“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.

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

What is Mountain-Moving Faith?

Mountain-moving faith is not just a figure of speech; it’s a tangible expression of trust in God’s ability to work miracles in our lives. It’s the kind of faith that enables us to speak to our challenges, declare victory over them, and watch as God moves mountains to bring about His perfect will.
The foundation for mountain-moving faith is found in several key Bible verses:

“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20)

“For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.” (Mark 11:23)

The key to unlocking the power of mountain-moving faith lies in our belief. When we truly believe that God can do what He promises, we tap into a supernatural force that can move mountains in our lives.

To better understand the concept of mountain-moving faith, let’s explore some analogies:

A Seed and a Tree: When planted in fertile soil, a tiny mustard seed can grow into a mighty tree. Similarly, when nurtured by God’s Word and prayer, a small seed of faith can grow into a powerful force that can overcome any obstacle.
A Child and a Parent: A child trusts their parent implicitly. They believe that their parent will provide for them, protect them, and guide them. In the same way, we should trust God as our heavenly Father, believing that He will always do what is best for us.
A Lighthouse in a Storm: A lighthouse shines brightly through the darkest storm, guiding ships to safety. In the same way, our faith in God can be a beacon of hope in the midst of life’s storms, guiding us through difficult times.

Cultivating Mountain-Moving Faith

How can we cultivate mountain-moving faith in our own lives? Here are a few practical steps:
Spend Time in God’s Word: The Bible is the source of our faith. By reading and meditating on God’s Word, we can strengthen our belief in His promises.

Come near to God and He will come near to you. (James 4:8)

This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. (Joshua 1:8)

Pray Regularly: Prayer is a powerful tool for communicating with God and expressing our faith. Through prayer, we can lay our burdens before God and trust in His divine intervention.

Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Surround Yourself with Faith-Filled People: Iron sharpens iron, and so does faith. By surrounding ourselves with people who believe in the power of God, we can be encouraged and inspired to grow in our own faith.

Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Practice Gratitude: Gratitude is a powerful antidote to doubt and fear. By focusing on the blessings in our lives, we can cultivate a heart of faith and trust in God’s goodness.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. (Psalm 100:4)

Mountain-moving faith is a gift from God that empowers us to overcome any challenge. By believing in God’s promises, trusting in His power, and living a life of faith, we can experience the miraculous in our own lives. Let us embrace the power of mountain-moving faith and watch as God transforms our lives and moves mountains for us.

Adebisola Ayogbemi-Ajala is a lover of God. She served in the New Generation Choir on campus, and now focuses on living life to the fullest as God desires.

It is with great appreciation to God that I send you this letter. What a privilege to be reconnected to this family of God and my alma mater, ‘Anglican Students Fellowship!’  I am happy to learn of progress we have all made as Senior Friends and of how we are leading vibrant lives, raising godly families and impacting our communities. Glory be to God!

In similar words and Spirit to that of John and Paul, I herewith bring you glad tidings of Peace.

“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 John 2:4, NIV)

“Now may God himself, the God of peace make you pure, belonging only to him. May your whole self – spirit, soul and body- be kept safe and without fault when our Lord Jesus Christ comes. You can trust the One who calls you to do that for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24, NCV).

Amid Gideon’s intimidation by the Midianites, he experienced angelic visitation by the Lord of peace. The same Lord that could consume his test offering of meat, bread and broth by fire (Judges 6:21) was the same Lord who had encouraged him and spoken to him, saying “It is all right, do not be afraid, you will not die!” (v23) Little wonder he raised an altar to that same Lord with the appellation ‘Yahweh-Shalom’ stemming from his encounter with the purifying power of God’s peace. (Judges 6 vs 24). Yahweh-Shalom means ‘The Lord is Peace.’

Philosopher Cornelus Plantiga explains Shalom like this: “In the Bible, shalom means universal flourishing, wholeness and delight – a rich state-of-affairs in which natural needs are satisfied and natural gifts fruitfully employed, a state-of-affairs that inspires joyful wonder as its Creator and Savior opens doors and welcomes the creatures in whom He delights.” In the welcoming and loving presence of the God of peace himself, Gideon’s fears had diminished, and he could then truly manifest as the mighty man of valour, we see that he was made whole, and restored to his true calling. He had been purified in the presence of his Creator.

Our Saviour’s provision for us is peace, He is the Prince of Peace just as He said in His Word.

“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything that I have said to you. Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:26-27, NIV).

By the purifying power of peace, may we continually be living sacrifices and testimonies to the glory of God in the name of Jesus Christ. May everything in our lives that represents deadness be consumed by the fire of God’s peace and our lives be transformed completely to bring God a healthy, holy and wholesome aroma of praise and glory. Amen!

Shalom!

Mrs. Olubukayo Oladunjoye (Bukayo) is a kingdom minded believer and achiever with varied interests including sports, arts and wellness.

A few years ago, I found myself in a deep dilemma. Nothing around me seemed to provide answers to the questions within, while external voices only grew louder, intensifying my inner conflict. Looking to those who had taught me faith was disheartening; it seemed everyone was looking out for themselves. Some friends were grappling with where to place their allegiance, with no brethren or mentors to turn to, wondering why they had abandoned their faith.

In those moments, even the simple miracles of sleeping and waking up didn’t seem to answer the ultimate question of His presence. I longed for that quiet, sacred moment where nothing else in the world mattered—the tangible ambience of His glory; so real it could almost be touched, reminiscent of the days of Moses when the cloud descended over the meeting tent, and His voice rang out with such power that it struck fear into the hearts of both believers and unbelievers alike. The clarity of those visions is unmatched in the entire universe; so vivid that every fine detail is discernible.

Brethren, at the heart of these challenging moments, when the reality of your faith is questioned by even those who should know better, it may be time to echo the words of the paralytic man whom Jesus healed:

“The one who made me well said to me, ‘Pick up your mat and walk’.”

John 5:11

Within this statement lies the foundation of your faith and the fulfillment of your miracle—the “who” being Jesus, and the “what” being the truth He spoke. Your miracle and the voice of the One who spoke to you are too real to be ignored. His word, after all, granted you a miracle so undeniable that it must be acknowledged. It may be time to face the situations questioning your faith and boldly declare, “The one who spoke to me said, ‘Take up your bed and walk’.”

The intimidating voices of the economy, chaos, and religious strife should not rob you of the experience of His salvation. His abundant grace, so rich and freely given even when all hope seemed lost, is a testament to His enduring love. Perhaps others have told you that your joy is temporary, that it won’t last because they do not believe in Him as we do today. Or maybe it’s the very people you expected to know better who have become the antagonists of your faith. Stand firm, beloved, for they are not God. You need to revisit the place of your consecration or recall the wonderful works of His mercy in your life.

We refuse to remain silent and allow those who do not know Him as we do to dictate the terms of our faith. We believe because of what we have experienced. Even if we didn’t initially believe His words, we believe because of the works He has done. We will not let their unbelief drown our joy. We stand resolute in our faith in Him whom we have experienced. These are the things we have seen, the things we have touched, the things we have handled—the Word of life. They are undeniable. We will no longer let them question our experience. It is time to look each situation, each colleague, each experience, and society itself in the face and proclaim, “The one who made me well said…, and that is the truth of my experience!”.

Until I write to you again, bring forth your testimony, dust off the records of your miracles, find your spiritual voice, and declare to whatever challenges your spiritual experience: “He is real, He is true, and He is alive”.

Shalom.

Olayemi Okewole is an experienced geologist who blends his professional interests in looking beneath the subsurface for petroleum deposits with a passion for empowering young people. He served as the President of ASF among other roles in the fellowship, and has served as Vice-President of SFCN.

Similarly, we are reminded of the danger of consuming without producing. It is a mistake to receive blessings and resources intended to empower us without generating tangible results. This applies not only to physical provisions but also to spiritual nourishment and divine empowerment. Beloved, manifesting kingdom power involves more than consumption; it requires transformational action.

As we enter this new month, let us resolve not to be like David’s brothers, who were fed but did not conquer. Instead, let every resource, every prayer, and every opportunity lead to significant impact and fruitful outcomes. May every blessing received empower us to make a difference in our communities, families, and personal lives. May our efforts be purposeful, our prayers effective, and our lives reflective of the divine capacitation within us.

Just as every branch that bears fruit is pruned to bear even more (John 15:2), let us declare that our endeavors will not be in vain. Every action, every step taken in faith, will yield abundant results. Let August be a month of pleasant surprises, where God’s provisions in our lives lead to mega results and lasting impact.

Declaration: In this month of pleasant surprises, I declare that my efforts will yield fruit. I receive divine empowerment to produce results in all areas of my life, to the glory of God.

Adenike Chioma Fajimi (nee Adeyeye), an Economics graduate of 2005, has established a thriving career as a Relationship Manager in Corporate Banking at a leading Nigerian bank. A devoted wife and mother of three, she finds joy in traveling and reading. Adenike is driven by a passion project to support financially challenged teenagers in completing their secondary education. While on campus, She was a member of the Prayer Subgroup, Welfare Team, Foundation School, School of Ministry, Decorations, and Choice Committee. She is the SFCN Prayer Team Lead and looks forward to reuniting with fellow seniors friends, sharing experiences, and forming new connections.