TAKE NEW TERRITORIES
The divine intention for humanity encompasses the exploration of new realms and the embrace of novel experiences. For instance, when God instructed Abraham to journey to a land that He would reveal, it represented an opportunity for Abraham to expand his horizons and venture into uncharted territories. It is crucial to understand that the realization of one’s destiny is not confined to a specific location. This notion transcends mere geographical changes; rather, it pertains to a broader movement of purpose. Individuals often become accustomed to their current circumstances, yet there are times when divine guidance calls for a reevaluation of one’s career trajectory or industry engagement. It is essential to engage in self-reflection and discern what God is communicating, as revelation is fundamentally about understanding His will.
The scripture from Jeremiah 29:11 articulates God’s unwavering thoughts towards us, characterized by intentions of goodness rather than harm, aimed at providing hope and a promising future. When God asserts that He knows the thoughts He has for us, it signifies His continuous contemplation of our lives, coupled with a preordained plan. The New Living Translation further emphasizes this by stating that God’s plans are designed to lead us to an anticipated outcome. This relationship with God involves recognizing His plans while also acknowledging the importance of personal agency. It is in the moments of preparation and contemplation of greater possibilities that one can truly align with God’s vision, opening oneself to transformative experiences and new opportunities.
It is essential to recognize that the concept of newness can profoundly impact one’s mindset, often evoking feelings of intimidation or awe when faced with unfamiliar experiences. I recall a particular instance from my past, specifically during my first visit to Canada in 2005, which was twelve years ago. A friend of mine took me to downtown Toronto at midnight to witness the city’s stunning beauty. Experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of a major city at night is truly remarkable; the illuminated skyscrapers and the lively ambiance create a captivating scene. As I stood on the streets of Toronto, I felt a sense of insignificance, akin to a grasshopper amidst towering structures. My thoughts were consumed by questions about the origins of this magnificent skyline—whether it had materialized overnight or was the result of meticulous planning and construction. I found myself pondering the relevance of individual contributions in such an expansive environment, feeling overwhelmed by the realization that, in such a vast city, one could easily remain unnoticed.
Fast forward to September of this year, when I returned to Toronto to speak at one of the largest churches in the city. This time, as I revisited downtown, I was struck by how my perception had shifted. The once awe-inspiring landscape that had left me feeling small and insignificant now appeared as a familiar and ordinary place. The initial sense of wonder and intimidation had dissipated, replaced by a sense of comfort and familiarity. This transformation in my perspective serves as a testament to the ways in which exposure to new experiences can reshape our understanding and appreciation of our surroundings. It highlights the importance of personal growth and the ability to adapt to new environments, ultimately allowing us to embrace change rather than fear it.
A significant transformation has occurred, one that initially appeared so ordinary that it was hard to comprehend. This change reflects a profound development in the ability to perceive the world through a divine lens. In the biblical narrative, God instructed Joshua that the extent of his vision would determine the territory he could claim, emphasizing the importance of mental imagery in realizing one’s potential. This notion is echoed in the story of Abraham, where God urged him to lift his gaze and survey the land, promising that all he could see would belong to him and his descendants. The essence of this message is that the fulfillment of one’s destiny is not confined to a specific location; rather, it is expansive and requires a broader perspective.
The question of what one perceives is crucial, as it directly influences the journey toward achieving one’s destiny.
As we approach the end of the year, it is imperative for every adult member of this congregation to formulate a comprehensive 20-year plan. Additionally, those without property should prioritize acquiring real estate in the coming year, while those who already own should consider expanding their holdings. The principle of “as far as your eyes can see” applies universally; there are no geographical limitations to ownership, whether in Lagos, New York, or even China. This message is not merely a call to action but a reflection of the covenant’s promise, which encourages believers to engage in kingdom expansion and to embrace opportunities for growth and investment in various territories.
The dissemination of the gospel hinges on the manner in which individuals engage with their surroundings and the opportunities presented to them. It is essential to recognize that purchasing real estate in China, for instance, should not merely serve as a superficial endeavor aimed at enhancing one’s status. Instead, it should be viewed as a strategic opportunity to exert kingdom influence, allowing others to inquire about one’s life experiences. This inquiry can serve as a platform for witnessing and sharing the transformative power of faith. Just as Abraham’s presence was marked by the acknowledgment of the God he served, so too should our lives reflect a divine influence that prompts curiosity and engagement from those around us.
Embracing new territories necessitates a mindset that is both visionary and adaptable. As human beings, we often fall into patterns of behavior that can lead to stagnation, particularly when faced with the prospect of change. It is crucial to resist the temptation of complacency and to actively seek out new experiences and opportunities. Many individuals may find themselves trapped in repetitive cycles, grappling with the same challenges for years on end. However, it is imperative to recognize that there is a wealth of potential waiting to be explored. Our God embodies the essence of renewal and abundance, continually encouraging us to reach beyond our current circumstances. By focusing on the possibilities that lie ahead, rather than being hindered by past experiences, we can confront the challenges that accompany new ventures with confidence, knowing that we possess the strength to overcome any obstacles that may arise.
It is essential that we do not choose the path of least resistance but instead concentrate on the opportunities that lie ahead. As we reflect on the divine intentions for this season, I would like to share a narrative from the scriptures that illustrates the strategies God has in store for us, particularly regarding the pursuit of new territories. In the Book of Joshua, specifically chapter 6, we encounter the story of Joshua and the Israelites as they prepare to conquer Jericho. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder that many of us are on the verge of overcoming our own Jerichos. The pressing question we must ask ourselves is, what does our Jericho represent?
God consistently has a purpose for His people, yet we often find ourselves confronted with a Jericho—an obstacle that must be surmounted before we can progress further. For some, this Jericho may manifest as financial debt, while for others, it could be a long-held aspiration that remains unfulfilled, such as pursuing a professional certification or a PhD. Many individuals have contemplated these goals for years, yet they hesitate to take the necessary steps to achieve them. It is crucial to understand that merely planning to pursue a degree or certification is insufficient; one must actively engage in the process by registering, attending classes, and completing examinations. Intentions alone do not yield results; tangible actions are required to transform aspirations into accomplishments.
The Lord communicated to Joshua, affirming that He was entrusting Jericho into his hands. This declaration carries a profound sense of finality; once God has spoken, the onus shifts from Him to us. For many individuals today, this message serves as a reminder that they possess a divine mandate yet may find themselves hesitating or avoiding action. God explicitly stated that Jericho, along with its king and valiant warriors, was under Joshua’s authority. He instructed that the men of war should encircle the city once each day for six days, with seven priests carrying rams’ horns before the Ark of the Covenant. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times, culminating in a long blast of the ram’s horn. Upon hearing this sound, the people were to shout, resulting in the walls of Jericho collapsing, allowing them to advance into the city. In response to this divine command, Joshua rallied the people, choosing to adhere to the Lord’s instructions, thus glorifying God.
It is crucial not to allow past experiences or feelings of exhaustion to hinder one from receiving God’s blessings.
Seeking divine guidance is essential for devising a strategy to conquer one’s own Jericho, as claiming new territories necessitates faith and a distinct spirit. Reflecting on the lessons from Joshua and the fall of Jericho, it becomes evident that God’s strategies may not always align with human logic. When God instructed Joshua in chapter 1, declaring that Moses was dead, it marked a significant transition. This change in leadership and direction was a divine charge for Joshua, emphasizing that new seasons often require fresh approaches and unwavering faith in God’s plan.
In the first chapter of Joshua, verse six, the scripture emphasizes the importance of strength and courage, declaring that every place where one’s feet tread will be granted as an inheritance. This message is underscored by the transition of leadership following the death of Moses, the servant of God. During a youth conference in Abuja a few years ago, I felt a prophetic urging that we were entering a new era where the leadership of Moses would give way to the emergence of new leaders, akin to Joshua. The atmosphere in the conference was charged with energy as I conveyed the necessity of adapting to this new phase. It was crucial to understand that the methods employed by Moses may not be effective in this new context. Joshua’s mission was distinct; while Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, Joshua was tasked with guiding them into their Promised Land and distributing it among them.
As I reflect on this message today, I resonate with the role of Joshua, feeling a divine calling to help allocate spiritual territories to those present. This notion of apportioning territories is central to my teachings, particularly regarding the importance of property ownership. Joshua’s assignment was to fulfill God’s promises to His people, and unlike Moses, Joshua possessed military training, which made him a more assertive leader. However, it is essential to recognize that success does not always stem from force or military might. There are moments when the guidance I provide may not align with conventional wisdom or polished presentations. Some individuals place their trust in elaborate PowerPoint presentations rather than in divine direction, but true faith requires a deeper reliance on God rather than on mere human constructs.
The intention behind their actions was to present themselves with something significant, aiming to instill a sense of intimidation. However, divine instruction was clear: no weapons would be employed in this endeavor. For the initial six days, the directive was to proceed in silence, with no words spoken. The priests, designated to carry the ram’s horn trumpets, were to lead the procession, followed closely by the Ark of the Covenant. The people were instructed to march around the city once each day, culminating in a more intense effort on the seventh day, when they would circle the city seven times. After completing this final circuit, a loud shout would signal the collapse of the formidable walls that stood before them.
The walls of Jericho were not merely barriers; they were monumental structures that housed entire communities, with reports suggesting that horses could traverse the width of the walls side by side. This imagery serves to illustrate the daunting challenges one may face in life, akin to the imposing walls of Jericho. When God commanded the people to shout and worship, it may have seemed illogical, yet it was a profound lesson in reliance on divine power rather than human strength. Joshua understood the importance of obedience to these instructions, recognizing that the path to victory lay not in conventional means but in submission to God’s will and the act of faith expressed through worship and praise.
In the fifth chapter of the Book of Joshua, specifically verses 13 to 15, a significant encounter unfolds as Joshua approaches Jericho. As he gazes upon the city, he notices a man standing before him, sword drawn, prompting Joshua to approach him with a critical question: whether he is an ally or an adversary. This moment reveals Joshua’s military mindset, as he anticipates a confrontation. However, the man identifies himself as the commander of the Lord’s army, indicating that he has come not to take sides but to lead. In a profound act of reverence, Joshua falls to the ground and worships, seeking guidance from this divine figure. The commander instructs him to remove his sandals, declaring the ground holy, which signifies the sacred nature of the moment and the divine mission that lies ahead.
As the narrative progresses into chapter six, it becomes evident that Joshua is prepared to receive divine instructions rather than relying solely on his own military strategies. This serves as a powerful reminder that true victory comes not from human strength but from divine intervention. The text encourages believers to relinquish their burdens and fears, emphasizing that the battle belongs to the Lord, who has already paved the way for them. For those who feel stuck in their current circumstances, this passage calls for a shift in perspective and an openness to new assignments from God. It is a clarion call to listen for divine direction and to embrace the opportunities for growth and change that lie ahead, assuring that, like Joshua, they will not miss their destined blessings.
May the Almighty open your eyes this morning to perceive new possibilities and explore uncharted territories that lie before you. I declare, in the name of Jesus, that any oppressive influence from the adversary is severed from your life. There are individuals present today who, when confronted with certain issues, experience deep emotional pain and fear. I proclaim that the power and intimidation associated with those concerns are dismantled in the name of the Lord Jesus. From this moment forward, I declare that you will embrace a renewed sense of urgency, choosing to confront challenges head-on rather than retreating in fear. I pray for the courage to propel you toward your true calling and purpose, enabling you to pursue new opportunities and claim the territories that await you, all in the name of the Lord Jesus.