Latest news with #God-given
The South African
11 hours ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates player told to thank ancestors and God
They call him the Master Chef. Orlando Pirates will compete in next season's Betway Premiership with Sipho Mbule as one of the new options in central midfield. The 27-year-old from Bethlehem, Free State, was available on a free transfer after Mamelodi Sundowns opted against a contract renewal on his expired deal. According to reports, Mbule lost his place at Sundowns after he had reported for training under the influence of alcohol. His agent, Mike Makaab, soon offered Mbule to Kaizer Chiefs, but Amakhosi seemingly took too long to make a decision. Kaizer Chiefs news: Amakhosi money and another star from Europe Sipho Mbule at Sekhukhune United. Image: SuperSport TV While many were still anticipating Amakhosi's decision, the Buccaneers astounded the nation via X, Facebook and Instagram on Wednesday: 'Orlando Pirates is pleased to welcome Sipho Mbule to the Club,' the short statement ended. Orlando Pirates news: Sipho Mbule and a special meeting According to Khanye, whose playing career was cut short due to the same ill-discipline with alcohol, Mbule should realise he is a lucky man. Khanye feels that the new Orlando Pirates midfielder, given the due commitment and discipline, has the talent to make the Bafana Bafana squad for Afcon 2025. 'Let me be honest, I'm surprised, and he is very lucky,' said Khanye on iDiski TV . 'But he must know one thing, this is a last chance he has now because we have seen players previously at the club who have had the same problems, and they got rid of them. 'Even though fans loved them, the club got rid of them and their careers ended. If you leave Orlando Pirates under such a cloud, it's over. 'Mbule is so lucky, and he must thank his ancestors, God and age for being on his side. He really needs to understand that he is done if anything happens with him at Orlando Pirates. 'I compliment his God-given talent. The boy is one of the best, one of the most talented players, and I cannot wait to see him play with [Patrick] Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng, [Mohau] Nkota and [Tshegofatso] Mabasa. 'It's his last chance and if he trains properly, get game time he may even go to the AFCON if he gets his act together,' Khanye concluded. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
See - Sada Elbalad
4 days ago
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Patriarch of Alexandria held official meeting with the President of the Republic of Cyprus
SEE News An official and cordial meeting took place today, June 24, at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia between Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa and the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides. During the meeting, the Patriarch informed the President about the wide-ranging, multifaceted, and multi-level missionary work of the Patriarchate across the African continent – spiritual, philanthropic, medical, and educational – which stands as a beacon of love, hope, and human dignity for the suffering peoples of Africa. The Patriarch expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Cyprus for its steadfast and valuable support of the Patriarchate's missionary efforts, and especially to the President himself, for his personal sensitivity and tangible love for Orthodox missions. As part of efforts to strengthen cooperation, it was decided that a medical team from the Office of the President of Cyprus, in coordination with the Patriarchate of Alexandria, will be dispatched to support the Patriarchate's charitable and medical initiatives in various parts of Africa, where healthcare needs are urgent and significant. The Patriarch officially invited the President to attend the upcoming inauguration of the Grand Center currently under construction in Egypt's New Administrative Capital, on land generously granted by the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Mr. Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. The Center will be named the 'Friendship Center of the Peoples of Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt', serving as a living symbol of unity, peace, and intercultural cooperation among the three nations. During the meeting, the Patriarch also reaffirmed the unwavering stance of the Patriarchate of Alexandria in support of a peaceful and just resolution to the Cyprus issue. He expressed his sincere hope that a fair and sustainable solution will be found as soon as possible – one that respects human rights and international law, and ensures the unity and security of the Cypriot people. At the same time, the Patriarch did not hide his deep concern about the escalating tensions in the Middle East, emphatically stressing that peace is the only realistic and God-given path to resolving every conflict and misunderstanding among nations. He offered fervent prayers for reconciliation and peaceful coexistence among the peoples of the region. On behalf of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, who has maintained a longstanding friendship with the Patriarch since his tenure at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, deep respect and gratitude were expressed for the Patriarchate's invaluable contribution in Africa and globally. The President reiterated the Republic of Cyprus's steadfast support for the work of the Patriarchate and praised the role of Orthodox missions in promoting humanitarianism, solidarity, and global peace. The Patriarch was accompanied on his official visit by Bishop Nikodimos of Nitria, Exarch of the Patriarchate of Alexandria in Cyprus, and Archimandrite Athinodoros Papaevrypiadis. The meeting was sealed in a spirit of mutual respect and fraternal cooperation, reflecting the deep and enduring relationship of trust between the Patriarchate of Alexandria and the Republic of Cyprus. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
Economic Times
19-06-2025
- General
- Economic Times
Strength in the storm
Never, ever does God send suffering to us, unaccompanied by the strength and wisdom to cope with it. That is why we continue to live, that is how mankind has survived personal and public calamities and still continues to survive and flourish. The very fact that we are all alive and breathing is a testimony to this great truth - that we invariably overcome suffering with God-given strength and wisdom. There was a writer called William Barclay, who has written inspirational books. He was also a brilliant preacher. He loved his daughter dearly, for she was his only child. When he was preparing to celebrate her wedding, the girl lost her life in a tragic drowning incident. Barclay said on that occasion, 'I have no quarrel with Jesus. I am not concerned with whether or not he could have prevented the storm which caused my daughter's death. But I do know this for certain - he has quelled the inner storm that raged within my heart.' Do not agonise over suffering. Equally, do not be overwhelmed by happiness. Sorrow and joy are the waves on the river of life, just let them flow by. Focus on the Infinite One, and neither sorrow nor happiness will touch your life. Your whole being will be sublimated, and you will rise above worldly experiences.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
FHU Introduces New Certificate in Counseling for Church Leaders
Freed-Hardeman University is launching a new Certificate in Counseling for Church Leaders, blending graduate Bible and counseling studies to equip Christians with essential skills to address mental health and biblical guidance needs within their congregations. HENDERSON, Tenn., June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Freed-Hardeman University is launching a new Certificate in Counseling for Church Leaders, blending graduate Bible and counseling studies to equip Christians with essential skills to address mental health and biblical guidance needs within their congregations. This program aims to empower leaders with Scripturally grounded counseling techniques to better support individuals in ministry. "Whether for elders, ministry leaders or any Christians wanting to assist others, this program will further refine one's abilities to help those in the church and community who struggle with life's challenges," said Dr. Richard A. Brumback III, director of the FHU Graduate School of Theology. "Biblically rooted and taught by licensed counselors and ministers, this education empowers Christians to serve others in a significant way, all in the name of Christ." Consisting of six total courses, the program will include a combination of counseling and Bible instruction and will be conducted 100% online, mixing synchronous and asynchronous learning options for maximum flexibility. Anyone with a completed undergraduate or graduate degree is eligible to participate, and cohorts from the same congregation are highly encouraged. Classes will maintain a practical focus in order to equip leaders with real-world tools for care and referral. Throughout the program, participants will learn from licensed counselors and experienced ministry professionals to gain critical skills necessary to address mental health needs or other common life struggles. Church leaders of all positions may benefit by strengthening their own ministry with deeper understanding and compassion, learning how to care for the whole person—spiritually, emotionally and mentally. For more information about graduate certificates in counseling or to submit an application, visit The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. With locations in Henderson and Memphis, FHU offers associate, bachelor's, master's, specialist and doctoral degrees. More information is available at Media Contact Dawn Bramblett, Freed-Hardeman University, 731-608-7650, dawn@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Freed-Hardeman University
Black America Web
02-06-2025
- General
- Black America Web
Is Abstinence Really ‘Not for Everyone?' Rethinking The Narrative For Believers
Source: FatCamera / Getty Let's just be real: there's this running message in and outside the church that says abstinence is only for a particular 'type' of Christian. You know, the super spiritual ones. The ones who don't struggle. The ones who aren't dating. Or the ones who are 'called to singleness forever.' Somehow, we've watered down abstinence to a suggestion, instead of seeing it as what it is, a call to holiness. And I get it. When your desire for God is real, but your desire for connection, intimacy, and touch is also real, abstinence can feel impossible. Not because you don't love God, but because you're human. Add loneliness, disappointment, and pressure to the mix, and suddenly what God asks of you feels unfair, even outdated. But here's what I've learned: it's not that abstinence is unrealistic, it's that obedience is costly. And for many of us, that cost feels too high. RELATED: 3 Ways Singles Can Grow Closer to God 5 Green Flags In Friendships Knowing that you should live for God and choosing to live for Him are two very different things. Christians understand that we're called to offer our bodies as living sacrifices. That's considered a reasonable request from the Lord (Romans 12:1). But let's be honest, our flesh, which is part of our God-given nature, doesn't always cooperate. Paul, one of the most influential authors of the Bible, speaks to this tension in Romans 7:15: 'I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate I do.' That verse has always comforted me. It reminds me that even the most devout can wrestle with doing what's right. Abstinence is one of those topics that always seems to stir up debate, especially in Christian spaces. When I decided to become abstinent 13 years ago, the conversation around purity was everywhere. But honestly, my decision wasn't shaped by media or church culture. It was deeply personal. God came to me in a dream and told me I needed to live for Him, and for me, that included abstinence. That encounter gave me a conviction stronger than anything a sermon or social trend could offer. Dating as a single woman in New York City or any major city is already a challenge. The culture here doesn't exactly push people toward marriage or family. It's all about career, hobbies, and self-fulfillment. Add being a Christian and abstinent to the mix, and it gets even more nuanced. Early on in my dating journey, disillusionment became a familiar feeling. I can't count how often I heard people say, 'Abstinence isn't for everyone.' And if I'm being fully transparent, I wondered if that statement had some truth. But I've come to this conclusion: Abstinence isn't just for the super-spiritual. It's a call for every believer. Over and over in scripture, God calls His people to be set apart. What's encouraging is that God never pretends we're not surrounded by temptation. He sees the world for what it is, messy, loud, flesh-driven. And still, He calls us to live differently. One verse that drives this home is 2 Timothy 2:20-21: 'In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay. Some are for special purposes and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master, and prepared to do any good work.' We have a choice. We can live surrendered lives and be used in powerful ways by God, or we can remain 'common', not because we're not loved, but because we're unwilling to surrender. God is holy. He's also forgiving, yes, but He's clear: believers are not to engage in premarital sex (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5): 'It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God.' And his reasons aren't about control, they're about love. He disciplines because He loves. And obedience brings rewards, both natural and spiritual. I think we forget this sometimes, but Jesus was entirely God and fully man. He understands what it means to struggle. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us: 'For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.' Before He went to the cross, Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane, begging God to take the cup from Him (Matthew 26:39): 'My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.' He didn't want the pain, but He submitted anyway. He knows what it feels like to deny the flesh. And because of that, He empowers us to do the same. Source: FatCamera / Getty Dating while abstinent felt impossible at times, especially in conversations with men. I would hear things like: 'You're never going to find anyone.' 'Men can't abstain.' 'It's impossible.' And after hearing it repeatedly, part of me started to believe it. I questioned if abstinence was just something for me or a select few. I wondered if I had some 'special gift' that others didn't. But that's not the truth. Abstinence is not a spiritual superpower. It's also essential to understand the difference between abstinence and celibacy. Abstinence is the choice not to engage in sex with the intent to marry eventually. Celibacy is the choice never to marry and remain sexually inactive. Celibacy and abstinence are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. After years of wrestling with the question, I've landed here: Abstinence is for every believer. Not because some of us are wired for it and others aren't, but because God calls all of us to sexual purity. When we refuse to abstain, it's not because we're incapable; we don't want to. That may sound hard, but love without truth isn't love. The truth sets us free (John 8:32): 'Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.' In my book Ready, Set, Wait , I talk about the reality of navigating sex, singleness, and abstinence as a Christian woman. I share how childhood sexual trauma awakened a hypersexual desire in me. So when God called me to abstain, He wasn't calling someone untouched by pain. He knew I couldn't do it without Him, and I couldn't. That's what we have to understand: real abstinence requires God. Abstinence is possible, but not without a strategy. You need tools. Here are three things I recommend: 1. Flee Immediately (James 4:7) 'Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.' Stop entertaining temptation. Those texts, DMs, 'just checking in' calls? Let them go. 2. Take the Escape Route (1 Corinthians 10:13) 'No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.' God always provides a way out, even when you don't want to take it. Invite Him into those moments. 3. Guard Your Gates Convictions aren't legalism; they're protection. That meant letting go of '90s R&B because of what it stirred up. Be honest about what triggers you and set boundaries accordingly. That moment of satisfaction isn't worth the long-term disobedience. Sometimes, it's not that you even want the person—you're just tired of waiting. Saying 'no' isn't punishment; it's protection. Abstinence isn't about perfection. It's about pursuit. God isn't asking for a flawless record; He's asking for a surrendered heart. If you've messed up, you can start again. If you're in the middle of temptation, you can choose differently. It's never too late to come back to Him. Holiness isn't out of reach. It's the fruit of obedience. And obedience, even when it's hard, is always worth it. DON'T MISS… Breaking the Silence: A Deep Dive into Sexless Marriages With An Intimacy Expert How to Date Well: Cultivating Healthy Relationships and Behaviors 5 Books You Need To Read If You Struggle With Setting Boundaries SEE ALSO Is Abstinence Really 'Not for Everyone?' Rethinking The Narrative For Believers was originally published on Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
