HOW WE GOT PEOPLE TO OUR WEDDING

We got married before Google Maps (or Global Positioning System) became a thing in Nigeria. I knew most people would travel through the lonely Ijebu-Ode, Epe to Ajah route for our wedding. Back then, it was difficult to describe that route. Some have testimonies of missing their way there.

With the help of my childhood friend, Ayodele, we made a road trip about two weeks to the wedding on that same route. We noted every landmark and every turn. We then composed a text message describing the way to everyone travelling that route. Anyone who called and asked for a description simply got a text from either of us and others we had shared with.

We received compliments after the wedding. Statements like, “Wow! the description was so detailed. We did not miss a turn till we got here”. What a joy it was for us. Much more, we had rest from incessant phone calls.

Beloved, there are guides for you on the journey of life that you must not take for granted. It is your GPS to get you safely into God’s ordained plans for you.

First, the Word of the Lord. Do not joke with studying and meditating on the Word. Do not shove your Bible aside and fall under the spell of “Let’s face reality”.

How can a young person live a clean life? By carefully reading the map of your Word. I’m single-minded in pursuit of you; don’t let me miss the road signs you’ve posted.

Psalms 119:9-10 MSG

Second, the Spirit of the Lord. Do not take the Coach, the Teacher, and the Guide for granted. You will struggle and stumble without Him. He will lead you into prepared places and preserve you with instructions from the plot and scheme of the evil one. He will comfort you. There are times he will convict you. You cannot do without Him.

God’s Spirit beckons. There are things to do and places to go!

Romans 8:12-14 MSG

Third, do you have teachers and mentors? This year, do not joke with discipleship. Do not let stubbornness and arrogance with a spice of ignorance keep you in a cycle. If the year is new, then you should also be renewed. Listen to teachers. Learn from godly models.

You must have heard this prophecy again:

Though your beginning was small, yet your latter end would increase abundantly.

Job 8:7 NKJV

And you must have said a loud Amen! Great. If you would not build a castle in the wind, let me show you what to add to your “Amen”:

“Just ask the previous generation. Pay attention to the experience of our ancestors. For we were born but yesterday and know nothing. Our days on earth are as fleeting as a shadow. But those who came before us will teach you. They will teach you the wisdom of old.

” Job 8:8-10 NLT

Go to teachers. Go and ask.

May this indeed be a new year for you and not just a repetition of the old you. May the new wine this new year not be a waste because the old skin refused to become new.

Happy “New” Year.

temilOluwa Ola, Eruwa