Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into Kenneth Hagin's Faith Food and how it connects with the teachings of OSCLMS (Oral Roberts School of Christian Living and Ministry Studies). Now, if you're scratching your head wondering what all that means, don't sweat it! We're going to break it down in a way that's easy to understand and, hopefully, super helpful for your own faith journey.

Understanding Kenneth Hagin's Faith Food

Kenneth Hagin, affectionately known as "Dad Hagin" to many, was a powerhouse in the Charismatic movement. He emphasized the importance of faith, healing, and the believer's authority. Faith Food is essentially daily devotional readings – bite-sized portions of scripture and Hagin's insights designed to nourish your faith throughout the year. These aren't just feel-good snippets; they are carefully selected passages intended to build a strong foundation of belief in God's Word. Hagin's approach was practical and straightforward, aiming to help believers apply biblical principles to their everyday lives. Faith Food encourages consistent meditation on scripture, which Hagin believed was essential for developing unwavering faith. He often shared personal experiences and testimonies to illustrate how faith in God's Word had worked in his own life and the lives of others. The daily readings cover a wide range of topics, including healing, prosperity, prayer, and the importance of speaking faith-filled words. Hagin's emphasis on the power of words is a recurring theme, urging believers to align their speech with God's Word rather than their circumstances. By consistently feeding on God's Word through Faith Food, Hagin believed that believers could overcome doubt, fear, and unbelief, and experience the abundant life that Jesus promised. Ultimately, Faith Food is a tool to help believers cultivate a deeper relationship with God, grow in faith, and live victoriously in every area of their lives.

The OSCLMS Connection

Oral Roberts School of Christian Living and Ministry Studies (OSCLMS) shared a similar emphasis on faith, healing, and the practical application of biblical principles. Oral Roberts himself was a major figure in the Pentecostal movement, known for his healing ministry and his commitment to educating believers in the things of the Spirit. OSCLMS was created to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively minister in various capacities, whether as pastors, evangelists, teachers, or lay leaders. The curriculum at OSCLMS often incorporated the teachings of influential figures like Kenneth Hagin, recognizing the value of their contributions to the body of Christ. The connection between OSCLMS and Hagin's teachings lies in their shared emphasis on the power of faith and the importance of believing God's Word above all else. Both Roberts and Hagin stressed the need for believers to develop a personal relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, and obedience to the Holy Spirit. OSCLMS provided a structured environment for students to delve deeper into these principles, offering courses on topics such as faith, healing, deliverance, and the prophetic ministry. Furthermore, OSCLMS often invited guest speakers who were aligned with the teachings of Hagin and other influential leaders in the Charismatic movement. This exposure allowed students to learn from a variety of perspectives and gain practical insights into how to apply biblical principles in real-world situations. The goal of OSCLMS was to empower believers to live out their faith boldly and effectively, impacting their communities and the world for Christ. By incorporating the teachings of Kenneth Hagin and other prominent leaders, OSCLMS sought to provide students with a well-rounded education that equipped them to minister with confidence and authority.

Key Principles from Hagin's Faith Food and OSCLMS

So, what are some key takeaways from both Hagin's Faith Food and the teachings at OSCLMS? Let's break it down:

• The Power of God's Word: Both emphasized that the Bible is the ultimate authority and the foundation for all belief. Hagin's Faith Food is all about getting that Word inside you. It's not just about reading it; it's about meditating on it, thinking about it, and letting it sink deep into your heart. OSCLMS reinforced this by making biblical study a core part of their curriculum.
• Speaking Faith-Filled Words: Hagin was a firm believer in the power of our words. He taught that what we say can either build us up or tear us down. OSCLMS echoed this, encouraging students to speak words of faith and declare God's promises over their lives and ministries. This concept aligns with the biblical principle found in Proverbs 18:21, which states that "death and life are in the power of the tongue."
• Faith for Healing: Both Hagin and Roberts were strong proponents of divine healing. Faith Food often includes scriptures related to healing, and OSCLMS provided training on how to minister healing to others. They believed that healing is part of God's redemptive plan and that believers have the right to receive healing through faith in Jesus Christ. It's about understanding that God wants you well!
• The Importance of the Holy Spirit: Both recognized the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. Hagin emphasized the need to be filled with the Spirit, and OSCLMS provided opportunities for students to experience the gifts of the Spirit. This included teachings on spiritual discernment, prophecy, and other manifestations of the Spirit's power. The Holy Spirit is our helper, our guide, and our source of power!
• Living a Life of Faith: Ultimately, both Hagin and OSCLMS called believers to live a life of faith – a life that is characterized by trust in God, obedience to His Word, and a willingness to step out in faith, even when it doesn't make sense. It's about walking by faith, not by sight!

How to Apply These Principles Today

Okay, so we've talked about the what and the why. Now, let's get practical. How can you actually apply these principles in your daily life? Here are a few ideas:

• Start a Daily Faith Food Practice: Grab a copy of Kenneth Hagin's Faith Food (or find it online) and commit to reading it every day. Take time to meditate on the scripture and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal its meaning to you. Don't just read it and forget it; let it soak in!
• Watch Your Words: Pay attention to what you're saying. Are you speaking words of faith or words of doubt and fear? Make a conscious effort to speak words that align with God's Word. When negative thoughts come, replace them with positive affirmations based on scripture.
• Study the Bible: Dig deeper into the Word of God. Don't just rely on devotional readings; study the Bible for yourself. Use commentaries, concordances, and other resources to gain a better understanding of God's truth. The more you know the Word, the stronger your faith will be.
• Pray in the Spirit: Spend time praying in the Holy Spirit (speaking in tongues). This is a powerful way to connect with God and receive guidance and direction. It also helps to build your faith and strengthen your spirit.
• Find a Faith Community: Connect with other believers who share your passion for faith and the things of the Spirit. Attend church, join a small group, or participate in online forums where you can fellowship with like-minded individuals. Iron sharpens iron!

Final Thoughts

The teachings of Kenneth Hagin's Faith Food, combined with the principles taught at OSCLMS, offer a powerful foundation for living a life of faith and experiencing the fullness of God's blessings. By consistently feeding on God's Word, speaking faith-filled words, and relying on the power of the Holy Spirit, you can overcome any challenge and fulfill your God-given destiny. So, go ahead and dive in! Start feeding your faith today and watch what God will do in your life.

Hope this helps you guys on your journey! Keep the faith and stay blessed!