SED M The How God's Grace is Enough In the Midst of the Unexpected BY GOD'S GRACE I AM. Migosi S.D.A Kisumu SED M Magazine CONTENTS 3. Growing in Grace Willis Juma 7. When God chased me Kemmie Ontita 8. At the foot of the cross Felix Aywaya 10. How can I be Ready? Lilian Nyakinya 12. The Grace of God Jill Amondi 14. Perspective - Be ye Holy Mephew Awuor 17. Migosi S.D.A School. 22. Contagious well being SwayaFaith 24. Dr. Young Fun filled bible stories for little ones . Keep Your Grace On BY OSUMBA ABOGE Titus 2:11-14 ''For the grace of God has appeared bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and savior, Christ Jesus, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.'' Listen, if a Bible concert was to be held for a week, I believe the crowd would definitely be smaller than the organizers and if the same Bible was meant to be read in a thousand years then I believe almost nobody would finish reading it. When I think of the Christ's crucifixtion on the cross, His hands nailed and head bleeding of pierces from the crown of thorns I see GRACE- a long and gentle process in my life, a trajectory of how a sad part of my life was turned so quietly by His unmerited love. And so the grace that saved a wretch like me reminds me of that moment I became aware of what God has been doing in my life for seasons and for years. His grace is always present and continous. The story of God's grace begins with man's sin in Gen.3 and runs through the entire Bible. Grace is not an excuse for us to continue in sin. The wonderful revelation of the story of grace I understand is that we have God's ability to keep us free from the bondage of sin. Grace is not an attitude of having a tolerance for sin rather one that is intolerant of sin. If we do not keep our Grace on, we allow the enemy a place to rob, kill and destroy the destiny that God has planned for our lives. Grace is the finished work of Christ that empowers us through faith to believe and receive His promises for today. God's grace is always good and when we purposes to dwell in it then we are destined to experience its abundance ''for by grace you have been saved through faith and this not from yourselves ,It is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do.'' Ephesians 2:8-9 I always thought I knew better, and that it was more fun to get into trouble rather than living for God. If it wasn't for the mercy and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, I would have never been able to make my way back to God and back to the church. And so just like Titus said that God has graciously purposed from eternity to redeem a people for Himself and to make all things new for His own glory, I invite you to spend special time with Jesus Christ in this first edition of the SEDAM Magazine as we learn and know why we receive mercy and grace from our savior and what it means to our Christian lifestyle. Be blessed!!! We believe in the power of prayer and we welcome everyone to commit us to the Lord through prayers as we work together to advance God's kingdom. SEDAM MAGAZINE 2 “Grace” is a precious word; one of the most popular and greatly cherished words in Christianity. It is generally defined as “God's favor toward the unworthy” or "undeserving;" those who have transgressed his law and sinned against him. And in Christian theology, it is described as the spontaneous, unmerited gift of the divine favor in the salvation of sinners. Unto the church in Rome, Paul said, "Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?" Romans 5:206:2 KJV. God's response to sin is grace and it is destined to "reign" over sin through righteousness unto eternal life. And because only a power or authority can reign, this means that grace is a ruling influence which God places in the heart of the repentant sinner "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith." Romans 1:16, 17 KJV. The gospel of Christ is here described as "the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth" because in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith. Thus, the gospel of Christ is the good news about the grace of God which is the power of God unto salvation through righteousness by faith. "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ." Titus 2:11-13 Grace is the mentor of the Christian's life. Therefore, grace is the divine power that helps man resist sin and experience revival of spiritual life. It is the divine power of God operating in the minds of men for their regeneration and sanctification. "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure." Philippians 2:13 KJV. And because God has placed the repentant sinner under his grace, sin does not maintain dominion over him. See Romans. Of his own experience Paul said, "And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, reproaches, necessities, persecutions and distress for Christ sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong." 2 Corinthians 12:710. The "thorn in the flesh" which he described as "the messenger of Satan" was to remain in him throughout his life, but God's grace would be sufficient for me. There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil. Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them. And the Lord said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the Lord, and said, from going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. ''Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?'' asked the Lord. ''Doth Job fear God for nought? Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to thy face. And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord." [see Job 1:1, 6-12.] Job had an irreproachable character: there was none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feared God and shunned evil. And because of SEDAM 3 that, the Lord made an hedge about him, about his house, and about all that he had. God blessed the work of his hands, and his substance increased in the land. This man Job stands in the Holy Writ as one of the men whom God had declared a righteous man. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might begiven to them that believe." [see Galatians 3:22 KJV]. All humanity fell in Adam, man was not to remain forever bound by the fetters of sin. God gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 'For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.' [see Romans 5:19 KJV] therefore "as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." [ see John1:12 KJV.] And Job is but one example of such men that received this power (God's saving grace). From satan's response [ see Job 1:8-11], two facts are made plain: that God blesses and plants a hedge around his faithful's that even satan cannot penetrate unless permitted by God. And secondly, that even if God permits the devil to touch them, he cannot stretch beyond the limit set by God. His response was indeed an admission of the fact that all that God had said about Job was true: he was a perfect man that feared God and hated evil. But being the father of lies, satan pegged Job's fidelity on material blessings and security that God had accorded him instead of the truth which he knew. Therefore, God challenged him to take away all the things that he spoke. Satan made Job's life a disaster; in a span of a few hours he lost all that he had. He brought suffering and loathsome disease to Job. His wife advised him to curse God that he may die, his friends accused him of being a hard hearted sinner, scorned and deserted him, yet his trust in God never wavered. All that remained of him was his life was hid with God. But "in all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly." [ see Job 1:22 KJV.] The grace of God was sufficient for him and God's strength was perfected in his weakness. And at the end, satan failed terribly. All that which the devil took away was restored double. Through Job's story, God always proves to all humanity that the character of Job was as a result of his saving grace. And that through the abundance of this grace, the just shall live by faith no matter the circumstances. Grace is the weapon that man needs at all times. Especially in these latter days of the earth's history when man is ever walking on Satan's enchanted ground suffering from various kinds of wants and buffeted by satan's darts. Therefore, acknowledging that "we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." [Hebrews 4:15, 16 KJV]. Our two most important needs are met at the throne of grace by "mercy" and "grace." So, not only is the grace of God abundant where sin is, it is also sufficient in our weaknesses. In both cases, man cannot recover himself, and it God's enabling by His grace that man overcomes and riseth. Evangelism - God lives and reigns; and He will give us all the help we need. It is our privilege at all times to draw strength and encouragement from His blessed promise, "My grace is sufficient for you."— Historical Sketches, p. 129. (1886). {Ev 98.2}. The Review and Herald - The religion of Christ is not what many think it is, nor what their lives represent it to be. The love of God in the soul will have a direct influence upon the life, and will call the intellect and the affections into active, healthful exercise. The child of God will not rest satisfied until he is clothed with the righteousness of Christ, and sustained by His life-giving power. When he sees a weakness in his character, it is not enough to confess it again and again; he must go to work with determination and energy to overcome his defects by building up opposite traits of character. He will not shun this work because it is difficult. Untiring energy is required of the Christian; but he is not obliged to work in his own strength; divine power awaits his demand. Every one who is sincerely striving for victory over self will appropriate the promise, "My grace is sufficient for thee." Through personal effort joined with the prayer of faith, the soul is trained. Day by day the character grows into the likeness of Christ; and finally, instead of being the sport of circumstances, instead of indulging selfishness and being carried away by light and trifling conversation, the man is master of his thoughts and words. It may cost a severe conflict to overcome habits which have been long indulged, but we may triumph through the grace of Christ. He invites us to learn of Him. He would have us practice selfcontrol, and be perfect in character, working that which is well pleasing in His sight. "By their fruits ye shall know them," is his own standard of judging character. {RH June 10, 1884, par. 9, 10} SEDAM 4 full picture of church members 3 Church data NOMADIC LARANA MAGAZINE | 24 GOD IS IN The faith of PURSUIT When God chased me. Kemmie Ontita, The SEDAM It all began few months ago when Alan- who had already joined the university's S.D.A group; JKUSDA, talked to his friend about Jesus during the lunch hour session as they were preparing for a mega evangelistic mission that was coming in a week's time. Since that afternoon, he couldn't get Alan's words out of his head. He started believing that God was real, but at the same time he wasn't willing to surrender his usual lifestyle of drinking, drugs and partying. Yet he couldn't escape the unvoiced suspicion his friend had told him about Jesus. Several times that week he found himself being compelled with flash backs. Then one morning he became so overwhelmed and his soul was so conflicted, feeling as if he was being pursued by the One he previously heard called ''Jesus the Son of God'' HIS RELENTLESS PURSUIT In the middle of this soul searching, his friend Alan suggested they go to the evangelistic campaign. It didn't take much convincing for him to agree he needed more time to clear his doubts. Being in the campaign was a beckoning for him to turn back and see how far he has gone down the road and how lost he was. How he could no longer trust himself to be able to retrace his steps back but rather rely on the one who called him back to show Photo credit and where to turn. him how Olivia Wilson / Liceria Co. But, Isn't this the situation everyone has been involved in?. Even the best of men God still had to track them down. Infact, God The grace of God soberly, righteously, and godly in the present world.'' Titus 2:11-12. Grace is really not love, but even bigger than love, because love is something I can have and God has, but grace is something only God has, grace is His undeserving favor towards me. To be in grace is to move away from sin, and so I must leave my sins for His grace is power over sin!. God being in pursuit with His grace puts me in a position of trust, obedience and reliance on Him to avoid getting lost over and over again. And if I keep on obeying myself, I will still be a servant of sin even though grace abounds! GOD FOLLOWS ; BECAUSE HE LOVES ONE THING is that this pursuit is It's simple, God said He wants me not only a move from a sinner to a back and now am I careful enough saved sinner, but the chase to see God's pursuit and turn back continues even after being saved. running straight into His arms, for God still pursues my heart that I He sought me once and He can do may move from glory to glory! God is in pursuit. ''I am sought of it again. There is a huge conflict between what my heart wants and them that asked not for me; I am found of them that sought me not; what my pursuer wants. I said, Behold me, behold me, unto BUT, grace, Oh yes! Grace. Is grace God's love too blinding that a nation that was not called by my He ignores my constant sin or is it name. I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious just Him being there to save me people, which walketh in a way every time I start following my own path?. ''For the grace of God that was not good, after their own thoughts; A people that provoketh that bringeth salvation hath me to anger continually to my appeared to all men, teaching us M A D I Cto | 2 4 face.' Isaiah 65:1-3N .OListen that, denying ungodliness and Him! worldly lusts, we should live had to visit Abraham and remind him of the promise of a son [Gen 18], and He also went chasing after Elijah when he gave up and felt overwhelmed wanting to die [1 Kings 19]. ''who hath saved us, and called us with an holly calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace'' 2 Tim 1:9. God loves me! God wants me, God's heart is gushing over me to embrace me in every way possible. And to think that the Creator of heaven and earth is after me is just striking! It simply speaks of a love so rich that God would run after me. SEDAM 7 A THE GROUND IS LEVEL AT THE FOOT OF THE CROSS the foot of the cross of Jesus Christ, there stood many gazing at the savior, mocking words coming from the soldiers, some telling him to save Himself. The savior however, was hanging on the cross still with His ever loving and compassionate heart. After they had crucified him, the very first words that came from Him were, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”[Luke 23:34]. These were amazing words that came from the savior at the cross. Christ forgives sins at the cross, He knows that His blood is for the remission of sins and so the mission to save that which was lost was very much on course at the cross. The exemplary manifestation of Christ’s forgiveness of sin was at the cross, when one of the malefactors, who was hanged asked Jesus Christ to remember him in His Kingdom, and the answer was sure, “Verily I say unto thee, Today, shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). The acceptance and forgiveness was instant at the foot of the cross and at such a point any other sinner who would have sort forgiveness would have gotten it since this is the main mission that took Christ to the cross. In the book Desire of Ages (DA 751.1-3) says, “The bystanders caught the words as the thief called Jesus Lord. The tone of the repentant man arrested their attention. Those who at the foot of the cross had been quarreling over Christ's garments, and casting lots upon His vesture, stopped to listen. Their angry tones were hushed. With bated breath they looked upon Christ, and waited for the response from those dying lips. As He spoke the words of promise, the dark cloud that seemed to enshroud the cross was pierced by a bright and living light. To the penitent thief came the perfect peace of acceptance with God. Christ in His humiliation was glorified. He who in all other eyes appeared to be conquered was a Conqueror. NOMADIC VOLUME II | 24 8 SEDAM 8 LARANA MAGAZINE He was acknowledged as the Sin Bearer.., I say unto thee today, Thou shalt be with Me in Paradise. Christ did not promise that the thief should be with Him in Paradise that day. He Himself did not go that day to Paradise. He slept in the tomb, and on the morning of the resurrection He said, "I am not yet ascended to My Father." [see John 20:17]. But on the day of the crucifixion, the day of apparent defeat and darkness, the promise was given. "Today" while dying upon the cross as a malefactor, Christ assures the poor sinner, Thou shalt be with Me in Paradise.” (DA 751.2-3) This forgiveness and the generosity of Christ’s purpose is what makes the ground level at the foot of the cross. At the foot of the cross of Jesus Christ, the only prerequisite is; repentance and confession of sins and the sinner would have his sins forgiven, blotted out, and would be ready to partake of the blessings that pour down when the times refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord (Acts 3:19)The level ground at the foot of the cross is further illustrated in the parable of the vineyard workers/labourers in Matthew chapter 20 where, the householder hired labourers at different times of the day; morning, third, sixth, and eleventh hours. When the time for reward came, all of them received the same reward of one penny beginning from the last to the first (Matthew 20: 8- 14) This parable shows how the ground becomes level at the foot of the cross, every penitent sinner is readily accepted and forgiven of his/her sins. It does not matter the time, as long as probation has not closed, the grace still abounds at the foot of the cross. Ellen G White in the book Christ Object Lessons, says “In the parable the first laborers agreed to Photo credit work for a stipulated sum, and they Olivia Wilson / Liceria Co. received the amount specified, nothing more. Those later hired believed the master's promise, "Whatsoever is right, that shall ye VOLUME receive."IIThey showed their confidence in him by asking no question in regard to wages. They trusted to his justice and equity. They were rewarded, not according to the amount of their labor, but according to the generosity of his purpose.” COL 397.1. “So, God desires us to trust in Him who justifieth the ungodly. His reward is given not according to our merit but according to His own purpose, "which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord." Ephesians 3:11. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us." Titus 3:5. And for those who trust in Him He will do "exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think." Ephesians 3:20.COL 397.2 The power of God is put in Romans 1:16-17, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, the just shall live by faith.” In these verses it is clear that the power of God is in regard to the preaching of the gospel of Christ, hence the preaching of the cross is not absolute except when it is the cross of Jesus Christ at Calvary. This clarification is important because any other cross is just as such and there could be no power at all that comes with such a cross. For instance, there were other two crosses of the malefactors where Christ was crucified at Calvary, however, there was not much significance with such crosses save for the cross of Jesus Christ. Until today there are many who still believe in the power of the cross but are in error in this belief, for instance, there are many who still carry graven images of the cross and even put the in their places of worship and accord them much reverence, which could simply pass into idolatry. The preaching of the gospel of Christ with the cross of Jesus Christ at the center stage is therefore the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth. “Not the amount of labor performed or its visible results but the spirit in which the work is done makes it of value with God. Those who came into the vineyard at the eleventh hour were thankful for an opportunity to work. Their hearts were full of gratitude to the one who had accepted them; and when at the close of the day the householder paid them for a full day's work, they were greatly surprised. They knew they had not earned such wages. And the kindness expressed in the countenance of their employer filled them with joy. They never forgot the goodness of the householder or the generous compensation they had received. Thus it is with the sinner who, knowing his unworthiness, has entered the Master's vineyard at the eleventh hour. His time of service seems so short, he feels that he is undeserving of reward, but he is filled with joy that God has accepted him at all. He works with a humble, trusting spirit, thankful for the privilege of being a co-worker with Christ. This spirit God delights to honor.” COL 397.3 It is therefore clear that the ground is level at the foot of the cross, and anyone who seeks the face of Christ at the foot of the cross will surely find and he/she will receive the pardon for since and shall be ready to go to Paradise. While the grace of God abounds, and before the close of probation come upon us when we reject the word and destruction comes upon us (Hosea 4:6) or when death/sleep comes upon us while still in the valley of decision, or when Christ leaves his High priesthood office and ends his intercessory work, just before He assumes the Kingship office, let us run to the foot of the cross where the ground is level for every penitent sinner. By Felix Aywaya. LARANA MAGAZINE SEDAM 9 8 ARE YOU READY ? T he coming of Christ is near, all signs and prophesies in the scripture being fulfilled points us to that fact. This is a fact that we must stay aware of and consciously remind ourselves of regularly, to avoid being like the foolish virgins who slept off and were caught unaware when the bridegroom returned. BUT HOW ? “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41 KJV Prayer is a powerful tool for every believer in Christ. It is a means of communication with God, establishing dominion on earth, and aligning yourself with God’s Will and His Word. There is no time when prayer has been more needed than now. We live in perilous times but we are not surprised or taken back by the events occurring because we know that these are the things that predate the second coming of Jesus Christ. Believers must stay in the place of prayer and be fervent as we await the coming of our Lord. Prayer doesn’t have to be a formal occasion done only at the special places or in your room on your knees. It can be done while driving, while walking, at school or work, or even while doing the dishes or cooking. Praying in the small moments throughout your day will help you to rely more on God help you know Him better. Prayer Is as Essential to Life as Daily Food—Daily prayer is as essential to growth in grace, and even to spiritual life itself, as is temporal food to physical wellbeing. We should accustom ourselves to often lift the thoughts to God in prayer. If the mind wanders, we must bring it back; by persevering effort, habit will finally make it easy. We cannot for one moment separate ourselves from Christ with safety. We may have His presence to attend us at every step, but only by observing the conditions which He has Himself laid down.—(Messages to Young People, 115.) Pr 17.1 Image: courtesy of adventist publishing ministry SEDAM 10 Prayer Is a Spiritual Necessity— Although Christ had given the promise to His disciples that they should receive the Holy Spirit, this did not remove the necessity of prayer. They prayed all the more earnestly; they continued in prayer with one accord. Prayer doesn’t have to be a formal occasion done only at the special places or in your room on your knees. Those who are now engaged in the solemn work of preparing a people for the coming of the Lord, should also continue in prayer.— (Gospel Workers, 371.) RUN FROM EVIL So much is going on the world today that can clutter up our relationship with God. In the book of 1John 2:15-16, John the revelator says; “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world the love of the Father is not in Him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the word”. The world today has presented to us a lot of snares that beset us so, bad influences from our peers keep dragging us down, even the blessings we have obtained can be a great snare if we think of them as what we deserve or our only source of happiness and we forget the source of the blessings, who is God the Father. The prayer of the Savior in Mathew 17:14-16 tell it all about the world and our citizenship “14 I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world”. Christ in His prayer reveals to us that, we are in the world but we are not of the world. That as we live in this world, we should know that our citizenship is not of the world. We are pilgrims who are on transit. We are to live a lifestyle of our citizenship, which is Heaven. We are not to worship the gods of the land, we are not practice what the people of the land practice, our lifestyle must be separate from that of the people of the land. Christian life is more than many take it to be. It does not consist wholly in gentleness, patience, meekness and kindliness. These graces are essential; but there is need also of courage, force, energy and perseverance. The path that Christ marks out is a narrow, selfdenying path. To enter that path and press on through difficulties and discouragements requires men who are more than weaklings (E.G.W; Higher Experience P39) “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” (2Timothy 2:22) Is that easy? Not at all. Fleeing from the evil desires that pull at us means spending a lot of time crying out to God and leaning on Him. Our Creator promises to honor our commitment to Him when we shun evil: PUT GOD FIRST Naturally, its easy for man to put self-first, actually, self is one of our great enemies if we are half converted. When something good happens, we want to congratulate ourselves with a reward. When something bad happens, we want to console ourselves or find someone to blame. In other words, we often have a “me-centric” starting point. We know according to Scripture that we should put God first in our lives, but how can we practically do so? “Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” Matthew 22:29 KJV The Word of God contains all the reminder we need about the end times and the second coming Job responded at his time of need What? Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?” Job 2: 10. In order to put God first, we must put it into action and prioritize our commitments to Him above all else. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Hebrews 10:25 Don’t seek to get glory, fame, or riches for yourself; seek to build God’s kingdom first and all the things that you need will be added to you. The Lord promise to supply all our needs if only we live in obedience to Him, Deuteronomy 28: 1. Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.” Jesus calls us to share the Gospel with everyone that we come across, even though it’s uncomfortable. Swallowing your fear and getting out of your comfort zone to share your faith with others is a great opportunity to put God first in your life and make God known to others. “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 4:17 KJV We can evangelize more by deeds than by words. As we go out to call people to Christ, our lifestyles should be consistent to our words. 2Cor 12:10 Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong. Matthew 5:48 Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Lilian Nyakinya, Women Ministries leader SEDAM 11 The Ever Common, Justifying, Glorifying, Sustaining and Sanctifying Grace of God. Reconciled by His death for my sin Justified by His life pure and clean Sanctified by obeying His word Glorified when returneth my Lord. By Jill Amondi, JKUAT and The Sedam magazine Jill in her narration says that life, as we know, is very unpredictable. When we wake up in the morning, we sometimes have plans on how we would want to spend our days, oblivious of what the next second, minute or hour holds. Last year, in the 3rd quarter, the Sabbath-school lesson study was about being In the Crucible with Christ. ''Crucibles'' were defined as situations of severe trial that lead to the creation of something new. Even today, we often find ourselves in some of these situations as a result of sin that dwells in this world. Some are due to the temptations from the evil one. Then there are some challenges that we go through, which eventually purify us and cause us to mature in our walk with Christ. ''Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.'' 1 Peter 4:12-13. The eleventh and twelfth chapters of 2nd Corinthians are a testament from the apostle of how much he had to suffer for Christ’s sake. It is quite interesting that Paul actually boasts about all these things. But the truth is, it takes a lot of God’s grace to get to that point. Grace is simply God’s unmerited favor that He extends to humanity through Christ's sacrifice on the cross. It is the means of Salvation and the power to live a Christ-like life. It is bestowed upon us as a gift, not of our works, but by the merits of God's unconditional love. The Bible, for the first time, mentions God's grace in Genesis 6: 8, "But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord." A Commentary on Paul titled , Sketches from the Life of Paul (LP), highlights the context of 2nd Corinthians 12:7-10. ''And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.'' Undoubtedly, God's grace is abundantly immeasurable. Just like his unconditional love, His grace is infinitely limitless. But based on how they are commonly manifested, we can, by our human perceptions,, categorize them for the sake of this sharing, and generally for better understanding. Common grace-This is expressed as God's kindness to all his creatures, as evident by his equal gift of life and breath to everyone, and all things that he created. Paul reminds us of this when He says that God gives to all life, breath and all things. (Acts 17:25). Justifying Grace-This is the act of God declaring a sinner righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. This means that when a person accepts Christ, God credits them with Christ's righteousness, and they are no longer under the penalty of sin. It is a gift of grace because, by our fallen human standards and sinful nature, we cannot attain Christ's perfect righteousness by our works, thus, Justification is given us as God's grace to the fallen mankind. Sanctifying Grace-As we mentioned above that Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord, (Genesis 6: 8), in the next verse(9) the Bible states that even after that, He walked with the Lord. Sanctification is the ongoing process of being transformed into Christ's likeness. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers can overcome sin and live a life that is pleasing to God. It is by this grace that we are transformed from glory to glory into the image of Christ. Glorifying Grace-This can be precisely understood as the grace that will enable us to be fully conformed to the image of Christ in the New Creation. Sustaining Grace- God’s sustaining grace carries us through tough moments in life. In John 16:33, Christ assures us that in this world we will have tribulation but He encourages us to be of good cheer because He has overcome the world. This promise is what keeps us when we face the curveballs we encounter. The depression of spirits from which apostle Paul suffered was, however, attributable in a great degree to bodily infirmities, which made him very restless when not engaged in active service. But when working for the salvation of souls, he rose superior to physical debility. He felt that the disease under which he suffered was a terrible impediment to him in his great work, and repeatedly besought the Lord to relieve him. God did not see fit to answer his prayers in this respect, though he gave him assurance that divine grace should be sufficient for him." LP 175.4 I strongly believe that God has not changed His ways of dealing with His children. The Bible reaffirms that He is the same yesterday, today and forever SEDAM 12 (Heb 13:8). To prove just that, I got testimonies from two of my close friends whom I have witnessed God's marvelous grace in their lives. I hope their stories encourage us all to stay in God’s grace. Awuor's Testimony Last year (2022) was one of the most difficult years of my life yet and my greatest lessons were that one, everything is temporary; moments, feelings, people, flowers and even life itself and secondly, God will always come through and He’ll be constant in the highs and lows of life. I Lost everything in a flash. Everything I had acquired for close to 4 years( materially to be specific) when the building I was living in during that time developed a fault and started sinking so it had to be brought down with all the belongings inside. This was really heartbreaking because it was literally a four year investment, I ended up struggling the most financially because I spent most of my money trying to get back on my feet as life had to go on, I was going through a transition which was painstaking because it was not really going as I wanted it to. I went through phases of feeling unworthy, unfulfilled and that took a toll on me mentally at times. While all these things were happening to me, I noticed the kind of love and immense support I received from friends andfamily and even people I never expected left me in so much awe of how God’s grace works. God provided someone during every hard phase I was going through to remind me of this grace; friends who would call constantly to pray with me, check up on me, send me monetary support and most importantly remind me that “God is GOOD”. I am reminded of a two verses which I really love 2nd Corinthians 12:9 ''But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.'' (KJV). Psalms 46:10 ''Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” So rest (be still) in His grace today. Now, I don’t have to do anything to earn His GRACE because it is free. Now, I live daily in His grace and I have a new definition of GRACE; God reaching above my chaos every day. God’s grace will always be sufficient, you can definitely bank on that. Just dress up because He will always show up for you Sometimes we may think that we have committed the worst sins in the world and feel like God will not hear our prayers. I am glad if you've ever felt that way because that is the time our good God wants you to come to Him. He will bestow His love on you like never before and your mouth will not cease to talk about Him just like the case of the woman at the well. In your deepest struggles, turn your eyes upon Jesus and He will turn your darkness into a bright light. Even when he puts you in a situation you don't understand, trust Him to see you through. I have seen Him work several times, and I know your case is not an exception. Let us stick more to Him like never before. Living a day at a time and growing daily. Let us pray never to fall but even when we fall, let us be eager to stand in Him. He will support you through the challenges that want to push you away from His presence. I almost lost it all because I felt it was time for vengeance from God. He will make me fail and now I will have nothing left but regrets. Our God does not work that way. In every situation, He wants us to see how much we need Him and He is ready to take it from there. Grace is simply God’s unmerited favor that He extends to humanity through Christ's sacrifice on the cross. It is the means of Salvation and the power to live a Christ-like life. It is bestowed upon us as a gift, not of our works, but by the merits of God's unconditional love. The Bible, for the first time, mentions God's grace in Genesis 6: 8, "But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord." Perspective Sis. Mephew Awuor, be ye holy. Better Living Church the lost, perishing man; therefore He offered His beloved Son to die for man's transgression. GRACE AMIDST THE UNEXPECTED BE YE HOLY ! be holy for i am holy. 'Holiness' is a key aspect in our Christian walk and well being yet so little discussed and emphasized. Few of us understand how this aspect is so important but still hope to inherit eternal life. Without Holiness, no one will inherit eternal life. Therefore it's essential, that we first of all understand why it is necessary, and it's intensity in our lives as children of the Most High. One may ask, is it possible to live a Holy life, in this sin-sick world where everything seem corrupted and the love of many waxed Cold? ( 2 Tim 3:1-5). ''And God saw everything that He had made,and behold, it was very good" (Gen 1:31).The Father and The Son had wrought together in the creation of the earth and every living thing upon it."Let us make man in our own image ."(Gen1: 26). Adam and Eve came from the hand of God a perfect being and beautiful (SR20.2).They were always covered with the light and glory of God such as the angels and as during there obedience to God ,this Light enshrouded them (SR21.1). GOD'S IDEA OF A HOME - EDEN The Lord had provided everything possible for man's happiness and even created the garden of Eden especially for them as a manifestation of His love and man had to be tested of his loyalty before they could be rendered eternally Secure. In the midst of the garden, near Amidst the unexpected, the unlimited favor of God's Grace is sufficient. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit"( Romans 8:1) .We are reconcilled to God through Christ (2 Cor 5:17) so that in Him we might become the Righteousness of God.(2 Cor 5:21). Despite our fallen nature that is enmity against God ( Roma 8:5), through Christ, we have been lifted high above angels and are secure a throne with Christ if we live believe in His merits. (Rev 4:21, John 3:16) We are called to be Holy through the tree of Life, stood the tree of knowleChrist our savior. He came to show us dge of good and evil ." This tree was especially designed of God to be the pled- that it is possible to live a Holy life in the midst of a sinful world and at the ge of their obedience, faith and love of end be accepted by God, making Him Him" (SR24.1)."You are free to eat from our Role Model ( Heb 12:1-14). Rightany tree in the garden ; but you must not eousness is very key in our lives for eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will Our Father is Righteous, if we claim to be His Children the same should be certainly die "( Gen 2:16-17)."They were to have His favor, and He was to converse in us,The Land that we await is Righteous (2 Peter 3:13)and the qualification with them and they with Him.Yet He did not place evil out of their reach."(SR24.2). to enter God's kingdom is the very Angels graciously and lovingly gave them Righteousness of God ( Christ ) that He the information they desired and distinctly stands ready to give ,if we hunger and informed them the tree of knowledge was thirst ( matt 5:6 ,Rev 21:6). placed in the garden to be a pledge of their "God wants us to be men of earnest mind, men with hearts uncorrupted , obedience and love to God and that God strong, brave, and determined to fight would not compel them to obey.( SR29.3; manfully in the struggle before them, 30.1). Satan's motives was also revealed and were assured of protection only if they that they may glorify God and bless obeyed.The consequences of disobedience humanity". Nothing but goodnes,purity, DIDandYOU KNOW? honesty holiness, can enter Heaven. was never left out either.(SR 30.2). The Lord knows you are young ,and He UNHOLINESS will help you to do right, and give you Man made his decision."Sorrow filled grace to obtain the entire victory at once; heaven, as it was realised that man was but persevere, keep trying. Say, I Will lost and that world, which God had creatDo Right, I Will Resist Evil, and the ed was to be filled with mortals doomed to Lord will help me".( AY 56.1) misery, sickness, and death and there was no way of escape for the offender.The "God did not call us to be impure but to whole family of Adam must die.( SR 42.1) live a Holy life. As obedient children, Christ is seen in an intense discussion with do not conform to the evil desires you the Father as the angels are in anxious to had when you lived in ignorance, But know what will come out of this, finally just as He who called you is Holy, so one possible way of saving the fallen race be Holy in all you do ; for it is written is found. Christ volunteers to pay the debt Be holy, because I am Holy."(1 Thess 4: on behalf of man."Christ life alone could 7; 1 Peter 1:14-16). be accepted of His father as a ransom for man ."( SR 43.2 ; 45.2) It was impossible for God to alter or change His Law to save SEDAM 20 SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST SCHOOL- MIGOSI Seventh- day Adventist School, Migosi was incepted in 1999. Since then, it has embraced holistic learning and nurturing physical, social, spiritual and mental faculties of a child. It began as a single stream and now hosts double streams from grade 1 to class 8. The school has made and is continuing to make strides in academics. SEDAM 17 SEVENTH- DAY ADVENTIST SCHOOL, MIGOSI Migosi S.D.A School has a total of 40 teachers and support staff. The teachers are to do more for their students than to impart a knowledge of books. Their position as guide and instructor of the youth is most responsible, for to them is given the work of molding mind and character. Those who undertake this work possess well-balanced, symmetrical characters. They are refined in manner, neat in dress, careful in all their habits; and they have that true Christian courtesy that wins confidence and respect. As stated in the Seventh- Day Adventist Schools policies that ''Our church schools need teachers who have high moral qualities, those who can be trusted, those who are sound in the faith and who have tact and patience, those who walk with God, only devout and consecrated men and women, who love children and can see in them souls to be saved for the Master, should be chosen as church school teachers'' Photo: Deric Osumba The school conducts spiritual programs every Friday directed toward whole-person development in preparation for this life and for eternal life. ''True education means more than the pursual of a certain course of study. It means more than a preparation for the life that is now is. It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man. It prepares the students for the joy of service in this world and for the higher joy of wider service in the world to come'' EDU pg.13 This well-rounded philosophy of learning reflects a far wider, allencompassing view of education than most schools would have. For the mind and the soul, as well as for the body, it is God's law that strength is acquired by effort. It is exercise that develops. In harmony with this law, God has provided in His word the means for mental and spiritual development. The Bible contains all the principles that men need to understand in order to be fitted either for this life or for the life to come. And these principles may be understood by all. No one with a spirit to appreciate its teaching can read a single passage from the Bible without gaining from it some helpful thought. But the most valuable teaching of the Bible is not to be gained by occasional or disconnected study. Its great system of truth is not so presented as to be discerned by the hasty or careless reader. Many of its treasures lie far beneath the surface, and can be obtained only by diligent research and continuous effort. The truths that go to make up the great whole must be searched out and gathered up, "here a little, and there a little." Isaiah 28:10. SEDAM 18 MIGOSI S.D.A Pictorials chess students being guided in naturing there talents Migosi S.D.A participate in the music and drama festivals competition. Broadly music department positively impacts our pupil's academic performance and assists in developing social skills by providing an outlet for creativity that is crucial to a child's development. Scouting helps learners develop academic skills, self-confidence, ethics, leadership skills, and citizenship skills that influence their adult lives. udents Migosi Pupils' showcasing there art skills during school events Lower grade learners attending swimming sessions as part of the school's cocurricular activity SEDAM 19 Christian Lifestyle Contagious is a state commonly used to refer to the process of Infectious diseases that spread from person to person. Contagious diseases are spread by contact, while infectious diseases are spread by bacteria, fungi, parasites, prions etc. These infectious agents are minutes that mostly are called pathogenic microorganisms. ' Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity' 'Dear friend, I am praying that everything prosper with you and that you be in good health as I know you are prospering spiritually' . 3 John 1:2 Ellen. G. White says to have good health, cease to transgress the laws of your being; cease to gratify a depraved appetite; eat simple food; dress healthfully, which will require modest simplicity; work healthfully; and you will not be sick. { Counsels on health 37.1 } It is a sin to be sick, for all sickness is the result of transgression. Many are suffering in consequence of the transgression of their parents. It is the duty of individuals to place themselves by correct habits in a better relation to health. ''Men and women should inform themselves in regard to the philosophy of health.'' {Counsels on health 37.2} The philosophy of well being according to world health organization, Health is a state of complete, physical, mental and social well- being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Health is more than just the absence of disorders or disabilities. Well being is commonly viewed as having seven dimensions; mental, physical, social, financial, spiritual, environmental and vocational. These dimensions are interdependent and influence each other . When one dimension of our well being is out of balance, the other dimensions are affected. Wellness is therefore not the absence of disease or infirmity. It is associated with intentions, choices and actions leading towards an optimal state of well life, aiming to get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every week. (ii)Eat more fresh food options, instead of processed food, including 5-10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. (iii)Take a break while studying to go for a brief walk. (iv)Educate yourself on the risks of all substances, including alcohol and cannabis. (v)Get adequate sleep (7-8 hours per night). (vi)Practice waking up at the same time each day to promote good sleep habits, prevent fatigue, and increase mental functioning. Social wellness is how we interact with our community and those around us. It includes healthy relationships, consent, communication skills and support systems. It is also about building a support system of family, friends, peers, and professionals. To enhance social health: (i)Have a balanced social and personal time. (ii)Be open-minded to new experiences and people. (iii) Seek out opportunities and be willing to meet new people and do new things (e.g. join a club or organization, play a team sport, volunteers, etc.). (iv)Understand how consent plays a role in all aspects of your social Physical wellness involves learning about disease and harm prevention, and life, with sexual partners interacting with new friends, with developing healthy habits that will peers, and more. enable to you to live a longer, happier (v)Volunteer in the community life. To enhance physical health; (i)Make regular exercise a part of your outreach activities. being so that instead of surviving you are thriving from the except of the seven dimensions of wellness. Physical wellness includes a variety of healthy behaviors including exercise, proper nutrition, healthy sleeping, sexual health and substance use. SEDAM 20 Contagious is a state commonly used to refer to the process of Infectious diseases that spread from person to person. Contagious diseases are spread by contact, while infectious diseases are spread by bacteria, fungi, parasites, prions etc. These infectious agents are minutes that mostly are called pathogenic microorganisms. ' Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity' 'Dear friend, I am praying that everything prosper with you and that you be in good health as I know you are prospering spiritually' . 3 John 1:2 Ellen. G. White says to have good health, cease to transgress the laws of your being; cease to gratify a depraved appetite; eat simple food; dress healthfully, which will require modest simplicity; work healthfully; and you will not be sick. { Counsels on health 37.1 } Spiritual wellness involves our set of beliefs, principles, and values that help give direction to our lives. It is seeking meaning and purpose in our everyday lives, which ultimately encourages wellness. To enhance spiritual health; (i)Take time for quiet reflection or prayer. (ii)Explore faith. (iii) Have an open discussion about values with friends, partner, or family members. Financial wellness is how our finances contribute to our overall wellness. It is the healthy relationship between your goals and your financial obligations. When someone is struggling financially, all aspects of their wellness are affected. To enhance financial health; (i) Practice the 10% principles on your spending Finally, it is of highest importance that physiology of life and body should occupy the first place among the studies selected for daily education and may God bless you with contagious health and prosperity. SEDAM 21 Young Faith Fun - filled Bible stories for younger ages NOAH'S ARK I Would really like to tell you a story of a man named Noah for he was humble and received grace from God. After Adam and Eve, there were more and more people in the earth. The years passed and more and more people were born. At that time, they lived until they were very very old and they started forgetting God and refused to follow His commandments. Noah lived at this time and unlike everyone else, he believed in God and did God's will. The Bible says Noah was a very righteous man but the other people were always doing all kinds of evil and bad things. It was so bad that God regretted creating people. And so, to put an end to all the evil things those people were doing, God decided that He would send heavy rains that will kill all animals, all plants and everyone who was doing evil things. God gives Grace to the Humble. James 4:6 KJV But God did not forget Noah. God did not want to let him die for he was humble and obedient to God. God then spoke to Noah and told him that a great flood with heavy rains will come upon the earth and destroy everything. God told Noah to build a big boat- an ark and told him to bring his family there. Noah had a wife and three sons - Shem, Ham and Japheth and there wives. God wanted to save all of them because they were humble and obedient. God also asked Noah to take a pair of all the animals and birds both male and female so that they may live on after the floods. Noah started building a huge boat as God instructed him to do and everyone who lived SEDAM 22 BY DERIC OSUMBA BIBLE TREASURE But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord Genesis 6:8 , KJV around him started saying Noah was strange and they started laughing at him and even mocking him and his family. But Noah and his family did not care what the people said and continued building every single thing as God told him. In that way, Noah showed that he was very humble. When the boat was finished, God asked Noah and his family to enter the boat and the animals and birds were also brought in as God instructed and they filled all the rooms in the ark then God closed the door of the ark Himself. Seven days passed without nothing happening and everyone continued laughing and mocking the ark. But then on the seventh day, it started raining like no one had seen before and the seas, oceans and rivers of the earth opened up and the whole earth was filled with water and flooded up and it lifted the ark and it floated. The water rose high and covered the mountains, trees and killed everything that did not enter the ark including everyone who laughed and mocked Noah and his family. For forty days and forty nights it rained until it became calm and only those who were in the ark remained alive. God then stopped the rains and the water started sinking and the ark stopped on top of a mountain. Noah then released a dove and it never came back meaning water had already sank and new life had began on the phase of the earth. God spoke to Noah and told him to go out of the ark. Noah and his family together with the animals left the ark for a new start. Once again Noah and his family did as God said and when they left the ark, Noah built an altar to God and made a sacrifice to God for He has saved him and his whole family for he has received grace. My prayer is; ''Help me Lord to always be humble and obedient just like Noah that I may also receive grace from God" I hope that is your prayer too. SEDAM 23 CAMP MEETING 2023 I WILL GO Camp meeting season is once again approaching and the church looks forward to the support of all members as we prepare to come together to commemorate a memorable week long spiritual event. If my people, which are called by my name , shall humble themselves, and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will i hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal there land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 SEDAM VOL 1