Save Our Nation, O LORD!

 

 

Welcome to our Retreat Sunday, the *_19th day of JANUARY 2025._* This is THE YEAR OF OUR ULTIMATE TRIUMPH! Receive your *GOOD NEWS* as we continue our ultimate march *_from trials to triumph!_*

 

  *As we focus our attention on revamping the fortunes of a Sovereign Nation, the LORD of All Nations will bless your soul and heritage with a kind of peace that will frustrate your souls’ enemy. Your flourishing positive desires for your life, marriage, home, endeavours, ministry, and God’s household will begin to manifest to God’s Glory, in Jesus’ Name!_*

AMEN!

 

Our *THEME:*

  *_“SAVE OUR NATION, O LORD!”_*

 

  Our *TEXT(S): James 1:5, Micah 6:8, and Proverbs 29:2 *

James 1:5-7.

5. *_If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him._*
6. *_But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind._*
7. *_For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord_*

(NKJV).

 

Micah 6:8.

8. *_He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?_*

(NKJV).

 

Proverbs 29:2.

2. *_When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan._*

(NKJV).

 

 

Our *BIBLE PASSAGE:*

 

  *James 1:2-8 — _(Profiting From Trials)._*

 

*James 1:2-8*

2. *_My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,
3. *_knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience._*
4. *_But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing_*.
5. *_If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him._*
6. *_But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind._*
7. *_For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
8. *_he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”_*

NKJV.

 

The verses we shall use to drive home our point today, and the corresponding fourteen prayer points, can serve as a powerful guide for praying for your nation. Each of the prayer points address unique aspects of leadership, justice, and community responsibility, encouraging a holistic approach to intercession. May these prayers inspire positive changes and divine intervention in the affairs of the nation.  Following shortly, is the first half: the second half concludes this Presentation.

 

*_Let us pray:_*

 

1. *2 Chronicles 7:14*

–  *_“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”_*

Dear Heavenly Father, in Jesus’ Name, I pray for humility and repentance to dwell anew among us, leaders and citizens of this nation, as we seek divine forgiveness and healing for our land.

 

2. *1 Timothy 2:1-2*

–  *_“I urge then – first of all – that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”_*

– Holy Father, envelope our National, State and Local Leaders and authorities with your Holy Spirit of Wisdom, Power and Sound Mind, granting them your enablement to govern justly and effectively, promoting peace and order, in Jesus’ Name.

 

3. *Psalm 33:12*

– *_“Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.”_*

– Draw our nation closer to you, O God, that we may seek Your guidance and blessings upon the land and its people, in Jesus’ Name.

 

4. *Proverbs 14:34*

– *_“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.”_*

–  O LORD, enforce the promotion of righteousness and integrity in our nation, exposing and stamping-out corruption, bringing about moral, economic and salient reforms, through these leaders we have, in Jesus’ Name.

 

5. *Jeremiah 29:7*

– “Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”

– By fire and force, create a detribalized spiritual revolution that will transform the welfare and prosperity of the nation, causing an endless thanksgiving to You from all the citizens, in Jesus’ Name.

 

6. *Isaiah 1:17*

– *_“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”_*

• I command justice and protection from the LORD to fall upon the vulnerable members of our society, as God raises up advocates for the oppressed, in Jesus’ Name.

 

7. *James 1:5*

– *_“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”_*

– By Your infinite mercies, I groan in prayer that our National, State and Local Leaders and authorities be divinely controlled to make critical decisions blessing the present and future of Nigeria and other Nations that believe in You, in Jesus’ mighty Name!

AMEN.

 

Having put our mission into God’s hands, I welcome you all into the presence of the LORD who will lead us today:

 

*SAVE OUR NATION, O LORD!*

Bishop Michael A. Femi-Adebanjo, Ph.D.

 

Our *_Retreat Talk_* will make some profound and thought-provoking contributions to the Patriots’ questions about Nigeria’s challenges and the need for systemic change. Brothers and Sisters, I will present this piece, guided by a few biblical injunctions. And your response to these ideas – before we pray again – will suffice.

 

The following Bible verses elucidate the principles of leadership, justice, and the moral responsibilities of individuals and nations, which can resonate with my Seven-Point provisions to address our important national issues:

 

Proverbs 29:2

“When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.”

This verse underscores the significance of righteous leadership and its impact on the well-being of the nation. The present Nigerian leader fears the LORD, and he was well prepared for this onerous mission. He only needs our support.

 

Micah 6:8

*_“He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?”_*

This verse calls for justice, mercy, and humility, suggesting that these virtues are essential for addressing national challenges.

 

James 1:5

*_“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”_*

Seeking divine wisdom is crucial for both leaders and citizens when confronting complex national issues. The secular state must agree to seek wisdom, especially when we have all given up hopes on the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current President before his tenure begins!

 

Psalm 33:12

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.”

This verse highlights the importance of a nation relying on God for guidance and righteousness. Nigeria is a unique secular state where the Traditional Faith enthusiasts, Muslims and Christians are working cautiously to move the nation forward. The bane is the hydra-headed demon of corruption in the land where mutual suspicion is rife, owing to the fact that majority of our people in power are only religious but not godly!

 

Isaiah 1:17

*_“Learn to do good; seek justice, rebuke the oppressor; defend the fatherless, plead for the widow.”_*

This verse calls for active participation in advocating for justice and caring for vulnerable beings within our population, which is vital for national healing.

 

Jeremiah 29:7

*_“And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the LORD for it; for in its peace you will have peace.”_*

This verse encourages citizens to contribute positively to their host communities and to seek the welfare of their nation. It calls for a detribalized mind without myopic undertones but emphasizing the sense of belonging. If it is well with your host, it is well with you: Hospitality is the key to encouraging our guests to invest in our community development.

 

Proverbs 14:34

*_“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”_*

This verse highlights the significance of righteousness in national development and the consequences of failing to uphold moral values.

 

1 Timothy 2:1-2

*_“Therefore, I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.”_*

This passage underlines the importance of prayer for leaders and authorities, which is crucial for national peace and order.

 

2 Chronicles 7:14

*_“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”_*

This verse highlights the role of collective humility, prayer, and repentance in seeking national healing and restoration.

 

Romans 13:1-4

*_“Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and God instituted the authorities that exist. Therefore, whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves.”_*

This passage speaks to the importance of respecting and holding authorities accountable while recognising that God instituted them to maintain order and justice.

 

These passages above provide a biblical foundation for addressing the challenges faced by nations, for which I present a Seven-Point Contribution. They emphasise the importance of righteousness, justice, wisdom, and collective responsibility in seeking solutions to national problems. By reflecting on these scriptures, individuals and leaders may find inspiration for promoting positive change and fostering unity within their communities as we progress into my humble Seven-Point Provision:

 

1. *Civic Engagement and Education*
2. *Empowering the Youth.* Engage the younger generation, about 65% of Nigeria’s populace, through education and activism. Teach them about their rights, responsibilities, and the importance of their participation in governance. This can help cultivate a politically aware citizenry that demands accountability from leaders.

– *_Promoting Critical Thinking:_* Encourage critical thinking about candidates and policies rather than perpetuating the cycle of naive loyalty to political parties or tribal affiliations.

For our Youths here, we can excel as we embark on  *Community-Based Workshops and Seminars*

– *_Local Engagement:_* Organise regular workshops and seminars within communities to educate citizens about civic rights, the electoral process, governance, and the importance of participation. These events can be held with local leaders and organisations to foster trust and ensure attendance.

– *_Skill Development:_* Focus on imparting skills like public speaking, advocacy, and organising, which can empower residents to become active participants in civic life.

 

– *_Youth Councils:_* Establish youth councils at local and state levels to provide a platform for young people to voice their concerns and contribute to decision-making processes. These councils of proficient and highly educated youths could work alongside government bodies to foster youth involvement.

– *_Scholarships for Civic Engagement:_* Offer scholarships or incentives for young people participating in civic engagement. At the same time, on programs or community service, encourage them to get involved and consider careers in public service.

– *Youth Leadership Programmes: * By training future leaders, we can create leadership development programmes for youth. These programmes can focus on advocacy skills, negotiation, and conflict resolution, preparing participants to be community leaders and advocates for change as they pursue careers in limitless range of professions.

– *_Mentor Matching:_* Pair young participants with experienced mentors from various fields, including science, technology, business, politics, entrepreneurship, and social activism, to provide guidance and encouragement.

 

1. *Civic Technology Initiatives*

– *_Digital Literacy Programs:_* Provide training for youths and other citizens on using technology to engage in civic activities, such as online petitioning, leveraging social media for advocacy, digital marketing, and using digital platforms for community organising.

– *_Civic Apps and Platforms:_* Develop and promote applications or online platforms that facilitate citizen engagement in governance, such as reporting issues to local representatives, tracking election promises, or participating in civic discussions on variety of unrestricted sectoral developments. We can also use these apps to educate our citizen about Cyber Crimes and phantom games that impoverish their users through fake claims. Knock poverty out of our Youths’ mentality through productive empowerment in various leanings.

 

1. *Curriculum Reforms in Schools*

– *_Incorporating Civic Education:_* Advocate for including comprehensive civic education in school curriculums that cover topics such as patriotism and mentorship, a national history that promotes unity and faith, the structure of government, citizens’ rights and responsibilities, and the importance of active citizenship.

– *_Project-Based Learning:_* Encourage project-based learning initiatives that allow students to engage with their communities on real-world issues, giving them hands-on experience in civic engagement.

 

1. *Public Awareness Campaigns*

– *_Awareness Drives:_* Launch public campaigns using traditional media, social media, and community events to raise awareness about civic engagement, daily tracks on Political Promises fulfilled, the importance of voting, and how to participate in governance.

– *_Storytelling and Testimonials:_* Use storytelling to share success stories of individuals and groups that have effectively engaged in civic processes and achieved positive outcomes. This can inspire others to act on their area of comparative advantage.

 

1. *Collaborative Engagement with NGOs*

– *_Partnerships with NGOs:_* Collaborate with non-governmental organisations focused on civic engagement to reach wider audiences. These partnerships can bring additional resources, expertise, and networks to enhance educational efforts and create more jobs.

– *_Volunteer Opportunities:_* Promote volunteer opportunities within these organisations that allow citizens to participate in community development projects and understand governance practically.

 

1. *Intercommunity Dialogues*

– *_Facilitated Discussions:_* Organise regular intercommunity dialogues to break down myopic ethnic and religious barriers and encourage conversations about civic rights, responsibilities, and the impact of governance. This can help build solidarity and a shared vision for progress.

– *_Addressing Misinformation:_* Create platforms for discussion to address misinformation about governance and civic participation, promoting factual information and encouraging informed dialogue.

 

By expanding efforts under civic engagement and education, there is potential for significant positive change within the Nigerian society. These strategies will build a politically conscious and active populace, creating no excuse for corruption, reducing the prevalence of destructive protests with its hijack by evil-minded vandals, and fostering a more accountable governance system. The collective efforts of citizens, educational institutions, NGOs, and government can transform the civic landscape of Nigeria for the better.

 

2. *Strengthening Institutions*

– *_Judiciary and Law Enforcement:_* Advocate for a practical but genuinely independent judiciary and robust law enforcement to hold corrupt officials accountable. The kid-gloves’ treatment of crime through the present judicial correction for heinous crimes have to be revisited. There are cases of increasing number of Government utilities’ vandals in town because when they are found guilty by the law, they soon return to the streets to continue the only trade they know – crime! Establish mechanisms to protect whistleblowers who expose corruption.

– *_Electoral Reforms:_* Inappropriate electoral guidelines and policies will kill every ambitious reform in the polity. The Tax Reform is never a bad idea, as it would help to rid Nigeria of its obsolete and archaic tax laws – and end the era of multiple taxation of the poor. In the same vein, the appropriate reforms will help the nation to be better equipped for a proficient future. Hence, pushing for electoral reforms that promote transparency and fairness, improving the existing use of technology for voting and counting to reduce electoral fraud will aid national development.

 

As we move to the third broad step into solutions, remember – We are still engaged in…

 

  Our *GOOD NEWS:*

  *_Theme: “SAVE OUR NATION, O LORD!”_*

 

  Our *TEXT(S): James 1:5, Micah 6:8, and Proverbs 29:2 *

James 1:5-7.

5. *_If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him._*
6. *_But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind._*
7. *_For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord_*

(NKJV).

 

Micah 6:8.

8. *_He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?_*

(NKJV).

 

Proverbs 29:2.

2. *_When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan._*

(NKJV).

 

Let us continue the journey:

 

3. *Promoting Transparency and Accountability*

– *_Civil Society Involvement:_* Strengthen the civil society organisations’ role in monitoring government actions and public spending. They can act as watchdogs and advocates for transparency.

– *_De-emphasize the Role of Money in Elections:_* The cost of purchasing party candidature forms should be reduced to the barest minimum. At the same time, there should be a more stringent moral and mindset screening put in place by the electoral umpires. The need to make corrupt agreements with Political Godfathers due to demands from Political Parties should be made unattractive.  Strengthening the populace’s role in choosing their leaders entails giving more people a level ground in getting a shot at the coveted leadership positions. For transparency, accountability and integrity, political positions should not be given to only those who were able to pay cash for it. It should be given to people of integrity who have proven their patriotism to the nation, competence to serve, love for humanity and proof of being agreeable to, and tolerant of, the component tribal nationalities. The umpires are experienced enough to identify those whose ambitions are fuelled by myopic tendencies and self-aggrandisement. Knowing that these kinds of politicians will increase the woes of the nation, the electoral reforms guidelines should screen them out from emerging as Parties’ Candidates.

 

– *_Open Government Initiatives:_* Support initiatives that promote open government and citizen participation in decision-making processes, allowing the public to access information about government activities and be less destructively critical of government stance.

 

4. *Economic Development and Opportunities*

– *_Job Creation and Entrepreneurship:_* Invest in job creation programs and entrepreneurship, especially for the youth. A more economically stable populace is less susceptible to corruption and manipulation.

– *_Diversifying the Economy:_* Encourage the diversification of the economy beyond oil and gas dependency, promoting sustainable industries that offer equitable opportunities. Let us encourage the creativity of inventors, private industries, and give incentives to promote manufacturing.

 

5. *Cultural Shift and Leadership*

– *_Modeling Good Leadership:_* Promote exemplary leaders who demonstrate integrity and commitment to service. Highlight their stories – also in collegiate history – to inspire the next generation.

– *_Changing the Narrative:_* Tackle the cultural acceptance of corruption and unethical behaviour through media campaigns and community discussions that promote integrity and civic responsibility.

 

6. *Territorial Integrity and Unity*

– *_Fostering National Unity:_* Address regional and ethnic disparities by promoting policies that foster unity and inclusiveness. This could involve creating dialogue platforms that bring different groups together to work towards common goals. This will be aimed at silencing the usual *_marginalisation_* chants that comes on air whenever any section of the society seem not to be getting their expected dividends of democracy.

– *_Conflict Resolution Mechanisms:_* Implement effective conflict resolution mechanisms to address ethnic and religious tensions that often lead to violence and instability.

 

7. *Diaspora Involvement*

– *_Leveraging Diaspora Skills and Resources:_* Continue to encourage Nigerians in the diaspora to invest in their home communities, whether through remittances, skills transfer, or advocacy for policy changes.

– *_Global Advocacy:_* The Government of the day should embark on developmental strides that will be a weapon to mobilize the diaspora as a voice for change, advocating for reforms and holding the government accountable from abroad.

 

*Conclusion*

Solving a complex problem like governance in Nigeria requires collective effort and a multi-faceted approach. It is about changing mindsets, holding leaders accountable, and creating an environment where integrity and commitment to nation-building are valued. Without the fear of controversy, the Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is succeeding: They can only listen to plausible ideas like ours and make a better progress. By working together as a community, both domestically and in the diaspora, real change can be initiated.

 

Ultimately, since this Seven-Point Contribution to the reformation of the Government business is not a panacea, let us keep the conversation going and brainstorm actionable steps we can take individually and collectively towards creating the Nigeria we all envision. May the eyes of your wisdom be opened and our discourse reach its target and cause Nigeria – and other groaning nations of our world – to experience resurgence and deliverance, in Jesus’ Name!

 

*_Amen._*

 

*_I now command every curse against our Nations be annulled – including the emotional, financial or spiritual barrenness – and failure in the lives of people in our universe. I prophesy that wars will cease across the lands as God-believing homes, congregations, and ministries find succour, divine help ad deliverance – even in the desolate places – NOW, in Jesus’ Name._*

 

*Beloved, Happy New Year!*

 

*_Amen._*

 

* * *

 

*_Because you interceded for a Nation under God, I prophesy according to the Word of God, that YOU will not become Satan’s prey in this End-Time where the enemy of God infects humans with the inordinate ambitions to live in a world without GOD. The demonic desire and demand of this ageing world will not possess you – in Jesus’ Name._*

 *_At Christ Jesus’ inspired word, the great help of God will cause you to flourish, annihilating your fears and destroying the traps set for you at these dangerous times, in Jesus’ mighty Name. ONLY BELIEVE!_* 

GLORY BE TO GOD!

*_Alleluia!_*

 *Finally, Let Us Pray!*

 

8. *Psalm 19:14*

– *_“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.”_*

– *Prayer Point:* O LORD, I intercede that your spirit of integrity and truth mingle among our citizens, that our words and actions may be pleasing to God, in Jesus’ Name.

 

9. *Proverbs 21:1*

– *_“The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a water course wherever he pleases.”_*

– *Prayer Point:* Papa, I plead that You direct the hearts and decisions of tour nation’s leaders, ensuring they align with Your will, in Jesus’ Name.

 

10. *Ezekiel 22:30*

– *_“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”_*

– *Prayer Point:* My Father, My King, Send intercessors to rise up and stand in the gap for our nation, praying for the land and calling for transformation. Answer our Prayer in Jesus’ Name.

 

  11. *Romans 13:1*

– *_“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”_*

– *Prayer Point:* Let the African spirit of respect and obedience towards lawful authority be rekindled again, recognising the divine order in governance, in Jesus’ Name.

 

  12. *Matthew 5:14-16*

– *_“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”_*

– *Prayer Point:* My Almighty Papa, Cause God-believing Nigerian citizens to shine their light in their communities, influencing the society positively and reflecting Christ’s love, in Jesus’ Name.

 

  13. *Hosea 4:6*

– *_“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children.”_*

– *Prayer Point:* Pray for an increase in knowledge and understanding among the populace, including good education and access to truth.

 

  14. *Philippians 4:6-7*

– *_“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”_*

– *Prayer Point:* Forgive our elites’ ignorance that rejects your Lordship over Nations, O GOD. Now let Your peace fill our citizens’ hearts in Jesus’ Name.

As God’s Anointed, I humbly prophesy according to the Word of God: the evil declarations against your life as a citizen are NOW divinely annulled and defeated, in Jesus’ mighty Name.

*_As we reject every negativity over our nation’s portion, let Your positivity possess our thought life. We possess the master keys to rise from grass to grace in righteousness – that Your power of Love may become our strength, fulfilling our destiny of Ultimate Triumph, in the Name of Jesus Christ._*

*_Every plan of the Kingdom of darkness against your soul has perished – forever, in Jesus’ mighty Name._*

 

  *_As for me and my household – including these prayer partners reading, hearing and praying along – we shall serve the living God in sound health, good wealth and prosperity of our souls, in Jesus’ Name!_*

*_I love you, in Jesus’ Name!_*

*Amen. God Bless You!*

 

  *Enter To Worship… Depart To Serve!*  

 

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HAVE A TRIUMPHANT THIRD SUNDAY OF A FULFILLING NEW YEAR, in Jesus’ Name.