Someone Stole My Phone

Lessons from Losing My Phone

Recently, I embarked on writing my second book after publishing my first on Amazon. The process of creating a story filled with gripping scenes, including moments of horror and suspense, has been an exciting journey. Writing is like painting vivid pictures with words, and to make these scenes truly impactful, I immerse myself deeply into the world I create. Ironically, real life delivered its own dramatic twist during this creative endeavor—a moment I would never have imagined or scripted myself.

My phone, an Infinix Note 11 Pro that I purchased in April 2022 through hard-earned sweat and labor, was stolen. The loss left me with more than just the pain of losing a device—it sparked deep reflection on integrity, justice, and community values.

The theft wasn’t just an ordinary event. It was a deliberate act by someone smart enough to evade identification. Every effort to recover the phone has proven futile, and as the days passed, I realized something profound. The phone thief may have taken my physical property, but they’ve also handed me a lesson about life and how to respond in moments of loss.

I could choose anger, bitterness, or retaliation, but instead, I choose love, peace, and reconciliation. To the individual who took my phone: I hope you enjoy using it, even if only for a short while. However, I urge you to reflect on your actions. That phone represents more than just a device. It’s my tool for creativity, my "brain backup," holding countless ideas, projects, and personal memories.

I’ve always believed in fairness and justice. Growing up in Aradagun, Badagry, I’ve prided myself on being someone who never steals, someone content with what they have, and someone who believes in helping others. As a "big brother" to many in my community, I share what little I have, fostering a spirit of family and unity. That’s why this betrayal stings even more—it feels like a brother biting another brother.

Yet, I choose truce over war. I appeal to your sense of humanity and community. Return the phone within the next two days, and let love and peace continue to reign among us. If you don’t, you leave me no choice but to place the matter in spiritual hands.

This experience has taught me to value what I have even more and to rely on God in times of trial. I’m reminded of the importance of forgiveness and hope, even in difficult moments. Whether or not the phone is returned, I trust that God will provide for me in ways beyond my imagination.

As I move forward, I’ll keep my focus on my writing, drawing inspiration from life’s unpredictable twists. After all, every setback has the potential to be transformed into a stepping stone toward something greater.

To my readers, let this story be a reminder to value integrity, cherish peace, and never allow the actions of others to define your path. Sometimes, life hands us moments of loss to remind us of what truly matters.

For now, my story continues—both in life and in the pages of the book I’m creating. And to the person who took my phone, the choice is yours: peace or consequences. Choose wisely.

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How Restitution Reflects God’s Justice and Mercy

 Restitution is one of the most powerful ways to reflect the character of God in our lives. It is not just about righting a wrong—it is about aligning ourselves with God’s heart of justice and mercy. The concept of restitution is deeply rooted in Scripture, where God demonstrates that true repentance often requires action, not just words. Through restitution, we restore what was lost or damaged, and in doing so, we reflect God’s desire for justice while also extending His mercy to others.

In this blog post, we will explore how restitution reveals both God’s justice and mercy, and why it remains an essential principle for believers today.

1. The Biblical Foundation of Restitution

Restitution is a concept that appears throughout the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament. It involves restoring or compensating someone for something that was wrongfully taken, damaged, or lost. In the Mosaic Law, restitution was a legal and moral obligation, as seen in passages like:

• Exodus 22:1: “If someone steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters it or sells it, they must pay back five head of cattle for the ox and four sheep for the sheep.”

• Leviticus 6:4-5: “When they sin in any of these ways and realize their guilt, they must return what they have stolen or taken by extortion... They must make restitution in full, add a fifth of the value to it, and give it all to the owner on the day they present their guilt offering.”

These laws highlight God’s justice. He values fairness, equity, and the restoration of relationships. However, restitution wasn’t just a legal requirement—it was also an act of repentance that demonstrated a transformed heart. It wasn’t enough to simply say, “I’m sorry”; a person had to show their sincerity by making amends.

2. Restitution as a Reflection of God’s Justice

God’s justice is perfect, and restitution is one way it is carried out in human relationships. Justice requires that wrongs are acknowledged and corrected, and restitution provides a tangible way to make things right.

• It holds us accountable: Restitution ensures that we take responsibility for our actions. When we restore what we have wronged, it shows respect for the other person and upholds God’s standard of righteousness.

• It restores balance: God’s justice is about fairness and equity. Restitution restores what was lost, bringing balance to a broken situation and providing healing for both parties.

• It prevents further harm: When wrongs are left unaddressed, they often lead to bitterness, resentment, or further injustice. Restitution brings closure and peace, allowing both parties to move forward.

By practicing restitution, we demonstrate our commitment to living according to God’s standards of justice and fairness.

3. Restitution as a Reflection of God’s Mercy

While restitution reflects God’s justice, it is also a profound expression of His mercy. God does not demand restitution to punish us but to restore relationships and draw us closer to Him. His mercy is seen in how He invites us to make things right without condemnation, offering us grace in the process.

• It brings reconciliation: Restitution is not just about paying back a debt; it is about repairing relationships. God desires that we live in harmony with one another, and restitution paves the way for reconciliation and forgiveness.

• It demonstrates grace: When we make restitution, we often rely on God’s grace to do so. Whether it’s seeking forgiveness, returning what was lost, or compensating for damage, God strengthens us to fulfill our obligations while showing mercy to those we’ve wronged.

• It leads to spiritual growth: Restitution requires humility, courage, and repentance—all of which deepen our faith and relationship with God. Through this process, we experience His mercy firsthand, as He works in our hearts to restore us.

God’s ultimate act of mercy is seen in Jesus Christ, who paid the ultimate price for our sins. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the perfect example of how justice and mercy intersect. He bore the penalty for our sins, satisfying God’s justice, while offering us forgiveness and grace.

4. Practical Examples of Restitution Today

Restitution is not just an ancient concept—it is still relevant and necessary in our modern lives. Here are some practical examples of how restitution can be practiced today:

• Returning stolen or borrowed items: If you have taken something that doesn’t belong to you, return it and apologize for your actions.

• Paying back financial debts: Whether it’s repaying money owed to a friend or making up for a financial loss caused by your mistake, restitution involves taking steps to make things right.

• Making amends for hurtful words or actions: If your words or actions have caused harm to someone, seek their forgiveness and find ways to repair the damage, such as offering an apology or making a public correction.

• Restoring broken trust: Restitution may involve rebuilding trust through consistent actions over time. For example, if you’ve broken someone’s trust, show through your behavior that you are committed to change.

In each of these cases, restitution is an opportunity to reflect God’s justice and mercy by taking responsibility and seeking reconciliation.

5. The Spiritual Rewards of Restitution

When we make restitution, we align ourselves with God’s character and His desire for justice and mercy. The spiritual rewards of restitution are numerous:

• Peace with God: By obeying God’s command to make things right, we restore our fellowship with Him and experience His peace.

• Healing of relationships: Restitution helps to mend broken relationships, paving the way for reconciliation and unity.

• A clear conscience: When we take responsibility for our actions, we free ourselves from the guilt and shame of unresolved wrongs.

• A witness to others: By practicing restitution, we demonstrate the transformative power of God’s love and grace, becoming a light to those around us.

Restitution is not always easy, but it is always worth it. Through this act, we grow closer to God and reflect His justice and mercy to the world.

Conclusion

Restitution is a powerful way to reflect God’s justice and mercy in our lives. It reminds us of the seriousness of sin, the beauty of repentance, and the joy of restored relationships. By making amends for the wrongs we’ve done, we demonstrate a heart transformed by God’s love and grace.

As believers, we are called to live lives that reflect God’s character. Restitution is not just a duty—it is a privilege and a testimony of the God we serve. Let us strive to make things right, extend mercy to others, and walk in the path of righteousness that God has set before us.

Would you like to learn more about how to practice restitution in your life? Let us know in the comments below!

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How Do We Listen to God

Listening to God is one of the most important aspects of developing a deep, personal relationship with Him. But in a world full of distractions, it can often feel difficult to hear His voice or discern His guidance. However, God desires to communicate with His children, and He speaks to us in various ways—through the Bible, prayer, the Holy Spirit, circumstances, and others. Learning how to listen to God is essential for living a faithful life that aligns with His will.

In this blog post, we will explore how we can listen to God and discern His voice in our everyday lives.

1. Listen Through Scripture

The Bible is God’s written word, and it is the primary way in which God speaks to His people. The more familiar we become with Scripture, the more we can hear God’s voice. God has revealed His character, promises, and will in the pages of the Bible, and it is through this Word that we understand how to live in a way that pleases Him.

• Read regularly: Make time to read the Bible daily. Whether it’s a few verses or a full chapter, consistently engaging with Scripture helps you become familiar with God’s ways and thoughts.

• Meditate on His Word: Don't just read the Bible for information—meditate on it. Reflect on what God is saying to you personally through His Word. Allow Scripture to shape your heart and mind.

• Seek understanding: Ask God to give you insight and understanding as you read. The Holy Spirit helps us comprehend the deep truths of God’s Word, especially when we ask Him for wisdom.

As you immerse yourself in the Bible, you’ll find that God’s voice becomes clearer, guiding you in every area of life.

2. Listen Through Prayer

Prayer is the conversation between you and God. It’s not just about speaking to God, but also about listening to what He has to say. Many times, we approach prayer as a one-sided dialogue, but God also wants to speak to us in the quiet moments of prayer.

• Create space for silence: In your prayer time, allow for moments of silence where you can listen to God. This might mean sitting quietly after you’ve spoken your requests or simply waiting on the Lord to speak to your heart.

• Listen for His gentle nudges: Sometimes God speaks to us in a still, small voice, or through a sense of peace or conviction in our hearts. Be attentive to these nudges, as they often carry God’s guidance.

• Ask for guidance: When you pray, don’t hesitate to ask God to speak to you clearly about a particular decision or concern in your life. Trust that He will answer, even if the response comes gradually or in unexpected ways.

Prayer isn’t just about telling God your needs; it’s about cultivating a relationship with Him where you both speak and listen. Through prayer, you can hear God’s heart for you and for others.

3. Listen Through the Holy Spirit

When you become a believer, the Holy Spirit comes to live inside of you. One of the Holy Spirit’s roles is to guide and direct your life, helping you discern God’s voice. He speaks in many ways, often through a sense of inner peace, conviction, or a prompting in your heart.

• Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading: The Holy Spirit may guide you in specific situations—whether it's a decision you’re making, how to respond to a situation, or even just a feeling of peace or unease about a certain path. Pay attention to these inner promptings.

• Trust His guidance: Sometimes the Holy Spirit guides us in ways that don’t always make sense to us immediately. Trust that He knows what is best for you and that His guidance is always in line with God's will for your life.

• Ask for the Holy Spirit's help: If you're uncertain about something, ask the Holy Spirit to give you clarity. The Bible tells us that the Spirit is a helper, teacher, and comforter, and He is always ready to assist us when we seek His guidance.

As you listen to the Holy Spirit, you'll learn to recognize His voice more clearly and follow His lead with confidence.

4. Listen Through Circumstances

God often speaks to us through the events and circumstances of our lives. Sometimes, doors open or close in ways that seem to be God’s direct response to our prayers. These circumstances can be a form of guidance, helping us understand what God is doing in our lives.

• Pay attention to what’s happening around you: Reflect on the circumstances you’re facing. Are there any patterns or events that seem to be pointing you in a particular direction? While not every event is a message from God, it’s important to be attentive to what’s happening in your life.

• Seek God’s perspective: When faced with challenges or decisions, ask God to help you understand what He might be trying to teach you. Sometimes, difficulties are used by God to strengthen our faith or draw us closer to Him.

• Be open to God's redirection: If things aren’t going as planned or a situation doesn’t work out, consider that God may be redirecting you. Trust that His plan is always better than your own, even if it doesn’t make sense at the time.

By listening to the circumstances around you and seeking God’s perspective, you can better understand how He is guiding your life.

5. Listen Through Godly Counsel

God often speaks to us through other believers—whether through pastors, mentors, friends, or family members. The Bible encourages us to seek wisdom from others who are spiritually mature and can offer godly advice.

• Seek counsel from trusted believers: If you're facing a tough decision, seek advice from people who have a strong relationship with God. They can offer insight that aligns with biblical principles and help you discern God's will.

• Take time to process advice: When you receive counsel, take time to pray and reflect on it. It’s important to ensure that the advice you receive aligns with Scripture and God’s guidance for your life.

• Look for confirmation: Often, God will confirm His direction through multiple sources. If you hear the same message from different people or feel a sense of peace about a decision, it’s likely that God is affirming that choice.

God uses others to help us grow and navigate our journey. By listening to godly counsel, we can discern His voice more clearly.

Conclusion: Cultivating a Heart to Hear

Learning to listen to God requires patience, practice, and an open heart. God desires to communicate with His children, and as we grow in our relationship with Him, we become better equipped to hear His voice. Whether through Scripture, prayer, the Holy Spirit, circumstances, or godly counsel, God is always speaking to us. Our job is to tune our hearts and minds to listen.

Remember that listening to God is not just about hearing His voice—it’s about responding in faith and obedience. As you learn to listen to God’s guidance, you will grow in your walk with Him and be led in the path of His perfect will.

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How to Build a Strong Foundation of Faith in Your Children

 

As parents, one of the most important responsibilities we have is to guide our children in developing a strong, lasting foundation of faith. The world is filled with distractions, challenges, and competing values that can easily pull children away from the path of truth. That’s why it’s essential to instill in them a solid spiritual foundation rooted in a personal relationship with God.

Building a strong foundation of faith in your children is not a one-time event, but a lifelong process. It involves teaching them biblical truths, modeling a Christ-like life, and creating an environment that nurtures their spiritual growth. In this blog post, we will explore practical steps to help you build a strong foundation of faith in your children.

1. Make Faith a Priority in Your Home

The foundation of faith begins in the home. As parents, you set the tone for what is most important in your family’s life. If you want your children to have a strong relationship with God, make faith a central part of your family culture.

• Daily devotions and prayer: Start and end the day with family prayer and Bible reading. These simple, consistent practices create an environment where your children see faith as part of everyday life, not just something that happens on Sundays.

• Living out your faith: Children learn best by example. Show your kids what it looks like to live out your faith in your daily actions. Let them see you pray, read the Bible, serve others, and practice forgiveness. Your example will speak louder than words.

By making faith a priority, you are giving your children a solid foundation to build upon.

2. Teach Them the Word of God

The Bible is the ultimate source of truth, and teaching your children God’s Word is one of the most important things you can do to strengthen their faith. Children need to know the stories of the Bible, the character of God, and the principles that guide Christian living.

• Bible stories and lessons: Read Bible stories with your children regularly and explain the meaning behind them. Help them understand the significance of God’s promises and how they apply to their lives.

• Memory verses: Encourage your children to memorize scripture. This practice not only helps them internalize God’s Word, but it also equips them with the truths they need to face life’s challenges.

• Interactive learning: Use creative ways to teach biblical truths, such as Bible games, arts and crafts, or songs. Engaging your children with fun activities will help them remember and enjoy learning about God.

The Word of God is living and active, and when children are immersed in it from a young age, it lays a foundation for their spiritual growth and guides them throughout life.

3. Encourage Personal Prayer and Worship

A strong foundation of faith involves more than just learning about God; it also involves developing a personal relationship with Him. Encourage your children to talk to God through prayer and to worship Him from the heart.

• Teach them to pray: Help your children understand that prayer is simply talking to God. Encourage them to pray regularly, whether it's for themselves, their family, or others. Let them know that God listens to their prayers and that He cares about every detail of their lives.

• Worship together: Set aside time to worship together as a family, whether it’s singing praise songs, attending church services, or participating in family devotionals. Worship fosters a deep sense of connection with God and strengthens your children’s faith.

When children learn to pray and worship on their own, they develop a personal relationship with God that will sustain them throughout their lives.

4. Build a Supportive Christian Community

While the home is the primary place where faith is nurtured, it’s also important for children to be part of a supportive Christian community. Surrounding your children with like-minded believers will help them grow in their faith and provide them with positive role models.

• Church involvement: Attend church regularly as a family and encourage your children to participate in youth programs, Sunday school, or Bible studies. These experiences provide opportunities for spiritual growth and help children build friendships with others who share their faith.

• Christian friendships: Help your children form friendships with other believers who will encourage them in their faith. A strong support network can help them stay grounded in their beliefs, especially when they encounter challenges or peer pressure.

A supportive Christian community offers encouragement, accountability, and a sense of belonging, all of which are essential in helping your children grow in their faith.

5. Teach Them to Serve Others

A strong foundation of faith is not only about receiving God’s love but also about sharing that love with others. Teaching your children to serve others helps them develop compassion, humility, and a heart for God’s Kingdom.

• Lead by example: Show your children how to serve others by volunteering as a family or helping those in need in your community. Whether it's serving at a food bank, visiting the elderly, or helping a neighbor, demonstrating service teaches children the importance of living out their faith.

• Involve them in acts of kindness: Encourage your children to look for opportunities to serve in their own lives. Teach them to be kind to their friends, help at school, or assist with chores at home. Small acts of service can have a big impact on their hearts.

By teaching children to serve others, you are helping them live out the values of the Kingdom of God and develop a faith that is active and compassionate.

6. Encourage Questions and Open Conversations

Faith is a journey, and your children will inevitably have questions about God, the Bible, and life. Create an environment where they feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their doubts or concerns.

• Be open and patient: When your children ask questions about faith, answer them thoughtfully and with patience. Don’t shy away from tough topics; instead, use them as opportunities to explore the truth of God’s Word together.

• Create space for dialogue: Set aside time for family discussions about faith, prayer, and the challenges of living as a Christian in today’s world. Encouraging open conversations allows children to process their beliefs and grow in their understanding of God.

When children know they can ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations about faith, they feel supported and are more likely to develop a deeper understanding of God’s truth.

Conclusion: A Lifelong Commitment to Faith

Building a strong foundation of faith in your children is an ongoing process that requires intentional effort, love, and prayer. By prioritizing faith, teaching them the Word of God, encouraging prayer and worship, providing a supportive Christian community, modeling service, and fostering open conversations, you are laying the groundwork for a lifelong relationship with God.

Remember, the goal is not just to teach your children about faith but to help them experience it for themselves. As you guide them on their spiritual journey, trust that God will work in their hearts and lead them to a deep, personal faith in Him.

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Living Out Your Faith: How to Be a Light to the World

 As Christians, we are called not only to believe in Jesus Christ but to actively live out our faith in a way that reflects His love, grace, and truth to the world. Jesus Himself called us to be the light of the world, saying in 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. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Being a light in the world is not about being perfect or always having all the answers; it’s about reflecting God’s love and living out the truth of the gospel in a way that draws others to Him. In this post, we will explore practical ways to live out your faith and be a light to the world.

1. Live with Integrity and Authenticity

The first step in being a light to the world is living with integrity. Integrity means living in alignment with the values we claim to believe in. When our actions reflect our faith, others are able to see the genuineness of our beliefs.

• Be honest and trustworthy: When we live truthfully, both in our words and actions, we display the character of God, who is the ultimate truth. People are drawn to authenticity, and our honesty can become a beacon to others.

• Practice what you preach: It’s easy to say the right things, but true light shines when we put our words into action. Whether it’s in our families, workplaces, or communities, living according to God’s Word speaks volumes about our faith.

Living with integrity allows us to be consistent witnesses of the gospel, showing the world that our faith isn’t just a set of beliefs—it’s a way of life.

2. Show Love and Compassion

Jesus exemplified perfect love and compassion, and He calls us to do the same. To be a light in this world, we must actively show love to others—especially those who are marginalized, hurting, or difficult to love.

• Love your neighbors: The greatest commandment is to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37-39). Our love should not be limited to those who are easy to love, but extended to everyone, including our enemies.

• Serve others: Acts of kindness, big or small, reflect God’s love for us. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, volunteering at a shelter, or simply listening to someone in need, our acts of service can be a powerful way to shine the light of Christ in a dark world.

When we love others as Jesus loves us, we become a living reflection of His light. Our compassion opens hearts and invites others to experience the love of God.

3. Live with Purpose and Conviction

To be a light to the world, we must live with purpose and conviction. This means making decisions based on our faith and being intentional in how we use our time, talents, and resources.

• Let your actions reflect your values: It’s important to live out our faith in every area of our lives—whether it’s in our careers, relationships, or personal habits. Our decisions should be guided by biblical principles, and our lives should reflect the priorities of God’s Kingdom.

• Stand firm in your beliefs: In a world that often challenges our faith, it’s crucial to remain grounded in what we believe. Living with conviction means standing up for what is right, even when it’s unpopular, and being a bold witness for Christ in every circumstance.

When we live with purpose and conviction, we create opportunities to share the hope and truth of the gospel. Our lives become a testimony of God's faithfulness and goodness.

4. Be a Source of Hope in Difficult Times

The world is filled with pain, suffering, and uncertainty. As Christians, we are called to be a source of hope and encouragement to those around us, especially during challenging times.

• Point others to Christ: When people around us are struggling, we can offer them the hope of the gospel. Jesus is our ultimate source of hope, and when we point others to Him, we invite them to experience peace and joy that transcends circumstances.

• Provide comfort and support: Sometimes, being a light to the world means simply offering a listening ear, a kind word, or a helping hand. By offering emotional support and practical help, we demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways.

In times of crisis, our hope in Christ can shine the brightest. When others see our faith and trust in God, even in difficult circumstances, they are drawn to the hope that we have in Him.

5. Share the Gospel Boldly and Gracefully

One of the most powerful ways to be a light to the world is to share the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. The gospel is the ultimate source of light, and as believers, we are commissioned to share it with others.

• Be intentional about evangelism: Sharing the gospel doesn’t always require a sermon or a theological debate. Sometimes, it’s about having an open and honest conversation with a friend, coworker, or neighbor about the hope we have in Christ.

• Show grace in your words: While sharing the gospel is essential, it’s also important to do so with grace and kindness. We should always speak the truth in love, respecting others' perspectives while clearly communicating the hope and salvation found in Jesus.

By sharing the gospel, we invite others to experience the transformative power of God’s light. When people encounter the truth of Jesus, their lives are changed forever.

6. Be Prayerful and Depend on God

Finally, to be a light to the world, we must depend on God. It’s only by His power and grace that we can reflect His love and truth. Prayer is the foundation of our ability to live out our faith and be a light to others.

• Pray for guidance: Every day, we should seek God’s wisdom in how to live out our faith. When we pray, we invite God’s direction, strength, and grace into our lives.

• Pray for others: Our prayers should extend beyond our own needs. Pray for the people in your life—those who don’t know Christ, those who are struggling, and those who need encouragement. Prayer is a powerful way to intercede on behalf of others and allow God’s light to shine through us.

When we depend on God in prayer, we are empowered to live out our faith and be the light the world so desperately needs.

Conclusion: Living as the Light of the World

Being a light to the world is not a passive calling. It requires intentionality, sacrifice, and a willingness to live out our faith in every area of our lives. As we live with integrity, show love and compassion, stand firm in our convictions, and share the hope of the gospel, we shine the light of Christ in a dark world.

Remember, you are the light of the world. Let your light shine, so that others may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. As you reflect the love and truth of Jesus, you will inspire others to come to know Him and experience the hope that only He can give.

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