When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.

See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

His dying crimson, like a robe,
Spreads o’er His body on the tree;
Then I am dead to all the globe,
And all the globe is dead to me.

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

Story

When teenager Isaac Watts complained to his father about the monotonous way Christians in England sang the Old Testament Psalms, his father, a leading deacon, snapped back 'All right young man, you give us something better.'

To Isaac Watts, the singing of God's praise was the form of worship nearest to Heaven and he went on to argue: 'It's performance among us is the worst on earth.'

Young Isaac accepted his father's challenge and eventually wrote a total of more than 600 hymns, earning him the title 'The father of English hymnody.'

Even as a child Isaac had shown a passion for poetry, rhyming and such mundane things as everyday conversation. His serious-minded father, after several warnings, decided to spank the rhyming nonsense out of his son. But the tearful Isaac helplessly replied,
'Oh father do some pity take,
and I will no more verses make.'

However, choirs, congregations and individual Christians rejoice to this day that the young lad did not keep his impromptu promise.

If he had, none of us would have the thrill of singing such all-time favourites as "Oh God Our Help In Ages Past," "Am I A Soldier Of The Cross" or "Joy To The World."

As a child, Isaac Watts was sickly and unattractive, yet, even by today's standards he was clever beyond his years. He began the study of Latin at the age of four, and added Greek when he was nine, French at eleven and Hebrew at thirteen.

At fifteen the young poet turned his talents to the service of the church and the great career in hymn-writing began.

In his hymns Isaac Watts takes the Word of God, of which he must have been a diligent student, and distils it so that all is wisdom, beauty and comfort are set before us with plainness and power. No wonder, then, that C.H. Spurgeon's grandfather, himself a great preacher, and in the line of the Puritans, would have nothing else but the hymns of Isaac Watts sung in his services.

Isaac Watt's greatest composition must surely be "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross."
It has been called 'The very best hymn in the English language' and in it Watts, using only 16 lines, paints a soul-stirring picture of the Saviour's death on the cross coupled with the whole-hearted response of the believer to such amazing love.

As Tedd Smith says 'It seems to me that Isaac Watts wrote this text as if he were standing at the foot of Christ's cross.'

How blessed to reflect on the finished work of Christ Jesus, as summed up in those lines:

See, from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

And how enriching to be able to voice our reconsecration to the Lord's service in the words:

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were an offering far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

Bible Verse

Galatians 6:14 “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ."

A King had a male servant who, in all circumstances, always said to him; My king, do not be discouraged because everything God does is perfect, no mistakes.

One day, they went hunting and a wild animal attacked the king, the servant managed to kill the animal but couldn’t prevent his majesty from losing a finger.

Furious and without showing gratitude, the King said; if God was good, I would not have been attacked and lost one finger.

The servant replied, ‘despite all these things, I can only tell you that God is good and everything He does is perfect, He is never wrong’.

Outraged by the response, the king ordered the arrest of his servant. While being taken to prison, he told the king again, God is Good and Perfect.

Another day, the king left alone for another hunt and was captured by savages who use human beings for sacrifice.

On the altar, the savages found out that the king didn’t have one finger in place, he was released because he was considered not “complete” to be offered to the gods.

On his return to the palace, he ordered the release of his servant and said; My friend, God was really good to me. I was almost killed but for lack of a single finger, I was let go.

But I have a question; If God is so good, why did He allow me to put you in prison? His servant replied; My king, if I had not been put in prison, I would have gone with you, and would have been sacrificed, because I have no missing finger.

Everything God does is perfect, He is never wrong.

Often we complain about life, and the negative things that happen to us, forgetting that everything happens for a purpose.

God knows why you are reading this message today.

Please bless someone with it by sharing it. God is good and perfect!!!

Meditation

As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. – Psalm 18:30

You will succeed because Jesus loves You!!!

O Lord my God! When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made,
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed,

Refrain:

Then sings my soul, my Saviour God to Thee;
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God to Thee;
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

When through the woods and forest glades I wander
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees;
When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur
And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze;

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin;

When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow in humble adoration
And there proclaim, my God, how great Thou art!

Story

In Psalm 19, verse 1, David tells us 'The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament showeth his handiwork.' This great truth is elaborated in the words of the now famous hymn "How Great Thou Art".

It has become one of the most popular spiritual songs of our time, and I suppose could rightly be described as a Christian classic.

Although it has only become popular in the last thirty years, the origins of this hymn go back to the last century; to the majestic hills and valleys of Sweden.

It was there, around 1885, that the Reverend Carl Boberg, a well known Lutheran minister wrote the original, stirring words.

Interestingly enough the Reverend Mr. Boberg's talents stretched not only to preaching and poetry. He also had political abilities for he served as a senator in the Swedish parliament for fifteen years.

In writing "How Great Thou Art", he was 'inspired', some would say, by the natural beauty of his homeland - especially after a summer thunderstorm.

Arriving home he penned three verses on the same theme and entitled this new song "O Great God".

Over the years translations were made into German and Russian, and English; but the hymn never enjoyed the immense popularity which it does today.

However, In 1927, the Russian translation came into the hands of an English missionary couple, Mr. and Mrs. Stuart K. Hine, who were serving in the western Ukraine.

Mr. Hine sang it in Russian for a number of years and then translated three verses into English.

Surely he has vividly captured the original mood of the author with those words.

O Lord my God when I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the works Thy hands have made,
I see the stars, I hear the mighty thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed,

Then sings my soul my Saviour God to Thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art.

When the Second World War broke out, the Hines' returned to England bringing "How Great Thou Art" with them.

A fourth verse was added in 1948, and the next year the entire hymn appeared in a gospel magazine which Mr. Hine published. It was immediately popular and soon reprints were being requested by missionaries all over the world.

The final thrust which was to give "How Great Thou Art", the worldwide popularity it deserved came a few years later, in 1954 to be exact.

Through the good offices of Scottish publisher, Mr. Andrew Gray, a copy of Mr. Hines' leaflet carhe into the hands of the famous gospel singer George Beverly Shea.

It would appear that Bev. Shea fell in love with the piece immediately for he introduced it to the people of Toronto, Canada, at a crusade the next year; and then began to sing it regularly. In the New York Crusade if 1957, for example, it was sung a staggering 99 times.

No doubt the music also played a large part in making this hymn so popular with old and young.

It really is something special and the simple two line melody of the beautiful tune is the perfect vehicle for those lovely words.

One verse, more than all others, sums up the gospel message superbly:

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing,
Sent Him to die, scarce can take it in.

That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.

Then sings my soul my Saviour God to thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art.

Bible Verses

Psalm 145:3 - Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable.

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire.

If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something,

for it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.

During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations,

because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge,

because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes.

They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary,

because it means you’ve made a difference.

It’s easy to be thankful for the good things.

A life of rich fulfilment comes to those who
are also thankful for the setbacks.

Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles,

and they can become your blessings.

And, consider these…


Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more.

If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.

You cannot do a kindness too soon because you never know how soon it will be too late.

Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.

Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out.

No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of another.

Let US Make This The BEST Week Of The Year!

Meditation:

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

You will succeed in Jesus Name!

MY FAITH LOOKS UP TO THEE

My faith looks up to Thee,
Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Saviour divine!
Now hear me while I pray;
Take all my guilt away;
O let me from this day
Be wholly Thine!

May Thy rich grace impart
Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire;
As Thou hast died for me,
O may my love to Thee
Pure, warm, and changeless be,
A living fire.

While life's dark maze I tread,
And griefs around me spread,
Be Thou my guide;
Bid darkness turn to day,
Wipe sorrow's tears away,
Nor let me ever stray
From Thee aside.

When ends life's transient dream,
When death's cold, sullen stream
Shall o'er me roll;
Blest Saviour, then, in love,
Fear and distrust remove;
O bear me safe above,
A ransomed soul.

Story

One day, in 1832, two men stood outside a store in Boston, Massachusetts. One was Lowell Mason, the other Ray Palmer.
Mason had just returned from Savannah, Georgia where, for the past 16 years, he had been a choir director and bank clerk.

Three years later he would be awarded the first degree of Doctor of Music conferred by an American college and would go down in history as one of the all time great hymn-tune composers.

Even now he was one of the busiest men in Boston, directing three choirs and trying to persuade the local Board of Education to put music courses on the city schools curricula.

He was also currently compiling material for his new book "Spiritual Songs for Social Worship."
Palmer, just 24 years old, had recently worked in a shoe shop; but was a graduate of Yale University and in another three years was to be ordained to the Congregational ministry.

As the two men chatted on the street Mason tackled Palmer about the possibility of him writing some verses which he, Mason, could set to music for the new book. As it happened Ray Palmer had just the very thing and he pulled a notebook from his pocket.

For 10 years Ray Palmer had burned the candle at both ends, studying for the ministry and working for his keep at the same time.

Often he had wondered how long he could go on. Indeed he had been on the point of giving up more than once.

One night, just to comfort himself when he felt down and out, he wrote a poem. No one else had yet seen it but now he opened the notebook and handed it to Lowell Mason.

Mason was immediately impressed and, borrowing a sheet of paper, copied down...

My faith looks up to Thee,
Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Saviour divine!
Now hear me while I pray,
Take all my guilt away,
O let me from this day
Be wholly thine!

Three more equally moving and inspiring verses followed.
When he had finished Mason turned to Palmer and said, 'Mr. Palmer, you may do many good things but posterity will remember you as the author of "My Faith Looks Up To Thee." That same night, in 1832, Mason set Palmer's first and greatest hymn to music.

Thus a bank clerk and a shoe salesman, who stopped for a chat in Boston, gave the world a hymn and Christians everywhere have been singing it ever since.

May Thy rich grace impart
Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire;
As Thou hast died for me,
O may my love to Thee
Pure, warm and changeless be,
A living fire.

Bible Verse

Hebrews 12:2 - Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Daniel was an overweight child. He was nicknamed the ‘ Fat Kid ’ in school, and grew worse over the years. He had a low self -esteem and saw constant eating as his ‘ peace ’ . He fell into depression , and turned to food for comfort. His family members tried to help with his eating dysfunction , but he would hide these snacks , and eat them when no one is watching .

Soon he was diagnosed with heart disease , Diabetes and High blood pressure . Daniel needed help, not just with his weight gain , but first , with his mindset towards food; then his diet.

Can what you eat affect your mental health?

Research findings reveal that a nutritious diet isn’ t just good for the body ; it is great for the brain too . This knowledge is giving rise to a concept called “ nutritional ( or food) psychiatry” .

A very large body of evidence now exists that suggests diet is as important to mental health as it is to physical health
A healthy diet is protective and an unhealthy diet is a risk factor for depression and anxiety .

Traditionally , we have not been trained to ask about food and nutrition. By shaping your diets, you can improve your mental health and decrease the risk of psychiatric disorders.

If you eat a sweet snack , such as a chocolate or a sugary donut , you will get a spike of energy which is soon followed by a crashing low energy . Sugar highs and lows are just one of the many ways food can affect how you feel.

Three ways diet impacts your mental health:

Here are some more details on how good nutrition impacts mental health:

1. It’ s crucial for mental development

We are , quite literally , what we eat. When we eat real food that nourishes us , it develops the protein - building blocks , enzymes , brain tissue, and neurotransmitters that transfer information and signals between various parts of the brain and body .

2. It puts the brain into grow mode

Certain nutrients and dietary patterns are linked to changes in a brain protein that helps increase connections between brain cells . A diet rich in nutrients like omega- 3s and zinc boosts levels of this substance. On the other hand , a diet high in saturated fats and refined sugars has a very potent negative impact on brain proteins .

3. It fills the gut with healthy bacteria

And that’ s good for the brain. Trillions of good bacteria live in the gut. They fend off bad germs and keep your immune system in check , which means they help tame inflammation in the body . Foods with beneficial bacteria ( probiotics ) help maintain a healthy gut environment. A high -fat or high -sugar diet is bad for gut health and therefore , your brain .

Five foods that keep the mind working at its best

1. Lean Protein

Adding protein to your meals can help slow the absorption of carbohydrates in your blood and increase the release of Dopamine, which can improve your mood and energy for several hours after eating. Try adding these smart protein choices to your diet: Eggs , Poultry, Seafood and Low- fat yogurt.

2. Vitamins

There are a few specific vitamins that are helpful for mood. For example , vitamin D helps relieve mood disorders , such as seasonal affective disorder. To get your daily dose of vitamin D , you can also try the following foods: Low -fat milk , Egg yolks and Soymilk. Early morning Sunlight is also important as well as this is a natural source of Vitamin D .

3. Whole Grains

The primary source of energy for the brain is glucose, which comes from carbohydrates . Simple carbohydrates aggravate low mood by creating spikes in blood sugar and have been shown to have effects on the brain similar to drugs of abuse . In contrast, complex carbohydrates release glucose slowly , helping us feel full longer and providing a steady source of fuel for the brain and body . Healthy sources of complex carbohydrates include: whole -wheat products , oats , beans and soy .

4. Fish

Foods high in omega- 3 fatty acids , such as wild cold water fish ( e . g . salmon , sardines and mackerel ) , seaweed and walnuts, have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression , attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD ) and other mental disorders. This is likely because of the effect omega- 3s has on the production of neurotransmitters ( brain chemicals responsible for our moods) , such as : Dopamine and Serotonin .

5. Leafy Greens

Your green vegetables are very important . Leafy greens such as spinach and broccoli are high in folic acid. Deficiencies in folate as well as other B vitamins have been linked with higher rates of depression , fatigue and insomnia

Pass me not, O gentle Savior,
Hear my humble cry;
While on others Thou art calling,
Do not pass me by.

Refrain

Savior, Savior,
Hear my humble cry;
While on others Thou art calling,
Do not pass me by.

Let me at Thy throne of mercy
Find a sweet relief,
Kneeling there in deep contrition;
Help my unbelief.

Refrain

Trusting only in Thy merit,
Would I seek Thy face;
Heal my wounded, broken spirit,
Save me by Thy grace.

Refrain

Thou the Spring of all my comfort,
More than life to me,
Whom have I on earth beside Thee?
Whom in Heav’n but Thee?

Refrain

Story:

As earnest Christian pastor told of a young man about whom he had long felt much anxiety, as he had seemed so unconcerned about his soul, and was, in reality, a real cause of disturbance and interruption in classes for other young men. Meeting him one day, the loving pastor sought once more to influence him, urging, “We want you for Christ and his service.” There was a certain change in his manner which did not escape the eye of the prayerful watcher for souls, and—lacking time to do more—he seized the opportunity to secure the presence of his young friend at a Christian Endeavor meeting soon to be held.

True to his promise he was there. When an opportunity was given for some of the young men to choose a song, it was seen that he was urging his companion to select some particular hymn. The other, yielding to his request, asked if the hymn, “Pass me not, O gentle Saviour,” might be sung; and both young men joined in the singing with evident interest and heartiness.

Later in the evening it was requested that all who were definitely on the Lord’s side would confess their allegiance by standing.

Whereupon the one over whom the heart of the pastor was specially yearning rose at once, and with decision.
“Tell me about your conversion,” the thankful pastor requested at the close of the meeting, when hands were clasped in glad, brotherly welcome and recognition.

“Oh, yes,” assented the other. “It was all through that hymn we have just sung. I was working on the canal at G–, and there was a meeting being held at the Mariner’s Chapel, nearby. The words floated out over the water, and from the tug where I was working I could hear them plainly enough. When they were just going to sing those lines—‘While on others Thou are calling, Do not pass me by!’ a great fear came over me, and I thought, ‘Oh, if the Lord were to pass me by, how terrible it would be!’ Then and there, on the tug, I cried out, ‘O Lord, do not pass me by.’ And”—with a bright smile—“he didn’t pass me by. I am saved.’”

Bible Verses

Genesis 18:3 - Do not pass by Your servant.

Just as I am, without one plea
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidd'st me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot,
To Thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, tho' tossed about
With many many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind:
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need in Thee to find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, Thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am— Thy love unknown
Hath broken ev'ry barrier down;
Now to be Thine, yea, Thine alone,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Story:

It must be true to say that no sacred song or hymn has been more used to bring sinners to the feet of Jesus, than this one.

Sung by grand choirs in vast crusades as hundreds have come or by congregations, large and small, as one's and two's have come; this hymn has moved the hearts of multitudes.

"Just As I Am," rings with a clear, positive note. It invites the sinner, just as he is, with all his sin, in all his unworthiness, despite his fears, though poor, wretched and blind, to come to the Saviour.

That's an invitation which is absolutely scriptural! We don't need to wait until our lives have been straightened out before we come to Christ. There's nothing we can do which will ever make us more acceptable in God's sight. The Bible clearly teaches that God loves the sinner, just the way he is, and wants him to come like that.

Only Jesus Christ can deliver us from the guilt and penalty of sin. Only He can solve all the problems of life. Only He can give us peace and joy and hope for the future. It was out of her feelings of frustration and hopelessness that the daughter of an Anglican minister in Brighton, England, wrote the words of this fine hymn.

One day in 1833, when Charlotte Elliott was in her forty-fourth year, she was feeling unusually depressed and alone. The other members of her family had gone off to a church function while she, an invalid and bedridden, remained at home.

Before her illness she had lived a happy, carefree life enjoying its many pleasures and gaining a measure of popularity, as a portrait artist.

Now, all of this past and stricken with the sickness which was to plague her for the rest of her life, she felt utterly useless and cut off.

In addition, although she had been a Christian for many years, she began to have doubts about her relationship with the Lord. How could she be sure that all was well with her soul?
In her distress she began to list scriptural reasons for believing that she was, indeed, a child of God. She recognised the power of the Saviour's precious blood. She remembered His promise to receive all who come to Him by faith; and His ability to pardon, cleanse and save.

As she meditated on these great truths her heart was warmed and very soon Charlotte Elliott, who was also fond of writing poetry, was putting down her thoughts in verse:

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.
It's just here that we encounter a new slant to the story.

Charlotte Elliott's brother was anxious to start a school to benefit the children of poor clergymen, and had organised a bazaar to raise funds.

It seemed that everybody in the town had helped with the project. Everybody, that is, except Charlotte, who was so stricken with paralysis that she could barely drag herself around her room.

So she published her new poem "Just As I Am," in the hope that from its sale she could contribute something to her brother's school fund.

The poem was instantly successful and was soon selling all over England in large numbers as well as being translated into a number of foreign languages.

Charlotte Elliott never did enjoy good heath for the rest of her life. She remained bedridden until the Lord, at last, called her home when she was eighty-two years old.

However, before her death she received more than a thousand letters of thanks and compliments from people who were grateful that she had written "Just As I Am."

Just as I am, Thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Bible Verses

John 6:37 - All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Refrain

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.

Refrain

When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.

Refrain

So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

Refrain

Story:
This beautiful hymn was written by one of the prolific gospel song writers of the past century, a Methodist lay preacher named Johnson Oatman.

In addition to his preaching and the writing of more than 5,000 hymn texts, Oatman was also a successful business man, engaged in a shipping business and in his later years as an administrator for a large insurance company in New Jersey.

It is good for each of us periodically to take time to rediscover the simple but profound truths expressed by Mr. Oatman in the four stanzas of this hymn.

Bible Verses

Proverbs 10:6 - Blessings crown the head of the righteous

Some people ask , why should we eat salads when there are other delicious, mouthwatering dishes to savour?

Salads are rich vegetables and fruits that have nutritious and health benefits.
The ingredients used in making salad include but not limited to carrot , cabbage, cucumber and tomato but who says you can’ t add yummy fruits like avocados and lemon or lime juice to give it a distinct taste. There are so many ingredients that can be used to make your salads quite a treat.

Benefits in eating salads every day:

Salad helps you lose weight

Ingredients in the salad have low calories , contain high fibre and are rich in vitamins and minerals . Eat less portion of food and a generous portion of salad . It is filling so there will be no need to nibble on snacks till the next meal . Add rice and corn for carbohydrates and beans for proteins to balance your salads into a full meal . Do not forget to add avocados or olive oil which is a non -saturated fat.

Salads help to reduce cholesterol level and constipation

Ingredients in the salad like cabbage, carrot and tomatoes contain antioxidants and vitamins that help to reduce cholesterol level, prevent constipation and heart disease .

Salads help in skin care

The ingredients from salads are all natural. Have you wondered why most vegetarians have such smooth skin and they seem to age slowly

The qualifications that gave you a job are the same qualifications someone has, but doesn't have a job.......
*Be grateful.*

_The prayer God answered for you, is the same prayer others have been saying without success yet......._
*Be grateful.*

_The road you use safely on a daily basis is the same road many others died on......._
*Be grateful.*

_The place which you worship and God blessed you, is the same place other people worship in but their lives are still in shambles......._
*Be grateful.*

_The bed you used in the hospital, got healed and discharged, is the same bed many other people died on...._
*Be grateful.*

_The same rain that made your field produce good crops, is the same rain that destroyed someone's field...._
*Be grateful.*

_Be grateful because whatever you have is not by your power, your might, or your qualifications, but rather by the Grace of the Almighty God

Remember! He is the *Giver of everything* you have.

**_BE GRATEFUL_**
*Beautiful Message*.

A rich man looked through his window and saw a poor man picking something from his dustbin ... He said, Thank GOD I'm not poor.

The poor man looked around and saw a naked man misbehaving on the street ... He said, Thank GOD I'm not mad.

The mad man looked ahead and saw an ambulance carrying a patient ... He said, Thank GOD I'm not sick.

Then a sick person in hospital saw a trolley taking a dead body to the mortuary ... He said, Thank GOD I'm not dead.

Only a dead person cannot thank God.

Why don't you thank GOD today for all your blessings and for the gift of life ... for another beautiful day.

*What is LIFE*?
To understand life better, you have to go to 3 locations :

*1. Hospital*
*2. Prison*
*3. Cemetery*

At the Hospital, you will understand that nothing is more beautiful than HEALTH.

In the Prison, you'll see that FREEDOM is the most precious thing.

At the Cemetery, you will realize that life is precious. The ground that we walk today will be our roof tomorrow.

Sad Truth* : We all come with *Nothing* and we will go with *Nothing* ... Let us, therefore, remain humble and be thankful & grateful to God at all times for everything.

Could you please share this with someone else, and let them know that God loves them ?

All to Jesus, I surrender;
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.

Refrain

I surrender all, I surrender all,
All to Thee, my blessèd Savior,
I surrender all.

All to Jesus I surrender;
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.

Refrain

All to Jesus, I surrender;
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel the Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.

Refrain

All to Jesus, I surrender;
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power;
Let Thy blessing fall on me.

Refrain

All to Jesus I surrender;
Now I feel the sacred flame.
O the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory, to His Name!

Refrain

Story:
For many years I had been studying art. My whole life was wrapped up in its pursuit and the thing farthest from my mind was active Christian service.

My dream was to become an outstanding and famous artist. After graduating from college, I studied drawing and painting under a well-known German teacher. To help me financially, I taught school and eventually I became supervisor of art in the public schools of Sharon, Pennsylvania.

It was during this period in my life that a revival was held in the First Methodist Church of which I was a member. I became very interested in these meetings as a personal worker.

The Spirit of God was urging me to give up teaching and to enter the evangelistic field, but I would not yield. I still had a burning desire to be an artist. This battle raged for five years.

At last the time came when I could hold out no longer and I surrendered my all-my time and my talents. It was then that a new day was ushered into my life. I wrote I Surrender All in memory of the time when, after the long struggle, I had surrendered and dedicated my life to active Christian service for the Lord.

Judson Van DeVenter

Bible Verse

Luke 14:33 - “So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple”

STORIES BEHIND GREAT HYMNS

WHEN THE ROLL IS CALLED UP YONDER

When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more,
And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair;
When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore,
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

Refrain

When the roll, is called up yonder,
When the roll, is called up yonder,
When the roll, is called up yonder,
When the roll is called up yonder I’ll be there.

On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise,
And the glory of His resurrection share;
When His chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies,
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

Refrain

Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun,
Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care;
Then when all of life is over, and our work on earth is done,
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

Refrain

Story:

James M. Black was a Sunday school teacher and president of the young people’s society in a church in Canada, when he was quite young himself.

One evening at a consecration meeting, when each member answered the roll call by repeating a Scripture text, a girl failed to respond. This situation brought the thought to Black’s mind—although the thought was not theologically sound—that it would be a very sad thing if our names were called from the Lamb’s Book of Life in heaven and we should be absent.

When Black reached his house, his wife saw that he was deeply troubled and questioned him about his problem, but he did not reply. In fifteen minutes a new song came to his mind. He then went to the piano and played the music just as you will find it in the hymnbooks today—note for note. It has never been changed.

When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound and time shall be no more,
When the morning breaks; eternal, bright and fair;
When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore,
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

Bible Verses

Revelation 20:12 - I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened.

Monday is a day of mixed feelings. While for some, it is the most dreadful day because they have to go back to all that work the weekend made them forget . For some , it is a new time to start all over . Monday is also one of the most productive days of the week.
Rather than see it as grumpy day, why don ’ t you smile and laugh all your worries away and rightly so because of these benefits:

Smiling Relieves Stress

For every time you smile, your brain releases dopamine, endorphins ( natural pain reliever) and serotonin. These neurotransmitters wade off stress and relieve you . It also aids in lowering blood pressure .
A smile also releases serotonin, an anti - depressant.

You Appeal To People

No one wants to be around a grumpy person . Staying around someone who smiles can immediately boost a person’ s esteem and make a person feel wanted . Studies have also shown that people are more attracted to people with a smile on their face . It also makes you look sincere to others .

Smiling Affects People ’ s Mood

Whether it is anger , sadness , laughter or a smiling face , science has shown that people mimic others in a conversation especially when they are paying attention . This means that a person ’ s mood and expression can affect another .

With these benefits, why don’ t think good thoughts and smile your way through the day? After all , it is just the beginning of another week of greatness.

Monday is a day of mixed feelings. While for some, it is the most dreadful day because they have to go back to all that work the weekend made them forget . For some , it is a new time to start all over . Monday is also one of the most productive days of the week.
Rather than see it as grumpy day, why don ’ t you smile and laugh all your worries away and rightly so because of these benefits:

Smiling Relieves Stress

For every time you smile, your brain releases dopamine, endorphins ( natural pain reliever) and serotonin. These neurotransmitters wade off stress and relieve you . It also aids in lowering blood pressure .
A smile also releases serotonin, an anti - depressant.

You Appeal To People

No one wants to be around a grumpy person . Staying around someone who smiles can immediately boost a person’ s esteem and make a person feel wanted . Studies have also shown that people are more attracted to people with a smile on their face . It also makes you look sincere to others .

Smiling Affects People ’ s Mood

Whether it is anger , sadness , laughter or a smiling face , science has shown that people mimic others in a conversation especially when they are paying attention . This means that a person ’ s mood and expression can affect another .

With these benefits, why don’ t think good thoughts and smile your way through the day? After all , it is just the beginning of another week of greatness.

Monday is a day of mixed feelings. While for some, it is the most dreadful day because they have to go back to all that work the weekend made them forget . For some , it is a new time to start all over . Monday is also one of the most productive days of the week.
Rather than see it as grumpy day, why don ’ t you smile and laugh all your worries away and rightly so because of these benefits:

Smiling Relieves Stress

For every time you smile, your brain releases dopamine, endorphins ( natural pain reliever) and serotonin. These neurotransmitters wade off stress and relieve you . It also aids in lowering blood pressure .
A smile also releases serotonin, an anti - depressant.

You Appeal To People

No one wants to be around a grumpy person . Staying around someone who smiles can immediately boost a person’ s esteem and make a person feel wanted . Studies have also shown that people are more attracted to people with a smile on their face . It also makes you look sincere to others .

Smiling Affects People ’ s Mood

Whether it is anger , sadness , laughter or a smiling face , science has shown that people mimic others in a conversation especially when they are paying attention . This means that a person ’ s mood and expression can affect another .

With these benefits, why don’ t think good thoughts and smile your way through the day? After all , it is just the beginning of another week of greatness.

“Take up thy cross and follow me,”
I heard my Master say;
“I gave me life to ransom thee,
Surrender your all today.”

CHORUS:
Wherever He leads I’ll go,
Wherever He leads I’ll go,
I’ll follow my Christ who loves me so,
Wherever He leads I’ll go.

He drew me closer to His side,
I sought His will to know,
And in that will I now abide,
Wherever He leads I’ll go.

It may be through the shadows dim,
Or o’er the stormy sea,
I take my cross and follow Him,
Wherever He leadeth me.

Story:

In January of 1936, the Southern Baptist songwriter B. B. McKinney was leading the music at the Alabama Sunday School Convention which was held that year in the town of Clanton.
The featured speaker was the Reverend R. S. Jones, McKinney’s friend of many years, who because of ill health had recently returned from missionary service in Brazil.

The two men were visiting over dinner one evening when Mr. Jones revealed to Dr. McKinney that his physicians would not allow him to return to South America.
When asked about his future plans the missionary said, “I don’t know, but wherever He leads I’ll go.”

The words stuck in Dr. McKinney’s mind, and before the convention’s evening session began, he had written both the words and music of this song.
At the close of Mr. Jones’ message, Dr. McKinney related this story and sang “Wherever He Leads I’ll Go” to the congregation.

Bible Verses

Mark 8:34 - If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.

Keep dreaming

When you savor delicious and succulent mangoes every season, you probably don’ t think about the immense health benefits coming with every bite. A common nickname for mangoes is actually ‘ the king of fruits ’ . Beyond the sweet , luscious taste of mangoes , they also contain an abundance of vitamins , minerals and antioxidants that assure your optimum health.
1 . Prevents Cancer
Research has shown antioxidant compounds in mango fruit have been found to protect against colon , breast, leukemia and prostate cancers .
2 . Lowers Cholesterol
The high levels of fiber, pectin and vitamin C help to lower serum cholesterol levels , specifically Low- Density Lipoprotein ( the bad stuff ) .
3 . Clears the Skin
Can be used both internally and externally for the skin. Mangoes help clear clogged pores and eliminate pimples .
4 . Improves Eye Health
One cup of sliced mangoes supplies 25 percent of the needed daily value of vitamin A, which promotes good eyesight and prevents night blindness and dry eyes.
5 . Alkalizes the Whole Body
The tartaric acid, malic acid, and a trace of citric acid found in the fruit help to maintain the alkali reserve of the body .
6 . May Help with Diabetes
Mango leaves help normalize insulin levels in the blood. The traditional home remedy involves boiling leaves in water, soaking through the night and then consuming in the morning. Mango fruit also has a relatively low glycemic index so moderate quantities will not spike your sugar levels .
7 . Promotes Healthy Sex
Mangoes are a great source of vitamin E. Even though the popular connection between sex drive and vitamin E was originally created by a mistaken generalization on rat studies , further research has shown balanced proper amounts does help .
8 . Improves Digestion
Papayas are not the only fruit that contain enzymes for breaking down protein . There are several fruits , including mangoes , which have this healthful quality . The fiber in mangoes also helps digestion and elimination.
9 . Helps Fight Heat Stroke
Juicing the fruit from green mango and mixing with water and a sweetener helps to cool down the body and prevent harm from overheating. From an ayurvedic viewpoint , the reason people often get diuretic and exhausted when visiting equatorial climates is because the strong “ sun energy” is burning up your body , particularly the muscles. The kidneys then become overloaded with the toxins from this process .
10 . Boosts the Immune System
The generous amounts of vitamin C and vitamin A in mangos, plus 25 different kinds of carotenoids keep your immune system healthy and strong .

Standing on the promises of Christ my King,
Through eternal ages let His praises ring,
Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.

Refrain

Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Savior;
Standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.

Refrain

Standing on the promises I now can see
Perfect, present cleansing in the blood for me;
Standing in the liberty where Christ makes free,
Standing on the promises of God.

Refrain

Standing on the promises of Christ the Lord,
Bound to Him eternally by love’s strong cord,
Overcoming daily with the Spirit’s sword,
Standing on the promises of God.

Refrain

Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
Listening every moment to the Spirit’s call
Resting in my Savior as my all in all,
Standing on the promises of God.

Refrain

Story:

“Standing on the Promises” was written and composed, in 1886, while Russell Carter was serving as a professor in the Pennsylvania Military Academy, a school in which he had been a member of the first graduating class.

The rhythmic martial tone of the hymn’s music possibly reflects Mr. Carter’s military academy experience.

A believer’s stability for this life as well as his confidence for eternity rests solely on the written promises of God’s Word.

It is this reminder of a Christian’s daily dependence upon the promises of God that has made this straight-forward, rhythmical gospel hymn a favorite with God’s people for the past century.

Bible Verses:
2nd Corinthians 1:20 - For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us.

ROCK OF AGES

Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy riven side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Cleanse me from its guilt and pow'r.

Not the labors of my hands
Can fulfill Thy law's demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone:
Thou must save, and Thou alone.

Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to Thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress;
Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Saviour, or I die.

While I draw this fleeting breath,
When my eyelids close in death,
When I soar to worlds unknown,
See Thee on Thy judgment throne;
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee.

Then above the world and sin,
Thro' the veil, drawn right within,
I shall see Him face to face,
Sing the story, saved by grace,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me ever be with Thee.

Story:

The Rev. Augustus Montague Toplady, is one name which must be included in any list of the great hymn writers.

One day Toplady was travelling through the pleasant English countryside when a sudden, fierce storm sent him scurrying for shelter. He found it nearby, in the cleft of a great rock.

There are several places throughout Britain and Ireland where local people will point positively to the exact location of Toplady's place of refuge. However, since it's such a matter of uncertainty and dispute I'll refrain from favouring any one in particular.

The important thing is that the great man found the shelter he needed; and the wonderful thing for us is that, while there, and inspired by the situation and surroundings, he penned those immortal lines: "Rock of ages cleft for me, let me hide myself in thee."

The Rev. Toplady was also the editor of a little religious periodical entitled, "The Gospel Magazine," and sometime later he used the lines he had written beneath the shelter of the rock in an article he had prepared for that paper.

In this he sought to establish the utter sinfulness of man and the absolute necessity of receiving Christ's pardon. It was a totally scriptural essay and to prove his point he compared the sins of the average individual to the national debt of England.

Toplady had calculated that a fifty year old man in his lifetime would be guilty of; one billion, five hundred and seventy-six million, eight hundred thousand sins. He quite rightly argued that it was humanly impossible for anyone to pay off such a staggering debt of iniquity. Therefore, sinners must needs avail themselves of the mercy and pardon of the Lord Jesus, who died upon the Cross to 'redeem us from the curse of the law.'
He concluded the article with - 'A living and dying prayer for the holiest believer in the world' - which contained the recently written hymn "Rock Of Ages".

Just two years after those blessed words were first published, Augustus Toplady, at only 38 years of age, passed from this scene of time, into eternity; and to the everlasting shelter of "The Rock of ages."

Rock of Ages, cleft for me- Psalm 62:5-8
Let me hide myself in Thee - Exodus 33:22
Let the water and the blood - 1 John 5:6
From Thy riven side which flowed - John 19:34
Be of sin the double cure - 2 Kings 2:9-10
Cleanse me from its guilt and power- Isaiah 1:19

Not the labour of my hands- John 5:30 (first clause)
Can fulfil the law's demands- Exodus 33:22
Could my zeal no respite know- Psalm 69:6 (first clause)
Could my tears forever flow - Psalm 6:6
All for sin could not atone - Heb. 10:5-6
Thou must save and Thou alone - Hebrews 10:8-10

Nothing in my hand I bring - Isaiah 4:1
Simply to Thy Cross I cling - Galatians 6:14
Naked come to Thee for dress- Rom. 13:14 (first clause)
Helpless look to Thee for grace- Philippians 4:I3
Foul, I to the fountain fly - Psalm 2:7
Wash me Saviour, or I die - John 13:8 (second clause)

While I draw this fleeting breath- Psalm 103:15-16
When my eyelids close in death - Ecclesiastes 12:3-7
When I soar to worlds unknown - John 14:2-3
See Thee on Thy judgment throne - Matthew 25:31
Rock of Ages cleft for me- 1 Corinthians 10:4 (third clause)
Let me hide myself in Thee - Psalm 16:1-8

Bible Verse

Psalm 18:2 - “The Lord is my Rock, and my Fortress, and my Deliverer."

What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!

O what peace we often forfeit, O 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.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.

Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield you; you will find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear
May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer.

Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer
Rapture, praise and endless worship will be our sweet portion there.

Story:
"What a Friend We Have in Jesus" has long been associated with the United States of America. This is probably due in part to the fact that this country has a reputation for being the most generous nation in the world. After World War II, the United States and its people helped rebuild the very nations that attacked us. When countries-even those who were enemies of the United States-have experienced great national disasters such as earthquakes, floods, or famine, Americans have always been among the first to respond with aid. In Christian circles it may be the American missionaries who are the best known of the foreigners who go into the most remote parts of the Third World to bring help and hope.
Though many in the U.S. judge the country, its government, and its people as not coming close to the ideals set in motion by Christ, most of the world's people are still amazed by America's dynamic rush to help "the least of these." In hundreds of millions of minds, the U.S. has traditionally been viewed as a Christian country because of the compassion it has shown to those in need. So for many of those whose lives have been saved or altered by America's outreach and generosity, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" is the song that best defines their view of this country. Yet this old hymn was not written by an American; rather, it was composed in Canada by a man who was born in Europe.

One hundred and fifty years ago, two businessmen stood on a frigid Port Hope, Ontario, street corner as snow spit from a gray sky. In the midst of that bitterly cold day, a little man carrying a saw walked by. After the two friends watched the woodcutter pass, one of them observed, "Now there is a man happy with his lot in life. I wish I could know his joy!"
"He seems to be happy, all right," the other agreed. Then he added, "I know he is a very hardworking, honest man."
"If he is such a happy worker and honest too," the first businessman responded, "then maybe I should run after him and hire him to cut some wood for me. I am going to need some more to make it through the long winter months."
"Oh," came the laughing reply, "he would not work for you."
"And why not?" demanded the first man. "I would pay him a fair wage!"
"It's not that at all. You see, Joseph Scriven only cuts wood for people who cannot afford to pay anyone to cut it for them, or for those who cannot cut it for themselves. Scriven gives his work to the people in need and takes nothing for himself."

The man who exemplified Christian charity was born in Ireland in 1819. He did not have a life so charmed that faith came easily. In fact the woodcutter with the bright smile and gentle manner had suffered more heartache and woe than would hit most families in three generations. The son of a captain in the British Royal Marines, Joseph received a university degree from London's Trinity College in 1844. A man of great faith and determination, he quickly established himself as a teacher, fell in love, and made plans to settle in his hometown. Then tragedy struck. The day before his wedding, his fiancée drowned.
Overcome with grief, Scriven left Ireland to start a new life in Canada. He taught school in Woodstock and Brantford before establishing a home in Rice Lake. It was there he met and fell in love with Eliza Rice. Just weeks before she was to become Scriven's bride, she suddenly grew sick. Though the best doctors from across the area were called in, nothing they did seemed to help. In a matter of weeks, Eliza died. A shattered Scriven turned to the only thing that had anchored him during his life-his faith. Through prayer and Bible study he somehow found not just solace but a mission. The twenty-five-year-old man decided to take to heart Jesus' "Sermon on the Mount." He sold all his earthly possessions and vowed to give his life to the physically handicapped and financially destitute. It was a vow he never broke.
Ten years later Scriven received news that his mother had become very ill. The man who had taken a vow of poverty did not have the funds to go home and help care for the woman who had given him birth. Heartsick, feeling a need to reach out to her, Scriven first turned to prayer and then to words. In a letter to his mother, this friend of the friendless wrote the story of his life in three short verses he called "What a Friend We Have in Jesus." Scriven who later said, "The Lord and I wrote the song together," shared the poem with a few acquaintances. One of them took copies to a music publisher. Within two years the little poem of inspiration had been published and coupled to a tune written by an American lawyer, Charles Converse.
"What a Friend We Have in Jesus" might have remained as obscure as Joseph Scriven if it had not been for the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody. Moody came across the song some two decades after it was written and believed it to be the most touching hymn he had ever heard. It was Moody, through his meetings, teachings, and books, who gave the song a national platform and probably created the impression that "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" had been written in the United States.
In the late 1800s American missionaries took the hymn to the four corners of the globe. "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" was one of the first American songs learned by many of those touched by these missionaries' work. Because of missionaries the song became so associated with the United States and its people that by the turn of the century many Eastern European immigrants sang "What a Friend" as they arrived at Ellis Island. Many of these potential Americans did not understand a single word of English, but in their hearts they believed the United States was a place where Jesus was everyone's friend.
The same thoughts and inspiration that Joseph Scriven wanted to give his sick mother in 1855, the idea that missionaries passed along in foreign lands for generations, and the hope that immigrants clung to as they arrived in the United States were adopted by millions of Christians during World War I and World War II. "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" was usually sung in American churches on the Sunday morning before a church member left for missionary service. This song, along with "Amazing Grace," was also the most common hymn played if that same man was lost in combat. Thus for tens of millions of Americans, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" became the spiritual reinforcement that got them through the most trying times of their lives. In the process the hymn had somehow grown beyond the autobiographical testimony of an Irishman, whose life had seen little but trouble and sacrifice, and into an anthem whose message was universal in moments of insecurity and doubt.
Ironically, Joseph Scriven drowned in a Canadian lake in 1886. While he did realize that the poem meant only for his mother's eyes had become meaningful to others, the man with the giving spirit did not live long enough to see "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" taken to every corner of the globe. Yet Scriven, who spent fifty years cutting wood and giving all he had to "the least of these," would have surely been pleased to know that his life's message, written in a poem, has inspired so many for so long.

Bible Verse
Proverbs 18:34 - “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother."

# JUST READ THIS #

*THE PROBLEM WITH US NORTHERNERS*

BY NA-ALLAH MUHAMMED ZAGGA

The Yoruba Council of Elders is right that Nigeria's biggest security problems are concentrated in the North and these problems are draining the country's resources.

Are the Boko Haram terrorists not Northerners, mainly from the Northeast ?.

Is religious violence not concentrated in the North ?.

Are Muslim fanatics that attack Churches and loot Igbo shops in the name peaceful protests not Northerners ?.

Are these mobs that extra-judicially lynch non-Muslims for alleged blasphemy not Northerners ?.

Do Yoruba Muslims take the laws into their own hands by lynching others for alleged blasphemy ?.

Don't the Southwest have Muslims ?.

Why are they not behaving violently in the name of religion ?.

Why is religious extremism and violence concentrated in the North ?.

Are the violent Fulani bandits not Northerners ?.

If you argue that the violent herdsmen are foreigners, then why are foreigners claiming right to grazing land in Benue State by violent means, which led to introduction of anti grazing laws ?.

Are the notorious ethnic militias that murder children and pregnant women not Northerners ?.

While the Niger Delta leaders have always played active roles in the achievement of peace by talking their youths out of violence, why have the Borno Elders, the ACF, the Northern Elders Forum and others failed to play any effective role in ending the violence that engulfs the North ?.

These Northern groups are more active in terms of calling for the return of political power to the North and retaining power than in ending the violence for which the region become notorious.

In May 2014, when former President Jonathan offered amnesty to the Boko Haram terrorists, what efforts did these Northern leaders make to give the initiative a fillip ? , Virtually nothing.

Instead, they were accusing Jonathan of being behind Boko Haram to "depopulate" the North for the so-called political advantage.

When the late President Umaru Musa Yar'adua offered amnesty to the Niger Delta militants, the leaders of oil producing region had proved their relevance and influence by persuading their youths out the violent agitations.

Not only that, they also persuaded their boys to lay down their arms and they did and peace returned to the region.

Instead of giving Jonathan's amnesty offer for Boko Haram a push, Northern leaders were living in denial about the reality of the terror group being a Northern problem, despite the fact that Kanuri boys dominate the membership of the gangs of mass murderers.

In fact, some even ridiculously believed that it was a CAN agenda to destroy or eliminate Muslims, despite the fact that Boko Haram suicide bombers were targeting Churches almost every week or day.

The so-called Borno Elders were busy playing politics with the issue while the monster was getting stronger and crueller.

The problem with us Northerners is that we don't want to acknowledge the reality of the problem on our hands.

We always look for excuses to comfort ourselves, from religious fundamentalism, violent extremism and the menace of the herdsmen. Instead taking a vstand against these evil realities.

If you say herdsmen are not Nigerians, why should foreigners claim a right to land in Benue State or anywhere else, and kill farmers that resist their encroachment ?.

There are Fulanis in Mali, Chad, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Niger Republic and other parts of Africa.

Why are not engaged in the massacre of the people in those places ?.

If they are obeying the law elsewhere, why are they behaving with impunity in Nigeria ?.

We should not allow murderers to ruin our peace and peaceful coexistence because of ethnic, cultural, and linguistic affinity.

Nobody will come from another place to solve these problems for us.

It is our baby, we must deal with it, it is time for action.

It is time Northerners spoke with one voice over these evils that have blighted the progress of Northern Nigeria, a region that ranks lowest on the ladder of the development index.

The Truth is bitter but is better it is said as its were.

ARE YOU WASHED IN THE BLOOD?

Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing power?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Are you fully trusting in His grace this hour?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Refrain

Are you washed in the blood,
In the soul cleansing blood of the Lamb?
Are your garments spotless? Are they white as snow?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Are you walking daily by the Savior’s side?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Do you rest each moment in the Crucified?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Refrain

When the Bridegroom cometh will your robes be white?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Will your soul be ready for the mansions bright,
And be washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Refrain

Lay aside the garments that are stained with sin,
And be washed in the blood of the Lamb;
There’s a fountain flowing for the soul unclean,
O be washed in the blood of the Lamb!
Refrain

Story:
ELISHA ALBRIGHT HOFFMAN (1839-1929) was born in Orwigsburg, PA, the son of devout Germans and was reared in a family that sang as part of their daily devotions. He attended Central High School, Philadelphia, then Union Seminary (of the Evangelical Association) and became a minister of the Evangelical Church. He pastored in Benton Harbor (Michigan) Presbyterian Church, served as editor of many music publications, and was a gifted amateur writer of both words and music of gospel songs. He is remembered as the composer of "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms". He served briefly as an editor for Hope Publishing Company, and left a large file of unpublished compositions in care of the company. His most popular hymn "Leaning On The Everlasting Arms" appears as #496 in Hope's new hymnal WORSHIP & REJOICE (2001).

Bible Verses
Revelation 7:14 - They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

Blessèd assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.
Refrain
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior, all the day long;
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior, all the day long.
Perfect submission, perfect delight,
Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
Angels descending bring from above
Echoes of mercy, whispers of love.
Refrain
Perfect submission, all is at rest
I in my Savior am happy and blest,
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with His goodness, lost in His love.
Refrain
Story:
"Blessed Assurance" was composed by two of the most prolific Christian hymn writers in history. The lyrics come from a woman with over 8000 hymns to her credit and the music comes from the organ of a lady with over 500 hymns to her credit. One day, Fanny Crosby was visiting her dear friend, Phoebe Knapp. She played a tune for Fanny and asked her afterwards, "What does it say to you, Fanny?" Her reply was simple: "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine." This hymn is still being played on the church organ in thousands of churches still today.
Despite being blind, Fanny Crosby’s impact on Christian hymns was tremendous. She once described how her blindness affected her songs. "I verily believe that God intended that I should live my days in physical darkness so that I might be better prepared to sing His praise and lead others from spiritual darkness into eternal light. With sight I would have been too distracted to have written thousands of hymns." Without Fanny’s faith and Phoebe’s organ, songs such as "Blessed Assurance" would have never been written.
Bible Verse
Hebrews 10:22 - “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith.”

Amazing grace! how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
Was blind, but now I see.

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed!

Thro' many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me;
His Word my hope secures;
He will my Shield and Portion be,
As long as life endures.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow;
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who called me here below,
Will be forever mine.

When we've been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we'd first begun.

Story:

March the 21st is a day to be remembered by me. I have never suffered it to pass wholly unnoticed since the year 1748. On that day the Lord sent from on high and delivered me from deep waters.'
So wrote John Newton in his autobiography, aptly titled, "Out of the Depths". It was on that memorable day that Newton came into a personal, saving relationship with Jesus Christ.
Ever since he had been a young boy, John Newton had dreamed of following in the footsteps of his father, a sea captain. At the tender age of eleven he joined his father's ship which sailed the warm, blue waters of the Mediterranean and for the best part of the next twenty years that ambition was realised.
Life for the young mariner was by no means a matter of 'plain sailing', however. Growing up, he soon learned the ways of wickedness - to his terrible cost. He fought with his father, clashed with his employers, was flogged for desertion, and finally ended up in jail.
Punishment did nothing to change him, and on his release he continued his immoral living with unrestrained debauchery.

Eventually, by a long sequence of tragic events, he found himself employed in one of the most despicable of all trades in those days, slavery.
What a poor, miserable, wretched sinner John Newton turned out to be! And yet, it was in the Lord's great plan to deliver him and make something of him.
Here's how it happened. And if you know anything about ships and the sea you'll be able to put yourself in Newton's shoes; or should it be sea-boots!
The year was 1748 and it was the month of March, when the seas are at their most violent.
A raging storm was blowing of the North-West coast of Ireland and Newton and his ship were caught in the midst of it.
Thundering waves pounded the helpless vessel again and again, crashing over the decks, filling it with water and threatening to send it and its crew to the bottom. Newton and his ship-mates strained at the pumps but it seemed a hopeless task as the mighty waves broke relentlessly over them.
The ship was just about to break up when Newton, fearing for his very life, saw a ray of hope.
'If this will not do, then the Lord have mercy on us,' he cried, and then the thought of 'mercy' came to him again.
'What mercy can there be for me,' he wondered, but, nevertheless, began to pray in earnest. In a remarkable way God answered and the storm was abated.
That 'memorable day' as Newton later referred to it was March 21st 1748 and he was then 23 years old.
He finally gave up seafaring in 1755 and was appointed tide surveyor at Liverpool where he became acquainted with George Whitefiled and John Wesley.
He began the study of Greek and Hebrew and in 1758 applied to the archbishop of York for ordination to the Church of England ministry but was refused.
However, in 1764, he was offered the curacy of the parish of St. Peter and St. Paul at Olney in Buckinghamshire, and was ordained by the bishop of Lincoln.
Three years later the poet William Cowper, of whom we'll hear later in this book, settled in the parish and the two men became firm friends.
Together they published Olney Hymns, for which Newton himself wrote a number of pieces, including "How Sweet The Name Of Jesus Sounds", and, most famous of all, "Amazing Grace".
"Amazing Grace" has been a firm favourite with Christians everywhere for many years. I'm sure it will always remain so. It is, after all, Newton's own testimony in song, telling the marvellous story of his transformation from spiritual blindness to sight - and all through grace.
In I779 Newton left Olney to become rector of St. Mary Woolnoth, in London. There he continued to exercise an important and fruitful ministry for the remaining 28 years of his life.
Living in the capital city and close to the seat of power in government he was able to influence many in authority, among them, William Wilberforce, the future leader in the campaign to abolish slavery. That must surely have given the former slave ship captain particular satisfaction.
John Newton was also a great writer of devotional letters. These are widely published and some would say were his greatest contributions to the evangelical movement of those times.
He died in London on December 21st 1807, having served the Lord and his church faithfully for almost 60 years.
Towards the end of his life he often told his audiences, 'My memory is nearly gone but I can remember two things; that I am a great sinner and that Christ is a great Saviour.'
On his tombstone in the churchyard of his former parish at Olney are these words:
John Newton, clerk, once an infidel and liberine, a servant of slaves in Africa, was by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned and appointed to preach the faith he had long laboured to destroy.
What else can be said other than that John Newton was well qualified to preach and describe God's 'Amazing grace'.
Amazing grace! how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
Was blind, but now I see.

'Twas, grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believed!
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.

Bible Verses

Luke 15:32 - But we had to celebrate and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and has begun to live, and was lost and has been found.

Ephesians 2:8 - For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;

Take us Chinedu And Osita aka Aki And Paw paw for example.
During our school days starting from primary to higher institution
Most people looked at us as worthless beings because of our look/statue, small and short. Even those we were better than in terms of brain never took us as anything.
Some used to say to our faces "Even you have first class nobody will employ you little rats to work in his office"
They forget that God does think the way humans do.

Look at us today, we can enter where those tall and huge people can not enter, We dine with Kings and Queens, Our present makes people happy, we now offer jobs to those who never saw something good in us.
Those who looked down on US now look up to US.

The Lord is good, all the time. If we could make it you too can make it. Don't lose hope my brothers/
sisters because God created us all for good reasons. There is something special in you that is not in others.

These prayer are for those that can type amen and believe in God and themselves.
God shall turn every disadvantages in your life to Advantages
Those who look down on you today shall look up to
What no man has ever gotten in your family, you will be the first to get.
Kings and Queens shall beg to dine with you.
You shall give to nations.
Your name shall bring happiness to people.
You shall not die young/ you must live to fulfill the purpose God sent you to fulfill in this world.

Christ The Lord Is Risen Today

Christ, the Lord, is risen today, Alleluia!
Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heavens, and earth, reply, Alleluia!
Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Lo! the Sun’s eclipse is over, Alleluia!
Lo! He sets in blood no more, Alleluia!
Vain the stone, the watch, the seal, Alleluia!
Christ hath burst the gates of hell, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids His rise, Alleluia!
Christ hath opened paradise, Alleluia!
Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Once He died our souls to save, Alleluia!
Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!
Soar we now where Christ hath led, Alleluia!
Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!
Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!
Hail, the Lord of earth and Heaven, Alleluia!
Praise to Thee by both be given, Alleluia!
Thee we greet triumphant now, Alleluia!
Hail, the resurrection, thou, Alleluia!
King of glory, Soul of bliss, Alleluia!
Everlasting life is this, Alleluia!
Thee to know, Thy power to prove, Alleluia!
Thus to sing and thus to love, Alleluia!
Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia!
Unto Christ, our heavenly King, Alleluia!
Who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia!
Sinners to redeem and save. Alleluia!
But the pains that He endured, Alleluia!
Our salvation have procured, Alleluia!
Now above the sky He’s King, Alleluia!
Where the angels ever sing. Alleluia!
Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!
Our triumphant holy day, Alleluia!
Who did once upon the cross, Alleluia!
Suffer to redeem our loss. Alleluia!

Story:
The whole system of Christianity rests upon the truth that Jesus Christ rose from the grave. This resurrection hymn “Christ the Lord is Risen Today” has been one of the church's most popular Easter hymns.
It was first written by Charles Wesley one year after his heart-warming experience at the Aldersgate Hall in London, England, in 1738. This hymn was written by Charles for the first service in the Wesleyan Chapel in London. That chapel was first a deserted iron foundry. It became known as the Foundry Meeting House.

Bible Verses
Matthew 28:5,6 - The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, Who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said.’

STORIES BEHIND HYMNS

ALAS AND DID MY
SAVIOUR BLEED?

Isaac Watts was born July 17, 1674, at Southampton, England. He was born into the home of non-Conformists in the days when Dissenters and Independents were persecuted by the Church of England. Fortunately this intolerance lasted only a short while after his birth.
His father, twice jailed during the persecution, afterward prospered in his business and was able to give his son the best kind of education.
Isaac entered the ministry and preached his first sermon at the age of twenty-four. His utter lack of what is commonly known as handsomeness was probably responsible for the fact that he remained unmarried throughout his life. Yet Im sure this frail soul had learned the truth of the verse which begins this meditation.
He wrote many scholarly papers that were used in several institutions of higher learning. Yet one of the most memorable pieces that came from his pen was a simple hymn, Alas! and Did My Savior Bleed.
Fanny Crosby testified that this song helped her to find the Savior when believing came most difficult.
Lindsay I. Terry
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Alas and Did My Savior Bleed? [1]
1 Alas and did my Savior bleed?
And did my Sovreign die!
Would He devote that sacred head
For such a worm as I?
Chorus Oh, come, sinner, you will hear
The Savior say, Weep not for me,
See the Savior on the cross!
Oh, sinner, hear Him cry,
Eloi, Eloi, Lama Sabacthani.
2 Thus might I hide my blushing face,
While His dear cross appears;
Dissolve my heart in thankfulness,
And melt mine eyes to tears.
3 But drops of grief can neer repay
The debt of love I owe;
Here, Lord, I give myself away,
Tis all that I can do.

GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS.
While many hymns are born out of a particular dramatic experience, this hymn was simply the result of the authors morning by morning realization of Gods personal faithfulness.
Thomas Obadiah Chisholm was born in a log cabin in Kentucky. Without the benefit of high school or advanced training, he began his career as a school teacher at the age of sixteen, in the same country schoolhouse where he had received his elementary training.
When he was twenty-one, he became the associate editor of his home town weekly newspaper, The Franklin Favorite. Six years later he accepted Christ as his personal Savior during a revival meeting.
Later Chisholm was ordained to the Methodist ministry but was forced to resign after a brief pastorate because of poor health. Chisholm retired in 1953 and spent his remaining years at the Methodist Home for the Aged, in Ocean Grove, New Jersey.
In a letter dated 1941, Mr. Chisholm wrote; My income has not been large at any time due to impaired health in the earlier years which has followed me until now, although I must not fail to record the unfailing faithfulness of a covenant-keeping God, for which I am filled with astonishing gratefulness.
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Great Is Thy Faithfulness
(1) Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father!
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not:
As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
(2) Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness,
morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided-
Great is Thy faithfulness, lord, unto me!
(3) Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above,
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.
(4) Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide,
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow-
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

STORIES BEHIND GREAT HYMNS


IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL


Horatio G. Spafford had been a successful attorney in Chicago. He was the father of four daughters, an active member of the Presbyterian Church, and a loyal friend and supporter of D. L. Moody.
When Mr. Moody and his music associate, Ira Sankey, left for Great Britain for an evangelistic campaign, Spafford decided to lift the spirits of his family by taking them on a vacation to Europe. He also planned to assist in the Moody?Sankey meetings there.
In November, 1873, Spafford was detained by urgent business, but he sent his wife and four daughters as scheduled on the S.S. Ville du Harve, planning to join them soon.
Halfway across the Atlantic, the ship was struck by an English vessel, and sank in 12 minutes. All four of the Spafford claughters?-Tanetta, Maggie, Annie and Bessie-?were among the 226 who drowned.
Mrs. Spafford was among the few who were miraculously saved.
Later, Horatio Spafford stood hour after hour on the deck of the ship carrying him to rejoin his sorrowing wife in Cardiff, Wales. When the ship passed the approximate place where his precious daughters had drowned, Spafford received sustaining comfort from God that enabled him to write the words of this hymn: 'When sorrows like sea billows roll ... It is well with my soul.
--Adapted from Kenneth W. Osbeck
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It Is Well with My Soul
(1) When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll-
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
CHORUS: It is well with my soul,
it is well, it is well with my soul.
(2) My sin- O the joy of this glorious thought-
My sin, not in part, but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more:
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
(3) And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll:
The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend,
"Even so"- it is well with my soul.