Tuesday 28 February 2017

Impediments to Prayer - Tuesday 28, February 2017

Impediments to Prayer - Tuesday 28, February 2017

Memorise: If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: - Psalm 66:18

Read: Isaiah 59:1-4 (KJV)

1 Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:

2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.

3 For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness.

4 None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 25-26, Isaiah 47:1-13

MESSAGE:

The fact that God answers prayers is without doubt. Anytime you call on Him, as long as it is in the Name of Jesus, you can be sure the answer will come. Jesus in John 14:14 said,

“If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.”

To God, answering prayers is a question of keeping His word. He said if you call upon Him when you are in trouble, He will deliver you, and He is bound by His word (Psalm 50:15, Hebrews 6:18). There was once a contest between the prophet of God, Elijah, and 450 prophets of an idol called Baal (1 Kings 18:19-24). Each side was to call on their God or god; the goal was to see which side would receive a response by fire. The prophets of Baal called on their god from morning till afternoon, but there was no answer. The moment the man of God called on the Lord, fire fell from heaven. God is still in the business of answering prayers, but are you still in the business of obeying Him? Be assured that God is still in the business of stilling raging storms. If you remove iniquity from your heart, you will call on Him and He will answer and deliver you.

As much as God desires to answer your prayers, if you still enjoy a life of sin, your prayers cannot be answered. We must make conscious efforts to remove all impediments to our prayers. Such impediments include what the Bible describes as “the sin which doth so easily beset us” (Hebrews 12:1). The pleasures of the flesh run against God’s expectations (Galatians 5:17). Such pleasures will not allow us to receive answers to our prayers. We must be weary of gossip because there is great danger in every idle word we speak (Matthew 12:36). Jesting should also be avoided (Ephesians 5:4). Jesting refers to unholy jokes. God is not against laughter and humour as some people wrongly believe. He is pleasantly humorous, but we must keep ourselves from unhealthy jokes that hinder holy living or make fun of the Holy Spirit. The Lord is not just looking for those who are calling on Him for miracles and signs; He is searching for those who will lift up holy hands and a pure heart before Him (Psalm 24:3-5). He is looking for those who are ready and committed to walking in His footsteps. God is holy, and He has called us to holy living. We are to do as He commands because we are the light of the world. God in Heaven is glorified when our light shines in the midst of the darkness of this world. If you don’t want any impediment of your prayers from now on, you must amend your ways. If you have been stealing, repent and steal no more. If you have been involved in questionable transactions and dealings, you have to repent and forsake such ways. If your life is right with God, your prayers will not be hindered.

Action Point: Confess every pleasure of the flesh you have yield to, asking for grace to live above them.

Monday 27 February 2017

Sincerity - Monday 27, February 2017

Sincerity - Monday 27, February 2017

Memorise: In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, - Titus 2:7

Read: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 (KJV)

14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.

15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:

16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?

17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 24, Isaiah 46

MESSAGE:

Insincerity is one of the greatest reasons behind the downfall of many believers today. Some people claim to love God, but the kind of fruit they manifest makes people question the genuineness of their salvation. Loving God is not just by words, it must reflect in all that we do and in our approach to life. The moment we are saved, we should no longer walk as those who are heading for eternal damnation. The word of God must be obeyed in its entirety. There are believers today who cherry-pick the aspects of the Bible they want to obey. This should not be so! After we are saved, it is expected of us to immediately renounce all the hidden things of dishonesty (2 Corinthians 4:2). We cannot afford to be careless in our Christian walk, because we have an adversary (1 Peter 5:8). To be able to stand against the wiles of the devil, we must be sincere with ourselves. One of the things that gave David victory over Goliath was his sincerity. Although King Saul offered David his armour, David was sincere enough to admit that he had never tried that approach (1 Samuel 17:38-39). His sincerity made him stick to his familiar strategy of using smooth stones and a catapult, rather than wasting his time on an untested line of attack that would not produce results.

Today, there are many ministers of the gospel who have abandoned the true gospel for a social message. They believe that people are not interested in hearing the truth. This is false! Some believe that if they preach the true gospel to people, they will find it very hard and most will turn away, hence, they water down their messages. Such ministers need to learn from Jesus (John 6:60-67). If Samson had been sincere with himself, he would not have died the kind of death he died (Judges 16:21-30). The devil had tested Samson several times and had found out that he had no wisdom. Samson knew he had a weakness for women, but he refused to admit it. He felt things would always remain as they were (Judges 16:20). If he was sincere, he would have built a wall of defence between himself and his weaknesses. He kept a relationship he knew God did not approve of. He kept visiting places he should not visit, just like some Christians today who visit bars; even though they know ungodly things happen there. Are you finding it difficult to stop stealing, yet you still join others in counting offering money? Are you finding it difficult to keep your eyes off your female secretary, despite speaking in tongues, and yet you have not eased her out? Are you competing with the grace of God in other people’s lives, despite the fact that God has told you your own area of strength? If any of these describes you, then you are not being sincere with yourself!

Prayer Point: Father, grant me the grace to sincerely deal with every weakness in my life.

Sunday 26 February 2017

Hypocritical? - Sunday 26, February 2017

Hypocritical? - Sunday 26, February 2017

Memorise: But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? Matthew 22:18

Read: Luke 11:37-44 (KJV)

37 And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat.

38 And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.

39 And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness.

40 Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also?

41 But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.

42 But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

43 Woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets.

44 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 21:23, Isaiah 45:14-25

MESSAGE:

One of the characteristics which the Holy Spirit warns us will be rife in the last days is hypocrisy (1 Timothy 4:2). No wonder the Lord Jesus Christ made it very clear that many who expect to be granted access through the pearly gates will be turned back on the last day (Luke 13:24-27). Do you know that many bishops, pastors, general overseers, apostles, etc who are professing Christ today will not make it on the day of judgement? May that not be your lot in Jesus’ Name. To prevent this from happening to you, you need to periodically examine yourself to see if you are still in the faith, as received from the Lord. 2 Corinthians 13:5 says,

“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?”

Ask yourself if your name is still written in the Book of Life. Does the Spirit of God still bear witness with your spirit that you are a bona fide child of God? Is your conscience free from guilt and dead works? Can the devil and his agents testify that truly, you are no longer in their camp? Don’t pretend to be a child of God when you know you are on your way to perdition.

The greatest challenges Jesus had with the Pharisees was the issue of their mindset. They appeared to have good intentions, but it was all a lie. Jesus knew the state of their hearts. The human heart is like a computer. Whatever you feed it with will determine what comes out of it. The heart of a man is what shapes his destiny. The reason why some people come to church and are still not blessed is the state of their heart. Their hypocritical hearts are hardened, and so they cannot receive anything from God. If the Pharisees had allowed the message of Jesus Christ to penetrate their hearts, their perception would have been different. If you allow God to work on your heart, your breakthrough will be immeasurable. Our heart is a reflection of who we are. Every time Jesus performed a miracle, instead of being happy that someone in need had received help from God, the Scribes and Pharisees would rather question by what authority He did it (John 9:13-27, Luke 20:1-2). That is what a hypocritical heart looks like. I wish we all knew that God is watching not just our actions but also our motives. He hears and watches everything we do behind closed doors. There is nothing hidden from Him that will not be exposed on the last day. Hypocrites know how to find faults in the lives of others, but their own lives are like sepulchres which appear beautiful on the outside but are full of dead men’s bones (Matthew 23:27). God wants us to reflect a life of righteousness and transparency, a life that radiates the glory of God, a life of virtue and of good works.

Prayer Point: Father, deliver me from all forms of self-deception.

Saturday 25 February 2017

Ungrateful? - Saturday 25, February 2017

Ungrateful? - Saturday 25, February 2017

Memorise: It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: – Psalms 92:1

Read: 1 Samuel 25:4-17 (KJV)

4 And David heard in the wilderness that Nabal did shear his sheep.

5 And David sent out ten young men, and David said unto the young men, Get you up to Carmel, and go to Nabal, and greet him in my name:

6 And thus shall ye say to him that liveth in prosperity, Peace be both to thee, and peace be to thine house, and peace be unto all that thou hast.

7 And now I have heard that thou hast shearers: now thy shepherds which were with us, we hurt them not, neither was there ought missing unto them, all the while they were in Carmel.

8 Ask thy young men, and they will shew thee. Wherefore let the young men find favour in thine eyes: for we come in a good day: give, I pray thee, whatsoever cometh to thine hand unto thy servants, and to thy son David.

9 And when David's young men came, they spake to Nabal according to all those words in the name of David, and ceased.

10 And Nabal answered David's servants, and said, Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? there be many servants now a days that break away every man from his master.

11 Shall I then take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, and give it unto men, whom I know not whence they be?

12 So David's young men turned their way, and went again, and came and told him all those sayings.

13 And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff.

14 But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal's wife, saying, Behold, David sent messengers out of the wilderness to salute our master; and he railed on them.

15 But the men were very good unto us, and we were not hurt, neither missed we any thing, as long as we were conversant with them, when we were in the fields:

16 They were a wall unto us both by night and day, all the while we were with them keeping the sheep.

17 Now therefore know and consider what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against our master, and against all his household: for he is such a son of Belial, that a man cannot speak to him.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 19-20, Isaiah 44:21-45:13

MESSAGE:

God plays a prominent role in every successful endeavour (Lamentations 3:37). No human effort would suffice if God is not involved (Psalm 127:1). This is why you need to be grateful to God for every achievement you experience. Nabal, his household and everyone around him lived in prosperity. In spite of all the battles raging around them, Nabal’s workers were all secure and his goods intact. He enjoyed safety and prosperity because the men of David’s hand shielded him and all he had from attacks. At a crucial point, David and his men needed his help in providing food for their sustenance, but he denied them this. He disdained David and his men because he saw them as misfits and fugitives who did not deserve his generosity. Many children of God also feel this way when they are asked to give. Some people disdain God each time they are asked to give offerings to Him. They wonder why they have to give 10% of their profit or income to God. They see this as irrational. Yes, irrational minds cannot see the faithfulness of God. We should be grateful to God, and our gratitude should be expressed through our actions to Him and to our fellow men. Every time we bless others with our possessions out of a sincere heart, we are saying to God that we are grateful He made us a channel of blessing.

You can move God to do more for you through the heart of gratitude. Those who show gratitude to God achieve significant things in life. Solomon showed his gratitude to God through his offerings (1 Kings 3:3-15). He remembered and reflected on all the intrigues and battles that led to his emergence as king, and he was moved to give thanks. Also, King David was so grateful to God that he expressed it in his dance, to the point where he was disdained (2 Samuel 6:16). He forgot he was a king, because he was demonstrating his gratitude to the King of kings. For those with a heart of gratitude to God, when things are working, they praise God, and when things are not going in the direction they envisaged, they still praise God, knowing well that the faithfulness of God will never allow them to suffer loss. Are you surrounded by enemies you can’t number? Don’t be troubled. Trust in Lord, and you will see His salvation. Are you going through situations that you can’t see yourself overcoming? Put your trust in God, and you will have total victory. Just take the step of faith and begin to bless the Name of the Lord. Even if a sack letter from your job was handed over to you yesterday, just begin to bless the Lord because something awesome is about to happen to you, and the world will hear your testimony.

Action Point: With a heart of gratitude to God, count your blessings and name them one by one.

Friday 24 February 2017

Children of God - Friday 24, February 2017

Memorise: But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: – John 1:12

Read: 1 John 3:1-3 (KJV)

1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.

2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 16:18, Isaiah 44:9-20

MESSAGE:

You cannot discover your true identity if you are not in Christ. You need to recognise your true self through the light of the Scripture. If you know your true identity, it will help you not to compromise the call of God on your life. The secret of blessings lies in your being able to walk in the divine purpose for your life. As a believer, you are the light in the midst of darkness, called to shine forth. You are the bridge to the destinies of men. If you don’t discover your destiny, the destinies of many others will be buried. I once asked the Almighty God why He allowed me to “waste” twenty-seven years studying mathematics, when He knew that I would eventually become a pastor. The Lord told me that it was simply for the purpose of being able to preach mathematically. It then dawned on me that indeed all things work together for good for the children of God (Romans 8:28).

You are not a child of God just to attend church; you need to find out what God has empowered you for, and do exploits in that area. The reason why you are a child of God is not just to feel cool but to be driven by God’s purpose and mission. When you recognise that you belong to God, it will be practically impossible for anyone to get you derailed (Acts 27:23-24). The power you have received as a child of God is not for nothing. It is expected that you will use this power in raising the dead, in opening the eyes of those still walking and living in ignorance, and in setting captives free from the bondage of Satan. In John 14:12, the Lord Jesus says to you:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.”

As children of God, let us wake up from our slumber and do the needful urgently. Every child of God is meant to be a fighter — a fearless fighter. You must not be weak in doing exploits for the Lord. You must not give in to fear despite the obstacles before you. All you need is the confidence that as a child of God, you have the backing of your Father. Anyone who comes to Christ comes to the newness of life which qualifies him or her for a new beginning. As a child of God, you must realise that Christ is the centre of your life, and you are meant to be a channel of blessings. A lot of people pass through life without being noticed because they have failed to understand the plan and programme of God for their lives. I pray for you that, in the Name of Jesus, you will find your place in God. By His grace, you will begin to experience prosperity, excellence and extraordinary breakthroughs, and before the end of your life, you will make a lasting change in the world.

Prayer Point: Father, as you did for the disciples of old, grant me boldness to speak Your word.

Wednesday 22 February 2017

Victory Through Praise - Wednesday 22, February 2017

 Victory Through Praise - Wednesday 22, February 2017

Memorise: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; – 2 Corinthians 10:4

Read: 2 Chronicles 20:21-26 (KJV)

21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever.

22 And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.

23 For the children of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of mount Seir, utterly to slay and destroy them: and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, every one helped to destroy another.

24 And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked unto the multitude, and, behold, they were dead bodies fallen to the earth, and none escaped.

25 And when Jehoshaphat and his people came to take away the spoil of them, they found among them in abundance both riches with the dead bodies, and precious jewels, which they stripped off for themselves, more than they could carry away: and they were three days in gathering of the spoil, it was so much.

26 And on the fourth day they assembled themselves in the valley of Berachah; for there they blessed the LORD: therefore the name of the same place was called, The valley of Berachah, unto this day.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 9-11, Isaiah 43:1-15

MESSAGE:

The easiest way to access victory in the kingdom of God is through praise. Each time we praise the Name of the Lord, great and marvellous things are bound to happen. If you are a believer and you do not yet know the essence of praise, you are missing a lot of blessings, opportunities and privileges. Our God is all-powerful, all-knowing and is the Almighty. The moment we are committed to the realm of praise, things begin to happen at His command. There are people who have been knocking on certain doors of opportunities before now, but to no avail. Why don’t you try praise? You will be surprised at how fast those doors will open. The fact that you are praising the One that is higher than the highest should give you the assurance that your case is settled. Praise to God is an indication of absolute trust in Him. Those who put their confidence in God will always praise Him until they receive their victory, and even after receiving their victory, they still praise Him. It is the desire of the Almighty God that all His children should move from one level of victory to the other. When the people of God praise Him, infirmities, yokes, bondage, barrenness and all the works of the devil are destroyed. In the realm of praise, every limitation gives way.

In the battle of life, some are victors while some are victims. I decree into your life that you will continue to enjoy the victory of the Lord in Jesus’ Name. Victors know how to move God into action. God is looking for people who can move Him through their praise. Such people will enjoy His mercy instead of receiving His judgement. Praise is the most powerful instrument we can use to move God. The whole of creation was designed to praise God (Psalm 150:5, Psalm 148). The greatest assignment of angels in Heaven is praising God (Revelations 4:8-9, Psalm 148:2). When we get to heaven, our assignment will be to keep praising God (Revelations 7:14-15, Psalm 145:2). Praise has greater impact whenever we come together to offer it to God, because His throne is set wherever His people are praising Him (Psalm 22:3).

When you bow before God in praise, you are showing that He alone is the Most High. Jehoshaphat enjoyed the victory of the Lord without fighting a battle! This is what praise can do. While the enemies were gathering their mercenaries and weapons of war against Judah, the people of God gathered momentum for praise. They believed in the victory of the Lord by faith, and all their enemies were smitten before them. From today, as you praise the Lord, He will stand in your place and take over every battle of your life, and your victory shall be total in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point: Father, let Your praise never cease from my lips.

Tuesday 21 February 2017

Victory Through Praise - Wednesday 22, February 2017

Victory Through Praise - Wednesday 22, February 2017

Memorise: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; – 2 Corinthians 10:4

Read: 2 Chronicles 20:21-26 (KJV)

21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever.

22 And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.

23 For the children of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of mount Seir, utterly to slay and destroy them: and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, every one helped to destroy another.

24 And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked unto the multitude, and, behold, they were dead bodies fallen to the earth, and none escaped.

25 And when Jehoshaphat and his people came to take away the spoil of them, they found among them in abundance both riches with the dead bodies, and precious jewels, which they stripped off for themselves, more than they could carry away: and they were three days in gathering of the spoil, it was so much.

26 And on the fourth day they assembled themselves in the valley of Berachah; for there they blessed the LORD: therefore the name of the same place was called, The valley of Berachah, unto this day.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 9-11, Isaiah 43:1-15

MESSAGE:

The easiest way to access victory in the kingdom of God is through praise. Each time we praise the Name of the Lord, great and marvellous things are bound to happen. If you are a believer and you do not yet know the essence of praise, you are missing a lot of blessings, opportunities and privileges. Our God is all-powerful, all-knowing and is the Almighty. The moment we are committed to the realm of praise, things begin to happen at His command. There are people who have been knocking on certain doors of opportunities before now, but to no avail. Why don’t you try praise? You will be surprised at how fast those doors will open. The fact that you are praising the One that is higher than the highest should give you the assurance that your case is settled. Praise to God is an indication of absolute trust in Him. Those who put their confidence in God will always praise Him until they receive their victory, and even after receiving their victory, they still praise Him. It is the desire of the Almighty God that all His children should move from one level of victory to the other. When the people of God praise Him, infirmities, yokes, bondage, barrenness and all the works of the devil are destroyed. In the realm of praise, every limitation gives way.

In the battle of life, some are victors while some are victims. I decree into your life that you will continue to enjoy the victory of the Lord in Jesus’ Name. Victors know how to move God into action. God is looking for people who can move Him through their praise. Such people will enjoy His mercy instead of receiving His judgement. Praise is the most powerful instrument we can use to move God. The whole of creation was designed to praise God (Psalm 150:5, Psalm 148). The greatest assignment of angels in Heaven is praising God (Revelations 4:8-9, Psalm 148:2). When we get to heaven, our assignment will be to keep praising God (Revelations 7:14-15, Psalm 145:2). Praise has greater impact whenever we come together to offer it to God, because His throne is set wherever His people are praising Him (Psalm 22:3).

When you bow before God in praise, you are showing that He alone is the Most High. Jehoshaphat enjoyed the victory of the Lord without fighting a battle! This is what praise can do. While the enemies were gathering their mercenaries and weapons of war against Judah, the people of God gathered momentum for praise. They believed in the victory of the Lord by faith, and all their enemies were smitten before them. From today, as you praise the Lord, He will stand in your place and take over every battle of your life, and your victory shall be total in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point: Father, let Your praise never cease from my lips.

Benefits of Thanksgiving - Tuesday 21, February 2017

Benefits of Thanksgiving - Tuesday 21, February 2017

Memorise: Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. – Psalm 103:1

Read: Psalm 50:14-15 (KJV)

14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:

15 And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 6-8, Isaiah 42:10-25

MESSAGE:

Without any iota of doubt, the Lord has been so good to us. He has never ceased to be faithful and kind. If it had not been for the Lord on our side, the devil would have destroyed us. We are who we are in Christ because of the goodness of God. For these reasons and many more, we need to make thanksgiving our lifestyle. Thanksgiving is an indispensable activity for every child of God. For our lives to experience the blessings of the Lord on a continuous basis, we need to thank Him. I sometimes marvel when I see people complain about their situation. Before complaining about your situation, take a critical look at another man’s situation and you will realise that you have enjoyed the goodness of the Lord. A lifestyle of thanksgiving can make a lot of difference in our lives within a short time. Through thanksgiving, lost glory can be restored, as was the case with King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:34-37). When you adore and reverence the Almighty God, when you acknowledge Him as the source of your wealth and greatness, and see all you have achieved as being made possible by His hand, then God will be committed to preserving all He has given you.

Thanksgiving is the door that ushers you into God’s blessings. For His greatness, goodness and wonderful works to the children of men, we must thank Him. The only reason why many of us are not on the street begging is because He is our Great Provider. We walk with our shoulders high because He is our Defence and Deliverer. He remains our Rock and source of strength in every situation. Wherever we gather together as a congregation, I tell my children to praise and thank God wholeheartedly. Thanksgiving is not something you do in a hurry because God also takes His time as He blesses us with unprecedented miracles. There are blessings reserved for those who thank the Lord. He will always launch them to the realm of unimaginable favour.

Our thanksgiving will only be acceptable to God if it comes from a heart of worship. For you to worship God in truth, you must live a holy life. Believers will always win the battles of life, as long as there is no impediment to their worship of God. We must be able to lift up clean hands and a pure heart to our Maker at all times (Psalm 24:3-4, Philippians 4:6). We must be honest and upright in character and reflect the nature of God in our dealings. Keep your heart pure so that your joy can be full. With a pure heart, you can make your request known to God and there will be instant response from the throne of grace.

Key Point: Those who come before God with thanksgiving can never live by the mercy of men.

Monday 20 February 2017

Hillsong Church - Jesus Is Alive (Feat. Ron Kenoly)

Hillsong Church - Jesus Is Alive 









Lyrics:

Hallelujah, Jesus is alive

Death has lost its victory

And the grave has been denied

And Jesus lives forever

He's alive, He's alive



He's the alpha and omega

The first and last is He

The curse of sin is broken

And we have perfect liberty

The lamb of God has risen

He's alive, He's alive



Hallelujah, Jesus is alive

Death has lost its victory

And the grave has been denied

Jesus lives forever

He's alive, He's alive



He's the alpha and omega

The first and last is He

The curse of sin is broken

And we have perfect liberty

The lamb of God has risen

He's alive, He's alive



Hallelujah, Jesus is alive

Death has lost its victory

And the grave has been denied

Jesus lives forever

He's alive, He's alive



He's the alpha and omega

The first and last is He

The curse of sin is broken

We have perfect liberty

The lamb of God has risen

He's alive, He's alive



Hallelujah, Jesus is alive

He's alive, He's alive

He's alive, He's alive

Yes, He's alive

Ron Kenoly_Use Me

Ron Kenoly- Use Me







Lyrics:

If You can use anything Lord

You can use me

If You can use anything Lord

You can use me

Take my hands, Lord

And my feet

Touch my heart, Lord

And speak through me

If You can use anything Lord

You can use me

(Repeat)

Lord, you called Moses

From the wilderness

And You put a rod in his hand

You used him to lead Your people

Over to the Promised Land

Lord, I'm willing to trust in You

So take my life Lord

And use it too

Yes, if You can use anything Lord

Come on and use me

(Repeat chorus)

When David fought Goliath

And that mighty giant fell

He proved to his people

That God was alive in Israel

Lord, I'm available to You

And I'm waiting to be used

Yes I am, Lord

If You can use anything Lord

Come on and use me

Take my hands and my feet

Touch my heart, speak through me

After the multitudes

Heard the words that Jesus said

He took two fish and five loaves

And the multitude was fed

Lord, what I have may not be much

But I know it can

Multiply by Your touch

So if You can use anything Lord

Come on and use me

(Repeat chorus two times)

Ron Kenoly - HALLOWED BE YOUR NAME

Ron Kenoly - HALLOWED BE YOUR NAME









Lyrics:



Holy holy Lord

You're worthy

And I'm honored







To sing Your praise

King of glory God Almighty

Hallowed by Your name



All creation every nation

Has its being by Your word

As Your will is done up in heaven

Let it be done here on earth

Let it be done on earth



Hallowed be Your name

Hallowed be Your name

Hallowed be Your name

Lord and majesty

Devine authority

Hallowed be Your name

Ancient of Days (Ron Kenoly)

Ancient of Days (Ron Kenoly)







Lyrics:

Oh yes….



Blessing and honor, glory and power

Be unto the Ancient of Days

From every nation, all of creation

Bow before the Ancient of Days



Every tongue in heaven and earth, shall declare your glory

Every knee shall bow at your throne, in worship

You will be exalted Oh God, and your kingdom, shall not pass away,

Oh Ancient of Days



Oh blessing…

Blessing and honor, glory and power, glory and power

Be unto, Be unto the Ancient of Days

From every nation, From every nation , all of creation, all of creation

Lord we Bow, Bow before the Ancient of Days



Every tongue , Every tongue in heaven and earth, shall declare your glory

Every knee, shall bow at your throne, my Lord, in worship

You will be exalted Oh God, and your kingdom, shall not pass away,

Oh Ancient of Days



Oh Ancient of Days



(Trumpets)

Mmmmm…



(Trumpets)



My Lord, Your Kingdom

Your kingdom shall reign over all the earth

Sing unto, Sing unto the Ancient of Days

None can compare, For none can compare to your matchless worth, sing church sing

Sing to the Ancient of Days



Every tongue, Every tongue in heaven and earth, shall declare your glory

Every knee shall bow at your throne, Sumba, in worship

You will be exalted, You will be exalted, Oh God, My Lord, and your kingdom shall not pass away, Never pass away

Oh Ancient of Days



(Flute)



Hmmmm.



Oh Ancient of Days

Oh Ancient of Days, Oh Ancient of Days

Oh Ancient of Days, My Lord

Oh Ancient of Days





(Guitar and Drums)





Oh, oh, yeah



Oh Yes.

Lord we just continue to celebrate you,

We worship not only with our mouths

But with our hands clapping and feet dancing

But Lord we, we even worship you on our instruments tonight



(Bongo’s / Drums)



Oh yeah



(Drums / Bongo’s)



Oh prophesied



(Flute)



(Bongo’s / Drums)



(Flute)



Oh yeah



(Bongo’s / Drums)



(Flute)



Mmmm…



(Flute)



(Bongo’s / Drums)



Glory



(Bongo’s / Drums)



(Flute)



Woooo



(Flute)



(Base Guitar)



Yeah



(Base Guitar)



Halleluiah



(Base Guitar)



Mmmm….



(Base Guitar)



Yes…



(Base Guitar)



Woooo….



(Base Guitar)



Oh yeah…



(Horns and Flutes)



My Lord



(Horns and Flutes)



Oh yeah…



(Horns and Flutes)



Ohhhhh…



Your kingdom, Your kingdom shall reign over all the earth, over all the earth

Sing to the ancient of days, sing, sing church sing

For none can compare to your matchless worth, sing church sing,

sing to the Ancient of Days



Your kingdom, Your kingdom shall reign over all the earth, sing unto,

sing unto the Ancient of Days



For none can compare, For none can compare to your matchless worth, sing…..

Sing to the Ancient of Days



Yeah, Your kingdom shall reign over all the earth, Oh my lord,

Sing unto the Ancient of Days



For none can compare, For none can compare to your matchless worth, sing unto,

sing unto the Ancient of Days



Yeah…….



Your kingdom shall reign over all the earth, sing unto,

sing unto the Ancient of Days



For none can compare, For none can compare to your matchless worth, woooo…..

Sing to the Ancient of Days

Days……..



(Flute)



Woooo…



Your kingdom reigns Lord



Over all the earth, you reign Lord

Yesterday, today and forever, you reign of God



Halleluiah



(Flute)



Halleluiah



(Flute)



Halleluiah



Wooo…



Your kingdom, shall reign over all the earth

Sing unto the Ancient of Days

None can compare to your matchless worth



Oh sing, to the Ancient of Days



Yes



Your kingdom, shall reign over all the earth

RON KENOLY - Can't stop praising His Name

RON KENOLY - I just Can't stop praising His Name









Lyrics:



If you confess the Lord, call Him up

If you confess the Lord, call Him up

If you confess the Lord, call Him up

If you confess the Lord, call Him up

If you believe on the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost

Call Him up, and tell Him what you want



[Bridge:]



Delight thyself in the Lord

And He will give you the desires of your heart

Even though sometimes we stumble

Even though sometimes we fall

Call Him up, and tell Him what you want



[Verse 2:]



When darkness comes your way, call Him up

He'll brighten up your day, call Him up

When darkness comes your way, call Him up

He'll brighten up your day, call Him up

If you believe on the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost

Call Him up, and tell Him what you want



[Chorus:]



Can't stop praising His name

I just can't stop praising His name

I just can't stop praising His name

Jesus



(Vamp)



Jesus

Hallelujah Jesus

Praising His name



(End)



Can't stop praising His name

I just can't stop praising His name

I just can't stop praising His name

Jesus

Ron Kenoly - Jesus is Alive





Lyrics:

Hallelujah

Jesus is alive

Death has lost it's victory

And the grave has been denied

Jesus lives forever

He's alive! He's alive!

He, s the Alpha and Omega

The first and last is he

The curse of sin is broken

And we have perfect liberty

The lamb of God is risen

He's alive, He's alive!

Jesus is alive!

Perilous Times Are Here - Monday 20, February 2017

Perilous Times Are Here - Monday 20, February 2017

Memorise: Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; – 1 Timothy 4:1

Read: 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (KJV)

1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,

4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;

5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 3-5, Isaiah 41:21-42:9

MESSAGE:

With all that we see and hear happening in different parts of the world today, it is no longer news that we are already in perilous times. This is why it is very urgent that we maximise the time that we have left in propagating the gospel of the Lord to those who are yet to know Him. We should carefully study the words of Ephesians 5:14-16 and obey its instructions. In these verses of Scripture, the Holy Spirit says,

“14 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. 15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”

In this modern age, where people are ever learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth, believers must watch against satanic wiles and temptations. We must avoid all forms of false doctrine that abound in churches today. Let us remain in the simple gospel of Jesus which is capable of seeing us through to the very end. There are false teachers rising up every day with different kinds of teachings and beliefs, using their influence to spread erroneous doctrines to unsuspecting believers. This is why you need to be selective of where you go and who you listen to. Those who go to church today only get excited when they are told what they want to hear. The Holy Spirit forewarned us of this in 2 Timothy 4:3:

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;”

Let us therefore run with the message of the gospel into every part of the world; reminding everyone that those who are not on the Lord’s side on the last day will be eternally destroyed. Let us do the work of an evangelist, and go after those people who have strayed from the straight and narrow way. Let us bring back those sheep which are carelessly grazing on their fields, away from the presence of their Shepherd. These are those who started well but have become consumed by the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches. The signs of the second coming of Christ are daily being fulfilled before our eyes. In order not to be caught unawares, you must prepare yourself daily through self examination. The enemy of your soul is out there seeking how to devour you; don’t allow him to truncate your destiny. Ensure that you make no provision for the flesh, and put out all the works of darkness around you. Be prepared for His second coming!

Prayer Point: Father, fill me with the consciousness of the second coming of Christ at all times.

Sunday 19 February 2017

God Has Substitutes - Sunday 19, February 2017

God Has Substitutes - Sunday 19, February 2017

Memorise: For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. – Acts 1:20

Read: 1 Samuel 15:16-16:1 (KJV)

15:16 Then Samuel said unto Saul, Stay, and I will tell thee what the LORD hath said to me this night. And he said unto him, Say on.

16:1 And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 1-2, Isaiah 41:8-20

MESSAGE:

One truth that everyone born of God must have at the back of their minds is that God has substitutes. He can therefore never be held to ransom by anyone. Whenever God decides to use a person, if that fellow does not yield to God at the time of His requisition, God will move on to use another person to fulfil His purpose. More often than not, such substitutes are better than the original recipients of God’s mandate. Such was the case with King Saul.

“And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, that is better than thou." - 1 Samuel 15:28

When a man feels too big to obey God’s instruction, he is not fit for God’s use. In the family of the works of the flesh, pride, stubbornness and rebellion are kinsmen, with witchcraft as their first cousin (Galatians 5:19-21). The Lord through Samuel reminded King Saul that there was nothing special about him before He made him king over Israel. King Saul himself did not see himself as qualified, yet God’s grace preferred him, despite the fact that he came from the least of the tribes of Israel (1 Samuel 9:21). This is the reason why whosoever God decides to use should not allow himself or herself get carried away by the glamour of the office he or she is occupying. The fellow should always keep in mind where he or she is coming from and what he or she used to be. God does not use the qualified; rather, He qualifies the fellow He wants to use.

When King Saul began to feel too big to obey the Lord’s commandment, he was replaced with a ready-made substitute, whom the Lord declared to be better than King Saul. My prayer for you is that you will not be replaced in the scheme of things in God’s kingdom in Jesus’ Name. Beloved, we should know that God has substitutes that can readily replace us if we fail to yield to His instructions. Never see yourself as being indispensable before God. Take heed to what the Lord Jesus Christ said concerning this in Matthew 3:9:

“And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham."

Prayer Point: Father, please help me to overcome anything I am doing now that may eventually make You find a substitute for me in Your Kingdom. Please don’t replace me with anyone or anything.

Friday 17 February 2017

Faith in Practice - Saturday 18, February 2017

 Faith in Practice - Saturday 18, February 2017

Memorise: For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. – James 2:26

Read: James 2:14-26 (KJV)

14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?

15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,

16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?

17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?

22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?

23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?

26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

Bible in One Year: John 20:21, Isaiah 40:24-41:7

MESSAGE:

One common error in Christendom today is to think that it is scriptural to confess your way to success without backing up such confessions with works. Faith in practice is actually the opposite of this. It is not just about confessing scriptures, but about acting it out when confronted with real life circumstances and situations. Faith in practice is what produces the miracle-working power of God. In contrast of faith, unbelief upsets God and we must all run away from it. The children of Israel could not enter into the Promised Land because of unbelief (Hebrews 3:19). In Mark 2:1-12, a paralytic man was brought before Jesus by four men who broke the roof of a house to get him there. This was faith in practice. They were practically saying to all the forces and situations surrounding this man’s life that they were ready to get injured while climbing and nothing would stop them. They were also ready to take up the financial burden of damaging and repairing the roof of a house that was not theirs. They did all this because they knew that the challenges facing them were nothing when compared with the blessedness of having their paralytic friend receive his miracle. There are people who have many different versions of the Bible in their homes but do not practice the faith they read in it. Some even possess a PhD in the study of the Bible but still have no faith. This is because they read and study it, but they don’t apply its content to their lives.

Some years back, we went to Haiti to hold a city-wide crusade, and we were blessed to have a live broadcast of it on radio. There was a man just lying on a bed in his house who accidentally tuned his radio to the station airing our programme. In the course of preaching, the Lord said to me that there was someone within the reach of my voice who was impotent and that He was healing him right away. I relayed this message as I was told. When this man heard it, he said to himself, ''How did this Pastor know that I am impotent even though He cannot see me?'' He immediately checked himself and realised he had been completely healed. He then left all he was doing, found his way to the crusade ground and surrendered his life to Jesus. If only you can believe and act on what God says, you also will share your own testimony in Jesus’ Name. Who are the Goliaths harassing you? Consider that Goliath came to the battle with a sword, spear and shield, while David came in the Name of the Lord of hosts (1 Samuel 17:45). Although David challenged Goliath with his mouth, he did not stop there. He picked up five smooth stones, not just one (1 Samuel 17:40). Even though one stone was enough to bring down Goliath, David did not take chances. That is faith in practice. I decree that every Goliath that is standing between you and your miracles shall be brought down completely in Jesus’ Name.

Key Point: Faith is acting on the word of God.

Acceptable Service - Friday 17, February 2017

Acceptable Service - Friday 17, February 2017

Memorise: Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. – James 1:27

Read: Romans 12:1-2 (KJV)

1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Bible in One Year: John 18:19, Isaiah 40:6-23

MESSAGE:

In these end times, the Lord is looking for those who are ready to consecrate themselves to His use. If you are ready to partner with God in His service, you can be sure that your reward will not only be great on earth but also in heaven. However, for you to be a vessel unto honour in the service of the Lord, you must be ready to admit your insignificance before Him (Isaiah 40:17). You must also be ready to follow the Lord all the way, cheerfully and heartily. You should see it as a great honour for God to count you worthy of being called into the service of His kingdom. Furthermore, God is holy, and so, for you to be a vessel in His service, you must also be holy in thought, character and conduct. Those who want to continue in sin and also live a hypocritical lifestyle cannot be blessed in God’s service. You must surrender your life to Christ genuinely. This is a prerequisite in offering acceptable service to the Lord. Any defiled or polluted person cannot behold the glory of God’s holiness. In the scriptures, those who offered acceptable service, such as Enoch, Daniel, Elijah and Job, made up their minds that they would not allow anything to pollute their lives. Note however that you cannot all by yourself keep yourself from the vanities of this world; neither can you live a holy life through your morality. You can only live a holy and acceptable life by yielding to the grace of God. God’s grace enables us to offer acceptable service before Him. Expounding on this grace, Titus 2:11-12 says,

“11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;”

Although there are several winds of false doctrine blowing across the world today, the Lord expects us to continue in the pure and undiluted word of God (2 Peter 3:16-18). This is the anchor that keeps us from being tossed about (Hebrews 6:18-19). This undefiled word of God will help us keep that which is committed into our hands as we offer our service to God in these last days. We must be watchful so that our works will not be adjudged as imperfect before the throne of God. In the Body of Christ today, many people serve God amiss. They are working, but not asking themselves if their labour follows the due order of heaven (1 Chronicles 15:13). If you fail to assess the methods you are using to achieve the mandate of the Commission, you will be shocked at the judgement seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10, 1 Corinthians 3:13-15). What are the motives behind what you do in Church? What attitude do you display when your pastor is not there to watch over you? How are you utilizing the resources entrusted to your care?

Action Point: Access your service in God’s Kingdom. Does it follow God’s pattern?

Thursday 16 February 2017

The God of Increase - Thursday 16, February 2017

The God of Increase - Thursday 16, February 2017

Memorise: Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase. – Job 8:7

Read: Genesis 1:26-28 (KJV)

26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

Bible in One Year: John 16-17, Isaiah 38:20-40:5

MESSAGE:

In the beginning, although the Almighty God had the vision of man filling the whole earth, He decided to actualise it through the law of increase. It is amazing that the whole world came forth from one man and woman. Our God is a God of increase. If you want anything that will increase in life, you have to source for it from the Almighty God, and use His approach and not that of the world to actualise it. Whatever is from the Lord will always stand the test of time. If God gives you an idea, He expects it to bring increase to your life. If God gives you a blessing, He also expects it to increase. When Adam knew his wife, a seed was planted in her which became a tree (Genesis 4:1). This is the more reason why you need to draw close to God so that He can sow a seed in your life that will become a reference point to generations yet unborn. If you sow to your flesh, you will reap destruction, but if you sow to the Holy Spirit, your increase will be till eternity (Galatians 6:8). The fact that God wants you to increase does not mean you can do things that contravene His commandments to get his increase. The fact that God wants increase does not mean He allows polygamy. God has never been in a hurry to populate the earth, therefore His design is one man, one wife. Sex with anyone other than your spouse means you are throwing your most precious seed into the wrong soil. An adulterer is a person in bondage! Such a person lacks understanding of the fact that he or she is sowing seeds that only lead to poverty, destruction and eventual shame. There are some men whose children are out of school due to non-payment of fees, and yet they are sowing their seed into the lives of concubines. Such men are already on the path of destruction unless they come to the saving grace of Jesus. If you are involved in this, you better ask God for mercy before it is too late.

God is the One who gives increase after a seed has been sown; therefore we must always remember to give thanks to Him for all the successes He brings our way (1 Corinthians 3:6). If you are excelling in your chosen field, give God the glory. If things are working out for you in your career, give Him the glory. While some people grow rapidly in the things of God, some do not. One variable that determines this is the level of hunger in their hearts. There must always be a hunger in your heart to be better than what you are now. There is a better you in the mind of God, and so, refuse to remain small. Continue to develop yourself by acquiring relevant skills. Increase your knowledge base so that your earning capacity can also increase. If things have not been working out in your life, do a self-appraisal. In other words, check yourself. Soak yourself in God’s word and occupy your mind with passages of Scripture that can address your area of stagnation. You will increase in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point: Father, let my increase begin today.

Wednesday 15 February 2017

Living within the Divine Will - Wednesday 15, February 2017

Living within the Divine Will - Wednesday 15, February 2017

Memorise: Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. – Matthew 6:10

Read: Matthew 26:37-42 (KJV)

37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.

38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.

39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.

40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?

41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.

Bible in One Year: John 14-15, Isaiah 38:4-19

MESSAGE:

Until you get to the point of conviction where you accept the fact that you can never have anything better than what God has for you, life will remain a struggle. There are many people struggling to find their place in life, but as a child of God you were not created to live by chance. You were designed by God to walk in His blueprint for your life, and so anything less than what God intends for you should be rejected. Living within the divine will means having an understanding of God’s plan for you in every area of your life. The will of God is always higher and greater than the will of man. His thoughts are directed towards our peace and fulfilment in this world (Jeremiah 29:11). This is why it is necessary to discern and hear what God is saying about the present phase of your life. There are people who are in the wrong job. No matter how much they work, they can never be successful because they are struggling with what God has not wired them for. Some people are in the wrong location, while some others are in relationships that drive away the presence of God from them. Do you know that there are people you meet in life who negatively impact your destiny? There are even some people you meet, and after they are gone out of your life, you find yourself drained, because all they did was use you. God’s will is to increase you and not to use you. However, you have to wait upon the Lord and never outrun Him because He is the one leading you.

Examples abound in the Scripture of those who struggled with the will of God for their lives before they understood what God would have them do. Moses thought he was doing the right thing when he killed an Egyptian, since he was born for the purpose of delivering the children of Israel from the hands of their Egyptian oppressors (Exodus 2:11-12). However, he walked outside the will of God by taking action at the wrong time and also by using the wrong approach. Jacob was also aware of God’s plan for him to be greater than his elder brother, but he devised a crooked method of obtaining the covenant blessing from his father. Consequently, he had no rest until he learnt to surrender to God. Have faith in God that you will become what He wants you to become; not by folding your hands and doing nothing, by being diligent in your walk of faith. What is not enough today will be more than enough tomorrow through God’s help. Remember the Lord blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning (Job 42:12). Learn to wait. He who waits never loses, but he who is hasty never gains. Seek God’s face, and ask Him for the needed grace to run the race. God places a high premium on his children who are ready to align their words, actions, thoughts and decisions with the standards of Heaven.

Prayer Point: Father, grant me grace to patiently wait and work towards actualising Your will for my life.

Tuesday 14 February 2017

I Love The Lord - Whitney Houston

I Love The Lord - Whitney Houston 


Lyrics:

I love the the Lord, he heard my cry
And pitied every groan, long as I, I live
And troubles rise, I hasten to his throne

Oh, I love the Lord
I sure do, surely do love the Lord
He heard, he heard my cry
And pitied every groan, yes he did
Every groan
Long as I live, long as I, I live
And troubles rise, troubles rise
I hasten to to to to to
I'll hasten, I'll hasten to his throne
I'll hasten to his throne hold on hold on
Tears are streaming down my eyes
I'll hasten, I'll hasten to his throne

Yes I will, I'll run
I know I can go to his throne
I know I can go, I know I can go
I'll hasten, I'm gonna run
I know I can go, I know I can go
I'll hasten, I'll hasten to his throne

See I can run, Lord you know I will
When there is nowhere to go I know I can go to you
I know I can run to you oh
I'll hasten, I'll hasten to his, his throne
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
I'll hasten, hasten to his throne
Surely gonna be here

Tasha Cobbs - Put A Praise On It

Tasha Cobbs - Put A Praise On It

Lyrics:
There's a miracle in this room
With my name on it
There's a healing in this room
And it's here for me

There's a breakthrough in this room
And it's got my name on it
So I'm gonna put a praise on it
I'm gonna put a praise on it
Somebody put a praise on it
There's a miracle in this room
With Tasha's name on it
You outta put your name in the atmosphere, c'mon

There's a healing in this room
And it's is here for me
There's a breakthrough in this room
And it's got my name on it
So I'm gonna put a praise on it
Somebody put a praise on it
Can you help me put a praise on it
Somebody put a praise on it
Let's go...

(I dare somebody to put a praise in this room, I declare wherever you are miracles are breaking off in your house.
You outta declare there is a miracle in this room and it's got my name on it. Let's go!)

There's a miracle in this room
With my name on it
There's a healing in this room
And it's is here for me
There's a breakthrough in this room
With my name on it
So what you gone do
So I'm gonna put a praise on it
I'm gonna put a praise on it
...

Never Would've Made It By Marvin Sapp

Never Would've Made It 
By Marvin Sapp
Lyrics:
Never would have made it,
Never could have made it, without you
I would have lost it all,
But now I see how you were there for me

And I can say
Never would have made it,
Never could have made it, without you

I would have lost it all,
But now I see how you were there for me and I can say
I'm stronger, I'm wiser,
I'm better, much better

When I look back over all you brought me through
I can see that you were the one I held on to
And I never, never would have made it

Oh I never could have made it, never could have made it without you
Oh I would have lost it all,
Oh but now I see how you were there for me

I never, never would have made it
No, I never, never could have made it without you

I would have lost my mind a long time ago,
If it had not been for you
I am stronger, I am stronger
I am wiser, I am wiser
Now I am better, I am better
So much better, I am better

I made it through my storm
And my test because you were there
To carry me through my mess

I am stronger, I am stronger
I am wiser, I am wiser
I am better, I am better
Anybody better, I am better

I can stand here and tell you,
I made it
Anybody out there that you made it

I am stronger, I am stronger
I am wiser, I am wiser
I am better, I am better
Much better, I am better

I made it, I made it,
I made it, I made it,
I made it, I made it,
I made it, I made it

Never would have made it, never would have made it
Never could have made it, never could have made it without you

I would have lost my mind,
I would have gave up,
But you were right there,
You were right there

I never, never would have made it
Oh I never, never could have made it without you

Somebody just need to testify to someone next to 'em
Tell 'em I am stronger,
I am wiser,
I am better, much better

When I look back over what he brought me through
I realize I made it because I had you to hold on to,
Now I am stronger,
Now I am wiser
I am better, so much better
I made it

Is there anybody in this house other than me
That can declare that you made it

Tell your neighbor,
never would have made it, never would have made it
Tell 'em
never could have made it, never could have made it without you

Never would have made it, never would have made it
Never could have made it, never could have made it without you

I just, I just love to encourage myself
Sometimes I just look in the mirror and say,
I am stronger,
I am wiser
I am better, so much better
When I look back over what he brought me through
I realize I made it because I had you to hold on to

But I never would have made it
I never could have made it without you
Good God almighty
Never would have made it, never would have made it
Never could have made it, never could have made it without you

Sing it one more time
All I need is it one more time
Everybody sing with me
Never would have made it, never would have made it
Never could have made it, never could have made it without you

Hold My Mule By Shirley Caesar

Hold My Mule
By Shirley Caesar


Lyrics:

I feel like praising, praising him
I feel like praising, praising him
I feel like praising, praising him
Praise Him in the morning,
Praise Him all day long,
I feel like praising, praising Him.
If you don't wanna praise him don't hinder me
If you don't wanna praise him don't hinder me
Praise Him in the morning,
Praise Him all day long,
I feel like praising, praising Him.

Come on and praise the Lord while you have a chance
Come on and praise the Lord while you have a chance
Praise him in the morning
Praise him all day long
I feel like praising praising him

Mary Mary - Shackles (Praise You)

Mary Mary - Shackles (Praise You) 


Lyrics:
Whoo!
It sure is hot out here
Ya know?
I don't mind thought
Just glad to be free
Know what I'm saying, uh!

Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just want to praise you
(What ya want to do?)
I just want to praise you
(Yeah, yeah)
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
(Uh feel me?)
And I'm gonna praise you
(What ya gon do?)
I'm gonna praise you

In the corners of mind
I just can't seem to find a reason to believe
That I can break free
Cause you see I have been down for so long
Feel like the hope is gone
But as I lift my hands, I understand
That I should praise you through my circumstance

Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just want to praise you
I just want to praise you
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
And I'm gonna praise you
I'm gonna praise you

Everything that could go wrong
All went wrong at one time
So much pressure fell on me
I thought I was gon lose my mind
But I know you want to see
If I will hold on through these trials
But I need you to lift this load
Cause I can't take it anymore

Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just want to praise you
I just want to praise you
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
And I'm gonna praise you
I'm gonna praise you

Been through the fire and the rain
Bound in every kind of way
But God has broken every chain
So let me go right now

Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just want to praise you
I just want to praise you
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
And I'm gonna praise you
I'm gonna praise you

Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just want to praise you
I just want to praise you
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
And I'm gonna praise you
I'm gonna praise you

Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just want to praise you
I just want to praise you
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
And I'm gonna praise you
I'm gonna praise you

Take them off
What ya gonna do, yeah

Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just want to praise you
I just want to praise you
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
And I'm gonna praise you
I'm gonna praise you

Written by Erica Atkins-Campbell, Erica Monique Atkins-Campbell, Trecina Atkins-Campbell, Warryn Campbell • Copyright © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC


Hey Devil! By CeCe Winans Featuring The Clark Sisters

Hey Devil!

By CeCe Winans Featuring The Clark Sisters






God Provides by Tamela Mann

God Provides 

by Tamela Mann






Lyrics:


"God Provides"



God provides, so why do I worry about my life

When you come to my rescue a thousand times

Every other voice it is a lie

God provides



God provides

In ways I can't explain and can't deny

The little that I have he multiplies

Just when I feel he won't show up on time

God provides



He'll come through

When the clouds of doubt rain down on you

And test everything you thought you knew

Now you finally see what god can do, for you



So tonight,

Close your eyes

There's no more need to fight

Watch god provide



God provides

It's hard to say when there's no food to eat

Or what you see feels all that life will be

And will this be another year of misery, for me

But my faith, can't survive on just things I see

And my feelings can't control my destiny

See god I only want what you believe, for me



So tonight,

Close your eyes

There's no more need to fight

Watch god provide



God provides (yeah, he will provide)

God provides (before your eyes)

God provides (oh, he will, he will)...provides



So tonight,

Close your eyes

There's no more need to fight

Watch god provide



God provides (he will provide)

God provides (before your eyes, he will)

God provides (whatever your need, I know that he will provide)



God provides (yes, he'll step right in, in the nick of time, yes he will)

God provides (he'll open the windows of heaven)

God provides (and pour you out a blessing, you won't have room to receive, yeah)



So tonight,

Close your eyes

There's no more need to fight

Watch god provide

You Deserve It J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise

You Deserve It J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise


Lyrics:
My hallelujah belongs to You (Repeat 4x)
You deserve it
You deserve it
You deserve it
You deserve it

All of the glory belongs to You (Repeat 4x)
You deserve it
You deserve it
You deserve it
You deserve it

Call & Response:
Hallelujah (Repeat)
All the glory, All the honor,
All the praise
You deserve it (Repeat)

My hallelujah belongs to You (Repeat 4x)



Read more: J J Hairston & Youthful Praise - You Deserve It Lyrics | MetroLyrics

Hang On: GEI Featuring Kierra Sheard

Hang On
GEI Featuring Kierra Sheard

Lyrics:
Verse 1 (Kiki sings):
What you gonna do when your back's against the wall?
How're you gonna smile when it seems all hope is lost?
Tell me.
What you gonna do when you need a little more grace?
How you gone respond when they try to test your faith?

Choir (repeats verse 1):

Chorus:
Hang on,
In there
(Repeat chorus)

KiKi (sings verse 1 again):
Hang on,
In there
Hang on,
In there

Verse 2 (Choir sings)
What you gonna do when your strength gets a little weak? (Oooooh)
What song will you sing when you're feeling incomplete? (Tell me)
Tell me.
What you gonna do when you try and almost slip? (Ooooooh)
What you gonna do when it seems you're losing your grip? (Hang on)

Chorus:
Hang on (Hang on)
In there (God will walk with ya, yes He will)
Hang on (God is on your side, God is on your side, yeah)
In there (Hang on e-yeah-yeah-eah-eah)
Hang on (If God is for you who can be against you)
In there (No-no-no-no-no-no-no-no-no-no-no-no weapon formed against you)
Hang on (I know a God who provides Yeah)
In there (Hang on)
Hang on {Choir & Kiki sing together}

Made A Way By Travis Greene

Made A Way
By Travis Greene


Lyrics:
Made a way
Don't know how but you did it
Made a way
Standing here not knowing how we'll get through this test
But holding onto faith you know best
Nothing can catch you by surprise
You've got this figured out and you're watching us now
But when it looks as if we can't win
You wrap us in your arm and step in
And everything we need you supply
You got this in control
And now we know that

You made a way
When our backs were against the wall
And it looked as if it was over
You made a way
And we're standing here
Only because you made a way
You made a way

Now we're here
Looking back on where we come from
Because of you and nothing we've done
To deserve the love and mercy you've shown
But your grace was strong enough to pick us up

And you made a way
When our backs were against the wall
And it looked as if it was over
You made a way
And we're standing here
Only because you made a way [x2]

You move mountains
You cause walls to fall
With your power
You perform miracles
There is nothing that's impossible
And we're standing here
Only because you made a way

You made a way [x4]

Don't know how but you did it
Made a way
Don't know how but you did it
Made a way

Don't know how but you did it [x4]

Don't know why but I'm grateful [x4]

Don't know how but I'm grateful

And we're standing here
Only because you made
And we're standing here
Only because you made a way
And we're standing here
Only because you made

You move mountain [x4]

You cause walls to fall [x4]

You cause chains to break [x4]

Giants fall [x4]

'Cause you move mountain
You move mountain
And everything is easy for you
'Cause you move mountain
Yes you move mountain

Mountains are moving [x4]

Strong holds are breaking [x4]

'Cause you move mountain
You cause walls to fall

With your power [x4]

You perform miracles [x4]

Practical Salvation - Tuesday 14, February 2017

Practical Salvation - Tuesday 14, February 2017

Memorise: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. – 2 Corinthians 5:17

Read: Luke 3:3-14 (KJV)

3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;

4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth;

6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?

11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.

12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?

13 And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.

14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.

Bible in One Year: John 12-13, Isaiah 37:28-38:3

MESSAGE:

In today’s Bible reading, we gain insight into what it means practically to be saved. To be saved means to repent from your dead works and to be alive unto Christ in righteousness. Practical salvation is making your ways right with God without any reservation. When you are genuinely saved, everyone around you will see it. It cannot be hidden because you will no longer be comfortable in the midst of your sinful former friends. Practical salvation is impacting the lives around you by demonstrating the love of Christ through giving. I always tell people that whatever you give away may leave your hands but it will never leave your life. There is no other way to show the world the true nature of Christ without identifying with the challenges of people. Jesus was compassionate towards all those He met who were in need. How can you claim to be a Christian when you live in affluence but do not bother about what happens to the man beside you?

“And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” - Ephesians 4:24

Practical salvation involves putting off our old Adamic nature and manifesting the divine nature of Christ. We receive this divine nature, referred to as the new man, through repentance from our old ways and having faith in Christ’s work of salvation. The character of this new man says “Let him that stole steal no more” (Ephesians 4:28). It also uproots every root of bitterness, anger, wrath, envy, hatred and the likes out of your life. When you put on the new man, you will be ready to put right all that have gone wrong in your life, through the grace of the Almighty God. If something belonging to your organization or the government has been taken by you without being given, practical salvation demands that you return it. If you have been working with a forged certificate and you now say you are born again, you have to let go of this pretence and amend your ways. Several years ago, before I met the Lord, I was a school teacher and I needed to take care of one of my visitors. This need made me take a bed from the school dormitory. However, after my visitor left, I still held on to the bed. Seven years after this happened, I gave my life to Christ and I noticed that this bed was still in my house. I lost my peace immediately because there was a new spirit in me. To practically demonstrate my salvation, I had to pay double for the bed because the Jesus living in me would not allow me return a used bed after seven years of holding unto it.

Key Point: When you are saved, your neighbours will know.

Monday 13 February 2017

The God of All Impossibilities - Monday 13, February 2017

The God of All Impossibilities - Monday 13, February 2017

Memorise: For with God nothing shall be impossible. – Luke 1:37

Read: Genesis 18:1-15 (KJV)

1 And the LORD appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day;

2 And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground,

3 And said, My Lord, if now I have found favour in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant:

4 Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree:

5 And I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort ye your hearts; after that ye shall pass on: for therefore are ye come to your servant. And they said, So do, as thou hast said.

6 And Abraham hastened into the tent unto Sarah, and said, Make ready quickly three measures of fine meal, knead it, and make cakes upon the hearth.

7 And Abraham ran unto the herd, and fetcht a calf tender and good, and gave it unto a young man; and he hasted to dress it.

8 And he took butter, and milk, and the calf which he had dressed, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree, and they did eat.

9 And they said unto him, Where is Sarah thy wife? And he said, Behold, in the tent.

10 And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him.

11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old and well stricken in age; and it ceased to be with Sarah after the manner of women.

12 Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?

13 And the LORD said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old?

14 Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.

15 Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid. And he said, Nay; but thou didst laugh.

Bible in One Year: John 11, Isaiah 37:14-27

MESSAGE:

The awesomeness of God is made manifest in situations that are tagged impossible. Our God likes to get involved in such cases so that they serve as reference points to those who have doubts in their hearts about Him. What is that impossible situation you are confronted with? God can use it to demonstrate to the world that there is no situation, no matter how bad, that He cannot reverse. In today’s Bible reading, the three men who came on a visit to Abraham and Sarah were on a mission to remind them that God is a God of plan and purpose. Have you been waiting a long time for that precious promise of God to come to pass? I have good news for you: your season of divine visitation has come in Jesus’ Name. Abraham and Sarah had given up and were no longer optimistic about the promise of a child to them. Sarah could not help laughing when she heard that time and life would be restored to her, because she knew her age and the deadness of her womb. Her skepticism made the Lord ask “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” Are you looking at the doctor’s professional report concerning your case? I want to let you know that the report of the Lord will override every negative report concerning you in Jesus’ Name.

Lazarus was dead and was already buried for four days (John 11:39). Nobody wanted to get close to his tomb because he was already stinking; yet the Lord went to that hopeless situation and reversed the irreversible. The Lord decided to take His time before going to Mary and Martha, in order to convince the whole world that even though people may have given up on you, He is always there to demonstrate to them that they are not your creator. There is nothing that the redemption paid for by Christ cannot take care of. Are you struggling with poverty, or are you getting in and out of hospital beds? Have you been labelled a permanent failure or been told nothing good can come out of your life? Know that there is a God in heaven who works wonders among men. If He sees that your natural season is over, He then reminds the world that “He changes times and seasons” (Daniel 2:21a). If He realises there are powerful forces contenting with your life, He lets them know that "He removeth kings, and setteth up kings" (Daniel 2:21b). If the world says you are no longer relevant in the scheme of things, He tells them that "He giveth wisdom to the wise and knowledge to them that know understanding" (Daniel 2:21c). With these assurances, you should thank God and praise Him all your life, knowing that your desires will come to pass. There shall be expedited reversal of every negative circumstance in your life today in Jesus’ Name.

Key Point: There is no impossibility with God.