before they went on this mission. What things the mother would have
discussed with her sons. "Here is the Messiah, this is an opportunity for me as your mother to
request a better life and future for you. Don't just go around with him, let us seek a beautiful end,
a glorious end to this commitment of yours to Him. I will plead with the Master on your behalf".

Are we teaching our children to pledge to make sacrifices to serve the Lord? Are we seeking
wealth, prosperity, life partner, fruit of the womb for them?
UPLINE TOUCH

Indeed, without doubt Salome had a relationship with the Lord. This relationship went beyond
just having two of her sons as disciples for Jesus but the bible clearly records Salome as a
devoted/committed/loyal/believing woman.

A Follower:

Matthew 27:12, 55 - 56 KJV

And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. And many
women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother
of Zebedee's children.

Even till his death, Salome amongst other devote women followed Jesus. This was clearly
because she believed him to be the Messiah. It wasn't just alright for her to have her sons as His
disciples. She wanted to have a personal relationship with the Lord too. Alongside other women
who, like her, believed in the truths that the Lord taught, she followed Him and ministered to
Him.

This reminds one of the song from Sunday school;

"Follow, follow,

I will follow Jesus

Anywhere, everywhere,

I will follow on.

Follow, follow,

I will follow Jesus

Anywhere He leads me,

I will follow on."

Do you recognize where the Lord is leading? Are you delightfully following Him?
She Ministered:

It is easy to believe she was following Him to know what the fate of her two grown up sons, who
had abandoned their father's business to follow after the Messiah, would be. It is easy to say she
followed out of curiosity. But the bible says they followed Him and ministered to Him. So, she
didn't follow just for what she could get, but what she was also willing to give.

Following for Salome also meant serving (ministering). What needs Jesus had at the time were
easily met as women like Salome had sacrificed their time to serve, to minister. I am reminded
of Paul's constant appreciation for women like Salome during his own ministry understanding
what commitment and sacrifices they made to ensure their welfare was taken care of.

Believer:

You have to believe God enough to know He is indeed preparing a place for all who diligently
serve Him. Salome believed. Not just in the benefits of the present but also in the promise of
eternal life. For her, the relationship meant more than the miracles and the meals (or leftovers). It
was a relationship with an eternal reward in focus. Bearing this in mind she humbly requested a
place for her sons.

Hebrews 11:6 KJV

But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He
is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.

Devote and Loyal:

In the face of adversity, one easily recognizes their true friends. Those who are willing to stand
by you, hold your hand, go through the fire with you. This was the kind of devotion Salome had.
When the dangers that surrounded Jesus' crucifixion were there, she didn't cower, she stood by.
Afraid as they were as His followers of what the Roman soldiers would do, she didn't stay back
at home. She had followed Jesus alongside others all the way from Galilee, ministering to Him.
They tried to share the bit they could of His suffering; They ensured He didn't go through it
alone. Standing by with broken hearts to see how their Lord was crucified.

Loving:

Truth is, one cannot truly possess these qualities in their relationship with Christ if they do not
sincerely have fallen in love with Him. Salome loved the Lord and it didn't matter to her that her
two grown sons had abandoned whatever life society expected such grown men to live, to follow
after a homeless Messiah. She followed too, and willingly to the end.

Prayerful:
She prayed to Jesus, requesting for her sons one of the greatest desires any human can have. A
place in God's kingdom. This woman walked with great wisdom, she knew how to approach the
Lord, she knew what to ask. She didn't waste that opportunity; she didn't waste the chance to ask
for what was obviously most important. She knew better than to just follow, she knew to ask
(pray), an opportunity many must have missed.

Matthew 21:22 KJV

And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

Matthew 6:33 KJV

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added
unto you.

Today, we study the depth of Salome's relationship with the Lord. Does it caution us to check
what our own relationship with the Lord is like? Does it bother us today that we are chasing
more after what we can receive more than what we can give? And even that which we desire to
receive, are all that will perish with time.

As mothers, our children are given to us as gifst and we have the privilege of leading another in a
way of life.

Proverbs 22:6

[6] Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

This injunction is to parents. Meaning, parents need to come to a place of knowing the way the
child should go! What a herculean task! It is made simple though, by asking the Giver of the
child what way that child ought to go. It means that, although we have our desires, which bother
on our children turning out right, doing well, staying healthy, making Jesus their Lord and
Master and making heaven.

But before they get to heaven, they have to pass through this life. What their roles are in their
lifetime, how they carry it out has a lot to do with training. James and John took a chance in
leaving the family nest and following after another man without calling for a family meeting
before the deed was done.
Salome watched their progress, watched their association, listened to their exploits and
eventually became a follower herself. There comes a point where you trust your children to the
God who made, called and fashioned them.

So, then, your leadership of them is praying that at this stage of accountability they make the
right choice - the choice that would secure them a place with God.

Jesus' question was directed at James and John, not at the woman who petitioned Him. Why?
They had come to a time in their lives where the price is theirs to pay. Their choices are the
determinant factor.

We have such an account in the Bible:

John 9:17 - 21 KJV

They say unto the blind man again, what sayest thou of Him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He
said, He is a prophet. But the Jews did not believe concerning Him, that he had been blind, and
received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight. And they
asked them, saying, is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see? His
parents answered them and said, we know that this is our son, and that he was born blind: But
by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of
age; ask him: he shall speak for himself.

So, as we connect to God concerning our children, pray all-round as well as ask for direction in
training them in the way they should go. That way, you have done your part, when they are old
(the age of accountability) they won't depart from it.

Many times, women can get overzealous in their love and complicate things in the name of
helping. Yes, she obviously had their best interest at heart, but spiritual things are always
spiritually discerned. We can in our care want to shield them from even going through the
processes that would help them become matured. God who loved us to the point of sending His
own son to die, doesn't shield us from the necessary discipline and process of pummeling that
would bring us to a place of true growth. Our senses become exercised by reason of use.

Hebrews 5:14

[14] But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use
have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

If we err, He disciplines!
Hebrews 12:11

[11] Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless,
afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

There has to be a casting of one's cares. There has to be a trusting. Part of the training we owe
our children, is teaching them to listen to the Holy Spirit for guidance.

Reading through the Bible's account of this woman we can infer that she grew in her knowledge
and understanding of the person of Christ. If not, why would she be at his graveside if all she
wanted was what she could get from Him?

Salome's life encourages us to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and be willing to change our
concepts and ideas of God to the truth of who He really is. Because knowledge is progressive,
we must be ready to relearn and unlearn under God's loving hands.

Matthew 20:20-22 (TPT)

The Ambition of Jacob and John The wife of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons, Jacob
and John. She knelt before him and asked him for a favor. He said to her, “What is it that you
want?” She answered, “Make the decree that these, my sons, will rule with you in your
kingdom—one sitting on your right hand, one on your left.” Jesus replied, “You don’t know what
you are asking.” Then, looking in the eyes of Jacob and John, Jesus said, “Are you prepared to
drink from the cup of suffering that I am about to drink? And are you able to endure the baptism
into death that I am about to endure?” They answered him, “Yes, we are able.”
SIDELINE CONNECTIONS

Mother of the Sons of Thunder!!!

Matthew 4:21 - 22 NRSV-CI

As He went from there, He saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John,
in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and He called them. Immediately they
left the boat and their father and followed Him.

Mark 3:14, 17 NRSV-CI

And He appointed twelve, whom He also named apostles, to be with Him, and to be sent out to
proclaim the message. James son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom He gave
the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder);

Let's use our imagination. What could have been on the mind of Salome, when Mr. Zebedee
came home to say, your sons left me and followed the man whom John the Baptist proclaimed
was the Messiah?

She must have wondered; what exactly did Jesus tell her sons that made them abandon their
father, their source of livelihood, inheritance and family just to follow Him? Had she failed as a
Jewish Mother? It’s imaginable that these were the questions that led her to go see for herself,
who this Jesus was.

She knew her children's tendencies.... (They once asked Jesus if they could call fire from heaven
to consume a town that rejected him, and Jesus rebuked them.... it must have started from
home!!!). She therefore was not surprised when she must have heard Jesus called them sons of
thunder as nicknames.

Then, in the course of her listening, one day, Jesus said;

Matthew 19:28 - 30 NLT

......“I assure you that when the world is made new and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious
throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes
of Israel. And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or
children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit
eternal life. But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who
seem least important now will be the greatest then.

That was it!!! Her boys met these criteria. They left everything for Jesus. They will seat on
twelve thrones and judge the tribes of Israel!! One would think that this motivated her
approaching Jesus to say;

Matthew 20:20 - 21 NLT

Then the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus with her sons. She knelt
respectfully to ask a favor. “What is your request?” he asked. She replied, “In your Kingdom,
please let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your
left.”

However, she didn't just ask for them to get into heaven...she asked for
POWER/AUTHORITY/SUPERIORITY over others......(this is the reason why people refer to
her as selfish). She did not know, that by so doing, she was determining the fate of her sons - to
drink of the cup of Jesus sufferings, His passion and death:

Matthew 26:39 NLT

He (Jesus)went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If
it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not
mine.”

Was her demand out of place? Was she being ambitious?

This whole episode was a clearer revelation, a determining factor in her life and ministry. The
spirit of servanthood (ministry)

Let's see the rest of the story.

Matthew 20:24 - 28 NLT

When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant. But
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world Lord it over their
people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be
different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to
be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but
to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

And from then on, this woman became a follower of Jesus, she became one of the women who
cared for and ministered to his needs.
Mark 15:40 - 41 NLT

Some women were there, watching from a distance, including Mary Magdalene, Mary (the
mother of James the younger and of Joseph), and Salome. They had been followers of Jesus and
had cared for him while he was in Galilee. Many other women who had come with him to
Jerusalem were also there.

She discovered the true meaning of ministry; not to be served, but to serve. She unlearnt and
relearned her ways...This realization did not end with her; her sons too became true leaders
through servanthood.

Are you a woman leader in church? What ministry do you serve? Do you desire leadership for
leadership sake or to serve? How do you handle your leadership role in church or in the secular
world?

Her husband

We weren't told about Mr Zebedee after the day the young men upped and followed Jesus. If he
was still alive, she must have had a relationship with him that made him allow her to have the
time to follow Jesus.

To the other disciples

We truly can infer that her sons instigated this request by their mum which found a fertile ground
in her heart because she must have wondered what was in this 'following' for them or it may have
been her concern for their eternal future. The inference is from verse 24 (NLT).... The other
disciples heard what James and John had asked. So, on her side, it seemed inconsiderate of the
feelings of others to ask this so publicly. Such a request would instigate jealousy.

Let us see how the TPT translation puts it:

24 The other ten disciples were listening to all of this, and a jealous anger arose among them
against the two brothers.

She was asking the Master for favouritism in an office where the leader is striving to work with
all of them at their own pace. Jesus already have these two brothers as part of the three He often
selects for heavy matters. But she or they wanted more!

Wanting more is not wrong in itself but how do you go about getting the more? Do you care-less
who is hurt for your ambition? Do you by your wanting more open the door to strife?
We thank God for Jesus' immediate right-handling of the matter. True, what He said is how the
kingdom works. It also served as a good damage control measure. He proved what ‘servant
leadership’ was much later to them all. He also showed the pain associated with drinking the cup.

When God asks questions, it is often so we can look into our hearts. For these two, this question
is saying 'count the cost'.

22 Jesus replied, “You don’t know what you are asking.” Then, looking in the eyes of Jacob and
John, Jesus said, “Are you prepared to drink from the cup of suffering that I am about to drink?
And are you able to endure the baptism into death that I am about to endure?”

“Mama”, the mother, was there to hear this answer. The answer He gave to his own question was
saying 'realign your priority'.

27 because the greatest honor and authority is reserved for the one with the heart of a servant.

“Mama” heard this too, as did all the disciples.

With Jesus

Her relationship with Jesus went through a metamorphosis of sorts. From the time she must have
got wind of Him, to Him calling her sons away and then until his death, burial and ascension.

Growth must have happened. For there was a warning about the future (of her sons) even at this
meeting.

23 “You will indeed drink the cup of my suffering and be immersed into my death,”

But she still followed on, and together with other women, ministered to him.

She kept a relationship with other female followers. She was a serving church woman who had
no problem serving with other worshippers. They shared the testimony times and the mourning
times together. She was there in the good and bad times. She probably had a healthy horizontal
relationship.

PUNCHLINE

Indeed, there's so much to learn from the life of Salome. It's indeed amazing how such great
lessons can be harvested from the life's testimony of people who were not key players in the
bible but their extraordinary life and the little that is mentioned of them makes such impact in
transforming lives.
It only goes to say, it's not about being in the big league, being well known, having a big name
and position in the church. Even in your own little corner, what life are you living? What service
are you willing to give? What sacrifices are you making for the sake of the kingdom and to
partake of the eternal reward?

From Mrs. Zebedee, we can fish out the following lessons:

Learn to cast the cares about life and your children on Jesus. What we have been called to do is
TRUST AND OBEY. He is a loving God; He is rich in mercy.

Ephesians 2:4

[4] But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

Ephesians 2:8-9

[8] For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

[9] Not of works, lest any man should boast.

He called us by name and He supplies the grace to do. As touching our children, we must do the
training/guiding/leading part and cast our cares.

The call of the kingdom is a full package. Salvation covers for our redemption, healing,
prosperity and life here and beyond. It is free and available for us all. We should lay claim to
them all. Yet, we must focus on what matters most in our prayers for ourselves and our loved
ones (The kingdom).

Matthew 6:33

[33] But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be
added unto you.

In settling kingdom matters, ALL OTHER THINGS come to us as fringe benefits. They are
already coded in our kingdom pursuit. That does streamline the prayers.

True ministry is to serve and not to be served. Service is the call of ministry. Find your place and
put in the sickle. Acclaim, recognition must cease to be our motivation. Rather, to be a vessel
meet for the Master's use.

Ephesians 2:10
[10] For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath
before ordained that we should walk in them.

2 Timothy 2:21

[21] If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified,
and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

Do not be afraid to bare your heart before the Master, He'd point you in the right direction.

Psalms 139:23

[23] Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

In seeking things, let this heart be in us

Romans 12:10

[10] Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

Jesus showed us a better way to work in a team. He pointed it out to Salome and to all His
disciples.

1 Timothy 5:21

[21]I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe
these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.

We should grow in our relationship with God. There is surely an entry point but grow up from
there.

1 Peter 2:2

[2] As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby.

Salome's life encourages us to be sensitive to the Holy spirit and be willing to change our
concepts and ideas of God to the truth of who He really is because knowledge is progressive, we
must be ready to relearn and unlearn under God's loving hands.
THE CALL

We already have a word from the Lord about our seed. Mrs. Zebedee was worried about the
future of her children. Their position, and security in their new occupation, as apostles of Jesus.
We are not unlike her. We worry about our children's future, security; make all efforts (good
schools, best teachers, Sunday school, children church activities participation etc) to ensure they
make it all round in life.

- Concerning their walk with God

Isaiah 54:13

[13] And ALL thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and GREAT shall be the PEACE of thy
children. (emphasis ours)

Peace covers security, future, hope of our children.

- Concerning them doing well.

Isaiah 61:9

[9] And their seed shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people: all
that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the seed which the LORD hath blessed.

Lord, help us to trust You completely. Pray the above scriptures along with others for your
children. Raise faith-filled prayers; fear has torment and is not of God. We must come to a place
of rest (concerning our children and in our walk with God). What does a place of rest mean for a
believer?

Hebrews 4:1-3

[1] Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should
seem to come short of it.

[2] For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not
profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.

[3] For we which have believed do enter into rest, as He said, As I have sworn in My wrath, if
they shall enter into My rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.

This chapter here, is where we find the phrase "enter into rest". From verse 3, it is those who
have believed that enter into rest.

Believe what? Verse 1 says it, 'a promise left us'....

So, we have a promise that has been left for us. Let's not come short of it. Fear of that promise
failing is a sure sign of unbelief. It was a door opener in the case of Job. He constantly went
about 'fearing' his children would do wrong, sin against God, and make wrong choices. He was
doing the right thing but in fear.

Fear is not a tool in God's hand. Faith is!

Philippians 4:6
[6] Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let
your requests be made known unto God.

The Passions translation renders this as:

6 Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer

throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude.
Tell him every detail of your life,

Truly, being faith-filled is the key here. God responds to our confident belief that His word
would come through.

The Message translation says:

6-7Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries
into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness,
everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what
happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

From this we can deduce a few attitudes that come from being faith-filled:

Giving of praise.

A confident knowing.

Trust.

TPT

7 then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make the answers
known to you through Jesus Christ.

This is coming into rest; The rest of believing.

Also, in praying:

Ask for a place you can serve selflessly. Ask for grace to have the right heart concerning your
call in the ministry you are already. The heart to serve!
POOR WIDOW
WITH TWO COINS
Facilitated by Sis Uloma Bekolo

POEM

In search of recognition they came

Dragging in their money bags

All they really wanted was to be seen

Giving the best of gifts

When in truth their gifts scarcely dented what they had

Then up she came

Her love and gratitude obvious as she gave

Little she may seem to offer

But in the midst of her need she gave her all

Her two mites by far outweighs all their billions

By Sis Ene Bolanta

PERSONAL EXPERIENCES

In the early days of my marriage we didn't always have enough. We had responsibilities of
running a ministry and our personal needs and often giving outside of that wasn't always easy.
Our income then could hardly cover our regular expenditure.

There is a family thanksgiving that is done annually in my church and for certain reasons the
amount each family contributes is published in an annual church report. I know for about two
years I refused to attend service on the thanksgiving-day because I felt it would be shameful that
whatever we gave would be so little when published amongst the many other big contributions in
church. But it would have been our all, and our best then.

It took some time of maturity to grow past this mindset for me (I remember my husband had to
talk to me about it, reminding me God was more pleased in the fact that we had willingly given
ourselves to His service). The next year he insisted we give anonymously if that would make me
feel comfortable. But after a while, I grew past that. I grew spiritually to the level of
understanding that we were not giving to man but to God and it really did not matter who would
see as long as God saw our hearts and accepted our gifts. Now I wonder how many other people
in church had the same challenge as I did? This woman's action speaks volumes to us.

Sis A

MEET HER
This story is presented in the Gospels of Mark 12:41-44 and Luke 21:1-4 where Jesus was
teaching at the temple in Jerusalem.

It centers on an unnamed woman. The Bible only records that she was a widow and that she was
also poor. We are not told if she had children or not. Nothing was said about her vocation.

Background Story

The Passion's translation

Mark 12:38-44

38 Jesus also taught the people, “Beware of the religious scholars. They love to parade around
in their clergy robes and be greeted with respect on the street. 39 They crave to be made the
leaders of synagogue councils, and they push their way to the head table at banquets. 40 For
appearance’s sake, they will pray long religious prayers at the homes of widows for an offering,
cheating them out of their very livelihood. Beware of them all, for they will one day be stripped
of honor, and the judgment they receive will be severe.”

The Widow’s Offering

41 Then he sat down near the offering box, watching all the people dropping in their coins.
Many of the rich would put in very large sums, 42 but a destitute widow walked up and dropped
in two small copper coins, worth less than a penny. 43 Jesus called his disciples to gather
around and then said to them, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given a larger offering
than any of the wealthy. 44 For the rich only gave out of their surplus, but she sacrificed out of
her poverty and gave to God all that she had to live on, which was everything she had.”

She would have gone unnoticed except for Jesus, who saw into the quality and attitude of her
giving. Her status and her heart were bare before Him. He knew this was a sacrificial giving,
acknowledging God as her source in faith.

Now we need to ask ourselves:

What do I have in my hands?

What are my own two mites?

Do I consider it worth giving to the Lord?

Let's take it closer home.

When we give of our time, resources, energy, talent, etcetera, either at home, at work, in our
local assembly or anywhere at all, do we give our all? Do we give our best? When we have given
our all and our best, do we feel unnoticed or unappreciated by men? Do we crave to be
acknowledged or celebrated for all we do?

This widow must have walked away that day feeling like the worst giver, as though her giving
amounted to nothing. Little did she realize that her giving drew heaven's attention. How could
she have known that her giving would be penned down in God's Holy Word to speak to
generations until Jesus returns? If only she knew, she wouldn't have left the treasury with her
heads bowed down.

The story of this poor widow should encourage us to know that the way Jesus sat at the treasury
watching every giver, so also is God and Jesus seated presently in heaven watching over our
performance. He reckons with us and our involvement in expanding His Kingdom. So, we must
not look down on ourselves and conclude that our giving is of no good to the Master.

One should truly consider what Jesus in the gospels said with regards to giving. He said, "And
the Lord who sees you in secret will reward you openly".

As we begin this study, let us keep in mind that our focus while giving our best should be to
attract heaven's attention as the poor widow did.

This poor widow's offering was noticed by Jesus for this singular reason: she gave her all, her
best, her everything. What a sacrifice!!! This is faith in action. She didn't think of the next
moment, what she would eat... But she gave it all. This is a big challenge. How often do we give
our all? How often do we give our best? How often do we give our everything for the Master's
use? It might not necessarily be money. It could be our time, talent, treasure, service... and so on;
any value-adding activity.

UPLINE TOUCH

Let us examine the life of the poor widow who gave her last penny.

Who exactly did she give to? The Pharisees, or Teachers of the Law? Though she dropped her
offering in the bowl at the Temple in Jerusalem, we know that it was given into God's Kingdom.

What then can we say about her relationship with God that motivated her to give her all? Did she
have faith in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob?

The Bible records that she was not just a widow, but she was also poor. We all know that the
natural tendency of a poor widow is to keep the little she has to feed on. After all, God would
understand her plight. But this particular widow was different. Let's take a moment to think
about her life "behind the scene" after she lost her husband - the tears, the fears, the lonely
moments, days without food to eat, days of being neglected, days and nights of weeping and
hoping her nightmares would end.
But through it all, she must have remembered that God had a special place in His heart for the
widows, orphans, fatherless, etc. She must have recalled to her mind what had been written
concerning widows:

Jeremiah 49:11, "Leave your fatherless children, I will keep them alive, and LET YOUR
WIDOWS TRUST IN ME".

This was God speaking through Prophet Jeremiah.

So, our dear poor widow through her heart wrenching experiences must have come to a place of
total abandonment. She must have surrendered her life to God completely. She must have told
herself that God is the husband of the widow. She must have believed that God would care for
her better than she could care for herself. She actually had no one else to rely on - ONLY GOD.

Talking about giving her all and her best, could it be that the life and example of Abraham
encouraged her to give? Every Jew must have heard about Abraham and how he offered up his
only son (child of promise) judging that God was faithful to raise him back to life. This poor
widow may have believed that God will never leave her, God will never forsake her. She may
have hoped against hope. If He faithfully provided for Abraham, then He would provide for her.
She had an absolute unwavering faith in Jehovah Jireh.

Now, let us look closely to our own lives. We all believe in God don't we? But when we are
faced with situations, where do we place our hope? Do we turn to God, "our present help in
times of trouble" or do we go down to Egypt for help?

The poor widow gave to the one whom she believed in. Her giving must have touched the heart
of God.

No wonder Jesus commended her. She gave her all just the same way Jesus gave His all.

David said, "I will lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come from? My help
comes from the Lord who made the heavens and the earth". May our trust be in the One Who is
ABLE to: save, heal, deliver, provide, make ways, protect, and lift up. He (God) is ABLE.

It is expected that the widows be remembered, but how often are they remembered. She, by
giving her all, showed she was willing to face the consequences. It was not a grudging giving for
this commendation. She felt privileged to have something to give to the Lord. Maybe in
gratitude, but, gratitude for what? It makes one pause to wonder: what can this woman have to be
grateful for? She was a widow, a dismal situation. She was poor, sad end of the stick.

One cannot demonstrate an attitude of gratitude if the focus is on self. This widow deliberately
took her focus away from her condition and directed it to a higher cause - "giving".
The real work we are required to focus on in our walk with God is to pay attention to our heart
which is at the center of everything we do. God looks beyond our acts and words but much
deeper into our hearts.

Or was it out of love for God? Why would she have such great love for God? She is poor and a
widow!

Or was it just giving? If so, why give your all, in a commendable way, at that?

What heart should we have in giving? This still emphasizes on the actions of nameless
individuals and the named ones who weren't so prominent in scripture, but their deeds had great
impact. This widow’s story is really challenging. Scripture does not identify her by name but by
two things, she was a widow (meaning she had no physical primary support) and she was poor.
Yet she gave her all.

What's our excuse in giving? This woman would have had many. So many reasons she shouldn't
give, yet she gave. Her identity didn't matter to Jesus. Her heart and act did. All my accolades are
indeed worth nothing before the Lord; without the right heart and act, I obviously cannot get His
attention.

This gives one reason at this time to think, what is my all? How can I give my all like this
widow?
SIDELINE CONNECTION
We just looked into her relationship with God and we saw that she valued God enough to give
her all to him.

What about the people around her? Did she measure value to human beings as well?

1 John 4:20 says

If you claim to love God and not love your brother, you are a liar. If you do not love your
brethren whom you have seen, how can you love God whom you have not seen?"

We all know that loving people is not only about giving, though it's one of the highest
expressions of love.

1 Cor 13:3-8 says if I give... but have not love, I am nothing.

Looking closely at this story, we see that not much was said about this poor widow and the
relationships around her. There was no mention of her having children, relatives or friends.

But as Jesus sat opposite the Temple Treasury,

Mark 12:42 says, "Then one poor widow came...

". Where did she come from?

She came to the temple, to the house of God where there were other worshippers.
In spite of her condition, she did not isolate herself or wallow in self-pity. Rather she stepped out
of her comfort zone to be in the temple with people. She demonstrated her value for God and for
the people of God. Her presence at the temple mattered a lot. Her life must have challenged a
few people without her knowing. She went to God's presence and cheerfully gave her all, many
times a lot of people feel that when God blesses them with abundance then they will have
enough to give, but this widow showed us that even the things we regard as little was given to us
by God and out of our love for Him we can give.

Where is the best place to cultivate meaningful and godly relationships? I believe the assembly
of God's people is the best place - to reach out to one another, to strengthen and be strengthened,
to comfort and receive comfort, to love and be loved, etc. After Jesus left the scene, Paul
admonished believers not to forsake or neglect the assembly of the brethren. This poor widow
lived out this scripture long before Paul taught the church on this topic.

Now, we need to ask ourselves:

What value do we place where bonding with fellow believers is concerned?

Are we cultivating meaningful relationships with like-minded people?

May God help us make the necessary adjustments in Jesus name, Amen!

She wasn't into comparing herself with others.

She had her peculiar problem, but she didn't let it separate her from meeting with others, giving
when they gave, walking to where they went. One can get intimidated by the fat envelops of
others and just kuku keep your slim pennies.

She didn't allow such analogy to stop her. Comparison stifles one. She rejoiced in what she had
to give and not mourn over what she didn't have. She didn't push aside her giving until she had
some more; she gave even from her lack. In not waiting until the big leagues finished giving, she
had value for what she was giving as well. She didn't quietly hide it somewhere until the bowls
were removed so no one would see her but put it out there as is expected. She didn't wait to see if
other widows are giving. Neither did she assume others should understand if she doesn't give.

It seemed others watched givers; she wasn't feeling humiliated by being watched.

In some church settings, there is so much of class distinction that many people who fall into a
certain class like this widow are intimidated to give (whether their service or their money). They
constantly feel undervalued and you often sense it in their statements.

They believe the church is better managed by the rich: they should give the money; they are the
ones educated enough to be in groups and positions of service. Most times the church is at fault
also, as it has given preferential treatment to the affluent and well educated.
They are the ones being selected to lead or head. It is assumed not much value can come from
those in the lower class. You would have to have a title like Doctor, Engineer, Chief, and so on,
to hold certain positions or belong to certain groups. I've seen this discourage so many (who
allow themselves to be discouraged or valued by their status).

The church in the time of this widow wasn't any different. There were the Sanhedrin and others,
those who by virtue of wealth or education were elders in the church. James perceived this when
he wrote:

James 2:1 - 4 KJV

My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of
persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and
there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay
clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there,
or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of
evil thoughts?

But this widow did not allow all that intimidation stop her. She knew who she was giving to. It
didn't matter if her gift was not to be valued by man; it was her all and she was more than willing
to give it to God. She held herself in high esteem and went on amidst the crowd of different
status and gave her best.

She focused her heart on the Giver of all things.

As believers though, what we can do is help these people that are looked down on: be their
friends; help them know they matter; be genuinely concerned about them and we can be their
sideline connections. Whenever people feel loved they are free to be and give their best (this is
not to say it is right to wait for validation from people to love God, anyway; but knowing how
things can be, we can help someone else's process).

This woman here demonstrated a freedom from the lures, the clutches of the love of money.

Parting with money is such a great sacrifice. Money has the tendency to stir our emotions, our
affections and even our allegiance. Money has determined moods; it has defined class and
conferred status on people. This woman freed herself and by her act spoke volume of where her
allegiance was. Ordinarily, money was the answer to her need for food, clothes or housing. Her
being 'poor' is not poor in the spirit alone type. It was the ‘poor’ of lacking physical, basic
amenities. She ‘told’ money by her act, “You are not my lord”.
QUESTION TO PONDER

How does our value of ourselves affect our giving?

Do we often measure our gifts against that of others around us?

How did she lay hold on an inner strength to overcome intimidation?

This tells us straight away that you may not be able to control people's attitudes towards you, but
the responsibility lies on you to not let it affect you.

PUNCHLINE

That very day, this poor widow left her house ("as her manner was") and went to the temple.
That was not her first day of going to the temple or the first time she dropped an offering in the
bowl. For her, it was like any other day of service. She came prepared and acted the way she
always did.

She probably had been coming day after day, year after year, unnoticed by anyone. But unknown
to her that was the day heaven chose to observe her good deed. How could she have known that
her little, simple act of dropping two mites would be written down in the Bible for generations
coming to read?

What if she got discouraged as a result of her condition and chose to sit back at home? What if
she had walked straight into the temple without giving her two mites, considering them to be
worth nothing? We need to open up our hearts to be taught and challenged by the life of this poor
widow.

What lessons can we learn from her life?

In spite of her condition, she had so much love for God that fuelled her to go to the temple. She
also valued the company of other worshippers. She did not live in isolation.

Hebrews 10:25

Do not forsake the assembly of one another.

 She was not self-centered. She looked beyond her lack and needs and gave her all. Her
giving was a true sacrifice.

This was a woman in need of receiving charity, yet she had a heart to give. She gave out of love
to God. Jesus saw her heart as she gave. Though the rich gave huge offerings, Jesus remained
silent and unfazed by that. Rather He drew His disciples’ attention to the widow's giving. Man
looks to the outward, but God looks to the heart.
  She gave in faith that God could use her little mite.
 She did not despise what she had. What do you have in your hands?
 This widow gave all and her heart was in her giving. She gave cheerfully and out of love.
 We have also learnt that this widow had to fight to overcome intimidation.
 Finally, this story is a reminder that God sees what man overlooks. God sees your
sacrifice whether it be time, effort, energy, money - even when it seems that nobody else
does.

The Lord sees what we give to Him and what we keep for ourselves. He further sees how we
give to Him, whether casually or carefully, grudgingly or cheerfully, out of duty or out of love to
the Lord who has given us so much.

This lady exemplified the childlike faith that Jesus taught. Her trust was in God that He would
take care of her.

As painful as it may be, remember that your validation ultimately comes from God and not from
man. God validated Jesus when He said, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased".
So, our focus and energy should be directed at pleasing our commanding officer.

OTHER THOUGHTS

1) Israel had the culture of allowing the poor to clean-glean their farms.

Around us are the poor; let us not clean out our plates every time. There is a poor that would not
mind what you have.

2) Why would this widow remain poor?

In our world, knowing the reality of things how are we preparing for eventualities?

We don't know her age, her history nor were we informed her family background. Her husband's
history and why poor was attached to her widowhood. Did she become poor after his death or it
followed her from her married times?

What causes one to get to abject poverty?

There are "down" times in one's life but God in His faithfulness also brings in 'up' times. One's
large times is not comparable to another's but there is always a kind of 'up' in some form. Maybe,
someone offered you something to eat. That's an "up". Deciding to set aside some of that cash to
invest in selling egg tomorrow may be a way out of the 'poor' status. Another's up may come in
millions, that's that person's.

Both forms of 'ups' can be squandered! Both have the potential to become a form of rich or both
can wallow in a form of poverty.
So, this is not about being heartless to the pain of this poor widow or the poor. It is to say, status
can change but by a lifestyle, change.

A certain sacrifice of a certain 'breakthrough' crying out to be gulped now may form a discipline
that would prevent you from staying in a 'lack' state.

 Saving from your little

 Investing your little
 Give from that little

Pursuing diligently to change a status that sinks it nails in your name is a mind-change that
informs a lifestyle change that would open one up to a status change. Look out for some way to
save, invest, give and move up your own tag ladder. The principle is to come out of whatever is
coded in the beginning.

God wanted to populate the earth, Yet, He started with one man. That man was to invest, give his
seed and conserve strength. There is a little that we all have which if we are faithful in, more
would be given. The widow who ran to Elisha was instructed in these 3 things. She was to eat of,
sell out of and save for later days. Our largess per time may not be much but there is always seed
and bread in it.

'Poor' may even be in the area of health, marital bliss, emotional deprivation or even mental
strength.

Each of these follow these same principles. To enjoy your marriage, children, health and/or
weight (to lose or gain), give to, invest in and save in some form. Results aren't often
instantaneous but as sure as dawn it would come.

In our generation, we need not stay poor. Proverbs 31 is a great motivation for every woman to
strive to be wealthy. Jesus however said, "the poor you will have with you always". A lot of
factors contribute towards poverty. The book of proverbs will be of great help to discover and
deal with it.

For the circle of life to continue in the way that God has fashioned it to be (that there will always
be the poor and those who have in abundance), these truths of achieving wealth and the grace to
do so comes to individuals at different times and in their own seasons. But ultimately, we must
remember in whatever principles of achieving wealth that we walk with, we must remember:

Romans 9:16 KJV

So, then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.
In fact, one of the ways to break the hold of poverty is to give.

This woman may just have applied this principle of giving to break the hold of poverty in her
life, first mentally and then, to free herself to receive of God.

Ordinarily the poor are often on the receiving end. For the woman to do the contrary, it is a
deliberate move to be the giver instead, not just the receiver. That's contrary to the reality.

Add to it the fact that the quality of her gift and the attitude of her giving spelt a woman that is
tired of the present reality.
THE CALL

A lot has been said about her sacrificial giving and the state of her heart which attracted Jesus'
commendation. She pleased the Lord by her act of giving in faith, for without faith it's
impossible to please God. She gave what she had willingly, cheerfully and without compulsion.

Through this study, God is calling us to look inwards and ask ourselves, "What is/are my own
‘Two Coins’?" "When I give, am I motivated by love and do I give in faith? " "Do I give
cheerfully?" "Do I give my all and my best all the time?" "Is my trust and total dependence on
the Lord?".

Whatever those ‘two coins’ represents in our lives, God wants us to be free from fear (which
makes us hold back), to release it from our grip and use it for His glory. What has God blessed
you with? Like the Widow of Zarephath, what do you have in your hands? Nothing except...???
It is worthy of the Master's use if He gave it in the first place. It's time to give it back to the Lord
in faith. Use it willingly and cheerfully in service to humanity and for the expansion of the
Kingdom.

Remember, God looks to the heart of the giver.

Money is very important ... personal lives, church, family, community, and etcetera. Its
importance is made more glaring by the fact that Jesus purposely sat there to see how people
gave.

Of course, it is not only money that can be given...but the truth is that God tests our attitude; how
we relate with and/or to money.

In short, at each time of our lives, whether we have little or much, God has His expectations of
us as it regards to all He has given us. God is the owner and we are the stewards. Truly, when we
embrace this mindset, it becomes easier to serve God with our money and other resources.