Against the backdrop of strife-torn ethnic violence in my home state, these are a few things lingering in my mind. The internet there has been cut off for more than a month. I know, it felt strange in today’s era. However, it actually took place. Here, I have the privilege to share my thoughts with you!
In this time of impending traumatization due to the loss of innocent lives, property, houses, and livestock equaling both sides of the community, I would like to list down a few points to give careful thought.
Right Priorities:
When selfish ambitions crept up spiritually and politically in our midst, somewhere down the line we were likely to face a blackout. Then it is time to correct and reroute the believers on the right path.
Selfish ambitions took away the benefits and negated the gospel of God. It distort what we were preaching. It lasted only for a while. In the arms of God and his unfailing love, we can still find refuge in Him. Our priorities must be in tune with God’s.
The Guiding Light:
The leaders and laymen alike heard the voice of God less often than our forefathers. Still, we claimed to be more knowledgeable and spiritually enlightened than our forefathers.
Let the light of Jesus shine over us and let it be the guiding light in this difficult time. Obedience to the still small voice is more than the need of the hour, although it has always been. Again, what more do we have? Obey the LORD God at all costs!
Do NOT Fear:
Give careful thought to the day the foundation of the Lord’s temple is in your heart. You and I are the living temple of God. Mountains may fall apart, sophisticated weapons might be fired, yet the angels of the Lord will keep us safe.
Some two decades ago, I also witness an ethnic conflict. One night, as we’re coerced by gunfire to spend the rough, rainy, and wet night nearby the plantain plants, the prayer of my father inspired by Psalms 34 still keeps ringing in my mind.
The angels encamped around those who fear him. So, take courage in the LORD. God is living within and with us. Do not fear!
God’s Way of Restoration:
You will be restored in God’s way! I cannot tell you the exact time but it is nearer day by day. Do not lose hope although the ruins may last for a while.
I heard the sad news of the perpetrators misusing and dishonoring the church of the Living God. Then, I say to myself, restoration is much nearer!
I am not delighted with how they act inside the church building and the killings of women folk and villagers. However, it must be my God who gave me hope that restoration is much nearer.
Our Response:
I want to write the way my tribesmen have humbled enough before the Lord. Yet it hasn’t, there’s some more left. All I can say is that deliverance is on the way. And,
God’s work must be responded to in God’s way. Yer one must remember God’s way might not be what you desired the most. His ways are different yet beneficial and well-suited for his children!
For, he knows our needs. When the Refiner’s fire has almost done its purpose. We know there is a reason for everything. Let us give careful thought to the word of God.
Put your trust in Him! He will work it out the best way.
Let me end here with a verse from the holy Scripture: I will overthrow chariots and their drivers; horses and their riders will fall, each by the sword of his brother. For, I have chosen (in the blood of my son) Haggai 2 with my emphasis added.
Kindly, do remember us in your prayer!
