VOL 13 NO 2
IT’S TRUE
GOD DOES NOT LOVE US EQUALLY
STOP THE COMPARISON
3
WAYS TO LIVE AN ENVY FREE LIFE
DON’T GIVE UP
YOU’RE COMING OUT LIKE GOLD
BEAUTY is MORE THAN SKIN DEEP SELF RELIANT vs GOD DEPENDENT WHICH ONE ARE YOU?
BIMBO FOLA-ALADE
SPEAKS ON GOOD THINGS ABOUT TURNING 50 AND MORE
PUBlish ON
Team PUBLISHER/CEO Bolanle Olawale EDITOR Toluwalase Olawale CREATIVE/GRAPHICS ARTIST Tonye Edet DIGITAL/TECHNICAL SUPPORT Adura Arowolo SALES AND LOGISTICS Francis Unufe CONTRIBUTORS Kingsley Okonkwo, Kehinde Adollo, Busola Jegede, Olamide Adeleye, Olufunlola Ifebogun, Ibironke Olubamise, Taiwo Isijola, Oluseyi Farinu, Ife Isijola, Kehinde Adollo, Ronke Adeoti, Dammy Timothy CHAIRMAN ’Kunle Olawale gemWoman is digitally published by gem Publications Ltd. All Rights Reserved, © 2021 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 @gem.event Like us on facebook: gemmagazines
gemwoman.net 5
Contents gemWOMAN MAGAZINE
24
VOL 13 NO 2
55 Most days I start my day with prayer and bible study–it is the most important part of my day. It leaves me feeling set for the day ahead. POEM
42 FEATURE
FEATURE
Sister Pastors
Follow Your Passion
Bola Musiwa
30
Rolake Adedara
34
TRAVEL GUIDE
Olamide Adeleye
39
Travel Made Easy:
42
7 Essential Tips Every Traveller
Makes it seamless and scam free!
Needs to Know
90
96
REAL ISSUES Why You Need A Coach
49
HOME AND YOU Keeping Your Home Tidy
100
ISSUES OF THE HEART Don’t Give Up
53
CUISINE Lemon Rosemary Olive Oil Cake
104
LIGHT REFLECTIONS DECISION
Stop the Comparison 3 Ways to Live an Envy Free Life
57
It’s True; God Does not Love us Equally 108
Awake 12
REAL ISSUES FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK I Can Relate
Self Reliant or God Dependent?
64
14
104
ETIQUETTE KANDID TALKS Initiative… Make the Move!
Making a Difference
68
16
SPIRITUALITY APPLES OF GOLD Quotes On Awake
Maximising Strength 20
BEAUTY Beauty is not Skin Deep
6 gemwoman.net
in Your Quiet Time
70
COVER INTERVIEW 25
Pastor Bimbo Fola-Alade
78
gemwoman.net 7
CONTRIBUTORS
Olufunmilola Ifebogun is the CEO of Blooms Soft Furnishing, which she established in 1994 and is fast gaining recognition within and outside Nigeria. She is an associate of Dorothy Van Riet Design Academy in South Africa and also possesses a Diploma in Color Concept from Interior Design, Texas, USA.
Kehinde Adollo is a Profile Marketing communications expert who just wants to make a change in every little way she can. She loves to be in the company of good and inspiring people. The God factor has been her support through the years She often asks herself, “where will I be without him?”
Adeyanju Olomola is a graduate of Industrial Chemistry from University of Ibadan. She is the Lead Coach and CEO of The Source Coaching Ltd. Prior to setting up her Coaching Practice, she garnered over 20 years of diversified experience in the FMCG industry. She is a certified John Mattone Intelligent Leadership Executive Coach.
Taiwo Isijola is an Etiquette coach. Who trains and coaches on business protocol and etiquette. Her goal is to teach people what they need to distinguish and conduct themselves in all aspects of business and social settings.
Olayinka Ashogbon Clutter Relief Specialist at TidyRx–a Professional Organizing Company with a mission to bring clutter relief to any space. She specializes in Home and Business Spaces as well as Move Management. Visit her website, www.tidyrx.com and follow her on Instagram @tidyrx for organizing tips.
Dr Olamipo Bamigboje ‘Olamipo’ as she loves to be called is Christian with a passion to help in any capacity she finds herself. She loves to teach, write, tidy up & take pictures when not practicing medicine. She is married to Kayode Bamigboje and they are blessed with 2 miraculous boys.
Ronke Adeoti is a pastor, a mentor and a prolific writer, she’s the initiator of the Quintessential Concept. She’s a passionate lover of God and a stickler for excellence. She is a worshipper and loves to pray. She’s passionate about women taking their place in life and destiny and fulfilling their God given assignments. She loves to leave a lasting impression on everyone she meets, an ever ready counselor always willing to be of help and assistance. A friend, model and a mother to many. She is married to her heartthrob Pastor Yemi Adeoti, and are blessed with three children.
Olamide Elizabeth Adeleye is a chartered Arbitrator and a legal practitioner who specializes in Corporate Law and Real Estate. She is also a pastor, and a poet. She currently runs her own legal practice and oversees the Women’s Ministry of God’s Favourite House Church, Lekki. 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.
Oluseyi Farinu is a Nigerian Canadian Pastry Chef based in the beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia. She is passionate about God and good food. At Honey and Grace, her goal is to bring joy to her client’s momentous occasions through consistent, quality, and delicious treats that anyone will love to eat and be proud to share with your guests. You can check out her work on her Instagram page @honeyandgracehouse and @seyi_farinu.
Ibironke Olubamise (B.SC., M.Sc., MBA, FLEAD, Chevening Scholar, IPMS, IVLP) is an intercessor/ counsellor; 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; has coordinated over 170 projects and empowered over 125 Civil Society Organizations. Ronke was married to Pastor Bankole Olubamise of blessed memory. They are blessed with two children.
Ife Isijola has a passion and love for travel and this is seen through her dedication to helping people fulfill their dreams of exploring new cultures through amazing travel adventures. She uses her extensive knowledge to plan all styles of vacations for her clients. Her specialties include destination weddings, honeymoons and custom tours. She is blessed with a beautiful daughter.
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.
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POEM
Connect with Us
@gemmagazines
@gemmagazines
@gemmagazines
POEM
POEM
Awake Lamide Adeleye
Awake my spirit soul & body!
His grace makes them brilliant
His promises are for everybody
They subdue the intimidating giants
You have no reason to be downcast
On their faces shall be no shame
His faithfulness you must broadcast
For the glory of His name
Because fully forgiven is your past
And the power of His fame
The land He has prepared for you is vast Awake! Awake!
Just as the sun rises everyday
Be the light in a dark world
And the trees never cease to sway
Spread the fragrance of His Word
At the instance of heavenly breeze
Which is the sharpest sword
His blessings have come to stay
Be the hope of this generation
And are as sure as honey flows from the bees
Come out from hibernation
His love for you is of the deepest degree
Awake!
Awake!
Child of God, arise and shine
For His name sake
With your Father be ready to dine
He won’t remember your mistake
Before you is set the cup of wine
Though the mountains shake
He will make you fine without a fine
And the whole earth quake The blessings are yours to take
Awake
Rise up! Pursue! Overtake!
Like the sun when it rises in its fullness
Awaiting you is His glorious handshake.
In Him there is no dullness Those who look to Him are radiant
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gemwoman.net 13
From the Publisher’s Desk
I Can Relate
A
t this point, one thing
I am looking forward to my fiftieth
I think we can all agree
in a few months. I also resonate with
on is that we cannot
the feature on CapturedbyAdesuwa
wait for the world to
as she is like a daughter to me, and
fully reopen quickly enough. Are we
I’m excited to see her following
sure 2020 had only 12 months? And
her dreams in the entrepreneurial
to top it all off, we are almost halfway
world. Adesuwa’s interview is very
through the year 2021. Despite all the
inspiring and will surely stir people
challenges of the previous year, we
of all ages to reach for their dreams.
somehow got through it together,
The “Sister Pastors” interview is
with God on our side. I hope that, in
also a very unique read. “Maximizing
our small way, gemwoman has been
strength in your quiet time” will
able to help by sharing inspiring
inspire you to run to your quiet place
stories to help you get through this
and maximize your time with God. As
season.
always, every page in the magazine will inspire you to aspire.
This month’s magazine has a lot that I personally can relate to and
I’d love to hear how this edition
I hope you will find aspects of this
blesses you. Feel free to keep
edition that you can relate to as
up with me on instagram
well. Our cover personality recently
@bolanlegemwoman gw
celebrated her fiftieth birthday and
14 gemwoman.net
This month’s magazine has a lot that I personally can relate to and I hope you will find aspects of this edition that you can relate to as well. gemwoman.net 15
KAN D I D TAL K S
Initiative… Make the Move! Kehinde Adollo
A
KAN D I D TAL K S
This brings me to the second topic of this series tagged Initiate -making moves. That is exactly what I had to do for the team. As a leader, you need to find the strength to push your team forward, you need to pave the way forward so that others can also learn from your “never give up” attitude.
nother Kandid talks is
So I braced up in spite of the pressures
here, I must confess that
knowing that one day I will look back
the past few months
and say WoW! God did it! with a big
have been quite unique.
smile and joy on my face .
As a career woman having to work on quite a few important projects
The road to greatness is certainly
simultaneously; Projects that are life
not easy, it comes with prayer and
changing to organizations. To tell you
persistence.
the truth there were days I just wanted to close up my laptop and travel to an
So initiate! get up! get going! keep
island in Capri and live my best life
going! and take some rest in between,
with a glass of pineapple and carrot
very important.
juice and grilled fish on my plate. And of course listening to some worship
In summary, my counsel will be to seek
music, watching the waves on the
God’s face, grace, direction, wisdom
ocean move in a rhythmic style. I am
and help constantly as you initiate
sure you get the picture,need I say
those moves. He is dependable and
more. Despite all my dreaming, I told
reliable, He will grant you rest without
myself it would happen but definitely
stress. gw
not now. The sheer importance of the projects at hand meant I had to pay the sacrifice needed to get the job done.
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APPLES OF GOLD
APPLES OF GOLD
QUOTES ON
AWAKE DAY 2
DAY 1
“When God takes out the trash,
“Be fully awake.”
don’t go digging back through it.
L AIL AH GIF TY AKITA
Trust Him.”
DAY 7 “Inspiration is an awakening, a quickening of all man’s faculties, and it is manifested in all high artistic achievements.”
DAY 9 “Curiosity is the first step down the path of awakening.”
DAY 8 “Awakening is not changing who you are but discarding who you are not.”
DAY 10 “Awakening is an inside job.”
AMAKA IMANI NKOSAZANA , HEART CRUSH
DAY 3 “When you are evolving into a
DAY 4
higher-self, the road may seem
“When you arrive at the knowledge
“Get out of your comfort zone.
“The mind must be awakened
lonely but you’re simply shedding
of self, you have arrived.”
Wake up the sleeping giant in you.”
if you are to reach the heights of
the energies that no longer match
A N I E K E E TO C H U KW U E Z E K I E L
DR T.P.CHIA
greatness.”
DAY 11
DAY 12
the frequency of your destiny.”
DAY 5
DAY 6
“Awaken to your true potential
“The true awakening takes
and live the life of your dreams.”
place within.”
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DAY 13 “To be awake is the refreshness of being.” L AIL AH GIF TY AKITA
DAY 14 “It takes a person who is wide awake to make his dream come true.” ROGER BABSON
gemwoman.net 21
APPLES OF GOLD
DAY 15 “Lose an hour in the morning, and you will be all day hunting for it.” R I C H A R D W H A T E LY
APPLES OF GOLD
DAY 16 “Prove to the world that you are alive; let your words breathe life into the nostrils of the universe.” MICHAEL BASSEY JOHNSON
DAY 24
DAY 23
“When you are evolving to your
“Everything that you are going
higher self, the road seems lonely.
through is preparing you for what
But you’re simply shedding
you asked for.”
energies that no longer match the frequency of your destiny.”
DAY 18
DAY 17
“Do this, knowing the time that it is
“Dream big while you sleep, and
already the hour for you to awaken
even bigger when you’re awake.”
from sleep; for now salvation
“There’s more to our species
JARED LETO
is nearer to us than when we
than we see in the mirror.”
DAY 25
believed.”
DAY 26 “You must be willing to let go of who you have been to become who you were meant to be.”
ROMANS 13:11
DAY 19
DAY 20
DAY 27
“Awake, my glory!
“Mindfulness means being awake.
“We are ready to awaken when we
“The reason people awaken is
Awake, harp and lyre!
It means knowing what
don’t have any more doubts or any
because they have finally stopped
I will awaken the dawn.”
you are doing.”
more questions about who we are.”
agreeing to things that insult
PSALM 57:8
JON KABAT-ZINN
ROXANA JONES
their soul.”
DAY 21 “If you really want to dream, be fully awake.” PAU LO CO E L H O
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DAY 22 “Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it.” BRENE BROWN
DAY 28
DAY 30
DAY 29
“I experienced by the grace of God
“Who looks outside dreams; who
a spiritual awakening, which was
looks inside awakens.”
to lead me to a richer, fuller, more
CARL JUNG
productive life.” J O H N C O LT R A N E
gemwoman.net 23
BE AU T Y
BE AU T Y
Beauty Skin Deep IS NOT
Some ways your lifestyle habits affect your skin Toluwalase Olawale
W
24 gemwoman.net
hile Beauty is not merely
You are not sleeping: Simply put,
skin deep, skin health and
“beauty sleep” is necessary. Your skin
appearance often have an impact
goes through repair and restoration
on our feelings of beauty. The skin is
while you are asleep. Therefore, the
the largest organ on the body yet is
less sleep you get, the less time your
often neglected in beauty routines.
skin has to repair itself. Collagen is
If you’ve ever wondered why the
produced when skin cells regenerate,
multitude of beauty treatments and
and since skin cells regenerate faster
skincare products you use are not
when you sleep, you limit the amount
giving you your desired results, here
of collagen that is produced when you
are a few reasons why your skin is not
do not get enough sleep. Lack of sleep
improving:
can also lead to dark circles, wrinkles,
gemwoman.net 25
BE AU T Y
puffy eyes, and a dull appearance to the skin. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep a night and ensure to apply a hydrationrich moisturizer before going to bed to further protect your skin from drying out while you sleep.
While Beauty is not merely skin deep, skin health and appearance often have an impact on our feelings of beauty.
Your diet: Good skincare starts from within Eating a large number of
sunscreen protect against aging, but it
processed foods, saturated fats, dairy,
also protects against skin cancer and
and sugar can be detrimental if you
sunburns. Also, if your facial skincare
have acne-prone skin. Not only that,
products contain vitamin c, you need
but these foods can make one prone to
to ensure to use sunscreen with a broad
aging quickly. A healthy diet is not only
spectrum of at least spf 50 as vitamin
beneficial to physical health but is also
C makes the skin more prone to burns.
great for skin health. Foods like leafy greens, carrots, tomatoes, nuts and
You are expecting rapid results: The
berries are great for the skin.
epidermis of the skin replaces itself every 28 days, therefore, you will not
You are not wearing sunscreen:
be able to see the true effects of a new
Sunscreen is extremely important to
skincare regimen or procedure for a
protect the skin from aging and the
few weeks to a month. Give your skin
harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. As
time to go through the 28-day cycle
the temperatures globally have gotten
and remain hopeful and optimistic
higher, so have the harmful effects
about results. skincare products that
of UV rays increased. Do not believe
promise immediate results, often do
the myth that darker skin/African
not have lasting effects or are harmful
skin does not need sun protection.
in the long run. Remember, a watched
All individuals need to wear a facial
pot never boils. gw
sunscreen of at least 30spf, and full body sunscreen as well. Not only does
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F E AT URE
Sister Pastors Whom shall I send, and who will go for us. “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?” ROMANS 10:14
U
sually our relationship with God focuses on what God can or will do for us. We think in terms of what we need, yet God has a need. God is looking for men and women who are willing to go for Him. Very few people are willing to answer the call of becoming a pastor either because of preconceived notions about what is expected of pastors, or because they consider themselves “background” people. Having a pastor in a family poses immense spiritual benefits. Having two pastors in a family is a blessing, and having three pastors in one family is indeed an expression of exceptional grace. Meet the Sister Pastors Family, and read their inspiring interviews. ↘
gemwoman.net 29
F E AT URE
F E AT URE
Bola Musiwa A
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Certified Life Coach, Speaker, Counsellor and an Educator. She is based in Canada. She runs a ministry called “Trash to Treasure” and a private Counselling and Therapy Center called “Treasure in You Counseling Centres.”
God. We were raised as Baptists and even at that we were key participants in Bible challenge retreats, we would go to camps and we did competitions with other churches reciting over 100 Bible passages. We all took part in different departments and we
When did you give your life to Christ?
Why do you think you and your
all were very committed. We were
At the age of 13, while in secondary
sisters eventually became pastors?
part of Girl’s Auxiliary and in the
school precisely in JSS 3.
I do not believe that it was what we
choir as well. Times that we were in
did that qualified us to be Pastors,
boarding schools, we all were active
When were you ordained as a
I strongly believe that just like
in our fellowships. I believe our hearts
pastor?
Jeremiah 1:5 says, before He formed
always yearned for more. I remember
I was ordained in 2006
us, He knew us, and before we were
Pst Lamide and I went to a higher
born, He appointed and He ordained us
institution in Ibadan, Nigeria, and
How was life growing up?
to be who He had created us to be from
we both served as campus fellowship
Growing up was interesting because I
the foundations of the earth. Needless
leaders in our respective schools, we
grew up in a family of 8 (parents, six
to say, He has been preparing us right
were also both in the choir, also a part
children, 2 boys, 4 girls). Our parents
from our youth, our parents also
of a group I started called Shammah
raised us in a godly and Christian
played a very crucial role in laying the
sisters, with the main purpose of
environment. We were taught to
foundation for us. They put our foot in
evangelizing, we went from streets
always look out for one another. We
the way of the Lord.
to streets, in buses, in houses, door
never lacked anything, our parents did and gave their best in bringing us up.
to door preaching the gospel and Ever since we were young, we’ve
handing over tracts.
always had passion for the things of
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F E AT URE
F E AT URE
All through, none of us ever backslided,
able to also grow in their ability to
we have been consistent in our walk
share their faith with others. We also
with God.
teach them or help them to be more like Christ, as they serve they understand
Above all, in spite of how we served, its
the role stewardship plays in our walk
God’s prerogative to have chosen us. It
with God. The Bible says, ‘train up
is a privilege we don’t take for granted.
a child in the way we want them to
It is also a blessing that He has found
go, when they grow up, they will not
us worthy to be His chosen vessels.
depart from it.’ My earnest prayer for my children is that God by Himself will
Are you raising any of your children
order their steps in accordance to His
to be pastors?
will.
Depending on what God has in store
It will be a great opportunity for our children to grow in their faith and able to also grow in their ability to share their faith with others. We also teach them or help them to be more like Christ
for them, if that is their calling, why
Please share any challenge you have
not, but I know my second son walks
faced being a pastor.
in my gifts, since he was about 6 years
For me, ministry has been rewarding
he keeps saying he sees visions and he
and challenging too. There have
sees what happens way ahead of time,
been lots of betrayals, people taking
far, we grew up in a very closely knit
he calls it day dreaming. He said it
advantage of the office, like “use and
family setup like I said earlier, that
happens to him even in school, things
dump”, and a lot of ingratitude and,
foundation has really helped us so
just flash as a vision and they come to
a lot of pain too, really deep pain. But
far so good, not a lot of tension in our
pass. My younger son says he wants
one thing has always been crystal
relationships. But the few we have had,
to be like TDJakes. I have helped him
clear, God’s faithfulness has been
God has always been our focus in the
to turn that to a prayer that he will be
my bedrock, every time there was a
way we have treated one another so
greater than TD Jakes.
betrayal, He always opens a new and
far. I will say we have come a long way,
even greater door. So in all God has
a very long way in our relationship. It
always come through for me.
has not been all smooth, we have had
What advice will you give to women
our ups and downs, but at the end and
about raising their children to serve in ministry?
How is your relationship with your
in all situation the love of Christ has
It will be a great opportunity for our
other pastor sisters?
prevailed in our lives. gw
children to grow in their faith and be
Our upbringing has really helped us so
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F E AT URE
Rolake
Adedara
F E AT URE
Why do you think you and your
they know Him for themselves and
sisters eventually became pastors?
have a personal encounter with Him,
I think it is God’s divine plan and
He will reveal to them His intentions
providence. We have always loved
for their lives and their God-given
God with our hearts and I believe the
purpose.
solid Christian foundation also helped to propel us to what God had in mind
We are truly blessed with seeds that
concerning each one of us.
love God.
You know, the Scriptures declare in
In carrying on the legacy of faith, I
Jeremiah 3:15, that God will give us
trust that our children also shall know
When did you give your life to Christ?
pastors after His heart who will lead
the Lord, love Him and serve Him. If
A while back in high school in 1988 at
with knowledge and understanding.
it happens to be in a pastoral calling,
the age of 16 at Federal Government
So, I believe He sees that each of us
hey, to God be the glory!
Girls College, Oyo State, Nigeria.
has a heart of compassion, a heart
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a music minister, who currently serves as a Co-Pastor at the Fountain of Life church, RCCG, Chicago.
that nurtures and above all a heart that
What advice will you give to women
When were you ordained as a
seeks to please Him and do His will,
about raising their children to serve
pastor?
therefore in His own divine mercy, has
in ministry?
Ordained as a Pastor in the RCCG in
called us.
I would tell women to first of all seek to
June 2014; but I had served in that capacity for several years prior to that.
please God first and do His Will. Are you raising any of your children to be pastors?
How was life growing up?
Grew up in a Christian home, parents
By the special grace of God, He has enabled
attended the Baptist church. It was
us to lay the
a great childhood, with lots of fun
path of our 2
memories. Godly values were instilled
children in
Be example of what I will call the “AUTHENTIC” faith! Children imbibe what they see us do as parents, not just what they hear us say. The Apostle Paul told Timothy in 2
in us and we were brought up to believe
godly ways.
Timothy 1:5 that “the faith which first
that there is nothing we want to
However,
lived in his grandmother Lois and then
become that we could not.
I believe
in his mother Eunice, that same faith
that once
he saw it in Timothy!
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F E AT URE
F E AT URE
I think that women need to know that gender doesn’t define them nor limit their calling in Christ–“there is neither Greek nor Jew, male or female....”
that gender doesn’t define them nor
in lives by the power of God, every
limit their calling in Christ–“there
challenge has been well worth it!
is neither Greek nor Jew, male or
Halleluyah!
female....” How is your relationship with your
We have to take our place in the
other pastor sisters?
Kingdom of God!
we are truly SISTERS! We are friends and admire once another greatly.
Know who has called you, know whose you are and who you are!
We do not see each other as perfect,
We also have to pray for them. Invest
ministerial offices, that our Lord Jesus
quality time in declaring that our seed
put in place after He left the earth, is
Burn with that passion, irrespective
we celebrate that uniqueness and
shall serve him. Declarations and
truly a gift!
the challenges of non-acceptance,
difference in each other.
words are powerful!
doubting of your calling, lack of initial Doing the work of a pastor comes with
Be their advocate and greatest
we are unique in our own ways and
results in ministry, etc..
lots of challenges
cheerleader, let them know that
and our feisty moments where we tell Above all, LEAN ON GOD, He is the one
whichever way they go and in whatever
Now, in my case being a female pastor,
who has called you and May He give
capacity they serve, that you will
it comes with a lot more challenges
EASE and RESULTS!
always have their back! When God gives us results in ministry,
In summary, to raise children that
My husband, Tope is a tremendous
the evidence of His calling is glaring
will love God and serve in ministry,
support and my number one fan. He
and nothing can diminish that.
we’ve got to be great examples and
enables me to live out my own calling
role models, exhibit authenticity in
as well as support him in ministry. He
There are certainly lots of challenges
our daily living and above all, pray for
has stood solidly behind me and given
in being a pastor but by God, we
them.
me opportunities to blossom. He has
overcome!
supper system also helps.
faced being a pastor
36 gemwoman.net
Iron sharpens iron, so as friends, we
I think that women need to know
top, we share words of wisdom. We also pray together as it is said that the “family that prays together, stays
also mentored me. So, having a wrong
I will say being a pastor, as is one of the
each other the candid truth!
challenge each other to reach for the I am a pastor’s wife as well as a pastor.
Please share any challenge you have
We have our moments of togetherness
together’! We have each been through our “thick and thin” in our journeys of life, so we
Lastly for me, despite the challenges, it
appreciate the vastness and broadness
has been extremely rewarding for me,
in our experiences as we impact one
seeing the impact and transformation
another and our world! gw
gemwoman.net 37
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Olamide Adeleye A
lawyer and a poet, she is currently called into the women’s ministry.
How was life growing up?
Why do you think you and your
With many siblings, growing up was
sisters eventually became pastors?
fun. I grew up as a Baptist until we all
First and foremost, I believe God
started getting born again one after
ordained it to be so and I also believe He
the other beginning with our eldest
saw our hearts. I had served in church
brother. Initially, our parents would
in different leadership capacities,
have none of it, saying we cannot
from my teenage years, with my
Christ?
be “more Christiany than being
motive always being: “let them see
A while back in secondary school
Baptists”, until they eventually joined
Christ in me so they can ask who my
as a JSS 1 student, at the age of 13. My
us in the exuberance of our love for
God is” and this hasn’t changed, as I
Christ.
always go out of my way to allow the
When did you give your life to
elder brother’s exemplary life, as a Christian served as a great impetus
38 gemwoman.net
good Lord to prove His love through. I
and as soon as I had the opportunity
Our parents were strict about church
didn’t realize this would land me in the
in a boarding school, FGGC Oyo, away
attendance and were strong supporters
pastoral field.
from my parents who were strict
of the church and inevitably, we
Baptists, I gave my life.
became committed members as
Are you raising any of your children
children. I remember my mum was
to be pastors?
When were you ordained as a
a chorister and with my dad, they
We are raising our children to love
pastor?
belonged to a small group, who met in
the Lord with an undying love and be
Ordained as a Pastor in God’s Favourite
homes of members-alternate hosts,
a pillar in His House, not just church
House on the 7th of February 2016.
every month to just party and have a
goers. We encourage them to find
good time.
avenue for their talents and giftings
gemwoman.net 39
F E AT URE
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to be used for His glory, first and
Our two kids are on different spiritual
foremost, in the Body of Christ.
journeys and we are super-thankful as we believe that’s the best legacy we
We tend to always elevate the
can give them. One has already been
importance of their walk with God
nick-named a pastor and the sibling is
above all other successes, academics
amazingly passionate about her walk
inclusive, because we (my husband
with God.
and I) believe if the foundation is right, all others will be well.
#Ensuring that ministry doesn’t encroach on the family time is another challenge I’ve had to deal with, as a result, I have to ensure my time is well planned Please share any challenge you have
Despite the challenges, I still regard it
What advice will you give to women
faced being a pastor
as a great privilege to be a vessel in His
about raising their children to serve
#The burden that comes with serving
hand.
in ministry?
people and the pain associated with
zz
zz
‘Do as I do’ and not ‘do as I say’. They
real life experiences of some of the
How is your relationship with your
are watching and can tell if your
people you have been called to serve
other pastor sisters?
faith is genuine.
can sometimes be heavy in the heart.
We all love God and love one another
Ministry can be messy, thank God He
deeply. We have a good relationship,
turns the mess into messages.
however, I must say that, but for the
Also, never give up on any child, you may not be able to tell when the good Lord begins His work in them, that’s
love of God, we may not be together #Ensuring that ministry doesn’t encroach
today! His love has been the bedrock
on the family time is another challenge
of our relationships. We have had our
I’ve had to deal with, as a result, I have to
tough times as a family, our ups and
Don’t wait for a special
ensure my time is well planned while at
downs and times of disagreement and
moment to talk about the love
the same time leaving some margin for
discouragement but we know that
the Holy Spirit to lead as He pleases.
forgiveness is not a choice. Our mum has
my daughter’s story. zz
of God, let them see it in every day living. My daughter once said, “Mum you see God in everything.” zz
40 gemwoman.net
also been a unifying force, on her knees. #It is said that the higher you go in ministry, the lonelier it gets. As a
We often pray and fast together as
Do not allow ministry to deprive
pastor, I can’t just pick up the phone
a family. One person’s burden, if
you of precious moments with the
and start talking about my challenges
revealed becomes our burden. God has
children, you must be deliberate and
to anyone. Thankfully, my husband
been faithful to us all. gw
intentional about spending quality
and I have trusted parties with whom
time with them.
we can be vulnerable.
gemwoman.net 41
F E AT URE
F E AT URE
Makes it seamless and scam free! Interested in Canadian education and immigration pursuit? Meet Abigael Akintola a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), enthusiastic about helping prospective immigrants navigate the seemingly complicated and constantly changing pathways of the Canadian immigration and education systems. There is a huge amount of fraud in
At Hilltop, part of our responsibility
Tell us a bit about yourself?
the Canadian immigration industry.
is to educate our clients about their
My name is Abigael Akintola, a
How can one avoid being scammed?
immigration journey, this avoids
king, priest and Apostle in the
Yes, we have a lot of scammers out
them being in the dark and scammed.
there who are unlicensed or ghost
We want to get them involved in
consultants who are leveraging
everything we do, it’s all about
prospective immigrants navigate
the fact that Canada has over the
openness and integrity. This is how
the seemingly complicated and
years been a dream country of
any aspiring immigrant can ensure not
constantly changing pathways
residence for many because
of the Canadian immigration
of the great prospect of a
marketplace. I am passionate and enthusiastic about helping
and education systems. I am the Lead Consultant at Hilltop Immigration Services Inc., Canada. As a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), I am licensed by Immigration
being scammed.
better life that Canada
First, he or she should be educated
offers. Scammers
about what they are pursuing. The
use this
as an
Canadian immigration website has
opportunity to
comprehensive information about
attract people
Canadian immigration. That should
all
be the starting point for all prospective
Consultants of Canada Regulatory
nationalities
immigrants. Always do your own
Council (ICCRC) to counsel,
and walks
consult for and represent clients
of life to
in their Canadian and education
from
background work!
scam them.
immigration pursuit.
42 gemwoman.net
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F E AT URE
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Here is the Canada Immigration
program is unique and has different
website link: https://www.canada.ca/
requirements and processes. The first
en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.
step in your immigration journey with
html
us is to start with a consultation. This is a comprehensive assessment method
Second, you should engage the services
that we use to evaluate your eligibility
of an RCIC. This gives you assurance
across all immigration categories. It’s
that your consultant adheres to the
the best way to get a clear picture and
recommended standard of ethics and
pathway of what works for your profile
professionalism which helps you get
because every application is unique
through the immigration process
and has to be treated as such.
seamlessly. Can anybody apply?
You can verify the status of your
Yes, anybody can apply but your
immigration consultant to ensure
eligibility and admissibility are two
the person is truly licensed and in
major criteria for Canadian Immigration
How long does the process take?
Does your marital status affect your
good standing to represent clients
which must be checked first.
There is no fixed time duration for
immigration approval?
processing applications. With over
The marital status of an applicant
either through their names or membership number starting with R
Eligibility is a test of how your profile
80 immigration programs, each
does not affect the result of their
by visiting https://iccrc-crcic.ca/find-a-
matches the specific program you
immigration program has varying
immigration application. However,
professional/
intend to apply for. It is always
processing times depending on many
in a spousal sponsorship application,
specific to the immigration program
factors such as application type,
which is for spouse 0r common-law-
For Instance, here is my own name and
under which you are submitting
location of application, number of
partner, if the couple or partners
member number: Abigael Akintola,
an application i.e. meeting the
applications received and due to covid,
are no longer in a relationship that
R706722
requirement for a category of
most applications have witnessed
invalidates the eligibility for that
immigration. Admissibility on the
inaccurate processing times.
program while the application is in
What does the immigration process entail?
other hand, applies to all immigration
The Canadian Immigration is
programs. An applicant may be
You can check the processing times
comprehensive and constantly
inadmissible to Canada due to
for any application on the Canada
changing. Currently, there are over 80
health issues, criminal issues and
immigration website.
immigration programs in Canada. Each
misrepresentation ban etc
44 gemwoman.net
processing, they need to inform IRCC and the application will be rejected. Marriage fraud or marriage of convenience is not allowed and where
gemwoman.net 45
F E AT URE
F E AT URE
an applicant is married or divorced,
achieve success. There are financial
your terms of employment and
he/she needs to update the IRCC about
commitments, qualifications and
status in Canada, you could have a
the change in their marital status while
other requirements needed to be met
tax refund at the end of the fiscal
their application is in process.
for every program.
year.
What would you advise anyone
In addition, the immigration process
3. Cost of Living: This differs from
seeking to move to Canada?
is not as seamless as it looks. Hence,
one city to another. The major cost
I would simply say: go for it!
for best results, applicants are advised
component of your living expenses
to enlist the help of Immigration
is accommodation while other costs
However, before you make the move,
consultants who have vast experience
include, food, utility bill, childcare,
it is important to read and learn about
in immigration and know what is
transit, car insurance, parking,
your destination prior to moving
required to be successful.
etc. The required proof of funds in
there, this will help set you on the
your immigration application is the
right immigration journey and also
What are 4 things to bear in mind
settlement fund that shows how
integrate you into the Canadian
when planning to immigrate to
much money you need to settle in
life. In order to avoid confusion and
Canada?
Canada. The Canadian Immigration
career job while you are actively
unrealistic expectations prior to
1. Weather: Canada has 10 provinces
has stated the required settlement
applying for your dream job. There
moving to Canada, planning and
and 3 territories. It is necessary to
fund for 1 family member to be
are legitimate recruiting firms
proactiveness are important to
do a background research on your
$12,960/year while each additional
and settlement organizations that
province of destination to find
family member requires on average
offer free services to newcomers in
out about the climate. Generally,
about $3,175.
Canada.
…the immigration process is not as seamless as it looks. Hence, for best results, applicants are advised to enlist the help of Immigration consultants… 46 gemwoman.net
Canada is known as a cold country with four seasons during the year:
4. Job hunting: Searching and
spring, summer, fall and winter.
applying for jobs in Canada can
You can reach hilltop Immigration via
You are most likely to experience
be an extensive process, totally
the following channels:
cold, snowy winters, rainy spring
different from what you are used to.
and hot summers.
It could be a lengthy process to land
Phone: +1-905-226-7166
a professional job related to your job
Email: info@hilltopimmigration.com
2. T a x a t i o n : I n c o m e t a x e s a r e
history or academic qualifications.
FB/IG: @hilltopimmigration
collected by federal and provincial
If you find yourself in this situation,
Website:
governments and depending on
it is advisable to take on a non-
www.hilltopimmigration.com
How does one contact you?
gemwoman.net 47
REAL ISSUES
Why You Need A
COACH REAL ISSUES
I
Adeyanju Olomola
f you could have sorted it out, fixed it, moved forward, got unstuck, changed the outcomes you are getting, achieved personal and
professional growth or got clarity on what next to do, you would have done it by now! These words though simple, challenged my long-held thoughts about my ability to change things about me. Perhaps the reluctance or apathy where coaching is concerned is largely due to the lack of understanding of what the profession is all about, to the proliferation of 2-3 days seminar attendees (I heard a new term “studio coaches”) who proclaim themselves to be coaches to the fact that it’s a growing profession without regulation yet. I can tell you all about coaching, give you definitions and explain what it is and isn’t but I personally feel the
48 gemwoman.net
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REAL ISSUES
REAL ISSUES
best way to get people to understand
That said, the benefits attributed
The focus in a coaching conversation
transformation as your awareness is
what coaching is all about is when
to coaching are numerous. The
is the individual and the agenda solely
heightened, thinking is deepened and
they experience it. coaching is future-
outcome of research done over the
his/hers. This is a partnership where
widened, perspectives broadened, you
focused and is about moving you from
years by ICF and PriceWaterhouse
you have someone for a determined
begin to see different options available
your current state to a desired state.
Coopers. People who have experienced
period of time in your corner,
and you chart a course to your desired
There are so many apt definitions, here
professional coaching have attested to
listening to all you say and don’t say;
outcomes.
are a couple to give a general overview.
improvements self-confidence, work
challenging with care, your beliefs and
performance, relationships, business
stories you have held on to which may
We see global change makers,
“Partnering with clients in a thought-
management, communication skills,
require re-examination to determine
accomplished men and women who
provoking and creative process that
time management, team effectiveness
their validity; reflects back to you, your
have worked with a professional coach
inspires them to maximize their personal
and life/work balance or integration.
words, your emotions; champions
at some point attest to the power and
your accomplishments; evokes
impact of coaching. The famous quote
and professional potential” —The International Coaching Federation
attributed to Bill Gates “Everyone needs a coach”, really makes a case for
“A collaborative solution-focused,
the profession to be available to all.
results-orientated and systematic process in which the coach facilitates
Whilst one is advocating for coaching
the enhancement of performance, life
as an integral part of society, helping
experience, self-directed learning and
people to unleash the enormous
personal growth of individuals and
potential within, it is equally important
organizations”—Anthony Grant
to provide guidance on how to go about choosing a coach. Which coach would
“Coaching isn’t therapy. It’s product
be most appropriate for you? More to
development, with you as the
come on this….
product.” —Fast Company Coaching transforms! gw “A coach is someone who tells you what you don’t want to hear, who has you see
Adeyanju Olomola
what you don’t want to see, so you can be
CEO/Lead Coach
who you have always known you could
The Source Coaching Ltd
be.”— Tom Landry
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ISSUES OF THE HEART
ISSUES OF THE HEART
Don’t Give Up Dr. Faith Adewale
Y 52 gemwoman.net
ou have heard about people
Yes! I know that you feel so terrible
who are going through
that you even ask God why all these
challenging situations in
are happening to you. Yes! I know
life, and you must have
that I might not really be able to
wondered how they fared through
“understand” because I am not
the storm. Maybe you had even been
passing through the same thing
instrumental in providing succour to
you’re passing through. Yes! I know
them during those times. However, it
that the pain can be so unbearable
hits differently when the walls come
that taking your own life becomes
crashing around you, and it seems as
enticing. Yes! I also know that people
though all hell was let loose just for
are not even helping matters with
your sake; at times like these, giving
the way they treat you with so much
up seems like the only doorway open
disdain and mockery. But, I want
before you.
you to know that you have a Father
gemwoman.net 53
ISSUES OF THE HEART
ISSUES OF THE HEART
Life happens in phases and seasons. Those unpleasant situations and circumstances surrounding your life right now are tools in God’s hands to show forth His infinite wisdom in and through your life. who has gone ahead of you and has
and He is with you forever (John 14:16
given you His sure promises. He said,
AMP). So, engage the ministry of the
“...Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I
Holy Spirit within you and let Him help
have called thee by thy name; thou art
you throughout every season of your
mine. When thou passest through the
life.
waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow
Life happens in phases and seasons.
thee: when thou walkest through the
Those unpleasant situations and
fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither
circumstances surrounding your life
shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I
right now are tools in God’s hands to
am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of
show forth His infinite wisdom in and
Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy
through your life. They are not your
ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.”
destination, but rater someting you
(Isaiah 43:1-3 KJV) [Emphasis mine]
are temporarily passing through. This
Your Heavenly Father knows you
might just be your season of pruning
better than you know yourself and He
and training. Seek God’s face to know
has given you His Holy Spirit to live in
what He is working out in you through
you, who is greater than every force,
this season and you’ll be better
situation and circumstance which
positioned to maximise each season
seeks to bring you down [1 John 4:4].
and phase of your life. Giving up was
You’re not disadvantaged, rather,
not an option at the cross, so it is not
you’re the advantaged one. The Holy
an option for you now and it will never
Spirit is right there within you as
be God’s option/choice for you. Stick
your Helper, Comforter, Advocate,
through till the end, you’re coming out
Intercessor, Counselor, Strengthener
SHINING LIKE GOLD! gw
54 gemwoman.net
LIGHT REFLECTIONS
LIGHT REFLECTIONS
3
Stop the Comparison
Ways to Live an Envy Free Life Bolanle Olawale Envy consists in seeing things never in themselves, but only in their relations. If you desire glory, you may envy Napoleon, but Napoleon envied Caesar, Caesar envied Alexander, and Alexander, I daresay, envied Hercules, who never existed.”
E
—Bertrand Russell
nvy in this world of materialism, competitions, factions and divisions seems to be inevitable. You would think this is relegated to the world and not found in the church but this is not the case. We find that even in the church, we can see the schemes of envy at work. This monster called envy thrives in many communities and is responsible for many tragic occurrences. Let’s put it in context:
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LIGHT REFLECTIONS
Envy is the desire to have a quality, possession, or other desirable attribute that belongs to someone else. Envy’s loud whispers says; “They have this and I want what they have”.
LIGHT REFLECTIONS
Here are three ways to get rid of envy
1
There are always new business opportunities to find, new jobs to
Develop an abundance mentality.
apply for and new people to date or
Envy often seems to come from a
make friends with.
perceived scarcity in some area of
your life.
This whisper will always affects the
This way of thinking relieves you of so much pressure and helps to align your
mind and heart and bring troubles to
Maybe you feel envious because
thinking right.
anyone. The bible has a lot of warnings
someone else got the job you wanted,
concerning this ancient troublemaker.
or because someone else got the
We should not envy sinners, our
opportunity that you had hoped for.
Satan’s device is to use this sin to hinder
Perhaps you are feeling envious
2
the progress of the Gospel, by creating
because you are afraid of losing
the sinful nature desires what
disunity among believers. Envy is a sin
something and feel that you cannot do
is contrary to the Spirit, and
that has devastating effects and must
without it.
the Spirit what is contrary to
neighbors, or our fellow believers.
Living by the Holy Spirit So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the
not be allowed in our midst.
desires of the sinful nature. For
the sinful nature. They are in Focusing your mind on the perceived
conflict with each other, so
Envy prohibits us from taking chances
scarcity can cause these strong
that you do not do what you
or delving into the unknown because
negative emotions to arise in you.
want. “But if you are led by
we end up so focused on other people.
the Spirit, you are not under
You just judge people that have taken
To get out of this confining and
the chances from the safety of the
destructive mentality, you can
sidelines.
choose to focus on the opportunities
Every Man has to be led by
that abound and instead develop an
something. Man’s life must
abundance mentality.
have a driver, to direct and
Feeling envious can also make you feel like a victim.
58 gemwoman.net
the law.” (Galatians 5:16-18)
lead his life on the right path
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LIGHT REFLECTIONS
LIGHT REFLECTIONS
To overcome and live a life free from envy we should live by the Spirit, and choose the Holy Spirit as our leader.
Spend less time analyzing life and more time living and exploring it in whatever way you believe God wants you to.
and to the right place. We should
The thing is that there is always
Adding a regular gratitude exercise
If you find yourself sitting around
choose the Holy Spirit as the leader
someone with better or more than you.
into your everyday life will also greatly
too much and not having enough to
and the driver of our life and not flesh.
So you can never “win”. You cannot
help to minimize envious thoughts.
do then it’s very easy to feel stuck,
always focus on who is doing better or To overcome and live a life free from
who has more than you.
envy we should live by the Spirit, and
get stuck and eventually go into a So take just five minutes out of your
downward spiral.
day to focus on being grateful for all
choose the Holy Spirit as our leader.
A more useful way to compare is to just
the things you have. Make a list of
By filling your life with more activities
Give him full control and the voice of
compare yourself to yourself.
them in your head or write them down
and opportunities to be a blessing to
in journal at the beginning or end of
others, you will fiind that you have
the day.
less time to be envious, or preoccupied
envy will be silenced.
3
Look at how you have grown and what
what others have is a good way to make
Comparing yourself with yourself
yourself miserable.
will make you more positive and
Get a life.
whatever way you believe God wants
emotionally stable since you are no
I can’t say it more bluntly than that.
you to do. gw
Compare yourself with
you have achieved. Appreciate what
yourself.
you have done and what you have.
Comparing what you have to
with the happenings of others. I know I said 3 ways but I need to add this:
The Bible states that those that
longer comparing and feeling envious
compare themselves are foolish!
of others. By doing this you become
So spend less time analyzing life and more time living and exploring it in
more grateful for what you have.
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REAL ISSUES
REAL ISSUES
Self Reliant
I
or GOD Dependent? Milly Ola
n this modern world of many amenities, we have come to depend on many things whether we notice it or not. We depend on electricity in our homes to run our appliances, we depend on our phones to communicate with people. We heavily even depend on Google to give us the right answers. According to Merriam-Webster’s
to show up and be of assistance?
online dictionary, ‘depend’ means to
Unfortunately, people and things
place reliance or trust in. The fact is
are going to let you down. Being
that we depend on many things and
disappointed is a part of being human.
many people for our survival however, at any time those things or those
But who you depend on could be the
people can fail you.
difference between constant stress, frustration, peace and harmony.
Have you ever had one of your appliances fail you? Car suddenly
Really, the only person who we can
stops working or your laptop suddenly
totally depend is God. Why? The list
doesn’t power on. Or have you been
is unending, but a few of them are:
let down by someone who was meant
Because He never fails, He always
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REAL ISSUES
REAL ISSUES
Learning to depend on God, means learning to fully trust in Him to supply all of your needs.
shows up, He always does what is best for us (even if we don’t like it) and He is always trustworthy. Acts 11:28 reminds us: “For in him we live, and move, and have our being. When you learn to depend on God for everything, what you’re really doing is relinquishing control of your life and handing over the steering wheel to Jesus. When your dependence lies on the one who is master of all, even through situations where everything seems to be going wrong, you will be able to run to your Abba Father and cast all of your cares upon Him, knowing with full faith
to themselves as “self made” and
that He is going to take care of you.
they often boast in their abilities and capabilities.
zz
zz
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with
They fail to acknowledge that the
thanksgiving let your requests be made
mere fact that they’re awake today is
known unto God.” (Philippians 4:6)
a testimony and is dependent on God .
zz
When you acknowledge his workings
Learning to depend on God, means
in your success.
learning to fully trust in Him to supply
When you pray daily because you
all of your needs. By doing so, you are
know you cannot go through the day
modelling Jesus, who trusted in His
without God.
father and did all things according to
When you call on God for both the
His will.
big and small stuff. zz
When you practice obedience,
So I ask, are you self-reliant or Goddependent? Examine yourself. gw
On the contrary, A self-reliant person
You know you are God-dependent
regardless of the situation you find
is one who believes “my intelligence,
when:
yourself.
strength, power, and money can
zz
handle my life”. You hear them refer
66 gemwoman.net
you believe that God is able to keep his promises to you.
zz
When you live your life according to the principle; ‘Less of me, more of Him’
gemwoman.net 67
ETIQUETTE
ETIQUETTE
Making a Difference Taiwo Isijola
M
aking a difference means
If everyone imbibes the culture of
having your mind set on
a making a difference, it will create
positively impacting the
an exceptional, progressive and
world, your community.
innovative environment.
This mindset features decorum,
If you are not making a difference,
integrity and wisdom as the principles
then you are not fulfilling purpose,
of living and engaging with people.
and missing a great opportunity to make an indelible mark.
Be the best, exude excellence and diligence in your outlook to life and
Make a difference, no matter
relationships with people. This is key
how little, Make a Mark.
in making a difference.
Remember you are called to be a ‘Light’ in a complex
Another aspect in making a difference
society.
is a mind of innovation. A mind of innovation will see new ways to impart
We are not called to
knowledge and positive values to your
conform, but called
generation by:
to transform lives and destinies.
zz
zz
Ministering hope, and building the potentials of your generation.
Make a difference
Cultivating the culture and aura of
today! gw
excellence.
68 gemwoman.net
Make a difference, no matter how little, Make a Mark. Remember you are called to be a ‘Light’ in a complex society.
gemwoman.net 69
SPIRITUALITY
SPIRITUALITY
Maximising Strength in Your Quiet Time Ronke Adeoti
T
he world, presently, is
shadow of the Almighty”. The secret
filled with all manner of
place is where God dwells, but not
wickedness, evil, negativity,
many of God's children are acquainted
injustice, famine, deaths etc.
with this place. For you to access the
as already prophesied in 2 Timothy 3:1-
secret place of the Most High, you must
5. But there is a place to run to despite
have a personal relationship with Him.
the challenges we encounter around us, and that place is the secret place of
To maximise means to make as large
the Almighty. Psalm 91:1 states, “He
as possible; to make the best use of; to
that dwelleth in the secret place of
make something as great in amount,
the most High shall abide under the
size, or importance as possible; to
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SPIRITUALITY
increase; to use something in a way
utterly fall: But they that wait upon the
from God, and we must always
these things I delight, saith the
that gives you the greatest practical
LORD shall renew their strength; they
acknowledge Him as the source of
LORD.”
value or the best results.
shall mount up with wings as eagles;
it. We are not to take the honour of
they shall run, and not be weary;and
the power God has endowed us with
they shall walk, and not faint.”
upon ourselves, we must always
nothing without His strength. In
give the accolades to Him. Jeremiah
our weaknesses, we could fall prey
The word “katei” in Greek means “power, strength, might". In the
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Rely On His Strength: We can do
Bible, strength is often linked to God’s
Hence, how do we increase, grow , or
9:23-24 says, “Thus saith the
to the antics, wiles and schemes of
power. The unlimited power of Christ
raise God’s power in our quiet time?
LORD, Let not the wise man glory in
the devil, but our total dependence
is the source of strength for those who
How do we maximise the strength of
his wisdom, neither let the mighty
on His strength makes His
belong to Him.
God during our quiet time?
man glory in his might, let not the
strength perfect in our weakness
rich man glory in his riches: But let
(2 Corinthians 12:9). Habakkuk 3:9
Acknowledge God as the Source
him that glorieth glory in this, that
says, “The Sovereign LORD is my
“He giveth power to the faint; and to
of Your Strength: He’s the giver of
he understandeth and knoweth me,
strength, he makes my feet to like
them that have no might he increaseth
strength and He gives it to whom
that I am the LORD which exercise
the hinds feet, he enables me to
strength. Even the youths shall faint
He wills. Whatever strength we
loving kindness, judgment, and
tread upon my high places.”
and be weary, and the young men shall
have now is not our own, it comes
righteousness, in the earth: for in
Isaiah 40:29-31
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SPIRITUALITY
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SPIRITUALITY
Wait On the Lord: To wait means “to
saying that you get renewed by being
Cultivate an Atmosphere of His
where the Spirit of the Lord is,there
bind together”, it’s about binding
very close to the Lord. Waiting is a
Presence: God wants us to draw
is liberty.” In this place, we are not
together with Him; to abide, to tarry,
proactive stance of drawing close to
close to Him. He wants us, His
only strengthened but we can hear
to continue, to be present, to last and
God. Psalm 27:14 says, “Wait on the
children, to live and be in His
Him more clearly. When you draw
endure. Those who bind together
LORD: be of good courage, and he
presence always, not just once in
nigh to God, He will draw nigh to
with Him shall renew their strength.
shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I
a while. 2 Corinthians 3:17 says,
you. Living in His presence is living
Prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 40:31 was
say, on the LORD.”
“Now the Lord is that Spirit: and
in the very life of the Most High
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where no evil can touch or come close to you. It is possible to cultivate the atmosphere of God’s presence every where you go and this is done mostly by praying in the Holy Spirit or praying in tongues. Jude 1:20 says, “But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost”. You can also cultivate an atmosphere of His presence through the act of worship. zz
Live a Joy-filled Life: A joyfilled life is a strong life. There’s something joy does to a man’s heart that people cannot understand. Having a happy disposition or a glad heart improves the body. When the heart rejoices, the countenance is cheerful but a depressed heart weighs a person down or makes the person vulnerable to sicknesses and diseases which dries up the bones.
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Proverbs 17:22 “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” zz
Take with You Words: Faith-filled words in your quiet time and place gives you extraordinary strength. Remove any form of poisonous words that drains and kills from your mouth. The Bible says death and life are in the power of the tongue and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. You want life, strength and power to be activated in your life, then speak only faithfilled words, not otherwise. Your words count because what you say is what you will receive.
Proverbs 6:2 “Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.” Faith-filled words strengthen, dominating the laws of sin and death. God is our source of strength, call out
The Bible says death and life are in the power of the tongue and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. You want life, strength and power to be activated in your life, then speak only faith-filled words, not otherwise.
to Him during your difficult times and let His power carry you through those
May you be strengthened in your inner
challenging times.
man in Jesus’ name, Amen. gw
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COVER INTERVIEW
COVER INTERVIEW
PASTOR
BIMBO FOLA-ALADE Interview by Bolanle Olawale
S
ome people say that the 50s are the new 30s, and our invigorating cover personality proves it. Her story will inspire you to chase your dreams and maximize the gifts that God has blessed you with. She
also shows us that getting older earns us benefits that we should eagerly embrace and celebrate. While most people look back nostalgically at their youth, very few people actually want to be 22 again. The uncertainty and anxiety of our 20s is replaced by a sense of acceptance, equanimity, and self-knowledge once we reach our 40s, 50s, and beyond. A Pastor, Counsellor, author, wife, and mother, Bimbo Fola-Alade shares with us just a few things to celebrate as we age, how to win at relationships and how to maximize our time on earth for God.
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COVER INTERVIEW
COVER INTERVIEW
PERSONAL What would you name the auto-
experiences but longing to live more
biography of your life?
purposefully and stronger than before.
Interesting! Perhaps, ‘Growing into grace’. The great quest of my life is
People say age is just a state of
learning to be settled in all God has
mind. Why do you think many
done for me, put in me and called me to.
women are af raid of getting older and what advice would
You recently celebrated your
you give such women?
50th birthday how do you think
I think women are scared of getting
your perspective has changed
older because so much of our value as
ever since?
women societally can be wrapped up in
That’s a great question. One of the
our looks and that tends to decline with
things that turning 50 has afforded me
age. But we need to measure ourselves
is the privilege to look back at the areas
more by our donation to society and the
of my life where God has used me to
people we are becoming, growing into.
make some impact and to rest in that
Age has so many benefits–insight,
and build on it; instead of thinking of it
know-how, experience, wisdom. It
as a fluke or something that happened
should be embraced.
by chance.
What’s the toughest choice It seems 50 is the new 40, what
you’ve ever had to make?
new experiences are you looking
Toughest choice. Hhmm, one of them
forward to in this new stage of life?
was switching my boys from a day
I agree! 50 is definitely the new 40
school to different boarding schools at
or maybe even 35, just with more
the secondary level. It was extremely
experience and confidence. I am not
hard for me because they had always
so much looking forward to new
been together; but it was necessary
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COVER INTERVIEW
COVER INTERVIEW
Have you ever had something happen to you that initially
The importance of understanding my husband’s personality, expectation and needs and adapting myself to meet them
seemed negative but it turned out to be for the best? Not being able to really build my legal career because my boys came very to stretch them to their potential.
early on in marriage when I was trying
Another tough choice was deciding to
to build my legal career; but it meant I
relocate to the UK to court and then
could focus on being present as a mum
marry my husband; so much was at
and become more involved in serving
stake.
at church.
Do you have a morning (or eve-
What chore do you absolutely
ning) ritual that helps you be
hate doing?
more efficient and productive?
I actually enjoy housekeeping so there
Most days I start my day with prayer
are no chores I really hate. But I do not
and bible study–it is the most
like untidy spaces so it leaves me very
important part of my day. It leaves me
unsettled when a space is in that state.
feeling set for the day ahead.
MARRIAGE What is the best part of being
whether it would happen or if I would
married to Pastor Sola?
meet someone I could settle down with.
He carries a lot of favour, spiritually and naturally, which I enjoy by
What’s the best marital advice
association.
you’ve ever received?
How are you able to prioritize your
and be together. The key word here is
The importance of understanding my
marriage with your busy life?
try because we often end up talking
What do you wish you had known
husband’s personality, expectation
It’s tough. We try to be strict with our
about church anyway, but we try not to.
before getting married?
and needs and adapting myself to meet
day off and not do anything ministry
We also prioritise our family holidays.
To not fret about getting married i.e.
them.
related on that day so that we can rest
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COVER INTERVIEW
COVER INTERVIEW
What are the most common pit-
What one decision has helped
falls to avoid in marriage?
you achieve the most success in
Being self-centred, inconsiderate,
marriage?
hasty in speech and unforgiving.
To always lean on God to build my home.
PARENTING / FAMILY LIFE
My children are very different and have different strengths. I have tried not to force them in a particular direction but to recognise their giftings…
What memories do you hope your children have of their childhood? That they were truly loved, valued and cared for.
How have you been able to recognize and encourage both of your children’s strengths? My children are very different and have different strengths. I have tried not to force them in a particular direction but to recognise their giftings and interests and support them in being excellent in those areas.
What do you most enjoy and appreciate about each person in your family? My husband is a lot of fun. He makes me laugh a lot and I enjoy spending time with him. He’s my best friend. He’s also very romantic and emotionally demonstrative which is lovely.
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COVER INTERVIEW
COVER INTERVIEW
What’s an important lesson you’ve learned in ministry and how has it proven invaluable? Know why you are doing what you are doing.
Most days I start my day with prayer and bible study–it is the most important part of my day. It leaves me feeling set for the day ahead.
Ministry is unto the Lord, sometimes you’ll give a lot to people and get nothing in return; but God is a rewarder.
If you could witness any event in the bible what would it be? Oh wow, it would be to see Jesus in the flesh, to just behold him. What a privilege!
FAITH / COUNSELLING What would you tell a woman who is What is your favorite scripture and
struggling to make things work?
why?
Go to God and get a strategy for what you are
Oh my, I have so many. Scriptures that I have
seeking.
lived in, that God has used to anchor me or prompt faith in me at key points in my life.
How do you know when it’s the right time
One of them is Psalm 107:23-24. They that go
to leave a relationship?
down to the sea in ships, that do business in great
Relationships need work and even right
waters; these see the works of the LORD, and his
relationships can be difficult. It would be difficult
wonders in the deep. There are some wonders
to give a general answer as that will depend on the
of the Lord that we will only see out of our
specifics of the relationship and the individuals
comfort zone, in the deep. This speaks to me
involved.
of when we stepped out to start our ministry and saw God’s provision and care in amazing
Thank you. gw
ways in what was a wilderness season.
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F E AT URE
F E AT URE
Follow Your Passion
CAREER into has been a buildup towards my
Enoshowo Lois Eworo
photography career.
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e are told over and over again that we should always follow our dreams, follow our passions and make our dreams a reality.
How did your family react when you
We met up with the CEO of “captured by Adesuwa photography” CBA, who did
decided to pursue photography
just that. CBA is a photography company that specializes in newborn, children and
instead of architecture?
family portraits based in Lagos, Nigeria. In this interview, she shares her journey
Well, it was a roller coaster of mixed
towards living her dream, following her passion and discovering her niche.
emotions, my dad wasn’t so convinced about how I would make a living from
PERSONAL
photography (even though it’s an inherited hobby from him) my mum on
Tell us a bit about yourself and your brand
Your pictures are beautiful, but your
the other hand was really supportive,
Okay, I’m Enoshowo Lois Eworo, by
children pictures are so exceptional
as far as it wasn’t taking me away from
God’s grace a passionate young woman
how do you get those amazing
and a graduate of Architecture. I own
pictures?
a brand called “Captured by Adesuwa
To be very honest, it most definitely
Photography” CBA. Adesuwa is one
has to be God with a touch of passion
Why did you choose to pursue
of my many names given to me by my
and patience, because children
photography as a career, even though
GrandFather, in case you’re wondering
photography requires an extra level of
you studied architecture?
where Adesuwa came from lol.
patience as we get to work with infants
This question! Well, I’ve come to
and toddlers who pretty much don’t
believe it’s a calling as I’ve evolved in
understand things yet.
the craft. But really, as much as I love
CBA is a photography company, that specializes in newborn, children and
Architecture, I couldn’t see myself
family portraits and is based in Lagos,
So how do I get those “exceptional
doing a routine job and sitting long
Nigeria. My purpose with this brand
images” in your words. It’s God,
hours (ironically I do that now, but
is to document family & children
patience, passion and constantly
staring at adorable humans)
memories in the most timeless and
acquiring knowledge about the craft.
creative way and as a result showcasing
However, one thing I’m certain about
the love of the Father.
is that every single thing I’ve delved
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F E AT URE
the path of righteousness she was there
space I’m not familiar with, second
on how fast these little ones grow and
What advice would you give to
to cheer and encourage all the way.
was how do I convince parents of the
why it’s important to freeze moments
upcoming photographers?
importance of documenting their
in pictures for a life time. I believe it
Don’t chase the money or the fame,
Daddy eventually came around when
infants and also getting them to trust
was quite convincing because no one
those come with excellence, diligence
he saw my zeal, passion and devotion.
me to handle their babies, third was
can say no to those adorable eye and
and dedication. Many make the
the challenge of how to charge for this
smiles right?
mistake of wanting to make all the
What are the challenges you have had
service per right time.
to overcome in your career?
money at first, but it’s really a process For the third, it’s still a present
and processes should not be rushed.
The first challenge that readily comes
For the first, I decided to reach out
challenge, because as CBA evolves,
Also, invest in materials, courses,
to mind was how do I navigate this new
and help out photographer friends
a whole lot changes with it, and the
workshops, equipments.
and get acquainted with the field,
value and quality of work is what we
asked questions, watched videos, read
sell. Having to convince parents that
A word to that young lady that wants
articles etc
this isn’t just spending money, but it is
to start a business and doesn’t know
investing in your child’s and families
how?
For the second, I had to show them the
story for a life time. I mean years
Think Big, Start Small. Make your
importance, so I used my niece, offered
to come when they’re all great and
research, invest and begin somewhere.
some families complimentary session
doing so well, professional family and
Don’t allow fear of failure keep your
to sort of practice and build a credible
individual portraits from way back will
down. Every failure is a stepping stone
portfolio, and also enlightening them
be more valued and cherished.
for greatness. gw
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T R AV E L G U I D E
T R AV E L G U I D E
Travel Made Easy: 7 Essential Tips Every Traveller Needs to Know Continued From Last Edition
Ife Isijola
5. Plan your itinerary
your travels. Deciding what to do is
Planning your travel itinerary is
probably one of the most exciting parts
everything and then put the list in
Alway keep in mind airline size
actually quite simple. Once you have
of making travel easy. You should look
priority order against your days to
and weight limits when choosing a
nailed down the destination, flight
on travel blogs, use great sites such as
create a daily schedule.
suitcase.
and accommodation, your next travel
tripadvisor.com, and ask friends who
planning step is to start a rough
have been to the destination before.
All in all, the most flexible itinerary is
Carry-on: Airlines include the wheels,
itinerary. This helps you organise
Once you have an idea on what you
often the best. Just because you have
not just the actual packing space when
your time and make the most out of
want to see or do, then make a list of
everything scheduled doesn’t mean
measuring carry-on height. Take note,
you have to follow your itinerary to the
many bags that are marketed as carry-
letter. The travel itinerary is there to
ons in shops are technically too tall to
help keep you on track, but it definitely
fit into some airlines’ bag sizers.
is not meant to constrain you. The button line is HAVE FUN.
Checked Luggage: Every kilogram counts, so when purchasing a suitcase,
6. Pack Well
you might want to look out for
Packing a suitcase may seem like a
ultralight luggage that would not eat
straightforward task, but do it wrong,
into your weight allowance.
and you could end up losing valuables,
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paying overweight baggage fees, or
When packing, start by making a
dragging about things you don’t need.
packing list a few days before your trip
That is why it is vital to learn how to
so you have time to pick up any last-
pack a suitcase the smart way. Take
minute items. Gather all the garments
note the following:
you anticipate needing, then reduce
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T R AV E L G U I D E
T R AV E L G U I D E
by half. The average 22-inch carry-
Packing too much can cost you dearly
Finally, you might want to lock your
on bag fits roughly two pairs of jeans,
in overweight baggage fees, so weigh
luggage to discourage theft.
three tops, two dresses, and five shirts.
your bag with a luggage scale before
The most efficient way to get things
going to the airport.
7. Get your documents in order
Label your bag with your name, email
For the most part, your passport is the
address, and phone number so the
most important piece of identification
Even if your carry-on is within legal
airline can contact you if it loses your
you can travel with. However, it helps
the copy to expedite the process of
limits, you might still be forced to
suitcase.
to have originals of at least one other
getting a replacement.
into your suitcase is to roll softer garments and fold stiffer ones.
check it at the gate, so it is important
Do not get stuck at the border without a printed or electronic itinerary.
piece of identification available such as
the bag has a luggage tag and any
If you have a black suitcase that looks like
a driver’s license. Make sure you have a
Despite the lack of a legal requirement
important or breakable items are
everyone else on the baggage carousel,
photocopy of your passport, and carry
for it, travel insurance is a must-have
easily accessible in case you need to
ensure you tie a colorful ribbon around
it on you separately from the original.
when abroad. An unexpected accident
transfer them to your personal item.
the handle or mark it so it’s easier for
This way, if your original is lost or
or illness could ruin your trip and
you to recognize.
stolen, you can show your consulate
impact your finances if you are not properly insured. Carry your travel insurance information with you at all times. Some countries will not let you in without proof of onward travel in the form of a plane ticket or itinerary. Do not get stuck at the border without a printed or electronic itinerary. Ensure you carry everything (passport, travel itineraries, insurance policies, and other items) safely and securely. A ziplock bag or waterproof plastic folder is a great choice. gw
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HOME AND YOU
HOME AND YOU
Keeping Your Home Tidy
Clean as You Cook Cleaning as you go saves time and keeps your kitchen tidy before, during and after meal preparation. If you’ll rather use the dishwasher, load it as you go to avoid a pile-up in the sink.
Olayinka Ashogbon
C
leaning is a way to relax for some, but a stressful and exhausting venture for others. There is a refreshing feeling that accompanies a clean home. Regardless of where you are on the spectrum, these six tips will help you always maintain a clean home always and cut down on time spent cleaning; so you can enjoy more of the things that matter. Make Your Bed
Clean High Traffic Areas
As basic as that sounds, you will
The kitchen often has more traffic
be amazed at the impact making
than other spaces within the home,
your bed has on your wellbeing.
thereby, collecting a lot of dirt, stains,
Studies have shown there is
and debris. Spend few minutes each
a clear link between feeling
day sweeping and cleaning the kitchen
organized and making one’s
floor to prevent dirt from moving into
bed, as it helps improve focus,
other spaces within the home. This
goal setting and lowers stress
also applies to the living room if your
levels. Making your bed in the
living room is the high-traffic area
morning puts you in the right
of your home. While you are in the
frame of mind to tidy up other
kitchen, keep your counters clean and
things around the room.
clutter-free.
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HOME AND YOU
Put Items Away After Use
Have a Routine
One of the keys to having a clean home is having a spot for everything in your home. Tiny displaced items can pile up and turn into a big mess, so pick them up on the go. Teach your family members to do the same.
Create a routine that works for you, your home and family. The above tips are perfect daily routines anyone can incorporate into their daily
Sort the Mail
schedule. In addition, create weekly, monthly, and seasonal cleaning routines
Sort the mail as soon as it arrives
to help maintain a clean and tidy space. Create a routine that works for you, your
into three categories namely:
home and family. Below is an example of daily routine to maintain a clean space
Action – Save for later – Shred.
and combat clutter.
“Action” stack could include
DAY
SUGGESTED ACTIVITY
for Later” stack should be a short
Monday
Dusting
pile of items you want to add/
Tuesday
Sheets and towel laundry
Wednesday
Kitchen counters and cabinet surfaces
Thursday
Fridge and trash clean out
Friday
Other laundry
Saturday
Bathrooms
Sunday
REST
bills, items to act on etc. “Save
use in the future e.g. Coupons. For retail ads you might need in the future, take a picture of the ad and shred the paper ad. Junk mail goes in the “Shred” stack and shred those items as soon as possible.
With consistency, you can always maintain a clean home and spend more time relaxing. gw
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CUISINE
Lemon Rosemary Olive Oil Cake
CUISINE
Ingedients
fold mixture until just combined.
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125grams Sugar
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1 Lemon, zest, and juice
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1 Spig Rosemary
pan and bake for 35-40 minutes
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80ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil
or until toothpick comes out clean
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1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
when you test the cake.
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2 Eggs, Large
hoop-whoop winter is finally over…and to awaken my tastebuds to spring
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1 teaspoon Baking Powder
I have enlisted my trusty weapon “Lemon”. I love lemon, from its zest in
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1/4 teaspoon Salt
cake to a cooling rack and let cake
cakes and juice for lemonade or tea; it’s hard not to love lemon. If I could only use
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115grams of All-Purpose flour
rest until it is cool to touch.
one flavour for my deserts it will be lemon; but I digress This weekend over dinner,
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60ml Milk
Seyi Farinu
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Step 3: Pour batter into a lined cake
Step 4: When cake is baked, transfer
Lemony Whipped Cream
I had an interesting idea to make a sweet cake out of savoury ingredients and I am must say this olive oil cake doesn’t make me miss butter at all. It’s everything
Directions
you would want in a cake and more;
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250ml 35% Cream
Step 1: Preheat oven to 325°F. Oil
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1 Lemon, zest, and juice
moist, light and young delicious. For
a 6-inch cake pan or loaf tin with
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2 tablespoons Powdered Sugar
this cake premium extra virgin olive
cooking spray or vegetable oil and
oil to enhance the taste of the lemon
line the bottom with parchment
In a large cold bowl combine all
and rosemary. (Yes, you heard me,
paper (this recipe works best with
ingredients and whisk with a hand
Rosemary)
a metal or cast-iron cake pan and
mixer or large whisk until the mixture
not a glass pan; metal and cast-
reaches stiff peak.
My family is as obsessed with
iron pans conduct heat evenly and
this cake as I am, even my fit-fam
results in a crispier edge)
brother didn’t allow me to take any home.
Finish the cake by spooning large amounts of the lemon whipped cream
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk the flour,
on the top of your garnish and garnish
salt and baking powder and set aside.
with lemon slices, fresh rosemary and
This cake is simple, and it doesn’t
In another bowl, whisk the olive oil,
a drizzle of olive oil.
require any special equipment
sugar, lemon zest, juice, vanilla
or skill, but it yields a unique and
extract and chopped rosemary for
Enjoy cake with friends and a chilled
unforgettable cake. But don’t take
about 3-4 minutes. Add eggs one at
refreshing beverage (lemonade would
my word for it, try it out for yourself
a time and whisk until emulsified.
be great). gw
(I dare you)
Add the dry ingredients and milk;
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HUMOUR
PAINTING CHURCH, THE SMART WAY IT SEEMS THAT THERE WAS a little old church out in the countryside: painted white and with a high steeple. One Sunday, the pastor noticed that his church needed painting. He checked out the Sunday ads and found a paint sale. The next day, he went into town and bought a gallon of white paint. He went back out to the church and began the job. He got done with the first side. It was looking great. But he noticed he had already used a half gallon. He didn’t want to run back in town and being the creative person that he was, he found a gallon of thinner in the shed out back, and began to thin his paint. It worked out great. He finished the remaining three sides with that last half gallon of paint. That night, it rained: it rained hard. The next morning when he stepped outside of the parsonage to admire his work, he saw that the first side was looking great, but that the paint on the other three sides had washed away. The pastor looked up in sky in anguish and cried out, “What shall I do?” A voice came back from the heavens saying, “Repaint, and thin no more!”
GOD IN THE OCEAN— STRONG FAITH! THERE WAS A PREACHER who fell in the ocean and he couldn’t swim. When a boat came by, the captain yelled, “Do you need help, sir?” The preacher calmly said “No, God will save me.” A little later, another boat came by and a fisherman asked, “Hey, do you need help?” The preacher replied again, “No God will save me.” Eventually the preacher drowned & went to heaven. The preacher asked God, “Why didn’t you save me?” God replied, “Fool, I sent you two boats!”
LADY WITH VICTORIOUS FAITH VS. ROBBER ONE NIGHT A LADY came home from her weekly prayer meeting, found she was being robbed, and she shouted out, “Acts 2:38: ‘Repent & be baptized & your sins will be forgiven.’”
TAXI DRIVER AND THE PRIEST A PRIEST AND A TAXI DRIVER both died and went to heaven. St. Peter was at the Pearly gates waiting for them.
The robber quickly gave up & the lady rang the police. While handcuffing the criminal, a policeman said, “Gee mate, you gave up pretty easily. How come you gave up so quickly?” The robber said, “She said she had an axe and two 38’s!”
‘Wow, thank you’, said the taxi driver.
‘Come with me’, said St. Peter to the taxi driver. The taxi driver did as he was told and followed St. Peter to a mansion. It had anything you could imagine from a bowling alley to an olympic size pool.
Next, St. Peter led the priest to a rugged old shack with a bunk bed and a little old television set. ‘Wait, I think you are a little mixed up’, said the priest. ‘Shouldn’t I be the one who gets the mansion? After all I was a priest, went to church every day, and preached God’s word.’ ‘Yes, that’s true. But during your sermons people slept. When the taxi driver drove, everyone prayed.’
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DECISION
DECISION
It’s True; God Does not Love us Equally
The older brother thought erroneously
There will be times when you will
that he and his younger brother was
doubt it. There will be days when you
competing for their father’s affections.
misunderstand his love. But one thing
W
He assumed that he deserved more of
is certain: you will never escape it, for
hoever you are, your
it and it seemed to him that his dad was
love is who God is, and therefore loving
heavenly Father loves
playing favorites and giving away all
is what God does.
you differently than he
his love to his brother. But the father
loves other people. You are more than
reminded him that each child, while
He is a one-of-a-kind God who loves
a grain of sand in the vast desert called
fully beloved, is loved differently. And
the one-of-a-kind you.
humanity.
even in that mild rebuke, the father was
Bolanle Olawale
What one child needs is not always
leading his oldest son toward a greater
All He asks is that you surrender
During one of those very authentic
what another needs. Just as there is a
clarity of what love is and what love does.
your life to Him so that He will guide
conversations with my children. One
time for a compassionate love, so there
of them asked me who I loved the most
is a time for tough love, as well as every
Whoever you are, your Father loves
and I immediately replied that I loved
manifestation of love in between.
you differently than he loves other
them all the same. I know they were
Imperfect as my love is, I strive to love
people. You are more than a grain of
Will you invite him to your life today
asking me in quantitative terms even
fully, as well as uniquely, the children
sand in the vast desert called human-
and make the decision that will ensure
though love cannot be measured like
God has given to me.
ity. You are a person in the truest kind
you live with Him in heaven for
of personal relationship, for you are
eternity?
one would measure cups of flour.
and keep you and ensure you live victoriously.
We do not call God “Father” because
in a relationship with your Father. He
Rather, what I was trying to let them
God is like men. We call men “fathers”
formed you in the womb, knows the
Please repeat this prayer below:
understand is that I love them all
because they are like God is.
number of hairs on your head.
Dear Father, I know that I am a sinner
uniquely.
and there is nothing I can do to save The father in the parable of the
You, as an individual, are the reason
myself. I confess my inability to forgive
Each child is precisely that—unique,
Prodigal Son, for example, loved both
Jesus came and died on the cross.
my own sins. I thank you for Christ who
an individual. I love each child in a way
his sons. He loved the one who stayed
befitting who they are, and the special
and the one who strayed. But he loved
Just as you are, he loves you. Totally
faith, I receive you into my heart as my
relationship we share.
each one differently, uniquely, in the
and yet uniquely, he loves you because
Lord and Saviour. From now help me to
way they needed to be loved.
you are His child.
live for you only in Jesus name. Amen. gw
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died and rose from the dead for me. By
gemwoman.net 109
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