Good day Nairalanders,

The story I am about to tell you now is actually A True Story. I posted it here some time last year and noticed it inspired a lot of people who eventually called me or sent me text messages and emails. And for some, it even motivated them into achieving Great Success. So now, I am directed to re-write it for millions of Nairalanders and Nigerians who care to know MY STORY and want to take their destinies into their own hands.

I have made Millions of Naira from almost nothing and unfortunately lost it all. But one characteristics of an Entrepreneur which I know I have is A PERSISTENT SPIRIT - whatever I put my heart to do, I never give up until I achieve it. (Joshua 1:9 says; 'Remember that I have COMMANDED you to be DETERMINED and CONFIDENT! Don't be AFRAID or DISCOURAGED, for I, the LORD your God, Am with you where ever you go.)

I have done it before, I am doing it again and I will always do it again because my Heavenly Father has told me in Luke 1:37; 'For there is NOTHING God cannot do.'

During the course of this write-up, pls feel free to call me on: 08083267777 or email me at: inspiresouls4christ@gmail.com for any inquiries.

THIS IS MY STORY.

In the coming days, I will be teaching you the same principles I used to do it and how I am currently replicating the same principle again and making steady progress.

I shall present all the events of My Story (in summarized edition) in the following chapters.

Introduction
Chapter 1 - In the Beginning
Chapter 2 - My Frustration
Chapter 3 - My Mistake, My Stupidity
Chapter 4 - The Business Idea
Chapter 5 - My Torment, My Transformation
Chapter 6 - My Breakthrough, His Grace
Chapter 7 - The Future
Conclusion

I will be starting with the 'Introduction' today and will conclude in the next 3 days. As I said earlier my reason for doing this is so that you may learn from my experience and make necessary adjustments in your own life's.

Please read and be inspired to do the little you can to positively change the society. May God Bless You As Do

INTRODUCTION

The reason I'm writing my story online is not to put my private life in public view but that you reading this now may learn from my life experience, my mistakes, my stupidity and avoid the pit falls which are eminent if you are not careful your daily decisions.

In life, temptations, trials and tribulations will always come and we will inevitably be disappointed by the ones we love the most. Not because they do not care about us but God uses them as a vessel to prove to us that He is a jealous God and that all attention comes to Him first before any other. This is explained in the the first commandment given to Moses in Deut 5: 6-7, "I am the Lord your God......worship no other god but me." Until we give our whole existence completely to him and hear him speak within us, we are yet understand the reason Christ died for us on the cross of Calvary.

At this point I plead that you open your mind completely to what I have to say in this expose. Learn as much as you can. Judging my decisions will not make you a better person than I am.

FOOT NOTES:

Human disappointments, natural calamities and accidental mishaps are not to be seen as God's punishment for our sins. But he lets it happen to warn us and to call us to a life of conversion and gives opportunities for growth. St. Paul tells the Ephesians that God gives various gifts to build up the body of Christ. God is most eager to build up the body of Christ within us. Ask yourself, 'how do I collaborate with God in my personal transformation.'

One of the hallmarks of champions is knowing what battles to ignore. There are people that will tell you that it is impossible for God to use you today because of something that you did twenty years ago. Just like they said about Jesus, "Is this not the carpenter's son," they want to take you back to your past. You need to realize that those are comments you need to ignore. Those are battles you should not bother fighting. As you journey through life just determine to ignore some battles and REST UPON GOD! All Champions Do!

CHAPTER 1 - IN THE BEGINNING

Now I could go back as far as the year 1991 when I gained admission into secondary school (a boarding home) and how I got influenced by a particularly 'bad egg' who happened to turn my hitherto innocent life around negatively. Though I got away with most of the vices I learnt at the time, it will come to hunt me 14 years after (the year I was to graduate from the University). But instead, I will start from the most recent events which I believe has enough lessons to learn therein.

My transformation partially began during the last quarter of 2011 after a business which I successfully co-founded with a friend began to collapse. By December of the same year I was seriously tormented by unseen forces that eventually brought my life to a stand-still and then a search for a new direction began. By the beginning of last year (January 2012) I started a whole new journey, although at the time I did not know I was guided by Powers beyond my control. Sometimes I look back and wonder how ignorant and out-off-tune spiritually we could be as humans.

HERE IS MY STORY.


FOOT NOTES

-"There is power in allowing your life to be a light to others!" Hear John C Maxwell: "People buy into the Leader before they buy into the Vision."

To be continued in CHAPTER 2 - MY FRUSTRATION

CHAPTER 2 - MY FRUSTRATIONS

It all started in January 2009. Fresh out of the National Youth Service Scheme by September of the previous year (2008), I decided to rest for a couple of months before actively engaging in job search because I was very sick during service year and had lost a lot of weight. Also my brother had his traditional wedding coming up by December, 2008, so I decided I was going to start job hunt the next year.

So after the wedding which took place in the eastern part of the country (Imo State), I was back to Lagos by the first week of January 2009. Immediately, I updated my CV and was ready to enter the job market. With the help of my new sister-in-law I submitted my CV to a multinational company. It might interest you to note that this was my first job application and coincidentally, happened to be my last. To my utmost surprise, I was called for an interview the following week, and was told to resume training immediately, as they had written their test earlier (which I missed) and had candidates who where undergoing training already. We were the pioneer staff of the company. (Can someone tell me this was not a miracle in present day Nigeria?)

After the training in which I was the leader of my team, I was posted to a branch on Broad street, Lagos. Before now, I have always wanted to start-up a business but knew I needed some capital thus my need for the job. But getting into the corporate system, and having access to our new HQ, I realized how unfulfilled I was (you cannot believe how much our salary was). No offence to those in the corporate sector but if we were to critically review of the sector, I believe there is something wrong with anyone expecting much from the system as regards the future.

Please look at this personal analysis of my family.

In the late 60's/earlier 70's one could get a job after secondary school by writing an application and posting it to multinational companies and will be called for an interview. My father got a job with Shell Petroleum Development Company in exact same way after been contacted by other major companies at the time including The Nigerian Tobacco Company and a list of others. Because of the Nigerian Civil War they had to leave Port Harcourt back to Imo State, Nigeria. After the war, he sent out letters in the same way and got a job with Pan Ocean Oil Corporation, another multinational in Lagos. After less than a year training, he became The Chief Cartographer (Map specialists) of the company. Now, I am a Geologist by qualification, can someone tell me what it will take (in time, sweat and blood) to achieve that feat in these times? To say the least, my father bought a brand new car from the Peugoet Automobile Company in Kaduna, all paid for: A Secondary School Certificate holder!

Another quick example, My mother after a short while working for Industrial Gases Limited (presently BOC Gases) at Oshodi became the Head of Computer Department; with the same qualification. She also bought a brand new Toyota with her salary (No runs o!).

Please do not get me wrong, some people still achieve feats like these but if we consider the times, there are millions of qualified graduates out there and very little jobs. Even the available jobs pay salaries that are not able to cater for your transportation and feeding talk-less of your up-keep. Realizing these facts got me worried and frustrated.

While doing my National Youth Service in Jos, Plateau State (2007/08), I attended a seminar organized by House on the Rock Ministry with the Topic - THRIVING IN THE MARKET PLACE (By Fela Durotoye, a motivational speaker). I was fired-up. I got encouraged, motivated, inspired to start a business. But there was a problem.

I had a lot of questions but the answers were no where to be found. I had problems and seriously needed solutions fast. Instead of seeking guidance and direction from the ONLY ONE WHO HAD ALL THE ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS TO LIFE'S QUESTIONS AND PROBLEMS, I TURNED TO MAN. THIS WAS THE GREATEST MISTAKE I EVER MADE.

To be continued in CHAPTER 3 - MY MISTAKES, MY STUPIDITY

FOOT NOTES:

- There of two forces at work in our lives - the power of temptation to sin and the power of faith to overcome obstacles. Jesus warns us against setting a stumbling block in the way of another, that is, not to give offence or bad example that might mislead another, especially the young in faith who are vulnerable, to sin. Jesus demonstrates the power of faith for overcoming temptation and obstacles through an active submission to God and a willingness to do whatever He commands. Do you trust in God's grace and power to resist temptation and to overcome obstacles in doing His will?

- "Does it make sense to pray for guidance about the future if we are not obeying in the thing that lies before us today?

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Chapter 3: MY MISTAKE, MY STUPIDITY

MY MISTAKE
Now, I had this friend who had the same business ideology as I did and he had some capital but needed a partner to support him and to share his ideas. He called me up at some point and told me his plans and how he needed us to work together. But their was a problem, he resided in a different town (Ibadan) and we needed to be in constant touch if things where going to work for good. I had to take the big decision. Yes! It was a radical one considering the fact that I did not really have a plan B yet but I was of the opinion that, 'what is worth doing at all, is worth doing well.' I learnt this from a story I heard some time ago about a captain who took his platoon to war against an enemy and was greatly out-numbered. As they crossed the bridge leading to the battle field, the captain bombed the bridge and to his overtly frightened men, he said, 'There is no way back home except through the enemy lines, so if you
want to succeed in this battle, you have to stay alive or die trying." And that was all they needed. With that determination, they fought, suffered casualties and eventually came out victorious. I always narrate this story to anyone who is of the conviction that Entrepreneurship is his/her calling. But always remember the road to genuine fame and wealth is rough and narrow. YOU MUST SUFFER CASUALTIES.

Back to my story. Barely, five months into my new job, I left to Ibadan for good. You might wonder, why Ibadan of all places in Nigeria. There was a strategic reason. Apparently, we both had our tertiary education in the ancient city where we meet during our first year in the university. We became close and continued our friendship even after we left school. But the main reasons he chose Ibadan were because it was generally more economical to operate in the practically cheap and sane town (as compared to the insanity Lagos) and also because it is much more accessible to other parts of the country by road which was key to any possibilities if we where going to survive as a business. So here I was ready to enter into the business world with no prior experience per se. Due to my impatience, I left a job which though was frustrating at the time but had potentials since it was a new company and I was among the pioneer staff. I didn't want to wait indefinitely. Even though I had no plan B and no savings yet MY GREATEST MISTAKE was that, "I DID NOT ASK MY GOD WHAT DIRECTION TO TAKE". I felt my QUESTIONS where going to be ANSWERED by a FELLOW MAN.

MY STUPIDITY
Immediately, we jumped into action. It was a little difficult at the beginning but later we settled in. I was naive in the business world. I felt since this was a very good friend of mine, there was no need for formalities. I DID NOT SIGN A FORMAL AGREEMENT. It was just word-of-mouth (VERBAL AGREEMENT). Anyways, in good faith, I gave in my all, my brains, time, blood, sweat, everything. The business blossomed (Pls stay tuned for THE BUSINESS IDEA tomorrow). Then we got silly. Stupidity came in the form of Pride. Now, because of how good our product was and the idea behind it, people marvelled and applauded us. We became Proud. WE BOASTED OPENLY THAT THE BUSINESS WAS NO MORE IN GODS HANDS, THAT IT WAS IN OUR POWERS TO MAKE IT SUCCEED OR FAIL.

Some of you reading this now might want to crucify me for such words, please be careful for it is written "judge not, that you will not be judged." There are so many things we do (even as Christians) on a daily basis in our personal lives and businesses which hinders us from receiving God's blessings. Sometimes we make excuses in the name civilization and we feel justified. A common example is, "You are in a relationship, you go to church with your partner and God through his ordained minister say's, 'Thou shall not commit fornication.' You leave the church, take your partner home and F**K all night. What you have just done indirectly is, you are telling God F**K YOU to His face. Please pardon my language but that is what it is. When it comes to God there is nothing like PART-TIME LOYALTY. It is either you are IN or OUT. It really hurts me to see how spiritually out-of-tune we are as humans because I have been there. I am not trying to boast but this days, whenever I ASK GOD, maybe for a sign, I WAIT & LISTEN, and then He SPEAKS and I HEAR Him. We were created in this way, to commune with Him in the Spirit. You have to search for Him within you and you must find Him. Even if you make millions of dollars in your business today, if you are not guided by the Spirit you are not safe for the devil is on the prowl looking for someone to devour.

May God give us the Grace to ASK (PRAY), WAIT & LISTEN, then HEAR Him when He SPEAKS, IN JESUS NAME, AMEN!

To be continued tomorrow in CHAPTER 4 - THE BUSINESS IDEA

FOOT NOTES:

- Service to God and our neighbour is both a free act and a sacred duty. God expects us to give him the worship and praise which is His due as He gladly accepts the free-will offering of Our lives to Him and His service. God honours a faithful servant who loves generously. He is ever ready to work through and in us for His glory. His love compels us to give Him our best! And when we have done our best, we have simply done our duty. Does the love of God compel you to give your best?

- "They profess that they know God; but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate." (Titus 1:16) If this is the story of your life, then allow the Holy Spirit to do a divine surgical operation in you through this story.

This is absolutely brilliant! We need more threads like this on NL honestly. Patiently waiting. Your travails is tugging at my heart strings. As a budding entrepreneur, I also have tasted success, albeit briefly, and crushing, terrifying defeat. In my mind I was so certain that i had it all figured out. I guess you could call it pride. Plenty of times a voice always spoke to me 'Dude commit this thing in God's hands', but that pride in me would either postpone it or dismiss the voice outrightly because I felt this was something that would practically sell itself. How wrong was I?

Just like the inventor of the Titanic who boasted: 'Even God himself can't sink this ship!' Well, we all know wha happened. Carry on...

Dude, u haven't said anything yet.

Ha ha ! Would I call it a coincidence ? Your experience has been exactly my life in the past two years. Trying to create a balance and not to crash land.

I had a lot of questions but the answers were no where to be found. I had problems and seriously needed solutions fast. Instead of seeking guidance and direction from the ONLY ONE WHO HAD ALL THE ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS TO LIFE'S QUESTIONS AND PROBLEMS, I TURNED TO MAN. THIS WAS THE GREATEST MISTAKE I EVER MADE.

Was my greatest mistake ! After much prayer, fasting and meditation on the word of God, God spoke to me. I am on the journey of building my faith to be strong like Mount Zion! I believe strongly in the guidance of God, that I will get there despite the temptations.

I also have start up ideas ; both online and offline. I would like to keep in touch.....

Are you writing a business book?

What a world? Ride on man!
U re getting some people (me inclusive) motivated.

pls continue........ pls continue........

Great writing skills!

Subscribing. ......

Subscription for lectures done! Back sit here I come..

CHAPTER 4 - THE BUSINESS IDEA (I)

(Because of time constraint and the length of this Chapter, it will come in two parts (I & II). I really wish I could make this write-up as brief as possible but at the same time I have to give out as much information as I can. Please bear with me.)

Good evening again, my brothers and sisters. I guess this is the day you have been waiting for. Before I go into the main business of the day I will like to bring to your attention 3 key factors that are of utmost importance that aided my business success. You must also put into consideration that these are my personal convictions and thus, this story is peculiar to me and might not apply to all and sundry. But I assure that the guiding principles applies to all business
ventures anywhere in the world.

The 3 key factors that my business success are;

1. A UNIQUE PRODUCT OR IDEA
2. INTEGRITY
3. A SUPERNATURAL FORCE (MOST IMPORTANT)


1. A UNIQUE PRODUCT OR IDEA
In my assessment, a reliable way to make millions fast in business is by "DEVELOPING A UNIQUE PRODUCT". I do not mean
coming up with something entirely new. It could a be product already in existence but you could add some unique features to it. If you look around your area of residence, you will see a prevailing type of business (e.g supermarket,schools e.t.c), believe it or not, at sometime in the past, they where started by one person. Yes! ONE PERSONS IDEA! When other people discover how lucrative what you are doing is, they cash in on it. SO BEWARE! But remember, there is always an advantage of being A PIONEER. A typical example is the sachet water business. One man or a group of people came up with the idea but today we have countless sachet water manufacturers everywhere. 'La casera' soft drink gave The Nigerian Bottling Company (manufacturers of Coca cola in Nigeria) a run for their money when they introduced into the market their unique (Apple) soft drink in 'Pet Bottles'. THAT IS IDEA.

Pls remember this, "THINKING IS THE IS THE HARDEST WORK THERE IS, THAT'S WHY ONLY A FEW PEOPLE ENGAGE IN IT." - Henry Ford.

2. INTEGRITY
I stand to be corrected but it is practically impossible to grow a small start-up into a multi-million dollar business without leveraging on financial support from anywhere possible. But a key factor that gives you an advantage is how RELIABLE and TRUSTWORTHY you are. No matter how good your idea's are, nobody will give you a financial leverage if you have a questionable character (track record), unless of course, you are a con-artist or scammer (If you reading this now and you engage in such, I admonish you to change your ways and give your life to Christ). I'm not bragging but if you must know, I'm the kind of person that will go any length to make sure a friend or colleague achieves their set goals without any personal gratification. I personally got loans from my family to support my business venture even though I had no formal agreement with my partner. This was possible simply because I have proved over time to be RELIABLE & TRUSTWORTHY. As christians, we go to church on sundays and give millions in offerings and seeds of faith because we believe in our priests and pastors to to help pray to God for our salvation. THAT IS INTEGRITY.

Pls remember this, "PEOPLE BUY INTO THE LEADER BEFORE THEY BUY INTO THE VISION." - John C. Maxwell

3. A SUPERNATURAL FORCE
I'm very much convinced that the 2 factors mentioned above cannot be achieved without a supernatural force. Unique ideas I believe, come from the sub-concious which is our connection with supernatural forces which operates within this realm, although, some of the people who come up with some very brilliant ideas might be ignorant of these facts. I really do not know much how this happens but I have seen it work. Or how do you explain this: With a frail stature and a weak heart, I have personally worked into over a thousand supermarkets and pharmacies nationwide to market my product with over 95% success rate. In less than 2 years, I have travelled all over this country (except some of the Northern states) by road. YES! I MEAN BY ROAD! Even with the terrible condition of our highways which some analyst classify as death traps. A number of times, I have driven through armed robbery gangs in operation, involved in ghastly motor accidents but in all cases, I WAS NEVER HARMED. All this I did IN PURSUIT OF WEALTH.
(CAN SOMEONE PLEASE GIVE ME THE DEFINATION OF A MIRACLE?).

Pls remember this, "IT WAS NEVER BY MY STRENGHT NOR MY POWER BUT BY THE SPECIAL GRACE OF GOD THROUGH JESUS
CHRIST MY SAVIOUR" - inspiresouls4christ

Today, I look back at my life and all I can say is, "THANK YOU FATHER, I AM GRATEFUL!"

THE BUSINESS IDEA (II) COMING SOON!

THE BUSINESS IDEA (II)

Lets quickly refresh our memories on the previous chapter (MY MISTAKES, MY STUPIDITY). In the beginning, I got a miraculously a job in the corporate sector, got frustrated, left my job within months. Started a business with a friend without any formal agreement and in a short while the business blossomed. Then we became proud.
'WE BOASTED OPENLY THAT THE BUSINESS WAS NO MORE IN GODS HANDS, THAT IT WAS IN OUR POWERS TO MAKE IT SUCCEED OR FAIL.'

This is the BUSINESS IDEA. This is MY STORY.

So I'm in Ibadan in search of a business break-through. We had to come up with AN IDEA, A UNIQUE PRODUCT, A BUSINESS PLAN
and we had to do that fast. The IDEA was to develop a UNIQUE PRODUCT, a Fast Moving Consumer Good (FMCG) and build a
DELIVERY CHANNEL (SYSTEM) nationwide by supplying the products to outlets who deal in the same sector with the hope of
developing other FCMGs in the future and selling them through the same channel. We eventually chose the HEALTHCARE SECTOR.

*P.S. This is actually one of the proven methods of getting rich or becoming a millionaire (potential enterpreneurs please take note).*

There are 2 ways in which you can do this:

(1) Develop a (unique) product and supply to outlets or export to other countries
(2) Import an already existing product and supply to outlets or sell wholesales

Though, nos (1) is much easier to achieve, I always recommend nos (2) because the quality of products are always better and the cost of production in this country (Nigeria) is very expensive. For more information or free consultation on this please feel free to contact me via email at inspiresouls4christ@gmail.com or call 08083267777.

The first idea we came up with wasn't entirely a failure but we felt it wasn't going to get us the our promised land as fast as we wanted. So we dumped it. Then, out of the blues, we struck Gold. For the purpose of confidentiality I will not be able to mention the product here but for the sake of knowledge and giving you as much helpful information as possible, I will draw a mental sketch of our whole business model.

The Product we developed was a Fast Moving Consumer Good (FCMG) under the Health Care Sector. We developed the product
content and designed the pack from scratch. The Packaging which was key to our success was an instant attraction to all who came across it. IT WAS BEAUTIFUL. It was manufactured by an American Company based in Gulin, China (which we discovered online via (www.alibaba.com). The cost of manufacturing and transportation was very competitive even after much negotiation but we were partly guaranteed on quality. We sent money through a domiciliary account. After production, the goods were transported via air frieght as compared to sea transport because we needed to recieve them as quickly as possible . The goods were delivered to the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company PLC (NAHCO Aviance), we clear from them and transport all the way to Ibadan where we start distribution nationwide.

I must confess we took the hard way because we really wanted to make money fast. Though we started with sampling the product in Ibadan due to accessibility of the town but immediately we confirmed a positive reception, we went nationwide. For those who do not have a solid financial background, I would recommend you start marketing in your vicinity and discuss partnerships later. One of the most difficult aspects of doing business in Nigeria is getting reliable hands. Unfortunately, you do not have a choice but to take risks. The name ENTERPRENEUR is synonymous with the term RISK. Always be prepared at all times because you will definately recieve DISAPPOINTMENTS.

Now, it is very easy to make all this analysis here and generate comments from you but most of you cannot imagine the hardwork that went into this business. For a whole year I marketed my products with just 3 polo shirts and 2 pair of jeans and 1 pair of sandals. Yes! Appearance (packaging) they say, matters a lot but if you have a unique product, a fast selling one and people get to know you are trustworthy they will, "BUY INTO THE LEADER BEFORE THEY BUY INTO THE VISION."

Majority of the business moguls we celebrate in our society today went through fire, sleepless nights, loss of loved ones, to get to where they are today. Sometimes, I imagine what international artists like P-Square suffered during their prime days. While as students, we were busy sleeping in our hostels or waiting for them to come perform at about 4AM in our schools, they where busy performing in various campuses on the same night, risking their lives on the ever dangerous Nigerian roads. But see where they are now, (performing with international acts like Rick Rozay, Akon e.t.c).

So do not think you can just seat in the comfort of your A/C room with your cute, internet enabled laptop/modem and make
millions (i.e if you are in Nigeria). NO! I DONT THINK SO. Though, it is achieveable in some parts of the world but the high cost of doing business, expensive/poor internet accessibility and negative impression of our beloved country (NIGERIA) internationally puts us at a great disadvantage.

FOOT NOTE:

- Gratitude is the homage of the heart which responds with graciousness whenever a favour is recieved. Ingratitude is forgetfullness or a poor return for kindness recieved. Ingratitude easily leads to lack of charity and intolerance towards others. How often have been ungrateful to our parents, pastors, teachers and neighbours? Do you express gratitude to God for His mercy?

- Hear this: "All things splendid have been achieved by those who dared believe that something inside them was superior to circumstances." Are you connected to God?

Your thoughts are incisive and educating. Keep it up!

souls4christ: Good day and Happy Good Friday Nairalanders. Hope we are all having a wonderful holiday.

The story I am about to tell you now is actually A True Story. I posted it here some time last year and noticed it inspired a lot of people who eventually called me or sent me text messages and emails. And for some, it even motivated them into achieving Great Success. So now, I am directed to re-write it for millions of Nairalanders and Nigerians who care to know MY STORY and want to take their destinies into their own hands.

I have made Millions of Naira from almost nothing and unfortunately lost it all. But one characteristics of an Entrepreneur which I know I have is A PERSISTENT SPIRIT - whatever I put my heart to do, I never give up until I achieve it. (Joshua 1:9 says; 'Remember that I have COMMANDED you to be DETERMINED and CONFIDENT! Don't be AFRAID or DISCOURAGED, for I, the LORD your God, Am with you where ever you go.)

I have done it before, I am doing it again and I will always do it again because my Heavenly Father has told me in Luke 1:37; 'For there is NOTHING God cannot do.'

During the course of this write-up, pls feel free to call me on: 08083267777 or email me at: inspiresouls4christ@gmail.com for any inquiries.

THIS IS MY STORY.

grt job op...thanks

Good one , the write up inspiring.

CHAPTER 5: MY TORMENT, MY TRANSFORMATION

I continue today with how my business empire began to crumble. This is MY STORY.

MY TORMENT.
The 1st set of our products we imported by October 2009 cost us about N300,000, by October 2011, our latest consignment was worth over N15 Million naira. We even had a new variety which we planned bringing in before the end of that year (2011). But something happened. I started getting very restless and agitated. At the time, I didn't know exactly what it was but inside of me I was tormented. My friend also started having all sorts of issues and then he started acting funny. It got to a point where it started affecting everybody around us including our business partners. Our friendship deteriorated. By December 2012, I couldn't bear it anymore, we had goods worth over N15 Million but when I lay down at night in bed, I couldn't sleep. Something was tormenting my spirit. I started searching for answers and solution again. The exert same spot I was before left my job in 2009. By January 2012, I made a decision. This decision would eventually lead to the next stage in MY LIFE.

MY TRANSFORMATION.
My Decision was to breakway from anything that was causing anxiety in my life which included my business partnership. With the help of a then stranger who now happens to be a special friend, very dear to my heart, MY TRANSFORMATION began.
I must confess I kept something from you in the CHAPTER 3: MY MISTAKE, MY STUPIDITY. But I'm told to write it here and now. As I said earlier, as our business blossomed, we got proud and WE BOASTED OPENLY THAT THE BUSINESS WAS NO MORE IN GODS HANDS, THAT IT WAS IN OUR POWERS TO MAKE IT SUCCEED OR FAIL. Now, at that time, I was always pissed with the growing number of churches everywhere and I felt they constituted a lot of nusciance with their loud speakers especially at night during their vigils. This made me take a decision. And the decision was that, "IN THIS LIFE I WILL LIKE TO BE KNOWN FOR BEING THE ONE VOICE WHO CRITICIZED PASTORS AND THESE NEW GENERATION CHURCHES." This, in my view was THE STUPIDEST MISTAKE I have ever made in my entire life. Then I used to openly criticize pastors but now I know better, for God Himself said, 'Touch not my annointed and do my prophet no harm.' He also said, 'Judge not, that you will not be judge.'

I have heard a lot of people criticize, judge and condemn ordained men of God. Although it is true we are allowed to have our own opinions and we also have the right to make our own judgements but what if we are wrong in our judgements. Just, what if God really takes offence when we judge the men of God? Can you imagine the condemnation we will be bringing on ourselves and to our generations. Is it not better to be on the safe side and MIND OUR BUSINESS? Is it not better to allow God take His revenge by Himself? Why do we keep fighting battles that is not ours?

I pray God to give us His WISDOM & KNOWLEDGE to UNDERSTAND His ways, AMEN!

Thank you for reading.

To be continued in CHAPTER 6: MY BREAKTHROUGH, HIS GRACE

FOOT NOTE:

- Jesus promises to bring the kingdom of God to all who recognize in him the power and glory of the Father in heaven.
He reveals Himself in countless ways to those who seek Him with eyes of Faith.
Do you seek the kingdom of God with joyful hope?

- Hear Jo Blackwell-Preston: "Dont you dare for one second, surround yourself with people who are not aware of the greatness that you are."

CHAPTER 6: MY BREAKTHROUGH, HIS GRACE

As MY TRANSFORMATION began, my eyes started opening up to a lot of things I couldn't see before now. It might interest you to know that so many unknowns in my life has opened up to me since I took that decision in January this year 2012. I must confess that it was a very tough decision and it has been a very painful journey. I have cried, wept, shed tears endlessly, lost everything I worked for but finally I have been comforted. Even though I have no material wealth now, I have everything I need.

I have MY BREAK-THROUGH because my spirit is at peace with my God.

Just as iron passes through fire to become STEEL, so I am passing through (Yes! I'm still in the process) my eternal fire now to become GREAT. I have gone past the stage where I worry and fear about my past, present and future because in essence, if He can take care of the Unclad crops in the field and the gentle birds in the air, why not me His own repentant son. Thus, I have decided that, 'In all I do, in sickness and in health, in sorrow and in joy, in sadness and in happiness, I will never fail to give Glory and Praise to His Holy Name. For it is by HIS GRACE that I'm saved.'

I pray the PEACE and GRACE of God Almighty be with you all now and forever more. Amen!

Thank you for reading.

To be continued tomorrow in CHAPTER 7: THE FUTURE

FOOT NOTE:

- The return of the Lord is certain, but the time is unknown. The Lord's judgement comes swiftly and unexpectedly.

God judges every one individually according to how they have lived their life and responded to His Grace. The good news is that God gives His Grace, security and refuge to those who seek him with Faith and Contrition.

He gives us the Grace to know Him personally and to accept his Lordship over our lives. And He gives us the Holy Spirit to live each day for His kingdom, and readiness to receive Him when He returns.

Are you ready to come face-to-face with God?


- Thich Nhat Hanh wrote: "To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don't need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself."

So always declare: "The God whose I am will NEVER let me down."

CHAPTER 7: THE FUTURE

As I look into THE FUTURE, my vision is so clear because MY GOD has cleared all the obstacle in my way. In geographial terms, I have been elevated as high as the clouds so I can see what lies over the horizon. From my aerial view, I can see the hills and valleys and trees that obstructed my vision while I was on land but now they are no more in my way. This was made possible only by His Grace.

As I said earlier in this write-up, I am an aspiring Brand Expert and Business Consultant. My aim in life now is to build businesses that are founded on the fear of God, businesses that will serve humanity and eventually give Glory to His Holy Name. I cannot say for sure I know what THE FUTURE holds but He has told me that just as He did for His servant Joseph in Gen 39: 2-3 which reads, 'The LORD was with Joseph and made Him successful....in everything that He did', He will do the same for me.

I pray for Grace in your lives and to do to you all the same as He did to His servant Joseph, Amen!


To be continued tomorrow with MY CONCLUSION

FOOT NOTES:

- Jesus illustrates how God as our judge is much quicker to bring us His justice, blessing, and help when we need it. But we can easily lose heart and forget to ask our heavenl Father for His Grace and help. If we want to live, grow, and persevere in the Faith until the end, then we must nourish it with His word and ask the Lord to increase it.

When trials and setbacks disappoint you, where do you place your hope? Do you pray with expectant Faith and Confidence in God's merciful care and providence for you?

- One of the secrets of provoking God to remember you is by allowing an "innocent child" to pray for you apart from your pastor, this week do the same concerning your business, marital life, career, ministry and wait for your BREAK-THROUGH!

CONCLUSION

As I CONCLUDE MY STORY today I want to use this opportunity to thank all my readers especially those that have contributed their opinions and comments to this thread. I also want to inform you that I will be taking a couple weeks off to organize a Business Idea that came to me in the course of doing this writing. As a source of inspiration to you, I want you to know that I have absolutely no capital now. I had to leave my house in Lagos to go stay with my brother in Port Harcourt, Rivers State because I needed to clear my head from the disappointment I experienced in my business. All I have is MY IDEA, MY INTEGRITY and most importantly MY SUPERNATURAL FORCE - MY GOD ( Remember the 3 key factors I mentioned in THE BUSINESS IDEA - I). These are all I will be needing for my next project.

Always remember this, "The world we leave in works on PRINCIPLES and there are SEASONS for everything. A crop needs a combination of fertile soil, moisture and air to grow (PRINCIPLES) without any of these it dies. A farmer plants his crops before the rains and harvests them afterwards (SEASONS), if he misses the Planting Season, he misses the Harvest. We cannot leave through life without sowing seeds of Faith and being connected to our CREATOR. We have to discover our purpose in this life. We have to search for Him within us and we MUST find Him. Without Him, all we do in this life is FUTILE. Vanity upon Vanity, ALL IS VANITY.

Thank You All For Staying With Me Through This Journey And May God Bless You As You Go In Search of His Grace And Your Purpose In Life.

You have all read MY STORY and hopefully, have learnt the lessons therein.

So let us join hands to Inspire Souls of All Humanity because I believe that is our primary Assignment and Purpose in Life.

FOOT NOTES

- Jesus used the fig tree to teach his disciples an important lesson about reading the "signs of times".

The fig tree was a common and important source of food for the Jews. It bore fruit twice a year, in autumn and in the spring.

The signs of spring are evident for all who can see. Just so are the signs of God's kingdom and his coming in judgement.

The "budding" of God's kingdom begins first in the hearts of those who are receptive to God's word.
God's word is utterly reliable, because God Himself is utterly trustworthy.

Those who trust in God's word will bear the fruit of His kingdom, namely righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Do you look with joyful hope for the fulfilment of all God's promises?


- King David once said, 'What is man, that thou art MINDFUL of him?....'

Note this, " No matter what you are passing through, always remember if God could give you Jesus His beloved son, then there is NOTHING ELSE He will not release to you.

He is always MINDFUL of you.

souls4christ:
CONCLUSION

As I CONCLUDE MY STORY today I want to use this opportunity to thank all my readers especially those that have contributed their opinions and comments to this thread. I also want to inform you that I will be taking a couple weeks off to organize a Business Idea that came to me in the course of doing this writing. As a source of inspiration to you, I want you to know that I have absolutely no capital now. I had to leave my house in Lagos to go stay with my brother in Port Harcourt, Rivers State because I needed to clear my head from the disappointment I experienced in my business. All I have is MY IDEA, MY INTEGRITY and most importantly MY SUPERNATURAL FORCE - MY GOD ( Remember the 3 key factors I mentioned in THE BUSINESS IDEA - I). These are all I will be needing for my next project.

Always remember this, "The world we leave in works on PRINCIPLES and there are SEASONS for everything. A crop needs a combination of fertile soil, moisture and air to grow (PRINCIPLES) without any of these it dies. A farmer plants his crops before the rains and harvests them afterwards (SEASONS), if he misses the Planting Season, he misses the Harvest. We cannot leave through life without sowing seeds of Faith and being connected to our CREATOR. We have to discover our purpose in this life. We have to search for Him within us and we MUST find Him. Without Him, all we do in this life is FUTILE. Vanity upon Vanity, ALL IS VANITY.

Thank You All For Staying With Me Through This Journey And May God Bless You As You Go In Search of His Grace And Your Purpose In Life.

You have all read MY STORY and hopefully, have learnt the lessons therein.

So let us join hands to Inspire Souls of All Humanity because I believe that is our primary Assignment and Purpose in Life.

FOOT NOTES

- Jesus used the fig tree to teach his disciples an important lesson about reading the "signs of times".

The fig tree was a common and important source of food for the Jews. It bore fruit twice a year, in autumn and in the spring.

The signs of spring are evident for all who can see. Just so are the signs of God's kingdom and his coming in judgement.

The "budding" of God's kingdom begins first in the hearts of those who are receptive to God's word.
God's word is utterly reliable, because God Himself is utterly trustworthy.

Those who trust in God's word will bear the fruit of His kingdom, namely righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Do you look with joyful hope for the fulfilment of all God's promises?


- King David once said, 'What is man, that thou art MINDFUL of him?....'

Note this, " No matter what you are passing through, always remember if God could give you Jesus His beloved son, then there is NOTHING ELSE He will not release to you.

He is always MINDFUL of you.

I have learn something tangible from your incredible story. Life is an adventure and we should enjoy the journey n Christ and seek his Father in heaven, deepen our faith by putting on salvation as our helmet and the word of God as the sword of our spirit.

I can't imagine the challenge you might be going through at this critical juncture, believe in Luke 1:37 .

Thanks so much @digitite for your inspiring words. Truely as it is written in Luke 1:37; 'For there is nothing that God cannot do',I believe completely that all that happened to me happened for a reason. It has really been a lesson for me though learnt the hard way. I believe I will recover all because His words say, 'For there is nothing that He cannot do'

The fact alone that this experience has brought me closer to my Him and I now drink from the words of the Holy Book day & night with so much thirst & delight, is enough for me to give Glory to His name.

For all those that called, sent an email or commented on this thread, I say a big thank you (special thanks to Wunmi who called in from Osun State). May God Bless You All.

Always remember to spread the word around that HE IS RISEN & HE LIVES FOREVER.

Ur story is very inspiring.Really u had no foundation,which is christ,i gues that was why all crumbled.I believe God is takin u to greater height no doubt but He needs to be ur foundation.Now that He is,u ar sure that u can build and it will stand the test of time.I wish u all the very best.God indeed can humble the proud!

@souls4christ, I thank you for this wonderful post and for your new life which has inspired mine for a change. How do I search for Him? How I hear Him speak on a matter?

souls4christ: Thanks so much @digitite for your inspiring words. Truely as it is written in Luke 1:37; 'For there is nothing that God cannot do',I believe completely that all that happened to me happened for a reason. It has really been a lesson for me though learnt the hard way. I believe I will recover all because His words say, 'For there is nothing that He cannot do'

The fact alone that this experience has brought me closer to my Him and I now drink from the words of the Holy Book day & night with so much thirst & delight, is enough for me to give Glory to His name.

For all those that called, sent an email or commented on this thread, I say a big thank you (special thanks to Wunmi who called in from Osun State). May God Bless You All.

Always remember to spread the word around that HE IS RISEN & HE LIVES FOREVER.

Bro, you are very welcome. I have your number and will call you one of these days. Meanwhile, I am on a crossroad whereby I have to make a decision on laying down foundation for the future. I would love your input and we will see what the LORD How is the business climate in Rivers State.

souls4christ: Thanks so much @digitite for your inspiring words. Truely as it is written in Luke 1:37; 'For there is nothing that God cannot do',I believe completely that all that happened to me happened for a reason. It has really been a lesson for me though learnt the hard way. I believe I will recover all because His words say, 'For there is nothing that He cannot do'

The fact alone that this experience has brought me closer to my Him and I now drink from the words of the Holy Book day & night with so much thirst & delight, is enough for me to give Glory to His name.

For all those that called, sent an email or commented on this thread, I say a big thank you (special thanks to Wunmi who called in from Osun State). May God Bless You All.

Always remember to spread the word around that HE IS RISEN & HE LIVES FOREVER.

Bro, you are very welcome. I have your number and will call you one of these days. Meanwhile, I am on a crossroad whereby I have to make a decision on laying down foundation for the future. I would love your input and we will see what the LORD hold in store for us. How is the business climate in Rivers State.

Nice

blogexpert: @souls4christ, I thank you for this wonderful post and for your new life which has inspired mine for a change. How do I search for Him? How I hear Him speak on a matter?

Hi, I must really apologize for the timing of this post. I have been offline for a while now. To answer your question, I do not have the perfect remedy to what you ask as what appeals to Peter might not appeal to Paul. I wrote on this particularly subject titled: IN SEARCH OF GOD'S GRACE: INTRO - HOW TO PLEASE HIM; sometime in January. You can read it up from the following link: (pls copy and paste)
http://inspiresouls4christ..com/2013/01/in-search-of-gods-grace-how-to-please.html

In summary, i will like you to know that this recommendation really worked for me and still works for me till date. But you have to find what works for you.

Also note that the most important of all ways to search for God is dwelling in His Word (The Holy Bible). It is an absolute necessity. Listening, singing or humming gospel songs all day helps me remain in His presence constantly. It makes you conscious of sin and worldly distractions.

Pls pray fervently, read your Bible often, listen to audio tapes of anointed preachers (Joyce Meyer works for me) and also get a daily devotional. As a practicing Catholic, I recommend 'The Word Among Us.' You can also use 'Our Daily Manna'-ODM (I use it too). Do this every day and night. Don't ever stop. Listen to your inner man. It might take sometime but believe me, one day you will hear Him speak.

May the Holy Spirit lead you thoughts, words and actions as you go in search of His Grace.