<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[TEMI OLU: 🌸 DEVOTIONALS]]></title><description><![CDATA[This space holds the quiet words that accompany you through life, one scripture at a time.

]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/s/devotionals</link><image><url>https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!1Bt4!,w_256,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa864826a-7200-4b5f-b065-5690c9ac1b1a_320x320.png</url><title>TEMI OLU: 🌸 DEVOTIONALS</title><link>https://www.temiolu.com/s/devotionals</link></image><generator>Substack</generator><lastBuildDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 09:36:45 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.temiolu.com/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><copyright><![CDATA[Temitope Olusola]]></copyright><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><webMaster><![CDATA[mizztemiolu@substack.com]]></webMaster><itunes:owner><itunes:email><![CDATA[mizztemiolu@substack.com]]></itunes:email><itunes:name><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:author><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></itunes:author><googleplay:owner><![CDATA[mizztemiolu@substack.com]]></googleplay:owner><googleplay:email><![CDATA[mizztemiolu@substack.com]]></googleplay:email><googleplay:author><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></googleplay:author><itunes:block><![CDATA[Yes]]></itunes:block><item><title><![CDATA[GODLY WISDOM]]></title><description><![CDATA[Intelligence gathers information; wisdom discerns what to do with it.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/godly-wisdom</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/godly-wisdom</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 08:01:16 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1350,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:208041,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/190012408?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uLHE!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F412c6425-c31e-42a3-94d6-32ecd5531ec9_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God&#8230; and it will be given<em>. </em>James 1:5</p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Intelligence is not the same as wisdom; it is the application of divine understanding to day-to-day existence. When you stop using guesswork to navigate life and start asking yourself, "Lord, what is the wise thing here?" you thrive. Wisdom helps you make decisions that build rather than destroy, protects you from needless suffering, and synchronises you with God's timing.</p><p>You can read books, listen to podcasts, hold degrees, and still feel uncertain at crossroads. Because wisdom is not simply knowledge stored, but divine insight applied. </p><p>Acknowledging that you don't have all the answers is the first step toward growing wisdom, even if it may seem easy until pride tells you that you should already know what to do.<br><br>But where self-sufficiency ends, Godly wisdom starts.</p><p>Many of our deepest traumas resulted from a lack of discernment rather than a lack of opportunity.<br><br>Wisdom shields you against choices that make you feel wonderful at the time but later cause you to lose your sense of peace. It brings you into harmony with God's timing, which is rarely hurried or anxious.</p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation:</strong></p><p>Ask yourself, "What is the wise, God-honoring step here?" before making any significant decisions this week.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong></p><p>Give me knowledge, Holy Spirit. Let my choices bring me peace and respect you. Amen.</p><p></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[LIVING HOPE]]></title><description><![CDATA[Living hope does not come from outside; thought patterns and personality type do not support it. The resurrection of Jesus Christ serves as its focal point.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/living-hope</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/living-hope</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 08:00:42 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>He has caused us to be born again into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3.</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1350,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:1483201,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/190006463?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kGAE!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d8c9214-c0b4-4e71-af0c-311ee590ca2b_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Optimism is not living hope. "Things will get better because I want them to" is not a statement.</p><p>"Things will turn toward God's purpose because Christ lives" is the statement. </p><p>When you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or disheartened, living hope breathes, moves, and gives you power. It is a living hope that speaks louder than delays and endures disappointments.</p><p>God's hope whispers, "This isn't the end," when life seems stagnant. Living hope serves as a reminder of resurrection when a season seems over.<br><br>When your hope is based on Christ's unwavering victory rather than external circumstances, you thrive.</p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation:</strong></p><p>List three areas in which you no longer have hope. Put a scripture of promise next to each one.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong></p><p>Breathe Your living hope back into my heart, Lord, allow Your resurrection life to rekindle my hopes, aspirations, and bravery. Amen.</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[GODLY DISCIPLINE]]></title><description><![CDATA[Stewardship is necessary for growth, and stewardship necessitates discipline.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/humble-strength</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/humble-strength</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 08:01:31 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/a800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1350,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:2237207,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/189794441?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nmb-!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa800ca09-1db7-46e3-8cb1-fcf2f32a99ce_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11.</p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>We frequently overlook the beauty of discipline because of the pain it entails. Discipline doesn't dazzle like a breakthrough, sparkle like a blessing, or thrill us like an unexpected miracle. However, because discipline contains formation, pruning, strengthening, maturing, and transformation, it is one of God's greatest loving gifts to His children. Nothing thrives by coincidence. Because someone takes care of them, gardens thrive. People's lives thrive when they allow themselves to grow.</p><p>Because convenience is so highly valued in our society, everything that is difficult, slow, unpleasant, or difficult is quickly labeled as "it isn't meant to be." However, spiritual growth teaches you that sometimes struggle is a sign of divine alignment rather than a mismatch. God employs discipline not to break you, but to build you; not to punish, but to trim; not to humiliate you into shame, but to mold you into a purpose.</p><p>The difficult thing about discipline is that it doesn't seem spiritual. There is no radiance when you wake up to pray. It doesn't feel like a miracle to resist your impulses. It doesn't feel like fighting to control your tongue. It doesn't feel like a breakthrough to constantly show up, even when you're exhausted. It doesn't feel great to break old routines. However, heaven acknowledges all of these "ordinary acts of obedience" as signs of spiritual development.</p><p>Without discipline, a life becomes chaotic, a heart becomes unstable, and one's destiny is postponed.</p><p>But, when you practice godly discipline, you thrive because it creates space for the qualities that God desires for you. Your ability is strengthened, sharpened, cleaned, ordered, and pruned. </p><p>God uses discipline to prepare you, not to restrict you.</p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation:</strong></p><p>Choose <strong>one area</strong> where you know God has been prompting you to grow in discipline.<br> This week:</p><ol><li><p>Write down <strong>one daily action</strong> you will take to strengthen that area.</p></li><li><p>Track it for 5 days.</p></li><li><p>End each day by thanking the Holy Spirit for helping you show up.</p></li></ol><p><strong>Prayer:</strong></p><p>Lord, give me the courage to accept Your discipline with trust and humility. Help me choose progress even when it pushes me, consistency even when I'm exhausted, and obedience even when it's uncomfortable. Give me the ability to walk in a way that honors You, safeguards my future, and fortifies my character.</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[CONFIDENCE]]></title><description><![CDATA[Stop defending your value and exaggerating your flaws.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/trust-in-god</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/trust-in-god</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:01:07 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg" width="1414" height="2000" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/c20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:2000,&quot;width&quot;:1414,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:205341,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/189791870?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!dCqB!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc20b76d7-38b7-4e84-ba62-2780e09c898d_1414x2000.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength. Isaiah 30:15 (ESV)</p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>God calls us to a different type of confidence. A profound inner confidence that understands its Source and doesn't need to declare itself. The strength that results from being in harmony with God is confidence. Confidence is based on identity who you are in Him rather than personality, property, or performance. Because it is independent of fluctuations, this confidence is difficult to shake.</p><p>Wherever we stop trying, our confidence develops in Him. Whenever we separate our sense of value from results, where the internal pressure to "prove" anything is suppressed and we go back to the One who brings our centre back. It's a noisy world and the expectations are high. However, God murmurs, "Your strength is in quiet and trust."</p><p>Confidence does not equate to fear or shrinkage. It is the calm confidence of a woman who is aware that she walks with God, who knows that divine timing cannot be controlled, and who firmly feels that she is held, cared for, and directed.</p><p>To flourish in the flow, assurance, and unconditional devotion of God is to prosper in peaceful confidence.</p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation:</strong></p><p>Set aside 10 minutes of stillness, breathe, be present, and let God re-centre you.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong></p><p>Lord, please ground me in Your peace. I can't stop all the noise inside of me and calm the anxieties that threaten to undermine my confidence. Teach me to have total faith in You, to rely on Your timing, and to walk with the peaceful knowledge that You are leading every step. </p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[COMPASSION]]></title><description><![CDATA[A hardened heart shields you from suffering; it also prevents spiritual depth, closeness, joy, and connection.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/peace</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/peace</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:01:31 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1350,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:1397987,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/189787820?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!MV7z!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1b6edf08-7674-4491-b831-c7e010dd41af_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. <strong>Ephesians 4:32.</strong></p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>One of the purest manifestations of God's love for people is compassion, which is also one of the most difficult qualities for us to continuously exhibit as we live in an imperfect world. Although we enjoy the concept of compassion, putting it into practice pushes us, tests us, humbles us, and frequently brings up aspects of ourselves that we would prefer to ignore.</p><p>The call for compassion is more than merely a kind recommendation or admirable quality. According to scripture, it is a sign of spiritual growth and a key way that Christ's life manifests itself in us.</p><p>Apostle Paul shows that compassion is a position rather than an act when he links it to forgiveness, gentleness, patience, humility, kindness, and love in his epistle to the Ephesian church. It's something you develop into, not just something you do periodically.</p><p>Compassion decreases when your spiritual life dries up; it decreases when pride increases; it decreases when resentment increases; it decreases when emotional tiredness increases; and it decreases when fear increases. Christ is the one who softens your heart, thus in order to thrive in compassion, you must flourish in Him.</p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation:</strong></p><p>Pick one individual that you find hard to love or comprehend and perform one deliberate act of kindness for them.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong></p><p>Father, I thank you for compassion. You have poured over my life new every morning, unearned, undeserved, and overflowing. Teach me to see, talk to, and react to individuals with the same kindness. soften all the harsh spots in my heart. Heal all the wounds that prevent compassion and help me see other people's perspectives. </p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[CULTIVATING COURAGE]]></title><description><![CDATA[Courage is a posture and a way of thinking that enables believers to follow God's calling and overcome obstacles without letting fear stop them.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/cultivating-gratitude</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/cultivating-gratitude</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:01:08 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/b2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1350,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:992960,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/189684833?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3xP4!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb2a4cda8-bb9f-44f5-8d58-87dce04654a9_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9</p><p>Message:</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Courage is an essential ingredient for flourishing. Joshua 1:9 reminds believers that strength and courage are not optional but commanded, rooted in the assurance of God&#8217;s presence. Flourishing with courage involves stepping beyond fear, embracing God-given boldness, and living faithfully in alignment with His purpose.</p><p>We often hold off taking action until we feel courageous. However, courage first manifests as a decision rather than an emotion. A tiny, holy "yes" murmured in the direction of obedience.</p><p>Many people shy away from flourishing due to fear, fear of failure, rejection, uncertainty, or inadequacy. Courage transforms these obstacles into opportunities for growth and impact. It is not the absence of fear but the willingness to act in spite of it, anchored in trust that God equips, protects, and guides us.</p><p>God does not say, &#8220;Be courageous because you are capable.&#8221;</p><p>He says, &#8220;Be courageous because I am with you.&#8221;</p><p>Being courageous doesn't mean never shaking. It's about making progress as you go. And each time you make the decision to move on, even in silence, you are developing something sacred within of you. &#129293;</p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation:</strong></p><p>Identify which fear is preventing you from making decisions or growing. This week, take a tangible step to confront it with trust while thinking about God's promises and presence to bolster your bravery.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong></p><p>Lord, give me the strength to speak truth, overcome obstacles, and follow Your calling. Assist me in acting with faith, believing in Your supply and presence. </p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[WEARINESS IS REAL]]></title><description><![CDATA[&#8220;Is it working? Ask, &#8220;Am I still faithful?&#8221;]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/in-the-word</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/in-the-word</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:01:20 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9.</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" 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srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T97Y!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F665f75a1-ea85-4053-a80d-d68295f3a86b_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>&#8220;Let us not become weary&#8230;&#8221; this is not denial but direction. Weariness will try to settle in your bones, it will question whether the effort is worth it and will tempt you to loosen your standards or abandon what once felt clear.</p><p>But this verse does not connote that harvest depends on how energised you feel.</p><p>It says the harvest comes <em>if you do not give up.</em></p><p>There is something deeply comforting about this verse: <em>at the proper time.</em></p><p><em>Proper.</em></p><p>The kind of timing that accounts for what you cannot see like, the soil conditions, the root depth, the unseen preparation. I understand we all  often want fruit before the roots are ready but premature harvest cannot sustain what mature harvest can.</p><p>Trust that is stretched over time is endurance.</p><p>It says,<br> I will keep sowing even when I cannot see sprouting, <br> I will keep believing even when the evidence feels thin.<br> I will keep showing up.</p><p>If your heart feels worn, hear this gently: resting is allowed and recalibrating is allowed, but quitting on what God called you to, is what this verse lovingly warns against. There is something on the other side of your endurance.</p><p>A harvest&#8230; A breakthrough&#8230;  A quiet fulfillment that only comes to those who stayed.</p><p>P.s: Consider the power of a single verse&#8230;</p><p>As you reflect this week, align your thoughts, words, and actions with biblical principles, seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to live faithfully, and make adjustments where needed.</p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation:</strong></p><p>Pick one area where your persistence is being hampered by impatience or discouragement. This week, consider past instances of God's faithfulness, pray for endurance, and take one conscious action to stay firm.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong></p><p>Lord, give me the strength and fortitude I need to hold fast to my faith and good deeds. Help me to grow spiritually, emotionally, and interpersonally by teaching me to trust Your timing and endure with hope.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[REFINED NOT RUINED]]></title><description><![CDATA[Trials are growth opportunities; flourishing emerges as faith, patience, and resilience are cultivated.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/refined-not-ruined</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/refined-not-ruined</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:00:54 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png" width="1080" height="1080" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1080,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:664776,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182498425?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rw_E!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F78f23a00-84dd-4375-ba58-602c2728bb90_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4</p><p>Message:</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>This is one of those conversations I know many of us would rather avoid. It&#8217;s uncomfortable. It challenges the version of faith that only wants ease, breakthroughs, and clear answers. But it is a conversation we <em>need</em> to have if we truly desire to flourish not just in good seasons, but in real life.</p><p>Flourishing through trials asks us to look honestly at hardship, discomfort, and testing without rushing to escape them. It invites us to consider the possibility that challenges are not interruptions to our growth, but instruments of it. </p><p>Scripture does not deny the reality of pain, yet it reframes it. James 1:2&#8211;4 reminds us that trials, when met with faith, produce endurance and that endurance shapes us into people who are mature, resilient, and whole.</p><p>This is not about celebrating suffering or minimising pain. It is about recognising that God can use even the hardest seasons to deepen our spiritual roots, strengthen our emotional capacity, and refine the way we relate to Him and to others. Trials become classrooms where patience is formed, trust is tested, and transformation quietly takes place.</p><p>                         It&#8217;s a hard truth, but it&#8217;s also a hopeful one.</p><p>Joseph endured betrayal and imprisonment, yet emerged to save nations; Job experienced loss and suffering, ultimately deepening his understanding of God; Paul faced persecution, which strengthened his ministry and faith. These narratives demonstrate that flourishing through trials is an active, intentional process that results in holistic development.</p><p><strong>Midweek Challenge</strong></p><p>Identify a current trial or challenge. Reflect on what God might be teaching you through it, pray for strength and perspective, and journal one actionable step to respond in a way that promotes flourishing. </p><p><strong>Prayer</strong></p><p>Lord, teach me to find joy and growth in challenges, and enable me to flourish spiritually, emotionally, and relationally through every circumstance. Amen</p><p></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[RENEWED MIND]]></title><description><![CDATA[A mind renewed by God transforms thoughts, fosters wisdom, and enables flourishing in all areas of life.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/renewed-mind</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/renewed-mind</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:00:14 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png" width="1080" height="1080" 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srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!E34O!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2e13b14c-404d-43aa-89ce-ef647297047b_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God&#8217;s will is His good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2</p><p>Message:</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Flourishing with a renewed mind involves a deliberate transformation of thoughts, perspectives, and understanding in alignment with God&#8217;s truth. Romans 12:2 underscores the importance of rejecting worldly patterns and allowing God to reshape our thinking, which is foundational to spiritual, emotional, and relational flourishing.</p><p>When your mind is renewed, it impacts your life decisions, daily interactions, and long-term vision. It fosters clarity, purpose, and alignment with God&#8217;s will, creating a thriving, balanced, and intentional life.</p><p><strong>Midweek Challenge</strong></p><p>Identify one recurring negative or unhelpful thought pattern this week. Reflect on Scripture that counters it, journal your insights, and intentionally replace it with a God-honouring perspective, observing how it impacts your flourishing. </p><p><strong>Prayer</strong></p><p>Father, renew my mind according to Your truth and teach me to reject worldly patterns, embrace Your wisdom, and align my thinking with Your will. Amen</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[SACRED STILLNESS]]></title><description><![CDATA[Intentional stillness nurtures spiritual intimacy, emotional balance, and relational flourishing.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/sacred-stillness</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/sacred-stillness</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:00:07 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png" width="1080" height="1080" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1080,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:610070,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182496461?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!kvgm!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F49aed622-457a-47c8-95eb-e95baaf7a4ef_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10</p><p>Message:</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Sacred stillness is a spiritual discipline that nurtures flourishing by fostering intimacy with God, clarity of mind, and emotional renewal. When you are in the state of stillness, it provides space to hear God&#8217;s voice, reflect on His Word, and cultivate a heart of worship. </p><p>In a world filled with constant noise and distraction, sacred stillness allows us to realign priorities, discern God&#8217;s will, and grow in faith. By withdrawing from the pressures and chaos of life, we give our minds and hearts opportunity to process experiences, release burdens, and receive God&#8217;s comfort. </p><p>Elijah experienced God in the gentle whisper after moments of intensity, Jesus often withdrew to pray in solitude, and David composed psalms reflecting on God&#8217;s presence in quiet reflection. These examples demonstrate that flourishing is intertwined with intentional pause and connection with God.</p><p>Flourishing in sacred stillness transforms perspective, deepens faith, and restores vitality. </p><p><strong>Midweek Challenge</strong></p><p>Reflect on God&#8217;s presence, journal insights or guidance received, and notice how this pause impacts your spiritual, emotional, and relational well-being.</p><p><strong>Prayer</strong></p><p>Lord, teach me to embrace sacred stillness. Help me to pause, listen, and connect deeply with You, allowing Your presence to restore and guide me. Amen</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[LIFTED BY HIS STRENGTH]]></title><description><![CDATA[Strength grounded in God empowers flourishing in spirit, emotion, and relationships.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/lifted-by-his-strength</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/lifted-by-his-strength</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:00:34 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png" width="1080" height="1080" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/a3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1080,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:471736,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182494795?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!r38t!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa3d7d922-bfe4-4357-af1c-9ee7c4d69f9c_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>I can do all this through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13</p><p>Message:</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Strength from God allows every believer to navigate life with confidence tempered by humility, reflecting God&#8217;s character in their actions. It means that we cultivate trust, obedience, and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit&#8217;s guidance. </p><p>I recently spoke with an elderly woman who shared that when your strength comes from God, it protects you from pride and burnout. It transforms anxiety into peace and replaces fear with confidence in His provision. Drawing on God&#8217;s strength allows believers to respond with thoughtfulness rather than reacting impulsively, helping maintain emotional stability even in the midst of life&#8217;s challenges.</p><p>Cultivating humble strength involves intentional spiritual practices: prayer, meditation on God&#8217;s Word, reflecting on past experiences of His provision, and serving others without seeking recognition. Journaling instances of reliance on God reinforces awareness of His sustaining power, fostering continued growth and flourishing.</p><p>Moses led God&#8217;s people with humility despite his insecurities; David faced trials while relying on God&#8217;s strength; and Jesus demonstrated perfect humility paired with unmatched authority. These examples illustrate that humble strength produces lasting impact, spiritual depth, and relational flourishing.</p><p>Flourishing in humble strength shifts focus from personal accolades to God&#8217;s glory, fostering a life marked by integrity, perseverance, and purpose, and by embracing this divine empowerment, believers flourish fully, reflecting God&#8217;s character in every sphere of life.</p><p><strong>Midweek Challenge</strong></p><p>Identify one situation this week where you tend to rely on your own strength rather than God&#8217;s. Surrender it to Him in prayer, act with humility, and journal the difference this dependence makes in your response and overall flourishing.</p><p><strong>Prayer</strong></p><p>Lord, teach me to rely on Your strength and walk in humility. May Your power guide my actions, shape my character, and enable me to flourish in every area of life. Amen</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[GROUNDED]]></title><description><![CDATA[Trusting God fully anchors our hearts and enables flourishing in spirit, emotion, and relationships.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/grounded</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/grounded</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 09:00:49 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png" width="1080" height="1080" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1080,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:740622,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182488538?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2OEx!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8708e162-dd1c-4992-a5ef-09ace651d848_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6</p><p>Message:</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Flourishing by trusting God is a cornerstone of spiritual, emotional, and relational growth. When we relinquish self-reliance and submit fully to His guidance, we position ourselves to flourish in all dimensions of life.</p><p>Trusting requires surrendering a conscious decision to let go of control, acknowledging that His wisdom and timing surpass our understanding. It allows the Holy Spirit to work through our lives, cultivating strength, patience, and resilience.</p><p>Our challenges to trusting God often stem from impatience, past disappointments, or self-reliance. Biblical examples demonstrate the transformative power of trust. Abraham trusted God in leaving his homeland; Joseph relied on God through betrayal and imprisonment; David trusted God in facing Goliath. Their lives exemplify that trust in God leads to spiritual depth, emotional resilience, and relational impact.</p><p>By placing our full confidence in God, we open ourselves to the abundant flourishing He promises.</p><p><strong>Midweek Challenge</strong></p><p>Pray specifically for faith in that area, take one action step to submit it to Him, and journal how this surrender impacts your emotional, spiritual, and relational flourishing.</p><p><strong>Prayer</strong></p><p>Father, teach me to submit my plans, fears, and desires to Your guidance, and allow Your wisdom to direct my path. Amen </p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[CALM WITHIN]]></title><description><![CDATA[God&#8217;s peace anchors the heart]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/calm-within</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/calm-within</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:00:52 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1350,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:828686,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182487792?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!2Ee7!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F640eac8b-9588-4b85-9226-ddf5f975ac7f_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27</p><p>Message:</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Peace is a cornerstone of flourishing. Jesus&#8217; promise of a peace distinct from what the world offers, a peace that transcends circumstances and anchors the heart in trust. But to partake in God&#8217;s peace requires intentional engagement with His presence, trust in His sovereignty, and practical integration of His principles into daily life.</p><p>Many people chase external solutions for inner peace, seeking comfort in possessions, achievements, relationships, or routines. While these may provide temporary relief, they cannot sustain true flourishing. God&#8217;s peace is fundamentally different; it is internal, enduring, and independent of external circumstances. </p><p>When we surrender anxieties, fears, and attempts to control outcomes, we create space for His peace to settle in our hearts. God&#8217;s peace shapes how we respond to life&#8217;s challenges; rather than reacting with anxiety, frustration, or anger, a heart anchored in His peace can approach difficulties with wisdom, patience, and clarity. </p><p>Peace is not passive; it actively transforms responses, enabling a life characterised by stability and positive influence. Another essential aspect is the recognition that peace is a fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 lists peace alongside love, joy, patience, and other virtues cultivated through spiritual growth. </p><p>Flourishing is therefore tied to ongoing spiritual development. The deeper we root ourselves in Christ, the more accessible His peace becomes, influencing every aspect of life, from decision-making to interpersonal relationships.</p><p><strong>Midweek Challenge</strong><br>Set aside intentional time and invite God&#8217;s calming presence to guard your heart and mind. Observe how embracing His peace shifts your perspective and transforms your responses.</p><p><strong>Prayer</strong><br>Lord, fill my heart with the peace that only You can give. Teach me to surrender my worries, release the need to control, and rest fully in Your presence. Amen</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[COUNT WHAT MATTERS]]></title><description><![CDATA[A heart of gratitude transforms perspective, nurtures joy, and cultivates flourishing in every area of life.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/count-what-matters</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/count-what-matters</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 09:01:08 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/b66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1350,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:806668,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182487136?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!XdZ2!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb66a78c9-7772-4a50-90f5-687809234cc1_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God&#8217;s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18</p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for flourishing. To flourish with gratitude is to shift focus from what is lacking to what has been provided. It is about noticing the ordinary blessings, the small mercies, and the subtle ways God&#8217;s hand moves in daily life. </p><p>Many struggle with this because the human tendency is to highlight shortcomings, dwell on disappointments, and compare life to others. Consider the science and psychology of gratitude as well. Research shows that consistent gratitude practice improves mental health, reduces stress, and promotes emotional well-being. </p><p>As we reflect on God&#8217;s blessings, our faith is reinforced, hope is strengthened, and contentment becomes accessible even amid challenges. Joseph&#8217;s gratitude emerged even after betrayal, imprisonment, and years of waiting; his perspective on God&#8217;s faithfulness enabled him to flourish and impact many lives. Similarly, embracing gratitude in difficult seasons allows us to maintain spiritual vitality and trust in God&#8217;s overarching plan.</p><p>A life rooted in gratitude is a life primed for flourishing, capable of thriving even amid uncertainty.</p><p><strong>Midweek Challenge</strong><br>Begin a gratitude journal this week. Each day, write down specific moments, provisions, or mercies you are thankful for. Notice how intentionally naming God&#8217;s goodness shifts your perspective, softens your heart, and influences the way you relate to others.</p><p><strong>Prayer</strong><br>Lord, grow within me a heart that sees and remembers Your goodness. Open my eyes to the blessings I often overlook and teach me to respond to every season with thanksgiving. Let gratitude reshape how I think, how I love, and how I live, so my life may flourish from a place of contentment and joy in You. Amen</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[THE LANGUAGE OF THE HEART]]></title><description><![CDATA[Prayer is the bridge to God&#8217;s presence, peace, and flourishing.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/the-language-of-the-heart</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/the-language-of-the-heart</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:00:52 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/a41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1350,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:920002,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182485765?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!J_jz!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa41e3fa9-53b3-454f-9b88-0990ca98abc0_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7</p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Prayer is the lifeline of the soul, the bridge between human limitation and divine provision. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us that prayer is not merely a ritual but a transformative practice that brings peace, clarity, and flourishing in life. </p><p>Many people approach prayer as a task or obligation, but flourishing through prayer requires a shift in perspective. Prayer is not just about asking for what we want; it is about aligning our hearts with God&#8217;s will, cultivating a deep connection with Him, and opening ourselves to His guidance. </p><p>It is a conversation, a dialogue, and a surrender that transforms the one who prays even before answers appear. Take a minute and reflect on your current prayer life. Do you pray sporadically, often forgetting to bring your concerns, hopes, and gratitude to God? Or do you cultivate a consistent, heartfelt dialogue with Him? </p><p>As we set our hearts on flourishing this year, prayer remains one of the deepest roots that sustains that growth. Prayer is not meant to be a one-sided conversation where we speak and quickly move on; it is an ongoing relationship that invites both expression and attentiveness. </p><p>When we rush through prayer without listening, we miss the shaping that happens in stillness. But when we linger with God, allowing Him to speak, our hearts are realigned, our understanding deepened, and our faith strengthened. It is in these quiet moments that prayer becomes transformative, guiding us into a life that is rooted, responsive, and truly flourishing.</p><p>Consider examples from Scripture: Daniel&#8217;s steadfast prayer life sustained him in exile; Hannah&#8217;s persistent prayers birthed hope and answered desires; Jesus Himself modelled prayer consistently, drawing strength and direction from His communion with the Father. Each example highlights that flourishing is closely tied to intentional, disciplined, and heartfelt prayer.</p><p>Our flourishing is not solely in what God provides but in the transformation that occurs within us as we engage deeply in communication with Him.</p><p><strong>Midweek Challenge:</strong></p><p>Set aside 10&#8211;15 minutes each day this week for undistracted prayer. Begin with gratitude, speak honestly from your heart, and then sit quietly to listen. Pay attention to the peace, nudges, or insights God brings as you remain open to His guidance.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong></p><p>Lord, draw me into a deeper, more intentional life of prayer. Teach me to approach You with a thankful heart, a listening spirit, and a trusting posture. May my conversations with You strengthen my faith, steady my heart, and lead me into a life that truly flourishes. Amen</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[STEADFAST FAITH]]></title><description><![CDATA[Engaging God&#8217;s Word nourishes the soul, strengthens the spirit, and enables lasting flourishing.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/steadfast-faith</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/steadfast-faith</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 09:00:45 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png" width="1080" height="1080" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/a19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1080,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:666835,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182484772?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WfjL!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa19a3e8f-ee7e-4f0a-8630-8e0082df29da_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1</p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Faith is often described as a bridge between the seen and the unseen, the known and the unknown. In the journey of flourishing, steadfast faith is a foundational pillar. Without it, the trials, uncertainties, and seasons of waiting in life can shake our growth, leaving us vulnerable and stagnant.</p><p>Many of us desire the blessings of faith without the discipline of trusting through unseen paths. Yet, spiritual growth is not always about immediate results; it is about building a relationship of trust with God, allowing Him to guide and shape our lives over time. </p><p>To flourish in steadfast faith, we must first understand that faith is not blind optimism. It is grounded confidence in God&#8217;s character, promises, and presence. It is the understanding that He is consistent, loving, and wise, even when life feels uncertain or difficult. </p><p>Life will inevitably present challenges, relational conflicts, career uncertainties, health issues, or spiritual dry spells. Steadfast faith is what allows us to navigate these storms with hope rather than despair. </p><p>Just as Abraham obeyed God&#8217;s call to leave familiar territory for an unknown land, we are called to act courageously when faith directs us. Each step taken in obedience reinforces our trust, strengthens our roots, and produces fruit for God&#8217;s kingdom.</p><p>Flourishing in faith is inseparable from hope; the two fuel each other, sustaining our growth spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. When we anchor ourselves in God&#8217;s promises, our outlook shifts from fear and uncertainty to trust and anticipation.</p><p>As you reflect this week, consider areas where your faith may need strengthening and commit to nurturing it intentionally, confident that God is faithful to bring growth and fruit in due season.</p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation</strong><br>Take a moment to notice one area of your life where trust feels difficult. This week, offer it to God through prayer, a small step of obedience, or a conscious release of control. As you do, reflect on how choosing trust deepens your faith and strengthens your journey toward flourishing.</p><p><strong>Prayer</strong><br>Lord, steady my heart in faith. Teach me to trust You in every season, especially when circumstances feel uncertain. Help me to persevere with hope, to move forward with courage, and to rest in the truth of Your promises. Amen.</p><p></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[FATHER'S LOVE]]></title><description><![CDATA[Father&#8217;s love functions as a mirror, reflecting our inherent worth as His creation.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/fathers-love</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/fathers-love</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:01:18 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png" width="1080" height="1080" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/baa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1080,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:423121,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182471006?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!W05_!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fbaa7fd89-f1c0-43f4-a13f-64d879b5cceb_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Before we talk about value, worth, or identity, we must return to this unshakable truth: <strong>God&#8217;s love is constant.</strong></p><p>For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39.</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><p>Many of us measure our values by external standards, such as career achievements, social status, or the affirmation of others. While these can bring temporary satisfaction, they cannot anchor the soul. God&#8217;s love, however, is not contingent upon our performance or circumstance. It exists independently of success or failure, abundance or lack. </p><p>Take a minute to reflect on the ways God has demonstrated His love in your life. Perhaps it was answered prayers, moments of divine provision, relationships that reflect His grace, or even trials that strengthened your faith. Each of these experiences serves as a reminder that God&#8217;s love is not only theoretical but profoundly practical, active, and personal.</p><p>Just as a tree draws nourishment from its roots, our spirits are sustained by immersing ourselves in God&#8217;s love through prayer, meditation on Scripture, worship, and fellowship. When we recognise and accept this love, it flows naturally into our relationships, enabling us to forgive, encourage, and serve with authenticity.</p><p>The prodigal son was welcomed home not because of his achievements or repentance alone, but because the father&#8217;s love was unwavering. Similarly, Jesus demonstrated God&#8217;s love through His life, death, and resurrection, showing that flourishing comes from being firmly rooted in that love. Our challenge is to align our lives with this truth, allowing it to shape our identity, decisions, and daily habits.</p><p>                                             Love is not passive; it is an act. </p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation:</strong><br>Identify three moments, big or small, where you felt seen, protected, or cared for by Him. Sit with each one, write them down, and if you feel led, share one of them with someone who may need a reminder that God&#8217;s love is real and near.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong><br>Heavenly Father, thank You for the love that holds me steady and never lets me go. Let Your love shape the way I think, the way I respond, and the way I relate to others. Teach me to reflect Your grace through my words, my choices, and my everyday interactions. Amen.</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[ROOTED IN GOD]]></title><description><![CDATA[Growth is hidden beneath the surface, as roots spread silently before leaves appear.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/rooted-in-god</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/rooted-in-god</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:00:56 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png" width="1080" height="1350" 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srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Gof-!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ffe52dd1c-c6a5-4ffb-b4fa-3572a84331fc_1080x1350.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your life in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6-7</p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>Just as a tree requires deep roots to withstand storms, a spiritual life grounded in Christ ensures stability, nourishment, and the capacity for growth. Being rooted in Jesus means more than occasional reflection or a casual acknowledgement of His presence; it involves intentional cultivation of faith, love, and obedience.</p><p>The imagery of a tree rooted deeply in fertile soil is both comforting and challenging. Comforting because a well-rooted tree can stand firm against winds and rain, providing shade, fruit, and beauty. But challenging because deep roots take time to develop; they require patience, resilience, and consistent nourishment. In our spiritual walk, roots are built through prayer, meditation on God&#8217;s Word, fellowship with other believers, and faithful living.</p><p>Many people desire to flourish quickly, seeking immediate results or visible growth. Yet, God&#8217;s timing is not always aligned with our urgency. Sometimes, growth is hidden beneath the surface, as roots spread silently before leaves appear. </p><p>Psalm 1:2-3 compares a person meditating on God&#8217;s law to a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season. Like that tree, our flourishing depends on continuous access to life-giving sustenance. Without this, we may appear healthy externally but remain vulnerable internally, especially when trials test our resilience.</p><p>As you embrace being rooted in Christ, notice the subtle but profound changes in your life. Your perspective shifts from anxiety to trust, from scarcity to abundance, from fear to courage. Flourishing becomes less about striving and more about being sustained, nurtured, and empowered by God&#8217;s presence.</p><p><strong>Midweek Invitation:</strong></p><p>Set aside 15 quiet minutes each day to sit with God&#8217;s Word and pray; don&#8217;t rush, just listen. Let Scripture meet you in the areas where your roots need to grow deeper. As you do, notice how stillness, reflection, and communion with God quietly strengthen your capacity to flourish.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong><br>Father, strengthen my faith and nourish my spirit through Your Word. Guide my steps so I may flourish in every area of my life. Teach me to rely fully on You and to bear lasting fruit and gratitude in every season, love in all things, and resilience through every challenge. Amen.</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[CHANGE WITH CHANGE]]></title><description><![CDATA[Don&#8217;t stagger through life; choose to step with purpose, expectation, and faith.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/change-with-change</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/change-with-change</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2026 09:01:38 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png" width="1080" height="1080" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1080,&quot;width&quot;:1080,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:686911,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/i/182442884?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!8wan!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9ab8c741-c8d0-4b8d-a9b2-08a4a76bee8e_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19.</p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>2026 is a series of seasons, some bright and fruitful, others challenging and barren. I know some want me to hold our hands and tell us what we all love to hear. Yes, it&#8217;s a new year, and all will be well.  Many times, we cling to what is familiar, whether it be our routines, relationships, or patterns of thought. </p><p>Yet, God calls us to something beyond our comfort zones: a new beginning in 2026. Isaiah 43:18-19 reminds us not to dwell on the past but to perceive the new things God is doing. Hallelujah!!!  This passage is not just poetic; it is a roadmap for spiritual flourishing.</p><p>Each month in the year 2026 carries the potential for growth, transformation, and deeper intimacy with God. But it requires intentionality, a plan to change with the change. God invites us to perceive His fresh work and actively step into it. </p><p>You can&#8217;t control time, but you <strong>can plan what you want to do in 2026 and allow God to breathe on it</strong>. Don&#8217;t stagger through life. Planning doesn&#8217;t just exist in your mind; it exists in the unseen, and through intentional steps, God helps you pull it into the visible.</p><p>When we plan in alignment with God&#8217;s guidance, we don&#8217;t merely react to life&#8217;s seasons; we participate in the new beginnings He is orchestrating. We move from surviving to flourishing, from wishing for change to walking in it.</p><p>You must trust that God, who promises to make &#8220;a way in the wilderness,&#8221; is faithful to guide you through uncharted territories. This trust is not passive; it is an active posture of faith, obedience, and expectation. </p><p>I know someone is already asking,  &#8220;What if I fail again?&#8221; listen flourishing requires courage. God&#8217;s Word encourages us to step forward even when the path is uncertain, trusting that He will provide streams in the wasteland. In other words, where life seems dry and impossible, God&#8217;s presence transforms scarcity into abundance, hopelessness into hope, and stagnation into movement.</p><p>As you move through 2026, remember: God is doing a new thing in your life, even in the unseen places. Planning your steps, aligning your heart with His guidance, and intentionally cooperating with His work allows the invisible to become visible. You don&#8217;t have to stagger through life; choose to step with purpose, expectation, and faith.</p><p>Each day is an opportunity to participate in His fresh beginnings. As you plan, perceive, and move in alignment with God, you&#8217;ll notice growth, transformation, and the quiet unfolding of His promises. Trust that He is faithful. </p><p><strong>Reflection:</strong></p><ul><li><p>Where do I need to plan intentionally in my life this year?</p></li><li><p>What areas am I tempted to simply &#8220;stagger through&#8221; instead of stepping forward in faith?</p></li><li><p>How can I cooperate with God&#8217;s work in my life to make the unseen visible?</p></li></ul><p><strong>Prayer:</strong><br>Lord, help me not to drift aimlessly through this year. Teach me to plan with Your guidance, to perceive the new things You are doing, and to step into them with faith and courage. I align my heart with Your vision, trusting You to make the invisible visible. Amen.</p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This work is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[A Future with Hope]]></title><description><![CDATA[If you are reading this, I want you to pause and just take that in: you made it through this year.]]></description><link>https://www.temiolu.com/p/a-future-with-hope</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.temiolu.com/p/a-future-with-hope</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[TEMI OLU]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:00:28 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!aoyn!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2210b7cc-1f7f-4b7b-9a36-30512eddd79c_1080x1080.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!aoyn!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2210b7cc-1f7f-4b7b-9a36-30512eddd79c_1080x1080.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!aoyn!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2210b7cc-1f7f-4b7b-9a36-30512eddd79c_1080x1080.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!aoyn!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2210b7cc-1f7f-4b7b-9a36-30512eddd79c_1080x1080.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!aoyn!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2210b7cc-1f7f-4b7b-9a36-30512eddd79c_1080x1080.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!aoyn!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2210b7cc-1f7f-4b7b-9a36-30512eddd79c_1080x1080.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!aoyn!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2210b7cc-1f7f-4b7b-9a36-30512eddd79c_1080x1080.png" width="1080" height="1080" 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class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>&#8216;For I know the plans I have for you,&#8217; declares the Lord, &#8216;plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.&#8217;&#8221; <em>Jeremiah 29:11 </em></p><p><strong>Message:</strong></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.temiolu.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p>As we come to the end of this year, I feel such gratitude sitting here writing to you. You&#8217;ve walked with me through messages, prayers, and quiet moments all year long. Together, we&#8217;ve wrestled with questions, we&#8217;ve cried over losses, and we&#8217;ve celebrated the small, sometimes fragile sprouts of restoration that God has grown in our lives.</p><p>If you are reading this, I want you to pause and just take that in: <strong>you made it through this year.</strong> Every day you woke up and kept going, even when your heart felt heavy, even when the road was unclear. That alone is evidence of God&#8217;s sustaining grace.</p><p>Jeremiah&#8217;s words have been in my heart all week:</p><blockquote><p><em>&#8220;For I know the plans I have for you&#8230;&#8221;</em></p></blockquote><p>These words were spoken to a people still in exile, still waiting for the breakthrough they longed for. They weren&#8217;t on the other side of their pain yet, but God spoke hope into their waiting.</p><p>I believe He is doing the same for you.</p><p>Friend, restoration is about preparing you for what&#8217;s next. God has been quietly strengthening your roots this year, deepening your trust, shaping your character. The healing you have received is not just for survival, it is for stepping boldly into the future He has planned.</p><p>Dreams are waiting for you in the coming year that you haven&#8217;t even imagined yet. There are answers to prayers you&#8217;ve prayed for so long that you&#8217;ve almost forgotten them, and I believe some of them will find you in surprising, tender ways. There are moments of laughter, reunions, fresh opportunities, and quiet joys already written into your story.</p><p>So, as we close the chapter on 2025, I want to speak this over you:<br>You will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Your life will be a testimony of grace, a witness that God is still in the business of writing beauty from ashes.</p><p>Take a deep breath and let hope settle in your chest. Lift your head. Look forward. God is not done.</p><p>Restoration is not just for your past; it is God&#8217;s preparation for your future. You can step into 2026 with hope, knowing the Author of your story is still writing.</p><p><strong>Exercise:</strong><br>Take some time this week to write a letter to your future self, not just about what you want to achieve, but about how you want to feel, how you want to grow, and how you want to trust God in the next season. Seal it, and set a reminder to read it at the end of 2026. Let it serve as a testimony of how far you&#8217;ve come and how faithful God has been.</p><p><strong>Prayer:</strong><br>Lord, thank You for carrying me through this year, for every unseen mercy, every answered prayer, every quiet moment You reminded me that I am not alone. I entrust the coming year to You. Align my steps with Your plans, and help me walk into the future with open hands and a hopeful heart. Amen.</p>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>