Category: Uncategorized

By Dr. Lawrence Osifo 

Forgiveness

By Dr. Lawrence Osifo

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, today we will be reflecting on a powerful and life-transforming subject: Forgiveness. Forgiveness is not just a command from God; — it is the very essence of the Christian life. Without forgiveness, there is no salvation, no peace, and no love.

Jesus Christ, our perfect example, taught us forgiveness not only in words but also in action. On the Cross, with His last breath, He prayed: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).This shows us that forgiveness is not optional for the child of God; — it is a must.

READ: Matthew 18:21–22:“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy times seven times”

NOTE:

1. Forgiveness is God’s Nature• God Himself is the source of forgiveness.• Psalm 103:10–12 reminds us that “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities… as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.”• If God forgives us daily; we must not withhold forgiveness from others also.

2. Forgiveness is Freedom• Un-forgiveness is a prison. It locks us in bitterness, anger, and resentment.• Forgiveness sets us free. It heals the heart, restores peace, and opens the door for God’s blessings.• Colossians 3:13 says: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance… Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

3. Forgiveness is a Command, Not an Option• Jesus did not say “if you feel like it, forgive.” He said in Matthew 6:14–15; that “if you forgive others… your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.”• Forgiveness is not based on whether the offender deserves it. It is based on obedience to God.

4. Forgiveness Reflects Christ in Us• The world may say “revenge,” but Christ says “forgive.”• When we forgive, we shine as lights in a dark world.• The story of Joseph in Genesis 50:20; is a powerful example. He forgave his brothers who sold him into slavery, saying: “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”

5. Forgiveness Brings Healing and Reconciliation• Forgiveness heals broken relationships, families, churches, and communities.• It is the foundation of true love.• 1 Corinthians 13:5 says: “Love keeps no record of wrongs.”Practical

Steps to Forgiveness:

1. Pray for strength – Forgiveness is not always easy, but with God’s help it is possible.

2. Remember God’s mercy ; – He forgave us much more than what others owe us.

3. Release the offender; – Choose to let go of the hurt and hand it over to God.4. Walk in love – Replace bitterness with kindness and compassion.

Conclusion

Beloved, forgiveness is the key to peace with God, peace with others, and peace within ourselves. If you are holding on to hurt or bitterness today, God is calling you to let it go.Forgive, not because they deserve it, but because you are forgiven.Forgive, not because it is easy, but because it is Christ-like.Forgive, because your destiny is too great to be held back by bitterness.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the forgiveness we have through Jesus Christ. Give us the grace to forgive those who have hurt us, just as You have forgiven us. Heal our wounds, restore our peace, and help us to walk in love and mercy. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.

By D.r. Lawrence Osifo

How to be Safe from the Destroyer of Life
By Dr. Lawrence Osifo

Book one 
Chapter One
The Shadow of the Thief

The evening sun painted the skies of Benin City with shades of gold and crimson. Osahon, a final-year student, walked home with his school bag slung lazily across his shoulder. Life had not been easy for him; — his father had passed away suddenly, and his mother, a petty trader, struggled to keep food on the table.He often found himself sitting alone under a mango tree, questioning why life seemed so harsh. His friends had started mocking him, saying:“Osahon, your God has forgotten you. Why waste your time praying when nothing changes?”Those words pierced his heart like arrows. He felt the weight of loneliness, fear, and hopelessness pressing upon him. He remembered what his late father used to say:“Son, the thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy. But the Word of God gives life. Never let go of it.”That night, Osahon lay awake, thinking about those words. He heard a whisper in his heart, almost like a gentle voice saying:“He that dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”Osahon rose from bed, knelt on the floor, and prayed:“Lord, I feel broken, I feel weak. But I believe that You are my refuge. Please help me.”As he prayed, peace came over him. The fear that gripped him began to loosen. He realised that though the thief; — the destroyer of life; — may come to bring fear and despair, those who cling to God’s Word will never be abandoned.
Reflection Questions (Chapter One)
1.	What struggles did Osahon face at the beginning of the story? .................................................................................................
2.	What did his father teach him about the thief and the Word of God? .................................................................................................
3.	How did Osahon feel when his friends mocked him? .................................................................................................
4.	What scripture came to his heart while he was in despair? .................................................................................................
5.	How did Osahon find peace in his difficult moment? ................................................................................................. 
Book one 
Chapter Two 
The Rebuke of Kings
Days passed, and Osahon began to grow stronger in faith. One morning at school, he was invited by some classmates to join a secret group that promised quick money.“Osahon,” said Oyi, “life is short. Why waste time praying? Come with us, we have a plan to get rich quickly.”Osahon’s heart pounded. He needed money badly, but something within him resisted. He remembered the scripture his father once quoted:“God rebukes kings, saying, ‘Touch not my anointed, and do my prophets no harm.’”He realised that if God could rebuke kings, then He could protect a young boy like him from harm.Osahon replied firmly:“I will not follow you. My life belongs to God. I cannot sell my soul for temporary gain.”Oyi laughed mockingly. “Suit yourself, preacher boy. But don’t cry when poverty swallows you.”That evening, news spread around school that the group had been caught by the police. Osahon trembled; — not with fear, but with gratitude. He saw how God had preserved him. He whispered:“Truly, a thousand may fall at my side, ten thousand at my right hand, but it shall not come near me.”His faith deepened, and he understood that true safety was not in money, weapons, or connections, but in walking with God daily.

Reflection Questions (Chapter Two)
1.	What did Osahon’s classmates invite him to join? .................................................................................................
2.	Why did he refuse their invitation? .................................................................................................
3.	What scripture did he remember when faced with temptation? .................................................................................................
4.	What happened to those who joined the secret group? .................................................................................................
5.	What lesson did Osahon learn about God’s protection? ................................................................................................. Book one 
Chapter Three 
The Call of Rest

Months later, Osahon faced another test. His mother fell ill, and the little money they had was not enough for treatment. Fear tried to grip him again. He heard the same old whisper of doubt:“God has abandoned you. Why keep trusting Him?”But this time, Osahon was stronger. He took his mother’s hand and said:“Mama, remember the Word of God says, ‘Come unto Me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’ We will not give up.”Together they prayed, pouring out their tears before God. The next morning, a neighbour visited. She had been touched in her heart to pay for his mother’s treatment. Slowly, his mother recovered, and joy returned to their home.Osahon lifted his hands to heaven and declared:“The destroyer came to steal my hope, to kill my faith, and to destroy my family. But God’s Word has kept us safe.”He realised that to be safe from the destroyer of life, one must:•	Abide in the secret place of God.•	Trust His Word even in the darkest moments.•	Resist temptations of quick gain.•	Hold onto God’s promises of rest and peace.The journey of life would not always be easy, but those who anchor themselves in God’s Word will always overcome.

Reflection Questions (Chapter Three)
1.	What new challenge did Osahon face when his mother became ill? .................................................................................................
2.	What scripture did he remember to encourage his mother? .................................................................................................
3.	How was the problem of his mother’s illness solved? .................................................................................................
4.	What declaration did Osahon make after their victory? .................................................................................................
5.	What key lessons can we learn from Osahon’s story? ................................................................................................. 
Book one 
Conclusion
The Secret of Safety
The destroyer of life comes in many forms; — fear, temptation, poverty, sickness, or hopelessness. But God’s Word remains the sure refuge. Those who live under His covering will always find safety.The story of Osahon reminds us that no matter how dark life may seem, there is hope, strength, and rest in God. When others fall, we can stand firm because His promise is sure: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 

Book one Glossary1
.	Thief/Destroyer of life – Symbol of the devil, temptation, fear, or anything that tries to ruin life and faith.
2.	Secret place of the Most High – A spiritual place of intimacy and safety with God through prayer and faith.
3.	Anointed – Someone chosen and protected by God.
4.	Rebuke – A strong warning or command against evil.
5.	Rest – Peace, relief, and assurance found in God despite challenges. 

Book Two 

How to be Safe from the Destroyer of Life
By
Dr. Lawrence Osifo 

Book Two 
Chapter One
The Voice in the Darkness

It was a quiet evening in the village of Uzairue. The sun had gone down, leaving behind streaks of purple and gold in the horizon. Young David sat under the old mango tree, his eyes filled with worry. Life had not been easy for him; — he had lost his father to sickness, and his mother struggled daily to provide food for the family. He often asked himself, “Why is life filled with so much pain? Why does destruction seem to surround us?”One night, while lying awake, David felt as though a heavy shadow had entered the room. Fear gripped his heart, and he whispered, “What is this?” He thought he heard a faint whisper in his ears:Dark Voice: “Give up, David. There is no hope. The destroyer of life has already marked you.”David trembled and pulled the blanket over his head. Then suddenly, another voice broke through the darkness, a voice so calm yet powerful:Gentle Voice: “David, do not fear. I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”David sat up, stunned. He remembered the words his mother used to read from the Bible: “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”With tears in his eyes, David prayed, “Lord, if You are truly the Light, then show me the way. I surrender my fears into Your hands.”As he prayed, peace filled his heart. For the first time in months, David slept without fear. He realised that safety was not in his strength, but in surrendering to the Light of Christ.

Reflection Questions – Chapter One
1 What was David’s greatest fear in this chapter?.......................................................................................
2.	How did the voice of darkness try to discourage him?.......................................................................................
3.	What was the promise of the Light to David?.......................................................................................
4.	How does surrender bring peace according to this story?.......................................................................................
5.	Recall a time you faced fear. How can the Light of God help you in such moments? ....................................................................................... 
Book Two
Chapter Two
The Journey of Paul

Days turned into weeks, and David’s faith began to grow. His mother often told him the story of Paul, once called Saul of Tarsus. Saul was a man who hated followers of Christ. He hunted them, threw them into prison, and was feared by many.One hot afternoon, David sat with Elder Omoregie, the wise teacher of the village church. Elder Omoregie said:Elder Omoregie: “David, do you know how Saul became Paul?”David: “I know he changed, but I do not understand how.”Elder Omoregie: “Saul was on his way to Damascus with letters of destruction. He was the thief’s tool—sent to steal and destroy the lives of God’s people. But on that journey, a great light shone from heaven. Saul fell to the ground.”Elder Omoregie opened the Bible and read aloud: “And Saul heard a voice saying, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’”David (amazed): “So even Saul, the destroyer, was called by the Light?”Elder Omoregie: “Yes, my son. That day, Saul surrendered to the Light and became Paul, the great Apostle. His life shows us that no one is beyond redemption. The Light can save anyone, even the worst of sinners.”David’s eyes lit up. “Then if Saul could be saved, I too can be safe from destruction!”
Reflection Questions – Chapter Two

1.	Who was Saul before he became Paul?.......................................................................................
2.	What happened to Saul on the way to Damascus?.......................................................................................
3.	Why is Paul’s story important for people who feel hopeless?.......................................................................................
4.	What lesson did Elder Omoregie want David to learn from Paul’s transformation?.......................................................................................
5.	How does Paul’s story inspire you personally?.......................................................................................
Book Two
 Chapter Three 
The Path of Safety
One stormy night, David walked through the narrow path that led home from church. The wind blew fiercely, and the thunder roared. He felt afraid again. Suddenly, he remembered the words of his teacher: “A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not come near you.”He whispered, “I am not alone. The Light is with me.”The next morning, David shared his experience with his friends. Some of them laughed.Friend 1: “David, do you really believe that an invisible Light can protect you?”David: “Yes, because I have seen the peace it brings. The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy. But Jesus says, I have come that you may have life, and have it abundantly.”He looked at his friends with boldness. “If you want to be safe from destruction, you must surrender to the Light. Safety is not in wealth, not in power, not in hiding. True safety is in Christ.”His words touched one of his friends, Ada. With tears in her eyes, she said, “David, I want this Light too. I want to be safe.”And so, David and his friends prayed together. From that day, they walked in faith, knowing that the Light of Christ would keep them safe from the destroyer of life.

Reflection Questions – Chapter Three
1.	What fear did David face on the stormy night?.......................................................................................
2.	How did he overcome his fear?.......................................................................................
3.	What did David tell his friends about true safety?.......................................................................................
4.	Which of his friends was touched by his words, and why?.......................................................................................
5.	What practical steps can you take to surrender to the Light?.......................................................................................
Book Two 
Conclusion
The destroyer of life is real, but so is the Light that saves. David’s story, the transformation of Paul, and the promises of God remind us that safety does not come from human effort, but from surrendering to Jesus, the Light of the world. To be safe, one must dwell in the secret place of the Most High, surrender completely, and walk daily in the Light. 
Book Two 
Glossary
1.	Destroyer of Life – A symbol of the devil, who seeks to steal, to kill, and destroy.
2.	The Light – Refers to Jesus Christ, who brings salvation and safety.
3.	Secret Place of the Most High – A place of spiritual intimacy and prayer with God.
4.	Surrender – To give up one’s fears, struggles, and control, and trust God fully.
5.	Damascus Road Experience – The dramatic encounter Saul had with Christ that transformed him into Paul.
6.	Safety in Christ – The assurance of protection, peace, and eternal life through faith in Jesus.

By Dr. Lawrence Osifo

How to Be Divine and Powerful

By Dr. Lawrence Osifo

Chapter One

The Will of God

The sun was setting gently over the quiet settlement. In the village square, Elder Osifo gathered a few youths under the shade of a great iroko tree. Among them was Japheth, a young man full of dreams but weighed down with fear and confusion.Elder Osifo began to speak softly but firmly. “My Children; listen well. To be divine and powerful, you must first learn the will of God. For Jesus himself said, ‘I do what pleases my Father always.’ The true secret of divine power is obedience.”Japheth raised his hand timidly. “Elder, why do I always feel weak? Even when I try to pray, fear rises inside me.”The elder smiled. “My son, Job once said that the things he feared most came upon him. Fear destroys power. But faith releases it. Without faith, no one can please God. That is why the Holy Scriptures say, ‘Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all other things shall be added unto you.’ When you believe and walk in faith, you invite the Holy Spirit into your life.”Another youth, Itohan, asked curiously, “But Elder, how does the Holy Spirit make us powerful?”“Ah!” Elder Osifo exclaimed. “Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. When He dwells in you, no evil can occupy you. You will stand strong against affliction. To whom you yield your spirit to obey, you become a servant. If you yield to fear, you serve weakness. If you yield to the Spirit of God, you carry power.”He paused, then added, “Remember this: to err is human, but the ability to forgive makes a man divine. Forgiveness is not weakness—it is power. And love, children… love is the ultimate power. Whoever that is walking in love carries the very strength of God.”The youths nodded, a new light glowing in their eyes.

Reflection Questions (Chapter One)

1. Why is faith important in pleasing God? …………………………………………………………………………………….

2. How does fear destroy power? …………………………………………………………………………………….

3. In what way is forgiveness a form of divine power? …………………………………………………………………………………….

4. What did Elder Osifo mean by “to whom you yield your spirit, you are his servant”? …………………………………………………………………………………….

5. Why is love described as the ultimate power? …………………………………………………………………………………….

Chapter Two

The Source of Power

Weeks later; Japheth visited Elder Osifo again. This time, he came with a troubled heart.“Elder,” Japheth confessed, “I have been struggling with challenges in my family. I feel powerless. How can I truly receive this power you speak of?” The elder looked at him with compassion.“Power does not come from human strength, my son. It comes from the Spirit of God. Abraham received power because he believed the Lord, even when everything seemed impossible. David was just a shepherd boy, but he overcame Goliath because he surrendered to the Spirit. Paul found power to live well when he yielded to the will of God. And Jesus himself received the strength to face the cross when He prayed, ‘Thy will be done, O Lord.’”“But Elder,” Japheth interrupted, “what if I fail? What if I cannot keep the faith?”“Even Job failed for a time,” the elder replied gently. “Fear weakened him, and he was afflicted. But when he repented in dust and ashes, God gave him a double portion of blessing. Son, it is not your strength that keeps you — it is the Holy Spirit of God. Surrender daily; and He will continue to carry you.”Itohan, who had been listening quietly, asked, “So does everyone have access to this power?”“Yes, child,” Elder Osifo said firmly. “Every human being is created to walk in power. The Holy Spirit is given freely. You only need to yield. When you say, ‘Lord, not my will, but Yours be done,’ you open the door for divine strength.”Japheth breathed deeply. For the first time, peace filled his troubled heart.

Reflection Questions (Chapter Two)

1. How did Abraham receive power from God? …………………………………………………………………………………….

2. Why was David able to overcome Goliath? …………………………………………………………………………………….

3. What happened when Job repented in dust and ashes? …………………………………………………………………………………….

4. How can surrendering to God give us strength in times of weakness? …………………………………………………………………………………….

5. What did Jesus teach us about receiving power when facing trials? …………………………………………………………………………………….

Chapter Three

Living in Divine Power

A few months passed; Japheth; who was once timid; now stood boldly before the same group of youths. Elder Osifo encouraged him to share his journey.Japheth began, “Friends, I have learnt that true power is not about muscles or money. It is about surrender. I was once filled with fear, but now I live in peace because I daily invite the Holy Spirit into my heart. I learnt that love conquers all things. Forgiveness frees the soul. Faith moves mountains.”Itohan smiled. “Truly, I have seen a change in you, Japheth. You speak with authority now.”“Yes,” Japheth nodded. “It is because the Spirit of God is my strength. I no longer fight battles alone. When fear comes, I remember that my body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. I choose to yield to Him. That choice makes me powerful.”Elder Osifo concluded, “Children, this is the mystery of divine power. You become powerful when you resolve to do the will of the Holy Spirit. Remember David, Abraham, Paul, Job, and Jesus—they all overcame because they surrendered. The same Spirit that strengthened them is available for you today. Walk in love, forgive freely, live by faith, and you will be truly divine and powerful.”The iroko tree stood tall above them as though nodding in agreement, a silent witness to their new understanding.

Reflection Questions (Chapter Three)

1. What changes took place in Japheth’s life when he yielded to the Holy Spirit? …………………………………………………………………………………….

2. How does forgiveness bring freedom and power to the soul? …………………………………………………………………………………….

3. Why is surrendering to the will of the Holy Spirit described as the secret of power? …………………………………………………………………………………….

4. Mention three biblical examples of people who received power by yielding to God. …………………………………………………………………………………….

5. How can you personally apply the lessons of this chapter in your daily life? …………………………………………………………………………………….

Conclusion Power is not found in wealth, position, or human effort. True divine power flows from surrender to the Holy Spirit. Fear destroys, but faith builds. Forgiveness heals, and love conquers. To be divine and powerful is to live in harmony with the will of God.

Glossary

1. Affliction – A problem, suffering, or trouble in life.

2. Holy Spirit – The Spirit of God who gives strength, guidance, and comfort to believers.

3. Faith – Trusting and believing in God’s promises even without physical evidence.

4. Forgiveness – Choosing to release hurt and not hold wrongs against others.

5. Repentance – Turning away from sin and returning humbly to God.

6. Surrender – Yielding of one’s will completely to God’s will.

7. Divine – Having qualities that come from God.

8. Power – The spiritual strength to overcome fear, sin, and challenges.

9. Temple of the Holy Spirit – The belief that a believer’s body is the dwelling place of God’s Spirit.

10. Love – The ultimate expression of God’s nature, the foundation of all true power.

By Dr. Lawrence Osifo

How to Destroy Evil Afflictions

Chapter One

The Reality of Afflictions

It was a quiet evening in the small village of Ogbe. Elder Osifo sat under the shade of a tall mango tree, speaking to a group of young men and women who had gathered to hear his words of wisdom. His voice carried the weight of experience, and his words, though simple, struck deep into their hearts.“Children,” he began, “life is full of afflictions. Job, the righteous man, once declared: ‘Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble.’ This means that every human being, no matter how rich, poor, strong, or weak, will face problems in life.”A young man named Osagie raised his hand. “Elder, does it mean that even those who pray and serve God faithfully will still face afflictions?”Elder Osifo smiled and nodded. “Yes, my son. The righteous also face afflictions. The Bible says, ‘Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.’ But the difference is this: while the unrighteous struggle without hope, the righteous can overcome their afflictions by the power of the Holy Spirit.”Another voice came from the crowd. It was Amaka, a young lady who had recently lost her father. With tears in her eyes, she asked, “Elder, why does God allow afflictions at all?”The elder’s eyes softened. “My daughter, afflictions test our faith, build our character, and drive us closer to God. Look at Abraham: he faced barrenness with Sarah, yet he believed God’s promise. That faith destroyed his affliction. David faced enemies and battles, but by surrendering to the Holy Spirit, he overcame them. Afflictions are not meant to kill us but to refine us.”The villagers listened quietly, their hearts stirred. Elder Osifo leaned forward and said, “Remember this: afflictions are like storms. They come, but with the Holy Spirit as your anchor, you will never be destroyed.

”Reflection Questions – Chapter One

1. What does Job’s statement teach us about the reality of afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2. Why do even righteous people face afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

3. How did Abraham destroy his affliction?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

4. What lesson can we learn from David’s response to his afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

5. How should we view afflictions in our own lives?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Chapter Two

The Path to Victory

Days later, the villagers returned, eager to hear more. Elder Osifo welcomed them warmly. This time, he opened with a story.“Once, a farmer’s donkey fell into a deep pit. The animal cried out, and the farmer, though sad, decided to bury it since he thought it could not be saved. He began to throw sand into the pit. But each time the sand landed on the donkey, it shook the sand off and stepped on it. Little by little, the donkey rose higher until it walked out of the pit alive and free. My children, this is how afflictions work. The devil throws problems at you, but if you shake them off and rise by the power of the Holy Spirit, you will come out victorious.”Osagie clapped his hands. “So afflictions can be stepping stones?”“Yes,” Elder Osifo replied. “Jesus Himself faced afflictions. In Gethsemane, He prayed in agony and said, ‘Not my will, but Yours be done, O Lord.’ That surrender removed His burden. Paul too had a thorn in his flesh, but when he surrendered to God, grace lifted him.”Amaka asked again, “But Elder, how do we practically overcome? What should we do when afflictions seem too heavy?”The elder answered firmly, “Three things:1. Believe in God’s promises – like Abraham did.2. Surrender to the Holy Spirit – like David did.3. Accept the will of God – like Jesus did.When you do these, afflictions lose their power over you.”The people nodded. Their faith grew stronger with every word.

Reflection Questions – Chapter Two

1. What lesson does the story of the donkey in the pit teach us?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2. How did Jesus destroy His afflictions in Gethsemane?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

3. What role does the Holy Spirit play in overcoming afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

4. What three steps did Elder Osifo give for overcoming afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

5. How can afflictions become stepping stones in our lives?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Chapter Three

Living Above Afflictions

On the third evening, the villagers gathered again. The air was filled with anticipation. Elder Osifo raised his staff and spoke with authority.“My children, to destroy evil afflictions is not just about praying once. It is a way of life. Look at Job—he lost his wealth, health, and family. But when he repented in dust and ashes, God restored him double. Afflictions bowed before humility and repentance.”Osagie asked, “Elder, does that mean every time we sin, we open the door for afflictions?”The elder nodded. “Yes, son. Sin is a doorway. But repentance closes it. And when the Spirit of God takes control, afflictions have no resting place.”He paused and looked at the crowd intently. “Listen well: afflictions may come, but they do not last forever. Jesus bore our burdens, and when He said on the Cross, ‘It is finished,’ He broke the ultimate affliction of sin and death. That means every affliction in your life can also be destroyed.”Tears filled Amaka’s eyes, but this time they were tears of hope. “So Elder, if I continue to walk in the Spirit and trust God, my pains will not destroy me?”Elder Osifo smiled and placed his hand on her shoulder. “Yes, my daughter. As long as you surrender to the will of the Holy Spirit, you will live above afflictions. Troubles may come, but victory is certain.”The villagers rose with joy, clapping and singing. A new spirit of courage filled them. Elder Osifo’s final words rang in their hearts:“All your troubles will go when you resolve to do the will of the Holy Spirit.” Reflection

Questions – Chapter Three

1. What restored Job after his many afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2. How does sin open the door to afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

3. What does Jesus’ statement ‘It is finished’ mean for our afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

4. What is the key to living above afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

5. What promise can we hold onto when facing afflictions?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Conclusion

Afflictions are real, but they are not permanent. Every human being faces them, but through faith, surrender, and obedience to the Holy Spirit, we can destroy every evil affliction. Abraham overcame by faith, David by surrender, Paul by submission, Job by repentance, and Jesus by yielding to God’s will. So too can we.

Glossary

1. Affliction – A problem, trouble, or suffering in life.

2. Holy Spirit – God’s Spirit who gives believers strength, comfort, and power to overcome.

3. Repentance – Turning away from sin with a sincere heart and seeking God’s mercy.

4. Surrender – To yield fully to God’s will, trusting Him above our own desires.

5. Righteous – A person who lives in obedience to God and seeks to do what is right.

6. Grace – God’s undeserved favour and strength that helps us overcome challenges.

7. Burden – A heavy load of worry, pain, or suffering.

8. Faith – Complete trust in God and His promises.

9. Victory – The act of overcoming or triumphing over problems and afflictions.

10. Thorn in the flesh – A metaphor used by Paul to describe persistent affliction or difficulty.

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