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Here’s the proof you’re truly trusting God

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Fr. Peter John Cameron, OP - published on 02/25/23 - updated on 02/25/23

The devil is very good at destroying trust in the Father.

The season of Lent begins every year with the Gospel about Jesus being tempted in the desert: “At that time Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil” (Mt 4:1). What is the devil’s intention in tempting Jesus? What is he trying to achieve?

Here’s the answer: The devil wants to damage Jesus’ relationship with the Father so that Jesus will cease to love and trust him with Son-like affection. It’s a ploy to get Jesus to treat the Father like a functionary, a force to be contended with—to frustrate and deprecate their relationship.

Mistaken about temptation

The problem is that the devil is very good at this. Think about how you yourself feel when unnerved by temptation. Most likely you presume: (a) that you have done something wrong; (b) that God is punishing and rejecting you; and (c) that God will not be happy until you prove to him that you are deserving of his love. If you succumb to all that claptrap, the devil has already won. Which is extremely sad. Tragic.

But reconsider all this in the light of Jesus’ temptations. In his case, who does the devil go after: someone who is bad … or someone who is good? The answer, obviously, is someone who is good. And that is why the devil goes after you with temptations. The devil doesn’t need to waste his time tempting people who are bad—they are totally adept at finding and giving into temptations on their own. No, the devil sets his sights on people who are holy, because if he can manage to be victorious in getting them to fall, then he has a trophy to wave maliciously in the face of Jesus. 

The saints confirm this. St. Ambrose says that “the devil always envies those who strive for better things.” So too St. Hilary of Poitiers: “The devil tempts those who are sanctified, for he desires above all to overcome the holy.”

How to think about temptations

A chief priority, then, is changing the way we think about temptations, especially in three ways.

First of all, our response to temptation should be gratitude. We should be grateful when temptations come our way because their presence is a confirmation of our virtuous spiritual condition which the Evil One reckons to be a real threat. Hence his attack.

Secondly, we should be deeply appreciative of the supreme help temptations lend to our spiritual life. So often in our desire to grow in holiness, we don’t have the faintest idea about where to begin. However, you can be sure that the temptations which the devil sends target that specific area of our life where we are weakest and most in need of growth. Would we ever have identified that on our own without the tussle with temptation?

And third, the time to worry is not when we are tempted but rather when we are NOT struggling with temptation—because that means the devil regards us as not worth going after, probably because we are doing a yeomen’s job of wrecking our relationship with God on our own.

The connection between temptations and sanctification

How is it that we even know about Jesus’ temptations? The only answer that makes sense is that Jesus himself told his disciples about them. And he did so deliberately to exemplify how crucial temptations are for growing in the love of the Father. Jesus did not leave that desert the same way he entered it. He emerged with an even more intensive love for his Father … with a more profound certainty and conviction to do the Father’s will and to live his mission with freedom set on fire. Through his temptations he “learned obedience from what he suffered” (Heb 5:8). Jesus models for us that temptations are a crucial part of sanctification.

The experience of temptation is a kind of school in holiness. The reason why God allows temptations to happen in our life is to teach us just how untrusting we are of him. What would you say is the human being’s greatest temptation? Don’t say cheesecake. It’s the temptation to think we are autonomous: that we are the makers of our own destiny … that we can do everything on our own … that the most successful people are the most self-reliant. The devil wants us to wallow in those delusions. Temptation is a graced occasion to become stronger by relying on God’s strength. The goal of temptation is to be open to receiving God’s love right in the midst of the upheaval of temptation. 

The goal of temptation is to be open to receiving God’s love right in the midst of the upheaval of temptation. 

Temptations convince us that we have nothing to hope for in ourselves, and therefore it is a waste of time to try to be “self-sufficient.” Do you know what the proof is that you are truly trusting God in your life? It is that you go to him immediately when temptation strikes … not letting shame or being humiliated or feeling disappointed in yourself get in the way. The devil is overcome when he knows that he cannot keep us from Jesus. So in your temptations, just get to Jesus. It’s not about “overcoming” temptations; it’s about letting Jesus’ love for you dissolve them.

The devil is overcome when he knows that he cannot keep us from Jesus. So in your temptations, just get to Jesus.

And we can do so serenely and with such great confidence because “God keeps his promise. He will not let you be tested beyond your strength” (1 Cor 10:13). No matter how ferocious the temptation, it cannot outdistance God’s divine providence holding you close and cheering you on.

It is not an exaggeration to say that, in many ways, the most important moment of your life is the second after temptation strikes. What do you do? Do you anguish about why you are being tempted and try to fight it off with your willpower (= disaster)? Or do you surrender yourself into the arms of Jesus? Let’s do that … and all this Lent let’s really mean it when we pray in the Our Father lead us not into temptation. What we’re saying is: 

I know I need temptations in order for you to purify and perfect me. But when they come, don’t let them lead me to discouragement or delusion. Let them lead me to a greater love of you! 

~

LINK:  https://aleteia.org/2023/02/25/heres-the-proof-youre-truly-trusting-god/

 

NIGERIA VOTES

2023 presidency: I stand by what God told me despite bashing - Pastor Adefarasin

Paul Adefarasin

Published By: Kazeem Ugbodaga

21st February, 2023

Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Senior Pastor, House on the Rock, on Tuesday said he stood by what God told him on the parable of ‘Saul and David’ in Nigeria’s presidential election.

Adefarasin had during a sermon at the weekend, while speaking on the forthcoming presidential election, in his church, gave a parable of Saul and David in the Bible and how that Saul came first before David.

Many supporters of Peter Obi took Adefarasin’s parable to mean that he is supporting the APC’s presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu to win the election.

They tore him apart and called him unprintable names.

But the popular cleric who did not come out openly to endorse any presidential candidate in series of tweets on Tuesday said he stood by what God told him.

“Friends, you have kept me busy with your tweets, posts, and comments. Though many are harsh, I appreciate your feedback and I still want to take a minute to share my stance with you again, in the hope that you may gain a clearer understanding.

As with all of you, I identify as a Nigerian and a patriot, so undoubtedly, I share in your pain. Living in Nigeria, I share the desire for a working country and that is why we all consider this election critical in our collective quest for a New Nigeria,” he said.

According to Adefarasin, “I really believe that it will happen, and I wish that you could see what I see – the hope that the parable of Saul and David brings – the after-victory. I understand that there are varying interpretations of the parable of Saul & David, and that is fine.

“However, remember that the giver of the parable is the One that can give meaning to it. God gave me that parable and even as I released it, I have continued to search for it’s applicable meaning to the present Nigerian circumstances.

“I feel blessed to have your ear, however, I will ask that you listen deeply for understanding, so that you do not miss the message.

“Saul, instead of trusting in God, tried to manipulate things and even discountenanced his mentor, Samuel. David on the other hand stumbled, but never stuttered, he was delayed but not too late.

“So, whether Saul represents our past or our present, only God knows. Whether David represents the future or now, I can’t tell. In any case, the ‘wise’ will wait for the election period to play itself out, before concluding or judging the messenger.”

Adefarasin added: “Finally, kindly remember that I shepherd people of all parties, and if that parable was taken in offense, my intention was not to offend you.

“However, I stand by what I heard God say to me: that Saul came before David. This means that even if this election does not go the way that you want it to go, don’t be disappointed.

“Every election will produce some disappointment for the camps of the candidates who lose. God’s will shall still come to pass in Nigeria. It will happen and His ‘David’ will rise to the role. We will get there. Remember, we are all in this together.

“If you have your PVC, it is a token of your faith in a New Nigeria. Go out and vote as your convictions lead you, and watch God Almighty do what only He can do.” 

 LINK: https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2023/02/21/2023-presidency-i-stand-by-what-god-told-me-despite-bashing-pastor-adefarasin/

 

LOOKING TO GOD

Presidential election: Please don’t punish us again – Apostle Suleman begs God

Published on February 23, 2023

By Ochogwu Sunday

Less than forty-eight hours to the most anticipated presidential election, the founder and General Overseer of the Omega Fire Ministry, Apostle Johnson Suleman has begged God for a better leader.

The famous pastor who recently declared that himself and his family members would be casting their ballots for the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, stated this in a tweet on his official handle.

He begged God to have mercy on the country and not punish the citizens for a second time.

He wrote, “God have mercy on us. Plsss lord..(Hab 3.2) Don’t punish us again with another bad leader.. Plssss have mercy.. Oh God,we take God beg you”.

Suleman and other men of God who were against President Muhammadu Buhari’s candidacy in 2015 had claimed that God allowed the current administration with the aim of punishing the citizens.

LINK:  https://dailypost.ng/2023/02/23/presidential-election-please-dont-punish-us-again-apostle-suleman-begs-god/

DAILY POST

MAN OF GOD

News

February 22, 2023

Following God has brought me this far-Nelson Iheagwam

The Lead of Nelson Iheagwam Ministries, Nelson Iheagwam has averred that following God passionately has brought him thus far. Iheagwam who also doubles as a pastor and gospel artiste said:”I have always known I was called. I always knew ministry is what God will have me do with my life. it’s just an inner knowing; the Holy Ghost bearing witness to what’s true about you from eternity. But a turning point was in December 2020, I woke up to pray and while praying I heard the Lord say “men saved, men trained, men sent” loudly in my spirit and that’s what birthed and drives Nelson Iheagwam Ministries and other expressions to come.I will say what has brought me this far is following God. Listening to God when He says go.In the midst of fear, uncertainties, confusion and what not; the voice of God has been a sure compass and anchor. It has steadied me, led me and helped me”.

The visionary leader also urge youths to stay away from scams and illicit activities.

“As someone who leads young people, I would advise as I usually would; Youth isn’t a time for foolishness, it isn’t a time to indulge all your passions, it’s a time to follow hard after God and make investments into your tomorrow. Any young person involved in scheming and scamming isn’t really setting the best foundations for their tomorrow.Youth is a time to set foundations and that’s what I help those who follow me to do”.

Shedding light on why his ministry’s forthcoming programme, ‘Supernatural Class’ is critical, he said:”

“At Supernatural Class we don’t just see men get things from Jesus. We see men receive the heart and the burden of the father. If men burn brighter for Jesus or have more of Jesus seen, we will have a better society. So at Supernatural Class, we don’t just see men get miracles, we see men become miracles and I mean lives radically changed for the better to look more like Jesus, So do we need more events like this? A loud yes”.

LINK:  https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/02/following-god-has-brought-me-this-far-nelson-iheagwam/

VANGUARD NEWS

PUTIN ATTACKS WESTERN MORALITY

Gender-neutral God, same-sex marriages: Putin turns moral police for West

In his state of the nation address before the Federal Assembly, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused the West for not just the Ukraine war but also for destroying Catholic and family values

India Today Web Desk

 

New Delhi,UPDATED: Feb 21, 2023 17:21 IST

Vladimir Putin addressed the Federal Assembly on Tuesday. (Photo: Screengrab/RT)

By India Today Web Desk: A day after US President Joe Biden's surprise visit to Ukraine, Russian premier Vladimir Putin launched a frontal attack on the West, accusing it of not only "unleashing the war" but also for the degradation of Catholic and family values.

In his state of the nation address before the Federal Assembly on Tuesday, Putin said, "The Church of England is considering a version of a 'gender-neutral' God. They don’t know what they’re doing."

Recently, the Church of England said that it was considering how to refer to God without assigning a gender. However, there are no plans to abolish current services yet.

Putin also spoke about the approval of same-sex marriages in the West. "The family union is between a man and a woman," Putin said.

"They're destroying the institution of family. Their cultural-historical identity, and various perversions with regards to children. Priests are forced to recognize and officiate same-sex weddings. The family is a union between woman and man," Putin said.

LINK:  https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/putin-russia-west-same-sex-marriage-gender-neutral-god-2337657-2023-02-21

ADDITIONAL MEASURES AGAINST CRIME

20 Feb

Panyaza Lesufi's plan to save Gauteng citizens from 'criminals that play God with our lives' 

 

 

Zintle Mahlati 

 

Panyaza Lesufi.

Gallo Images/Papi Morake

• Panyaza Lesufi gave his first State of the Province Address. 
• Lesufi said criminals were acting as "God" by holding residents of Gauteng hostage. 
• He explained how his administration would fight against crime. 

---

Talking tough on crime, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi wants guns registered for use in the province to be monitored via tracking devices. 

Lesufi unveiled plans for vehicle licence registrations to be fitted with high-tech security features, making it hard for criminals to duplicate. 

On Monday, he revealed a list of priorities, which he said needed to be tackled to save the citizens of Gauteng from "criminals that play God with our lives'".  

Lesufi was giving his first State of the Province Address.

He was sworn in as premier in 2022 following the resignation of his predecessor, David Makhura.  

He has about a year left in his short term before the 2024 national elections, which are predicted to be tough for the ANC.  

Lesufi has long decried the state of crime in Gauteng and how residents are being held hostage by criminals.  

His speech on Monday spoke to this concern, with the bulk of its introduction littered with promises to Gauteng's citizens that safety would return. 

READ | Gauteng premier moots tighter gun control after AKA, Motsoane murders

Lesufi said that, to tackle crime, his administration would be spending over R700 million in the next few months on several projects.  

He said about 400 new cars would be handed to the province's law enforcement agencies, while 180 drones would be added to fight crime in areas unreachable by the police.

To loud applause from the ANC caucus at Johannesburg City Hall, Lesufi said another plan was to issue "electronic panic buttons" to citizens, which they could use to alert SAPS when a crime occurred. 

The ANC Gauteng provincial leader said the devices would be linked to police control centres in each community.  

Lesufi also made other bold promises in his speech. 

READ | Lesufi’s ambitious plan to tackle crime

He said to tackle crime further, the provincial government would change legislation to allow additional features to be added to registered licence plates.

This feature would make it harder for criminals to duplicate licence plates.

Lesufi said guns registered in Gauteng would be fitted with tracking devices.

He said every gun used illegally was once legal, and no weapon in Gauteng should roam the streets untracked.  

"Our province is home to heartless criminals who do as they wish. Our situation is out of control," Lesufi said.

NATION IN PRAYER

Our country is in bad state, only God can help us - Raila

He called out Ruto, his DP for pretending to be praying for the country every Sunday.

In Summary

• He thanked the clergy who had come to pray with them
• Raila spoke during the Azimio prayer rally at the Jeevanjee Gardens in Nairobi, on Wednesday.

Azimio principals led by Raila Odinga at Jevanjee garden during the National Prayer Day
Image: ENOS TECHE

Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga now says that the country under President William Ruto’s leadership is in a bad state.

According to Raila, only God can help Kenyans.

“Today is our prayer day. We agreed as Azimio that we set aside a day to meet Kenyans for prayers and to talk to God. Our country is in a bad state and that is why we are saying only God can help us,” he said.

“I want, on behalf of my fellow leaders here, to thank the clergy who have come to pray for us.”

The former Prime Minister called out President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua for pretending to be holding prayer rallies, yet they continue to do 'bad things'. 

"Every Sunday they go to church pretending to be praying but they do a lot of evil after that," he said.

Raila spoke during the Azimio prayer rally at the Jeevanjee Gardens in Nairobi, on Wednesday.

LINK:  https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2023-02-22-our-country-is-in-bad-state-only-god-can-help-us-raila/