DLSO Impact Academy Workshop for Junior Youths (JSS

Students)

CHRISTLIKE QUALITIES FOR GLOWING EXCELLENCE

Daniel 1:3-6,8,17-20; 5:11,12; Matthew 5:14-16
Excellence, according to the dictionary, is the quality of being
outstanding or extremely good. Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and
Abednego were outstanding amongst their equals. They glowed with
excellence throughout the realm of the Babylonian empire. “And in
all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king
enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the
magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.” Daniel
stood aglow even to the reign of other kings. “There is a man in
thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and in the
days of thy father light and understanding and wisdom, like the
wisdom of the gods, was found in him; whom the king
Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, I say, thy father, made
master of the magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, and
soothsayers; Forasmuch as an excellent spirit, and knowledge,
and understanding, interpretation of dreams, and showing of
hard sentences, and dissolving of doubts, were found in the
same Daniel…” (Daniel 5:11,12).
Daniel and his three friends possessed Christlike qualities that
made them glow with excellence. They came into Babylon without
blemish, they purposed in their hearts that they would not defile
themselves in Babylon and they lived without blemish in Babylon.
This was why God rewarded them with exceptional excellence.
Daniel stood out and became sought after in the reign of other
kings. Their lives fulfilled Matthew 5: 16: “Let your light so shine
before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify
your Father which is in heaven.” Their lights so glowed that they
influenced heathen kings to acknowledge the true God.
 1. COMMENDABLE QUEST WHILE GOING FOR EXCELLENCE
Daniel 1:8; 5:11,12; Proverbs 22:29; Matthew 5:16
Every youth who seeks excellence must have a quest. Anyone who
lives without a quest, lives a questionable life. Your quest is your
passion, hunger and pursuit. Daniel and his three friends had a
singular passion in Babylon. Their passion and pursuit were to live
a life that is free from every form of Babylonian pleasure and
defilement. They were also committed to their studies while under
scholarship in the king’s palace. They sought for excellence, they
desired excellence and they got excellence. Many so-called Christian
youths today lack the quest for excellence. They live for everything
and as a result, they get anything below excellence. Daniel knew
that he possessed the Spirit of God and excellence, therefore, he
went for excellence and did not settle for mediocrity. As Christian
youths, we possess the Spirit of Christ, and the Spirit of Christ is
the Spirit of excellence. Everything Christ did was exceptional.
When He spoke, the people said, “…Never man spake like this
man” (John 7:46). Everything He did, they said, “He hath done all
things well…” (Mark 7:37). Possessing the same Spirit, we must
have an eye for excellence and give total diligence and
thoughtfulness to all that we do. “Seest thou a man diligent in
his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand
before mean men.” Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before
men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your
Father which is in heaven.” In everything we do, we must let our
light shine and that excellent spirit in us glow for the world to see
and glorify our God.
2. COMPULSORY QUALIFICATION FOR GROWING
EXCELLENCE
Daniel 1:4,8; 9:2; Proverbs 18:16
“Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and
skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and
understanding science, and such as had ability in them to
stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the
learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans.” The first qualification
for growing excellence is genuine salvation and a growing
relationship with God. He takes away all blemishes, deformities of
sin and the sinful nature in unconverted men. Any success without
its foundation rooted in God, cannot grow. A growing excellence is
the excellence that transcends time to eternity. It is an excellence
that is profitable here in the world and guarantees rewards in
eternity.
Daniel and his three friends did not only have a good relationship
with God. They were also skillful in many things. Obviously, they
had grown these skills waiting for any opportunity to use them.
They had developed themselves in the sciences, arts, languages,
communication and public demeanor. If you want to have growing
excellence, then you must grow yourself in other areas so as to be
versatile in varied fields. You must develop a versatile reading
culture. Reading is a virtue that is dying fast among youths in the
twenty-first century. Daniel at an old age of 88 or 90, was still
immersed in reading. “In the first year of his reign I Daniel
understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word
of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would
accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem.” This
is because reading had become a part of his daily life from youth.
Obviously, this should be one of the secrets of his excellence under
all the kings and kingdoms he lived and served. The gifts and skills
you develop and possess can pave the way for you. “A man's gift
maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men”
(Proverbs 18:6).

3. CHRISTLIKE QUALITIES FOR GLOWING EXCELLENCE

Daniel 1:8; John 5:35; Matthew 5:16
We have seen that Daniel and his three friends did not just possess
a common excellence but they possessed a glowing excellence that
shone in all the realms of the kingdom they lived. Although, Christ
had not been born at the time they lived but having the Spirit of
Christ in them, they lived out Christlike life. These Christlike
qualities stood them out amongst their contemporaries. They were:
God-glorifying like Christ (John 17:4; Daniel 2:26-28);
Learning like Christ (John 8:28,29; Daniel 9:4);
Obedient like Christ (Philippians 2:8,9; Daniel 3:16-18);
Winsome like Christ (Proverbs 22:11; Daniel 6:2,3);
Irreproachable like Christ (Luke 23:14; Daniel 6:4; Philippians
2:15);
Noble like Christ (John 7:46; Daniel 1:20);
Gracious like Christ (Luke 1:40; 4:22; Daniel 1:17, 20).
Christ commended John the Baptist, also, that “He was a burning
and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice
in his light” (John 5:35). When we glow with excellence in Christ,
the world will be willing to come to our light and rejoice. This is why
Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may
see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in
heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
DLSO Impact Academy Workshop for Vocational Youths & Ex-
Students

FROM CHRISTLIKENESS TO GLOWING GREATNESS

Romans 6:3-6,11-14; Hebrews 6:3; Ephesians 4:13-15; 3:14-19
The transformational change that makes a vile sinner a new
creature in Christ at salvation is the formation of conspicuous
image of Christlikeness. “For if we have been planted together
in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of
his resurrection”: (Romans 6:5) “I am crucified with Christ:
nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the
life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son
of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians
2:20). It is when Christ dwell in our hearts by faith; and we being
rooted and grounded in his love that we can grow and glow into
greatness. When any youth accept Jesus Christ as his personal
Lord and Savior, there is a manifest change of life and character. It
results in freedom from sin and defilements. “If any man be in
Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away;
behold all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

1. THE POTENTIAL AND POSSIBILITIES IN GLOWING

YOUTHS
Jeremiah 29: 11; Philippians 4:13, Matthew 19:26, Genesis 1:26,
2:7, Psalm 139:4; Ephesians 3:17-19; 2:8-9; Colossians 3:1-19;
Philippians 2:5; Colossians 3:3

Every Christian youth is God’s unique masterpiece and special in

every sense. This means that no youth is worthless or useless
because God has deposited the potential for greatness in every one
of His children. It is an earnest expectation of God therefore that all
His children should grow to the measure of the stature of the
fulness of Christ. “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and
of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto
the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ (Ephesians
4:13). Growing into the stature of the fulness of Christ begins with
being Christlike. The transformation that comes through Christ
results in our conformity to His likeness. “For in him (Christ)
dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are
complete in him, which is the head of all principality and
power: (Colossians 2:9-10). "For the invisible things of him from
the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by
the things that are made, even his eternal power and
Godhead; so that they are without excuse:" (Romans 1:20).
"Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath
translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: Who is the
image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature":
(Colossians 1:13, 15). "For ye are dead, and your life is hid with
Christ in God." (Colossians 3:3).
The fundamentals elements of conformity to Christlikeness include:
C: Conversion into Christlikeness (1 Thessalonians 1:9, 1 Peter
1:23, Matthew 18:3);
H: Holiness within and without (Luke 4-75; Romans 6:22; Hebrew
12:14);
R: Restitution and a clear conscience (Luke 19:8; Acts 24:16);
I: Integrity of heart (Job 27:5; 31: 6);
S: Sanctification of heart (Romans 15:16; 1 Corinthians 6:11);
T: Tested tenacity (Galatians 2:18-20);
L: Laying aside the old lifestyle (Hebrews 12:1; Ephesians 4:22-24);
I: Increase in faith (Luke 17:5);
K: Keeping the commandment of the Lord (John 14:15);
E: Exemplary life (1 Timothy 4:12);
N: Newness of life (Romans 6:4, 7:6);
E: Earnestly contending for the Faith (Jude 1:3);
S: Searching and studying the Scripture (John 5:39);
S: Serving the Lord faithfully (2 Timothy 2:7, 8).

2. THE PIVOTAL PILLAR FOR BECOMING GLOWING YOUTHS

Matthew 6:33, John 3:3, 15,5b, Jeremiah 29:11, Proverbs 22:2;
Philippians 3:12-15; 3:7-10 Hebrews 6:1-3

A youth cannot realize his full potentials all by himself alone

without connection with the Almighty. Man’s going are of the
lord... For without me, ye can do nothing (Proverbs 20:24, John
15:5b). Glittering success and greatness without Christ come with
lots of compromise and deceits. Only by the fear of God do men
depart from evil. The pathway to genuine greatness starts will an
experience of salvation and scriptural guidance. Hence, once saved
from sin, there is the necessity of growing up in the Lord. Youths
are expected to grow in the following areas to become a glowing
youth:
i. Grow in love: demonstrate Christlikeness (Philippians 2:5-8)
ii. Grow in faith: learn more about the heroes of faith (Hebrews
11:1-32; 2 Thessalonians 1:3)
iii. Grow in the word: Desire, study and search the word. (2
Timothy 2:15; 1 Peter 2:2)
iv. Grow in grace: (2 Peter 3:18)
v. Grow in godliness: (2 Peter 1:3,4)

3. THE PURSUIT AND PERSEVERANCE OF GLOWING

YOUTHS
Daniel 1:8; Genesis 39:9; Philippians 3:8-14; Romans 8:35-39; 2
Corinthians 4:14-18; Jude 1:24-24; 1 Peter 4:13

In the kingdom of God, only those who endure to the end shall be
saved and truly called great. The way to greatness is not smooth as
there are lots of tests, trials and temptations that will confront a
saved youth that desires to glow gloriously. The temptation to
compromise will always be there but a youth should not yield.
Remember godly Joseph in the Bible, he refused carnal pleasure
not for any human praise nor recognition but because of the fear of
God that sees and knows all. In his words, he said that “how can I
do this evil and sin against God”. Daniel purposed in his heart
not to defile himself even before the temptation comes. Youths that
want to glow gloriously should also be diligent in all they do, stay
disciplined and do all they find themselves doing with all their
might (Colossians 3:23). As you combine the spiritual, social,
academic and other requirements, you will certainly glow gloriously
in Jesus’ name. There is hope for you to move from Christ-likeness
to glowing greatness.

DLSO Impact Academy Workshop for Senior Youths (SS

Students)

GLOWING SUCCESS THROUGH CHRISTLIKENESS

Genesis 39:2-6; Joshua 1:8
“And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man;
and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And he left
all that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not ought he
had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly
person, and well favoured.” Joseph’s life exemplified the life of
Christ. Despite all that he suffered such as family hatred, betrayal
by his brethren, false accusation, imprisonment, and abandonment,
he remained faithful to God. He lived a life that towered above his
adversaries and contemporaries. His life of uncommon purity
allowed the presence of God to constantly abide with him and made
him prosperous and successful in all that he did. The
consciousness of God’s presence and the fear of God kept him from
indulging in sinful practices. He succeeded in Egypt and his
success is still glowing for us today.
1. THE PRINCIPLES OF GOOD SUCCESS THROUGH CHRIST
Joshua 1:8; Genesis 39:2-6,9
“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but
thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest
observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then
thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have
good success.” God instructed Joshua that for him to prosper and
have good success, he must meditate day and night on the word,
and observe all that is written in it. The lives of Joseph and Joshua
presents us with seven principles of good success. They are as
follows:
I. The principle of keeping the Law – Joshua 1:8a. Success
deals with working by the laws (guidelines). The word of
God contains laws of success. Therefore, attaining good
success demands that one becomes a good student of the
bible. You cannot desire good success by neglecting the
word of God. It is the compendium of success.
II. The principle of meditation – Joshua 1:8b. Meditation
helps to make ideas sink deep into our subconscious and
thus make such ideas or thoughts become an integral part
of us. When you meditate on the word of God, it mixes with
your thoughts and settles deep into your subconscious.
This act of meditation helps to build and increase our faith
in God and His word and thus dissipate all impossibilities
before us.
III. The principle of obedience – Joshua 1:8c. Meditation on
God’s word should lead us to performance and obedience. It
is only when we do according to the prescription of the word
that good success can be guaranteed.
IV. The principle of Courage – Joshua 1:8. Joshua was urged
by God to be courageous. What is courage? According to the
Merriam-Webster dictionary, courage is the mental or moral
strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear,
or difficulty. Courage drives out fear and fickleness from
your life and empowers you to face challenges coming from
your subjects, adversaries or the society.
V. The principle of God’s Presence – Joshua 1:5; Genesis
39:2. God was with Joshua and made everything he did to
prosper. It is God who teaches us to profit and get wealth.
We must always be conscious of His abiding presence. We
should never take any step until we are sure that He is with
 us. With His presence, you can recover many lost
opportunities in a moment.
VI. The Principle of Goodliness –; Genesis 39:6. Joshua and
Joseph were goodly and well-favoured. We can also say,
they were winsome in all they did. They were endearing to
all they came across. Even though Joseph endured the
hatred meted against him by his own brothers, he did not
wear it on his face. This also, proves that he did not allow
those things to settle in his heart. When we allow settled
anger, malice, and bitterness in our hearts, it affects our
appearance and whatever we do.
VII. The principle of Godliness – Joshua 11:15,16; Genesis
39:9. Joshua and Joseph walked in the fear and ways of
God. They refused to compromise their faith. They were
both pious and devout. They did not allow any distraction
or deviation to blur their vision, bury their dreams and blot
out their destiny.

2. THE PERVERSION OF GLITTERING SUCCESS WITHOUT

CHRIST
Luke 12:16-21; Jeremiah 17:11
It is common to hear that the end justifies the means. This means
that what matters is success irrespective of how it is gotten.
Pursuing success without following the right way nullifies the
reward of good success. If we abandon God and act contrary to laid
down scriptural principles for success, it dishonours God and
attracts divine punishment. It was written of the rich man in our
text, “So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not
rich toward God” (Luke 12:21). Many people today compromise
their faith in order to have success. They obtain certificates by
giving bribes with money, participate in examination and electoral
malpractices, cut corners, give or take bribes and indulge in other
corrupt practices to achieve success. Any success gotten in a
godless way is not a good success but a bad one that can damn the
soul in hell. Although, compromise of societal ethics, ministerial
calling, examination standard and other areas of life have become
prevalent vices, today, all true believers must take their stand
against every form of ungodliness.
The ultimate success is being granted entrance into heaven.
Therefore, any pursuit of success that does not keep this ultimate
goal in view is a bad pursuit and would lead to ultimate
destruction.

3. THE PROVISION FOR GLOWING SUCCESS IN CHRIST

Genesis 39:7-12; 40:21-23; 41:38-43; Philippians 4:13;
Deuteronomy 28:13
In Egypt, Joseph upheld the principle of godliness that he had
learnt in Cannan before he was sold. “There is none greater in
this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me
but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this
great wickedness, and sin against God?” He had the courage to
resist the evil of his day and would not succumb to the incessant
assaults, conspiracies, and temptations of adversaries. He refused
to let go of his purity and integrity amid fleshly enticements. He
chose to lose his clothes and position in Potiphar’s house rather
than lose his conscience and integrity before God. He chose to part
with his garments rather than part with God’s presence and glory.
He chose to be detained in the prison of the world rather than allow
the destruction of his precious dreams. That young man glowed in
the midst of the darkness in Potiphar’s house and in the whole of
Egypt. He stood tall, “And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can
we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God
is?” It was very clear to them that God was with him. His dream
was fulfilled. He became the prime minister of Egypt, the stars and
the moon bowed before him. The sheaves of his brethren stood and
made obeisance to his sheaf. We can achieve glowing success
through Christ as he gives us the power and inner strength. “I can
do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me”
(Philippians 4:13).
If we follow the principles of good, scriptural success, the Lord has
made adequate provision for us to glow above all the men of the
earth. “And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the
tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be
beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the
LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and
to do them” (Deuteronomy 28:13).

DLSO Impact Academy Workshop for Teachers & Workers

Glowing With Christlike Leadership Impact

John 8:12, Matthew 5:14-16
God places a high premium on those who are saddled with
responsibility for leadership in the church. Jesus said; "I am the
light of the world, he that followeth me shall not walk in
darkness, but shall have the light of life". A youth leader at
whatever level of leadership is expected to be a shining light to the
young boys and girls for them to see and emulate. Youths are
categories of people that learn very fast and read meaning to every
action you take as their leader. They so much believe in what their
eyes see that the leaders do more than what they hear you say. A
leader must be able to say like Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:9:
“Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and
heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with
you”. The life of a youth leader or teacher must shine before the
youths and only then can the name of Christ be glorified. They
must avoid living a double standard life as this will negatively affect
the youths we are trying to lead.
1. Glow Like Jesus as a Leader or Teacher
John 8:12; 9:5; 1Peter 2:21; 1 Corinthians 11:1; John
17:20,24
Jesus was a shining light to the disciples and the people around
him at his own time. Now we are his representatives in the world,
today. We have to live as Christ lived since, we are the little Christ.
We must manifest the life of Christ in our leadership in the
following ways using the word LEADERSHIP:
L - Love. We must show them Christlike love not lust;
E - Encourage. We must encourage them in the word;
A - Advise. We must advise the youths in accordance with the
scriptures;
D - Develop. We must develop them to be better leaders in the
future;
E - Emulate. We must emulate Christ to provoke the youths to
follow;
R – Renew. We must help the youths to renew their strengths for
more service;
S - Supplicate. We supplicate on behalf of the youths;
H - Help. We must offer practical help to the youths, where
necessary;
I - Influence. We must influence them positively;
P - Prepare. We must prepare them for the coming of the Lord.

2. Lead Like Jesus as a Leader or Teacher

1 Peter 2:21; Matthew 5:14-16, John 5:35;12:46; 8:29;
Hebrews12:2
Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is Our perfect example in
leadership. He came as the light to the world. As His followers and
representatives in the world today, we must shine as light before
the youths we are leading.
As a leader, we must:
L – Love and labour for the perfection of the flock (2 Corinthians
5:15);
E – Exemplify godliness and integrity in all we do (Philippians 4:9);
A – Avoid every action that can affect the youths negatively (2
Corinthians 6:3,4);
D – Direct the youths in the proper way of achieving greatness and
success in life (Joshua 1:8).
Leadership involves high responsibility and commitment. We need
to pray for more grace so as to please God who has placed us in the
leadership. The Lord will help and enable us.

3. Impact Like Jesus as a Leader or Teacher

Acts 20:28-34; 1Thessalonnians 2:3-11; Philippians 4:9
Jesus had so much impact on the disciples so much that they were
called Christians in Antioch (Acts 11:26). Their life was like that of
Christ. So, as youth leaders and teachers we must positively impact
the lives of these young ones under our sphere of influence. How do
we go about it? We use the word "IMPACT"
I- Influence. As leadership is all about influence, so we must
influence youths positively; if not, others will influence them
negatively.
 M- Motivation. We must motivate them to study and to serve God
(2 Timothy 2:15).
P- Persuasion. We must persuade them to be saved and abide in
the Lord (John 15:5,6; 2 Corinthians 5:11).
A- Availability. We must make ourselves available to answer their
questions and guide them to live the victorious life (2 Timothy 3:14-
17).
C- Correction. We must correct them in love when they go wrong (1
Timothy 5:20; 2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:13).
T- Training. We must train them to be responsible men and women
in the church and society (2 Timothy 2:1,2).
The faithful Lord who has called us into this great service will help
and sustain us.

Young Professionals Forum (YPF) Impact Academy Workshop

BECOMING A PATTERN OF GOOD WORKS

Titus 2:7-8; Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 2:12; 1 Timothy 4:12; Matthew

5:16; Philippians 2:14-15

Paul the apostle apprised Titus, a young church leader to be a role

model to others by demonstrating a consistent pattern of good deeds
and virtuous living. Titus 2:7 emphasizes the importance of setting a
positive example for others to follow, both within the Christian
community and in the broader professional circle. Amidst changing
world standards, tuned to align with the depravity of man, we must
remember that the Christian’s code of conduct, laid down by Christ has
not changed, and hence our model of good works must remain as spelt
out is the word of God. So, what really does it mean to be a pattern of
good works? It means following Christ's example, living according to
biblical principles, serving others, and reflecting God's nature of
holiness.

1. CONSCIOUS DECISION TO PRIORITIZE GOOD WORKS

Ephesians 2:10; Romans 12:10; Galatians 5:22-23; Hebrews 10:25;

Matthew 28:19-20; Galatians 6:9-10

A Christian is anyone that has faith in Jesus Christ, following Him and
His teachings and has an established relationship with God. He has
experienced a transformation of character (Galatians 5:22-23), steadfast
in the congregation of the people of like-precious faith (Hebrews 10:25),
and also involved in mission outreaches; making disciples of all
nations.

Prioritizing good works should go beyond knowing, we must believe that

every person is created in the image of God and is called to reflect God's
character through their actions and behavior. This realization births a
consciousness demonstrated in love, mercy, and fairness in all
interactions, as well as striving to bring glory to God through our
actions. We speak of God’s love, selfless love and sacrificial love that is
exemplified by the character of God Himself. It is a love that is not
dependent on the merit or worthiness of the recipient but is freely given
out of compassion and grace.

Romans 12:10: "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly

love; in honour preferring one another". Being a pattern of good
works as a Christian is about living a life that reflects the values and
teachings of Jesus Christ, not conforming to the compromising world
views but serving as a positive example to others, and demonstrating
love and compassion in both words and deeds. It involves making a
conscious decision to prioritize virtuous behavior and to actively seek
opportunities to serve and uplift those around us, ultimately bringing
honor and glory to God.
Making a conscious decision to prioritize good works starts with
intentional thought. These are the practical steps to take to guide
prioritize good works:

i. Take time to reflect on your values, beliefs, and priorities.

ii. Consider how your actions align with your faith and moral
principles.
iii. Clearly define your intention to prioritize good works in your life.
iv. Set specific goals related to the types of good works you want to
prioritize (e.g., acts of kindness, volunteering, charitable giving).
v. Make a commitment to regularly evaluate your progress.
vi. Be open to opportunities to support and uplift those in need,
whether through small or larger initiatives.
vii. Practice empathy and compassion towards those around you,
and be willing to offer help and support when needed.
viii. Regularly reflect on your experiences and the impact of your
actions.
ix. Evaluate what is working well and where you can improve in
prioritizing good works.
x. Be open to biblical reviews and godly corrections and adjust
your approach as needed to better align with scriptural goals.

2. CONSISTENT ENGAGEMENT IN ACTS OF GOOD WORKS

Titus 2:7; Matthew 25:21; Matthew 7:16; Luke 18:19

Secularization and decline in fellowship affiliation, cultural relativism

and moral pluralism, materialism, technological advancement abuse,
lack of moral exemplary are some of the reasons for disengagement
from good deeds by Christian professionals today.

Believers are those who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
The life of a believer must be centered on faith in Jesus Christ as the
Savior. The distinction between believers and unbelievers has to always
be clear-cut, especially in terms of behavior and actions. Christians are
called to exemplify virtuous behavior, kindness, compassion, and moral
integrity in their actions and interactions with others. Living in the
pattern of good works involves not only professing faith but also
demonstrating it. To ensure a sustained exhibition of good works, as
Christian professionals, we must grow in grace (Matthew 25:21).

To ensure a sustained exhibition of good works:

i. Set aside time to pray.

ii. Seek support from matured believers who share similar values
and goals by reading and listening to God inspired sermons and
testimonies from them. This is the key to growth
iii. Always seek opportunities to add value to others wherever you
can.

3. BUILDING A CULTURE OF INTEGRITY AND VIRTUE

Matthew 5:15-16; Titus 2:7; Matthew 25:21

Younger people often look up to older adults for guidance and

inspiration. A matured believer who demonstrates integrity, kindness,
and compassion serves as a positive role model for other growing
believers; and this will always bring glory to God. "Neither do men
light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and
it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine
before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your
Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:15-16). A new recruit
observing an older Christian employee volunteering in selfless service,
staying back to do more work in spare time without always demanding
financial incentive and observing workplace regulations when others
flaunt them will glorify our Father which is in heaven. The metaphor of
a candle being lit and placed on a candlestick rather than under a
bushel emphasizes the need for Christians to openly display their faith
and good works for the benefit of others and to bring glory to God.

So, how can God be glorified? Christians who see the need to build a
tradition of integrity and service and relentlessly build them are
cultivating a lifestyle of integrity and virtue. A Christian professional
must be ready to build trust and credibility in the workplace. For
instance, a Christian in his 20s, 30s, or 40s who consistently acts with
honesty and fairness in their workplace not only reflects positively on
themselves but also on their faith. Their colleagues and others are more
likely to respect and trust them. This can open doors for sharing their
faith when appropriate.

Supporting those in need, helping coworkers navigate and come

through in their tasks and assignments without being a stumbling
block, is a pattern of good work because you are seen to be providing
tangible assistance and emotional support to individuals facing
challenging situations.

As believers, we must make a conscious effort to be role models of

integrity and upright behaviour wherever we find ourselves.

DLCF Impact Academy Workshop for Undergraduate Students

Daring to be Aglow and Above for Jesus
Philippians 2:13, 15; Matthew 5:16; Colossians 1:27
God’s original plan and purpose for man is to glow for Him, to
reflect His glory, and bring praise to Him in every area of life (Isaiah
43:21). But Satan’s operation and man’s fall in the Garden of Eden,
distorted the plan, making man manifest attributes that do not
conform to God’s design and desire. Notwithstanding the tragic
accident, God made a way out through His Son, Jesus Christ, who
came to call us out of darkness into His marvelous light and set us
apart as peculiar people shining forth His glorious light (1 Peter
2:9). We are therefore, commissioned, as redeemed souls, to glow
and be above the life of darkness. It is therefore imperative for man
to bravingly and daringly glow for Christ, allowing Him to shine His
light through our conversations, interactions, words, dressing,
school activities, and life as a whole so that people may see us act
and glorify God (Matthew 5:16).
1. Daniel: Aglow for Christ in an Academic Environment
Daniel1:3-6, 8, 12, 15, 18-20; Proverbs 22:29; Deuteronomy 28:13
The king wanted a set of individuals who were scientifically inclined
and skillful with wisdom, those who could be taught the Chaldean
language and culture. Daniel, alongside others, was selected and
granted a scholarship. But Daniel singled himself out by deciding
not to accept the entire nature of the scholarship because the food
provision was taken from the altar of idols. His light shines forth in
the campus where he was and he did not hide his conviction in
sharing his resolve with the prince of the eunuchs. He would not
tarnish His relationship with His maker nor smear the testimony of
the source of His wisdom; lest the attribution of his brilliant
performance go to the provision made by the king.

Grace is abundantly available to us today such that we can glow

like Daniel. We can reflect on the following character dispositions
that will make you glow in an academic environment:
1. Dependence on the Divine for wisdom and understanding
2. Diligence and dutifulness in study (Romans 12:11)
3. Determination to excel based on God’s promises
4. Decisiveness in sticking to academic honesty
5. Daily freshness of revelation through communion with God by
His word and prayer.

2. Joseph: Aglow for Christ in a Morally Decaying Society

Genesis 39:1-3, 7-9, 11-12; 1 Timothy 4:12: Titus 2:9, 10;
Ephesians 6:1-3; 1 Corinthians 15:33; Proverbs 20:23

Joseph, while a youth, was sold into slavery and worked in

Potiphar’s house. He was dutiful, dependable, and trustworthy,
therefore, his master made him the director of his house. He was
sexually harassed by Mrs. Potiphar. He would not fall for the Devil’s
trap of immorality offered on the platter of gold. He suffered
imprisonment for his righteous and moral stand. The suffering was
the route to glory. The God whom he honoured, by unbroken
righteous stand, promoted him to significance and power. Joseph
was “an example of the believers in word, in conversation, in
charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).

Though we live in a morally decadent era in history, we can live like

Joseph. The wife of Potiphar is a reflection of the decadent immoral
life prevalent in the then Egyptian society. It was in this moral
atmosphere that Joseph got admission to the schools of life. He had
his practical training at Potiphar's Polytechnic. He got admission to
the Prison University on the Nile. As he increased in cognition so
also he developed his spiritual capacity. His moral muscles were
strong enough to withstand the crushing wickedness of his siblings,
the enticement of the moral pervert, lady Potiphars of this world,
and the painful imprisonment. He was aglow for God. How did
Joseph achieve this feat? The following five virtues are worth
examining and emulating:
1. He had early childhood bible education and kept to the tenets
and principles of righteous living in an environment full of
vices.
2. He had an unshakeable bible-based conviction, which
impacted his conduct in training, relationships, and business.
3. He did not take for granted the presence of God in his life for
granted.
4. He did not take after the lives of the Egyptian young guys and
gangs.
5. He was a man of prayer, having regular communion with God.

3. Elijah: Aglow for Christ in a Spiritually Dead Congregation

1 Kings 18:21-26, 30-38: Jude 1:3; 1Timothy 6:11, 12
Israel had gone into idolatry; they had forgotten the true God of
their father and His law. They now worship Baal under the
sponsorship of Jezebel. Then arose Elijah, a prophet in the land,
to restore true worship through revival. He challenged the
prophets of Baal in a contest but they failed because they served
a god who could not talk, could not see, and could not handle
(Psalm 115:4-8). Elijah, on the other hand, came out on top
because God heard his call and sent down fire upon his sacrifice.
He therefore was able to prove the powerlessness of the idol they
worshiped and called the nation to return to serving God. In our
 time we also have false prophets and teachers who present
themselves as sheep but are spiritual wolves (Matthew 7:15).
What would be our reaction as we dare to be like Elijah?
Consider these answers expressed through the following
attributes:
1. Earnestly contending for the faith (Jude 1:3)
2. Speaking the undiluted word of truth (2 Timothy 4:2)
3. Giving no place to false teachers nor bidding them Godspeed
(1 John 1:10)
4. Praying for revival instead of complaining (Psalm 85:4-7)
5. Not keeping company with men of contention (Romans 16:17)

The basis for our glowing is Jesus living inside of us. He wants to
shine in us so that the world may see Him living in us. He, living in
us, is the hope of our glory, therefore, offer yourself a living sacrifice
that Jesus may glow in you (Colossians 1:27).
Jesus Aglow in Me!

DLCF Impact Academy Workshop for Postgraduate Students,

Corpers, and Staff

REFLECTING CHRIST’S GLORY IN BOISTEROUS TIMES

Isaiah 60:2; Hebrew 4:16
The realities of the current happenings across the world point to the
infallibility of the prophecies in the scriptures. The period we live in
can best be described as the time of need (Hebrews 4:16). It is a
time when darkness seems to be permeating the land. Amid these
realities also lies the power of God not only to keep His own but to
cause them to shine and reflect His glory. ‘For, behold, the
darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the
people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall
be seen upon thee’ (Isaiah 60:2). Hence, the Lord can keep every
Christian of all categories and demographics who sincerely abide in
Christ.

1. REALITIES OF THE TIMES OF NEED

Isaiah 60:2; 2 Kings 6: 24-31; Hebrews 4:16
The current situations of this period are not only peculiar to our
contemporary time. Similar situations in the countries of the world
can be found in the scriptures. When Joseph was in Egypt, the
scarcity in the land was so sore that even money lost its value:
“And when money failed in the land of Egypt, and in the land
of Canaan…” (Genesis 47:15). Similarly, during the time of Elisha,
the famine in the city of Samaria got to the extent that women
began to eat their sons (2 Kings 6:24-30).
The effect of the global economic meltdown is biting hard in all
countries of the world. The reality of this has resulted in high cost
of living of which even believers and non-believers, elite and
illiterate, old and young are feeling the impacts. One can then
conclude that we are living in a time of need.

2. RESPONSE OF THE GODLY IN TIMES OF NEED

Hebrews 4:16; Psalm 37:1-7
The same scriptures that predict the time of need also give us
strategies to cope with and overcome such times. In boisterous
times, people tend to cut corners quoting the unscriptural adage:
‘heaven helps those who help themselves’. The tendency of many is
to lose hope in God and His word. Some go into despondency,
discouragement, and enter into depression. Some result in
unethical and unscriptural approaches to the needs of the hour.
The time of need is the time to boldly come to the throne of grace
and seek divine help to overcome.
Every man who desires to live above the needs of the hour must
acknowledge God in all circumstances of life. God is at work at all
times and seasons and He is ever available to help us out. The only
thing the scriptures admonish us to do in time of need is to seek
the face of God through prayers. In response, God promises to show
those who come to the throne of grace great and mighty things.
With these great and mighty things revealed to the seekers, they
can navigate the trying moment and shine forth to God’s glory. We
are to respond in faith in the word of God, fear of God that brings
wisdom to act right, and fortitude in prayer.

3. REFLECTING CHRIST’S GLORY IN TIME OF NEED

Isaiah 60:2; Psalm 92:12
The result of responding appropriately is that we shall be able to
reflect the glory of God. God has promised never to allow the gross
darkness of the boisterous time to overshadow His own. Even
though gross darkness covers the land and the people “…but the
Lord shall arise upon thee (those who abide in Christ) and his
glory shall be upon thee” (Isaiah 60:2).
Even in hard times, the righteous shall flourish like the palm
tree. The palm tree survives the effects of drought, unlike other
trees. Such is the case of believers who abide and trust the Lord
even in hard times.
We reflect and radiate the glory of God only when we stand against
the tides of the culture of compromise that are predominant during
times of economic, financial, and spiritual needs. Life’s challenges
are opportunities to give God a chance to manifest His power and
show forth the glory of God. Our experiences in life are like surfaces
from which the glory of God can reflect and radiate.