1 Bakorinta 4 - KBTP & GNTD

He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.-2

The season of love is a time to reflect on stories of deep, enduring affection. While many love stories focus on romance alone, the story of Priscilla and Aquila in the Bible showcases a love built on faith, purpose, and shared ministry. Their relationship was not just about companionship; it was a divine partnership that impacted the early Church.

Love in Exile: A Journey Together

Priscilla and Aquila first appear in Scripture as Jewish tentmakers who had been forced to leave Rome due to Emperor Claudius’ decree. In Acts 18:2, Paul meets them in Corinth:

“There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them.” (Acts 18:2, NIV)

Despite their displacement, they remained together, demonstrating resilience through life’s challenges. Their love was not just for each other but for the work God had set before them.

A Love That Serves

Not only were they devoted to one another, but they were also deeply committed to God’s work. When Paul arrived in Corinth, he stayed with them and worked alongside them as a tentmaker (Acts 18:3). Their hospitality and willingness to serve made them an essential part of Paul’s ministry.

“And because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.” (Acts 18:3, NIV)

Priscilla and Aquila opened their home, not only to Paul but to many believers, turning it into a hub for ministry. Their love was one that served—both each other and the Church.

A Love That Teaches

One of the most beautiful aspects of their relationship was their shared commitment to discipleship. In Acts 18:24-26, they encountered Apollos, a gifted speaker who lacked a full understanding of the gospel. Instead of criticizing him publicly, they took him aside and taught him more accurately:

“He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.” (Acts 18:26, NIV)

Their love was not selfish—it extended to mentoring and nurturing others in the faith. They worked as a team, showing that ministry can be stronger when done together.

A Love That Risks Everything

Priscilla and Aquila were not only teachers and hosts—they were courageous. In Romans 16:3-4, Paul acknowledges them as fellow workers who risked their lives for him:

“Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus. They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.” (Romans 16:3-4, NIV)

Their love was sacrificial, willing to endure hardship and danger for the sake of the gospel. They stood side by side, not just in daily life, but in moments of great risk.

A Love That Builds the Church

Beyond their personal relationship, Priscilla and Aquila were dedicated to strengthening the Church. In 1 Corinthians 16:19, Paul mentions how the church met in their home:

“The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house.” (1 Corinthians 16:19, NIV)

Their home was not just a place of rest—it was a sanctuary for believers. Together, they created an atmosphere where faith could flourish.

A Love That Lasts

The final mention of them in 2 Timothy 4:19 shows that, years later, they were still serving the Lord:

“Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus.” (2 Timothy 4:19, NIV)

Even in later years, their love for each other and for God’s work remained steadfast.

Conclusion

Priscilla and Aquila’s story is not just about romance, it’s about a partnership that glorifies God. Their love was deeply rooted in faith, service, and mission. This Valentine’s season, may their story inspire us to pursue relationships that are built not just on emotions, but on a shared commitment to something greater.

Would you like to cultivate a love that lasts? Follow their example, serve together, grow together, and keep God at the center of your love story.

DALL·E 2024-10-16 11.46.48 - A black student sitting at a desk, focused and writing an exam in a quiet exam hall. The student looks calm and composed, with pens, pencils, and pape

Avoiding stress during exams is essential for maintaining focus, performing well, and staying healthy. Here’s a biblical, practical, and actionable guide to managing stress effectively during exam time:

1. Start with Prayer and Trust in God

Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Tip: Whenever you feel overwhelmed, pause and pray. Surrender your worries to God.

Action:

Start and end your study sessions with a short prayer.
Keep a prayer journal where you express your concerns and ask God for peace.

2. Stay Organized with a Study Plan

1 Corinthians 14:40 – “But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”
Tip: A well-organized study schedule prevents last-minute cramming and reduces stress.

Action:

Break your syllabus into manageable chunks, covering a little every day.
Use tools like a study timetable or to-do list to track progress.

3. Take Care of Your Body

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit… Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
Tip: Eating well, exercising, and sleeping enough will help your brain function better.

Action:

Exercise: Take short walks or do light stretches between study sessions.
Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to improve concentration.
Eat Nutritious Foods: Include fruits, vegetables, and water to keep your energy up.

4. Take Breaks and Rest

Exodus 20:8-10 – “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy…”
Tip: Rest is essential to recharge your brain and avoid burnout.

Action:

Take 10-15 minute breaks every hour to relax your mind.
Set aside one day a week to rest and engage in something you enjoy.

5. Avoid Comparison with Others

Galatians 6:4 – “Each one should test their own actions… without comparing themselves to someone else.”
Tip: Comparing yourself with classmates can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Focus on your progress and efforts.

Action:

Remind yourself that your journey is unique, and God has a plan for you.
Celebrate small achievements along the way, like completing a topic or practice test.

6. Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Tip: When stress creeps in, breathe deeply and meditate on God’s presence.

Action:

Deep Breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 4 seconds. Repeat several times.
Play soft, relaxing worship music while you study or during breaks.

7. Stay Positive and Speak Life Over Yourself

Proverbs 18:21 – “The tongue has the power of life and death…”
Tip: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations rooted in Scripture.

Action:

Speak aloud Scriptures like: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
Avoid saying things like “I will fail” or “This is too hard.” Instead, say, “I am prepared, and God is with me.”

8. Engage in Fellowship with Others

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – “Two are better than one… If one falls down, the other can help him up.”
Tip: Talk to family, friends, or mentors when you feel overwhelmed.

Action:

Join a study group for encouragement.
Share your concerns with someone who can pray with you and provide guidance.

9. Limit Distractions and Focus on the Present

Matthew 6:34 – “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”
Tip: Avoid worrying about the future or dwelling on past mistakes. Stay focused on what you can do today.

Action:

Set specific times to study without distractions from social media or phone notifications.
Tackle one subject or task at a time to avoid overwhelm.

10. Trust God with the Outcome

Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…”
Tip: After you’ve done your best, trust God to handle the rest.

Action:

After each exam, pray and thank God for the strength to finish.
Avoid overanalyzing your performance, trust that God’s plan is perfect.

Conclusion

Managing stress during exams is about trusting God, planning wisely, taking care of yourself, and staying focused on the present. Remember that success is not just about grades—it’s about learning, growing, and relying on God’s strength. Following this guide will help you stay calm, focused, and productive throughout the exam season. You’ve got this! God is with you every step of the way.

Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires.

Love and relationships are important aspects of life, especially for younger generations navigating friendships, family dynamics, dating, and social connections. In a world where love is often portrayed in a confusing, fleeting, or superficial way, the Bible offers clear and timeless wisdom on what love truly means and how to build healthy relationships.

Here are seven Bible verses that will help guide you through the complexities of love and relationships.

1. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 — “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

In a world that sometimes focuses on instant gratification and fleeting emotions, the Bible reminds us that love is more about giving than receiving. Love isn’t just a feeling; it’s a choice to act with kindness and humility, even when it’s hard.

2. Matthew 22:37-39 — “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

Jesus simplifies love and relationships into two commandments: loving God first and then loving others. When your relationships are rooted in love for God, they will naturally reflect a love that values and respects others.

3. Proverbs 17:17 — “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

Friendships and community are crucial, especially for the younger generation navigating through life’s challenges. Genuine friends love in every season, not just when it’s easy or convenient. They are there to support you during difficult times, and they offer strength and encouragement when you need it most.

4. 1 John 4:18 — “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”

Many young people experience anxiety, fear, or insecurity in relationships, whether it’s fear of rejection, fear of not being enough, or fear of vulnerability. But this verse reminds us that real love, the kind of love God gives, casts out fear. In healthy relationships, love should create a sense of safety, not fear or insecurity. When you’re in a relationship that reflects God’s love, you will feel valued and cherished, not afraid or anxious.

5. Ephesians 4:2-3 — “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

In a world where arguments and conflict are common, these verses from Ephesians encourage us to practice humility, patience, and unity in our relationships. It’s not always easy, but maintaining peace and working toward understanding are key aspects of healthy connections. Love isn’t about always being right; sometimes it’s about listening, understanding, and choosing peace over conflict.

6. Song of Solomon 8:4 — “Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires.”

For young people, particularly in the context of dating and romantic relationships, this verse offers wisdom about timing and patience. Culture often pressures young people to rush into relationships or equates physical attraction with love. However, the Bible encourages us to wait for the right timing, to allow love to grow naturally and genuinely, without rushing into anything prematurely. This ensures that relationships are based on genuine connection and mutual respect.

7. Romans 12:10 — “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

Instead of asking, “What can I get out of this relationship?” we are encouraged to honor and respect others, putting their needs ahead of our own. True love is about devotion and commitment, not just convenience or personal gain. When you prioritize honoring others, you build relationships that are strong, meaningful, and lasting.

Conclusion

Navigating love and relationships as a young person can be challenging, especially in a world filled with mixed messages about what love is and how relationships should work. However, these Bible verses provide a clear and countercultural view of love: one that is selfless, patient, kind, and enduring. Love isn’t just about feelings, it’s about action, commitment, and putting others before yourself. When your relationships are rooted in these principles, they will flourish in ways that bring fulfillment, joy, and peace. So, take these truths with you as you navigate love and relationships, always remembering that God’s love is the foundation of all healthy connections.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.

Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, especially for young people who are still finding their way. The Bible offers timeless wisdom and guidance that can help shape a fulfilling and purposeful life. Here are some key Biblical tips for young people:

1. Seek Wisdom and Understanding

Proverbs 4:7 – “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”

The pursuit of wisdom is highly valued in the Bible. Wisdom helps in making informed decisions, understanding the world better, and living a life that is pleasing to God. Young people are encouraged to seek wisdom and understanding, not only through formal education but also through life experiences and learning from others.

2. Honor Your Parents

Ephesians 6:1-3 – “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—’so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.'”

Respecting and honoring parents is a fundamental principle in the Bible. It fosters healthy family relationships and sets a foundation for a respectful attitude towards authority and elders.

3. Guard Your Heart

Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

The heart, in Biblical terms, is the center of one’s being, encompassing emotions, desires, and thoughts. Guarding your heart means being mindful of what influences you—your thoughts, feelings, and actions. It involves being cautious about the company you keep, the content you consume, and the activities you engage in.

4. Flee from Temptation

1 Corinthians 10:13 – “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

Temptations are a part of life, but the Bible reassures that there is always a way to overcome them. Young people are encouraged to recognize their weaknesses, seek God’s strength, and make conscious efforts to avoid situations that might lead to sin.

5. Develop a Prayerful Life

Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Prayer is a powerful tool for maintaining a close relationship with God. It helps in finding peace, gaining strength, and seeking guidance. A prayerful life enables young people to stay connected to their faith and find solace in difficult times.

6. Cultivate Good Friendships

Proverbs 13:20 – “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

The company you keep significantly influences your character and decisions. The Bible encourages surrounding yourself with wise and good-hearted individuals who uplift and encourage you to grow in faith and virtue.

7. Serve Others

Galatians 5:13 – “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

Service to others is a core principle in Christianity. It teaches humility, compassion, and selflessness. Young people are encouraged to look beyond their own needs and contribute positively to the lives of others.

Conclusion

The Bible offers invaluable guidance for young people striving to live meaningful and virtuous lives. By seeking wisdom, honoring parents, guarding their hearts, fleeing from temptation, developing a prayerful life, cultivating good friendships, serving others, living with integrity, trusting in God’s plan, and staying humble, young people can navigate the complexities of life with faith and purpose.

Batumwa ba Jesu Kirisiti

1 Ndizo bathu bakafanila kutitola tili balanda ba Kirisiti kakale tili batjengeti be masazibgwe e Ndzimu. 2 Tjikulu hwuti batjengeti koshakika kuti bagalikebgwe. 3 Kundili tjithu tjitukununu kwazo kusumikilisiwa ndimwi kene mu mabazhe e bathu. Naiko anditozwisumikilisa. 4 Nenguba ndisingazwibone nlandu, akutodwa kuti andina nlandu. Imi ndosumikilisiwa ndi She. 5 Ndizo musisumikilise tjibaka tjisathu tjikaswika, She basathu bakazha, ndibo banowodusila mu tjedza zwakasumbikala mu zhalima bakadusila patjena mazwimisilo e moyo. Ipapo mmwe ne mmwe unowoamutjila ku Ndzimu kukudziwa kwakanlizana.

6 Ndaleba zwithu izwezwi zose ndizwilingisanya nami na Apolosi kubhatsha imwi zwikamu kuti muzwidiye ndiswi sahwoku “Mushinge tjakakwagwa koga,” kuti kushete mmwe wenyu unozwikudza ema nge mmwe nthu koga elingila mmwe pasi. 7 Ndiyani unobona tjakathubukana mu muli kene? Ini tjamunatjo tjamusakapiwa? Ha makatjipiwa mungazwikudza tjini, se munonga musakatjipiwa?

8 Makaguta kale! Makafuma kale! Mabe bomambo kale kuzhe kwe bhatsho yedu. Ndoyemula seni kuti dzene mabe bomambo dumbu kuti ndizo naswi tibe bomambo namwi! 9 Imi ndobona kuli kuti Ndzimu wakapa iswi batumwa mamo apasi pasi se balume basumikilisigwa kubulawa mu mesho e mmwe ne mmwe, ngobe tolingiligwa nge shango yose, nge batumwa be kudzimu ne bathu. 10 Iswi ti zwilengwe ngekwa Kirisiti, koga imwi makatjenjela muna Kirisiti! Iswi atizosima koga imwi makasima! Imwi molumbidziwa koga iswi tolengudziwa. 11 Kuswikila tjibaka tina zhala ne nyota, takaambala makandana, tolobgwa ne mizi atina, 12 kakale toshinga tishinga nge maboko edu. Ha tigongobogwa tokombolela, ha tidziyidziwa todzikitadza, 13 ha titjinyiwa mazina togwisa kugadzana. Tofanana ne malala e shango ino, tishambgwa mu zwithu zose!

14 Anditomukwalila ikoku kumubhatisa shoni koga kumutjemela se bana bangu banodika. 15 Nenguba muna babhabhi banjinji muna Kirisiti, amuna botate banjinji, ngobe ndakabe tate benyu muna Kirisiti Jesu nge kumuzhisila ndebo mbuya. 16 Ndomukulumbidza, ibeni bayedzi bangu. 17 Ngekwa ikoku ndakatuma Timoti kumuli, mwanangu unodika kakale unogalikabgwe muna She, kuti amukumbuludze zila dzangu muna Kirisiti nenge sekwa ndinodiya pamwe ne pamwe mu gubungano limwe ne limwe.

18 Bamwe benyu banozwikudza bekumbula kuti anditowomukumba. 19 Koga ndowozha kumuli tjinyolotjo ha She beda, ngono ipapo anditowobe ndizhila kuwohwa ndebeleko dze bathu ibabo banozwikudza koga ndowobe ndizhila kuwobona simba labo. 20 Ngobe bushe gwe Ndzimu ate matama koga, gumu simba. 21 Apa moyemulani? Apa ndizhe kumuli ne shamu, kene ne ludo gwe moyo nnyolo kene?

Apostles of Christ

1 You should think of us as Christ's servants, who have been put in charge of God's secret truths. 2 The one thing required of such servants is that they be faithful to their master. 3 Now, I am not at all concerned about being judged by you or by any human standard; I don't even pass judgment on myself. 4 My conscience is clear, but that does not prove that I am really innocent. The Lord is the one who passes judgment on me. 5 So you should not pass judgment on anyone before the right time comes. Final judgment must wait until the Lord comes; he will bring to light the dark secrets and expose the hidden purposes of people's minds. And then all will receive from God the praise they deserve.

6 For your sake, my friends, I have applied all this to Apollos and me, using the two of us as an example, so that you may learn what the saying means, “Observe the proper rules.” None of you should be proud of one person and despise another. 7 Who made you superior to others? Didn't God give you everything you have? Well, then, how can you boast, as if what you have were not a gift?

8 Do you already have everything you need? Are you already rich? Have you become kings, even though we are not? Well, I wish you really were kings, so that we could be kings together with you. 9 For it seems to me that God has given the very last place to us apostles, like people condemned to die in public as a spectacle for the whole world of angels and of human beings. 10 For Christ's sake we are fools; but you are wise in union with Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! We are despised, but you are honored! 11 To this very moment we go hungry and thirsty; we are clothed in rags; we are beaten; we wander from place to place; 12 we wear ourselves out with hard work. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; 13 when we are insulted, we answer back with kind words. We are no more than this world's garbage; we are the scum of the earth to this very moment!

14 I write this to you, not because I want to make you feel ashamed, but to instruct you as my own dear children. 15 For even if you have ten thousand guardians in your Christian life, you have only one father. For in your life in union with Christ Jesus I have become your father by bringing the Good News to you. 16 I beg you, then, to follow my example. 17 For this purpose I am sending to you Timothy, who is my own dear and faithful son in the Christian life. He will remind you of the principles which I follow in the new life in union with Christ Jesus and which I teach in all the churches everywhere.

18 Some of you have become proud because you have thought that I would not be coming to visit you. 19 If the Lord is willing, however, I will come to you soon, and then I will find out for myself the power which these proud people have, and not just what they say. 20 For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of words but of power. 21 Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a whip, or in a spirit of love and gentleness?