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Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern - Religion (3) - Nairaland

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 7:51pm On Jan 10, 2010
Daily Manna

Learn to Forbear
Sunday, January 10, 2009

TEXT: PROVERBS 26:20–28

"Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife" (Proverbs 26:20,21).

The gains of argument and combative attitude against others are little and transient but the fruits of patience and forbearance are incalculable and permanent. In our text today, the writer seeks to instruct us in the way of practical peaceful co-existence with others and to warn us against peevish behaviour.

To be quarrelsome with our neighbours for every little irritation is like throwing mud against a white wall, which may not stick, but will leave a mark. If, when you are offended you say nothing no one will be hurt and no one will have your word to quote. Your character is esteemed before your neighbour and that recommends you to preach the gospel to that same person some day.

We often complain about the belligerent neighbour next door, absolving ourselves of every blame for his or her hostility and claiming to be justified to react in anger towards them. The truth is that, if we refuse to respond to their actions or discuss them at all, we soon forget the issue and thereby cut the fuel line that makes emotions to rise.

As Christians, we are to be careful about our actions and reactions both in deed and speech. Our speech should be gentle, pure and persuasive that it may be the means of conveying grace and positive influences to those that are outside the faith.

A Christian should never be a talebearer nor a tale receiver against his neighbour. Let those that dig up contention have the fruit of it but keep yourself always fit to preach the gospel to every creature.

Thought for today: Add to your faith, patience.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 12:56pm On Jan 11, 2010
Daily Manna

God Hates Boasting
Monday, January 11, 2009

TEXT: Proverbs 27:1-16

"Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth" (Proverbs 27:1).

The Titanic disaster was one of the worst maritime tragedies in history.  The man who built the ship was asked after the construction how safe the Titanic would be.  With an ironic tone he said: ‘Not even God can sink it’.  But on its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York City it struck an iceberg just before midnight on April 14, 1912.  Of the more than 2,220 persons aboard, about 1,513 died; ending the euphoria about the ship’s invulnerability.  The luxury liner (46,000 gross tons) had been proclaimed unsinkable because of its 16 watertight compartments.  The ship was designed to stay afloat with any two adjacent compartments or the front four compartments flooded.  Many authors of books on the disaster thought that only a huge tear, perhaps 90m (300ft) long, could have caused the huge ship to sink; but a naval architect, testified in the wake of the disaster that the total area damaged by the iceberg was small and probably did not exceed 1 sqm (about 12sq ft).

Our text opened with a warning against boasting and bragging about our ability, talents or gifts, because we do not know what tomorrow holds.  The passage equally warns against the practice of self-praise and the prudence of letting others make compliments about us instead of blowing our own trumpets.

We live a very scheduled life.  We plan things ahead, and that is good.  However, we must always remember that God has our lives planned and He may change our plans.  He is all-powerful; we are not.  He is all-knowing; we are not.

Let’s learn a lesson from the failure of the Titanic.  We must always remember not to boast of tomorrow.  We don’t know what’s coming.  God may have a different plan.  So, let’s always include God in our plans no matter how knowledgeable we are or how confident we are about our abilities.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 12:59pm On Jan 12, 2010
Daily Manna

My Focus
Tuesday, January 12, 2009

TEXT: Proverbs 27:17–27

"For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation" (Proverbs 27:24).

There are those who fight, kill and wear themselves out because they want to be rich. Really today, the way people go after wealth, makes one think they can buy their souls with money. What of the fight for position? In some communities, families are destroyed as they fight for political or traditional titles. Those who want to be king in their communities are ready to lose their own lives and/or those of their supporters. But all these are done for riches that soon fade away and crowns that so quickly rust.

In the rush for wealth and position, we abandon other important things that we should do. We are therefore counseled to be diligent to know the state of our flocks. How many of us have forgotten to take care of our families especially the children that need our care and guidance because we are pursuing silver, gold and wealth? Ministers of the gospel, in their ambition to keep their positions for filthy lucre, have scattered the flock rather than care for them.

Many continue in this way of life though they are warned every time. Such are like the fool that, though is brayed in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, will not learn to be wise.

What then is the portion of those that concentrate on the pursuit of wealth and crowns to the detriment of their souls? Hell and destruction. Hell is never tired of receiving the foolish.

God does not want anyone to go to hell. He wants everyone to be saved, including you. He has abundant blessing in store for His own (verses 25-27), but the door that leads to God’s blessings is salvation. God’s crown does not rust but endures forever. Rush for that crown and lay up your treasures in heaven.

Though for today: Labour not for the things that perish.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 9:14am On Jan 13, 2010
Daily Manna

Clear Conscience?
Wednesday, January 13, 2009

TEXT: Proverbs 28:1–8

"The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion" (Proverbs 28:1).
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 10:15am On Jan 14, 2010
Daily Manna

Sowing and Reaping
Thursday, January 14, 2009

TEXT: Proverbs 28:9–18

"He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy" (Proverbs 28:13).
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 3:14pm On Jan 16, 2010
Daily Manna

Be Righteous, Even in Authority.
Saturday, January 16, 2010

TEXT: Proverbs 29:1–8

"When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn" (Proverbs 29:2).

One who bears rule over the people does so on God’s behalf.  But King Rehoboam never knew this until it was too late.  His high handedness and wickedness lay squarely at the root of the people’s rebellion.  He had said: "my father hath chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions" (1 Kings 12:11).  He did not prosper.

The essence of modern democratic governance is the trust that is reposed in a tiny minority by the vast majority to rule over them.  It takes righteousness and godly fear to exercise such authority in overall interest of the people.  But the world has witnessed cruel abuse of power by political leaders through the ages.  People have cried and mourned over leadership insensitivity and callousness.

Doing what is right and just is the key to successful and result-oriented leadership.  The happiness of a leader must be measured against the overall happiness of the led.  "The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it". A God-fearing leader is to labour for the good of the majority; he should make provision of basic amenities for the people a priority.

But "except the Lord build the house they labour in vain that build it". Righteousness originate from God.  We need to examine ourselves.  What kind of leadership have we provided in the family, church, school or the nation as a whole?  Power and authority are held in trust on behalf of the Almighty God who alone is the source of all power and authority.  We need to fear and reverence Him.

Thought for today: When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 10:42pm On Jan 17, 2010
Daily Manna

Preserve His Sanctuary.
Sunday, January 17, 2010

TEXT: Ezekiel 23:36-49


"Moreover this they have done unto me: they have defiled my sanctuary in the same day, and have profaned my sabbaths. For when they had slain their children to their idols, then they came the same day into my sanctuary to profane it; and, lo, thus have they done in the midst of mine house" (Ezekiel 23:38,39).

Paul the apostle admonished in one of his epistles to Timothy, saying: "But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth" (1 Timothy 3:15).  This admonition underscores the honour and reference God expects us to have for His house, if we are to have acceptable worship in His presence.

The departure from God demonstrated by the children of Israel represented by two women namely, Aholah and Aholibah in our text came to an embarrassing state.  They went down the valley of backsliding and apostasy and angered God so much that He promised to spoil them: "And the company shall stone them with stones and dispatch them with their swords, they shall slay their sons and their daughters".

A major controversy God had with them was their disrespect to His house.  Sinners generally are enemies of God and shall receive a just recompense of reward for their sin and lawlessness.  Of greater affront to God is coming to His house to practise rebellion and disrespect to those God has put there to ensure orderliness.

The house of God should be treated with utmost honour and respect.  Our overall comportment must be orderly, decent and God-honouring.  Distraction must be avoided; hence, our dressing and general demeanour must reflect acknowledgment of God’s presence.  Those who attend places of worship with immoral motive, gossip, animosity and unforgiving spirit should repent and turn away from their evils so that judgment will not befall them.

Thought For Today: Keep God's house pure
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by Image123(m): 10:55pm On Jan 17, 2010
Bros, welldone o! Happy sunday. Abeg, thought for today nko?
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by Image123(m): 10:55pm On Jan 17, 2010
Bros, welldone o! Happy sunday. Abeg, thought for today nko?
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 11:35pm On Jan 17, 2010
@image123,

Hi bro. It has been a blessed Sunday indeed. Thanks for pointing out that error of omission, I have edited the post accordingly.

I'm also happy that our rhema thread is back cheesy May the good Lord give you the grace to continue.

Remain blessed.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 9:04am On Jan 18, 2010
Daily Manna

Heed the Warning.
Monday, January 18, 2010

TEXT: EZEKIEL 24:1-14

"She hath wearied herself with lies, and her great scum went not forth out of her: her scum shall be in the fire" (Ezekiel 24:12).

Jerusalem’s sins had become very irritating.  God had determined to pay her in her own coin.  He had decided Jerusalem must go into captivity, but there were lying prophets who were busy giving the people false hope.  In spite of series of warnings through the prophets, the people continued in their evil.

In our text today, God had commanded Ezekiel to carry out a demonstration to depict the level of lewdness and utter rebellion of the people.  God was particularly unhappy at the flagrant manner of disobedience displayed by the people in the midst of his kind entreaties.  Then, after they wasted the opportunities, God said, "I the Lord, I have spoken it, it shall come to pass and I will do it. I will not go back, neither will I spare, neither will I repent, "  The passage tells us that God does not plead with the unrepentant sinners indefinitely.  He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance, but when an individual continually refuses to repent and hardens his heart, the Almighty withdraws His mercy.

Like He did for sinning Jerusalem, God has allowed certain unpleasant experiences and circumstances to bring the disobedient people to their senses, yet, they have failed to repent. His days of mercy will soon expire, then He shall bring judgment upon the world.  You have the opportunity today to amend your ways, ponder His words and come to Him in repentance; only then shall you be able to escape the impending judgment.  Be wise!

Thought for today: A scheduled battle does not claim the life of a (wise) cripple. Ogun aso tele kii npa aro (to ba gbon) wink
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by Image123(m): 5:36pm On Jan 18, 2010
Thanks bro. Grace dey yafun-yafun
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 8:51pm On Jan 19, 2010
Daily Manna

Courage in Sorrow.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010

TEXT: Ezekiel 24:15-27

"Forbear to cry, make no mourning for the dead, bind the tire of thine head upon thee, and put on thy shoes upon thy feet, and cover not thy lips, and eat not the bread of men" (Ezekiel 24:17).

Sorrow as a result of the loss of a dear one, afflictions, divine chastisements, natural mishaps etc. is a common phenomenon to all men. Death is particularly an affliction that knows no colour, class or clime. It is a leveler for all men. Humanity naturally responds with heaviness of heart and sorrow at such a time. Such a moment also has the tendency to becloud one’s sense of duty. The message from the passage is: ‘do not be broken!’

Prophet Ezekiel’s loss of his wife and God’s instruction to him not to mourn was used as a metaphor to teach a vital lesson on the right attitude in bereavement. Affliction is bearable when it comes from men, but it becomes very hard when there is a clear evidence of divine hand in the matter. Fortunately, however, the fact that God understands what is happening to us is enough to relieve and re-assure us in time of sorrow.

The lesson therefore is that the Lord expects us to have real courage in sorrow as well as the right attitude and approach to His work when we are confronted with any of these unpleasant challenges of life. Sorrow, as a result of afflictions, should not make us to abandon the work of God or reduce our commitment or consecration. As one commentator puts it, "we may the more easily bear an affliction if it finds us in the way of our duty; for nothing can hurt us; nothing comes amiss to us, while we keep ourselves in the love of God."

Thought for today: A true soldier of Christ must endure afflictions.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 9:31am On Jan 20, 2010
Daily Manna

In God's Hand.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010

TEXT: Ezekiel 25:1-17

"Son of man, set thy face against the Ammonites, and prophesy against them" (Ezekiel 25:2).

It shows an utterly evil heart to rejoice in the calamities of those who we consider not our friends. It is against the word of God (Proverbs 24:17,18).

The children of Ammon, Moab, Edom and Philistia contributed to Israel’s fall, and the Lord decided in our text to punish them for their sins. The Ammonites were to be punished because they rejoiced in the desecration of the temple in Jerusalem; the Edomites reaped a whirlwind because of the racial hatred they had for Israel which made them give support to the Babylonian army in destroying the city of Jerusalem (Psalm 137:7).

The Moabites were to be punished for simply having pleasure and rejoicing in the defeat of Judah while the Philistines used the occasion of the trouble of Israel as an opportunity to settle old scores because Israel had defeated them in previous battles.

The lessons from today’s passage are many. First, when those who are children of God fall into sin and incur divine chastisement, they give occasion to the enemies of God that had been silent in awe to stir up themselves. Second, showing hatred and revenge towards others in their times of distress or calamity provoke the wrath of God. Those who are guilty of such are compelled to weep and sorrow over their own calamities. Third, God is jealous over His people even in times of their retribution, and anyone taking advantage of them will not go unpunished.

Fourth, God considers His punishment sufficient against His erring people; we should not incur God’s displeasure by allowing our tongues to wag in gossip and private judgment over a matter already visited by Him.

Finally, keep yourself in the love of God and do not attempt to revenge for wrongs done to you. Just punishment and recompense belong to God (Romans 12:19-21).

Thought for today: God avenges His saints.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 6:42pm On Jan 21, 2010
Daily Manna

Don't Dare God.
Thursday, January 21, 2010

TEXT: Ezekiel 26:1–21

"Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Tyrus, " (Ezekiel 26:3).

Can anyone stand in the way of a moving jet bomber? Tyre had rejoiced over the misfortunes that befell Jerusalem and had hoped to profit from it. That immediately placed her on collision course with God. Jerusalem is God’s own and though He allowed evil to befall her because of her sins, He did not expect anyone to celebrate the fall.

Concerning Tyre, God declared that: "I am against thee." Think about God being against an individual. Catch a glimpse of what God said will happen to Tyre: many nations were to come against her, destroy her walls and towers, make her desolate, slay her daughters, Babylon would make a spoil of her riches, make the noise of songs/rejoicing to cease and it should not be built anymore.

As you read through what it is like to provoke God to anger, you need to be wise. Those who rejoice when evil befalls God’s people put themselves in grave danger.

When Egypt stood against the promises of God for Israel, they paid dearly with their lives. The Scripture is replete with cases of individuals and nations that tasted the fury of God for fighting against the people of God and for touching the apple of His eyes.

Standing on the opposite side of God is very dangerous. Do not dare to step on God’s feet. If you are already on the wrong side, hasten to repent and make right your way. There is mercy now but delay may be dangerous.

Thought for today: God is angry with the wicked everyday.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 8:12pm On Jan 22, 2010
Daily Manna

Humility Pays.
Friday, January 22, 2010

TEXT: Ezekiel 27:1-25

"And say unto Tyrus, O thou that art situate at the entry of the sea, which art a merchant of the people for many isles, Thus saith the Lord GOD; O Tyrus, thou hast said, I am of perfect beauty" (Ezekiel 27:3).

God has always shown His disapproval of pompous lifestyles. The Bible is replete with instances of God’s summary judgment against the arrogant. The holy writ preaches humility and lowly spirit.

In our text today, God’s anger was hot against the city of Tyrus. The prosperous and beautiful city had gone into self-adulation rather than acknowledge the divine angle to its success.

God reminded Tyrus that it erred by arrogating its ‘perfect beauty’ and other things it has enjoyed to its hardwork. And for this sin, God’s judgment was imminent. In our contemporary times, we often hear people beat their chests over certain achievements even when it is very clear that such achievements were made possible through divine intervention.

As an individual, do you claim the praise of God for your beauty, achievements and wealth? Some people have allowed their possessions to get into their heads so much that they look down on others.

Remember that we are not redeemed by corruptible things, but by incorruptible and whatever possessions we may have here on earth is corruptible. The only thing that will endure is our good relationship with God. It is wise therefore to forsake pride and maintain a humble relationship with the Lord to be able to enjoy His blessings and dwell with Him eternally.

Thought for today: Beauty is vain.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 11:16am On Jan 23, 2010
Daily Manna

Pride Kills.
Saturday, January 23, 2010

TEXT: EZEKIEL 27:26-36

"In the time when thou shalt be broken by the seas in the depths of the waters thy merchandise and all thy company in the midst of thee shall fall" (Ezekiel 27:34).

God delights in the riches of nations and individuals, as the Bible tells us in Psalm 35:27.  However, He does not want such prosperity to become the source of our ruin.  Unfortunately for many today, their riches are their undoing.  That was exactly the problem with Tyre, the subject of our text today.

God's anger came upon Tyre because of two major reasons - pride and derision.  Tyre’s pride was borne out of its beauty and riches.  Tyre was strategically located between two seaports: Sidon to the north and Egypt to the south.  That strategic endowment became the source of its ruin.  The two ports brought about boom in trade and commerce.  Merchants from numerous nations brought in different types of products and that in turn made the city prosperous but elicited pride in the people of Tyre.  Apart from that, Tyre had made scorn of Jerusalem because of its fall to king Nebuchadnezzar (Ezekiel 26:2).  For that reason, God said, "I am against thee O Tyrus, and will cause many nations to come up against thee, as the sea causeth his waves to come up" (Ezekiel 26:3).

The seas that became the source of prosperity for Tyre eventually became its ruin as almost all the goods being shipped into the city were lost to the seas and the economy collapsed.

Like Tyre, there are people today who rejoice at the fall of their neighbours, especially, their supposed enemies. Some people allow their God-given gifts to become the source of their ruin.  Instead of using their prosperity, position and talents to honour God, they allowed such endowments to become sources of pride.  The Bible says pride goes before destruction (Proverbs 16:18).  God himself resists the proud (James 4:6).  The awful fate that befell Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar and even Lucifer (Satan) because of pride is too fearful to be remembered.

Certainly, God has endowed you with some gifts. Do you glorify God with them?

Thought for today: Pride is deadly; it certainly destroys.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 11:34pm On Jan 24, 2010
Daily Manna

True Freedom from Jesus.
Sunday, January 24, 2010

TEXT: Leviticus 25:1-17

"And ye shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof: it shall be a jubile unto you; and ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family" (Leviticus 25:10).

During the political independence celebrations of any country, a display of pomp and pageantry is never in short supply; what with the capital cities being festooned with the ceremonial march past of a detachment of the local troops, the symbolic handing over of the scepter of government to the emerging leader. Fanfare and unbridled excitement fill the air. It is always a joyous moment indeed for the freed people, enjoying liberty.

In the passage for reading today, God, in His omniscience and wisdom declaring a period of freedom for Israelites who through no fault of theirs, had been taken captive and deployed as slaves by their fellow countrymen. This is the sovereignty, love and mercy of God in graphic display - that any slave held for forty–nine years must be released at the fiftieth year by their owners to start a new life.

One can imagine the feeling of euphoria that would fill the heart of such a person who had had his freedom withheld. Regrettably, however, one discovers that the people or person so set free still lives in shackles and chain of sin which is worse than every other bondage. Many sinners wish to break away from their sinful habits of smoking, adultery, fornication, stealing and other abominable practices but could not in spite of their knowledge of the consequences of such habits – lung cancer, hardening of the liver, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.

Like Paul the apostle lamented before his conversion: "O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death?" (Romans 7:24). Thank God, Jesus Christ - the Lamb was slain to atone for our sins and bring salvation to us. All that the sinner needs do is to repent of his sins and embrace God’s offer of salvation. Are you ready to do so?

Thought for today: Jesus is the answer to the problem of sin.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 9:47am On Jan 25, 2010
Daily Manna

God’s Promise of Abundance.
Monday, January 25, 2010

TEXT: Leviticus 25:18-34

"And if ye shall say, What shall we eat the seventh year? behold, we shall not sow, nor gather in our increase: Then I will command my blessing upon you in the sixth year, and it shall bring forth fruit for three years" (Leviticus 25:20,21).

A saint once said, "I have no husband, and yet I am no widow, my Maker is my husband. I have no father or friend, and yet I am neither fatherless nor friendless; my God is both my father and my friend. I have no child, but is not He better to me than ten children? I have no house, but yet I have a home, I have made the Most High my habitation. I am left alone, but yet I am not alone, my God is good company for me; with him I can walk, with him I can take sweet counsel, find sweet repose; at my lying down, at my rising up, whilst I am in the house, or as I walk by the way, my God is ever with me; with him I travel, I dwell, I lodge, I live, and shall live for ever."

The Israelites were directed to observe every seventh year as a sabbatical year when they came into the Promised Land.  During the period, there was to be no tillage of the land, and yet there would be sufficient provision for man and beast.  Several laws and rules concerning the sale of and redemption of lands, and the differences between those in walled cities and those in villages and suburbs were put in place to make a reservation for the poor.  God promised safety and plenty in the seventh year to encourage the observance of it.

God’s promise of miraculous increase in production was fulfilled to the letter.  By the power of His omnipotence, He could generate a hundred fold from the same piece of land to provide abundantly for the needs of His people provided they put their trust in Him and obey all His commandments.

With a little oil in the cruse, and a handful of meal in the barrel, Elijah outlived the famine, and you will do the same. The darkest cloud shall scatter itself in showers of mercy.  The blackest gloom shall give place to the morning.

Thought for today: Expect a miracle of abundance.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 7:14am On Jan 26, 2010
Daily Manna

My Brother's Keeper.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010

TEXT: Leviticus 25:35–55

"And if thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen in decay with thee; then thou shalt relieve him" (Leviticus 25:35).

As we go about our daily affairs, many of us can hardly spare a moment for the person next door. The rat-race has so consumed a lot of us that what happens to the next person does not matter. We care not about our kinsmen not to talk of others. Many of us cannot even spare a moment for our suffering fellow pilgrims. Unfortunately, many of our brethren suffer because of our indifference. God is drawing our attention to such situations. He says, "If thy brother (that includes sisters too) be waxen poor, then thou shalt relieve him." God is talking first about our brethren in the household of faith. He says, there will always be poor people around us. But what does He expect us to do concerning the poor among us? Relieve him or her.

There are those who are indebted to us and cannot pay. We are not expected to continue to press them for the repayment. God says, "Relieve him." Some of us put our neighbours into perpetual poverty because, we lend to them on interest. They are never able to pay off because of the inhuman high interest rate. God says relieve them. You should not lend with interest to your brother, you are not to exploit your brother.

God expects that you will not allow your brother to serve with rigour or in slavish condition with another person. You are expected to redeem him. How can you watch an unbeliever turn your fellow believer to a slave? Relieve him: your brother cannot be slave to you not to talk of any other person because he is a servant and child of God.

Look around today and find those you are to relieve and do it immediately. God wants you to help your brother and bring him out of bondage.

Thought for today: The merciful shall obtain mercy.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 6:54pm On Feb 02, 2010
Daily Manna

Esteem God's Word.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010

TEXT: PSALM 119:153–160

"Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever" (Psalms 119:160).

God’s word means different things to different people. To many, the word of God is a material for self-service but for those who love God and serve Him, it is lamp and light.

The Psalmist saw the word as being useful in every situation. He stayed close to it in affliction and found consolation from it during persecution. He referred to the word as the law he does not forget (verse 153). He revealed that salvation is far from the wicked because they seek not the statutes.

Our attitude towards the Word of God determines whether or not we will be blessed by it. We should esteem it highly and trust it. Where should we place our trust in today’s world that is full of falsehood and ungodly inventions if not the unchanging word of God? To get the best from God’s word, take it as the final authority in your life. Read it prayerfully and obey what you learn by faith. Esteem it like Job above your necessary food.

The testimonies and manifestation of God’s power will encourage you and build up your faith.

The laws and commandments will keep you from evil and from the devices of the wicked. It will make you to understand God’s mind concerning your life and will guide you into the way of righteousness. The examples you find in the scriptures will guide you in your choices of career, marriage, business and other endeavours. Give the scriptures the priority it deserves in your life and you will be glad for they have always been true. God does not change, neither does His word. His judgments are righteous forever.

Thought for today: Spiritual scales are removed from the eyes of a wise reader of God’s word.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 4:55pm On Feb 03, 2010
Daily Manna

The Majesty of God.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010

TEXT: JOB 37:1-13

"God thundereth marvellously with his voice; great things doeth he, which we cannot comprehend" (Job 37:5).

God often speaks through nature. He speaks by summer and by winter. He can manifest Himself by wind, by storm, by calm. Whatever is sublime and potent, whatever is sweet and gentle, whatever is fear and inspiring, whatever is soothing, whatever is beautiful to the eye, God may employ. The heavens above and the procession of the season are various manifestations of God.

Proper consideration of God’s majesty in the thunder and lightening is enough to appall the stoutest heart, confound the wisest mind and fill all with humility and devotion. God does not leave Himself without witness of His greatness and of His goodness even to the most silly and unthinking. Thunder is referred to in the above text as the voice of God because by it, He speaks to the children of men to fear Him. "The heaven declare the glory of God, and firmament showeth his handwork" (Psalm 19:1).

We must take notice of the glory of God, not only in the thunder and lightning, but in the more common revolutions of the weather. God created all these that men may perform His will, and avail themselves of the influence of the sun, moon, time and season to cultivate the earth for the sustenance of mankind. The providence of God is to be acknowledged, both by husbandmen in the field and travelers upon the road. It is then sin and folly to contend with God by worshiping the creatures rather then the Creator. Gazing into the stars or moon to foretell the future is outright confrontational to the will and plan of God. As the All-knowing God, let us depend upon Him for sustenance and strength to weather through the challenges of life.

Thought for today: All things bright and beautiful, The Lord God made them all.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 9:10am On Feb 04, 2010
Daily Manna

We Cannot Find Him Out.
Thursday, February 4, 2010

TEXT: Job 37:14-24

"Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent in power, and in judgment, and in plenty of justice: he will not afflict" (Job 37:23).

In January 1993, it was reported that some Russian scientists were planning to unfurl a glistening sheet of plastic in space as a first step toward testing the possibility of turning night into day — or at least twilight. Tucked aboard a cargo spacecraft attached to the Mir space station an experiment called Znamya, or Banner, that would test the idea of using a mirror in space to reflect sunlight down to earth. In much the way a schoolchild playing with a hand mirror learns to reflect a spot of light from a bright window into the room, some scientists believe they can put large, orbiting mirrors above earth that could illuminate darkened areas below with spots of reflected sunlight. If it can be done, proponents say, providing sunshine at night could save billions of dollars each year in electrical lighting costs.

Man has gone a long way on the race of discovery but progress so far when put together is totally incomparable to the creative power of the Almighty. Elihu in this chapter show the greatness of God as it appears in His works of nature, incomprehensible and unknown in various respects; as the snow and rain. From all this, he praised the terrible majesty, unreachable nature and wisdom of God, the excellency of His power and justice; and that men are inadequate, limited in wisdom, and therefore should fear and reverence God.

Those who navigate little streams and shallow creeks, know but little of the God of tempests; but those who "do business in great waters," see His "wonders in the deep." Among the huge Atlantic-waves of bereavement, poverty, temptation, and reproach, we learn the power of Jehovah, because we feel the littleness of man.

When next you pass through situations too overwhelming to understand, remember that the all-knowing and the all-seeing God watches you.

Thought for today: You are a proof of God’s workmanship.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 2:35pm On Feb 05, 2010
Daily Manna

God, Your Defense.
Friday, February 5, 2010

TEXT: Job 38:1-18

"Hast thou perceived the breadth of the earth? declare if thou knowest it all" (Job 38:18).

"Clear conscience," they say, "fears no accusation." In his frantic effort to remove a wrong impression that had been etched in the minds of his friends over the reason for the deluge of misfortune that had befallen him, Job let out some words of defense.

Job had been visited by Satan and in a single swoop, lost all his material wealth and children. He was also afflicted with a terrible skin disease. In the midst of the great trial of faith, certain of his friends added to his sorrow through their uncharitable utterances.

Job’s attempt at defending himself did not go down well with the Omniscient God who, according to our passage decided to put him to task on his extent of knowledge of creation.

Often times, some believers fall into the error of making unnecessary explanations and defenses to erase doubt from people’s minds. But the Bible shows that that attitude is unnecessary. Abraham Lincoln, in one of his quotations said: "Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt."

The lesson from our text today is that we know little, but God is all-knowing. At the moment of provocation, we must learn to commit everything to God who judges righteously. Any attempt to swear and scream would amount to great sins before God.

You must also remember that when friends misunderstand, abandon, or say negative things against you, you must endeavour to look up to God for comfort. When co-workers or neighbours rake-up lies against you, do not lose your head. It is unreasonable to resort to ungodly means of defense as a Christian.

As you go about your business today, carry your cross with a smile.

Thought for today: Jesus cares for me.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 1:22am On Feb 07, 2010
Daily Manna

Beyond Your Imagination.
Saturday, February 6, 2010

TEXT: Job 38:19-27

"Where is the way where light dwelleth? and as for darkness, where is the place thereof" (Job 38:19).

"I don’t pretend to understand the Universeit’s a great deal bigger than I am, People ought to be modester." That was the candid submission of Thomas Carlyle (1795 -1881), a Scottish historian and essayist. Although, by the twenty-first century, mankind has made great progress in all fields, especially, in science and technology. It is still most immodest to assume that we understand enough to sit in conference with the Creator.

Job and his friends had been embroiled in a protracted controversy over God’s administration of justice and providence. Each of them had taken turn to express his opinion. But none had the final say on the dispute. Following Job’s final presentation to his friends, the Lord here uses a series of difficult posers to answer questions to silence Job and to underscore his ignorance. The Lord particularly demanded explanations from Job about natural phenomena like light, snow, hail, thunder, lightning and rain. Of course, Job had no answer to God’s numerous questions. He knew nothing about the formation of snow and hail. He had no understanding of the watercourses and the path of the lightening and thunder.

All the questions God raised here are intended to acknowledge how little we know and to appreciate His sovereignty over all creation. Man is infinitely less than God. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:9). How foolhardy, therefore, for man to raise his voice against God.

As you step out today, why not stop awhile and ponder the greatness of the Almighty. While appreciating Him, commit yourself to submit entirely to His will and precepts. He that knows the ways of the elements and directs their course is most fit to direct our lives.

Thought for today: You may not know much, but it is enough to know God, who knows all things.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 1:38am On Feb 08, 2010
Daily Manna

A Just Denial.
Sunday, February 7, 2010

TEXT: Luke 20:1-18

"And Jesus said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things" (Luke 20:cool.

People ask questions for different reasons. There are sincere inquirers, asking because they truly want to know and be guided into the truth. There are others whose motives are far from being sincere. They ask their questions either because they want to mock or ridicule the truth, or because they want to draw a point for argument. Such people get further confused in their ignorance and move farther away from knowing the truth.

This explains why at times, we have people taking time to study the Bible yet, coming out more confused because they are studying the Bible, not because they want to know the truth and live by it, but because they are seeking flaws with which they might condemn it.

Our text presents the Pharisees who were open enemies of Christ, coming to Him with a question about the source of His ministry. Jesus, seeing through their insincerity, threw another question to them regarding the source of the ministry of John the Baptist. Seeing that their insincerity had been discovered, they refused to venture an answer. Jesus also, refused to give answer to their question. They met face to face with Jesus, but lost the opportunity of getting saved.

There are equally times when some believers seek to know the will of God on some matters, but unfortunately, do not get any clear revelation from God. The reason for this could be because they did not approach God with the sincere desire to know the mind of God on the issue. They may have had their pre-conceived ideas and only wish to get a rubber stamp from God.

In knowing the mind of God on issues, we are to be sincere in our motives. God will not deny sincere seekers access to the truth. Those who truly seek to know, will surely know.

Thought for today: He that truly seeketh, findeth.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 8:24am On Feb 08, 2010
Daily Manna

Render Unto God.
Monday, February 8, 2010

TEXT: LUKE 20:19-26

"And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar's, and unto God the things which be God's" (Luke 20:25).

The Greek theater had a succinct way of dramatizing the personality of a hypocrite. He would be depicted as someone who wore a mask on the stage and imitated the speech, mannerisms and conduct of the character being portrayed.

"Master we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly". These fine words were not representative of the intention of these religious leaders and spies. They merely sought how "they might take hold of his words, that they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor". With this evil intention hidden in their hearts they yet spoke to Him nicely and peaceably. Hypocrisy, in them, was clothed in the garment of flattery.

Again, regardless of our Christian conviction, we have legitimate obligations to God and the government. God commands us to obey earthly authorities so long as their demands are not at variance with the laws of God. While we recognize our duty and obligations to ‘Caesar’, we must honour God as the highest authority. The laws of the land may make demands upon us. This should never be permitted to come in conflict with our duty to the Lord as Supreme. We must set our priorities right.

Thought for today: Behind every flattering word there is a dagger.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 6:49am On Feb 09, 2010
Daily Manna

The Best Story In The World.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010

TEXT: LUKE 20:27-38

"And he said unto them, But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection" (Luke 20:35,36).

A missionary couple and their children went on a sight-seeing tour in Costa-Rica. The youngest of the children was six-year old Mark. They visited a Catholic cathedral in Cargago. The children noticed many images, including a statue of Christ hanging on the cross. Later, they visited an old Spanish mission where some of the children were frightened by a wax figure of Christ in a glass-enclosed casket.

That night during the family devotion, little Mark said, "Daddy, I have seen Jesus dead so many times today. Please tell me again the story of resurrection". After listening to the story, he said "Daddy, that’s the best story in the world".

The story of resurrection is the living hope that distinguishes Christian faith from any other men-improvised religion. As Paul the apostle puts it: "If Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain" (1 Corinthians 15:14). Critics and heretics always oppose the fact of the resurrection as the case in our text, but their arguments are always weak. But a poet put the story of the resurrection of Christ thus: "A song of sunshine through the rain, of spring across the snow, a balm to heal the hearts of pain, a peace suppressing woe".

As assuring as the resurrection story is, there are two sides to it. There is the resurrection unto life for those who have anchored their souls in Christ, who have genuinely surrendered their lives to Christ to be born-again and are dead to sin. On the other hand, there is the resurrection unto damnation for those who are dead in sin. They live in sin even though they are in one religion or the other. Such will be banished to hell. Hence, sinners must repent and accept Jesus to take part in the resurrection unto life.

Thought for today: Resurrection of Christ is the pillar of the Christian faith.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 12:36am On Feb 11, 2010
Daily Manna

Beware of Hypocrites.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010

TEXT: LUKE 20:39–47

"And he said unto them, Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts" (Luke 20:46).

We have been told times without number that the cassock does not make a monk. Putting it simply to the religious, the robe is not equal to righteousness. But this truism is a rather sad reminder of the realities in religious circles today.

In the history of mankind, outward religious shows have been elevated above proper understanding of the creeds, the requirements and actual practices of the religion people make so much claim of adherence to. A lot of crisis among those religious people have arisen, not from the fundamental demands of their religions, but from their individual or group perception of what they think of such beliefs.

The priests, scribes, Sadducees and Pharisees at the time of Jesus sought and got so much reverence from people and tried to retain it by every means possible, including running down Jesus whom they perceived as teaching doctrines that exposed their emptiness, pride and deception. Their lack of understanding of the faith was laid bare when one of the Sadducees asked him a question that had an implication on resurrection, expecting that Jesus was going to contradict Himself.

His warnings against these ignorant, but grandstanding, religious leaders are still as forceful and applicable today as they were then. "Beware of the scribes. . ." The Scribes would receive the severest judgment for defrauding poor widows and for their abuse of religion, particularly of prayer, which they used as a pretence for carrying on worldly and wicked plans. Those church members or leaders who carry titles about should watch it. Let us pray to God to keep us from pride, covetousness and every evil thing; and to teach us to seek that honour which comes from Him alone.

Thought for today: Hypocrites fill their heads with doctrines while their hearts are empty.
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 11:20am On Feb 11, 2010
Daily Manna

Your Widow's Mite.
Thursday, February 11, 2010

TEXT: LUKE 21:1-4

"For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had" (Luke 21:4).

Giving, as part of Christian worship is something that attracts the attention of heaven. We need to realise that God knows who we are and our financial capability? Christ does not only notice our attitude in worship, He also observes our giving in worship.

People generally feel that what they give is their own decision and should not be controlled by any principle. Most often, they tend to give out of the abundance or left over of what they have. But the example of the principal character in the passage is very challenging.

In the short narrative we are studying today, the Lord gives us answer to whatever questions we have on our minds concerning giving. As He observed how people gave, He compared what they gave with what they had. He commended the poor widow for casting into the treasury all that she had. He saw her sacrificial, selfless, and sincere giving in the gift. While the rich merely gave from the abundance of what they had, the widow gave all that she had.

Our service to God will not be complete if we withhold our "mites". There are many needs in the house of the Lord that demands financial attention; we must therefore, endeavour to cast in our mites whenever we go to the house of God to worship.

The question of not having enough to give does not arise from a true heart of charity. It’s only when we give from a sacrificial and loving heart that we receive heaven’s commendation and compensation.

Though for today: He gave His all for thee, what hast thou given Him?
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by AbuZola3(m): 11:28am On Feb 11, 2010
'say 'GOD is one, the self sufficient (does not need a son or daughter), He beget not nor was He begotten, and there is none co equal or comparable to Him' Quran 112 : 1-4
Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 11:09am On Feb 12, 2010
Daily Manna

Take Heart.
Friday, February 12, 2010

TEXT: LUKE 21:5–24

"And it shall turn to you for a testimony" (Luke 21:13).

The end of the world is drawing nearer by the day. All that Jesus said about the signs of the end are already being experienced. As the end draws nearer, the devil, our arch-enemy seems to be on the prowl with tougher and fiercer temptations, trials and persecutions. We see activities of false christs; we hear of wars and rumour of wars, commotions, kingdom rising against one another, great earthquakes, famines, pestilences (HIV/AIDS, swine flu, etc.) terrible sights and unimaginable degree of sin.

The counsel of the Redeemer for the expectant believers is that they become watchful and vigilant so that they will not be deceived or terrified by the terrible things happening around them because not an hair of them will perish without the Father’s knowledge.

These are perilous times indeed and many things that are capable of taking believers out of the way are happening. Many fervent ones have denied the faith because of problems, others because they are denied their rights or because of discouragement. May be, your situation is not too cheering and you are now barely in the kingdom. Jesus says, be patient. You can only possess your soul in your patience. You can’t stop now. It is too late to turn back now. You must hold on. Don’t deny the Lord because if you do, it will be regrettable.

All these trials, temptations, persecutions will, if you hold on to the end, "turn to you for a testimony". Take heart; hold on; the Lord will soon appear.

Thought for today: The Lord is already in the horizon.

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