"Unlocking Africa's Destiny: Your Part in God's Grand Plan"
As believers, we are called to be part of something bigger than ourselves – advancing God's kingdom in Africa.
But have we ever stopped to think about what this really means?
In this blog, we'll delve into God's big plan for kingdom advancement in Africa and explore the crucial role believers play in it.
A Prophetic Word for Africa
We recall the prophetic word that spoke of a borderless Africa, where people would come together in unity, fostering active tourism, travel, trade, activism, intermarriages, and a One Africa movement led by the younger generation. This word is a reminder that God's plan for Africa is one of unity, prosperity, and advancement (Psalm 133:1, "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!")
The Berlin Conference: A Turning Point in African History
However, we must acknowledge the historical event that has had a lasting impact on Africa – the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885. The Berlin Act, signed in February 1885, sealed the fate of Africa. The continent was divided into spheres of influence, with European powers drawing arbitrary borders that would later become the source of countless conflicts. The Scramble for Africa had begun, and the consequences would be devastating. African kingdoms and communities were torn apart, their cultures suppressed, and their resources plundered. The Berlin Conference was a pivotal moment in history, marking the beginning of a dark era of colonialism and exploitation. The legacy of that fateful conference still lingers today, a reminder of the destructive power of greed and ambition (Proverbs 28:25, "He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house, But he who hates bribes will live")
Key Outcomes of the Berlin Conference
1. Scramble for Africa: European powers competed to colonize and exploit African territories.
2. Partitioning of Africa: Africa was divided into spheres of influence, with European powers drawing arbitrary borders.
3. Colonialism and Exploitation: European colonialism and exploitation of African resources led to the subjugation and oppression of African peoples.
4. Undermining African Unity: The conference's outcome undermined African unity and solidarity, fostering divisions among African communities
The Power of Unity
We can learn from other continents and countries that have advanced because of unity. The United States of America, for example, is a powerful nation that has achieved greatness through unity. The European Union is another example of countries coming together to achieve economic and political stability. Similarly, the United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates that have united to become a modern, prosperous nation. Even the Asian Tigers – Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan – have achieved rapid economic growth and development through strategic partnerships and collaborations. Why can't Africa achieve the same level of unity and advancement? (Matthew 18:19, "Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven")
The Consequences of Division
The consequences of division are still felt today. Africa has been plagued by apartheid, genocide, wars, and segregation, all of which have hindered the continent's progress. But we believe that God is interested in reversing this trend and advancing His kingdom in Africa (Luke 11:17, "But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth")
God's Agenda for Africa
So, what is God's agenda for Africa? According to Ezekiel 37, God wants to advance His kingdom in Africa through:
1. Spiritual Advancement: Believers must prioritize spirituality, praying fervently and consistently for Africa's transformation (2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land"). A great example of the impact of spiritual advancement on a nation is China. Despite being a communist nation, China has experienced rapid economic growth and has become a global superpower. Interestingly, China is also home to the largest number of Christian intercessors, including:
- Brother Yun, also known as "The Heavenly Man," who has been instrumental in spreading the Gospel in China and praying for the nation's transformation.
- Pastor Samuel Lamb, who has been a key figure in the Chinese house church movement and has prayed fervently for China's spiritual awakening.
- Watchman Nee, a Chinese Christian leader who prayed and interceded for China's transformation, even in the face of persecution.
- Rees Howells, a Welsh evangelist and intercessor, who prayed for the salvation of Wales and saw a significant revival in the 1900s. His intercession also played a crucial role in ending World War II.
- Frank Laubach, an American missionary and intercessor, who prayed for the literacy and salvation of the Moro people in the Philippines and saw significant breakthroughs. His intercession also contributed to the development of a written alphabet for the Moro language.
- Charles Finney, an American evangelist and intercessor, prayed for revival in the United States and saw a significant spiritual awakening in the 19th century. His intercession also contributed to the abolition of slavery in the United States.
- William Wilberforce, a British politician and intercessor, prayed for the abolition of slavery in the British Empire and saw significant policy changes in the 19th century. His intercession also played a crucial role in shaping British politics and social justice.
These Christian intercessors, along with many others, have demonstrated the power of chronic intercession in shaping nations, stopping wars, changing policies, and bringing about industrial and technological advancement.
The Role of Believers
As believers, we play a crucial role in advancing God's kingdom in Africa. We must:
1. Realize our calling: Understand that we are called to advance God's kingdom in Africa (Matthew 28:18-20, "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen").
2. Pray consistently: Intercede for Africa, praying for transformation and breakthroughs (1 Timothy 2:1-4, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth").
3. Take territories: Believers must understand the spiritual aspect of taking territories and advancing God's kingdom (Joshua 1:3, "Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses").
4. Mentor and disciple: Mentorship is crucial for sustainability and advancing God's agenda (2 Timothy 2:2, "And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also").
Conclusion
In conclusion, advancing God's kingdom in Africa requires a deep understanding of God's agenda for the continent. As believers, we must prioritize spirituality, praying fervently and consistently for Africa's transformation. We must also take territories, mentor and disciple, and pray consistently for breakthroughs. By doing so, we can unlock God's big plan for kingdom advancement in Africa and see the continent transformed for His glory.
A Call to Action
We urge all believers in Africa and around the world to join us in praying for the continent's transformation. Let us unite in intercession, asking God to:
- Bring spiritual awakening and revival to Africa
- Heal the wounds of colonialism and historical trauma
- Bring about economic empowerment and development
- Establish God's kingdom in every sphere of society
Together, we can make a difference and see God's kingdom advanced in Africa.
May God bless Africa and may Africa bless God.
Amen.
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