TOPIC: God’s Impending Purging

"Tuesday, July 28, 2015"

*TEXT: 1 KINGS 13:1-6*

*"KEY VERSE: “And he cried against the altar in the word of the LORD, and said, O altar, altar, thus saith the LORD; Behold, a child shall be born unto the house of David, Josiah by name; and upon thee shall he offer the priests of the high places that burn incense upon thee, and men’s bones shall be burnt upon thee” (1 Kings 13:2)."*
Israelites’ pollution was occasioned by their idolatrous activities. One day, as Jeroboam went to worship a strange god at the altar in Bethel, God sent a prophet who announced that He would raise a king, Josiah, from the family of David, to cleanse the system. Josiah would sacrifice the bones of the priests, who had worshipped other gods on the altar. As a sign for the authenticity of the prophecy, the prophet said the altar would fall apart, while the ashes upon it would pour out.
Jeroboam was not comfortable with the prophecy and ordered the arrest of the prophet. But his hand, which he pointed at the prophet, dried up instantly and became lifeless. He was unable to move it. With that event, God proved that Jeroboam had no power over the prophet. Jeroboam then pleaded with the prophet to pray to God to cure him. The prophet did and God healed him.
Today, God is still sounding His warning of imminent purging of the Church. Many Christians, including some leaders, now live a compromising life. Money is now their god while others who live in immorality still mount the sacred pulpit to preach or sing. Some so-called Christian husbands have turned their wives into punching bags.
The Lord is calling everybody to repent to avoid eternal damnation. His clarion call remains as potent as ever. Therefore, “whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: EXODUS 39 - 40*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: We must learn to live on the heavenly side and look at things from above.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: A Call For Cleansing

"Wednesday, July 29, 2015"*

TEXT: EZRA 10:9-11*

*"KEY VERSE: “And Ezra the priest stood up, and said unto them, Ye have transgressed, and have taken strange wives, to increase the trespass of Israel” (Ezra 10:10)."*
Our text notes the cooperation of the Israelites to cleanse themselves of the sin, which had caused them serious national embarrassment. Ezra, since he heard of the people’s compromise, had been much concerned. The princes and elders assisted him to call an assembly. The people felt very sorry for their sin as they gathered in front of the house of God.
Ezra made it clear to them that they had disobeyed God’s laws. When God brought their forefathers out of Egypt, He had told them point-blank not to take wives from among the people around them to avoid a situation where their hearts would turn away from Him. He equally ordered them to pass the instruction to their children. Unfortunately, the Israelites could not keep this divine injunction. For God to have mercy on them, they must confess their sins to Him, send their strange wives away, separate themselves from the idolatrous nations and avoid close relationships with them.
Obedience to God must be absolute if anyone is to be assured of His abiding mercies and benevolence. Without mincing words, Ezra firmly admonished the congregation that sin had made them miss the mark. They must repent and return to God in order to be spared of His indignation and judgment.
If you have missed the mark in your walk with God, you must return to the basics; repent and forsake sin and make restitution where necessary. Tithe and offering, good works and alms giving can never take the place of repentance. The sacrifice God accepts is a contrite and a broken spirit.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: EPHESIANS 1 - 3*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: All that God asks is that the heart be cleansed from sin.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: Answer To Rebellion

Thursday, July 30, 2015

TEXT: REVELATION 16:13-21

KEY VERSE: “And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done” (Revelation 16:17).

Our Lord Jesus Christ brings the end of the wicked age closer home in Matthew 24:21: “For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.”

Our reading today unfolds the divine judgment on the infernal trio of Satan, the Antichrist and the false prophet, along with their followers. Unclean spirits like frogs (verse 13) will have a field day during the Great Tribulation to perform fake miracles in order to deceive the leaders and people of the demonised world system.

The Church of Christ that served as a restraint to the unleashing of these forces has been raptured and so there is an unparalleled madness all over the world. Man and his satanic backers attempt the unthinkable: waging war against the almighty God! Nature is averse to this monstrous rebellion against its Creator and shows its anger through thunder and lightings and earthquakes, resulting in Islands and mountains disappearing. Babylon, symbolizing the corrupt world system that comes into power after the rapture is judged by being given “the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath.”

Those who reject Christ are also rebelling against God, and judgment will fall on them if they fail to repent. It is gratifying that believers will not partake in the horror and scourge of the Great Tribulation; only careless souls will.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: EPHESIANS 4 - 6

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Rebellion against God attracts divine rejection.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/

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TOPIC: Wait On The Lord

Friday, July 31, 2015 TEXT: PSALMS 73:1-28

KEY VERSE: “But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped. For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked” (Psalm 73:2,3).

The ungodly bid to make money is dominant in many societies nowadays. For many, it does not matter how the money is made, since the end justifies the means. It is usual to hear nowadays that a man killed his wife or child for money making. Parents sell their children for money; children arrange for the kidnap of their parents and relations for ransom. Easy money has become the in-thing. A lot of unholy activities are daily going on in the society for the sake of money. This has also crept into the church as many so-called members are more carnally-minded than being heavenly-minded. They have joined the rat race, always comparing themselves with unbelievers.

In our text, the Psalmist says he saw such exhibition of ill-gotten wealth in his time and was envious. What he saw nearly affected his relationship with God as he confessed that his “feet were almost gone” and his “steps had well nigh slipped”.

Many believers who were vibrant for the Lord have denied the faith, owing to the allure of easy money. There are those who had served God faithfully until they began to compare themselves with others. They began to reason that there’s no need holding on to the promises of God. They let go of their faith in pursuit of material wealth. Genuine believers must wait on God who has promised to provide all “our needs” according to his riches through Christ Jesus.

Even so, all believers must note that the so-called prosperity gospel is nothing but the devil’s creed to sway unwary pilgrims from their pursuit of heaven. Once the kingdom of God has been truly sought and earnestly gotten, with true righteousness appropriated and Christ’s glory eminently revealed, the lust and crave for money must wane.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: PHILIPPIANS 1 - 4

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It pays to travel the success way through integrity road.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/

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TOPIC: Don’t Forget!

"Saturday, August 01, 2015"

*TEXT: EXODUS 16:32-36*

*"KEY VERSE: “And the children of Israel did eat manna forty years, until they came to a land inhabited; they did eat manna, until they came unto the borders of the land of Canaan” (Exodus 16:35)."*
The human nature is evil, primed to acts of depravity. This is why it requires a real new birth experience to turn this obstinate nature around. It is a pity that tons of theories and concepts about civilising the human element has always turned out a pipe dream, an excursion into failure.
When the children of Israel were given the modalities on how to collect manna and what not to do about the miraculous food, some of them openly flouted them. For instance, they were warned against going out on the seventh day to collect manna because they must keep the day holy. Some of them still went out to collect. God was really disappointed in them and showed His displeasure over their habitual disobedience.
God’s blessings have always endured. He usually follows up His promises to their logical conclusion. The Almighty is also interested in documentation. He does not expect His children to forget the blessings they had received from Him in the past. In His dealings with Israel, He always told them to set stones or some permanent structures as a memorial/reminder of what he had done for them. In our text today, He commanded Moses to do the same by keeping an Omer of the manna in a pot for the coming generations to see.
Believers are challenged to document the goodness of God in their lives, as a reminder that when faced with a similar challenge, God who did it in time past is capable of doing it again. Unfortunately, many people tend to forget this counsel. They are always asking for new blessings without recounting the former ones. When we praise and thank God for what He has done, He is inclined to rain more blessings on us. It is also good to share His past blessings with our children to help their faith. By this, they will know we are indeed serving the living God.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 1 - 3*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: In Christ only lies true transformation.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: The Great Provider

"Sunday, August 02, 2015"

*TEXT: NUMBERS 11:16-23*

*"KEY VERSE: “And Moses said, The people, among whom I am, are six hundred thousand footmen... Shall the flocks and the herds be slain for them, to suffice them? or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered together for them, to suffice them?” (Numbers 11:21,22)."*
The story of Hagar and her son is most instructive and evergreen. Thinking that every hope was lost, after she was sent away from Abraham’s house with her son, she wondered aimlessly in the wilderness of Beersheba expecting to die of thirst. But the Lord saw her distress and heard the cry of the child; “And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink” (Genesis 21:19). God provides many things seemingly out of nothing.
In today’s text, Moses had by this time, seen much of God’s power. The miracles in Egypt were spectacularly beyond human understanding. Now freed from Egyptian bondage, they were worried about flesh to eat. They failed to learn from the consequences of their earlier complaints (verse 1). Even Moses forgot God’s power and all the miracles in a moment of frustration and undue pressure.
Many people doubt God when they are faced with severe challenges. They forget victories already won through divine intervention, their level of spiritual maturity notwithstanding. Our victory is assured if only we can completely depend on God at all times. We must avoid the temptation of leaning on our understanding. God knows all our trials and needs. He lessened the burden of leadership on Moses through the assistance of seventy elders. He knows the burdens you are called to bear in His vineyard and will support you all the way. “Lo, I am with you alway,” He says.
Are the challenges of life and ministry becoming heavier than you had hoped? Don’t give up. He who has called you is well able to provide all your needs as you faithfully serve Him. Soon, it will be over and we all will enter into His rest.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 4 - 5*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The night is darkest when the dawn is near.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Jesus’ Teaching On Adultery

"Monday, August 03, 2015"

*TEXT: MATTHEW 5:27-32*

*"KEY VERSE: “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart” (Matthew 5:28)."*
Latimer was raised to the bishopric of Worcester in the reign of Henry VIII. It was the custom of those days for each of the bishops to make presents to the king on New Year’s Day. Latimer went with the rest of his brethren to make the usual offering; but, instead of a purse of gold, he presented the king with a New Testament in which was a leaf doubled down to this passage, “Whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.”
Christ’s Sermon on the Mount is one of the most well-known passages in the entire Bible. Many of its expressions are commonly used in everyday speech, often without people being aware of their biblical origins. Most people do not have trouble understanding the Sermon on the Mount. This is because most of it is relatively straightforward, even for unbelievers, who may admire the general principles laid down therein, including love, non-retaliation, peace-making, kindness, and the Golden Rule. However, many people do find this passage on adultery and prohibition of divorce for whatever reasons extremely difficult because they do not think they can live-up to the standard that Jesus set.
Jesus said that adultery originates in the heart and is completed by acting upon that desire. Jesus did not say the Old Testament law against adultery was superseded, outdated, inapplicable or impossible to keep today. In fact, a few verses earlier, He stressed that He did not come to destroy the law, but to fulfil it. Therefore, with a graphic metaphor, Jesus illustrated exactly how His listeners were to obey God in this area.
Sin is deadly, and believers should remove themselves from any situation where they might be tempted. If there is anything in your life that causes you to lust, or tempts you to consider indulging in any extra-marital activity, remove it from your life with a grim determination.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 6 - 7*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Escape sin rather than excuse it.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Not By Bread Alone

"Tuesday, August 04, 2015"

*TEXT: LEVITICUS 11:13-20*

"*KEY VERSE: “And these are they which ye shall have in abomination among the fowls; they shall not be eaten, they are an abomination: the eagle, and the ossifrage, and the ospray” (Leviticus 11:13).*"
Many fast food establishments in the world operate a franchise system, a concept that is very common in the industry. A parent company, such as McDonald’s or Mr. Biggs, could permit its franchisees to operate branded restaurants in exchange for a franchise fee or a share of the revenue. Franchisees are supplied with uniform ingredients by the parent company or its suppliers and are typically obliged to follow strict operational guidelines. Though many busy people take their meals regularly in fast food restaurants, there is a growing concern that fast foods may not be healthy to the body after all.
The Law of clean and unclean food, found in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, was in force long before Moses. Abel was a keeper of sheep, not of pigs (Genesis 4:1-5). Jabal, of the line of Cain, specialized in raising cattle (Genesis 4:20). Noah was told to take unclean animals into the ark by twos, but clean animals by sevens (Genesis 7:1-3). After a safe arrival on Mount Ararat, Noah built an altar upon which he sacrificed every clean animal and clean fowl. From the Old Testament law, any warm-blooded mammal which had split hooves and chewed the cud was clean to eat. Other warm-blooded animals were considered unclean. Of the creatures that live in the waters, only the fish with fins and scales, were clean to eat; others were unclean. God did not permit the eating of the flesh of fowls which were scavengers. All reptiles were unclean, as were all insects except locusts, grasshoppers and certain beetles.
Under the New Testament economy, the believer is set free from all the ceremonial, ritualistic laws and observances. However, he should be careful not to eat the type of food that can cause or promote illnesses and diseases. Neither must he stretch his liberty to eat foods whose consumption might compromise the faith of others. In sum, a Christian must not live by bread or meat alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 8 - 9*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Remember, you are what you eat.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Self-Will

"Wednesday, August 05, 2015"

*TEXT: JUDGES 14:1-11*

"*KEY VERSE: “Then his father and his mother said unto him, Is there never a woman among the daughters of thy brethren, or among all my people, that thou goest to take a wife of the uncircumcised Philistines? And Samson said unto his father, Get her for me; for she pleaseth me well” (Judges 14:3).*"
History reserves unkind remarks for people who wasted their God-given gifts and privileges on the altar of debauchery and frivolity.
Samson was intended by God to be a Nazarite and live according to God’s highest standard for His people. He grew up in Zorah and wanted to marry a Philistine woman from Timnah. This was a clear contravention of God’s commandment on mixed marriages. Although God had blessed him and given him His Spirit in a full measure (Judges 13:24,25; 14:6,19), he nevertheless, committed fatal errors that led to his spiritual failure and eventual death. God never initiated or approved Samson’s intention to marry an unbeliever. He did so to satisfy his fleshly desire.
Unequal yoke in marriage in Israel - marriages contracted outside God’s definite commandment - had always attracted tragic consequences (Judges 3:5-. As it was then, so it is today. God’s word and standards are unchanging in every clime and situation.
Samson’s life reveals the tragedy of self-will. His marriage was a violation of God’s laws. That God, in His sovereign wisdom, ignored his character defects and weakness was to fulfill His purpose for Israel. However, no true believer should set aside God’s commandment on the altar of selfwill. Unequal yoke in marriage, business, etc., should be avoided at all costs. It is only when we act and live in consonance with God’s perfect will that we are assured of His abiding presence.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 10 - 12*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Gains of self-will are temporal."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Self-Will

"Wednesday, August 05, 2015"

*TEXT: JUDGES 14:1-11*

"*KEY VERSE: “Then his father and his mother said unto him, Is there never a woman among the daughters of thy brethren, or among all my people, that thou goest to take a wife of the uncircumcised Philistines? And Samson said unto his father, Get her for me; for she pleaseth me well” (Judges 14:3).*"
History reserves unkind remarks for people who wasted their God-given gifts and privileges on the altar of debauchery and frivolity.
Samson was intended by God to be a Nazarite and live according to God’s highest standard for His people. He grew up in Zorah and wanted to marry a Philistine woman from Timnah. This was a clear contravention of God’s commandment on mixed marriages. Although God had blessed him and given him His Spirit in a full measure (Judges 13:24,25; 14:6,19 ) , he nevertheless, committed fatal errors that led to his spiritual failure and eventual death. God never initiated or approved Samson’s intention to marry an unbeliever. He did so to satisfy his fleshly desire.
Unequal yoke in marriage in Israel - marriages contracted outside God’s definite commandment - had always attracted tragic consequences (Judges 3:5-. As it was then, so it is today. God’s word and standards are unchanging in every clime and situation.
Samson’s life reveals the tragedy of self-will. His marriage was a violation of God’s laws. That God, in His sovereign wisdom, ignored his character defects and weakness was to fulfill His purpose for Israel. However, no true believer should set aside God’s commandment on the altar of selfwill. Unequal yoke in marriage, business, etc., should be avoided at all costs. It is only when we act and live in consonance with God’s perfect will that we are assured of His abiding presence.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 10 - 12*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Gains of self-will are temporal."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Self-Will

"Wednesday, August 05, 2015"

*TEXT: JUDGES 14:1-11*

"*KEY VERSE: “Then his father and his mother said unto him, Is there never a woman among the daughters of thy brethren, or among all my people, that thou goest to take a wife of the uncircumcised Philistines? And Samson said unto his father, Get her for me; for she pleaseth me well” (Judges 14:3).*"
History reserves unkind remarks for people who wasted their God-given gifts and privileges on the altar of debauchery and frivolity.
Samson was intended by God to be a Nazarite and live according to God’s highest standard for His people. He grew up in Zorah and wanted to marry a Philistine woman from Timnah. This was a clear contravention of God’s commandment on mixed marriages. Although God had blessed him and given him His Spirit in a full measure (Judges 13:24,25; 14:6,19 ) , he nevertheless, committed fatal errors that led to his spiritual failure and eventual death. God never initiated or approved Samson’s intention to marry an unbeliever. He did so to satisfy his fleshly desire.
Unequal yoke in marriage in Israel - marriages contracted outside God’s definite commandment - had always attracted tragic consequences (Judges 3:5-8 ) . As it was then, so it is today. God’s word and standards are unchanging in every clime and situation.
Samson’s life reveals the tragedy of self-will. His marriage was a violation of God’s laws. That God, in His sovereign wisdom, ignored his character defects and weakness was to fulfill His purpose for Israel. However, no true believer should set aside God’s commandment on the altar of selfwill. Unequal yoke in marriage, business, etc., should be avoided at all costs. It is only when we act and live in consonance with God’s perfect will that we are assured of His abiding presence.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 10 - 12*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Gains of self-will are temporal."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: A Worthy Investment

"Thursday, August 06, 2015"

*TEXT: MARK 10:28-34*

*"KEY VERSE: “Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee” (Mark 10:28)."*
Hearing the Saviour’s command to sell all and give to the poor, Peter, on behalf of the other disciples, tells Christ that they had left all to follow Him. It was the best bargain they could ever make in life. By leaving all immediately, and following Christ, they showed that they were willing to follow Him wherever He led them.
A man wedded to the world will renounce Christ rather than the world. Little did the disciples know what awaited them when they “left all” to follow Jesus of Nazareth. As believers, we cannot fully comprehend the blessings that await us until we meet with the Saviour face-toface. Having been called out of the world, the Lord expects that we cheerfully and faithfully follow Him, willing to commit everything into His hand.
Christ gracious answer to Peter’s question reveals that every true child of God will surely receive reward for his obedience, consecration and commitment to the Lord. The rewards of faithful service are both temporal and eternal. While still on earth, the believer enjoys pardon for sin, divine favour, divine provision, protection, peace of mind, support in trials and persecution, among others. Above all, he will spend eternity with Christ in heaven.
You can make the best investment today in things that serve Kingdom purposes. Therefore, invest your energy, time, talent, resources, wealth, etc., to promote the cause of the gospel. Every effort we make to bring sinners to Christ, help the needy and support the church will never go unrewarded, both now and in eternity.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 13 - 15*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: No one ever regrets his investment in God’s service."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Path To Divine Destiny

"Friday, August 07, 2015"

*TEXT: 1 SAMUEL 16:14-23*

"*KEY VERSE: “Wherefore Saul sent messengers unto Jesse, and said, Send me David thy son, which is with the sheep” (1 Samuel 16:19).*"
Being on God’s side entails a life of righteousness; and His Word states that “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD.” If your steps are ordered by the Lord, you are guaranteed a delightful destiny.
David was tucked away in a Bethlehem pasture land, tending sheep when God spotted him as replacement for King Saul. Even when God sent Prophet Samuel to Jesse’s house to anoint the chosen one, Jesse fielded all his sons except David, the youngest. At Samuel’s insistence, the young lad was fetched from the field and got anointed. At that time, God’s Spirit departed from Saul and he was troubled with an evil spirit. He accepted the recommendation of his servants to have a skillful musician to administer musical therapy whenever he got emotionally unstable. They recommended David because he was proficient, plucky, prudent and pious. The most important of these was that “the LORD is with him.”
By that arrangement, God brought David from pasture land to the palace – to get used to palace life and governance. Similarly, Joseph trod the tortuous path of hatred by his brethren, household servant and eventually prisoner in Egypt before God made him a prime minister in the then most powerful nation. Moses was a hopeless fugitive, rusting in the backwoods of Midian when God called him to go and deliver Israel. Gideon, the least in a poor family, was timidly threshing wheat in the valley when God picked him to save Israel from the Midianites.
All these people and others were godly and had their paths charted by God Himself. If you are truly on God’s side, you do not need to secure good ranking by struggle, eye-service, craftiness or other carnal means. Do your work and wait on Him, He will order your steps to a delightful destiny.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 16 - 18*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: If you desire to get to where God is leading you, go at His pace.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Valiant Soldiers Of ChristChrist

Saturday, August 08, 2015

TEXT: 1 CHRONICLES 11:26-47

KEY VERSE: “Also the valiant men of the armies were, Asahel the brother of Joab, Elhanan the son of Dodo of Bethlehem” (1 Chronicles 11:26).

Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919) once said: “Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they lie in the gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.” A brave spirit like this, if found in an army, could be the determinant for victory, if God is in it.

This, then, was the privilege of David as God prepared him to be king over all Israel. Great men came to David and serve with him to make his kingdom strong. The list is long but they are all referred to as valiant men in our text. They were tough and no seekers of pleasure. They preferred rejection, danger and every hardship of life than living under the oppressive hands of King Saul. They fought alongside David until he was made king and the kingdom was established under him.

True Christians are not only followers but also soldiers of Christ. We are to be brave and steadfast in our faith and service to the Lord. A steadfast Christian soldier is never a deserter. He endures hardness and is never a lover of the world or the attraction it holds. He loves the Lord. We cannot compare with valiant men of our text whose names are in the Book of Life and are now gone to their rewards if we are often cast down in despair and gloom at the slightest experience of pain and difficulty in life.

As David’s great men individually distinguished themselves in battle, and were qualified to be included in the list of great men by their deeds of bravery, so must we fight the good fight of faith and overcome sin, self and Satan. We must manfully fight on to rescue perishing souls in spite of persecution and intimidation that will become common in these last days.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOHN 19 - 21

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: There is a divine roll call, strive to enter in.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/

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TOPIC: Divine Healing Anyday

Sunday, August 09, 2015

TEXT: LUKE 6:1-11

KEY VERSE: “And looking round about upon them all, he said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other” (Luke 6:10).

Scientists have revealed that the eucalyptus tree is destined to save the world from a dearth of wood. Its growing powers are marvelous. A certain large plantation on the Pacific coastline has been cut down three times, yet it is again high in the air. It is most serviceable. It produces cordwood and piling, makes excellent fuel, protects orange and lemon groves along the coast from the ocean winds. Above all, the medicinal value of its oil extract is remarkable. In California, it is a home cure for almost every ailment. A wonderful tree, full of promise for mankind.

Meanwhile, there exists a more wonderful Tree destined to save the world in a true sense. Jesus is the Tree of life – with incomparable healing capacity which has touched the body, soul and spirit of millions. He is the hope of the world. He is the Saviour, Healer, and Light of the world. He is the True Vine, with the incomparable capacity, to save, heal and deliver. A Christian songwriter writes: “He healed them all - the blind, the lame, the palsied, The sick in body and the weak in mind, Whoever came, no matter how afflicted, Were sure a sovereign remedy to find.”

Jesus Christ healed the man whose right hand was withered, despite the reservation of the Scribes and Pharisees. Their objection was that He healed on a Sabbath day – a day of worship and rest for the Jews. But, by the act of that healing, Christ proved that He is the Lord of the Sabbath. He is not restricted to any day or event to do the will of God.

Many people wait for Combined Services, Crusades, Retreats and Special meetings to be healed, whereas Jesus Christ is ever present to heal. If you have faith like the man whose hand was withered, you are a sure candidate of Christ’s healing now!

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 1 - 4

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Jesus heals anyday, anytime.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/

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TOPIC: Who Can Use God?

Monday, August 10, 2015

TEXT: 1 KINGS 14:1-20

KEY VERSE: “And the LORD said unto Ahijah, Behold, the wife of Jeroboam cometh to ask a thing of thee for her son; for he is sick: thus and thus shalt thou say unto her: for it shall be, when she cometh in, that she shall feign herself to be another woman” (1 Kings 14:5).

Down through the ages, people have tried to use God rather than be used by Him. From the politician that invokes God’s name in order to amass votes, to the pauper that feigns godliness so as to extort money from people, humans have imagined that they can use God to their personal advantage.

Jeroboam thought he could use God but was taught the invariable lesson that “God is not mocked.” When God decided to yank off a greater part of Israel’s kingdom from the house of David because of Solomon’s sin, Jeroboam was favored by God to rule over ten tribes. Sadly, he failed God by setting up worship images in Israel to keep his subjects from going to Jerusalem for worship, thus leading the people to idolatry and apostasy. When his son, Abijah, got sick, he thought of patronizing Ahijah, the Shiloh-based prophet that God used to anoint him king. He sent his wife to enquire if the child was going to survive the sickness.

Jeroboam disguised his wife to avoid being identified by the prophet – more so the prophet’s eyes had dimmed by age. But can anyone hide something from the omniscient God? As soon as she arrived at Ahijah’s home, having been briefed by God, he not only identified her, but pronounced to her judgment concerning the impending terrible ruin of the house of Jeroboam. She was also assured that their sick son would die. Ahijah was faithful. He cared not for her presence or presents.

God is too mighty to be used by ordinary worm like man. He deserves our utmost worship. He “is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24). Only spiritual rebirth through repentance and faith in Christ qualifies us to properly relate with God and be used of Him.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 5 - 8

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Every deception targeted at God ends up woefully as self-deception.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/

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TOPIC: The Retribution

Tuesday, August 10, 2015

TEXT: EZRA 10:12-17

KEY VERSE: “Then all the congregation answered and said with a loud voice, As thou hast said, so must we do” (Ezra 10:12).

When Ezra called the assembly of the people who returned from exile to address their common sin, many of them, who married foreign wives, agreed to divorce their wives. They knew that they had sinned; so, they had no option than to obey Ezra’s order. They did not, however, want to do this in a hurry because of its sensitive and complex nature. For the people, there should be proper arrangement before they could send their foreign wives away. So, majority of the people, except a few, suggested that their leaders should judge each man with a foreign wife, at least, to give them a fair hearing, before the man could send her away.

As suggested, Ezra chose the heads of the families who knew the people well enough, to judge them. They finished this task after three months. The affected men had to separate themselves completely from their foreign wives. This factor teaches that the result of sin has never been pleasant.

Unfortunately, today, some people still allow themselves to be deceived by Satan. They engage in immoral acts without thinking of their consequences. Even after God has forgiven, some people can still be suffering with the results of their sin. Some have contracted HIV/AIDS, while others, mostly girls, have dropped out of school because of unwanted pregnancies and are now living as single parents without any means of taking care of their children. They have ended up bringing vagabond children into the society.

God, who knows the consequence of sin, still warns everybody to abstain from all appearance of evil. And except there is a complete turn away from sin, disaster looms in time and eternity for the careless and impenitent.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 9 - 12

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Sin always wounds and damns the sinner.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/

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- See more at: http://dailymanna.dclmhq.org/2015/08/topic-retribution.html#.VcskoEZQ4dU

TOPIC: His Superstardom

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

TEXT: JOHN 3:22-28

KEY VERSE: “Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him” (John 3:28).

Greatness is measured on the basis of comparison. No man can be adjudged great if there are no lowly men to compare with. There cannot be a king without the subjects; there cannot be a master without servants. To compare Christ with men, living or dead, is to reduce His exalted status. He is above all.

Our text reminds us of the early ministry of Jesus in Judea and how it prospered: “all men come to Him”. The disciples of John and the Jews wondered who Jesus was, that many were turning to Him. John reminded them that he was the forerunner and a faithful witness of Christ, the Son of God Who is from above and greater than all.

As believers, we are to witness to what Christ has done in our lives and point people to Him. We are not to attract men to ourselves. Our service must be with humility, with the glory of God in view. However successful in ministry we may be, our focus must be on the expansion of His kingdom and not on our popularity. Our understanding of who Christ is should make us believe His words.

He gives eternal life to those who believe in Him. Jesus is calling you to put your faith in Him, accept His words and turn to Him from your evil ways today. To reject Him is to reject God and accept eternal damnation. Choose Christ and live. John was a great man as the Lord so described him. He was a forerunner to let the world know that a greater One was coming. He did not define and determine His stature; instead, He remained in the confines which God had configured for him. Do not allow titles or superlative adulations to obscure the vision of who God wants you to be. Serve the Master in all humility and righteousness.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 13 - 15

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: In Christ lies the fullness of the godhead bodily

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/

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TOPIC: Answerable Prayer

"Thursday, August 13, 2015"

*TEXT: PSALM 74:1-23*

*"KEY VERSE: “O God, why hast thou cast us off for ever? why doth thine anger smoke against the sheep of thy pasture?” (Psalm 74:1)."*
Eli Stanley Jones, a 20th-century missionary and theologian, once said: “Prayer is surrender to the will of God and cooperation with that will. If I throw out a hook from a boat and catch hold of the shore and pull, do I pull the shore to me, or do I pull myself to the shore? Prayer is not pulling God to my will, but the aligning of my will to the will of God.”
From our text, the psalmist complained about the desolations of the temple, which would not have been possible if God had intervened on behalf of His people. The psalmist prayed to God to act for them as He had done for their fathers, whom, by His miraculous power, He saved. He begged God to arise and vindicate His honour against His enemies, and the enemies of His people. But the psalmist’s prayer suggested that God’s people, when they are in sore afflictions, are apt to have misgivings about God, as if He did cast off His people without a cause.
The psalmist never mentioned any national or personal sin, which they needed to repent of, nor did he justify the Lord’s righteous dealing in their punishment. There was no supplication for pardon and forgiveness. This showed that some people who are under divine chastisement, might humbly protest against God about their cause. The Israelites were sorry because their enemies destroyed the temple. But they were not sorry that they had disobeyed God.
As it was then, so it is today. Many in affliction might be in such condition because of their misdeeds. Instead of looking inwards to discover their sin, they look outwards, sometimes holding God responsible for their plight. Are you in such a situation? Be contrite and meek to return to the Lord in penitence and repentance instead of making silly excuses.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 16 - 18*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: True prayer is measured by weight, not by length."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Repentance Attracts Forgiveness

"Friday, August 14, 2015"

*TEXT: ISAIAH 19:11-19*

*"KEY VERSE: “In that day shall there be an altar to the LORD in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar at the border thereof to the LORD” (Isaiah 19:19)."*
Charles Haddon Spurgeon, an English Baptist pastor and writer, stated: “Another proof of the conquest of a soul for Christ will be found in a real change of life. If the man does not live differently from what he did before, both at home and abroad, his repentance needs to be repented of and his conversion, is a fiction.”
Isaiah, the prophet, points out that God is absolutely in control of everything on earth, a fact the king of Egypt and his officials tried to underrate. They could impress upon the king that they came from a family of wise princes, but they would not be able to inform him of God’s plan against Egypt. All they did only ended up misleading the Egyptians towards the wrong direction, making them to walk like drunks.
According to Isaiah, there was nothing anybody in Egypt could do because of God’s overwhelming power to unleash terror on the Egyptians. On the day He would act, the inhabitants of Egypt would be like weak women, trembling with fear. The name, Judah, would equally put great fear upon them. For this, the people of Judah would be foolish to seek any help from the Egyptians, who had already been subjected to fear at the mere mention of the name, ‘Judah.’
God is all-powerful and He has given believers a powerful weapon, that at the mention of the name of Jesus, every knee must bow and all tongues must confess that Jesus is the Lord. As God’s genuine son or daughter, who is washed in the efficacious blood of Jesus, you need to cash in on this special privilege. It would be foolish to rely on native herbalists, soothsayers and necromancers, among others, for protection, prosperity, childbearing, promotion, provision and others, making the heathen to ask, “where is your God?”
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 19 - 21*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Lip service to repentance will endanger the soul.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Doggedness In Service

"Saturday, August 15, 2015"

*TEXT: ACTS 8:1-8*

*"KEY VERSE: “Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them” (Acts 8:4,5)."*
Satan’s aversion for the kingdom of God and all that pertains to it is a long established fact. Therefore, he thrives in devising different methods (subtle and violent) targeted towards destabilizing, disrupting or even stopping the work of the Kingdom. However, discerning believers need to know that his crafty and evil antics, no matter how vicious, cannot stop God from fulfilling His programme.
The work of God had been going on successfully in Jerusalem since the disciples of Jesus Christ were baptized in the Holy Ghost. This record of achievement was intimidating to the devil, hence he determined to stop the work.
Having failed in his earlier efforts, he intensified his efforts by ensuring that Stephen, a disciple who was “full of faith and power” was arrested, accused falsely before the Jewish council of blasphemy against Moses and God, and finally killed.
Contrary to the command by Jesus that the disciples should extend the gospel beyond Jerusalem (Mark 16:15; Acts 1:, they confined themselves to Jerusalem, hence the persecution. It was this intense persecution that scattered them to other cities outside. Once he escaped to the city of Samaria, Philip did not allow the persecution to stop him from preaching the gospel. It then means the scattering actually led to the spreading of the gospel beyond Jerusalem.
As believers, we should not panic when faced with persecution, either on account of our faith in the work of the ministry or even in our secular engagements, realizing that “even hereunto were [we] called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that [we] should follow his steps” (1 Peter 2:21).
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 22 - 25*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It takes unswerving endurance to clinch the victory."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Doggedness In Service

"Saturday, August 15, 2015"

*TEXT: ACTS 8:1-8*

*"KEY VERSE: “Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them” (Acts 8:4,5)."*
Satan’s aversion for the kingdom of God and all that pertains to it is a long established fact. Therefore, he thrives in devising different methods (subtle and violent) targeted towards destabilizing, disrupting or even stopping the work of the Kingdom. However, discerning believers need to know that his crafty and evil antics, no matter how vicious, cannot stop God from fulfilling His programme.
The work of God had been going on successfully in Jerusalem since the disciples of Jesus Christ were baptized in the Holy Ghost. This record of achievement was intimidating to the devil, hence he determined to stop the work.
Having failed in his earlier efforts, he intensified his efforts by ensuring that Stephen, a disciple who was “full of faith and power” was arrested, accused falsely before the Jewish council of blasphemy against Moses and God, and finally killed.
Contrary to the command by Jesus that the disciples should extend the gospel beyond Jerusalem (Mark 16:15; Acts 1: 8 ), they confined themselves to Jerusalem, hence the persecution. It was this intense persecution that scattered them to other cities outside. Once he escaped to the city of Samaria, Philip did not allow the persecution to stop him from preaching the gospel. It then means the scattering actually led to the spreading of the gospel beyond Jerusalem.
As believers, we should not panic when faced with persecution, either on account of our faith in the work of the ministry or even in our secular engagements, realizing that “even hereunto were [we] called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that [we] should follow his steps” (1 Peter 2:21).
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 22 - 25*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It takes unswerving endurance to clinch the victory."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Maturity Through Christ

"Sunday, August 16, 2015"

*TEXT: ECCLESIASTES 1 ;D0:16-20*

"*KEY VERSE: “Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child, and thy eprinces eat in the morning!” (Ecclesiastes 10:16).*"
Leadership, whether spiritual or secular, has a divine origin. It is not always the preserve of the novice or the ignorant; if not, anarchy and confusion would reign. Societies governed and led by nitwits and “children”, as it were, hardly progress. Others with sufficiently prepared leaderships make profound marks in the comity of nations.
Woe betides a nation, whose president (king) is a “child” and the governors, senators andparliamentarians “eat in the morning”. When leaders of a nation are physically, mentally and spiritually immature and incapable, problems and challenges will pile up to a point where they appear insurmountable. When leaders are being led by the people they are supposed to be leading and guiding, the stage is set for social and political disorder.
Also, when church administration is left in the hands of “children” and “those that eat in the morning”, only God can save that church from implosion. When mediocres and upstarts find their way to positions of authority in the church, through favouritism, the stage is set for the infiltration of devil’s agents and activities.
When the father in the home is cowered and intimidated by his wife and children, such that he is unable to exercise minimal correction and discipline in his family, the members of that family will turn out as delinquents in the long run. When a businessman decides to place “children” and “those that eat in the morning”, in his management team, he will soon be filing for bankruptcy. The blessedness of a nation, society, church, family and business emanates from mature, capable, effective, and efficient leadership, controlled by the Spirit of God. Take advantage of the fulness of God in Christ to be whom God wants you to be.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 26 - 30*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: A society governed by a tiny thought is primed for failure."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Nothing Else, But God

"Monday, August 17, 2015

"*TEXT: JEREMIAH 10:1-16*

*"KEY VERSE: “The portion of Jacob is not like them: for he is the former of all things; and Israel is the rod of his inheritance: The LORD of hosts is his name” (Jeremiah 10:16)."*
A preacher was counseling a member, who sought help because his spiritual life was going downhill. He said: “Being a Christian is not being religious. A lot of people were very religious in Jesus time and He called them whitewashed graves with dead men’s bones inside”.
The world is full of fake products and counterfeits. Those who are not observant are easily deceived and hoodwinked. Prophet Jeremiah, moved by the Spirit of God, warned Israel against carnal imitation of the customs of the world. He particularly warned against idolatry - the worship of man made gods. He said it was vain to engage in such, seeing that the gods are the works of men fastened with nails and hammer. He reminded Israel that those wooden gods cannot do anyone good or harm because they do not speak, and must be carried about as they cannot move.
He also warned that gods made from silver and gold by the work of men are also as powerless as the one made of wood. He emphasized that the Lord is the only true God, the living and everlasting King, at whose wrath the earth trembles.
Today, the worship of idols is as widespread as they were in the days gone by. In different continents, nation-states, communities, cities and villages, people daily involve themselves in various forms of idol worshiping. While some worship graven images, money, fellow men, women and other material things, others are addicted to games. Today, it is usual to see believers who forgo church services because of a football match. By this, they give honour meant for God to sports to the detriment of their souls. Nothing else must take the place of God in our lives. Those who have replaced the service of God in their hearts with other mundane things must repent now before it is too late.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 31 - 34*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Whatever is esteemed above God is idolatrous and sinful. Beware!*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: No Pretentious Love

"Tuesday, August 18, 2015"

*TEXT: ROMANS 12:9-21*

"*KEY VERSE: “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good” (Romans 12:9).*"
There are so much insincerity and deception in the world today. Many professions of love are not true because they have hidden motives. Many people have feigned love only to have deceived, defrauded, swindled and jilted those they claimed to love? Many love for what they stand to gain and not what they are in to give. This is the kind of love most practiced in the world.
God’s word calls Christians to unpretentious love. This is one area in which the believer is not to be conformed to the world. The Christian life and love is real and not plastic or fake. Love is a deliberate act of the will. As such, this love is not as a result of what we hope to get but what we desire to give. One of the characteristics of this love is that it is not blind to evil. It does not encourage evil; neither does it close its eyes to evil in the life of the one it loves. Love is practical and expressive. It manifests itself in true and sincere feeling of affection for others. It is not hard, callous and indifferent to the plight and feelings of others. It is practical, fervent, joyful, kind, patient, enduring, forgiving, winsome and not vengeful.
It is clear that the carnal mind does not have the capacity to have and express this kind of love. You can’t give what you don’t have. The Bible reveals man’s heart to be intrinsically evil and selfish (Genesis 6:5, Jeremiah 17:9). So, to be able to have this love and express it, there must be a transforming and renewing of the mind. In other words, there must be a change of heart made only possible when one becomes born again by faith in the saving power of the Lord Jesus.
As Christians, we must daily strive to express this love everywhere we go. It is the mark that identifies us with Christ and makes us His worthy ambassadors. The world is hurting and hurtful; let us soothe it with love.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 35 - 38*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Love is a deliberate act of the will.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: The Shadow Of Antichrist

"Wednesday, August 19, 2015

"*TEXT: DANIEL 11:36-45*

*"KEY VERSE: “And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done” (Daniel 11:36)."*
The world is relentlessly preparing the stage for the reign of the Antichrist. Socio-economically, politically, technologically and spiritually, something seems to be speeding the actualization of this prophetic event. The vast majority of the world population is ignorant of the significance of these happenings and simply drifts with the tide. But those who understand God’s timetable, as revealed in the Bible, are not surprised at these goings-on.
The book of Daniel, which dates back to about 2,500 years, contains detailed prophecies that outlines God’s timetable for the present world. Its astonishing accurate prediction of successive world empires, the Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Grecian and Roman, has since been fulfilled and become world history. Daniel also prophesied the first coming of Christ (also now history), the manifestation and activities of the Antichrist and the Second Coming of Christ. Today’s text is a prophecy concerning Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Grecian king whose profile in many ways tally with that of the coming Antichrist.
As predicted by Daniel, Antiochus (215 – 154 B.C.) like the coming Antichrist, was merciless, crafty (usurped power by deceit), extremely proud (because of his conquests), hated and massacred the Jews and profaned God. He was so ambitious as to seek worship. He would compel people to worship his “strange god”. History recorded the fulfillment of the minutest detail of this prophecy and how Antiochus died suddenly at age 52 as prophesied – “he shall come to his end, and none shall help him.”
The only way to escape the tyranny of the Antichrist is to repent of sin, accept Christ as Saviour and Lord and continue in the resultant righteousness from God. That way, you will book a space in the imminent rapture of the saints.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 39 - 42*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Whose coming are you preparing for – Christ or the Antichrist?*""*
*""*
*"*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Judgment Is Sure

"Thursday, August 20, 2015

"*TEXT: AMOS 1:1-10*

"*KEY VERSE: “But I will send a fire on the wall of Tyrus, which shall devour the palaces thereof” (Amos 1:10).*"
Prophet Amos’ message announces that God has absolute control over the entire universe. He watches over all the nations, whether it is Israel which He chose as His people or the heathen lands as Moab, Edom or Tyrus. God judges these heathen as well as the backslidden Israel. Amos thus began by denouncing the countries that were neighbours of Israel. After opening with Damascus, Amos attacked Gaza, Tyrus, Edom, Ammon and Moab.
Their transgressions included wickedness, human trafficking, vindictiveness, greed and bitter dislike of other people. These nations assumed that God had no business stepping into the affairs of people outside the confines of Israeli territory. But from the prophecy delivered to Amos and revelation of other parts of the Scriptures, we learn that this is fatal fallacy.
God expects righteous living from every man or woman. When man fell, He made a plan of salvation, a once-and-for-all propitiation according to Hebrews 9:22. Everyone who desires to have pardon and make peace with God is urged to take advantage of that substitutionary death of our Lord Jesus. Only then can one escape the judgment of God.
Amos warns in our text today, that punishment by fire awaits those nations who went about their way without reckoning that God was watching over all the lands He created. God said that as they were fiery in their passion for iniquity, heaven would release a greater fire that would consume them. The same fate awaits unrepentant sinners and backsliders who are as stubborn in wickedness and rebellion. It is a punishment that would also fall upon the careless believer who handles biblical warnings with levity.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: DANIEL 1 - 2*
"*THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God’s chastisements await all who scorn His immutable dictates.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: How To Please God

"Friday, August 21, 2015"

*TEXT: HEBREWS 11:1-3*

"*KEY VERSE: “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear” (Hebrews 11:3).*"
Thomas, one of our Lord’s apostles, missed the point at a critical time in his relationship with the Master. Jesus had risen from the dead as He said, and had showed Himself to the disciples when Thomas was not present. Thomas doubted when other disciples told him about the risen Christ. He said: “Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe” (John 20:25b).
So, our merciful Lord showed up again with Thomas present. When Thomas saw Him and declared “My Lord and My God”, Jesus gently rebuked the disciple: “...Be not faithless but believing... Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed” (John 20:29).
That is the crux of faith in God: not seeing Him yet resting on every word He utters, even in the face of overwhelming contradictions. Faith is the currency of all transactions with the Lord. The strength of your faith lies in the grand power of the promises of God.
Our text says that even the world in which we live, with the stars, sun and moon “were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear” (verse 3).
Indeed, it is a comforting thought to ponder over this and conclude that the genuine believer has the world in his pocket for great exploits in Kingdom work and in his personal life, by wielding the all purpose instrumentality of faith. All that a believer needs to summon the help of heaven in any situation is to please God by having submissive faith in Him and in His Word.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: DANIEL 3 - 5*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Faith is the currency of the true believer’s transaction with God."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
*
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TOPIC: Be Grateful Always

"Saturday, August 22, 2015"

*TEXT: EXODUS 17:1-7*

"*KEY VERSE: “Wherefore the people did chide with Moses, and said, Give us water that we may drink. And Moses said unto them, Why chide ye with me? wherefore do ye tempt the LORD?” (Exodus 17:2).*"
If Martin Rinkart were to evaluate the event of the first half of the 17th century in Germany, he would, without mincing words, conclude it was the worst of times, as the country witnessed wars, famine and pestilence. During the thirty-year period that war wrecked terror on the people, Rinkart conducted up to 50 funerals a day, among whom were members of his family. Yet, during those years of darkness and despair, he could write 66 sacred songs and hymns, which demonstrated that thankfulness does not have to wait for moments of prosperity and peace.
Our text pointed out the disturbing and unwholesome character of the Israelites. They regaled in despising God instead of appreciating Him for His merciful acts and deliverance. While in Egypt, Pharaoh and his kinsmen had afflicted them with heavy burden and determined to squeeze life out of them. But God, through Moses, delivered them. By the Red Sea, they saw the wonderful act of God, when He parted a way for them and drowned their enemies.
Yet, they could not control themselves when they were thirsty at Rephidim. They forgot everything that God did for them. They preferred to go back to Egypt, a land of slavery and suffering.
Many believers, unfortunately, do not take a careful stock of their lives to see what God has done. God has kept them alive, provided wives, husbands and children for them; given them good jobs and promotion, while destroying the activities of Satan upon their lives. But when a little challenge crops up, they become easily discouraged. Dispassionately count your blessings today and name them one by one to see what God has done.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: DANIEL 6 - 8*
"*THOUGHT FOR TH DAY: It is comely and glorious to show forth ceaseless praise to God.*"
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
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at Saturday, August 22, 2015

TOPIC: Serving Through His Spirit

" Sunday, August 23, 2015"

*TEXT: NUMBERS 11:24-30*

*"KEY VERSION: “And Joshua... answered and said, My lord Moses, forbid them. And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD’S people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!” (Numbers 11:28,29)."*
An American, with an English gentleman, was viewing the Niagara whirlpool rapids, when he said to his friend: “Come, and I’ll show you the greatest unused power in the world”. And taking him to the foot of Niagara falls, “there” he said, “is the greatest unused power in the world!”. “No my brother, not so!” was the reply. The greatest unused power in the world is the Holy Spirit of the living God.
Moses, a great man of God, was instructed to appoint “...seventy men of the elders of Israel,... and officers... and bring them unto the tabernacle of the congregation,... and I will take of the spirit which is upon thee; and will put it upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee...”. The spirit of God in the life of a Christian labourer gives enablement and power for productivity as the work of God cannot be done in the arms of flesh. There is a limit to how far a saint can function in the Lord’s work, without the enduement of the Holy Spirit. It takes unction, inspiration and power from on High to serve the Lord sustainably.
Every believer is born to serve. The only justification for a believer’s continued existence in this sinful world after being born again is to ensure that the work of the kingdom is done to daily win souls to the Lord. We are labourers together with Him. “We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain” (2 Corinthians 6:1).
The importance and place of the Holy Spirit cannot be relegated in the life of a Christian worker, if he or she wants the work done effectively with evidence of fruits abiding. Wonderfully, the blessed Holy Spirit is readily available for the saved and sanctified soul who is keenly desirous, thirsty and hungry for the experience.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: DANIEL 9 - 10*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It takes the Spirit’s enablement to undertake the work of the Spirit."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
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at Sunday, August 23, 2015

TOPIC: No Preferential Treatment"

Monday, August 24, 2015"

*TEXT: JAMES 2:1-9*

*"KEY VERSE: “But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors” (James 2:9)."*
There is a point to which the common saying that “success has many friends but failure is an orphan” will be wrongly applied. While it is good and desirable to be rich, it will be wrong to use it as the basis of judgment and treatment of people in the church or anywhere else. Discriminating against people on the basis of their affluence and success is a worldly practice which should not be a part of the church.
This is the point that Apostle James stresses in our passage today. In fact, he calls it an outright sin to be partial in the church of God. Preferential treatment on the basis of wealth, clothing or position displeases God. Such action is not motivated by love but by the inordinate desire to benefit from the wealth of the rich. While there is nothing wrong to be rich or respect those who are highly placed, it will be wrong to use it as the basis for giving them first place attention. This does not however mean that we cannot, in the process of evangelizing and helping them come to Christ, create a comfortable atmosphere that can help them receive the gospel message. Here, we need to apply the scriptural principle of becoming all things to all men so that we can by every means save some (1 Corinthians 9:22).
Let’s get this right. The poor does not get to heaven on the basis of his poverty, neither do the rich go to hell because of their wealth. What qualifies anyone for heaven is a life of holiness and righteousness obtained by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. As much as it is wrong to look down on the poor because of his poverty; so is it wrong to speak evil against the rich because of their wealth. In Christ Jesus, everyone is equal and so should be treated. We must treat one another with equal honour and respect.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: DANIEL 11 - 12*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: In Christ Jesus, there is no big “I” and small “you”."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
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TOPIC: Watch What You Eat"

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

"*TEXT: LEVITICUS 11:21-28*

*"KEY VERSE: “But all other flying creeping things, which have four feet, shall be an abomination unto you” (Leviticus 11:23)."*
Many health challenges can be traced to eating habits. Those who failed to show discretion in the way they eat have had to pay seriously for it with their health. Also, those that have not been able to exercise control over their appetite have been known to have fallen victim of food poisoning and other spiritual attacks, in which the enemy uses food as bait. While as Christians, we have the liberty to eat whatever we like, there is the need for us to be disciplined and show discretion with regards to what we eat, when we eat and how we eat.
In our text today, the Lord specifically cautions the children of Israel on what they are to eat and not to eat. He strictly forbids their eating of certain animals. It is interesting to note that the same God who, at creation, gave man everything to eat (Genesis 1:29,30), had now restricted the children of Israel to certain foods. Those who tend to use their liberty without discretion and control, often suffer irreparable losses and damage. God’s laws and instructions are not without definite reasons which, ultimately, are for the good and well-being of man. Some of the creatures which the Lord considered unclean for the children of Israel were actually unfit for food because they were disease carriers. Besides, some were used for pagan worship and God wanted a clear distinction for His people.
Apart from the wisdom in exercising discretion in what we eat and the way we eat so that our health is not impaired, it is unthinkable for a Christian to, in the name of exercising his liberty in Christ, consume alcohol, tobacco or even eat foods sacrificed to idols. We cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table and the tables of idols. That will be abomination! In everything as well as in eating, Christians must exhibit their distinctiveness.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: NAHUM 1 - 3*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It is a contradiction to be a Christian and be gluttonous."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclm.org/
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