Elev8 Magazine - Issue 38 - Christmas Edition

ISSUE#38, DECEMBER 2018 || NOT FOR SALE

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JOIN US FOR ANY OF OUR SERVICES

PISTIS CONFERENCE 1 Elevation/Resurrection Drive,2Nd Turn After Oando Filling Station, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos.

PISTIS HUB: 1A Ikorodu Road, Maryland Bus Stop Behind Mobil Filling Station, Ikeja, Lagos.

Info@Elevationmainland.org

PISTIS ANNEX 3 Remi Olowude Way, By New Lekki 2nd Roundabout, Oniru, Victoria Island Extension, Lagos, Nigeria.

SERVICE TIMES Saturdays: 6:00pm Sundays: 8:00am, 10:30am Wednesdays: 6:30pm

SERVICE TIMES Sundays: 7:30am | 9:30am | 11:30am Thursdays: 6:30pm

SERVICE TIMES Sundays:10:00am Wednesdays: 6:30pm

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CONTENTS 09

15

07.

09.

With Love from PG

11.

Supermoms & Stilettos (Encouraging tips for

12.

Stronger Together (An interview with Jimmy

14.

The Silent Heroes of Christmas (Christmas story

15.

The Spirit of Christmas (Ways to express

17.

Jesus Is King, No Matter What Happens At The Polls (Upholding godly values is the ultimate

The Law and You (Navigating the choppy waters of law enforcement in Nigeria – Abiola Falusi) single moms at Christmas. – Ibukun Oladejo) and Wumi Mokikan on couples' retreat - Charles Okorobo & Tolulope Oyekan)

from the perspective of Mary , Joseph, Elizabeth & Zechariah - Modupe Odunyemi ) your generosity this Christmas - Chimezie Mbagwu)

panacea – Kayode Olayemi)

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18.

Seven-Point Agenda - Seven Point Agenda

20.

Humans of Elevation

22.

Out of the Box (Reasons you should step out and try new things - Amoma Awala)

23.

This Time Next Year (Our 2019 faith list -

(An opinion poll of what people want from political leadership – Victor Alagbe) Interview conducted - Kayode Olayemi and Chibuzo Okereke.

Ugonna Iheme)

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TEAM

Publisher Godman Akinlabi Communications Chinny Ugoji Dekemi Akinyede Publication Matthew Mancha Editors Abiola Falusi Kayode Olayemi Graphics Nosa Oghoanina Olumide Afolayanka Samuel Alabi Contributors Modupe Odunyemi Chimezie Mbagwu Amoma Awala Ugonna Iheme Ibukun Oladejo Charles Okorobo Tolulope Oyekan Kayode Olayemi Chibuzo Okereke Presley Adewale Abiola Falusi Circulation Charles Okorobo ............................................................

We would like to hear from you, Please email us at: info@elevationng.org

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EDITOR’S NOTE H

as 2018 been truly the year of strength for you? We are of the opinion that the strength we gained this year is mainly for the year ahead. The year of the elections is upon us and it brings with it our desire for changes in the legislative and executive arm of government. Our articles on “Jesus is King no matter who wins the election” and “sevenpoint agenda” seeks to emphasis what matters to us pre and post 2019 elections.

We can’t look into the future without being grateful for the strides we covered in the year 2018 and what a better way than to reflect on the opportunities and testimonies we have had this year. The Christmas message article and the gleanings conveys our joy this season. Our expectations for the year isn’t limited to the bombarded political election coverage as our article on This time next year thumps our faith towards personal growth and impact we desire for the next year.

Christmas wouldn’t be complete without donning our glitzy attire and indulging in a little giggle juice at the office parties, the carol services, exchanging of gifts and hampers, a phone filled with selfies and your head feeling like it’s full of tinsel.

The article on Unusual ways to express generosity, brings to light more ways on being generous, that it’s less about buying presents and more about being present.

As 2018 draws to a glorious end, all of us at Elev8 Magazine would like to wish you a happy holiday season—whether you’re cooking, travelling, or throwing a party.

See you next year !

Abiola Falusi & Kayode Olayemi

Testimonies Didi

I want to thank God for using Pastor Godman to declare His blessings over my life. I came into the service of 11/11/2018 with a burden of stagnation.

It felt like no matter what I did, I failed to get some sales in my business. Pastor Godman came up after the choir had rendered the song “I’ve won” and declared 1 John 5 v 5 , and I got encouraged to pray in the spirit.

I left to the mainland to get some work done. Lo and behold, a vehicle that i had been struggling to sell got sold in my absence. The second vehicle worth N24M that I had been struggling to sell for almost three months got sold within the twinkling of an eye…

I have come to give God honour and glory because He alone did it.

Feranmi I would like to testify of God’s faithfulness. He truly is a good Father. During the past few months, I had 2 big events in my life: a really big exam and a decisive point in my time-consuming career where I would either be promoted or let go. I was under pressure and knew they were both beyond me.

Many times, I considered not taking the exam and focus on my job instead. My manager at the time also encouraged me to do so.

I decided to turn to the One who has helped me scale over every mountain in my life. For the first time ever, I used the Prayer Wall in church and decided to just trust God to be God. HE CAME THROUGH FOR ME! I passed my exam and also got promoted!!!

To be honest, I would still have been happy even if only one of the 2 things happened but God keeps showing me that He is more than able to fulfill and exceed my needs and desires. He doesn’t run out of miracles or love for us, and He always wants to do the extraordinary for us. Even after these, He saved my family from dangerous fraudstars and has been our ever-present help. God’s love and deeds do not have a quota and He is omnipotent and ‘omniloving’.

I will just like to remind someone that God’s blessings have no limit and He has big plans for each and every one of us, no exception. When you think He has done enough, He says He’s just getting started. All we have to do is trust him completely!

Alleluia!!!

Anonymous I stuck a prayer on the Prayer Wall some months back. My prayer was that all my children would be lights in their generation for Jesus Christ.

About 3 months later, my wayward first son seemed to awake from his slumber and a spiritual fervor that I never imagined took hold of him. He began to evangelize on his campus and to his friends with such courage that I was confused.

He started a faith-based internet community that is growing in leaps and bounds. He also started an online intercessory ministry. This son of mine is now lighting up his world for Jesus. His siblings are now so inspired by his firebrand faith that they all want to light up their worlds too for Jesus. Even I, his mother, am being mentored by his ministry and feel left behind!

I am just cannot comprehend the goodness of God. I am so thankful for a faith community that takes prayer so seriously.

Thank you TEC.

Safiya On the 28th of September, I came for the vigil with five prayer requests. I told God (1) I want to know Him more. (2) I want to be healed of my womb because I had been diagnosed with double wombs.

(3) I need my genotype changed. (4) I need a job; and (5) I want to get married.

When Pastor God came up for prayers, he said “God will restore your desires this night” and I believed!!! I came out for prayers and Mrs. BeloOsagie prayed for me that day and told me exactly what a prophet told me before.

God be praised, I received my healing!

The next day, I went to check my genotype and from AS, it’s AA! I went for scan, and my double wombs which caused me bleeding became normal!

My womb is now one and no longer two.

I’m knowing God better everyday by His grace and love towards my life.

Even though two more requests to go, I believe He’ll bring my husband soon and also give me a good job.

I’m indeed grateful to God!

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With

e v o L From PG

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ompliments of the season to you and yours!

It is that time of the year again, when we celebrate the coming of our Saviour into this world to become like us and to experience everything we experience, just the way we are.

Our Heavenly Father humbled himself, stepped down from His throne in heaven to one of the lowliest places He could go, to the life of a mere carpenter, an ordinary man, a preacher, a teacher, a healer of sicknesses and diseases, and to His eventual death on the cross at Calvary. But we rejoice at the good news of His coming because it didn’t end in death, rather it ended in resurrection, for Jesus came back to life, triumphed over sin and death, and saved us all from the hands of fear and sin.

So let’s celebrate, enjoy the times with loved ones and be merry.

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Spread the love of God within you and abroad. In this period, there’s so much to be merry for. However, let’s not forget that a proper way to celebrate the season and what God came to do for us is to reflect on His goodness and all that He has done in the months that have passed, in every area of our respective lives. We should also be retrospective in our thinking and take some time to dwell on what lies ahead; what God is set to do in the coming days and in the coming year.

This year 2018, God promised to make us Stronger and even though it is gradually coming to a close, the promise doesn’t lose its validity, if anything, it is only the beginning of the greatness story God has in store for all of us. For when you build strength, you don’t just build strength for what you’re facing now.

Strength is mostly built for what lies ahead.

Remember Elijah’s encounter with God in 1 Kings 19: 5 – 10, how God told Elijah to get up and eat, and build strength for the journey ahead. We learn that on the strength of that one meal, Elijah went for forty days and forty nights. So, in the strength of the old, we build strength for what is to come. It is therefore prudent to believe God for something bigger and better than whatever remarkable feat you must have recorded in 2018.

We all need to believe God for grace and strength to do a lot more than what we have done before. When you gain strength it is because there is more to achieve and take hold of in the coming days. So get ready to step out and conquer.

As a church, we are also stepping into 2019 with an even stronger mindset. God has blessed and enabled us to open more effectual doors to do ministry in different

areas of life. We are expanding the Greater Lekki Church and planting a church in Canada.

Different ministries are springing up in our local churches across all expressions, and we are scaling up on how we impact our society and the people in it. In the New Year, we want to contribute more to the empowerment of our individuals and even to be helping hands to the less privileged.

God is using us to touch lives on a much bigger scale this year.

we should focus and entrench ourselves in the love of God, through His love, all shall be well and the year ahead shall be more glorious than the ones before.

In His love we become restful knowing that He has a great plan for us, all we need to do is keep walking with Him as we go into the New Year. So I want to encourage everyone to participate in all our spiritual exercises as we enter the New Year. Let’s focus on what God has in store for us and not be distracted or allow the spirit of fear or hopelessness steal our promise of a bright future from us.

Once again, I wish you a merry Christmas and a Happy New year in advance.

- GODMAN AKINLABI

Although God seeks to use us all, collectively, as a body, He is also interested in using us individually to do more. And from serving in groups and alone, we as individuals build on our faith and strength. We learn to be firm in His promise.

Also, as we gear up for the upcoming elections in 2019, we need to first of all look beyond the times and understand that from the foundations of the earth, God already had a plan. There’s already a laid out plan for how things should happen in it. What matters now is a case of man can do whatever but nevertheless, the counsel of God would stand but in our individual lives and in the affairs of the nation.

So we need to keep praying because the devil is seeking to hijack the good report that has been destined for God’s people.

So we need to keep praying because the devil is seeking to hijack the good report that has been destined for God’s people. We all should learn to keep entreating God and resisting the devil on behalf of our nation, and in our individual lives,

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The Law & you

Navigating the choppy waters of law enforcement in Nigeria Abiola Falusi

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ave you ever had to deal with law enforcement agents either for a traffic offence or some other altercation?

If you have, you’ll attest that it could be an unpleasant experience.

I hear it sometimes gets messier if you have to follow them to a police station. Perhaps if we had a ticketing system, in which case the offence and the punishment are clearly spelled out from the get go, such incidences can be minimized.

On many of those instances, I have heard Christians quote Mathew 5:25 which states that “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison” as the reason they would do ‘whatever’ they can to wriggle out of any altercation with law enforcement so as not to become a victim of unlawful arrest or sometimes unnecessary delays.

We spoke to few Christian to get their views on how they would or have handled confrontations with law enforcement officers: "My first reaction would be to put out a friendly and cooperative personality towards the official and assume the best. However, if he/ she is being unreasonable and is trying to attack or demand a trip to the station, I would "settle" them so that first I am not delayed and 8 | elev8issue#38december2018

secondly so the story doesn’t change showed I couldn’t obtain the when we get to their office. We hear documentation without paying and see things happen." - Michael off the officials. The normal cost for the documentation was a "While I was younger I once argued fraction of the overall amount I and protested that I had done was being asked to pay, I honestly nothing wrong and insisted they succumbed to the norm as it had no right to get into my property seemed an impossible task even or my personal space. I however when I escalated to a senior official learnt a hard way. These days, I am within the organisation. My take is more receptive to them and I have that I paid for exceptional/express kept acquaintances of some senior services rather than paying off ” persons within certain enforcement - Ekene agencies who I can contact. The So what really would be the way bible says Wisdom is profitable to forward if we are to walk with direct. I would not pay them off." integrity with law officials? we - Oladokun would love to hear story. send a mail elev8@elevationng.org.

"In the recent past I passed a traffic light like other cars before and after me and some cyclist officials stopped me that I had ran the traffic light. Immediately they jumped into the car as it wasn’t locked and said to drive to their office for a fine or pay them off to which I refused to do as I was not in the wrong and felt cheated. I had to pay a heavy fine and suffered a 3hour delay in their office." - Hauwa "I have had to process some official documentation and my enquiry

PRISONS MINISTRY We The Prison Ministry of The Elevation Church have a passion to reach the lost and the incarcerated by reaching out to inmates of prison communities with the good news of Jesus Christ. We show the prisoners love, give them hope and

help to restore their lives. We also empower them by offering legal services and guidance.

This December, We will show love to some prisoners in Lagos State by donating food supplies, installing perimeter lighting and boreholes

and sharing the word of God with them.

To donate, partner or join us on this mission, please send an email to info@elevationng.org.

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Supermoms & Stilettos Encouraging Tips For Single Moms At Christmas Ibukun Oladejo

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he’s a prayer warrior, worker, nanny, cook, teacher, fashionista, friend – she seamlessly juggles the early morning wake up, traffic, corporate appearances, high heels, pressure, school fees, savings, loans, kids, hustle, rent, shows love and sacrifices without boundaries.

All hail our Supermoms. As a single parent, the christmas tasks might be more daunting. That missing presence of a significant other can feel even harder to ignore, this can make one feel inadequate. You want to make Christmas perfect for the kids but the thought of Christmas Day without a partner can stir feelings of loneliness, anger, resentfulness and/or sadness.

Guess what? Children understand, they notice all your efforts to make the season special, they see you wear a smile on your face as you sing, even though the bags under your eyes say it all. To them, you are the most important gift, the most beautiful woman in the universe. You’re doing an amazing job! So be kind to yourself this holiday, ride on the holiday spirit, and make the best of it.

Here are some tips on how to make the yuletide season a memorable one:

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Relax: Don’t let the pressure of Christmas get the better of you. Even if things don’tgo the way you planned, you’ll still be fine. Make the best of what is available.Take control but be flexible with yourplans, just live intentionally and enjoy each moment.

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Know your limit: Be realistic, don’t try to over compensate for what could have been. Understand your limits, don’t burn yourself out.

God’s grace is enough. Involve your kids with planning, ask them what they would like or want to do for Christmas.

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Take a vacation: If you have cash to spare, go on a trip, spend Christmas in an unfamiliar environment, discover new things, meet new people, make new friends, take pictures and create new memories. You will be happy you did.

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Don’t overspend. Don’t feel under pressure to buy everything, in a bid to please your kids. They will understand eventually that you don’t have to purchase everything in vogue.

Plan and invite friends or family: Sometimes, your friends and family may also have flexible plans for Christmas, why not invite them over for dinner or an outing. This helps bonding.

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Manage your expectations. Don’t expect others to fill the void, even your children may not be able to. Only Christ is able, so dive into God’s word where true comfort lies. Enjoy quality time with your kids and don’t feel like you must do things a certain way. If you don’t feel like it, don’t do it.

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Reflect: As a single mum, you are always on duty, either at work or at home. This might be a lot to handle, but with the holidays, take some time out for yourself, reflect on the year and strategize on making the future better for you and your children. Ask your kids for feedback as this may help strengthen your psychological wellbeing and help you relate better with them.

So, go ahead, let the jingle bells ring and make this season a memorable one. Merry Christmas!

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has an EP! LifePointe Church is the young adult expression of The Elevation Church. It is a resting place for the weary; a signpost for the lost and foster experiences that point to God. The LifePoint Band recently

launched their first EP titled “Unrestrained” at the exciting Music in the Park event.

The EP can be purchased at The Elevation Church, LifePointe

Church, or online at www. elevationng.org/resources. It can also be purchased or streamed online via Deezer, Spotify and iTunes. Enjoy !

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Stronger Together Jimmy and Wumi’s Experience from the Couples' Retreat Charles Okorobo & Tolulope Oyekan

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he Couples Retreat is a Family Life initiative of The Elevation Church, focused on building strong marriages. The aim of the retreat is to take couples away from the many distractions of life to a place where, through guided counsel, they are able to retrace their steps towards a state of deeper trust and vulnerability in their marriages. Marriages today come with a lot of distractions: life experiences, our backgrounds, finance, children, family, in-laws, jobs, friends, social media, habits, etc., all of which can chip away at the plans and hopes for complete trust and vulnerability in marriage, as originally intended by God. The retreat is therefore basically an avenue to bring couples together to sort out issues they don’t normally talk about and build the gap created by overwhelming busy schedules.

It features real talks on issues of intimacy, honesty, parenting, communication, conflict, sex, finance, etc. The retreat is open to any interested couple within or outside the sphere of The Elevation Church.

Mr. & Mrs. Mokikan attended this year’s retreat and we were able to catch up with them for a chat.

Excerpts below: Tell us a little about yourselves, how you met, and how your marital journey has been so far.

Jimmy: I am Jimmy Mokikan and my wife is Omowumi Mokikan.

We’ve been married for over 10 years and our marriage is blessed with 2 children. I met my wife in school, when I was in my final year

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and she was a fresher (a ‘Jambite’ LOL).

Wumi: We met at the school fellowship, but we couldn’t start dating immediately as we were both serving executives in the fellowship and the rules prohibited leaders from dating while serving.

However, he made his intentions known before leaving school and after his graduation, we ignited that thing we felt for each other.

Our marital journey hasn’t been so smooth; we’ve had our highs and lows. We’ve had happy times when the love was really ‘shacking’ us and we’ve had times when we couldn’t see eye to eye, but through it all, God and the word we received at the beginning of our relationship (Ecclesiastes 3:14) have kept us going.

Why did you register for the retreat?

Wumi: Two reasons basically: in our 10 years of marriage, we’ve never attended a marriage retreat and secondly, I wanted some time alone with my husband and the retreat was that opportunity to achieve the escape from those necessary demands which didn’t give us much time to ourselves.

Jimmy: I saw it as an opportunity for us to learn things that could make our marriage better.

What new things did you learn?

Wumi: Prior to the retreat, communication was a big challenge in our marriage; we just seemed not to

get it right. At the retreat, I got to know some other couples were having the same issue, and that changed my perspective. I was able to learn from the experiences of other couples present. Our amazing facilitators also gave us workable ideas on how to improve on our communication, which has been of great benefit to us post retreat .

Jimmy: The retreat was such an eye opener. I learnt about openness and how to share and accept the weaknesses of my spouse.

Are there new discoveries about your spouse that you were not aware of?

family members but this year, we intend to spend it alone with the kids.

Wumi: At the retreat, PG taught us about fillers and drainers; it was a new discovery for me because prior to the retreat, I never knew some of my fillers were actually my husband’s drainers and vice-versa.

Do you have relationship mentors? If yes, how has that impacted positively on your marriage?

Jimmy: Not exactly. I have always known and seen her strengths and weaknesses in display, so nothing really new came up.

How have you displayed your love language post retreat?

Wumi: There’s been a lot of improvement.

Currently, I’m more intentional about loving and caring for my husband. I call him more often during the day just to check on him – something I wasn’t really doing previously. He does the same too and this has greatly improved our communication.

What plans do you have for Christmas together?

Wumi: Usually we travel every Christmas to spend time with our extended

Jimmy: No, but we have an accountability group, which comprises of other Christian couples. The group has impacted our marriage positively as it gives us the opportunity to open up on issues and address them accordingly.

Where would be your preferred destination for the next couples retreat?

Wumi: I would prefer somewhere outside Lagos. I enjoyed our trip to Abeokuta last year; the few hours we spent journeying gave us the opportunity to bond as a couple and to relate with other couples. As a matter of fact, some of the friends we have in church now were people we met while on that trip.

What advice would you give to young couples?

Jimmy: In mathematics, minus times minus gives plus, but this mathematical axiom doesn’t apply in marriage. Therefore, you should not expect two imperfect people to come together and automatically become perfect, but rather, we get this perfection by working at it and understanding each other’s weaknesses.

Wumi: Openness should be the rule in your marriage. There shouldn’t be any bottling up of negative emotions. You need to be open to each other as much as possible – no subject should be off limits. Be patient, give room for each other’s excesses and trust God for the best in your marriage. elev8issue#38december2018 | 13

Christmas story from the perspective of Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth & Zechariah - Modupe Odunyemi

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he Christmas story has always been a reminder of God’s love and great sacrifice for us - The way He sent down His only son to earth, not to live like a king, but like the lowest of the low, born in a feeding stall with farm animals. It’s a great story of love, humility, and sacrifice, but let’s take a look at some other unsung heroes of the Christmas story.

Take Zechariah, for instance. He and his wife were getting old, and at this point had probably resigned themselves to a life without children. It’s no surprise that Zechariah was doubtful, even with an angel right in front of him, telling him what God was about to do in his life. How likely was it that he would have a son in his old age, and not just any child, but one who would prepare the world for the Messiah? It seemed impossible. Zechariah might have needed to be mute for the next nine or ten months, until God’s promise came to pass, but on the day when he finally spoke and named the child John (just as the angel had prophesied), there was no doubt in his mind that God always does what He says He will do, whether we believe it or not.

Zechariah’s wife, Elizabeth, didn’t have the same challenge with belief. While her husband was so doubtful that he had to be rendered speechless, she took the good news with joy and wonder. Her pregnancy was confirmation of

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what she already knew, that nothing is impossible with God. Elizabeth was so in tune with the Holy Spirit that she could feel when Jesus was near, even while he was still a few weeks old in her Cousin Mary’s womb, and that’s something we should all aspire to be so filled with the Spirit Mary’s faith is another we can learn from.

When the angel came to her with the message that she would conceive supernaturally and be the mother of the Messiah, her response wasn’t “it can’t happen”, but rather “how will this happen?”

She didn’t think about how her fiancé would react to the news, or what people would say when they saw a young supposedly-virgin girl suddenly pregnant. What mattered was that God wanted to use her to save the world, and she was ready, no matter the consequence.

And speaking of reactions, we would be hard-pressed to find a man who reacted the way Joseph did when he found out his fiancée was pregnant and he wasn’t the father. And not only

was he not the father, but that the actual Father was God, and the child was the Messiah? Why had God chosen him, a mere carpenter, for the great responsibility of raising and protecting the Saviour of the world? This would be a lot of pressure for any man, let alone one who never expected it. But with every instruction he received from God, Joseph obeyed without complaint or question, trusting and believing that God’s plans are always for our good.

As we spend time this Christmas reflecting on the birth and sacrifice of Jesus, let us also learn from the actions of Joseph, Mary, Elizabeth, and Zechariah, as we consider how their faith, trust, and total dependence on God contributed to the salvation we all enjoy today.

To explore this story further, read Luke 1, and Matthew 1 - 2.

Ways to Express your Generosity this Christmas .Chimezie Mbagwu

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hristmas is here again!

This is a symbolic time for Christendom when we mark the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is a season of love and giving (John 3:16) For God so loved the world that he gave his only son that who so ever believeth in him shall not perish but have everlasting life).

It’s been a financially tough year for many people, with a lot of people left homeless, hungry and unemployed, let’s all do well to spread out the love of Christ this season by imbibing and expressing the spirit of generosity.

Here are some unusual ways to express your generosity in helping others this Christmas Season: • Volunteer: It can be from helping your spouse or parent in the kitchen, to assisting with grocery shopping.These selfless acts, are a great thing you can do this holiday season and in the coming year. Don’t just sit there and watch things happen, be involved in making them happen.

• Donate: Donating can make a big difference. You can donate money to a charity, clothes to

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a homeless shelter or food and toys to families in need.

Support: Identify and assist people unable to pay their rent due to financial constraints.

You can help raise funds or provide support in this regard.

Bless a family: Surprise a family this season with a gift pack, maybe that neighbor you haven’t got acquainted to.

You can supply them with soft drinks, cooked food and toys for their children or clothing.

Pick up a stranger’s bill: When you are shopping at the mall for Christmas, you can make someone’s day by paying for their groceries or other items at the counter.

Act as Santa Claus: This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to put on a red cap and wear a fluffy beard, it’s about focusing on giving rather than receiving.

Lend a listening ear: This is a period to take time to listen and provide advice to those going through traumatic life challenges.

Help with babysitting: It’s quite difficult to find someone

to look after your kids during the holidays, especially when out shopping, or when you have end of year parties or events to attend. You can offer to make things a lot easier for a family with young children by offering to babysit for free.

• Stand In: Working during the holidays is a drag and it keeps people from spending quality time with their loved ones. This holiday season, why not cover the shift of a coworker who needs to see his or her family?

Your time is just as precious as the next person’s, but it’s certainly a sacrifice that won’t be forgotten.

• Invite someone for Christmas dinner: There are a lot of people out there, who celebrate the holidays alone. This year, invite someone who has no one to celebrate with to your home for dinner.

These and many more, are some ways to express your generosity. Be a blessing to others this Christmas season.

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Christmas Jollof is an annual initiative of The Elevation Church focused on providing families with food stuff to last the festive period. The initiative will launch this year on Sunday 16th December to ensure that families have supplies to enjoy their Christmas holiday.

Each Christmas Jollof bag costs N10,000. To support this laudable initiative, please send an email to info@elevationng.org

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JESUS IS KING, NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS AT THE POLLS Upholding Godly values is the ultimate panacea -Olukayode Olayemi

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very four years, the political caravan moves round the country as politicians make promises and sometimes deface our walls with their posters. This political cycle hasn’t been any different. So far, we have witnessed a very active political ‘transfer window’ with cross-carpeting by some high profile politicians.

Asides all the usual drama, something that has stuck out is the quality of candidates, albeit at the relatively smaller political parties.

The way I see it, we are making progress and hopefully, we’ll get to the next phase where distinguished Nigerians will be able to seize the machinery of one of the major political parties in ‘Trump style’.

In the meantime, we are left with a general election where a lot of people are wishing we had a different kind of choice, especially between the major parties and at all levels.

As it is, come 2019, winners would emerge and they would be sworn into office. The losers would head to the election tribunal to contest the result, generating huge legal fees for SANs and their chambers.

While the rest of us that aren’t

heading to Canada/Australia yet will be left to push on with our businesses and perhaps continue to pray for our beloved country.

Though nobody knows who will win the elections or who will be sworn into office on May 29, one thing I know for sure is that as long as He tarries in His second coming, Jehovah, the maker of the heavens and the earth would be seated on His throne, directing the affairs of creation with absolute sovereignty. Politicians will come and go; nations will rise and fall and empires will fade away but the kingship of God will remain and continues forever.

As Christians and as Nigerians, what does it mean to us that Jesus is King?

First, it means we should have great hope — because Jesus has already won the battle for us. As I look around, I get a sense of frustration with the system. Increasingly, people ask ‘what’s the benefit of our persistent prayers?’ However, we must keep hope alive and continue to believe that our nation and continent will emerge from these dark days.

Secondly, to our faith and prayers, we must now add good works and become true Christians – Jesus said that we are light and salt of the earth. As Christians we can no longer hide behind our bibles or inside our fancy cathedrals. We must now come out to be counted.

If you can write, write great op-eds.

If you can run for office, go and serve.

Thirdly, we are called to be keepers of the law and to live uprightly – Jesus admonishes us to do everything in order.

Putting it together, one thing that I think those of us in the household of faith must come to terms with is this; the fate of this country has been placed in our hands. So, no matter who wins the elections, we’ve been called to establish God’s kingdom here on earth.

It’s only in hindsight we would know if we made the right choice at the polls and we might never even know what the outcome would be if we voted the other way.

But because the Word cannot be broken, we know for sure that if we humbly pray, turn back to God and repent and turn away from our evil ways, He will make our country prosperous again (2 Chronicles 7:14).

So as we go out to exercise our civic responsibility to vote, let’s remembber that Jesus is the one who is and has always been truly in charge.

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Seven-Point Agenda An Opinion Poll of What People Want from Political Leadership

Victor Alagbe

P

olitical leadership is an important concept fundamental to the success/ failure of political processes, systems, and governance. Nations rise or fall based on the quality of political leadership available to them. Nigeria is heading out into another general election that will dictate the political atmosphere for the next four years; and the predominant vibe among the electorate is that we will essentially be choosing between the lesser of two evils.

Political leadership is often a resultant of best practices in political theory, history, management, economics, conflict resolution, and psychology. We can look back in history and point at historical figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Winston Churchill, and Nelson Mandela as great leaders. However, in the current political dispensation in Nigeria, the character of “great leaders” worthy of emulation seems to be conspicuously lacking.

This piece is an opinion of the seven most important features that people are hoping to get from political leadership as the 2019 general elections approach.

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Educated leaders

Nigeria has seen far too many certificate scandals in the political space in the recent past. Mr David Awodoye, believes that “one of the primal credentials to quality political leadership is good education. Educated leaders are in a better position to merge politics and power with intellectualism and ideas.”

For what it’s worth, the low educational qualifications required to hold political office in Nigeria; while designed to be inclusive for educationally backward regions has sadly been responsible for the dearth of technocrats in political office.

Clear-cut political direction

Mr Benjamin Oyedeji is of the opinion that Nigeria needs articulate leaders that can effectively communicate their political agenda without leaving room for misunderstanding. In his words, “we need a president who won’t subject us to the stress of guessing or trying to figure out the focus of his administration.

We know that Nigeria has deeprooted systemic problems and that these problems will not be

solved overnight; however, we want to know if the administration is focusing on education, infrastructure, economy – and with clarity of purpose that brings measurable results.”

Inclusive economic development

The economy is in shambles and Nigeria has been ranked as the poverty capital of the world. Many people are looking forward to seeing a political leadership with a reliable idea on how to fix the economy. For the economy to work, political leadership should be concerned about generating revenue, diversifying our economic base, and cutting the cost of governance. In the words of Mrs. Adedoyin, “I want to see a government that has the technical expertise and willpower to develop our economic potential. It would be great to see that the government is not playing politics with resource allocation and I am looking forward to seeing improved infrastructure that will sustain our growing economy.”

Responsible leaders

Blame-throwing is a stock in trade of the political class – the incumbent are always blaming the previous administration for how bad things have gotten and the opposition are blaming the incumbent that they are not doing enough -- in then end; the electorate bears the consequences of these inactions.

Oluwafemi Coker says “we confuse politics for leadership. Politics and leadership are not the same thing.

Politics should be a means to an end; unfortunately, politics has become an end in itself and that’s why politicians feel that their work is done once they win an election.”

A sincere anticorruption drive

A return to true federalism

This might touch on some nerves but majority of respondents in this opinion poll think that the country is far away from the tenets of federalism and that the federal government is too strong for the country to enjoy the benefits of democracy. State governments should be having a higher degree of autonomy and local governments should be independent of state governments.

Mr. Daniel Akintunde believes that “democracy only makes sense when people can hold elected officials accountable; politics should be local, but politicians only seem to be interested in going to Abuja to take their share of the national cake”

A concerted drive to improve security

The military, police, intelligence, and para-military need a holistic intervention that; improves the welfare and quality of life of service men and women; encourages them to put in their best in service to the nation; provides them with the psychological support they need to be effective, and provide them with better equipment among other things. Ms. Uloma says “it is embarrassing that Boko Haram, Herdsmen, armed bandits, and militants can choose to hold the country to ransom and the best that the security system can do is to downplay the number of innocent lives that are lost.”

Corruption has eaten through the fabrics of our country and there’s hardly any industry that has suffered its fair share of the effects of corrupt practices. Successive governments have either only paid lip service to fighting corruption or they’ve used the anti-corruption fight as a tool to witch-hunt political enemies.

Nigerians want to see an anticorruption drive that cuts across the entire political landscape irrespective of party affiliation.

Ms. Jennifer submits that “before anybody assumes political office; they should be ready to declare their income, assets, and investments. Anybody that is unwilling to declare their assets before and after holding electoral office should be disqualified on the basis of questionable integrity”.

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Humans of Elevation: Oluseye Kolawole

D

o you have a quote you live your life by or think about often?

“What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and looses his own soul, or what will a man give in exchange for his soul” Who or what inspires you?

The idea of what is possible, the potential ME and several other people around from the ordinary to the extraordinary Why did you choose Jesus?

It sounded like a good thing to do and I believe I must have been convicted of the Holy Spirit because even at that young age, I was not a good boy at all! I have had to keep at that decision over the years and I have done so as there is no other way.

What has changed since choosing Jesus?

Everything changed for me. The course of my life has changed.

The reality is that because I received Christ at an early age, my world view and way of life has predominantly been shaped by that experience.

What do you feel like your specific calling is?

Nation Building and teaching How has God been challenging you lately?

There are a number of things I need courage to begin to do as regards “my mission”. He says just go ahead and begin to act in the direction of what I have said already!

What values are you most committed to or what are your guiding principles?

Being the best i can be, keeping at it until it gets done and continually improving Why are you part of a local church?

No one thrives in isolation. For the purpose of being built, loved, protected, preserved, accountable and also to find expression for the gifts and calling of God in me.

If you could preach one message with the whole world as your audience, what would the title be or what would that message be?

The Good News: How Christ saved, saves and will save us What advice would you give to young Christians today?

Read your bible, pray everyday yourself!!! Know God for yourself,

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not through anyone. That is what He has called us to, that is the way to experience the best of God. What book(s) have you gifted or recommended the most?

Love and Respect by Emerson Eggerichs Is ‘living on mission’ an important part of your faith, and why?

Yes it is because God commands it and it is the only way to truly live.

How would you encourage others to live on mission?

Become all that God has called you to be. Impact your world.

What is the most worthwhile investment you’ve made or thing you’ve done with money?

Well, possibly investments in developing myself and the people close to me.

Humans of Elevation: Eniola Ositelu

W

hat piece of advice would you give your younger self?

Lean not on your own understanding and always put God first.

What is your greatest virtue?

Integrity.

What book have you recommended the most?

“What’s Stopping You” by Debo Omotunde; this is a great book for people in the morning season of their careers. Also, I’m currently reading a book titled “The Happiness Advantage” by Shawn Anchor which I would recommend to everyone.

Who or what inspires you?

Several people from different walks of life inspire me, however the things that are common to them all and resonate with me the most are their strong work ethic and exemplary lifestyle.

What should every person experience at least once in their lifetime?

Another culture - be it another country’s culture, church’s culture, school’s culture or family’s culture - it is really important to expose yourself to other cultures because it discourages myopia, removes subconscious biases and enables you make informed decisions in life.

What is the most worthwhile investment you’ve made or thing you’ve done with money?

At this point in my life, building my own house tops that list for me.

What super power would you like to have?

The ability to read minds!

What’s the most inspiring Bible character to you King David, 8 times a week!

What is your favourite Bible passage?

John 15: 5 – This scripture opened my mind up to thinking beyond survival and focusing on Kingdom impact and significance.

Why did you choose Jesus and what has changed since you chose Jesus?

Well, firstly I was born into a family that chose Jesus. However, I later had personal experiences that made me see how vulnerable I was without Him. At a point in time, I called out to Him when I was totally lost, depressed and at some point suicidal and He came through for me at my lowest point.

This showed me that He is a force to be reckoned with and aligning myself with His purpose was the greatest thing I could do for myself.

How has God been challenging you lately?

Last year, I told God that I wanted to be more effective in my stewardship to Him, it hasn’t been easy but He has shown me the bigger picture. So, I have been working on adjusting my lifestyle and the way I use my time and resources.

What is the biggest mistake you think young people are making today Many young people want to become instantly prosperous and successful – they want to blow - and are predisposed to giving the Word of God a back seat in order to make this happen much quicker. Consequently, they make compromises, bad judgment calls they will not be proud of in the future. They may achieve their goals quicker on this path, however this kind of ‘success’ is not sustainable due to the faulty foundation.

What advice would you give young Christians today?

Engage God, move from Christianity as a religion into a love relationship with God through consistent prayer, Bible study and meditation. When you do these 3 things consistently, God will reveal Himself to you and will take you where He has prepared for you, just walk with Him patiently. If it could work for me, it can for you too.

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Out Of The

Box

4 Reasons You Should Step Out and Try New Things Amoma Awala

I

’m sure many of us have heard, time and time again, that it’s good to try our hands on new things. But what do you stand to gain? How will trying new things change your life for the better?

What if you try a new thing and I fail in it? I know I ask myself these questions when confronted with an option of participating in new activities or trying new things. The truth is there’s often no real harm in trying out new things or having new experiences.

Sure, sometimes things may not play out as you have planned and that may lead to disappointments and regrets. But often that is nothing compared to what you stand gain on the long run. Besides, you would have picked some invaluable lessons along the way.

Here are some benefits you stand to gain when you embark on the journey of trying out new things and new experiences: Confidence Boost.

Whenever you try new things, your confidence level increases whether you notice it or not. The experience you get from what you have tried can be applied to some other things you haven’t tried. So, when you are confronted with these ‘other things’, your approach towards it will be 22 | elev8issue#38december2018

confidence and this only mean that your fear level has reduced.

More Experiences.

The more you try new things, the more experiences you get and the more experiences you get, the fewer things in life you’ll regret.

So you try a new thing, it doesn’t work out, you move on. You try another, you don’t like it, you move on. You try yet another, you love it, you stick with it. Soon, you’ll be filled with many experiences you’ll have little time to recall or dwell on disappointments. The cycle of trying new things lets you experience more and regret less.

New Discoveries.

Many of us think we know ourselves well enough. While this may be true, we can never discover our full potentials unless we give ourselves to numerous chances.

As we try new things, we learn more about ourselves, discover new opportunities and acquire new skills. We enjoy the double treat of self and opportunity diccovery People Appreciation.

Trying new things help you appreciate people more often than not. When you try a new thing and discover the amount of time, energy and resources it requires, you’ll begin to appreciate the

people who do it committedly.

While appreciating them, you’ll also be acknowledging the greatness of God, realizing that “there are distinctive varieties of operation (of working to accomplish things), but it is the same God who inspires and energizes them all in all.” 1 Cor 12:6.

In conclusion, let’s all leave our comfort zones and try new things in every area of our lives such as learning a sport, taking risks, travelling, volunteering and loving unconditionally.

This Time Next Year: Our 2019 Faith List

Ugonna Iheme

I

t’s the last quarter of 2018, and the New Year is fast approaching, and with it, the setting of our resolutions. As some of us list out the changes we would like to make in the new year, some others disdain the custom.

Understandably, people feel like this tradition has lost its meaning.

Resolutions, often set in the peak of an optimistic and celebratory period, may fall to the wayside when being faced with the reality of our routine and daily life.

Despite this, an annual faith list (not resolutions) is an important part of the New Year period. Taking the time to assess our current state and determining ways to improve is a positive step that should not be diminished. In that vein, every believer should strengthen their faith in 2019 and we know by this time next year, He will give us the desires of our hearts because we delight ourselves in Him (Psalms 37:4).

Items on our faith list should be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timebound); this will enable us order our goals, monitor progress and keep us in tune with God’s plans.

The following should be onevery believer’s faith list;

• •

•

•

• • • •

Have a closer walk with God by daily fellowship with Him. Wait on the Lord every week in 2019.

Evangelise, win souls for Christ and ensure they are well grounded in the word.

Identify your purpose in life.

Excel in your chosen career or profession.

Examples of other items on our faith list for 2019 include; • • • • •

• • • •

Get married and start a family.

Work flexi-time to achieve work-life balance.

Become debt free by the end of 2019.

Buy your own property.

Become fit by either gaining weight, losing weight, eating healthy or going to the gym regularly.

Get a new job.

Attain additional professional certifications .

Build a business out of a hobby.

Get additional income and

•

increase investments.

Read 2 books per month Become a major influencer in your field.

Tick something off your bucket list e.g. climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

Get a mentor.

Clearly defined goals, dedication, prayers and absolute trust in our Lord will guarantee us the victory we desire in the New Year.

“So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 (ESV) No matter where you are, there is something on your wish list. It will take discipline to get you there; discipline to remain consistent in the habits that will help us achieve our goals.

Till then, Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.

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