Free Indeed - Tuesday 26 January, 2016
Memorise: If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. – John 8:36
Read: John 8:34-36 (KJV)
34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
Bible in One Year: Matthew 4:23-6:34; Job 10:18-11:6
MESSAGE:
Many people claim to be free, but they are not free indeed! The only genuine freedom is available in Jesus Christ. Anyone that still commits sin and claims to be free is living in self-deceit. The greatest task-master in the world is sin. Whoever is under its grip is not free and as a matter of fact, has no mind of his own.
During the days of Jesus here on earth, the Jews did not know they were in bondage. Hence, they were surprised when Jesus said that the words which He was spreading to them would set them free. In the scriptural passage before us today, Jesus Christ revealed the source of bondage which people entangle themselves in.
“Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin” - John 8:34
Only the truth of the Word of God can set man free from the slavery of sin. The question is how can we know the truth? Jesus is the only truth that can set us free from the slavery of sin. No other means can afford us the desired freedom. Another liberating truth in the Word of God is that whoever commits sin is of the devil, but the Son of God has come to destroy the power of sin in man.
“He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” - 1 John 3:8
In Acts 4:12, we read that there is no salvation by any other, because there is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Beloved, if you are being intimidated by the task-master of sin (the devil), the good news is that Jesus Christ is able to set you free, if you will come to him today in total repentance. It is only Jesus that can make you free indeed. Believe Him today, and you will be free from all forms of bondage.
Prayer Point: Father, please set me free from all forms of bondage in which the enemy has kept me in Jesus’ Name.
Tuesday, 26 January 2016
Sunday, 24 January 2016
The Lord strong and mighty - Monday 25 January, 2016
The Lord strong and mighty - Monday 25 January, 2016
Memorise: I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. – Revelation 1:8
Read: Psalms 24:7-10 (KJV)
7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.
Bible in One Year: Matthew 1:1-4:22; Job 10:6-17
MESSAGE:
It should be surprising to see children of God cringing in the presence of forces that threaten not only their physical lives, but also relationships with their Father in heaven. This attitude is unlike that of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Babylon. These young Hebrew men knew their God to be strong and mighty, and they were bold enough to declare it to the absolute dictator, king Nebuchadnezzar. This is what is expected of us as children of the Most High God.
In the testimony of the Psalmist in our Bible reading for today, we read of him speaking about the God who is strong and mighty in battle. This God has never lost any battle. Like I have preached on many occasions, this God is a war-Lord. He is more effective than any Chief of Naval staff when it comes when it comes to offensive air battles. This was proven in the battle he fought on behalf of the children of Israel under the leadership of Joshua:
“And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the LORD cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword.” - Joshua 10:11
Beloved, I am pleased to announce to you that if truly you are born-again, your God is strong and mighty. Hence, you have no reason to fear any attack of the enemies. The Bible says:
“19 So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. 20 And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.” - Isaiah 59:19-20
There is something very important to note in the above scripture; “.. unto them that turn from transgression..” The Lord, strong and mighty can only fight on behalf of those who have reconciled with Him through genuine repentance. Sin exposes an individual to enemy attack. Therefore, I appeal to someone reading this devotional; ensure that your life is void of iniquity which makes you vulnerable to the attack of the enemy. Our God is strong and mighty. Those who have walked with Him sincerely have this as their testimony. It will be yours too in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, please show yourself strong and mighty in my life so that my enemies may fear, repent and surrender to your Almightiness.
Memorise: I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. – Revelation 1:8
Read: Psalms 24:7-10 (KJV)
7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.
Bible in One Year: Matthew 1:1-4:22; Job 10:6-17
MESSAGE:
It should be surprising to see children of God cringing in the presence of forces that threaten not only their physical lives, but also relationships with their Father in heaven. This attitude is unlike that of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Babylon. These young Hebrew men knew their God to be strong and mighty, and they were bold enough to declare it to the absolute dictator, king Nebuchadnezzar. This is what is expected of us as children of the Most High God.
In the testimony of the Psalmist in our Bible reading for today, we read of him speaking about the God who is strong and mighty in battle. This God has never lost any battle. Like I have preached on many occasions, this God is a war-Lord. He is more effective than any Chief of Naval staff when it comes when it comes to offensive air battles. This was proven in the battle he fought on behalf of the children of Israel under the leadership of Joshua:
“And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the LORD cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword.” - Joshua 10:11
Beloved, I am pleased to announce to you that if truly you are born-again, your God is strong and mighty. Hence, you have no reason to fear any attack of the enemies. The Bible says:
“19 So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. 20 And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.” - Isaiah 59:19-20
There is something very important to note in the above scripture; “.. unto them that turn from transgression..” The Lord, strong and mighty can only fight on behalf of those who have reconciled with Him through genuine repentance. Sin exposes an individual to enemy attack. Therefore, I appeal to someone reading this devotional; ensure that your life is void of iniquity which makes you vulnerable to the attack of the enemy. Our God is strong and mighty. Those who have walked with Him sincerely have this as their testimony. It will be yours too in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, please show yourself strong and mighty in my life so that my enemies may fear, repent and surrender to your Almightiness.
Saturday, 23 January 2016
Divine Transformation II - Sunday 24 January, 2016
Divine Transformation II - Sunday 24 January, 2016
Memorise: And the Spirit of the LORD will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man. – 1 Samuel 10:6
Read: 1 Samuel 10:1-6 (KJV)
1 Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?
2 When thou art departed from me to day, then thou shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre in the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will say unto thee, The asses which thou wentest to seek are found: and, lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and sorroweth for you, saying, What shall I do for my son?
3 Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the plain of Tabor, and there shall meet thee three men going up to God to Bethel, one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine:
4 And they will salute thee, and give thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive of their hands.
5 After that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy:
6 And the Spirit of the LORD will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 32:46-34:12; Job 9:25-10:5
MESSAGE:
The Almighty God at creation set the natural laws in motion, and they started to function just as He commanded them. For example, the sun rises and sets at the appointed times and so does the moon. However, whenever God decides to showcase His sovereignty, He may decide to suspend these laws and do things as He pleases. He may even decide to bring something out of nothing or make somebody out of nobody. This is what people call ‘a miracle’. My prayer to someone using this devotional today is that a divine transformation will make you somebody where you have been looked upon as nobody in Jesus’ Name.
The story in our Bible reading today reveals a divine transformation in the life of the first king of Israel, King Saul. He was not just anointed as a king; he started to prophesy. The good news is that a better transformation which is equally divine is now available to whoever is willing to surrender his life to Jesus Christ. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:17:
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away: behold all things are become new.”
As a result of this experience, the believer becomes very important personality. Apostle Peter called us chosen, royal priesthood and peculiar. Beloved, do you desire divine transformation? There is only one person who can give you this experience; and this is Jesus Christ. The Bible says;
“He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them.” 1 Samuel 2:8
However, the divine transformation which makes an enemy of God become a friend of this same God, takes some responsibilities. Old things must pass away and the fellow must now live according to the principles of the Kingdom of God. The Bible says;
“And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” - 1 John 3:3
The reality which King Saul did not pay close attention to might have been responsible for his dethronement. This may also account for the downfall of many children of God, who God transformed and raised to be His ministers, but took the grace of transformation for granted and lost their position both in the ministry and in the Kingdom of God. This will not be your portion in Jesus’ Name.
Prayer Point: Father, please use Your almighty power to give me a pleasant transformation this season in Jesus’ Name.
Memorise: And the Spirit of the LORD will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man. – 1 Samuel 10:6
Read: 1 Samuel 10:1-6 (KJV)
1 Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?
2 When thou art departed from me to day, then thou shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre in the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will say unto thee, The asses which thou wentest to seek are found: and, lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and sorroweth for you, saying, What shall I do for my son?
3 Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the plain of Tabor, and there shall meet thee three men going up to God to Bethel, one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine:
4 And they will salute thee, and give thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive of their hands.
5 After that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy:
6 And the Spirit of the LORD will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 32:46-34:12; Job 9:25-10:5
MESSAGE:
The Almighty God at creation set the natural laws in motion, and they started to function just as He commanded them. For example, the sun rises and sets at the appointed times and so does the moon. However, whenever God decides to showcase His sovereignty, He may decide to suspend these laws and do things as He pleases. He may even decide to bring something out of nothing or make somebody out of nobody. This is what people call ‘a miracle’. My prayer to someone using this devotional today is that a divine transformation will make you somebody where you have been looked upon as nobody in Jesus’ Name.
The story in our Bible reading today reveals a divine transformation in the life of the first king of Israel, King Saul. He was not just anointed as a king; he started to prophesy. The good news is that a better transformation which is equally divine is now available to whoever is willing to surrender his life to Jesus Christ. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:17:
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away: behold all things are become new.”
As a result of this experience, the believer becomes very important personality. Apostle Peter called us chosen, royal priesthood and peculiar. Beloved, do you desire divine transformation? There is only one person who can give you this experience; and this is Jesus Christ. The Bible says;
“He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them.” 1 Samuel 2:8
However, the divine transformation which makes an enemy of God become a friend of this same God, takes some responsibilities. Old things must pass away and the fellow must now live according to the principles of the Kingdom of God. The Bible says;
“And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” - 1 John 3:3
The reality which King Saul did not pay close attention to might have been responsible for his dethronement. This may also account for the downfall of many children of God, who God transformed and raised to be His ministers, but took the grace of transformation for granted and lost their position both in the ministry and in the Kingdom of God. This will not be your portion in Jesus’ Name.
Prayer Point: Father, please use Your almighty power to give me a pleasant transformation this season in Jesus’ Name.
Friday, 22 January 2016
Divine Transformation I - Saturday 23 January, 2016
Divine Transformation I - Saturday 23 January, 2016
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: 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (KJV)
9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 31:14-32:47; Job 9:13-24
MESSAGE:
Yesterday, we read about the state of the heart of man being very wicked. We also read about spiritual surgery which can bring about divine transformation. The work of redemption performed by Jesus Christ makes divine transformation possible.
In the Bible reading for today, we note the terrible things that man is capable of. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, unequivocally said that those who do those things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. However, he wrote:
“And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:11
Our Lord Jesus Christ was speaking to Nicodemus about divine transformation when He said to him: “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Being born of water and of the Spirit brings about divine transformation.
The mystery of the new birth cannot be explained by human reasoning except through the enlightenment by the Spirit of our God. For example, in the epistle of John:
“8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” - 1 John 3:8-9
There are two main avenues for experiencing divine transformation: the first is genuine repentance; when a man voluntarily submits his will to God in obedience. The other one is the power in the blood of Jesus Christ; the blood of the new covenant is much more superior to the blood of the bull (Hebrews 10:4). Therefore, for divine transformation, Jesus Christ is the answer. I pray that all the necessary transformation you need to live an acceptable life before God will be given to you through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer Point: Father, please cleanse me from all impurities and let my life conform to Your original image.
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: 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (KJV)
9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 31:14-32:47; Job 9:13-24
MESSAGE:
Yesterday, we read about the state of the heart of man being very wicked. We also read about spiritual surgery which can bring about divine transformation. The work of redemption performed by Jesus Christ makes divine transformation possible.
In the Bible reading for today, we note the terrible things that man is capable of. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, unequivocally said that those who do those things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. However, he wrote:
“And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:11
Our Lord Jesus Christ was speaking to Nicodemus about divine transformation when He said to him: “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Being born of water and of the Spirit brings about divine transformation.
The mystery of the new birth cannot be explained by human reasoning except through the enlightenment by the Spirit of our God. For example, in the epistle of John:
“8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” - 1 John 3:8-9
There are two main avenues for experiencing divine transformation: the first is genuine repentance; when a man voluntarily submits his will to God in obedience. The other one is the power in the blood of Jesus Christ; the blood of the new covenant is much more superior to the blood of the bull (Hebrews 10:4). Therefore, for divine transformation, Jesus Christ is the answer. I pray that all the necessary transformation you need to live an acceptable life before God will be given to you through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer Point: Father, please cleanse me from all impurities and let my life conform to Your original image.
Thursday, 21 January 2016
Walking with God III - Friday 22 January, 2016
Walking with God III - Friday 22 January, 2016
Memorise: He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. – Psalm 24:4
Read: Psalm 24:3-6 (KJV)
3 Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Selah.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 19:1-31:13; Job 8:20-9:12
MESSAGE:
Walking with God requires living holy because God is holy. According to the Scriptures, two can’t walk together if they do not agree. When we live holy, we are in agreement with God. The Lord spoke with Abram thus:
“And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.” - Genesis 17:1
In our Bible reading for today, we are confronted with some fundamental requirements for an acceptable walk with God. The first one is clean hands. If your hands are defiled, you cannot walk with God. What is it that defiles a man’s hands? Blood money is one; money that belongs to another person or organization but you have taken unlawfully is another. Also your hands are defiled by the unlawful touch of another man’s wife or another woman’s husband.
“27 Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? 28 Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned? 29 So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.” - Proverbs 6:27-29
Moreover, only a man with pure heart can effectively and acceptably walk with God. The heart is deceitful and desperately wicked, but God is able to remove this wickedness. This is why everyone must surrender his or her heart to God for spiritual surgery through genuine repentance. The Scripture says all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. If we confess our sins to God, He is faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. God also promises:
“19 And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh: 20 That they may walk in my statutes, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11:19-20
Jesus Christ said that we cannot serve God and Mammon. Also, the Bible enjoins us not to love the world and its vanities. Failure to heed this scriptural injunction is lifting up our soul unto vanity. The love of money can hinder our Christian walk with God. It makes Christians do such things as swearing false affidavits. May the Lord deliver you from anything that works against your walk with God in Jesus’ Name.
Action Point: Using 2 Corinthians 6:14-18:
“14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”
Pray that God will enable you to shun anything that will hinder your walk with Him.
Memorise: He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. – Psalm 24:4
Read: Psalm 24:3-6 (KJV)
3 Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Selah.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 19:1-31:13; Job 8:20-9:12
MESSAGE:
Walking with God requires living holy because God is holy. According to the Scriptures, two can’t walk together if they do not agree. When we live holy, we are in agreement with God. The Lord spoke with Abram thus:
“And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.” - Genesis 17:1
In our Bible reading for today, we are confronted with some fundamental requirements for an acceptable walk with God. The first one is clean hands. If your hands are defiled, you cannot walk with God. What is it that defiles a man’s hands? Blood money is one; money that belongs to another person or organization but you have taken unlawfully is another. Also your hands are defiled by the unlawful touch of another man’s wife or another woman’s husband.
“27 Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? 28 Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned? 29 So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.” - Proverbs 6:27-29
Moreover, only a man with pure heart can effectively and acceptably walk with God. The heart is deceitful and desperately wicked, but God is able to remove this wickedness. This is why everyone must surrender his or her heart to God for spiritual surgery through genuine repentance. The Scripture says all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. If we confess our sins to God, He is faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. God also promises:
“19 And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh: 20 That they may walk in my statutes, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11:19-20
Jesus Christ said that we cannot serve God and Mammon. Also, the Bible enjoins us not to love the world and its vanities. Failure to heed this scriptural injunction is lifting up our soul unto vanity. The love of money can hinder our Christian walk with God. It makes Christians do such things as swearing false affidavits. May the Lord deliver you from anything that works against your walk with God in Jesus’ Name.
Action Point: Using 2 Corinthians 6:14-18:
“14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”
Pray that God will enable you to shun anything that will hinder your walk with Him.
Walking with God II - Thursday 21 January, 2016
Walking with God II - Thursday 21 January, 2016
Memorise: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. – Isaiah 28:16
Read: Deuteronomy 8:1-6 (KJV)
1 All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers.
2 And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.
3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
4 Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years.
5 Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee.
6 Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 28; Job 8:1-19
MESSAGE:
Walking with God requires knowing His ways. There is no way you can walk with God if you do not know His ways, this is because God is invisible and yet only walking with Him guarantees safety and prosperity. Another thing about walking in His ways is that His ways are often not our ways: The Bible says:
“8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” - Isaiah 55:8-9
In our Bible reading for today, God says that His people should remember all the ways in which He led them for forty years. One striking thing about this passage is the fact that man survives majorly on the word of God and not by bread alone. How did God show His people this truth? He gave them food and water on a daily basis without them labouring. Even their clothes and sandals did not wear out!
“3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. 4 Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years.” – Deuteronomy 8:3-4
The above passage shows that people of God should not disobey God because of what they will eat or drink. Many today are on their way to hell because of what they will eat, drink or put on. This was the truth that guided Jesus when the devil wanted to bring Him down with food in Luke 4:4 Jesus taught his disciples, re-assuring them that as long as they walked with God in His ways through His words, all their needs would be met. He said:
”Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” – Matthew 6:25
Beloved, I encourage you to begin to walk with God by His word from today, and you will experience His Almighty benevolence in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, please help me to always trust and take you by your infallible Word in Jesus’ name.
Memorise: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. – Isaiah 28:16
Read: Deuteronomy 8:1-6 (KJV)
1 All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers.
2 And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.
3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
4 Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years.
5 Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee.
6 Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 28; Job 8:1-19
MESSAGE:
Walking with God requires knowing His ways. There is no way you can walk with God if you do not know His ways, this is because God is invisible and yet only walking with Him guarantees safety and prosperity. Another thing about walking in His ways is that His ways are often not our ways: The Bible says:
“8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” - Isaiah 55:8-9
In our Bible reading for today, God says that His people should remember all the ways in which He led them for forty years. One striking thing about this passage is the fact that man survives majorly on the word of God and not by bread alone. How did God show His people this truth? He gave them food and water on a daily basis without them labouring. Even their clothes and sandals did not wear out!
“3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. 4 Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years.” – Deuteronomy 8:3-4
The above passage shows that people of God should not disobey God because of what they will eat or drink. Many today are on their way to hell because of what they will eat, drink or put on. This was the truth that guided Jesus when the devil wanted to bring Him down with food in Luke 4:4 Jesus taught his disciples, re-assuring them that as long as they walked with God in His ways through His words, all their needs would be met. He said:
”Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” – Matthew 6:25
Beloved, I encourage you to begin to walk with God by His word from today, and you will experience His Almighty benevolence in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, please help me to always trust and take you by your infallible Word in Jesus’ name.
Tuesday, 19 January 2016
Walking with God I - Wednesday 20 January, 2016
Walking with God I - Wednesday 20 January, 2016
Memorise: And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him. – Genesis 5:24
Read: Deuteronomy 5:30-33 (KJV)
30 Go say to them, Get you into your tents again.
31 But as for thee, stand thou here by me, and I will speak unto thee all the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which thou shalt teach them, that they may do them in the land which I give them to possess it.
32 Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.
33 Ye shall walk in all the ways which the LORD your God hath commanded you, that ye may live, and that it may be well with you, and that ye may prolong your days in the land which ye shall possess.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 25:5-27:26; Job 7:7-21
MESSAGE:
Walking with God can be highly rewarding if we can pay the price. The price, however, is very easy if we are humble-hearted, after all Jesus said: “for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
In our Bible reading of today, we are confronted with what it takes to walk with God. Walking with God takes complete obedience to His Word. Failure to do this brought calamity upon the human race in the Garden of Eden. The Bible says:
“16 And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: 17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” - Genesis 2:16-17
The First man and woman listened to the devil who deceived them by telling them that God’s word was a lie. He persuaded them to eat the forbidden fruit, and as a result, they bungled their walk with and God’s presence began to frighten them.
“And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.” - Genesis 3:6
This is exactly what is still happening today. People find it difficult to live by the words of the Holy Scriptures because they feel it is out-dated. Some theologians are already saying that the ideals of Christ in the gospels are no longer relevant or tenable in the 21st century! These only remind me of what God said concerning His word and concerning the latter days; Jesus said:
“18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. -” Matthew 5:18-19
Beloved, walking with God is a command that doesn’t just please God but also benefits us greatly. The Bible says: “…that ye may live and that it may be well with you, and that ye may prolong your days in the land which ye shall possess.” - Deuteronomy 5:33
Prayer Point: Father, please help me to walk with You in complete obedience to Your Word.
Memorise: And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him. – Genesis 5:24
Read: Deuteronomy 5:30-33 (KJV)
30 Go say to them, Get you into your tents again.
31 But as for thee, stand thou here by me, and I will speak unto thee all the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which thou shalt teach them, that they may do them in the land which I give them to possess it.
32 Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.
33 Ye shall walk in all the ways which the LORD your God hath commanded you, that ye may live, and that it may be well with you, and that ye may prolong your days in the land which ye shall possess.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 25:5-27:26; Job 7:7-21
MESSAGE:
Walking with God can be highly rewarding if we can pay the price. The price, however, is very easy if we are humble-hearted, after all Jesus said: “for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
In our Bible reading of today, we are confronted with what it takes to walk with God. Walking with God takes complete obedience to His Word. Failure to do this brought calamity upon the human race in the Garden of Eden. The Bible says:
“16 And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: 17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” - Genesis 2:16-17
The First man and woman listened to the devil who deceived them by telling them that God’s word was a lie. He persuaded them to eat the forbidden fruit, and as a result, they bungled their walk with and God’s presence began to frighten them.
“And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.” - Genesis 3:6
This is exactly what is still happening today. People find it difficult to live by the words of the Holy Scriptures because they feel it is out-dated. Some theologians are already saying that the ideals of Christ in the gospels are no longer relevant or tenable in the 21st century! These only remind me of what God said concerning His word and concerning the latter days; Jesus said:
“18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. -” Matthew 5:18-19
Beloved, walking with God is a command that doesn’t just please God but also benefits us greatly. The Bible says: “…that ye may live and that it may be well with you, and that ye may prolong your days in the land which ye shall possess.” - Deuteronomy 5:33
Prayer Point: Father, please help me to walk with You in complete obedience to Your Word.
Monday, 18 January 2016
Qualified for commendation? - Tuesday 19 January, 2016
Qualified for commendation? - Tuesday 19 January, 2016
Memorise: And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. – Revelation 22:12
Read: Matthew 25:19-21 (KJV)
19 After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.
20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.
21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 22:13-25:4; Job 6:24-7:6
MESSAGE:
Man is wonderfully and fearfully made. Created in the image of God, man is a “god” to other creatures. God Almighty created man for a divine purpose and for His pleasure. At the same time, He has earmarked a reward for every man who chooses to fulfill God’s purpose for his life. This is why in our memory verse today, we read about Jesus Christ saying He rewards men according to their works.
In our Bible reading today, the faithful servant who made good use of the talents given to him by his master received commendation. This story is no doubt talking about the commendation and rewards awaiting believers who faithfully serve the purpose and interest of the Lord. The question confronting us in today’s reading is “Are we qualified for commendation?” Jesus Christ said:
“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” - John 15:16
The Lord is encouraging someone reading this devotional today; He is taking note of your labour of love in the Church and to humanity. Though your pastor or superior may not commend you, the Almighty God will reward you handsomely if you will not be weary in well doing. Galatians 6:9 says:
“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
The outspoken Peter asked the Lord what their reward would be seeing that they left everything to follow Him. Jesus answered by saying:
“29 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, 30 But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.” - Mark 10:29-30
Beloved, if you want to receive commendation from the Lord on the last day, first step is to give your life to Christ. Then, begin to work for Him, serve Him and His Church through soul winning and sacrificial giving. You will surely be commended. Remember He said, “I come quickly and my reward is with me…”
Action Point: Think of a way to use your God given talents to expand God’s kingdom on earth: be it through giving or aggressive soul winning.
Memorise: And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. – Revelation 22:12
Read: Matthew 25:19-21 (KJV)
19 After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.
20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.
21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 22:13-25:4; Job 6:24-7:6
MESSAGE:
Man is wonderfully and fearfully made. Created in the image of God, man is a “god” to other creatures. God Almighty created man for a divine purpose and for His pleasure. At the same time, He has earmarked a reward for every man who chooses to fulfill God’s purpose for his life. This is why in our memory verse today, we read about Jesus Christ saying He rewards men according to their works.
In our Bible reading today, the faithful servant who made good use of the talents given to him by his master received commendation. This story is no doubt talking about the commendation and rewards awaiting believers who faithfully serve the purpose and interest of the Lord. The question confronting us in today’s reading is “Are we qualified for commendation?” Jesus Christ said:
“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” - John 15:16
The Lord is encouraging someone reading this devotional today; He is taking note of your labour of love in the Church and to humanity. Though your pastor or superior may not commend you, the Almighty God will reward you handsomely if you will not be weary in well doing. Galatians 6:9 says:
“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
The outspoken Peter asked the Lord what their reward would be seeing that they left everything to follow Him. Jesus answered by saying:
“29 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, 30 But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.” - Mark 10:29-30
Beloved, if you want to receive commendation from the Lord on the last day, first step is to give your life to Christ. Then, begin to work for Him, serve Him and His Church through soul winning and sacrificial giving. You will surely be commended. Remember He said, “I come quickly and my reward is with me…”
Action Point: Think of a way to use your God given talents to expand God’s kingdom on earth: be it through giving or aggressive soul winning.
Weep Not: A divine command - Monday 18 January, 2016
Weep Not: A divine command - Monday 18 January, 2016
Memorise: Rejoice evermore. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16
Read: Luke 7:12-15 (KJV)
12 Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.
13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.
14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
15 And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 19:15-22:12; Job 6:8-23
MESSAGE:
At times, children of God lose the import of God’s command, which invariably is for our good if we do not take it as a suggestion but as a command. Positively, one of such commands is one of the shortest verses in the New Testament; “Rejoice evermore.”
In today’s Bible reading, we were given a command; “Weep Not". This command is easier read than obeyed, but then, it should be obeyed. A widow lost her only son and Jesus Christ commanded her not to weep! This command came before the action that justified it in that situation. To someone reading this devotional, Jesus is telling you; “weep not” because He will intervene in that situation which is causing you to weep. One terrible thing about weeping is that it does not solve the problem at hand. So, why engage in what will not change the situation? Once again I say, “Weep not”. Jesus Christ who asks you not to weep knows what He is going to do about that situation, like in the case of the widow of Nain. The Bible says that Jesus came and touched the coffin that was bearing the dead young man and commanded life to come back to the lifeless body. Death then immediately released the soul of the young man at the command of the One whose Name is the Resurrection and the Life.
Weeping could be very detrimental to those who indulged in it. Apart from being a deviant behaviour against a divine command, it blurs your vision and reasoning. Also, weeping, particularly when God has spoken against it, is an indirect way of protesting against God’s word. It is equal to murmuring which is also rebellious. The Bible assuredly says :
“For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” - Psalms 30:5.
Blessed are we, if we believe this scripture. In addition, the Bible says that weeping blurred Mary Magdalene’s vision on the resurrection morning so much that she mistook Jesus Christ for a gardener!
“Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.” - John 20 : 15.
An antidote for weeping is the reading of God’s Word concerning His promises to us in time of trouble. Another one is high praises to God who specializes in reversing the irreversible. The Bible says that when David was distressed at Ziglag because his wives and children had been taken away by raiders, he appealed to God for consolation, and he was not only consoled, but was also assured of the reversal of the unpleasant situation. Beloved, trust the Lord for the reversal of that seemingly unpleasant situation in your life and that of your loved ones and you will laugh last.
Prayer Point: Father, please wipe away all tears from my eyes by removing those situations that cause me to weep today.
Memorise: Rejoice evermore. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16
Read: Luke 7:12-15 (KJV)
12 Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.
13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.
14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
15 And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 19:15-22:12; Job 6:8-23
MESSAGE:
At times, children of God lose the import of God’s command, which invariably is for our good if we do not take it as a suggestion but as a command. Positively, one of such commands is one of the shortest verses in the New Testament; “Rejoice evermore.”
In today’s Bible reading, we were given a command; “Weep Not". This command is easier read than obeyed, but then, it should be obeyed. A widow lost her only son and Jesus Christ commanded her not to weep! This command came before the action that justified it in that situation. To someone reading this devotional, Jesus is telling you; “weep not” because He will intervene in that situation which is causing you to weep. One terrible thing about weeping is that it does not solve the problem at hand. So, why engage in what will not change the situation? Once again I say, “Weep not”. Jesus Christ who asks you not to weep knows what He is going to do about that situation, like in the case of the widow of Nain. The Bible says that Jesus came and touched the coffin that was bearing the dead young man and commanded life to come back to the lifeless body. Death then immediately released the soul of the young man at the command of the One whose Name is the Resurrection and the Life.
Weeping could be very detrimental to those who indulged in it. Apart from being a deviant behaviour against a divine command, it blurs your vision and reasoning. Also, weeping, particularly when God has spoken against it, is an indirect way of protesting against God’s word. It is equal to murmuring which is also rebellious. The Bible assuredly says :
“For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” - Psalms 30:5.
Blessed are we, if we believe this scripture. In addition, the Bible says that weeping blurred Mary Magdalene’s vision on the resurrection morning so much that she mistook Jesus Christ for a gardener!
“Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.” - John 20 : 15.
An antidote for weeping is the reading of God’s Word concerning His promises to us in time of trouble. Another one is high praises to God who specializes in reversing the irreversible. The Bible says that when David was distressed at Ziglag because his wives and children had been taken away by raiders, he appealed to God for consolation, and he was not only consoled, but was also assured of the reversal of the unpleasant situation. Beloved, trust the Lord for the reversal of that seemingly unpleasant situation in your life and that of your loved ones and you will laugh last.
Prayer Point: Father, please wipe away all tears from my eyes by removing those situations that cause me to weep today.
Sunday, 17 January 2016
Like Teacher, Like Student - Sunday 17 January, 2016
Like Teacher, Like Student - Sunday 17 January, 2016
Memorise: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. – 2 Timothy 2:15
Read: Philippians 3:14-17 (KJV)
14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 16:18-19:14; Job 5:17-6:7
MESSAGE:
In our Bible reading for today, we read of Paul, an outstanding apostle of Jesus Christ. He spoke of his relentless efforts to reach the mark for the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. The following are what he did to attain the approval of God through the righteousness that can only be found in Christ. He endeavoured to know more of Jesus Christ in order to do His will. He was never satisfied with an average Christian life, he made bold to say:
“17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. 18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) ” - Philippians 3:17-19
Beloved, any Church leader who cannot say what Paul said above is not worth following. Show me your teacher and I will tell you who you are and how far you can go in the Christian journey. When I gave my life to Christ, I was blessed with a leader that was heaven-bound; the founder of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The first time I saw him, I saw the glory of God and the image of Jesus Christ in him and there and then, I knew that if I could follow in his footsteps, I would make it in my Christian race. He was impeccably transparent, a lover of the cross of His Master and Saviour. He did not only teach but practiced what he taught to the letter. Paul, the apostle wrote:
“8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed..” - Galatians 1:8-9
It is necessary for Christians to prove all things in the light of the revealed truth in the Bible and then hold fast that which is good. Only the truth, and nothing but the truth can set you free from the errors of the end-time. Jesus Christ is the Truth.
When the Bible enjoins you to “study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth”, it simply means, study closely those who lived before you and enjoyed the approval of God, learn those things which they did that earned them God’s approval.
Prayer Point: Father, please reveal yourself to me afresh through Your Son, Jesus Christ, my Lord.
Memorise: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. – 2 Timothy 2:15
Read: Philippians 3:14-17 (KJV)
14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 16:18-19:14; Job 5:17-6:7
MESSAGE:
In our Bible reading for today, we read of Paul, an outstanding apostle of Jesus Christ. He spoke of his relentless efforts to reach the mark for the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. The following are what he did to attain the approval of God through the righteousness that can only be found in Christ. He endeavoured to know more of Jesus Christ in order to do His will. He was never satisfied with an average Christian life, he made bold to say:
“17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. 18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) ” - Philippians 3:17-19
Beloved, any Church leader who cannot say what Paul said above is not worth following. Show me your teacher and I will tell you who you are and how far you can go in the Christian journey. When I gave my life to Christ, I was blessed with a leader that was heaven-bound; the founder of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The first time I saw him, I saw the glory of God and the image of Jesus Christ in him and there and then, I knew that if I could follow in his footsteps, I would make it in my Christian race. He was impeccably transparent, a lover of the cross of His Master and Saviour. He did not only teach but practiced what he taught to the letter. Paul, the apostle wrote:
“8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed..” - Galatians 1:8-9
It is necessary for Christians to prove all things in the light of the revealed truth in the Bible and then hold fast that which is good. Only the truth, and nothing but the truth can set you free from the errors of the end-time. Jesus Christ is the Truth.
When the Bible enjoins you to “study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth”, it simply means, study closely those who lived before you and enjoyed the approval of God, learn those things which they did that earned them God’s approval.
Prayer Point: Father, please reveal yourself to me afresh through Your Son, Jesus Christ, my Lord.
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