DUNAMIS SEEDS OF DESTINY DEVOTIONAL FOR 15TH JULY, 2025 BY DR PAUL ENENCHE

TOPIC: LIVING WITH ETERNITY IN VIEW

SCRIPTURE: The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night… 2 PETER 3:9-10.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The end of earthly life on earth is the beginning of an endless life in eternity.

Genesis 1:27 makes it clear that man is an eternal being made in the Image and Likeness of an eternal God. The meaning of that is, everyone you see will live forever. To further buttress this, James 4:14 reveals that man’s life on earth is a temporary adventure, just a fraction of man’s overall life.

So, man’s life on earth is a temporary adventure. This implies that the end of earthly life is the beginning of an endless life in eternity. (Daniel 12:2). And it is to in 8 to to to either an everlasting life with God in Heaven or an everlasting contempt with satan in hell. The truth is, God does not desire for anyone to be lost in hell; rather, He desires for people to live with Him forever in heaven after their sojourn in the earth. In other words, God is not looking for whom to send to hell.

It is possible to hear some messages that sounds as if God’s satisfaction is how many people can end in hell. Scriptures make it clear that hell was not created for man (Matthew 25:41). Hell was prepared for the devil and his angels. It is only those who reject Christ and decide to end with the devil that will follow him to hell.66y But the point is, God has no desire for the loss of any soul (2 Peter 3:8-9).

Now, wisdom demands that we pay attention to our eternal destination, the place where we will spend the bulk of our lives.

That is why today, we are looking at what it means to live with eternity in view.

1. It is living in the present with the end in mind. Living in the present with the end in perspective (1Peter 4:7). You are alive today, but the end is in your mind.

2. It means living and conducting our life’s actions with eternity as a major consideration. Ecclesiastes 12:13 says, Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter, fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of a man. For God shall bring every work into judgment with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil.

Everything we do on the earth has eternal consequences.

3. It means living in the now with readiness and preparedness for eternity. That is, you are not trying to get prepared; you are living prepared (Matthew 25:13, Matthew 24:44-45).

4. It is living as strangers and pilgrims on the earth. This is living with the full knowledge that this world is not our home (1 Peter 2:11).

5. It is living in the world without forgetting yourself in the world. Living in the world without forgetting your eternal and heavenly citizenship (Philippians 3:20).

Beloved, don’t forget yourself in this world because one day, the curtains of eternity shall be drawn, and the world shall end.

Remember this: The end of earthly life is the beginning of endless life in eternity.

ASSIGNMENT(S):
1. Live ready in anticipation of Christ’s coming. Keep your spiritual temperature high.

2. Refuse to live in sin

3. Ask God for mercy if you have erred and make amends.

PRAYER: Lord, help me to live on earth as a pilgrim. I refuse to conform to the pattern of this world. Draw me closer to You Lord, in Jesus’ Name.

FOR FURTHER UNDERSTANDING, GET THIS MESSAGE: LIVING WITH ETERNITY IN VIEW

DAILY BIBLE READING: Isaiah 1-3

QUOTE: If you want to look like Christ, then look at Christ. What you look at determines what you will look like. Culled from the book, The Essence of Christianity by Dr Paul Enenche.

AMAZING FACT: A lion’s whiskers are highly sensitive, helping it to detect movement and objects in the dark.

PROPHETIC DECLARATION/WORD: Receive grace to live with heaven in perspective always in Jesus Name.

THE SCIENCE OF SIGNS

Semiotics is the study of signs. A sign comprises two components: the signifier is the denotative level, and the signified is the connotation. A sign can be an icon, symbol or index. An icon is physically similar to the object or what it stands for; its literal sense refers to the signifier, e.g. a photo of a tree or the letters that spell tree, while its connotative sign pertains to its meaning. A symbol pattern refers to an interpretive habit or a norm of a learned behaviour like a play or pause button. In contrast, an index correlates with sensory information, e.g., fire smoke or car skidding noise. Language serves as a sign that we can read ‘Lamborghini’, and it can evoke similar images in our mind by spelling the word.’ We all recognize that it denotes a car. However, the sign consists of letters of the alphabet, and its connotative level conveys a deeper meaning, e.g., wealth and status, exclusivity and prestige. On the level of associated myths, which is a secondary sign, it is a myth of success and freedom. Its cultural sign is tied to broader ideologies of wealth, individuality, and power. It serves as both a functional object and a social statement.

An English rose is a flower; however, a red rose can symbolise love, romance, and beauty. It is used in romantic settings, while yellow roses may have a different meaning and could be more appropriate in a friendship context. A sign is always interpreted in context. For example, if Warren Buffet were speaking about money, his context would generate a completely different vibe than that of a corrupt prosperity preacher. They are using the same dollar note, yet the meanings generated reflect two different attitudes, even though the money possesses no inherent meaning—it's merely paper representing currency. Its connotative meaning is always interpreted differently, depending on who we are, as we see life through our worldview. Someone who believes in the stories of a prosperity preacher will form a different image in the meaning-making mind compared to one who sees through his antics. We create the meaning.

The ocean can be a place of rest where people enjoy a leisurely swim, while for others, it may provoke fear if they have recently encountered a shark. So, even though it’s the same location, the interpretations of reality or the signified meaning can have different connotations. Consider the word marriage; in most people's minds, it represents a union between a male and a female, but in other cultures, marriage may encompass multiple wives. According to the Bible, marriage is only between two people. Same-sex marriage has been normalised in many cultures, while gender-based violence can be accepted in some, leading to a belief that it is acceptable for women to be abused in a cultural context.

Nowadays, due to the globalised internet, we must ensure we share a common conceptual map of the world when discussing various concepts. This way, when we interpret signs that represent concepts, we need a thorough analysis of what we mean to minimise the chances of misinterpretation. We should never assume that everyone will derive the same conative meaning from a sign. We might discover that individuals have attached different connotations. We must not assume that someone from a completely different nation will share that same value just because something is socially acceptable or unacceptable to us.

We don't simply knock on a stranger’s door expecting a warm welcome; it requires a level of trust and background knowledge. For that access, the people we trust are vital; that’s why we have boundaries. Yet, because we all begin reasoning from different social locations, cultures, and economic, scientific, technological, religious, and philosophical backgrounds, we will not share the same premises from which we make our decisions. No one has the same experiences. The fact that you grew up on a different street with a unique life experience already illustrates the law of difference. Even if you lived next door and were raised by Indian parents in a foreign land, it means you will experience life differently and interpret signs in a distinct way. It cannot be compared to your neighbour’s experiences.

Although we may share a conceptual understanding of the economic and political system socialisation has imparted similar lessons due to our common culture. It functions like a membrane, working collectively within the groups from which we originate. However, just as there are molecular cells and membranes, they represent different components of the whole, yet they unite in agreement to operate as one cell. That is akin to culture. It emerges through the socialisation of various systems: family, shared economy, shared education, shared politics, create common values. Consequently, we are more likely to interpret signs in a similar way. For instance, if another culture were to perceive the connotative meaning of a national flag, it would lack relativity to them; instead, it simply symbolizes a nation through its colours and symbols that represent something significant.

Thus, we must consider this when using language. Although it may be understood in English, it doesn't necessarily mean that the connotative level of the sign holds the same significance. Since our minds work so quickly in processing information, we rarely pause to dissect it and reach a deeper understanding of different perspectives, as this is part of the logic of viewpoint we gain from various places. It's fascinating to analyse thought processes to truly grasp why someone’s perspective matters. All too often, we dismiss people because their standpoint differs so much, yet we should take the time to comprehend the logic behind their thinking, as it originates from where they have gathered their information.

Something profound I've observed is that when someone speaks with authority, even if their words are full of deception, others may not be thorough enough to grasp all the nuances in the speech act. They fail to detect falsehoods because the speaker sounds so convincing, especially if they are a respected authority figure. Thus, at the level of the sign, the denotative meaning is shared, but the connotative meaning is interpreted differently. That’s why we must consider who is interpreting the sign and what the context is to reach deeper understandings. It’s essential to question all thinking, including my own. It doesn’t matter who the person is; we are all prone to human error. The only one who is perfect is God. We can make mistakes without even realising it. If we look around at all the deception in this world, every person who is convinced of that deception as the truth is real in their mind. You can see this in people who live in superstition, such as walking under a ladder. This is the second level of myth, where a new connotative meaning tells another story. While we know, hypothetically, that it is not the truth, some will not agree because that is how they perceive the world when they see someone walk under a ladder and believe it.

Currently, I have been listening to a man who has tremendous insight, claiming up to 90% truth. Yet, he has categorised Christianity alongside other religions and views Jesus merely as a mystic. However, he has misunderstood the meanings he preaches and acts as if he knows the Bible. Yet, his interpretation is so erroneous it's not funny, and he has millions who follow him. It is because he has not encountered the kingdom. I could explain all his teachings if he had the right source of knowledge, which starts with God. But if the wrong connotative meaning is inferred, it leads down the wrong path. Therefore, the study of the science of signs is vital in these last days.

What advice would you give to someone who is moving to Abuja, Nigeria?
Abuja is the city of packaging!

Before I moved to Abuja, i lived in Edo State, Benin City precisely. I do not know if you know Benin but it's a very quiet and “normal” city. I used to hear and read about “the Abuja lifestyle” and I always wondered why people did so much. Till i got a job and moved to Abuja.

I will tell you a story and i will drop my points (or advice) within my story.

I am an Architect by profession and for someone who had practiced mostly in Edo State and a few times in Lagos, bringing my practice to a mega city wasn't as easy as I envisioned.

••If you want to meet people, Abuja is the place but then to take the part, you have to look the part.

I finally secured a meeting with a potential client I met online. We fixed a date to meet at a choice restaurant in Wuse II.

••Transportation is pretty cheap in Abuja.

I live in Dutse. I took a taxi to Wuse market. It's #150 from Dutse, then i joined another to my destination, #100. When i got there, i came down from the taxi, looking sharp but a bit tired and my client was just driving in as well. I walked up to him, greeted him and introduced myself and he asked “Did your car break down?” I innocently replied and said “No sir, I do not have a car yet”.

I noticed his disposition changed a bit. He didn't say anything more, we went in, had the meeting and we dispersed. He even offered to drop me. But he doesn't call me back. 2 weeks later, i call him and I ask about his job. He says “well, I'm not quite sure about you. I do not know an Architect who doesn't have a car. How would you go to site? Would you be jumping taxis all the time? I got another person who is Mobile. Maybe next time”.

I was shocked. Mostly because where i was coming from, nobody had ever told me that i needed a car to design a brilliant structure for anyone. But i had learnt a lesson.

••If you have to live in Abuja, you MUST have a car, and a clean one at that. Its a necessity. Somehow, it affects how people look at you and weigh you.

I secured another meeting with another client and this time i was wise enough to use an UBER. I didn't lose this job entirely, i secured only the design aspect but i lost the construction(also because I wasn't mobile).

••In Abuja, accommodation is cheap in extreme areas but a little more expensive in town.

The problem with staying in these areas is that you don't get to meet a lot of people who would eventually add anything meaningful to your life, and then if you eventually meet someone in town, and you have meetings with the person, going back home can be very stressful.

••There is alot of fake life in Abuja, if you are not careful, you will fall a victim.

••There is night life in Abuja, its not a crazy as Lagos but then if you are someone who is an extrovert, you would discover some really nice places.

••Abuja will teach you naturally how to be classy.

••If you are someone who has low self esteem, you will be carried away. If you are someone who has “big eyes” you will indulge in corrupt practices- you will do anything to belong.

When moving to Abuja, Come with the mindset of building connections, meet people that will change and grow your business and then take you to the next level of greatness.

Beyond this, every other thing is a walkover!

20 days of Building a Network That Works For You

Day 1: Relationships Are Currency

A friend of mine once called me in tears.

She had missed out on her dream role.

Not because she lacked skills. She was brilliant and qualified. But when the opportunity came, it went to someone else, someone less qualified but connected.

I watched her work hard for years, believing expertise alone was enough. I advised her to start building relationships in her industry, but she didn’t listen.

She thought networking was unnecessary.
Until reality proved otherwise. Eventually, she came back, ready to learn. She began:

Showing up where industry leaders gathered (online & offline).
Commenting with insight, not just scrolling.
Sharing value and celebrating others publicly.
Staying connected, even when she didn’t need anything.

The next opportunity? She didn’t chase it. It found her. Your network is your currency. Skills will qualify you, but relationships will position you.

Most people wait until they need opportunities before they start networking. By then, it’s often too late.

Build relationships before you need them, so they will be there when you do.

Have you ever missed opportunities and seen others get it to simply because they had the right connections?

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I’m Kate Orock, Networking Coach. I help professionals connect, grow, and leverage their network for career success.

I’ve also authored Network Like a Pro, your practical, clear guide to building meaningful professional relationships.

DM me if you’re ready to start networking intentionally and want a copy of the book.

#Networking #CareerGrowth #NetworkLikeAPro #ProfessionalDevelopment #RelationshipsAreCurrency

Discover Your "Why":

Your "why" is the core reason behind everything you do—it's the foundation on which your goals stand and the source of true meaning in your actions. It represents the deep, personal motivation that fuels your dreams and ambitions, giving them life beyond just tasks or outcomes.

When you clearly identify your "why," you uncover the values, passions, and beliefs that drive your journey. This understanding becomes a powerful tool that helps you push through obstacles, stay focused when distractions arise, and bounce back stronger after setbacks. It’s not just about reaching a destination; it’s about embracing a purpose that makes every step meaningful.

Your "why" acts as both an emotional compass and a philosophical anchor. It links your daily efforts to your core principles and long-term aspirations, ensuring that your pursuit of success is not just effective but also deeply fulfilling and sustainable. In essence, knowing your "why" transforms your path into a purposeful journey of growth, resilience, and lasting achievement.

HAVE YOU ever wanted something badly, and then, once you got it, you were so sorry you had asked for it?

If this resonates with you can you please share your experience in the comment section, there's a lesson I would like to learn from your contributions and then share a meaningful message that will brighten your whole week!

Beloved, we should give our lives to God and stop thinking of ourselves. When we focus on Him, He will show us how to live a meaningful life. Each morning put God first and He will be faithful to help us live a life that pleases Him. Let us be encouraged to trust him and find joy in giving our lives to Him. (Eph 2v20)
Lord, l offer you all that l am and all that l have. I want to live for you, not for myself. I will keep my focus on you and start each day in conversation with you. You will always be my top priority... Amen.
Good morning, have a blessed and wonderful service.

Daily devotion for July 13th
Halfway Christians
Paul passed through the upper country and came to Ephesus, and found some disciples. He said to them, Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?

Acts 19:1b-2a
When Paul came to Ephesus he found men and women who had been told about Jesus, at least to the extent of the baptism of John. He obviously thought they were Christians when he first met them. But, as he watched them, he observed that something was missing, and I am sure there is puzzlement in his voice when finally he says to them, Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed? This question indicates that the normal Christian pattern is that the Spirit is given immediately upon belief in Jesus Christ. There is no suggestion here that the Spirit of God is given a long period after belief in Christ.

There are many people who believe in Jesus and yet who today do not evidence much sign of the work of the Holy Spirit. There are many churches in our land today where, as I am privileged sometimes to speak in them, I want to say to the people, Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed? There is no sign of it.

The Holy Spirit is given upon belief in the Lord Jesus, but that does not stop with one act of believing. We are to keep on believing in the Lord Jesus and thus to manifest his power and vitality in our lives. It is that continual act of believing which releases the freshness of the Spirit in our lives. Paul says to the Colossians, As you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so live in him... (Colossians 2:6 RSV). As you received him by an act of believing, keep on believing, walk in him, live in him, so that you might demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit.

So what is wrong if there is no evidence of the working of the Spirit? None of the joy, none of the grace, none of the power? It is because we are not believing in him. We believed in him once, but that believing has ceased. There is now no sense of expectancy, no fresh anticipation of his working in our lives today.

Are there signs of the Spirit of God in your life? Are his presence, his power, his working, the freshness, the vitality, the enthusiasm, the excitement of the Spirit visible in your Christian life? If not, you have ceased believing in Jesus. There must be this expectation of his working, for he makes himself available to us continually, moment by moment, to fulfill every demand life makes upon us, as we expect him to do so. That note of expectancy is the evidence, or the sign, of faith which marks the difference between the sterility, the deadness, and the dullness of religiosity without the Spirit, and the fullness, the freshness, and the vigor and power of a Spirit-filled life. So this question, addressed to these halfway Christians of long ago Ephesus, still has meaning for us today, as we understand the need for a continual act of faith in the Lord Jesus.

Lord Jesus, how frequently I fail to understand the truth of your promise that you have come to live within me. Grant to me anew, Lord, the faith to lay hold of this promise and to make visible in my life.

IMPORTANCE OF SAYING SORRY IN A RELATIONSHIP AND MARRIAGE WHEN YOU ARE WRONG

Apologizing is an essential part of maintaining a healthy, strong, and resilient relationship or marriage. It serves as a bridge to healing, restoring trust, and building a deeper connection with your partner. Here’s why saying sorry is so important:

WHY APOLOGIZE?

1. Acknowledges hurt or wrongdoing
An apology signals that you recognize the pain or harm caused by your actions, showing that you care about how your partner feels.

2. Shows empathy and understanding
It reflects an understanding of your partner's perspective and emotions, demonstrating that you value their feelings.

3. Diffuses tension and conflict
Apologizing helps to de-escalate difficult situations, calming emotions and clearing the air for healthy communication.

4. Rebuilds trust and credibility
A sincere apology demonstrates your willingness to take responsibility for your actions, which helps rebuild lost trust and re-establish credibility in your relationship.

5. Demonstrates accountability and responsibility
Apologizing shows you are accountable for your actions, accepting responsibility rather than deflecting blame.

6. Encourages forgiveness and healing
Saying sorry opens the door to forgiveness, allowing both partners to move forward and heal together.

7. Strengthens communication and intimacy
Apologizing fosters open, honest conversations, deepening emotional intimacy and mutual understanding.

8. Sets a positive example for conflict resolution
By apologizing, you teach the importance of humility, reconciliation, and healthy conflict resolution to others, especially children or those observing your relationship.

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BENEFITS OF APOLOGIZING

1. Reduces stress and anxiety
Apologies clear the air, easing emotional tension and creating a more peaceful environment.

2. Increases feelings of love and affection
A heartfelt apology can rekindle affection, making your partner feel valued and loved, even after a disagreement.

3. Improves communication and understanding
Apologizing encourages open dialogue and helps both partners understand each other better, leading to stronger communication.

4. Enhances relationship satisfaction
Relationships where apologies are given sincerely are more likely to be fulfilling and positive.

5. Encourages personal growth and self-awareness
Apologizing invites self-reflection, allowing both partners to learn from their mistakes and grow individually and together.

6. Fosters a culture of respect and empathy
By apologizing, you reinforce a culture where mutual respect and empathy thrive, making the relationship a safe space for both partners.

7. Helps to avoid resentment and anger
Avoiding the “silent treatment” or holding grudges, a genuine apology helps to prevent negative emotions from building up over time.

8. Promotes a healthier and happier relationship
Relationships that feature regular, honest apologies are healthier and more likely to be enduring because they are rooted in love and respect.

HOW TO APOLOGIZE EFFECTIVELY
4
1. Use the "3 Rs" of apology: Regret, Responsibility, and Remedy
Regret the hurt caused, take responsibility for your actions, and suggest a remedy for moving forward.

2. Be sincere and genuine in your apology
Authenticity is key. A half-hearted apology can often do more harm than good.

3. Listen actively to your partner's concerns
Give your partner space to express their feelings and truly listen without interrupting or defending yourself.

4. Validate your partner's feelings and experiences
Acknowledge that your partner's feelings are valid, even if you didn’t intend to hurt them.

5. Offer a specific solution or plan for change
Demonstrate your commitment to improving by offering a clear solution or changes you’ll make moving forward.

6. Follow through on your commitments
An apology is only meaningful if it’s backed up by action. Ensure that you take steps to avoid repeating the same mistake.

7. Show empathy and understanding
Show that you truly understand how your actions have impacted your partner, not just in words but in actions as well.

8. Be patient and open to feedback
Healing takes time. Be patient with your partner and open to hearing how they feel, even if it takes time to forgive.

TIPS FOR MEN

1. Swallow your pride and admit fault
It takes strength to admit when you’re wrong. Let go of your ego to foster a deeper connection.

2. Use "I" statements to take ownership
Phrases like “I am sorry for…” rather than “You made me do…” put the responsibility on you.

3. Avoid making excuses or justifying
Resist the urge to explain away the mistake. Just apologize and focus on your partner’s feelings.

4. Show vulnerability and emotional intelligence
Being open about your emotions builds trust and shows that you care about your partner's feelings.

5. Be willing to make amends
Your partner should feel that your apology is sincere, so be prepared to make real changes if necessary.



TIPS FOR WOMEN

1. Communicate clearly and assertively
Share your feelings honestly and directly, avoiding passive-aggressive behavior or withholding.

2. Specify what you need from your partner
Let your partner know what will help resolve the issue or what you need moving forward.

3. Avoid being critical or judgmental
Offer a soft, loving approach when addressing the issue, rather than criticizing or pointing fingers.

4. Show appreciation for your partner's apology
When your partner apologizes, acknowledge their effort and express gratitude for their sincerity.

5. Encourage open and honest communication
Foster a space where both partners can freely express their feelings without fear of judgment.

WHEN TO APOLOGIZE

1. After a conflict or argument
Don’t wait for too long to apologize. Address the issue as soon as possible to prevent lingering resentment.

2. When you've hurt or offended your partner
If your words or actions have caused pain, it’s important to recognize that and apologize immediately.

3. When you've made a mistake or error
A simple acknowledgment that you were wrong goes a long way in healing wounds.

4. When you've broken a promise or commitment
If you’ve failed to keep your word, apologize and demonstrate that you can be trusted moving forward.

5. When you've disregarded your partner's feelings
Apologizing when you’ve been insensitive shows respect for your partner's emotional well-being.

Saying sorry isn’t just about saying words; it’s about understanding, acknowledging, and healing. By apologizing effectively, you strengthen your relationship, deepen trust, and build a stronger foundation for the future.

The world was never meant to be a competition of appearances. It was meant to be a gallery of individuality where every person adds their own colour, texture, story.

We were not made to look the same, talk the same, or live the same. We were made to be different, to carry our own light in our own way. Just like every painting in a gallery tells a unique story, every person carries a story that only they can share. It’s not about who looks better, dresses better, or fits in more. It’s about being true to who you are and your voice, your feelings, your dreams. That’s what makes life rich and beautiful.

So don’t try to shrink yourself to fit in. Don’t hide your story because it’s not like someone else’s. You were never meant to be an imitation. You were meant to be a canvas with full of meaning. The more we honour each other’s differences, the more we understand the true beauty of being human. It’s not in perfect shapes or polished surfaces. It’s in the raw and honest truth of who we are.

Let the world be your gallery, not your judge. Add your colour, leave your mark, tell your story, because no one else ever can.