JESUS CARES Mission Int.

A SIMPLE YET POTENT PRAYER

In 2 Samuel 15:31 (NIV), we find a powerful example of the effectiveness of prayer in overcoming even the wisest human counsel. When David learned that Ahithophel, his former advisor, had joined Absalom's conspiracy against him, he prayed: "Lord, turn Ahithophel's counsel into foolishness."

Ahithophel was renowned for his wise and effective advice, which had previously benefited King David (2 Samuel 16:23). However, God's power and intervention proved greater than any human wisdom. Not only did Absalom reject Ahithophel's wise counsel, but Ahithophel also ultimately took his own life due to depression and feeling neglected (2 Samuel 17:23).

This story demonstrates the potency of prayer in overcoming even the most formidable challenges. As Psalm 33:10-11 (NIV) states, "The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations."

I pray that the Lord will cause every evil counsellor advising your household enemy to destroy you to destroy themselves and you will win the battle today in Jesus Christ's Name 🙏

THE GENERAL IN PRISON

BY
Oche, Innocent Bamidele

Judges chapter 13-16
Introduction

The story of Samson, the general of the Israelites, is a fascinating record of extraordinary strength, tragic flaws, and ultimate redemption. As a leader and judge of the Israelites, Samson was gifted with supernatural strength by God, making him a formidable warrior and champion of his people. However, beneath the surface of his impressive physical prowess, Samson struggled with pride, arrogance, and a weakness for vulnerability. This book explores Samson's journey from triumph to tragedy and ultimately, to redemption.

Chapter 1: The Strongest Man

Samson's story begins with his miraculous birth to a childless couple, Manoah and his wife (Judges 13:2-25). The angel of the Lord appears to them, announcing the birth of a son who will be a Nazirite, dedicated to God from the womb. Samson grows up with an extraordinary gift – supernatural strength granted by God (Judges 13:24-25). He becomes a mighty warrior, fighting battles and slaying lions with ease (Judges 14:5-6). His strength is a source of pride and admiration for the Israelites.

Chapter 2: The Weakest Link

Despite his impressive strength, Samson has a weakness – not just his love for women, but also his inability to stand his ground and keep his secrets when pressed by those he loves. This is evident in his relationship with his wife at Timnath, who betrays him after he shares the answer to his riddle with her (Judges 14:17-20). She convinces him to reveal the answer, which he had shared with his companions, and they use it against him. This pattern repeats itself with Delilah, who manipulates Samson into revealing the source of his strength – his uncut hair (Judges 16:17). Delilah's persistence and Samson's inability to resist her pressure ultimately lead to his downfall. Samson's weakness is not just his love for women, but his inability to maintain boundaries and keep his secrets when faced with emotional pressure.

Chapter 3: The Darkest Night

In prison, Samson faces his darkest hour. He realizes his pride and disobedience have led to his downfall (Judges 16:20). He cries out to God, seeking forgiveness and redemption (Judges 16:28). In the silence, Samson finds humility and a newfound dependence on God. He acknowledges his weaknesses and the consequences of his actions. The prison yard can be a place of personal struggles, such as fornication, adultery, stealing, pilfering, espionage, falsehood, drug addiction, wrong relationships, or marriages of sorrow (Galatians 5:19-21). Will we continue to grind and make spots for our enemies, or will we seek redemption and turn back to God? Samson's story serves as a warning that our past victories do not guarantee future success, and that we must remain vigilant in our walk with God (1 Corinthians 10:12).

Chapter 4: The Final Victory

The Philistines, thinking Samson is defeated, bring him to their temple to mock him (Judges 16:23-25). But Samson, with his newfound humility, prays for strength one last time (Judges 16:28-30). This prayer demonstrates the importance of time management for a man on mission. Even in prison, Samson realizes that his time is not yet up and seeks a final chance to fulfill his purpose. He asks God for the strength to finish his work, showing wisdom in recognizing the value of every moment (Ephesians 5:16). With a mighty cry, he brings down the temple, defeating his enemies and fulfilling his purpose (Judges 16:30). Notably, Samson's hair had grown back after being shaved (Judges 16:22), symbolizing God's restoration and lifting up of those who repent from sin (1 John 1:9). This serves as a reminder that God's gifts and callings are irrevocable (Romans 11:29), and He will still accomplish His purposes through us even after we have failed.

_Epilogue: The General's Legacy

Samson's story teaches us that true strength comes not from ourselves, but from God (1 Corinthians 1:27-31). His legacy reminds us that even in our darkest moments, redemption and forgiveness are possible (Romans 8:28). Samson's journey highlights the dangers of pride and disobedience (Proverbs 16:18) and the consequences of allowing love to become an idol (1 John 2:15-17). Ultimately, Samson's redemption demonstrates God's faithfulness and mercy (Lamentations 3:22-23), and the importance of wise time management in fulfilling our God-given purposes.

While the general is in prison, millions in the valley of decision are being destroyed. The devil is very clever; he doesn't waste his time fighting those in the valley, but instead pursues those with the lifeline (Joel 3:14). Once he gets them, his job is done, because those in the valley of decision will be doomed without their general (Matthew 9:36-38). This serves as a reminder of the critical role leaders play in guiding others and the devastating consequences of their downfall. As the Bible warns, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people groan" (Proverbs 29:2). Let us learn from Samson's story and remain vigilant in our walk with God, seeking redemption and forgiveness when we fall, and striving to be the leaders God has called us

Happy Sunday, Facebook friends! Facebook always asks, "What's on your mind?" I want to share with you what's on my mind today: NEVER GIVE UP ON JESUS LUKE 18:1-8 ‭(Luke 18:7 NIV)‬: "And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?"

I once sought a job after graduating from secondary school. Then, I met a woman who offered me a teaching position, but I hadn't brought any application or CV with me. So, she asked me to write a story about myself. I sat down and wrote whatever came to mind that day. I wrote about my encounter with Jesus, my current predicament, and how I needed God to uplift me. After reading my write-up, the woman broke down and started sobbing. After composing herself, she asked when I would like to start teaching. Before I could respond, she interrupted me and said, "You can start on Monday." I left the place feeling confused, and I never went back for the job.

But one thing I can't forget is that my encounter with Jesus touched someone, and she wept because she knew I had the opportunity to do evil things and make money, which would have alleviated my poor and painful situation. But I chose to leave it all for Jesus. She corroborated that with me, and then she burst into tears.

My charge to you today is to keep the light of God burning in you, irrespective of whatever predicament you find yourself in at the moment. Don't let your circumstances define you; instead, let your faith in God be the guiding force in your life. Remember, God can turn your struggles into testimonies, and your mess into a message. Keep trusting in Him, and He will see you through.

"Dear Father Lord in heaven, we come to you with humble hearts, asking you to visit your faithful child in their time of challenges. Please remove every situation that causes them to doubt your presence, and silence the voices that ask, 'Where is your God?' We pray this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen."

Andrew Abah is feeling heartbroken.
Your love, your care, your generousity, your listening ears, your humility, your friendship, your determination, brilliance, grace, your passion...
Oh, how you raised men from no where and enthroned them among the princes. Some bite the fingers that fed them but some stick to pursue the course you lived for.
I saw you plant churches from the rank of an inspector to Deputy Commissioner of Police, exemplary tentmaker. You treaded where conventional missionaries dare not. You left the comfort of Ajaokuta aircondition to the heathen where men drink palm wine with human skull. You planted Jesus in their hearts and used your salary to build them churches.
I remembered my visit in 1995 when a woman by instruction of a juju priest burnt the child to death. I asked why they should not be arrested and you said, you were first and foremost a missionary and arrest will not dispel darkness.
You were not an arm chair missionary - An apostle indeed.
You spent, you were spent. It was beyond the 4 wall of CLEM. At least the Grace Foundation missionaries reported back to me how much you invested in them...Adieu
We join the song writer to sing, "it is well". We will miss you but the trumpet may not delay and we shall meet again.