Agape Christian Magazine by agape magazine

AGAPE

MAGAZINE FIFTH EDITION

PREPARATION 2021

EM BRACING EVERY STRONG WOM EN

WORD THERAPY " CONTENTMENT"

HAPPY HERITAGE DAY SOUTH AFRICA

24 COVER STORY

JOHN 3:16

For God so loved t h e w or ld, t h at h e gave h is on ly begot t en Son , t h at w h osoever believet h in h im sh ou ld n ot per ish , bu t h ave ever last in g lif e.

NEWS FEED Loot in g Olym pics Van dalize Un em ploym en t

Th e t est im on y

beh in d t h e son g " It is well with my soul"

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CONTENTS 3

Life hidden in Christ

5-7

Embracing Women

8 Word Therapy

9-11

Cover Feature John 3:16

13-15

Heritage

Testimony Corner

Food for Thought

19-21

News Feed

22-23

Self-Reflection

Opportunity

EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to the 5th edition of AGAPE where we talk about everything Christian. AGAPE is a Greek word that means God's love. In this edition, we continue to express his

love through thought-provoking articles, exclusive interviews, news, testimonies, and so much more. A lot has happened in most parts of the world, from the pandemic, unrest and disturbing events. It goes to show that, “The world and all that is in it belong to the Lord; the earth and all who live on it are his” Psalm 24:1 GNT. Irrespective of the unrest and unprecedented events that took place within a short space of time, the world can attest that God is still God and He sits on the throne. To every individual impacted by the unfavourable events that occurred just remember, you have the victory and you have been chosen for such a time as this. God would not make you go through any situation that you cannot handle (1 Corinthians 10:13). Thank you for opening your heart to God’s love. In the most heartfelt gratitude '6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NIV’ Stay Blessed & Stay Winning! Audrey Tshabalala

A Life hidden in Christ

By Audrey Tshabalala

Everyone who has not received salvation, the life in Christ is a mystery to them. They can't comprehend the Grace associated with redemption. When Paul said, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:1-2). Since we are united with Christ, and Christ is with God, that is where we should set our affections. That is what we should desire, and that is what we should think about. This does not mean that we ignore earthly things but, we ought to bring heavenly qualities to our earthly lives. Stop thinking or worrying about what you used to be, that is all in the past. “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3). The old “you” is gone, killed with Christ on the cross and buried with him. Our new identity is in Christ, in God. Although it may not look like it, our real self is found with him. Christ has brought us into the heavenly places (Ephesians 1:20), and that should transform the way we think about ourselves and everything surrounding us (Romans 12:2). Our new life should resemble the reality that Christ has brought us into the divine life, into the fellowship of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. We belong to God, and we should think and act like it. Our true identity is hidden in Christ. “By no means everything about Christian living is apparent, not only to outsiders, for whom much of it appears foolish but also to Christians themselves, for whom there remains a mystery and much questioning until the final revelation”. However, it will soon be evident to everyone “When Christ, who is our life, appears, then we also will appear with him in glory” (Colossians 3:4). We should live in a way that glorifies God and is appropriate for those who live, move, and have their being in him, until the final revelation”.

GLOOM WITH GRACE

SHE IS WISDOM

WOMEN he Bible tells us, “[A woman] is clothed with

strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come” (Proverbs 31:25). Without a doubt, God gives women strength. As with everything God gives us, we then become the stewards of that gift. We also become responsible to use it right and are accountable for how we us it. A strong-willed woman isn’t afraid to meet the world head-on. She’s undeterred by those who say something can’t be done. Her God-given passion produces cleareyed purpose, deep compassion and a bold spirit that has the power to change the world. But even a strong-willed woman runs into issues along her journey. Sometimes her determination and strong will leads to misunderstandings and breakdowns and the only one that can help her overcome them is God. Becoming a woman of strength and purpose gives glory to God and it releases you from the captivity of hopelessness and despair. Whether you consider yourself a strong, purpose-filled woman or are striving to be, here are seven ways to develop your strength and purpose.

1 Let Go of Self-Sufficiency

Decrease so Christ can Increase

When you are going through a dark season in your life, one of the toughest but most important things you can do is trust God. During periods of crisis, it can be extremely difficult to understand the depths of God’s love for you and the unfathomable extent of His faithfulness. If you want to become a woman of strength and purpose, you must come face to face before God and confess that you don’t want to do life without Him. At this point of surrender, God will rescue you. Think of God as a perfect orchestra conductor. No matter how far off you get from the original score, God never misses a beat. He takes our mistakes, our failures and our disappointments and blends them as we go. No matter what happens, we should let go of our self-sufficiency to trust that He, our Conductor, really does know best.

MONTH

The Journey to Embracing your strength and purpose in Christ.

2 Always Be Ready for a Challenge

If you are ready to become a woman of strength and purpose, you should be ready for a challenge. A woman of strength and purpose is energized by finding answers to problems no one else has been able to solve. In fact, they are known to become offended if they aren’t given a chance to help create a plan to deal with a current dilemma, especially if it turns into a full-blown crisis. While others may be willing to take no for an answer, these women are not daunted by the impossible or fearful of blazing new trails. When others turn around at the road closed sign, a woman with strength and purpose believes there has to be a way to get through.

3 KNOW WHO YOU ARE A woman of strength and purpose has a strong sense of self. Knowing yourself is a journey. It is about discovering who you are. The journey is unpredictable and will engage you deeply as it brings you face-to-face with your deepest fears, self-doubts, vulnerabilities and insecurities. On your journey, you may question how you are living your life and whether or not is in line with your bigger calling. The path to knowing yourself means giving yourself permission to not know who you are while unravelling the deep truth of who you are. A woman of strength and purpose realizes that the search to identify who they are is an inside job. No one else can do it for you.

4 Develop a strong WILL How strong willed are you? When it comes to identifying a strong-willed woman, you’ll find a variety of strengths and character traits. You may already be comfortable with your strong-will, embracing it with enthusiasm or you may be reluctant to admit you have it – and resist using the term at all. Strong-will comes in all shapes, sizes and personalities. But regardless of your background and uniqueness, you can use your strength to bring glory and honour to God – and you’re destined to change the world in ways you can’t even imagine. It’s the women with the most determination who make the most difference.

5 Live with Integrity

A woman with strength and purpose lives a life of integrity. If you’re living all out for God, your motivations and actions will be in line with His Word. Your desire to conquer takes a back seat to your desire to keep your life in line with God’s will and to bring Him honour. Philippians 1:27 says, “Live in a such a way that you are a credit to the Message of Christ.” None of us will get it right every time. All of us will occasionally fail under stress or frustration. But it really comes down to this: it’s our heart’s desire to live in a way that reflects Christ.

6 Draw Strength From God 7 This will help

you to discern truth from error and view everything through the lens of Scripture Strong women inspire me. From young girls using their voices to grandmothers raising up the next generation to be confident in themselves, it’s amazing to witness courageous women in action. And in a time where equality is still fiercely fought for, we want to celebrate International Women’s Day by honouring some of the great women of the Bible whose strength and compassion still resonates.

Take inventory of the strength God has given you and ask yourself how you’ve used it. The Lord has clothed you with strength and you can use it for good. You don’t have to silence your strengths. Instead, you can let God use them to impact the world for good. A lot of women especially young girls draw some inspiration from most of phenomenal women that have done well or doing well in their respective careers or profession. Which is absolutely beautiful because it encourages them to want to be like them or do great for themselves. We live in times were being a woman you not limited to house chores and wearing dorks and skirts. We in the era where industries have opened to accommodate capable woman to take up any task or challenge, woman have freedom to be heard and to tell their stories with their unedited voice, through their dress code, hair and make up.

WORD THERAPY Contentment

By Audrey Tshabalala

Contentment is an emotional state of satisfaction that can be seen as a mental state, maybe drawn from being at ease in one's situation, body and mind. “Contentment is when we become convinced that our resources in Christ Jesus are more than adequate for every situation in life that we face.” We are living in a fast changing world that promotes dissatisfaction with our lives through the internet specifically social media. We are constantly bombarded with newer and better things that promise to make our lives more complete if only we would obtain them. If we listen to the world, we will always be comparing the lifestyles and possessions of others with our own, and we will always be dissatisfied. But the the only satisfying truth is this True contentment is found in Jesus. Our contentment should never be based on our personal gains or circumstances. Many times we look for happiness in what we do instead of who we are. It is more important to be happy with who we are than with what we do. Sometimes we want to obtain an academic degree, an academic title, or maybe an important leadership role in the organization to which we belong. Sometimes we look for a promotion or a leadership role that is higher because we believe that this will bring us happiness. We need to cultivate the spirit of Praise in spite of the unpleasant situations we are faced with daily. Instead of complaining , think about the blessings that have been bestowed upon you, sing a joyful or hopeful song that way you will be inspired to pray and start to give thanks to God for your life. The life of Apostle Paul is admirable if you ask “How can I be content in this era?” Philippians 4:11- I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. There are two ways you can evaluate yourself to know if you are truly content with your life. 1) When you know and understand God’s purpose for your life 2) When you are practicing the presence of God. (Philippians 4v8)

PICTURE FROM: PEAKS OF AFRICA

JOHN 3:16 FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD, THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH BUT SHOULD HAVE ETERNAL LIFE KJV.

Initially, one might call His words a redirect, but Jesus was probing something deeper. You see, we must remember whom Christ was speaking to, what kind of life he lived, and how Nicodemus was accustomed to relating to God—through religious works. Can you imagine how confusing Jesus’ statement must have been? I’m not just talking about the whole rebirth analogy but consider the message as well conveyed to this well-educated, well-trained, and presumably “righteous” man. Jesus, in essence, told Nicodemus that all his years progressing in Judaism, all the time he spent reciting prayers and participating in festivals, accounted for nothing. Oh, they laid the groundwork, a foundation, if you will, for the truths Jesus was presenting. But they didn’t have the strength to carry Nicodemus to salvation.

JOHN 3:16

Why Did Jesus Use an Old Testament Reference to Explain His Point?

John 3:16 can easily run through our brains without much cognizant thought, but have we paused to consider what it truly means? Have we contemplated the depth of truths packed within this verse, preserved by God Himself, throughout countless generations? Most importantly, how do we live in the reality that John 3:16 presents—that God, who is love, actively demonstrated His love through Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, and through Him, offered salvation to all mankind.

"'Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.' For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son" (John 3:14-18).

You see it displayed on bumper stickers and banners; you see it waved on posters at athletic events; you hear it quoted by the politicians. It is one of the first verses we learn as children, and one that many adults can still recite from memory. It is one of the few verses that many people can identify just from the reference – John 3:16 For some people it is the only Bible verse they can identify by the reference, but that discussion is for another time.

To illustrate the point further to Nicodemus, Jesus referenced the bronze snake Moses raised in the wilderness, back when the Israelites wandered in the desert vacillating between rebellion and repentance (Numbers 21:4-9). As recorded in the Book of Numbers, a book Nicodemus would have been extremely familiar with, the Israelites chose rebellion and were punished for it in the form of venomous snake bites. To receive healing, they had to look at a bronze snake on a pole. Looking at the snake on the pole was an act of faith, and when they looked, they were healed by God. The Israelites knew this was the only way they could be saved from this certain death by venom.

One night, presumably after many of his colleagues were home in bed, a Pharisee named Nicodemus the Jewish ruling council came to Jesus. “Rabbi,” he said, “we know that You are a teacher who comes from God. For no one could perform the signs You are doing if God were not with him” (John 3:16). This statement suggests a few things: Nicodemus was familiar with Jesus, most likely respected Him, and recognized that He indeed came from God, just like John 3:16 later states. Nicodemus obviously knew of the miracles Jesus had performed. He’d probably heard many truths Jesus spoke as well, all of which seemed to have triggered a driving question: Who are you? Perhaps you’ve asked God that yourself. Beneath his words of affirmation, of wonderment, Nicodemus appears to be investigating Jesus’ identity. To which Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again” (John 3:16).

To get the full extent of this picture we need to remember Israel's pattern when they left Egypt: the people would rebel, the Lord's judgment would come, Moses would intercede on their behalf, and the Lord responded mercifully (NIV Biblical Theology Study Bible). In Jesus' earthly days the people of Israel were still rebelling, but this time there was a different intercessor . . . this time Jesus was the One whom the Lord would lift up and grant mercy through. However, this mercy that comes through Jesus the Son, our Saviour, is an everlasting mercy. When Nicodemus heard about Jesus' death on the cross, you can imagine his memory of these words. Just like the rebellious Israelites in the desert, Nicodemus needed an intercessor so that he could have salvation and be 'born again.' It is an illustration that likely stayed with Nicodemus for the rest of his earthly life.

“For God So Loved the World” Is the First Part of God’s Rescue Plan “For God So Loved the World” Is a Picture of Love John 3:16 follows this rich and theologically dense explanation of sin and salvation. “This,” Jesus said, “is how much God loves you. He sent you Me” (paraphrased). In Christ, we see a love so intense, so sacrificial, so incomprehensible, it makes all human expressions seem frivolous in comparison. The words Jesus spoke likely didn’t make much more sense to Nicodemus than Jesus’ talk of rebirth. After all, he likely had no idea Jesus was planning to die—for him (and us). He didn’t understand that Christ would, quite literally, be lifted on a pole, just as the snake had been, and that Christ’s death and resurrection, not wellspoken prayers or good deeds, would bring life. But we do have that knowledge, thanks to Scripture. Now, considering all Jesus suffered, all God watched Him suffer, for you and I, evaluate the beginning of John 3:16 again, “This is how God loved the world,” and everyone in it. “He gave His one and only Son.” Through His death, Christ revealed what pure, unfathomable love looks like. But He did more than that. Through the cross, God proved the depths of His love, because “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8) Such a passionate, selfsacrificing act is hard for my mind to comprehend. God reached out, expecting nothing in return, and emptied Himself completely, for the very ones who spurned Him. You and I included. God knew how helpless we were. Watching us hurt, manipulate, use, and kill one another, God could’ve left us to our destruction. He could’ve been repelled and turned away in disgust. Instead, He drew near. Speaking of Jesus, Philippians 2:6-8 says, “being in very nature God, [He] did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross.” God took action from the beginning of time, from that first sin in the Garden of Eden. The first thing God did was to remove the tree of life, lest we be trapped in a life of sin forever. He acted throughout history, weaving a plan and keeping His promise to save His people. He acted when He sent His Son through the Holy Spirit to be born incarnate of the virgin, Mary. And He acted when His Son was laid upon the cross, offering a sacrifice of His perfect life for our stained lives, which was the remission of sin.

Jesus came so that, though we were guilty and tarnished by sin, we could receive forgiveness and pardon for all we’d done or will do. Because of Jesus, we can have peace with God the Father, be adopted as His child, and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live, fully, in His freedom. Christ’s life and death were prophesied, and the gift of salvation promised, from the beginning of time. Adam and Eve rebelled against their good, attentive, and faithful Father. They chose pleasure in the moment over the peace and joy of a relationship with God. They chose their will and their wants, over trusting and obeying their God, and in this, they tried to elevate themselves above the very Creator who had loved them so faithfully. Jesus is not surprised by sin; He was there in the beginning, the second person of the Trinity, and after He was born incarnate of the virgin, Mary, He learned God's Word from an early age and kept it in His heart. In Genesis, He said, “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel” (ESV). In this, God promised sin would not win; though a battle would rage between light and dark, between good and evil, Christ would ultimately prevail, and He did. He secured His victory through His death on the cross. Colossians 2:15 puts it this way, “He disarmed the rulers and authorities” of darkness “and put them to open shame, triumphing over them” (ESV). This allows all who believe in Christ to say, “Death has been swallowed up in victory. ‘Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting.’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). "For God So Loved the World" He Sent His One and Only Son to Save God sent Christ for one reason only, and here’s why: “So that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” We receive God’s free gift of eternal life through faith, by believing Jesus is who He says He is— the sinless Son of God who paid for the world’s sins—and did what He said He did—died in our place to grant us entrance into eternity with Him. But to receive that precious gift, we must acknowledge we need it. That’s hard because it pricks against our pride. We often take great satisfaction in our achievements and knowing we’ve progressed solely through our own merits. But the Holy Spirit helps us realize the futility of our efforts; we cannot earn grace, but we can accept it by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Paul stated, “Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:24-25). This was the offer Jesus made to Nicodemus on that dark night so long ago. The offer was free. Nicodemus didn’t have to earn it; he simply needed to accept it. To step out of the darkness and into the light, out of death and into life. We don’t know how that conversation ended that night. Perhaps Nicodemus’ heart leapt with hope and he embraced the grace that Christ offered. Or perhaps he retreated, contemplated, and wrestled with his sin and pride, before finally finding the courage to surrender. Regardless, we know Christ revealed a beautiful picture of love, of grace, and the freedom of complete absolution. No more guilt. No more shame. Zero condemnation. Only freedom, light, and life, and all because God so loved this world.

PICTURE FROM: PEAKS OF AFRICA

126

HERITAGE DAY

Heritage Day is celebrated every year on September 24th since 1995 to date. It is a day that celebrates South Africa’s roots, it’s rich, vibrant, and diverse cultures. South Africa is called the ‘‘Rainbow Nation’’ due to its color and diversity, and this is why Heritage Day exists. Its goal is to nurture and embrace South African culture for what it truly is, accepting all races and genders. The day is usually celebrated with a cookout known as a braai and we suggest that you channel your inner South African and celebrate with a feast of your own.

estimony CORNER

The Inspiring Testimony Behind the Song “It is well with my Soul” “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling.”— PSALM 46:1-3

Have you ever felt overwhelmed, and you felt like you would not be able to bear another heavy load? It can seem like when you get through one challenge another challenge comes along, and you wonder where is God? Does He not care? Has He forsaken me? Is He punishing me? You feel helpless and all alone, and you go through the feelings of despair and defeat. One of the comforting popular hymns that are sang in many churches is “It Is Well With My Soul” or you may see the title “When Peace Like A River.” Listening to the song will renew your faith in knowing that whatever you may go through, you have nothing to worry about or fear when you have God’s peace living inside of us. Horatio Spafford was a Presbyterian layman, successful lawyer and real estate investor in Chicago. When the Great Chicago Fire happened in 1871, Horatio lost his fortune. Before the Chicago Fire his four-year old son died from scarlet fever.

The family was under a lot of stress and his wife was so overcome with grief he decided to send his wife and four daughters to England for a vacation on the S. S. Ville de Havre. He was going to join them later after he finished with some business, he had to take care of. The ship his family was traveling on was involved in a terrible collision while crossing the Atlantic Ocean on November 22, 1873 and sank in 12 minutes. All four of his daughters died along with more than 200 people. When his wife Anna reached Cardiff, Wales, she sent her husband a telegram that began: “Saved alone. What shall I do?”

After receiving the telegram, Horatio immediately set sail for England. During the voyage the captain was aware Horatio had lost his four daughters in the collision. He requested for Horatio to join him. He pointed out the location where the collision occurred. A devout Christian he thought about his four daughters, and he was comforted by the hope he had. He rushed to his room, and he penned the words to a poem. Returning home, the Spaffords had friends to visit them. One of those friends was Phillip Bliss, a vocalist and songwriter. Bliss was so moved by Spafford’s poem he composed music for it, calling it “It Is Well With My Soul”.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

GRACE OR WORKS ? PICTURE FROM: PEAKS OF AFRICA

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Grace or Works (Merit)? And since it is by God’s grace, it can’t be a matter of their good works; otherwise, it wouldn’t be a gift of grace, but earned by human effort. Romans 11:6 TPT But by the grace of God, I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain, but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me (1 Corinthians 15:10). Paul speaks greatly about the grace of God that was upon his life. From the human point of view, he never would have qualified to be an apostle. Nonetheless, he became such an outstanding apostle who laboured for the Gospel more than all the other apostles. He acknowledged the grace of God as the one factor that made all the difference in his life.

By Audrey Tshabalala

There is no clash between grace and works. Both are undeniable biblical concepts. Christians are “saved by grace through faith” (Ephesians 2:8). They are also created to do good works and must be obedient to the Lord’s commands (Ephesians 2:10; Acts 6:7; Romans 1:5; Romans 6:17). Any clash between grace and works is man-made and just plain wrong. It’s natural, especially in our culture, to think that with enough work we can overcome and fix almost any problem. Advances in science have given us the idea that we can conquer any obstacle. It’s a nice thought, even comforting, but it is just wrong. We cannot fix everything. Just like some illness that cannot be overcome even with the finest healthcare, there is a spiritual problem that cannot be overcome. That illness is sin.

It brings to mind the encounter between Gideon and the angel of the Lord in the sixth chapter of Judges. The angel appeared to him and said, “…The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour…Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?” (Judges 6:12-14). Gideon, evaluating himself from the natural standpoint, didn’t believe he was a mighty man of valour; he considered the weak position of his family and said, “…Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house” (Judges 6:15).

Speaking of our salvation asPICTURE a workFROM: of grace, PEAKS OF AFRICA Paul says “this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). Our works do not justify us as worthy of salvation (2 Timothy 1:9; Titus 3:5). When all is written we are still unworthy. Jesus said, “Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy

However, the grace of God made all the difference in his life. God said to him, “Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man” (Judges 6:16). Don’t look at your perceived physical inadequacies; trust in His ability. All that Gideon needed was to believe God’s Word and be confident in God’s grace upon his life; thank God he eventually did, and as a result, he was mightily used of God to accomplish the deliverance of Israel from the Midianites. God might have impressed it in your heart to do something for Him, and contrary thoughts may have been rising in your heart, making you feel you don’t have what it takes. But you need to realize that you have already been granted grace in superabundance (Romans 5:17). All you need do is to trust in God’s ability and walk in the light of His grace.

It is by his grace that God teaches us to avoid the coming destruction (Titus 2:11-14). Like Noah, we humbly and gratefully accept this grace and are trained to obey. Could Noah have thanked God for his grace and then refused to build the ark? Would he have been spared? Could Noah have graciously accepted God’s direction to move but remained in Ur? Would he be called the father of the faithful? Can anyone be called faithful who lives in rank disobedience to God? Of course not. How horrible to divide God’s plan by removing grace or by knifing obedience from what God has said! John was clear: “whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life…” (John 3:36). The Holy Spirit is given to the obedient (Acts 5:32). Put negatively, those who do not obey will face wrath (Romans 2:8). Those who do not obey the gospel will face the judgment of the returning Christ (2 Thessalonians 1:8).

servants; we have only done what was our duty’” (Luke 17:9-10). The servant’s work and obedience were expected; that was their duty.

Good works are the result of God’s grace. Grace is not the result of good works.

NEWS FEED By Audrey Tshabalala

Drawing some inspiration from Schoenmaker who won Gold for South Africa, breaks World Record. South Africa strikes gold at the Tokyo Olympics, as Tatjana Schoenmaker won the women's 200-meter breaststroke, dominating the competition as she went on to break an 8-year-old world record with a time of 2 minutes, 18.95 seconds. A very surreal experience for the 24year-old. "I feel like it really hasn't sunk in yet. We were even saying before the medals, like, did we just swim? (laughs) The whole process went really quick. So, yeah, I feel I was very excited to finally also finish my individual races and I'm excited to go home and celebrate just being at the Olympics with my family and stuff," Tatjana Schoenmaker said, at the post-race conference.

FUN FACTS -The five interlocking Olympic rings — blue, yellow, black, green and red — represent five main continents. The colour of the rings, which are on a white background of the Olympic flag, were selected because every country has at least one of the colours in their respective national flags. -Women have been allowed to compete in the Olympics since 1900. The 2012 Summer Olympics in London were the first in which all participating countries sent female athletes. But unlike the modern Olympics, there was no torch relay, no female competitors, and events would often become brutal. -English and French are the official languages of the Olympics. They are complemented by the official language of the host country.

This is the second medal for Tatjana Schoenmaker at the Tokyo Olmpics, after coming second in the 100-meter breaststroke race, three days ago. The World’s biggest Sporting Event the Olympic Games are a celebration of the human spirit, togetherness, fairness, excellence, and world peace. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fewn.co.za%2F2021%2F07%2F30%2Fsa-s-schoenmaker-smashes-200m-breaststroke-world-record-and-claims-olympicgold&psig=AOvVaw3jEIE7w1BOfLpBx_2_pysl&ust=1628112194834000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAgQjRxqFwoTCIiXueXklfICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAj

NEWS FEED

By Audrey Tshabalala

Looking into disturbing events that transpired within the year 2021. LOOTING South Africa became on a standstill as no one had anticipated the the magnitude “If you are a child of God you cannot steal, you of the damage caused due to the unrest cannot take by force caused and looting that resulted to 70 what’s already been people losing their lives and increased given to you in one of the social economic issues which abundance”. is high rate of unemployment.

When such incidents occur, it’s always a call for prayer especially if it was unforeseen. A lot of speculation about the looting was people are hungry because of there’s no jobs etc. However, I strongly believe that when people are fed or taught the Word of God there would be no need to steal. It is always about perspective the looting and unrest that occurred takes us back to the scripture (John 10:10) where it says the enemy comes to steal , kill and destroy. The people that went out to loot were used as instruments/victims to do the enemies' work. Because if you are a child of God you cannot steal, you cannot take by force what’s already been given to you in abundance. For all things are yours in Christ Jesus.

SCHOOL SET ON FIRE Learners at Glenvista high School wrote their assessment outside, following the resistance in writing the assessment which was scheduled in which the reason is still unknown and pending investigation. The results lead to burning and torching of some parts of the school premises.

Proverbs 24:3-7 “By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might, for by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counsellors there is victory. Wisdom is too high for a fool; in the gate he does not open his mouth.”

NEWS FEED

By Audrey Tshabalala

Whose report will you believe? (Isaiah 53:1)

FACTS WORLD RECORD: South Africa Unemployment Rate Rises to Highest in the World Unemployment has hit a record high of 34.4%, or 7.8 million jobless people. Stats SA released the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for the second quarter on Tuesday. This is the highest unemployment rate recorded since the survey started in 2008.

TRUTHS All the uncertainty facts presented on all media channels, causes unrest, doubt and fear but all you need to know is your provision comes directly from God. Irrespective on how convincing the stats look, refocus your mind to the truths of what God has said about your life and you will have perpetual victory parade. A thought to pounder on, when you still have a job or an income give praise and glory to God because not everyone is as privileged, for we know that “when men are cast down there’s a lifting up for us-Job 22:29”.

Understanding the effects of the global pandemic on employment – at aggregated and sectoral levels – is therefore key for governments, policymakers, workers and employers. This should help minimise the long-term effects of the pandemic while ensuring the safety of individuals and the sustainability of businesses and jobs.

“when men are cast down there’s a lifting up for us-Job 22:29”. 21

SELF-REFLECTION

Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test! 2 CORINTHIANS 13:5

SELF—REFLECTION BY FAITH MUTSIRA

t is year end, it’s time for a life audit!

2021 has been a year like no other and as we conclude the year, it is imperative to have a life audit, to reflect on our wins and those things that did not quite work out as we had planned. How did I do? What can I do better? With the year wrapping up, taking some time to reflect and make plans on how to do things better is crucial! But first, let’s define what it means to have a life audit. A life audit is a personal reflection exercise that helps you check in on yourself, your progress with your goals and general satisfaction with your life. Essentially what it is, is to take stock of, the good, the bad and the in between so that we can plan and execute our plans better. Perhaps things did not go according to what you had intended in 2021 as was with many people; guess what; you have another chance, to curate, be intentional and fine tune your life and make it what you want it to be! Now, let’s take a quick scripture read about what Jesus said about planning.

Rate yourself. Give yourself a score on a scale of 1-10 on each item.

Luke 14:28 28

Now that we know what it is and what it entails, we can now break it down in to key easily digestible elements, let’s have a situation analysis! Create categories. Categorizing key elements of your life is very helpful, namely Finances, Career, health, spiritual, family. This exercise will show you any gaps that you have in your life and help you evaluate your work-life balance. List everything that you had planned according to each category Ask reflective questions Asking yourself honest questions and putting some deep thought into this can bring some clarity into the quality of your life. Do I like the person I have become? Am I fulfilling my greatest potential by utilizing my abilities and applying myself physically, mentally and spiritually?

“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? 29 For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, 30 saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’ 31 “Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won’t he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32 If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace.

Identify the energy drainers and energizers Identifying these can help you come up with a strategy on how to maneuver your problem areas. These can take different shapes and form, in financial terms, it could be struggling to stick to a budget, and incidentally you may need to take action to reduce friction between you and this goal by having debit orders set up. Set your goals. Finally, this is where you shine, where you become intentional about what you want. You have the control over your life. God has blessed us with the power to choose and have control. Proverbs 4:26 GNT Plan carefully what you do, and whatever you do will turn out right. In conclusion, however your life turned out to be in 2021, essentially, everything works out together for your good, even that lay off, the pay cut, it’s a stepping stop to the next level of your life. 23

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“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”

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