Behind the Scenes: Writing my Commentary on Romans 8

Picture this: a borrowed computer, a scattered Bible study group, and a relentless pursuit of understanding. This is the story behind the creation of my commentary on Romans 8 – a journey filled with twists, turns, and more than a few late nights burning the proverbial midnight oil.




It all began with a simple act of generosity from my pastor, who graciously lent me his computer to work on a project with a friend. Little did I know that this seemingly mundane gesture would set the stage for a journey of discovery that would reshape my understanding of faith and theology.




But life, as it so often does, had other plans. My friend relocated, taking our project – and my access to it – with him. With the dismantling of our Bible study group, I found myself adrift, searching for meaning and purpose in the pages of Scripture. And that's when I stumbled upon Romans 8.




At first, it was just another chapter – a collection of verses to be studied and analyzed. But the more I delved into its depths, the more I realized that there was something extraordinary lurking beneath the surface. With a mountain of notes at my disposal and a thirst for more, I dove back into the chapter, determined to uncover its hidden truths.




And so began the process of writing – a whirlwind of words, ideas, and endless revisions. There were days when I felt like I was on top of the world, riding high on the exhilarating rush of inspiration. But more often than not, it was a slog – a relentless uphill battle against self-doubt and writer's block.




My day job certainly didn't make things any easier. With uneven hours and late nights spent toiling away, finding time to work on the book felt like trying to squeeze blood from a stone. But still, I pressed on, fueled by a stubborn determination to see the project through to the end.




And then, just when I thought I was finished, a new line of thought would emerge, sending me back to the drawing board to type and retype, rewrite and revise. It was a maddening cycle of creation and destruction, but through it all, I knew that I was inching closer to something truly extraordinary.




So here I am, on the other side of it all – weary, perhaps, but undeniably changed. My commentary on Romans 8 is more than just a book; it's a testament to the power of perseverance, the thrill of discovery, and the boundless depths of faith. And as I stand on the brink of sharing it with the world, I can't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for the journey that brought me here.

I was too proud to accept: The day I was humbled down

 Lessons Learned from Childhood Embarrassment: A Sunday School Tale

In the mosaic of childhood memories, some moments shimmer brightly, while others linger like shadows in the recesses of our minds. Allow me to take you back to a Sunday afternoon of my youth, a time when innocence clashed with ego, and the lessons learned were as profound as they were unexpected.

Picture a bustling Sunday school classroom, filled with the eager chatter of children preparing for their weekly presentations. As a diligent student, I had diligently rehearsed my assigned memory verse, confident that my efforts would be duly recognized by our Sunday school teacher. Little did I know that fate had a different script in store for me.

As the day of reckoning dawned, my anticipation reached a crescendo. I was poised and ready to take the stage, to recite my verse with all the fervor and eloquence a child could muster. But alas, destiny had other plans.

When the moment arrived for our teacher to choose the presenter, my name remained conspicuously unsaid. Instead, the honor fell upon Muchiri and Sylvia, a duo known for their struggles with learning and communication. As they timidly stepped forward, huddling together in a gesture of solidarity, my heart sank like a stone.

Their rendition of the verse was a whispered symphony, barely audible to the ears of those present. Embarrassment gripped me like a vice, and in a desperate bid to hide my shame, I sought refuge in the comforting embrace of my elder brother's pants. Little did I know that this feeble attempt at evasion would earn me a swift stroke of the cane—a painful reminder that avoidance was not the answer.

In the aftermath of that fateful Sunday, I found myself wrestling with a whirlwind of emotions. Anger, frustration, and embarrassment warred within me, leaving me feeling adrift in a sea of confusion. How could they have been chosen over me? I had worked tirelessly, honing my recitation to perfection, only to be overshadowed by two students whose struggles were well-known to all.

But as the days turned into weeks, and the sting of humiliation began to fade, a newfound understanding began to take root within me. Muchiri and Sylvia may have faltered in their presentation, but their need for that moment in the spotlight was greater than my own. They didn't just recite a verse—they defied expectations, challenged perceptions, and reminded us all of the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

In the grand tapestry of life, moments of embarrassment and discomfort serve as poignant reminders of our shared humanity. They teach us humility, empathy, and the importance of looking beyond ourselves to see the struggles of others. Muchiri and Sylvia may have stumbled that Sunday, but their courage and determination left an indelible mark on my heart—one that continues to shape the person I am today.

So here's to the lessons learned in the hallowed halls of Sunday school, where humility and understanding were served with a side of embarrassment. May we all strive to be a little kinder, a little more empathetic, and a little more willing to embrace the unexpected lessons life has to offer.

I Cheated Death by the Grace of God: A personal Testimony

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Twice Death Laid a Claim on My Life, But God had a Bigger Purpose for Me

Introduction:

Life is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, moments of joy and sorrow, triumphs, and trials. It is during these trials that our faith is tested, and our strength is forged. My journey is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the unwavering grace of God.

The Bedbug Fumigant Incident:

On a fateful day in July 2021, I found myself fighting for my life after accidentally inhaling bedbug fumigant. What started as a routine task turned into a life-threatening ordeal as the toxic fumes overwhelmed my senses. I was rushed to the hospital, where I spent two agonizing days in a coma. Doctors were unsure if I would survive, but through the prayers of loved ones and the grace of God, I emerged from the darkness and was given a second chance at life.

The Truck Accident:

Just months before the fumigant incident, I faced another harrowing ordeal when my truck lost its brakes and careened out of control. In a matter of seconds, my world was turned upside down as my truck crashed into a soil bunker, crumpling like a piece of paper. Miraculously, I survived with only minor scratches, a testament to the protective hand of God that was watching over me.

Faith in the Midst of Adversity:

In the face of these trials, it was my faith that sustained me. Even in the darkest moments, I held onto the belief that God had a plan for me, and that He would see me through. It was this unwavering faith that gave me the strength to keep fighting, even when the odds seemed insurmountable.

Finding Purpose in Pain:

Through these experiences, I have come to realize that even in our darkest moments, there is purpose to be found. My near-death encounters have taught me to cherish every moment, to live each day with gratitude, and to never take life for granted. I am reminded of the words of Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

Inspiring Others Through My Journey:

My journey is not just a story of survival; it is a story of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of faith. I share my story not to boast of my own strength, but to inspire others who may be facing their own trials. Whatever you may be going through, know that you are not alone. With faith as your guide and God's grace as your strength, you can overcome any obstacle that stands in your way.

Conclusion:

Life is a precious gift, filled with both joys and challenges. It is during the darkest moments that our faith is tested, and our true strength is revealed. My journey is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the unwavering grace of God. May my story serve as a beacon of hope for all who are facing their own trials, reminding them that with faith, anything is possible.