Sir. Abunerry

Devotion 2/8   Text: “ Choose life, that you and your offspring may live." - Deuteronomy 30:19  Dear Brothers and Sisters. Making the best decision can be difficult until you are clear about the consequences. We base our decisions on our needs, whether good or bad. We often overlook the future, especially when the immediate choice seems secure. This tendency to prioritise short-term gain can lead us astray.   The Israelites faced a dilemma of decision-making when entering the Promised Land. They had to choose between serving God and not. As Moses' life drew to a close, he prioritised his people's well-being and gathered the elders and the nation to teach them to think critically. In Deuteronomy 30:15, Moses presented the choice: "See, I have set before you life and good, and death and evil."   This choice is still relevant today. Serving God requires commitment, as it demands letting go of worldly attachments. However, loving God can make this decision ea...

Illustration only .  THE EXALTED CHRIST Devotion 1/8 Scripture: Hebrews 1:3-4 Introduction In most cases, we meet people who exalt or glorify others because they are either friends or relatives. Sometimes, they are honoured due to their achievements or professionalism. This can be positive, but exceeding a certain limit can encourage pride, which can eventually lead to downfall. Just as Satan, who exalted himself, was cast down by God. Reflection Thoughts Then, with that in mind, let us turn to the Word of God and see why Christ was exalted. While friends or relatives are exalted because they achieve professionalism, Christ was exalted because of His divine nature—a nature that no one, not even the angels or the prophets, possesses. He was also exalted because of His redemptive work: He purified humanity through shedding His blood on the cross for the forgiveness of sin, which supersedes the traditional ways of cleansing with animal blood. Therefore, as we reflect on our relationsh...

A Guide to Effective Leadership Devotion Thirty-One Joshua 24:15. “...But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. ” One day, I had a brief discussion with my colleague, who is a coach and manager of a local club. I asked him why he wanted to buy a player from my club, given that football in our town doesn't generate much revenue. His response stunned me when he said, “I want to create a legacy by winning many championship titles under my name.” Like my colleague, the coach, everyone craves a legacy. The question is, what kind of legacy should you as a leader strive to leave? When contemplating the greatest legacy a person or leader can leave, we see Joshua challenging his people to choose, saying, “...then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.” Joshua's dedication to leaving a meaningful legacy was based on serving God. He declared, “But as for ...

Dr. John Garang, Getty Image.  A Guide to Effective Leadership Devotion Thirty.   Scripture: James 3:13-18   Today, July 30th, South Sudan commemorates Dr. John Garang, its most revered leader, who tragically passed away in a plane crash in 2005. While the specifics of his wise leadership are not for public disclosure, its impact is undeniable. His wisdom and advocacy for protecting the country's resources led some to believe that his crash was intentional. Whatever the actual cause of his death, it is not the focus here; he was a wise leader who united the people in the liberation struggle. His leadership demonstrated the importance of guiding with wisdom, which is fundamental for effective leadership.   As we reflect on Dr. Garang's legacy, let us turn to the Bible for guidance. James underscores the importance of leading with wisdom for leaders. He urges leaders to embrace wisdom from above, which is pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, merciful, product...

A Guide to Effective Leadership Devotion Twenty-Nine Proverbs 11:2—"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Dear brothers and sisters,  Do you believe that everyone was born humble? Unfortunately, as we grow, we begin to be protective and drive our agenda above others because of the urge for superiority. Consider the story of Satan, who was once humble but developed arrogance after being assigned a prestigious position. His lack of humility led to his downfall. As Proverbs 11:2 reminds us, "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Humility is one of the key principles for effective leadership. We cannot govern the church of God or an organisation if we do not possess this truth. As leaders, we should strive to possess the humility that puts us right with God, like Christ, who humbled Himself to the point of death to be exalted. Therefore, let us leaders reflect on our leadership styles and ask ourselves: Are we se...

A Guide to Effective Leadership Devotion Twenty-eight "He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known." Proverbs 10:9 Did you know that integrity helps leaders walk confidently before and with others? Many lack security in their leadership because they lack integrity. Briefly, integrity refers to moral soundness, which shapes behaviours, values, and beliefs. Leaders must demonstrate this moral soundness to lead effectively. The Word of God emphasises integrity not only to believers but also to leaders, who should exemplify it. In Proverbs, Solomon said, “He who walks with integrity walks securely...” (10:9a), highlighting the importance of integrity in leadership. A leader is only safe from blame, corruption, and criticism when he follows the principle of moral soundness by controlling his behaviour, thoughts, and beliefs. If he does the opposite or betrays his walk, he is likely to be condemned (as a hypocrite, corrupt, looter,...

HOME BIBLE STUDY.  A Guide to Effective Leadership Devotion Twenty-Seven Scripture:  Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before unknown men. Proverbs 22:29 I have never seen an innovator lacking favour and support from even the poorest. Innovators are always smart and organised strategically, and they attract attention from the public. This is because people want to learn new things that they do not know. Innovative strategies are essential for effective leadership, as they enable leaders to excel in their plans and development. In our local church, we had difficulties meeting for Bible studies and prayer devotions as agreed. Time was unfavourable; members cited busy schedules as their excuses and ultimately never turned up for weekly devotion and Bible studies. After thorough research and prayerfulness, we organised home-to-home Bible studies (Bible Meeting Movement, BMM) instead of having the program at the church. Within a ...