EXTRAORDINARY YOU

When you are extraordinary, it means that you are unusual or exceptional. Simply put, you are not ordinary and this unveils the truth that fulfilling destiny in the kingdom we belong, answers largely to this mentality. As a Christian, you are designed to function by supernatural principles and live according to divine ordinances, just as prescribed by your glorious destiny in Christ.

Reference: Genesis 32:30 New Living Translation (NLT) "Jacob named the place Peniel (which means 'face of God'), for he said, 'I have seen God face to face, yet my life has been spared."

Jacob had several encounters with God, and after those encounters, he would normally give the place where the encounter happened a special name. Today, we are looking at a unique encounter he had with God. He called the place, 'Peniel', which means "face of God." Why is this particular encounter a unique one? This is because the common stance given in Scripture is that any human who literally sees God would die instantly (See Exodus 33:20). Interestingly, Jacob survived this and his destiny was transformed in the process. An incident that could kill others, blessed him instead.

Jacob wisely recognized such encounter as peculiar, which was why he chose a particular name (Peniel) for the place. Instead of dying, he received a new name and a blessing at the same place. Beloved, did you know that everything about you in Christ is extraordinary and exceptional? Yes, this is because Christ is your impenetrable shield. You may never be able to count how many times the mercy of God has protected you from unforeseen danger, and your life was spared. This is because God's grace is working tirelessly upon your life every single day and even overtime. Therefore, when you go through any unfavourable situation, always remember that you are simply extraordinary.

The Psalmist says, 'A thousand may fall at your side, And ten thousand at your right hand; But it shall not come near you' (Psalm 91:7 NKJV). Do you really know what that means? You are a peculiar case. The Bible says, 'When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you' (Isaiah 43:2 NLT). When you consider the verse, you'll agree that it takes an extraordinary or mysterious man to face such challenges and still come out victorious. But this is the heritage of every true Christian. You are precious in God's sight and His delight is in you, above any other people.

David declared in Psalm 23:4 (NIV) saying, 'Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.' Though idiomatic, darkest valley is a figurative valley anyone can pass through as a human experience. Darkest valley could mean being whole alone in the dark, yet David as an extraordinary man, confessed this striking and remarkable expression as his reality. He knew that Someone (Ancient of Days) was always with him; thus his case was out of ordinary. Remember, David had horrorful shepherd-life experiences. He travelled through deep ravines while tending his father's sheep. He trod on the path of death and spent time in wild and gloomy valleys, where many would never attempt to visit alone.

No wonder David explained to King Saul that by the grace of God he killed a lion and bear that were attempting to have lamb chops for dinner (see 1 Samuel 17:34-35 NASB). All of such experiences can cause a feeling of terror. But for David, it was all profound moments of symbolism because his case was distinctive. Beloved, I'm not saying that anyone should expose themselves to dangers and horrorful experiences by intention, but you can rest assured that these signs will accompany those who believe: In Jesus name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands, and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not harm them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will be made well (Mark 16:17-18). That's extraordinary exploits by extraordinary you!

Scripture Reading - Proverbs 23:7; Isaiah 8:10; Psalm 121:7-8; 1 Peter 2:9.

Exuberant Declaration: In Christ Jesus, I have received a new identity and unquantifiable blessings. I am indeed different and extremely blessed because of the finished work of Christ at the cross of Calvary. I possess the mindset of 'exemption from all evil'. I function with exceptional mentality and I experience the reality of exclusive rights and privileges which affords me great pleasures in the Kingdom. Hallelujah!