THE BATTLE WITHIN

Hi friends, congratulations for making it to the end of the ninth month of the year and happy new month in advance to you. 

As we prepare to go into the new month, I am sure you have a lot of plans and probably strategies to make the new month better than the present in every way possible: socially, academically, emotionally, mentally and of course, spiritually. 

As the kingdom minded and success driven teens and kids we are, I am certain that one thing we all have in common as part of our plans for the new month is how to improve our level of obedience and implemention of the instructions of God to us in the scriptures. Some of which include: respect for our parents and other elders in the society, improving in the way we show love to others around us, treating others with care and respect, and as we would want to be treated, promoting peace in our neighborhood, forgiving and not keeping records of wrongs done to us, tolerance, among others.

One thing I've noticed about practicing or living out the instructions of the Bible is that it is easier said than done. After sermon in church or sometimes, after personal study of the Bible, we are often spurred to become better at implementing the scriptures, but all that energy seems to fade away when it is time to "do," especially when trying to do it by the power of the flesh. It is in such times that apostle Paul's words in "Romans 7:20-25" feels closer and very relatable, especially when it comes to forgiveness. 

It often seems that the moment you decide to be Christ-like and generously forgive anyone who wrongs you, some forces somewhere gang up and embark on a mission to make you fail. The provocations triple in number, and even people that weren't offending you before might automatically start doing so. 

The words of Jesus in Matthew 26:41 also relates to the struggle. "The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." Due to the sinful nature of our body, there is usually a battle between the flesh and the Holy Spirit in us, as each wants to dominate us. The good news is that the choice is always ours to either obey God thereby suppressing the flesh,  or the opposite. 

As we prepare to start this new month, let's be encouraged to listen to that small still voice,  and apply the "WWJD" principle - What Will Jesus Do? and the Holy Spirit will continue helping us as we mature in Christ.

Once again, happy new month in advance lovely friends.

Anchor/Host,

Nnabugwu Chinazaekpere 

Grandma 

Written in remembrance of My Grandma, late Mrs Asijie Ihuomakaliwu Nnabugwu. Today marks the third year since she was buried (Died June 30th and buried September 30th, 2025)

 Her life was a Christ-like one. She forgave easily and never kept a grudge against her offenders, even those who did very terrible things to her. Her legacy will continue to serve as an encouragement that lining a Christ-like life is possible, as long as we submit wholly to Jesus.