THE 5-JAR PRINCIPLE: AN EDUCATION IN PURPOSE-DRIVEN MONEY

Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. - Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)

I first heard about the 5-jar principle of wealth management in 2016 from the passionate and intelligent Danstan Kisuule, the CEO of Y-Save, a savings and investment scheme owned by some Watoto Church members.

The 5-jar principle is one of those wealth management techniques that Jewish parents use to teach their children financial management. For instance, if your monthly income is $1000, the 5-jar technique would be apportioned this way:

The first jar is a tithe jar, where 10%, at a minimum, is set aside as tithe from all earnings. $100 would therefore be set aside and returned as tithe.

The second jar is for alms and offertory to help the less fortunate in one’s community. You would thus set aside $100 to cater to the needs of others.

The third jar is for savings for emergencies and rainy days. As a Jewish child, you are asked to put away 10% of the money you receive. In this instance, $100 would be dedicated and put away for this.

The fourth jar is for investments to create passive income or that generate more income. In this case, $200.

Lastly, when everything is apportioned, the remaining 50% is put in the fifth and last jar to address all expenses.

You can try this out. Distribute your monthly or weekly or daily earnings depending on how the income trickles in, and based on this principle, it is my hope that this will go a long way in determining how you manage your wealth.

From this principle it is easier to distribute one’s earnings so that one doesn’t have to wipe out their net worth dealing with expenses, consequently reinforcing their financial status.

On average, my expenses are 28% of my net earnings, not including one-off payments such as school fees. This means that I am able to free up more money for savings and investments, critical for a financial breakthrough.

In a typical month, my expenses look like this:

Number	Item Description	Percentage (%)
1	Rent	6.0%
2	Home	11.0%
3	Fuel	3.3%
4	Personal Food	3.3%
5	Clothes & Shoes	2.2%
6	Others	2.2%
	Total	28.0%

Typically, every money designated for home expenses is physically debited to my wife and she administers the expenses. Sometimes, in unexpected scenarios, options such as mobile money come in handy in the debit.

FINANCIAL BREAKTHROUGH - A SYNOPSIS

One day as I casually scrolled through X (then twitter) some time last year, I bumped into a post by a young lady, clad in her fitting blue dress, flashing a carefully designed book, and in her writings, she said

“I have become an author today”

 I was intrigued and inquired further, I figured out that she had just graduated from the Harvest Institute and as part of her year long assignment, she needed to author a book.

“I also want to write a book”

I reasoned in my head and to cut the long story short, I had enrolled for the Harvest Institute school of leadership at the start of the year. Some time in November, I debuted with “Financial Breakthrough” a classic about age old, time-tested biblical principles that are designed by God to help readers implement changes in their financial habits and behaviors. It was a story about God inviting many readers to receive God's best through a financial breakthrough.

The contents of this book are meticulously arranged. The first chapter underscores the dilemma of poverty and the whole decapitating notion of lack. The second chapter defines financial breakthrough and gives a list of biblical and contemporary characters who (have) achieved unprecedented financial breakthrough with the help of God. It also explains the importance or essence of financial breakthrough. The third chapter defines first fruits and why it is important for anybody who is serious about promotion in any sphere of influence to practice. The fourth chapter is an exposé of the concept of tithe and its liberating power from the tight grip of the devil.

 The fifth chapter is a typification of the generosity of kings and why giving alms is a pathway to enormous blessings both for the giver and the receiver.

The next three chapters are old school concepts practiced world over: savings, investments, and wise spending. The ninth chapter explores the principles of work, and closes with a revealing principle of consistency. At the end of each chapter, the practical examples allow for self-reflection for the reader.

This book is punctuated with bible verses and stories derived from a theophany – the experience that places God at the center of the narrative.

This book attempts to help anybody who is tired of living in financial obscurity and uncertainty to get to a place of abundant provisions in God, by observing divine principles and following men and women who have walked this journey to financial breakthrough. Anybody interested in changing their financial life will not overlook the opportunity to learn, relearn and unlearn enroute to a stable financial status.

While a typical book on financial breakthrough is not a guarantee of immediate financial success, this book is inspired by the unfailing word of God (Luke 1:37 NLT), and is designed to harness the power within you to achieve unprecedented financial success.

In this book I offer practical strategies that the reader can immediately adopt and apply, while also warning the reader that is not a magic bullet but rather a patient guide to a consistent and patterned life of walking in divine principles which are capable of changing people’s lives forever.

The last page, which is apparently the most important page in the book is the invitation to the reader to eternal life through the salvation prayer. While I have believed God that this book will leave an impact on the reader’s life that will resonate long after its final pages have been closed by simply repeating these words:

“Lord Jesus, I thank you because you died for my sins, and you were raised for my glory. Today, I receive you as my personal Lord and Saviour; I am born again. Amen.”

GOD WANTS NO ONE POOR

Bugonga, Entebbe, 1996, a small fishing village sat on the shores of Lake Victoria, with no electricity, but flickering candles, with only one dusty rugged road that led nowhere except to makeshift and half empty fish stalls. Little boys with half stitched pants frequented the beach with hooks and worms in hand, ready to catch some fish, of which they would keep some for the family dinner while the rest was sold to make a living. In this little enclave poverty smelt on everyone that lived here.

I was born and raised in the old Kitasa quarters not far from Bugonga, our home was at the monumental House A8, which was old, decrepit, and unsightly, it hung on a smooth plateau in the middle of the notorious fire quarters estate, the house’s exterior rendering had weathered, the uninviting paint had long faded, revealing a patchwork of cracked plaster. The clay tiled roof had a few broken shingles, the windows were cracked, half the panes had broken slates and the other half had eroded putty, the floor screed underfoot had mangled leaving behind a trail of patches, the house’s front and rear doors creaked as breaths of wind caused them to move on their rusty hinges. Its only bedroom was small and cramped up. It was clear that the occupants of this house were struggling to make ends meet.

For over a decade, my parents raised me and my siblings in this house, the old colonial quarters were a clumsy yet very social housing estate, almost all the occupants of the over 100 houses in this quarters suffered the same fate, old houses, broken sewage systems, cracked tarmac roads, all but a sign of poverty. Many years after people were forcefully evicted from this estate when the government of Uganda set up the area around the old Entebbe airport as a security buffer, I returned to this house sometime in July 2012 and what I saw reduced me to tears, nothing had changed, the same grim picture of hardship and destituteness we endured growing up was flashed in my face. To imagine that a family of eight with twice as many relatives, crammed up in this house was devastating, how would we change clothes, how would we even breath? That evening I was angered and disappointed at the same time, I stood on the edge of the road in front of the house, close to the gigantic mango tree that formed part of the estates meeting arena, my heart pounding in my chest.

The world around me seemed to hold its breath, The air was thick with disgust, charged with a mix of rage and resentment, my mind only whispered one thing, poverty is a terrible experience, a scourge of unequal proportions, when I walked off the property enroute to Kitoro, I knew that I needed to do something to escape the hard shackles of poverty, never to return into its inviting arms ever again.

God did not intend for us to be poor, we were created to rule and have dominion, all things we desire, have been created by God for us who has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness'' (2 Peter 1:3).

In the beginning, God made all things and declared them good and then HE put man in charge as stewards, dominate and multiply or create new things from what He had given them. That doesn’t sound like someone who wants you poor. Producing more out of this world was surely God’s intention for us to live in abundance. 

BROTHEL TO ETERNITY

Victoria Namusisi (Not real names) had dreamt of studying and becoming something of repute, she had known of no other way to help her family than through getting a good education.

For some reason, she did not complete her education, she enrolled to study Physiotherapy and what she thought would be a successful medical career ended up as a masseuse at a brothel.

I had an earnest desire to conduct my first massage, I had heard of many stories about massage and what happens in those massage parlors cum brothels, and the thought of bumping into some sort of fille de joie at a parlor scared me greatly.

As we drove through Hoima town, I saw a signpost for a massage parlor and I was interested.
When I arrived, the lady at the reception explained the different packages including a package which included clients having a bit of rumpy pumpy with the masseuse, that thought startled me but I later understood why.

When I was led into the massage room, the place exuded a sense of tranquility, bathed in a soft, diffused glow of ambient lighting. The air was scented with the soothing aroma of incense, invoking an immediate feeling of relaxation. The massage table, draped in crisp, white linens with some red flower petals sprinkled over making a conspicuous heart symbolic of love.

In no minute, Victoria turned up in the room and she sat just next to me, the distance between her mouth and my ear was closer than a child to a mother, what is going on here? I thought to myself. She was suggestive but I was not interested. She briefly left the room to allow me change my clothes and make myself ready for the massage. No sooner had she left than when I burst out bubbling in tongues, I needed to call on a cloud of angels and witnesses to protect me and keep me safe from a potential seduction.

A massage parlor is a place where individuals can receive legitimate massage and relaxation services from trained massage therapists. These services are typically non-sexual and are intended for relaxation, stress relief, or therapeutic purposes. However, in some cases, illicit activities may occur in massage parlors, where sexual services are offered in exchange for money. This is illegal in many places and can lead to law enforcement intervention and the closure of such establishments.

When Victoria returned, she asked me to settle onto the plush, padded table, her skilled hands began to dance through my muscles. The touch was gentle yet firm, like the gentle caress of an afternoon breeze. Each stroke seemed to unravel the knots of stress that had settled deep within my muscles.

The room was filled with the sounds of serenity: the soft, melodic hum of tranquil music, the occasional whisper of the therapist’s instructions, and the rhythmic percussion of her hands, creating a symphony of relaxation. It was a choreography of tactile sensations, a ballet of healing touch.

Warm oil was applied, adding a sensation of silkiness that further enhanced the experience. The hands moved with precision, tracing a path from neck to shoulders, down the spine, and along the limbs, coaxing tension to release its grip. Muscles sighed in relief, surrendering to the skilled ministrations.

The world outside the massage room faded away as I surrendered to the sensory journey. The sensation of time became fluid, and worries melted into the ether. It was a moment of pure indulgence, the exquisite symphony of touch, scent, and sound, lead me into a realm of profound serenity.

As Victoria went about her work, I struck up a conversation that would later become one of the greatest things to happen to her, in there I had learnt that occasionally she would sleep with clients depending on the package they choose and though she didn't like it, she had no choice, she had two little children to feed, the man who got her pregnant on two occasions had abandoned her and she had no other option except to do this kind of work.

In that moment of anguish as I relived her experiences, a great door and effectual opened for me to preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, by the time I was done, she had agreed to give her life to Christ.

I returned home so excited, It was one of the greatest stories of salvation God had ever done by my hands and what a previledge that was. 
 

ESCAPE BY THE SKIN OF THE TEETH

One of my great born-again Christian friends, Vastine narrated to us one of the saddest stories I have ever heard, a story of a young Somali Muslim boy who wanted to receive Jesus Christ as his personal life at the before he died. Vastine she says met this young man while he was battling some sickness of sorts, visibly ill and vulnerable, when she had preached the gospel of eternal life to the young man, it was clear the young man was interested in this eternal life, he was elated at the prospect of going straight to heaven after his physical death, perhaps to him it was some sort of escape or insurance policy, to say the least, he was apparently not ready when Vastine preached to him. Vastine at the time or point of departing, left him with a blank cheque, that whenever he wanted to become born again, he would count on her to lead him to Christ or so she thought.

Vastine kept in touch with this young man and in the process, they exchanged contacts, the young man himself owned no phone and relied on a relative's phone. One day Vastine’s phone rang, the young man was probably on the other end of the call, for some reason, Vastine was not near her phone, the phone rang many times and the buzzing vibration faded when the call was not answered, "where is the girl who promised to lead me to Jesus Christ" he thought to himself. When Vastine finally got access to her phone, her heart raced within her chest, what could be the problem? "Ismail hadn’t called me these many times before, is everything okay?" She spoke under her breath.

"Hello" she muttered on the phone, "Hello" the voice on the other end of the call responded, "Is this Ismael?", Vastine asked, before even her inquiry could be answered, the mourns and wails in the background were enough for her to know something unusual had happened, Ismael had just passed away, He had most certainly called to receive Jesus Christ? Vastine broke down in frustration, anger and disappointment at how somebody nearly made it to heaven had she been near her phone. 

So sad as it sounds, preaching the gospel is a very urgent business, any minute spent wasting time is a function of the souls that will perish in hell, you could argue that people going to hell is not your business and you could be right, but what about you Christian, the old woman that prayed for you every day you staggered across her house while drunk, what about you erstwhile prostitute, the man that sent you an invitation to come to church, did they think like that? If they did, would you have been saved?

Sometimes we are misunderstood by family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances simply because we take the gospel seriously, why shouldn’t we, this very thing that men play with and in, led to the death of many saints on the stake, death in sleep is agreeable to many but death by driving a tree through your mouth then through the belly is nothing short of cruel and grotesque, missionaries braved malaria, wild animals and unfriendly tribes to bring this thing to Africa, some left wife, children and property to bring the good news to Africa, why shouldn’t we do more, the martyrs in Uganda disobeyed the most powerful king of their time to serve God. Paul was physically spent all he had for the gospel’s sake. Why are we not reaching out, why are we so comfortable when sinners are sliding into the gaping pit of hell.

I don’t know many things but I have lived long enough to know that God’s ultimate desire is that all men come to the saving knowledge of his son Jesus Christ. 

Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:4 

You might not be like Vastine but there are certainly hundreds of people in your community that are perishing because you haven’t shared with them the good news of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. The bible says how will they will know if they are not told. 

How can they believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how can they hear unless someone proclaims him? And who will go to tell them unless he is sent? Romans 10:14

May the preaching of the gospel become our ultimate purpose while we live for therein we can be able to help many escape death of the damning hell fire by the skin of their teeth, eternity is such a long time that no one deserves to spend time there leave alone go there.

WHY YOU SHOULD STREET PREACH

The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows on the bustling streets of Yumbe town. People rushed past one another, absorbed in their own worlds, groups of women clustered around makeshift stalls picking selecting second hand clothes, in one street corner girls were tirelessly preparing and serving delectable the local food, the air was thick with the tantalizing aroma of oven fried goats meat. Amongst this whirlwind of activity, a small group of individuals gathered on a street corner, shouting on top of their voices , "God Loves You!" and "He does not condemn you but wants you to have eternal life"

From a distance, the Muslim call to prayer goes off, some middle-aged men are seen hurrying to the mosque, in Yumbe town a predominantly muslim enclave, majority of the town dwellers practice Islam. When they see such groups of Christians shouting at the corner of the streets, they don't take it lightly, some peep at them with suspicion while others are quickly enraged.

On this particular day, John, a middle-aged man with a hoary head and a warm smile, was the leader of this 5 man street evangelism team. He had a passion for sharing his faith and spreading the message of hope and redemption. With unwavering conviction, he stood at the center, his Bible in hand.

As the group began to spew out scriptures,  their voices cut through the noise of the market street. Passersby couldn't help but glance their way, some with curiosity and others with skepticism. A few stopped to listen, their expressions a mixture of wonder and uncertainty. 

As the sun dipped below the horizon, and the town continued its relentless pace, the small group of evangelists remained steadfast, knowing that their simple act of spreading the message of love and faith could touch the lives of those who needed it most and save them from eternal damnation and give them eternal life. 

While street preaching is not so common with many churches, it is a time-tested and historic method of evangelism that is effective in reaching those who might never enter a church. It may offend those who resist the truth, and it may have to overcome some negative associations, but street preaching continues to be used by God around the world to lead people to faith in Christ. Rather than wait for the lost to come to us, we should go to them.

Street preaching is a form of public evangelism or religious outreach in which individuals, often referred to as street preachers or evangelists, deliver religious messages in public places. Street preachers typically share their beliefs, religious teachings, or messages about faith, salvation, and morality with passersby in various public settings, such as street corners, parks and public places.

Prominent English Baptist preacher Charles Spurgeon once said

“Where would the reformation have been if its great preachers had confined themselves to churches and cathedrals? How would the common people have become indoctrinated with the Gospel had it not for those far-wandering evangelists and those daring innovators who found a pulpit on every heap of stones, and an audience chamber in every open space near the abodes of men?”

The Bible is filled with countless scriptures and examples of street preaching

Cry aloud; do not hold back; lift up your voice like a trumpet; declare to my people their transgression, to the house of Jacob their sins. - Isaiah 58:1

Proclaim all these words in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem; hear the words of this covenant and do them. - Jeremiah 11:6-7

Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." - Matthew 3:1-2 

And He called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all the demons and to heal diseases. Departing, they began going throughout the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere. - Luke 9:1,6

Philip went down to the city of Samaria and began proclaiming Christ to them. The crowds with one accord were giving attention to what was said by Philip, as they heard and saw the signs which he was performing. For in the case of many who had unclean spirits, they were coming out of them shouting with a loud voice; and many who had been paralyzed and lame were healed. So there was much rejoicing in that city. - Acts 8:5-8

Street preaching is by far one of the most effective ways to reach out to the lost sinners, The ultimate goal is to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ for all the world to hear.  And for street preachers, The Holy Spirit is the greatest helper. Child of God don’t hesitate to preach Jesus Christ. 

THE DONKEY IN A PIT - THE ACT OF GIVING

Thou shalt not see thy brother's ass or his ox fall down by the way and hide thyself from them: thou shalt surely help him to lift them up again. Deuteronomy 22:4 KJV

Giving is the transfer of something or ownership of a good without the expectation of receiving something in return, sometimes it takes the form of generosity or charity. Giving is symbiotic, both the giver and the receiver benefit from the act of giving.

While it is a good thing to pray before you commit to give somebody something, I have seen people who out of blind generosity have funded rebellion or been a limitation to the progress of others by their giving, one wise man once said, it is better to teach people to fish than giving them fish always, it is equally important to pray over donations and gifts so that the receiver appropriates them to purpose.

In this scripture, the bible emphasizes the place of helping and not entirely carrying the burden single handedly. Once I had decided to sponsor my nephew in secondary school because the father was incapacitated, when I asked the young man to send me the school fees payment slip, he not only sent

it, but he also added a list of requirements, I rebuked him and told him to either look out for some sort of work to raise the UGX. 80,000 he wanted for books, pens, sugar, and soap or get to his parents, in no time, the parents figured out a way, the point was driven home, both the giver and the receiver were in some sort of partnership, working towards a common goal.

If you want love, learn to give the same to others, if you want to live a happy life, make the life of others full of happiness, if you want to be rich, enable others to become rich. That is how giving works.

However, as you practice generosity, take care not to disable your benefactors, instead offer them a helping hand as the Lord impresses it on your heart, otherwise they will keep seeking for help from you to no end. Some recipients of aid are entitled. I have worked in humanitarian spaces for a long time,

It is better to teach people to fish than giving them fish always.

As you practice generosity, take care not to disable your benefactors and I have witnessed beforehand people refusing to take care of a latrine or a water tap because they know some humanitarian organization will come and fix it, UN would come and help us, they would say. What kind of entitlement is that? Desist from it, child of God.

GOD’S GENERALS: WOULD YOU HAVE MADE THE LIST?

Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word; It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed. Luke 1:1-4 KJV

When Roberts Liardon authored, the “God’s Generals” around 1996, he attempted to recapture God’s glory with compelling spiritual biographies of some of the most powerful ministries to ever ignite the fires of revival. Simply he was bringing to our attention a term often used in Christian circles to refer to influential and charismatic Christian leaders and preachers who have had a significant impact on the Christian faith and its history.

Some of the names of the God’s Generals will sound through eternity.

• William J. Seymour (1870 –1922) was the son of ex-slave, who turned a tiny horse table on Azusa Street, Los Angeles, into an internationally famous center of revival.
• Smith Wigglesworth (1859-1947) was known for his powerful healing ministry and dynamic preaching, and is considered one of the pioneers of the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements.
• Aimee Semple McPherson (1890-1944) was a famous evangelist and founder of the Foursquare Church. She was known for her innovative use of media and her large tent revivals.
•  Kathryn Kuhlman (1907-1976) who was a healing evangelist known for her miracle services and for drawing large crowds. She had a significant influence on the Charismatic movement.
• Oral Roberts (1918-2009) a prominent televangelist, faith healer, and founder of Oral Roberts University. He played a pivotal role in the growth of the Charismatic and Pentecostal movements
• Benny Hinn (born 1952) a controversial televangelist known for his faith healing crusades and Prosperity Gospel teachings.
• Billy Graham (1918-2018) widely considered one of the most influential evangelists of the 20th century, with a worldwide ministry that spanned several decades.

God has weaved out remarkable stories of how the Gospel has taken route, these stories often have been drenched in the blood of these saints, some have carried the pangs of pain, some have been carried on the unenviable labors of saints, like Paul mentions in 2 Corinthians 6:5 KJV, "In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings;:" our ministration is not devoid of troubles.

This was the tale of the early preachers, apostles and ministers, or so you think? That which was will be, there is nothing new under the sun, the same things will happen in this and the next generation if Jesus would not have returned.

When you study, and looking at the testimony of the people around the Generals, some never held them in high esteem, some never considered them of repute, it is many years earlier that we consider them to be remarkable men and women of God after they had gone to be with the Lord.

Wherever you are serving, when the time comes? will you be considered a God's General or you are simply passing through the world quietly. Would you have made the list? If yes, congratulations, you probably have a glorious seat around the pearly gates, but if your answer is no? seek the Holy Spirit to assign you beyond the giftings.

 

TITHE 2: BLESSINGS OF NATIONS - THE STORY OF COLGATE

And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the LORD of hosts. Malachi 3:12 KJV

William Colgate, the founder of the Colgate-Palmolive Company, was a devout Christian who believed in the principles of tithing and giving. Born into a humble family in England in 1783, Colgate grew up in a household where faith and frugality were valued. At the age of 16, he immigrated to the United States and began working as an apprentice to a soap maker in New York City. Through hard work and determination, he eventually established his own soap manufacturing business, which would later evolve into the multinational corporation known as Colgate-Palmolive.

It is impossible for you to be a tither and you don’t see a manifestation of God’s divine provision. As Colgate's business grew and prospered, so did his commitment to tithing.

Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, he remained faithful in his practice of giving back to God. He gave not merely one-tenth of the earnings of Colgate's soap products; but he gave two-tenths, then three-tenths, and finally five-tenths of all his income to the work of God, he once revealed that the origin of his devotion to the idea of tithing was when as a sixteen-year-old, he left home to find employment in New York City having previously worked in a soap manufacturing shop. When he told the captain of the canal boat upon which he was traveling that he planned to make soap in New York City the man gave him this advice: 

‘Someone will soon be the leading soap maker in New York. You can be that person. But you must never lose sight of the fact that the soap you make has been given to you by God. Honor Him by sharing what you earn. Begin by tithing all you receive.’ 

William Colgate felt the urge to tithe because he recognized that God was the giver of all that he possessed, not only of opportunity but even of the elements that were used in the manufacture of his products.

Today Colgate-Palmolive the company he founded is one of the leading manufacturers of household and personal care products in the world, with products in nearly two out of every three households in the world, No wonder, when we were younger, every toothpaste was a Colgate. 

Truth be told, 166 years after William Colgate’s death, his name is still sounding throughout the whole world, You can contest it but that is what it means when God says your name shall sound throughout the whole earth because you are blessed.

TITHE 1: THE DOOR TO FINANCIAL BREAKTHROUGH

In the ancient biblical narrative, there is a captivating account of Abraham's encounter with Melchizedek, the enigmatic king of Salem and a priest of the Most High God. This story is a vivid picture of Abraham's act of giving a tithe to Melchizedek and the significance it holds. It is here that the word tithe is first mentioned in the bible.

And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all. Genesis 14:20 KJV.

But what is this tithe?

Almost all Christians on the face of the earth have at some point heard about tithe, some have been practicing it, and some have even ridiculed those doing it.

Once a non-believer blasted me for enriching a pastor every time I brought my tithe, it is one of the most uncomfortable things to speak about in poor communities yet one of the most significant principles God has put down for us to launch into financial prosperity, but what does tithing actually mean?

Tithe refers to the practice of giving a portion of one's income or possessions, typically a tenth (10%), to a religious institution or as an act of worship. The concept of tithing has a long history and is found in various religious traditions. The word derives from the Old English word “teogothian” which means "to give a tenth part".

In Christianity, tithing is often seen as a way to honor God, acknowledge His provision, and support the work of the church. It is considered a form of worship and an expression of faith, obedience, and gratitude.

The tithe is typically given to the church and is used to fund ministry activities, support the clergy, assist those in need, and maintain the church's operations. Ever since I learned this secret and the promises of God, my earnings have always been dynamic and progressive, literally I have been going up and never down, in fact, I am persuaded that as long as I stay true to these principles, I can never regress, after all, it is God’s word, “...let God be true, but every man a liar...” Romans 3:4.

God formally instituted tithing to draw the hearts of men to him and not their possessions as well as a means of support to the priests and Levites. 

I was introduced to the concept of tithing when I was young, my mother would painstakingly put away decima, a tenth part of what would be my income that she would allot to the clergy for their support, the only issue is that she would give less than what I had earned, the parishioners in her local catholic church had zeroed down on 3,000 Uganda shillings (eighty-one pennies) as annual decima collected usually at the end of the year.  Since then, I have been an ardent tither, in the days earlier, I used to tithe on my net earnings until I realized that God has blessed me on the gross and not on the net, progressively I have matured into tithing and as much as three years I have been tithing on the gross.

Tithing has been my quickest principle to obtain financial breakthrough, some of the most amazing promises of God touching prosperity are linked to tithing.

Will you today, take hold of God on the account of the integrity of his word?

BREAKING THE ICE: MENTAL HEALTH THE SILENT KILLER

May 13 2022 was no ordinary day, one of Uganda’s leading newspapers flashed on its front pages a headline “14 million Ugandans have mental disorders”, the headline cast a shadow across the day, its words heavy with sorrow and disbelief. The news item stood as a stark reminder that even in a world bustling with life, there were moments that could plunge everything into a cold, unforgiving darkness.

Ink-black and red letters etched against a stark white background, the words seemed to weigh down the air itself, the headline echoed with the somber toll of a funeral bell. The story beneath told of lives that would be cut short, dreams that would be shuttered and community left reeling in shock.

The details in the news item emerged like a mosaic of pain, the air filled with a palpable sense of grief that seemed to transcend the confines of the words. According to the article written by Cecilia Okoth for the New Vision Newspaper, 35 out of every Uganda may be battling with a mental health problem. One senior ministry of health official retorted “If each of the 14 million people interacts with atleast two other individuals, then almost the entire population (42 million) Ugandans are affected by mental health directly or indirectly.” 

In the end, the news item left a lingering ache in the heart. It was a reminder of the fragility of life, the unpredictability of fate, and the way tragedy could shatter the ordinary in an instant. It was a story that would fade from headlines, but its impact would remain, a scar etched into the collective memory, a reminder to hold tight to sanity and cherish the joy of a sound mind. 

Sometime in August 2012, in a dimly lit room, Joan (not real name) was trapped in some sort of chaos, a sense of heaviness hung in the air like a fog that refused to lift. Her once vibrant eyes now dulled, sat huddled on the edge of her bed. Shadows danced across the walls, mirroring the turmoil within her mind. The silence was broken only by the faint ticking of a clock, a constant reminder of the passage of time she wished would stand still.

Her parents house in Namasuba, Entebbe had many rooms and her room stood at the very end of the walkaway, what was once a sanctuary of comfort, now felt like a prison. The sunlight struggled to penetrate through the curtains, casting an eerie half-light that failed to warm her spirit. Her tangled hair framed her face like a veil, concealing the battles that raged within me. The lines on her face told stories of sleepless nights and tear-stained cheeks. Her trembling fingers traced invisible patterns on the bed she was seated on, two things made sense that day, the light in the room and her old childhood picture that hang around in the room, the rest was a storm that brewed within – a chaotic and fragmented, a maze of thoughts that led nowhere.

Joan had attempted to stare at her reflection in the old mirror that stood at the corner of the room, the reflections she saw were as though she was staring at a stranger. All she could see where hollow eyes staring back at her, a reflection of the emptiness that had taken root in her soul. She longed for escape, for release from the grip of her own mind, but the chains of her thoughts bound her tight.

Outside, the world continued its rhythm, unaware of the tempest that raged within her. Birds chirped, cars passed by, and laughter echoed from afar. But these sounds were distant and muffled, like a symphony she couldn't quite grasp. Her isolation was not only physical but emotional, a chasm between her and the life she once knew.

It was clear that she needed a memory of connection amidst this turbulence in thoughts, perhaps the embrace of her brother Peter or the soft-spoken words of her grandmother Goretti or better still the genuine smile that had once graced her elder Peace’s lips. Her heartbeat in her chest was scary, she was staring at a killer, the silent killer that mental health is.

Diagnosed with bipolar disorder - a mental disorder characterized by periods of depression and periods of abnormally elevated mood that each last from days to weeks. She was troubled. This series of the ice breaker unearths some of the challenges that individuals with mental disorders experience.

GOD WANTS YOU TO WORK

“And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.” Genesis 2:15 (KJV)

The Greek word used for “dress” in this theme scripture is the word pronounced ‘aw-bad' which means to work, serve or to labour. Long before man would figure out why he was on earth, God has designed a system of work. In the bible are numerous examples of men and women who understood and exemplified hard work. These biblical characters serve as inspiring examples of hard work, faithfulness, and dedication in their respective callings and circumstances. Take a look!

Elisha’s Farm Enterprise

Elijah found Elisha plowing in the field when the two prophets of old met, Elisha was very busy working when God placed the call of service upon him[1]. Elisha seemed to be running a busy farming enterprise. He was busy overseeing twelve men who were plowing with twelve yoke of oxen and he himself was plowing with the twelfth pair! God calls busy, engaged and hardworking folks, not lazy people.

Noah’s ark

Noah arguably had one of the hardest jobs, he had to build an unprecedented boat, his family was only a handful, the world was in opposition to him, he definitely had no volunteers on this job, but he built one of the greatest architectural marvels of his time, so big that an elephant couple, two whales, and hippopotamus duo would fit in comfortably, the ark was estimated to be 137 meters, its breadth or width, 23 meters and height 14 meters[2], this massive wooden vessel took him years to construct, some scientists argue that building such a structure would pose several engineering challenges and highly implausible considering the technology and resources available during Noah's time, but with God all things are possible.

David a master of all trades

King David was a jack of all trades and a master of all, he was a multi-talented. He was firstly a skilled shepherd who tended to his father's flock, a talented musician and poet, known for playing the harp and composing Psalms, warrior who demonstrated exceptional courage and military prowess in his encounters with enemies such as Goliath, King of Israel with strong leadership abilities and spiritual leader whose strong faith and devotion to God played a significant role in his life. He is often referred to as a man after God's own heart. He was a hard worker, so should you be. His legacy has left a profound impact on religious and historical narratives, making him one of the most renowned figures in biblical history.

Further to these, Old Testament leader, Nehemiah played a crucial role in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem after they had been destroyed. He faced opposition and challenges but persevered with hard work and determination, rallying the people to complete the task, The apostle Paul's tireless efforts in spreading the Gospel across different regions demonstrate his hard work and dedication to his calling, Bezalel and Oholiab, the skilled craftsmen chosen by God to lead the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings. Their hard work and craftsmanship played a crucial role in creating a place of worship for the Israelites.

Do you have a burning desire to be used by God in any capacity? Then ask yourself if you are willing to work hard to accomplish God's Kingdom agenda. God uses hard working people, not slothful people.

THE WILDEBEEST MIGRATION, HUNGRY CROCODILES AND TEAM DYNAMICS.

 “Cross the river in a crowd and the crocodile won't eat you.”

This an old west African proverb that idealizes teamwork, emphasizing how people can accomplish greater things collectively rather than as individuals. In this proverb, the crocodile typifies any challenge or obstacle that people may face, and the river represents the pathway to overcoming those obstacles.

One of the greatest demonstrations of teamwork happens in the animal kingdom, somewhere in Serengeti in Tanzania at the annual wildebeest migration.

Every year over 1.5 million wildebeest, some 800,000 zebras, elands, and Thomson’s gazelles trek over 800 kilometers clockwise in a circle through from southern Serengeti to the Masai Mara in search of greener, mineral rich pastures and water. This search for greener pastures does not come without danger, as the herds enter the Masai Mara they are met by more than their fair share of lethal predators, the big cats and as they blindly jump from riverbank ledges and into the river waters, they are met with over 3000 crocodiles lurking in the murky waters of the Mara River. The spectacular river is filled with drama, death, and endeavor.

As the throngs of wildebeests gather on ledges above the river, they organize themselves, each animal vying for a position that gives the safest and surest path to the opposite river- bank, in an apparent display of teamwork. The few animals that rush toward the water are the herd leaders, with thousands following close behind. The crocodiles too start to move toward the slower and smaller wildebeests, surprisingly when the crocodiles interrupt the river crossing, the crossing herds are put in a disarray, the wildebeests scatter, in the commotion, the Mara River in its unrelenting ferocity, does so much in ending the lives of the younger calves that are simply too tired and inexperienced to survive the gantlet. In equal measure the hungry crocodiles at the smell of blood and meat, frantically start tearing at each other’s catch, in the chaos that ensues, the strongest and most determined herd reach the other side while some become history thanks to the crocodiles’ snapping jaws.

This is typical of a previously functional team becoming dysfunctional. Have you ever seen a team fall apart because of bickering, infighting, or a failure of accountability? Not only is it frustrating to watch, it's also incredibly disheartening. Many years ago, I was part of a church where everyone was baying for each other’s blood, the pastor was not in talking terms to the treasurer, the deacons would often gossip one against the other, the women leader wanted to control the church, striving and gossip were a common thing, the mess was evident, soon we discovered what David meant in Psalms 23: “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters” that sheep cannot drink unless the waters are calm, the  membership started dwindling, finances were going south, I presume even the church mouse at that time would not hang around the church premise anymore.

In his book, “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team”, Patrick Lencioni examines why effective teams are rare and provides specific recommendations for eliminating barriers that lead to dysfunctional teams. Lencioni's work outlines the causes of team dysfunctionality as an absence of trust, a fear of conflict, a lack of commitment, avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results.

Absence of trust where team members are unwilling to admit their mistakes, weaknesses, or need for help, fear of conflict such that the teams lacking trust are incapable of engaging about key issues thereby creating team conflicts, lack of commitment where it is difficult for team members to commit to decisions, fostering an environment where ambiguity prevails, avoidance of accountability arising from the need to avoid interpersonal discomfort and inattention to results where team members naturally tend to put their own needs (such as ego and recognition) ahead of the collective goals of the team.

As a leader what are you going to do about this conundrum?

DON'T GIVE UP!

 Andrew Carnegie’s story is arguably the greatest “rags to riches” tale of all time, the story of 18th century American steel magnate Andrew Carnegie’s ascendancy begins on November 25, 1835, in a small one roomed home in Dunfermline, Scotland. Born into a family of destitute laborers, Carnegie received little schooling before his family emigrated to America in 1848. Arriving in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the 13-year-old soon got a job as a bobbin boy in a cotton factory, earning a mere $1.20 (less than 5,000 Uganda shillings) per week.

Carnegie went on to labor as a messenger boy and then a factory worker before eventually getting a job as a secretary and telegraph operator at the Pennsylvania Railroad. By 1859, the enterprising young worker had become superintendent of the railroad’s western division. Carnegie invested his newfound wealth in a variety of businesses including a bridgework company, a telegraph operation and most famously, a steel mill.

By the turn of the century, his Carnegie Steel Company had blossomed into an industrial empire, he later sold the steel company to financier J.P. Morgan for $480 million in 1901, making him one of the richest individuals of his time. The deal was instrumental in the creation of U.S. Steel, which became the first billion-dollar corporation.

After his retirement from the steel industry, Carnegie dedicated himself to philanthropy. He funded the establishment of numerous public libraries, educational institutions, and charitable organizations, leaving a lasting impact on society even after his death on August 11, 1919. Carnegie spent his later years donating his fortune to charitable causes, eventually giving away some $350 million.

I first heard about Andrew Carnegie and his revolutionary leadership credentials in Dale Carnegie's “How to win friends & influence people”.

How did Carnegie progress from working 12 hours a day, six days a week, for $4.80 a month to reigning as the preeminent figure in American industry?

At the turn of the 18th century, in the United States, poverty was a significant issue affecting a substantial portion of the population. During this time, the country was undergoing industrialization and rapid urbanization, which brought about both economic growth and social challenges. Poverty rates were as high as 25%, particularly in urban areas, where most of the population was concentrated. Many individuals and families struggled to meet their basic needs and faced harsh living conditions. Industrialization led to the growth of factories and the rise of the working class. However, wages were often low, and working conditions were often harsh and unsafe. Many workers faced long hours, limited job security, and inadequate compensation. This resulted in a significant portion of the population living in poverty or near the poverty line.

Andrew Carnegie's journey from poverty to immense wealth is an inspiration to generations. Poverty can sometimes be an incentive for hard work and pursuit for success.

But how would a poor emigrant boy become the world’s richest man? What kind of breakthrough is this? 

One thing he had in his mind, was not to give up, it doesn't matter what you are going through, the bottom line is that giving up should not be an option.

THE RISE OF BIDIBIDI

RESPLENDENT in a handmade African print dress and a black hijab – a square scarf covering her head and neck, a mid aged girl in her early 30s emerges from a rub hall, a relocatable tent-like structure common in humanitarian spaces, erected at a Food Distribution Point in one of the zones in Bidibidi refugee settlement, carrying a stash of papers with names of would-be beneficiaries of the in-kind food items, in the background is a group of World Vision staff clad in an orange and white patched jacket weighing food on a digital scale, one elderly man who supervises the team as a food monitor stands with hands akimbo taking note of the slightest deviations on the weighing scale.

The UN agency, The World Food Programme (WFP) heavy duty trucks park in a certain rank and file within the open field, one of those 10 tonne trucks was being driven by a foreigner, you could tell by his accent and looks that he is a Somali, with mouth full of khat, his discolored teeth and a toothpick stuck on the cusp of his lips, one of his checks is replete with a ball of khat that he is chewing intermittently, The WFP works during emergencies and longer-term crises to provide food to displaced people around the world, especially vulnerable groups such as women and children with the hope that one day the food-related activities will build refugee self-reliance, the assistance is designed to maintain a sound diet through a balanced and culturally acceptable food basket, the food items consisted of cereals, pulses, Corn Soya Sugar Blend, Oil, and salt. 

The refugees are queuing up in two endless and disorganized lines, majority of them are grasping polyethylene sacks while a few elderly women have huge saucepans. as soon as the food distribution exercise is ended, droves of vehicles are seen driving out of the settlement some with merchants, traders and food items bought from refugees who would have preferred cash assistance instead, such is the dilemma that humanitarians agencies face, the much needed aid is often times abused by the very beneficiaries it is supposed to help with multiple reports of vandalized temporary latrines to stolen solar lamps among others.

ON AUGUST 12, 2016, one of the most protracted conflicts the world had ever seen boiled into a full-fledged war that has since claimed the lives of over 300,000 people, displaced more than 250,000 men, women, and children, and brought about unprecedented suffering of monumental proportions in South Sudan. 

Tragically, the conflict has resulted into thousands of families being forced to leave their homes because of attacks by non-state armed groups. Extreme violence and displacement have had a devastating impact on the population. People have witnessed their loved ones being killed, beheaded, and raped, and their houses and other infrastructure burned to the ground. Men and boys have also been forcibly enrolled in armed groups. Livelihoods have been lost, and education stalled while access to necessities such as food and healthcare has been hampered. Many people have been re-traumatized after being forced to move multiple times to save their lives. 

One such place that the south Sudanese refugees sought refugee in Uganda was Bidibidi refugee settlement.

Bidibidi refugee settlement in Yumbe district covering an area of approximately 250 square kilometers, an area larger than the size of cook island – a nation in the South Pacific, the settlement is sandwiched between two districts of Terego and Obongi and was established in August 2016 to host the rapid influx of South Sudanese refugees fleeing fighting and conflict. The settlement was originally planned to accommodate about 150,000 people but over time, its population has almost doubled to 224,048 people by July 2022, making it one of the settlements holding the largest refugee population in the world. The settlement is divided into five zones with over 84% of its population being women and children.

From being a once underutilized hunting grounds that were uninhabited and not considered choice lands for agriculture by the locals situated within shedloads of low, rolling hills and mostly rocky soils and tumps with rolling grassland scattered with shrubs and isolated trees, the settlement is arguably the largest refugee settlement with a potential to transform into a city or urban town.

OBONGI BY FERRY

The silver sedan pulls up at the river side, as I disembark it, I stroll close to the river edge, I can feel the cool breeze blowing against my face. The air is fresh and crisp, with a hint of moisture in it, and I can hear the gentle sound of the water flowing by. In March the weather was typically warm and sunny, with occasional scattered clouds providing some relief from the heat. The sun's rays reflected off the water, creating a dazzling display of light and color. Like many places on the peripherals of river basins, the weather at a river side is always unpredictable. The clouds can roll in suddenly, casting shadows over the water and creating a foreboding atmosphere. Thunderstorms can also appear out of nowhere, bringing with them flashes of lightning and claps of thunder that echo down the river valley. However, despite the unpredictability of the weather, there is a certain tranquility and peace that can be found at the river side. Whether it's the sound of the water gently lapping against the shore, the rustling of leaves in the wind, or the chirping of birds in the trees, there is always something soothing about being near a flowing river, and this was the experience I found myself in on 24th March 2023.

I had emphatically jumped on an opportunity to travel to Kampala from Yumbe, via Obongi Ferry, then Adjumani, Gulu, and straight to Kampala, crossing the river Nile proper, two times, one here and the other at Karuma.

Obongi is a town located in the northern region of Uganda, specifically in the district of Obongi. It is a small town that was carved out of Moyo District, the population is largely floating and it is divided over five sub-counties of Palorinya, Gimara, Itula, Aliba, Ewafa and one town council. The town of Obongi is known for its natural beauty, with lush green landscapes and rolling hills surrounding the town. The nearby Obongi Hills is a popular destination for hiking and sightseeing, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.it is a charming and peaceful town that offers visitors a glimpse into the natural beauty and rich culture of northern Uganda. With its friendly people, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions, Obongi is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to this part of the world.

When the ferry turned up at the docking station, some 20 minutes after we arrived, I hurriedly took a seat next to the queue of vehicles lined in the middle of the vessel. The landing site in Obongi is Laropi, named after the landing sites of Laropi, the ferry connects Adjumani District to Moyo District and according to information obtained from the UNRA website, it carries an average of 1,500 to 1,800 people per day at the crossing with a minimum of 12 trips and a maximum of 22 trips. It takes 30 minutes for loading and offloading while the time to cross is between 10 to 15 minutes.

Using a ferry can be an exciting and unique way to travel. The experience of riding on a ferry is quite different from driving or flying. As the ferry glides across the water, passengers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the tranquil waters beneath them. The sound of the engine revving up was loud.  

As the ferry continued on its journey, the scenery changed, and we could see a variety of sights, including isolated fishing boats, floating hyacinths, and distant fishing villages.

The journey on a ferry was a peaceful and relaxing experience, giving me a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. If it were not for the many travelers, it was easy for me to sit back and enjoy the ride, letting the sound of the waves and the breeze on their face soothe their senses.

As we disembarked from the docking station, the side of Adjumani district, I couldn’t help but add this to one of my favorite and unforgettable traveling experiences. a perfect way to travel and explore new places while enjoying the beauty of nature.