HOPE ON A BATTLEFIELD
- Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
- Feb 27
- 3 min read
Today’s Readings:
Rev 15:1-4
Psalm 97:1-3,7-9
Luke 21:12-19

Do you ever feel a sense of distress? You're hoping to God for something, praying for some gift or asking for some favour and it just feels like there is no hope? When you look around your country, the economy is not smiling. Some days ago, I got the news that I shouldn't spend any cash I had on me, because cash will be hard to find. I might have to pay to get cash. Ridiculous as this sounds, it is almost the order of the day that we do not hear good news any more. We pray that things do not get worse. If you are in any type of distress whether personal or family or relationship or finances, I want you to reflect on the words of Jesus.
"Men will seize you and persecute you; they will hand you over to the synagogues and imprisonment, and bring you before kings and governors because of my name – and that will be your opportunity to bear witness." (Luke 21:12-13).
There are three fronts on which the devil will bring persecution to us:
Internally (within us) - To create a crisis of faith
With family and friends - To create discouragement.
With the world - To create an air of opposition.
You are more susceptible where you are weakest. Is your faith shaking? The devil will target your internal crisis. Do you rely heavily on affirmation from friends and family? The devil will sow betrayal and disappointment. Do you look to people on social media for affirmation? The devil with target your ego and self-esteem. What should you do in the face of persecution?
Pray for God's will to be done.
Pray for good things from God (marriage partner, financial breakthrough, good accommodation etc.)
Trust God even when nothing seems to be working.
Be faithful to God even through discouragement.
Be courageous against sin and the works of darkness and never give in to vices.
Heaven and earth will pass away but our relationship with God will last forever. If you have a solid relationship with God, it doesn't matter what the world thinks or says, it doesn't matter what the economy or your family say. God has the final say. Persecutions will come but Jesus offers us courage. He has given you the Holy Spirit to renew your inspiration and offer you guidance. When others mock your faith, acknowledge God in all your ways and He will direct you.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and meet the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
Most Powerful and ever provident Father, look upon your children with mercy and favour. Turn their fortune around, restore hope and fill them with the peace and joy that only You can give. Strengthen their commitment to you. Reassure them of your presence and bless them beyond measure. Amen.
May God renew your hope and strengthen your faith in Him. Remember that you are on a battlefield and victory shall be yours in Jesus' name. Amen.
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