Better Life for Everybody 5

Sam Adeyemi
Matthew 6: 31-33

Our teachings so far have been built around the thesis by Abraham Maslow's titled the theory of human behavior. To recap briefly, Maslow postulated that human beings are driven by their needs, so he developed the hierarchy of needs. He classified human needs into five levels; starting from the lowest, they are survival, safety, social, self esteem and self actualization needs. He went further to say that not till levels one and two needs, which are physiological needs, are met we don't bother with the higher level needs.

This seems to be the problem with Nigeria, basic needs have not been met and a hungry person cannot be a good citizen. I Tim 6:8. The provision of food and clothing amounts to contentment; so, as believers, we must be part of the big move for change in policies. Christians should take action. Faith without corresponding works is dead. If God has blessed you with the capability to solve accommodation or transportation problems for others, do it. Get into partnership with other people, there is power in synergy, and make an impact in the community.

Africa's greatest problem is the inability to manipulate intangible resources. The intangible controls the material. It's the people who can think, create and manipulate intangible resources that make progress. This is Jesus' solution to the problem – when He came He didn't concern Himself with Herod or any other leaders, He taught the people the truth because the truth will make you free. John 8:31. This is God's strategy. A minister's first assignment is to open the eyes of his followers.

In Nigeria, we have to make policy changes in housing. Safety is level two needs. In developed countries, the government has made it easy for its citizens to own homes by providing access to long term loans and mortgages, so, citizens are not under undue pressure and they can remain productive at work while paying off the loans. This is not the case in here in Nigeria. We are compelled to pay exorbitant rents for a minimum of two years which puts us at a disadvantage financially especially if such a place is being used for business. This has got to change.

Christians should arise as leaders and push for a change.