Oasis of Hope

Scripture References:“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even theangels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Matthew 24:36). “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father”(Mark13:32). “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” (Hebrews9:28). 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 pastor from South Africa 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.  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.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’s shut it off with the truth of God’s infallible Word.  Take a listen to episode 94 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 indaily prayer asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate every area of our lives for the indwelling Presence of God. Stay Alert!

Scripture References:“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (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’s use in a world that needs Him without recognizing they need the Almighty God. One of the dangers of these times is not only inaccurateinformation parading as truth, but deception, and misinformation. This means for believers in Christ, empowering and equipping ourselves with the truth ofGod’s Word is not an option or a suggestion. It is a call to come up to God’s standards of being as Christ’s ambassadors. God is not lowering His standards because we are in 2025 or any other year. In this insightful episode of Oasis of Hope podcast, Drs.Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti discuss the transforming power of God’s Word. They discuss how living out the kingdom life requires daily bread in God’s Word. This practice combined with daily prayer transforms lives for eternity. They invite believers in Christ to join in the 30 days Bible Reading challenge to observe the Global Bible Month. Believers in Christ can store up the treasures of God’s Word in their hearts and see a God kingdom change for eternal impact. Join them to hide God’s Word in our hearts. Lastly, they discuss the new book The Fear of God: Growing the Inner Life and invite friends and listeners to get a copy whether you are a believer in Christ or not. Readers will find that God’s Word transforms from the inside out. To live in the reverence or fear of God, means there are characteristicsthat flows out of such a life anchored in God’s truth of reverence. 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 ofunderstanding of who God is and His loving embrace to a relationship that transforms for eternity. Time for God’s people to rise up and be the Body of Christ.Take a listen to episode 96 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 fellowbelievers 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!

Scripture Reference: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9) . 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 Pew Research, 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. 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 (2 Corinthians 5:20). Added responsibility and higher standards is mandated for spiritual leaders as the scripture states in 1 Timothy 3:1-10. 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’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’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. 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. It is also great to note that Van Steenis brings a unique perspective as both a pastor’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.This is one episode you want to share with friends, colleagues, neighbors, and especially your spiritual leaders. God’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’s empowered and equipped ambassadors. Resources For Episode 95:1. Visit Van Steenis Consulting to connect and ensure your church or ministry is protected. 2. Check out what the laws are in your state for clergy as mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect. 3. We love your feedback- so send us your questions or comments: info@oasisfocus.orgIn Christ's Love,Drs. Johnson & Feyi Obamehinti

Scripture Reference: “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ” (Romans 10:17, NIV). Believers in Jesus Christ have the unique access to hear fromGod. Whether that is through the written Word of God, through the ministry of the Holy Spirit or through His vessels. To have a relationship with God requires faith. It is impossible to walk with God without faith, just like Hebrews 11:6, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because any one who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”   Faith is the fuel of a believer’s relationship with God. Thefaith of a believer is a prized diamond. Faith is the currency of God’s supernatural kingdom. This is one major reason, everything that can come against that precious faith, tries to snuff out the life and fire of God in a believer’s life. In this episode of Oasis of Hope podcast, the focus of discussion is on faith looking at the lives of flawed men and women from the hall of faith in Hebrews 11.  Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti discuss the impact of a counterculture on the faith of believers. The Bible warns believers about “doctrine of devils” (1 Timothy 4:1-5) that can shipwreck people’s faith. Doctrine of devils are deceptive teachings that lead people away from God’s absolute truthand into error. The aim of these devilish doctrines is to undermine the truth of scriptures, exalt worldly things above the authenticity of the scripture and lure people into spiritual harm. It is subtle, so it is very important that believers pay attention to ensure their faith stands tall, strong and unshakable in these perilous times.    Take a listen to episode 93 and share with your family andfriends. 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.

Scripture References: “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1: 21“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.” Matthew 1: 23“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.” --- 2 Chronicles 7:14We want to thank everyone that participated in last month’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’s Presence, Mission and Character in ways that will yield continuous fruits to God’s glory. Because of each of you, this year has been filled with thanksgiving, God’s faithfulness, God’s grace, God’s goodness and God’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’s people to bring back prayer (#BringBackPrayer).Let us make 2 Chronicles 7:14 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! Be sure and share this episode with family, friends and networks.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’s love, message of hope in Jesus Christ and transformation as we have never seen. From our Oasis Team- Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!  In Christ's Love,Drs. Johnson & Feyi Obamehinti

Scripture Reference: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen” (2 Peter 3:18). The scriptures provide the blueprint for believers in Christ on all aspects of life. Digging into the truth of God’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: What is progressive Christianity? Is it Biblical? Looking at scriptures, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti discuss what seems to be the understanding behind the question- which is a question on spiritual growth. Take a listen to episode 92 as they walk through thescriptures and unpack the truth of spiritual growth.From theological studies, the idea behind progressiveChristianity 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 1 Corinthians 13 explains is growing spiritually in the abundant life Jesus came to give anyone that believes in Him for salvation and an eternity with God Almighty. Also, ourLord and Savior Jesus Christ already set the bar for how believers will be known to the world based on our love for one another: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). 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’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 “fruits” 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. Let’s be people of the Way (John 14:6).  "I am the way, the truth, and the life” – Jesus Christ.

Scripture Reference: "By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name" (Hebrews 13:15). Believers in Christ are called to a priestly call to offer unto God sacrifices of praise and worship (Hebrews 13:15). There is a supernatural grace that God pours into His people when we offer ourselves unto Him and His Kingdom. We are thrilled to share our newly released song of worship and anthem encouraging God’s people to say yes to the LORD, yield to God and to stand for Him no matter the season, times, era, circumstances, or situations. As God brings reformation to His body worldwide, He is affirming His people to live for Him, His Word, His will, and His promises. We pray that this anthem of worship strengthens your faith in Christ, takes your anchor deeper in God, refreshens your soul and spirit, empowers your desire for God’s ways, and equips you in your daily living for God’s glory.Happy Father’s Day to all our amazing dads leading and covering your homes as priests unto the LORD. We are praying that God will continually enrich you with His Presence, bless you with His wisdom, and cover you! We thank God for each of you as you honor God through your priestly calling. Be sure and take a listen to Oasis of Hope Podcast, Episode 91 on the Priestly Call. God bless you!In Christ’s Love,Drs. Johnson & Feyi Obamehinti

Scripture Reference: Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.  But hisdelight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth hemeditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. (Psalm 1: 1-6, KJV)Followers of Christ all around the world are currentlysetting their gaze towards Pentecost. This is the seventh Sunday (June 8, 2025) after Easter (April 20, 2025) that believers celebrate the blessing of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Christ as explained in the Book of Acts 2: 1-31. After the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the disciples committed a major amount of their time in the Word ofGod. Their Savior, Teacher and Master was no longer with them physically. The disciples searched the Word of God for their daily guidance and sustenance of their faith in God. The Word of God became their plumbline.In this episode 90 of Oasis of Hope podcast, Drs. Johnsonand Feyi Obamehinti discuss the question about celebrity Christianity. As followers of Christ, the Bible is our plumbline for all areas of life. Exodus 20:3-5 states God’s heart and will about who we worship, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.  Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me.” Each follower of Christ must make a choice to live for God alone and cultivate the desire to be fully committed to God’s Word, His will, His ways, His thoughts, and His life. Most importantly, we encourage you to daily feed your spirit and soul with the powerful infallible Word of God. It is our plumbline for life! For more, visit either of these links for the entire content on Life's Plumbline 1. https://www.oasisconnection.org/empower2. https://www.oasisconnection.org/equip3. https://www.oasisconnection.org/podcast.html

Scripture References: “For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ" (2 Corinthians 2:15a). “So I prophesied as He commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army” (Ezekiel 37:10). “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; according to His great mercy He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3).For the past forty days Christians around the world have observed lent as they prepared their hearts for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. It was in Antioch in the book of Acts (chapter 11:26) that the disciples were first called Christians because they were Christlike. The data from the 2011 Pew Research stated that a comprehensive demographic study of more than 200 countries found that there were 2.18 billion Christians of all ages around the world. These 2.18 billion Christians represent nearly a third of the estimated 2010 global population of 6.9 billion. It’s 2025 and that number is more around the world. Resurrection Sunday or Easter as it is called is the foundation of faith for Christians. Without Christ’s resurrection Christians all around the world have no hope of a relationship with Jesus Christ. In fact, without Jesus’s resurrection there is no basis of a faith in the Almighty God. The resurrection authenticates a believer’s faith in God, just as the scriptures states and explains. The resurrected life we celebrate during Easter is all about transformation; from dying, to burial and to resurrection. Every believer that has experienced the new life in Christ is a living witness and testimony to the transformative power of God. This is why observing lent is powerful for everyone that has been born again through the Spirit of God. Understanding the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made on our behalf so we can have a relationship with God is life altering. The wonderment of the power of transformation is fascinating. It is Jesus sacrifice that makes our resurrected life possible as His followers, who adore and worship Him. The resurrection is what makes transformation a reality in the life of a follower of Christ. In this special episode of Oasis of Hope podcast, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti share what the resurrected life means to each of them. From two different backgrounds, they each know firsthand the incredible change that happens in the life of anyone that invites Jesus Christ as Savior and LORD. They know firsthand that the resurrected life is a daily relationship with the King of Kings who daily loads them with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places (Ephesians 1:3). Happy Easter! Happy Resurrection! Jesus Christ Is Risen!

This is an umbrella episode covering three topics in one podcast episode. In this episode 88 of Oasis of Hope, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti answer three questions: (1) Do we take out all our 401K now? (2) How can we trouble-proof our youth? (3) There is so much noise that it is not clear whichones are Biblical- what is a best counsel you can provide? In a fast rapidly changing world, it can be daunting forChristians to stay updated on different topics of our world. This is one of the main reasons here at Oasis Connections, we appreciate all our friends and partners who share and send us all types of feedback. Our team can use your feedbackfor learning and growth as we serve you through the podcast episodes. Tune in and take a listen to the guided answers on each ofthe questions of this umbrella talk episode. We encourage everyone to be informed and educated on those things and topics that are dear to you and your families. With everyone doing just that, the Body of Christ becomes a light that cannot be hidden in the midst of darkness. Let your light shine beloved!  Scripture Focus: "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." --- Matthew 5: 14-16

In this special Lean Into Lent episode 87 of Oasis of Hope, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti give a shoutout to family values with another local couple that has been married for seventy years from listener feedback! The couple have three children, seven grand-children and fourteen great-grand-children. Let's add this to the tapestry of hallmarks of family values celebrations!Lent started March 5, 2025 and will run through April 17, 2025, with Easter celebration on Sunday, April 20, 2025. Jesus taught His disciples how to pray by giving them a template to follow every time they approach God the Father. The Lord's Prayer gives us that framework as we observe Lent- the special period that precedes Easter. Right after Jesus was baptized, the Spirit of God descended and rested on Jesus Christ. This encounter empowered Jesus for the days that followed as He was led into the wilderness for 40 days of prayer and fasting (Matthew 4:1-11).These 40 days are observed all over the world by many Christians during what we call Lent that provides us with the time to focus on what matters the most- a deeper relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, that releases the power of God through intentional times of prayer, fasting, and worship.During Lent followers of Christ have the opportunity to join hearts with other believers globally to cover the 10/40 Window in prayer. This specific area of the world has the largest unreached people groups.  Our understanding as followers of Christ on this specific area of the world is paramount to an effective prayer according to James 5:16b. We encourage followers of Christ to commit to praying for one of the 10/40 Window nations during these 40 days of Lent, our God will hear and release an avalanche of His love and power to save, deliver and heal His people.Additional prayer requests during this time is a focus on reformation of God's church in doctrine, theology, and the awe of God. As we walk through Lent, let us turn our eyes upon Jesus and look full into His wonderful face. We will find that the angst of this world will grow strangely dim, and the light of God’s glory and grace will be multiplied upon our lives. With that fullest of God’s light in us, we will welcome Easter on April 20, 2025 with the resurrection power that breathes new life to all things.Scripture invitation to join in Lent:  "The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life" (Revelation 22:17, NIV). 

God gives us a template of His love of how much He loves His creation through His plan of redemption-“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but haveeverlasting life” (John 3:16). The month of February we get to celebrate love with Valentine’s Day and Black History all month. We are celebratingLoveuary- as we celebrate love and Black History Month. In this episode 86 of Oasis of Hope Podcast, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti discuss the contributions of African Americans to the robust culture we  have today. Our nation has been blessed with the notable contributions of all people to this great nation – United States of America. We have reiterated many times, each history of every people, kindred and tongues is American History. As we celebrate Black History,  Asian History, Hispanic History, Native American History, Jewish History and many more histories, we are celebrating American History. As we celebrate Black History   this month, we are highlighting some of thenotable inventions that are now part of     our culture and lifestyle. One major standout in celebrating Black History this month      is family values. Adding this critical aspect is important as we celebrate family values. Albert Brown and Marie Van Brittan Brown- a husband-and-wife team, invented the home security system in 1966. They were granted patent for their invention of closed circuitTV security system in 1969. This invention formed the foundation of video monitoring that included the remote door locks, push button alarm triggers and two way voice communication. Their invention also led to CCTV surveillance in public areas. In 2016, it was reported that over 100 million concealed closed-circuit cameras are operating world-wide. We have the Browns to thank for every home security system   we have today.Another genius is Benjamin Banneker who invented the first functioning wooden clock in 1753. Theclock kept accurate time and struck every hour. We have Banneker to thank for those wooden clocks we see all around us today. Setting a gold standard for family valuesareMr. and Mrs. Cleovis and Arwilda Whiteside- African American couple that were married for 84 years old. Mr. Cleovis Whiteside passed on to heaven last year, 2023 at age 102 years old with Mrs. Arwilda Whiteside at 98 yearsold at the time of his passing. According to the American Community Survey(ACS), in 2018, stated in their research that only 8% of married couple reach the 50-year mark in their marriage. In 2022, ACS updated that number to 7.7% and stated that only 2% of marriages reach the 60-year mark.The Whitesides are in that rare 2%- married for 84 years! The Whitesides attribute their faith to the longevity oftheir marriage and lives. The Whitesides were recognized bytheArkansas Family Council in 2019 and 2022. The power of faith in the life of a believer in Christ cannot be underestimated. Faith is an active living fellowship, power and fire with the Almighty God- the Creator of the universe. What a blessing God bestows on every believer in Christ!“After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before  the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands” --- Revelations 7:9

Our team count it a blessing getting to serve you through Oasis of Hope Podcast. All the requests we have received for prayer lets us know the need among God’s people. We encourage every follower of Christ, to stand in the gap for the many needs of the hour. In this episode 85 of Oasis of Hope Podcast, , Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti answer the question on what to do in a situation that looks like an intentional attack or smear campaign by someone you love. The scriptures provide a guide in all life situations so that no matter the situation, followers of Christ can live out a life that brings honor and glory to God! The command of having the foundation of love is critical in addressing this mistreatment and wickedness. In 1 Corinthian 16:14, “Let all that you do, be done in love” ensures having a pure and open heart so that God can work on your behalf because He is the God of justice. DARVO (Deny, Attack, and Reverse, Victim and Offender)- is a tactic that is used against any form of whistleblowing, confrontation, or accountability. This is a reverse role of victim and offender, so that the perpetrator assumes the role of victim and turns the real victim or whistle blower into the alleged offender.  We live in a fallen world and it is certain that followers of Christ will encounter people that abuse their power, place, authority, position, access or influence. DARVO is a reaction from perpetrators or abusers for being confronted or call for accountability. Some of the rationale of DARVO towards the whistle-blower is to attack credibility, reputation and sanity of the target under attack of whistle blowing or retaliation. It is important to be empowered and equipped to adequately address any form of DARVO. Let us be reminded that as an ambassador of Christ, the scriptures call each believer to a higher standard of living for God’s glory. “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” --- Proverbs 4:23, NIV

A new year is a gift from God! Placing the gift in God's Mighty hands is a great start to having a fulfilled and satisfied year that brings honor and glory to God. Happy New Year Oasis of Hope friends! We pray this will be your best year yet! Various secular studies indicate that the most successful people tend to use willpower, positive thinking, avoidance strategies and reinforcement management to keep their new year resolutions. In a 2022 article by Inc 5000 on making new year resolutions and productivity, it states that 91 percent of people won't achieve their new year's resolutions and provides some strategies to be part of the 9 percent of people that would. Similarly, in a 2016 Society for Personality and Social Psychology study, it states that 41 percent of Americans make new year's resolutions, but only 9 percent feel they were successful in keeping them. For believers in Christ Jesus, we have a blue-print for life that assures believers no matter who you are; of a tested and proven path to having and living a fulfilled life every year that brings honor and glory to God. In this first episode of Oasis of Hope Podcast in 2025, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti answer the question on best way to start out the year as a believer in Christ. They discuss what having a God-infused vision for all areas of life is about and how to effectively execute the vision. Take a listen to the 3 essential vision for life and the 3 ways to effectively execute them. Join us in prayer as we lift up the needs of our communities and place 2025 in God's capable hands! Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas! - “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace” Isaiah 9:6 "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man" - Luke 2:52 Christmas celebration was born out of God’s love to redeem His people from eternal separation as John 3:16 explains so well. The Almighty God gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life. Giving and receiving gifts is a highlight of Christmas time. Our Wonderful Gift, Jesus Christ, was wrapped with God’s unconditional love to whoever will receive Him. This Christmas, we have the privilege to unwrap the Gift of Christmas with care, reverence and worship. Let us unwrap how Wonderful Jesus has been to us, let us unwrap how Jesus has been a Counselor to us, let us unwrap in worship how Mighty our God is, let us unwrap the joy of having God as our Everlasting Father and let us unwrap the reality of peace through our Prince of Peace. Thank you to all our partners and friends for an impactful 2024! We have been blessed serving you this year and excited for all God will do in 2025! This year, you spoke which episodes impacted you the most through the visits to our website- here are the top three episodes this year: (1) Episode 74 on the Power of Forgiveness with Holocaust Survivor- Mrs. Rosian Zerner with over 40,000 visits (2) Episode 77 on the State of the Church on the unraveling in the Body of Christ with over 35,000 visits. (3) Episode 79 on Table of Communion- preparing for the 2024 Elections with over 30,000 visits. As we prepare our hearts for 2025 - we want to encourage you to look to the LORD for His direction. No matter what 2024 may have offered you (good, bad or ugly), determine to leave behind any baggage that could impede or impact your growth and all God has in store for you in 2025! Let Isaiah 43:18-19 empower your determination for a new 2025: "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Then prayerfully make Proverbs 3: 5-8 your anchor and guide for all areas of your life for 2025. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones." Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! We will be back to serve you more hope in Jesus Christ in 2025!

"The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel" (which means "God with us") --Matthew 1:23This is one of the best seasons of the year! A time to focus on the meaning and purpose of Christ’s birth. With the onset of the Advent season (December 1- 24, 2024), as our typical focus during this time of the year, we are providing this resource for all our brothers and sisters embarking on Advent for the first time! This brings us great joy that you will discover Emmanuel in a personal way as you journey through this Advent season. From a time of consecration to an increased time spent in God’s Word, prayer and worship, Advent gives us the avenue to renew our minds and allow our minds to dwell on the incredible gift of salvation through Jesus Christ- who is the source of life and all eternal gifts now and everlasting. In this episode, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti discuss the importance of Advent and its essence for Christ's followers. Advent is a great time for renewal, rejuvenation, recalibration, restoration and revival.We are blessed and honored to serve you and love hearing from you! Our last episode indicate Minority Homeschoolers of Texas is still active through the help of one of our homeschool leaders. If you are a homeschooling family that need information and support, take a listen for how you can connect with fellow homeschooling families.As followers of Christ, this is not the time to coast, but a time to press into the heart of God for our nation and leaders. As it is in heaven, is exactly what we want in our nation- "Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD" (Psalm 33:12a). Prayer is what will accomplish this as we pray God's will for our nation and leaders.The body of Christ has a high calling that is like no other. Despite the state of the church as a whole (body of Christ), let us keep at the forefront of our hearts that we are Christ's ambassadors- 1 Peter 2:9 is a guidepost to see where we are and how we are living to glorify God. "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people, that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."Follow Up Resources: To provide support to anyone that can use the professional expertise of licensed counselors, especially during the holiday seasons, we have therapy vouchers to begin your healing journey. Contact us to activate your free six months therapy voucher. A special thank you to our partner and sponsor - BetterHelpThank you to everyone that made our newest publication possible- we appreciate each of you! Our Inside Valuables is a great gift for a friend, family, neighbor or colleague. To order your copy and one for a friend, click on the hyperlink. Have a blessed Advent season!

This cycle of the American election is over. Now what's next? What does the wave all mean? These are the last days and God's people have a work to accomplish in this era for His kingdom. As followers of Christ, everything we live for flows from the lenses of eternity and God's infallible Word.  Right now, followers of Christ have one of the greatest calls to live out for God's glory sake. It will require a commitment and unshakable faith in God.  In this episode 81, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti answer questions and discuss the mysteries of God's Kingdom as it relates to the elections and what's next. God has demonstrated His mercy and grace to a nation as a template for His people- the Body of Christ. Our understanding of His mercy and grace lived out will be the vehicle God uses for a world that needs a Savior-Jesus Christ. From growing up as Jesus hands and feet, to living in our identities as the ambassadors of Christ- God is calling His people to arise, be light and be salt. As God's people, will we heed His call or choose the ways of the world? We have a choice. "Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are His. He changes times and seasons; He deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; He knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with Him." (Daniel 2: 20-22).

This year's State of the Bible shows scripture (Bible) disengagement at its lowest in 14 years! The Word of God presents Christians with a solid ground to stand on in a time of "sinking sand" in our culture. From this year's annual state of the Bible by the American Bible Society, we see a decline in scripture engagement but see an increasing transformation for young adults- the polls from young adults states that the Bible has had a transformative effect on their lives. That is a testament to the power of transformation that comes from God's infallible Word. The scriptures are alive in its potency to change and transform people. As followers of Christ, everything we do is through the lenses of eternity, and the Bible provides us with answers, guidance and wisdom in navigating life- from election decisions to parenting decisions. To kick off Season 5 of Oasis of Hope Podcast, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti answer three of your questions from election decisions to family decisions for parents. In this episode, they encourage Christians to study the Word of God for yourselves. The times we live in, calls for Christians to be Bereans (Acts 17:11), search the Bible for those truth gems that will anchor you against the winds of culture. The Word of God is our solid ground! To read the entire ⁠State of the Bible report by American Bible Society,⁠ click on the hyperlink. “The word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. It cuts all the way through, to where soul and spirit meet, to where joints and marrow come together. It judges the desires and thoughts of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12).

The 2024 Summer Olympics was highly watched around the world. With one sport or the other as a favorite, the Olympics is a source of inspiration for young and old alike. Congratulations to all teams from around the world, representing their countries.The USA team came back with a total of 126 medals- 40 Gold, 44 Silver and 42 Bronze! For followers of Christ, there are some lessons to glean from the Olympics. In fact, the Bible uses sports as an analogy of how Christians are to live their lives. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, states, "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receives the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.And every man that strive for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible." In this episode, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti encourage followers of Christ with three key lessons from the Olympics. Walking with God requires discipline to stay deeply committed to Christ, so we can represent Christ well. It's time for followers of Christ to stand up and be counted for the Kingdom of God! "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ" - 2 Corinthians 5:20

The last few weeks have had many heads turning about the state of the church - aka the Body of Christ. The secular world took a dive into the credibility of the church as a whole. In this episode 77 of Oasis of Hope focused on the state of the church, Drs. Johnson and Feyi Obamehinti, answer some of the key questions asked in the wake of the recent unravelings in the church. The credibility of the gospel stands and is unshaken because of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. From a Biblical perspective, they discuss and answer the questions on abuse, culture and NDAs in the Body of Christ. Their hope and prayer is that this episode will spur more followers of Christ to stand in the gap of prayer for our communities, churches and families.  "Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil" (Matthew 6:9-13).