6 June 2007
SOMETHING INSIDE SO STRONG
Nairobi Devotional For Sisters Five Years-Plus In The Faith
By Valentine Othigo
SOMETHING INSIDE SO STRONG
Nairobi Devotional For Sisters Five Years-Plus In The Faith
By Valentine Othigo
Sisters from the Nairobi church’s central ministries (the regions of Metro, Kibera, North, Youth and West) who have been disciples for at least five years streamed into the Central YMCA for a special devotional that they had looked forward to for weeks. Prayers and anticipation gave way to a day-long event that left many feeling refreshed, revived and re-energized.
Perhaps, as the 170 women trooped into the Central YMCA main hall that pleasant Saturday morning, some felt a sense of weariness, maybe feeling that all was lost, or experiencing a reversal of expectations. Familiarity may breed contempt with many long serving disciples, especially in a “corrosively cynical” world, but few would dispute some presenters’ ability to weather the numerous storms along their spiritual sojourn.
Espousing God’s incredible gift of His Son to mankind, Rose Kisini at 39 and unmarried is a woman deeply assured of God‘s love. The 16year spiritual veteran can shout “Eureka!” and herald the clarion call for every woman, especially older unmarried sisters.
Nancy Mwilu married for four-and-a-half years and experiencing the misfortune of enduring four miscarriages, with the most recent occurring last February, powerfully recited the poem, “That Admiral City” in reference to the New Jerusalem, while expressing the resilience of womanhood in the face of untold tribulations. Carol Mukenya, another spiritual veteran and Women’s Ministry leader, sought to revive hearts and spirits of weather-beaten sisters in her “Leap for Heaven.”
These few are just samples from a conference that had a thumb on the pulse of participants. It ran the gamut of necessity of faith to sincerity of friendships, earnest prayer and eager confession, courageous convictions to selfless service to security in God’s love.
Usually after baptism, the elated disciple is swept off her feet to cloud nine. The early glow need not dim even with the passage of time so that the love affair with God does not come to a saddening end. Who am I to fault God? Hasn’t He created me beautiful? Doesn’t He hold the promise for me? The music titles soulfully crooned by Mercy Amatieku and Harriet Macharia to the delight of the participants were sumptuous interludes.
Sisters present had much to say at the conclusion of the event.
“The older Christians need to be examples to younger Christians by being active in church activities,” shared Mary Mbithi, and Malinda Wheeler said emphatically, “It has been a time to reflect and get back on track. We need to take responsibility for our own spiritual growth and not depend on conferences.” Malinda Tewolde
Georgeanne Rayola said, “It has been a tremendous day. I have really been touched by Loise’s sharing. Up to this moment I didn’t realize how much I had shrunk back from serving. I have slumped but I know I can be revived.” Appreciating the opportunity to assess herself, Faith Njenga said, “It is good to slow down and reflect on life.”
Recognizing the value of the meeting, Janet Waweru said, “Sometimes we need to address issues affecting sisters,” and added, “all the different groups need to have these times too, life is busy for everyone. What I do to improve on is a deeper understanding that Satan is my greatest enemy and that I need to work on my heart constantly.”
Carol Mukenya, reflected, “I have wanted us to have something for older Christians since the year 2005. The older Christians have gone through so many triumphs and so many tribulations and the classes were meant to revive spirits and hearts of the sisters. God still loves them despite of everything.” Commenting on the day, Carol concluded, “God gave us much more than we imagined.”
Many years after our baptisms, there is something strong inside each one of us, and so our Christian walk should not be a contemplation of the possibility that we may live our entire lives without doing spiritual battles but rather a courage of one’s conviction that we will daily face the trials triumphantly, full of faith, rejoicing in God’s redemptive power.
1. “HEAR MY PRAYER.” AND “LISTENING TO GOD”- Nancy Odwallo
Revelation 4:1-11; Psalm 32:1-7, 1:1-3
The devotion put emphasis on the need for sisters to be constantly aware of their surroundings and in touch with themselves. Journaling thoughts, decisions, experiences…to mention but a few; daily keeps one not only in touch with self but also serves as a reminder for assessing a connection with God. “A busy schedule does not stop one from becoming a true Christian,” Nancy exhorted. The sisters were encouraged to write a prayer to God on a daily basis and take time to listen to God as well.
2. “TWO ARE BETTER THAN ONE.” – Ann Irungu
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 2 Corinthians 10: 3-5; Acts 12:1-4; 1 Peter 5: 8-9; James 1:12-15; 2 Corinthians 4:7-11, 16-18; Proverbs 20:18
Drawing the title from Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Ann reminded the sisters about the spiritual warfare for their souls that they daily wage. “Always be alert and fight strongholds by God’s word,” she implored. Complacency and honest friendships amongst sisters was encouraged noting that these relationships potentially reinforce growth.
3. “REVIVAL BEGINS IN THE HEART” – Loise Kioko
1 John 5:14-15; Matthew 21:12-13; James 5:16; Psalm 32: 5
Webster defines revival as a return to health or flourishing condition after a decline. Earnest prayer and eager confession of sins are necessary for revival to take root in the heart. The heart should essentially be a house of prayer while confession should ease the heart: opening a way for healing, self- forgiveness, giving way to a free spirit and, a beginning to a brighter life.
4. “A CALL TO BECOME” – Carol Nuthu
Ezekiel 2: 2-3, 7 – 8; Mark 1:16-20; 1 Corinthians 3:6-8; Isaiah 55: 10-11, 66:7-10
It is difficult to call anyone to something one is not. In any case, one needs the courage of one’s convictions – the courage to do what one knows is right. God has called His disciples to go out and speak His Words regardless of whether people listen or not. ‘Neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.’
5. “THE SPIRIT OF SERVING” – Anyima Okundi
Hebrews 3; Acts 6:1-7; 1 Peter 4:10; Galatians 6:10; 1Corinthians 15:58
To foster the spirit of servant hood, three things are crucial. First, one should not feel like they don’t have anything to offer. Secondly, always seek to get involved even in smallest ways. Thirdly, develop selflessness. After all, “each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.”
6. “ASSURED OF GOD’S LOVE” – Rose Kisini
Romans 5:8-10; Hebrews 4:14-16; Zephaniah 3:17; Isaiah 49:16; 1John 2:1, 3:1; Hebrews 12:22-24; Philippians 3:7-11.
That God’s love is enormous cannot be over emphasized. That His grace is always sufficient goes without saying. Not only has He demonstrated immense love by giving mankind His son, He has also given a wonderful family of loving brothers and sisters in His kingdom. “Rubbish all things that come between you and God and shout Eureka!” she resoundingly concluded.
7. “SEXUALITY AND PURITY” – Fridah Mcharo
1 Timothy 6:12; John 1:13-15, 4:7-8; 1 Timothy 5: 1-2
It is wise to talk to God whenever one is faced with temptations. Yes, even if they are thoughts desiring to relate to anyone sexually. It is also encouraging to constantly share one’s thoughts with close and godly sisters. The sisters were also urged to treat brothers and men in general with absolute purity.
8. “MORE THAN CONQUERORS “– Nancy Odwallo Psalm 9: 9-10; Isaiah 33:6; 1 Peter 5:8-9; John 15:1-8; 2 Timothy 3: 1-5
It is advisable to be secure in one’s walk God. However, in light insecurity, one pertinent question ask oneself is “What are some things hindering the possibility of becoming an awesome disciple for Christ?”
Insecurities are not confined to single/unmarried women alone! Nancy qualified that spiritual battles are very similar to most people but cautioned against apathy, a bad road that quickly dilapidates an individual’s faith. Another aspect of being secure is embracing pruning from God – a vital ingredient for increased fruitfulness. In the end, the decision as to whether to live a victorious or defeated life is highly personal.
9. “A LEAP FOR HEAVEN” - Carol Mukenya
Hebrews 11:1-40
A magnificent narrative of epic stories of the great heroes of faith makes for an inspiring spiritual treatise. Quote like the Holly Wood of Fame whose celebrities elicit manic fanaticism in many a fan, this Heavenly Hall of Faith redefines to many a disciple of Jesus the true spiritual meaning of faith- a life of continuous certainty in things not seen and of total security in the love of God.
As we read on, we are enamored with this vast richness in character diversity as we see the faith of many tested by the crudest of life situations. We understand why without faith, it will be impossible to please God. Without obedience to God’s Word there is no faith; and without faith there is no discipleship. “Do you find yourself struggling these to do the things of God?” she poses. ‘Like the walls of Jericho that fell after people had marched around for seven days,’ togetherness in God’s Kingdom with God’s people is important for steady faith. Rahab’s induction demonstrates justifications by faith. “Leave the past where it belongs.” Our faith will be magnified when we turn our focus on others rather than self. Putting God first, seeking advice and guidance, prioritizing and commitment to daily growth are some ways that deflect focus from ourselves self to others. Prideful tendencies will glue us to the ground stopping as from leaping for heaven.
Perhaps, as the 170 women trooped into the Central YMCA main hall that pleasant Saturday morning, some felt a sense of weariness, maybe feeling that all was lost, or experiencing a reversal of expectations. Familiarity may breed contempt with many long serving disciples, especially in a “corrosively cynical” world, but few would dispute some presenters’ ability to weather the numerous storms along their spiritual sojourn.
Espousing God’s incredible gift of His Son to mankind, Rose Kisini at 39 and unmarried is a woman deeply assured of God‘s love. The 16year spiritual veteran can shout “Eureka!” and herald the clarion call for every woman, especially older unmarried sisters.
Nancy Mwilu married for four-and-a-half years and experiencing the misfortune of enduring four miscarriages, with the most recent occurring last February, powerfully recited the poem, “That Admiral City” in reference to the New Jerusalem, while expressing the resilience of womanhood in the face of untold tribulations. Carol Mukenya, another spiritual veteran and Women’s Ministry leader, sought to revive hearts and spirits of weather-beaten sisters in her “Leap for Heaven.”
These few are just samples from a conference that had a thumb on the pulse of participants. It ran the gamut of necessity of faith to sincerity of friendships, earnest prayer and eager confession, courageous convictions to selfless service to security in God’s love.
Usually after baptism, the elated disciple is swept off her feet to cloud nine. The early glow need not dim even with the passage of time so that the love affair with God does not come to a saddening end. Who am I to fault God? Hasn’t He created me beautiful? Doesn’t He hold the promise for me? The music titles soulfully crooned by Mercy Amatieku and Harriet Macharia to the delight of the participants were sumptuous interludes.
Sisters present had much to say at the conclusion of the event.
“The older Christians need to be examples to younger Christians by being active in church activities,” shared Mary Mbithi, and Malinda Wheeler said emphatically, “It has been a time to reflect and get back on track. We need to take responsibility for our own spiritual growth and not depend on conferences.” Malinda Tewolde
Georgeanne Rayola said, “It has been a tremendous day. I have really been touched by Loise’s sharing. Up to this moment I didn’t realize how much I had shrunk back from serving. I have slumped but I know I can be revived.” Appreciating the opportunity to assess herself, Faith Njenga said, “It is good to slow down and reflect on life.”
Recognizing the value of the meeting, Janet Waweru said, “Sometimes we need to address issues affecting sisters,” and added, “all the different groups need to have these times too, life is busy for everyone. What I do to improve on is a deeper understanding that Satan is my greatest enemy and that I need to work on my heart constantly.”
Carol Mukenya, reflected, “I have wanted us to have something for older Christians since the year 2005. The older Christians have gone through so many triumphs and so many tribulations and the classes were meant to revive spirits and hearts of the sisters. God still loves them despite of everything.” Commenting on the day, Carol concluded, “God gave us much more than we imagined.”
Many years after our baptisms, there is something strong inside each one of us, and so our Christian walk should not be a contemplation of the possibility that we may live our entire lives without doing spiritual battles but rather a courage of one’s conviction that we will daily face the trials triumphantly, full of faith, rejoicing in God’s redemptive power.
1. “HEAR MY PRAYER.” AND “LISTENING TO GOD”- Nancy Odwallo
Revelation 4:1-11; Psalm 32:1-7, 1:1-3
The devotion put emphasis on the need for sisters to be constantly aware of their surroundings and in touch with themselves. Journaling thoughts, decisions, experiences…to mention but a few; daily keeps one not only in touch with self but also serves as a reminder for assessing a connection with God. “A busy schedule does not stop one from becoming a true Christian,” Nancy exhorted. The sisters were encouraged to write a prayer to God on a daily basis and take time to listen to God as well.
2. “TWO ARE BETTER THAN ONE.” – Ann Irungu
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 2 Corinthians 10: 3-5; Acts 12:1-4; 1 Peter 5: 8-9; James 1:12-15; 2 Corinthians 4:7-11, 16-18; Proverbs 20:18
Drawing the title from Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Ann reminded the sisters about the spiritual warfare for their souls that they daily wage. “Always be alert and fight strongholds by God’s word,” she implored. Complacency and honest friendships amongst sisters was encouraged noting that these relationships potentially reinforce growth.
3. “REVIVAL BEGINS IN THE HEART” – Loise Kioko
1 John 5:14-15; Matthew 21:12-13; James 5:16; Psalm 32: 5
Webster defines revival as a return to health or flourishing condition after a decline. Earnest prayer and eager confession of sins are necessary for revival to take root in the heart. The heart should essentially be a house of prayer while confession should ease the heart: opening a way for healing, self- forgiveness, giving way to a free spirit and, a beginning to a brighter life.
4. “A CALL TO BECOME” – Carol Nuthu
Ezekiel 2: 2-3, 7 – 8; Mark 1:16-20; 1 Corinthians 3:6-8; Isaiah 55: 10-11, 66:7-10
It is difficult to call anyone to something one is not. In any case, one needs the courage of one’s convictions – the courage to do what one knows is right. God has called His disciples to go out and speak His Words regardless of whether people listen or not. ‘Neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.’
5. “THE SPIRIT OF SERVING” – Anyima Okundi
Hebrews 3; Acts 6:1-7; 1 Peter 4:10; Galatians 6:10; 1Corinthians 15:58
To foster the spirit of servant hood, three things are crucial. First, one should not feel like they don’t have anything to offer. Secondly, always seek to get involved even in smallest ways. Thirdly, develop selflessness. After all, “each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.”
6. “ASSURED OF GOD’S LOVE” – Rose Kisini
Romans 5:8-10; Hebrews 4:14-16; Zephaniah 3:17; Isaiah 49:16; 1John 2:1, 3:1; Hebrews 12:22-24; Philippians 3:7-11.
That God’s love is enormous cannot be over emphasized. That His grace is always sufficient goes without saying. Not only has He demonstrated immense love by giving mankind His son, He has also given a wonderful family of loving brothers and sisters in His kingdom. “Rubbish all things that come between you and God and shout Eureka!” she resoundingly concluded.
7. “SEXUALITY AND PURITY” – Fridah Mcharo
1 Timothy 6:12; John 1:13-15, 4:7-8; 1 Timothy 5: 1-2
It is wise to talk to God whenever one is faced with temptations. Yes, even if they are thoughts desiring to relate to anyone sexually. It is also encouraging to constantly share one’s thoughts with close and godly sisters. The sisters were also urged to treat brothers and men in general with absolute purity.
8. “MORE THAN CONQUERORS “– Nancy Odwallo Psalm 9: 9-10; Isaiah 33:6; 1 Peter 5:8-9; John 15:1-8; 2 Timothy 3: 1-5
It is advisable to be secure in one’s walk God. However, in light insecurity, one pertinent question ask oneself is “What are some things hindering the possibility of becoming an awesome disciple for Christ?”
Insecurities are not confined to single/unmarried women alone! Nancy qualified that spiritual battles are very similar to most people but cautioned against apathy, a bad road that quickly dilapidates an individual’s faith. Another aspect of being secure is embracing pruning from God – a vital ingredient for increased fruitfulness. In the end, the decision as to whether to live a victorious or defeated life is highly personal.
9. “A LEAP FOR HEAVEN” - Carol Mukenya
Hebrews 11:1-40
A magnificent narrative of epic stories of the great heroes of faith makes for an inspiring spiritual treatise. Quote like the Holly Wood of Fame whose celebrities elicit manic fanaticism in many a fan, this Heavenly Hall of Faith redefines to many a disciple of Jesus the true spiritual meaning of faith- a life of continuous certainty in things not seen and of total security in the love of God.
As we read on, we are enamored with this vast richness in character diversity as we see the faith of many tested by the crudest of life situations. We understand why without faith, it will be impossible to please God. Without obedience to God’s Word there is no faith; and without faith there is no discipleship. “Do you find yourself struggling these to do the things of God?” she poses. ‘Like the walls of Jericho that fell after people had marched around for seven days,’ togetherness in God’s Kingdom with God’s people is important for steady faith. Rahab’s induction demonstrates justifications by faith. “Leave the past where it belongs.” Our faith will be magnified when we turn our focus on others rather than self. Putting God first, seeking advice and guidance, prioritizing and commitment to daily growth are some ways that deflect focus from ourselves self to others. Prideful tendencies will glue us to the ground stopping as from leaping for heaven.