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<channel><title><![CDATA[OASIS CONNECTION MINISTRIES - Empower]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower]]></link><description><![CDATA[Empower]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 01:12:13 -0600</pubDate><generator>Weebly</generator><item><title><![CDATA[This Year's Lenten Journey]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/this-years-lenten-journey]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/this-years-lenten-journey#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 04:51:24 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/this-years-lenten-journey</guid><description><![CDATA[       Photo by Matthew de Livera on UnsplashScripture References: &ldquo;Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God- this is your true and proper worship." &ndash;&nbsp;Romans 12:1&nbsp;&ldquo;I want to know Christ- yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death."&nbsp;- Philippians 3:10&nbsp;&ldquo;Rend your heart and not your garments,  [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/matthew-de-livera-dksdr8ho3hc-unsplash_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#070202" size="4">Photo by Matthew de Livera on Unsplash<br /><br /><strong>Scripture References</strong>: &ldquo;Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God- this is your true and proper worship." &ndash;&nbsp;<strong>Romans 12:1</strong></font><br /><br /><font color="#070202" size="4">&nbsp;&ldquo;I want to know Christ- yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death."&nbsp;<strong>- Philippians 3:10</strong></font><br /><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight:700">&nbsp;</span><br /><font color="#070202" size="4">&ldquo;Rend your heart and not your garments, return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity."&nbsp;<strong>&ndash; Joel 2:13</strong></font><br /><br /><br /><font color="#070202" size="4">Christians globally have begun their lent journey for&nbsp;this year. Starting on Ash Wednesday (February 18), followers in Christ are encouraged to journey through lent this year for the next 40 days finishing on Easter day on April&nbsp;5th. The lent season is a great opportunity for believers in Christ to continue to stay in the place of prayer for the many needs of families, friends, churches, nations, and communities.&nbsp;<strong>"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving" (Colossians 4:2).</strong><br /><br />Lent season is a time to renew, revive and flourish in one's&nbsp;relationship with God, growing even deeper roots that bear eternal fruits. In a time when many desire to know Jesus Christ in a personal way, followers of Christ have a great opportunity to share their salvation testimonies, share God's supernatural works, share answers to prayers, share their overcoming stories, and share why Christ is the source of their lives and sustenance.&nbsp;&nbsp;</font><br /><br /><font color="#070202" size="4">In this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.podpage.com/oasis-of-hope/"><strong>episode 99 of Oasis of Hope Podcast,</strong></a>&nbsp;Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti share some ways to journey through this year's lent season, answer a question from the last episode and what lent means to the life of a believer in Christ.&nbsp;Share this episode with friends, family and your networks.&nbsp;</font><br /><br /><font color="#070202" size="4">Beloved, stay grounded in God's Word, stay grounded in prayer, stay grounded in worship, stay grounded in community with fellow believers in Christ, and stay grounded with an eternal focus. With these postures followers of Christ get to live out&nbsp;<strong><em>Hebrews 12:28,</em></strong>&nbsp;"Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe." We are grateful to God for the privilege of serving His people.&nbsp;</font><br /><span style="color:rgb(7, 2, 2)">&nbsp;</span><br /><font color="#070202" size="4">In Christ's Love,<br /><br />Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[God Wants To Build The House]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/god-wants-to-build-the-house]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/god-wants-to-build-the-house#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 20:51:24 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/god-wants-to-build-the-house</guid><description><![CDATA[       Photo by Sasun Bughdaryan on UnsplashScripture References: &ldquo;Except the&nbsp;Lord&nbsp;build the house, they labor in vain that build it: except the&nbsp;Lord&nbsp;keep the city, the watchman wakes but in vain&rdquo; &ndash; Psalm 127: 1&nbsp;&ldquo;And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins&rdquo; - 1 Peter 4: 8&ldquo;God sets the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/sasun-bughdaryan-exoolqp6isa-unsplash_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font size="4" color="#070202">Photo by Sasun Bughdaryan on Unsplash<br /><br /><strong>Scripture References</strong>: &ldquo;Except the&nbsp;Lord&nbsp;build the house, they labor in vain that build it: except the&nbsp;Lord&nbsp;keep the city, the watchman wakes but in vain&rdquo; &ndash; <strong>Psalm 127: 1</strong><br /><br />&nbsp;&ldquo;And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins&rdquo; <strong>- 1 Peter 4: 8</strong><br /><br />&ldquo;God sets the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land&rdquo; <strong>&ndash; Psalm 68:6</strong><br /><br />We pray your year is off to a terrific one. By now, many churches and believers in Christ have completed their yearly call to fasting and prayer for the new year. However, the call for prayer and fasting for the new year might be finished; but not the call to pray continuously. We encourage each believer in Christ to continue to stay in the place of prayer for the many needs of families, friends, churches, nations, and communities. <strong>"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving" (Colossians 4:2).</strong><br /><br />In the last five weeks, psychologists have been focusing on a word <strong>&ldquo;parricide.&rdquo;</strong> This is an unfortunate word that is new to many people. From children, shooting and killing their parents, to spouses shooting and killing their children and spouses, we are seeing an unusual trend in our culture. The most concerning part for believers in Christ is that our culture is embracing this trend in parricide as &ldquo;normal.&rdquo; &nbsp;God&rsquo;s Word informs us best as believers. This trend points to a deep spiritual need for transformation in our culture. <strong>Heart transformation is what brings outward transformation.</strong><br /><br />We are grateful to men and women of God and their ministries that have answered the call and charge for families globally! The family is the foundation of a nation. It is the foundation of a community. It is the foundation of a church. It is the foundation of any people. It is the foundation of a school. <a href="https://www.podpage.com/oasis-of-hope/" target="_blank"><strong>In this 2026 kick off episode of Oasis of Hope Podcast, Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</strong> </a>discuss and examine some root causes of parricide that spiritual leaders can start with in helping our nation and communities towards healing. Parricide can find a link to anger, bitterness, resentment, and secrets. All of these links find a way of metastasizing into hatred. Then hatred becomes a fuel and a burden that humans are not meant to have. <strong>God created humans to live, grow and flourish in love</strong> (1 Corinthians 13). Love is the glue, medicine and oil of a family.<br /><br />Share this episode with friends, family and your networks. It is time for God&rsquo;s people to rise up to the challenge of our culture and day as we establish God&rsquo;s heart for families. A great way to calibrate this year is a call to the fear and reverence for God. If you are yet to get your copy of <strong><a href="https://tinyurl.com/New103125">The Fear of God: Growing the Inner Life-</a></strong> this is your reminder to do so. It is a guide for living righteously in a world and culture that has lost the reverence of God.<br /><br />The call to the reverence of God, begins with God&rsquo;s people, because God&rsquo;s judgement begins with His people (<strong>1 Peter 4:17)</strong>. With continuous prayer, we will see the supernatural hands of God at work in every area of our world. God is a supernatural God and works in supernatural ways. We are grateful for the privilege to serve you, and we look forward to all God will do through His people in 2026. May this be a year of multiplication of God&rsquo;s message of love and hope in Jesus Christ. This is what leads people to salvation and ultimately transformation.<br />&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;In Christ's Love,<br /><br />Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Happy New Year! What Do You Say]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/happy-new-year-what-do-you-say]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/happy-new-year-what-do-you-say#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:30:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/happy-new-year-what-do-you-say</guid><description><![CDATA[       Happy New Year Photo from FreepixScripture Reference: "We will say of the Lord, He is our refuge and our fortress, our God; on Him we lean and rely, and in Him we trust&rdquo; (&nbsp;Psalm 91:2)&nbsp;A few years ago, we shared a message about how critical the Word of God is to the believer. The Word of God is the fuel and sustenance of our relationship with God. The Word of God is the food for our spiritual lives. The more we dine on the Word of God, the more the impact and effect of God& [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/new-year_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">Happy New Year Photo from Freepix</font><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a" size="4"><strong>Scripture Reference:<em> "We will say of the Lord, He is our refuge and our fortress, our God; on Him we lean and rely, and in Him we trust&rdquo; (</em></strong>&nbsp;<strong>Psalm 91:2)</strong><br />&nbsp;<br />A few years ago, we shared a message about how critical the Word of God is to the believer. The Word of God is the fuel and sustenance of our relationship with God. The Word of God is the food for our spiritual lives. The more we dine on the Word of God, the more the impact and effect of God&rsquo;s Word in every area of one&rsquo;s life.<br /><br />In a similar way, the words we speak have dynamite power. Whether we speak negative or positive words, our words carry power. The reason why this is the case is because that is how God created us as human beings (Genesis 1:3). A few years ago we had the privilege of serving in prayer and counsel a young couple about their young children. The children were having extremely bad dreams at night and woke up in their sleeps screaming. These young parents were scared and needed help. After our first prayer time together, we provided some scriptures and encouraged them to beginning &ldquo;speaking&rdquo; God&rsquo;s Word over their children and use the scriptures in prayer. They provided an update a few weeks later, saying that they were seeing great improvements in their children and they were sleeping through the night without any incidence at night. They were relieved and grateful. This is one of the many blessings of God&rsquo;s Word.<br /><br />It is a new year, and many people will be making resolutions, and there is nothing wrong with making them. However, <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/lisabodell/2022/12/19/new-years-resolutions-fail-do-this-instead/">research shows</a> that most of the resolutions made in January are typically non-existent by February. There is a much surer approach to transformation- it is the consistent power of God&rsquo;s Word in the life of a believer in Christ. This approach is typically embraced by followers of Christ; and all are welcome to give the Word of God a try.<br /><br />Recognizing how powerful the Word of God is and our words, gives us a deeper and keener awareness to the presence of God that lives inside of us. It gives us a keener awareness of the Holy Spirit. The more one is aware of the presence of God and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, the more one becomes aware of the creative power of one&rsquo;s words.&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;<br />As the new year 2026 begins, let us &ldquo;speak&rdquo; the Word of God. Whether in prayer, or in encouragement to others. Let us be more cognizant of our daily surrender to the workings of the Holy Spirit. As we continue in this practice, we will release on the inside a storehouse of power, discernment and alignment to the purposes of God. <strong>We kick off this new year declaring: Let God&rsquo;s will be done here on earth as it in heaven! Happy New Year!&nbsp;</strong><br /><br />In Christ&rsquo;s Love,<br /><br />Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</font><br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[It's A Wrap 2025!]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/its-a-wrap-2025]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/its-a-wrap-2025#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 17 Dec 2025 20:28:50 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/its-a-wrap-2025</guid><description><![CDATA[       Praying Group photo from FreepixScripture References: &ldquo;And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins.&rdquo; Matthew 1: 21&ldquo;Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.&rdquo; Matthew 1: 23&ldquo;If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/side-view-young-people-praying-outdoors_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font size="4"><strong style="color:rgb(42, 42, 42)">Praying Group photo from Freepix</strong><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(42, 42, 42)">Scripture References</strong><font color="#2a2a2a">: &ldquo;And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name <strong>JESUS</strong>: for He shall save His people from their sins.&rdquo; </font><strong style="color:rgb(42, 42, 42)">Matthew 1: 21</strong><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">&ldquo;Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.&rdquo; </font><strong style="color:rgb(42, 42, 42)">Matthew 1: 23</strong><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">&ldquo;If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.&rdquo; --- </font><strong style="color:rgb(42, 42, 42)">2 Chronicles 7:14</strong><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">We want to thank everyone that participated in last month&rsquo;s Global Bible Month. We pray that the Word of God is nourishing your life in a fresh new way. With just one week left in this Advent season, our prayer remains the same- that each one that have dedicated time during this Advent season will experience Christ&rsquo;s Presence, Mission and Character in ways that will yield continuous fruits to God&rsquo;s glory.&nbsp;</font></font><br /><br /><font size="4"><font color="#2a2a2a">Because of each of you, this year has been filled with thanksgiving, God&rsquo;s faithfulness, God&rsquo;s grace, God&rsquo;s goodness and God&rsquo;s greatness. Together we have experienced the supernatural hand of God. As we prepare to close out this year and posture our hearts for all God has in store for 2026, we want to challenge God&rsquo;s people to bring back prayer</font> <strong><font color="#2a2a2a">(#BringBackPrayer).</font></strong><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">Let us make </font><strong style="color:rgb(42, 42, 42)">2 Chronicles 7:14 </strong><font color="#2a2a2a">a touching point as we join our hearts together in prayer for our world. With continuous prayer, we will see the supernatural hands of God at work in every area of our world. God is a supernatural God and works in supernatural ways. This is why He is God! <strong><a href="https://www.podpage.com/oasis-of-hope/" target="_blank">Be sure and share this episode with family, friends and networks.</a></strong></font><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">With prayer we look forward to all God will do through His people in 2026. We are excited for the 2026 Oasis vision to reach more people with God&rsquo;s love, message of hope in Jesus Christ and transformation as we have never seen. </font><strong><font color="#2a2a2a">From our Oasis Team- Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!</font></strong><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">&nbsp;</font><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">&nbsp;In Christ's Love,</font><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</font></font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Advent: Christ's Presence, Mission & Character]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/advent-christs-presence-mission-character]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/advent-christs-presence-mission-character#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Sat, 29 Nov 2025 16:25:10 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/advent-christs-presence-mission-character</guid><description><![CDATA[       Greetings Beloved! We are so thankful for each of you as we close out this year&rsquo;s Thanksgiving celebrations! For God&rsquo;s people Thanksgiving is a lifestyle. We are grateful to God for His empowering Presence, equipping Purpose and His Powerful loving kindness. On the other hand, Thanksgiving postures our heart to reflect on the faithfulness and goodness of God. It is a powerful posture to take us into the season of Advent.We are excited and ready to enter the season of Advent th [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/2025-advent_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font size="4" color="#2a2a2a">Greetings Beloved! We are so thankful for each of you as we close out this year&rsquo;s Thanksgiving celebrations! For God&rsquo;s people Thanksgiving is a lifestyle. We are grateful to God for His empowering Presence, equipping Purpose and His Powerful loving kindness. On the other hand, Thanksgiving postures our heart to reflect on the faithfulness and goodness of God. It is a powerful posture to take us into the season of Advent.<br /><br />We are excited and ready to enter the season of <strong><a href="https://hallow.com/advent/">Advent that begins, Sunday, November 30, 2025 to Wednesday, December 24, 2025.</a> </strong>Christians around the world observe and celebrate Advent in a myriad of ways. Whether through focused prayer initiatives, focused acts of kindness or focused times of worship, Advent offers Christians a great avenue to prepare to celebrate the birth of our Savior, King and LORD. No matter the selection of our focus this Advent season, let us use this season of Advent to press into the heart of God for the many souls around the world in need of a Savior- Jesus Christ!<br /><br />For those that asked us for a guide for this year&rsquo;s Advent, here is a short version of the Advent calendar to help with your Bible reading, prayer and worship times.<br /><strong>Week 1</strong> (Nov 30- Dec 6): Focus on Hope- Coming of Christ from <strong>Isaiah 9: 2, 6</strong><br /><strong>Week 2</strong> (Dec 7 &ndash; Dec 13): Prepare &ndash;Make Straight the Way of Christ from <strong>Isaiah 40: 3-5</strong><br /><strong>Week 3</strong> (Dec 14 &ndash; Dec 20): Joy &ndash; Sunday of Rejoicing from <strong>Matthew 2: 10-11</strong><br /><strong>Week 4</strong> (Dec 21 &ndash; Dec 24): Love &ndash; Anticipate Christ&rsquo;s Birth from <strong>John 3: 16-19</strong><br /><br />As shared each year, one of the major reasons we love the Advent season is because it gives us the intentional pursuit of God&rsquo;s Presence to prepare our hearts, spirits, souls and lives for the celebration of Christ's birth. Advent gives us the focused time to reflect on Christ&rsquo;s Presence, Mission and Character; first to us personally and secondly for the world at large.<br /><br />As we look forward to the close of 2025, let the intentional pursuit of God&rsquo;s Presence envelope all aspects of our lives. May the beauty of Advent be upon us as the Holy Spirit is poured afresh upon the lives of God&rsquo;s people for the glory of God! Stay blessed in Christ, stay encouraged in God&rsquo;s Word, and stay close to the Savior.<br /><br />In Christ's Love,<br /><br />Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Transforming Power of the Word]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/transforming-power-of-the-word]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/transforming-power-of-the-word#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 06 Nov 2025 20:12:51 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/transforming-power-of-the-word</guid><description><![CDATA[       Photo by Samuel Costa Melo on UnsplashScripture Reference:&nbsp;&ldquo;For the word of God&nbsp;is alive&nbsp;and active.&nbsp;Sharper than any double-edged sword,&nbsp;it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart&rdquo; (Hebrews 4:12)The need is great, and the call is critical for the Body of Christ to be who God has called us to be in this hour. We have been called to be holy, set apart for God&rsquo;s use in a worl [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/samuel-costa-melo-kgaulll9noy-unsplash_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#2a2a2a" size="4">Photo by Samuel Costa Melo on Unsplash</font><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a" size="5"><strong>Scripture Reference:&nbsp;</strong>&ldquo;For the word of God&nbsp;is alive&nbsp;and active.&nbsp;Sharper than any double-edged sword,&nbsp;it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart&rdquo; <strong>(Hebrews 4:12)</strong><br /><br />The need is great, and the call is critical for the Body of Christ to be who God has called us to be in this hour. We have been called to be holy, set apart for God&rsquo;s use in a world that needs Him without recognizing they need the Almighty God.<br /><br />One of the dangers of these times is not only inaccurate information parading as truth, but deception, and misinformation. This means for believers in Christ, empowering and equipping ourselves with the truth of God&rsquo;s Word is not an option or a suggestion. It is a call to come up to God&rsquo;s standards of being as Christ&rsquo;s ambassadors. God is not lowering His standards because we are in 2025 or any other year.<br /><br />In this insightful episode of Oasis of Hope podcast, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti discuss the transforming power of God&rsquo;s Word. They discuss how living out the kingdom life requires daily bread in God&rsquo;s Word. This practice combined with daily prayer transforms lives for eternity. They invite believers in Christ to join in the <strong><a href="https://www.bible.com/30-day-bible-challenge">30 days Bible Reading challenge to observe the Global Bible Month.</a> </strong>Believers in Christ can store up the treasures of God&rsquo;s Word in their hearts and see a God kingdom change for eternal impact. Join them to hide God&rsquo;s Word in our hearts.<br /><br />Lastly, they discuss the new book <strong><em><a href="https://buff.ly/HLExEXC">The Fear of God: Growing the Inner Life</a></em></strong> and invite friends and listeners to get a copy whether you are a believer in Christ or not. Readers will find that God&rsquo;s Word transforms from the inside out. To live in the reverence or fear of God, means there are characteristics that flows out of such a life anchored in God&rsquo;s truth of reverence.<br /><br />This type of life points to an understanding of who God is and of a life that has been changed by the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. The same is true for a life void of the reverence or fear of God. That life also points to a lack of understanding of who God is and His loving embrace to a relationship that transforms for eternity. Time for God&rsquo;s people to rise up and be the Body of Christ.<br /><br />Take a <strong><a href="https://www.podpage.com/oasis-of-hope/">listen to episode 96</a></strong> and share with your family and friends. These times call for believers to be Bereans who study the Word of God for themselves, be in community with fellow believers who are pursuing the heart of God and be in daily prayer asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate every area of our lives for the indwelling Presence of God. Stay Alert!<br /><br />In Christ&rsquo;s Love,<br />&#8203;<br />Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</font></h2>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Rise Up, Church!]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/rise-up-church]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/rise-up-church#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 22 Oct 2025 01:06:13 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/rise-up-church</guid><description><![CDATA[       Photo&nbsp;by Elianna Gill on UnsplashScripture Reference:&nbsp;"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God&rsquo;s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light&rdquo; (1 Peter 2:9) .&nbsp;We are living in unprecedented times globally, since the pandemic of 2020. For the church aka body of Christ, we are seeing a sharp rise in Bible sales and hunger among young people. In an October 2025 articl [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/elianna-gill-4z9hms3-6aw-unsplash_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font size="4"><strong>Photo&nbsp;</strong><strong><font color="#2a2a2a">by Elianna Gill on Unsplash</font></strong></font><br /><br /><strong><font size="5" color="#2a2a2a">Scripture Reference:</font></strong><font size="5" color="#2a2a2a">&nbsp;"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God&rsquo;s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light&rdquo; <strong>(1 Peter 2:9) </strong>.<br />&nbsp;<br />We are living in unprecedented times globally, since the pandemic of 2020. For the church aka body of Christ, we are seeing a sharp rise in Bible sales and hunger among young people. In an October 2025 article by <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2025/10/20/growing-share-of-us-adults-say-religion-is-gaining-influence-in-american-life/">Pew Research,</a> there has been a sharp rise in the things of God from February 2024 to February 2025. The data is showing a positive influence of faith on the American life.<br />&nbsp;<br />With this spiritual awakening and growth comes great responsibility for the body of Christ, especially spiritual leaders. One aspect of responsibility that all believers in Christ are called to is being an ambassador for Christ (<strong>2 Corinthians 5:20). </strong>Added responsibility and higher standards is mandated for spiritual leaders as the scripture states in <strong>1 Timothy 3:1-10. </strong><br />&nbsp;<br />One of such added responsibilities for Christ leaders is staying up to date on the most pressing cultural issues are and how to shepherd God&rsquo;s people well. On this latest episode 95 of Oasis of Hope Podcast, we are blessed by the legal expertise of one of the nation&rsquo;s leading voices- Ms. Regan Van Steenis, as she dives into how churches, the body of Christ and its leaders can be better prepared to meet the challenge of our culture in the area of child safety.<br />&nbsp;<br />Van Steenis brings a powerful blend of conviction and compassion as chief legal counsel at Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen Ministries for over twenty years. She has personally overseen more than $1 billion in transactions and helped hundreds of new churches get started. God is currently using her expertise to equip ministries to flourish without distraction, offering everything from compliance support to strategies for safeguarding leadership and foster spiritual health.<br />&nbsp;<br />It is also great to note that Van Steenis brings a unique perspective as both a pastor&rsquo;s daughter and a legal expert because she understands the pressures facing ministry leaders and how to help them build strong foundations, so spiritual leaders can focus on growing deeper in Christ, free from fear or compromise that can mar the name of Christ.<br /><br />This is one episode you want to share with friends, colleagues, neighbors, and especially your spiritual leaders. God&rsquo;s ways and standards for His kingdom has never changed, even though the culture around us changes. It is time for the church to rise up and be Christ&rsquo;s empowered and equipped ambassadors.<br />&nbsp;<br /><strong>Resources For Episode 95: </strong><br />1. Visit <a href="https://www.reganvansteenis.com/home-page">Van Steenis Consulting</a> to connect and ensure your church or ministry is protected.<br />&nbsp;<br />2. Check out what <a href="https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2018-07/Clergy%20as%20Mandated%20Reporters%20of%20Child%20Abuse%20and%20Neglect.pdf">the laws are</a> in your state for clergy as mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect.<br />&nbsp;<br />3. We love your feedback- so send us your questions or comments: <a href="mailto:info@oasisfocus.org">info@oasisfocus.org</a><br /><br />In Christ's Love,<br /><br />Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</font></h2>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Rapture Alert - Extra Oil In Lamps]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/rapture-alert-extra-oil-in-lamps]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/rapture-alert-extra-oil-in-lamps#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 01 Oct 2025 17:53:43 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/rapture-alert-extra-oil-in-lamps</guid><description><![CDATA[       Scripture References: &ldquo;But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father&rdquo; (Matthew 24:36).&nbsp;&ldquo;But&nbsp;concerning&nbsp;that&nbsp;day&nbsp;or&nbsp;that&nbsp;hour,&nbsp;no&nbsp;one&nbsp;knows,&nbsp;not&nbsp;even&nbsp;the&nbsp;angels&nbsp;in&nbsp;heaven,&nbsp;nor&nbsp;the&nbsp;Son,&nbsp;but&nbsp;only&nbsp;the&nbsp;Father&rdquo; (Mark13:32).&nbsp;&ldquo;So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, wil [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/published/oil.jpg?1759341322" alt="Picture" style="width:736;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#2a2a2a" size="5"><strong style="">Scripture References:</strong> &ldquo;But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father&rdquo; <strong style="">(Matthew 24:36).</strong><br />&nbsp;<br />&ldquo;But&nbsp;concerning&nbsp;that&nbsp;day&nbsp;or&nbsp;that&nbsp;hour,&nbsp;no&nbsp;one&nbsp;knows,&nbsp;not&nbsp;even&nbsp;the&nbsp;angels&nbsp;in&nbsp;heaven,&nbsp;nor&nbsp;the&nbsp;Son,&nbsp;but&nbsp;only&nbsp;the&nbsp;Father&rdquo; <strong style="">(Mark13:32).</strong><br />&nbsp;<br />&ldquo;So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for Him&rdquo; <strong style="">(Hebrews 9:28).</strong><br />&nbsp;<br />Imagine getting an email that Jesus Christ is coming back on September 23 or 24, 2025. This happened and it is not something to be imagined. One of our ministry friends received an email with this information and shared it that the rapture was trending on social media. A <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/who-is-joshua-mhlakela-pastor-who-predicted-rapture-for-september-23-24-10475436" style=""><strong>pastor from South Africa</strong></a> shared on TikTok that God gave him a vision that the rapture (the second coming of Jesus Christ) was going to happen on September 23-24 which falls on Rosh Hashanah- the Jewish New Year. This misinformation was carried by many news outlets.<br />&nbsp;<br />This is the danger of the times we live in is that Inaccurate information, deception, and misinformation is rampant everywhere we turn. On the other hand, this is a time for believers to get into the Word of God- read it, study it, and meditate on it. This is the time for followers of Christ to have extra oil in their lamps and know the Word of God. The scriptures explains in multiple places about the coming of Jesus Christ- no one knows that day or time, except the Almighty God.<br />&nbsp;<br />Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti discuss the fallacy of these kinds of misinformation. God has not left believers in Christ in limbo or to guess about important things like the coming of Christ. The Bible tells us; we will have these kinds of false visions and teachings in these last days. As ambassadors of Christ, speak up against these false teachings. When the next rounds of rapture forecast comes around, let&rsquo;s shut it off with the truth of God&rsquo;s infallible Word.<br />&nbsp;<br />Take a listen to <strong style=""><a href="https://www.podpage.com/oasis-of-hope/episode-94-rapture-alert/">episode 94</a></strong> and share with your family and friends. These times call for believers to be Bereans who study the Word of God for themselves, be in community with fellow believers who are pursuing the heart of God and be in daily prayer asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate every area of our lives for the indwelling Presence of God. Stay Alert!<br /><br />In Christ's Love,<br /><br />Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</font><br /></h2>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[God's Praying Army]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/gods-praying-army]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/gods-praying-army#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 01 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/gods-praying-army</guid><description><![CDATA[       Praying Group photo from FreepixScripture Reference:&nbsp;"I sought for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I would not destroy it, but I found no one." (Ezekiel 22:30).We are in a time that calls for continuous prayer in our world. Contrary to what some people may think that prayer is useless, each believer in Christ is called to stand in the gap of prayer to build up the walls of our families, churches and communities. Do not be [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/side-view-people-praying-together_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><font color="#2a2a2a">Praying Group photo from Freepix</font></strong><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a" size="4"><strong>Scripture Reference:</strong>&nbsp;"I sought for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I would not destroy it, but I found no one." <strong>(Ezekiel 22:30).</strong><br /><br />We are in a time that calls for continuous prayer in our world. Contrary to what some people may think that prayer is useless, each believer in Christ is called to stand in the gap of prayer to build up the walls of our families, churches and communities. Do not be fooled by what people think about spiritual matters when they have never walked in those spiritual practices. There is tremendous power in prayer. In fact, the Bible tells us how powerful it is when one person prays and what happens when an army of believers pray.<strong> Deuteronomy 32:30 tells us about this extraordinary power of prayer, &ldquo;one will chase a thousand, two ten thousand"</strong>&nbsp;<br /><br />To help spiritual leaders pray in alignment with the heart of God, it is important that we take a look at what the Bible tells us. A specific pattern of prayer we can emulate is found in 2 Chronicles 1:11-12. In this Bible text, we see a great example of the selfless heart of Solomon- who asked God for <strong>divine wisdom. </strong>Solomon emphasized the prioritization of spiritual gifts over worldly possessions. In this Bible text, God granted Solomon&rsquo;s request for wisdom to govern His people effectively. Because he decided to ask wisely, God blessed him and he is noted as the wisest of God&rsquo;s leaders.<br /><br />We encourage each spiritual leader to meditate on these Bible text and continue to stand in the gap of prayer as we turn our hearts and gaze towards God to move in our families, churches and communities. These are some prayer points to help us stay unified in prayer as we pray God&rsquo;s heart and will.<br /><br /><strong>Prayer Points:</strong><br />(1). Pray for your family (your spouse, children, marriage if married, and if single, pray for godly husband (man) or wife (woman).<br /><br />(2).&nbsp; Pray for the eternal blessing of your loved ones (pray for the salvation of their souls).<br /><br />(3). Pray for spiritual leaders to be leaders of conviction that embrace holiness and eschew all forms of evil.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /><br />(4).&nbsp; Pray for the Body of Christ to be built on truth of the Bible and not the trends of culture.<br /><br />(5).&nbsp; Pray for all elected and appointed civic leaders to know for themselves the &nbsp;fear (reverence) of God.<br /><br />(6).&nbsp; Pray for peace in war-torn areas of the world Europe, Middle East, and Africa.<br /><br />(7).&nbsp; Pray for the Body of Christ to grow and live out the agape love of God (our world needs it in this critical hour).<br /><br />In Christ&rsquo;s Love,<br /><br />Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Spiritual Growth]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/spiritual-growth]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/spiritual-growth#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Sat, 02 Aug 2025 00:53:21 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower/spiritual-growth</guid><description><![CDATA[       Scripture Reference:&nbsp;&ldquo;But grow in the grace&nbsp;and knowledge&nbsp;of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.&nbsp;To him be glory both now and forever! Amen&rdquo;&nbsp;(2 Peter 3:18).The scriptures provide the blueprint for believers in Christ on all aspects of life. Digging into the truth of God&rsquo;s Word yields wisdom and guidance for our daily lives. In this episode of Oasis of Hope podcast, the question is asked by one of our Oasis of Hope community:&nbsp;What is progressiv [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.oasisconnection.org/uploads/3/2/1/2/3212494/published/spiritual-growth.jpg?1754096188" alt="Picture" style="width:735;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a"><span style="font-weight:600">Scripture Reference:</span>&nbsp;&ldquo;But grow in the grace&nbsp;and knowledge&nbsp;of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.&nbsp;To him be glory both now and forever! Amen&rdquo;&nbsp;<span style="font-weight:600">(2 Peter 3:18).<br /></span><br />The scriptures provide the blueprint for believers in Christ on all aspects of life. Digging into the truth of God&rsquo;s Word yields wisdom and guidance for our daily lives. In this episode of Oasis of Hope podcast, the question is asked by one of our Oasis of Hope community:&nbsp;<span style="font-weight:600">What is progressive Christianity? Is it Biblical?</span>&nbsp;Looking at scriptures, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti discuss what seems to be the understanding behind the question- which is a&nbsp;<span style="font-weight:600">question on spiritual growth.</span>&nbsp;Take a listen to <strong><a href="https://www.podpage.com/oasis-of-hope/episode-92-spiritual-growth/" target="_blank">episode 92</a></strong> as they walk through the scriptures and unpack the truth of spiritual growth.<br /><br />From theological studies, the idea behind progressive Christianity has been misleading, deceptive and misunderstanding for many new believers in Christ and some of our next generation. The hallmark of maturity for all believers in Christ is living out and walking in love. Any believer in Christ that is living out the God kind of love as&nbsp;<span style="font-weight:600">1 Corinthians 13&nbsp;</span>explains is&nbsp;<span style="font-weight:600">growing spiritually&nbsp;</span>in the abundant life Jesus came to give anyone that believes in Him for salvation and an eternity with God Almighty. Also, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ already set the bar for how believers will be known to the world based on our love for one another:&nbsp;<em><span style="font-weight:600">&ldquo;By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another</span></em>&rdquo;&nbsp;<span style="font-weight:600">(John 13:35).<br /></span><br />This is the time for believers to be student of the Bible, asking the help of the Holy Spirit to know, learn and understand the ways of God, which are supernatural and counterculture. Each believer must choose God&rsquo;s way of truth above the trends of the world, culture of the world, and ideas of the world that are contrary to the truth of scriptures. When believers in Christ are growing daily in their walk with God, there will be &ldquo;fruits&rdquo; that point and align to this spiritual growth. This is an encouragement for believers in Christ to deliberately choose the way of truth. The ways of the world will ultimately lead to confusion, just as the scriptures tell us.&nbsp;<span style="font-weight:600">Let&rsquo;s be people of the Way&nbsp;</span>(John 14:6). &nbsp;<span style="font-weight:600">"I am the way, the truth, and the life&rdquo; &ndash; Jesus Christ.<br /><br /></span></font><span style="color:rgb(42, 42, 42)">In Christ's Love,<br /><br />Drs. Johnson &amp; Feyi Obamehinti</span><br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>