GEMWoman April 2020

VOL 12 NO 2

ALEXANDRA CHAMPAIGN, RN New York/New Jersey, USA

DR. IDOWU AKINSANMI Georgia, USA

DR. OLAITAN ABIMBOLA Ogun State, Nigeria

DR. ALERUCHI OLERU Tennessee, USA

DR. EBUNOLUWA JAIYESIMI Ogun State, Nigeria

EBERE NICHOLAS, RN Dallas, Texas, USA

DR. OLAMIPO BAMIGBOJE British Columbia, Canada

LIFE ON THE FRONTLINE

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR — A DISCUSSION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS HANDLING BETRAYAL — HOW TO FORGIVE AND MOVE ON STILL SOARING — HAVING A WINNING MINDSET KEEPING YOUR FAITH DURING A CRISIS

Team PUBLISHER/CEO Bolanle Olawale EDITOR Toluwalase Olawale CREATIVE/GRAPHICS ARTIST Tonye Edet DIGITAL/TECHNICAL SUPPORT Adura Arowolo CONTRIBUTORS Kingsley Okonkwo, Esther Obasi ike, Kehinde Adollo, Ifeoluwa Isijola, Iquo Ukoh, Busola Jegede, Liz Kingsley, Dr Akinfemi Akingboye, Dr Chinyere Almona, Olamide Elizabeth Adeleye, Dr. Alo Ohio-Omonkhomion, Olufunlola Ifebogun, Lara Yeku, Sarah Williams, Ola Asags, Boma Oruambo, Ayanfeoluwa Oluwaseun, Ibironke Olubamise, Oluwaseyitan Fowode CHAIRMAN ’Kunle Olawale gemWoman is digitally published by gem Publications Ltd. All Rights Reserved, © 2019 For subscriptions and advert enquiries, please call or visit #10 Jide Ayo Close, Omole Phase 1, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria WhatsApp: +234 706 931 4010 Email: editor@gemwoman.net Website: www.gemwoman.net Follow us on instagram: @gemmagazines and @gemmagazinesevent Like us on facebook: gem magazines

gemwoman.net 5

Contents gemWOMAN MAGAZINE

88

VOL 12 NO 2

46 99

90 COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

85

Keep Calm and Hope

100

12

A Time To Cry Out To God

56

COVID-19: The End Of Time Syndrome? 58

APPLES OF GOLD Faith Over Fear

My Musings On COVID-19 14

107

60

Understanding These (Pandemic) Times 62 This Plague Too, Shall Pass -

POEM Intentional Living

16

HEALTH & FITNESS

64

SURVIVING WIDOWHOOD

Take Heart, God Is In Control

68

How To Parent Well After

COVID-19: What Is God Saying?

70

The Loss Of A Spouse

72

FEATURE

Simple Effective Home Workouts

19

Beyond This Season

Coronavirus: How has it affected you?

21

The Scourge Of CoronaVirus

Be My Guest

3 Life Lessons COVID-19 Has Taught Me 92

(aka COVID-19)

74

Rise Above The Crisis!

76

24

COVER SPECIAL

“Keeping Your Faith During A Crisis”

Question And Answers

TIPS FOR WOMEN GREY AREAS

Life in Different Shades

Handling Betrayal

Heart Talk for Women

TRAVEL GUIDE SINGLE & MARRIED

Refuse to be Silenced

Top 10 Destinations For 2020

46

TESTIMONY

Before Marriage?

85

CUISINE 107

SPIRITUAL WOMAN 50

Still Soaring: Having a winning mindset regardless of the situation

6 gemwoman.net

102

What Is Wrong With Living Together Quick Nutritious Meals in 20 minutes

How I Overcame COVID-19

99

82

45

LIGHT REFLECTIONS

96

79

28

KANDID TALKS

HEALTH FEATURE Coronavirus Article with

INSPIRATION Life on the Frontline

90

Essential Tips For Emerging

ENTERPRENEUR GUIDE

79

Psalm 126:1

88

gemwoman.net 7

Contributors Iquo Ukoh is a distinguished fellow of Nigerian Institute of Marketing of

Olufunmilola Ifebogun is the CEO of Blooms Soft Furnishing, which she

Nigeria and a highly respected veteran within the West African Marketing

established in 1994 and is fast gaining recognition within and outside Nigeria.

Communications space. She is a member of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria.

She is an associate of Dorothy Van Riet Design Academy in South Africa and

She is currently the CEO of Entod Marketing. Iquo is also the founder of

also possesses a Diploma in Color Concept from Interior Design, Texas, USA.

1qfoodplatter.com a Nigerian food blog that has made notable impact in the Nigerian food space.

Esther Obasi-Ike is a pastor, a dynamic preacher of the gospel and a multi-

Ife Isijola has a passion and love for travel and this is seen through her

gifted international inspirational speaker. Along with her husband, Pastor

dedication to helping people fulfill their dreams of exploring new cultures

Prince Obasi-ike the two became the pioneer missionaries of RCCG Eastern

through amazing travel adventures. She uses her extensive knowledge to

Africa. They are blessed parents of two successful young sons Favour and

plan all styles of vacations for her clients. Her specialties include destination

Goodnews.

weddings, honeymoons and custom tours. She is blessed with a beautiful daughter.

Kingsley Okonkwo is a popular TV host, certified Relationship coach and

Olamide Elizabeth Adeleye is a chartered Arbitrator and a legal practitioner

highly sought after speaker with well over 20 years’ experience. He is the

who specializes in Corporate Law and Real Estate. She is also a pastor, and

founder and lead Pastor of David’s Christian Centre in Lagos. His wit, humour

a poet. She currently runs her own legal practice and oversees the Women’s

and real life styled teachings have made him a darling of the media. He is

Ministry of God’s Favourite House Church, Lekki.

married to his best friend Mildred and they are blessed with children.

Her passion is to help women acquire the drive to thrive and not just survive in all spheres of life. She is joyfully married and blessed with two nations.

Dr. Chinyere Almona is a versatile inspirational speaker and Bible teacher.. She

Kehinde Adollo is a Profile Marketing communications expert who just wants

is passionate about leadership and people development. Professionally, she

to make a change in every little way she can. She loves to be in the company of

has over twenty-six years of work experience, providing strategic support to

good and inspiring people. The God factor has been her support through the

companies and currently leads a series of corporate governance interventions

years She often asks herself, “where will I be without him?”

across sub-Saharan Africa. She lives in Lagos, Nigeria, where she serves alongside her husband, Pastor Obi Almona.

8 gemwoman.net

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Contributors AyanfeOluwa Oluwaseun is a product of God’s love. A Brand Expert, coach,

author and content creator, she is the Managing Director of Thots Works, an organization that works with Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in transforming their businesses into strong and visible brands. she holds a degree in English Language. Her life purpose, mission and assignment is to inspire others to succeed against all odds.

Ibironke Olubamise is an intercessor, counsellor, and an ordained pastor at Throneroom Trust Ministry and Secretary of the Women in God’s Prophetic Agenda. She is the National Coordinator, UNDP GEF-Small Grants Programme, Ronke was married to Pastor Bankole Olubamise of blessed memory. They are blessed with two children.

Omobolanle Abbis works as a library assistant in Prince Edward Island, Canada where she lives with her husband and their two kids. Her passion is to see people, particularly ladies, develop a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Toluwalase Olawale is a law student and beauty entrepreneur from Dallas, Texas by way of Lagos, Nigeria. She is passionate about travel, youth mentoring, advocacy and authentic living as a Christian. She shares on her podcast “Live Intentional” practical tips, and applicational scripture that aid in self-betterment, and that of the world at large.

Oluwaseyitan Fowode is 19 years old and a student at the University of Texas at Arlington. She is a Christian who loves to write about any and everything.

10 gemwoman.net

From the Publisher’s Desk

T

he Coronavirus pandemic is

few highly renowned and respected

tribute to these brave men and women

confusing and frightening

Pastors who have shared what they

who embody the words bravery and

for millions of people

believe God is saying to us at this hour.

sacrifice. You will be hearing from six

around the world.This is

of such heroines in this edition. Some

not surprising as it seems the entire

This edition is dedicated to the

of these interviews were too painful

world is fighting a merciless, invisible

frontliners in this battle who are a

for me to listen to and we had to edit

enemy that has infected and killed

different kind of soldiers dressed in a

a chunk of it to make the interviews

many around the world. Unless the

variety of uniforms:

family friendly but needless to say

situation changes dramatically, many

From the bus driver to the fireman,

they were heart wrenching.

more will fall ill and die around the

policemen, doctors and nurses. They

globe. This crisis has raised and is

are the ones who are keeping the

We have other inspiring articles that

still raising serious medical, ethical

wheels of the world turning and they

will keep you motivated and inspired

and logistical questions. A lot of these

are all united in one purpose, putting

to still have faith and believe God for

questions have ignited both panic and

their lives on the line to fight the

greater things even now.

fear which we know are not from God;

coronavirus. These are indeed our

as calm and hope are from Him. It is

heroes and I know we all stand with

This limited edition is a must-read as

possible to respond to a crisis seriously

the millions around the world to give

it will surely elevate your spirit. Make

and deliberately while maintaining

KEEP CALM and HOPE 12 gemwoman.net

an inner sense of calm and hope. In order to help us answer some of these questions and help restore peace and calm, we have put together this special edition of gemwoman with a mission to do just that. Please don’t lend credence to lies or rumors, or give in to panic. Trust what medical experts tell you, not those who monger fear.

Trust what Spiritual leaders are saying as they will not lead you astray, and ultimately rest in God knowing He will never fail you. We have interviewed a

sure you share with someone that

Please keep safe and remember, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).

needs to read this.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts Please keep safe and remember, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).

Blessings Bolanle Olawale

gemwoman.net 13

APPLES OF GOLD

APPLES OF GOLD

Faith Over Fear

I

2 CORINTHIANS 5:7

1 CORINTHIANS 2:5

ROMANS 1:17

For we walk by faith, not by sight.

That your faith might not rest

For in the gospel the

in the wisdom of men but in the

righteousness of God is

power of God.

revealed—a righteousness that

Feed your faith and your

f you are facing any issues and you’re feeling hopeless because of the current

fears will starve to death.

The reason birds can fly and

crisis, our counsel to you is to just relax and rely on your faith. Remain calm and

MAX LUCADO

we can’t is simply because

believe that the God you serve is faithful.

The main place that we get inspiration is from the Bible. Today, we would like to share a number of bible verses and quotes about faith. You can look to these when your faith is being challenged, or when the things you see are trying to block your sight from that which is unseen but yet more real than what is seen. In these instances, know then it is time to “Meet your fears with faith” ( Max Lucado) HEBREWS 11:1

“Our pride insists we

1 JOHN 5:5

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

must work our way to God.

Who is it that overcomes the

Only the Christian faith

world? Only the one who

presents God’s grace as

believes that Jesus is the Son of

unconditional.”

God.

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

PSALM 46:10

Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

RANDY ALCORN

ROMANS 10:17

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.

“Faith is believing in something when common sense tells you not to.”

VALENTINE DAVIES

“True peace comes from knowing that God is in control.”

ANONYMOUS

JOHN 7:38

Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.

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Faith is not belief without proof, but trust without reservation.

D. ELTON TRUEBLOOD

ROMANS 10:9

If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be

MARK 5:36

saved.

Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”

Faith is unseen but felt,

Without faith a man can do nothing; with it all things are possible.

SIR WILLIAM OSLER

faith is strength when we feel we have none, faith is hope when all seems lost.

CATHERINE PULSIFER

is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

HEBREWS 11:6

they have perfect faith,

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

for to have faith is to have

Faith is no irresponsible

wings.

shot in the dark. It is a

J.M. BARRIE

responsible trust in God,

Faith is a knowledge within

MATTHEW 21:22

And whatever you ask in

your hearts, the dreams you

prayer, you will receive, if you

are given, and the goals you

have faith.

have set. He will guide your

the heart, beyond the reach

paths right.

of proof.

Let your faith be bigger

KHALIL GIBRAN

than your fears.

MARK 11:22-24

ANONYMOUS

And Jesus answered them, “Have faith in God. Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.

Keep the faith, hold on.

For nothing will be impossible with God. Faith gives you an inner strength and a sense of balance and perspective in life.

GREGORY PECK

but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the

Be on guard. Stand firm in the

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

faith. Be courageous. Be strong.

it can’t rain forever. Faith is

your blessings, you will

not the belief that God will

find that your faith is being

MAX LUCADO

Christ. It is no longer I who live,

whole staircase.

As you practice counting

is right.

GALATIANS 2:20

1 CORINTHIANS 16:13

might be stormy now, but

belief that God will do what

ROBERT SCHULLER

I have been crucified with LUKE 1:37

Things will get better. It

do what you want. It is the

who knows the desires of

suddenly revitalized.

ROBERT SCHULLER

ISAIAH 43:2

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”

gemwoman.net 15

POEM

POEM

You have been called to a life of purpose Our Father doesn’t want you to just survive Even though His will, He won’t impose His wish for you is to greatly thrive But His plans for you He will not superimpose He wants you to imbibe the drive He was intentional in sending His son Hence all your battles have already been won knowing and serving Him is much fun For on the Cross it’s all finished & done Arise and shine! For the light is on It’s a new and gloriously beautiful dawn

Intentional Living Lamide Adeleye

Intentionality!

Let it be your reality Resolve not to remain a liability As the Lord breaths on your personality To remove every disability Granting you fresh visibility For inconceivable ability Live intentionally Love unconditionally Give irrationally Serve exceptionally Use your talent sensationally And thrive supernaturally!

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gemwoman.net 17

JUST FOR L AUGHS

The Army of the Lord

A

friend was in front of me coming out of church one day, and the preacher was standing at the door as he always is to shake hands. He grabbed my friend by the hand and pulled him aside.

The Pastor said to him, “You need to join the Army of the Lord!”

My friend replied, “I’m already in the Army of the Lord, Pastor.” Pastor questioned, “How come I don’t see you except at Christmas and Easter?”

He whispered back, “I’m in the secret service.”

Faithful With Much

A

t a Wednesday evening church meeting a very wealthy man rose to give his testimony.

“I’m a millionaire,” he said, “and I attribute it all to the rich blessings of God in my life. I can still remember the turning point in my faith, like it was yesterday: I had just earned my first dollar and I went to a church meeting that night. The speaker was a missionary who talked about his work. I knew that I only had a dollar bill and had to either give it all to God’s work or nothing at all. So at that moment I decided to give my whole dollar to God. I believe that God blessed that decision, and that is why I am a rich man today.”

H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

Someone Else

O

ur church was saddened to learn this week of the death of one of our most valued members, Someone Else.

Someone’s passing creates a vacancy that will be difficult to fill. Else has been with us for many years and for every one of those years, Someone did far more than a normal person’s share of the work. Whenever there was a job to do, a class to teach, or a meeting to attend, one name was on everyone’s list, “Let Someone Else do it.” Whenever leadership was mentioned, this wonderful person was looked to for inspiration as well as results; “Someone Else can work with that group.”

Toluwalase Olawale

It was common knowledge that Someone Else was among the most liberal givers in our church.

Whenever there was a financial need, everyone just assumed Someone Else would make up the difference.

Someone Else was a wonderful person; sometimes appearing superhuman. Were the truth known, everybody expected too much of Someone Else.

Now Someone Else is gone! We wonder what we are going to do.

Someone Else left a wonderful example to follow, but who is going to follow it? Who is going to do the things Someone Else did?

When you are asked to help this year, remember — we can’t depend on Someone Else anymore.

As he finished it was clear that everyone had been moved by this man’s story. But, as he took his seat, a little old lady sitting in the same pew leaned over and said: “Wonderful story! I dare you to do it again!”

Smart People

A

fellow computer programmer for a consulting group had designed some software for one of our largest accounts. He asked my help in putting it into operation.

At first, he handled most of the work. Eventually, though, he asked me to help with the last phase of the training. When I sat down with one woman and told her I would be showing her how to make changes to the files, she sighed with relief. “I’m so glad you’re teaching me instead of him.”

Surprised, I said that my colleague was far more experienced than I was.

“Yes,” she said, “but I feel much more comfortable with you. I get nervous around really smart people.

18 gemwoman.net

Simple Effective Home Workouts

W

ith most countries

Exercise can also improve your mental

under lockdown, gym,

health by lowering stress.

workout studios, and

fitness centers are out of our reach at

It is very easy to fall into the trap of

the moment. This closure therefore

lazing around. It is therefore important

demands of us to make important

to create a routine for ourselves which

workout changes. The benefits of

involves exercise.

exercise have long been documented, from strengthening bones and muscles

gemwoman brings you some simple

to reducing the risk of heart disease. It

but effective home workouts to get

helps to deal with anxiety or unease.

gemwoman.net 19

H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

in some exercise while you’re social

MILLENIAL MUSINGS

Alternating knee strike:

distancing.

Air squat:

Coronavirus: How has it affected you?

Seyitan Fowode

upper-body back about 45 degrees and

A

people to come back to the basics. It’s

Nigeria and I got some interesting

Stand with feet hip-width apart, lower

driving from hips. Return to start and

like a reset button was pushed and

responses. Many of them were the

hips to floor, and return to standing,

repeat with the other knee. Do 1 set of

people finally realise the important

same. Sleeping schedules messed up or

driving heels into floor. Do 1 set of 30

50 reps.

things like family, good health and a

being extremely bored but I selected a

well lived life. There has never been a

few of them with permission from the

time like this in the history of anyone’s

writers themselves to share.

Stand tall, feet shoulder-width apart.

Drive left knee up and forward, leaning

reps.

Standing broad jumps: Negative push-up:

virus that swept through

I knew I couldn’t be the only one who

nations in months and

was affected by this pandemic so I

caused a standstill. The

went around and asked a few of my

pandemic that forced

friends and family both here and in

life and a lot of people have been forced to go against normalcy and live in a

Temi from Nigeria wrote in with just

way they’re not used to. I can definitely

one sentence but a very important

relate. I went from going to school and

one. He wrote “my WAEC has been

work and being busy during the week

postponed.” As someone who wrote

to not having anything to do at all

WAEC, an entrance exam that

and even online classes are honestly

determines if you’re going to the

dreadful. I try to be as productive as I

University in Nigeria or not, I know how

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart,

can by doing assignments and reading

busy the period of preparation is. The

Start in a push-up position, knees on

knees bent. Jump forward, bending

and even cooking but there’s only so

stress of studying for 8 or 9 subjects

the floor if you need a modification.

your knees to cushion your landing,

much you can do before getting bored

and the pressure to pass with flying

Lower chest until it touches the floor,

ending in a deep squat position. Take a

after being cooped up in the house due

colors cannot be overemphasized and

then push up to starting position. Do 2

few steps back to the starting position

to the lockdown or quarantine.

to have the exams postponed can be

sets of 12 reps.

and repeat. Do 1 set of 20 reps. gw

20 gemwoman.net

very disappointing.

gemwoman.net 21

MILLENIAL MUSINGS

MILLENIAL MUSINGS

Damola, 20, said “I’ve had to

We literally don’t have any excuses.

adjust a lot of things. Definitely my

Most of us are at home with our

sleep schedule and life schedule in

families so this is a really good time

general.” How true is this? For some

to grow closer with God. Now we can

people, everyday is a weekend now.

do anything we were not able to do;

I remember my brother asking me

devotion with family, bible study with

what day of the week it was and even

friends (I would recommend the zoom

I had to check my phone just to be

app), our own little quiet time and

sure! Schedules are being changed,

now that most churches are online,

people are now working from home

we can watch online sermons and still

the morning or in the evening. Create

and now most schools are online. This

be in the presence of God. God isn’t

a fun little workout spot at home

pandemic has certainly changed many

confined to any church building. We

and watch videos.There’s Youtube

lifestyles.

are the church. We are mobile temples

and there are now apps that can be

of God so He is always with us whether

downloaded that are just for working

at church or at home.

out. I saw this funny post that said

Now it wasn’t all bad reviews. I got very good reviews about this ‘waiting’

Let’s pray, help anyone who is in need, check on our loved ones and spend time with our families.

Don’t forget, this too shall pass.

‘some people are going to come out of

period so to speak. A lot of people are

Ms Funmi wrote, “I’m exercising

this lockdown either fatter or slimmer’

really out here learning new skills

more.” The gyms being closed is

and honestly, I hope for the latter.

Tola, 20, wrote in “ I’m broke. It’s

and brushing up on old ones! I know

certainly not stopping many from

helping me save money because now

I am. I’ve been doing a lot of cooking

still keeping fit. I still see some people

This pandemic has many people

I’m not buying on impulse again.” I let

especially with new and different

taking walks and some even jogging in

shaken up and some with no idea of

out a big laugh at this one. Any other

techniques and so far so good so this

what to do. Remember that God, who

impulse buyer out there? I definitely

time is fortunately not going to waste.

doesn’t sleep or slumber, is still in the

can’t enter a store like Walmart or

With the permission of the writers,

business of preservation, protection,

Shoprite and come out with just one

here are some good reviews.

provision and healing. In these times,

thing. Due to many workplaces closing

let’s put our focus on Him and live by

temporarily, a lot of people are out

Cherish, 17, wrote “Been digging

faith instead of being ruled by fear.

of jobs and are now forced to live off

deeper in the word and its been fun

Let’s pray, help anyone who is in need,

of their savings so some of us can

and interesting!” I can’t tell you how

check on our loved ones and spend

definitely relate with Tola.

happy this made me. This is a time to

time with our families. Don’t forget,

grow in faith and commune with God.

this too shall pass. gw

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ENTERPRENEUR GUIDE

Be My Guest Funlola Ifebogun

ENTERPRENEUR GUIDE

“A life of hospitality begins in worship, with a recognition of God’s grace and generosity.

Hospitality is not first a duty and responsibility; it is first a response of love and gratitude for God’s love and welcome to us.”

– CHRISTINE POHL

A

as smiles, compliments and a great attitude are not much but can lift the soul of any human. Some might argue that it’s a personality trait, but I believe that no matter a person’s peculiarity, one can acquire new and positive qualities such as great customer service on the job or through training.

As women, we dress well, look good and expect compliments even though some of us rarely give them. We are used to sizing up one another to determine the level and manner

s an interior designer,

of interaction. If I meet a person for

over the years, one of my

the first time, as my customer, no

secrets to customer loyalty

matter who, I try to create a friendly

and retention is the warm

atmosphere to make the customer feel

hospitality they receive when they visit

at home and be my guest.

my office showroom. I learned earlier

24 gemwoman.net

in business the importance of great

A very typical experience I had was

customer service at every transaction

back in 2004. My sister and I were at

especially the first impression. The

my mini store then at Adeniyi Jones

way and manner you demonstrate

where we had an open house display.

customer service and create a personal

Suddenly, two mallams alighted from

connection goes a long way. I believe in

their bikes (popularly known as Okada)

celebrating people and making them

and inquired about our bean bags,

feel great. It creates an atmosphere

floor pillows and other soft furnishing.

for interaction, customer relationship

At the first glance, they were not

and productivity. Impressions such

looking too tidy, yet we celebrated

gemwoman.net 25

ENTERPRENEUR GUIDE

hospitality is a great determinant of reward that could take one to unimaginable altitude.

This can be depicted in the story of Abraham and Sarah who received the three angelic guests; and

them and treated them as kings. After

the Shunamite woman who warmly received Elijah.

answering all their questions with smiles and optimism, they purchased

had seen our display on their way to

goods worth a hundred thousand

the mechanics. That gesture of mine

naira which happened to be the first

and hospitality made way for several

and largest amount I ever handled in

opportunities from them.

cash at a go, since I started business at that time. Imagine if we had treated

In conclusion, hospitality is a great

them as commoners because they

determinant of reward that could take

looked rather simple and ordinary,

one to unimaginable altitude. This can

I would have missed out on my first

be depicted in the story of Abraham

breakthrough. I was elated and quickly

and Sarah who received the three

closed for the day out of fear that they

angelic guests; and the Shunamite

might change their minds. They came

woman who warmly received Elijah.

back the following day with their

They both had testimonies based on

wives in their exotic cars. I later found

the good gestures and mannerisms

out that those men were pilots and

displayed. gw

26 gemwoman.net

COVER SPECIAL

COVER SPECIAL

LIFE ON THE FRONTLINE Interviews by Lase olawale

D

DR. OLAMIPO BAMIGBOJE British Columbia, Canada

DR. ALERUCHI OLERU Tennessee, USA

ALEXANDRA CHAMPAIGN, RN New York/New Jersey, USA

DR. EBUNOLUWA JAIYESIMI Ogun State, Nigeria

octors, nurses and healthcare workers have become the unwitting heroes of the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.

From Nigeria to Canada, From New York to Rome.

They have become the recipients of winning applause from balconies and streets around the world. The pandemic has infected more than 1.9 million people and claimed over 120,000 lives. Medical Personnel and hospital workers are facing one of the most difficult times in their careers. Going to work everyday despite the lack of necessary protective gear and grappling with the fear of becoming infected themselves, they often have to face very difficult decisions when treating their patients, their colleagues who have been infected and even in some cases die.

In conversation, “traumatic”, “depressing”, “challenging”, and “painful” are a few of the words they used to describe their experiences.

Gemwoman spoke to medical front liners from different parts of the world to find out what it’s really like to be on the battlefield against the coronavirus pandemic. These are their accounts.

28 gemwoman.net

DR. OLAITAN ABIMBOLA Ogun State, Nigeria

DR. IDOWU AKINSANMI Georgia, USA

EBERE NICHOLAS, RN Dallas, Texas, USA

gemwoman.net 29

COVER SPECIAL

COVER SPECIAL

Dr. Olamipo Bamigboje

I

advised along with sanitation of high

Being a physician in a developed

touch traffic areas e.g. door knobs is

country has availed to me the

recommended).

opportunity of experiencing health

t was an awkward few minutes, I had

realized quickly I was wrong when I

been waiting for my middle aged

noticed the praise leader hurriedly go

It is hard to differentiate COVID-19

a developing country. It seemed as

client to take her leave after we had

sanitize her hands.

infection from other respiratory

though death had been cheated in

virus infections (as they present with

many instances I had come across as I

addressed all that was on her long list.

care at its peak having come from

She was a prim and proper lady, this

All kinds of news (both false and

similar symptoms of fever, cough,

usually compared if such instances had

time wearing a face mask for the visit.

true) about COVID-19 have been

fatigue and breathing difficulties)

played out in developing countries-

This is now the new look for most of

circulated. Generally though, this is

without testing (which may be limited

the fellow will most likely not live to

my patients.

a respiratory virus, spread through

in some countries). Also, a lot has

tell the story. However, as the statistics

person to person contact (hence social

been circulated about prevention but

relayed the numbers of death from

She had finished leading us, the few

distancing advised) and contact with

what about treatment, even in taking

COVID-19, I had to take a critical look

of us that came to church to organize

virus contaminated surfaces (hence

a stance like the 3 Hebrew children

at the numbers and realized for a fact

the streaming for the online service,

hand washing & hand sanitizing

(Daniel 3: 17-18), that our God that we

that the current mortality rate declared

into the presence of God through an

serve is able to deliver us, but should

by the World Health Organization

awesome session of praise & worship.

He decide otherwise, what are the

as at March 3, 2020 is 3.4% meaning

Now, it was time for another to lead

necessary next steps? It all boils down

96.6% of people infected get well.

us in prayers before the message was

to supportive treatment whether it be

(https://www.worldometers.info/

preached. As she approached the front

a mild or severe illness. Mild illnesses

coronavirus/). This mortality rate

of the church, the praise leader offered

can be safely managed in the comfort

could be reassuring but on another

her the microphone, she declined. I

of your home with liberal fluids to

hand should not take away our reliance

had thought it was because we were

keep hydrated, antipyretics for fever

in our Great God.

only a few people scattered around

along with adequate rest & healthy

the auditorium in a bid to maintain

eating to help your body recuperate

Being a christian doctor could be

the social distancing protocols, but I

and build up its immunity. Severe

peculiar at times especially when it

illness characterized by high grade

seems you need to draw a line between

fever and or difficulty in breathing

the two. As Christians what should

can be managed in the hospital with

be our stance in this time as we look

supportive treatments to help breathe

into the bible, our ever sure guide.

and keep hydrated. (UpToDate, 2020)

Ecclesiastes 1;19-11 tells us there is

“Let it be a time to spread the message of peace and not of panic. A time for a personal retreat and deeper fellowship with God.” 30 gemwoman.net

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“Being a physician in a developed country has availed to me the opportunity of experiencing health care at its peak having come from a developing country.” nothing new under the sun. Plagues

as WHO/CDC. Hosea 4:6 says my

such as COVID-19 have happened in

people perish for lack of knowledge.

the past and even in bible times and

So get enlightened, afterwards do not

they were handled with isolation

fret/panic but bring your requests to

and quarantine protocols. Leviticus

God with thanksgiving. Let it be a time

13:5 specifically talks about isolation

to raise your voice as an intercessor

for 14 days for communicable skin

and stand in the gap on behalf of our

diseases- sounds familiar right.

land- Ezekiel 22: 30. Let it be a time to

1 Corinthians 10: 11 tells us these things

spread the message of peace and not of

were written as examples for us.

panic. A time for a personal retreat and deeper fellowship with God. gw

In bible times, the face of God was sought for help & deliverance even as

Dr Olamipo Bamgboje holds a MB;BS;

medical measures were adhered to

Bachelor of Medicine; Bachelor of Surgery,

during times of plague. The essence

a MPH; Masters in Public Health, a LMCC;

of this is to encourage you even as

Licentiate Medical Council of Canada and a

Christians to get knowledgeable about

CCFP Certified; Specialist Family Physician

the disease from reliable sources such

and Rural Emergency.

32 gemwoman.net

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Dr. Aleruchi Oleru

56:3. It soothes me and delivers me

gw: What is your general outlook like in light of the global crisis?

this verse of scripture. ‘When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.’ Psalm

gw: What was your initial reaction to the outbreak of this pandemic?

gw: How do you handle the fear and anxiety that can come with this situation?

from that spirit of fear. He also gave me

In all, I am grateful that my community

clear direction to actively replace fear

is not hard hit. Of course, there are all

with trust. I can’t run away from my

kinds of predictions but the church is

I’m an internist practicing at a large

As I noticed fear creeping into my

job to protect myself and my family. I

praying and the medical facilities are

hospital in Jackson, Tennessee where

heart, I prayed and the Lord gave me

firmly believe that for me to die is gain

preparing for the worst. I am most

I have worked for about 15 years.

so I am resigned to serving God in my

thankful for the confidence I have in

When the news of COVID-19 started

job like I always have. I have also been

God that enables me to work without

emerging from China last year, they

fervent in prayer and by God’s mercy

fear and be an encouragement and

were just like rumors. Between running

we have had no deaths from COVID in

comfort to others. gw

around with three kids, managing my

my hospital to date and our positive

home and working full time, I did not

cases are fast approaching a hundred

Dr. Aleruchi Oleru was born July 25, 1971

pay much attention to it . But when it

(at the time of this interview).

in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. She Attended medical school at the University of Port

creeped into the states in March, it hit community here was grappling to

gw: How has this pandemic affected your workload?

understand what exactly was going

Of course we are being very careful

on and we began to wear layers of

and screening many of the sick.

She finished her internal medicine

protective gear to see patients. The

The scope of my practice has also

residency in 2001 and presently works

tension in the air was palpable, the

changed as social distancing

as a hospitalist with the jackson clinic

has kept the sick from their

where she serves on the board of

loved ones and so I’m

directors. She has been married to Chima,

trying to bridge that

a nephrologist for 18 years and together

gap for them. Patients

they are raising 3 children, Ikenna (16),

definitely need a lot

Ijeoma(14), Obinna(12), one of whom

more compassionate

has special needs.

the nation with a bang.The medical

fear in the eyes of colleagues and patients alike . It was as though for the first time it dawned on us as physicians that we had no solution. In addition to this, we are also very susceptible to the deadly virus. Thus began my new reality, what do I do?

34 gemwoman.net

“I am most thankful for the confidence I have in God that enables me to work without fear and be an encouragement and comfort to others.”

Harcourt and relocated to the United States in 1996.

care as they are unable to have any visitors.

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Alexandra Champaign

and four need to be intubated. So I tell myself that I can’t get overwhelmed.

There was one day I had an intubation, at the same time another patient was

A

lexandra Champaign is a nurse based in New Jersey and has been a nurse for

coding (not breathing… coding). I had

17 years, she started out in Pediatrics, then the ICU unit but now works in the

to scream and shout out for the other

Medical-Surgical unit and daily treats COVID-19 patients.

nurses to help me with the patient that was coding as I could not leave

“We need nurses and we also need prayers.

Like I said earlier protective gear is never 100%”

gw: What are some of the ways you’ve been able to keep motivated and encouraged during his time?

gw:Can you describe a typical day for you?

the patient that was being intubated.

We just have to work so fast and are

This patient was trying to stand up;

short staffed. It’s very stressful,

I’d go to work, at the hospital, they’d

he had a tube down his throat to help

everyone is burned out- from the

tell me there are fewer nurses on the

him breathe on a ventilator and he

doctors to nurses and janitors.

floor that day. There are 23 patients

was struggling to free himself. He’s

Honestly, I try to take things day by

between 3 nurses (as of the time of this

emotional, trying to rip the tube out

day. Every day I thank God, and I just

interview) and they tell me I have 10

of his throat and trying to disconnect

question why I am still here. Why do

patients to take care of during my shift,

himself from everything. I’m holding

gw: Is there anything you’d like to let people know about COVID?

I not have symptoms? Does God still

him down and screaming for help as

It is definitely real! I’m a nurse here

have a plan for me? Because I know

the other patient of mine is coding.

in New York and it has been so crazy.

without a doubt that I have been

Eventually he had to be restrained.

Please stay home and keep your

exposed to the Coronavirus from

Next door, the patient that was coding

distance, you never know who could

treating infected patients. That’s

had to be given CPR. The protocol for

have it. It’s a terrible disease that

what is keeping me going strong. With

patients that are COVID-positive is that

damages the body so badly. Medical

the amount of patients that I’ve been

everyone has to leave the room apart

practitioners need equipment and

exposed to, I am just so thankful to

from those who are administering the

protective gear. We often have to reuse

God. I’ve had patients cough on me,

aid. During intubation, those present

gear and this only puts us at a higher

spit on me... I even have co-workers

in the room risk being infected and so

risk of getting infected. We need

that are sick, some who are in the

only two are allowed in a room during

nurses and we also need prayers. Like

hospital and are ventilated and

intubation; when we push air into

I said earlier protective gear is never

reflecting on this everyday

their throats, air also comes out into

100%. gw

when I wake up, keeps me

the atmosphere. The patient who was

going.

coding did not make it.

36 gemwoman.net

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Dr. Ebunoluwa Olasumbo Jaiyesimi

D

information on the characteristics of

the list to be investigated before we

the virus and thereby empowering

found out later that she had underlying

people to make informed decisions

hypertensive disease. She apparently

on taking on the necessary protection

withheld information of being ill for

modalities regarding COVID-19.

the past 3 months. Unfortunately, she

r Ebunoluwa.O.Jaiyesimi holds a Master Degree Certificate in Reproductive

passed away while on treatment.

Health from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland in addition to a Masters

I advice that to halt its spread, it is

Degree in Public Health from University of Ibadan. She is the Lead for the Surveillance

important to follow all guidelines in

Team of the COVID-19 Rapid Response (RRT) for OOUTH Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria.

addition to the following: Eating a balanced diet made up of

I believe that Jesus is the Great Healer.

physical and virtual (on-line) training

carbohydrate, protein, minerals and

Therefore I am just His emissary in

for health care workers are necessary.

vitamins in the right proportion.

ministering healing to the sick. I believe

Lots of Vit C, E &D rich food or

in Him doing the miracle of healing in

zz

gw: How are you combating this COVID-19?

gw: How has your belief helped you in this fight?

COVID-19 is a novel disease which requires all hands on deck to prevent

gw: What is your advice to people?

supplement is advised. Eating eggs,

the infected physically and affected

the spread. Personally, as a a public

There are various

cheese, garlic ginger decreases

emotionally. Hence, I daily commit

health physician, I contribute to a

wrong or half-truths

respiratory symptoms in case of

my conduct and activities to Him,

technical plan for mitigation and

out

regarding

a viral infection. Eat one banana a

putting my hands in His to perform

prevention. Surveillance is a very

COVID-19; many

day to replenish gut flora. Excess

His miracle of healing through me. He

important part of the response. And

people have been

carbohydrate consumption is not

said ‘He is the Lord that healeth us’.

this for me involves the following;

misinformed.

advisable.

He has received whips for our healing

Sensitization & Awareness creation,

Hence my advice

Ensuring good Hydration, exercise

(Is 53:5). Jesus also said, whenever we

Contact Tracing. among others.

to people will start

and proper rest.

have the opportunity to help and do

zz

with providing Once a case is confirmed by PCR testing, the contact has to be listed and advised to self isolate for two weeks which is the average incubation period for the disease. In addition to contact tracing, awareness creation through the media, market outreaches to sensitize communities, carefully planned

38 gemwoman.net

“I believe that Jesus is the Great Healer. Therefore I am just His emissary in ministering healing to the sick.”

good to others we are doing it to Him. It’s important that one discloses

Risk of being infected is high for a

past medical history, it helps

frontline health care worker like me. I

with treatment prescription. A

know I have divine protection from all

woman came into the Accident

evils including diseases because God

& Emergency unit with sudden

promised us in Psalm 91:10; so I have

breathlessness and fatigue and

assurance that the Lord will protect

had traveled to a community where

me. gw

COVID is prevalent. She was put on

gemwoman.net 39

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Dr. Olaitan Abimbola

think we can use to build our immunity

of spread is fast. So, for children of

but the immunity we have in Christ as

God out there, we want to encourage

He is the Greatest Physician, working

you to stay at home. Those who

r Olaitan Abimbola is a Senior Registrar in the Internal Medicine Department

on our behalf and being our advocate.

were COVID-19 positive had contact

of Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu.

We pray and read the word of God

with people, so the stay at home

together, we avoid listening to news

order actually works in curtailing

D

gw: Being on the front line, how has it been for you?

them. Yes, the patients are usually

of doctors and nurses who have died,

the spread. Also, avoid listening to

scared because of the uncertainty of a

but we believe in the word of God that

negative, terrible news flying around

Well it has been okay. Being in the

novel disease, but so far, the patients I

says “we shall live” and that is what is

on social media, get information from

profession entails taking care of

have managed have done well.

helping us.

credible sources. Ensure the rules of

patients whether COVID-19 positive

hygiene: frequent

gw: What advice do you have for us generally?

hand washing

serious, contagious ailments like Ebola

gw: How has your faith/ belief helped you?

and Lassa Fever in the past and God

As a child of God, I know that God is

I just want to advise everybody that

and water,

has helped us even without knowing

there to keep us, according to the

we need to keep calm. We have not

cough into

their statuses prior to their diagnoses.

word of God which says “no disease

recorded any causality or mortality at

elbows and

of the Egyptians will not come upon

my center. All of them have survived

sanitize. gw

gw: Personally, how has it been for you as an individual, how do you handle the fears and anxiety?

us” (Exodus 11:7). My colleagues

to the glory of God. Presently, we are

and I (majority of whom are also

about discharging some, and some

Christian) have been proclaiming

have been discharged already. We

those scriptures regularly. When the

believe based on what we have seen,

COVID-19 outbreak started, many

that the mortality is quite low in those

For me, there is no anxiety. I have been

people were pasting and quoting

without comorbidities, but the rate

the focal person during the Lassa Fever

Psalm 91 here and there, but it’s one

outbreak in Ogun State, therefore I

thing to quote in fear, and another to

have experiences on how patients and

know your place in Christ. We believe

medical personnel feel and what they

that now that we are in the frontline

go through. So, for COVID-19 I had

helping people to survive, He is also

prepared my heart and mind before it

there with us. This has been our source

entered Nigeria as I knew I would most

of strength. It is not just the materials

likely be called to help in managing

that we put on or the things that we

or negative. There have been other

40 gemwoman.net

with

soap

“I just want to advise everybody that we need to keep calm.… avoid listening to negative, terrible news flying around on social media, get information from credible sources.” gemwoman.net 41

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Dr. Idowu Akinsanmi gw: How has the pandemic affected you and your work?

have been given an opportunity to make

“If I had an hour to solve a problem, I’ll

I was grateful that somehow, the

spend 55 minutes thinking about the

education that I acquired over a course

problem and 5 minutes thinking about

of decades was useful in the pandemic.

a difference. For that I was grateful.

E

bere Nicholas has been a nurse for three years. Her specialty is in General Medicine (infections control). She is married with three children and lives in

Dallas, Texas.

gw: What was your initial reaction to the pandemic?

prayers for my friends and family, and

I worked harder in a 3 week period than

I went on vacation and came back in the

protect my coworkers and I.

I did in 3 months. At the end of most

middle of the pandemic, I got to work

a solution” Albert Einstein.

I have always believed that a properly

Ebere Nicholas

I trust in God to heal my patients and

defined problem is

days, I was tired, but still

and to my surprise, things

comparatively easier to

overwhelmingly grateful.

had gotten so serious,

solve, hence my love for

I was grateful for my well-

our entire protocol had

all things diagnostic. With

being. I was grateful for

changed, and almost

gw: Was there ever a moment you wanted to quit your job?

a background education

a husband who was my

overnight, it was as if I was

There have been times

in Molecular medicine,

biggest cheerleader. I was

in a different hospital with

after managing COVID

I have designed several

grateful for stable kids

all the changes that came.

patients that I was

diagnostic

assays,

who did their school work

ranging from sickle cell

and kept their grades up

tempted not to go back

anemia and beta thalassemia to more

in spite of my absence. I was grateful

dermatology pathology detection

for friends and family who held me up

gw: How has your faith impacted the way you view your work?

tests. A request from my employer

in prayers. I was grateful for a team of

The first day I was terrified; nothing

being a nurse. Mentally, I had already

to participate in putting a COVID-19

“skilled workmen” that came alongside

prepared me for this. There wasn’t

quit the job as I had the difficult task

detection test together was not a

and worked with a passion that was

much information at first but

of informing the patient’s family of

stretch, but the timeline to finish was

definitely not money motivated.

progressively it got better and I began

their family member’s death. Luckily,

to look at the patients as my family

I was off work for four days and during

members.

this period, I had a change of heart and

incomprehensible.

Finally, I am grateful to a God that is As more and more people in the United

absolute light in darkness, the master

States got infected and fatalities

problem solver, and the inspiration

My faith in God has always

increased, it became clear to me that I

that gives understanding. gw

strengthened me, I always ask for

42 gemwoman.net

to work. The worst day was when my first patient died of COVID-19; I was tempted to give up on

returned to work.

gemwoman.net 43

COVER SPECIAL

gw: What is most difficult about being a nurse during this pandemic?

My pain is the lack of adequate protective gear. This makes the work frightening as we need to reuse equipment at times which increases the risk of infection for nurses. In addition to this, the deteriorative

KAN D I D TAL K S

“one thing I am reassured by is the fact that God is not surprised by this, thus I am reassured that He is in control.”

Life in Different Shades Kehinde Adollo

Life in different shades..........

nature of the disease is hard to watch.

this, thus I am reassured that He is in

There’s no doubt we now see life in different shades

However, one thing I am reassured by

control. gw

Stay safe has become the new form of greeting

is the fact that God is not surprised by

Stay home has become the new norm Social distancing is the new way of communicating Virtual lifestyle has become the new boom Handwashing is now an essential way of living Face mask is the latest clothing accessory Doctors and Nurses became the world’s super heroes Prayer is now the only weapon Families and friends reunite and now recognise they need each other more than they thought.

The world has come together for the first time ever. ..... will life ever be the same? it may not but we certainly work towards making it better. If we strive to achieve this goal. Look after each other, our world and indeed ourselves better then who knows? The world might surely become a better place.

It’s time to make our service to humanity and living for eternity the ultimate goal.

44 gemwoman.net

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Refuse to be Silenced

LIGHT REFLECTIONS

LIGHT REFLECTIONS

You must refuse to allow your predicament to blind you from identifying and receiving help when it comes. Many people have allowed themselves to get so overwhelmed with their desperate situations that when their solution was staring them in the face they couldn’t recognise it.

Bolanle Olawale

Bartimaeus had heard that Jesus of Helen Keller famously said, “The only thing worse than being blind is having

Nazareth was passing by. The fact that

sight but no vision.”

this man could not use his eyes did not

B

stop him from using his voice. God will

artimaeus was a blind man;

but because of his inability to see.

never leave you hopeless and helpless.

we were not told for how

Many at times we find ourselves in

long he had been in this

desperate situations because of some

God always leaves us with something.

state but his story starts

unpredictable predicaments.

The woman with the pot of oil had lost

with him being blind. Yet, this was not his only problem.

everything but still had a pot of oil (2 He was therefore relegated to a life

Kings 4:2)

that was dependent and humiliating.

Bartimaeus had two problems: he

Your feet may not work, but maybe

was blind and he was poor. The first

This became an indignity Bartimaeus no

begat the latter. The ancient Chinese

longer wanted to bear.

philosopher Confucius observed that

God

your hands do. You may not have been

always leaves us

born rich, but you were born able to work. You may not have had many

in a well-governed country, poverty is

Unless, you get tired of the situation

with something. The

something to be ashamed of. In a badly

you are in, you will remain in it.

woman with the pot of

a lot, only the right one. We don’t

governed country, wealth is something

Although he was physically blind, his

always have all that we desire, but if we

to be ashamed of. In this case, poverty

heart (spiritual vision) could see well

oil had lost everything

was nothing Bartimaeus should have

enough to recognize God when Jesus

been ashamed of. He was not a beggar

showed up.

because of his unwillingness to work

46 gemwoman.net

but still had a pot of oil.

people ask you out, but you don’t need

will work with what we have, we will be amazed at what we can do.

It is interesting to note that Bartimaeus

gemwoman.net 47

LIGHT REFLECTIONS

LIGHT REFLECTIONS

called Jesus the Son of David. This was

You must refuse to allow their words

the Lord’s goodness,

a messianic title taken from the Old

or actions to deter you. You must be

kindness, and mercy,

Testament that foretold the kingdom that

tenacious and keep reaching, keep

Jesus would initiate. While Bartimaeus

asking, keep seeking (Matthew 7:7)

may not have had extensive knowledge of

and refuse to give up.

God’s Word due to his blindness, he knew

of humility before we can

fully experience Him. We all have not his own. He opportunities to did not compare What is so amazing encounter God, but the himself to anyone in this story is greatest opportunities else to qualify for tend to require us to exhibit not that this man Jesus’ attention. cried out to Jesus high levels of humility Putting someone for help; that is before we can fully else down never what we expect experience Him.

enough Scripture to recognize Jesus as

Obstacles are put in our paths to

the Son of David and the fulfillment of Old

determine how much we want what’s

Testament prophecy. We don’t have to be

on the other side of them. Bartimaeus

scholars to recognize God. If by nature a

had heard about the many things Jesus

sheep can distinguish and identify the

did. He was not going to let anything

Start crying out to God

voice of its shepherd, surely we have

get in the way of his once-in-a-

based on His merits and not your

adequate innate wiring to recognize the

lifetime moment with Jesus, and you

own. Then watch Him do for you what

voice of our Shepherd.

shouldn’t either! The Red Sea could

He did for Bartimaeus.

makes you any taller.

not stop the Israelites. The wall of

beggars to do.

What’s mind-blowing is the fact that Jesus stopped for him.

Jesus was on His way to the most

The crowd did not think this beggar was

Jericho couldn’t stop them either. Who

Jesus did not answer Bartimaeus

important event in human history, His

worthy of Jesus’ time and attention.

art thou, O great mountain? (Zech 4:7).

immediately. Most people today

crucifixion, and yet He stopped for this

would have given up and retreated

man. A poor, blind man armed with

He was willing to face whatever

back to the side of the road, saying

only heartfelt hope and faith made the

ridicule and humiliation he had to

to themselves, “I give up”, “nobody

Creator of the universe stop. The New

face to get to Jesus. We must

understands me”, “nobody loves

Testament teaches that Jesus is the

be willing to set aside

me”, and “everybody is out to get

same yesterday, today, and forever.

our egos. Look away

me.” Not Bartimaeus, he only yelled

This means if He did it then, He will do

people may feel the

from naysayers

louder. If you fuel your journey with

it again!

same way about

and mockers. Let

the opinions of others, you are going

you and I, thinking

their words glide,

to run out of gas.Stay focused on God,

Refuse to be silenced! Ask! Seek!

we should not

like water off a

He always come through

Knock! gw

be candidates for

duck’s back.

They tried to stop him from shouting but Bartimaeus was relentless (Mark 10:48). He knew what he wanted and he was not about to allow anyone make him miss his miracle. Some

that blessing or breakthrough that God has in store for us.

48 gemwoman.net

We all have opportunities to encounter Blind Bartimaeus

God, but the greatest opportunities

cried to Jesus based on

tend to require us to exhibit high levels

gemwoman.net 49

TESTIMONY

TESTIMONY

over 200 countries, her husband woke

but no outright cough and she started

up with a tickle in his throat. He gave it

deteriorating. There was a lot of debate

no thought- in the next couple of days

whether or not to call the ambulance.

he would realize it was not his mind

After 3 days it was clear COVID-19

playing tricks; he had been infected

didn’t seem in a hurry to leave her body,

with the COVID-19 virus.

she would need to call the ambulance again. The paramedics came to the

How I Overcame COVID-19 Mrs F

I

All it took was one trip to the grocery

house, medical personnel came in

store; he replayed the outing over a

fully kitted to the teeth. There was not

million times in his mind- How could

going to be any chance of exposure for

he have gotten infected? When was the

them. The children wondered again as

point of infection?. It was a difficult

to what was happening in their living

time; especially for the children who

room as they had been told to stay in

couldn’t understand why daddy

their rooms.

couldn’t eat at the table with them anymore or why he couldn’t play with

She arrived at the hospital, and what

them.

she had known from a few days back was confirmed- she tested positive

A couple of days later, her husband

for COVID-19, she was told she may be

began to feel better and his isolation

able to go back home but things took a

period was coming to a close. In that

turn for the worse. She knew the battle

time, she on the other hand began

line had been drawn, and she would need to fight.

t was a normal day; well not so normal

be having lots of bags and there wasn’t

to feel sick- she wondered what

as normal has had to be redefined

a third hand he would use to open the

was wrong. “Could she have been

door. Instead, she met him with a face

infected?” she asked herself, “It must

The doctors were battling day and

full of smiles as he exclaimed, ‘mission

just be the stress of caring for the

night, she was barely aware of her

accomplished’.

husband and the kids that is getting

environment due to her fatigue. Her

to me”, she assured herself, “nothing

health care team became worried...

The next morning was the beginning

a little rest would not address”. The

she couldn’t keep her body well

She met him at the door; to open the

of a change that has currently affected

next few days were full of aches and

oxygenated...organs could begin to

door for him, as she figured he would

over 2 million people worldwide in

pains here and there, feeling tired

shut down.

since the outbreak of COVID-19.

Her husband had gone out for groceries...

50 gemwoman.net

gemwoman.net 51

TESTIMONY Hello Everyone! I’m Super Duper excited to inform you that my new E-book titled:

She was taken to the ICU and placed on oxygen as she still wasn’t getting enough oxygen saturation throughout her body with the usual measures. New measures needed to be put in place; it was beginning to look good with new measures, but she was hardly out of the woods. She could barely turn from side to side, how much more to sit or stand.

It seemed her body had crumbled

It was good her spirit was strong, her spirit had been fed the word of God in the past; It was full of the bread of life and it was time to reap the dividend.

under the weight of COVID-19 but her

her life. COVID -19 eventually had to

spirit said “ No, you will rise again!”.

let go, she had her body back, and for the first time in days she was able to

It was good her spirit was strong, her

stand. She was so grateful to God and

spirit had been fed the word of God in

she wondered at all the simple tasks

the past; It was full of the bread of life

she could do in the past that she often

and it was time to reap the dividend.

took for granted, all the simple tasks

There was a battle, intercessors were

that she never thanked God for; She

raised, though she could hardly speak

had peace, she knew she had won this

. She kept feeding her spirit with

battle and as if COVID-19 had heard

worship songs from her playlist as the

her again, it had indeed left as the

doctors kept feeding her body with

health team came to confirm what she

medicines. Her body was in so much

had known- she was now COVID-19

pain, it was indescribable, sometimes

NEGATIVE. She was relieved she had

it felt like it was in her brain, other

taken her stand against COVID-19,

times it felt like it was in her chest and

she had taken a stand with God, she

all of a sudden it would feel like it was

smiled as she thought “I will continue

in her back. The battle raged for 5 long

to stand” and resolved in her spirit,

days in the ICU- the longest days of

“standing will be my new normal”. gw

52 gemwoman.net

Help! I’m A Single Horny Jesus Girl Is Now available for download on Amazon For $5.99; also available in Nigeria via Paystack for only NGN1,000. Link To Download In My Bio

This is a short story about a Christian girl’s journey to understanding and embracing her sexuality. It is a story that uncovers the myths as well as the truths about Sex and the Christian Girl.

In this book, Blessing shares in very honest and relatable terms, her experiences, struggles and victories with “konji”- a word used by people of Nigerian descent to describe a state of horniness. She also initiated thought-provoking conversations on “sacred” topics such as Masturbation.

She urges Christian Single Girls girls to take time to understand and gain mastery of their bodies and also encourages them to continue latching on to God’s Grace in the pursuit of sexual purity, knowing fully well that they are never alone!

COVID-19: Faith Over Fear -

A Conversation With Christian Leaders

W

ith the global outbreak of Coronavirus/COVID-19 came a lot of conspiracy theories that fueled the fears of people. These theories gave rise to so much

pandemonium despite the fact that global governmental, community and spiritual leaders have demonstrated that they are prioritizing the situation and keeping the best interests of their communities in mind. These leaders, while taking precautionary measures, can model a response that is faithful, gracious and wise — trusting God in all things, remaining calm in a time of distress, extending compassion to those who are suffering, and praying for the healing of the world. This response of calmness and godly wisdom has become even more important as this pandemic has affected the world over, at every level. In light of this, it is important to hear the right words that will fuel our faith and strengthen us to face this challenging season with confidence. We thereby sought to converse with pastors and fathers of faith the world over, to share with us on how the pandemic has affected them, and what they believe God is telling us in this season.. »

gemwoman.net 55

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

A Time To Cry Out To God Bishop Felix Adejumo

P

lagues have always afflicted

information that sponsor fear, but is

man, and we can see this

rather the time to cry out to God in one

illustrated throughout both

accord and implore His mercy in this

biblical and human history: the

time of lockdown. It is also a time to

Influenza outbreak in 1918, SARS in

cooperate with our leaders by adhering

2003, H1N1 Swine Flu in 2009, Ebola

to the instructions to stay at home and

in 2014, Zika in 2015, and now, we

avoid large gatherings.

are currently battling the Corona Virus that has affected our social,

Our fast-paced world has come to a

religious, and economic operations

halt, and our streets are empty, but we

and relationships.

have hope that our world will heal, and order will be restored. The pandemic

It is not an attack on the Church, but an

is definitely not of God, and He has

affliction on all humanity. This is not

promised to make a way out of all our

a time to pass blame or spread false

afflictions. This too shall pass, and our God will make all things new.

We applaud the dedicated efforts of all medical personnel around the world who are at the forefront of this biological siege 56 gemwoman.net

We applaud the dedicated efforts of all medical personnel around the world who are at the forefront of this biological siege, and our hearts and prayers are with the surviving victims, as well as the families who have lost loved ones to this epidemic. gw

Felix Aderemi Adejumo is the quintessential minister of the Gospel whose ministry is anchored on the tenet of POSSIBILITY. He is married to Funke Felix-Adejumo and they are blessed with four biological children, seven grand-children and many other adopted children. He is the Bishop of Agape Christian ministries Worldwide. A leader who leads by example, he is a great minister of the word and a renowned author of over 30 books. He and his wife have established and continue to manage two hospitals. gemwoman.net 57

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

COVID-19: The End Of Time Syndrome?

of the Lord will come as

we need to look inward

a thief in the night” and

and ask ourselves a

will be when life is good

simple question “who

just as the days of Noah

owns my life?”. If our

and Lot when men were

lives aren’t ours, why do

partying and marrying

we worry so much about

and given in marriage

them? Saints, this time

Covid-19 from God? from the devil ? or

and having fun. The

will pass and you will be

t would be inhumane not to feel the

it is from the latter and did God allow it?.

day of the Lord isn’t

unscathed. Perhaps the

global pain and share in the concerns

We know that God does no evil (James

going to happen when there is global

Lord allowed this so we can answer

that have pervaded our planet earth

1:17), though he can send plagues as

fear, apprehension and anxiety. THE

the question of ownership and what

during this precarious time of the

he did to Egypt via divine instructions

WORLD IS NOT COMING TO AN END,

we live for. This pandemic has shown

Covid-19 pandemic. Talk of a shock!

to Moses and as he sent to his people

IT IS ONLY ENDING. It started ending

us that what we have in us is the real

No one could have foreseen where

when they rebelled (Numbers

since Jesus walked on this earth as

personal asset you have, not what

we have found ourselves presently. A

16:46). The earth isn’t a stranger to

a man, died and resurrected. Truly,

we possess which will leave us and

lack of assurance in God’s Word and

pandemics and mankind has always

the end is relative. We shouldn’t be

we will leave sometime or someday.

inability to know when the Lord is

pulled through. What sets the present

bothering ourselves with when the

The Kingdom of God doesn’t come by

speaking has made many a Christian

one apart is that firstly, we do not have

world will end but rather when “your

observation, it is in you ( Luke 17:20-

slaves to fear. This should not be the

many alive who have experienced

world ends”. Someone’s world is

21). We can’t afford to repeat this class.

case.

such global pandemonium by being

ending right now as I type this. Worlds

Take the cue, hear God’s voice in the

witnesses of a global pandemic and

end every second and minute before,

midst of the storm. No pandemic will

As I waited on the Lord for 2020, it was

secondly, the world has become faster

during and after this pandemic.

be the end of the world, refusal of Jesus

revealed that we would be experiencing

and time shorter. We have believed

new diseases that mankind hadn’t

in our abilities so much, we seem not

You can’t kill a dead man; if the

known before, amongst other things

to need God any more, talk less of

pandemic is causing our hearts to fail,

the Lord made me privy to. However,

acknowledging Him. So what has been

nothing in my wildest dreams or

a recurring decimal in history is now

deepest revelation came close to the

deemed to be the “END OF TIME”.

PK Olawale Lk 17:20-37.

I

extent of what we have seen.

One thing I can assure you from I know this raises some questions: is

58 gemwoman.net

is the real end of life.

Selah! gw

Pastor P.K. Olawale is an Apostle, Prophet and Teacher. He is an avid soul winner who seeks to awaken in saints a desire to rule and have dominion in their territories on behalf of the kingdom. Married to Pastor Bola, they are blessed with 5 children.

scripture is what the text says, “the day

gemwoman.net 59

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

My Musings On COVID-19

“D

Rev Victor Adeyemi

But, what is God saying in

however, the glory of the

the midst of it all? One, I

Lord will rise upon us to

believe God is saying this

make a difference (Isaiah

is not the first and it will

60.1-2). Satan is certainly

addy, I have never seen

Luke 21. They both prophesied about very

not be the last. The church

crippling the world with

anything like this before”,

difficult times before the rapture of the

should shed off every

fear but this is the time for

said my 20 year old daughter

church and His second coming into the

weight and sin and run a

believers to fight the good

on a video call about the recent pandemic

world. I am therefore not shocked nor am

better race than we have

fight of faith by resisting

that has turned the world upside down;

I totally perplexed.

been running (Hebrews

fear and disease with the

12.1-2). We are to hasten to

Word of God (1 Timothy

“neither have I in my over 50 years of existence either”, I replied. Starting like

The fall of man has given Satan access

the ripened harvest of the earth. We need

6.12). The finest hour of the glorious

other epidemics and plagues, we thought,

into the world system as the god of the

to prioritize souls over all other things and

church is upon us as our light shines

but had no idea that within 4 months,

social order (2 Corinthians 4.3-4). What

cast off distractions that slow us down. We

brighter in the midst of the palpable fear

most of the world would be on a lockdown.

do we really expect from his government,

have been too complacent about saving

and darkness falling upon the world. The

especially when he knows his time is short.

the lost and becoming too earthly minded.

greatest revival the world has ever seen is

With about almost 1 million confirmed

We should expect heightened demonic

The imminence of death reminds us we

upon us. The end of it will be the piercing

cases as at the time I am writing and

activities and every effort to terminate

brought nothing into the world and we

of the eastern skies and the appearance

over 50,000 deaths, the pandemic is still

life and limit man’s opportunity to turn

would take nothing from it.

of the Lord of glory to take His bride out

spreading like wildfire and threatening

to God.

the lives of millions.

of this world and return with her to rule God is calling us to a firm decision.

in righteousness for a thousand years. Be

Also, one of the characteristics of this

Lukewarmness has no place in this

encouraged with the words of our Lord

It took me by some surprise because of

time is that ‘iniquity shall abound’

season. Only uncompromising faith,

and savior:

the unprecedented impact of it on world

(Matthew 24.12) which will certainly

dogged commitment to God’s Word and

travels, everyday business and lifestyle,

attract consequent disruptions in the

relentless pursuit of His purpose will save

“Now when these things begin to happen,

economies of the world, the struggle of

health of our planet. Evil of exceptional

us from the evils that will befall our world.

look up and lift up your heads, because

excellent health care systems of the west

magnitude will be devised in the hearts

and confusion of health experts about how

of men against one another and here the

to treat the dreaded disease. However, as

possibility of some truth to some of the

a Bible student, I know Paul predicted

conspiracy theories being bandied around

perilous times in 2 Timothy 3.1-3 as did

cannot be dismissed with a wave of the

the Lord Jesus in Matthew 24, Mark 13 and

hand.

60 gemwoman.net

your redemption draws near.”” Luke No matter how gross the darkness

21:28 NKJV gw

Victor Adeyemi is the Senior Pastor of Global Harvest church, Lagos from where he travels around the world as an evangelist, bible teacher and church planter. He is married to Jumoke Bolaji and their union is blessed with children. gemwoman.net 61

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

Understanding These (Pandemic) Times Dr. Sola Fola-Alade

I

believe this COVID-19 pandemic

From my observation the last three

times are a clear indication to the

horsemen and their effects have

Church and the World that the Bible

shown up within the last 20-30 years:

is authentic and authoritative in its prophetic expression.

zz

It is the time for the church to use technology innovatively to extend its reach in the digital space. Hence the shut down of church gatherings, compelling us all to explore and venture into reaching and winning new souls online.

The pale horse was given power to take a quarter of the world’s population– 1918 was the most

As Salt and Light, the church through

but most of these unsaved and

It has caused the whole world to begin

recent episode of such a plague (the

its prayers is also called to be the

unchurched people are very active

to discuss and seek to interpret biblical

Spanish flu). The bubonic plague is

restraining power to the increase

online. It is indeed time for the church

end-time prophecy . In my opinion this

said to have taken nearly a quarter

in deaths, impending evils and

to colonise new kingdoms. It is the

pandemic, typifies in particular one of

of the world’s population. In the

devastation. (Matthew 5:13)

time for the church to use technology

the scenarios of the four horsemen of

last 20 years we have seen the three

the apocalypse in Revelations 6:

horsemen represented and featured

I also believe God expects the Church

digital space. Hence the shut down of

The first horseman rides a white

in some shape or form.This I believe

to take more ground at this time; I

church gatherings, compelling us all

horse, which symbolises Christ the

shows God’s Prophetic Timetable

recently heard that about 80% of

to explore and venture into reaching

Conqueror; the second horseman

and Timeline is being fulfilled

people in the US and 96% in the UK

and winning new souls online. gw

zz

rides a red horse and symbolises war

innovatively to extend its reach in the

don’t attend Church on Sunday,

and bloodshed (Terrorism); the third

In spite of the diverse speculations, no

rides a black horse and symbolises

one knows the time or the hour of the

famine (Economic Recession); and

end, the important thing at this time

the fourth horseman rides a pale

is for the church to get into the secret

horse and represents pestilence and

place (don’t be distracted) where God

death (Pandemic)

is speaking so we are not caught off

Dr Sola Fola Alade. Though he originally trained as a Medical Doctor, Dr FolaAlade is respected internationally as a pastor, author, publisher, conference speaker, coach & mentor to various businesses. PSFA (as he is fondly called), together with his wife, Abimbola, are the Lead Pastors at Liberty Church London and are blessed with two sons.

guard.

62 gemwoman.net

gemwoman.net 63

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

This Plague Too, Shall Pass P S A L M 1 26 :1 Pastor OJ Kuye

2

The plague that came upon Israel when they committed idolatry

and harlotry with the idols and women of Moab in Numbers 25:113: 24,000 people died. The plague stopped because of the righteous zeal/ indignation of one man, Phinehas in the Camp.

3

Siege/Corona plague-like

T

situation in Jericho illustrated in

he world has never been the

My word of assurance is in our theme

Joshua 6:1: Jericho was securely shut

filed for unemployment within a

same since the pandemic

for this year, 1 Peter 5:10. “This one too

up because of the children of Israel.

two-week period!

plague called COVID-19 broke

shall pass”. After the plague has come

None came out and none came in.

out. Every facet of our collective

and gone, the Almighty God shall

The Shout of Victory after marching

existence has been shaken to the root,

perfect us, establish us, strengthen us,

around the city for seven days brought

and our temporal world shaken to its

and settle us for greater glory than we

down the walls, and the siege was over.

foundation. Global health, business,

had ever experienced, in Jesus’ name,

economy, spiritual life, social and

Amen.

family life, among a list of others, have been fiercely impacted.

Biblical Introspection The Bible has some historical accounts

Just in days, COVID-19 has practically brought every nation of the world to its knees. It has humbled the pride of nations! Could this be the final lap

1

Effect of the Present Coronavirus Pandemic Plague: zz

zz

in Exodus 7-10: This was a national

epidemic and its purpose was to

Social life as we used to have it has gone

zz

The governments at various levels seem not to have an antidote to the ravaging plague

of plagues: The 10 plagues God sent upon Egypt

zz

Humanity shall overcome this challenge too like the ones before it, in

Over a million people have been

Jesus’ name. But what message is God

infected all over the world

using the situation to get across to us

Several tens of thousands of people

as people of faith?

have died as a result of the plague zz

It has brought down the economy of

COVID-19 is a situation... a challenge...

several nations.

a problem... a hindrance that is

Some corporations have shut down,

confronting humanity today at

for our collective home going? I don’t

punish Pharaoh and Egypt for refusing

know, only God knows. However, I do

to heed His instruction to let Israel go.

know that our world will never be the

The plagues stopped when Pharaoh

and many have downsized as a

individual, family, communal, city,

same again!

humbled himself and did what God

protective measure.

state, national and global levels, but

In America, over 6 million people

it’s a challenge we can overcome; we

instructed.

64 gemwoman.net

zz

zz

gemwoman.net 65

we will overcome; we shall overcome, and we must overcome, in Jesus’ name, because we are born to overcome, subdue and have dominion.

2. Working together: We must all work together as a people, church, community, and nation.. Isaiah 41:6 NKJV “Everyone helped his neighbor, And said to his brother, “Be of good courage!”

3. Praying: Matthew 17:19, Mark 9:28; Matthew 17:21; Mark 9:29; James 5:13; James 5:15.

will overcome; we shall overcome, and

4. Fasting: Jonah 3:5; Mark 9:29.5.

we must overcome, in Jesus’ name,

By the Blood of the lamb: Revelation

because we are born to overcome,

12:11; Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24

subdue and have dominion.

6. Word of our testimony: Revelation 12:11; Numbers 14:28; Proverbs

How Do We Overcome This One As A People Of God?

18:21; Hebrews 13:5; Psalm 116:10; 2

We will overcome this by:

7. Keeping Faith: Luke 1:37; Matthew

1. Following instructions and comply

19:26; Mark 9:23; Luke 8:43-48.

Corinthians 4:13.

with directives from our government and medical personnel regarding

Remember, whatever situation

personal hygiene, social distancing,

doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,

etc.. Romans 13:1

better, greater, richer and smarter. gw

Olugbenga Joseph Kuye is a servant of God under The Redeemed Christian Church of God, where he pastors the House on the Rock in Grand Prairie, Dallas Metro, TX USA. He is a Conference Speaker on leadership, prayers and empowerment, and has authored several books. He has since 1990 been happily married to Pastor Bisi Kuye, a fellow minister of the gospel and certified health professional. Their union is blessed with three covenant children.

66 gemwoman.net

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

These trying times also provide us with ample opportunities to testify to the faithfulness of our God. This is a time for faith and obedience.

We do well to regularly remind ourselves that

Take Heart, God Is In Control Pastor Makinde

“While it looks like things are out of control, behind the scenes there is a God who hasn’t surrendered His authority”

no circumstances can perplex our God.

—AW Tozer

W

e live in extraordinary times.

We are strategically placed to provide

The COVID-19 statistics are

leadership to the government, the

frightening indeed!

frontline health workers, and our

believe God. These times call for faith

God puts it. What is your relationship

city and community leaders. When

and strong confidence in God’s word.

to Jesus? What contribution does your

The average believer, just like the rest of

hope seems to vanish on the streets,

He has promised to heal our land,

lifestyle make to the healing of your

humanity, is MYSTIFIED and perplexed.

the church ought to harbour it in

if we will turn to Him in repentance

nation? This is the perfect time to

To make matters worse, there are some

stockpiles.

and prayers (2 Chronicles 7:14). He

wholly surrender our lives to Christ.

Christian men and women who major in

has also promised to uphold us in

pessimism, always looking at the dark

God’s word gives abundant hope

trying times with the right hand of His

These trying times also provide us with

and gloomy side of life. They abound

and assurance in the face of any

righteousness (Isaiah 41:10). We must

ample opportunities to testify to the

in every congregation. All they can do

contingencies that arise.

trust Him to keep His promises. He

faithfulness of our God. This is a time

who cannot keep his promise cannot

for faith and obedience. We do well to

Believers in Christ must be calm and

be God. The right thing to do at this

regularly remind ourselves that no

strong in the face of any circumstance.

moment is to put our emphasis where

circumstances can perplex our God. gw

about life situations is grumble. But we need not despair.

It is the church’s responsibility to give

We must not give in to fear. Like Joshua

light in the midst of darkness and to

and Caleb, we must refuse to take side

inquire what the mind of the Lord is

with the world in their fear. No fear

(Ephesians 5:17).

of giants will enter our minds if we

68 gemwoman.net

Pastor Makinde is a retired Senior Lecturer of Chemistry and is currently a Provincial Pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Republic of Ireland. gemwoman.net 69

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

COVID-19:

What Is God Saying?

Pastor Mike Nwanegbo

S

everal conspiracy theories

I believe this crisis is a warning shot of

are circulating all over social

what is to come. I sense God is alerting

media. The issue is in listening

the church of the coming changes in

for exactly what God is trying to tell us

the world. We can now see the power

in the midst of these trying times.

of the state to control the church and society. I sense God is warning the

God knew about COVID-19 before it

church to start preparing for a coming

even came into existence. If God had

persecution and the return of our Lord

not permitted it, it wouldn’t have

of Jesus Christ.

One good thing is that it has woken up the church to the need to be heaven focused. God has shot most pastors in and given them time to be with him alone so that he could speak to them.

seen the light of day. I also believe God allowed the lock down to reset the

The suggestions I have heard

them. Many will come out with clear

appreciate themselves. I believe that

mindset of the church and to speak to

experts present on TV and which the

instructions from God on the next

after this lockdown, most people will

those who are willing to listen about

government is looking into as a result

phase of the church. I also sense that

begin to give the family more priority.

his future plan for the church. Pastors

of this virus crisis is alarming. Though

God is using this opportunity to help

At least Pastors have learned that God is

are now talking about the need to

the COVID-19 has cost several lives,

keep families together and to better

the owner and keeper of the church. gw

strengthen the house fellowships and

I see it as a blessing to the church in

cell groups. Personally, I feel the lord

disguise. One good thing is that it has

leading me to start training men on

woken up the church to the need to be

how to be priests in their own houses

heaven focused. God has shut most

and how to prepare their children for

pastors in and given them time to be

heaven.

with Him alone so that he can speak to

70 gemwoman.net

Mike Chuks Boniface Nwanegbo is a Political Science and administrative graduate of the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. He is currently the Coordinator of the RCCG Belgium Mission. He also oversees RCCG Churches in four nations in Europe. He is married to Pastor (Mrs) Boma Nwanegbo and they are blessed with three lovely children; Gloria, Praise and Redeemed. gemwoman.net 71

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

Essential Tips For Emerging Beyond This Season Gbeminiyi Eboda

I

t’s important to know that there’s

but rather become task oriented

going to be a redefinition of

You have a history of victory. Don’t underestimate what you’ve survived in the past as the outcome of this will not be any less!

Focus on maintaining balance:

Fortitude is being built, character

and measure each day by the

Equilibrium is important, invest in

is being forged, resilience is being

everything including work following

goals achieved or targeted tasks

wholistic development. Don’t focus

developed. These are all essential &

this pandemic and your choices will

successfully executed. Be deliberate

on an area at the expense of others.

critical to lasting success.

be informed by the limits of your

about positioning yourself within

awareness.

the value radar of your employer or

zz

zz

Your health and relationships are

zz

The man in your mirror is most

customer as the case may be. If you

important as well as your career,

responsible for your eventual

Therefore your information sources

don’t want to be lost in the crowd, get

emotional, financial, intellectual

outcomes.

are critical in making the best of

ahead by thinking ahead.

and spiritual well being.

decisions. Positioning yourself for post Covid-19 workplace relevance is

zz zz

Start each day before it begins by

critical . Bearing this in mind, here are

being explicit and intentional about

some tips for effective Re-emergence

your goals and then hit the ground

following this pandemic:

running, ticking your boxes as the

zz

You have a history of victory. Don’t

Understand the place of process-

underestimate what you’ve survived

every vision has a gestation period.

in the past as the outcome of this will not be any less! gw

zz

Don’t quit because it’s taking time.

day goes. zz

Take your time to observe the trends and threats and find where

zz

Don’t undermine the value of

you can plug in within the value

talent and soft skills. They are great

chain to offer solutions to emerging

leverages that can give you unusual

problems after this season. Don’t

mileage.

Gbeminiyi Eboda is lead pastor at HarvestHouse Christian Center. He is an author and conference speaker who is happily married to Adeola Eboda and their marriage is blessed with two sons.

wait for the lockdown to be over

72 gemwoman.net

gemwoman.net 73

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

The Scourge Of CoronaVirus (aka COVID-19) Pastor Peter Yakubu

T

eventually prevail: “He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.”

Overall, God will gain preeminence.

his present scourge of the

age; not even as lethal as the common

For the rulers of darkness, it is an

coronavirus pandemic is a well

flu in America or Ebola in Africa or even

opportunity to rattle the world through

scripted scheme and agenda of

hunger in some parts of the world but the

fear and install their tools for the coming

treasures; then I will fill this temple with

the evil one. It is Satan’s plan to barricade

hype given to it through the news media

of the Antichrist, weaken the believers and

glory...”

the end-time move of God and break

is almost crippling the planet, which

hinder as many as they can from getting

the spirit of man. It is also intended to

is the aim. Satan might have sought to

ready for the second coming of Christ.

As you take another look at the corona

destabilize the church and crash the

outsmart God (which is beyond amusing)

However, it is also an opportunity for

madness, let joy resonate from your

faith of many. The corona pandemic

by creating the disorder, causing church

God to bring to fulfillment long awaited

inside; see God at work knowing that it

did not originate from heaven but was

doors to be shut, keeping believers

prophecies concerning this end time.

is working for our good. You will have

incubated, hatched and delivered from

apart from coming together to worship,

Haggai 2:6-7

a Goshen experience where God will

the heart of hell against mankind.

fellowship with one another and pray

separate you from the rest (Exodus.

to stop the devilish scourge and thereby

After all this is said and done, the church

8:22; 9:26). You will not perish with the

But, God still remains sovereign and

weaken the faith of the believers, but

will come out STRONGER, BOLDER,

wicked. “No harm will overtake you;

supreme. He can never be taken by

God holds the world in His hand. Psalm 2

MORE FOCUSED, LOUDER, and GREATER.

no illness will come near your home.”

surprise nor does anything happen

comes to mind here:

In addition, the church will be RICHER

Psalms 91:10 NET

because He said the desire of all nations

Be excited !!

without His knowledge. God saw it when it was still brewing in hell. He knew before

“Why do the heathen rage, and the people

shall come- this indicates a wealth

Hallelujah!!!!!

it began that it would happen and He

imagine a vain thing? The kings of the

transfer. Look at what He said again

See you on the other side of the

allowed it because He knows how to turn

earth set themselves, and the rulers take

in Haggai, “...and they will offer their

pandemic! gw

even chaotic situations around for the

counsel together, against the Lord, and

good of His people.

against his anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their

The virus is really not the scourge this time

cords from us”. Psalms 2:1-3. KJV

around but FEAR. The corona virus is one of the least causes of death in our present

74 gemwoman.net

But, verse 4 is what is playing out and will

Pastor Peter Yakubu is the pastor of the Prevailing Life Ministries, situated in Lagos Nigeria. He is called into the ministry of deliverance for the body of Christ with a message of hope, revival, healing and restoration to the total man. He is passionate about preparing the saints for the coming of our Lord. He has been married to Abimbola for nineteen years and they are blessed with three children. gemwoman.net 75

COVID-19: FAITH OVER FEAR - A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIAN LEADERS

Rise Above The Crisis!

Pastor Dammy Timothy

N

comfort me” Psalm 23:4. It’s time to rise above the crisis and trust God. Of a truth, when you listen to the news, especially the rumours on social media, your heart will begin to race. This news is the way by which satan instills fear in the hearts of

othing in life is permanent

partial or total lockdown in the cities

people! But as the Psalmist says, “I

except God and his promises.

and nations worldwide. People are

fear no evil” for God is with me. This

It should be noted that

confused and no decision made has

doesn’t necessarily mean that danger

keep in mind what God promised us in

whatever anyone is going through is

been accurate enough. The future

is not out there, but no matter what

His words. My message to you at this

only for a season. In other words, no

looks blurry and no one can predict the

is happening around us, we should

time is that you should be strong in

situation or season has eternal life.

time the current situation will expire.

be at peace because of His promise of

the Lord and in the power of His might

Seasons come and go, and they do not

What is this invisible enemy that has

protection and security (Psalm 91:7).

(Ephesians 6:10). Prophet Isaiah wrote

abide forever. We have the comfort of

crippled the world? COVID-19- Yes

Believers in Christ should not be filled

about God in Chapter 41:10 saying, “So

the statement made above from the

that is it! It looks like everyone alive

with worry and hopelessness in this

do not fear, for I am with you; do not

scripture below:

is walking in the valley of the shadow

time. Jesus said in John 16:33–“I have

be dismayed, for I am your God.” I

of death! While all this is true and may

said these things to you, that in me you

know it feels like a storm but keep your

“Everything has its time; To

seem daunting, most Importantly, God

may have peace. In the world you will

focus on God and be not afraid. Look

everything there is a season, a time

has not left his children as orphans.

have tribulation. But take heart; I have

away from the circumstances around

overcome the world.”

and stop exhibiting doubt. You will

for every purpose under heaven”– Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV)

This one will pass again like it has

not die but live to declare the works of

in the past. Egypt may be boiling

There is a lot of panic buying now in

God! Trust in His faithfulness and stay

The nations of the world are currently

but there is calmness in Goshen!

shops around the world. Everyone

strong. It is written: “God did not give

living in a time of uncertainty both

Hallelujah! There is always something

is trying to prepare for tomorrow

us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a

locally and globally because of the

to draw from God’s word in times like

but forgetting that we serve the God

spirit of power” (2 Timothy 1:7). We

prevailing pandemic. Troubles are

this. The psalmist says: “Even though I

who knows and holds tomorrow. As

win and overcome in Jesus’ name. God

even in the corridors of power. Things

walk through the valley of the shadow

Christians we must stay strong and

bless you. gw

have fallen apart and no authority

of death I fear no evil; for you are with

can actually hold the centre. There is

me; your rod and your staff — they

76 gemwoman.net

Dammy Timothy is the pastor of Dominion Word Centre, London, UK. gemwoman.net 77

IN SPIR AT IO N

IN SPIR AT IO N

“Keeping Your Faith During A Crisis” Dr. Chinyere Almona

I

n the wake of the coronavirus

shows the reality of what we hope for;

pandemic, and the torrent of news

it is the evidence of things we cannot

(both fake and authentic),

see. Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation”

I have had cause to question a lot of

(Hebrews 11:1-2–NLT). Faith helps

things, including my faith.

you to embrace the reality of a crisis

Where is God during the Covid-19

and the accompanying fear, regardless

crisis?

of how difficult. When I read Psalms,

zz

What do I really believe?

I see that David spoke a lot about his

zz

Who do I believe in?

fears. He knew what it was to fear, and

zz

Why do I believe what I believe or in

he knew what it was to know God and

whom I believe?

believe in Him. Here are five ways to

What is the essence of my faith?

practice keeping faith during a crisis.

zz

zz

rocky, we need an anchor in the storm.

1

Never has there been such craziness

He’s got our backs. This is a good time

in our circumstances, but having faith

to draw closer to God and leverage the

is an inner knowing that things will

fellowship of the Holy Spirit. Studying

work out without any evidence that

the bible and praying in the Holy Spirit

it is true. The Bible says that “faith

helps us to build up our faith, it is like

My life experiences teach me that faith works, and faith-filled people have more hope. When times are tough and

78 gemwoman.net

Remember whose you are – Our God is powerful, sovereign and has the final authority in heaven

and on earth. We are His people and

gemwoman.net 79

IN SPIR AT IO N

IN SPIR AT IO N

having the winds in your sail, which

sound, it helps you focus more on God,

buoys you up and keeps you afloat.

whom you believe in. Thinking about

When you feel negative thoughts and

all that you are grateful for, such as

emotions arise, intentionally shift

who God is, all that He has done and all

your attention to God’s word and

that He can do, puts things in a positive

promises, you will feel hope rising.

perspective, which naturally makes

2

you more hopeful. You can practice

Revive

connections–

Strengthening

gratitude by making a gratitude list

your

and reflecting on current happenings

relationship with other

with the same attitude. For instance, I

Christians, can ignite hope within you

always navigate conversations toward

and boost your faith quotient. Things

the aspects of the Covid-19 crisis that

like discussing the bible with my

are worthy of thanksgiving, such as

children, praying on the phone with

more time with family, time to rest,

others, starting a new bible reading

reflect and rejuvenate, not having to

routine helped me increase hope.

be stuck in traffic for hours, etc.

There are many virtual groups, and

4

that makes us panic. When you feel

it to pass. I invite you to reframe the

not be very helpful. This could lead to

Resolve to be thankful–As

overwhelmed during this crisis, try

stay-at-home order as a pause period

feelings disorientation and depression.

cliché as having an attitude of

visualizing the great post-crisis future

to relish (somewhat).

Adjusting to a crisis is not always easy,

gratitude in a time of crisis may

you can and will have. Rather than

you learn a skill or a new language?

5

but we need to practice self-love and

these are strong faith boosters. Seek to join one of these prayer groups and stay connected.

3

Rather than focus on the challenges, envision the things you can do during the crisis that can add value after the crisis.

80 gemwoman.net

Reflect on possibilities – There is the tendency to feel pulled into a place of despair

Realize the need for self-

self-care. Be very careful what you

care–Loving yourself can be

consume – food, drink and social

a challenge, especially during

media news. Engage with the Holy

periods of crisis. Being isolated for

Spirit, meditate on the Scriptures,

Visualize the life you want and

days on end can cause us to binge

boost and repair your body with the

commit to making it happen, which

on food, whine endlessly or give

right food/fruits and take time to rest

strengthens your faith in God to bring

opportunity for other habits that may

and reconnect with nature. gw

focus on the challenges, envision the things you can do during the crisis that can add value after the crisis. Can

gemwoman.net 81

GREY AREAS

HANDLING

Betrayal Oluwaseun AyanfeOluwa

GREY AREAS

or expectations of someone or to be disloyal to someone. Betrayal comes with a sting that hurts so deep it leaves you numb. This is because it is usually unexpected and from people we have come to love and trust. Joseph was betrayed by his brothers who were meant to have his back, and Jesus by Judas who was in His inner circle.

“Hello Jane (not real name). What’s this I’m hearing about you and my husband?

“Well, I needed a friend, and he was the only one that came along”, Jane said dismissively.

I

didn’t know what to make of

While He did not cause whatever issues came up in my marriage and the eventual divorce, He allowed it because He knew I would emerge from it a wiser, stronger and more matured woman.

So how do you deal with betrayal so that it does not prevent you from forging ahead with your life?

F

irst, you need to recognize that you are not alone in that situation.

There are two major stakeholders

what I’d just heard. How could

with two different agendas-God who

someone I considered a friend and

allowed the situation and wants to

prayer partner be involved with

ultimately use it for your good, and

my husband. Sadder still, both my

then the devil who orchestrated it with

(now) ex-husband and my supposed

the mind of destroying or derailing

best friend did not show any sign of

you. Whichever agenda trumps at the

remorse for their actions. Eventually,

end of the day depends on whose side

we all went our separate ways.

you play on. God is never behind any act of betrayal. However, He permits

Dictionary.com defines betrayal as

the devil and people to cause us pain

the act of disappointing the hopes

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gemwoman.net 83

GREY AREAS

SINGLE & MARRIED

As God helps you to move on, ask Him for wisdom to redefine your relationships.

Forgiveness is also imperative as it through betrayal because He knows

sets you free to move on with your life.

that the experience as painful as it may

Of course, there were moments where

be will eventually make you stronger,

the memories came back, bringing all

better and wiser. While He did not

the hurt with them. But I was resolute

cause whatever issues came up in my

to forgive and so I kept declaring just

marriage and the eventual divorce, He

that.

allowed it because He knew I would emerge from it a wiser, stronger and more matured woman. And that has been my testimony.

S

I

n conclusion, as God helps you to move on, ask Him for wisdom to

Living Together Before Marriage?

Kingsley Okonkwo

redefine your relationships. The truth is when trust has been broken, it is

econdly, get God’s perspective on

never business as usual. There might

the situation. I was angry with God

be a need to adjust the level of access

after my marriage crashed and I told

you give someone who has betrayed

Him. He helped me realize that there

you, especially when you still have

was something more glorious after

to relate with him or her. How to do

the mess, and that should be my focus.

this without being bitter or being hurt

Jesus knew that Judas had to betray

again calls for wisdom that only God

Him as a pathway to fulfilling His

can give.

destiny which was to save mankind from sin. Getting God’s perspective

I would love to hear about your stories

makes it easier to go through the

of betrayal and how you have been able

process.

to overcome. gw

84 gemwoman.net

What Is Wrong With

“

I don’t understand. What is wrong with us living together?” A truly confused Kemi asked as she sat in my office. “PK, Jibola and I have always been good together. We met in university in the UK and hit it off immediately. We could barely be apart; in fact, it started with spending the weekend with him, then one weekend turned to two and two to three and before I knew it there was no point packing an overnight bag. I began leaving stuff over at his place. Eventually, he asked me to move in since we planned to get married anyway- why not start practicing? PK when he gave me the keys to his apartment it was so romantic. To be honest it made sense. Why keep an apartment when I’m always at his? Now, we’re moving back to Nigeria and my sister says we can’t live together because we aren’t married” » gemwoman.net 85

SINGLE & MARRIED

I

f she wasn’t genuinely confused, I

a divorce. In other words, you have a 1 in

would have laughed out loud. You must

3 chance of destroying something that

understand the irony of this scenario.

could be potentially great, so before

A couple of years ago it would have

you move in, let’s take time to really

been unheard of to mention to anyone

talk about these reasons and if they are

let alone a pastor that you were living

worth making that move. It’s kind of

together before being married but today

like helping a butterfly emerge from its

in front of me sat a young girl who was

cocoon. When the butterfly comes out

voicing the thoughts of many others in this generation. It is important to note that as the society experiences a drastic decline in moral uprightness, couples living together before marriage is rapidly becoming a common practice. This decline may be attributed to globalization or the fact that the world has become more disruptive; resisting

you have a 1 in 3 chance of destroying something that could be potentially great, so before you move in, let’s take time to really talk.

traditional ways, but whatever

DO YOU NEED TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY?

or you need to help maintain a normal blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol levels? Or you need to improve your respiratory conditions like asthma,coughing and wheezing from allergies, flu, bronchitis etc. Search no more! The help you need is here at your doorsteps.

of the cocoon, the only way it can strengthen its wings is by beating them against the cocoon. That way its muscles will grow strong. When you help it, you prevent it from developing the muscles it would need to survive. It’s the same thing with moving in before marriage. It’s important to allow things take its natural course and not try to speed up the process by

the cause, the results of cohabiting

moving in first. After all, we know it

before marriage are usually not great.

makes no sense to put the cart before the horse.

Popular reasons people give for cohabiting are not far from the reasons

I think Kemi and Jibola or anyone

Kemi just gave me for living with Jibola:

else thinking about cohabiting before

convenience, economic reasons and to

marriage should have a rethink. If you

test compatibility. However, statistics

promise to come back and read, I will

show that 33% of couples that start out

be glad to share with you what I shared

cohabiting are more likely to end up in

with Kemi. gw

86

gemwoman.net

For more enquiry, please call 07039538975 or log in to www.rainintl.com, register as a preffered customer and put in ID Number: 478560 as sponsor ID Number and place your order.

SPIRITUAL WOMAN

SPIRITUAL WOMAN

Still Soaring:

Having a winning mindset regardless of the situation Esther Obasi-Ike

The faith that overcomes The faith that wins

year choose to be a selective

The faith that conquers

woman. You can’t be hanging around

meeting add to me? If I spend three

The faith that overthrows

with people who are wasting their

hours there, how will that advance my

lives. This year, I pray God will bring

life?

you into the right associations.

4

The faith that does not take ‘no’ for an answer The faith that wins all the time

The chicken depends on hand

chicken eats anything and can

3

you notice that chickens are seen

life. When you are reliant on people

flock with anything in search

anywhere, but eagles are a rare sight,

for your sustenance, it inhibits your

of food. The chicken is not selective

this is because eagles only go to places

ability to trust God. After all, we are

A chicken is a coward- a chicken

because it doesn’t not understand

that serve their purpose, The eagle

to “cast our cares upon Him”...When

is born a coward; everything

its purpose in life. It eats things that

does not accept every invitation. Don’t

you know the Lord you serve, you are

intimidates a chicken, but an

are digestible and those that are not

go where you are not needed; Joel

able to say, “I refuse to live a life of

eagle is stubborn, so stubborn that it

digestible. Anything goes into the

Osteen said, “Take out your time with

handouts.” ‘for those that know their

is called the king of the birds. It takes

mouth of a chicken, including sand.

those who celebrate you, not those

God shall be strong and they shall do

charge the way the lion takes charge of

The eagle is not like that, the eagle

who tolerate you.” Before accepting

exploits…’ (Daniel 11:32). gw

the jungle.

is very selective. Selective in eating

an invitation, ask yourself, ‘Who is

and selective in association. So, this

inviting me? What value will that

We’re talking about the winning faith of an eagle

T

here are many characteristics that distinguish a chicken from an

eagle. I will quickly list four.

1

88 gemwoman.net

2

A chicken is not selective- The

A chicken is a gate crasher; the chicken attends every party without invitation, don’t

outs- the Bible says that when people are the ones feeding

you and clothing you, they dictate your

gemwoman.net 89

SURVIVING WID OWHO OD

SURVIVING WID OWHO OD

How To Parent Well After The Loss Of A Spouse Ibironke Olubamise

N

emotions which started manifesting in strange ways. Thank God we were able to overcome through prayers and support of brethren. Afterwards the children better appreciated the fact that we have “no other God but Him”.

I have learned that as a Christian, it’s best to learn the character side of Christianity first before the charisma side.

o one prays to lose his/her

and loving family fellowship that we

spouse or to be a widow/

used to have, is proof that God really

I have learned that as a Christian,

widower; it is not a good

has our back and I can’t ask for more.

it’s best to learn the character side of

is also an important part of raising

Christianity first before the charisma

children. I believe people should attach

experience… for obvious reasons.

However, I can categorically say that

Talking about challenges after his

side. This helped us to stabilize not too

discomfort or reward to behaviors, so

I am enjoying God in a dimension

demise, while myself and my daughter

long after my husband’s demise.

they understand the consequence of

that I could never have if my spouse

cried our hearts out, my son shed

was still around. Of course, I had it

no tear and we took him for acting

In leading by example, my son and I

rough at the beginning, giving in to

strong. But when I started seeing

have now become so similar spiritually

the devil’s tricks and gimmicks but

some negative behaviors, it dawned

(1Tim 5:4), and beyond that, my

I realized the devil doesn’t care

I soon discovered that my Father’s

on me that he had bottled up his

son became a very good example

what your situation is. He delights

word is true and He is faithful and I

for emulation to other children and

in afflicting saints, as we see in John

am precious in His sight, no matter

parents. He was and still is immersed

10:10. So never take it for granted that

the condition. However, this is a story

in God’s work and all I try to do is to

you (and your children) cannot/will

for another day- I am supposed to talk

ensure he checks his motive so he

not be his target. This knowledge, in

about the dimension of parenting after

doesn’t deviate. His sister is full of

addition to standing your ground by

the loss of a spouse and I pray someone

wisdom and has such an analytical

the Word, delivers powerfully.

is blessed by this.

mind that I must always be ready

I must say that my husband laid a

their actions. I also explore brethren’s support.

for real questions during bible study

While this is not an extensive list, I do

times.

hope that these tips that have aided in

solid foundation for us spiritually and

my parenting of our children will bless

physically, and he did so with haste. I

Communication is very important; I

you as well. Ultimately, our children

usually wandered if he knew he wasn’t

created time for spiritual, emotional

are the Lord’s, and His wisdom and

going to be with us here for long. But

and financial discussions. As much as

His guidance are the only guaranteed

for his absence to still make a complete

we don’t love to discuss it, punishment

effective parenting tools. gw

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gemwoman.net 91

F E AT URE

F E AT URE

3 Life Lessons Covid-19 Has Taught Me

W

e are currently going through one of the most challenging times in the history of the world due to the COVID-19 epidemic. Many are worried about their well-being, and the well being of loved ones,

their jobs, and the economy in general. There are many reasons to be concerned but instead of going through this turbulent time with eyes shut. We decided to ask a few ladies their thoughts regarding any good that can be extracted from this trying time.

So we asked “what are three life lessons you have learnt from the lockdown? And hopefully you will ask yourself—“what can I learn”?

Here are their answers.

Ifeoluwa Olumekun, a fashion designer replied:

For Damilola Erinle, Promoter of DammGems, three life lessons that she has learnt during covid-19 isolation are that: 1. G o d

is

the

greatest!! His ways are not the ways of man. He

For Flora Coker, Senior Pharmacist/ CEO Encapsulate Healthcare Solutions, lessons learnt in lockdown have been that: 1. We as a world have gone too far away from God; chasing our

does as he pleases.

wants, which really did not add

2. We must learn to show love and be kind to one another. Nations are at each other’s mercy seeking all forms of support to combat COVID-19.

true value to our lives.

2. The best things in life are free: Faith, Family and friends.

3. The joy of being able to spend

3. Health is wealth!! We should never take it for granted when God blesses us with good health.

quality time with my family and being able to teach them more about the things of God.

For me,the lockdown has been a blessing in disguise. Apart from the thousands of lives lost

Lolade George, Business owner/Project Manager says

all over the world,the lockdown has made us

that:

appreciate the important things in life which we always take for granted...

1. FAMILY: Families are bonding again.

2. REST: We have been forced to take the much needed REST which we all desperately need.

3. LOVE,PEACE: For the first time in decades the world is a WAR free zone...we have become our brothers keeper..the whole world has united to fight the enemy which is COVID19.

92 gemwoman.net

“Three life lessons I have learnt during the lockdown/ isolation season are”: 1. We all make plans but they can only come to fruition if God says so. We have no power over our lives in the way we have always thought.

2. Good health trumps material things.

3. Quality time with family can be experienced in the simple things you do together.

gemwoman.net 93

F E AT URE

F E AT URE

For Modupe Olufosoye, a

Taiwo Isijola, who works in

Clinical Social Worker, some

International Relations has learnt

life lessons from this period

during the lockdown/Isolation

are:

season that:

1. To always be prepared:

1. One moment can change the

The lockdown came

course of destiny.

so suddenly , if not

2. We must live ready for coming for

that I had just recently

our Lord Jesus.

done our food / grocery shopping

3. We must prioritize what is important in life.

which we

mostly do in bulk , it would have been very overwhelming

Spirituality (Faith and relationship with God) is the

trying to stock up because of the tension everywhere. I go out

most important investment in the season of crisis.

now only if it is very necessary.

2. On a more positive outlook the lockdown has given me more time to re-evaluate my spiritual, marital, financial and

Monisola, a Substitute teacher/Caterer told us: 1. Everything that seems important is actually not. All is vanity.

social state/goals. I’ve been able to restrategize and make adjustments where necessary.

3. The lockdown has taught me more than ever before to set my priorities right, most importantly to prepare for the coming of our Lord Jesus. I have to remain focused on things God has

2. God is sovereign; He can do and undo.

called me to do because in the end , fulfilling my purpose on earth and making heaven is all that matters.

3. Our relationship with God is what guarantees sustenance.

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H E A LT H F E AT U R E

H E A LT H F E AT U R E

COVID-19: Fast facts Kehinde Elisha

SARS- CoV-2 causes Coronavirus. The

happens to have a significant side

name was chosen because the virus is

effect.

genetically related to the coronavirus that created the SARS outbreak in

Do Disinfectants work?

2003 (WHO, 2020) .The name Corona

Yes, disinfectants do work. Make sure

originated from the word crown

you are using Ethanol or bleach-based

Historical perspective

because under the microscope the virus

wipes rather than benzalkonium

On February 3rd, 2020 the World Health

looks like a crown. The virus’ incubation

chloride or hydrogen peroxide

Organization (WHO) officially named a

period is between 1 to 14 days.

disinfectants.

new strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) which caused respiratory diseases

According to the Center for Disease

in China (UN News). It is important

and Infection Control, the virus stays

to note that the ongoing crisis is not

in the nasal passages before finally

Does it matter which hand soap or hand sanitizer I use for coronavirus?

new. Diseases and illnesses have

migrating to the lungs. In the lungs, it

According to the author, Birch (2020).

plagued humanity since the earliest

pairs up with a receptor site and begins

She noted that a lot of cleaning and

days; unfortunately, we happen to be

to multiply through the RNA.

sanitizing agents are flying off the

witnesses to this one. This history is

market, which includes hand soap,

traced back 1347 – 1351 when we had

Some basic protective measures

the Black Death as a result of Yersinia

hand sanitizer, dish soap, and cleaning wipes. Since COVID – 19 is a virus, any

pestis bacteria from rats and fleas. We

Handwashing, maintaining a

soap will do, antibacterial soap does

lost 200million people as a result. Other

COVID-19 with deaths of 770, 11,000

distance of up to 6 feet, maintaining

not present to have an advantage over

incidences that cost millions of lives are

and 850 respectively.

good respiratory hygiene. In case of

other types of soap. There is no clear

emergency , call your local emergency

evidence that antibacterial soap works

clinic.

better or less than another soap. What

the New World Smallpox Outbreak of 1520 (56 million deaths), Great Plague

About COVID-19

of London 1665 ( 100,000 deaths),

The world Health Organization ( WHO

to the Spanish Flu outbreak of 1918

) assigned the term Coronavirus(

-1919 ( 40-50 million died from H1N1

COVID-19 ) as the name of the disease

virus/ Pigs), HIV /AIDS 1981 – present

and the virus itself is called Severe Acute

QUESTION AND ANSWER SECTION Is there a cure?

( 25- 35 million have died from viruses

Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (

Not at this time. Hydroxychloroquine

that originated from Chimpanzees ),

SARS- CoV- 2). For more clarity, HIV

has been promoted by some of the

SARS, Ebola, and MERS preceded the

is the virus that causes AIDS, while

foreign leaders but this medication

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we know so far is that hand washing for “at least 20 seconds” which creates a “mechanical disruption” is in fact very effective for viruses.

Should I wear a mask?

The Center for Disease and Infection

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H E A LT H F E AT U R E

BASIC PROTECTIVE MEASURES • Handwashing • Maintain a distance of up to 6 feet • Maintain respiratory hygiene.

• In case of emergency call your local emergency clinic.

TIPS FOR WOMEN

Heart Talk for Women

precaution and cut down your nails, hair and suspend any lash procedures for now. According to the Center for Disease and Infection Control, COVID-19 is easily transferred into our bodies when we touch our face, nose and mouth.

Do I have to wipe every chair each time I go to public places?

H

Bola Abbis

ello Ladies, I hope you are

professions, the Lord is your strength

all keeping safe during this

and your protection!

Covid-19 Pandemic? I trust

you are washing your hands as many

We are in unprecedented times;

times as possible and are adhering

humanity has been plunged into steep

Control recently recommended

Wiping every chair and every door

to the advice and regulations of the

panic and this is the time to trust God

wearing a mask or scarf over the face,

sounds a bit extreme, however,

government? I do sincerely hope

like never before. This is the time to

just to filter the air.

it is highly recommended at this

you are all enjoying this compulsory

look up to Jesus intently, who is our

time. National Institute of Health

holiday! And to those of you who work

only hope and assurance of safety,

Researchers found “that severe acute

in healthcare and other frontline

peace, joy, happiness, livelihood, and

Should I get pregnant?

The regular flu kills thousands every

respiratory syndrome coronavirus

year. COVID-19, just like other illnesses

2 (SARS-CoV-2) was detectable on

will put pregnant mothers and those

aerosols for up to three hours, up to

that are immunosuppressed at risk.

four hours on copper, up to 24 hours on

This does not mean they should avoid

cardboard and up to two to three days

pregnancy however. Taking necessary

on plastic and stainless steel” (nih.

steps to protect your health will suffice.

gov). There is no current research out there to confirm how long it stays on a

Can I still go to the beauty shop (Hair/nails/lash)?

piece of furniture but it’s better to play safe by wiping down every object that

There is no way to tell where the

we come in contact with in order to

hairstylist has been to. In order to be

contain the spread.

safe, keep a hairstyle, nail or eyelash style that you can maintain. As a matter

Fear is not of God, It is however

of fact, it is better to take extreme

important to prepare- and not panic. gw

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TIPS FOR WOMEN

If you are married and your spouse is at home with you, this is a great opportunity to rediscover each other once again! It’s time to listen to your husband, pray together, watch movies together, dream together and play together.

TIPS FOR WOMEN

encourages us to “put on the full armor of God…even after the battle, you will still be standing firm”. It is time to keep our spirit up so we do not fall behind, speaking in tongues and confessing God’s words as much as possible.

If you are married and your spouse is at home with you, this is a great opportunity to rediscover each other once again! It’s time to listen to your husband, pray together, watch movies together, dream together and play together. This is the time to work on that painting, do that deep cleaning,

They might really surprise us if we

control how people react or behave but

help. It’s the time to rediscover the

and try that weight loss workout

give them a chance to. You never know

we can control how we react.

person of Jesus Christ, fellowship with

you bought two years ago. Try that

until you let them. This is the time we

the Holy Spirit, and seek the Father.

new recipe! Go on that fast you have

have to relinquish some control; my

Ladies this is the time to remodel

Our focus and attention should be

been procrastinating about! As you

husband made buns the other day.

yourselves. Look good, pamper

fastened on making the most of this

rediscover your spouse, rediscover

Thank God I did not mock him, if I had,

yourself and be positive. Put your feet

time, and keying into the mind of God

the Holy Spirit together and let Him

I wouldn’t have had the nerve to fight

up sometimes; don’t worry, the house

and strengthening our fellowship with

breathe on you.

him over the last piece, as the buns

is not going to break. Learn to relax and

were so delicious. It is time to practice

take time out for yourself. Be happy

Him. There is no doubt that the affairs of the world are in His hands, and

When couples are together in the same

soft answers now as most people are

and be intentional about it. Choose

though a pandemic rages around us,

place for such a long time, there would

on edge with all that’s going on in

joy! Choose colour even if everything

we know that all things work together

definitely be conflict. This is the time

the world. Even when replying to our

is dark and grey. Do this knowing the

for the good of those that love him and

to let our husbands express themself

spouses, no matter how harsh their

Holy Spirit will get you through.

are called according to His purposes

without fear. Let them do things

words are, let’s use soft words to reply.

(Romans 8:28).

they have never done before even if

Proverbs 15:1 (NKJV) “A soft answer

Our love and prayers are with you, your

we think it’s going to be a disaster,

turns away wrath, But a harsh word

families and friends at this time. This

let them mess up the kitchen a little.

stirs up anger”. We cannot always

one too shall pass. gw

Ephesians 6:13-18 is a great passage that

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T R AV E L G U I D E

T R AV E L G U I D E

Top 10 Destinations For 2020

make for a dreamlike atmosphere, and indeed, a vacation here can feel a bit surreal.

Watersports are the

Ifeoluwa Isijola

H

most popular activities, though once you’ve had

ere is the concluding part of my crafted top

enough sun there’s still

10 destinations for 2020 that we started last

plenty to explore at the

edition. I know with the global pandemic you

stunning scenery,

lagoons and pink

island’s aquariums,

might be reconsidering whether you should still

check out the limestone

sunsets to orange-

gardens, and temples.

have travel plans. We are definitely hopeful that

cliffs of Phang Nga Bay

robed monks. Three

the world will get back to normal soon so I hope you

and the white sand

wheeled-Tuk Tuks,

Mostly popular for:

are inspired to plan your next trip (whenever that

beaches of the Phi Phi

taxis, buses and long

water sports, outdoor,

may be) to one of these destinations. Hopefully,

Islands. Phuket offers

tailed boats transport

nature/parks, spa

in the near future travel bans will no longer be in

a rainbow spectrum

visitors between these

effect.

of spectacular holiday

marvels. Blue lagoons

Best time to visit:

sights from blue

and salmon sunsets

December -March

PHUKET

PRAGUE Prague is the capital

Located in southern

and largest city in the

Thailand, Phuket

Czech Republic, the

offers something for

14th largest city in the

everyone, especially

European Union and

budget-minded

the historical capital

travelers. Everything

of Bohemia. With its

from accommodations

Gothic, Renaissance

to spa treatments to

and Baroque

boat tours come with

architecture adorning

a low price tag. For

top attractions like

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T R AV E L G U I D E

T R AV E L G U I D E

Thirassia, and at night, head to Amoudi Bay to watch the sunset while scenery, ancient cities,

and colorful beaches.

dining alfresco.

amazing restaurants

Archaeological sites,

Mostly popular for:

and an active volcano.

such as Ancient Thira

Mostly popular for:

Architecture,

Frequently touted

and Ancient Akrotiri,

Historical,

Old Town Square,

they’ve stepped into

Landmark, Museum,

as a top honeymoon

beckon to history

Geographical Feature,

Prague Castle, St. Vitus

a fairy tale. Make sure

Religious Sites, Family

destination, this Greek

buffs, while central

Island, Landmark

Cathedral and the

to visit the popular

& Kids

isle woos newlyweds

Santorini’s winery

Prague Astronomical

Charles Bridge and

every year with its

tours lure oenophiles.

Best time to visit:

Clock, Prague makes

touch one of the 30

Best time to visit:

breathtaking sunsets,

For a relaxing day

Jun-Sep

travelers feel like

saint statues for luck.

July - Aug

pastel-hued villages

trip, hop on a boat to

SANTORINI

AMSTERDAM

Santorini is an island

Found within the

in the southern Aegean

province of North

Sea, about 200 km

Holland, Amsterdam

southeast of Greece’s

is colloquially referred

mainland. Santorini is

to as the “Venice of

the most popular island

the North”, attributed

in Greece. There are

by the large number

few travel destinations

of canals. This city is

that combine beautiful

full of colorful homes,

and is one of Europe’s

capitals. Must-sees

beaches, spectacular

canals and bridges

most picturesque

on any visitor’s

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T R AV E L G U I D E

CUISINE

floating flower market.

culture by eating raw

Amsterdam’s world-

herring or pancakes.

class museums, quirky festivals, theatre, live

Mostly popular for:

music and delightful

Historical,

restaurants make

Geographical Feature,

it a preferred travel

Family

Quick Nutritious Meals in 20 minutes

itinerary include the

destination for many.

Anne Frank House,

And if that is not

Best time to visit:

Y

the Van Gogh Museum

enough, immerse

Jun-Sep

this year. Bon Appetit.

and the world’s only

yourself in Dutch

Iquo Ukoh

ou may not have heard of these dishes yet, but these unusual recipes are sure to be gracing your dinner menu soon. Enough of being predictable.

It’s time to try something different. Below are new exciting recipes that

will sure thrill your family. Here’s to you being more creative with your recipes

RICE AVOCADO SALAD

A

vocado Pear is in season in

ARUBA

see Venezuela. Aruba

which is well suited

Aruba is one of the

is the most touristic

to the short strolls

Lesser Antilles islands

island in the southern

favored by cruise-

use previously steamed rice from the

located in the Southern

Caribbean with miles

ship passengers. Time

fridge.

Caribbean Sea. The

of glorious white-

will slow to a pleasant

island is located

sand beach, plenty of

crawl as you linger

Ingredients

miles off the coast of

all-inclusive resorts,

over a tropical cocktail

zz

2 cooking spoons Rice

Venezuela and on clear

and a cute, compact

or flutter serenely

zz

1 can of Sardines

How to make?

days it is possible to

capital, Oranjestad,

underwater, where only

zz

1/2 Avocado pear

1. Scoop warm rice into a bowl

the parrotfish are in a

zz

1 table spoon Shredded Carrots

2. Add some sardines, shredded

hurry.

zz

¼ medium size onion (chopped)

carrots, onion, tomatoes, pepper

zz

2 fresh Tomatoes (chopped)

parsley and black pepper

Mostly popular for:

zz

1 Scotch Bonnet Pepper (chopped)

3. Dice avocado and add

outdoors, water sports,

zz

Parsley

4. Drizzle on sardine oil

relaxation,

zz

Black Pepper

5. Enjoy

zz

Salt to taste

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Nigeria. Here is one quick meal

you can make with it. You can actually

Best time to visit:

*Step by step video can be found on

April to August

@1qfoodplatter’s Instagram page

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CUISINE

CUISINE

ACHA COCONUT POTTAGE

A

POTATO SALAD

cha, also known as Fonio is a local cereal that cooks in just 5 minutes or even less. You can make a Pottage with it in less than 20 minutes and its so yummy

and nutritious

Ingredients

How to make?

zz

1 cup destoned Acha

1. Season minced meat with black

zz

½ cup mince Beef

pepper, red dry pepper, salt and beef

zz

½ cup canned Coconut milk

seasoning. Add very little coconut oil

zz

2 tablespoons Coconut Oil

in a pan, add garlic and ginger and

zz

½ cup Carrots (cubed)

stir fry beef for 5 minutes using a

zz

¼ cup Green Peas

spoon to separate whilst frying

zz

½ small Onion (chopped)

zz

¼ teaspoon minced Garlic

water, onion, pepper and seasoning

zz

¼ teaspoon minced Ginger

cube and bring to boil

zz

Scotch Bonnet Pepper to taste

zz

Seasoning Cube to taste

zz

I cup water

zz

Salt to taste

2. Pour coconut milk in a pot and add

3. Add minced meat, and cook for 3 minutes 4. Add carrots and acha, stir and allow to cook for 3 minutes 5. Add green peas and cook for 2 minutes 6. Serve warm.

Ingredients

How to Make?

zz

6 Potatoes

1. Wash and boil potatoes.

zz

4 Eggs ( boiled)

2. Cut potatoes and eggs into big

zz

1 table spoon chopped red Onion

zz

½ teaspoon black Pepper

zz

2 table spoons Mayonnaise

zz

1 Pinch Chicken seasoning cube

4. Add onion into potato in a bowl.

zz

Parsley

5. Add mayonnaise mix into potato.

zz

Salt to taste

6. Finish off with the eggs and parsley.

chunks and set aside 3. Mix chicken seasoning and black pepper into mayonnaise

*Step by step video can be found on @1qfoodplatter’s Instagram page

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CUISINE

CUISINE

ONUNU AND FRESH FISH STEW

FISH STEW Ingredients

tatashe and one onion till soft. You

zz

4 pieces Fresh Fish

may wish to add very little water to

zz

5 pieces fresh Tomatoes

boil

zz

3 pieces Tatashe (red bell pepper)

zz

1 1/2 medium size Onion

zz

Yellow Scotch Bonnet Pepper to taste(chopped)

3. Allow vegetables to cool then blend into smooth paste 4. Heat up oil, and fry onion and yellow pepper for 5 minutes

zz

½ cup sliced Scent leaf

5. Add seasoning and salt and the

zz

1 cup Palm oil

zz

Seasoning cube to taste

6. Allow to fry for 5 minutes

zz

Salt to taste

7. Add ½ cup of water and allow to

blended vegetables

cook for 10 minutes

How to make?

1. eason Fish with salt and set aside 2. Wash and boil whole tomatoes,

Ingredients for Onunu

8. Add the fish and scent leaf and reduce the heat to cook gently 9. Serve with the Onunu

How to make?

zz

3 cups yam cubes

1. Boil yam and plantain till cooked

zz

2 ripe Plantains

2. Pound yam and plantain with little

zz

2 tablespoons Palm oil

zz

Salt to taste

salt and palm oil 3. When the mash combines together, take out of the mortar or food processor and mould into shape *Step by step video can be found on @1qfoodplatter’s Youtube.

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