LIVING ON THE EDGE (SHORT STORY)

LIVING ON THE EDGE (SHORT STORY)

Bijun was unhappy with his night caller. He was worn out and just wished to turn in early. He wanted to have sufficient rest before his phone alarm would wake him by 5 a.m. to prepare for the next day’s grind. Working at a bank wasn’t his life’s dream but it paid the bills and took care of family and on and off friends like the sallow-faced fellow before him.

“Jogbe,” Bijun addressed the guy, “where in the world have you been?”

“My brother, the story is too long. Don’t mind me o, how are you?” Jogbe asked, as if he cared.

Without listening to Bijun’s reply, he started using his right forefinger to write in the dust on the coffee table. “When did you clean this place last?”

The harmattan no reach your side. I know you didn’t come here to do health inspection for me.”

Jogbe ignored the sarcastic remark and went to the corridor off the living room, picked a napkin and started dusting away the film of dust on the table. “I will not leave until I have thoroughly cleaned this flat,” he vowed, clearing his throat in the process.

“My friend, drop that thing and tell me why you’re here!” Bijun demanded. “In short, what can I do for you?”

“Ah, ah, why are you so harsh to me? Is this the first time I have cleaned your house?”

Bijun completely lost his temper.

“You think I’m a fool or what? Do you ever come here except you need some help or some money? Do you even know how to clean a house? After you muddle up everything, I’ll be forced to spend the time I don’t have cleaning the place or hire someone to do it. Spare me the trouble and tell me exactly what you want this time.”

Jogbe was torn between protesting the charge of insincerity and presenting his request. He settled for the latter, all the while struggling to quell the nasty cough that had been disturbing him in the past few weeks.

Bijun was right. He was in a fix. The rent for his room in the run-down compound where he put up in Bariga when things were slow had been due for months and now the landlord was threatening to throw him out.

As if he read his thoughts, Bijun asked, “How much do you need?”

“I’m even too ashamed to ask. You’ve been too kind to me.”

“How much?”

“Hundred thousand.”

“You’re out of your mind. You’ve forgotten that I paid your rent last year and you told me sometime ago you were thanking God your landlord hasn’t increased it. I’ll transfer sixty thousand to you.”

Jogbe couldn’t believe his good fortune. Although he didn’t succeed in scrounging extra cash from Bijun, getting his rent was good enough. He braced himself for the counselling he knew would precede the fund transfer.

“Jogbe, listen to me and listen good! You need to get your act together. I don’t know how much longer I can do this. In a few months, I’ll be getting married and supporting you like this will be out of the question.

“Settle down and focus on one thing. All the jobs you complained and left, people are doing them and making ends meet with them.

“Stop chasing shadows and looking for easy money. All these your network this, network that, ‘this platform is paying out huge’ nonsense cannot help you.

“Find work somewhere, go back and complete your degree, start an honest trade, just do something, rather than coming to clean my house when you’re in money trouble.”

Jogbe had heard those lines many times before, but he was not perturbed. Bijun had been his classmate in school, he had always been the stable and diligent one. But his life was so boring, Jogbe thought, because he didn’t have the liver to take risks. He spent all day counting money and at the end came home to sleep in his dusty flat in Surulere.

Whereas he, Jogbe, was connected to the movers and shakers in society. He laundered money for some powerful people, something Bijun would be too scared to do. He didn’t really blame Chinese, as he called Bijun, because of his Oriental looks- average height, slim body and narrow eyes- he’d never seen him when he was rolling in it.

LIVING ON THE EDGE (SHORT STORY)

Sometimes, his businesses which, in his view, Bijun ignorantly called “network this, network that” paid out tens of millions. He had spent months living in five-star hotels, had dated the kind of babes Bijun couldn’t even approach in his dreams and rode a Lamborghini at some point, among other luxury cars.

Life is like the sea, sometimes calm, sometimes boisterous. That is what makes it exciting, he told himself. He just loved living on the edge.

Money was not his problem, he assured himself, amidst some hacking that made Bijun to throw him a look of concern. He knew that he could always make loads of it because he was full of ideas. You win some, you lose some. Hack, hack, that cough again!

“You need to get that cough checked out,“ Bijun advised. “The network is bad, that’s why the transfer hasn’t gone through.”

More coughing.

“Man, you need me to take you to the doctor?”

“No, you need to rest yourself,” Jogbe croaked. Bijun was surprised at what might be the first thoughtful remark from his friend in years.

“You’re right. But I’ll keep trying until the transfer goes through. We can’t have you without shelter in this cold and dusty harmattan.” Jogbe nodded. Chinese was a man of his words.

As he stood to leave, Bijun stood too and reached into his trouser pocket.

“I have a few notes here. Take five thousand Naira, get yourself something to eat. And have that cough checked out.”

As he extended the notes, he asked, “Promise?”

“Promise,” Jogbe replied, although the only attention he planned for that cough and his stomach that night was a few stiff drinks. Local gin would serve until his luck shined again and he could get back to his favourite cognac, Remy Martin, and White Russian.

***

Eight months later, Bijun ran into an old school friend, Daryl, in front of a supermarket in Surulere where he normally picked his groceries on weekends. He knew he hung out with Jogbe sometimes- they were birds of a feather. Even though he was put off by Daryl’s makeup, skimpy shorts and bared midriff, he decided to ask after his old friend.

Although he was relieved Jogbe had stayed away since the last night he paid his rent, he did miss the rascal. He had just assumed that Jogbe had heard of his marriage and decided to respect himself in view of his repeated warning he could no longer bail him out after his wedding. However, nothing prepared him for the tragic news Daryl dropped.

“That poor bastard, at least now he can rest.”

Bijun didn’t need further explanation. Those words knocked the wind out of him.

“So sorry, I had no idea you didn’t know.”

When Bijun had gathered himself a little, Daryl continued: “He had this nagging cough. You know he was a tough cookie. He didn’t think much of it. But he finally had to see a doctor who diagnosed he had pneumonia. The problem was it kept coming back after treatment. The thing just dried him up till he gave up two months ago.”

“Poor Jogbe,” Bijun whispered, “poor, poor guy!”

Daryl stared at Bijun in his grief and whispered back conspiratorially, “If you ask me, I think he had the big one!”
Bijun’s eyes widened in disbelief, not that he couldn’t believe Jogbe had come down with AIDS. After all, he lived dangerously. But his incredulity was that Daryl, who himself was a known male hooker, was the one sharing this morsel of gossip.

“He was such a fine male specimen if you know what I mean,” Daryl added, winking at Bijun, who shuddered at the obvious implication that the two madcaps had been sexually intimate.

Daryl then lit a cigarette as he posed for a potential client. He stretched out one of his long, shaved and oiled legs and flicked an imaginary speck of dust from his knee.

Bijun shook his head and couldn’t get out of there fast enough. But before he drove up to a hundred metres, he found tears streaming from his eyes. He felt so bad about Jogbe and wondered if he had done enough for him.

He had given him money often and some moral instruction, but he had never shared the most important thing he had with him- his faith in Christ. True, he didn’t know if that would have made a difference, but it pained him that Jogbe was no longer around for him to even try.

But a thought suddenly came to him. It came with such clarity that he knew exactly what he must do. And with that, he looked for a suitable spot to reverse his car.

Jogbe was gone, but Daryl was still there. He would befriend him and share the gospel with him. He might laugh him to scorn. He might be hostile. He might even try to coax him into some devilry. But he was willing to take the risk. And he would not give up easily.

That was the kind of living on the edge he yearned for- doing whatever it takes to talk people committed to destroying their lives like Jogbe had and Daryl was in the process of, off the ledge.

That would be infinitely more fulfilling than his current day job, he thought. But it would need loads of prayer and divine guidance to pursue, he reminded himself. He would just start in his leisure time and see how the Lord led him.

As he backed into a mechanic workshop to reverse and drive back to the supermarket where he met Daryl, he prayed that he would still be there and continued his prayer in tongues.

-The end-

Ⓒ Edith Ugochi Ohaja 2021

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Kindly share your impressions about this story in the main comment thread. Thank you!

You may also like the following related posts.

MY BEAUTIFUL NEIGHBOUR #1 (SHORT STORY)

ZIKI’S DISTRESS #1 (SHORT STORY)

ZIKI’S DISTRESS #2 (SHORT STORY)

184 comments

  • Eja Manifest Eji

    Nice story, thank you ma. New lesson learnt. At some point, we all need people to talk us to learn the ways of life and always give a helping hand. As Christians, we have a special role to play in the repentance of sinners.

    • Yes, we do! May God multiply grace uupon us to play thos role conscientiously in Jesus’ name.

      • Uwadiegwu Mercy Amarachi

        Nice story Ma, this story has made me to understand alot of things. In this life, everything is not all about money. If money can save peoples lives, we human beings will not be dying. As a christian our main purpose is to go out and preach the gospel to people, show love to them and also to help the less privilege out there. Most of us call ourselves christians, but we don’t act like one. If Bijun should have preached the gospel to Jogbe, his life wouldn’t have ended like that. I pray to God to enable us and give us the strength to share the gospel and wins more souls into his kingdom.

        • We don’t know for sure that Jogbe would have repented if Bijun had preached to him. Nothing is guaranteed like that but we need to play our own part and leave the rest to God.

  • Obong Phebe

    I think the main lesson a believer should learn from this story is the urgency of the gospel cause this life is too short to delay in sin and ignorance. In as much as we are to help one another and show love too we should not forget that the greatest love and help we can render as a believer is to save a sinking soul from destruction.

  • Oruma Nneoma Goodnews

    Yes,as believers we are to lend helping hands and show love and care to one another but this story potrays that the greatest love one can shower on another is the gospel.It saves a soul from eternal damnation.We have been given the power to go into the world and preach the gospel to the dying souls.Thank you Ma

  • Ossai Chidimma Linda

    Only the holy spirit directs and saves. His presence aids us in all our decision making, left to us we could be worse than Jogbe.

  • Chukwu Joy Chioma

    As much as we should enjoy the life we live, moderation is key. I feel if Jogbe had lived a modest life, maybe he wouldn’t have died.
    But in the unfortunate event, Bijun now realizes how unguaranteed life is and the need for sharing the gospel.

  • Ibe Favour Kalu

    Wow. This got me thinking. Thinking about the chances I missed to share the gospel of Christ to people-youths like me. Sometimes, I beat up myself over the chances lost because all souls are important to Christ.

    This story is touching. I haven’t read such for a while now.

    May God give us the grace not just to help people, but to tell them about Christ and correct their ways.

  • Onoh Chinenye

    It’s now or never! This piece is a kind of wakeup call to Christians out there, especially now that it’s the endtime. There is a rising need for endtime armies and soldiers of Christ. Yes, it won’t be easy but as you have advised, ma, in this story, I know we can always start from somewhere and allow the Holy Spirit to take the lead.

    • Correct! With the Lord at the wheel, we can’t go wrong.

      • Ikonne Vicory Ozioma

        Even after all the money and advises, it won’t still be complete if we’ve not reminded people that God is the ultimate!

        At times, we don’t notice that with some word of God shared can go a long way to sustain someone’s life.
        Thank you ma for teaching me

    • Nnaji Esther uchechukwu

      This issue of preaching the gospel is not easy though some people will accept it but others might want to criticize someone with it.
      Well many times have I try to talk to people about the gospel but I have been discouraged several but I know is the right way to go but I usually get scared though

  • Nkan David

    Nice story Ma….Am Happy that Bijun was able to realize that money isn’t enough to sustain life, but God alone…..If he had preached the gospel to jogbe, his life wouldn’t have ended that way… Everyone needs the gospel in life, cos it’s important to our existence….

  • This was a really insightful story….. Bijun did well in expressing his love for Jogbe but wasn’t bent on seeing his self sustainability through.
    As much as he needed God….. He also needed a strong hand to get him in shape

  • Nwawulu Arinze

    We were created for a purpose and only in Christ can we find out wat that purpose is, the gospel is important and must b preached .I pray the holy spirit opens our eyes

  • John Adoyi

    Some people would love to know Christ but don’t know how to get to him. If only everybody understands the joy of serving God through Christ.

  • Chukwuma Ifeanyi Williams

    Good story ma.
    This story shows that our friends need more than physical things from us.
    And making sure they’re okay spiritually is also our priority.
    God is vital in all our lives.

  • Ibrahim Mariam

    Modesty is required of everyone we should always so things the right way and not looking for a possible short root because the end is destruction

  • Emmanuel Eze

    Christians being the light of the world transcends all factors and includes sharing the good news of salvation to all and sundry including those very different from us..
    God help us to do his Will

  • Anarah Chisom

    We should all realize that our happiness lies in the happiness of others… And that we have a role to play in the life of everyone we come across. We need to talk to people about the need for revival and drawing closer to God ?. Thanks for this piece ma ?

  • Omenka Deborah Ehi

    Opportunities present itself everyday but it takes the one who’s focus and committed to what he or she believes to maximize it well

  • Eze Chinalurumogu Success

    I love the way you started the story. I got so interested when you started to talk about Jogbe’s lifestyle of always begging. Reminded me of people who have really lived their lives seeking for money and no intentions of doing anything to help themselves. So sad!

  • Emilia Edwin

    “Life is like the sea, sometimes calm, sometimes boisterous. That is what makes it exciting” this word got me. May God calm my troubling sea……amen

  • Peter Chinecherem Nathaniel

    Beautiful piece ma
    Lesson learnt is that, at every opportunity we find ourselves to help someone, we should do so. And also most times, our time and listening ear is what people need not necessarily our money.

  • Njepuome Nmesoma

    A very interesting story with a very impotant moral lesson.
    We should never hesitate of offer words of encouragment or share the gospel to a friend deviating from the right path ,we never can tell the impact or difference it would make

  • John Adoyi

    Lovely story. I just wish youths of today follow the foot step of Christ instead of chasing money only.

  • Sochi

    Words of advice are very important but it should be backed up with prayers because without prayers and God’s intervention,all the words of advice will be like water poured on a stone.

  • Aroh Amaechi Casmir

    May God help us.

  • Uchegbu Ogechi Elizabeth

    There is more to this life than money… Money is not the solution to everything.. I hv a friend that have a similar problem with jogbe I gave him the best advice I could offer but I didn’t tell him about Jesus. Thank you ma for this story I will have to call him now. I don’t want him ending up like jogbe.

  • iloka Sandra ukamaka

    wonderful story! Bijun was indeed a good friend; a friend in need is a friend indeed.

    • Idu desmond obinna

      Interesting story ma,
      We all know that Serving God is the hardest thing to do in this world and it’s hard this days to find a true worshipper of God ,
      In this story the most important moral lesson we should learn from it is saving a soul to God , don’t say how sure am I that this person is going to listen to me when I will be preaching to him or her , just do your best and leave the rest for God .

  • Chisom Efobi

    In every possible way let’s try to be of help it mustn’t be financially it can just be words of encouragement.

    I feel if Bijun had checked more on Jogbe and preached more to him he wouldn’t have died.

  • Dick-Unegbu Jennifer

    What a lovely story Ma, We need God in whatever we do, whether if it is for a job or helping family and friends. Only he will guide us to the right path.

  • Nwikwu chidera judith

    This is an inspirational piece. This goes to show that not only are we supposed to care for the physical wellbeing of our friends but also spiritually.

  • Igboka chidimma

    Wow. What a beauty in form of writing. It is good to note here that money does not solve all problem.

  • Ekeh ifunanya Cynthia

    We all have a role to play in each others life,good to know that Bijun decided to do more for Darly than he did for Jogbo by telling him about Jesus Christ.

  • Pearl Azuoma

    A touching story. Ultimately Christ is the best we can give to everyone we know and care about. We can help people around us with cash and gifts but let’s also not forget to share the good news of the love of Christ.
    Thank you ma for this lesson

  • Ma, I love the story a lot. Bijun was indeed a great friend. He really helped a lot but money is not everything. What we nedd most is God for with God all things are possible.

  • Odey-oko victor

    This is sad as it portrays the modern day life lived by adults. They are people living life on the edge and they aren’t bothered about it anymore.

  • Ezema Johnmartins Kelechi

    This is a powerful story which centres on the need to spread the gospel of Christ not only through our alms giving and good behaviors but also by sharing the word.

  • Uyanna Joseph

    As Christians apart from money and other earthly things we shouldn’t hesitate to share with others the gospel at all times

  • Life may be short , death is inevitable. The little time we have on this Earth must be used wisely . In as much as we want to enjoy the good things in life, remember that one day you’ll leave this Earth and go to somewhere where an account would be given on how you spent your life on Earth . It’s also our duty to share our knowledge about Christ to people around us,you may be helping someone by doing that .

  • Money is not everything,the greatest gift one can ever have is the gift of salvation.That our ticket to eternal life.

  • Adimorah perpetual

    People chase money instead of God, forgetting that is God who giveth wealth.Thank you ma for this piece.

  • Thank you ma for this lovely story.
    Learnt that we should not always dwell on our past experiences. Learnt to accommodate others people despite their weaknesses like Bijun did to Jogbe.
    We need to preach the gospel when we have the opportunity so that we will not regret as Bijun who gave money and instruction but failed to offer Him Christ.
    We should know that God is important in our life in as much as we have freedom to live as like.

  • Dennis Lovelyn Chisom

    We must be bold to preach the gospel, and save lives before it’s too late.

  • i think we should be conscious of the kind of life we are living especially when things are going well with us and we should also remember that life without God is meaningless.

  • Maureen

    I learnt a lesson. A times its not all about offering help with just material things. Most times the word of God is what is actually needed.

  • Okwa Ihuoma Jessica

    Hmmm….very insightful. Bijun gave Jogbe money and moral advice when he needed it but failed to give him what he truly needed – Christ, who could completely save and change him. God help me as a Christian.

  • Onyebuagu Onyinye Eleanor

    The story goes a long way to tell us what really happens in our today’s World. We fail to do the right things all in the pursuit for money and at the same time we fail to recognise the existence of the one who truly gives us Life

  • Aṅulika Iwoba

    A very moving prose.
    I never stop wondering why it often takes the ultimate tragedy for us to be pushed to share the best gifts with people —the gift of God’s Word.
    But all the same, it isn’t too late for Bijun.
    And I hope he finds all the strength and hope to pursue the mission.
    Even when he has the most difficult and unyielding humans to cope with.
    Some how, we’re the Bijuns of the world.
    And I hope we find enough courage to share God’s Word with people who need it, beyond the material assistance we offer.

  • Duru Gift Onyinyechi

    God has told us that we should go into all nations and spread the gospel. As followers of Christ we need to obey this commission even if it means living on the edge. Thank you, ma, for this.

  • Onyebuagu Onyinye Eleanor

    The story indeed talks about what’s happening in our World today. Most youths tend to pursue money and forget the one who truly gives Life, also many of us, Christians fail to tell others about Christ

  • UFOH CHIDIEBERE STEPHANIE

    Hmm, this life is too short to waist, I hope to always talk to unbelievers about christ. A word is enough for the wise

  • Ubabunike David

    Money can’t buy Life, God can keep life, If he only had put God first, As for me this is a wake up call.

  • Ibaro Harrison Chidalu

    How I wish this story gets across to those in similar situations. It’s so helpful! Money is quite important but it’s a means not an end. May God help us to know Him more.

  • David Nneka

    Jesus Christ is the only way, the truth and the light, if only jodge had know that earlier, but at list his death woken the apostle in bijun

    • Chukwuebuka Okpala

      In all we do in life, we should always allow God to lead. An Igbo adage says, he who goes before his God will have to run forever. Onye buru chi ya uzọ ọ gbabuo onwe ya na ọsọ.

      Had it been Jogbe knows, a life devoid of God’s divine guidance is a cataclysmic one, he would have lived moderately.

  • Chinweuba Blessing Oluchi

    As Christians, one main lesson from this story is the growing need to preach the gospel to all and sundry;everyone we are in contact with.

  • Victor Izuchukwu

    This piece shows some of the things that life can throw at you sometimes,we should always do good and remain upright.

  • Ugwu comfort

    This story is a lesson to all, at times many people live a life of i don’t care, forgetting that we are just a visitor in this Earth and
    that one day that we will all pass away
    to another phase of life in which we will
    all give an account of how we lived our lives on Earth, which gives us more reason to live a good life that glorified our maker by dwelling in the good gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

  • Igwenagu Somtochukwu Osinachi

    This write up is trying to tell us that as a youth we have to put God first before anything else not money.

  • Ezema sochima Cynthia

    An interesting story with so many moral lessons, bijun did well but his effort is not enough, in this story we have to learn how to save souls to God.

  • Binju is really a good friend… A friend that one should keep… This post also teaches us how good the gospel is in our lives.

  • God is indeed great… No situation superspeeds His power… Bijun is a good friend, if everyone has Bijun’s character the world would be a better place. We should should all remember to be prayerful in all our endeavors.

  • It was a nice story ma. jogbe reckless life and ignorance cost him his life, he believed life is one and should be enjoyed to the fullest. If he had listened to Bijun and followed the right way, he would have lived a long and modest life.The world needs more people like Bijun to bring people to the right part.

  • Bijun tried in telling his friend jogbe to get a better job . But most importantly he hesitated in praying and preaching got his friend , because prayer is what he needs in any he he doing . Thank you ma such a nice write up .

  • Bijun tried in telling his friend jogbe to get a better job . But most importantly he hesitated in praying and preaching for his friend , because prayer is what he needs in any he is doing . Thank you ma such a nice write up .

  • Iyorakpo Dorathy

    Thank you ma for this interesting piece.. I believe Bijun did his best for Jogbe and I also commend him for Trying to fix his regrettable mistake by going back for his other friend. We should always Learn to put God first in everything and spread the gospel.

  • Zita Ezechi

    As Christians, we have an important role to play. We must ensure that we spread the gospel and convert sinners and also advice those we see going astray

  • Enemuwe John Paul

    Financial assistance is not always enough. We ought to take spiritual and moral steps too. Bijun did good for Jogbe financially and morally but was it enough spiritually?

  • Dick-Unegbu Jennifer

    What a lovely story Ma, We need God, in whatever we do, whether if it is for a job or helping family or friends. Only he will guide us to the right path.

    • Ugwuanyi Perpetua

      Jogbe chose the wrong path all in the name of game playing and living the life to the fullest as a youth, and ended badly. The Bible says that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, but that wasn’t the case for jogbe. May the Lord continue to guide us towards the right path..!

  • Chukwukanne chinecherem winner

    Very inspiring story here, life has definitely thought Jogbe a lesson. Though its nice to help people materially, getting to them on a more emotional and spiritual leave actually does a lot more at saving lives. Instead of castigating people and finding faults we should try to correct with love and draw them closer to God.

  • Nweze Somto Maryann

    Another interesting story with good moral lessons, Bijun is indeed a very good friend. We should try to help people get close to God because with him everything is possible and our lives will be filled with joy.

  • Ben-Egbe Nneoma Andrea

    Very touching story. This story is a wake up call to all. This story particularly taught me that at times, people need more than money

  • Obajie Chinonyerem

    I find creativity perfectly etched in this beautiful piece. It portrayed all the current happenings of this world and the need to preach to our love ones about Christ.

    • Tosin Ojora

      This is so sad. Jogbe lost his wealth due to riotous living and later loses his life. Well, Bijun has made the right decision; Darly is still alive and that’s a great chance to help him live right. Thank you Ma for this story. It is really needful to share the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ with all that come around us.

  • Idoko Charles Edicha

    Bijun tried his best for Jogbe and should be commended.
    One thing we must learn is that in life every minute counts and we should endeavour to make use it properly.

  • Agbedo Ebubechukwu

    Things of the world is beyond material things and the earlier we as Christian’s realise this, the better. It’s a good thing Bijun saw the mistake he made about his friend and tried talking Daryl out of waywardness

  • Chibuife Isaac Chukwuebuka

    We should endeavour not to waste time in preaching the gospel to the lost because time wasted can not be recovered any more. Preach the gospel, be instant in season and out of season so says the gospel.

  • Asogwa Uchechi Happiness

    It’s never too late to start preaching the word of God .
    Though some souls must have been lost but there are still many waiting to be rescued , Thanks for this piece ma

  • Ikechukwu Favour Mmesoma

    Our first priority as believers is seen in the great commission Jesus gave to his disciples which is to preach the word and make disciples of “all” nations. Just a few words of encouragement can save a perishing soul and with the help of the Holy spirit who convicts sinners, we can save more lives. #dontstopspreadingtheword#

  • Aguguesi God'sfavour Idimmachukwu

    I learnt that the most important thing we should risk our live for (most important living on edge) has to do with soul winning because it is the most profitable. A bad life never pays no matter how you enjoy it

  • Achor Ojoche gift

    There are so many people out there living very recklessly, I need to grab the opportunity of reaching out to them with the gospel, cos the time is too short and eternity is too long to be risked.

  • Ekechukwu Francisca

    So sad. If Bijun had drawn Jogbe close to God, the story would have ended on a different note.
    We should save souls, not just materially, but with the gospel.

  • Chukwumalume Ozioma

    Yes,exactly! It is extremely important to preach Jesus whenever, wherever and to whoever we meet, we have no idea who needs to know about Jesus to be converted.

  • Nwatu Vera Chisom

    Bijun did literally all he could for Jogbe but it still could not save his life, therefore, If you say you love a person but you have still not told him/her about God that love should be questioned. May God help us to tell others about him so everyone can enjoy life everlasting that only God gives.

  • I find this short story interesting and educative. As Christians we are supposed to play a role in the conversion of sinners to born again Christians.But of course we can’t do this on our own, we need God’s grace as well that’s why we have to be prayerful

  • Eze Abigail Nmesoma

    The story is interesting..In all we do we should know that God is the Ultimate..Binju is a good friend..An adage said that a friend In need is a friend indeed..Binju tried his possible best for jogbe .. Thanks Ma, for this wonderful story

  • Ikechukwu Fountain Chidera

    We should start appreciating hard work, because all these easy incomes ain’t to be trusted

  • EMMANUEL AGBOWO

    A good story…. i grab that Living on the edge without a concrete i ground in God and a good known job will surely get you falling off like jogbe. But what if you add a. Networking business to the already established two?

    • I don’t understand your question? Which established two? And what do you mean by networking business? I hope you don’t mean Ponzi schemes. They are investment scams. I have a teaching series on them.in this blog and a short story series, “My Beautiful Neighbour.”

      Happy weekend!

  • Eze Abigail Nmesoma

    Binju is a good friend,an adage said that a friend in need is a friend in deed..Binju tried his possible best for Jogbe,but forgot to preach the gospel as well .I pray that God give us d grace not only to render help but also to preach the Gospel.. Thanks Ma, for this wonderful story

  • Ojobo somtochukwu praise

    Seek Christ first and every other thing will be added including money. Such a friend like bijun

  • Onwudiwe rita oluebube

    If only jogbe had been more close to Bijun, if only he had shared certain things with him, but he didn’t and didn’t end up well. Sometimes people act tough on the outside just to hide their problems , let we their friends be nice to them, be open with them, love them, support them. These little acts of kindness go a long way in their lives.

    • Chukwude Olachi

      Bijun was good friend but he made the mistake of not talking to Jogbe about christ, he did gave him some moral advice but I can’t help but think that if he had spoke to him about Christ, things would have taken a different turn, well, see no need crying over the spilled milk, the fact that he realized that and made that life changing decision was for the better.

  • Jogbe’ s life was only about enjoyment and living life to the fullest and his friend could not share the most important message of all: the message of Christ. We must endeavor to see that our family and friends are living a Godly life. God bless you ma.

  • ADO-OKOYE STANLEY CHIDERA

    Wow, such a tragic one, well bijun shouldn’t blame himself for anything, at least he tried his best, gave jogbe some advice and moral instructions but he didn’t heed, so how are we sure he would accept Christ, but I love the fact that bijun have learnt from his mistake and taken it upon himself to preach the word so no other person will take the path his friend jogbe took.

  • Jogbe’s life was only about enjoyment and living life to the fullest and his friend could not share the most important message of all :the message of Christ. We must endeavor to see that our family and friends are living a Godly life. God bless u ma.

  • Orazulume udochukwu victoria

    This story has taught me that as we try our best in helping others let’s not forget the most important thing of all preaching the gospel, it can save souls from destruction. Let’s all win a soul for God. thank you ma

  • Ugwu Mmesoma

    Nice one ma .life is too short to wallow in sin all in the name of fun. There’s love in sharing, not only sharing material thing even the word of God

  • Onwudiwe rita oluebube

    If knly jogbe had been more close to Bijun, if only he had shared certain things with him, but he didn’t and didn’t end up well. Sometimes people act tough on the outside just to hide their problems, let we the friends be nice to them, be open with them, love them, support them. These little acts of kindness go a long way in their lives.

  • The major point of this story that I got is the urgency to spread the gospel. There’s no time to be laid back, there’s no time to waste. We as Christians need to share this amazing Gospel with as many people as we can so we don’t have any regrets. Bless you ma.

  • Ama Mitchelle Chisom

    Bijun is definitely the friend that most people would give anything to have as he always came through for Jogbe.
    The most beautiful part of this story is decision to share his faith in christ with Daryl.

  • Chukwu Endurance Chinaza

    Wow…this story pierced deep into me like a sword . It actually made me remember a friend in class who needs the gospel , it’s not about giving out financial and academic assistance to our friends ,what about spiritual assistances.
    I’m ready to speak out now . Before it becomes too late .
    Thanks ma

  • Agbo Peace

    I Honestly think we should be watchful and conscious of the kind of life we live ,most times people chase money instead of God forgetting that its God that giveth wealth

  • Udeh Precious Chinemerem

    The story is well crafted. Quite captivating and extremely didactic. It is really not good to live recklessly as Jogbe did. On the other hand, Bijun did not do well not sharing his faith in christ with his friend whom he helpd with lots of finance and advise. However, his resolve to talk to Daryl about his faith in Christ which he did not do with Jogbe was a right one and teaches us that it’s never too too late to begin a good work, especially the spreading of the gospel.

  • Eze Cassandra chisom

    Jogbe might not have died assuming her friend bijun talked to her about God instead of only giving him money & warning him not to come again,he would have talked to him about the word of God &lure him to follow the right path.

  • Nice story, this is a lesson to all we should try to help others in ways that we can and also preach the word of God to them. As Christans we play a very major role in the lives of our friends who have not yet found the Lord so therefore we should always encouraged them and preach to them as well. May God help us all

  • Nwugwu Jennifer Somtochukwu

    I find this story so touching and nice. As Christans, we should preach the gospel to our friends at any given opportunity.

  • Lotanna mba

    Nice short story it was simple and easy to understand; we also learnt one or two lessons from it

  • Emeka Richard chibuike

    The main points to learn form this article is the urgency of the gospel

  • Azoribe Blessing Amarachi

    is a very captivity story and it is filled with suspense. I love it, it is so inspiring.

  • Jemimah Okwute

    Some people prefer depending on other people. They hardly value it. They will hear advice and not apply it to their lives. Lot of lesson learnt from this story.
    The word of God is important, we must learn to share it to people we come across because we might not know who they really are

  • Nebo cynthia chinaza

    Nice story ma we all can see in this story that no money on earth can save one but accepting GOD as ur lord and personal savior.

  • Emmanuel Ejiofor

    Wow. What a beautiful story. I felt sad for Jogbe and even Bijun. It must have been so hard for the latter losing “his guy” after everything, without even knowing about his sickness till his death.

  • Anayo ijeoma

    God is the solution to all our problems. Nice story ma.

  • Mamah Chidimma Jennifer

    Though we weren’t sure Jogbe was going to listen and be committed to the gospel, since he had that habit of ignoring Bijun’s advices, he should have brought it up still as there’s a saying,”my friend I told you is better than my friend, I was going to tell you.
    Anyway, mistakes are made not to be repeated. He realized his negligence and went back to address Daryl

  • Most times we come in contact with people, we forget that it’s the gospel that is the answer to their numerous problems and struggles.

    We instead present advice that every other person can easily give forgetting we’re actually the salt of the earth.

    Am a pathetic victim of this, and my prayer is that I will not be ashamed of the gospel.

    We are to add flavour to people’s lives, even when they don’t accept it, they will forever remember us for what we did.

  • Iheme Akunna

    As much as we should enjoy the life we live, moderation is key. What this means is that we shouldn’t be judges on our own case peradventure we miss the real key to this life which is contentment, and our purpose in all sincerity because God alone coordinates our roadmaps.

  • Eze hyacienth

    Bijun played a good Christian role here by helping his friend jogbe financially and morally too. Even though he forgot to share the gospel with jogbe ..that’s why we should always be contiouse of the kind of life we live do we don’t end up like jogbe because it could be someone else turn tomorrow ….thank you ma .

    • Bibian

      This is quite an interesting piece. Being a Christian also implies being an everyday evangelist; either by words or actions. Bijun realized this quite late but the difference is in the zeal.

  • Bassey Katherine akpan

    As Christian God is our priority before every other things follows .

  • In this post, I got to understand the need for evangelism. People need to come out from their ignorance

  • Nancy Njoku

    Binju is a good friend that one should keep. He really tried his best for jogbe

  • Macaulay Tekevwe

    The story is too touching. The gospel is in urgency. Preaching should be part of our every day life.

  • Mma Eze

    In my opinion, Bijun did his best although he should have prayed for his friend. But we cannot deny that heaven helps those who help themselves. Jogbe did nothing for himself and later paid the consequences.
    There is a limit to how we can actually help people, you can’t save someone that doesn’t want to be saved.

  • Rejoice Ezeabii

    We should preach the gospel we are opportune to because, no one knows tomorrow. Though Bijun did his utmost best, but he felt he didn’t do much because he never talked to Jogbe about christ which is the most important thing.

  • Wonodi Success

    I learnt that life is not all about chasing money. There is more to life than money. Thanks for this piece ma.

  • Summer Izuagba

    people chase money and wealth and not the kingdom of God and its really saddening.

  • Eze Chidiebeube Judith

    A captivating read. In as much as we offer people materialistic help, we should try to get into them and know which areas of their lives requires urgent attention. In so doing, we can also share the gospel with them and encourage them. Little things like this matters more

  • Chidera peace

    We should try to share the good news among the lost sheep in our midst

  • Ihuoma Ogochukwu Chinonye

    Every time or opportunity we meet people, we must always talk about the saving power of Christ. Bijun, I believe did his best. This is an amazing story.

  • Amara Ikwueze

    Financial help is not enough but sharing the good news makes it complete. I hope Daryl and his likes will accept it with open arms

  • Okorie Divinefavour Nkechinyere

    We should always make time to share the gospel.

  • Ifechukwu Izueke

    Dependency on people is horror , poor jugbe.

  • Onyenekwe Ihechi Prince

    This story is a huge motivation to me. It is very pertinent to look out for those who come to us and even those who do not. Bijun’s generosity and advise was truly out of sincerity but Jogbe was bent on destruction. Praying and leading such kind of persons to Christ is very vital and every opportunity should be seized. God bless you Ma for this.

  • Wisdom Ugosinachi Miracle

    The gospel of Christ needs to get to anyone we come across to so that we don’t regret at last for not preaching to them

  • Uderika onyinyechi gift

    Opportunities present itself everyday but it takes the one who’s focus and committed to what he or she believes to maximize it well. Bijun played a good Christian role here by helping his friend jogbe financially and morally too. Even though he forgot to share the gospel with jogbe ..that’s why we should always be contiouse of the kind of life we live do we don’t end up like jogbe because it could be someone else turn tomorrow ….thank you ma .

  • Chimdalu Onah

    I learnt that we should always lead people to God if we see them going astray

  • Ucheghara Fortune

    This short story is very thought provoking. It shows how many people, especially young people live their lives recklessly without planing.

  • Akalugwu Ruth Chigozie

    I find this story very captivating even though it’s touching.
    Preaching should be part of us as christians .

  • Ihuoma Ogochukwu Chinonye

    Every time or opportunity we meet people, we must always talk about the saving power of Christ. Bijun, I believe, did his best. This is an amazing story. A great piece.

  • Chinomso salome Jeribe

    We all need someone to talk and help direct us to the right path, and as Christians we should not forget the work Christ has committed to us.

  • Glory Odogwu Chikaodinaka

    this is a beautiful one ma .
    this story made me realize how much people go through that we don’t see at the surface level.
    if only bijun had pressed further to know what was actually wrong with jogbe, he could have probably saved a life.

  • Madukwem Ebube Sharon Oghenetegiri

    As a believer, it is our utmost duty to try and reconcile those going astray back to christ.

  • Kamsy Mbamalu

    Sometimes we think by providing material pleasures to our friends it will cover up for the spiritual needs but it is quite the opposite of things.
    If Bijun had told Jogbe about christ, things will not change immediately but it will ignite something in Jogbe.

    Thank you ma for this lesson.

  • Destiny

    This is really a nice and informative story , it tells us how short life is and how better it is for us to make a good decision and always show love to one another . Thank you ma and remain Bless .

  • Ezeagu Chidinma Annastacia

    This story helps us to understand that money isn’t everything. Although we aren’t sure that Jogbe would’ve repented for sure,but at least Bijun should’ve tried. I was sad hearing that Jogbe died. Trying to help Daryl was a very good idea,and I think people should emulate that. We should take people out of darkness by showing them the light,which is God.

  • Elias Ozioma Favour

    May God give us the grace not just to help people but to also tell them about Christ.

  • Ugwu Samuel Chidera

    Nice story, A friend in need is a friend indeed. But we should not abuse it by billing them always.

  • Ugwu Samuel Chidera

    It is good to cut out coat according to our cloth. You can’t be living a lifestyles your benefactor cannot live.

  • Ekene Emmanuella kosisochi

    This story teaches how important and urgent it is to spread the gospel of God and save millions of souls for God from falling into destruction. As short as this life is we should try to use it and do the very best for God, not everything is about money. Thank you ma for such a wonderful story.

  • I learnt that as Christians, every opportunity we get to speak to people about Christ, we should grab it and shouldn’t wait until things goes south before telling people about the good news of Christ.

  • Ifeanyi Nwanegbo

    The act of preaching and upholding the gospel should be one of our priorities.

  • GABRIEL JESSICA

    Caring for the spiritual needs of people should be our number one priority.Such an inspiring story.it is a wakeup call for christians to look beyond the physical appearance and go an extra mile by sharing the gospel Christ Jesus.I am really bless by the story,God bless you Ma

  • Ahueze Vivian Isioma

    Great Lessons to Learn here.
    The word of God should always be Prioritized.
    Thank you ma, for this insightful piece.

  • Odo Faith Chinecherem

    We should realise that one with God is with majority,Preaching should be part of our every day life.

  • Nwabuisi chinonso peace

    This story is very inspiring, we should utilize every opportunity to share the word of God with people, cause you never know when it would be too late for another person just like it was for Jogbe. This story teaches a lot about preaching the gospel to many.❤❤

  • Nnamani Chidibere John

    It’s heartbreaking to hear about Jogbe’s struggles and eventual passing, and it’s a a reason why we should always extend a helping hand when someone we care about is in need.

  • Perpetual Oko

    People often tend to overlook the spiritual aspect of their friends. Bijun did his best in taking care of his friend but neglected his soul.

  • Tom Teme

    Bijun is a good friend who tried to help his friend when ever he was in need. It would have been a lot nicer if he had helped him spiritually.

  • Amos marvelous obianuju

    Reaching out to people is very essential, not just monetarily but in all possible way we can .

  • Ezeudogu Oluebube Mirabel

    Binju tried in telling his friend jogbe to get a better job.but most of importantly he hesitated in praying and preaching for his friend, because prayer is what he needs in anything he is doing.

  • Ojigwe Joy Ihuoma

    Every Christian should put on themselves the burden of leading people who are going down the wrong path to the right one.

  • Favour Mamah

    The twist got me. The guilt of not saving a brother is real. Jogbe on his own side wasn’t too serious with his health, we should always give immediate attention to a little things. Such a nice story Ma.

  • Nwokeafor Gift Ihuoma

    Life without Christ is indeed worthless and we should all try to live our best lives in a way that pleases God. Bijun lost a soul he could have won for heaven because he was focused on offering every possible kind of help he could to Jogbe forgetting the most important help anyone can receive, help from God through faith and hard work. I am happy he realized his mistake, although too late, and is willing to try doing what he could not regardless of what he may face.

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