Posts in category: Top Stories

Betting involves putting resources into a game of chance with the hope of a positive return. It’s a chance-based activity where the probability of winning is often low. The saying “the house always wins” reflects the reality of the betting industry, where losses are more common than wins. Betting encompasses various forms, including sports betting, casino games, and lotteries, with sports betting particularly gaining popularity through online platforms.

The rise of online betting platforms, coupled with economic challenges, especially in Ghana, has led to increased participation, even among students who sometimes bet their school fees. Given the prevalence of betting, it’s imperative for believers to consider its ethical and moral implications from a biblical standpoint.

While the Bible doesn’t explicitly address betting, it offers principles relevant to the discussion. Betting often fosters a mindset centred on luck and superstition, potentially undermining the biblical truth of God’s sovereignty. The Bible emphasises God’s control over all things, advocating for trust in His providence rather than relying on chance.

Moreover, the love of money, warned against in Scripture, can drive individuals to compromise their values, leading to unethical behaviour. Responsible stewardship, a biblical principle, advocates for wise use of resources and diligence in work. Betting, however, promotes the idea of acquiring wealth without honest labour, potentially leading to laziness and financial irresponsibility.

Furthermore, betting can become addictive, contradicting the biblical emphasis on self-control. Many young people in Ghana are drawn to betting as a shortcut to wealth, influenced by factors like unemployment and poverty. In addressing these challenges, the church can provide economic, social, and financial support, following the biblical mandate to care for the poor and needy.

The church can also offer alternative recreational and social activities to counter the appeal of betting, fostering spiritual growth and community engagement. Additionally, it can provide support to individuals struggling with betting addiction through counselling, addiction recovery programs, and pastoral care.

In conclusion, while betting may seem harmless or recreational, its implications from a biblical perspective warrant careful consideration. By aligning with biblical principles and offering support to those affected, the church can play a crucial role in addressing the challenges posed by betting.

Written by Elder Dr. Daniel Kwayisi

Years ago, I thought people who urged me to pray and invited me to prayer meetings were burdensome. I didn’t see the need to pray when I couldn’t identify a pressing need that only God could address. Besides, the Bible was clear that “before I opened my mouth to pray, God knows my needs”; so why the need to pray daily?

I didn’t realise that my prayerless lifestyle was choking me spiritually until I discovered in the Scriptures that, contrary to what I thought, prayer was literally my source of breath.

The Bible instructs us to pray unceasingly (1 Thessalonians 5:17). The ceaseless pursuit of any endeavor holds the potential to be a wellspring of vitality, for just as breath sustains the physical being, prayer serves as a fount of life, nourishing the depths of the soul. Thus, if prayer is our life’s breath, then this verse implies that we ought to pray always, lest we perish from suffocation due to a lack of spiritual breath.

When Daniel in the Bible was forbidden to pray under the threat of death, he understood that he would rather face death than forsake prayer. He comprehended that a life devoid of prayer would rob him of breath, leading to an agonising demise. He was undoubtedly onto something profound.

Foundational to our belief as Christians is the understanding that our bodies are the Temple (House) of God (1 Corinthians 6:19). Thus, when Jesus clearly states, “My Temple will be called a House of Prayer, but you have turned it into a den of thieves!” (Matthew 21:13), He was clearly defining the duty and responsibility of all who believed in Him and called Him their God.

Without a shadow of doubt, the Scriptures have convinced me that the body, the Temple of God, is a veritable factory of prayer. It stands as the sole divinely ordained activity within His Temple, our bodies. If we are to endure, we must continually fill this sacred dwelling with prayer. No wonder Jesus declared, “men ought always to pray and not faint” (Luke 18:1). Prayer stands as the paramount activity within God’s Temple, our bodies.

An unoccupied building opens itself up to unwanted and unexpected occupants of all shapes and sizes and of whatever form and nature, and more often than not, once they have taken up residence, they become hellish to dislodge.

When our lives lack prayer, all manner of unwelcome, unforeseen, and untoward visitors such as sickness, failure, premature death, and various forms of negativity can infiltrate. They take root, and over time, it begins to feel like they are the owners of God’s Temple (our lives).

While we are called to pray, we are also called to pray well. Standing physically in the place of prayer with our minds roaming in our rooms, workplaces, and without concentration on God, is a waste of our precious time. To even momentarily consider answering a phone call while in what is supposed to be a place of prayer is bad enough, but to assume that the Holy Spirit would and should definitely wait until we are done is just disrespectful. We certainly don’t do that to our earthly “honorable.”

But we must be comforted by the anticipation that faith and expectation of answers to our prayers would open up the heavens to us (James 1:7-8).

Beloved, let us approach our prayer lives with utmost seriousness. Let us pray to effect change and to undo the works of darkness. Reject the notion that “what is meant for me will surely come to me” without engaging in prayer. Such a fallacy weakens our prayer lives. Nothing occurs by chance, and we should not leave anything to chance.

Now, with resolute faith and resounding proclamation, join me in declaring:

Every tree that has not been planted by my Father, but has taken root within this Temple, my body, due to my prayerless existence, I uproot in the mighty name of Jesus!

Every unwelcome foreign occupant, every malevolent intruder such as sickness, untimely death, fear, anger, depression, and misfortune, that has found its way into this sacred dwelling, depart now, in the name of Jesus Christ!

My prayer life is revitalised in the mighty name of Jesus Christ!

Remember:

Spiritual events deeply impact our physical lives, as life encompasses both the spiritual and the physical aspects. A person’s life can wither away effortlessly through a lack of prayer. A life, a Temple, devoid of prayer will inevitably decay. Kindly note that prayer is not merely a suggestion to be considered but a responsibility for which we shall be held accountable. The only means to fortify and strengthen our Temples, our lives, is to fill them with prayer. Any life, any dwelling, that lacks prayer will ultimately forfeit the presence of God. The lions could not devour Daniel because he carried the divine presence through his life of prayer. I beseech you, brethren, by the mercies of God, let us occupy the Temples (our lives) with prayers lest we fall into temptations, for the battle ahead is NOT smiling as Satan is not on our side.

Written by Mrs. Priscilla Baah Kumi, Kanjarga District

It is concerning to see many young people respond defensively when their mistakes are pointed out, rather than acknowledging and learning from them. Instead of taking responsibility, they often justify their actions or accuse others of being judgmental.

I base my submission on two biblical references:

JOHN 8:1-11

When we read John 8:1-11, we realise that Jesus made a profound statement to the crowd that led to their dispersal in disappointment. The crowd, who caught the adulterous woman, were upholding Moses’ law on adultery, which carried the death penalty as punishment. Before the coming of Christ, punishments were meted out to all offenders of the law, including adulterers.

Judgment, among other things, means to pronounce the results or consequences of someone’s actions backed by an authority. In a court of law, a judge can either find someone guilty (convicted and sentenced/fined) or innocent (acquitted and discharged). The judge takes this decision with the backing of the authority of the law.

Even though the Pharisees, who held the law, had ill motives, they still had the authority of the law to make pronouncements. Our Lord Jesus Christ, standing for what He represented, forgave the woman and showed her mercy, just as He did on the cross for us.

WHAT IS MY POINT?

The basis of my message is that judgment can only be made when you are backed by authority.

However, when your attention is drawn to something you have done wrong and you are possibly chastised for going astray, that’s not judgment; it is correction. The Bible admonishes us to be each other’s keeper, and one way to do that is by putting each other in check. That, to me, is a show of love, not condemnation as some people see it.

MATTHEW 7:1-2

In this scripture, Jesus Christ expressly instructs us not to judge others. In Christendom, the only one with the exclusive authority to make judgmental pronouncements is God. So, as you correct in love, kindly be watchful that you don’t end up taking the place of God and condemning others.

CONCLUSION

Our standard is Jesus Christ, and God will not lower the standard to suit any particular generation. What is wrong by the dictates of the Bible today was wrong in the past and will be wrong in the future. God will not “update” His word to “suit” Generation Z, Alpha, or any other generation.

PROVERBS 12:1

“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.” A wise person takes correction and criticism under consideration. The contrast to this is the one who refuses to hear those corrections. Such a reaction marks the person as “stupid,” implying someone with an animal’s uncontrolled and simplistic mind.

PROVERBS 10:17

“Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.” In this proverb, humility is the toll for the highway of life. The person who refuses to pay that toll “erreth,” or strays from the highway of life. The way of life is full of reproof. A wise man only needs a single correction or reproof to learn and change his behavior. A fool resists, rebels, and rejects correction and reproof. He bristles defensively when you tell him he is wrong, either in heart, face, body language, or words. He has no heart for wisdom.

As young people, we should consciously learn and grow in the wisdom and knowledge of God so we’re not captured by any worldly philosophy. Taking responsibility for our actions, accepting mistakes and rectifying them, and being accountable are some of the ways to stay firm in the Lord.

Written by Deacon ASP Samuel Enam Klagey, Peniel Assembly, Bankoe District, Ho Area

As believers, we often face various challenges and struggles in our walk with God. However, one of the most significant obstacles to our spiritual growth and effectiveness is ignorance. The apostle Paul warns us in 2 Corinthians 2:11, “In order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.”

In this verse, Paul emphasises the importance of being aware of Satan’s tactics and strategies. He recognises that ignorance can lead to defeat, and that’s why he encourages believers to be informed and vigilant.

An ignorant Christian is a defeated Christian because:

• Lack of Understanding: Without a deep understanding of God’s Word and His plans, we become vulnerable to Satan’s lies and deception.
• Spiritual Stagnation: Ignorance hinders our spiritual growth, making us ineffective in our witness and service to others.
• Easy Prey: Satan targets those who are unaware of his schemes, taking advantage of their ignorance to lead them astray.
• Missed Opportunities: Ignorance causes us to miss out on the blessings and opportunities God has for us, leading to a defeated and unfulfilling life.

On the other hand, a knowledgeable and informed Christian is empowered to:

• Resist Satan’s Attacks: With a deep understanding of God’s Word, we can recognise and resist Satan’s tactics.
• Grow Spiritually: Knowledge and understanding fuel our spiritual growth, enabling us to become more like Christ.
• Be Effective Witnesses: Informed believers can share the Gospel with confidence and clarity, leading others to Christ.
• Live a Victorious Life: With knowledge and understanding, we can overcome challenges and live a life that honours God.

In conclusion, an ignorant Christian is indeed a defeated Christian. Let us strive to be informed, knowledgeable, and vigilant, recognising Satan’s schemes and living a victorious life in Christ.

Written by Elder Emmanuel Opoku Yeboah, Channel Islands (UK)

They are the unsung heroes, the base of the iceberg, and the support system. Although unseen, the wife is the heart of the ministry and as important as the minister, who many see as the face of the ministry. Of course, the face is always seen. When I say ministry, I am not referring only to the clergy or religious leaders; I am referring to any man to whom the Lord has entrusted something to care for and keep. Be it a career, profession, or any other endeavor, you have a ministry, and you shall be held accountable. “…From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” (Luke 12:48b NIV).

The adage “Behind every successful man, there is a woman” resonates strongly within this context. The wife of the minister is the secret engine that powers his ministry. I do not, in any way, downplay the work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the foundation upon which the ministry is steadfastly held. Notwithstanding, the wife empowers the ministry. She executes this act of empowerment through unceasing prayer in the ministry of her husband. As he goes about his ministry, he encounters battles opposing the ministry and sometimes does not even realise them. It takes the wife, who is also active and has put on her ministerial robe, to intercede and fight these battles. Even though the wife may not be applauded or given recognition for her support, she is simply indispensable. A few examples include the ministry of Mrs. Martha Ntumy in Apostle Michael Kwabena Ntumy’s ministry and Mrs. Adelaide Araba Siaw Agyapong’s ministry in the ministry of Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyapong, to mention but a few.

Who is his utmost mortal cheerleader, the motivator, and the one who encourages him to press on when the ministry becomes challenging? You guessed right, the wife. The wife creates a home where the minister finds rest and peace. She feeds him with courage, confidence, and the spark to press on. She creates the atmosphere for him to thrive in his ministry. Pause a minute and think about how important the role of the wife is in the husband’s ministry. How many ministries would have collapsed if wives were not executing their duties as ministers? How many generations would have been disappointed and denied the impact they have experienced? Indeed, wives have essential ministries. When a minister reaches the zenith of his ministry, where there’s a likelihood of becoming self-sufficient and neglecting sincere retrospection, a vital ingredient for the success and continued impact of a ministry, it is the wife who draws his attention and brings to bear his flaws and wrongs with love and tenderness, allowing him to make positive adjustments and improvements.

Tell me, who is in a better position to make him aware of his excesses than his precious wife? Come with me to analyse this instance in the scriptures. “Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. With his wife’s full knowledge, he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet.” (Acts 5:1-2 NIV). Sapphira failed to execute her ministerial duties as a wife. She failed to point out her husband’s wrong decision but joined him in executing this decision. The next scripture points out the results of their decision. “Peter said to her, ‘How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.’” (Acts 5:9 NIV). The consequences of their actions may seem to have affected them only, but I strongly believe that their actions generated a ripple effect on other people of their generation. I will give you an assignment: study the ministry of the wife in the life of the husband, scattered throughout scripture, and compare it with the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer, as pointed out by Jesus. I guarantee you’ll be amazed!

To draw down the curtains, there is always the ministry of the wife within the husband’s ministry. The ministerial duties of the wife should be executed in love and total submission to the husband, yielding to the Holy Spirit. As a church, we should seize every opportunity to celebrate these unsung heroes because you can agree with me that their impact is unmatched.

Written by Elder Michael Boakye (Suame Area, Kronum District, Macedonia Assembly)