Author Archives: Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

HIS DOVE

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD
When people say that I am not good enough for them, that my face is too fat, that my song is too flat and my words too difficult to be understood, I run to Jesus… He always welcomes me even when my face is ugly, wet with tears.. He understands me even when I cannot pray… He covers me with His love… My first language is not English. I had to learn it. I can never compare myself with an English writer. There is no need for that. Father God encourages me by the Holy Spirit to open my heart to Him, to sing, write, dance… and He says that I am His beloved. If an angel encourages me I will be flattered. But no… My encourager is more than an angel.. He is the God of the angels… Can you imagine that? God Almighty, the Maker of the heaven and the earth has time for me… He says to me even right now: “My dove, in the clefts of the rock, in the crevices of the cliff, let me see your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely.” (SS 2:14).. His Word is healing to my soul. I live by His Word…I live…
Malia 1

CHOOSE: CONFUSION OR PEACE

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD
“For God is not the Author of confusion but of peace, as in all churches of the saints” (1 Cor 14: 33)
By definition, confusion is; a blurred, foolish and anxious thinking; an unstable mind that has lost focus and purpose; hears more than one voice; mixed ideas indiscriminately; fail to differentiate between similar things; slower thinking especially decision making (stagger, waver), memory loss, paranoia (suspicious on others thinking that they are enemies) that leads to anxiety, inability to listen and understand the Word. Confusion of mind is a sign and a proof of an unregenerate mind. All unbelievers are confused; some more than others.
 
Confusion is a sign of defeat of your enemy. Babel (the world) was defeated by God through confusion (Gen 11). Confusion of the mind is never healthy! Confusion is never acceptable to a believer; it is always the result of satanic attacks.
 
By the grace of God, your enemies will never come to agreement how to destroy you. They will be confused; they will quarrel and betray one another. Spiritually speaking, it is a proof of God’s judgment upon a wicked person, an idolater, a religious traitor in the church. Such a person is a wolf among the sheep; very difficult to detect and very dangerous. The Shepherd will throw His rod against the secret enemy and the effect of the blow will be confusion of mind. The greatest condemnation is when God gives them up to their evil desires and confusion follows (Rom 1, 2). An unrepentant heart is troubled with confusion and it is dying already. Homosexuality is the result of confusion of mind. The suicide of Judas was also the result of confusion of mind.
 
In Christ I declare Psalm 70:2-4 over my life! May those who seek my life be put to shame and confusion… But may all who seek You, rejoice and be glad in You! In Jesus’ name, Amen!

HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY! 

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

Our grandson Oliver, in front of a cross made of flowers, in front of the church he attends with his parents. In fact, he is under the shadow of that cross. Fully covered by the Blood of Jesus! As you can see, he was very happy to see the cross. Just in case you have forgotten: Jesus dies for our sins and on the third He rose again! Hallelujah! Oli 2

Oli 1

WHEN WORK WAS IN PROGRESS 

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

This picture was taken 6 years ago today during the construction of our church. This young sister, her name is Pat. She works very hard at the church’ site during all her holidays from school. She does the same work as the brothers. She can drive the bobcat and carries cement too. She asks not for any special privileges. God bless her and all the servants of God who quietly work and faithfully serve the King!

Malia and Pat

ANGEL’S TESTIMONY

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD
Our granddaughter Angel is 13. Her mother just informed me that she has passed the test for ‘the cheerleaders team’. She was very sick these few days. She had the flu: fever, cough, body pains and weakness. She felt very bad not only because she was sick but that she had to pass the tests this week. She has been preparing for months with her colleagues. On Monday she was too sick to even go to school and missed the first day of cheerleader’s tests. On Tuesday was the last day for the cheerleader’s test when they have to dress with the proper costumes. She was still sick. She could not eat food, only drinking orange juice. She wept begging her mother to let her go and do the test. Her mother was worried because she looked so weak. She phoned me to ask for advice. I told her that in the natural, she should not allow her daughter to go to do any test when she is sick. But I also told her to have faith in God, for a miracle. I said to her: “when your 13 years old daughter cries that she wants to go to pass a test, it is not good to quench her spirit. She has faith. She is a fighter.’ I told her to tell Angel: ‘Ok, let’s go. We shall pray to God for supernatural strength and favor. If you pass the test of not, I and Malia (your grandma) are very proud of you. In our hearts you are always a champion!” They prayed and they went to school. Her mum sent me a message that immediately they arrived, supernatural strength came upon Angel. She did all her routines perfectly, with charm and grace. We praised God for that!
This evening, they called me face time very happy, shouting and praising God. Angel has passed the tests!!! From now on, you may see her ‘cheer leading’ at sports events and other occasions.
This seems like a small testimony. But to me, her grandma, it is a big story that encouraged me this evening! The fact that God proved Himself strong in a teenager’s life, in her hour of need, makes this testimony great! We are all grateful and happy! To God alone be all the glory!
Lessons: God is an ever present Help in times of need! Put your trust in God and He will make sure that you will not be disappointed! Sickness and trials should not stop you in doing the right thing! Pray! Do your best, leaving the rest with God! With God all things are possible! God bless your children who learn to trust in God!
(In the picture, Angel and her mum (our daughter)
Cheer leader
Alina and Angel

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS BETWEEN WIVES OF TODAY AND THOSE OF YESTERDAY  By Prof. Yusuf Dankofa

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

 

1).Yesterday’s Wives.
Welcome my husband, hope the office was not stressful.,
your favorite food is ready, let me lead you to the bathroom
first,then you take your dinner, you look so tired, am sure
you’ll be okay after taking your dinner, welcome my one and
only.

Today’s Wives
Please don’t put unnecessary pressure on me, you can go
to the fridge pick up the stew, microwave it and boiled the
remaining rice, i am your wife and not your cook.

2).Yesterday’s Wives
Darling stop thinking about our lack of money.its going to
be temporary.God will see us through and we are going to
come out of it stronger. After all, we can still feed ourselves
and the children.We need to give the Almighty that glory.I
am with you through thick and thin,my husband,the owner
of my dowry.

Today’s Wives
Look I am sick and tired of living in this abject poverty with you.Why did you bring me to your house when you know that you are not ready for marriage?Every day is one complaint or the other.Are you the complainant general of Nigeria.We don’t have cars,our house is in Tudunwada,when your mates are in GRA. Look if you don’t find solutions to your problems,you will come back and not find me in this your rotten house.

3).Yesterday’s Wives
My husband,we only have 3 children,don’t you think we should have more.You know children are gifts and mercies from God.And the more the merrier.

Today’s Wives
Look am sick and tired of this marriage.You won’t allow me to rest by your constant urge to have more children.I am okay with our two children.I can’t allow you to spoil my figure 8 by bearing another 4 children.You are so wicked that I feel you want to spoil my psychedelic looks.If you dare force me,I will sue you for rape.

4).Yesterday’s Wives
My husband,take heart and don’t worry.i shall go with you to Zaria. Your being transferred from the glitterati of Abuja to Zaria might be a blessing in disguise.We shall take the advantage of the educational institutions to advance our education.Some disappointments could be a blessing.

Today’s Wives
Me I can’t follow you to Zaria-o.God forbid bad thing.From Abuja to Zaria?I can’t cope with such a demotion.To start living in a village.You had better look for another wife.I can’t live in a city without silver birds, Amigo supermarket or Dunes

5)Yesterday’s Wives
My husband,I have enough clothes.This N30.000 you are giving me, Please, keep it and save for a rainy day.

Today’s Wives
Why are you so stingy?Do you have super glue in your palms?What an insult.What kind of shopping do you want me to do with N50.000? What can I buy?Is it Swiss lace or Dubai gold.I am disappointed in you.Your mates are giving their wives $5000 to shop,here you are humiliating me with Naira. I don’t blame you.It is because I refused to marry Chief Antonio that’s why you are messing up with me-ooo

(Somebody sent me this article. It is funny but it is the truth. I don’t know the professor who write it. The only correction I can make is that what the author calls ‘Yesterday’s wives’ defines born again women of God. Listen! A godly Spirit filled woman of God is not something to be found only in the past, on the shelf of a museum, with dust on her hair… No! For as long as God is God, His children are everywhere. But like the gold is found under the ground and as the genuine pearls are found at the bottom of the sea, you must look for them! Lazy people fall into trouble by marrying worldly people. Pray! Pay the price for godly character, godly marriage and godly friendships! You will never regret it!)

THE THRONE OF MERCY AND GRACE 

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

“We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help…Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Heb 4:16; TM; NKJ)

We have arrived before the throne of grace. The Lord Jesus is the High Priest. The Lamb upon the throne is there to give grace and mercy for them who are truly in need. Until we understand the revelation of God’s mercy to sinners, we cannot proceed to the higher realms. This royal mercy is the anchor that connects us to the Lord, more clearly revealed when we stumble and fall.

Grace means unmerited favor from God. He sovereignly gives gifts and blesses His people in spite of their sins. Grace destroys all boasting of self and pride. Of necessity, the release of royal grace leads to worshipping the King.

Mercy is God’s sovereign kindness to a sinner who was His personal enemy. Mercy is God’s attitude of compassion to one who suffers the terrible consequences of his sin. In the absence of mercy, the sinner has to die a slow and terrible death, with no human cure available.

When in great trouble, look up and see the throne. Then you shall see His hand waving to you, calling you ‘Come higher…’ So ‘let us’ come boldly to the only place in the universe where we can find help, protection, provision and miracles.

Please observe… such royal blessings come only to them that are ‘in need’. The Lamb upon the Throne is not available to all in the same way. There are many people who suffer, are poor or sick. God has to qualify your status as a person ‘in need’. The word means to lack something vital, to be in want, poor and suffering unto death. Without the mercy of God, the need will kill you. Need is not a selfish desire or a superficial want. Often we confuse need and want, but God is never deceived.

For the release of mercy, we are invited to come ‘boldly’. It is ‘a need-for-mercy-emergency’! This word is more connected with the speech. It means to pray with confidence and faith. It describes a free, open speech without any manipulation, religious hypocrisy or deception. For example, in the army, a solider has to ask permission from a senior colleague before he can speak openly. It is not enough to be in trouble. He has to ask for the favor of free speech. If permission is not granted, he cannot trespass his boundary and ‘speak up his mind’.

Let’s pray: “Father, I am sorry for the many years I have wasted deceiving myself that I can do it on my own. The truth is that I need You. I need Your mercy and Your grace. I need a fresh touch from You. I need Your power, Your resources and Your guidance. Without You I can do nothing. It has come to that… My need has brought me to You. Please receive me… I am Your child… broken and lonely, homesick and wounded, O Lamb of God I come, I come…”

In Christ I declare:
“I need Thee, Lord, I need Thee, every hour I need Thee… Bless me now my Savior, I come to Thee…”
In Jesus’ name,
Amen!

Joseph 2

A PRAYER OF LIFTING

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD
“May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble! May the name of the God of Jacob set you up on high [and defend you]; send you help from the sanctuary and support, refresh, and strengthen you from Zion” (Ps 20:1; 2; AMP)
 
This is the promise of Jehovah, the Self-Existent One. He is the only Living God who needs nothing from outside His Person to exist eternally! This is His pledge: to be with you when you are in in trouble; when you are under attack, alone and sick, abandoned or in pain….when lawyers abandon your case for ‘lack of evidence’… when doctors cannot find the source of your fever… when friends forsake you and the neighbors mock you… when you are ‘too old’ to marry and ‘too barren’ to have a child… when your need is greater than the supply… when hell has found your address and is ready to pay to kill… when prayer ‘does not work’ and the inspiration for singing has dried…
 
“Holy Spirit, please, come down!!!”
 
May God who wrote your name in the Book of Life remember you, help you, support, refresh and strengthen you! May God disappoint your fears, melt your doubts, arrest your sickness, fight against your oppressors and overturn the tables! May the power of praise in worship in Zion locate you and ignite a fresh holy fire in you! May the hand of God lift you up, far above the reach of all your enemies! May the increase of God’s kingdom include your home! May you see your children’ children! May you rejoice always, for God is with you! To the Glory of God who can never fail!
 
In Christ I declare:
I have seen the downfall of satan!
My trouble shall become my testimony!
I shall always praise and worship the God of my salvation, healing and deliverance!
God is my ever present Help in times of need!
Zion is my hometown forever!
Revival is my portion!
In Jesus name,
Amen!
SLL 12

THE DOE OF THE MORNING 

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

This is my book. It is a daily prophetic journal. This book is like a puzzle. The daily readings look like scattered pieces, some long and some short. It may seem that there is no particular ‘connection’ between them. You may not see ‘the picture’ initially, but patiently arrange the pieces together. Like a necklace made of pearls, the only string holding them is the Holy Spirit. See these pages as daily food for your spirit and medicine for your body and soul. These are also weapons of righteousness, strong enough to defeat the powers of darkness affecting your environment. Each day has ‘a prophetic’ declaration, reminding us of the treasures we have as believers in Christ. We tend to forget the power of truth spoken aloud. Just to be reminded that ‘I am a child of God!’ is enough to stir my soul each day. This ‘spirit of faith’ is the engine and the power ‘to produce’ miracles.

You can buy it from Amazon.com or from our church’ bookshop! Read and be blessed! Thank you for buying it!
Love in Christ alone,
Lia Leigh (Malia)

Doe of the morning

ENVY IS ‘SLOW POISON’

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD
“Envy and jealousy will kill a stupid fool… Don’t die before your time by being too wicked or acting like a fool…” (Job 5:2; Ecc 7:17)
This is an African story I heard some time ago. Once upon a time there was a vulture that always envied his neighbor, the great eagle. Daily he looked up on the sky and saw the eagle soar effortlessly, higher than any other bird. The vulture tried to catch the wind that lifted up the eagle. But the same current of air injured him and brought him down. Even their feathers were so different…The eagle looked like a king and he looked like a beggar, or so the vulture thought…Envy was slowly killing the vulture but he was ignorant of it.
 
One day, the vulture reached his breaking point. Unhappy, angry and jealous the vulture went to ‘a native doctor’ to make ‘a medicine’ to kill the eagle. The man said that it is possible to kill the eagle but he needs some of the vulture’s own feathers to prepare the poison. The vulture agreed and with his own beak he plucked some of his feathers. But the ‘medicine’ did not work and the native doctor said he needed some more feathers to make a stronger potion. This went on and on… The vulture agreed and each time he left the shrine he had fewer feathers on his body.
 
Little by little, he became ‘naked’ and powerless. Without feathers, he lost his ability to fly. One day, the eagle spotted a bird on the ground that looked like a turkey ready to be roasted. He quickly went down and carried the poor vulture to eat it for dinner. This is the sad story of a vulture that was foolishly envious of the great eagle.
 
What are the lessons? We are all born sinners. Envy is one of the works of the flesh. Envy is a wicked thing; it means to desire what is not your own; to covet what is forbidden; to hate the success and blessings of others. Envy is resident in our flesh from birth. Envy kills its owner, it is suicidal. The child of envy is ungratefulness. An envious man is wicked and foolish, not thankful for the portion and destiny God has given to him. He always wants another’s gifts and blessings!
 
Sinner, give your life to Christ! Come to the Cross of Christ for deliverance! Jesus died for your sins! Jesus is the only Savior given to men of earth! If envy and bitterness is already a stronghold, an addictive way of thinking, then you need deliverance from the demon who is now controlling you. But for you to be delivered, you need to be willing! Nobody can deliver you ‘by force’. Humble yourself! Have faith in the Word of God! Ask your pastor for help! Envy has to be acknowledged as sin, repented of and replaced with peace, contentment and thanks to God. If not, it will be a slow bitter poison to you, destroying any chance for you to have a happy life! But if you insist in your foolish stubbornness, I tremble for you.
 
Oh…that we may desire to be grateful to God who freely, generously and graciously has blessed us with so many blessings in Christ Jesus!
 
In Christ I declare:
I am a child of God!
I am grateful for salvation, for every blessings and gifts given to me by God!
I do not compare myself with others! I am not a foolish busybody!
I thank God for the blessings given to others!
God is my portion and inheritance in the land of the living!
I am truly satisfied! May the name of Jesus be glorified in my life!
In Jesus name, Amen!
 
(In the picture, two African vultures on the roof)
African vultures

I AM HIS GARDEN FOUNTAIN 

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

“You are a garden fountain, a well of flowing water streaming down… Awaken, O north wind, and come, O south wind. Breathe on my garden, and spread the fragrance of its spices. Let my Beloved come into His garden and taste its choicest fruits” (SS 4:15, 16)

When I got married 45 years ago, I did not know the price, how much it will cost… I did not know what it takes to have a successful godly testimony type of marriage. Thank God that I did not know it, because I could have been discouraged. The price for a holy testimony of spiritual maturity, reflected in ministry and marriage, is very high. According to God’s word, I had to die to self so that Christ can live in me and shine thru me! God used His holy hammer on my heart! Before I understood the ‘surgery’ I cried because of pain. Later, I relaxed and even rejoiced…

My heart was broken in many pieces so that God can rearrange them, for His glory and for my own good. Before that peculiar work of the Holy Spirit my heart was stony, opaque and closed. The Holy Spirit opened my heart, made it tender and ‘musical’. It is hard to explain… Thank God for tongues… Now, my heart sings the Lord’s song and hates all others tunes. My heart is not foolish and is not silent. I use to be shy, but not anymore. I speak as I am spoken to. The Holy Spirit whispers to my spirit, a word of love, and tells me to shout it out! I dare to obey God! The Word of God is enough for me. I hear it and I speak it out. It never fails to move me (first) and my listeners (second).

Like the hands of my Lord, my heart is now punctured… it has ‘scars-holes’ in it so that the water in my belly can easily flow out, and water others. The Divine Gardner, my Lord Jesus Christ, uses me daily to water His garden. I never knew how much my Lord loves flowers, plants, bees and butterflies until He held me, bent me and poured me out to them. He is a God of beauty, colors and order. That is why I cannot afford to be proud and ‘block’ my holes. I am used to be vulnerable. Used by my Lord, I lost my fears to look foolish. I love it when the people I talk to take me for granted. It means that I do not hinder God’s work. And that is all that matters. That is when The Holy Spirit does His work in them. What a privilege! What a joy to be used by the One who holds my life in His hands… Used by God I totally lost my fear of untimely useless death. For as long as the flowers bloom on earth, His water in my bucket will keep flowing. Glory!

(The picture below was taken by my husband. I was celebrating 65 years. I am dressed with beautiful Nigerian clothes made and given to me by one of our daughters in Christ. I hope that my thanksgiving mood is reflected on my face. “Thank You, Lord Jesus, for everything!”)

SLL 90

BEST FOR LAST

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

‘You saved the best until now’ Lord Jesus… (John 2: 10)

All marriages, no matter how strong, will eventually ‘finish’ their wine of joy and passion and end up ‘dry’: no hatred, no love, just ‘water- surviving’ arrangement. There is a moment when you discover that all the love has been exhausted on daily errands and the boring routine of life. There is a moment when fear will grip the heart that your secret relationship failure will become public display; ‘They have no more wine…’

That place of loneliness and shame is the moment for the true friend to step in and help. The best marriage counselors are not found seated at the table waiting to be served. They are found in the background, among the servants, who know the secret of brewing the miracle of supernatural love that never dies. Once you taste from the latter wine, once you are willing to allow God to love your spouse through your heart, your marriage will receive the stamp of heaven and will survive divorce… in fact, will defeat even death. Never forget the power of the latter rain! That is where the glory dwells!

In Christ I declare:
My marriage belongs to God!
Jesus is the Lord of my marriage, the Red Cord that can never be broken!
I will never lose hope in my marriage for my spouse is a gift from God and God never makes mistakes!
My marriage shall last until death will ‘part’ us! Nothing else will be able to destroy it before death!
I hate divorce!
Like the wine, my marriage shall be better as we get older!
Holy romance shall always ‘bubble’ in my marriage!
The best is yet to come!
In Jesus name, Amen!

(In the picture, my husband and I, happily married for 45 years… To God alone be all the glory!)

Tali and Malia 5

 

MY SUCCESS SPEAKS FOR ME!

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD
“This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Josh 1:8, 9)
 
ACCORDING TO GOD’S WORD, IN CHRIST, I DECLARE:
*I am a child of God!
*I and my children, we are prosperous and successful!
*I and my children, we are not failures! We can never fail!
*Christian success is possible and it is my portion!
*I guard my testimony with all my might! It is my eternal treasure!
*I have faith in the promises of God! These are yes and amen!
*God’s presence is with me everywhere I go! If I enter a plane, a car or a ship, I remember that God does not need visa or ticket. *He is always with me on the land, on the sea and in the clouds!
*I am strong and courageous! I do not faint, shake or run away! *There is no going back for me! It is easier to die in the battle and go to heaven than to go back to the devil! NO RETREAT!
*I am not afraid; I am not confused! I am not a coward! God forbid! Nothing shall surprise me enough to break me; no circumstance of life will make me beg or worship the devil. I am done with him forever! I am free and free indeed!
*My eyes are fixed of the face of Jesus, I see Him smile and I hear the cheering coming from the heavenly cloud of witnesses.
*I read, study, meditate and dream the Word of God! I see myself preaching and teaching the Word to multitudes!
*I press forward until the wine is squeezed out from ‘the grapes’ of my heart.
*I press on until God speaks to me thru His Word. If I am tired I pray for supernatural strength but still, I will not accept defeat!
*I am intelligent for God made me so!
*I am not timid! I am not a fool! I am not a loser!
*From now on, my light will shine and all people will come and see the wonderful works the Father has done in me!
*All the glory to the Lamb upon the throne! Hallelujah!
In Jesus’ name
Amen!
SLL 65

THE WOMAN, THE WATER AND THE WELL

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD
‘The woman said: I know that Messiah (called Christ) is coming. When He comes, He will explain everything to us. Then Jesus declared: ‘I who speak to you am He’…Then leaving the water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people: ‘Come and see a Man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” (Jn 4:25-29)
 
She was a simple woman but she was waiting for the greatest teacher, the one who knows all things. She was like an illiterate woman, too poor to go to school, but desiring to be a student in the best university in the world, somewhere abroad, if possible…
She had small strength but big dreams. She desired to meet God’s messenger, the One who will explain to her the mystery of the universe in simple words she could not understand. She wanted to submit to and believe in a Prophetic Royal Heavenly Teacher. She needed answers to the tragedy of sin in her life. She was seeking for grace long before she knew its name… She needed a miracle money cannot buy and men cannot steal…
 
Because of her hope of glory, the people around despised her and none was willing to waste time in teaching a woman like her. Since she was a little girl, she had beautiful dreams, that one day she will be a princess, dressed in white. The handsome prince will come and marry her…Years passed…Suffering replaced the songs… Life was not fair to her. She now had to do the things she once hated. The candle of hope was all but quenched. She tried to find romance in a place where women only cook and clean. She tried to find a man who loves her, but the more she searched the less she found him. The dream fainted… it was almost dead… Until this hot day, tasting the dust of Samaria, where nothing special ever happens…she was surprised by a stranger, at the well…
 
Jesus looked in her eyes and introduced Himself. “I am He! I am the Messiah!” I am the One you are waiting for…the One who planted the impossible dreams… the One who will explain to you everything…and help you live, truly live…the One who loves you just as you are… The Gardner who is ready to plant in your heart, the seed of love and the bloom of romance…Awake, My love, awake…”
 
Just imagine the moment! That unexpected moment… her very Hope…the dearest and the best staring at her…face to face with the Messiah…not properly dressed…nowhere to hide…make up running down on her face… holding an old, rusty bucket in her hand…she forgets all things, she forgets the rehearsed speeches and runs…runs away from the Prince, to men like her, hungry and lost like her… to tell them: ’Can this be the Messiah?’
 
What the philosophers could not accept; what the religious leaders refused to believe; what King Herod mocked at and the high priest rejected…this lonely poor woman receives… the gift from above, coming free of sorrows…the gift of intoxicating grace and ever new mercy, from the pierced hands of the Anointed One, the Christ! Oh… the mystery of this godliness!
 
‘If you knew the gift of God and who is He who asks you for a drink…’ (Jn 4:10)
 
(In the picture, me, by a fountain in Los Angeles, in 2010)
2010-holliday-035

FOR GOD SO LOVED US

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

This week, my husband and I, are celebrating 45 years of very happy and successful marriage. There are many things to say about this wonderful blessed journey. I thank God, from my heart, for giving me Pastor Richmond Sisanoritse Leigh to be my husband. We have three adult children and seven grandchildren. We also have many spiritual children. To God be all the glory!

When we got married I was an atheist and he was a backslider. I came to Nigeria in 1980. It is here that the miracle of salvation and reconciliation happened to both of us. By the grace of God, we both became children of God. We worked as medical doctors in Nigeria for about 20 years. In March 2000 we started Father’s House Bible Church in Warri-Effurun Nigeria (Yes, This month we celebrate 19 years since Father’s House was ‘born’! Hallelujah!). We are now pastors, in full time ministry. Again I say: To God be all the glory!

I want to share a word with you. As many of you know, my husband is Itsekiri by tribe. One of the strangest things I have learned from him is that there is no particular word for ‘love’ in his native language. He remembers that as a little child, his family members did not say ‘I love you’ to each other in Itsekiri. This is because the word ‘love’ does not exist. The family love was expressed thru good deeds and friendship towards one another. I have an Itsekiri Bible and I looked for the word ‘love’. In particular I wanted to see how they translated John 3:16. The word (or the concept of) ‘love’ in Itsekiri is translated as this: “ka fe ofo”. Literarily it means: “ like the way you speak”. It seems to me that for the Itsekiris love is connected with nice speech. This is my interpretation: If you speak well, you are lovable. If you do not speak well, you are not lovable. For me this is strange for in my native language (Romanian) there are at least two words that mean pure love.

Let me say this: all languages, tongues, traditions and cultures, are not enough to describe the Agape love of God!!! When I became a born again Christian I have discovered the greatest love of all! It is the Love of God for us, lost, hopeless and helpless sinners. It is the Love of Jesus Christ when He died on the Cross for me and you. Anybody who knows God loves God and others. Anybody who does not know the Living God is not able to truly love anyone, not even self. The Bible says that to be like Jesus, we must love not only with loving words but with sacrificial kind of actions done for His sake.

Each day I press on to learn to be more and more grateful! It is a lesson! It takes a life time (better said an eternity) to master the spiritual art of thanksgiving! I thank God for saving my soul, for helping me to know the true love of God! I thank God that my husband loves God with all his heart. I also thank God that my husband loves me with the love of God which is ‘shed abroad’ in his soul. He loves me not because of my nice words (if I can find them) but for the sake of Christ, our Lord! I thank God for our marriage, for our children and grandchildren! I thank God that our marriage is born again and it has become an inspiration to many! Only God can do all these things! Only God is worthy to receive all the glory!

Today I woke up with a new desire to intercede for the Itsekiri people, especially for those who do not speak English, for those who cannot imagine what love is! They need the revelation of agape love that only the Holy Spirit can give. I use them as a point of contact to reach all the other tribes who have a similar spiritual need. “Father in heaven, have mercy! Reveal Yourself to them! Revel to them Your love! Change their minds and hearts! May Your glory cover the Itsekiris as the waters cover the sea! In Jesus’ name I pray, amen!”

Finally, I close with the Word of God: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (Jn 3:16)

Tali and I 17

(In the picture, My husband and I, dressed in Nigerian fashion)

THEY SUNG A HYMN

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD
“When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives” (Mt 26:30)
At the end of the Lord’s supper God gave the disciples a ‘new’ song. The effect of taking the bread and the wine in a correct manner, will be that a song of worship will be released from within; a deep, intimate and bubbling song, the voice of the Spirit coming from the Hope of Glory inside your heart. The Blood of Jesus releases the song like a bird out of its cage. That song is the proof of freedom and of the finished work of Calvary.
 
Pray during the Holy Communion at your church, that the Holy Ghost will come down like a mighty rushing wind, like fire over the prepared sacrifice. May people sing and dance, weep and laugh, all to the glory of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit!
 
In Christ I declare:
I am saved by the Blood of the Lamb! I am sanctified by His Word which is Truth! I am filled and lead by the Holy Spirit! I shall worship the Lamb forever! In Jesus’ name, Amen!
Paasover

MY SECRET CONTENTMENT

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD
“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Phil 4:11-13)
 
Contentment is defines as a state of happiness and satisfaction. It is true peace of mind. It is a dream come true! It is not a passive feeling of defeat. It is a great human achievement. Many want it. Few people have it. It is located in Christ alone!!! You need to pay the price by searching for it: thru Bible study and prayer; thru attending a good living church; thru humbly and faithfully serving God; by submitting to other Christians who are more spiritual than you! It is not an easy road. But it is possible!
 
This is my testimony: To the glory of God I have found this pearl of great value! I encourage you to do the same! Nothing compares with the treasure called contentment! It is a true spiritual promotion. It does not come to a crowd of people. It is a personal gain! Money cannot buy it and thieves cannot steal it. It is the wind beneath the wings of eagles, pushing them faster and farther than the best of ordinary birds. It is the crown of heroes! It is the holy mark of champions. To get it, you do not need to travel anywhere. You do not need money. Just start by giving your life to Christ and then enroll in the Holy Spirit course called ‘contentment’. You will never regret it!
 
There are many people who wonder why I am so happy in a country called Nigeria. There are so many troubles here. Most people here want to leave this place and go away, to ‘greener pastures’. The truth is that I am very happy with God, with myself, with my husband, with my ministry and with the people around me. None is perfect. I am not perfect. But in the midst of it all, I have found Christ to be the most trusted Friend, Savior and Lord. His presence in my heart has changed the dry pastures to be the greenest of all. I do not have to travel to see how green other fields are. My own little pasture, in Effurun-Warri, is getting so green, so fresh, so soft and nutritious, that my spirit prospers and lacks nothing of value. Spiritually speaking, I am putting on weight daily. In this matter of satisfaction and contentment I can enter into any competition with the rich and famous, with the strong and mighty. I know that I will win! (Naija people I hail you-oo…Warri no de carry last!)
 
Contentment is a course in the higher levels of the university of the Holy Spirit. Many have failed it. This is because they are not focused. Many Christians struggle with comparison, covetousness and complaining. But I saw that the Apostle Paul was content in plenty and in want. God did not shield him from pains! He suffered much. He was rejected, beaten, in prison and experienced shipwreck. What was Paul’s secret and how do we cultivate contentment in our lives? I discovered that contentment has nothing to do with my circumstances. But it has to do with the state of my heart. I also discovered that contentment cannot be found outside Christ. Only a child of God can truly be content. Contentment is a spiritual achievement more than I call it a gift.
 
For example, In the past: I may have all good things I wish for: My husband is nice to me, my children behave well, my weight is under control, I have money to buy what I want… and still… There is a troubling anxiety that these blessings will soon disappear… and troubles will replace them… The secret doubting shameful fear of tomorrow will not allow me to be happy today… contentment was missing. I saw that the great Apostle Paul had to ‘learn the secret of contentment’. Me too I decided to learn it! After failing some exams, I finally got it! That is why I encourage you to do the same! Glory to God!
 
In Contentment we place our total heart trust not in ourselves, not in people, not in money, but in our good and sovereign God. God’s love for His people is unchanging, and He is using every detail of our lives to shape and fashion us into the image of Jesus Christ. As we look back to the cross of Christ and look forward to the hope of heaven, we will discover that ultimate contentment is found in Him alone! Let’s worship Jesus Christ! What a Savior! What a Mighty God we serve! Angels bow before Him! Heaven and earth adore Him! What a mighty God we serve! Hallelujah!
SLL 19

PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

Dear child of God, Listen to me! I am a medical doctor, a pastor and married to a pastor! I am 64 years old. I am old enough to counsel you as a mother. “Flee fornication!” (1Cor 6:18). In Greek, the word ‘flee’ means to escape a predator, to run away for your dear life until to vanish! See fornication as a criminal, ready to kill your body, soul and spirit! Never admire or envy fornicators, no matter how rich and famous they are! No matter how happy they seem! Fornication is suicide! Fornicators are waiting on the death row!

As it is with sickness, so it is with fornication: prevention is better than cure! Fornication is a spiritual problem more than a sexual one. It is emotionally addictive! Fornication and adultery is like a drug! The more you commit sexual sin, the more you will feel we need it, the easier it will be to do it, and the harder it will be to stop. “Whether you have been losing the battle or simply want to prepare for war, here are four proven ways to pursue purity: 1. Flee temptation. 2. Consider the future. 3. Enjoy your spouse. 4. Remember God is watching!” (Sam Allbery)

Lastly, if you are already living in sexual sin, there is no power outside the Holy Spirit who can deliver you! Give or re-surrender your life to the Lord Jesus Christ! Why suffer in silence? Why do you want to die an untimely death? Pray! Be free! I also pray for everyone who reads this letter and needs help! Be free in Jesus name! Come to the Cross! Jesus died for you! Jesus loves you! God bless you!

NAMES OF GOD: JEHOVAH ROHI – THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD (Part 1) 

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 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. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Psalm 23)

Jehovah Rohi shepherds the sheep that never wants anything outside Christ and His provision, totally satisfied; utterly content; there is no desire to change position, just to mature in this place of fulfillment. Believers are called sheep. Believers are never called dogs, horses or swine. Sheep are timid, foolish, slow, defenseless, totally lack the home instinct (if they are lost they can never find their way home). They depend totally on their Shepherd for their very life.

The promises of Psalm 23!
• I shall not want: Contentment: highest spiritual achievement
• He makes me lie down: Sheep cannot lie down if they are afraid of enemies, hungry or sick. The shepherd provides protection, food, and medicine so that they can rest.
• He leads me beside the still waters: The Shepherd locates clean springs of the water of life (dirty religious water makes them sick).
• He restores my soul: If sheep fall upside down they can’t get back on their feet again on their own. They will stay like that until they die of thirst or wild animals kill them. The Shepherd counts them, if anyone is missing it may be that it fell and needs rescuing.
• He leads me in the paths: Sheep need to be on the move. If they stay too long in the same area they will over graze and destroy the roots of the grass leaving the area barren. The Shepherd gently pushes me to ‘walk in the Spirit.’
• Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death: Through the valley the flocks go gently to the top of the mountain in the summer time. Through trials I grow and mature to a higher level of faith
• Your rod and your staff they comfort me: The rod is a weapon, like a police baton or a gun to attack the wild animals. The staff is for the Shepherd to lean on and to use it to bring life the tired lambs. Together they represent the Word and the Spirit.

In Christ I declare:
Jehovah is my Shepherd. Jesus is my good shepherd (Jn 10:11). The Shepherd is the Manager of my daily life. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Following Shepherd

(In the picture, see how the sheep follow their shepherd)

TESTIMONY OF SALVATION 

by Silvia Lia Leigh, MD

LETITIA WRIGHT IS BORN AGAIN!
Letitia Wright is the actress who played Princess Shuri in the movie Black Panther. She was born in Guyana. When she was 7 her parents came to live in London. She is now 25 years old. She suddenly became rich and famous thru the movie Black Panther. But the money and the fame did not bring happiness to her. She said that she battled with depression. “I was in the dark going through so many bad things, when the world didn’t know about Shuri and Letitia and whatever is happening now.” After the movie, she took a break from acting in 2015. She started searching for the truth, to find meaning for her life. She started attending the London’s actors Bible study.

During an interview she said: “I needed to take a break from acting, because I really idolized it. So I came off from it and I went on a journey to discover my relationship with God, and I became a (born again) Christian”. To God be all the glory!

91st Annual Academy Awards - Arrivals

Shuri Black panter 1