JAN 23, 2020

Bible Reading: Matthew 25: 35-40

Memory Verse:For the poor will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor and your needy, in your land.’  Deuteronomy 15:11 (NKJV)

Dr. Olawale Sulaiman, 49, is a physician-scientist (a doctor with a combined degree in medicine and a PhD). He is a professor of neurosurgery and spinal surgery. He lives in Louisiana, but splits his time between the US and Nigeria, spending up to 12 days each month providing healthcare in the country of his birth — sometimes for free. His motivation comes from growing up in a relatively poor region. He is one of 10 children born into a polygamous family. Then, together with his siblings, they all shared one room where they often found themselves sleeping on a mat on the floor.

His turning point came when at the age of 19, he received a scholarship to study medicine in Bulgaria through the Bureau for External Aid, a Nigerian government program targeted at improving the quality of life for Nigeria’s most vulnerable communities. In return, he feels responsible to give back through healthcare. He started a health company in 2010, called RNZ Global, a healthcare development company with his wife, Patricia. The company provides medical services including neuro and spinal surgery and offers health courses like first aid CPR in Nigeria and the US. He uses his vacation times as medical missions, which were also planned with education and training sessions.

Together with his wife, nurse Patricia, they have donated a lot of medications, equipment and hands-on training on surgical techniques. Isn’t it amazing? Dr Sulaiman negotiated a 25% pay cut with his American employer in exchange for longer holidays to Nigeria to pursue his passion. RNZ Global has treated more than 500 patients and provided preventative medicine to up to 5,000 people in the US and Nigeria.

Food for Thought: The joy of living is the joy of giving. What sacrifice are you going to make in Year 2020 and beyond to the glory of God and the benefit of mankind. Wouldn’t you stop living for yourself?

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Quote: Africans who have had the privilege of getting outstanding training and education abroad must mobilize their network of influence to transform our continent – Dr Sulaiman

Prophetic Decree: Receive a heart of selfless service.

Prayer Focus

1. Father Lord, I thank you for your daily mercies and grace, in Jesus name.

2. I decree a turnaround in my fortune for good, in the name of Jesus.

3. O Lord, give me a heart of selfless service, in Jesus name.

4. Father, help me to die to myself in Jesus name.

5. I embrace your divine assignment for my life. Use me as you deem fit, O Lord, in Jesus name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 32-34