COVID-19 Sadly Revealing all We've Taken for Granted

Ever since Ghana started confirming cases of the novel corona virus (covid-19), I have not been very productive. All I find myself doing is following tweets on my personal handle to know the latest. I think I am currently suffering from the effect of its information overload and I am not proud to say I feel a little anxious on how things will eventually turn out.

Speaking about my country, we cannot boast of the best healthcare systems and the number of health workers are frankly inadequate. I watch how countries with better healthcare systems are struggling to contain the corona virus and I look at my country’s and I shudder (not too proud of this either).

Currently, Ghana has recorded 16 new cases with some suspicions of community transfers. My work place is among the ones that has been shut down because of the threat of the virus so I’ve been in isolation.

It has been my fervent prayer that God shows scientists and pharmacologists and pharmacists what is needed to fight this virus and after we successfully kick it out, I resolve:

  1. Never to take the gift of life for granted – Most of us wake up each day, muffle something that sounds like a prayer and go about our duties but when you begin to see the number of deaths being recorded as a result of a virus, you’d realise that indeed, life and good health are gifts from God.
  2. Never to trust in my own abilities – There is an advert on DSTV where a man seem to have made a lot of plans for himself and keeps using the phrase, “what could go wrong?” I think that was the phase our generation found itself in until recently. We seem to have put our hopes in our own abilities and what technology can do for us but this virus seem to have ruffled a lot of feathers. Now, we see that science is limited, thus, only a greater power can help us fight this. Even the most powerful world leaders are setting special days to seek God’s face.
  3. Never to be lackadaisical when it comes to praying for my country and the world – When the church organises prayer retreats and the topic is, ‘Now, let’s pray for financial breakthroughs.’ That is when you see fervency in the prayer of believers but immediately that is switched to ‘pray for our country and the world,‘ the level of urgency in our prayers becomes low. Covid-19 shows the need of praying constantly for our own country and the world as whole.

Even though I admit that these are trying times for everyone, I believe that God is showing us how limited we are as individuals, thus, the need to rely solely on Him. I still say my prayer for the world in these special times and I believe without any doubt that we’ll overcome this.

Let’s continue to observe the rules of social distancing, not touching our faces, washing our hands with soap and water and sanitizing them regularly. I trust that we’ll open our eyes in a few days to realise that this period is over.

In the meantime, let’s remember what God has promised us in Psalm 91:

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
    will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.[a]
I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
    my God, in whom I trust.”
Surely he will save you
    from the fowler’s snare
    and from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with his feathers,
    and under his wings you will find refuge;
    his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
You will not fear the terror of night,
    nor the arrow that flies by day,
nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
    nor the plague that destroys at midday.
A thousand may fall at your side,
    ten thousand at your right hand,
    but it will not come near you.
You will only observe with your eyes
    and see the punishment of the wicked.
If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,”
    and you make the Most High your dwelling,
10 no harm will overtake you,
    no disaster will come near your tent.
11 For he will command his angels concerning you
    to guard you in all your ways;
12 they will lift you up in their hands,
    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
13 You will tread on the lion and the cobra;
    you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
14 “Because he[b] loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
    I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call on me, and I will answer him;
    I will be with him in trouble,
    I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life I will satisfy him
    and show him my salvation.”

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Lyrics that Inspire Any day

Happy New Year! It’s been so long. I always feel guilty when I push the urge to blog and rather sleep or watch TV or go out or work on other projects. I had some amazing blog ideas to share with you before the holidays but a lot of things came up and I couldn’t blog. Combining blogging and regular job is a big challenge but I would try to be more regular this year. I will clear the backlog 😊🤗 🤞

Now, I want to start the year with something relaxing. I have been thinking of the lyrics of Godly/Spiritual music, popularly known as gospel tunes and how some lines are able to hit you so deeply (speaking for myself) and immediately you are healed and encouraged.

Below are a compilation of a few lines/lyrics of some gospel tunes that inspire me anytime the song rings in my spirit. Here are seven of them:

  1. “…Don’t look too far to see, how good He is. Just look at me. He took me for the miry clay, set my feet upon the rock and I am standing in His righteousness. He took away my sin and shame. Gave me a brand new name. His beloved and the redeemed. Look how He turned my life around. Made me a shining light. His glory to reveal” – Nathaniel Bassey and Micah Stampley’s I will worship Him forever.
  2. “…You will deliver. You’re a provider. I find my victory in You. Forever victorious. Forever we win. I find my victory in You. Victory belongs to Jesus. Victory belongs to Him.” – Todd Dulaney’s Victory Belongs to Jesus.
  3. “…He knows what is hidden in your heart. He knows the good thoughts He has for you. They are thoughts of peace and not sin that is why He will bring you to an expected end. He will take care of you. Eii. God will take care of you.” translated from Diana Antwi Hamilton’s Yehowa Behwe
  4. “…I don’t know where I will be if it had not for You. You goodness. Your mercy. I don’t know where I would be. This far by grace.” Pastor Edwin Dadson’s This far by grace.
  5. “…God is working. He is up to something. I may not see it but still I’m trusting. God is working, working, working. He never sleeps nor slumbers. My God the promise keeper. He sees every tear that falls. My God is never early and He is never too late. He’s always there right on time. And if He said it, surely He meant it. And if He meant it, surely He will do it.” Akesse Brempong’s God is working.
  6. “…We yielded to your word. Lord we choose Your ways yes. We are tired of our own. It failed us many times. Speak a word that we will move. Speak a word that we will do. Speak a word a word and we will go. We’ve come for directions.” Dr. Tumi’s Speak a word.
  7. “…And now we’re here. Looking back on where we come from. Because of You and nothing we’ve done. To deserve the love and mercy You’ve shown. But Your grace was strong enough to pick us up. And You made a way. When our backs were against the wall.” Travis Greene’s Made a Way.

There you go. These are the lyrics of some gospel tunes that inspire me all the time. Did I capture your favourite? Which lyrics do you sing randomly and immediately get encouraged? Share with us.

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The Proposal: The TV Show that Made me Cringe

Confession: Ever since I watched Big Brother Africa about 16 years ago, I have grown to like some reality shows and been watching several of them on both local and satellite television. Mainly out of curiosity, I have seen (and continue to see) Fear Factor, America’s Next Top Model, The Voice (UK), Hell’s Kitchen, Chopped, Come Dine with Me and several others. I love the competitiveness and the seeming ‘realness’ of ordinary people on TV who may be working hard to win a prize/reward. I also love the critiquing sessions by the judges, although I feel they are sometimes unfair. Other negatives in some of these shows are the foul languages that are used (Hell’s Kitchen) and the vices which are portrayed as the norm.😕

This week, I discovered two reality shows that have kept my mind buzzing. I saw an episode of The Proposal and it had a number of women providing reasons to a mystery suitor on why he should select them for a prospective relationship. The mystery suitor got to see the ladies because he had a screen that showed what was ongoing on stage while the ladies did not have that luxury. The ladies answered questions posed to them by the mystery suitor, wore swimsuits, modelled and kept convincing him (the mystery suitor) to select them over the others. 🤷There were elimination stages, spearheaded by the mystery suitor and influenced by the ‘chemistry’ he thought existed between him and the ladies/contestants. The ladies who made it to the final round got to see the mystery suitor (and whether they liked his appearance of not were stuck to him). The man then finally selected his preferred girl (I have only seen an episode but I hope other shows have women as the mystery suitors with men as the contestants and the men also model in swimsuits so the woman chooses who she likes from the bunch). 💁 I also saw two episodes of Take Me Out which has a similar concept to The Proposal. Several ladies try to get the attention of the man/celebrity for a possible date to Fernandos. They try hard by acting silly and being loud for the celebrity to choose and take them on a date to Fernandos.😂 At least on Take Me Out, the women can press the buzzer if they do not like the man at any stage on the show, which is better than The Proposal.

Seeing The Proposal and Take Me Out got me thinking and asking several questions including the reality of such shows. They are so full of drama that is likely to keep you glued to the TV even though they may not be real, but, what if shows like The Proposal portrayed what was happening in the real world? Are people/women craving badly for relationships or to get picked up by someone to go on dates? I disliked how desperate the women were portrayed in these shows, especially, how they acted even when they had not seen the suitor. Maybe I am just an old-fashioned Christian who thinks a lady should be pursued and she should have the luxury of selecting who she wants to be with. Yes, a woman can make herself noticeable but not to the point of wearing bikinis to model on television in order to be selected by a suitor (one of the ladies actually did a cheerleading routine in her bikini for the mystery man.) ☹️ That was the point that I said “Oh God, please don’t let this be real. Let them be actresses. Don’t allow anyone to believe this.”

These television shows are mostly rated ’13’ and I’ve been wondering how they are likely to influence the younger generation who keep seeing them.☹️ In order of importance, Comedian and Entertainer, Trevor Noah, joked that Americans ranked Sports first, the Kardashians second, their President third and their troops fourth. Even though it may sound funny, that is how some entertainers and forms of entertainment may be influencing a whole generation. 😥

Have you seen any television show that made you cringe? What was it about? Let’s get talking. 😊

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Lightening Up 2019: Bro Philemon Drops 4 Hit Tracks

Born on October 15th, 1980 in the suburbs of Manse, Kumasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, Ishmael Philemon Ackon, popularly known as Bro Philemon has enjoyed the influence of music through the church. It is no wonder the gospel musician, performer, songwriter and producer has released four new songs which are already making waves in this new year. His parents, Beatrice Ivy Ackon and the late Reverend Emmanuel Eddie E. Ackon, were members of the Methodist Church who played various roles in the gospel musician’s successful career.

Bro Philemon is currently a worship leader at the Shenzhen International Fellowship in China where he resides with his wife Mary Joy Yap Dugaduga and children Beatrice Ivy-Joy Ackon and Trixie Efua-Otuah Ackon.

The multiple gospel award-winner is also a businessman and the Chief Executive Officer of P & D MPC HK Co. Limited (Hong Kong) and Philemon’s Supply Management SZ Co. Limited (Shenzhen, China).

His four new songs feature popular names like Akesse Brempong, Amy Newman and Jeremy Rayborn Hall. These songs are already receiving massive airplay and they include:

The Song & The Dance featuring Jeremy Rayborn Hall (Download Here):  

‘Your Name’ featuring Akesse Brempong (Download Here)

‘Sweetest Name Remix’ feat Amy Newman (Download Here)

‘Higher Ground’ (Download Here)

Content Source: Gospel Bloggers Association

From Accounting to Gospel Music – How an ‘Encounter’ Totally Changed the Dreams of Miss Ivy Okyere

Her dreams of wearing high heels and working in corporate Ghana as an Accountant was cut short a few months after she graduated from the Pentecost University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. She wears high heels, though, but this time she stands in front of large congregations and her mission is to win souls, heal the sick and encourage everyone through her eight-track gospel album.

The musician, who completed Achimota School in 2006, is also a pastor at Zoe Outreach Embassy in Accra. Ivy Okyere’s life and dreams were altered when she began her national service and had a near-death experience.

“In November 2011, I fell sick and appeared somewhere that I can’t tell but I knew it is some kind of spiritual experience,” Miss Okyere said.

In what appeared to be a vision, the gospel musician went to a ‘certain place’ where she saw people dressed in white gowns and in there, she began to ask questions.

“I saw people in a queue as if they were going somewhere. A man walked up to me and told me that these people are going to present themselves to a king,” she said. “The man said I should not join because I was not part but I could only observe.”

According to the musician, that was when she moved out of the queue and became more conscious of her environment. She does not remember how she came out of the trance but what the singer recalls was the instruction she received from the ‘man’ in the said experience.

“Go and sing because this is the time for you to sing,” the exact words of the unknown man in the ‘experience.’

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It was with this instruction and later, a confirmation from another Man-of-God [name witheld] that Miss Okyere, with no prior experience in singing, began to work on her album that was released in April, this year. In between heeding to the call and to the release of her debut album, the singer made some adjustments to her career and prepared herself to do full-time ministry.

“I was working in Multicredit Savings and Loans in Kumasi before I moved to Accra and I have worked in an automobile company. Currently, I am in the process of setting my own business,” said Miss Okyere.

The musician recounts with excitement, how close friends and family react when they listen to her songs for the first time. Most of them are surprised at how an aspiring accountant could switch into full-time gospel ministry because, to them, the change has been ‘drastic.’

“They are happy. Everybody goes like I am happy for you. Everybody goes like the songs are powerful. Everybody goes like you hear the lyrics clearly and they are biblical,” she said. “It’s amazing that the whole thing happened just like that. I remember, the first time people heard me singing, actually even my own mother, she was like ‘how, what happened to you?’[Miss Okyere giggles] No one actually knew I had the voice to sing but right after the encounter, I began to have this whole experience. So it’s amazing,” the gospel artiste added.

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When questioned on the choice of her style of music, Miss Okyere remarks they are exactly what she receives in her spirit. Unlike some gospel musicians who write songs based on their experiences, she receives her inspiration while she worships and prays.

“Sometimes, I see myself singing in a dream and when I wake up, I still have the songs. What I do is I write them or I pick my phone and record them,” she said.

Her favourite track on the album is the praise song titled ‘Nkunim’ [meaning victory]. She likes it because even though she received a revelation of it, the song summarises her experiences.

Nkunim because I believe that through all the experiences I’ve had, the Lord gave me the victory. I have other songs that portray that but for now, that is my favorite,” she said.

Miss Okyere lists Don Moen, Sinach, Nathaniel Bassey, Joe Mettle, and Willy and Mike as some gospel musicians who inspire her but commenting on the current gospel tracks being produced in Ghana, the singer believes artists should be more focused on spreading the word of God.

“Money is good, fame is good and I think you have to use your talent but you shouldn’t neglect the fact that we are in the ministry with a purpose. It is a call and you have to heed to the call and not any other thing,” she said.

The gospel artiste, together with her team, are working on shooting music videos, finding radio slots to lead live-worship sessions and preparing to record tunes for her next album. In subsequent releases, she hopes to translate the songs into several other languages.

“That is what the Bible says and this is the ministry the Lord has given me. I also need to make sure that every tongue, every tribe, everybody understands the message to know what the Lord is doing, so, it is going to be in different languages and the songs will be all over the globe,” Miss Okyere said.

“For upcoming gospel artiste, I would say, once you are in, do things right. Do not imitate the bad but correct what you think is wrong and stay focused. As long as you have chosen to go with the gospel, remember Jesus is the reason for the gospel. Do it the Jesus’ way. Say it right and sing it right by portraying what it stands for,” she concluded.

Cherry Blossom on Apple iOS 12.1

Cherry Blossom on Apple iOS 12.1

Cherry Blossom on Apple iOS 12.1

Cherry Blossom on Apple iOS 12.1

Cherry Blossom on Apple iOS 12.1

To listen to Miss Okyere’s album, please click on the play button. Let us know what you think about her tracks in the comment box. 😊

7 Christian Broadcasts & the Likely Influences of Listening to the Preachers

A way that causes an increase in the faith of every Christian, as stated in the Bible (Romans 10:17), is to constantly listen to /hear the word of God. If you are curious about the message style of preachers or you simply want to keep your mind fixated on God throughout the day and week (not only on Sundays during church services) then these Christian broadcasts are what you need.

Over the past weeks, the works of some preachers have been deeply appreciated through their radio or television broadcasts. This post, therefore, seeks to provide a broad overview of the sermon style of seven of these preachers and how you are likely to be influenced when you listen to them constantly.

  • Reverend Andy Yawson – Winning Ways Express on Sunny 88.7 FM
Christian Blog Ghana
Rev. Yawson 

Rev. Andy Yawson is the senior pastor of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) and his broadcast is on Sunny 88.7 FM on weekdays between 11:00 -11:30AM. His style of presenting God’s word on his broadcast equips the listener to lead the victorious life. He provides the message of hope and motivates the listener to keep pursuing the purpose for which they’ve been created. After listening to him, you are likely to feel encouraged to pick yourself up and forge on. In the past weeks, he has been providing the listener with reasons a Christian shouldn’t settle for less because there are people we need to impact.

  • Reverend Eastwood Anaba – Wind of Love on Sunny 88.7 FM

Rev. Eastwood Anaba

With a touch of humour, Rev. Eastwood Anaba, Pastor at Fountain Gate Chapel, brings Wind of Love on Sunny 88.7FM from Mondays to Saturdays at 11:30AM. This preacher can be described as the radical evangelist who pushes the Christian to adopt the right attitude to worship and prayer. He causes the listeners to re-think some of the attitudes which have been accepted as the ‘norm’ in our churches. His style of presentation is likely to make you chuckle at certain points of the broadcast but also cause you to reflect. In the past few weeks, he has been preaching on some lessons a Christian must avoid by using Gehazi and Absalom as examples. 

  • Pastor Mensah Otabil – Living Word on Joy 99.7 FM

    M.O
    Pastor Mensah Otabil

As the teacher that he is popularly known to be, Pastor Mensah Otabil, the head pastor of the International Central Gospel Church, is featured on Joy 99.7FM every weekday after the mid-day news. His sermon, delivered in points (the listener needs a notebook) stirs up hope in the Christian. The sermons cause you to have faith in God, yourself, Ghana and the continent at large. To make his teaching more practical, he provides examples which sometimes add a touch of humour to the sermon. In the past few weeks, he has been linking having a sound mind to how that diminishes fear in every Christian.

  • Pastor Chris Oyakhilome on Green 88.5 FM 

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The head pastor of Christ Embassy is featured on Green 88.5FM on weekdays between 2:00 -2:30 PM. If his sermons were a course, they would probably be the advanced level which requires the undivided attention of the listener. The sermons of Pastor Chris in the broadcasts are likely to cause the listener to rush for a Bible (wherever it’s hidden) and dig deeper to understand some of his revelations. He recently made an analogy on casting out and binding the devil and the interpretation he gave to them backed by scriptures, you simply need to listen to him.

  • Bishop Dag Heward-Mills on Sweet Melodies 94.3 FM

Dag M
Bishop Dag Heward-Mills

The sermons of Bishop Dag which are presented in a simple, concise and very instructive manner causing the listener to understand that nothing else matters in this world except for soul-winning. He pushes the listener to focus mainly on the Great Commission. He has a good sense of humour and starts his practical examples by using the words, “One Day.” His congregation know that too well and laugh in anticipation for what he is about to say next. He is on Sweet Melodies on weekdays from 6-7AM and there is a repeat broadcast at 4pm.

  • Lady Reverend Adelaide Heward-Mills  on Sweet Melodies 94.3 FM

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Lady Adelaide

Lady Rev. Adelaide, the wife of Bishop Dag, comes on air every Saturday from 9-10AM with Honey on My Lips. Her sermons explain some of the concepts in the Bible. She doesn’t pamper her listeners in her delivery. She tells you what is in the Bible and how you are to act. Some of her sermons are directed to women but most of them are for both gender. She gives practical examples which make her sermon less complicated to understand. You are likely to feel refreshed, appreciate the role played by the church which will stir up loyalty in you. Last week, she provided insight into reasons God chastens the people she loves.

  • Pastor Joel Osteen on Praise TV

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Joel Osteen

The Lakewood Church pastor is an encourager who always starts his sermon with something to laugh about. He motivates the viewer to keep pursuing what God has laid on their hearts even though they may be facing barriers and challenges. His broadcast is aired on the digital channel, Praise TV at 9PM on weekdays. If you are facing any challenges and feel like giving up, his sermons are likely to wash off the depression and make you pick up from where you left off.

Which radio or television broadcasts do you listen to or watch? Please share the details with us and how it has blessed your life. We’d love to listen/watch and feature them in the second part of this post.

Image Credit: All photos were downloaded from the pastors’ or their churches’ Facebook pages

© picasion.com_9CWp

 

“Understand the Seasons & Embrace Technology,” Gospel Artiste Advises

Contemporary Gospel Musician, Samuel Osei Kwarteng, popularly known as Kwame Kwarteng is calling on musicians, particularly, those doing the gospel genre to understand the ‘times’ and adopt its accompanying technology in the production and distribution of their music.

The writer and singer of the hit single, Signs and Wonders, says this music industry is currently receiving its fair share of educational influences on both producers and consumers, therefore, a twist in the way the music is being made. He, however, refuted claims that the gospel industry in Ghana is collapsing, but, rather sees the genre as entering into a new ‘season.’

“Music is a tool for evangelism and our music will change. We should, however, update the way we think and accept whatever that comes with it. If you don’t update yourself when the season comes, you will perish,” he said. “Now, some songs become hit on social media so our ability to use this tool very well is what will take us there,” Mr Kwarteng added. 

The 2016 graduate of the University of Development Studies, who has been singing since IMG-20180709-WA0012childhood, believes prophecies in the Bible concerning  the pouring of the Holy Spirit on all flesh in the last days, is being manifested in the increase in the number of gospel ministers who are also skilful in the art and performing miracles through their music.   

Mr Kwarteng, who is yet to go into this Ministry fulltime, admits there are challenges in the gospel terrain compared to other genres of music, therefore, his decision to combine singing with a regular job. In addition to the hit single, Signs and Wonders, the artist has Onim Wo Din, two songs which were inspired through scriptures. 

Signs and Wonders is a prophetic song and I see this season as a prophetic one. I got the inspiration for this song from Mark 16:17, where Jesus said signs and wonders will follow them who believe. For that reason, if you become a believer, you should not struggle for certain things in life,” he said.

“His death brought victory and blessings. First, we used to live in bondage and curses and were in deep sin but he came to die for us. If I lift up my hands and pray, the sick should be healed because that is the umbrella I operate under, so, we are made for signs and wonders as Jesus Christ said,” Mr Kwarteng said.  

The contemporary-style gospel musician traces his influences to Ron Kenoly, Alvin Slaughter, Don Moen, Tye Tribbett, Travis Greene, Lawrence Flowers, Mali Music, Donnie McClurkin and William McDowell. In Africa and Ghana, Nathaniel Bassey, Uche Agu, Joe Mettle, Jeshurun Otchere and Pastor Emmit are musicians Mr Kwarteng looks up to. 

The Righteous Cry.

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This Saturday, July 21, Kwame Kwarteng in collaboration with Kharis Life Foundation will be hosting a worship and prayer service dubbed Righteous Cry. The programme is taking place at the African Regent Hotel at exactly 3pm. Other ministers who will be ministering include Jeshrun Okyere, Pastor Emmit, A.B Kwarteng, Min. Mary and Rev. Nana Perbi.

The theme for this event, according to the musician, was inspired by Psalm 34:17 and it is an attempt “to get believers away from the ‘noise’ to a time with God when His words will be quoted back to Him.”  

“It will be ourselves and God and if we do that he is going to hear our cry.  It’s worship, prayer and the word and it’s free,” Mr Kwarteng concluded. 

© picasion.com_9CWp

The 5 Most ‘SHOWN’ Christian Movies on Ghanaian TV

These Christian movies are so repeated that when you see them lined up or about to be shown, you almost groan in pain and say, “not again.” But no matter how many times you’ve seen them on both analogue and digital TV channels, you are always tempted to watch when they are repeated. Here is a list of the five most shown Christian movies on free-to-air TV in Ghana:

War room

warroom
Photo Credit: warroomthemovie.com

If you haven’t seen this movie yet, you are either not a fan of Christian movies or you simply do not care.  Even if you haven’t seen this movie on TV, you should have watched it in church on Valentines’ Day or during a Couple’s Nite out. This movie, which was produced by the Kendrick Brothers, features Tony (T.C. Stallings) and Elizabeth (Priscilla Shirer). The couple were having issues in their marriage till Elizabeth met Miss Clara (Karen Abercrombie) who admonished her to pray about her marriage instead of nagging. Elizabeth heeded to the advice, converted her closet to a ‘war room’ and prayed. Eventually, she had the response she was seeking and her marriage improved tremendously, although, the couple faced a number of trials prior to that. The daughter of the couple, Danielle (Alena Pitts) and her friend, Jeniffer (Jadin Alexis Harris) provided some subtle humour whenever they appeared in the movie.

Joyful Noise

This is a movie which portrays leadership in a church choir when they were threatened by a budget cut while entering a contest. It featured Vi (Queen Latifah) and G.G (Dolly Parton) who were always on each other’s neck and never seemed to get along. Meanwhile, Vi‘s daughter, Olivia (Keke Palmer) meets G.G’s rebellious grandson, Randy (Jeremy Jordon) and they fall in love. Vi, of course, who was strict did not approve of the two’s blooming romance but as the leader of the choir, she agreed to convert their songs to more contemporary ones which won them the trophy in the contest. This movie is infused with some good gospel tunes and has a hint of comedy but there are some scenes which confuse a strict Christian. For instance, there were members of the choir who practised pre-marital sex. Randy also took Olivia to the club and inquired if she was going to be a ‘church girl’ all her life (scratching my head).

Undershepherd

undershepherd
Image credit: Rottentomatoes.com

A personal favourite which has been shown several times, particularly, on Praise TV, Undershepherd depicts the behind-the-scenes of some churches. LC (Isaiah Washington) and his friend, Roland (Lammon Rucker) attended the same church till the latter went to plant his own which did not quite flourish. LC remained in the First Baptist Church and was made the leader. His ministry became one full of dirty politics, adultery and several other negative practices. The repercussions were quite obvious and he ended up in jail. One begins to wonder what really goes on behind the scenes in our various churches.

Miracles from Heaven

This is a true story with a little girl, Anna (Kylie Rogers) with a dysfunction in her digestive system who miraculously got healed after the family had spent so many resources on her. She had to travel with her mum to several hospitals trying to find a cure for this rare disorder and in the process, Anna got stressed and unhappy. She was miraculously healed when she accidentally fell into the hollow middle of a tree in her home while playing with her siblings. While her parents and the rescue team trembled with fear trying to get her out, Anna found the healing she was seeking. Have you seen this movie yet?

Temptations: Confessions of a Marriage Counsellor

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Image Credit: http://www.temptationthemovie.com

Judith (Jurnee Smollett-Bell) got married to her high school sweetheart Brice (Lance Gross) and everything seemed to be going on smoothly till she met rich,  adventurous Harley (Robbie Jones). It was then that she realised her marriage to her Christian husband was nothing but drab and lacked the excitement Harley tempted her with. Judith was negatively influenced to dress to kill (pressure from Ava played by Kim Kardashian), take drugs and have unprotected sex with Harley. The consequences of that included the loss of her marriage. Don’t say you haven’t seen this movie too many times.

Have you watched all of these five movies? Are there any others which are repeated on our screens but haven’t been listed above? Share the titles with us 🙂

© picasion.com_9CWp

5 More Christian Radio Shows You Must Listen to

After sharing 7 Christian Radio Shows You’d Absolutely Love last month, our attention was drawn to a number of Christian programmes on the airwaves in Accra and we took some time to listen to them and we’ve come up with this compilation:

  • Altar of Worship with Naadu Ollennu on Radio XYZ 93.1FM

Sometimes when the weather is very warm on weekdays, what you crave for is not the usual talk shows on politics or sports, but, some soothing gospel tunes and that is exactly what Naadu Oleenu provides for listeners from 1-3pm on Radio XYZ 93.1FM. Her selection of music is quite impeccable and her voice tone, very soothing for the afternoon. During the show, she poses questions to her listeners and reads out the responses in such a conversational tone you may feel she’s actually speaking with you. Before the show ends, she reads out a quote which is designed to uplift anyone listening to programme.

WARNING: Make sure you tune off just in time when she is signing off, especially, if you are not a fan of loud dancehall or rap tunes. The transition from Altar of Worship to the next programme is so abrupt that immediately there is a switch, the drivetime host starts dropping some loud, ‘hard’ tunes or rap, depending on his selection of the day. What we would suggest is a gradual take-over, maybe, an advert or two would not be bad for fans of not-so-loud music to gently tune off.

  • Drive Melodies with Kwaku Sampson on Sweet Melodies 94.3 FM

From 5-8PM on weekdays, except on Wednesdays, Kwaku Sampson hosts Drive Melodies on Sweet Melodies 94.3 FM. This is a mix-bag or a combination of several segments interspersed with good gospel tunes. Sometimes he holds discussions with a co-host or guests. The recent one had a singing competition where callers sang and winners selected at the end of the show. The constants on the show are the good tunes which will keep you grooving while you drive home and the testimony segment where a tape is played with someone sharing an inspiring story. This is definitely an option for listeners who may not be interested in long and dragging news discussions on the other stations. You’ll get updates on what is happening around the world in their news at 6pm and afterwards, it’s inspiration throughout.

Christian Blog Ghana
Photo Source: Sweet Melodies’ Facebook Page

  • Keys and Strings with Danny Attah on Sweet Melodies 94.3 FM

This is a ‘free’ on-air seminar for chorister and musicians in the church which is aired on Saturdays, from 9am -10am. The show seems quite popular assessing from the calls and text messages they receive from the listeners. The panel, led by Danny Attah, take a topic each week relating to choir management, come up with ideas around it and discuss. The panelists mostly comprise of music directors and musicians in the church. On some Saturdays, the show is dedicated to answering questions and addressing the concerns of the listeners. Managing a choir, from what we’ve come to understand, is one of the most daunting tasks for anyone who is ill-equipped. This talk show takes listeners through what could be done to make this task less challenging. Even if you do not belong to the choir, listening to this show opens you up to what choristers go through to sing those beautiful melodies in church meetings. Musicians in the church need to be appreciated, deserve our prayers and they must make it a point to listen to this show as well.

  • Helpers of Our Joy on Sweet Melodies 94.3FM

This is a relationship and counselling programme aired on weekdays from 9 – 10pm. It was formerly hosted by Rev. Eddy Fabin but currently by, Rev. Alex Otoo Ankamah. During the one-hour show, a particular topic on relationships and marriage is selected and discussed by the host and his guest(s). Listeners are asked to send their questions and contributions and later, the phone lines are opened for the counsellors to help address issues live in the studio. Responses given to questions by the counsellors are biblical, sound and straight to the point with no mincing of words. If your issue seems too complicated, you are asked to call a number for further discussion. When the habit of listening to this show is cultivated, there is no way you can go wrong in your relationship or marriage.

Christian Blog Ghana
Photo Source: Sweet Melodies’ Facebook Page

  • Fam-Life on Citi 97.3 FM

Speaking of relationship and counselling shows, Fam-life on Citi 97.3 FM is another showed with that concept which is aired on Saturdays from 7am – 9am. Leticia Effah hosts the show with other renowned marriage counsellors like Amos Kevin Annan. The topics which are treated on the show are more inclined towards improving marriages but that does not stop the unmarried from listening to it. It’s always good to be prepared for what lies ahead or what do you think?

Has your favourite show been mentioned yet? If it hasn’t let us know and we’ll do the listening with you. 😊

 

7 Christian Radio Shows you’d Absolutely Love

Listening to sermons on the radio is a great way to keep your mind focused on God but, sometimes what the Christian need is a variety of programmes to prevent monotony. Different radio stations, in their programming, are coming up with some of these shows and below is a compilation of seven of them. These programmes are different, provides you with that variety, keeps your mind fixed on God and the church and above all, you’d absolutely love to listen to them over and over again. Here is the list:

  • Digital Church with Maximus Ametorgoh on Sunny 88.7 FM

In this technological era, where social media has become a great communication tool for individuals and organisations, most churches are adopting them as well. However, are these tools being used in their optimum form looking at their functionalities? That is exactly what the Digital Church addresses on Saturdays at 10 am on Sunny 88.7 FM. It takes listeners through what churches need to know about using these new media forms in their communications. The host, Maximus Ametorgoh, who is knowledgeable in this field walks listeners through the various processes, uses and benefits of using new media as a church. In his presentation, Mr. Ametorgoh lists points and addresses each of them within 30-minutes and it almost feels listeners have attended a free seminar. This is a highly recommended programme for members of the media and communications teams in every church as well as anyone interested in the use of this tool.

  • Easy Sunday with Kwabby on Class 91.3 FM

After the close of church services on Sundays, you sometimes need some good gospel tunes to keep meditating on the word of God while you plan for the new week and that is exactly what this show helps you do. What makes it different from the other programmes is that listeners determine the tracks which are played. They do that by sending their requests via the station’s Whatsapp lines and the host, Kwabby (Kwabs for short) does well to go through all the requests no matter the number he receives. His monotone and the manner in which he handles each request makes the two-hour show so short. You should probably tune in this Sunday at 12 pm.

  • The Reason is Jesus with Rev. Mike Nii Abossey on Joy 99.7 FM

This show is like old wine (gets better with time) and could easily qualify as one of the longest running Christian programmes on-air. It starts airing immediately after Pastor Mensah Otabil’s broadcast at 7:30 am on Joy 99.7FM with soothing sounds which keep your mind focused on God while you prepare for your Sunday service. At 8 am, there is a break for the news and Rev. Mike Nii Abossey comes back to play more gospel tracks which are a mixture of both local and foreign tunes. The two and a half hour-programme is never complete without the usual altar-call and sometimes he has guests passing through to inspire listeners or give updates on upcoming programmes.

  • Rivers of Worship with Joojo Bediako on Citi 97.3 FM

On the other side of the dial is Rivers of Worship on CITI 97.3 which runs concurrently with the Reason is Jesus on Joy 99.7 FM. The concepts are similar, therefore, listeners have the choice of flipping their dials when the other station is not doing what they really want. Joojo Bediako, as a host, always has an impressive play list which will keep you glued till 10 am when there is a repeat of The Big Issue.

  • Toe Tapping on Sweet Melodies 94.3 FM

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This music programme provides listeners with the alternative of hearing good gospel tunes on weekdays from 9:30 am until 11 am. The show has had a number of presenters over the years and has segments like daily health tips, beauty and style tips and refreshing moments. Listeners also have the chance to send shout outs but this happens on days when the show doesn’t need to break for Prophetic Turning Point.

  • Positive Soul Food with JJD on Sunny FM 88.7 FM

Positive Soul Food runs every weekday between 12 pm to 2:30 pm. This programme offers the alternative for individuals who may not be interested in the regular political and sports shows which air around that same time on other stations. If Jennifer Jessica Danquah is not in the seat to soothe you with inspiring tracks and her voice, there are other ladies like Baaba and others who sit in and do the job quite well. The song selections are beautiful and the presenters interact very well with their listeners. The only negative with the Positive Soul Food is the number of commercials aired at a time. There are too many of them and they have the tendency of pushing listeners to flip their dials. Apart from that, it’s another great show.

  • Sunset Drive with Fiifi Folson on Sunny 88.7 FM

How can we discuss outstanding Christian radio programmes without mentioning the Sunset Drive on Sunny FM which runs every weekday, from 4:30 pm to 8 pm. The host, Fiifi Folson, selects a theme each day and selects tracks based on the theme. It is not only a great show because of the song selection, but Fiifi Folson is an interesting guy with the great voice who has the ability to keep you glued to your radio set. He also has segments on the show where he gives prizes to listeners who may be celebrating their birthdays and those who answer his questions accurately and fast.

There are other wonderful Christian programmes on-air and they will be featured in subsequent posts. We’ll definitely keep our ears on the ground and keep you updated.

Do you have any favourite shows on Radio? Share with us and we’ll do the listening with you.