Kharis Africa Magazine - February 2017

RE A BR D DE N FEBRUARY 2017

THE SEVEN MOST

POWERFUL MEN IN AFRICA Celebrating Ministerial Changemakers

BUSINESS McOttley Capital wins best growing Investment Bank Award South Africa R 35 Uganda UGX 11,000 Rwanda Franc 3615 Liberia USD 5 Sierra Leone 21,140 Leone CÔte d’ Ivoire : CFA 1200 Benin: CFA 1300 Cameroon CFA 3000 Botswana 35pula

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TESTIMONY CALL ME NAZARETH Ex-Asylum inmate goes bonkers for Christ on the mic

Zimbabwe USD 5 Ghana GH¢ 10 Norway K40 United Kingdom £ 3 Europe € 5 USA USD 5 Nigeria NGN 1000 Kenya KES 400

BUZZ DANNY TETTEH NETTEY Living and Dying for Christ

SPIRITUAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP Five Attributes of Kingdom Builders and National Revivalists

Africa’s Premier Christian Magazine Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

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COVER STORY

Inside

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CHARLES YEWURAKOW

AGYINASARE

7. PUBLISHER’S NOTE Seven years of inspiring change

By Dr. Randy Osae Bediako

COLUMNS

BUZZ

40

REGULARS

Danny Tettey Nettey

The legend lives on

14. FAMILY LIFE

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ELEVATE WITH PASTOR NASH

Aging and family life

By Rev. Solomon Owusu Ansah

24. MARRIAGE LIFE Don’t deceive yourself

By Mr. & Mrs. Joe Okyere-Mintah

36. SPIRITUAL ENTREPRENEUR The Nehemiah’s of our time!

By Dr. Randy Osae Bediako

44. KEEP FIT TESTIMONY

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“Call Me Nazareth” Ex-Asylum inmate goes bonkers for Christ on the mic

Rest, an integral component of God’s plan

By Dr. Derek Larbi

46. RHEMA The race set before us (II) Mr. Joseph Mintah

54. LEADERSHIP Qualities of an effective leader (III) Mr. George K. Addison

58. WOMAN Finding the right man

By Mrs. Lois Osae Bediako (Esq.)

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Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

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th

Anniversary From November 2009 to November 2016 We’ve been inspiring change in the world for the past seven years!

From a simple dream of publishing a magazine for the Ghanaian Christian community, we’ve evolved into a recognizable media game changer on the continent.

Kharis Group LLC now has over ten subsidiaries including: Kharis Africa, Kharis Business Africa, Kharis Books, Spiritpreneurship Summit, Spiritual Entrepreneurs Network, Kharis Foundation, Kharis Media Consulting, Kharis Outdoor, Kharis Televison, Kharis Investment, Kharis Printing and counting…

We are Inspiring Change

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

SEVEN YEARS OF INSPIRING CHANGE world for its commitment to quality and excellent outlook.

To God be the glory, great things he hath done!

So loved he the world that he gave us his Son, who yielded his life an atonement for sin, and opened the lifegate that all may go in.

Refrain: Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the earth hear his voice!

Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the people rejoice!

O come to the Father through Jesus the Son, and give him the glory, great things he hath done!

THE PASSION TO PUBLISH THE GOSPEL OF GRACE The very first issue of Kharis was released on November 2009. The decision to publish the gospel was in absolute response to God’s direction and not for the profit of it per se. When we started, we had no idea

what God was going to do with it. Thus, the publication was born out of the desire to “illuminate darkness with the light of God’s word”. Today, Kharis has become the alternative for readers who delight in a magazine that amplifies their faith with motivational and spirit-lifting articles. This was a unique answer to the prayer of many believers as there was no independent Christian magazine at the time.

TRANSITION FROM KHARIS MAGAZINE TO KHARIS AFRICA Along the way, God led us through different means to upgrade the publication to meet international standards. So, a few years ago, we rebranded the publication as Kharis Africa in our bid to reposition and serve the African continent. Currently, Kharis Africa is Africa’s leading Christian publication with circulation in more than 20 countries, including USA, UK, UAE, Australia and counting. The publication has received commendations around the

Opinions expressed in this publication by commentators are not necessarily those held by Kharis Africa or its staff

THE MANDATE OF INSPIRING CHANGE Our core mandate of inspiring change in the marketplace has led us to undertake a number of initiatives, including Spiritpreneurship Summit, Spiritual Entrepreneurs Network and TongueTalking Billionaires just to name a few. We have also added another magazine, Kharis Business Africa, which is arguably, Africa’s most relevant business read. As a business, we’ve managed to create other subsidiaries such as Kharis Books, Kharis Outdoor, Kharis Media consulting, among others.

All these have been achieved within the seven years of operation. For us, this is a great feat and we are excited about God’s faithfulness.

PRAY WITH US! In the next seven years, we are trusting God to take over the continent of Africa through publishing. With the vision of becoming “Africa’s largest and most relevant media corporation”, we are leaving no stone unturned in fulfilling that mandate.

God has been good to us and we believe we will enjoy greater grace in the coming years. We encourage you to pray with us as we embark on the journey of inspiring change in the world.

To God be the Glory, For great things He hath done for us!

Enjoy the seventh Anniversary Issue of Kharis Africa.

Randy Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

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The Team

NEWS

PUBLISHER/EDITOR- IN-CHIEF Dr. Randy Osae Bediako ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Mrs. Lois Osae Bediako (Esq.) MANAGING EDITOR Nelson Semanu Korkor EDITOR Kojo Otabil Graham

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PRODUCTION MANAGER Joel Nortey

uniCredit Receives Top EBA Socrates Award

DESIGN Mark Forson

EVENTS

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Portia Opoku Agyeman WEB DEVELOPMENT Centrifuj Communications PHOTOGRAPHY Eqonsept Blackwood Studios AFRICA

HEAD OFFICE

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Butternut Crescent House No. 6 Regimanuel Gray Estate, Comm. 19 Accra — Ghana

McOttley Capital Acknowledged as the Best Growing New Investment Bank

KHARIS @ 7

SPECIAL FEATURE

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TELEPHONE +233 (0) 544 000 042 +233 (0) 303 400 922

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WEBSITE www.kharisafrica.com

E-MAIL clientservice@kharismagazine.com admin@kharisgroup.com

FACEBOOK Facebook.com/Kharisafrica Kharis Africa Magazine is published by

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News From Around the World

Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

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BIAO KOLOUCHÈ ANGÈLE: Benin’s Rising International Interpreter

www.kharisgroup.com

www.kharisafrica.com

+233 (0) 312 00 3220 00 3220 +233(0) 312

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MESSAGES FROM AROUND WORLD “I am personally impressed with Kharis Africa; its content, the cover. Readers from Rwanda especially, young entrepreneurs and church leaders have fallen in love so much with the publication. Over here, not only are we enthused about the magazine, but also the quality books published by Kharis Group, LLC. My word of appreciation goes to the Group CEO, Dr. Randy Osae Bediako. I really admire the way you keep your team constantly motivated and focused.”

Kalisa Alexis, Kharis Africa representative, Kigali Rwanda.

“Kharis Africa has come as a positive revolution, not just to the print media, but also the thinking and approach to business. It’s totally inspiring to read stories of people from across the globe who have had different life journeys, overcome different hurdles and had had different success stories, but continue to share a common goal, doing all they can for the glory of the kingdom of God. Kenyan readers of this magazine will agree with me, I believe.”

Brenda Majune Kraidoo(Esq), Kharis Africa representative, Nairobi, Kenya.

“It really was 7 years ago. I was completely sold out on the project when Randy shared his vision. On the day that the first edition of Kharis magazine was launched, it was my singular pleasure to be responsible for that particular item on the day’s agenda. My! Was I pumped up. I remember the Day. I was brimming with such energy that a senior minister passed a comment afterwards to the effect that I almost overkilled the launch.

Happy anniversary Kharis Team for your sustained hard work evidenced abundantly by your sterling product.”

Rev. Dr. Derek Larbi, Columnist & CEO, Stelin Dental Clinic, Ghana.

“Kharis Africa looks fantastic. I really admire the wonderful diversity and great value with regard to integrity and health issues covered. Keep up the great work you are doing.”

Dr. Rentae Volpe, South Africa, CEO, Renate Volpe Consulting & co-Author, South Africa.

“Senseless Sacrifice” www.kharisafrica.com

Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

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Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

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FAMILY LIFE

AGING AND FAMILY LIFE

By Rev. Solomon Owusu Ansah, Senior Pastor, Alpha Adonai Chapel

A

ging or becoming a senior citizen is supposed to be a period in one’s life that is full of joy and excitement; a period full of experiences and the readiness to give back to society. Unfortunately, the aged in our families experience the opposite. Most aging members of the family are the most neglected, the least appreciated and the most misunderstood. Young adults who are God-fearing should show love and care to their aging parents and in-laws by helping and being supportive. Sometimes, the aged may overreact when their problem is as a result of loneliness. Other times, they may have need of financial support. The willingness to give emotional and financial support to our aging parents, in-laws and senior citizens in general is of prime importance. “Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother which is the first commandment with a promise, that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.” (Ephesians 6:1-3 NKJV).

“

You shall rise before the gray-headed and honor the presence of an old man, and fear your God. I am the Lord.

”

Leviticus 19:32 NKJV 14 Kharis

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The demands of work put a lot of pressure on time and resources of young adults and relatives who are caregivers to the aging in the family. The situation becomes more complex when the family cannot stand together and draw support from each other because of divorce, children brought forth as a result of polygamous marriages, or childlessness.

The way such implications are handled may ease the stress on the aging and the young adult. Families with aging members should consider all options available, make informed choices and commit them prayerfully to God for His grace. For instance, when Kate and Andy’s mother became very ill, she was not living with any of them. Kate and Andy are both married and have families. They decided Kate should take their mother to her home while they both bear the cost.

After some time, her situation became critical and because Kate was living in a storey building apartment, bringing their mother down for regular medical

checkup was almost impossible. Kate and Andy reconsidered their decision and relocated their mother to Andy’s while they continued to share the financial responsibilities.

The church and state also have responsibilities to the aging in the society.

According to the Labour Research and Policy Institute, Elderly Care arrangements in Ghana, “The broad framework for elderly care arrangement in Ghana is captured by the National Aging Policy (NAP). In addition, the Department of Social Welfare (DSW) also provides institutional framework for the care of the elderly in Ghana. Other support arrangement for older persons include the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and the Livelihood Empowerment against Poverty (LEAP)”.

The local church is instructed by the Holy Scriptures to be there for the aging especially the widow. “Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” James 1:27 NKJV Many young adults desire to support their parents but it is not always easy to care for the aged. However, the aged need care and support at this point of their lives.

We ought to take good care of their health, ensure they have good diet, encourage and love them. Do not let your aged family relations depart from the world with the thought that they are not loved. God is there to help you put a smile on their faces as you avail yourself to show them love.

www.kharisafrica.com

THE STARLIFE ULTIMATE PROTECTION POLICY

L

ife is full of obstacles. There is that aspect of life that no one can boast of having full control of. No matter how much we pray, wish or hope, things happen in an unexpected manner, but when they happen, we just realise that we are uncontrollably human.

I met Nana Kwasi and Agyemang when they were in the prime of their lives thirty five years and thirty three years old, respectively. They had been friends since their secondary school days and had continued through university and are married with two kids each. Nana Kwasi, as an entrepreneur, made 3 times more money than Agyemang on a monthly basis; Agyemang was a regular worker.

The two friends were the breadwinners of their families. Though they both had working wives, the chunk of the financial responsibilities at home was on them as heads of their families. Nana Kwasi’s children attended one of the most expensive international schools in the country and had regular vacations with his family outside the country. That was, however, not the situation for Agyemang and his family. Though the two families were the best of friends, one could clearly see the difference in their status and financial positions.

When I met them, I introduced to them the Starlife Ultimate Protection Plan, which is a safeguard for families

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The UPP guarantees and pays huge interests over premiums upon death, disabilities or even diseases like cancer, coma, stroke, etc. as an adequate financial security for breadwinners and their families. I had signed on to this when I lost my brotherin-law who was doing very well financially, but upon his death, my sister and her kids had to suffer a huge financial loss since he had no savings or investment aside his earnings from work. Initially, they thought the initial monies they gathered after the funeral will be sufficient, but four to five years later, taking care of four kids through school became burdensome. After that experience, I decided to sign onto the UPP. The UPP guarantees and pays huge interests over premiums upon death, disabilities or even diseases like cancer, coma, stroke, etc.

Agyemang immediately signed on but Nana Kwasi laughed at the whole idea and listed his revenue sources and financial projections based on his company. Life is certainly uncertain.

Five years later, these two men were on their way to a funeral and had a fatal accident. Agyemang died on the spot whiles Nana Kwasi survived, but with serious disabilities. After we settled down with the funeral, Agyemang’s wife was contacted by Star life Assurance and received over GH¢ 100,000.00 as the assured benefit from her husband’s insurance. Nana Kwasi’s company run losses because as an entrepreneur, he had invested all his money into his company and did not have people to continue with his passion and drive for the company.

With the benefits from her husband’s death, Agyemang’s wife transformed her family. Ironically, Nana Kwasi who survived the accident had to suffer financial loss. Life could not be the same for him and his family. The ‘what ifs’ of life can never be answered, however, when they do happen, you need to be safe than sorry. As a breadwinner, the Star life Assurance UPP is the best you can do for your family to ensure that ‘the what ifs’ that happen in life would not change the life you have created and envisaged for them.

www.kharisafrica.com

SPIRITUAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

THE NEHEMIAHS OF OUR TIME! FIVE ATTRIBUTES THAT DISTINGUISH KINGDOM BUILDERS AND NATIONAL REVIVALISTS

By Dr. Randy Osae Bediako

all sides—Samaritans, Ammonites, Arabs and Philistines—and rebuilt the walls within 52 days.

FIVE ATTRIBUTES THAT DISTINGUISH MODERN DAY “POLITICAL APOSTLES” Political apostles are God’s representatives in politics and governance who are keen on establishing kingdom culture on the land.

Nehemiah’s leadership in organizing the reconstruction of Jerusalem’s broken walls which was vital to the country’s security, and pioneering the restoration of kingdom culture and national revival, presents some lessons to today’s leaders in politics and governance.

FROM SUSAN TO JERUSALEM The setting was the Persian capital called Susan located in modern–day Iran in the Middle East. The modern Iranian town of Shush (located at the site of ancient Susa) is the administrative capital of the Shush County of Iran’s Khuzestan province. Daniel, Esther and Nehemiah lived in Susan during the Babylonian captivity of the 6th century BCE. In contrast to what pertains today, Susan had a significant Christian population during the first millennium, and was a diocese of the Church of the East between the 5th and 13th centuries, in the metropolitan province of Elam. It was conquered by Muslim armies in 638 CE when they attacked Persia. Nehemiah, learning that the remnants in Judah were in distress and that the walls of Jerusalem were broken down [by Nebuchadnezzar 142 years earlier], asked the king for permission to return and rebuild the city.

Artaxerxes sent him to Judah as governor of the province with a mission to rebuild, alongside letters explaining his support for the venture, and provision for timber from the king’s forest. Once there, Nehemiah defied the opposition of Judah’s enemies on

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1.THEY ARE PEOPLE OF PRAYER Nehemiah had understood that anything worth doing for God must begin with prayer; therefore he began the entire assignment on his knees. He successfully carried a burden in prayer for his people and the nation. Today, God is looking for Nehemiahs who will continually go on their knees until they see national revival and restoration of righteousness and kingdom culture.

2. THEY ARE RISK-TAKERS WHO WILLINGLY VACATE THEIR COMFORT ZONES TO DO THINGS FOR GOD It was a serious taboo to be sad in the king’s presence. In fact, it was an offence punishable by death. Nevertheless, Nehemiah did the unpopular and risked both his life and position for the kingdom.

He embraced discomfort in order for God’s will to be done. As a cup bearer, he lacked nothing; he was paid well and catered for.

More so, he wasn’t the right person to lead the rebuilding project, but he decided to take the challenge. In those days, cup bearers were not policymakers or notable leaders.

Despite his comfort, he had a burden for God’s people. God is looking for problem

solvers who will use their political influence for kingdom advancement.

3. THEY RECOGNISE GOD’S INSTRUMENT OF PROVISION AND PURSUIT Again, Nehemiah understood that God’s provision for his assignment could come from people of designated lines of authority within his sphere of influence. He understood that God does not work in a vacuum; He will always use men to do things for us. It was interesting to note that the king to whom he had dedicated his entire life in serving faithfully was God’s instrument of provision and protection when it mattered most.

4. THEY ARE GOD-FEARING AND POSSESS A GENEROUS HEART Nehemiah’s heart for righteousness enabled him to initiate and institute several social reforms that restored kingdom culture to Israel. These social reforms are captured in chapters of the book of Nehemiah 11-13.

Leaders in government and politics who lack the fear of God cannot establish righteousness in any way. This is because change must always begin from within. Arguably, God always uses people who have the character and strength to lead change!

5. THEY APPRECIATE LEADERSHIP Nehemiah recognized that the only thing that could transform Jerusalem from its current state was leadership. Nothing great ever happens without leadership. He therefore assumed that leadership position and led the transformation process. More than ever, God is looking for leaders in government, business and politics who will willingly stand up as the Nehemiahs of their time. May the Lord release upon you, the anointing to be a Nehemiah in your generation!

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Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

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McOttley Capital

acknowledged as the Best Growing New Investment Bank McOttley Capital has been named the “Best Growing New Investment Bank of the Year” at the 2016 edition of the Ghana Investment Awards to honour outstanding institutions in the investment banking industry. It was awarded ahead of its peers for achieving the most sterling compounded average growth over a three year period, as certified by Deloitte, auditors of the awards.

The awards, which is organized by the Premier Networking Investment Club, in collaboration with the Securities & Exchange Commission, Ghana Stock Exchange and the Ghana Securities Industry Association, brought together industry stakeholders and experts tocelebrate the strides the industry has achieved in 2015/2016.

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Commenting on the award, Mrs. Happy Forson, Managing Director of McOttley Capital said, “We are delighted our efforts and expertise in this competitive industry have been acknowledged. This award supports the confidence our growing client base have in our products and services.” She added that the award reaffirms McOttley’s position as a leading investment bank.

In 2015, McOttley was awarded the Best New Investment Bank and the Best Client Service by the International Finance Magazine Awards. McOttley Capital provides investment banking, asset management, professional retirement and pension fund management to individual, corporate organisations, government and private institutions.

McOttley Capital is a subsidiary of McOttley Holdings, an international award winning holding company with other subsidiaries namely McOttley Money Lending and McOttley Properties. It has interest in other areas such as commodity trading, logistics, international corporate finance advisory and international real estate advisory.

McOttley is one of the fastest growing brand names in the country and beyond.

Its major focus is on client satisfaction and solution orientation.

www.kharisafrica.com

TIME WITH THE PROPHET

JUDGE THE PROPHETIC WORD

By Prophet Bernard El-Bernard Nelson Eshun

G

od places great importance on prophecy. The gift of prophecy brings edification, exhortation and comfort

(1 Corinthians 14:3), while the office of the prophet deals with more specific areas of an individual by giving instructions, corrections, admonition, activation and impartation of gifts. We are cautioned not to despise prophecy. To despise means to regard with contempt, to dislike intensely, to look down on or to disdain. Prophecy must not be regarded with contempt. Paul commands us to desire earnestly or covet to prophesy (1 Corinthians 12:31; 14:39).

In dealing with prophecies, we are admonished to prove all things and hold fast to that which is good, but 1 Corinthians 14:29 says, “Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.” To prove means to test, examine or to look at something and accept that which is good in it.

Not every supposed prophetic word comes from God, as the human spirit and the evil spirit can also be sources of prophecies and revelations in addition to the Spirit of God.

THE SPIRIT OF GOD God is the true source of the prophetic.

God is a speaking God and desires always to communicate with His children. One of the ways God uses to communicate is through the gift of prophecy.

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EVIL SPIRITS

The proof of a prophetic call is that the word is powerful and finds fulfillment.

THE HUMAN SPIRIT This type of prophecy has its source from the flesh. It happens when a person picks things from the spirit through what is going on in the natural. This is the kind of prophecy that emanates from natural circumstances and unhealed wounds. It always has an air of manipulation and dominion.

This type has its source from the devil and evil manipulations. Evil men can yield themselves to be used by the devil. This kind of prophecy operates with familiar spirits. In judging, you do not look at how accurate the word sounds, but rather consider what the fruits of obeying the words are. The slave girl in Acts 16:17 was accurate when she said, ‘These men are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of salvation.’

In testing a prophecy and a prophet, ensure it does not contradict scripture.

Every prophetic word must agree with scripture (2 Timothy 3:16). Christians must take note that prophecies must exalt, glorify and honour Jesus Christ (John 16:13, 14; Revelation 19:10).

Character test is one of the best ways to judge a prophet. True prophets of God demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Do not act on any predictive prophecy unless you receive confirmation from God. Never read meaning into the word or interpret the word to suit your circumstance. The proof of a prophetic call is that the word is powerful and finds fulfillment.

Despise not prophesying. Prove all things; hold fast to that which is good (1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21).

www.kharisafrica.com

MARRIAGE LIFE

DON’T DECEIVE

YOURSELF

By Mr. & Mrs. Joe Okyere-Mintah, Directors, Jo-Mint & Associates

“

Self-examination requires a serious introspection; going over and over again the picture you saw of yourself in the mirror

D

”

eception is bad enough, but self-deception is a worse grievance to one’s soul. To be deceived is to be lied to, kept in the dark, shortchanged, cheated and abused.

So imagine what self-deception does to your being.

himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

ATTITUDINAL There is a kind of attitude towards the way we do things that brings about self-deception. This is the attitude of casualness. We glance over, brush through things and overlook serious matters of the Spirit. The Bible says that spiritual things are spiritually discerned.

James tells us that the only way we can lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness and then receive the implanted word which is able to save our souls is by not taking God’s word for granted. We should be doers.

A casual person looks at himself in the mirror and immediately forgets what he saw about himself.

In verse 25 he urges us to continue in it. What we see in the perfect law of liberty must have a lasting impact on us.

In 2 Corinthians 13:5, the Apostle Paul asks us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith.

Self-examination requires a serious introspection; going over and over again

Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth 24 Kharis

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James 1:21-25

the reflection of your image.

Thus in Joshua 1:8 we are required to meditate in the word day and night so that we may observe to do according to all that is written in it.

Anything short of this will not make us prosperous in our way neither will we have good success.

If we plant casualness we shall reap mediocrity.

Sadly, we go about with the mindset that we attend church services, pray and do all kind of good deeds. We go through the motions, but there is no corresponding change in attitude — no change in mindset and thinking process. So the perception is always wrong because we continue in our wrong position.

Have you taken time to evaluate your relationship in marriage, family, etc?

Have you examined these in the light of God’s word? What did you see about yourself? What are you doing about what you saw?

www.kharisafrica.com

SPIRITUAL ENTREPRENEURS N E T W O R K

RANDY

HOST O S A E B E D I A KO

JOIN THE

REVOLUTION

The Spiritual Entrepreneurs Network (SEN) is aimed at creating a networking community of like-minded Christian Professionals (Entrepreneurs and Business Executives) whose main agenda is to utilize business as a tool to transform society and advance the Kingdom of God through all creative means. We see the network as imperative because, we believe that in these last days, God is raising a new breed of spiritual entrepreneurs and empowering them to create substantial wealth through business. This new breed of business people see wealth, not as an end to be sought after, but as a tool to do the work of God and promote the agenda of Jesus Christ. Spiritual Entrepreneurs Network seeks to bring together emerging and leading Christian entrepreneurs and corporate executives for networking and learning.

CALL OR WHATSAPP: +233 (0) 555 554 664 TO REGISTER @thesenghana www.kharisafrica.com

@thesenghana

@thesenghana Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

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INVESTMENT

Brief History of

Central Banks

T

he term “Central Bank” is usually used in reference to the monetary authority responsible for policies that affect a country’s supply of money and credit. A central bank is an important part of any modern state or government, because its management of the state’s currency, money supply and interest rates has a major influence on the economy. The first of such recognized institutions of this nature was the Swedish Riksbank. As the world’s oldest central bank and the third oldest bank still in operation, Riksbanken was set up in 1688 as a joint stock bank chartered to lend to the government of Sweden and to act as a clearing house for commerce. Several other banks were established in Europe for similar reason; such as the French “Banque de France.” It was established by Napoleon in 1800 and had currency stabilization as its mandate in addition to government aid, especially after the French Revolution had led to hyperinflation. These old central banks often had the sole right to issue notes as currency within a nation. Nonetheless, they also engaged in banking activities, held deposits for other banks as a result of their large reserves and facilitated transactions between these banks through their extensive networks or corresponding institutions. Thus, they eventually became the lender of last resort in times of financial distress; such as when wars and defaults by railways led depositors to rush on banks in order to withdraw 26 Kharis

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their monies. It is an important role that remains till today.

At the turn of the 20th century, central banks were established primarily to provide financial stability and manage

different countries have varying degrees of independence, from the US Federal reserve which only reports to Congress but has the freedom to make its own policies to China, where the lines between state and

the various instruments of currency that existed. Of utmost importance over the period was the management of the gold standard, under which each member nation’s currency was expressed in terms of a fixed weight of gold. The banks thus held large reserves of gold in order to be able to convert their notes into gold.

Whenever gold reserves declined as a result of a balance of trade deficit, the banks would increase the discount rate, which would effectively increase interest rates and attract foreign investments into the country, thereby bringing gold into the country. Since the amount of money that could be issued was linked to the level of gold reserves which also determined the price level, these early central banks were also committed to ensuring price stability. However, adherence to the gold standard limited their influence on the real economy.

An important factor in the establishment of all central banks is independence; that is, the exclusion of the bank from the dictates of government and politicians in the pursuit of its mandate, be it price stability or money supply.

Previously, central banks were independent of governments and only depended

monetary authority are quite blurred.

on governments for their charters. In modern times, however centrals banks in

DUTIES OF THE CENTRAL BANK Modern monetary policy has three broad goals, these are price stability, economic growth and full employment.

Price stability has to do with attempts at maintaining low inflation; economic growth is represented by longterm sustained increases in real output within an economy (GDP growth), and full employment is said to occur when all resources (human, capital and natural) are gainfully employed in the most productive manner.

Read more on Duties of the Central Bank in the next issue...

The writers are Research Analysts with FirstBanC Financial Services, an

integrated investment banking and financial advisory firm licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). They can be reached on 0302 660 709 or at research@firstbancgroup.com.

www.kharisafrica.com

COVER STORY

Kharis Africa Research Team Kharis Africa magazine was birthed in November 2009. Originally positioned to serve the Christian community in Ghana, Kharis Africa, now Africa’s premier Christian magazine reaches over seventeen countries in Africa and beyond. As part of our seventh anniversary celebration, we chose to honour seven most outstanding Christian leaders on the continent whose impact have been tremendous. These are men whom God has used to transform millions of lives and raised other anointed ministers of the gospel across the globe.

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05 DR. MENSA ANAMUA

OTABIL

is a theologian, philanthropist, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur.

He’s the founder of the International Central Gospel Church headquartered in Accra, Ghana and also serves as the Chancellor of Central University College.

www.kharisafrica.com

02

06

ENOCH ADEJARE

PASTOR CHRIS

OYAKHILOME

ADEBOYE

(D.Sc., D.D.), is the President of Believers’ LoveWorld Inc. and of Christ Embassy.

is General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), one of the largest churches in the world.

01 CHARLES YEWURAKOW

AGYINASARE is the Founder of Perez Chapel International – a PentecostalCharismatic ministry. He has planted churches worldwide and served as a missionary with a passion to win souls for Christ.

03 DAVID OLANIYI

OYEDEPO is the founder and presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide (aka Winners’ Chapel) with its headquarters in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria. He’s the senior pastor of Faith Tabernacle, a 50,000 seater auditorium, reported to be the largest church auditorium in the world by the Guinness Book of Records.

07 EMMANUEL

04 ARCHBISHOP NICHOLAS DUNCAN

MAKANDIWA

WILLIAMS

is the founder of the United Family International Church [based in Zimbabwe] whose authentic prophetic voice calls to order leadership in politics, business and the church.

is the Archbishop and General Overseer of the Action Chapel International, headquartered in Accra, Ghana.

www.kharisafrica.com

Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

29

CHARLES YEWURAKOW

AGYINASARE

C

HARLES YEWURAKOW AGYINASARE is a Ghanaian Christian minister, international speaker and author of several Christian books. He is the Founder of Perez Chapel International – a PentecostalCharismatic ministry. Dr Morris Cerullo remarked on him, saying, “It is very rare in the calling of God to see the apostolic, evangelistic, prophetical, pastoral, and teaching call all manifested through one ministry. But there, it is – in Bishop Agyinasare’s calling, we see the 5-fold ministry. Charles Yewurakow Agyinasare was born in Achiase, Ghana, on 22 March 1962, into a Catholic family.

He had an encounter in a Morris Cerullo School of Ministry in Accra Technical Training Center (ATTC), where he heard the voice of God say, “My boy Charles, I send you out as I sent Moses; go, I will put My word on your lips. Reach the world for Me.” After the meeting, he sought for a place to fast and pray; and on the third day, he heard the same voice again, “My boy Charles, I give unto you power over demons and principalities to heal the sick, raise the dead and preach the kingdom”. He therefore broke his fast and 30 Kharis

Africa JANUARY 2017

began to hold the Brother Charles Gospel Crusades, which attracted thousands with undeniable proofs of the Holy Ghost.

The following year, Agyinasare was ordained as a missionary by Brother Enoch Agbozo. In 1986, as his congregation grew, he decided to study Crusade Planning at the All Nations for Christ Bible Institute under the leadership of Benson Idahosa in Benin City, Nigeria. While in Nigeria, Kaduna, he was privileged to speak for Bishop David Oyedepo who ordained him an Apostle. With a doctorate in theology and a Bible teacher, Agyinasare has planted churches worldwide and served as a missionary with a passion to win souls for Christ. Bishop Agyinasare, as he is popularly known, has been involved in world evangelism for over three decades and has preached in about 84 nations including the United States, Israel, India, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Islamic Kingdom of Bahrain and Japan.

He holds crusades in some of the most dangerous parts of the world, where he has recorded over 300,000 people in attendance for a night. In recognition of his distinguished service to humanity, he has been awarded two honorary doctorate

Degrees in Divinity and Humanity from reputable Universities in Europe and India respectively. In 1991, Agyinasare was awarded Honorary Doctor of Divinity from London’s Shiloh Ecclesiastical Bible College, by Archbishop Malachi Ramsey at Living Springs-Chapel International, UK. He also holds a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Theology from Vision International University, USA. In 2015, Agyinasare was awarded The Global Leadership Award from Regent University, USA by Professor Clifton Clarke in recognition of his efforts in raising leaders and for his impact across the world. In May 1999, he was given a declaration from the Senate of Texas and awarded honorary citizen of Houston.

Agyinasare has fellowshipped, counseled and prayed for presidents, such as His Excellency Jerry John Rawlings, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama (Ghana), His Excellency John Evans Atta Mills (late), His Excellency John Agyekum Kufour (Ghana), President Laurent Gbagbo (Ivory Coast), President Faure Gnassingbé (Togo) and H.E Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary General.

In 2007 Agyinasare received a national award – the Member of the Order of the Volta (MV) – by former President John Agyekum Kufour, for his outstanding achievements in championing African excellence as a religious leader. He served as the First Vice-President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council and was honoured for his excellence in Apostolic and Pastoral Leadership by the Global Excellence Award for Leadership in 2010. Dr. Agyinasare’s global impact has been felt especially through his television ministry in Ghana and Europe; and now through Precious TV. Bishop Agyinasare is also a philanthropist and a social activist.

Agyinasare is married to Rev. Mrs. Vivian Agyinasare who currently serves as the International Women’s Director of the Perez Chapel International and Associate Churches Worldwide. They have four wonderful children. www.kharisafrica.com

ENOCH ADEJARE

ADEBOYE

E

NOCH ADEJARE ADEBOYE is a Nigerian pastor and the General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). Pastor Adeboye had his BSc in Mathematics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and subsequently got his PhD in applied Mathematics from the University of Lagos, and worked as a lecturer in mathematics at the universities of Lagos and Ilorin. After joining the RCCG in 1973, he began working to translate the sermons of its then pastor and founder, Rev. Josiah Olufemi Akindayomi, from Yoruba into English. In 1981, Adeboye was appointed General Overseer of the church, taking over from Papa Akindayomi, who had died the previous www.kharisafrica.com

year. He was born on 2 March, 1942 in the village of Ifewara, Osun State, Nigeria.

His parents were very poor and he was one of four children. An illiterate farmer, his father did not believe in educating any of his children. In fact, the family was so poor that they could not afford to pay the school fees. Enoch was however very particular about receiving a formal education and when his requests to be sent to school were dismissed by his father, he went on a hunger-strike in a bid to persuade him.

His father eventually gave in and sold his goat in order to pay for his son’s school fees. Thus Enoch was enrolled at the only missionary school in their village. He badly wanted to pursue a higher education, but the then Nigerian Civil War and his family’s dire financial condition threatened to thwart his ambitions. Yet he chased his dream relentlessly and ultimately obtained not only a Bachelors (BSc.) degree in Mathematics from the University of Nnsukka in 1967, but also a Masters (MSc.) Degree in Hydrodynamics and a Doctorate Degree (PhD) in Applied Mathematics, both from the University of Lagos, in 1969 and 1975, respectively.

In 2008, Newsweek magazine named Adeboye one of the fifty most powerful people in the world. Adeboye is married to Foluke Adeboye, also a pastor, with whom he has 4 children. Adeboye has also received National and International awards and was named among the centenary awardees of his country in 2014. He recently endowed 4 Nigerian Universities with Professorial chairs in Mathematics to the tune of 50 Million Naira. Adeboye was awarded the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2008 by the Nigerian President. Adeboye is the recipient of several honorary degrees including an honorary doctorate degree from the University of Lagos and an honorary doctorate degree from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He was presented with the Spiritual Pillar of Nigerian Sports, a National Sports Honour in 2010. His four children have all become pastors and he is also a proud grandfather to several grandchildren.

In 2008, Newsweek magazine named Adeboye one of the fifty most powerful people in the world Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

31

DAVID OLANIYI

OYEDEPO D

AVID OLANIYI OYEDEPO stands out as an authority on the subject of faith in Africa.

His teachings have put him in the category of what is commonly called the Word of Faith Movement. Oyedepo has referred to principal exponents of the Faith Movement such as Kenneth Copeland, Gloria Copeland, the late Kenneth Hagin, E. W. Kenyon, T. L. Osborn, Smith Wigglesworth as well as renowned Nigerian preachers Enoch Adeboye and the late Benson Idahosa as mentors. He is a Nigerian Christian author, preacher and the founder and presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide (aka Winners’ Chapel), and its affiliated international churches known as Winners Chapel International, which has its headquarters in Ogun State, Nigeria.

Oyedepo is the senior pastor of Faith Tabernacle, a 50,000 seater auditorium, reported to be the largest church auditorium in the world by the Guinness Book of Records. The Winners’ Chapel network of churches is located in over 300 cities, in all states of Nigeria, as well as, in several cities in 45 African nations, Dubai, the United Kingdom and the United States. Oyedepo is the Chancellor of Covenant University and Landmark University. He was named in 2011 by Forbes magazine as being the richest pastor in Nigeria. Bishop David Oyedepo was born in Osogbo on the 27th of September 1954, but is a native of Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria.

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He is a strong critic of corruption in Africa as a whole and poor leadership in government He was raised by his grandmother in Osogbo who was a devout Anglican. It was his grandmother that inculcated in him the virtues of Christian life. She also dug a spiritual foundation for him, upon which he has built his life and ministry today. Bishop Oyedepo was born again on February 19, 1969 when he was only 15 years old, through the influence of his missionary teacher, one Ms. Betty Lasher, who took special interest in him during his secondary school days. He first shared the gospel in March 1970 and he has not looked back since then. Bishop Oyedepo studied Architecture at Kwara State Polytechnic now Kwara State University

and worked briefly with the Federal Ministry of Housing in Ilorin before resigning to concentrate on missionary work. He also gained a Ph.D in Human Development from Honolulu University, Hawaii, United States of America. He received a mandate from God through an 18-hour vision in May 1981, to liberate the world from all oppression of the devil through the preaching of the word of faith; the inaugural vision that led to the founding of the Living Faith Church Worldwide. Two years later, on September 17, 1983, Pastor Enoch Adeboye ordained David and his wife to become pastors and officially commissioned the new church. Five years after his ordination as a pastor, Bishop Oyedepo was ordained as Bishop in 1988. Living Faith Church started in Kaduna but moved to Lagos, the former capital of Nigeria in July 1989 and blossomed from there. The church owns four private jets and several buildings around the world, including London and the United States. Oyedepo is an author and publisher who has written over 70 titles apart from periodicals. In 1982 he married Florence Abiola Akano (now known as Faith). They have four children together; David Jr, Isaac, Love and Joyce. David Jr and Isaac Oyedepo were ordained as Pastors in May 2007 by Kenneth Copeland. Oyedepo’s hobbies include: reading, reasoning, planning and writing. He is a strong critic of corruption in Africa as a whole and poor leadership in government

www.kharisafrica.com

as the “father” of a number of charismatic leaders in Ghana. He has ‘fathered’ giants like Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, Rev. Eastwood Anaba, Rev. Dr. Ampiah Kwofie just to name a few. Since 1992, the Action Chapel has met in the imposing “Prayer Cathedral” near Accra airport. Archbishop currently married to Rosa Whitaker, CEO of a US-based firm that provides consulting services on African trade and investment.

ARCHBISHOP NICHOLAS DUNCAN

WILLIAMS N ICHOLAS DUNCANWILLIAMS is the Presiding Archbishop and General Overseer of Action Chapel International, headquartered in Accra, Ghana. He was the son of a politiciandiplomat. Duncan-Williams was converted in 1976 by the Acquah sisters at Korle-Bu

www.kharisafrica.com

Teaching Hospital. In 1977 he went to the Church of God International Bible School of Benson Idahosa in Benin City, Nigeria.Two years later, he returned to Ghana, and founded the Christian Action Faith Ministries, which happened to be the first charismatic church in Ghana.

Duncan-Williams is recognized nationally

The Christian Action Faith Ministries has more than 300 affiliated churches in North America, Europe and Africa. Archbishop is the Chancellor of Dominion University College in Ghana and has published several bestsellers, including: The Price of Greatness, Divine Timing, Destined to Make Impact, and Supernatural Powers of a Praying Man.

He has ‘fathered’ giants like Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, Rev. Eastwood Anaba, Rev. Dr. Ampiah Kwofie just to name a few He is also the chairman of the National Association of Charismatic and Christian Churches.

Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017 33

“

In 2015, Ghanaians voted him as the “Most Influential Person in Ghana”, according to a list published by ETV Ghana.

DR. MENSA ANAMUA

OTABIL

M

ENSA OTABIL is Ghana’s most outstanding Christian statesman.

He’s a theologian, a philanthropist, a motivational speaker, and an entrepreneur. He founded the International Central Gospel Church on 26 February 1984. He is also the founder and Chancellor of Central University College, and CEO of Otabil and Associates, an executive and leadership growth consultancy. Otabil oversees the network of ministries of the International Central Gospel Church worldwide. He also serves as the senior pastor of Christ Temple, a ministry of the International Central Gospel Church. His work has centered on issues relevant to Africa, although he has spoken internationally at various conferences and churches. Otabil has been awarded honorary doctorate 34 Kharis

Africa JANUARY 2017

He was also a recipient of a Millennium Excellence Award.

In 2007, he was honored by the Government of Ghana with a state award, Order of the Volta (Religion)

”

degrees for his work in various fields.

He was also a recipient of a Millennium Excellence Award in Ghana. In 2007, he was honoured by the Government of Ghana with a state award, Order of the Volta (Religion). Mensa Otabil has a history of involvement in charitable and social impact projects. Every year, the International Central Gospel Church invests in a project for the less privileged.

Some examples in the past have been donations to the Ghana Heart Foundation, construction of a boys’ hostel for the Osu Children’s Home and digging of boreholes for needy communities. He has published several motivational, leadership and devotional books including: “Buy the Future,” and the ever popular Devotional, “Living Word.” In 2015, Ghanaians voted him as the “Most Influential Person in Ghana,” according to a list published by ETV Ghana. www.kharisafrica.com

PASTOR CHRIS

OYAKHILOME

P

astor Chris Oyakhilome (D.Sc., D.D.), is the President of Believers’ LoveWorld Inc. and Christ Embassy. Being a Man sent from God and a unique minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ, his Spirit-filled and anointed leadership continues to propel a dynamic, multifaceted and global ministry. As a pastor, teacher, healing minister, television host and best-selling author, Pastor Chris daily exudes an insatiable passion to reach the peoples of the world with God’s manifested presence; a divine commission he has diligently focused on fulfilling for more than 30 years.

Pastor Chris has helped millions experience a victorious and purposeful life in God’s word.

He holds massive teaching and healing crusades like the Higher Life Conference and Night of Bliss, hosted in various cities and nations of the world.

One of such epochal meetings, which held in Nigeria, witnessed an unprecedented crowd of over 3.5 million expectant people, gathered in a single night’s event. He shares God’s Word in the simplest format to help God’s people discover what they have in Christ.

Presiding over an ever-widening network of Christ Embassy Churches and Believers’ LoveWorld Campus fellowships, spanning all five continents, his teaching ministry is building faith in the hearts of many in the body of Christ, providing each one

www.kharisafrica.com

with divine insight into Christian virtues and realities. Episodes of “Pastor Chris Teaching” with excerpts from teaching meetings with Pastor Chris, air DAILY on LoveWorldTV in the UK, LoveWorldSAT in South-Africa, LoveWorldPLUS in Nigeria and major terrestrial television networks and radio stations, across the African continent, in the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Asia, Europe and around the world. The world renowned Healing School of Christ Embassy is the healing ministry

of Pastor Chris, committed to taking healing to the nations, and manifesting the healing works of Jesus Christ. Pastor Chris is a prolific writer, and the best-selling author of the masterpiece “Rhapsody of Realities,” the world’s Number 1 Daily Devotional, distributed monthly around the world in over 739 languages, with over half a billion copies distributed worldwide. In 2003, he pioneered the first 24-hour Christian Satellite Network, beaming from Africa to the rest of the world.

This has over time, given rise to five satellite stations, the LoveWorldTV in the UK, LoveWorldSAT in SouthAfrica and LoveWorldPLUS in Nigeria, LoveWorldCanada in Canada, LoveWorldUS in the United States and still counting. Through the proficient television ministry of Pastor Chris, millions of people have been reached with the beautiful message of salvation and many lives have been transformed through this medium. On these Satellite TV stations, which are currently available on various mobile platforms, Pastor Chris also host the flagship program “Atmosphere for Miracles”, a special programme showcasing the miraculous. This unique program daily brings God’s divine presence right into the homes of millions, enabling them to believe for and receive their miracles.

Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

35

EMMANUEL

MAKANDIWA and the church. In his home country,

The precision of his prophetic pronouncements has earned him widespread local and international acceptance and reverence as a true man of God

Zimbabwe, Prophet Makandiwa’s thriving ministry and social influence attracts awe and a never-ending thirst for God. The precision of his prophetic pronouncements has earned him widespread local and international acceptance and reverence as a true man of God. Notable miracles, signs and wonders are everyday occurrences at his meetings. United Family International Church (UFIC) has over 70,000 adult and youth attendees every week. The ministry owns a free-to-air television channel called Christ TV which is aired in most parts of Africa. Prophet Makandiwa’s personal and ministry life have been influenced to

E

a large extent through his association with his spiritual father, Prophet Victor Kusi

MMANUEL MAKANDIWA

Boateng of Ghana. Prophet Makandiwa

is arguably Zimbabwe’s most

also looks after nearly 2,000 orphans, 300-

outstanding prophetic voice.

He has traveled the rough and

tumble of life into full ministry maturity and global prominence. Currently, he stands as one of the most influential preachers in the southern part of Africa, and on the continent. His towering figure resonates in spiritual dimensions with his phenomenal prophetic ministry and stupendous impact, which compel global

Prophet Makandiwa also looks after nearly 2,000 orphans, 300plus widows and he constantly donates to people in need

plus widows and he constantly donates to people in need. He is married to Ruth Makandiwa and they are blessed with five wonderful children. He publishes the monthly devotional, “Life Lighter” as well as other life transforming books including: “Spiritual Fatherhood,” “Why God Wants you to be Rich” just to name a few.

attention. As the founder of the United Family International Church (UFIC), his authentic prophetic voice calls to order leadership in politics, business 36 Kharis

Africa JANUARY 2017

www.kharisafrica.com

ELEVATE WITH PASTOR NASH

FLY WITH THE EAGLES (PART 1)

By Pastor Nash

S

eptember marked the thirty years celebration of full time ministry of one of my spiritual mentors.

God’s doings through this mighty man of God has been amazing. The ministry continues to increase in grace and influence over nations. ˜As I wondered, what such a man would say at this stage of his life with all he has seen God do, I heard him say “Man! We are just beginning and there’s still a lot more grounds to cover, souls to win and we certainly don’t have time.”

I was reminded of Caleb’s utterance, “I am still as strong today as I was in the day Moses sent me; as my strength was then, so my strength is now, for war and for going out and coming in. Now then, give me this hill country about which the Lord spoke on that day, for you heard on that day the Anakims (A tribe of giants, descendants of Anak) were there, with great fortified cities; perhaps the Lord will be with me, and I will drive them out as the Lord has spoken.” Joshua 14:1112 (NASB) My spiritual mentor’s statement excites and inspires me to do more, knowing that age is just a number and one can still find strength, passion, drive and pursuit of purpose if the mind is still young at heart.

The awareness of a limited time in life, gave me a jostle in my spirit. I strongly believe that we must approach life with a greater sense of urgency. Jesus said, “All of us must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent me, for there is little time left before the night falls and all work comes to an end” John 9:4 (TLB).

I also recall the following statement from Christopher McDougall’s Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen: “Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up, it knows it must outrun the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the slowest gazelle, or it will starve. It doesn’t matter whether you’re the lion or a gazellewhen the sun comes up, you’d better be running.”

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Do not allow this world to mold you in its own image.

Instead, be transformed from inside out by renewing your mind. As a result, you will be able to discern what God wills and whatever God finds good, pleasing and complete.

Romans 12:2 No matter where we are in life, greatness can be achieved with our choices.

If you are reading this piece, it’s a choice you have made and certainly tells me you need a transition and the best place to begin is with yourself: what you do, and the people you hang around with.

Simply said, be the change you want to see. Your life will never change until you change your daily activities. You have been dreaming of a great future, get off the

couch and go for it. It is certainly a great place to start Apostle Paul states in Romans 12:2 (The Voice) “Do not allow this world to mold you in its own image. Instead, be transformed from inside out by renewing your mind. As a result, you will be able to discern what God wills and whatever God finds good, pleasing and complete.”

The word ‘transformed’ in Greek is “metamorphóō”, from ‘metá’ which denotes change of place or condition, and ‘morphóō’, to form. This means, when one renews his mind, he or she will change in form and every area of his or her life will experience the fruits of this change.

As human beings, we are certainly influenced by things around us, for example, the environment, media, senses, mental health, physical health, politics, the economy, people etc., and the greatest choice that one can make is to choose to be influenced first by the word of God and great people who really care about your well being and also have the propensity to drive you into becoming the best version of yourself. By this I mean high flyers and super-achievers who will push or usher you into greatness.

When you move with fowls, you will end up in the street, but when you move with eagles, you will end up at the apex of a mountain. The power of man’s association can never be over-emphasized.

Your capacity, thoughts, mindset and future can be foretold at the look of your associates. In other words, friends are the x-ray to detect who you really are and where you are going. Character and habits are contagious.

This article will be continued in the next issue. In the meantime, I would love to hear your story and how your life has been remolded by this article. Send your comments to pastonash@elev8ministries. org.za

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BUZZ

DANNY TETTEH NETTEY

THE LEGEND LIVES ON

By Kharis Africa Research Team

40 Kharis

Africa JANUARY 2017

www.kharisafrica.com

I

n 1998, he toured with worship leader Ron Kenoly as a back-up singer, and he later performed in the United Kingdom on the same bill as Ron Winans of the famous gospel-singing family.

His music is mostly a blend of gospel, contemporary worship and inspirational pop. He is described by his colleague singers as a man full of the Holy Spirit’s power and passion for Gospel music.

On September 19 1968 in Accra, Danny Tetteh Nettey was bestowed unto his parents as the third of six children. With his father, as an evangelist, Danny began writing songs and taught himself how to play the piano at the primal age of six.

According to his mother, not even the destruction of the instrument by his late father could douse his passion for music.

In the pursuit of knowledge, he became a student of Accra Academy where he became the school’s music director and the president of the campus Scripture Union. He challenged a family prescription that as a brilliant science student, he was going to be a medical doctor. There came a divine re-direction of destiny when he veered towards the path of a gospel singer. Of course, as a doctor, he would have saved lives, but as a gospel singer, he saved souls.

Beginning his music career, Danny Nettey started his own group, “Danny Nettey and Pals” which toured many secondary schools and churches in the country and across West Africa to spread the word of God through song ministration. His song writing skills had been greatly developed with some of his songs performed at his church.

Different from the norm of how some musicians grow up with the love of music as a result of their attachment to a variety of musical instruments at their disposal, you will be amazed to know Danny Nettey grew up without the luxury and exposure to many musical instruments in his home.

His inspiration was heavily from the blues music his father listened to which drove him to participate in his local church choir where he also became an assistant music director.

He released his first album ‘Positive Change’ in 1995 and a year later, another album followed; this time in collaboration

www.kharisafrica.com

To his credit, he had four albums in his 30 years of singing as he believed songs should be centered on quality not frequency. His songs Praise Jehovah, God Alone, More than a song, I Worship You, Metease (I live), God is good , among others transformed lives and will forever be on the lips of many.

with ‘the Pals.’

Through his music ministration, he traveled to the United Kingdom and United States and ministered on several high profile platforms with; Bishop T. D. Jakes, Don Moen, Ron Winans, Bebe Winans, Ron Kenoly, Kirk Franklin, Lionel Peterson, Israel Houghton, and Alvin Slaughter.

Minister Danny Nettey mentored most gospel artistes in Ghana and graced several events, including the “Joe Beecham Ministries” by Pastor Joe Beecham and Nii Okai’s “Saving Hearts” album launch.

To his credit, he had four albums in his 30 years of singing as he believed songs should be centered on quality not frequency. His songs Praise Jehovah, God Alone, More than a Song, I Worship You, Metease (I live), God is Good, among others transformed lives and will forever be on the lips of many.

Kharis Africa JANUARY 2017

41

PEREZ CORNER

CHOOSING BETWEEN CHARISMA & CHARACTER

By Bishop Charles Agyinasare Founder/Presiding Bishop, Perez Chapel International

Success as a leader comes with price and nothing comes easy. Attitude means more in being successful than knowledge. Dr. Mike Murdock said, “You don’t decide your destiny, but you decide your habits and your habits decide your destiny.” Your attitude will determine your altitude in life. These attitudes and habits are called character. Character is what will take you to the top. fear of losing people’s loyalty. That feeling is what I call “people-pressure.” You are compelled by your own aura to please the people, no matter what. Examples abound in the Bible about people with charisma who yielded to the pressure of the people and paid dearly for that. A classical example was King Saul. When he was billed to go to battle, he had to wait for Prophet Samuel to offer a mandatory sacrifice before the king could go to battle. However, King Saul lost patience when Samuel was late in arriving for the sacrifice. At the instance of peoplepressure, Saul acted foolishly by offering the sacrifice against the sacred tradition of Israel (1 Samuel 13:11-14).

CHARISMA OR CHARACTER? Character is often confused with charisma.

In ministry, charisma can gather the crowd, but character is what keeps them.

Charisma generates favour from others.

Character is derived from the Greek word chisel, a tool used in shaping objects.

It connotes chiseling out or removing something. So, character is the raw material of your life. It is not inherited; it is a product of the habits that have trained your life. Character is developed and built; it is a chiseling process adopted in developing your personality. Here are four simple differences between character and charisma.

1

. Charisma has the ability to sway people to your side. Often, most people who are swayed by charisma do not really have basis for why they believe in what their hero believes in. They are often carried away by the aura of whoever they follow. In contrast to faith, charisma sparks off excitement while faith is founded on the word of God.

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The person with character accepts criticism and listens to people with differing opinions.

2

. Charisma inspires fanatical loyalty.

When the real test of character surfaces, loyalty fizzles out and the follower-ship desert the charismatic leader. The lack of character often finds expression in the display of indispensability by the one with charisma. When people detect this trait they depart from you. It will be fatal on my part as a leader of a thriving church, Perez Chapel International, to ever think the church will buckle on its knees without me. When God uses you to build a church, 42 Kharis

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the establishment after a period, ceases to be founded on your person. It becomes an institution and not a personality cult.

3

. When you have charisma you are always burdened to perform, even when you are “dried up.” Anytime you do not do what you are notable for, there’s a

4

. People with charisma tend to abhor criticism even from their close associates. Some married couples are prone to this tendency, especially when husbands and wives find it difficult to accommodate dissent and take entrenched positions in domestic issues. Likewise, some bosses disregard counter suggestions and opinions from subordinates when such opinions have the potential of bettering the fortunes of the business entity.

I submit that the most unfortunate thing that can happen to an individual, especially a leader, is for that leader to be blind to his or her shortcomings by spurning sound advice. Build capacity for character formation by following Jesus Christ.

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KEEP FIT

REST, AN INTEGRAL COMPONENT OF GOD’S PLAN

By Dr. Derek Larbi, CEO, Stelin Dental Clinic

“But the wicked are like the tossing sea, which cannot rest, whose waves cast up mire and mud.

There is no peace, says my God, for the wicked” (Isaiah 57:20, 21).

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est is an integral component of an ideal fitness regime.

Not too long ago, I read a rather unsettling story of a habitual marathon runner who suddenly died of a massive heart attack. This was cited as an example in an educational submission on the importance of sleep to fitness. This marathoner was reported to sleep for less than 5 hours every day continuously. Hence, the conclusions that sleep deficiency had a more adverse profound effect on his heart than his frequent marathons. As a fitness admirer, this made very disconcerting reading.

However, the point was well noted.

Returning to the opening scriptural text, I couldn’t help but notice that rest is also integral to God’s fitness plan. There exists such a rich store of Scriptures where God promises or alludes to rest for His children and eschews hardship, toil and anxiety. So overwhelming is the evidence that it may not be erroneous to say that “to be restless is equal to being Godless”.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28).

His, is a call to rest and the alarm bells should start ringing for us if our paths are laden with anxiety and restlessness. ‘The wicked are like the tossing sea that stirs up dust and mire,’ such imagery to describe the ungodly. Church calendars, pastoral schedules, and personal itineraries are all bursting at their seams with activities.

These however, pale in significance to the silent vexing of our souls we self-inflict 44 Kharis

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“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”.

Matthew 11:28 by cultivating the mindset of Orphans and Destitutes; the unrest we impose on ourselves by simply refusing to accept that God, the creator of Heaven and Earth, who holds and maintains all things by the power of His word, is simply capable of taking care of us.

This is what the sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: in repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength (Isaiah 30:15).

Rest and quietness are part of a healthy spiritual fitness plan: We are reminded solemnly, how faithlessness cost the wilderness pilgrims entry into God’s rest.

“Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it, for we also have had the good news proclaimed to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because they did not share the faith of those who obeyed.”

(Hebrews 4:1,2). The expression of faith is

perfected in calmness rather than fretfulness. Following closely on the ‘unrest’ cited above, is the unrest of being unyoked from Jesus; being in places and situations that Jesus is not.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.

(Matthew 11:29, 30).

If we will limit our actions and inactions by what Jesus would have done, He promises that He would make light work of the business of living. Dearly beloved, let us stay in prime shape for our King of kings by not neglecting His promised rest.

“Jesus calls us o’er the tumult Of our life’s wild, restless sea; Day by day His sweet voice soundeth Saying, ‘Christian, follow me”

by Cecil Frances Alexander

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RHEMA

THE RACE SET BEFORE US (PART 11)

By Mr. Joseph Mintah, President, All For Christ Youth Missions

“For every man shall bear his own burden” (Galatians 6:5, KJV)

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he previous issue of Kharis Africa ushered us into the first three rules needed for THE RACE SET BEFORE US. It is an honour to serve you with another rule to help you run the race in your own track.

Everybody has his own burden to carry.

People may encourage and help you, (Romans 15:1), but none of them will take responsibility for what happens in your track. This is because everyone is responsible for what happens in his own life. See yourself as a unique and a distinctive individual, comparing yourself to no one. We all have different destinies and the journeys to our destinies differ.

“For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves are not wise.”

2 Corinthians 10:12 (KJV) From this, we deduce that comparison is not a wise act.

Never compare yourself to anybody. Even if your assignments seem to be related, God has different plans for each one of you. God is not going to use somebody’s work to judge you. There is no competition because everybody has his own finishing mark. Therefore, instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on running your race to attain your mark.

RULES OF THE RACE Like any race, the race of destiny also has its own rules.

RULE# 4: DO NOT LOOK BACK Now that reminds me of a woman in the Bible. Does it remind you too? Lot’s wife heard the instruction that the Angels gave 46 Kharis

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is ever- willing to forgive us if we repent and seek mercy. Above all, you also need to forgive yourself in order to move on.

Moses was a murderer who went into selfimposed exile, yet God used him. In case you didn’t know, God’s tool chest is not full of impressive tools.

to them but she looked back and became a pillar of salt. Do you think the Angels didn’t love her? They did. She gave them food to eat, water to drink and room to sleep in, but there was nothing they could do to help her because she refused to play by the rules. You see, if we don’t run in accordance with the rules, we won’t be crowned. (See 2 Timothy 2:5).

If we look back we will become a pillar of salt. We will not make any meaningful impact. Salt is felt when it is dissolved into something. A pillar of salt doesn’t make any impact. Once you set on destiny’s course, do not look back. Looking back means dwelling in the past. You cannot correct the past. It is history.

“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before.” (Philippians 3:13).

If Paul had not decided to desist from looking at his past, he couldn’t have completed his race. Before he discovered his destiny, he supervised the murder of many Christians including Stephen.

Most of us make giant mistakes before we discover our true paths. However, God

But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the mighty; and the base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to nullify things that are. (1 Corinthians 1:27-28, KJV) God doesn’t care about your past identity because once you come into his house; like gold, He refines you in to a desirable state.

If God used David, Moses, Saul, Rahab, Gideon among others, He can certainly use you.

“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before” Philippians 3:13

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BIAO KOLOUCHÈ

ANGÈLE BENIN’S RISING INTERNATIONAL INTERPRETER Story by Nelson Semanu Korkor

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his may be hard to believe, but Biao Kolouchè Angèle speaks eight different languages: French, English, German, Yoruba, Nagot, Fon, Mina, and Dendi. Language is her passion and Angèle eats and drinks languages! The dream of becoming an international interpreter took her to Ghana (Accra) to study English. That is even the reason why she did pure literature and languages in secondary school. The date was September 26, 2005, when Angèle took off to a foreign land to fulfill her dream of becoming a master at languages. She

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started with English Intermediate and German Proficiency at the Ghana Institute of Languages (GIL).

In the next academy year, 20062007, she did English proficiency and also offered some high level German course at Goethe Institute sanctioned by Zentrale Mittelstufenprüfung. The same year, she got admission to the School of Translators of GIL. During that academic year 2007-2008, she won a scholarship to Germany for a 3 weeks’ vacation course in Erfurt University (Thüringen). The news brought unspeakable joy to her family. In her final year, on 30th

May 2009, her brilliant assertiveness made her the proud winner of an Award by the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), under the category of the Most Outstanding Female International Student 2009. This award qualified her to the Award of ALI (Africa Leadership Initiative). Scholar under the ALIncubator Project under the theme, “Today’s effectual and enlightened leaders breeding tomorrow’s”. She completed the four year Translation Studies sanctioned by a Bachelor Degree (BA) in translation with First Class honours in 2011.

Angèle’s life had very humble www.kharisafrica.com

beginnings. She was born on 21st July 1987 in Abobo, Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire).

At age five, her parents sent her to their homeland Bénin, to live with her 110 year old grandmother in their hometown Savè in Central Benin. There, she began her primary school in Ecole Primaire Publique Isalè Otin of Savè until she got to class 5 and her grandmother passed away. She was then moved from Savè to the city of Cotonou, where she stayed with her uncle.

She did class 5 and 6 at Ecole Primaire Privé de Bethanie, Akpakpa, Cotonou. After her primary education, her uncle transferred her to Natitingou in the north, in the Atacora region (Bénin). She started her senior high school after she had finished her BEPC (Brevet d’Etudes du Premier Cycle, the equivalent of BECE in Ghana). After this, her mother who was then living in Côte d’Ivoire with her father, moved to Bénin where she joined them in Abomey-Calavi.

Angèle started her senior high school in CEG Abomey-Calavi where she spent two years.

What should have been her third and final year was disrupted by strikes so her parents transferred her to a private school with the intention that in case the academic year was declared lost due to the strikes, she would write the examination in Côte d’Ivoire.

This was resolved, but she had moved to Complexe Scolaire Camara Laye where she passed her Baccalaureate. This was a great spring, not only for her, but also for her parents, family and friends. She was soon to discover that that was just the beginning of a colourful experience in her life.

She is currently the National President of the YWCA (Young Women’s Christian Association) of Benin. She was the treasurer of the Lectors Group in her church in Bénin for several years. Angele coordinated the participation of African Francophones in the African Youth and Governance Conference that is held every year in the month of August from 2010 to 2012 in Ghana. Since January 2013, she has been working as Programme Executive for Globethics.net Francophone Africa. She is also currently the Benin National Director for Christians for Peace in Africa. Angèle gave her life to Christ at an early age. She had held the position of Public Relations Officer in the Interim Management Committee of the Students’ Representative Council of GIL from April to June 2008, and the chairperson of the German club in GIL in 2009. She attended several YWCA workshops and seminars in Bénin, Cameroon, Togo, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Burkina-Faso, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Ethiopia, Germany, Switzerland, www.kharisafrica.com

Belgium, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, Kenya, Senegal, Hong Kong, Bangkok, United Arab Emirates, and international conferences on Women and sexuality issues; participated in other diverse YWCA programmes and for her current position.

On her Christian life, Angèle had this to say, “I would say I was born again since my childhood, because I have already been introduced to God since then and have tried my best to live to God’s standards and not to depart from His ways”. She is however quick to add that, life’s experiences have helped shaped her faith in God. “God has done a lot of things in my life; every bit of me is thanksgiving dearest, because being born in a polygamous family and with all the challenges that could come from it. I can tell you! My life is a testimony”, she emphasizes.

“The opportunities I have got through my involvement in civil society have been tremendous. I am a growing famous and full of talent translator and interpreter. I know, believe it and I am working towards it.”

Kolouchè loves traveling, making and meeting new friends and positively influential people, taking photographs, writing, playing cards and scrabble, reading, listening to music and cooking. Angèle believes that considering her background, God has done a lot for her: “One of the greatest things God has done for me is the exposure I have had through the YWCA, whether nationally, continentally or internationally. Ultimately, this has improved my professional life; each civil society experience is also a professional experience for me as a translator and interpreter.” Angèle has started earning recognition through her freelance contract as an interpreter. “I know it’s just the beginning” she said. Finally, Angèle has a word to African youth, ”My advice to the African Youth seeking to make a significant contribution to the continent is to make use of all the opportunities offered to learn, promote themselves”.

She is married to Vénus Akokponhoué with two children, Faith and Maxwell.

Biao Kolouchè Angèle speaks eight different languages: French, English, German, Yoruba, Nagot, Fon, Mina, and Dendi. Language is her passion and bread!

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...“Consolidation for Empowerment”...

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NEWS

uniCredit Receives Top EBA Socrates Award The CEO of uniCredit being awarded the “Manager of the Year” This was held at the prestigious Oxford Town Hall in the United Kingdom.

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he European Business Assembly has conferred two prestigious Awards on uniCredit, one of the leading Savings and Loans Companies in Ghana.

In a citation for the award of “Enterprise of the Year”, the Council of the Socrates Committee recounted the strong national position of uniCredit within the Savings and Loans industry, business reputation, positive Regional image, investment attractiveness and competitiveness.

The event which also saw the CEO of uniCredit being awarded the “Manager of the Year” was held at the prestigious Oxford Town Hal in the United Kingdom.

Briefing newsmen after the awards ceremony, Mr. Samuel Sakyi-Hyde, CEO of uniCredit said these awards were

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endorsements for the efforts the company had put in over the past decade to build a Financial Institution that will deliver excellence and be committed to the higher standards that any world class Institution could boast of.

He said the recognition by the widely acclaimed European Business Assembly under the auspices of the Socrates Awards Committee will further energize the team to aspire onto greater heights and to build a brand that will stand the test of times.

Mr. Sakyi- Hyde hinted that uniCredit had earlier in the month received special recognition as the “Best African Company of the Year”, Savings and Loans in Dubai by the African Leadership Magazine.

Touching on key milestones within uniCredit and the expectation for the

coming year, He said the past financial year had been very eventful with the achievement of all key performance indicators by uniCredit.

“We stretched ourselves both in terms of our branch outreach and the quality of Service Delivery. As a company that has now attained an enviable position in the midst of a challenging year, we can only look forward with optimism” He asserted.

Mr. Sakyi- Hyde said uniCredit ended the year with a 23 branch network by adding 6 more branches in the course of last year, significant among which was the entry of the institution into two new Regions of the country. He said the opening of the Techiman and Koforidua Branches will further strengthen uniCredit’s position within the industry.

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TESTIMONY

“CALL ME NAZARETH”

THE EX-ASYLUM INMATE GOES BONKERS FOR CHRIST ON THE MIC Story by Kojo Graham The verse, rhythmically spit by Nazareth goes ...New chapter John 10:30, Jesus in me more than plenty...You can’t kill the chosen vessel, Not by might, power nor muscle...Then comes the silky chorus, sang by Kesse; Otanfo a wotan me, wontumi kumio, efrise Kristo Yesu ne me banbofo]…

The track, entitled Destiny Killa, perfectly captures the story of Gospel rapper, Call me Nazareth. He’s been to hell and back, and is now enjoying the new chapter of his life where he is God’s chosen vessel to Conquer Them (the title of another tuneful track on his album).

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Nazareth was born Alex Opoku Agyeman into an idolatrous family at Akim Aprade in the Eastern Region.

He enjoyed a free childhood under his grandmother’s care and at 16 years joined his mother in Accra, expecting a rosy life, but found himself selling plantain, toilet roll and other items to survive; a secondary school education then was out of the question.

He moved to Ashaiman where he began learning electrical repairs. But a struggling, free, not-too-educated village boy; and the ‘hustling’ town of Ashaiman didn’t fit; the combination wasn’t right,

so he found himself among company who lured him into the prospect of quick fame and riches from the burgeoning rap game. The choice thus was, rap (together with riches and fame), versus electrical repairs, was it even a contest? Of course not! He therefore plunged fully into the ‘game,’ further encouraged by raves about his dexterity in the Twi language. He soon gained some popularity and formed a group called Adehye Mma (The Royals) in 2002.

Together with artistes like Sarkodie, Yaa Porno and D. Cryme, the group gained some recognition on the popular www.kharisafrica.com

rap radio program ‘Kasahari,’ then hosted

by Dr. Duncan. After a while, when their contemporaries had shot to national fame, they realized they were still at the same level. Their frustration ran so deep that he and his buddy decided to consult a fetish priest to fast track their ascent.

THE RUINOUS CONSULTATION This decision proved to be his undoing, as the devil never offers something for nothing.

The fetish priest among other demands, asked them to make cuts on their fingers and drop the blood on an altar. They left with the warning never to speak of what had happened to anyone, lest they lose their sanity. Days, weeks and months came by without any breakthrough financially or career wise so he forgot about the fetish priest and continued with the hustle of making it big as an artiste, adopting the name Denkyem (crocodile). But there’s no escaping a covenant, especially one sealed by blood. Forgetting about it by no means renders it null and void, not that Denkyem knew about it. His sole desire was to make it big like the others, and he was at a radio station one day for an interview, still pursuing that dream where a man of God told him he had seen him in a vision where he had gone mad. He was then a Rastafarian who only believed in the unity of Africa and reading the book of Psalms, and therefore took the warning lightly.

As time went by, he started having increasingly terrifying dreams until one night, he felt some heaviness and dreamt that he had gone mad. In his own words, There were instances whereby I could stare at myself in a mirror and say to myself “this is not me”, I could not recognize the people in my household, sometimes saw them as beasts, heard voices which told me to pick up bread from the floor to eat, drink water from the gutters, run around and walk aimlessly about in town. I always heard a voice telling me to do the abnormal but a still small voice kept preventing me from heeding to the commands of the first voice. It was as though my spirit was out of me and another spirit had taken control. It was impossible for me to sleep because my mind wandered about while my body lay in bed.

He vainly tried to reach out to God: “I stayed in my room and said to myself www.kharisafrica.com

that if there is truly a man who created the universe and all that is in it, I want him to be revealed to me. This inward feeling led me to tune my radio to stations that had men of God preaching at night. For each pastor I listened to, I went in search of him the following morning. I encountered many men of God, some I found some rest in their words and others, I came back empty.”

DESPAIRING, THEN RESTORATION David sang in Psalm 30 that, Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Along the same lines, Jean-Paul Sartre wrote that Life begins on the other side of despair. Alex found some respite after being admitted at the Ankaful Psychiatric Hospital in Cape Coast for over a year, but the drugs and injections left him almost completely paralysed, and had to be fed and bathed by his mother.

He reached a tipping point one night: Frustrated, weak and suffering from multiple ailments at once (O how evil is the devil!), he desperately wanted to end it all by drinking a poisonous concoction.

But grace found him; he couldn’t find any such concoction that will finish the job.

The day after that night of reaching his nadir, began the process that led to his deliverance and salvation. It came in the form of a normal visit to his friends.

While narrating his ordeal, Sister Ama, his friend’s sister-in-law, discerned that what he was going through was spiritual, and suggested that he sought deliverance.

Around 1 am one day, I dragged myself to Sister Ama’s house and crashed unto the floor when they opened the door for me. My friends picked me up and began praying for me. While we prayed, Sister Ama was led by the Holy Spirit to ask on three occasions whether I had ever sought for any spiritual help from the kingdom of darkness but I denied on all three occasions because I could not remember. The fourth time, she specifically asked whether I had ever visited any fetish priest at Ashaiman with a friend.

Upon my confession, Sister Ama revealed that my spirit had been sold to many demons all over Africa who would not allow me to be delivered. I felt a bit relieved after the prayers and spent the night there but I received series of spiritual attacks that night and many other nights which followed. They then took me to their spiritual father, Apostle Kwame Owusu (Oluman) a man with wisdom

and highly gifted with the prophetic. This seasoned man of God took me through series of deliverance sessions and that was when I received Jesus as my Lord and personal Saviour. These deliverance sessions were never easy but after every one of them, I felt as though I was being emptied of filth and was being filled with the purest water.

It was only after his deliverance that he discovered his so-called best friend who took him to the fetish priest actually made a pact with the priest that they sacrifice him for his – the friend’s prosperity. Who needs enemies with friends like that!

Call me Nazareth’s story is a testimony of grace; of how God is still in the miracle business; how the grace of God has appeared unto and can save all men, even those that the society deems misfits.

To the Glory of God, Minister Nazareth graduated from Covenant Mission Bible College as an ordained prophet.

He refers to Apostle Kwame Owusu (Oluman), Apostle Bernard Afresa Taylor, and Apostle Dr. Francis Akwaboah Jnr as his closest fathers and mentors among other men of God he looks up to.

He has branded his youth-oriented genre as Gospop and admonishes, “the youth should be careful of the names they take upon themselves, their choice of friends and never to take prayer for granted. It is good to be rich, but Christ should be the source of your riches.”

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LEADERSHIP

QUALITIES OF AN EFFECTIVE LEADER III

By Mr. George Kojo Addison, Managing Director, Old Mutual Life

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and mission, challenges and adversities are no match. They therefore deploy their persistence instinct to sail through temporary challenges and circumstances.

s a leader, your self-confidence is your greatest asset. When all is lost, a leader’s self-confidence becomes a spark that fires the heart into action. Self-confidence is the resurrection key that revives all other qualities the leader possesses. Apart from self-confidence which is the bedrock of the leader’s being, the following two qualities are necessary to provide adequate shock-absorbers for leadership success: PERSISTENCE One key success factor needed for a leader to continue to be relevant is persistence. The leadership journey is full of uncertainties, disappointments, and shocks (UDS) and the successful leader requires tenacity to stay focused. After all, a driver’s success is not measured during the course of the journey. Rather, it is measured when the journey comes to an end and a goal is reached. Persistence will define and refine you as a leader. It is the stone that sharpens the leader’s sword of self-confidence. Persistence will make you a champion and let you remain a champion. If the leader’s desire is to be a great and a lasting captain, then ride on the boat of persistence. Persistence in this context means the leader must have drive and determination to stick with difficult tasks until they are completed. A leader should question himself, “Do I have self-drive and unflagging persistence to overcome adversity even when others lose their strength and their will?” Persistence in the life of a leader enables him or her to turn adversities into opportunities.

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When the leader’s engine of persistence is ignited in the midst of gloom and doom, all setbacks are turned into comebacks, disadvantages into advantages, and chaos into calmness. Persistence – the quality of holding on when all signals are playing to your disadvantage and defeat – is a sine qua non for all successful leaders. In the Bible, one person who demonstrated persistence is Nehemiah. He remained focused and persistent in spite of distractions from the enemies of his vision. The difference between winners and quitters is in their persisting abilities.

The Book of Proverbs, chapter 24, verse 10 states, “If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.” If a leader crumbles in the day of adversity, he has little persistence, bearing in mind that a leader’s strength is his persistence. As long as a leader’s eyes are fixed on a core mandate

VITALITY Vitality is the next quintessential quality for leadership effectiveness. After the thinking and strategizing is over; there must be a body to do the work. Having all the brain work without the brawn work does not produce results. The leader must be mentally and physically strong. As the saying goes, “a healthy body makes a healthy mind.” The leader therefore requires vitality in spirit and in the body to produce orchestrated results.

Vitality here suggests that even if the spirit is willing, strength and stamina are needed to fulfill the tasks of leadership.

Leaders must ensure they are physically capable to lead.

In ensuring your body functions properly, one can abide by these vitality boosting activities: drinking water frequently as a cleansing agent; exercising your mind and your body; maintaining healthy relationships; respecting people; eating well; relaxing regularly; praying, worshiping and praising God; and offering your time, talent, and treasure for the benefits of others.

The above activities when pursued in an atmosphere of truth and trust build pillars of vitality in the leader. A key to restoring and maintaining vitality is to become conscious of your present thinking patterns and choices and how they may be affecting your health. KA www.kharisafrica.com

INVESTMENT

WEALTH CREATION AND FINANCIAL SECURITY DEPENDS ON FINANCIAL KNOWLEDGE

By Kingsley Adjenku-Hayford, CEO, AANSTREET Africa

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ccording to Benjamin Franklin, “an investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.”

Therefore, financial knowledge is the foundation upon which wealth creation and financial security can be achieved.

Financial knowledge is one of the great bargains in life: it costs little, risks nothing, and present huge returns. It is the best investment one can make. We believe that financial knowledge helps individuals leverage the use of right data or information to manage finances within their income bracket; it also informs the right kind of decisions, processes and discipline resulting in financial stability, security and wealth creation.

According to Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs on motivation, people are motivated to fulfil basic needs before moving on to other, more advanced needs.

This hierarchy is most often depicted as a pyramid in which the lowest levels are made up of the most basic needs, while the more complex needs are located at the top of the pyramid. At the second level of Maslow’s Second Level (Safety) reveals that, when a person fails to educate himself or herself with the right financial knowledge and strategies to secure his or her financial needs through regular investment and a financial plan results in many people starting life both needy and greedy.

Without financial knowledge, people can never feel safe and secure; or be in control of their finances, family’s security, health, or property. Majority of individuals start life in need of financial www.kharisafrica.com

security and wealth. Many people will do anything to keep their jobs. Without financial security and wealth, people become desperate, holding on to jobs and living in fear of losing their jobs, homes, benefits, and pensions. Many end their working years in need of – dependent upon- Social Security and Medicare.

This is why some individuals, corporate executives and money managers will violate their ethical and moral principles and values, in some cases actively cheating their employees, shareholders, or clients.

As the year 2017 has taken off, many Ghanaians have re-strategized their lives and decided to work on what they could not achieve in 2016. However, people approach New Year Financial Resolutions differently and this includes: 1. Group One (1) Persons: These are persons who follow the crowd and they do not understand what they want to achieve in life in terms of financial

goals. This group of people just set their new financial goals because everyone is coming out with their New Year resolution.

2. Group Two (2) Persons: These are persons who are able to think through their lives and come out with brilliant and fantastic New Year Financial goals but lack the commitment and discipline to achieve their dreams year after year.

3. Group Three (3) Persons: These are persons who are clear about their vision in life and do not put timelines to their Financial Resolutions. Therefore, procrastination is the most IMPORTANT WORD they worship.

4. Group Four (4) Persons: These are persons who are afraid to make New Financial Resolutions because they doubt their ability to achieve them as a result of past failures.

5. Group Five (5) Persons: These are persons who are clear about their vision, set timelines and work towards achieving it.

AANSTREET Africa is a Financial, Tax and Investment Consulting Group with dedicated team providing specialized financial advisory, transaction advisory opinion services and strategic due diligence services for individuals and institutions. You can reach them on +233 241 167 727.

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WOMAN

FINDING THE RIGHT ‘MAN’ TO TRUST IN

By Mrs. Lois Osae Bediako (Esq), Associate Publisher

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ages of diaries flip open upon the reflection on one’s penned down plans and resolutions when a year comes to an end. Reflections are made concerning the successes, failures, results and reasons that made the year. It is good to reflect on a finished year, however, it is even better to plan for the next 365 days at the verge of being birthed. We then look ahead to the coming year with regard to who we should and can trust, who has had our backs and who we can feel secured with.

As women, one of our paramount needs is security, the assurance that we are total custodians of something we treasure, and the knowledge that something or someone would always be there for us despite all odds. Some of these assurances can be from basic but very important services and companionship we obtain from our hairstylists, dressmakers, family members, market women, colleagues, spouses, among others. It is said that, “By failing to prepare, you prepare to fail.” Likewise, we cannot bank our trust and hope in the assistance of anything or anyone but God. Nothing is certain, apart from God. The time is right and ripe for a new beginning: be it in businesses, relationships, ministry, among other areas. At this time, it is just apt to be tactful about strategic decisions for a new dimension of your life. When life throws its hurdles at us, we draw out our necks in search of support from friends and family.

On the contrary, that is the moment they depart from us. However, when we run to God and cry out to Him, help is always guaranteed from above. Women should not give their bodies to men for the sake of 58 Kharis

Africa JANUARY 2017

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For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ Hebrews 3:14

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being in need or finding favour. Genuine favour can only be sought from God. It is not right to give out your bodies for earthly gain. 1 Corinthians 6:18 says, Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a man can commit is outside his body, but he who sins sexually, sins against his own body.

Our bodies are jewels, God’s abode when it comes to humanity. I admonish you to obtain help only through honest ways and God will certainly bless your labour.

God is ever-present only if we are willing to commit our life activities, hope and total trust into His care. My soul is consoled that we have a Father’s love which will never wane; love that never ends.

Even in weakest moments, faithlessness and fearfulness, He will consistently send us reminders of His steadfast love. No security company can assure you of 100% protection aside God. Relying on God is one true investment that does not require many years to mature. It only requires consistency in faith and complete reliance.

Be mindful that no man or woman can guarantee us of their endless support in life. Life has many uncertainties, such that the one who promised to provide a certain help could have a sudden change of heart.

As another year draws to an end, I urge you to take your mind off that one person who has always been of help and look up to God. Putting your trust in man may sometimes prove fruitful, but usually turns out to be disappointing. God does not ‘sometimes’ help and other times refuse us help. He ALWAYS provides when He knows what we require will lead us to an expected end. He provides a better wall for us to lean on than any other. “… For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ.” Hebrews 3:14 KA Be equipped for a new beginning!

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