Three Reasons you are Killing your Marriage

The common joke on the street is that if you see a happy couple laughing and talking together, then they are not married! The implication of this is that married couples are not a happy people but people often on each other’s throats. The joke is an exaggeration laced with generalization but there is an element of truth to it. It is safe to say that for most marriages if they are not on the rocks, they are definitely not thriving. We become comfortable with marriage relationships that are not growing and basking in the beauty of love and pleasure as God intended for marriage. The goal in marriage becomes a striving for the absence of conflict instead of growth that leads to mutual satisfaction. This is unfortunate and there are three reasons behind it.

A wrong understanding of marriage

In our times, wrong views of marriage abound. They spring from bad examples in the homes, wrong cultural teachings, wrong worldviews and bad examples in the home and on the television. Therefore, by the time a 30-year-old person is marrying, they have all kinds of ungodly and unbiblical worldviews of marriage. And what is worse is that they are often stubborn in their ways and are unteachable. What has gone wrong? To begin with, people do not realise that in marriage you become one. That means you do life together “in sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer.” By marrying, you choose and commit to being open and vulnerable to your spouse. No secrets, no holding back and no privacy! You are one spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially etc. Furthermore, marriage is a commitment to the other person, with all their faults. It is also a commitment to change for the sake of your marriage and spouse. You cannot choose to marry and continue living like a single person. 

A wrong understanding of love

Love is a concept that needs redeeming. Society has ruined it with its corruption. The love the world preaches is self-serving. You love because of the benefits you get from others. This kind of love only looks out for its benefits. It is temporal and you can fall in and fall out of it anytime you want. Biblical love is the exact opposite. It is a commitment to seek another person’s good, regardless of their unworthiness. It is as Voddie Baucham describes it, “an act of the will accompanied by emotion that leads to action on behalf of its object.” This kind of love pursues after the other, it is dedicated to and finds delight in the recipient. Such love grows and it thrives. The perfect model for this love is Jesus Christ, who gave up his life for people who were hostile to him. This is the love that husband and wife are called to share for their marriage to thrive.

Lack of investment in the marriage

Relationships require hard work! They require enormous effort for them to grow. Marriage is no different. If you see a lovely, godly couple that is basking in love, you have seen two people who are working hard and investing in their marriage. They are working hard to grow as individuals and as a couple. They are learning how to better serve and love their spouse. They are working on the habits and behaviours that their spouse does not appreciate. They are finding ways to demonstrate love. They are also committed to church life together, worshipping and serving together, and investing in friendships with other godly Christian couples. They prioritize platforms and meetings that build their marriage. They are at couples’ meetings, conferences and outings. They also plan and prioritize dates, holidays and fun activities as a couple. They do everything in their power to invest in their spiritual, physical, mental and emotional growth as a couple. They know that failure to invest in marriage is a sure way to kill it.

Conclusion

Marriages done in God’s way are beautiful, enriching and challenging. It requires selfless love and continuous effort to know each other and grow in love. It demands intentionality from the couple to invest in their marriage. Dear Christian couple, make every effort to thrive in your marriage. Review, reevaluate, and pursue one another. Bask in the beauty of love!

Effects of Covid on the Christian Life

When a final postmortem of the short and long term effects of Covid is done, I wonder what the findings will be. There is no doubt that Covid has affected a lot of people health-wise, it has also left damages physically, socially, and emotionally. One effect of Covid that has gone under the radar is how it has left believers in spiritual ruins. The inability to gather with other believers for weeks, months and in some cases a year plus, has left several Christians and churches struggling. It is my observation that different people have been affected differently depending on where the covid changes found them spiritually.

Firstly there are those whose spiritual life was hanging on by the thread before Covid. They attended meetings occasionally; they barely touched their Bibles and rarely prayed to their Father. They were spiritually cold, one would say, they had no spiritual vitality.   And the moment the closures and isolations began, they were quickly swallowed up into the abyss of worldly cares. When the opportunity to return appeared, they had no motivation or desire. They just do not abscond from fellowship, they are comfortable with it. It is to these that the Lord calls out to examine themselves and see if they are in the faith. Furthermore, it is these that the Lord exhorts to awake from their slumber. Finally, it is these who were among us and spiritually have left us that we as a body must urgently and lovingly pursue, so they may return to the fold.

Some were vibrant and passionate. They were sold out and sacrificial in their service and pursuit of God. After the covid effect, they fell into a state of lukewarmness and indifference. They now want a comfortable and convenient Christianity. They are comfortable with virtual meetings or shortened services. They are used to gathering with others without relating with them because they have become accustomed to rushing off after the service and not hosting anyone in their homes. These dear friends need to return to their first love. They need to be reminded that to follow Christ is to take up the cross and deny yourself. They need to hear the exhortation to spend and be spent for the sake of Jesus Christ. They need to make up their minds, are they in or they are out? Do you know such a brother or sister? Provoke them to love and good works.

Some despaired during the restrictions. They longed for the gathering of the saints. They felt the void and knew this is not the ideal Christian life. They were frustrated with virtual meetings because they are a shallow replacement for physical gatherings. The period of isolation and restrictions was a moment for reflection in their lives. They came out of it resolved to serve their master until he returns or calls them home. They took stock of their lives and dealt with entanglements that easily ensnare them. This time helped them to appreciate their family and church family. And the first moment they had to return, they did so with grateful eagerness and resolve. These brothers and sisters do not need to grow weary in doing well, neither do they need to become complacent. They should press on the upward way. Lastly, they should reach out to those who may have fallen along the way.

Dear Chrisitan, there is work to be done. And though the picture may look dire, our work and mission remain the same. The Spirit of God who works and enables us remains the same. The word of God is still powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword. The postmortem may be depressing, but dear saint, why are you downcast? And why are you in turmoil? Hope in God, for he will surely revive his people. 

Four Types of Men in Leadership

 Biblical leadership is vital. It has been from the very beginning. The success of any institution in faithfully fulfilling their purpose be it the home, the church, organisations and nations are directly connected to the kind of leader(s) they have. It is, therefore, no surprise that leadership has always been under attack. Sometimes it is sadly abused by those entrusted with it, or it is undermined by those threatened by it. Either way, the devil and the world understand the significance of leadership, hence the systematic and deliberate effort to attack it.

At this point, we have to ask the question, what is biblical leadership? Leadership can be summed up in two words, responsibility and influence. To lead is to be responsible for a task and for a people, and to skillfully wield godly influence on those under your care. In responsibility, the leader is held accountable for the state and direction of the people they are leading. In other words, they are to blame when the institution fails. The first couple is a good case in point. When the Lord evaluated the situation, he found Adam guilty because he was the leader, the head of his wife. So, to lead is firstly to be responsible. Secondly, to lead is to influence those under our care for God. Our godly character must have a lasting impact on them, but it also means we are intentionally teaching them the truth of God’s word that we know and live out. To lead is to be responsible and influential.

It, therefore, goes without saying that leadership is not primarily a title or a position. There are many instances in the home, the church and government where the one who has the title is not the one leading because they are irresponsible and do not wield the influence they should. Furthermore, leadership is not about being served and enjoying the benefits of the position. It is common for people to think if they become the head everyone else exists to do their bidding. That is not biblical leadership.

In God’s design, men are called to be leaders (i.e. be responsible and exert godly influence) in the home and in the church. It is, therefore, imperative that men strive to be godly and responsible. Society has been working hard to undermine the leadership of men but also to undo the virtues in them that are necessary for leadership. Allow me to highlight four kinds of men commonly found in the church and in our society. 

 All talk, no action

These are the daydreamers. They do not have plans but wishes. They love unending meetings and discussions. They make resolutions yearly only to remake them the following year. They make grand promises and vows but never fulfil them. If they went by what they say, they would transform their families and beyond. Alas, as someone once said, “the road to hell is paved with men with good intentions.” The grave is full of people who had great ideas, plans and desires but never acted on them. These men die at 50 with the potential they had at 20. They talk but never act and end up frustrating the people they lead.

 All action, no talk

Then you have the doers. The lone ranger with the master plan. They do not share ideas or plans. They do not solicit feedback or input. Those they lead simply see things are getting done. They do not know how or why. This kind of leader feels it is their job to do things and do them by themselves. They move alone and ahead and leave the people they are leading behind. They do not invest in anyone they lead. They do not train or disciple, hence when they die or leave, no one knows where to start from and the family, ministry or organization crumbles because they never communicated and shared their plans. 

 No talk, no action

Then we have those who somehow manage to combine the two. They do not talk and they do not act. They are passive and aloof. They have no plans or visions and they have no drive. This is seen in the single young man who never states his intentions to a girl but is content with chatting with her daily on social media. It is also seen in the husband and father who is glued to the TV and his gadgets while he watches his family go astray. It is further seen in church leaders who are reactive and not proactive. In addition, it is seen in civic leaders with no stated vision or plan.

 All talk and all action

Not so for the biblical leader. He is responsible. He takes initiative and ownership. He communicates the vision and plan. He gets input and feedback from the teammates, whether it’s a spouse, fellow leaders or workmates. But he does not end there, he is driven and committed to getting things done and targets met. There is talk and implementation. Nehemiah is an example of such a leader, he prayed, had a plan, shared the plan and got into action. That is leadership! Taking responsibility and wielding godly influence.

Dear Christian men, rise up! Stand up for Jesus. Put on the gospel armour. Take responsibility and influence the world for Christ.

 

THREE THINGS BIBLE SCHOOL DIDN’T TEACH ME

I have been privileged to pass through four Bible schools and receive theological training. There is a focused sharpening that school gives you that if rightly used can be a great blessing. It is worth stating that Bible schools do not make pastors, churches do. The discipleship instruction in 2 Timothy 2:2, “and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” is given in the context of the local church. With that said, Bible schools are a helpful complement to churches in training men. They come alongside churches in training men for the work of ministry. Last week I shared three things I learnt from Bible school, this week I will share three things I did not learn from Bible school.

1. The complicated nature of life and ministry

When you read textbooks and discuss principles in class, things are often black and white and the ideal is presented and assumed. However, the moment you step out of the classroom you discover that life and ministry are not black and white or even ideal. It is those unforeseen and unexpected circumstances that one has to navigate through regularly. Matters of ethics can get complicated very quickly when real lives are involved!

2. The slow nature of growth

In discussing ministry philosophy and methodology in Bible school, you often talk about steps to follow and procedures to apply in order to have success. It sounds straightforward such that Bible school graduates often end up overestimating their abilities and the impact, they will have if they follow these steps. When you jump into the trenches of ministry, you soon realise that progress and growth is often a slow process and the minister, like the farmer must exercise patience and play the long game.

3. The emotional investment involved

Furthermore, a classroom can never prepare you for the emotional rollercoaster that life is. You have to learn to minister while rejoicing, grieving, mourning, despairing or experiencing the blues. I remember one day, I had to officiate a wedding and conduct a funeral in one morning. Talk about a rollercoaster of emotions!

I am thankful for the many lessons I learnt in theological schools. I gained valuable tools for ministry. However, the classroom and textbooks have their limitations. There are some things you can only learn while doing life with others in the context of the local church.

 

Three Things Bible School Taught Me

 I have been privileged to pass through four Bible schools and receive theological training. There is a focused sharpening that school gives you that if rightly used can be a great blessing. It is worth stating that Bible schools do not make pastors, churches do. The discipleship instruction in 2 Timothy 2:2, “and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” is given in the context of the local church. With that said, Bible schools are a helpful complement to churches in training men. They come alongside churches in training men for the work of ministry. Here are three things school taught me.

1. Rigorous study and reading widely  

School forces you to study rigorously. There is something about assigned reading that makes school reading different from your social reading. You are forced to read a diverse range of books and to finish them by a set deadline. You are further required to exercise high levels of comprehension from the assigned reading. This lesson though often painful and exhausting is extremely valuable in ministry. It instils a valuable discipline to read extensively and deeply. The effectiveness and longevity of one’s ministry are in some ways tied to their diligent study.

2. Dealing with constant pressure

Deadlines and due dates are the student’s primary source of stress. By the end of the first week of the semester, after all the classes are introduced, the student goes away with a stuck of books and a load of assignments that will be due over the coming months. All the required reading, writing, quizzes and exams combine to build and apply pressure on the students. This pressure is necessary and intentional. It teaches discipline and perseverance. School in many ways comes down to one’s discipline and endurance. It is not enough to have academic acumen. One requires the resolve to persevere amidst unending pressure. Those who endure the “pressure cooker” of school are prepared for the pressure of ministry. There is a reason Paul exhorted Timothy to endure hardship, it is because ministry comes with all forms of hardships. The minister of the gospel must be able to handle the often unceasing pressures of sin, deadlines, sermon preparations, difficult relationships, hard and urgent decisions and criticisms etc.

3. Structured and broad thinking

In many ways, school is structure. It first structures your everyday life, through classes, semesters and the duration of the program. Then the assignments structure your life in the sense that they dictate what you give your time to, such that the students who usually excel and make the most of school are those who have a defined structure in their lives. This kind of structure is an essential element of ministry for the minister. It is important in personal and ministerial planning, leading meetings, sermon preparations and delivery. Unstructured people, meetings, ministries and sermons are difficult to follow.

Furthermore, school teaches you to think broadly, by reading widely and engaging with other schools of thought. You engage with other views by reading the people who hold the position. It gives you both an appreciation of the thinking process and argumentation of others. It also helps you understand the dynamics other people faced at different times in church history.

The narrowness and shallowness that people who are not widely and well-read have are painfully hard to bear. They often treat every issue with the same weight and they refuse to see the complicated nature of some matters. This kind of spirit simply betrays one’s lack of structured and broad thinking.

Bible school is a blessing and a useful tool. It teaches the student rigorous study, instils the ability to handle pressure and helps them develop structure and think broadly. I am grateful for the privilege of studying and for the blessing of using what I learnt in the local church.

 

Handling Generational Differences

I once walked into a public place on a hot and sunny day, carrying my Tendai (4 months). He is rocking a T. shirt and shorts, no hat, no socks and no jersey! The moment I enter the room, I can see and feel the stares from the elderly mothers! I know what they are thinking and what's coming, so I put on my serious "don't talk to me" face. But it's all in vain since when was a motherly African woman dissuaded by a mere look? So in a manner typical of our mothers, one of them walks over to me and loads me with a series of questions, where is the mother? Why did not you put socks and a hat on him? And where is his little blanket (covering)? Thankfully, she caught me on one of my spiritual days! So I engaged her about the heat and how irritable kids get when they are hot and sweaty. And she closes it off with, what a lovely baby? Boy or girl? What's his name? How old is he? Please keep these little ones warm. "It's good you are spending time with the baby; please keep it up." Funnily, I walked away smiling and with a sense of appreciation for my culture once more. Why would a stranger walk up to me and question my parenting decisions? Simple, in Africa, we believe "it takes the whole  village to raise a child." And in our culture, the older generation must instruct and guide the younger generation in the various ways of life. It is both a duty and an obligation. As always, there are valuable lessons to remember for the sake of harmony.

1. You cannot explain African culture apart from communal living. It affects & influences everything we do and believe. We do life together, and one of our famous sayings is "it takes the whole  village to raise a child."

2. The young generation must learn humbly and heed the counsel from the older generation. We may disagree, and we may have google and "baby centre." But they have the experience; you are a testimony of their parenting abilities. As much as they are some progressive ways of doing things, we must appreciate that those who have gone before us can teach us a lot.

3. The older generation must be gracious, humble and tactful in their imparting of knowledge. For good or bad, our generation is becoming more progressive, innovative and individualistic by the year and have bought into the illusion of self-sufficiency. That said, you cannot impose advice just because that's how you did things. Further, the older generation must equally learn what they can from the younger generation.

4. We must be tolerant and not impose our thoughts on every situation. It's okay for one child to be wrapped up in 4 or 5 layers of clothes and another child to be wrapped up in 2. Remember, each of those parents loves their children and are not entirely ignorant. Respect, grace and kindness must inform our interactions.

5. Christians need to remember the exhortation of the older teaching, the younger in the local church context and ongoing discipleship relationships. Let's not avoid these relationships despite the craziness of the culture. We must instead pursue relationships that are informed by scripture and motivated by love. 

Prophets, Pastors, Politics and Predictions

The emotional dust and tensions from the August 12 Zambian elections are settling. The euphoria is steadily giving way to the backlash. The people who felt oppressed and victimized are calling for vengeance. The grieved over corruption are demanding for justice to prevail. And those who made false declarations and predictions are coming under fire. That brings me to the “prophets” and “pastors” who made declarations and predictions purporting their utterances were of divine origin. As providence would have it, the declarations made with pomp and pride were flat out wrong. And the “men of god” have eaten humble pie. It may be easy for us to find joyful satisfaction in the public and overdue humiliation of these people. However, a closer examination suggests that their actions are a problem for the Christian faith and the Church of Christ. One growing trend post-election is a general mockery and questioning of the relevancy of Christianity. The prophets and pastors are synonyms with Christianity, and that is a problem and here is why. 

They are making a mockery of the Word of God

The God of the Bible is self-revealing. He has from the beginning revealed himself to his creation. In times past, he spoke through prophets and in various ways. It is, therefore, common to find the prophets of the scriptures declaring, “Thus says the Lord.” The scriptures tell us that now, the Lord has spoken through Jesus Christ (Heb 1:1-3). Hence the many exhortations to know the Word of God and obey it (1 Jn 2:3, Jn 14:15, Jas 1:22). This is because the scriptures are sufficient and sure Word of God (2 Tim 3:16-17, 2 Pet 1:19-21). The current crop of prophets who conjure up dreams about the outcome of football matches and elections and attribute them to God is a mockery. The reason the Lord reveals himself to his people is to communicate his nature and redemptive purposes. When the prophets of God spoke, it was solemn and sober. The word calls people to know God, worship him, and it warns people of the dangers of disregarding the Word, ways and will of God. It is a mockery to merely reduce God’s word to predicting the deaths of public figures, the outcome of football matches and winners of elections.

They are making a mockery of Christianity

As people listen to utterances of the prophets that are ridiculous and outrageous, they equate it to the Christian message. Sadly, that is the image they have created of Christianity. They are left wondering, “what is wrong with this bunch”. One political and humanist activist recently wrote in part, on her social media platform, “religion makes it near impossible to have rational and especially difficult conversations in Zambia…” Loud, pompous and colourfully dressed papas are tarnishing the name of the Christian faith. Especially when they are the only voice people hear.

They are misleading the masses.

It is painful to see the people who flock to these prophets and drink in their utterances regularly. Hundreds and at times thousands follow them on social media and tune in to listen to their talks or rants. These live broadcasts range from name-calling, slandering,self-declaration of their powers to mind-boggling laughter. I once stumbled upon one man of God who was offering to fix phones and electrical appliances during a live-streamed gathering! And all the people affirmed his call with praise. Worse still, people send their kwachas to men like these. Sincere in their efforts but extremely lost and misled.

We cannot keep silent.

False prophets who are proud, sensual and greedy for money will always be there (2 Pet 2). But we cannot allow them to be the only voices people hear. We cannot keep silent while they misrepresent our God and his Word. We cannot afford to let them misrepresent the Christian faith. We must give a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Pet 3:15). We must earnestly, graciously and boldly make a case of a rational and reasonable Christian message, without which life cannot make sense. We must not cast a blind eye on or laugh off these utterances. No matter how enticing they might be, we must call them for what they really are, false!

YOU HAVE CHANGED!

 "YOU HAVE CHANGED!" This is what people will often say with an accusatory tone—implying that you are not the person you used to be. There is something about your character, standards or actions that have changed. It could also mean that your priorities may have changed over the years. When any of this takes place in your life, some people around you will sadly take offence. Hence, the accusatory statement “you have changed.” So, is change necessary? Should people have the same character and priorities throughout their lives, or must we expect change? Granted, there is a change in attitude that thinks you are better than others by virtue of your status & that makes you unapproachable. That is pride! However, I would like to propose reasons why change is necessary for life.

1. Growing up calls and demands for change, and it comes with added and different responsibilities. We surely do not expect a 30-year-old to behave the same as when he was 20 years. The only people who refuse to change as they advance in years are those who refuse to grow up.

 2. Marriage is, by nature, a change of lifestyle and commitment. Priorities, commitments and sometimes friends change. One of the sources of conflict in marriage is the refusal to adjust lifestyles. When married people want to continue living as they did when they were single, they fail to appreciate their new life and responsibilities. You cannot hang out with the guys till kingdom come anymore as a married man. Marriage changes your budgeting, your programming and your character.

3. Parenting DEMANDS for change. And all the parents shout AMEN! You have more and greater work at home that requires your presence and attention. The way you do things will change, and your budgeting will definitely change. You do not float with your friends as and when you please. Before you have kids, you can just wake up and take a trip; you can decide to visit someone or eat out, invite friends, have game night into the early hours of the next day, etc. Oh, but when the little bundles of joy start coming, you have to be more structured and be more planning will go into each of those activities.

4. Christianity is a call to change. Before salvation, you lived in sin and pleased yourself (Eph. 2:1-3). When God graciously saves you, you are a new creation (2 Cor. 5:17-21), and you are called to live a different life for a different master. It is deception to claim you have been saved and transformed from your sinful life and yet, remain the same. Your commitment to God and God's people radically change.

Change is necessary. Progress, growth and maturity require and demand change. We must constantly evaluate and examine our character, actions, and priorities to make the necessary changes. Change is a good thing and should be expected such that the real question becomes, "WHY HAVEN'T YOU CHANGED?"

 

Navigating Cross-Cultural Relationships

The world is becoming smaller. It is becoming increasingly common that, wherever you live, you will find yourself relating with someone from another culture. This is true in workplaces, neighbourhoods and churches. When confronted with a different culture, there are three common reactions. There are those whose coping mechanism is to "avoid" and "isolate." They will only pursue friendships with their kind. They will have their own social hangouts, build their own living compounds and even do their own church. The second reaction is to attack the culture they do not understand because it is different. They will mock, misrepresent and even demonise the other culture's norms and practices; usually, this is done from ignorance. These reactions are driven by selfishness, pride and a stubborn refusal to learn from others. For the Christian, it is a failure to understand and apply the gospel. The third reaction to cultural diversity is embracing the challenges and the blessings that come with such relationships. It is a humble, gospel mindset to love, teach and learn from fellow believers. It is an attitude that pursues unity in humility while maintaining individuality. Allow me to illustrate this and then draw some concluding implications.

A Zambian mother decided to wrap her crying baby on her back. She instinctively picked the kid up and, in one motion, "threw" her on her back while picking a chitenge (Zambian material used to wrap a baby on the mother's back). A western woman, a mother herself, saw that and she was concerned for the baby's safety on her mother's back while the mother picked up the wrapper. Instinctively, she runs over to hold the baby from 'falling'. By the time she got there, the Zambian lady had wrapped up the baby and picked up her bag, ready to get on with business.

Was the Zambian woman careless with her baby? Not at all! She has wrapped up babies on her back for years! The chitenge is her unique tool, and the baby knows the drill. Was the Western woman wrong in showing concern? Not at all! That is her motherly instinct. She was faced with a new scenario, and in her mind, it was risky. Thankfully, the two women talked and laughed about this instructive and funny incident.

This is the nature of cross-cultural relationships. We have different ways of doing and looking at things (perspective), such that two people (mothers) with similar concerns (safety of a baby) will act and approach things differently and still be doing their duties faithfully and lovingly.  Therefore, in cross-cultural relationships, it is essential to note the following:

1. Clear, honest and respectful communication. We have to learn to ask questions to understand why others are doing what they are doing. We must also learn to answer, explain and clarify questions that others may have to help them understand. It is important to remember that other people from different cultures have lived for centuries without you.

2. Patience and tolerance; in light of the differences, we must exercise high patience and tolerance levels. We cannot be offended by every act or question. We must bear with one another when we do not understand each other's practices and norms. We must learn to communicate.

3. There are several ways of doing things. Sorry to burst your bubble, but your great grandmother's recipe is not the only way to cook! God has not commissioned you to get everyone to follow your way of doing things, and your practice is not the standard, so allow people to do things their way and learn what you can from them.

4. You do not have to express your opinion every time. There is a time to learn in silence. Trust me; the world will do just fine if they do not hear your opinion about every little thing! One hindrance to humble learning is our eagerness to express our opinions about everything. There is a place to watch & learn.

5. Have a sense of humour! Let us face it; there are things other cultures do that are just funny and crazy! People from a different culture will often say or do things that will not make sense. Those are precious gifts for laughter, do not waste them with your serious pettiness. Dwell with others with understanding and enjoy a good laugh!

That, in many ways, is the power of the gospel! It draws people from all tongues, tribes and nations, people of all ages and social statuses and make them one. It enables us to love the people God loves. Even though they are different from us, we can still pursue friendships with them. 

Christians, Politics and The Gospel

Whatever your views on politics or your political party affiliations, we all cannot run away from the fact that the political atmosphere in our country has been toxic. The talk and thinking along tribal lines, the hatred portrayed through insults and violence, and the thuggery of cadres, to mention but a few, have characterized the past few weeks. To compound the matter, the leaders from the two major political parties were playing the blame game while casting a blind eye to the unsavoury and evil acts. Several Christians have rightly been disturbed by the state of affairs. So what is a Christian to do in such times?  

Submit to the governing authority 

This is probably a truth you know and may have heard several times in your Christian life, but do not be deceived into thinking that your obedience will come by the mere fact that you know it. We should appreciate the fact that when the Bible calls believers to submit to authority, in the Bible times, it was in the context where the rulers of the day were persecuting Christians. In this "arena," he called them to submit to the governing authorities. Refusing to submit to human authority is, in essence, refusing to submit to God's authority. Hear Paul's charge to the Romans:

 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. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those, who do wrong. Rom 13:1-3

Love your neighbour and your enemy 

When political lines are drawn and sides are picked, we get so charged up and set our minds on winning, whether it is an election, an argument or, in worse cases, a fight. In fact, not only do we want to win, but we want to do so in a way that shames the opponent. We become obsessed with being right that anyone with a different view is in our mind stupid and a fool whom we cannot stand. Such attitudes may be expected of non-believers; it should not be so for Christians. Not only are we to love our neighbours, but we are also to love our enemies and do good to those who harm us and thereby overcome evil with good. The hate speech, malicious slander, tribalism and violence should not be found among Christians who claim to be in the likeness of Christ. Christians should be filled with love, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, self-control and humility. We need to learn that it is possible to disagree with each other and yet, live in harmony. It is not only humane; it is Christian.

Fulfil your civic duties

We just fulfilled one such duty by voting. It is also our civic duty to respect and uphold the rule of law. Standing up and speaking out against injustice, regardless of who is perpetrating it, is not wrong. It is our civic duty to defend the vulnerable and ill-treated. We must do this peacefully and within the framework of the law. We cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand when we ought to be correcting wrongs. Be it in your workplace, at home, or on public platforms, stand for justice and do so with courage and love.

Rightly identify the problem.

Interestingly, everyone is agreed that we have problems as a country, but we are not all agreed as to what the problems are and, worse still, what the solutions should be. Part of the reason Christians are confused as to what their responsibility should be is confusion on how to identify the problem. Our country has many issues ranging from poverty, unemployment, corruption, poor health services, lack of proper infrastructure, bad roads to bad governance. However, our biggest problem is a moral one. Sin in the human heart is the biggest challenge and problem we face. It is because of sin that people are corrupt and selfish. It is because of sin that people steal and kill. It is because of sin that people abuse authority. Because of sin, lies, fights, slander, hatred, tribalism, and violence exist. Therefore, unless sin is rooted out of the human heart, any effort to stop sin is temporal and bound to fail as it simply removes the fruit and leaves the roots.

Believe in the power of the gospel. 

If sin is our biggest problem as a country, then the gospel of Jesus Christ is the only solution. Paul cries out, "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation". Elsewhere he says, "woe unto me if I do not preach Christ and him crucified." Paul lived in a time when rulers persecuted Christians, inequality was rampant, hatred and tribalism were common, and yet he preached the gospel. Many think this is a political problem that will not be solved except by a political strategy. Many Christians believe the only and best solution to dealing with the issues in our country is through political means, i.e. lobbying, demonstrations, press releases, and boycotts. However, Zambia's problem is not merely political, it is a moral one, and the only lasting solution is the gospel.

We are in a spiritual battle against worldly thinking and ideologies, and we can achieve victory over them only with the weapon of Scripture. Paul says: "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:3-5). The moral bankruptcy in our country is an indictment on the church of Jesus Christ. While evil and darkness are raging, where is the light of the gospel? Where is the light of Jesus shining in Christians in our society?

John MacArthur is spot on when he says, "We must reject all that is ungodly and false and never compromise God's standards of righteousness. We can do that in part by desiring the improvement of society's moral standards and by approving of measures that would conform government more toward righteousness. We do grieve over the rampant indecency, vulgarity, lack of courtesy and respect for others, deceitfulness, self-indulgent materialism, and violence that is corroding society. But in our efforts to support what is good and wholesome, reject what is evil and corrupt, and make a profoundly positive impact on our culture, we must use God's methods and maintain scriptural priorities." [1]

Trust in God

Guard your heart against despair and discouragement. God is not dead. He sits enthroned, and He is in absolute control of all the affairs of the earth. Rulers come and go, but God remains constant, and His reign is from everlasting to everlasting. Though we must grant civic leaders, their due respect, our confidence must not be in them. We should not view them as our "messiah." We must hold them accountable for their God-given stewardship. So, do not lose heart. Trust in God. Hope in the living, all-powerful, loving and all-wise King of Kings.

 

  [1] https://www.gty.org/library/articles/A124/christians-and-politics-part-1

 

WHY THIS WEEK'S ELECTIONS MATTER AND DO NOT MATTER

 No one needs reminding, really; we are all fully aware that we are going to the polls this week. Whether it is down to the increased interest in elections, or how the last elections ended in controversy or the increased political violence, this year's elections have a bite to them. The tension is real and evident. It almost feels like it is the calm before the storm. So, how important are these elections? I want to suggest that this week's elections matter, but in a real sense, they do not matter. Calm down, allow me to explain before you throw verbal stones and pangas at me.

WHY DO THE ELECTIONS MATTER?

They determine our policymakers for the next five years

The councillors, mayors, members of parliament and president we vote for this year will be the custodians of enormous responsibilities. They will be formulating, establishing and executing policies for the Country. Bills and statutory instruments will be passed that will affect all of us. There is a possibility we may even have an attempt at constitutional 'reform'. Therefore carefully consider who and how you vote.

They determine who drives our economy

If you are the apathetic type that cares very little about the laws, bills and policies of the land because you feel they do not affect your life, this point should get your attention. To put it simply, the state and direction of the economy affect your wallet and stomach. It affects your livelihood. The people we vote for are going to drive the economy directly; that should matter to you.

They determine the systems of operation for the Country

The people who will emerge victorious next week will be tasked with forming, directing, and empowering the Country's institutions and systems of operation. They will determine whether to fight or encourage corruption. They enhance or curtail injustice and anarchy. They will promote peace and freedom or fuel hatred and division. This is important, and you have a say.

They affect the future of our children

The decisions regarding our policies, the direction of the economy, and operations systems will have a lasting impact tomorrow. Right decisions will mean my children bear the fruit twenty years from now. While the wrong decisions will mean my children suffer from it decades from now. All that to say, these elections matter.

WHY DO THE ELECTIONS NOT MATTER?

They do not change your eternal destiny

In the Christian worldview, everything we do on our temporal journey here on earth is in preparation for eternity. We believe in and long for a time when our life will end, or the Lord will return to reign with those who have believed in Him for the forgiveness of sins. These elections, no matter the outcome of preceding blessing or suffering it comes with, cannot alter your eternal destiny. The Christian is secure in the hands of his Lord and Savior.

They do not change your Christian responsibility

Our responsibility before and after the elections will remain the same, love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and love your neighbour as yourself. In the home, fulfil your role as husband, wife, parent or child. In the Church, do the work of ministry and build others up. In the nation, be subject to the government of the day and be salt and light. The outcome of the elections may make these responsibilities harder to do, but they do not change what we called to do.

They do not change the Church's mission

The Church of Jesus Christ has its marching orders from its master to go and make disciples of all nations. She has been commissioned to go to the byways and the highways as the ambassador of Jesus Christ, pleading with all to be reconciled to God. She has been charged to gather and worship her God in spirit and truth. The outcome of the elections does not change the mission of the Church.

They do not change the plans of God

The Lord reigns! He has established his plans and purposes, and nothing can thwart those plans. The evil actions of men cannot frustrate the plans of God. Even calamity does not come to a city unless the Lord allows it (Amos 3:6). In His sovereign power and purposes, the Lord allows evil men to rule and evil actions to happen. In the same manner, that he allows righteous men to rule and righteous actions to happen. The comfort for the Child of God is that while these elections will determine, change or reelect leaders, they will not change the plans of God.

Dear Christian, as we vote and await the results of the elections, check your worldview. Ensure it is in line with the scriptures. Remember, these elections matter, but they do not matter!

Three Lessons from a Tough Year

 “Hope deferred makes the heart….” (Prov. 13:12). After a trying and uncertain 2020, many begun 2021 with high hopes. The turn of the year was supposed to be the turn of events. Covid 19 and all its effects of fear, death, disruption of our lives was to be the thing of the past. Then came the year 2021, shattering all the hopes and increasing the effects, leaving everyone exhausted, frustrated, fearful and despairing. Much can be said about the troubles of the last eighteen months, perceived and actual. However, I will content myself with asking what lessons we can learn? Let me share three with you. 

We are Finite and Frail

For all our efforts to appear strong and in control, we are remarkably frail people. It does not take much to unsettle and disrupt our lives. One message, one phone call, one action can quickly plunge us into a panic-inducing tragedy. If there is one thing the pandemic has reminded us of, we are a frail and finite people. We are here today and no more tomorrow. We may be seemingly healthy today and needing oxygen support the next.

Furthermore, there is nothing we can do to stop the tragedies of life. When we realise everything we have could be taken away in a moment, overwhelming and crippling fear fills our hearts. We painfully come to terms with the reality that we are not in control. A finite and frail man was created to be eternally dependent on the almighty sovereign God

We have too much Clatter.

In our frailty and finiteness, we tend to accumulate and hold on to fleeting things. This could be the material things we acquire and the programs and activities that fill up our lives. When closures and restrictions of a varying degree came into place last year, it became abundantly clear that we clatter our lives with things and activities. Many of which are unnecessary. When all has been said and done, the things we hold on to tightly are fading. When we all lie on our death beds, many of the things and activities we hold dear will count for nothing. The last year was a reminder to get perspective. 

We Need Community

We live in an individualistic society. However, for all our arrogant, self-centred individualism, we need community. We were created to live in a community (family), and the family is set up in a larger community. When we become Christians, we are saved to a community (church). One essential aspect of a healthy community is presence, doing life together. Ordinary though it may be, there is power and encouragement in physical presence. The year of Covid 19 has served as a reminder of how essential physical gathering is to our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. 

Crisis moments offer ministry opportunities and times of learning. Regardless of your opinions and convictions about Covid and its subsequent effects, it has provided us with many ministry opportunities and dished us with lessons. Are we serving and learning?

THREE SYMPTOMS OF A LIFELESS CHRISTIAN

 

One danger for Christians is that one can pretend to be what they are not. It is possible to go through the ceremonies or Christianity rituals' motions and yet be far away from God. One can say with their lips what they do not mean with their lives. It is possible to teach great truths of Scripture and assume because you have taught them you have lived them. Furthermore, it is possible for anyone to actively and faithfully serve and be involved in church programs and yet not know God. Just as it is possible to be free from scandals and still not be walking with the Lord. In light of these truths let me suggest three things that might indicate that you are not walking with the Lord.

Absence of confession and repentance for sin

One reality for a growing believer is the daily realization of his sinfulness due to daily beholding God's holiness (Isaiah 6:1-9). A Christian who is walking with the Lord is never under any illusion of their greatness or goodness; they instead always cry with the apostle Paul "wretched man that I am who will deliver me from this body of death?" However, like Paul, they do not remain in despair because they find comfort: "thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 7:24-25). A mark of Christians walking with the Lord is daily confession and repentance of their sins against God and man. A person who never acknowledges sin nor repents of it is a person whose relationship is not right with the Lord. A red flag should go off when someone habitually justifies, explains away, excuses, belittles, or shifts blame for their sins. You cannot walk with the Lord and not be in the habit of confessing and repenting of sin.

General apathy towards church life

While being active in church is not always a sign of spirituality, apathy toward and a lack of desire to be involved in the church's life is a sign of severe spiritual problems. It is a refusal to heed the exhortation of Scripture:

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:23-25.

It is important to note that other people's shortcomings and failures do not justify your apathy. Suppose you are not involved in the church's life because you think other believers are hypocrites (and they may well be). In that case, you are not in the habit of self-examination leading to daily confession and repentance. However, the church is not a community of the perfect—a gathering of disciples of Christ, who are progressively growing.

A critical spirit of other believers

People who do not regularly self-examine in the light of God's holiness often ooze with a rather disturbing self-righteousness in which they are not only apathetic toward the things of God, but they are also critical of those who are faithful in service. They will tell you everything that is wrong about you, inform you of how everything you did was wrong, and then advise on what you should have done.

"Among the seven deadly sins of medieval lore was sloth (accidie)—a state of hard-bitten, joyless apathy of spirit. There is a lot of it around today in Christian circles; the symptoms are personal inertia combined with critical cynicism about the churches and supercilious resentment of other Christians' initiative and enterprise. Behind this morbid and deadening condition often lies the wounded pride of one who thought he knew all aboutGod'sGod's ways in providence and then was made to learn by bitter and bewildering experience that he didn't.[1] 

Guard your heart against a dead Christianity which goes through the motions. Guard your heart against a deadly pride that thinks there is nothing wrong with you and convinces you of being good. Cultivate the habit of seeking God and enjoying communion with him. Do not underestimate the importance of your local church and attending to the various means of grace. Develop genuine friendships that will provide meaningful accountability so that you are daily walking with the Lord.

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[1] Packer, J.I., Knowing God. Downers Grove, Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 1973, pg 94.