And the patriarchs, becoming envious, sold Joseph into Egypt. But God was with him and delivered him out of all his troubles, and gave him favor and wisdom in the presence of Pharaoh, king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.
It is important for you to recognize that there is a significant difference between God’s unmerited favor and favoritism. God’s unmerited favor is based entirely on Jesus’ merit, and we received it through His finished work at the cross. We did nothing to deserve His favor. It is completely unmerited.
Favoritism, however, stinks of self-effort. Individuals who rely on favoritism for promotion have to resort to apple polishing, office politics, manipulative tactics, backstabbing, and all kinds of compromises just to get what they want. They use all their efforts to open doors for themselves, and in the process, they lose themselves.
God has a higher and better way for you. It hurts Him to see His precious children groveling like sycophants just to get ahead in life.
If a door closes, so be it! Believe with full confidence that God has a better way for you. You do not have to depend on favoritism to keep opportunities open for yourself when you have God’s unmerited favor!
How did God show favor to Joseph?
That was how Joseph operated. He depended on the Lord for his success, and not on favoritism, which would have required him to compromise his beliefs. When Potiphar’s wife, who was likely one of the most beautiful women in the land, kept trying to seduce Joseph to sleep with her, Joseph stood his ground on the firm foundation of unmerited favor.
He refused, saying, “There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he [Potiphar] kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Gen. 39:9).
From his words, it is clear that Joseph knew the source of his success, favor, and blessings. Also, he did not see giving in to Potiphar’s wife as a great wickedness and sin against Potiphar alone, but against God too.
He knew that every blessing that he had experienced was a result of the Lord’s favor on him. He knew that it was not Potiphar who promoted him from the position of a lowly slave to become the overseer of Potiphar’s entire estate. It was the Lord!
Similarly in your life, know and rejoice that it is the Lord who is the source of your blessings and success! You don’t have to resort to trying to win the favor of significant people in your life. It is the Lord’s favor on you that sets you up for recognition, promotion, and increase.
Are you a Christian planning a trip or moving to Busan, South Korea? This review of Antioch International Ministry (AIM) might just be your guide to finding a church home away from home. I called AIM my church for almost two years, and I’d return in a heartbeat if I ever find myself in Busan again.
AIM in Busan, South Korea, is a thriving and diverse church community that embraces people from all walks of life. Known for its passionate worship, heartfelt preaching, and strong emphasis on missions, AIM provides a welcoming environment for both locals and internationals. The church is deeply committed to spreading the Gospel and fostering spiritual growth through dynamic services, small groups, and various outreach programs. With a focus on unity in diversity, AIM offers a vibrant space where individuals can connect, grow in their faith, and make a global impact.
Antioch International Ministry pastors and praise team singing.
AIM is the English branch of the well-known Sooyoungro Church. It’s not just a community for foreigners; many Koreans are also members. The diversity was captivating from my first visit, and I loved contributing to the unique mix.
Sooyoungro Church, located in Busan, South Korea, is a vibrant and welcoming Korean community known for its dynamic worship services and strong sense of fellowship. The church offers a blend of traditional and contemporary worship styles, creating an atmosphere where people from diverse backgrounds can connect and grow in their faith.
With a commitment to spiritual growth, Sooyoungro Church hosts various programs and activities for all ages, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual nourishment. Its engaging sermons, passionate praise team, and active involvement in the local community make it a cherished place for both locals and visitors seeking a meaningful worship experience.
Service Location and Timing for Antioch International Ministry
Getting to AIM is a breeze. You can take the subway, bus, or drive. The main stop is in Suyeong-gu, and services are held in the large Ellev Theatre building, B2 floor. For any inquiries, just look up the church phone service on Google or email aimbusan@gmail.com.
Every Sunday morning, I was filled with excitement as I headed to AIM for fellowship. Often spending over an hour on the subway or bus, I would listen to the previous Sunday’s sermon on YouTube or the songs we were going to use for worship. It was truly the highlight of my week.
Sarah on the subway going to church
Service Times
Every Sunday, there’s a general meeting from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. If you have kids aged 6-12, there’s a Kids for Christ (KFC) service on the 6th floor. For new moms, there’s a cozy 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM gathering at the 2nd floor café.
Pre-COVID, we enjoyed a free bite at the café right after the main service—a fantastic time to chat and connect with others.
What makes Antioch International Ministry special?
After lunch, the church splits into community groups from 1:00 PM to 2:15 PM. These groups, scattered around the Ellev building, discuss the service and share life experiences. It’s a perfect time to connect personally and seek support or prayers.
One of my fondest memories was when our group leader took us out for lunch after service. Initially, it felt like eating with strangers, but they soon became friends who greeted me warmly every Sunday.
Joining a Group
To join a group, you need to be a church member, which involves a 4-week study with one of the Pastors. These foundational classes explain the church’s doctrines, its mission, and what to expect as a member. After completion, you’re assigned to a small group where you’ll experience life together as a family.
Sarah fellowshipping with some Antioch International Ministry brethren
How can you get involved?
Like any church, AIM has many areas to serve. I was thrilled to join the praise team after my membership class. This small but vibrant group of around 10-15 people from different countries was a blend of musical styles. We rehearsed every Saturday morning, enjoying lunch and fun breaks together.
Despite my struggles with following beats, my leaders encouraged me to learn the tambourine and shaker, pushing me out of my comfort zone. l cannot claim to be a professional tambourine player now. But it was fun and a delight to try to mix its sounds with those of the drums, guitars and piano.
AIM offers opportunities for growth in various aspects, whether in ushering, cleaning, or singing. The friendships I formed, especially with my British, Korean, Mozambiquan, Ghanian, Malawian, Indonesian, and American praise team friends, are some of my most cherished memories.
Sarah and friends singing
Cultural Diversity and Events
AIM’s pastors hail from diverse backgrounds—one from the United States of American, a Korean, and a South African—bringing a blend of cultural insights. I have never been to a church like this.
During Korean traditional holidays like Chuseok, the church organized events for members to learn about the Korean culture and enjoy traditional games and food.
We also celebrated American Thanksgiving with a delicious turkey dinner, and for Christmas, we had a musical evening where I sang with my African friends. Harmonizing in different African languages felt like a piece of home.
On Wednesdays and special days, AIM organized prayer sessions for regions worldwide, a touching reminder of the church’s global outlook.
Sarah and church friends celebrating Christmas
Why Join Antioch International Ministry?
If you’re feeling lonely and need a church family, AIM offers a bond of friendship with warm-hearted people.
The ministry also organizes fun outings, like picnics at Busan’s beaches, complete with group transportation and snacks. We had Bible games, fun activities, and plenty of time to relax and take pictures.
Sarah and church friends at a beach picnic organised by Antioch International Ministry
At times, we joined Sooyoungro Church for combined praise and worship sessions with the Korean congregation. These events were at the large auditorium and had a variety of Christians from the entire church. I was thrilled to know that, there were other services too. For example, I knew the Filipino service based solely for those from the Philipines. They had designated Pastors who preached in Tagalog, one of their native languages.
Though I cannot recall how many other countries had seperate services, but I am sure, there were numerous missionaries and Pastors sponsored by the church to preach the Gospel.
How amazing is it to be able to fellowship with your fellow nations in a foreign country?
Sarah and praise team friends at the Soooyoungro main Church for an event
My Most Remarkable AIM Experience
The pastors were always approachable and ready to offer encouragement and support. The warmth and friendliness extended to the pastors’ wives, who were welcoming both at church and during special home visits. Movie nights or simple gatherings were always accompanied by food and drinks, making me feel truly cared for.
One unforgettable act of kindness was during the COVID-19 pandemic when the church delivered food items to my doorstep and regularly checked on me online. This love in action made me feel alive and cared for, even in a foreign country.
I got a special gift after my membership class graduation. My beautiful ceramic mug and keyholder will be my souvenirs forever.
AIM gifts
Though it’s been almost three years since I left AIM, my memories remain vivid. From May 2019 to December 2020, l felt very happy fellowshiping at this amazing church. I miss everyone and would love to relive that part of my life.
While I can’t guarantee your experience will be identical, an open heart to God and respect for others will surely lead to a spiritually enriching and socially fulfilling time there.
Living as a foreigner can be challenging, so why not make a new family and be a reason someone else learns about God? It’s a rare opportunity to share your culture and inspire others with your testimony. You will not only feel like giving but the reward of fellowshipping with others will your highlight like it was mine.
There were countless times when work and life had me feeling overwhelmed, but I always found comfort and peace in the company of these amazing friends. Their advice and warm hugs felt like I was being wrapped in Jesus’ arms. The pastors were always there too—ready to listen, share, and pray with me.
Conclusion
I have been several miles away from many of these awesome people but I still feel grateful to have met many people from around the world for free.
It has been a blessing to be in touch with some of them though continents away and I wish I could play back the hands of time to be with them. I might not communicate with everyone I met at AIM regularly now, but I know I have lovely and kind brethren around the world. How amazing is that!?
Words and a few pictures can’t fully capture just how blessed I was at AIM. Some of my favorite memories were the lunches we shared and even celebrating my birthday together. We laughed, we talked about our struggles, and we got through the hard times as a family. How could I ever forget those special moments? They were the kind of experiences that leave a mark on your heart forever.
Sarah and some praise team friends on her last Sunday at AIM
It’s important to note that things and people have certainly changed over time, as this blog reflects only my experience from 2019 to 2020. However, I still believe that being a part of AIM would be a blessed experience.
For more details about AIM, please check out their easy to use webiste here.
If you’re a tourist like me and love spending your Sunday mornings worshiping at a lively church, here are some more reviews of other churches in different countries and things to do in over 18 countries.
Having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it. Colossians 2:14-15
The Bible says that God has “disarmed principalities and powers,” referring to Satan and his cohorts (Eph. 6:12). So the devil has already been disarmed. But do you know what weapon he was wielding before his forced disarmament?
Today’s Scripture gives us the answer clearly: the devil was armed with the “handwriting of requirements that was against us.” On Mount Sinai, God wrote the Ten Commandments on two tablets of stone. The “handwriting of requirements” was thus a reference to the law that was written by the finger of God.
Let me stress that the law is holy, just, and good. It was designed by God to expose man’s weaknesses, sins, and inability to be holy, just, and good so that man would see his need for a Savior. You need to understand that no amount of keeping the law can make you holy. Only the blood of Jesus can do that.
The devil then armed himself with the law to accuse and condemn man. Now, listen carefully to this: God didn’t give the law to arm the devil, but the devil, knowing that the law was against us, took advantage of it and has been using it as his weapon to further alienate us from God.
Why was the devil disarmed?
That’s why when God nailed the law to the cross, He made a public spectacle of the devil and all the powers of darkness! Once the law was nailed to the cross of Jesus, God knew that the law no longer had the power to condemn us as long as we believed on Jesus. Therefore, when you know and believe that Jesus has fulfilled completely the righteous requirements of the law on our behalf, the devil cannot use the law to condemn you every time you fail.
Today, if the enemy uses the law to point out your sins, look to the cross of Jesus and reject the condemnation. You may say, “No one can blot out God’s handwriting.” Yes, you are right. No man can, but God can!
And God did it righteously. My friend, you have been redeemed from the curse of the law. The devil and his crew have been disarmed. Hallelujah!
Refuse to subject yourself any longer to the old covenant system of the law. Don’t put the weapon of the law back into the devil’s hands. Every teaching that says, “You have to keep the law to be blessed by God,” is doing just that.
Reject such legalistic teachings and rest in the truth of God’s disarmament and grace. The more you believe and embrace the truth of His grace, the more you are empowered to experience victory over your failings and challenges. This is how you reign, and when you reign, the devil doesn’t!
The Sierra Leone National Museum is more than just a building—it’s a vibrant time machine in the heart of Freetown. It whiskes you through the nation’s rich history and diverse heritage.
As I stepped in through its doors, I got ready to embark on an exhilarating journey across centuries. There each artifact and exhibit tells a fascinating story of Sierra Leone’s past and its vibrant traditions.
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I arrived at the museum. Right in front of the main gate were these fabulous paintings, bursting with color and life. Unlike most museums I’ve visited, this one was so cozy it felt like it could fit in my living room. Plus, it had almost no art pieces in the yard—definitely not your typical grandiose museum entrance.
Sarah infront of the Sierra Leone national museum
What was my experience as I walked into the Sierra Leone National Museum?
As I strolled through the gate, I was greeted by the friendliest receptionist I’ve ever met, sitting in a tiny office that was practically overflowing with gorgeous art items for sale. She greeted me with a warm smile, and we struck up a conversation. To my surprise, she mentioned that she had seen a few Cameroonians and even had an awesome classmate in Kenya. We chit-chatted for a few minutes, and as is often the case in Sierra Leone, I felt right at home. Sierra Leoneans are some of the warmest people I’ve met in Africa!
But, back to the point. I paid my entrance fee, just a few dollars, and was all set to tour the museum. To my dismay, it looked like they were short on guides. No problem, though—I decided to join the only tour group I could find, already making its way through the small but charming halls.
It was an adventure in itself! The museum might have been tiny, but it was packed with fascinating stories and artifacts. And while it wasn’t exactly a guided tour de force, I had a blast learning and laughing with the other visitors. Sometimes, the best experiences come in small, unexpected packages!
What was my first stop at the museum?
The first hall has items that reveal ancient times! I marveled at the archaeological treasures like stone tools, pottery, and ceremonial artifacts from long before European explorers set foot on African soil. All the while as I moved around, I was imagining the lives of indigenous peoples through those incredible relics.
I ended up leaving the tour group because I was short on time. However, I must commend the guide—he was incredibly detailed and thorough. He took his time explaining the history behind every item, making it feel like I was living in an era long before I was born. If you plan to visit, I highly recommend going when you have plenty of time. This will allow you to fully soak in the rich historical facts and truly appreciate the experience.
As I wandered further, l found myself amidst the colonial period under British rule. The galleries in the smaller hall are brimming with photographs, documents, and artifacts that paint a vivid picture of colonization’s impact on local communities. As expected, a section also had the spirited resistance movements. I always enjoy reading the triumphant journey toward independence.
Artifacts in the Sierra Leone museum
One thing that makes African countries unique is their stories of independence. They often sound like epic war and horror movies. History lovers will enjoy delving into these dramatic details. I encourage you to check out Sierra Leone’s own captivating tale.
Whatelse can you expect to see?
Next, brace yourself for an emotional dive into Sierra Leone’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. This section is both moving and powerful, with poignant displays that chronicle the country’s history as a departure point for enslaved Africans. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and cultural continuity of those who endured and their descendants.
Art lovers, prepare to be dazzled! The museum’s collection of traditional and contemporary artworks is a feast for the eyes. From intricately carved masks and stunning sculptures to vibrant textiles and lively paintings, these pieces celebrate Sierra Leonean culture and creativity in all its glory.
And don’t miss the hall of heroes! Meet the national icons who shaped Sierra Leone’s political, social, and cultural landscape. Their portraits, biographical details, and memorabilia are both inspiring and educational.
Artifacts in the museum
What surprised me the most at the Sierra Leone National Museum ?
But wait, there’s more! The museum also dives into the diverse traditions of Sierra Leone’s many ethnic groups. Discover traditional practices, religious beliefs, and social structures through exhibits featuring musical instruments, ceremonial attire, and ritual objects used in various rites of passage and communal celebrations.
There is another medium-sized hall dedicated solely to Sierra Leonean masquerades. As I walked in, I was gripped with fear for a few seconds, mainly because I’m not a fan of horror or scary movies.
However, if Halloween is your favorite holiday, you might not find anything here too strange.
The Sierra Leone National Museum’s masquerade hall is a captivating display of intricate masks, elaborate costumes, and ceremonial artifacts. These items, used in traditional masquerades, are vibrant and full of character, showcasing the artistic craftsmanship and cultural significance of various ethnic groups in Sierra Leone.
The masks often feature exaggerated features, bold colors, and intricate designs, each telling its own story and representing different spirits, ancestors, or deities. The costumes, made from a variety of materials like cloth, raffia, and beads, add to the mesmerizing visual spectacle, offering a deep dive into the rich traditions and cultural heritage of Sierra Leone.
For unknown reasons, the receptionist had warned me not to take pictures of this section, so I have none. However, several vlogs and blogs feature clear photos of this part.
Conclusion
In recent years, the museum has undergone exciting transformations to make your visit even more dynamic. Interactive displays, engaging audiovisual presentations, and rotating temporary exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover, making it a top spot for both locals and tourists eager to dive into African history and culture.
The Sierra Leone National Museum isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about celebrating and sharing it with the world. There’s more you will see which I couldn’t capture on my camera.
It’s a hub of national pride and identity, inviting everyone to appreciate and connect with Sierra Leone’s rich traditions and historical contributions. Come and be part of this incredible journey through time!
The museum is located beside the main road, this google link will help you find it, or you can board any bike/taxi.
Here’s a link to read about national museums in more than 15 countries.
