GAINING RELEVANT SPEED
The concept of “Gaining Relevant Speed” emphasizes the importance of purposeful movement in life. It is essential to recognize that not all movement is beneficial; rather, it is the direction of that movement that determines its relevance. In the context of personal growth and achievement, one must strive to move towards goals that align with their true purpose. This idea is beautifully illustrated in the biblical passage from 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, which highlights the competitive nature of life and the necessity of discipline and focus. The scripture reminds us that while many may participate in the race of life, only those who run with intention and clarity will ultimately attain the prize.
The exhortation to “run with purpose in every step” serves as a powerful reminder to remain steadfast in our pursuits. The analogy of an athlete training rigorously for a competition underscores the need for dedication and self-discipline. The apostle Paul articulates the importance of not merely going through the motions but actively engaging in the journey with a clear objective in mind. This disciplined approach is crucial, as it ensures that one does not become disqualified from their aspirations due to a lack of focus or commitment. The assurance that one will not be disqualified reinforces the belief that with the right mindset and effort, success is attainable.
Relevant speed, therefore, is defined as the ability to move towards the right goals and opportunities, rather than being distracted by irrelevant pursuits. The example of David running towards Goliath illustrates this principle perfectly; while others fled in fear, David’s decision to confront the giant was a manifestation of relevant speed, aligning with his destiny and purpose. This notion extends beyond mere physical movement; it encompasses the strategic alignment with the right people, circumstances, and objectives that propel one towards their intended outcomes. By understanding and embracing relevant speed, individuals can navigate their paths more effectively, ensuring that their efforts contribute meaningfully to their ultimate goals.
Pastor Lanre recently concluded a discussion emphasizing the importance of not only surrounding oneself with the right individuals but also recognizing and capitalizing on favorable circumstances. He referenced the biblical figure of David, illustrating how David adeptly navigated a situation that, at first glance, appeared to be merely a mundane task. This seemingly trivial errand, however, served as a pivotal moment in David’s journey, demonstrating that certain situations, which may initially seem insignificant, can actually serve as gateways to one’s destiny. It is essential to engage in deeper reflection to uncover the potential that lies beneath the surface of such circumstances.
The concept of leveraging both the right people and the right situations is further supported by the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes 9:11, which states that success is not solely determined by speed, strength, wisdom, or skill, but rather by the unpredictable nature of time and chance. This scripture underscores the notion that opportunities can arise unexpectedly, and it is crucial to be prepared to seize them when they do. The idea of “relevant speed” is introduced as a vital component in achieving divine establishment, suggesting that the ability to act swiftly and appropriately in response to opportunities can significantly alter one’s trajectory in life.
David’s ascent toward kingship exemplifies how a single moment of relevant speed can transform one’s destiny. Despite his humble beginnings, the perception of those around him shifted dramatically as they began to recognize the royal potential within him. This transformation was catalyzed by his timely actions, which allowed others to see him in a new light. The message encourages individuals to seek out and embrace their own moments of relevant speed, as these instances can lead to profound changes in their lives. It is a call to remain vigilant and open to the possibilities that may arise, as not every opportunity will be immediately recognizable, yet each has the potential to redefine one’s path.
In the second chapter of Deuteronomy, God made a significant promise to the people of Israel regarding their future homeland, often referred to as the Promised Land or the good land. This land was designated as a place of abundance and blessing, a stark contrast to their previous experiences. However, upon their departure from Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea, the Israelites encountered a period of what could be described as aimless wandering. God addressed Moses during this time of distress, urging him to move forward rather than remain stagnant. He reassured Moses that the Lord would fight their battles, allowing them to maintain their peace. This divine instruction emphasized the importance of progress and trust in God’s plan, as He declared that the Egyptians they had once feared would no longer be a threat.
As God continued to guide Moses, He indicated that the route to the Promised Land would lead them through Kadesh Barnea. Upon further examination, it becomes evident that there were four distinct segments of the journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, with Kadesh Barnea representing the longest and most significant portion. The Psalms reflect on this journey, illustrating that God intentionally chose this path for the Israelites, ensuring they avoided certain areas that could pose dangers or temptations. This divine strategy was not arbitrary; rather, it was a calculated decision to protect His people and facilitate their journey toward their promised inheritance. God’s guidance was characterized by relevance and purpose, as He sought to lead them through a route that would ultimately benefit them.
In Deuteronomy 2:1-2, the narrative unfolds with the Israelites turning and journeying into the wilderness, following the path of the Red Sea as instructed by the Lord. They skirted Mount Seir for an extended period, during which God spoke to Moses, indicating that they had lingered long enough in that area. He commanded them to turn northward and prepare to pass through the territory of the descendants of Esau, who resided in Seir. God cautioned the Israelites to be vigilant, as the Edomites would be apprehensive of their presence. Importantly, God made it clear that they were not to engage with the Edomites or claim any of their land, emphasizing that not every piece of land was designated for them. This instruction served as a reminder of the boundaries set by God, reinforcing the notion that divine promises come with specific guidelines and responsibilities.
You have arrived at this juncture, and we are committing ourselves to enhance your progress. It is essential to recognize that acceleration cannot occur in every conceivable direction. The understanding of this principle is crucial, as not every terrain is designated for your advancement. In this context, it is noted that God has allocated specific territories to the descendants of Esau, who are your relatives. Therefore, it is advised not to interfere with them, as God has decreed that no portion of their land will be granted to you, not even a minimal amount. Mount Seir has been designated as Esau’s inheritance, and you are instructed to procure food and water from them using monetary means, should you require sustenance.
Instead of adhering to this directive and purchasing what they needed while traversing through their territory, the Israelites chose to circumvent the area entirely. This decision was influenced by divine guidance, which had already outlined their path and pace for the journey ahead. Historical accounts suggest that this journey, which is often referred to as a 40-day expedition, was approximately a month long. However, during this time, the Israelites deviated from their intended course, engaging in activities that were not aligned with their purpose. They began to entertain thoughts and actions that strayed from the path set before them. It is my hope that you gain insight today to comprehend your destined routes and to adhere to the path that has been divinely designated for you.
Relevant speed is characterized by purposeful movement in alignment with divine guidance. When you engage in this relevant speed, you emulate the Israelites, who were led by God through a pillar of cloud during the day and a pillar of fire at night. They were attentive to these signs; when the pillar moved, they followed, and when it halted, they remained still. It is important to understand that sometimes, remaining in the right position is itself a form of relevant speed. I address those who may feel as though they have been stationary for an extended period; know that standing firm in your designated place can be a significant aspect of your journey.
Dr. Otabil discussed the concept of times and seasons during his address last night, emphasizing that there are pivotal moments in one’s destiny when remaining stationary and engaging in familiar activities can be significant. He articulated that there are instances when individuals may feel overwhelmed by their surroundings, yet the divine guidance they receive is akin to the experience of the Israelites. He pointed out that, similar to the Israelites who followed the pillar of cloud, one should refrain from moving until there is a clear indication to do so. This notion of waiting for divine direction can be profoundly frustrating, as it often tests one’s patience and resolve.
Reflecting on a particular scripture passage, Dr. Otabil shared his personal contemplation regarding the challenges of waiting for divine movement. He recounted a moment of introspection while reading the text, questioning why God places individuals in such situations. The Holy Spirit prompted him to delve deeper into the scripture, leading him to draw parallels with everyday experiences, such as being stuck in traffic at a malfunctioning traffic light. He illustrated the common frustration of waiting, especially when one is in a hurry, and the temptation to disregard the rules of the light when it seems unresponsive. This analogy served to highlight the human inclination to act prematurely when faced with uncertainty.
Dr. Otabil further elaborated on the Israelites’ experience, suggesting that their prolonged waiting under the pillar of cloud must have been a source of significant frustration. He posed the rhetorical question of whether the Israelites ever doubted the reliability of the cloud, especially after days of stagnation. However, he emphasized that their movement was contingent upon the cloud’s direction, reinforcing the idea that true progress in one’s destiny often requires patience and steadfastness. He concluded by asserting that understanding the importance of standing still, even when it feels counterintuitive, is essential for making meaningful strides toward one’s destiny. In essence, he conveyed that sometimes, the act of standing firm in faith is, in itself, a form of relevant progress.
The scripture emphasizes the importance of perseverance, stating that after having done everything to stand firm, one must continue to stand resolutely. It is acknowledged that many individuals may be facing significant challenges at this moment, yet it is imperative to recognize that fulfilling one’s destiny necessitates a steadfast commitment to standing firm. It is essential to encourage those around you to adopt this posture of resilience, as it is through standing firm that one can experience the relevance of their journey. The trials and tribulations that may surround you can create an illusion of incapacity, but it is crucial to remember that standing firm is not only possible but also vital for achieving one’s purpose.
As I address the notion of relevant speed in one’s journey, I wish to pray for those who may feel burdened by the weight of their circumstances. It is my prayer that the journey which is meant to take a mere forty days does not extend into a prolonged forty years. The essence of this message lies in the understanding that God desires to guide and lead each individual through their unique path. Many have mistakenly settled in their wilderness experiences, believing it to be their destined place of fulfillment. However, it is important to recognize that the wilderness is merely a transitional phase, not a permanent dwelling. God has prepared a Promised Land for each of us, and while the wilderness may be a necessary passage, it should be traversed with a sense of urgency and purpose.
It is crucial to grasp that the wilderness should not be misconstrued as a destination but rather as a temporary phase in the journey toward one’s ultimate purpose. The experience of wandering in the wilderness can lead individuals to mistakenly establish it as their permanent residence, which is contrary to God’s intention. The narrative of the Israelites serves as a poignant reminder that the wilderness is not a place for fulfillment; rather, it is a space to navigate swiftly. Engaging in irrelevant speed often stems from spiritual disconnection, which occurs when one begins to drift away from their relationship with God. This disconnection can lead to a stagnation of purpose, hindering the ability to move forward with the relevant speed necessary to reach the Promised Land.
They transformed into wanderers, aimlessly traversing from one location to another without any clear sense of direction. This state of drifting often leads to a profound disconnection from accountability; for instance, the Israelites ceased to be answerable to Moses, engaging instead in behaviors that reflected their newfound freedom. They began to question Moses in bewildering ways, posing inquiries that seemed nonsensical. This raises a pertinent question: have you ever found yourself in a situation where you are bombarding others with questions that lack clarity, not only to them but also to yourself? If such questions elude your understanding, it is likely that they will not resonate with a higher understanding either.
One particularly perplexing question posed to Moses was whether there were no burial grounds in Egypt, implying that he had led them to a place where they would meet their demise. This inquiry exemplifies a profound disconnection from reality, as it reflects a mindset that is detached from the circumstances at hand. When individuals begin to live in a state of disconnection, they often find themselves surrounded by influences that encourage them to pursue their own desires without consideration for the consequences. This detachment can lead to a distorted perception of reality, where the individual no longer evaluates the sensibility of their actions or thoughts.
To illustrate this disconnection further, consider the case of someone who, despite being in a seemingly happy marriage with a loving spouse and children, begins to question the validity of remaining committed to one partner. Such a thought process indicates a departure from what once made sense, revealing a life that is increasingly disconnected from reality. For those who have previously embraced faith, a gradual disconnection from God can precipitate a similar detachment from the truth. This shift creates a new, distorted reality, often manipulated by negative influences, leading to a life characterized by irrelevant pursuits and misguided priorities.
When an individual has previously embraced Christianity and begins to distance themselves from God, they may find themselves gradually detaching from reality. This disconnection often leads to the establishment of a distorted perception of life, one that is influenced by negative forces. The adversary can fabricate a new reality that fosters a sense of aimlessness, causing the individual to drift through life, engaging in various activities that lack purpose or direction. This phenomenon can manifest as a loss of focus, where the person becomes preoccupied with trivial pursuits rather than remaining anchored in their faith and spiritual commitments.
Another significant factor contributing to this irrelevant speed is the tendency to engage in comparison and imitation of others. When individuals divert their attention to the achievements and paths of those around them, they risk straying from their own unique journey. For instance, after completing my undergraduate studies, I faced considerable pressure to follow a conventional trajectory, particularly after having initiated a successful campus ministry. Many of my peers were launching their own churches, and the expectations placed upon me were palpable. However, I took the time to reflect and discern my own calling, resisting the urge to conform to societal pressures and instead seeking guidance from my spiritual mentor.
My mentor encouraged me to pray earnestly about my future in ministry, despite my initial reluctance to pursue this path. I was already employed and felt content in my career, yet his persistent encouragement led me to seek divine clarity. After a period of dedicated prayer, particularly during a retreat at Redemption Camp, I experienced a profound sense of confirmation regarding my vocation as a full-time minister. This decision, guided by the wisdom imparted by my pastor, has proven to be one of the most significant and relevant choices in my life, allowing me to maintain a purposeful and directed pace in my spiritual journey.
It is essential to clarify the distinction between mental laziness and physical laziness. While physical laziness can be observed in a person’s reluctance to engage in strenuous activities, mental laziness manifests in a failure to engage in cognitive processes that lead to the refinement and development of ideas. The biblical reference to a lazy individual who neglects to roast what he has hunted serves as a metaphor for the broader concept of processing and enhancing raw materials into something of value. In this context, roasting symbolizes the necessary steps of processing, refining, and repackaging ideas or resources to make them commercially viable.
The challenge faced by many in Africa, which I express with a sense of regret, is the inability to transform our abundant natural resources, such as oil, into refined products. This inability reflects a deeper issue of mental inertia, where individuals and communities rely solely on raw potential without applying the necessary intellectual effort to convert it into something beneficial. The act of roasting, or processing, is crucial; it involves not just the extraction of resources but also the preservation and enhancement of those resources to meet market demands. Unfortunately, this lack of mental engagement leads to a situation where we continue to export unrefined resources while importing the finished products, highlighting a significant gap in our economic development.
This phenomenon of mental laziness is a pervasive issue that continues to hinder progress in our society. Despite possessing the intellectual capacity and technological resources to innovate and refine our offerings, there remains a reluctance to exert the mental effort required for such transformations. This situation is reminiscent of the biblical story of Esau, who, in his moment of weakness, traded his birthright for immediate gratification. I fervently hope that our nation can overcome this mental stagnation, as we possess the brilliance and potential to thrive. It is my prayer that we will be delivered from this mental malaise, enabling us to harness our resources effectively and contribute meaningfully to our economic landscape.
Esau exhibited a troubling tendency towards mental lethargy, which became evident when he was instructed by his father to prepare a beloved dish of venison. Despite having the capability to venture into the field and procure the necessary ingredients, he seemed to lack the initiative to utilize what he had previously gathered. One might ponder the fate of the venison he had already acquired the day before. It is reasonable to assume that he could have preserved it, perhaps by roasting it or storing it properly, as even in ancient times, people had methods to keep food overnight. The Israelites, for instance, demonstrated foresight when they collected manna in the wilderness, contemplating its preservation for the following day.
The contrast between Esau and his brother Jacob is striking. When tasked with preparing a meal, Esau hastily returned to the wilderness, seemingly unprepared and without a plan. In contrast, Jacob acted swiftly and efficiently; he killed an animal, prepared it, and presented it to their father, thereby securing the blessing that Esau had failed to obtain. This scenario serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of procrastination and lack of preparation. It underscores the importance of being proactive and diligent in pursuing one’s goals, as opportunities can be fleeting and may be seized by those who are more prepared.
The notion of “irrelevant speed” emerges as a critical theme in this narrative, particularly in the context of business and personal endeavors. Many individuals may find themselves engaging in a flurry of activities without achieving meaningful results, akin to Esau’s futile efforts. This phenomenon can lead to financial losses and strained relationships, especially when friends and family invest in ventures that ultimately fail. It is essential to recognize the signs of such irrelevant speed and to seek divine guidance to avoid falling into the trap of aimless pursuits. By cultivating a mindset of diligence and strategic planning, one can align their actions with their true purpose and fulfill their God-given destiny.
The phenomenon of frequently entering and exiting relationships is a common experience for many individuals, particularly those who find themselves navigating the complexities of modern dating. For some singles, this may involve multiple romantic encounters within a single year, leading to a perception among peers that such behavior is trivial or insincere. When one mentions their dating life, it is not uncommon for others to react dismissively, suggesting that they will only take the individual seriously once they have settled down. This perception can create a stigma around those who are perceived to be moving too quickly through relationships, as they may be labeled as lacking commitment or depth in their romantic pursuits.
As a young man in my forties, I have come to appreciate the importance of engaging in what I refer to as “relevant speed” in various aspects of life, including relationships. This concept has been instrumental in my personal and spiritual journey, particularly in the context of my role within the church community. For instance, when we established our church at the City Mall in Onikan, I initially believed that we would remain there for an extended period, conducting multiple services and fostering growth. However, within just a few months, I began to sense a growing discomfort with our location, realizing that it was merely a temporary space rather than a permanent home for our congregation.
This realization prompted a significant shift in my approach, as I became attuned to the necessity of moving forward with purpose and intention. In a remarkable turn of events, our relatively new church was able to undertake a substantial project valued at 75 million naira, facilitating our transition to a more suitable location. This achievement was not merely a matter of financial capability; it was a manifestation of the divine guidance I received as I remained open to the idea that relevant speed is essential for fulfilling one’s destiny. It is crucial to recognize that while speed is important, it must be directed appropriately to ensure that one is progressing toward their true purpose in life.
The concept of pursuing endeavors that do not align with one’s inherent abilities or divine purpose can be likened to engaging in irrelevant speed. This notion suggests that individuals may find themselves undertaking activities for which they lack the necessary grace or aptitude, often leading to frustration and disillusionment. For instance, if one feels compelled to leave their home country, such as Nigeria, in search of opportunities in places like America, Canada, or Europe, it is crucial to discern whether this decision is divinely inspired or merely a reaction to external pressures. The experience of many who have relocated only to return home to start anew serves as a testament to the importance of remaining in a place where one is genuinely planted by God.
The analogy of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness serves to illustrate the futility of moving aimlessly without purpose or direction. Just as they traversed the desert without a clear destination, individuals who engage in irrelevant speed risk becoming lost in their pursuits. It is essential to remain anchored in one’s area of strength and grace, avoiding the temptation to imitate others in their business ventures or life choices. The call to remain steadfast in one’s unique path is paramount, as straying from this course can lead to disgrace rather than fulfillment. The emphasis on divine guidance in decision-making underscores the necessity of seeking God’s will in all aspects of life.
To further elucidate the concept of irrelevant speed, consider various scenarios that challenge one’s commitments and values. For example, when faced with a lucrative bribe to compromise ethical standards in business, this represents a clear instance of irrelevant speed. Similarly, an invitation from an ex-partner during a moment of vulnerability can distract from a commitment to celibacy, while persistent calls from former drinking companions can undermine a decision to pursue sobriety. Each of these situations exemplifies the distractions that can lead one away from their intended path. Ultimately, the call to remain vigilant and focused on one’s spiritual and personal commitments is essential, as it fosters a deeper connection with one’s purpose and divine calling.