Shine Your L.A.M.P

By Dr. Okechukwu Nwaneri One morning, I came downstairs to my kitchen and felt some particles on the floor under my feet. I automatically proceeded to grab the broom to sweep up the particles. As I swept, I assumed that I got up everything but noticed that there was more that I didn’t see. So, I opened the wooden blinds and was able to see the particles that I missed better than if I didn’t have any light in the first place. The sunlight from the outside made it better for me to see what I was sweeping and gave me the assist to properly clean the mess that was around me.

The scripture reminds us in Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” The Word of God was designed and implemented to serve as lighthouse for believers to navigate through their personal storms, struggles, addictions and insecurities. When we struggle in the dark, we become slaves to our issues because of our shame and guilt. The Holy Spirit wants to help and prevent you from falling into those traps set by the enemy. Think about people who are alcoholics, they find peace in the bars and their escape lie within the bottle that they consume. People that struggle with pornography will not watch it out in the open; but behind closed doors where they feel security. When we live in darkness, God’s word is our first line of defense. It is the LAMP that puts us back on track towards our freedom.

The acronym for LAMP is: Luminate Anything that Muddles up your Progress. Our lives are illuminated by God's Word. When we keep God's Word in front of us, we will make trip-prone situations much less likely. When we use God’s word as a lamp, it will not be easy for us to be deceived. Following the light will allow us to see what the light unveils on the path ahead. The only time something could spring up in the dark is when we turn off the light (before we have actually reached our destination). Keep the word of God in your heart and let it light your path because the enemy is always lurking in the shadows and is waiting for you to slip up.

Prayer For the Men

Dear Heavenly Father, we come before you with humble hearts, seeking your strength and guidance for the men who face struggles, temptations, and challenges in their daily lives. We ask for your divine protection and wisdom to navigate the difficulties and obstacles that may come their way this week. Grant them the courage to stand firm in their faith, to resist temptations that lead them astray, and to overcome the trials that test their resolve. Fill their hearts with the assurance of your presence and the knowledge that you are their rock and their refuge in times of trouble. Give them the strength to persevere in the face of adversity, the wisdom to make righteous decisions, and the humility to seek your will above all else. May they find solace in your Word and draw inspiration from the promises laid out for those who trust in you. As it is written in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," we cling to this truth and declare it over the men who need a reminder of your empowering grace. May they find comfort in knowing that with you, all things are possible and that no challenge is too great to overcome with your help. We lift up all men in your care, trusting in your unfailing love and provision. May they walk in the light of your truth, guided by your hand, and strengthened by your Spirit. Grant them resilience in the face of adversity and peace in the midst of turmoil. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen