1

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be republished, stored in a
retrieval system, transmitted in any form or by any
means without the prior consent of the author.

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This novel is purely a work of fiction,inspired by the Holy
Spirit. Names of people, places and events are all from
the author's imagination. Any resemblance with places
or with persons, either living or dead is just a
coincidence.

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FOREWORD

"Love and lust, two of the most fundamental and yet complex
human emotions, have been the subject of debate, exploration,
and expression throughout the ages. In 'LOVE OR LUST?', Phebe
delves into the intricate web of relationships, desires, and choices
that shape our lives.

With honesty, sensitivity, and insight, Phebe explores the human

condition, laying bare the vulnerabilities, strengths, and
weaknesses that make us who we are.

LUST has often been mistaken for LOVE. Attraction, feelings,

affections are characteristics of love but they do not fully define
the concept of love.

I pray that as you begin the reading of this story, may the Lord
Almighty give you the understanding needed to comprehend and
fully consume every knowledge in this book, Amen.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, I would like to appreciate God Almighty, the

giver of inspiration and my strength. Glory be to His Holy name
forever and ever, Amen.

I appreciate my Parents, Mr and Mrs Orimogunje for their

everytime support and encouragement. To my Dad, Pastor
M.K.A. Orimogunje, thank you for being of a great support to me
and my ministry.

I appreciate my siblings, Mrs Dorcas Adewole, Emmanuel

Orimogunje, Mary Orimogunje, Daniel Orimogunje and Elijah
Orimogunje. You all have been of a great support to me and I
am truly grateful.

I sincerely extend my appreciation to my Mentor, Pastor Fawibe

Testimony for his guidance and support at every point in time.
He is a blessing and a gift from God to me. Indeed, he is God
sent.

To my best friend, supporter and cheerleader, I say thank you.

Praise Adeloye has been my backbone from day one. Thank
you for your everytime support and encouragement.
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To my friend, Raphael Otegbade who designed the story cover
and Gomez Praise, I cherish our friendship greatly.

And finally, to all my wonderful readers, thank you so much for

reading my works. Thank you for the motivation all the way. If
you wouldn‟t read, my writing would have been in vain. May
God Almighty continue to bless you all, Amen.

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DEDICATION
To God Almighty, the one who is love, the one who
speaks love and the one who shows love.

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LOVE OR LUST?
Phebe A. Orimogunje

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1
“Mum, I'm off to school "
"I hope you've prayed?"
"Trust me, Mum, you know that's the first thing I always do"
"Alright my dear, the Lord shall go with you"
"Amen. Thanks Mum. Bye, love you..."

Esther runs off to school after bidding her Mum goodbye. Esther
Omowaye Omooluwa is a child of God. She gave her life to
Christ when she was in the Junior secondary class one.

Flashback...
"You mentioned that God made a convenant with you when
you gave birth to me, Mum..."

"Yes, my daughter. I never thought I could give birth to you

without having to undergo a surgery. Your Father, had already
signed the necessary documents for a surgical operation when
you came out freely. I fell into a deep sleep and according to
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the doctor, my breathing stopped for some time. My husband,
your father was told that I was dead. During that period, I saw
Jesus. He told me that there lies a great destiny ahead of you
but there are a lot of battles ahead. He then told me that He
would help you no matter what and He gave me two Bible
verses that day..." She said when Esther cut in.
"Isaiah 7:7 and Jeremiah 51:20, right?" Esther commented.
"Yes, my daughter. I've told you that before. So, my daughter,
be very careful, prayerful and watchful". Her mother advised
her.
"I'll remember your words Mum, thanks you so much....." (end of
flashback).

Esther got to school and settled in her class after assembly. She
got to hear at school that her former seatmate, Bella had left
the school for a private school near her home. Esther was
moody because she wasn't the type to make friends easily.
Little did she know that she would make a new friend that
same day. Shortly after she settled in class, Mrs Alamu, the
mathematics teacher and the class teacher of SS2S entered the
class with a very handsome boy who looked like a new student.
The students, most especially, the girls were so lost at staring at
him that they forgot to greet their teacher.

"Oh my! He's so handsome"

"God must have created him on the Sabbath day when he was
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resting". The students commented.

"Class! Will you get up and greet me now!" The teacher said in
dissapointment.
"Good morning, Ma. You are welcome to..."
"I have always told you not to welcome any teacher in that
manner anymore. Any teacher that comes to your class knows
that he or she is in SS2S, the best science class and the most
notorious..." The teacher went on and on.

After the students settled down, the teacher told the new boy
to introduce himself to the class.

"Hi everyone, my name is Esaias Daniel. It's nice to meet you all,
thank you" Esaias replied shyly. He was the perfect definition of
the handsome, cool and gentle type. The students however,
could not stop commenting on his appearance.

"Wow, how can a guy be this pretty?”, Esther thought to herself.

"What's wrong with me? Well, it's not bad to compliment one's
look, is it?" She reassures herself that she did nothing bad by
complimenting Esaias' handsomeness.

The teacher couldn't find any other seat for Esaias and so, he
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ended up sitting beside Esther. If looks could kill, Esther would
be 6 feet below the ground with the stares her classmates gave
her.

"Hi, I'm Esaias" The new guy introduced himself.

"Oh! Erhmm..Hello Hi..I'm Esther " Esther replied nervously.
"Oops! Why am I nervous all of a sudden?" Esther thought to
herself.
"It's nice meeting you" the boy said, interrupting her thoughts
and she realised his hands had been hanging in the air. She
returned the handshake and the day went on as every other
normal school day. When the closing bell was rung, Esther
packed her bags and got ready to meet up with Promise, her
best friend who is an art student.
"Where are you headed ?" Esaias asked.
"Oh..Erhmm..I live around Peace Estate. Esther replied, not
looking at his face.
"Oh wow! I live around Daudu estate. That's very great. Let's go
home together then". He replied her.
"Oh...Erhmmm...okay. I have a friend whom we do go home
together. Oh! She's here....Hi Promise" Esther embraces her
friend.
"Who is this cute guy?" Promise whispered into Esther's ears
and the two friends teased one another.
"Hello, Sister Promise, my name is Esaias" Esaias said and
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extended his hand for an handshake. Promise returned the
handshake and they all left the school and headed home.

Esther got to know that Esaias lived not too far from their
building although, she didn't know where exactly he stayed.
Esther was somehow happy and also uncomfortable because
she felt she was getting too close to him.
It was evening time. Esther had done the house chores and was
waiting for her friend, Promise so that they can do their
assignments and also pray together.

"Hey! Silly girl! How can you just barge in that way?" Esther said
in a not too angry tone when Promise entered into her room
without knocking.
"It is my friend's room. I can enter anytime I wish to" Promise
replied.
"Says who? What if I was dressing up?" Esther asked and faked
a frown.
"Oh! Miss Esther Privacy, what do you have that I don't have?"
Promise replied, teasing her.
"Ahhh! Promise, you're so silly!". The two girls laughed and kept
teasing one another.

After doing their assignments, Promise told Esther about a

nudge she was having.
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"I'm all ears Prom", Esther said. She was fond of calling Promise
(Prom), for short.
"I don't know why I am feeling this way..." Promise confessed.
"What way?" Esther asked.
"I have a nudge that we should pray for the new guy, Esaias.
Ever since I got home, the Holy spirit made it known to me that
he needs help. I'm not sure what kind of help he needs but it's
urgent. Please let's pray for him.

ESAIAS' ROOM
"Oh no! I did this again!" Esaias wept bitterly.
"For 5 years now, I've not been able to stop this bad act. I have
lost my relationship with God. I don't even feel like a Christian
anymore..." He wept bitterly.

Esaias had been masturbating for 5 years. He was introduced

to it when he was in the primary class by his friend, Jamal.
Since then, Esaias had been a porn addict and a masturbator.
He gave his life to Christ a year after that but unfortunately for
him, he had no follow up since it was a little girl that preached
to him back then. For sometime, he stopped watching porn and
masturbating. However, the urge kept coming and at a point,
he could not resist it.

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"I need help, God help me" Esaias wept again.
"I don't even know what to do! It seems God can't hear me. I
have lost my confidence in calling unto Him. I am so filthy. I
can't seem to stop!". Esaias was dissapointed in himself.

ESTHER'S ROOM
"In Jesus' name we've prayed"
"Amen".
"Thank you Jesus, I feel lighter now " Promise said.
"Thank you Abba" Esther added.
'You see, whenever a nudge comes or a burden is in your heart
to pray for someone, don't delay it. Rise up and pray because
delay in most cases is usually dangerous. Till now, I can't really
point to the exact reason why the Holy Spirit laid it upon my
heart to pray for Bro Esaias but thank God for direction. The
prayer points were powerful and it just kept coming" Promise
said.
"You're right sis. May God help us all to keep obeying every of
His instructions" Esther added.
"Amen and Amen. Mum will soon be home now, It's 6pm
already. I need to go". Promise said.
"We've not even had our Bible study" Esther added.
"That's true, let's read the book of Acts chapter 2 tonight. We'll
discuss it online" Promise told Esther.
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"Alright" She replied.

Promise left and Esther escorted her to her house gate after
which they bade themselves goodbye. The next day at school,
Esther noticed that her seatmate, Esaias was moody
throughout the lectures. She had it in mind to ask what the
problem was once it was break period.

Break period
"Should I talk to him and ask him what's wrong? Wait o.....we've
not even known each other for so long so what is my business
with him? Maybe I should just leave him alone.....Won't it be
unkind not to ask after his welfare? He hasn't said a word to me
since morning sef.." Esther kept contemplating whether to ask
Esaias what the problem was or not. Not long after, Promise
walked in.

"Hi Essty, Hi Esaias.." Promise greeted the duo.

"Hi friend", Esther replied.
"Hi" Esaias replied coldly.
"What's wrong with him?" Promise asked her friend, Esther.
"I don't know o, maybe you should ask him why he hasn't talked
to me all day..." Esther said and rolled her eyes.
"Ehn ehnnn.....so it's because he didn't talk to you that's why you
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have refused to care...." Promise said to her while Esther just
looked away.
"Hey Esaias, I hope you're good?" Promise probed further.
"Yep, I'm okay. Thanks". Esaias replied sharply.
"Something is off about him but he says he's okay. I just hope
his mood gets better soon" Promise said.

The two girls discussed about the prayer meeting they'd be

having in the evening and also the Bible Study. They kept
talking about this when Esaias interrupted them.

"Can I join you guys, please?" Esaias asked.

"Wow! So you can talk so freely this way now abi?" Esther
asked.
"Esther! Why are you so getting worked up over nothing in
particular?" Promise said.
"Wait...that's true ooo, why am I angry that he has not been
talking to me since morning?" Esther thought to herself.
"Sure, you can join us for the prayer meetings. It's to encourage
and help ourselves in Christ anyways. That reminds me....Esther,
Joan said she'd be joining us this evening". Promise said.
"Oh really? That would be so nice! I have missed her a lot"
Esther replied happily.
"Who is Joan?" Esaias asked.
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"Oh! She's a friend of ours too. We usually pray together but she
hasn't been available for quite sometime due to some reasons".
Promise added.
"Oh! That's great then. What time are we meeting for the prayer
meeting?" Esaias asked, turning towards Esther for a reply.
"It's 3pm to 6pm" Esther said coldly.
"Esther, I'm sorry for not being lively since morning. I had some
issues but I'm better now. I really hope you've forgiven me."
Esaias said with so much emotion in his eyes and sincerity that
got Esther carried away by his handsomeness for a moment.
"Oh....Erhmmm...eh...it's okay" Esther said and looked away
quickly.

The break period ended and the afternoon classes began. The
English teacher was in class when Esther noticed that Esaias
was uneasy. He suddenly got up and asked to use the restroom.
Esther was concerned about Esaias but she waved off the
thought, thinking he was feeling uneasy because he was
pressed. However, Esaias didn't visit the restroom because he
was pressed. He did it again!

"Oh no! This even happened in school? Oh! My life is finished!

There is no way I can be free from this! I'm so ashamed and
filthy..". It was these words Esther heard when she also went to
use the restroom. It happened that she was pressed as well and
the female restroom was right beside the males'. She heard all
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he said but could not read meaning to it. Meanwhile, Esaias
kept sobbing that he didn't even realise someone was in the
other restroom. Immediately she was done using the restroom,
she went out only to collide into Esaias. Esaias was shocked
and asked her...

"What did you hear?"

"I only heard you saying some things and sobbing..."Esther
replied, frightened by Esaias' red and hurtful eyes.
"Were you spying on me?" Esaias asked, gripping her arm
tightly.
"I swear...I wasn't...I only came to use the restroom because I
was pressed. Why are you...." Esther was saying when she got
cut off by Esaias.
"Get out of here." Esaias said calmly to Esther.
"What do you mean? I don't...." Esther replied, still confused.
"I said Get out!!!" Esaias shouted at her amidst tears.

Esther had to leave immediately. She was so frightened

because she had never seen that side of him before. She knew
him to be a very sweet person. She got to class and thought to
herself..."What made him cry? Why did he say those words?
Something is definitely wrong with him like Promise said the
other day....". Esther kept thinking as she could not get the
scene off her head. Esaias on the other hand, stayed longer at
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the restroom, wiped off his tears, washed his face and went
back to the classroom, acting like nothing happened. Esther,
Promise and Joan met in the evening at Esther's place for the
Bible study and prayer meeting. However, Promise noticed
Esaias' absence.
"Esther, where is Esaias? I thought he said he would love to join
us henceforth".
"Oh! Yes, actually...erhmmm....let's just continue. He might join
us later". Esther didn't want to reveal what happened earlier at
school. She decided that she would ask him about it first.
"Let's pray before we study the word" Promise said.
"As usual", the other girls chorused in unison.
"For in Jesus Mighty name we have prayed"
"Amen".

During the Bible study, Promise and Esther noticed that Joan
was absent minded throughout. She was lost in thoughts when
the girls called her name...

"Joan!!!".
"Oh! Yess..ehrm...I'm with you" She responded.
"Joan, what did I say last?" Promise asked.
"Oh!Erhmm....You said...erhmm...about.." Joan kept repeating
the same words.
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"Joan! Is there anything wrong?" Esther asked.
"Can I trust you both?" Joan asked her friends after hesitating
for a while.
"Sure sis, why not?" The girls responded.

"Actually, this is how it started. For some weeks now, I have

been crushing on this guy. I'm sure you both know Sam, the
basket ball player. Well, our class teacher changed our seat
arrangement weeks ago and he happened to be my seatmate
since then. However, anytime I see him, my heart beats faster
and there is this feeling I have towards him. I always think of
hugging him and placing my head on his chest. I can't do a day
without thinking about him. Eyin ore mi (My friends), I think I
love him and the feeling is driving me crazy" She confessed.
"No, you don't love him Joan". Promise said.
"Why do you say that?" Joan asked.
"Dear friend, you are LUSTING after Sam. It is called LUST not
LOVE. Love does not make you go crazy. Besides, we just
entered into SS2 class and the oldest among us is 16 and that
happens to be Esther. We are not supposed to be involved in
any ungodly relationship now. It is totally wrong. You see, that
thought of you hugging and holding him is called a feeling of
Lust. It isn't love at all" Promise said.
"Hmm..." Esther replied, thinking about the feelings she's been
having towards Esaias ever since he came to their school.
"What can I do Promise? I'm going crazy." Joan asked...
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"You won't go crazy in Jesus name. We are going to pray that
God should help us flee from this spirit of LUST. In addition, we
are going to pray to God to give us a strong mind to resist all
temptations of any kind. My dear friends, LUST is one important
tool that the devil uses to lure youths of nowadays. It is mostly
found among the children of God . You would see a vibrant
christian brother, battling with lust of the flesh. Many tongue
speaking Christians also fall in this category. There are a lot of
things that could be done. Spiritual and physical measures can
be taken. Let's pray firstly and ask God for help..". After the
meeting, the girls left for their respective homes. Esther stayed
in her room, thinking about what Promise said earlier...

"Hmm...how do I get Esaias off my head? He's just too cute,

lovely and so friendly. He's nice too. What a perfect man! His
eyes...oh! My God! His eyes are so beautiful. There is this feeling
I get when he looks at me and talks to me. He talks slowly and
sweetly. Oh my God! I wish I could have him to myself. His lips
are so soft and pink. I wish I could get the chance to..." Esther
stopped abruptly.
"Jesus! What am I saying? Father, have mercy on me....Jesus! I
was so lost in unholy thoughts...." Esther went on her knees
immediately to ask for God's forgiveness after which she
prayed to God to help her.
"I am definitely going to ask Promise those measures one can
take to be free from lust. God, help me. I don't want to fall.
Please, help me". After a short prayer, Esther went to bed.

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2
The next day was a Wednesday, it was the school's sports day.
Students gather on the field to participate in any sport of their
choice. Volleyball, football, basketball training and the likes take
place every Wednesday and the students are free from every
class activity. Esther and Esaias are in the volleyball team while
Joan and Promise are in the basketball team. When it was time,
everyone went straight to the field at the blowing of the whistle
while Esther and Esaias remained in class. Esther noticed that
Esaias had his head placed on his locker and it seemed he
wasn't interested in going to the field. She decided to wait till
everyone was gone so that she could strike a conversation with
him.

"Hi Esaias" Esther greeted.

However, there was no response. Esaias kept mute and Esther
knew he wasn't sleeping.
"Esaias, I need to talk to you" Esther said again. Esaias raised his
head up. Esther saw that eyes....that hurt filled eyes she saw the
other day at the toilet. Esther was worried about Esaias.
"Don't give me that pitiful look, I'm okay". Esaias said.

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"Esaias, everyone of us cares about you, Promise, I and Joan.
What is wrong? You know you can talk to me.." Esther replied.
"Nevermind Essty, I'll figure it out myself" Esaias said.
"Figure it out? Esaias but..."
"Esther, I'm okay. Don't worry about me" Esaias cut in quickly.
"Let's go to the field before Mr Ajao comes in with his big cane"
Esaias said and Esther chuckled.
Esaias stretched forth his hand and Esther got shy for a
moment. She held his hand later on and they both ran to the
field. It was soon closing time. Promise and Joan went to
Esther's class so they can all leave for home. Promise saw
Esaias and asked him…
"You didn't show up at the meeting yesterday, what
happened?"
"Oh! Something came up but it's getting sorted now. I'll be
around today" He replied.
"Oh! That's great to hear". Promise replied satisfyingly.

The 4 friends, JEEP(Joan, Esther, Esaias and Promise) left school

after which they departed to their respective homes.
It was soon time for the meeting, The 4 friends met in Esther's
house. They started with worship songs and chants. They were
still singing the worship songs when God prophesied to Esaias
through Promise. God gave Promise a message to deliver to
Esaias in the place of worship. The message was indeed clear.
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God told Esaias that He still wants him and he wants to use him
as a mighty tool against the enemy only if he is ready to
surrender his all for Him and love Him wholeheartedly. After
the worship session, they had a Bible study and a prayer
session. After the meeting, Esther's Mum served them chips with
Hollandia yoghurt.

"Your Mum is so nice and beautiful, Esther" Esaias

complimented.
"Awww, thank you" Esther replied.
"I now know where you got your beauty from. You're pretty
Esther, I must confess". Esaias complimented Esther again.
"Awww, thank you so much" Esther blushed.
"Why are you blushing, O Woman of God?" Promise teased
Esther.
"Who knows, maybe she is in love" Joan replied. The girls chase
after one another while Esaias sat on the chair laughing and
looking at the girls playing, most especially, Esther.

Esaias has been having feelings towards Esther for some time
and he doesn't know how to tell her or what to even do. He
knows that they were not meant to date at that age since they
are not ready for marriage. He thought to himself that with time,
the feelings will be gone. Esther, Promise and Joan kept teasing
one another until it was 6pm when they all left for their
respective homes, hoping to see one another in school the next
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day.
The next day, Esther and Promise got to school at the same
time after which they departed into their various classes. On
her way to class, Esther noticed she was earlier than usual due
to the fact that she was the first person to arrive in class. She
however, heard sounds of someone groaning.

"Is someone in pain? Who might it be?"Esther said and traced

the sound to their classroom.
She was shocked when she saw Esaias, masturbating and
groaning in pleasure. She didn't know what to do as it seems
her legs stopped working. Her mouth was agape and tears kept
coming out of her eyes. Esaias was shocked when he saw her.

"Es...Esth...er...what? Why ar...e you here so... early? Wha...t

did...you..see..?" Esaias asked stuttering. Esther could not even
utter a word. She was shocked and dissapointed at the same
time.
"Es...Esth..er, It is not what you thi..." Esaias said.
"It is not what? Esaias why???" Esther shouted at him.
"I'm...I'm so sorry, It wasn't intentional....I...." Esaias said with a
teary face.
"You know what? Keep the apology to yourself, you Swine. You
stink and I hate you with every thing in me.".

26
Esther dropped her bag and left the class in anger and so much
hurt. She was hurt because of everything. Hurt for the fact that
someone who happens to be her friend was found in such act,
someone whom she loves dearly.....

"Oh no! She hates me now!" Esaias sobbed.

"Indeed, I am a dissapointment to everyone" Esaias said to
himself.

Esaias Daniel came from a middle class background. However,

his parents died in a ghastly motor accident when he was nine
and since then, his Aunt has been taking care of him. She
happened to be a poor lady who struggled to feed the both of
them. Her husband was dead and she had no child and this
was why she adopted Esaias as her son. Due to the fact that
she was poor, she could not afford to send Esaias to a good
school during his primary school days. She managed to send
him to a public primary school where he was taught all sorts of
bad acts, including masturbation. Esaias met with Christ in the
same primary school but backslided when he had no follow up.
Class went as normal that day. However, it was not so for
Esaias and Esther. Esaias kept stealing glances at Esther,
hoping she would give him audience and that he would get to
explain how it happened but Esther kept a straight face
throughout the lesson period. Esther was furious, angry,
dissapointed in him, irritated and digusted by his mere sight.
She kept hoping the lessons for the day would come to an end.
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At closing hour , Joan and Promise went to Esther's class and
for the first time, Esther left for home without her friends. They
met Esaias packing up his bag and then, Joan asked him....

" Hey Esaias, where is Esther?" Joan asked.

"She has gone home" Esaias replied coldly.
"Gone home?" The two friends asked in shock.
"Yea" Esaias replied frankly.
"What happened?" Promise asked.
"I have no idea" Esaias said.
"But why did she leave home without us?" Promise asked again.
"I don't know " Esaias replied coldly.
"But she...." Promise probed further.
"I said I don't know! You all should leave me alone and get out
of my life " Esaias shouted at the girls with a teary face and left
the class sadly and angrily. He shouted so loud that it attracted
the attention of the rest of the students.
"Wow, this is so weird" Promise said.
"Let's go to her house" Joan suggested.
"Yes, we should". Promise agreed.

The two friends went to Esther's house. On getting there, they

28
met her mum.

"Ever since she came back from school, she has been acting all
weird. She has refused to eat and even when I asked her why
she refused to eat, she shouted at me and entered into her
room. She has refused to come out since then". Her Mum
explained to Esther's friends.
"She shouted at you? We're so sorry for that ma, we will speak
to her" Promise assured Mrs Omowaye.
The girls knocked on Esther's door and when she opened, they
were shocked to see how red Esther's eyes was and how
devastated she looked.

"My God! Esther, what is wrong with you?" Promise asked.

"Haaaaaa!!!" Esther shouted and burst into fresh tears.

After they consoled Esther, she explained to them, all that she
witnessed.

"On getting to school this morning, after Promise went to her

class, I heard...." Esther narrated the incident.

ESAIAS' ROOM
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"It is better if I kill myself than to keep doing this and making
God unhappy. I am tired of life. I am tired of doing this. I don't
even pray anymore nor read the Bible. My prayer life is as cold
as ice. I am tired! I can't cope. I am a disgrace. She called me a
swine..." Esaias said and burst into tears. Each time he
remembered Esther's words, he couldn't help but burst into
fresh tears.
"She said she hates me now. She doesn't want to talk to me nor
look into my face. She..." Esaias kept sobbing uncontrollably.
His Aunt was not at home as she was always at the shop from
morning till night. It happened that Esaias was usually the only
one staying in the house. There were times that his Aunt would
arrive late when he was asleep and he wouldn't get to see her
the next day when he leaves for school.
"I am going to end it here". That was Esaias' last sentence after
which he stabbed himself with the kitchen knife ".

30
3
The next day at school. Esther was still very much angry and
mad at Esaias. She got to school and noticed that Esaias was
absent.

"He's a bit late today. What could have happened? Well, Should
I even be worried about him now?.." Esther remembered what
he did and the hatred she had for him at that moment,
multiplied.

Throughout that day in class, Esther felt somehow lonely but

she was too proud to admit that she was worried about her
seatmate. Everyone in class kept asking Esther why Esaias was
not around. They knew them to be very close and in fact, best
friends. Esther kept saying she had no idea about his
whereabout and the reason he wasn't around. Even their class
teacher asked Esther the same question. At closing period,
Promise and Joan met with Esther in class and they asked her
the reason why Esaias wasn't around...

"Hi Esther" They greeted.

"Hi" Esther replied.

31
"Where is Esaias?" Promise asked.
"He's on my head nauh. You know I'm his Mum or Dad..." Esther
said sarcastically and hissed.
"Esther, now tell me, what is the meaning of that?" Promise
asked.
"Meaning of what? Tell me....Meaning of what? After what he
did, you both are still worried about him. Someone like him
deserves to go to hell. He acted nice to us all...made me think he
was an angel on earth....Esther paused and frowned.
"Tell me this is not real.....Esther, this isn't you.." Promise said,
shaking her head.
"Esther.....what are you even saying? What's the meaning of
this...?" Joan was shocked.
"Don't even go there Joan. The only person who has the right to
talk to me in that manner is Promise. When did you join us?
Who are you? Were you not a porn addict then before we led
you to Christ. So, now you think you can open your mouth
widely and talk to me anyhow?....." Esther replied in anger.
"Esther!!!! Blood of Jesus...what has come over you? What is
this?" Promise asked in shock.
"It's not your fault and thanks for reminding me of my dirty past"
Joan said and walked away angrily with tears in her eyes.
"I am ashamed of you and dissapointed in you Esther, may God
forgive you". Promise said and walked away, running after Joan.
"Nonsense, I even gave my life to Christ before Promise did. I
32
was the one who led her to Christ. Because she's more spiritual
than I am doesn't mean she should now act all holy....acting like
she's the only one God listens to" Esther hissed and walked
away.

IN THE HOSPITAL

"Madam, see me in my office now " The doctor said to Esaias'

Aunt, Mrs Olorunda.

It happened that Mrs Adeayo, the neighbour to Mrs Olorunda,

Esaias' Aunt went into their apartment to return the lighter she
had borrowed a day before. She was shocked on finding Esaias
lying in the pool of his blood. She couldn't believe her eyes.
Immediately, she ran out for help and luckily, not far from their
apartment was an hospital. Immediately, a stretcher was
brought in and Esaias was admitted into the hospital. Mrs
Adeayo deposited 50,000 naira for Esaias to be treated with
immediate effect. She put a call through to his Aunt and
speedingly, the poor woman left her shop and ran to the
hospital.

"He has hypovolemic shock" The doctor said to Mrs Olorunda.

"Hypo what? Doctor, what does that mean? She asked.
"Hypovolemic shock results from depletion of intravascular
33
volume, whether by extracellular fluid loss or blood loss.
Hypovolemic shock usually causes decreased perfusion of the
whole brain, which is hypoxic-ischemic brain injury, which
denotes global exposure to and injury from hypoxia. Also, Going
into shock can cause an acquired brain injury by reducing the
amount of oxygen-rich blood that reaches the brain. Without
blood and oxygen, the brain quickly begins deteriorating.
Neural cells die, and a shock acquired brain injury (ABI) can
occur".
"Jesu mi ooooo (My Jesus)" The poor woman couldn't stop
crying and lamenting.
"What are his chances of survival?" She asked amidst tears.
"Well ma'am, we're hoping his organs are not damaged.
However, I'm sorry to tell you this, Ma but there is a very low
chance of his survival. I'm so sorry but we will try our best......Are
you a Christian?" The doctor asked.
"I am a Christian oooooo" the woman was still sobbing...
"Pray to your God very well, perhaps, he might perform a
miracle". That was the doctor's last word to Mrs Olorunda as
she left his office in sadness.

The following week

It was a school day. Esther was seen in her room saying her
morning prayers.

34
"Dear Lord, thank you for all you've done, all you are doing and
all you will do. I appreciate you for everything. As I'm going to
school, I pray that you oh Lord will keep me safe....Amen". Esther
said her morning prayers as she left for school, alone. Ever since
that incident, she had refused to apologise to Joan and Promise
and has kept her distance.

"I can't continue to be friends with hypocrites", she said.

However, Promise and Joan kept praying for her that God
should help her and touch her heart. On getting to school,
Esther noticed that Esaias wasn't around. She became really
worried that it was impossible for her to hide her worry. She
kept thinking of the possible reasons why Esaias did not show
up in school ever since that day.

“Has he gone to another school? No, that's not possible....If he

has, our class teacher would have been informed about it and
she would have informed us. Oh no!....Is he sick? I would have
paid a visit but I don't really know his house. Wait oh.....Visit him?
That goat in sheep clothing....." Esther remembered the scene
again and felt nothing but anger, bitterness and hatred
towards Esaias.
"He is an hypocrite. He doesn't deserve my concern or care..."
Esther said in a tone of finality.

35
"Good morning class" The class teacher entered into the class
with two new students, a male and a female.
"Good morning ma" The students replied.
"I hope you're all doing great?"
"Yes ma, Thank you". The students chorused.
"I would like to introduce new members of this class. Class, meet
your friends, Stephen and Stephanie". The teacher said.

"Wow, so they are twins!"

"I suspected it because they really look like each other!"
"They look cute and cool!" The students commented.

The new students were assigned to their seats and the day
went as every other normal day. Little did class 2S know that
those two students came into that school for a mission.
Shortly after the break period, an emergency bell was rung. The
students gathered on the assembly ground and kept
murmuring to one another because they had no idea what
went wrong. In Bright Future Generation Academy(BFGA),
Whenever the emergency bell was rung, it is an indication that
something serious and disturbing had happened. Beside the
school principal on the assembly ground was Esaias' aunt, Mrs
Olorunda, in tears. The principal went on to address the
students....

36
"Good morning my dear Winners" The principal was fond of
calling his students names like...WINNERS, CHAMPIONS e.t.c.
"Good morning Sir" The students chorused.
"Straight to the point, It was made known to us a few minutes
ago that a student of this school is in the hospital, fighting for
his dear life. Here is his Aunt, Mrs Olorunda. This student
happens to be a member of SS2s. He goes by the name, Esaias
Daniel. According to the report given to us, he is in a critical
condition and a large sum of money is needed for his treatment.
Students, I would want you all to go home to your parents and
tell them all that I've told you. We need their support at this
time. All members of staff are on this issue as well as we are all
going to support the family of this boy. Tell your parents to
please, support this family with any amount. I pray God blesses
everyone of us and your parents". The principal concluded and
prayed.
"Amen!" The students chorused and went back into their classes.

Soon, the closing bell was rung. Promise and Joan had earlier
planned to visit Esther as early as possible before she leaves for
home. They entered into the class and fortunately for them, she
had just finished packing her bags and was on her way to leave.
Immediately Esther saw them, she hissed and turned to pass
through the exit door of the class. Promise called out to her...

37
"Esther, what has come over you? What is wrong? What has
happened to..." Promise asked.
"Nothing is wrong with me. If choosing not to be friends with
hypocrites has become a crime, then, I'll gladly accept that I am
guilty". Esther said and hissed.
"Essty, you were not like this. Is this what Christ taught us? That
we should hate our fellow man? You heard what happened to
Esaias on the assembly ground earlier today, didn't you?"
Promise asked.
"I did, so what? What's my business with that? Well, I pray God
heals him". Esther replied nonchalantly, trying to hide her worry.
"Essty....My God! What is this? Essty please just stop this if it is a
joke....what?...God!" Promise was speechless. She was really
surprised by Esther's attitude. Promise didn't know where the
boldness came from. She said to Esther…

"The Esther I knew was not like this. The Esther I knew was the
one who led me to Christ. The one who told me about God's
love. The one who told me that LOVE is the most important
thing and greatest of all in this Christian journey. Just because
of a sin a friend of yours committed, you decided to stay clear
away from him. He needed help but all you did was condemn
him. You could have simply prayed for him or ministered to him
at that spot but you chose to move away from him. This is
totally unbelievable, Esther. Had it been Christ reacted to your
sinful life the way you did to Esaias, you would not be where
you are now. You can do what you like but remember, we will
38
be praying for you. I'll leave you with these words, Before you
decide not to forgive the person who has offended you, think of
the punishment you would have received if Christ didn't forgive
you. Also, If anything bad happens to Esaias, I assure you that
you'll regret your actions towards him all the rest of your life".
These were Esther's last words as she and Joan left Esther's
class.

Esther was broken by Promise 's words. It struck her so hard.

She came to the realization that she had messed up! Right at
that spot....she realised that she had really missed it. She got
home and the first thing she did was go into her room and
weep bitterly. She cried to God and was truly repentant.

"God, I'm so sorry.....I acted foolishly. Please, I'm sorry....Holy

Spirit forgive me" Esther wept bitterly.
"WHO ARE YOU TO CONDEMN YOUR FELLOW MAN?"
"Holy Spirit, I am sorry" Esther kept sobbing.
"I SEE THAT YOU ALSO TOLD YOUR FRIENDS THAT THEY ARE
HYPOCRITES "
“Ah....God, I'm sorry " Esther sobbed.
"YOU DIDN'T EVEN NOTICE THAT I STOPPED TALKING EVER
SINCE THAT DAY YOU MADE THE DECISION TO LEAVE ME OUT
OF THE EQUATION AND CONDEMN YOUR FRIENDS".
"Ah! I'm so sorry Holy Spirit" Esther kept saying she was sorry.
39
"OUT OF YOUR CARELESSNESS AND ANGER, YOU PUSHED
AWAY YOUR TRUE FRIENDS AND ENDANGERED YOUR FRIEND'S
LIFE".
"My friend's life? Who?" She inquired.
"ESAIAS....YOU WERE THE ONE THAT WAS SUPPOSED TO LEAD
HIM BACK AGAIN TO THE CROSS. THROUGH YOU, I WANTED TO
HELP AND SAVE HIM. I WANTED TO USE YOU TO BRING HIM
BACK ON HIS FEET IN THE FAITH BECAUSE I WANT TO USE HIM
TO SAVE MANY FROM THE SHACKLES AND BONDAGE OF SIN".
"Oh no! God, please forgive me and have mercy on me".
"YOU REFUSED TO FORGIVE YOUR FELLOW MAN. YOU
CONDEMNED AND JUDGED HIM WHEN I, HAVE NOT DONE SO".
"God, I know I don't deserve your forgiveness and mercy. Please,
Lord, have mercy on me". Esther sobbed.
"PRAY!"
"Pray?" Esther asked.
"PRAY FOR ESAIAS THAT HIS SOUL WILL NOT BE LOST TO THE
DEVIL FOR THE DEVIL WANTS HIS SOUL BY ALL MEANS".
"Yes sir!" Esther got on her feet and started praying for Esaias
as the Holy Spirit led.

40
4
THE UNDER WORLD

GRANDMASTER: Remember your mission in that school. Get it

done as soon as possible. What is our aim??

ALL: To make youths uninterested in serving God. To make it

look boring, Old fashioned and tiring for them. To make serving
God look like an impossible task for them. For those who have
made up their mind to serve the GREAT ONE, hahaha....we
make it hard for them to abide by His will....

GRANDMASTER: Oh! Yes! We make youths delevop interest in

things like spending more time on the internet. Through it, we
introduce them to porn, masturbation and other related sins.
Hahaha...When they get stuck in our net, we make life
frustrating for them. That way, they would no longer have time
for God's word or prayer. That....will then make them vulnerable
to our attacks...hahaha.

ALL: Yesssssss!

41
GRANDMASTER: Also, anyone of them who tries to break free
from our grip, we hold them down with guilt. We remind them
of their past sins and due to that, they lose their confidence in
the place of prayer. We also make it hard for them to open up
about the sins they are struggling with and with that, we have
total control over them and access to them anytime we want.

ALL: Hahaha...

GRANDMASTER: That's why I sent you both to that school so

that you can win over to our side, the heart of many youths.
Make them fall for these sins. Introduce it to them and ensure
that they are stuck in it. Once that happens, We will have total
control over their lives and they will be vulnerable to our
attacks.

Stephanie and Stephen remembered their mission in BFGA.

They made up their mind to start their operation in that school
as soon as possible.

A week after...

Bright Future Generation Academy (BFGA)

42
"Hey....Where is my money?" Stephanie asked a guy named
Charles in Esther's class.

It happened that Stephanie and Stephen were carrying out

some operations in the school. They gave their phones to
students during break to watch unhealthy contents and videos
and they charged them huge amounts of money. As for
Stephanie, she used her body to entice a lot of guys in her class
and some of these guys fell into her trap. By so doing, their lives
were rendered useless. Stephen also befriended a lot of guys
and told them that big boys do things married men do. The
both of them had been successfully carrying out their operation
in BFGA.
Promise and Joan met everyday in Joan's house for their prayer
meetings and Bible study in Esther's absence. Joan was very
upset with Esther's behaviour but Promise told her to forgive
her from her heart. Promise was upset with Esther also but she
knew that God would touch her heart. She never stopped
praying for her since then and she missed her friend greatly.
It was break period that Monday. The Emergency bell was rung
once again and the school principal addressed the students.

"We would love you to appreciate your parents for their support.
The total amount generated is 235, 000 naira. Tell your parents
that we appreciate them and we pray that God blesses them".
"Amen!" The students chorused.

43
Esaias wasn't getting any better. His Aunt was getting tired of
the situation. She cried everyday whenever she paid him a visit
at the hospital.

"I miss you, my dear son. As a little boy, you had to go through
the pain of losing your parents...and now, you're on the hospital
bed, fighting for your dear life. Why must this happen to you
and no one else? You've suffered all your life, went through a
lot of pain and felt miserable. I remember when I got you
registered into that school, I saw you smile often. When I asked
what the secret was, you told me a girl who is your seatmate
keeps your company well and that she is so nice to you. You go
to school early because you miss her everyday and when you
return home, you smile all through like a little baby. Why don't
you get well soon so she can make you smile once again? I am
waiting for you to get well soon. Your friends are waiting for
you at school. Esaias!!!!! Wa...ke....wake up!" Mrs Olorunda wept
greatly before the nurses came in and took her out of the ward
so as not to disturb other patients.

After break period, Esther had it in mind to go to Promise's class

and apologise to her friends for all she did and said. Meanwhile,
Promise and Joan also had it in mind to visit Esther's class to
check up on her. Surprisingly, they all ran into one another.

"Hi Esther" Promise greeted.

44
"Oh! Erhmmm..hi" Esther replied with her head bent down in
shame and guilt.
"You don't need this sis" Joan said.
"I don't need what?" Esther asked, not getting the message.
"I mean...you don't need to feel so overwhelmed with guilt. It is
totally fine. We've forgiven you already and the fact that you
have begged for forgiveness from God is all that matters". Joan
replied, giving Esther a warm and welcoming smile.
"I'm so sorry" Esther ran to her friends and hugged them tightly
with tears in her eyes.
"I really messed up. I was proud, selfish, inconsiderate, wicked
and in all, I wasn't a good friend ". Esther said while sobbing.
"You're forgiven sis. There's no need to beat yourself up. Let's
forget the past and focus on the present. Have you heard
anything about Esaias?" Promise asked.
"I went to see our class teacher last Friday and I was able to get
his house address". Esther said.
"Woah! How were you able to get it that easily?" Joan asked
"She knows we're pretty close and that I might wanna pay a
visit" Esther replied.
"Oh! I see". Joan replied.
"Let's pay a visit tomorrow" Promise suggested.
"Sure, Let's do that" Joan said.
"I...I might not be.....a....able to face him. I said some harsh words
45
the other day before he got admitted into the hospital" Esther
said.
"Don't worry sis, we are always here for you no matter what."
Joan said.
"Thanks for forgiving me Joan. I'm sorry for the words I utt...."
"Geez! How many times do you want to apologise? I'll bite your
nose oh" Joan said jokingly.

There was a pause.

"Thanks guys for all you do. I appreciate you both and I really
cherish this friendship. I'll never try to end our friendship
anymore, never". Esther said and the girls hugged one another.
"You dare not! Else, I'll eat your ears....hahaha". Promise
whispered into Esther's ears.
"You're so silly..." Esther replied jokingly.

The girls got back together and made up their mind to visit
Esaias' Aunt's place the next day after school.

"Hey Joan! Wait up!" Sam, Joan's crush called and ran to meet
her.
"Heesh! I've been avoiding him for some time now. Why does he
46
have to show up n?" Joan thought to herself.
"Oh, Hi!" Joan replied.
"I've noticed you've been avoiding me for sometime.." Sam said
"Oh! I...I did...well, It wasn't....I was..." Joan stuttered.
"It's fine. How have you been?" Sam asked.
"I've been good, thanks". Joan replied not looking at Sam's face.
"Hey, Joan, there is something I've wanted to tell you." Sam said
with sincerity in his eyes.
"Oh! Erhmm...Okay.." Joan said.
"Joan, I....I like you. No! I love you and I want you to be my
girlfriend". Sam said.
"What..why..wha...I...erhmm...." Joan stuttered.
"I love you, Joan" Sam confessed.
"I'm a Christian..." Joan replied.
"Stop it! I know you like me too and I see how you look at me in
class". Sam said.
"How...how did you know?" Joan said and realising that she
confessed to the act, she said "I...I don't mean it that way....I...I
don't love..." She stuttered.
"Joan, please, be mine" Sam said sweetly.
After some minutes…

47
"What do you say Joan? We love each other. We can make this
work. It's more like we being friends. Hanging out with each
other, going on dates, shopping and having fun. Christianity
doesn't mean you shouldn't have friends or you shouldn't have
fun. Geez! Don't be a boring Christian. Even Jesus didn't live a
boring life. See, I'm a Christian too. In fact, my dad is the famous
Reverend Olusola. Joan...I love you, you love me, Let's make this
work" Sam said convincingly.
"He's right. It's just a form of friendship. After all, we are both
Christians. We will make sure not to sin and just hang out and
have fun. He's so handsome, cute and sweet, isn't he?" Joan
thought to herself and admired Sam.
"JOAN! THIS IS NOT WHAT YOU'RE MEANT TO BE DOING. WE
STILL HAVE A LOT TO CATCH UP ON! JOAN, YOU'RE GOD'S
GENERAL. YOU SHOULDN'T BEHAVE ANYHOW. AS GOD'S
GENERAL, YOU CAN'T LIVE ANYHOW. THERE ARE KINGDOM
STANDARDS AND THEY ARE DIFFERENT FROM THE WORLD'S
STANDARDS".
"Allow me enjoy my life. It's just a friendship, nothing more.
Besides, I like him. He's cool" Joan said within her.
"Will you date me, Joan?" Sam asked again.
"Oh! Erhmm....let me think about it First " Joan replied.
"Think about it? What's there to think about? Don't you love
me?" Sam said with so much emotion in his eyes.
"Alright Sam, Let's try it if it will work out " Joan replied.
"Oh really? Wow...You are such a darling" Sam replied happily.
48
"Awwwn, thanks so much" Joan blushed.
"Let me take you somewhere" Sam said.
"Aww, where is that?" Joan asked.
"It's a secret. You'll find out soon" Sam said sweetly and held her
hands.

Joan had forgotten that she and her friends agreed on visiting
Esaias' Aunt's place after school. She left school with Sam, her
new boyfriend.

"Have you seen Joan?" Promise asked Esther.

"Not at all" Esther replied.
"Where could she be?" Promise asked.
"You know what? Let's go ahead. It's getting late. We'd check
up on her later". Esther suggested.

Esther and Promise left for Esaias' Aunt's place and luckily, they
met her at home. After explaining their relationship with Esaias,
she asked...
"Which one of you is Esther?" Mrs Olorunda asked.
"I....I am ma" Esther replied.
"Wow, God bless you my daughter. You see....Esaias' had been a
sorrowful child right from when he was little. He has gone
49
through a lot in life. His parents died in a car accident. It was
after then that I started taking care of him. On several
occasions, he almost committed suicide. I felt so much pity for
him. Afterwards, I changed his school because his teachers
complained about his behavior and that he was always absent
minded in class and wasn't doing well at all. The second day
after I changed his school, I noticed he was happy. He later told
me a friend named Esther had been the reason for his
happiness. He would tell me how nice and friendly she is.
Because of her, he would wake up early so he can get to school
on time. He even said you live not too far from our place. How
come you didn't know about our place?"
"Well...I....I....leave first anytime we go home together so I didn't
know your house is not that far to ours. Besides, we went home
together for not so many times. He was planning on taking me
to visit you Ma, before he got admitted". Esther replied with a
teary face. She regretted all that she said to him and she
prayed and hoped that Esaias would survive.
"It's fine. Let's visit the hospital. It's not far from here". Mrs
Olorunda suggested.

They all went to GOD HEALS hospital. When they got to where
Esaias was, Esther couldn't help but break down in tears. Esaias
was in a terrible state. It was devastating for Esther to see her
friend in that state.

"The doctor says he has hypovolemic shock and ABI". Mrs

50
Olorunda said and cried.
"Oh no!" Esther walked up to Esaias' bed....
"You must live Esaias! I still have a lot to tell you. I have to
apologise also for not being a good friend. You have to wake
up!" Esther cried.
The place got noisy due to the trio's cries. The nurses told them
to leave the ward and the doctor warned them that if they keep
up with it, they would not be allowed to enter his ward
anymore. Meanwhile, the money BFG Academy contributed
helped greatly with the hospital bills.
"I hope you survive this Esaias " That was Esther's last word as
they all left the hospital with swollen eyes caused by excessive
tears.

The next day at school during break. Esther and Promise

planned to visit Joan's class to ask her, the reason she failed to
show up the day before after they all agreed to visit Esaias'
aunt's place. On getting to Joan's class, they were shocked by
what they saw. They saw Joan sitting on Sam's lap and the
both of them were staring and smiling at each other. Esther's
anger arose. She walked up to Joan's seat and gave her a
resounding slap.

"Joan! What is the meaning of this nonsense? Oh.. this is what

you do and yet you act like you're a saint..." Esther said angrily.
"Esther....calm down!" Promise said.
51
"Joan, let's step out for a minute". Promise said and walked out
of the class with Joan. The three of them went to an empty
class.
"Joan, why? What happened? Care to explain?" Promise asked
Joan.
"I'm in love with Sam" Joan said.
"In love? But Joan we've talked about this before. We even
prayed with you and you told us that your feelings for him were
gone and that you realised it was lust". Promise said.
"I was lying". Joan said with her gaze fixed on the ground.
"But why, Joan? Why?" Promise said, almost in tears.
"Why are you asking her the reason she lied? Isn't it obvious?
She is just a pretender, a liar and a whore." Esther said angrily.
"A whore? How dare you call me a whore?" Joan said angrily.
"The both of you should please calm down. Esther, you
shouldn't have said that!" Promise said.
"Well, it's not her fault. On a closer look, she's right. Since you
both are saints, I'm no longer fit to be your friend. You,
Esther.....You call yourself a Christian and all you do is judge.
That was the same way you did to Esaias. You act like a Saint
whereas you're not. You call yourself a Christian.....is this what
Christ taught you? I wish I hadn't met you. The other day, you
reminded me of my terrible past. I'm really grateful for what you
said because you have made me understand that you are
nothing but a worthless person....someone everyone should run
away from, someone that is not worthy to be called a Christian.
52
For your information, I have found love. I have found someone
who accepts me the way I am, someone who loves and
cherishes me greatly, someone who would never blame me for
my past, someone who would always give me the respect I
deserve. I regret meeting you Esther and for you Promise,
you've been nice to me so far and this is why I'd say this, Esther
is not someone you can move with. If you love yourself, it's
better you stop being friends with her and let her find someone
who she sees as being worthy enough to be her friend. I don't
want to have anything to do with the both of you anymore. I'm
done with you both, I'm done with Christianity and all other
stuffs. If this is how Christians behave, I prefer to be an
unbeliever". Joan said and walked out on them.

Esther was dumbfounded. Again, she let her emotions control

her big time. Joan was someone who gave her life to Christ a
few months back. She lived a reckless lifestyle until God used
Promise to preach to her. Since then, she became Promise and
Esther's friend and they all pray and study the word of God
together. Promise was surprised about Joan's sudden change.

"She gave her life to Christ that day. She is a Christian. She is a
Child of God. God!,Please, bring back Joan". Promise cried.

Immediately, Esther left the scene. She got to her class after
what seemed like a hundred years and was absent minded
throughout. She remembered Joan's words...
53
"If this is how Christians behave, I prefer to be an unbeliever ".
"You call yourself a Christian and all you do is judge".
"You act like a Saint whereas, you're not".

Esther was going crazy at that moment.

"Am I really that bad?" Esther thought to herself.
"Oh no! I messed up again. How could I say those words to
Joan? What is happening to me? What came over me? Oh no!"
Esther regretted all she said.
"I didn't even know when I said those words....I was so blinded
with rage that I spoke harshly...." Esther regretted her actions.
She then remembered the topic that was treated in the Sunday
school class the day before...."ANGER, A SHORT TIME MADNESS".
She remembered Mummy Odeniran (The Sunday school
teacher)'s words....

Whenever you are angry, don't speak. If you do, you'll end up
regretting the words you said in your angry state. Words are
like eggs, when it is broken, it cannot be returned to its former
state".
She remembered the story of Moses that was taught to them in
the Sunday school class. She remembered how by anger, he
didn't get to the promise land that he had greatly worked hard
for. She remembered how he got many of the Israelites killed
due to anger. Esther felt terrible.
54
"I'm a terrible person. I ruined it all. I don't deserve to be called a
Christian truly. Joan is right. I'm a bad person....Anger has
finished me!" Esther sobbed and greatly regretted her actions.
She thought about Esaias and burst into fresh tears.
"I broke his heart by my hurtful words. I said a lot to him that
day and I even didn't get to apologize. If he dies, I'll feel guilty
for life". Esther said and left for home without Promise. She was
so sad and dissapointed in herself.

"Can God ever forgive me?"

55
5
When Promise got home after school, she went into her room,
dropped her bags and immediately went on her knees.

"Promise, come downstairs! Your food is ready" Promise's Mum

called from the kitchen.
"I'm not ready, Mum" Promise replied.
"Alright dear" Promise's Mum replied.

She knew that whenever Promise said that, it's either she's
praying or she's studying the word and doesn't want to be
distracted. Promise went on her knees and cried to God....

"Dear God, I thank you for everything. I thank you for my life. I
thank you for my family and friends. I thank you for Esaias. I
thank you because you have healed him. I thank you for Esther
because You will help her. I thank you for Joan...."
Immediately Promise mentioned Joan's name, she burst into
tears. She remembered all Joan said and Promise cried the
more to God...
56
"God, please help Joan! Help Joan, Jesus! Don't let the devil take
over her life.....Help Esaias Lord! Don't let him die! Lord please,
heal him!.....While Promise was praying for Esaias, she heard a
voice within her Spirit....
"I AM GOING TO BRING ESAIAS BACK TO LIFE. FOR HE WAS
DEAD, SURELY, HE SHALL RISE AGAIN. ESAIAS IS MINE, A GREAT
INSTRUMENT AND A GREAT MINISTER OF THE WORD TO BE.
FOR THIS REASON, I WILL LET HIM LIVE AND THE WORLD WILL
KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD".
"Wow! Thank you Jesus!" Promise kept singing songs of praise
to God. She kept thanking Him over Esaias' life.

Meanwhile, God visited Esaias at the hospital. Esaias had a

dream. He was in a field filled with thick grasses which made it
look like a desolate area. He ran forward and backward, yet, he
could not find a way out neither could he see through. Suddenly,
he heard a voice. The voice made him know that He, the Lord
will save him but He wants him (Esaias) to surrender the totality
of his life to Him and live for Him. He told Esaias that as soon as
he wakes up, he should praise Him and forever do His will till he
breathes his last breath.

GOD HEALS HOSPITAL

Mrs Olorunda sat beside her son, Esaias. She kept looking deep
into his eyes, wishing he'd get better soon. The doctor called her
into his office to let her know more about her son's situation.

57
Not long after she went to see the doctor, Esaias woke up! He
looked around and wondered what happened. He however
remembered all that had happened. He remembered Esther's
words to him, how he went home after school, alone and how
he stabbed himself. Mrs Olorunda, on getting to where Esaias
was, was surprised and she called the doctor immediately. The
doctor checked him and was surprised of his healing.
A patient with ABI (Acquired Brain Injury) recovers not so fast. A
rapid recovery starts from 18 months to 2 years according to
the Doctor. He was surprised at how Esaias remembered all
that had happened before he was admitted. He had no
emotional stress or weakness or fatigue. He was perfectly fine
as if nothing had happened to him.

"This is indeed, a miracle madam." The doctor said to Mrs

Olorunda.

After several tests were being carried out, Esaias got

discharged. His wound had almost healed up and he was
perfectly fine although he was given some drugs to take from
time to time. Soon, Esaias resumed school. He was taken to the
principal and then, his class teacher. The moment he stepped
into the class with his class teacher, the students gave him a
warm welcome. Everyone had missed the most handsome and
quiet guy in the class. The teacher told him his seat had been
reserved and so, he went back to his seat.

58
"Erhmm....Hi, Esaias". Esther greeted. However, there was no
response from Esaias. He just kept talking to his other mates to
know how far they'd gone in the various subjects and he
started writing his notes.
"Let me help you with some.." Esther said and stretched forth
her hand to help Esaias with his notes.
"Don't! Just let me be!" Esaias said.
"But...." Esther tried convincing him.
"Don't stress me Esther!" Esaias said aloud.
"Hey! Are you deaf? He just got discharged from the hospital
and you're stressing him? What's your problem?" Arike, a
member of Esther's class who had been crushing on Esaias
spoke out.

Esther felt embarassed and disgraced. She was hurt but she
knew that she deserved it. She felt hurt by the fact that her
friend, Esaias didn't want to see nor talk to her. She was jealous
that he gave other ladies and members of the class more
attention. Even her mates noticed this and they couldn't stop
asking her what was wrong between the both of them.
When it was break period, Esther made up her mind that no
matter, she would speak to Esaias and ask for his forgiveness.
When she saw Esaias leaving the class, she followed him
immediately. She kept following him quietly and she saw that
he went into an empty class. She remembered what happened
the other time that caused her to say harsh words to him. She
59
thought to herself...

"Oh no! Is he going to do it again?...." She didn't know she said

that aloud.
"Do what? " Esaias said and looked at her with disgusting eyes.
"No...erhmmm...I..I...didn't mean that...actually" Esther kept
stammering.
"You know you're quite funny right? You amaze me, Esther. For
your information....I came here to avoid you. So....why have you
followed me here all the way from the class?" Esaias asked.
"Erhmmm...I am...I'm sorry Esaias for the way I treated you..."
Esther said and burst into tears.
"Oh really! You are sorry? You don't have to be. Do you know
how hurt I was? Do you know the pain I went through? I begged
and pleaded with you to allow me explain how everything
turned out. You refused to listen. Instead, you hurt me with your
words. You know...you really act like a saint whereas you're not.
You are wicked and I hate you!" Esaias made it known to Esther
clearly, the deep hate he had for her.
"I'm sorry Esaias.....I'm happy you're fine now. I prayed so hard
so you'll make it alive...." Esther said to him.
"Hold it there! Pray for who?
A pause

60
Here is the story you didn't want to hear...

At the age of 9, I lost my parents and so, I started living with my

Aunt. She got me enrolled into a primary school in our area then.
I was introduced to masturbation at an early age. However, a
girl preached Christ to me and I gave my life to Christ. I didn't
know what to do next after giving my life to Christ. After some
time, I started masturbating again. I was so ashamed of myself.
I'd cry so many times because I really wished to be free but
there was no one around to help me. I got to this school. I made
friends with you and your friends because I saw that you are
children of God. I liked you at first sight. You were amazing, nice
and humble. I was happy. Little did I know that it was for a short
period of time. Do you even know why I joined your prayer and
Bible study group? It was because I needed help. I knew I was
off the track and I needed someone to help me find my way
back to the cross. I was so happy to have met a nice friend who
likes me too. On that fateful Morning, I left home earlier than
usual because I just felt like getting to school early. I knew you
were an early comer also so I felt it would be cool to get to
school so early. However, I didn't know what came over me. I
did it again! That was when you came in and saw me. I begged
to explain to you. However, you worsened the situation. I was
so sad. I left school immediately after the closing bell was rung.
When I got home, I felt really sad and upon remember all you
said to me, I took the kitchen knife and stabbed myself". Esaias
said and a tear dropped from his eyes.
"Jesus Christ! You did what...?" Esther was shocked.
61
"I'm not done. I stabbed myself and for 2 weeks, I was at the
hospital. God healed me and on resuming back to school, I
realised that the one who caused me to be absent from school
for 2 weeks is now begging to come back into my life.....begging
for friendship. All I would say now is to thank you for showing
me the real you. I've seen who you are and I have concluded
that I can't be friends with you any longer. Act like you don't
know me from now on. Let's go our separate ways. When I
move to the left, you move to the right and vice versa. Stay
away from me for God's sake. I don't want to have anything to
do with someone like you anymore. You're someone everyone
should run away from". Esaias concluded.
"Esaias....I'm sorry. Please, I had no idea that...I'm...Please..."
Esther stuttered and sobbed heavily.
"Don't say I did not warn you Esther. Stay away from me....if not,
I'd be forced to behave in a way you won't be pleased with".
Esaias said and made a move to walk away.
"Please, Esaias....". Esther stopped Esaias by holding his hand
and she kept begging him.
"What is the meaning of this, Esther? Don't make me do what I'll
regret. I don't beat ladies....don't force me to start with you".
Esaias said and finally walked out on Esther.

Joan and Sam met at the latter's place after school. Joan lied to
her Mum that she would stop by at Esther's place for their
prayer meeting and Bible study.

62
Sam happens to be a child whose parents paid less attention to.
His Mum was a business woman while his Dad happened to be
a renowned minister of God. At that time, his parents were not
around. His Mum travelled to Cotonou to get more goods while
his dad was on a ministerial assignment. Sam used this
opportunity to ask Joan to visit him in his house. Joan was
reluctant at first, but she later agreed.

"Sam, I can't do this. I'm a child of God" Joan begged.

"Oh really? You mean we'd be dating without even cuddling or
any form of romance?" Sam asked.
"We can date without all these Sam. There's no need to..."Joan
said and was cut short by Sam.
"Oh! This is your plan right? You know you did not love me and
so, you decided to punish me this way..."Sam said.
"Sam, I love you so much and you know it". Joan replied with so
much emotion in her eyes.
"Then, prove it to me. Prove it to me that you love me so
much..." Sam said to Joan.
"But how else do you want me to prove it to you? I'm crazy
about you Sam....I'm...." Joan said with so much emotions in her
eyes.
"Prove it to me by doing what I want. It's just romance and
that's it. Everyone does it. It's not a new thing at all. You claim to
love me and yet you can't do such a little thing to make me
happy...." Sam replied dissapointedly.
63
"Okay....if that's the way you want me to prove my love to you,
I'd prove it to you then". Joan said to Sam and moved closer.

A few minutes later

"Sam, stop! Let's not do this! It's a sin. We're still young". Joan
said to Sam.
"It's not a bad thing. Everyone is doing it nauh...." Sam said.
"Sam, I'm sorry, I can't do this!" Joan said and made a move to
go out. Sam dragged her back and quickly shut the door. He
removed the keys and put it in his pockets.
"Sam....Sa..Wha..What are you trying to do?" Joan asked,
frightened.
"What does it look like I'm trying to do? See babe, I don't have
time for tales. Let's get straight to it". Sam said.
"Get...ge..get...straight to what?" Joan asked, being afraid.
"Oh! You really didn't know? Let me tell you a summary of this
whole story.

"For more than a year, I've been watching you. Ever since we
were in Ss1, I've had a thing for you. However, you did not even
notice me. Do you remember a time you saw a love letter in
your locker? I was the one who wrote it. However, you
shattered my heart and rendered my love useless by tearing
64
that letter without even reading it....." Sam said.
"How..ho..how...did you know that?" Joan asked.
"I saw you that day. You hissed after opening the letter and you
didn't even read through before you tore it into pieces. I was so
sad. I was angry. No girl has ever refused my love. I then made
up my mind to get you by all means. One day, I eavesdropped
on your conversation with your former friend, Gbemi. You were
not a Jesus lady then. You both were talking about the type of
guys you like. I remember you said that you love guys who are
into sports, especially one who is a basket ball player and that
you love guys who are very tall. I took note of that. It was an
advantage for me because naturally, I'm tall. I started learning
how to play the basket ball. In no time, I became your type of
guy. However, I realised that you changed from being the sassy
girl we all knew to being a Jesus girl. I was angry. I was
determined to get you by all means. It was a bonus for me
when I noticed that you had a crush on me. I started getting
close to you. We started off as friends after which we started
dating. I've always dreamt of this day when my dream would
come true, when the both of us would be together this way,
when I'd have my revenge on you for tearing my love letter and
rendering my love useless. Guess what baby, Here comes the
day!" Sam said, laughing hysterically.
"No Sam! You can't do this to me!!" Joan cried out!
"Watch me do it then!" Sam said and moved closer to Joan.

65
Author's note:

Ever since the beginning of this story, I've had a lot to say.
However, I thought it would be wise for me to say this;

Dear Christian lady,

Be very careful. Be careful of where you meet with the opposite
sex. A guy tells you to meet him at a corner or in a place where
you know the both of you would be alone, and you dress up
and go ahead to meet him. Many would say things like....
"He is a child of God!"
"He can't do anything to me!"
"He has the Holy Spirit. If I go meet him at his house, nothing
can happen".
"I'm a sexual puritan. I can't fall".

That's okay. I just hope you won't learn from your mistakes. Be
very careful and sensitive. The devil is not daft! He'll find every
possible way to bring you down! I have a lot to say but just bear
this in mind....

DO NOT CREATE AN ATMOSPHERE OR ENVIRONMENT WHERE

66
SIN WILL BE ABLE TO OPERATE FREELY. BE CAREFUL AND
SENSITIVE.

67
6
"No! Sam can't do this to me! Ahhhhhhhh!" Joan cried out.

It happened that she was raped by Sam. He beat her up after

which he threw her out of his house like a piece of trash. Joan's
Mum was worried. She had called her friends to ask about
Joan's whereabout but she only got to know that Joan lied
about going to Esther's place.

"Father Lord, Please keep my baby safe". Joan's Mum prayed

and continued her search. She spotted Joan far away walking
slowly at their house junction. She ran to her and as soon as she
got closer to where her daughter was, Joan fainted in her arms.

"Egbami (Please, help me), Joan.....wake up o....somebody help

me!" Joan's Mum cried out.
The little girl was taken to the hospital. The doctor assured her
Mum that Joan was stable and that she needed some rest. The
doctor then told her to see him in his office immediately.

68
"About your daughter, Ma, there is something very important
you need to know..." The doctor said to Joan's Mum.
"I hope nothing is wrong with my daughter? Doctor......talk to
me!" She cried out when she noticed the doctor was hesitant.
"You need to calm down, Madam..."
"Calm what? Doctor....please, what is wrong with my daughter?
Or??? Is she...?" She thought that her child had given up the
ghost.
"Not at all madam. Please, don't make such dangerous
assumptions. She is stable and doing fine. Actually, I want you
to stay calm as I tell you this ma'am...." The doctor said.
"Ooooh!!! What's always wrong with doctors? Okay....I'm calm
sir". She said as she was getting upset and impatient already.
"Madam, I'm very sorry to tell you this but your daughter was
badly raped. She...." The doctor said and was cut short by the
poor woman.
"Sorry, please come again sir..." She said, unsure of what she
heard.
"Your daughter was badly raped ma'am. I'm sorry". The doctor
said.
"Jesu mi o My Jesus)....who did I offend oooo? Who did this to
my daughter? Doctor, who did this to my daughter?" The
woman cried out and grabbed the doctor's shirt while asking
who did such a thing to her young daughter who was just 15
years of age.

69
"Madam, please, pull yourself together. You are in a hospital
and there are other patients as well..." The doctor said.
"Ahhhhh.....Ewo oooo.....I'm finished!" Joan's Mum kept wailing.
"Actually, Madam...there are some complications". The doctor
said.
"Compli....what? Ahhhh...My God! " Joan's Mum put her hands on
her head and could not stop sobbing.
"As a result of the rape and assault, we ran several tests on her
and we discovered that she has anal bleeding caused by anal
fissure and shock. However ma'am, be rest assured. It can be
treated and by God's Grace, we'll do our best to ensure she gets
well. Thankfully, bringing her to the hospital immediately after
the incident did not destroy the evidence that she was raped.
As a professional ma'am, I don't mean to meddle in your
personal matters but I'll advise that with the evidence, you can
decide to file a case against the perpetrator of this great evil"
The doctor suggested.
"Thank you Sir...Thank you". Her Mum said and wiped off her
tears.
"Can I see my daughter now?" She asked.
"Well, not for so long ma. You can check up on her for a few
seconds. Ask for Nurse Emerald on your way out. She'd give you
the list of drugs you should get for her treatment and some
other things you need to buy". The doctor said.
"Thank you very much doctor, I appreciate". Joan's Mum
thanked the doctor and left.
70
The next day at school, Joan's Mum created a big scene in front
of the principal's office.

"Where is that bastard student of yours who goes by the name

Sam?" She shouted.
"Madam, please, calm down," The Secretary said.
"Shut it there! I didn't come for you. I came for the person who
could not handle his students well. Someone who could not
train his students well and ensure that they are of good
behavior". She shouted.

The Principal called her into his office and after she calmed
down, she told the principal…

"One of your students who goes by the name Sam, had the
effontery to rape my daughter". Joan's Mum said.
"Excuse me ma, this is an insult upon the name of this school.
Our students are well trained to..." The principal said and was
cut short by her.
"Well trained to rape their fellow student? There is evidence
o....My daughter, Joan is there lying in the hospital, undergoing
treatment and yet, the perpetrator of the evil done to her is
somewhere in this school, probably, undergoing lectures.."
Joan's Mum cried out.
"Madam, what did you call his name again?" The principal
71
asked.
"My daughter told me his name is Sam and that he is her
classmate. He's in SS2B". She said.

The principal sent his secretary to Class SS2B to bring Sam into
his office.
"Madam, please, calm down. We'll make sure to get to the root
of this matter". The principal assured her.

Meanwhile, Promise ran up to Esaias to ask some questions.

"Hey! Wait up Esaias" Promise called out to catch up with him.

"Yes, what's it?" Esaias replied coldly.
"Why?" Promise asked.
"Why what?" Esaias asked in return.
"Why have you been acting coldly ever since you returned from
the hospital? I saw you yesterday at the food centre, I waved to
you and signalled to you to wait so I could catch up, but you
only rolled your eyes and left. I couldn't run after you because I
had been in the waiting line for quite some time and it was my
turn already". She said.
"Okay" Esaias replied.
"Is that the answer to my question?" Promise asked, surprised.
72
"What do you want me to say? What do you expect me to say
after all I went through. Your so called friend, Esther did all she
did to me and came back begging for forgiveness and you
expect me to talk to you, the friend of my enemy?" Esaias asked.
"What do you mean by I'm the friend of your enemy?" Promise
asked.
"Maybe you should ask your so called friend about our ordeal.
She'll tell you all about it. Excuse me!" Esaias said and walked
out on Promise.
"What could have happened? Why is he behaving this way?"
Esther thought to herself.

When Promise and Esther were on their way home, she started
a conversation.

"Urhmmm....Esther?" Promise called out to her friend.

"Yes?" Esther replied sadly. Promise noticed this and being
someone who cares a lot about her friend's welfare, she
proceeded to ask her about what went wrong.
"What's wrong Esther? Are you fine?" Promise asked.
"Yes, I am". She replied coldly.
"Are you sure? You know you can open up to me, right?"
Promise asked. After hesitating for a while, she replied...
"I'm.....I'm not fine Promise ". She said as tears began to drop
73
down her face.
"I'm all ears Essty. Wipe your tears dear" Promise said with great
concern.

Promise consoled Esther after which she told her about all that
transpired between Esaias and her.
"I'm a bad person Promise. I don't deserve to live " Esther said in
tears.
"Don't say that Essty. You're not a bad person. We all make
mistakes. Even before Christ came to save us, we didn't
deserve to live at all. Our sins were too much but not too much
for Christ to bear. He bore our sins and through His blood which
He shed on the cross, He gave us life. A new life was what He
gave to us Essty. Just as our sins were not too much for Him to
bear, your sins are not too much or too big for Him not to
forgive you. Brace up my friend and let's fight through this till
the end", Promise gave Esther a reassuring smile.
"What can I do without you? Promise, you're the best friend one
could ever wish for" Esther said to Promise.
"Sis, just say.....WHAT CAN WE EVER DO WITHOUT JESUS?"
Without Jesus, we are nothing but a mere shadow of ourselves.
Many people think they can do it all by themselves without
Jesus. Many think they can succeed and make it out there in
this wicked world without the help of Jesus. What they don't
know is, It doesn't work that way. Sooner or later, they'd be a
play tool in the hands of the devil.

74
"Hmm....You're right Promise. I really respect you Promise. I
thank God for making our paths cross". Esther said with all
sincerity.
"We thank God ooo ore mi (My friend)". Promise said.
"Can I ask you a question?" Esther asked.
"Sure, go ahead sis" Promise replied.
"Despite my attitude, my bad temper and anger and every bad
thing I've done, you're still my friend. Why haven't you left me
since?" Esther asked.
"Because Christ did not do so. Despite our sins, He did not
forsake us nor did He leave us to suffer and perish. He sacrificed
His life for us. He paid for the sins He did not commit. He saved
us....not forsake us. I'm only following Christ's footsteps, baby
girl. Who am I to condemn or judge you when God has not?
Listen Friend, your anger is little compared to the great things
God will do through you. Your bad temper and all other things
are just the devil's way of shifting your focus and making sure
you don't get to the kingdom. Together, let's make the devil
know that we are Children of God and we cannot be messed
with". Promise said.
"Hmm....thanks for this Promise. I'm greatly
blessed......hmmm..Esther replied and her countenance changed.
"What's wrong Essty?" Promise asked.
"Joan..... She's dating that Sam guy and Esaias..... he's mad at
me. Everything is my fault" Esther said, looking at her toes.
" Shhh....Esther, let's do what is needful". Promise said.
75
"Which is?" Esther asked.
"Let's pray for them". Promise said and the both of them
proceeded to Esther's house, ready to intercede for their friends.

After the prayers...

"Ehhh? You mean we should both go to meet Esaias and

apologize? Hmm.....I won't be able to face him o. The last time,
he was so angry at me that..." Esther said and shook her head
in disagreement with what Promise said.
"Essty...I'm sure you know you hurt him big time. It is normal for
him to act that way towards you. However, the Esaias I know is
a child of God and since we've committed his heart into God's
hands, I'm sure he'll forgive you this time". Promise said and
finally convinced Esther.

The both of them agreed to meet in front of Esther's class by

break period so they can apologize to Esaias. When it was
break period, they met and luckily, Esaias was on his way out.
Promise ran to meet him.

"Hi, Esaias. How're you doing?" Promise walked up to Esaias and

greeted him with a warm smile.
"Promise, it's you again! I thought I warned you to stay clear
76
away from me" Esaias said.
"Please, Esaias, listen to me just this once. I have something
very important to discuss ". Promise said.
"Alright. Be fast about it" Esaias said.
"Actually, It's about Esther..." Promise said and was cut short by
Esaias immediately.
"Es...what? If you want me to listen to you, don't ever mention
her name in this discussion. Else, I'll walk away". Esaias said.
"Alright, I'm sorry. I won't mention her name but I have
something to say nevertheless. See, Esaias, we offend God and
He forgives us of our sins. If the number of the sins we've
committed were to be counted, we'd see that we're not worthy
of Christ's forgiveness. The Bible says in Romans chapter 3
verse 23 that all have sinned and have fallen short of God's
Glory. A Christian writer named THE GOSPEL PENNER once
said…'Before you think of not forgiving your fellow man
whenever he offends you, firstly think of the punishment you
would have received if God did not forgive you'. Esaias, I
understand how deeply you're hurt by all she did to you. I can
feel your pain and I'm deeply sorry for all that you've passed
through. However, you cannot move on except you let go of the
past. Forgive her and let the peace of Christ reign. Esaias,
you've been deeply hurt. Allow Christ fix you and make you
whole again. He alone can do that. Staying away from her does
not guarantee you a hundred percent Joy and happiness.
Please, Esaias.....I beg you in the Lord's name and for the sake of
friendship". Promise pleaded.
77
Immediately Promise said this, she signalled to Esther who had
been hiding behind the class building to come out. Immediately
Esther appeared, Esaias turned to leave but Promise begged
further.

"Esaias, don't do this! Please, listen to her...." Promise begged.

"Esaias, I'm....I....I am really sorry for all I made you go through.
I've been a selfish and inconsiderate person. I'm so sorry for all I
said that day". Esther begged in tears.

A tear dropped from Esaias' eyes but he was fast enough to

wipe it off to stop the rest of the students from noticing. The trio
moved to an empty class to continue their discussion.
"Why Esther? Why did you do that to me? I was finally getting
happy....happy that life smiled at me a bit by giving to me, a
great friend that cherishes me but what did I get in return? I
was left all by myself to suffer in pain. I thought you'd help
me.....I begged you to allow me explain things to you but you
didn't give me a listening ear.....you...you didn't..." Esaias said
and sobbed further.

"I'm really sorry Esaias. I realized that I was wrong indeed.

Yesterday, I was praying together with Promise and the Holy
Spirit made me realize the reason why I did all that to you. Esais,
when you first came to our school, I was lusting after you. I.....I
78
was carried away by your handsomeness and good looks that I
found myself lusting any time I set my eyes on you. The truth
is....I didn't love you as a friend. If I did love you, I would not
have said all those hurtful words or deserted you. I would have
stayed still no matter the situation. I would have protected you
as my friend and even offered to help.
You know...it was out of love for humanity that God sent His son
to die for our sins. I realized love is a strong word and it is
powerful. When you love someone, you wouldn't want the
person to get hurt. You would care about the person. You won't
be selfish and in all ways, you'd want the person to succeed in
all that he or she lays his or her hands upon. If I had loved you
as a friend, I would have been there for you. Sincerely, I regret
my actions. I was merely lusting which was why I was so close.
Hence, when you needed my help as a friend, I could not do
that because I couldn't fill in that gap. Esaias, please forgive me.
I have asked Christ for forgiveness and it is essential I do so to
you too. I've hurt you so much and I'm even ashamed to face
you. Forgive me, Esaias..." Esther said and sobbed.
"Esaias, she's sorry. Please...." Promise also begged.

After some minutes...

"Esther....Es...Esther...I...I...forgive you from my heart" Esaias said

and cried the more. "If Christ can forgive me for all the sins I
have committed in the past and even saved my soul from
perishing in hell by dying for me on the cross and bringing me
79
back to life at the hospital, then, I forgive you, Esther. I forgive
you from my heart. I'm sorry". Esaias said and couldn't help but
shed tears.

The two friends got reunited and the two friends promised
Esther that they'd help her beg Joan. They all suggested they
visit Esther's house to pray together, most especially to pray for
Joan. Esaias had been told about Joan's relationship with Sam
and he was greatly sad to hear the news. However, they were
all determined in their heart to bring back their friend through
Christ's help. When break was almost over and the three of
them were returning to their classes, Iyanuoluwa, a classmate
of Promise ran to meet her.

"Pro....Promise....have you heard?" Iyanu asked.

"Calm down....you're panting really hard. Heard what?" Promise
asked.
"Actually...Erhm....Joan...she....in...her mum....to the...." Iyanu kept
stammering.
"Joan? What about her?" Promise asked.
"I heard that...she...she was raped by Sam. The news is all over
the school now". Iyanu said.
"She was what?" The trio screamed.
"She was raped by Sam. Some students said they heard it
directly from her Mum when they were passing in front of the
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principal's office.
"Oh! No!!!!" Esther screamed and ran while the others followed,
not knowing where she was heading to.

Esaias and Promise caught up with Esther while she kept

screaming..."No! It's all my fault".
Esther felt really guilty more than she felt when she heard
about what happened to Esaias. She felt Joan got into a
relationship with Sam because of her and that led to her
getting raped.

"Esther, wait!" Esaias called out to her. She stopped abruptly

and went on her knees and cried like never before.
"I've been a really bad friend. Those who considered me as their
friend got into trouble because of me. First, it was Esaias and
now it's Joan. God, I'm so sorry...." Esther said and wept.
"Esther, we've gone through this before. Self guilt is not needed
now. It won't help you. It would rather cause you more pain".
Promise said to Esther.
"She's right Essty. You may have done a lot of bad things but
what matters is...you've asked for God's forgiveness and you
have repented. I'm sure God has forgiven you and I have done
the same. It's high time you showed Joan that you really care
and that you cared. Let's pay her a visit. Apologize to her. Pray
for her. Be there for her. I'm sure she needs us most now". Esaias
said.
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"Exactly....True friends stand by their friend no matter what".
Promise said.

Esther just kept sobbing.

"Promise, don't you think we need to return back to class? It's

not closing time yet. What if a teacher sees us here? What do
we say?" Esaias said.
"Let's go to the lab. Esther can't go to class in this condition.
Let's stay there till she calms down". Promise suggested.
"Does that mean we'd skip lectures?" Esaias asked.
"If caring for our friend will make us skip lectures, then, let's take
care of what's most important. Esther needs our help and
support now. We can't leave her in this state". Promise said out
of concern.
"You're right Promise. Esther is really lucky to have you as a
friend" Esaias said and they both helped Esther to the lab area.

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7
At closing period, the three friends came together to visit Joan
at the hospital. They had gone to see their class teacher
beforehand and they were told she was at a certain hospital
close to the school. On getting there, Esther became really
scared. Promise noticed this and asked Esther what the
problem was. Esther opened up to Promise.

"I'm sure she hates me now. I caused...." Esther said and was cut
short by Promise.
"Esther! Get your acts together! Let's go see Joan " Promise said
and held Esther's hands as they entered into the hospital.
They wore their uniforms, making it easier for them to be
identified as students. They were directed by the nurses to the
ward where their friend was. Promise and Esaias entered first
and planned to take note of Joan's reaction before allowing
Esther, access into the ward to prevent an unecessary scene.
They met Joan awake when they entered and immediately,
they rushed towards her.

"Joan!" The both of them said and moved closer to where she
was laid. Joan on the other hand was feeling so much pain and
she couldn't help but cry. Promise and Esaias were crying also.
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"Joan, we heard about what happened....how are you feeling
now?" Esaias asked amidst tears.
"I'm fine". Joan said and cleaned her tears. Not long after, Esther
entered.
"Joan...Hi..." Esther stuttered and moved slowly.
"Who is this bastard? Who brought you in here? How dare you?
How.....how..how dare you come in here?" Joan said and cried
out loudly.
"Joan, please calm down". Esaias said.
"No! No....no! Esther caused all that happened to me.
Esther.....you've succeeded in spoiling my life. Was it a crime to
be your friend? Was it a crime to have a dirty past? Was it really
a crime for me to cherish you so much as a friend? Look.......I
have less time for tales now. Get out Esther! Get out of this ward
and get out of my life forever! I don't want to see you ever
again!" Joan said with so much hatred, cleaned her eyes and
turned to the other side of her bed.
"Joan...please...don't do..." Promise begged
"You all should leave now. I'm tired". Joan said while facing the
wall.
"Joan..." Esaias called out to her but was immediately cut short
by Joan.
"You all should leave honorably. I wouldn't want to do
something you'll all regret". Joan said and the trio left the
hospital.

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Outside the hospital...

"I blame myself for all these. I...." Esther said regrettably.
"Esther....stop it please! We'd find a way to figure this out."
Promise assured her.
"Esther, it's okay. Stop crying " Esaias added.

THE UNDERWORLD

GRANDMASTER: Ancient spirits from the underworld....the

powerful ones who rule and control the earth.....we pay homage
to you.

ALL: Hooooo.....mage!

GRANDMASTER: I welcome you all to this meeting tonight.

ALL: ooooh!

GRANDMASTER: As you all know that tonight, you all are

expected to give a report of your works so far. As you know
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that this report meeting usually comes up once in three months,
every member is expected to give a report of what he or she
has been working on for the past three months. If your work
does not meet up with the expectations, you'll be greatly
punished....however, if your work pleases our GREAT MASTER,
you'll automatically receive a promotion.

ALL: Ho hoo hooooo ha!

GRANDMASTER: Alabeje, step forward. Give us a report of what

you've been working on for the past three months.

After a few minutes...

GRANDMASTER: Wow, I'm impressed by your reports. You all

have done pretty well. Before we proceed, let's hear from the
final team. Akisa and Asa, step forward. Give us a report of
what you've been able to achieve in that school so far.

STEPHEN AND STEPHANIE (ALSO KNOWN AS AKISA AND ASA

IN THE UNDERWORLD): Yes, grandmaster.

Stephen (AKISA) was the first to speak.

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STEPHEN: I greet every member of this dark society. I greet all
honourables and officials in the higher places. I greet you,
grandmaster.
For the past three months, we've succeeded in deceiving a lot
of people. However, the prayers of a certain girl named Promise
has hindered us so many times, nevertheless, we've made some
achievements. Permit me to hand over to my partner, ASA to
take over.

GRANDMASTER: You've said well AKISA. ASA, step forward and

speak.

STEPHANIE(ASA): Thank you grandmaster. Like my partner has

said, we succeeded in deceiving a lot of young boys and girls in
that school. In fact, we have gained more recognition from the
agents in the neighbouring schools. We made use of some
certain tools to achieve our goals like porn and addictions. We
made sure that those boys and girls get addicted to watching
unhealthy contents and movies by giving them our phones
during break and those stupid fools even pay us for successfully
spoiling their lives.

ALL: Hooo ho hoo haaa

Stephanie continued...
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STEPHANIE (ASA): We also made some of them fall into the sin
of masturbation. Hahaha.....it was a major tool as many fell
victim, especially boys. Many students of that school are into
masturbation. Some of them don't even know how it all started.
Hahaha.....they try so hard to break free. Trulyz they cry after
committing the sin but we make it so hard for them to do the
right thing. We succeeded in targeting most especially,
Christians in that school.

Even the school's fellowship president, Olugbenga is stuck in it.

Most students envy him and the anointing of the Great one
upon his life. They have no idea that we have rendered it
useless. He prays, he fasts, he speaks in tongues, he engages in
other christian activities like evangelism. However, he doesn't
know that everything he does is in vain because the face of the
Great one cannot behold the sin he commits. We also made
sure that when they are deeply stuck in it, to open up to
someone becomes hard and impossible; especially to their
christian leaders. We make them believe that they can keep on
managing the situation. They try hard to manage it and after
some time, we get rid of them. Hahaha.....

ALL: Ho hooo ho haaa

Stephanie continued...

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STEPHANIE (ASA): In all the tools we used, there was a major
one and so far, we have known it to be the best weapon
because it worked well for us in that school. It's no other tool
than....LUST. Hahaha.....
Most Christians' mind are polluted with lust. We pollute their
minds with this so that we can achieve our goal and most of
them ended up falling, just like Joan. Hahaha.....out of lust, she
got into a relationship with EYELE, our member here known
as....SAM in that school. We filled her mind with lust and joined
her and EYELE together. They got into a relationship and she
was raped. All thanks to EYELE who made our operation
smooth.
We would have also succeeded in taking the life of Esaias but
that girl's prayers hindered us from doing so. She's too strong
and powerful. When we could not get her, we tried getting her
friend, Esther. She seemed tough at first but we later got a hold
of her. We used the lust we filled her mind with to get angry at
Esaias so that he can commit suicide. We would have
succeeded in killing Esaias because he is a threat to our
society....if not now, in the future. We tried to use masturbation
but we realised it might take longer than expected.....we
decided to switch to another plan since he was on the way to
finding his way back to the Great one through Esther and her
friends. We however, made use of Esther's anger to end Esaias
for good. We were so close to succeeding but that girl spoiled
our plans with all her midnight prayers....

ALL: Nooooooo! We must get them by all means!

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STEPHANIE (ASA): That is all my Lord.
GRANDMASTER: You've done well, you both. However, we
won't give up on them. We must try by all means to get them all.
ASA, intensify the fire of hatred and bitterness in Joan's
heart....she must not settle with her friends. After some time,
we'll get rid of her. That way, she'll end up in our Lord's place
and we all will get promoted to a higher level.

ALL: Hooo ho hoo haaa!

PROMISE'S ROOM

Promise woke up from her dream at 3pm in the midnight.

"Blood of Jesus! What sort of dream is this?" Promise was

scared. It happened that God showed her the plans of the
enemy.

"GET UP AND PRAY NOW BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE". That was the
Lord's instruction.

Immediately, Promise got up and started blasting in tongues in

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her room. She prayed so hard that her night wear was soaked
with sweat.

Author's note: “(When the Lord tells you to rise up as his general
and intercede for his people, are you not found sleeping?)”

In the Morning, Promise and Esther met as usual and on their

way to school, Promise explained her dream to Esther and they
both suggested that they'd pray at break period and commit
Joan's heart into God's hands after which they'll all visit her at
the hospital at closing period. When they got to school, they
informed Esaias as well and there was a call to prayer and
intercession! The three friends prayed so hard that the Holy
Spirit revealed to Promise that Esaias had been freed
completely from the shackles and bondage of the sin he was
struggling with. Esther also got an instruction from God in the
place of prayer and God told her that He loves her and His
presence will be with her henceforth. They all got their
deliverance in the place of prayer that day. They committed the
heart of Joan into God's hands and at closing, they set out to go
to the hospital. The three of them entered into the room where
Joan was and on sighting them, Joan screamed...

In the hospital...

"I don't want to see you all here ever again! Get out!!" She
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growled.
"What's wrong with her? She was not like this the last time we
visited". Esaias asked Promise.
"THE DEVIL IS TRYING BY ALL MEANS TO ENSURE THAT YOUR
FRIEND DOES NOT GET DELIVERED. PRAY PROMISE, PRAY!" That
was the Lord's instruction.
"Shall we join our hands to pray?" Promise said.
"Pray? What's the meaning of all these? Oh.....My life needs
prayers right? You all must think I'm running mad..." Joan ranted
on.
"Father, we thank you for your presence....we pray that you will
intervene in this discussion and we call for your power to dwell
in our midst, Amen".
"Amen" they all chorused.
"Joan, we've come to apologize to you on behalf of Esth..."
Promise said.
"I can never forgive her" Joan said with a tone of finality.
"Joan....I know you're hurt...please jus..." Esaias said.
"Nooo! You don't understand. Do you know how it feels to be
raped? Do you know how it feels to be beaten and treated like
trash? I clearly remember the pain....the pain I went through. I
begged Sam.....Sam...May it never be well....." Joan said…
"Don't curse him Joan, it's not the next thing to do" Promise said.
"Haaaa! I begged him not to do this to me....Sam...Sam beat me
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and took advantage of me.....oh no!" Joan cried.
"Joan....I know it's painful but it has happened. What we should
do now is to think of the way forward. Please, forgive Esther.
She has repented too and Christ has forgiven her. Dear Friend, I
know you feel nothing but hatred and bitterness towards her
now....Let it go dear...so you can have peace within you".
Promise said compassionately .
"She's right Joan. Forgive her and let's go back to how we were.
We all missed you Joan. We do..." Esaias said and a tear
dropped from his eyes but he was fast enough to wipe it off.
"Oh no! This is hard to do". Joan cried the more.
"Holy ghost, please take control" promise prayed silently.

After a few minutes...

"I forgive you, Esther" Joan finally said and cried heavily.
"Joan....I'm sorry....I'm sorry friend". Esther cried.

The two friends cried hard and hugged each other tightly. "I'm
sorry Joan, I really am". Esther kept repeating this word amidst
tears. Promise and Esaias kept looking at the both of them,
smiling. The four friends JEEP got back together and they all
hugged one another in love.

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THE UNDERWORLD

GRANDMASTER: Noooo! This cannot happen! We won't give up!

We'll try harder and intensify our efforts in ensuring that these
christians miss their way in the journey of faith! We won't relent!
We won't get tired! We'll strive harder! We must achieve our
goal! WE MUST WIN!

ALL: Ho hoo ho haaa! Christians, watch out! We're coming for

you all!

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WATCH OUT FOR PART 2!!!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Phebe A. Orimogunje is a Christian writer
popularly known as THE GOSPEL PENNER.
Asides mastering the skill and art of writing,
she is an instrumentalist, cinematographer,
teacher, editor, videographer, a lady and
more. She completed her primary school
education at Faith Foundation Nursery and
Primary school, Ibadan, Oyo State and her
Secondary school education at the
prestigious and famous girls only school,
Saint Louis Grammar School, Mokola, Ibadan.
She is currently a teacher in her alma mater.
She is also a University Aspirant.She currently
resides in Ibadan, Oyo state with her parents
and siblings.

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PHEBE A. ORIMOGUNJE
THE GOSPEL PENNER

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©2024 by Phebe A. Orimogunje
JULY
Pen name: The Gospel Penner
Whatsapp/Phone number: +234 704 983 3834
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Phebe A. Orimogunje

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If you have been blessed by the story and you are led to, you
can forward any amount to the account details below;

7049833834
Palmpay
or
3218085898
Firstbank PLC
Orimogunje Phebe Adefunke.

God bless you, Amen.

✍ THE GOSPEL PENNER

#HeavensInk

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THE GRACE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, THE LOVE OF GOD AND
THE SWEET FELLOWSHIP OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, ABIDE WITH US ALL,
AMEN.

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