After our wedding in 2017, my wife and I lived in a comfortable rented apartment for about five years. Life was stable. We were the only tenants in the compound, our landlord never increased the rent, and we had grown comfortable.

Then, without warning, everything changed.

Our landlord informed us that he had decided to sell the property. Although he was a kind man, the news came as a shock. Suddenly, we had to begin searching for another apartment.

What made the situation even more difficult was that I had just resigned from my paid employment to start my own company. There was no financial safety net, no guaranteed income, and no certainty about what the future held.

As we searched for another home in Abuja, reality hit us hard. The rents were outrageous, and many of the apartments were far below the standard we had previously enjoyed. It was then I truly understood the value of owning a home.

Eventually, we found a modest apartment within our budget in a developing estate. At the time, it simply looked like the next place to rent. Looking back now, I realize God had already gone ahead of us.

Exactly one week after moving in, during my morning devotion, the Holy Spirit impressed one instruction upon my heart:

“Go and ask the estate developer if there is any land available.”

I obeyed.

There was just one problem.

I had absolutely no money.

Not enough money.

No savings.

Nothing.

When we met the developer, he showed us the only available plot. Ironically, it was one of the largest residential plots in the entire estate, approved for a building with two suspended decks.

Humanly speaking, it was impossible.

As I stood there, questions raced through my mind.

“How will I pay for this land?”

“Even if I somehow buy it, where will the money to build such a house come from?”

Yet, deep within my heart, there was a stronger voice than my fears.

It was the voice of faith.

Before I had answers, I heard myself telling the developer,

“We will buy it.”

That single statement marked the beginning of a journey that only God could have orchestrated.

Not long afterward, the Lord reminded me of John 12:24:

“Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.”

At that time, we owned two cars.

I shared what God had placed in my heart with my wife, and together we made a difficult decision.

We would sell one of our cars.

It wasn’t an easy sacrifice, but we believed God was asking us to release what was in our hands so He could place something greater into our future.

When we sold the car, the money wasn’t even enough to pay half the cost of the land.

But God…

God gave us favor.

The developer agreed to let us pay in installments. Even more amazingly, after our first payment, he personally financed the construction of the foundation while we continued trusting God for the rest.

Who does that?

Only God could make a man believe in your vision before you have the resources to pursue it.

From that moment, we built one block at a time.

One prayer at a time.

One miracle at a time.

There were days when there was no money to continue, yet work somehow never stopped.

There were months when we had only one car because we had sacrificed the other for the vision.

To reduce costs, I spent many nights on the construction site doing work that laborers would normally have been hired to do.

We deliberately reduced our family expenses.

We prayed over every stage of the building.

We called forth provision before it appeared.

Faith was not passive.

Faith worked.

Faith obeyed.

Faith endured.

Then, after just one and a half years, what had once seemed impossible stood before us.

Our home was completed.

Beautifully finished.

Furnished to our taste.

Looking back today, I often ask myself:

What if we had refused to take that step of faith?

What if we had held on to the comfort and security of that car instead of releasing it in obedience to God’s instruction?

In all likelihood, we would still be tenants in that same estate, never realizing that God’s purpose for bringing us there was not merely to rent a house, but to become landlords. God had not brought us into that estate merely to occupy another rented apartment; He had brought us there to possess an inheritance.

What appeared to be a sacrifice was, in reality, God’s pathway to something far greater.

The car we surrendered was never truly a loss—it was a seed sown in obedience.

And, as always, God proved Himself faithful.

He did not simply give us a house; He exceeded our expectations. In addition to blessing us with our home, He restored far more than we had surrendered by blessing us with two newer cars. It reminded us that no one can outgive God. Whenever He asks us to release something into His hands, it is because He has something greater in store according to His perfect will and timing.

When I look at that house today, I don’t just see bricks, concrete, and paint.

I see obedience.

I see sacrifice.

I see countless prayers.

I see the faithfulness of God.

This journey always reminds me of the four lepers in 2 Kings 7:3, who asked,

“Why sit we here until we die?”

Everything changed because they moved.

Faith moves.

Faith obeys.

Faith acts even when it cannot yet see.

If this testimony teaches anything, it is that God is still in the business of honouring faith.

He may not always provide before you move.

Sometimes, He waits for you to take the first step.

And when you do, you discover that He has been waiting for you all along.

The greatest lesson from our journey is simple:

Everything is possible to the one who believes.

To God alone be all the glory.

Adejorin Temitope is the Managing Director/CEO of Magictouch Projects & Services Ltd, a practicing Quantity Surveyor and Project Management Consultant. He previously served as Welfare Secretary and in other leadership roles while on campus, and currently serves as a Youth Pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Abuja.

Addressing these very real anxieties, the Senior Friends Christian Network (SFCN) hosted a timely Zoom webinar on Saturday, 30 May 2026. Titled “Trusting God Amid Global Uncertainty,” and anchored by Tinuke Ayo-Makinde, the gathering served as a safe space for believers to unpack their fears and realign their focus.

The heart of the discussion anchored on Philippians 4:6-7, reminding us to trade our heavy blankets of worry for intentional prayer. Attendees candidly shared how global crises—from the rising cost of living to rumors of war preparations in Europe—directly impact their mental health. Yet, the collective consensus was clear: while we cannot control world events, we can manage our spiritual and mental intake. Senior Friends highlighted practical strategies like taking regular social media breaks to guard their hearts, replacing doom-scrolling with focused prayer, Bible study, and intentional gratitude.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Philippians 4:6

The defining moment of the webinar was an explosive, faith-igniting testimony from a Senior Friend who had been kidnapped. Having mentally accepted death, she began making her peace with God. In that dark moment, she heard a comforting word in her spirit: “this is not your end”. In a miraculous turn of events, her captors began arguing among themselves and abruptly released her for free, claiming they had no use for her. It was a raw, powerful demonstration of Psalm 23:4—that even in the darkest valley, He is right there beside us.

Beyond extraordinary miracles, the webinar underscored the quiet power of community. Facing poverty, hunger, and isolation alone is overwhelming. Regular fellowship meetings allow us to build collective courage, bear one another’s burdens, and find safety in numbers.

As we navigate these turbulent times, let us hold onto the ultimate truth that came out of the webinar: God remains faithful. When the world feels shaky, remember His unwavering promise in Hebrews 13:5: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Trust Him completely, step away from the chaos, and allow Him to lead you beside still waters (Psalm 23:2). He is committed to your care, always.

This webinar summary was put together by SFCN's PRO, Jonah Ibiamagabara

Image generated by Google’s Gemini

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.

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.

“Citizens … Hmm!

Citizens … Hmm!

Citizens … Hmm!”

I know that you might be able to relate with the call and response above.

You will recollect that this was something we were used to on OAU Campus, at our power-packed services during “Announcements”.

The word “Citizens” is not just a cliche. That is who we are.

I am glad to welcome you to the 7th month of 2024. You will agree with me that the race is not for the swift, nor the battle for the strong but for the Lord that shows mercy.

As we journey through this month, let’s cast our mind on our melodious ASF OAU Family Song. I hope that it is still ringing in your ears as it is in my ears? Hence, let’s quickly remind ourselves of who we are.

1. We are God’s own (i.e., we are for Christ)

We are the people of God. We were bought with a price (the Blood of Jesus Christ).

“For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s”.

(1 Corinthians 6:20 NKJV)

2. We fellowship with one another

We don’t forsake the gathering of brethren. We need to always dedicate time to join other believers in fellowship. Remember that we are joint heirs with the Father, and we are bound by Jesus.

3. We check up on one another

Remember that as Citizens we must walk in love.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ”.

(Galatians 6:2 NIV)

4. We manifest the Kingdom Power

We must not forget that we have a duty to evangelise.

“He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation”.

(Mark 16:15 NIV)

In doing this, the power of the Lord that is resident in us will be given expression. The earnest expectation of the creatures eagerly awaits the manifestation of the sons of God.

5. We trust solely in the Lord

Through the thick and thin, we remain focused on the Saviour of our souls.

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. Lord Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you”.

(Psalms 84:11-12 NIV)

As we continue our journey in the remaining part of the year, I pray that the Lord will give us the grace to manifest the Kingdom Power.

Dr Babatunde Ayilola currently serves as SFCN's Assistant General Secretary. While in Ife, he served as ASF's President, among other roles. He is a dentist, promoting oral healthcare and putting smiles on the faces of his clients.

Image Credit: A Clay Jar | Medium

Although I was in 200L, I had to take all the courses in 100L, and when it was time to graduate, I was told that I didn’t meet up with the minimum requirements for graduation. Part of the requirement for graduation was completing 12 units of special electives. That meant that I would have an extra semester to write electives that would have no significant effect on my CGPA. I was disappointed, depressed, and frustrated.

On several occasions, I asked God “Why”. I never failed any course, so why would zero-unit electives hold me back in school? I thought God was being unfair to me, I didn’t know he had bigger plans for me. After 7 years in OAU, I eventually graduated with a second class (upper) honours degree. Those extra years prepared the foundation for the journey ahead.

Let me share a few of the lessons I learnt about disappointments with you.

1. God uses disappointments as a catalyst to get our attention and prepare us for our next season, even if the process is ugly. Disappointment is God’s tried-and-true catalyst for greater calling.
2. God allows us to enter desert seasons not to discourage us but to detox us. He removes the God substitutes, i.e., all of the things and people we instinctively and habitually turn to to get filled up. When God breaks what we’ve built, then God is building something better and bigger.
3. Disappointments, if misunderstood, can put a dent in our confidence: In all honesty, I felt like a failure but later I understood that in order for God to work through us, He must first do a new work in us.
4. Disappointment is actually divine timing at work. Disappointment delivers a message God needs us to pay attention to right now — one we’d otherwise ignore. The mess is meant to mature our outlook and upgrade our thinking and beliefs.
5. Disappointment shows us what is already within us. Obstacles are meant to reveal your anointing — your divine strength, not your weakness. God uses disappointments to unveil and realign us with His greater vision for us.

So, instead of asking God “Why?”, take a step back and ask, “Where are you taking me?”

Always remember that God loves you too much to leave or lose you, He will use every means necessary to not only get your attention but also free you from foolishness.

Atinuke Ayo-Makinde (nee Ladele) is a strategic project management professional. While an undergraduate, she played key roles in several ASF endeavours, and now serves as a member of the Senior Friends’ Christian Network executives.