HERE FOR GOOD
Psalm 90:17 articulates a profound desire for the beauty of the Lord to rest upon us, coupled with a plea for the establishment of the work of our hands. This verse serves as both a declaration and a prayer, emphasizing the importance of internalizing its message. In the midst of the frenetic pace and pressures of life in Lagos, it is easy to overlook such significant scripture. Therefore, it is essential to commit this verse to memory, as it encapsulates the essence of our gathering and the teachings we receive from God’s Word. The assurance found in scripture is a reminder that God has already laid the groundwork for His intentions in our lives, aiming to influence not only our families but also our nations. Historical accounts of God’s impact on nations and families serve as a testament to His ongoing work, providing us with a framework to understand how He can transform our own lives.
Furthermore, Psalm 92:12-15 reinforces the notion of flourishing in righteousness, likening the righteous to palm trees and cedars of Lebanon.
Those who are rooted in the house of the Lord are promised a life of abundance and enduring fruitfulness, even into old age.
This imagery conveys the idea of lasting success and stability in our endeavors, suggesting that our careers and enterprises can thrive over time. The assurance that we will continue to bear fruit, regardless of age, speaks to the enduring nature of God’s blessings in our lives. As we reflect on these scriptures, we are encouraged to seek God’s beauty and favor, trusting that He will establish the work of our hands and lead us toward fruitful and impactful lives.
The implication is that these individuals are committed to a lasting presence, as they embrace the principles necessary for establishing enduring legacies. They are dedicated to fulfilling the teachings of the Scriptures, which affirm that even in their later years, they will continue to bear fruit, remaining vibrant and thriving. The Bible emphasizes that the Lord is steadfast and just, serving as a foundation for their lives. This assurance suggests that they will possess a powerful testimony, one that will resonate throughout their 60s, 70s, and 80s, continually reflecting the faithfulness of God.
I had the honor of engaging in conversation with a distinguished elder recently, a man well-known for his contributions to society, who is now in his 80s. During our meeting, which lasted nearly three hours, he only took a brief moment for a restroom break, demonstrating remarkable vitality and engagement. His ability to remain active and articulate well into the night was truly inspiring, prompting me to aspire to such resilience in my own life. This individual, Dr. Christopher Kolade, exemplifies a profound Christian legacy, having made significant impacts in various fields, including industry and diplomacy. The Scriptures affirm that those who remain steadfast in their faith will continue to flourish, and it is through their enduring testimonies that we witness God’s unwavering support and the consistent victories He provides. Therefore, it is essential to maintain hope and perseverance, as the challenges faced are often a testament to God’s desire to demonstrate His faithfulness in our lives.
This morning, I wish to address the significance of your careers and businesses, emphasizing that God desires to bestow upon you lasting legacies in these domains. It is essential to recognize that direction and patience are fundamental components in the process of building such legacies. The importance of these qualities cannot be overstated. As stated in Romans 8:14, those who are guided by the Spirit of God are indeed the children of God. This guidance is crucial for your ability to envision and pursue what lies ahead, urging you to avoid the pitfalls of haste. Proverbs 23:4-5, particularly in the Amplified Translation, cautions against the relentless pursuit of wealth, warning that riches can vanish unexpectedly. The scripture reminds us that wealth, when sought through mere human wisdom, can be fleeting, akin to eagles that take flight, emphasizing the need for divine insight in financial matters.
Moreover, the Bible illustrates that wealth can easily slip away from those who lack the wisdom that comes from God. In the King James Version, it is noted that riches can develop wings, suggesting an unnatural occurrence when they are in the hands of individuals who act hastily or rely solely on their own understanding. This highlights the importance of seeking God’s grace for true establishment in your endeavors. Those who are not rooted in the community of faith and fail to engage with God’s purpose may find their wealth dissipating. Ideally, riches should endure across generations, yet the scriptures warn that they can take flight when not managed with divine wisdom and patience. Therefore, it is imperative to cultivate a mindset that values direction and patience in your pursuit of enduring legacies.
Proverbs 13:22 in the Bible states that a righteous individual leaves an inheritance for their grandchildren, while the wealth accumulated by the wicked is ultimately reserved for the just. This verse emphasizes the importance of generational wealth, suggesting that the blessings and resources one acquires should not only benefit their immediate family but also extend to future generations. The notion of a good man ensuring that his legacy endures through his descendants highlights the moral responsibility to cultivate and pass on prosperity, reinforcing the idea that true wealth is not merely material but also encompasses values and principles that can be inherited.
In Proverbs 28:20, it is articulated that a faithful person will be richly rewarded, whereas those who seek to amass wealth hastily and without integrity will face consequences. This principle resonates deeply, especially in a bustling metropolis like Lagos, where the environment often encourages ambition and a proactive approach to success. The city’s dynamic nature serves as a reminder that one should not merely observe from the sidelines but actively engage in the pursuit of their goals. The phrase “don’t be a Lagos looker” encapsulates this sentiment, urging individuals to participate fully in the opportunities available rather than remaining passive. Despite the limited number of bridges in Lagos compared to other global cities, the drive for progress and achievement remains a defining characteristic of its residents.
When one arrives in Lagos, there is an undeniable energy in the atmosphere that compels individuals to pursue various avenues for financial gain. This city possesses a unique spirit that entices people to prioritize immediate monetary rewards over long-term stability. As a result, many individuals gravitate towards careers and business ventures with the singular aim of achieving rapid financial success, often disregarding the foundational principles of sustainable growth. It is crucial to remind such individuals that true wealth is meant to be enduring; however, those who rush to acquire riches may find that their fortunes are fleeting. The biblical notion that wealth can develop wings serves as a cautionary reminder that hasty pursuits can lead to instability and loss.
Moreover, it is essential to recognize the presence of former affluent individuals and once-thriving businesses that have since experienced decline. While various factors contribute to this downturn, a significant aspect, particularly from a Christian perspective, is the absence of grace for divine establishment and a lack of commitment to building lasting legacies. The divine intention for each of us is to create enduring legacies that can be passed down to future generations, regardless of their interest in the original endeavor. Just as a tree can provide sustenance without requiring constant care, so too can a well-managed business continue to benefit one’s family. It is imperative to focus on establishing a solid foundation that allows others to nurture these legacies, ensuring that they remain fruitful for years to come.
When considering the essential elements for establishing a lasting legacy, one must prioritize vision over financial gain. It is crucial for individuals aspiring to create a meaningful legacy to adopt a vision-driven approach rather than a money-driven one.
While financial resources undoubtedly play a significant role in any endeavor, it is the divine wisdom and guidance that truly underpin a successful legacy.
This concept transcends mere religious belief; it encompasses the profound insights and mercies that stem from a higher power. The biblical reference to the “sure mercies of David,” as mentioned in Isaiah 55:3, illustrates this principle. In the narrative found in 2 Samuel 7:15, God reassures David that His mercy will remain with him and his lineage, despite any shortcomings that may arise.
This divine mercy serves as a foundation for enduring legacies, as exemplified in God’s promise to David regarding the construction of the temple. Although David expressed his desire to build a house for God, it was ultimately his son Solomon who would fulfill this task. God’s assurance that His mercy would not depart from David’s house, even in the face of potential misbehavior from his descendants, highlights the importance of divine grace in sustaining a legacy. The same mercy that preserved David’s lineage is available to all, emphasizing that when individuals align their actions with divine principles, they can fully harness this mercy. This alignment not only fosters enduring careers but also cultivates legacies that withstand the test of time, rooted in the unwavering support of divine wisdom.
It is essential to approach our aspirations with a measured pace, avoiding the temptation to rush towards wealth accumulation. Instead, we should prioritize our spiritual guidance and remain attuned to the various times and seasons that life presents. A vision-driven approach is paramount, as it allows individuals to focus on meaningful objectives rather than merely financial gain. Those who have established lasting legacies have done so by centering their efforts around a clear vision, often motivated by a desire to address specific challenges or contribute positively to society. The flow of financial resources tends to follow the creation of value, and it is through divine inspiration that one can discern the unique contributions they are meant to make.
A pertinent example of this principle can be observed in the inception of the Uber platform. The founders, during a trip to Europe, encountered a situation that sparked an innovative idea: the development of an electronic platform that would eliminate the need to hail a taxi on the street. This concept emerged not from a desire for profit but from a genuine need for convenience and efficiency in transportation. By pursuing this vision, they transformed the transportation industry on a global scale, allowing users to effortlessly summon rides from virtually anywhere. The success of Uber illustrates that when the focus is placed on delivering value and solving real problems, financial success will naturally follow. Therefore, to cultivate a meaningful legacy, it is crucial to remain committed to a vision-driven mindset rather than being solely motivated by monetary gain.
In the pursuit of establishing a lasting legacy, it is essential to prioritize the creation of a framework that allows for growth and development, rather than merely observing the passage of time. This concept emphasizes the importance of understanding the current context and season in which one operates, as actions taken during the appropriate time yield greater results. The adage “make hay while the sun shines” encapsulates this idea, highlighting that opportunities are most fruitful when they align with the right timing. The biblical reference from Ephesians 5:15-17 serves as a poignant reminder to navigate life with intention and wisdom, urging individuals to seize every opportunity and to be mindful of their choices in a world fraught with challenges. The Message Translation further underscores the necessity of being vigilant and purposeful, advising against engaging in trivial pursuits that lead to unproductive outcomes.
Moreover, a critical aspect of building a meaningful legacy lies in discerning and adhering to one’s divine purpose. It is imperative to understand the will of God for one’s life and career, and to exercise patience in the pursuit of that path. Many individuals find themselves in a cycle of hasty decisions, jumping from one opportunity to another without a clear direction, which ultimately leads to a lack of fulfillment and coherence in their professional journeys. By the time they reach their mid-forties, they may reflect on the previous two decades with confusion, questioning the trajectory of their careers. Therefore, it is vital to cultivate a deep understanding of one’s calling and to commit to a steady, thoughtful approach in order to build a legacy that is both enduring and impactful.
This month, any forces that seek to divert you from your divinely ordained purpose will be rendered ineffective. Those who have been misled into pursuing unfruitful endeavors will find their paths redirected by divine intervention. I firmly believe that God will rearrange our journeys, ensuring that we are firmly established on solid ground rather than sinking in uncertainty. It is a pivotal moment for us to solidify our foundations, and we must take proactive steps to construct our future. The time has come to build our metaphorical clock, which symbolizes our ability to measure and understand the times we are in, as well as to act accordingly.
The biblical account in 1 Chronicles 12:32 highlights the sons of Issachar, who possessed the wisdom to discern the times and guide Israel in their actions. Their leadership was characterized by a profound understanding of the environment in which they operated, allowing them to command respect and influence. Similarly, in our respective fields, we must strive to develop a comprehensive understanding of industry trends and dynamics, rather than merely engaging in routine tasks. As illustrated in Habakkuk 2, we should position ourselves to receive divine insights, articulating our visions clearly so that we can pursue them with purpose. This approach not only fortifies our resolve but also ensures that we remain anchored, impervious to distractions that could lead to detrimental decisions.
It is essential to maintain a steadfast commitment to one’s core values while simultaneously adapting to the evolving circumstances of life. This duality of preserving foundational principles and fostering progress is crucial for anyone aspiring to leave a lasting legacy. A clear understanding of the values that guide one’s actions is imperative, especially in times of change. When faced with challenges, the true essence of these values will emerge, revealing the strength of character that has been cultivated over time. The notion of preserving the core while stimulating progress serves as a reminder that one can remain true to their beliefs while also embracing the necessity of growth and adaptation.
A compelling illustration of this principle can be found in the story of a young man who recently gained recognition for his unwavering dedication and work ethic. Featured on Steve Harvey’s show, this young American faced the unfortunate circumstance of losing his job. However, he remained resolute in his commitment to diligence and punctuality. When he secured a new position with a moving company, he encountered a significant obstacle: his car broke down the night before he was scheduled to start work. Undeterred, he calculated the distance to his workplace and made the bold decision to walk there, even if it meant traveling overnight. This determination to seize the opportunity, despite the odds, exemplifies the power of adhering to one’s core values and the lengths one will go to ensure success.
He recounted an experience where he was walking along the road when a policeman noticed him and approached to inquire about his situation. The officer, recognizing the young man’s need for assistance, offered him a ride to a location, which he believed was a friend’s house. To summarize the events, he arrived at the destination an hour earlier than expected, around 5:30 AM. Upon ringing the doorbell, a woman emerged and questioned his presence, noting that he and his companions were not due to arrive for another hour. He explained that he had been walking since the previous night and had received a few rides along the way, expressing his desire to be punctual. In an extraordinary turn of events, the woman, moved by his determination, instructed him to go upstairs to rest, but he insisted on starting work immediately to ensure everything was completed efficiently on his first day.
The woman, intrigued by his work ethic, prepared him a cup of tea while simultaneously sharing his story on Facebook. Due to her influence on the platform, a GoFundMe campaign was quickly established, raising an impressive $90,000 for him. Demonstrating a legacy-oriented mindset, he decided to donate $25,000 to his former high school, which served underprivileged students, acknowledging the values they instilled in him. During an interview with Steve Harvey, he was questioned about his generosity, given that he had just received a substantial amount of money. He articulated his belief in leaving a legacy, which resonated with the principal of his school, who later appeared on the show to announce that the donation would be used to establish a scholarship in his name, aimed at supporting disadvantaged children in their educational pursuits.
The narrative surrounding the individual’s first day at work is quite compelling, particularly the gesture from the company owner who presented him with a car. This act symbolizes not only recognition but also the importance of understanding one’s purpose and motivation. It is essential to reflect on what truly drives you, as this internal motivation can significantly influence your external circumstances. The notion of preserving one’s calling is paramount; it is a reminder that while one should strive for progress, it is equally important to remain steadfast in one’s purpose. Recognizing that a higher power encourages the preservation of this calling while fostering growth in one’s environment is a vital aspect of personal and professional development.
The biblical account of David serves as a profound illustration of this principle. David resolved to uphold his calling despite facing adversity, particularly from King Saul, who sought to harm him. This scenario resonates with many who may find themselves in challenging work situations, perhaps under the supervision of a difficult boss. Unlike David, who faced a life-threatening adversary, many today encounter less severe challenges, such as unjust criticism or workplace politics. It is crucial to navigate these pressures with discernment, avoiding the temptation to retaliate or speak ill of superiors. David’s experience teaches that maintaining integrity and patience, even in the face of adversity, is essential for achieving divine favor and eventual success. The distinction between unreasonable and wicked bosses highlights the varying degrees of workplace challenges, underscoring the importance of responding with wisdom and grace.
The individual who seeks to undermine your life and destiny may be perceived as wicked, yet it is essential to recognize that unreasonable behavior does not equate to malevolence. Often, people misinterpret the demands of others as acts of wickedness, allowing themselves to be swayed by temptation to respond in kind. This is a dangerous path, as it can lead to a cycle of negativity and retaliation. A historical example can be found in the life of David, who faced significant adversity under King Saul. Despite having the opportunity to eliminate Saul and claim the throne for himself, David chose to honor the position of the king, demonstrating remarkable restraint and integrity. His decision to refrain from harming Saul, whom he referred to as the Lord’s anointed, illustrates the importance of maintaining one’s principles even in the face of provocation.
The lesson here is that honoring authority, regardless of personal feelings, is a hallmark of true character, especially for those who aspire to lead and build a legacy. While it may seem that taking the high road is a slower path to success, as evidenced by David’s long and arduous journey to kingship, it ultimately leads to lasting recognition and respect. David’s legacy endures, celebrated for his righteousness and the “sure mercies of David,” which ensured the stability of his reign. In contrast, Saul’s memory has faded, overshadowed by his own failures and the consequences of his actions. Therefore, it is crucial to approach challenging relationships with a mindset of honor and respect, as this not only reflects one’s values but also contributes to the foundation of a meaningful and enduring legacy.
Praise be to Jesus, as Jerusalem continues to be recognized as the city of David rather than the city of Saul. It is essential to emphasize the significance of relationships in our endeavors to establish a lasting legacy. Building a robust network is crucial; it is imperative to acknowledge and cultivate the connections with those around you. Whether in your professional career or business pursuits, being a Christian does not exempt you from the necessity of having a network. On the contrary, it is vital to engage with a professional and business network that can support and enhance your journey.
In the biblical account found in 2 Kings Chapter 4, the prophet Elijah encounters a widow facing dire circumstances after the death of her husband, who left her with debts that threatened to take her children away. In her desperation, she approached the prophet, seeking divine intervention. Elijah inquired about her resources, to which she replied that she possessed only a jar of oil. He instructed her to borrow empty vessels from her neighbors, emphasizing the importance of gathering as many as possible. This narrative illustrates that had the widow not maintained a relationship with her neighbors, she would have struggled to collect the necessary vessels. The familiarity and rapport with her community were instrumental in her ability to respond to the prophet’s directive, underscoring the critical role of a supportive network in realizing one’s potential and fulfilling divine instructions.
In a moment of divine inspiration, the oil continued to flow until there were no more vessels available to contain it. This narrative serves as a powerful metaphor for the potential that exists when one receives a word from God or a prophetic message. It raises the critical question of whether individuals are adequately positioned to capitalize on such divine instructions. For instance, if God were to instruct you to gather a group of twenty individuals from your network for a specific purpose, it is essential to consider who you would approach. Reflecting on a personal experience, I recall a sermon delivered by my pastor at Daystar, during which he made a prophetic declaration. A young man in attendance, who at the time was engaged in a modest job, felt compelled by the message to compile a list of five individuals from the congregation. Remarkably, after the service concluded, he reached out to these individuals, each of whom committed to contributing one million naira. By the end of that Sunday night, he had successfully raised five million naira, and today, he oversees a business with assets worth billions.
This account underscores the importance of having a supportive network and the willingness of others to take risks on your behalf. It draws a parallel to the story of the man at the pool of Bethesda, who had languished for nearly three decades, attributing his stagnation to a lack of assistance in entering the healing waters. In contrast, another individual, who was unable to walk, was fortunate enough to have four friends who were willing to go to great lengths, even risking damage to someone else’s property, to ensure he received healing. This raises a vital inquiry: do you possess a network of individuals who are ready to support you in your endeavors? The ability to mobilize such a network can be pivotal in transforming prophetic words into tangible outcomes, emphasizing the necessity of fostering relationships that can facilitate growth and success.
The situation I described earlier highlights the challenges faced in a typical office environment, where interpersonal conflicts can arise frequently. On the day of your departure, you exhibited a complete disregard for professional decorum, openly confronting your colleagues and superiors with harsh words, effectively severing all connections within that workplace. This abrupt exit may have provided a sense of liberation, allowing you to seek new opportunities elsewhere. However, despite being in an environment that offers the potential for divine establishment, it appears that you are not fully leveraging this opportunity due to a lack of focus on legacy-building. In the biblical account of the widow in 2 Kings chapter 4, it is evident that divine intervention requires a network of support; without individuals to assist in gathering vessels, the widow would have been left without recourse. The prophet Elisha’s response underscores the importance of community and collaboration in achieving one’s goals.
Furthermore, it is crucial to emphasize the significance of systems and processes in the pursuit of building a lasting legacy. In our initial discussion on the cash flow contract, we distinguished between a self-employed individual and a business owner, noting that the latter possesses the ability to create and implement effective systems. While a self-employed person may find themselves working tirelessly for money, a business owner strategically positions their assets and resources to generate income passively. This distinction is vital, as it reflects the capacity to establish sustainable frameworks that facilitate growth. In our ministry, we prioritize the development of systems that enhance our operations, allowing us to maximize the grace bestowed upon us.
It is imperative to recognize that without a solid foundation built on reliable processes, any entrepreneurial endeavor is likely to falter.
God entrusts us with ideas, but it is our responsibility to cultivate them into robust systems that can withstand the test of time.
The Book of Proverbs, specifically Proverbs 12:27, highlights the notion that a slothful individual fails to utilize the fruits of their labor, particularly in the context of hunting. It emphasizes that while one may receive inspiration or ideas from God, the inability to cultivate and commercialize these ideas can lead to their demise. This analogy likens a person who captures game in the forest but neglects to prepare it to someone who allows their creative thoughts to wither away due to inaction. Just as unprocessed game will spoil and become unusable, so too will unrefined ideas fade into obscurity if not nurtured and developed. The text urges individuals to consider the systems they have in place for managing the opportunities and insights bestowed upon them, particularly in the pursuit of building lasting legacies.
In discussing the importance of execution strategies, the text draws attention to the cultural practices observed in various African communities, where trades and skills are often passed down through generations, even in the absence of formal education. Names in the Yoruba culture, for instance, often reflect the trades of families, such as metal smelting, indicating a deep-rooted tradition of skill transmission. This historical context serves as a reminder of the significance of establishing processes that ensure the continuity and protection of one’s ideas and innovations. It prompts individuals to reflect on their own practices regarding documentation, patenting, and the overall management of their creative endeavors, thereby reinforcing the necessity of diligence in transforming ideas into tangible legacies.
In their family, a tradition was established that involved the passing down of skills and tools through generations. The implements used for their craft, such as hoes and cutlasses, were not merely tools but symbols of a legacy that was nurtured over time. Children who showed interest in these activities learned by observing their elders, who imparted knowledge through demonstration rather than formal education. This oral tradition fostered a community of individuals, often referred to by names like Ayanseyi or Ayan, who became skilled percussionists and entertainers. They did not attend music schools or write down their techniques; instead, they absorbed the art of drumming through practice and imitation, ensuring that the craft continued to thrive across generations.
To preserve a legacy effectively, it is crucial to understand and document the processes involved. Regardless of the current scale of a business or career, the importance of process documentation cannot be overstated. Reflecting on a personal experience from several years ago, I recall a dinner in England with my wife and friends, where two consultants shared their experiences. One consultant, affiliated with the NHS, was earning £300 per hour, while another, who traveled weekly to Saudi Arabia, commanded a rate of £500 per hour. This conversation highlighted the diverse opportunities available in consultancy and underscored the significance of recognizing and documenting the processes that lead to success, regardless of the field.
As I took my seat at the dinner table, I found myself contemplating the remarkable earnings of certain individuals, particularly the notion that they were not professional athletes yet were making an astonishing £500 per hour. This realization struck me profoundly; if one were to work an eight-hour day, the potential earnings could amount to £4,000 in a single day, not merely over the course of a month. Intrigued by this disparity, I felt compelled to inquire about their success. One individual explained that he had experience working in several different organizations, emphasizing that the hallmark of an effective consultant lies in the ability to comprehend and adapt processes. He elaborated on the importance of utilizing templates, which consultants often employ, but highlighted that a truly skilled consultant would not merely impose a template but would tailor it to fit the unique needs of the organization after gaining a thorough understanding of its operations.
Furthermore, he pointed out that many individuals, despite having run businesses for years, often fail to document their processes or protect their ideas, which ultimately hinders their potential to build a lasting legacy. He stressed that some of us are destined for international consulting roles, yet we must confront issues such as mental laziness and disorganization that can stifle our progress. Addressing these challenges is crucial, as they can restrict our potential and the manifestation of our divine purpose. By overcoming laziness and establishing order in our professional lives, we create an environment conducive to growth and foresight. This structured approach allows us to envision the future, enabling us to anticipate what opportunities may arise in the next five to ten years, and how we can align ourselves with the plans that lie ahead.
The abundance of wisdom you will encounter in a forum will be so profound that individuals will eagerly seek your involvement, urging you to join their endeavors. It is my sincere hope that this becomes your reality. Regardless of any limitations that may have hindered your career growth until now, I pray that this month marks a turning point for you. For anyone who has been misled or found themselves on an unproductive path, I offer my prayers this morning that a transformative work begins in your life. May the falsehoods that have held you captive be shattered, and may you experience renewal in the name of Jesus.
I have a message for someone present here today who has been grappling with numerous questions regarding the pace of their progress. God has instructed me to convey that when He initiates a work in your life, you will come to comprehend the concept of compound interest in a profound way. It is essential that you take note of this, as it signifies that someone will soon share a testimony regarding this revelation. When God begins His work in you, you will no longer require instruction on compound interest; He will reveal to you that the time you have invested has not been in vain. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise patience and allow God to establish order and structure in your endeavors. As you do so, anticipate a remarkable breakthrough that may appear miraculous to others, and give glory to Jesus for the transformation that is to come.