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About the Book


"Following the Faith of Abraham" by Olusola Areogum explores the life and faith of Abraham as portrayed in the Bible. The author delves into the lessons that can be learned from Abraham's journey of faith and obedience to God, offering practical wisdom and guidance for readers seeking to deepen their own spiritual walk. Through insightful analysis and reflection, Areogum encourages readers to trust in God, pursue righteousness, and live lives of faith that honor God, mirroring the example set by Abraham.

Susannah Spurgeon

Susannah Spurgeon Susannah Spurgeon was the wife of the famous Baptist preacher of the second half of the nineteenth-century, Charles Haddon Spurgeon. She was born Susannah Thompson in January, 1832. Her early years were spent in London, where she often accompanied her parents or elderly friends to the New Park Street Chapel. She was converted upon hearing a sermon at the old Poultry Chapel by Rev S. B. Bergne from Romans 10:8 – ‘From that service I date the dawning of the true light in my soul’. But her initial joy was replaced by ‘seasons of darkness, despondency, and doubt’, and it was not until she was helped by the new, youthful, pastor of New Park Street – Spurgeon – that she found ‘the peace and pardon [her] weary soul was longing for’. Her friendship with Spurgeon grew, and they were married in January 1856. Their twin sons, Charles Jr. and Thomas, were born in September, 1857. Susannah became a true partner in her husband’s ministry. Spurgeon would call his ‘wifey’ to come and help him on Saturday afternoons. Together they would read commentaries and discuss the Scripture for the next day’s sermon. If he was discouraged, she would read to him. She counselled women and girls in the church and assisted female candidates at baptismal services. Her activities were restricted at times when she became chronically ill in the late 1860s, and was often confined to her room, or visited Brighton for relief. In 1875, when she had proof-read the first volume of her husband’s book Lectures to My Students, she expressed a desire to ‘place it in the hands of every minister in England’ – and so began the ministry of her Book Fund. Within a year, over 3000 volumes of theological books had been distributed by the Fund; by the time of her death, over 200,000 volumes had been sent out. Today, the supplying of theological books free to ministers and missionaries continues through the Book Fund of the Banner of Truth Trust, modelled upon that started by Susannah Spurgeon. Susannah’s work expanded to include other ministries, such as the Pastors’ Aid Fund and the Westwood Clothing Society. In her remaining years, following Charles’ death in 1892, she assisted Joseph Harrald in compiling C.H. Spurgeon’s Autobiography and also wrote a number of devotional books, including Free Grace and Dying Love, published by the Trust (which volume contains a Life of Susannah Spurgeon by Charles Ray). She died in October, 1903, after a severe attack of pneumonia from which she never recovered.

Finding Financial Freedom

The smartest thing we can do financially is to make God’s kingdom and His righteousness our top priority. Since true financial freedom is based largely on the condition of our heart and attitude, we must consciously embrace truth not fear, contentment not greed, humility not pride, gratitude not resentment, righteousness not deceit, generosity not selfishness. The following suggestions are financial strategies that have helped many people. Look at the list, pray over it, and apply what will benefit you and your family with the goal of changing bad habits, reducing stress, and gaining financial freedom. Make a Plan Everything starts with a plan. After you do that, you’re ready to move forward with it. Set specific goals, short-term and long-term. Write them down and refer to them regularly. This will give clarity. Create a budget. This brings freedom. Seek accountability. This will provide encouragement. Give regularly. This will break the grip of selfishness. Eliminate personal debt. This will set you free. Fund an emergency account, save, invest. This will help you have margin. Change your withholding if you get tax refunds. This will boost cash flow. Celebrate milestones with gratitude. This will keep you motivated. Reduce Expenses You can take action now to reduce your expenses. Here are several actions. Keep track of all expenses for at least 30 days to learn your spending habits. Use extra money (tax refunds, raises, gifts) wisely. Become frugal. Live like you’re poor. Buy only what you need. Cancel cable and subscriptions. Limit or drop TV and social media. Find free entertainment. Read more books — use the library. Eat out only for special occasions. Recruit a couple or family to join you on this journey. Challenge yourself to eat the pantry. The smartest thing we can do financially is to make God’s kingdom and His righteousness our top priority. Chuck Bentley in Finding Financial Freedom This Year Go on a “Spending Fast.” Use cash when possible to limit credit card debt. Change your lifestyle. Move, drive cheaper cars, and so on. Reduce utility costs. Avoid “window shopping.” Assess your friendships. Plan ahead for holidays. Grocery shop with a list. Cook large meals, freeze leftovers, and take meals from home to work Say no to impulse purchases. Use coupons or buy what is on sale. Shop consignment or thrift shops. Drop gym memberships. Make coffee at home. Skip soft drinks and bottled water. Find a mobile discount plan. Trade skills with a friend (cooking, yard care, haircuts, and so on). Avoid financing cars and loans. Don’t gamble. Increase Income By taking just a few deliberate actions, you can increase your income. Work hard and ask for a raise. Improve your job skills. Obtain certifications and online training. Take on a part-time job. Sell what you don’t need. Think outside the box. Find creative solutions to problems. Improve Your Health Your health impacts your finances in several ways, including the cost of insurance, your ability to work, your energy level, your ability to sleep, and your state of mind. Sleep a minimum of seven hours. God designed you to function best when rested. Drink more water, much more than you think you need. Eat healthily. Grow food if you can. Exercise daily and spend time in nature. Sunshine is an essential part of your health. Eliminate stress and guard your mental health. Limit prescription drug use. Research natural remedies. Plan for the Future By taking just a few deliberate actions, you can increase your income. Organize your finances and emergency information. Gather documents to prepare taxes. Make a will and plan burial options. Carry adequate insurance: life, health, car, home, or rental. Plan education costs for children. Begin funding retirement accounts. Diversify your investments. Principles and best practices are of no value if we only know them intellectually. Knowing and doing is the key to experiencing God’s promises. Living accordingly will help you to thrive.

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