Practicality of Faith - Friday 6, May 2016
Memorise: Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1
Read: James 2:14-23 (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.
Bible in One Year: 2 Kings 1-2, Proverbs 20:18-30
MESSAGE:
Our memory verse for today provides the best explanation on the subject of faith. Practically, faith consists of taking God at His word and acting accordingly. The idea of being sure provides a conviction that what we hope for will happen, not because we can make it happen, but because God has said it will happen.
In John 6:57-58, Our Lord Jesus Christ assures us that His flesh and blood releases divine life. As you drink the wine representing His blood, the Spirit will quicken your body because the wine is equivalent to the Spirit. Ephesians 5:18 compares the wine with the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:11 says:
“But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you."
This means that if curses are warring against your body, when you partake of the bread and wine, physical victory will be delivered to your body. Are you sick? Has your body been afflicted with terminal ailments? Seek the face of the Lord concerning that sickness, go in faith for the next Holy Communion and you will be healed. There is a user of this devotional with a terminal ailment, as you release your faith and partake of the next Holy Communion, you will be delivered from that ailment in the name of Jesus.
Furthermore, in Luke 24:49, the Lord told His disciples to wait until the power came. That is faith. Waiting on God is an act of faith. While waiting, there would be several distractions and discouraging moments. The devil will bring people to mock you just like they mocked Noah while he was building the ark for a supposed rainfall that had never before experienced. For as long as it takes God to fulfil His promises in your life, WAIT. Don't get tired! Time spent in waiting on God to fulfil His Word is not wasted at all; it is counted to you as an act of righteousness. You are simply obeying God. Besides this, where to wait could also be very important. The Early Church was asked to wait in the city of Jerusalem. They did not know why, but God knew He had planned to send the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost.
Faith also provides a conviction of certainty for what we do not see. Just as physical eyesight provides evidence about things, faith provides evidence about the invisible. God has promised future blessings and eternal rewards. No one has seen these yet. Still, believers are certain that God will deliver on His promises, and we will one day see and experience these blessings and rewards. Faith proves the reality of what we cannot see. Faith enables Christians to live obediently in the light of what we know will come. "Faith provides a platform for hope and a perception into the reality of what would otherwise remain unseen." (Donald Guthrie)
Prayer Point: Father, please rekindle the fire of apostolic faith in me in the Name of Jesus.
Thursday, 5 May 2016
Wednesday, 4 May 2016
What must I do to Receive from God - Thursday 5, May 2016
What must I do to Receive from God - Thursday 5, May 2016
Memorise: If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. – John 15:7
Read: Mark 11:22-26 (KJV)
22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.
23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.
24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
26 But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 21:17-22:53, Proverbs 20:4-17
MESSAGE:
Children of God looking up to Him for blessings should learn that God has provided the means of receiving abundant blessings from Him. God has also established a few laws, principles, rules and regulations to govern the process. For anyone to receive anything from God, the fellow must at least have a relationship with Him and must have faith in His love, mercy and power to do whatever he is hoping to get from Him.
We must be connected to God and abide in Him before we can receive from Him. Wisdom for financial breakthrough teaches that: although God gives seed to the sower, He also expects the sower to sow and not eat the seed.
“Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;” - 2 Corinthians 9:10
You must realize that there is no child of God without a seed. Now you may say, “I have no money and therefore I have nothing to sow.” You are wrong. If you have no money, you may have something more valuable than money. Look in your hands, heart, intellect, abilities, talents, time, what you have in your house, your academic training, your mouth to preach and win souls, etc. There is no one without a seed. When God provides you with a financial blessing, say your wage, salary or profit from a business, that provision has a seed in it. If you spend everything, you will harm yourself. The book of John 12:24 says:
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.”
That financial provision; salary, wage, or profit increase is some kind of harvest. God expects that the harvest you take today will give you a larger harvest tomorrow. When you receive your harvest, pay your tithe, sow your seeds and spend the rest. The seed you sow, in the process of time will be multiplied and will fetch you bread. If you don’t sow your seeds, they remain alone but when you sow them, they will be given an opportunity to say, “thank you for parting with us”. They will give you a harvest that will yet give you more seeds to sow.
You can decide to keep your corn with you, eat it and starve afterwards or sow it and expect a harvest. Many believers today are poor because greed, gluttony, impatience, ignorance and lack of faith made them eat their seeds along with their bread.
Now you know better, simply obey and begin to experience increase on all sides. As you begin to follow divine principles today, you will witness an extraordinary supply of His favour and blessings in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the wisdom to observe divine principles in Jesus’ name
Memorise: If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. – John 15:7
Read: Mark 11:22-26 (KJV)
22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.
23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.
24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
26 But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 21:17-22:53, Proverbs 20:4-17
MESSAGE:
Children of God looking up to Him for blessings should learn that God has provided the means of receiving abundant blessings from Him. God has also established a few laws, principles, rules and regulations to govern the process. For anyone to receive anything from God, the fellow must at least have a relationship with Him and must have faith in His love, mercy and power to do whatever he is hoping to get from Him.
We must be connected to God and abide in Him before we can receive from Him. Wisdom for financial breakthrough teaches that: although God gives seed to the sower, He also expects the sower to sow and not eat the seed.
“Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;” - 2 Corinthians 9:10
You must realize that there is no child of God without a seed. Now you may say, “I have no money and therefore I have nothing to sow.” You are wrong. If you have no money, you may have something more valuable than money. Look in your hands, heart, intellect, abilities, talents, time, what you have in your house, your academic training, your mouth to preach and win souls, etc. There is no one without a seed. When God provides you with a financial blessing, say your wage, salary or profit from a business, that provision has a seed in it. If you spend everything, you will harm yourself. The book of John 12:24 says:
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.”
That financial provision; salary, wage, or profit increase is some kind of harvest. God expects that the harvest you take today will give you a larger harvest tomorrow. When you receive your harvest, pay your tithe, sow your seeds and spend the rest. The seed you sow, in the process of time will be multiplied and will fetch you bread. If you don’t sow your seeds, they remain alone but when you sow them, they will be given an opportunity to say, “thank you for parting with us”. They will give you a harvest that will yet give you more seeds to sow.
You can decide to keep your corn with you, eat it and starve afterwards or sow it and expect a harvest. Many believers today are poor because greed, gluttony, impatience, ignorance and lack of faith made them eat their seeds along with their bread.
Now you know better, simply obey and begin to experience increase on all sides. As you begin to follow divine principles today, you will witness an extraordinary supply of His favour and blessings in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the wisdom to observe divine principles in Jesus’ name
Suffering Hatred - Wednesday 4, May 2016
Suffering Hatred - Wednesday 4, May 2016
Memorise: Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. – John 8:42
Read: John 15:17-21 (KJV)
17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.
18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
21 But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 19:19-21:16, Proverbs 19:19-20:3
MESSAGE:
As the time of the departure of Jesus began to draw near, He started talking to His disciples about the things that will befall them from the moment when he would depart, so that they would not be caught unawares. These series of talks are generally referred to as the ‘farewell discourse’. The Bible reading for today is one of the farewell discourses, it points to the fact that the disciples would suffer hatred. John 15:20 says:
“Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.”
Jesus said, if the world persecuted Him, then the disciples should expect a similar treatment in the hands of the people. Jesus told them that He was telling them ahead of time so that when these things began to happen, they would not be caught unawares. Jesus wanted His disciples to be fully ready for any eventuality. What is the nature of the hatred that Jesus suffered in the hands of the people of the world? He was defamed, misrepresented, rejected unfairly, forsaken by friends and relatives, harassed, beaten, assaulted, abused, crucified and murdered. Jesus went further in John 15:21 to say:
“But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.”
The prophecy is not limited to the twelve apostles or those that were physically present with Him at that time. Jesus explained that this would be the fate of all that come after Him and live as true disciples. That the Church and people of God are presently operating under various kinds of attacks and persecution in many regions of the world is not news any longer. Christians are presently suffering untold hardships, insecurity, harassment, brutality, assaults, and murder. In fact, Jesus told the disciples that a time is coming that a person that kills a Christian would suppose that he is doing God a favour.
However, the Bible says we should count it all joy when we are faced with diverse temptations and persecutions, knowing that enough such challenges, we become exercised, our spiritual muscles get toughened and built-up.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace to remain adherent to You no matter what the devil throws my way.
Memorise: Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. – John 8:42
Read: John 15:17-21 (KJV)
17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.
18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
21 But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 19:19-21:16, Proverbs 19:19-20:3
MESSAGE:
As the time of the departure of Jesus began to draw near, He started talking to His disciples about the things that will befall them from the moment when he would depart, so that they would not be caught unawares. These series of talks are generally referred to as the ‘farewell discourse’. The Bible reading for today is one of the farewell discourses, it points to the fact that the disciples would suffer hatred. John 15:20 says:
“Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.”
Jesus said, if the world persecuted Him, then the disciples should expect a similar treatment in the hands of the people. Jesus told them that He was telling them ahead of time so that when these things began to happen, they would not be caught unawares. Jesus wanted His disciples to be fully ready for any eventuality. What is the nature of the hatred that Jesus suffered in the hands of the people of the world? He was defamed, misrepresented, rejected unfairly, forsaken by friends and relatives, harassed, beaten, assaulted, abused, crucified and murdered. Jesus went further in John 15:21 to say:
“But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.”
The prophecy is not limited to the twelve apostles or those that were physically present with Him at that time. Jesus explained that this would be the fate of all that come after Him and live as true disciples. That the Church and people of God are presently operating under various kinds of attacks and persecution in many regions of the world is not news any longer. Christians are presently suffering untold hardships, insecurity, harassment, brutality, assaults, and murder. In fact, Jesus told the disciples that a time is coming that a person that kills a Christian would suppose that he is doing God a favour.
However, the Bible says we should count it all joy when we are faced with diverse temptations and persecutions, knowing that enough such challenges, we become exercised, our spiritual muscles get toughened and built-up.
Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace to remain adherent to You no matter what the devil throws my way.
Tuesday, 3 May 2016
Long Life with Prosperity - Tuesday 3, May 2016
Long Life with Prosperity - Tuesday 3, May 2016
Memorise: Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. – Exodus 20:12
Read: Genesis 49:1-4 (KJV)
1 And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.
2 Gather yourselves together, and hear, ye sons of Jacob; and hearken unto Israel your father.
3 Reuben, thou art my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power:
4 Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; because thou wentest up to thy father's bed; then defiledst thou it: he went up to my couch.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 18:1-19:18, Proverbs 19:5-18
MESSAGE:
The gospel truth is that the Christian lifestyle is so powerful, and yet deceptively simple and easy. I used the word “deceptively” because the Christian life can be likened to a police or soldier in uniform. These people may have gone through some rigorous training in the preparation for the job, however, the power behind their operations is the uniform that bears the nation’s emblem. A police officer or military personnel is therefore protected from assault and ill treatment for reasons beyond himself, and more so because he is on duty as an agent of the country. So also, a person that is born again is protected, supported, assisted, and backed up by the authority of heaven. More importantly, this special privilege is not earned through social status, popularity, hard work, financial status, or anything else. The only requirement is to accept Jesus as personal Lord and Saviour, obediently submit to His authority in all things. For example, the Bible in Exodus 20:12 says:
“Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.”
This may seem very simple and easy, but unknown to many, great power is operating behind those words. This is the Word of God and anyone that will obey these words can expect to live a long life in prosperity. If you are obedient to these words, not only should you expect to live long as a child of God, you can also expect to be fruitful and prosperous. Fruitfulness is a covenant benefit of God's children. Deuteronomy 7:12-14 reveals that God expects you to be fruitful by the fruit of your body, in your business and livestock. This implies that, because you are blessed by God, everything associated with you will carry a mark of that blessing. This is why you should have great expectations regarding fruitfulness. Are you struggling with barrenness? In the name of Jesus Christ, there shall be no more barrenness in your life, in your body and in your business. From now on, you shall be fruitful spiritually, men tally, financially, materially, and in your body.
Similarly, according to Deuteronomy 28:11-12, believers can expect supernatural abundance from the Lord. Remember, expectations should go ahead of you before the blessings are delivered. If you expect nothing, do not be surprised when you get nothing. Those without expectations demonstrate that they do not know what they want. When you read about God's powerful promises, expectations should rise up within you. The Lord says He will so bless you, that you will become a creditor to nations.
More so, this abundance is not limited to finance. God can bless the fruit of your brain so that you will be sought after by different educational institutions across the globe. The question is, are you born again? Are you in total obedience to the Word of God?
Prayer point: Father, help me to be obedient to Your Word and bless me abundantly in Jesus' name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
Read: Genesis 49:1-4 (KJV)
1 And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.
2 Gather yourselves together, and hear, ye sons of Jacob; and hearken unto Israel your father.
3 Reuben, thou art my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power:
4 Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; because thou wentest up to thy father's bed; then defiledst thou it: he went up to my couch.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 18:1-19:18, Proverbs 19:5-18
MESSAGE:
The gospel truth is that the Christian lifestyle is so powerful, and yet deceptively simple and easy. I used the word “deceptively” because the Christian life can be likened to a police or soldier in uniform. These people may have gone through some rigorous training in the preparation for the job, however, the power behind their operations is the uniform that bears the nation’s emblem. A police officer or military personnel is therefore protected from assault and ill treatment for reasons beyond himself, and more so because he is on duty as an agent of the country. So also, a person that is born again is protected, supported, assisted, and backed up by the authority of heaven. More importantly, this special privilege is not earned through social status, popularity, hard work, financial status, or anything else. The only requirement is to accept Jesus as personal Lord and Saviour, obediently submit to His authority in all things. For example, the Bible in Exodus 20:12 says:
“Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.”
This may seem very simple and easy, but unknown to many, great power is operating behind those words. This is the Word of God and anyone that will obey these words can expect to live a long life in prosperity. If you are obedient to these words, not only should you expect to live long as a child of God, you can also expect to be fruitful and prosperous. Fruitfulness is a covenant benefit of God's children. Deuteronomy 7:12-14 reveals that God expects you to be fruitful by the fruit of your body, in your business and livestock. This implies that, because you are blessed by God, everything associated with you will carry a mark of that blessing. This is why you should have great expectations regarding fruitfulness. Are you struggling with barrenness? In the name of Jesus Christ, there shall be no more barrenness in your life, in your body and in your business. From now on, you shall be fruitful spiritually, men tally, financially, materially, and in your body.
Similarly, according to Deuteronomy 28:11-12, believers can expect supernatural abundance from the Lord. Remember, expectations should go ahead of you before the blessings are delivered. If you expect nothing, do not be surprised when you get nothing. Those without expectations demonstrate that they do not know what they want. When you read about God's powerful promises, expectations should rise up within you. The Lord says He will so bless you, that you will become a creditor to nations.
More so, this abundance is not limited to finance. God can bless the fruit of your brain so that you will be sought after by different educational institutions across the globe. The question is, are you born again? Are you in total obedience to the Word of God?
Prayer point: Father, help me to be obedient to Your Word and bless me abundantly in Jesus' name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.
Monday, 2 May 2016
Spiritual Bodyguards - Monday 2, May 2016
Spiritual Bodyguards - Monday 2, May 2016
Memorise: He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. – Psalms 91:1
Read: Psalms 91:1-12 (KJV)
1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
9 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;
10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 15:33-17:24, Proverbs 18:15-19:4
MESSAGE:
Bodyguards are specially trained security persons who usually protect very important people wherever they go. They are commonly sighted around government officials and members of their families. Business moguls, multi-millionaires, mega stars, and TV personalities enjoy going around with them. As a matter of fact, many will not be seen in public without their bodyguards because they don’t feel safe without them. However, bodyguards are limited in power, and the cost of having them is beyond the reach of the average person. The good news for Christians is that as we have bodyguards in this world, we also have spiritual bodyguards. They are automatically appointed to every child of God at the moment they become born again. They are invisible, they operate at a speed much faster than the speed of light, they have limitless power, and their services have been fully paid for through the blood of Jesus. That is why Psalms 91:1 says:
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”
I once taught some of my children that when a child is born, what happens to the child depends on the available support system. The stronger the support system, the more fortified that child is for success in life. Within our Father’s support system are angels. Psalms 91:10-13 says it is the duty of our Father’s angels to ensure no harm befalls us. The angels are instructed by God to go with us wherever we go. If the children of kings are going out, they don’t go alone. If they are going to school, they are chauffeur-driven, whereas, children of ordinary people trek even through the woods unaided. From this day, you shall go on angelic rides in Jesus’ name.
There is a testimony a brother shared concerning his trip by air. He said while airborne, the first two engines of the plane suddenly stopped. The pilot panicked, saying that if the third engine follows suit, the plane would crash. Then the third engine also stopped. The whole place was in pandemonium but this brother who was seated by the window turned to look through the window on his left and saw a huge angel smiling at him and whispering to him that he was carrying the plane. To the surprise of everybody else, the plane landed safely an hour later at the nearest airport. The brother saw three angels there. Nobody could explain how they managed to land except this brother. In the Bible, when Daniel was thrown into the den of lions, an angel went ahead of him and stopped their mouths. Similarly, when Peter was locked up in prison, an angel came to him, woke him up and led him out.
Prayer Point: Father, please don’t let me ever do anything that will drive my spiritual bodyguards away from me in Jesus’ name.
Memorise: He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. – Psalms 91:1
Read: Psalms 91:1-12 (KJV)
1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
9 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;
10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 15:33-17:24, Proverbs 18:15-19:4
MESSAGE:
Bodyguards are specially trained security persons who usually protect very important people wherever they go. They are commonly sighted around government officials and members of their families. Business moguls, multi-millionaires, mega stars, and TV personalities enjoy going around with them. As a matter of fact, many will not be seen in public without their bodyguards because they don’t feel safe without them. However, bodyguards are limited in power, and the cost of having them is beyond the reach of the average person. The good news for Christians is that as we have bodyguards in this world, we also have spiritual bodyguards. They are automatically appointed to every child of God at the moment they become born again. They are invisible, they operate at a speed much faster than the speed of light, they have limitless power, and their services have been fully paid for through the blood of Jesus. That is why Psalms 91:1 says:
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”
I once taught some of my children that when a child is born, what happens to the child depends on the available support system. The stronger the support system, the more fortified that child is for success in life. Within our Father’s support system are angels. Psalms 91:10-13 says it is the duty of our Father’s angels to ensure no harm befalls us. The angels are instructed by God to go with us wherever we go. If the children of kings are going out, they don’t go alone. If they are going to school, they are chauffeur-driven, whereas, children of ordinary people trek even through the woods unaided. From this day, you shall go on angelic rides in Jesus’ name.
There is a testimony a brother shared concerning his trip by air. He said while airborne, the first two engines of the plane suddenly stopped. The pilot panicked, saying that if the third engine follows suit, the plane would crash. Then the third engine also stopped. The whole place was in pandemonium but this brother who was seated by the window turned to look through the window on his left and saw a huge angel smiling at him and whispering to him that he was carrying the plane. To the surprise of everybody else, the plane landed safely an hour later at the nearest airport. The brother saw three angels there. Nobody could explain how they managed to land except this brother. In the Bible, when Daniel was thrown into the den of lions, an angel went ahead of him and stopped their mouths. Similarly, when Peter was locked up in prison, an angel came to him, woke him up and led him out.
Prayer Point: Father, please don’t let me ever do anything that will drive my spiritual bodyguards away from me in Jesus’ name.
Saturday, 30 April 2016
The Man God Uses - Sunday 1, May 2016
The Man God Uses - Sunday 1, May 2016
Memorise: But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. – 2 Timothy 2:20
Read: 2 Timothy 2:19-21 (KJV)
19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 14:1-15:32, Proverbs 18:1-14
MESSAGE:
Today’s memory verse speaks of the availability of vessels of different makes, designs, and qualities to a great person. The choice of what vessel to use for any particular purpose is dependent on the master’s preference and the suitability of each vessel to the assignment at hand. So also, the man that God will use for any assignment must be found suitable for Kingdom assignment. God is always in the business of searching for suitable resources that He can use to fulfil His purpose here on earth. Whenever He locates one, He proceeds with the preparation and training of the chosen for the assignment. Incidentally, the divine equipment usually employed for the preparation and training of the man that God use is the cross. Many Christians are not fulfilling their purpose in life and ministry because they have consistently refused the required training for their assignments, and because they are not found to be suitable yet, their commissioning remains pending. May the Lord wake you up to the reality of your situation today, so that you can take your rightful place in the programme of heaven in Jesus’ name.
The man that God will use becomes completely transformed by going through the preparation process of God. The relationship that follows guarantees that the person's mind, heart, will and life now belong to Jesus Christ alone, he becomes reoriented with God and God’s kingdom. He is convinced beyond any reasonable doubt that he or she was created to please God and would begin to pursue godly purposes with all determination. In the life of the man God uses, the words of 2 Corinthians 9:8 come to play;
“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:” - 2 Corinthians 9:8
Therefore, the man God uses is the person who has absolute trust, reliance, and faith in God. He relies on God as the source of all things; he is a man through whom God can do all things. He is fully aware of God’s agenda in the world, and he lives with a clear, God-given sense of direction toward fulfilling God’s purpose. The presence of God is with him always and he is always careful to keep his character and integrity in line with the Word of God.
The man God uses is able to bring incredible changes and blessings into the life of anyone that comes in contact with him, through him, people with broken spirit, unstable families, the poor, those with health challenges, the demon possessed and the disenfranchised , can all find peace and prosperity with God. This is the whole essence of Christianity, and all it requires is our total submission to the preparation and training process. May the Lord give you the grace to pay the price for greatness in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, give me the grace to depend totally on you and completely submit myself to your training in Jesus’ name.
Memorise: But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. – 2 Timothy 2:20
Read: 2 Timothy 2:19-21 (KJV)
19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 14:1-15:32, Proverbs 18:1-14
MESSAGE:
Today’s memory verse speaks of the availability of vessels of different makes, designs, and qualities to a great person. The choice of what vessel to use for any particular purpose is dependent on the master’s preference and the suitability of each vessel to the assignment at hand. So also, the man that God will use for any assignment must be found suitable for Kingdom assignment. God is always in the business of searching for suitable resources that He can use to fulfil His purpose here on earth. Whenever He locates one, He proceeds with the preparation and training of the chosen for the assignment. Incidentally, the divine equipment usually employed for the preparation and training of the man that God use is the cross. Many Christians are not fulfilling their purpose in life and ministry because they have consistently refused the required training for their assignments, and because they are not found to be suitable yet, their commissioning remains pending. May the Lord wake you up to the reality of your situation today, so that you can take your rightful place in the programme of heaven in Jesus’ name.
The man that God will use becomes completely transformed by going through the preparation process of God. The relationship that follows guarantees that the person's mind, heart, will and life now belong to Jesus Christ alone, he becomes reoriented with God and God’s kingdom. He is convinced beyond any reasonable doubt that he or she was created to please God and would begin to pursue godly purposes with all determination. In the life of the man God uses, the words of 2 Corinthians 9:8 come to play;
“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:” - 2 Corinthians 9:8
Therefore, the man God uses is the person who has absolute trust, reliance, and faith in God. He relies on God as the source of all things; he is a man through whom God can do all things. He is fully aware of God’s agenda in the world, and he lives with a clear, God-given sense of direction toward fulfilling God’s purpose. The presence of God is with him always and he is always careful to keep his character and integrity in line with the Word of God.
The man God uses is able to bring incredible changes and blessings into the life of anyone that comes in contact with him, through him, people with broken spirit, unstable families, the poor, those with health challenges, the demon possessed and the disenfranchised , can all find peace and prosperity with God. This is the whole essence of Christianity, and all it requires is our total submission to the preparation and training process. May the Lord give you the grace to pay the price for greatness in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point: Father, give me the grace to depend totally on you and completely submit myself to your training in Jesus’ name.
The Lord, My Fortress - Saturday 30, April 2016
The Lord, My Fortress - Saturday 30, April 2016
Memorise: And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; – 2 Samuel 22:2
Read: Psalms 91:1-8 (KJV)
1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 12-13, Proverbs 17:15-28
MESSAGE:
The experience of the Psalmist concerning divine protection is worthy of study. According to our memory verse for today, he says: “The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer.” Whoever experiences these attributes of God in his life can be rightly described as the inheritance of the Lord. The psalmist further wrote:
“They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever.” - Psalms 125:1
One point to quickly note is that this Bible verse talks only to those who put their trust in the Lord, not those who have alternatives. David trusted totally in the Lord and he was never disappointed, that's why he had made such statements as this;
“As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever.” – Psalms 125:2
In other words, the Lord builds walls of protection round about his people. This is ‘food for thought’ for double-minded people who are still in doubt of God’s ability to totally protect. Some people are even afraid of prosperity, because they feel they would be prone to attacks from enemies if they get rich. They obviously do not know that the Almighty God that prospers is the One that protects as well.
“3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence....5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;” - Psalms 91:3, 5
One is thrilled by assurance with which the Psalmist is telling us about the Lord’s protection over His people. David’s experiences, first with the lion and the bear, and later with Goliath, are testimonies that should make a doubter believe that Our God is indeed Jehovah-Nissi.
I assure you that if you put your trust in the Lord, your protection is guaranteed. Our Lord never fails, He watches over his elect so that His name will not be blasphemed. Also, He fights on behalf of his elect so that they may not be discouraged by the battles of life.
My prayer is that the Rock of Ages will continue to protect you and your loved ones in the name of Jesus. However, ensure that you have no other god beside the Almighty God.
Memorise: And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; – 2 Samuel 22:2
Read: Psalms 91:1-8 (KJV)
1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 12-13, Proverbs 17:15-28
MESSAGE:
The experience of the Psalmist concerning divine protection is worthy of study. According to our memory verse for today, he says: “The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer.” Whoever experiences these attributes of God in his life can be rightly described as the inheritance of the Lord. The psalmist further wrote:
“They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever.” - Psalms 125:1
One point to quickly note is that this Bible verse talks only to those who put their trust in the Lord, not those who have alternatives. David trusted totally in the Lord and he was never disappointed, that's why he had made such statements as this;
“As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever.” – Psalms 125:2
In other words, the Lord builds walls of protection round about his people. This is ‘food for thought’ for double-minded people who are still in doubt of God’s ability to totally protect. Some people are even afraid of prosperity, because they feel they would be prone to attacks from enemies if they get rich. They obviously do not know that the Almighty God that prospers is the One that protects as well.
“3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence....5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;” - Psalms 91:3, 5
One is thrilled by assurance with which the Psalmist is telling us about the Lord’s protection over His people. David’s experiences, first with the lion and the bear, and later with Goliath, are testimonies that should make a doubter believe that Our God is indeed Jehovah-Nissi.
I assure you that if you put your trust in the Lord, your protection is guaranteed. Our Lord never fails, He watches over his elect so that His name will not be blasphemed. Also, He fights on behalf of his elect so that they may not be discouraged by the battles of life.
My prayer is that the Rock of Ages will continue to protect you and your loved ones in the name of Jesus. However, ensure that you have no other god beside the Almighty God.
Prayer Point: Father, please deliver me from the nets of the fowler in Jesus’ name.
Friday, 29 April 2016
Overcoming Trials II - Friday 29, April 2016
Overcoming Trials II - Friday 29, April 2016
Memorise: Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. – James 4:7
Read: James 4:7-10 (KJV)
7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 10-11, Proverbs 17:1-14
MESSAGE:
Submitting to the perfect will of God is a great weapon against trials and temptations. It is wisdom for us to submit to the One who is our present help in time of trouble. Jesus Christ is our closest ally in the battle of life. This is why those who do not have Him as their personal Lord and Saviour are vulnerably disposed to sorrow, frustration and death.
For us to enjoy the support and the defence of our great Ally, Jesus Christ , Apostle James wrote to say that we should submit ourselves to God , resist the devil and then he will flee from us (James 4:7).
The Bible says that pride goes before a fall. Many people fall into temptation because of pride. This is why the scripture enjoys us to live soberly as we fight the good fight of faith.
“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” - Romans 12:3
Humility and sobriety are great instruments of defence in the face of temptation. We are encouraged to humble ourselves in the sight of God so that He can lift us up. Once we are lifted up above principalities and powers, no temptation can floor us, because the Almighty is our Ally. People easily fall prey of trials and temptations because of their failure to live soberly. Over two thousand years ago, Apostle James gave us a key to solving the problem. He wrote:
“14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” - James 1:14-15.
To overcome trials and temptations, we must run to Jesus afresh today with sober hearts and humility. He will come to our aids, just on time.
Action Point: Examine your life; see where and how you have exposed yourself to trials and temptations and make amends with the blood of Jesus Christ.
Memorise: Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. – James 4:7
Read: James 4:7-10 (KJV)
7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 10-11, Proverbs 17:1-14
MESSAGE:
Submitting to the perfect will of God is a great weapon against trials and temptations. It is wisdom for us to submit to the One who is our present help in time of trouble. Jesus Christ is our closest ally in the battle of life. This is why those who do not have Him as their personal Lord and Saviour are vulnerably disposed to sorrow, frustration and death.
For us to enjoy the support and the defence of our great Ally, Jesus Christ , Apostle James wrote to say that we should submit ourselves to God , resist the devil and then he will flee from us (James 4:7).
The Bible says that pride goes before a fall. Many people fall into temptation because of pride. This is why the scripture enjoys us to live soberly as we fight the good fight of faith.
“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” - Romans 12:3
Humility and sobriety are great instruments of defence in the face of temptation. We are encouraged to humble ourselves in the sight of God so that He can lift us up. Once we are lifted up above principalities and powers, no temptation can floor us, because the Almighty is our Ally. People easily fall prey of trials and temptations because of their failure to live soberly. Over two thousand years ago, Apostle James gave us a key to solving the problem. He wrote:
“14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” - James 1:14-15.
To overcome trials and temptations, we must run to Jesus afresh today with sober hearts and humility. He will come to our aids, just on time.
Action Point: Examine your life; see where and how you have exposed yourself to trials and temptations and make amends with the blood of Jesus Christ.
Overcoming Trials I - Thursday 28, April 2016
Overcoming Trials I - Thursday 28, April 2016
Memorise: Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. – James 1:12
Read: Proverbs 1:11-15 (KJV)
11 If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:
12 Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit:
13 We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
14 Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse:
15 My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 8:22-9:28, Proverbs 16:20-33
MESSAGE:
The irony of the spiritual realm is that the tempter is the prosecutor. The Bible says:
“9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. 10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.” - Revelation 12:9-10
The Above scripture points to one bitter truth; trials and temptations are characteristics of life whether we believe it or not. It is. However, better to believe it because it is then we can preparedly overcome it. The Bible also confirms it by attaching a blessing to overcomers of temptation:
“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” - James 1:12
It takes genuine love of God to be able to overcome temptation. Joseph was able to overcome temptation of sleeping with his masters wife because of the love he had for God. This love was what produced his victory. He said:
“There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” - Genesis 39:9
As said earlier, there will always be temptations as long as we on this earth. Temptation is not a sin but falling into it is a sin. The bad thoughts that the devil flashes at you are not sins until you begin to hatch and execute them. It is our resistance to temptation that makes us overcomers. The Bible says:
“Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.” - Hebrews 12:4
My prayer for Someone using this devotional is that you remain an overcomer over sin from now on in Jesus name.
Prayer Point: Father, Sanctify me wholly from every besetting sin by the Blood of Jesus she on the cross.
Memorise: Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. – James 1:12
Read: Proverbs 1:11-15 (KJV)
11 If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:
12 Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit:
13 We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
14 Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse:
15 My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 8:22-9:28, Proverbs 16:20-33
MESSAGE:
The irony of the spiritual realm is that the tempter is the prosecutor. The Bible says:
“9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. 10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.” - Revelation 12:9-10
The Above scripture points to one bitter truth; trials and temptations are characteristics of life whether we believe it or not. It is. However, better to believe it because it is then we can preparedly overcome it. The Bible also confirms it by attaching a blessing to overcomers of temptation:
“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” - James 1:12
It takes genuine love of God to be able to overcome temptation. Joseph was able to overcome temptation of sleeping with his masters wife because of the love he had for God. This love was what produced his victory. He said:
“There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” - Genesis 39:9
As said earlier, there will always be temptations as long as we on this earth. Temptation is not a sin but falling into it is a sin. The bad thoughts that the devil flashes at you are not sins until you begin to hatch and execute them. It is our resistance to temptation that makes us overcomers. The Bible says:
“Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.” - Hebrews 12:4
My prayer for Someone using this devotional is that you remain an overcomer over sin from now on in Jesus name.
Prayer Point: Father, Sanctify me wholly from every besetting sin by the Blood of Jesus she on the cross.
Wednesday, 27 April 2016
Know your Enemy II - Wednesday 27, April 2016
Know your Enemy II - Wednesday 27, April 2016
Memorise: O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? – Romans 7:24
Read: Romans 7:18-25 (KJV)
18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.
19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.
22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 7:1-8:21, Proverbs 16:6-19
MESSAGE:
The flesh is another deadly enemy of man. The flesh attacks the soul through its poisonous activities. These are listed in Galatians 5:19-21:
“19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”
The above listed activities of the flesh are deadly, primarily because they prevent a man from inheriting the kingdom of God. An enemy is not a serious one of it can only kill you, but cannot prevent you from making it to heaven. Jesus Christ said:
“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” - Mathew 10:28
Consequently, the flesh and its activities are very dangerous, but Christians have become so complacent that they sit back and allow these activities drag them off the track to heaven. The Bible says:
“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...32 But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.” - Proverbs 6:28,32
The works of the flesh can be destroyed through only one means and that means is Jesus Christ. Beloved, I encourage you to give your life totally today, and do away with all works of the flesh.
Action Point: Read Colossians 3:5 "Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:” and pray with it.
Memorise: O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? – Romans 7:24
Read: Romans 7:18-25 (KJV)
18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.
19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.
22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Bible in One Year: 1 Kings 7:1-8:21, Proverbs 16:6-19
MESSAGE:
The flesh is another deadly enemy of man. The flesh attacks the soul through its poisonous activities. These are listed in Galatians 5:19-21:
“19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”
The above listed activities of the flesh are deadly, primarily because they prevent a man from inheriting the kingdom of God. An enemy is not a serious one of it can only kill you, but cannot prevent you from making it to heaven. Jesus Christ said:
“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” - Mathew 10:28
Consequently, the flesh and its activities are very dangerous, but Christians have become so complacent that they sit back and allow these activities drag them off the track to heaven. The Bible says:
“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...32 But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.” - Proverbs 6:28,32
The works of the flesh can be destroyed through only one means and that means is Jesus Christ. Beloved, I encourage you to give your life totally today, and do away with all works of the flesh.
Action Point: Read Colossians 3:5 "Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:” and pray with it.
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