Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature…”go and make disciples of all nations…

Mark 16:15, Matthew 28.19 NIV

It’s been around 2000 years now! From a handful of initial obedient believers who “went out and preached everywhere” (Mark 16:20), over two billion people now profess faith in Christ today! This is a great feat! The church has done a lot in spite of fire, dungeons and swords and all assaults of the gate of hell aimed at quenching the spread of this only redeeming truth.

The baton of world evangelization is now passed over unto us as a generation. And the task remaining (unfinished) is still very enormous! About 7,000 out of 11,000 people groups (i.e. nations/ethnic groups) of the Earth’s population are statistically yet to be reached with the message of hope and eternal life that is in Christ Jesus, the only ordained Saviour (1 Timothy 2:5, Romans 8:1), which is one of the strongest prophetic markers delaying His second coming till now (Matthew 24:14)

This translates into millions upon millions of priceless and precious souls, descending into Christless eternity, forever lost, every year! Most not because they refused to obey the Gospel, but because they never became “reached and told” in their lifetime!

Many of them pass daily through our doormat on their way to Christless eternity in different regalia as our colleagues at work, our employers/employees, our gateman, our regular customer (pepper or cloth seller in the market), our taxi drivers, the bike men, patients we daily treat as medical personnel, pupils and students under our tutelage at schools, our teachers and lecturers on campus. The list goes on!

We are in the last of the last days (2 Timothy 3:1), and of course, it’s prophetically more difficult to be a correct Christian (“where iniquity is to abound and the love of many waxed cold” —Matthew 24:13).

How can we then, as a generation, despite the several factors militating against our faith, love, attention and devotion to the things of God still be able to go about fulfilling our mandate of reaching the world with the Gospel and fulfilling our calling without failing?

1. Set/Re-set the Compass

Someone once remarked: [We are] “In a generation where the Bible is increasingly being treated as inspirational rather than authoritative–valuable for encouragement, but negotiable when it conflicts with cultural norms.” This is one of the most subtle, yet very fatal danger of the end time. If you’ll keep your faith alive and ablaze to the very end, you must first decide what it is exactly you want to live for/keep on living for. You must daily set and CHECK the compass as regards the direction of your greatest priority and preoccupation in life. Whether it’s for God and the Will of His heart today (1Timothy 2:4) or just for the things that end with time! To Peter and John and the early disciples of Christ, the great commission of their master was not a great suggestion that can be followed when situation around is viable or safe (Acts 4:19-20).

2. Ask for God’s Help in Prayer!

After the compass of your heart has been set to obeying and doing the will of God Your Maker and Master regardless of the odds and conflicts and possible consequences, the next step is to seek His grace in prayer (Philippians 2:13, 4:13)

We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition.

1 Thessalonians 2:2 NIV

That was Paul, the Apostle, one of the most successful Christ’s Ambassadors in history talking here. And every man’s secret is in their story.

Talk about unstoppable soul winning zeal, fire and resilience in pursuit of God and expansion of His Kingdom. How was he able to accomplish that much for the kingdom within a lifetime? He said he was simply HELPED OF GOD! He described that help later as Grace! (1 Corinthians 15:10)

To appropriate this is to ask God for His Help too. Ask Him daily in prayers for grace to be able to obey His great commission mandate today and every remaining day of your life (regardless of any cultural, societal or governmental factors that might be militating against your obedience —Acts 4:29-31). Ask Christ to help you truly love people enough that you’ll care MORE about the eternal welfare of their souls than any other factors limiting you from reaching out to them with the Gospel. He is the One that loved them enough to die for them in the first place. Ask Him in prayers to give you His heart for the people around you and place a portion of His boundless love for them within your heart. You’ll then begin to see a great shift in your world view and priority.

3. Start from where you are

A simple launchpad question to ask yourself is: “Who is close to me but (still) far from God today?” That is your immediate mission field. Ask yourself right now: Who am I intentionally building a gospel-centred relationship with, reaching out to and discipling for Christ today?

4. Write down the Vision

To keep yourself on track in the midst of the great distractions of our generation, have it boldly written somewhere visible to you in your house, on your office table or desk (if it’s possible), so that you’re daily confronted with it.

My Vision (as an obedient disciple of Christ) is that everyone in this neighborhood, in this company, or on this campus (as the case may be) get to hear the Word

As God’s vision is constantly fed and fanned aflame, it will become a fire that burns naturally within your heart. You will soon begin to see everyone (man, woman and child you meet daily) as someone that God wants to reach.  The next assignment is to make it a personal mandate to spread this fire to every Christian or convert you’re discipling for Christ. When the task of Global Missions becomes the responsibility of every believer, that’s when we can start talking about finishing the remaining task of evangelizing the World for Christ.

5. Till the Whole Earth be filled

The Oikos ministry and work within one’s local assembly is enormous yet God wills and plans that the utmost end of the world be reached through your direct involvement as member of His army. Not everyone will be able to go to Asia in person, but any believer today can touch souls for God thousands of miles away in another continent upon his/her knees in prayer. You can send and support someone there with your prayers and resources and thus partner with God to keep the Gospel spreading there!

The remaining task of reaching the lost and the perishing is so enormous that no one should be able to say that there is no space for me in it.

6. Lastly, Don’t lose your sight on the Rewards (Hebrews 12:2)

Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done.

Revelations 22:12

I believe the greatest question to ask at the end of each day is WHAT HAVE I DONE FOR CHRIST TODAY? It might also be the best question to start each day with: “WHAT AM I GOING TO DO FOR CHRIST (TOWARDS THE EXPANSION OF GOD’S KINGDOM) TODAY? This is living for God’s Vision!

Owoseni Adeolu Amos is a missionary working among the Fulanis in a southwestern part of Nigeria. While on campus, he served as the Evangelism Secretary and later as the Fellowship President.

Image Credit: radicallychristian.com

“If the axe is dull and one does not sharpen the edge, more strength is needed; but wisdom brings success.”
— Ecclesiastes 10:10

Perhaps one way God is sharpening the axe for this generation is through Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Some approach AI with fear or suspicion, as though it competes with humanity or even with faith. Yet throughout Scripture, God consistently releases wisdom through people — craftsmanship in Exodus, strategy through Joseph, governance through Daniel, and insight through Paul. AI is not replacing man; it is man applying God-given intelligence at scale. Like Moses, who needed helpers to carry responsibility, AI can serve as an assistant that never gets tired — helping draft documents, organise plans, analyse options, or structure ideas while you focus on discernment and decision-making. Delegation has always been spiritual wisdom.

One remarkable thing about AI is its breadth of knowledge. Trained across books, research material, and professional disciplines, it compresses hours of searching into minutes of structured insight. Engineers explore solutions faster, students understand difficult subjects sooner, and small business owners compete more effectively. Ask broad questions, and it responds broadly; ask precise questions, and it becomes surprisingly detailed. It does not replace expertise — it accelerates learning and exposes blind spots early.

In my professional journey as a Software Engineer and CTO at Loopsave (www.loopsave.com), a fintech startup co-founded with another Senior Friend, AI has quietly become part of how we think and build. We explore architectural decisions, stress-test financial flows, draft technical documentation, and challenge assumptions before writing production code. Many costly mistakes are avoided simply because difficult questions can now be examined early. Decisions still require prayer, accountability, and experience — AI simply sharpens the conversation.

Outside work, the impact is even more relatable. Some will use AI for research; others may simply use it to plan family devotions, prepare CVs, write birthday messages, organise travel plans, or model personal finances. I have personally used it to structure presentations, learn new subjects faster, and organise community initiatives. Imagine preparing a family budget or planning a weekly prayer session in minutes, not hours. Many burdens we carry today exist simply because we have not yet learned to delegate wisely.

However, wisdom requires balance. AI can sound confident even when wrong, especially when instructions are unclear. Outputs must be verified — particularly in finance, medicine, or spiritual counsel. Privacy also matters; sensitive information should not be casually shared online. Most importantly, AI should never replace prayer, Scripture, or counsel from trusted believers. Think of it as a brilliant intern — incredibly helpful, but never the final authority.

Getting started is simpler than many imagine. Open a conversational AI tool today and ask, “Help me plan my week.” That single exercise may surprise you. Writing tools help refine messages or teaching outlines. Image tools assist with flyers or church media. Learning assistants explain complex subjects patiently. Across education, healthcare, engineering, and entrepreneurship, millions now collaborate with AI weekly — not because they are experts, but because they were willing to experiment.

So where do you begin? Identify repetitive tasks first — emails you rewrite often, research that consumes hours, documents you struggle to start, or decisions requiring structured comparison. Invite AI into those spaces while keeping wisdom and discernment at the centre.

You don’t have to do everything alone anymore.

Perhaps God, in His mercy, has given this generation a helper that multiplies effort — so we can spend more time loving people, building families, serving His kingdom, and pursuing purpose.

Wisdom in this season may simply be learning to do what matters most.

Akintunde Olanrewaju is a Payment Software Engineer and Senior Friend with experience building secure financial systems across fintech and payments. He serves as CTO at Loopsave (www.loopsave.com), a social finance platform that helps communities build financial stability through technology. He is passionate about faith, innovation, and practical wisdom for everyday life.

Image generated using AI (Google’s Gemini)

I warmly congratulate you all on successfully crossing into the year 2026. To God Almighty alone be all the glory for His unfailing mercies, divine protection, and preservation. Indeed, we are grateful to be among those telling the story of 2025.

The year 2025 was eventful across the globe, and for us in SFCN, it was a season of impact and fulfillment. We witnessed God’s hand through our various activities, the powerful testimonies shared, and most especially the successful Jubilee Reunion. On behalf of the Executive Committee, I sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed to these success stories through prayers, financial support, and selfless service. Special thanks to those who consistently answered the call whenever the network reached out and participated in the various programmes. It would have been truly disheartening to look around and find no one standing with us, but God blessed us with committed brethren.

Now, 2026 is upon us, marking the beginning of the third year of this Executive Committee’s tenure. By the grace of God, we are stronger, more focused, and even more committed to serving you faithfully. We humbly invite you to prayerfully continue this glorious journey with us.

Drawing strength from Nehemiah 9:19–21, we boldly declare that our flourishing in 2026 shall be great. The Lord will be merciful to us and will not abandon us in any situation. We shall not be stranded nor confused. The Holy Spirit will continually guide and instruct us. God will not withhold nourishment from us; we shall lack no good thing. Sickness will not overpower us, we will not be clothed in shame or rags, and we will not embark on journeys of no return in Jesus’ mighty name.

Beloved brethren, to fully access these blessings, uprightness is essential. As Proverbs 14:11 says, “The house of the wicked will be overthrown, but the tent of the upright will flourish.” In our daily walk with God and in our dealings with others this year, we must deliberately prioritize uprightness (living lives of righteousness and integrity). This is not a season to toy with sin or walk in deception. We are called to put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts (Romans 13:14). More than ever, we must be intentional about living in complete obedience to God. Like Daniel, when we purpose in our hearts to honour God completely, His abundant grace will be made available to us. By His mercy, the Lord will make our Christian journey and our pursuit of uprightness easier and joyful throughout this year, in Jesus’ name.

As the year unfolds, we will regularly keep you informed of the activities God has prepared for us. We encourage you not to miss out on any of them. By God’s grace, you and I will joyfully tell the beautiful story of 2026, sound in mind, strong in health, and flourishing in prosperity in Jesus’ name.

Happy New Year, and God bless you all abundantly.

Yours in His Service,

Adebayo O. Adeniyi
President, SFCN

The mid-year months focused on the practicalities of our walk and witness. In May, Abiola Fajimi exhorted us to see the marketplace as a mission field, integrating our faith into our professional lives. June brought a powerful two-part series from Oluwapelumi Oloke on “Total Dependency,” sharing her journey from resistance to being posted to Kano to finding divine protection through surrender. As the heat of July set in, Pharmacist Ore Adeyemi reminded us to “Stay Hydrated, Stay Healthy,” emphasizing that our bodies are the physical channels for God’s power. In the same month, Funmilola Oni and Jonah Ibiamagabara began the countdown to our landmark reunion, inviting fifty generations to celebrate God’s wondrous works.

The latter part of the year intensified our spiritual preparation. August featured Grace Ogunlusi on the “Costs and Benefits of Courageous Obedience,” teaching us that obedience is the truest evidence of belief. September saw our “Citizens” taking “The Light to Ogbagba,” a mission trip where healing and salvation were witnessed firsthand. October brought a renewed call from President Adebayo Adeniyi for every Senior Friend to find their place in the family, while November served as a final rallying cry, bridging the wisdom of elders with the energy of youth as we approached our historic Jubilee gathering.

Reunion 2025 was truly the Lord’s doing, a significant milestone that gathered over 250 Senior Friends and students. As the Planning Committee Chairman, Olusola Olawoye, captured in his post-event article, the three-day event was characterized by a powerful Jubilee Praise Night and impactful expert talks. The Chairman noted that the “Outpouring” experienced in Ile-Ife was not a closing ceremony but the beginning of a new half-century of grace, signalling that the best is yet to come for the SFCN family.

As we step into 2026, we welcome every Senior Friend to a new year of limitless possibilities. We look ahead with optimism, confident that this is our year for manifesting the kingdom power throughout all 365 days. The assurance of God’s sufficient grace is available to us all. We encourage you to trust wholeheartedly in God to do exploits and to remain diligent in all SFCN activities. We want to see all of us in our online and physical events. Together, let us walk in the fullness of His power!

Jonah Ibiamagabara is the SFCN Public Relations Officer. He graduated in 2014 having served as the fellowship’s Technical Director and in several fellowship units including the Foundation School and School of Ministry. He now works as a project engineer within Nigeria’s energy industry.

I do not intend to sing Dunsin Oyekan’s song but to say that ASF/AYF OAU Ife has produced several alumni over the last 50 years. Beyond the Power Services, village evangelisms, outreaches, household retreats, prayer meetings, bible study meetings, cell meetings, exam prayer meetings, Choice, Celebrations, New Beginnings, and many more, one thing we share is a deep bond rooted in faith—a foundation built on Jesus Christ that continues to shape our lives long after graduation.

Our alumni association, Senior Friends Christian Network (SFCN), is more than a name on a list or a WhatsApp group. It is an incorporated association, guided by a constitution with aims and objectives. It is indeed a living and breathing community; a community for encouragement, support, and collective impact. It is the product of the efforts of many faithful soldiers who have gone ahead of us; brethren who committed their time and resources to create a structure for us to remain a healthy family after graduation, connecting newer generations to the founding fathers. Hence, participating in SFCN’s events, avails you the opportunity to not only rekindle old friendships and connections, but an opportunity to also uplift others through your story, your testimonies, your prayers, and your presence. Every voice contributes to the harmony of this network. Every story adds a new chapter to our shared testimony (Prov. 27:17). Therefore, your involvement matters a lot.

Another Reunion holds on the 28^th – 30^th of November 2025. Our Reunion is a time to reconnect, to rejoice and to reflect. It is a time to relive those nostalgic moments we once shared as brothers and sisters in faith. Perhaps you are one of those who have not found a reason to attend reunions or you still have one excuse or the other, I plead with you to have a change of mind. Our Reunion is not a time to show off; it is not for status-competition, nor is it not about denominations. I want you to see it as a time to give back to the source that contributed so much to our spiritual growth; a source that supported our emotional, social, welfare and academic wellbeing at those moments that it mattered most. We all have benefited in one way or the other, whether knowingly or unknowingly from the ministry of Senior Friends during our time on campus – those financial supports for the successful programmes we held, those ministers and resource persons that risked their lives embarking on those travels to OAU for no dime that you and I may be blessed. Giving back is not all about money, but you have a story that can shape the future of one student. You have a testimony that can launch another to his/her destiny. You have a presence that can give hope to the faint-hearted. It may even be your own moment to connect with your destiny helper that you have been praying for and seeking for many years. If Zechariah had stopped going to the temple because of his challenge of childlessness, he might not have been located at his angelic post (Luke 1:5-14). That gathering may be your own appointed time to encounter that liberating idea and insight that you need for your next level, and you do not want to miss it.

Maybe you have been away for a while but now you have every reason to make it to this Jubilee Reunion and make it the beginning of many more to come. It is time to return, reconnect, and reignite your place in this family. I do not want us to relive the old time alone but let us create new ones together to the glory of God.

Be aware that a group of brethren, the Reunion Planning Committee, have been meeting fortnightly for almost one year so that you may have a valuable and memorable time at the Reunion. Also, the SFCN prayer team has been meeting fortnightly for a similar period for your sake, and we know that God is answering their prayers. Let us meet at the Jubilee Reunion this November.

I love you all.

Adebayo Adeniyi
SFCN President

Click here to register for Reunion 2025

Courageous obedience is therefore following God’s commands and instructions without fear— fear of failure, loneliness, death, people, powers, pain, loss, troubles, pressure or anything.

Obedience to God is not always easy. But every act of obedience is an act of trust and it always proves that God’s way is the best even when it feels costly.

God’s intention for us is to choose His will above our will—that’s what make Him Lord. He has called us to obey Him with all our heart and to do us good not evil. Because we are in the world, the world will hate us because they hate light and love darkness (John 3:19). However, Christ has promised to be with us and never leave us (John 16:33, Hebrew 13:5b). When we obey God, He makes all things to work for our good because our courageous obedience honours Him (Rom 8:28).

“But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.”

Joshua 22:5

“So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

Matthew 19:28-30

What are Christians called to do?

1. To keep all His commands – The Scripture and the Spirit (Romans 8:14)
2. To love God above self and others – Matthew 10:37 “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.”
3. To teach and disciple others for Christ: Matthew 28:19-20 “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit:  Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.”
4. To preach the Gospel—with our words and our lives
5. To love and pray for others, give, serve God and fellow human beings cheerfully

God has given us His Holy Spirit, the word of God, the fellowship of brethren, examples of believers to encourage our hearts and strengthen our courage. 

Courageous obedience is all about trusting in God’s authority/commands as dictated in the Bible or one’s own convictions by the Holy Spirit and acting on them, despite fear or uncertainty.

It is clear today that we are in the end times and believers have demonstrated too much fear of men that we are losing the fear of God. Preachers are not courageous enough to preach the absolute truth of God’s word because they want a “full church”—they end up making “fools” out of their church members.

We want people and the world to give us accolades even if it means blending with the world and denying the faith. We hate suffering for the sake of righteousness and obedience to God. Workers want favour with authorities that they compromise their faith for earthly benefits and act as if God is dead. Accountability to God is no more a consideration.

Families and marriages are torn apart because love for one another is mere lip service and obedience to the command of “No divorce” is too unbearable. They even divorce for no just cause and remarry while they remain church leaders; normalizing adultery in the church. The question is: can God change? (Mal. 2:16; Matthew 5:31-32, 19:9-10; Mark 10:11-12; 1 Cor 7)

Our Christian youths are after fame and wealth, giving their souls to demons, their bodies to dogs and foxes, exchanging their glory for peanuts, changing their bodies they did not create, burning with unholy passion with same sex, copying the lifestyles, hairstyles and fashion trends of worldly celebrities, comparing themselves with themselves and neglecting the voice of the Holy Spirit because they want to belong—acceptance by men that leads to rejection by God.

What do we say about the dirty secrets people do on the internet and phones such as pornography, cybersex (such as role play, sexting, dirty talk and virtual masturbation), masturbation, etc.? Immorality and idolatry are common practices among single and married believers. Self-denial is no more popular but sin is reigning in the mortal bodies.

Without any laws forbidding us from preaching the gospel, we have shut our own mouths and failed to rescue the perishing, abandoning the lost souls to head to hell because of our misplaced priorities, busyness, fear of rejection, fear of death and spiritual coldness. Cowards will not enter the kingdom of God and the lukewarm Christians the Lord will spew out of his mouth (Revelations 3:16). The signs and wonders Christ promised will follow preaching and outreaches are denied those who need it to be saved and glorify God, yet we expect heaven to smile at us.

We love our lives but not unto the death and yet we want to overcome the devil—apparently impossible! (Rev 12:11) Our comforts are our pride and we cherish our space that we have forgotten that we are called to serve others. We give our best to what brings money and earthly gains, hoping the Lord can manage the little time we offer Him, yet that little is corrupted with distractions and stained with sins. Little wonder our prayers are weak and ineffective and our fellowship are not bringing down God’s glory.

God has given us His Holy Spirit, the word of God, the fellowship of brethren and examples of believers to encourage our heart and strengthen our courage.  Abraham believed God, left his country to an unknown place God was leading him to, ‘offered up’ his only son to God, raised altars for God… and it was counted to him as righteousness, became the Father of faith, a friend of God, and an eternal blessing.

Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego did not fear the kings of Babylon but rather, obeyed God. Daniel purposed in his heart not to be defiled by the king’s meat, risked his life and defiled the king’s law to pray to the King of kings. They went through the fire and were not burned, escaped death in the lions’ den, revealed God to the kings, manifested uncommon gifts—interpreting dreams and handwritings of God. They were signs and wonders in a strange land.

Jesus Christ suffered rejection, threats to his life, name-calling, ridicule, shame etc., because he was doing good and fulfilling the plan of God, the Father. Today, He is seated at the right hand of the Father, bringing many sons to glory.

What about Joseph, Deborah, Elijah, the Apostles of Christ (including Paul), Stephen, the Heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 and many great church reformers who passed down the faith to us?

Let us awake unto obedience with courage that our God may restore His peace to us, that we may have deep joy and experience intimacy with God and manifestations of God’s power. 

Finally, brethren “But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you” (1 Peter 5:10). Amen!

Image Credit: faithplus.blog

Grace Olufunmilayo Ogunlusi graduated in 1998. She served as a prayer subgroup member, a follow up teacher and also served as the UJCM Family coordinator while in the fellowship. She is a Professor of Chemistry at OAU. She is happily married to Dr. Richard Olaniyi Ogunlusi who is the Vicar of the Anglican Church of the Pentecost, OAU

Sometimes life corners us into depending on God — when all our options have run out. These moments are often God’s way of drawing us back to what truly matters: Him.

But by then, we are often worn out. We have wasted time, energy, and emotions worrying over things we never had to carry.

When God calls us, it is to a life of total dependency:

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28 (NKJV)

God genuinely wants us to prosper. But how can the branch bear fruit without total reliance on the vine?

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters… and will not be anxious in the year of drought.” – Jeremiah 17:7–8 (NKJV)

“Abide in Me, and I in you… for without Me you can do nothing.” – John 15:4–5 (NKJV)

These verses highlight the blessing and stability that come from trusting God and remaining connected to Him — rather than leaning on our limited selves.

How Can We Totally Depend on God?

• Reverence God

Give God your deepest respect. Put Him first. See Him as your very breath.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5–6 (NKJV)

“I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.” – Psalm 16:8 (ESV)

Reverence means seeing God as your only source, your final authority, your first and last voice. It also means we do not project divine honour onto pastors or mentors. While Scripture instructs us to honour our leaders, it warns against idolizing them:

“We ought to obey God rather than men.” – Acts 5:29 (NKJV)

“So then, neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.” – 1 Corinthians 3:7 (NKJV)

• Seek the Will of the Father

This is not about asking God to bless what you want to do. It is about asking Him what He wants you to do. His will is revealed through His Word and through prayer.

Learn to meditate on Scripture. The energy used in worrying can be redirected to deep reflection. Find a verse, phrase, or passage. Think on it. Compare it with other scriptures. Let it renew your mind.

“His delight is in the law of the Lord… He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water.” – Psalm 1:2–3 (NKJV)

Doing God’s will involves aligning with His desires — not just in actions, but in the posture of your heart. Do not seek encounters; seek His heart. Do not chase goosebumps; chase obedience.

“If My people… will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face… then I will hear from heaven.” – 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV)

• Practice Contentment

Let God be enough for you. If your eye is single, your whole body will be full of light. Total dependency will lead to true contentment — not complacency, but clarity.

Jesus did the Father’s will — even when it led to the cross. Sometimes the will of God is not about ease, but about eternal purpose.

Let us not just trust God first — let us trust Him only.

Conclusion

Total dependency on God is not weakness. It is wisdom. It is a life of faith — believing that the One who sees all and knows all is guiding your steps. For as long as we keep a backup plan in our hearts, we will miss the best of what God has for us.

May we live with reverence, seek His will, and find deep contentment in Him. For the Lord is our portion, our strength, and our guide.

Oluwapelumi Oloke (nee Osilaran) is a lawyer based in the UK. She primarily served in the technical subgroup during her undergraduate days. She is married to a fellow Citizen, and they are blessed with two kids.

Image Credit: ourdailyverse.com

I had about six months between my final exam and the opening of applications for law school. During those months, I envisioned what law school would look like. I had always wanted Abuja Law School — the capital city felt more serene and structured than the chaotic bustle of Lagos. In fact, I ranked Enugu above Lagos. I even included Bayelsa as one of my four preferred locations, thinking, “I’ve been to Port Harcourt; I’ll be fine in the East.”

I wanted to be like Abraham — leaving the familiar behind for a distant land. The only difference? Unlike Abraham, who did not know where he was going, I had a map… or so I thought.

Then, in November, the postings came. All my friends who applied alongside me were posted to Abuja. Guess what I got? Kano.

Kano? I could not believe my eyes. A northern state? Close to Boko Haram territory? I imagined the worst. I did everything I could to change the posting. I asked my parents to pull strings, but nothing worked. I booked a late flight, still hoping for a miracle.

As I journeyed from Ibadan to Lagos to catch my flight, I met some young people at the airport and wondered if they were also posted to Kano. Unfortunately, they were only using the same flight as a second leg from Ghana. Little did I know, the Father of mercy had a plan. I later ran into a senior friend and a woman who was like an elder sister to my mum. They were both headed to Abuja. That made me cry even more. We could have been on the same flight.

Still, my posting remained unchanged. As I boarded the plane, disappointed and exhausted, I started seeing my name flash in my mind. It prompted me to pray — really pray — for the first time in this new chapter. I declared, “The Lord is with me. Emmanuel.” Thank God for His mercy. From that moment, I decided to totally depend on God. My strength had failed. My plans had crumbled. The arm of flesh had not prevailed.

Our flight did not leave Lagos until around 10 p.m., so I arrived in Kano around 11 p.m. I could not go straight to the law school — it was on the other side of the state. The strangers I met helped me arrange accommodation for the night and even got me free transport to the law school the next day.

Kano was a no-man’s land for me. I knew no one. My family knew no one. But God knew. And He had plunged me into the deep — away from distractions and into a place of deep focus. As I focused on Him, I stopped worrying about everything that consumed my mind before the flight. As I sought the Lord, He began to sort me out. My gaze shifted from material concerns to a genuine longing for a relationship with Him. I began early morning prayer walks — alone or with a prayer partner. He helped me intercede. He helped me seek. He helped me grow. I enjoyed God in Kano so much that I even stayed back for my court and chambers attachment when I could have gone elsewhere. God provided for me. He protected me. He walked with me every step of the way.

Oluwapelumi Oloke (nee Osilaran) is a lawyer based in the UK. She primarily served in the technical subgroup during her undergraduate days. She is married to a fellow Citizen, and they are blessed with two kids.

Image Credit: ourdailyverse.com

Read the second part in this series: A Call to Total Dependency

When Rishi Sunak became the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, many took note not just of his historic rise, but also of his quiet boldness in expressing his Hindu faith. He took his oath on the Bhagavad Gita and openly celebrated Diwali at Downing Street. Though not a Christian, his example was a powerful reminder: personal faith can be integrated into public life.

If someone in one of the world’s most scrutinized offices can be open about their belief system, why do many Christians in business, politics, and other professional spaces feel the need to hide theirs?
This article is a call to Christians: don’t hide your identity. Live out your faith confidently in the marketplace.

The Marketplace Is a Mission Field

For many, “ministry” is limited to what happens in church buildings or mission fields abroad. But Scripture reveals a much broader view. God is interested not only in the sacred but also in the secular. He places His people in offices, boardrooms, classrooms, construction sites, and studios—not just pews.

Daniel served in government. Joseph managed Egypt’s economy. Lydia was a businesswoman. Paul made tents. Jesus Himself worked as a carpenter before launching into full-time ministry. The marketplace has always been one of God’s primary arenas for influence.

The Call to Shine

In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus declares:

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

This is not a suggestion—it is a mandate. Christians are called to shine, not shrink. We are not meant to compartmentalize our faith, separating the spiritual from the professional. Faith should fuel our work ethic, shape our integrity, and inform our leadership.

Why Do Christians Hide Their Faith?

Despite this call, many believers go silent in their workplace. Why?

• Fear of judgment or exclusion
• Worry about being seen as unprofessional or preachy
• Uncertainty about how to express faith appropriately

Yet, hiding faith can result in missed opportunities—for influence, encouragement, and witness. It also communicates that following Jesus is only relevant in private life, which undermines the transformative power of the gospel.

Faith Does Not Mean Preaching at Work

Living out your faith doesn’t mean turning your office into a pulpit. It means integrating biblical principles into your everyday work life:

• Integrity when no one’s watching
• Excellence in your duties
• Compassion in how you treat others
• Peace in how you handle stress and setbacks
• Wisdom in decision-making

And when opportunities arise to speak about your faith—whether during a lunch break, in a crisis, or over coffee—take them with grace and humility (1 Peter 3:15).

God Uses the Marketplace to Shape You—and Others

Your workplace is not just a place for income. It’s a place for impact and growth.

• It refines your character
• It tests your faith in real-world challenges
• It opens doors to influence people who might never walk into a church

Your witness in the marketplace may be the only gospel someone sees. The way you lead, serve, and respond to pressure can open hearts and spark curiosity about the hope you carry.

Being Faithful Where You Are

You don’t need a new platform to honour God. Start with where you already are.

• If you’re a teacher, teach with love and truth
• If you’re a manager, lead with integrity and grace
• If you’re a student, be a light in your classroom
• If you’re in politics, advocate for justice and righteousness
• If you run a business, model ethical practices and servant leadership

Your faith isn’t a liability—it’s your greatest asset. God has placed you where you are for a purpose.

Conclusion

Rishi Sunak’s example reminds us that faith can have a place in public leadership. But for Christians, this truth runs even deeper: we are called to live for Christ in every area of life—including the marketplace.
Let us not hide who we are. Let us be bold, not arrogant; humble, not ashamed; faithful, not fearful.

The world needs more Christians who are willing to stand tall, live well, and shine brightly where God has placed them.

Abiola Fajimi is a chartered accountant and tax practitioner. He works as Managing Partner at PML Professional Services, an indigenous accounting firm based in Nigeria. On campus, he served as Follow-Up School Principal and UJCM Organizing Secretary. He is happily married and blessed with children.

Image Credit:  Vladimir Fedotov on Unsplash

When we were born again, we received the very nature and quality of God’s life. This is not merely about longevity; it is about partaking in the divine nature while still in the body. Embracing this new life transforms us, shaping our habits, character, and perspective.

To fully experience and enjoy this eternal life, we must allow the life of God within us to influence our choices and actions. John 17:3 (AMPC) states:

“And this is eternal life: [It means] to know (to perceive, recognize, become acquainted with, and understand) You, the only true and real God, and [likewise] to know Him, Jesus [as the] Christ (the Anointed One, the Messiah), whom You have sent.”

This goes beyond mere intellectual knowledge; it is a revelational understanding of who God is—one that transforms everything we do. It shapes our daily decisions, fuels our love for Him, and enables us to see the world through the lens of His Word.

With this God-kind of life, we are called to rule and reign with Him on earth—a life of dominion over sin, sickness, and everything contrary to God’s nature. His Word becomes our guiding light and anchor in every area of life. Challenges will come, but we must stand firm on His Word until our circumstances align with His promises.

Walking in the reality of God’s Word is not just an experience—it is our calling. We have not been called to religion but to a life of dominion. Refuse to bow to situations. Insist on the truth of God’s Word until it becomes your reality.

Kikelomo Okewole (nee Makinde) served in various capacities in the fellowship as a member of the ASF Executive Council (COG32).

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