MBS 2014: Asking in Prayer with Great Assurance


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bN92nQMlIJ0

Daily Manna
Thursday 09, October 2014

Good Deeds

TEXT: JOB 31:24-32

"The stranger did not lodge in the street: but I opened my doors to the traveller" (Job 31:32).

In all ages, men and women had obtained God’s favour through their good deeds unto others. Abraham and Sarah got the son of promise by entertaining holy angels. Rahab and her household were saved by Israel’s army because she protected the spies sent to Jericho, and many other instances in the Bible.

Job was a righteous man who went through trying times. This was because God allowed Satan to afflict him to try his faith. God’s testimony concerning Job was that “there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?” (Job 1:8.) In his trials, Job’s commitment was confronted by his wife. His friends, who came to comfort him also passed as miserable counselors. He remained faithful to God and maintained his integrity. Job remained conscious of the truth that God will judge every sin, and so he was always ready to be examined. In our passage, Job drew attention to some issues of personal attitude to wealth and his fellow men. He addressed them by five “ifs” as part of the 21 “ifs” in the whole chapter.

Friend, as you look at yourself today and consider your life, how do you stand before these ‘ifs’ of Job? Job spoke of his integrity and righteousness, opened himself to God’s examination and acknowledged that punishment from the Judge awaited him if he had done wrong. God takes pleasure in righteousness and punishes evil. If we judge ourselves, God will not judge us (1 Corinthians 11:31). How is your relationship with God? What is your attitude to wealth - silver, gold, houses, etc? What is your attitude to your fellowmen, especially those that have offended you?

Job was adjudged righteous because he loved God, feared Him, walked uprightly and avoided evil. If you will please God, you should follow the steps of Job.

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

Thought for the day: "If riches increase, set not your heart upon them"

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Thought for the day:

"If riches increase, set not your heart upon them"

Daily Manna
Friday 10, October 2014

Give Thanks

TEXT: LUKE 17:11-19

"And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?" (Luke 17:17).

Those who bear the stigma of HIV/AIDS know the sorrow they go through every passing day even though society has come to realize that not all sufferers came by it through careless lifestyles. Those who have received their miracles from such embarrassing condition know what it means to be free.

Likewise, the stigma of leprosy in Bible days was so strong that the victims were isolated from all forms of social associations and interpersonal relationships to avoid any possible contact, because it was a deadly contagious disease. Those who received the divine intervention of being cleansed owed it a duty to give thanks to God. Giving thanks to God for His kindness, mercy and goodness is a function of individual heart’s condition and capacity to reflect correctly.

Our text today is an eye-opener to the danger of forgetting to offer praises to God after miracles of healing, deliverance, salvation and breakthrough in life. Ten lepers cried to Jesus for healing and cleansing. In answer to their plea, Jesus sent them to the priest for a confirmation of a gracious healing received. Their miracle was based on the simple principle of asking and receiving. Unfortunately, only one of them, a stranger, came back to give thanks. The rest nine went their ways. Jesus then asked with concern, “where are the nine”?

It is common in modern days to receive great miracles of healing, deliverance, provision and escape from danger with an ungrateful disposition. Those who do not sit back to count their blessings will not see sufficient reasons to thank God.

Of course, refusal to thank God for all the benefits received does not diminish His divine attributes of showing mercy and compassion on His creatures; yet, giving thanks to God opens more doors of greater miracles and benefits from Him. He that offers praises glorifies God. Grateful Christians grow in grace and understanding. How often do you remember to say “thank you Lord”? Those who have received God’s love, mercy and salvation with other physical and spiritual blessings must endeavour to come back to Him with grateful hearts of praises.

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

Thought for the day: "Praise is comely for the upright"

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Thought for the day:

"Praise is comely for the upright"

Daily Manna
Saturday 11, October 2014

Be Compassionate

TEXT: LUKE 15:11-32

"And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son" (Luke 15:21).

In politics, it is said that there is no permanent friend or enemy, but permanent interests. This is why politicians move from one political party to the other where they think their interest will be better served. In believers’ journey to heaven, every other thing is secondary, what matters is entrance into that kingdom. No matter what it takes, believers must keep on the track, because it is only in walking with God that such an interest can be better served.

Out of youthful exuberance and worldliness, the prodigal son had left home and wasted all his possession in riotous living in a far country. Battered by poverty and famine in a foreign land, he began to live a debased life, serving as a slave to feed swine. Worse of all, he had none to feed him. This reversal of fortune brought upon him a realization of his depraved state and the need to retrace his steps back to his father. The elaborate reception and the acts of compassion by his father angered his elder brother who was not comfortable that his hitherto wasteful brother had now come to share with him the remaining wealth which he had assumed was exclusively his.

The elder brother behaved like the Pharisees and the Scribes. While Jesus was busy reaching out to the sinners with a view to bringing them into His kingdom, they were busy murmuring and accusing Him of receiving sinners and eating with them (Luke 15:2). Surprisingly, this is the attitude of some believers today. They lack the love and compassion necessary to save the sinners. They seem to forget that God has called all his followers into the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:19). Instead of joining Jesus to save sinners, they are sullen and jealous of them.

The prodigal son badly needed the acceptance of his father and other members of his family, having realized his folly. We must assist those who are coming back from the wilderness of backsliding to reclaim their lost positions in Christ. Their return must not offend us.

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

Thought for the day: "Jesus forgives and forgets and so must we"

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Daily Manna
Sunday 12, October 2014

Eternity Is It

TEXT: JOB 30:15-31

"For I know that thou wilt bring me to death, and to the house appointed for all living" (Job 30:23).

During World War II, a group of soldiers spent a few hours in London on the eve of their being returned to the war front. A church sought to fill those hours with entertainment and companionship. At the close of the evening, one of the soldiers stood up to express their appreciation to the leaders of the church. For a moment, he spoke in a light vein, endeavouring to keep the frantic false gaiety of the evening. But a few moments later, he became serious. He said, “We are returning to the front to face battle. Some of us will die! Can anyone tell us how to die?” There was silence for a moment. Then a woman stood up and quoted the reassuring word of Jesus Christ: “I am the resurrection and the life; he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live” (John 11:25). She went down to the piano and started playing the hymn: “Leaning on the everlasting Arms,” heads were bowed in reverence. Many felt that the question had been answered.

Job, in our text, affirmed his belief in the certainty of death. He had gone through hardship, agony and depression as revealed in our text today. While the confusion lasted, he comforted himself in the fact that death would one day bring an end to the chain of perplexing situations he found himself. What a great lesson mankind ought to learn from this.

We must strive for a firm understanding that anything outside the will of God will fade away, and any other “god” who receives our worship in form of excess time, thought, energy or resources will most surely burn and be swept aside.

It’s time we turn our hearts to God and do everything as unto the LORD. We can no longer give our lives to what is temporary and transient. It’s time we worship Him and follow where He leads. It’s time we draw close to His presence and remember the eternal glory that awaits us in eternity with the Almighty.

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

Thought for the day: "Let everything be uncertain...eternity is certain"

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Daily Manna
Monday 13, October 2014

Examine Yourself

TEXT: JOB 31:33-40

"If my land cry against me, or that the furrows likewise thereof complain; If I have eaten the fruits thereof without money, or have caused the owners thereof to lose their life" (Job 31:38,39).

It is said that clear conscience fears no accusation. Whatever we do as believers, our conscience must be pure. This is the gist of our text today.

In his reflections over the flood of calamities that had befallen him, Job had continued to search himself, asking questions where he must have gone wrong to attract the afflictions. Since his persecution began, he has continued to receive miserable visitors, who claimed to be his friends. They also claimed to have come to commiserate with him. But their uncharitable and unguarded utterances, rather than soothe Job’s aching nerves, pierced him more like deadly arrows. They had serially accused Job of unrighteousness, the consequence of which, according to them, had been the avalanche of his afflictions.

Remember, Job had, in a single swoop, lost all his cattle, children and other material wealth and was bodily afflicted with an unknown skin disease. But, in all these, he maintained his integrity. He was sure that the righteous God does not dispense unrighteous judgment. His confidence in God did not wane even at the darkest hour of his life. Job’s reflection of his dealings with God encouraged him; and it is a challenge to every believer.

Believers must realize that there are many afflictions that come when they hide their iniquities or cover their transgressions as Adam did. Are you enmeshed in dirty deals, contracts or other messy and questionable transactions? You must maintain clean hands and pure conscience to enable you stand boldly in the days of trouble. Believers must also borrow a leaf from Job’s consistent life of righteousness even when circumstances dictate otherwise, knowing that cross-bearing and ‘light afflictions’ are the hallmarks of true discipleship.

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

Thought for the day: "He who goes to equity must go with clean hands"

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♫ Hymn of the Week ♫

IS YOUR LIFE A CHANNEL OF BLESSING (GHS 245)

1. Is your life a channel of blessing?
Is the love of God flowing thro’ you?
Are you telling the lost of the Saviour?
Are you ready His service to do?

Make me a channel of blessing today
Make me a channel of blessing, I pray;
My life possessing, My service blessing,
Make me a channel of blessing today.

2. Is your life a channel of blessing?
Are you burdened for those that are lost?
Have you urged upon those who are straying,
The Saviour who died on the cross?

3. Is your life a channel of blessing?
Is it daily telling for Him?
Have you spoken the word of salvation
To those who are dying in sin?

4. We cannot be channel of blessing
If our lives are not free from all sin;
We will barriers be and a hindrance
To those we are trying to win.

‪MBS2014 Bible Study‬ Still on the subject of PRAYER. Pray until your joy is full. Join us tonight @ 18:00 GMT/UTC via http://webcast.dclmhq.org

Daily Manna
Tuesday 14, October 2014

Surrender All

TEXT: LUKE 17:1-10

"So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do" (Luke 17:10).

The service of God ought be mandatory. He is the Creator and we are His creatures. We ought to give the totality of our being and serve him unreservedly because He demands our all.

This, indeed, should be the desire and heartcry of every child of God today because as the grace of faith grows, all other graces will grow with it, leading us to lay our all on the altar of sacrifice.

Our passage today centres on the teaching of Jesus on the guilt and punishment for those causing offence in the Church and faith in God’s pardoning mercy that enables the believer to forgive offences. Jesus can increase our faith to deal with offences and also give the deep humility needed for faithful and continual service unto the Lord, our Master, Owner, Redeemer and Sustainer of our soul.

Causing offences to the heavenly pilgrim is a great sin that all believers must avoid and watch against as this brings severe judgment from God. Offences come from within and without the Church. They manifest in various forms. Persecution causes injury to Christ’s little ones, thereby bringing discouragement. Corruption of the truth of God’s word hinders growth, commitment and love for God in the heart and life of new converts. The worst form of offences are from those that profess Christ but live unholy lives within the church. Another is double standard and it weakens the spiritual state of the little ones.

Our daily prayer should be that we would not be a source of offence in the Church of the living God. In like manner, all our service to God must be carried out in love and deep humility for Him who first loved us with an everlasting love. We ought to make the end of one service the beginning of another as appointed us by our Master and Lord. Evangelising the sinner, restoring backsliders, and edifying the saints will enable us to build up the Body of Christ.

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

Thought for the day: "After we have done His will, He’ll say, well done"

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Daily Manna
Wednesday 15, October 2014

Be Considerate

TEXT: JOB 31:13-23

"If I have lifted up my hand against the fatherless, when I saw my help in the gate" (Job 31:21).

In ancient times, slave owners, wealthy individuals, and people who held one authority or another were revered, feared and even dreaded because nobody had the right to challenge their actions whether just or unjust. In fact, they were sometimes regarded as gods. The situation is not totally different today as the privileged in society lords it over the poor.

Today’s passage shows us a man who, though living in such a godless and cruel environment, exhibited virtues and godly character worthy of emulation by all contemporary believers. Job occupied such a position of privilege by virtue of his wealth and political status in his community. However, he regularly brought his actions under the mirror of justice and fairness, as well as clear conscience by subjecting himself to scrutiny and self-examination with regards to his relationships with those who were not so privileged.

He was so filled with the fear of God that he refrained from getting involved in those inhuman and oppressive actions. As a commentator puts it, the destruction which God would bring upon those guilty of the crimes awed and restrained him. He could have escaped being arraigned before any earthly tribunal or human court of law, but he remembered that the eye of God was upon him and that he was the avenger of the fatherless and the widow. He was confident to put himself under the wrath of God if he had in any way maltreated his servants, despised the poor, neglected the fatherless, and cruel to those who deserved justice.

The lesson for us therefore is to examine our relationships, actions and attitudes towards those
who do not have the privileges or opportunities that we are enjoying. Being considerate and treating others as Christ would treat them will shield us from God’s wrath.

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

Thought for the day: "Charity suffereth long and is patient"

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Thought for the day:

"Charity suffereth long and is patient"

Daily Manna
Thursday 16, October 2014

In A Flash

TEXT: JOB 31:13-23

"Remember Lot's wife" (Luke 17:32).

One year ago in one African country, there was a plane crash killing all the occupants. The saddest part of it all was that the plane had almost reached its destination from the capital city of that country.

The sad incident took place when those on board were anxiously preparing to make calls in a matter of minutes from there, to inform their loved ones that they had landed. Meanwhile, many of the victims had some of their relatives waiting at the airport to pick them on their arrival. It was a terrible incident. So, it was for Lot’s wife, an unforeseen and immediate extinction from the face of the earth.

The sign-seeking Pharisees were asking the Lord about when the Kingdom of God should come. In their ignorance, they knew little or nothing about the various stages of the Kingdom. That is, the present spiritual aspect of the kingdom in which Christ reigns in the heart of every born again Christian; the future kingdom at the time of His millennial reign when the Lord shall reign physically on earth for a period of one thousand years of uninterrupted joy, peace and prosperity and the eternal kingdom of Christ when the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ; when He shall reign for ever and ever (Revelation 11:15b).

The Lord told these religious leaders what the condition of the world shall be at the time of His coming. Wickedness, worldliness and wantonness shall be prevalent just as it was in the days of Noah and in the days of Lot. The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life brought destruction upon the people through the flood and fire in the days of old. Lot’s wife was lost through lust. The angels of mercy held her by the hand and brought her out of Sodom but she looked back, contrary to divine instruction and she became a pillar of salt! In spite of all the special privileges she enjoyed, she was lost. She never knew trouble was lurking around for her. She looked back and her journey ended.

The coming of the Lord is imminent. Everything happening in the world today points to the fact that the time is short. The necessity of salvation from sin and holiness of life cannot be overemphasised therefore.

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

Thought for the day: "Trusting in Jesus, that is all"

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Daily Manna
Friday 17, October 2014

Don't Give Up

TEXT: LUKE 18:1-8

"And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary" (Luke 18:3).

The story of Esther’s intervention on behalf of the Jews in Shushan and the result she got is a classic example of how determination and prayer can change the course of things. Esther’s uncle Mordicai had been marked for destruction in phase one of Haman’s plot. This was to be followed by a systematic destruction of the Jews thereafter. Although it was not customary for Esther to see the king at the time when the matter was playing out, she solicited the prayer of her people. And God made a way by moving the king to grant the queen’s petition. God is always willing to grant us our petition when we pray according to His will.

In His earthly ministry, Jesus saw the need to talk about the possibilities of prayer. Not only that He taught others how to pray, He made prayer a major part of His ministry. He healed diseases and performed other miracles through the instrumentality of prayer. Even as He is presently at the right hand side of God, our Father, He still prays, making daily intercessions for us.

Christ’s message to every member of His church is unmistakable. He desires that each of us pray with persistence. Prayer and faith are powerful weapons in the lives of believers. Those who lack prayer and are weak in faith cannot fulfil the whole will of God on earth; neither can they possess all that God has provided through Christ. Believers’ prayers are not limited to receiving healing, material blessings or claiming deliverance alone, they should dwell so much on spiritual blessings.

Our personal prayer life shows the depth of our spirituality. Those who constantly ask for temporal things of life are shallow and carnal. Those who are always praying for self are selfish. In these last days, we cannot wholly overcome sin, sickness and Satan except we are prayerful. As we continue, we must ensure that we are not living in disobedience to the word of God and secret sin. Neglecting to show mercy can hinder our prayer. We must continue in supplication without getting discouraged until the answer comes.

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

Thought for the day: "The Lord promises to answer our prayer"

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Daily Manna
Saturday 18, October 2014

Who's Your Counsellor

TEXT: 2 CHRONICLES 22:1-12

"Wherefore he did evil in the sight of the LORD like the house of Ahab: for they were his counselors after the death of his father to his destruction" (2 Chronicles 22:4).

There are miserable counsellors all over the place. They are not in short supply. They cost collateral damage in societies. They are in government, work places, business arenas, and are also in the church of God. Those who give in to their lies are easily destroyed.

From our text, Ahaziah, son and successor of Jehoram, and grandson of Jehoshaphat was made king over Judah. His reign, like that of his namesake of Samaria, was very brief, lasting but a year and characterised by idolatry and departure from the precept of God. Being related to the royal house of Israel through his mother Athaliah, the daughter of Jezebel and Ahab, he was fully in sympathy, politically and religiously with all the idolatry and witchcraft practised therein. Joram, the king of Israel, having been wounded in battle, returned to Jezreel to recuperate. Ahaziah also left the field of conflict in Gilead, and came to Jezreel for a conference with Joram. Meanwhile, the great uprising under Jehu had begun. Joram was slain. Ahaziah fled by way of the “house of the garden.” He was overtaken by Jehu’s soldiers and wounded in his chariot; but the stroke was not immediately fatal. Ahaziah escaped southward, and died on reaching Megiddo. His body was taken to Jerusalem and buried in the royal sepulcher there.

In the multitude of evil counsellors there is destruction. Having such counsellors as Athaliah, the daughter of Omir, and the evil faculty of the idolatrous house of Ahab was a recipe for paralysis. No wonder Ahaziah did evil in the sight of the Lord. His counsellors kept him out of the ways of God until he met his untimely death. The anarchy, which followed the death of Ahaziah, greatly weakened the monarchy of Judah; but it was a necessary step in the purgation of the kingdom from the taint of Baal-worship.

The counsel of the ungodly ruins many young persons when they are setting out in the world. Ahaziah gave himself up to be led by evil men. Those who advise us to do wickedly, lead us to destruction; while they pretend to be friends, they are our worst enemies. Avoid the mischief of bad company for that will not profit you. Cling to Christ and follow His steps.

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

Thought for the day: "A man is deceived when he walks away from God’s principles"

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Thought for the day:

"A man is deceived when he walks away from God’s principles"

Daily Manna
Sunday 19, October 2014

The Noble Job

TEXT: 2 Chronicles 23:1-11

"And they went about in Judah, and gathered the Levites out of all the cities of Judah, and the chief of the fathers of Israel, and they came to Jerusalem" (2 Chronicles 23:2).

In all ages, the devil has always tried to thwart God’s plans, but he has always failed. The Almighty uses willing men and women to fulfil His purpose on earth.

The Levites in our text were not found wanting. The Levites did not stand on the fence, they were rallied from parts of Jerusalem to do a noble job of protecting the young son of Ahaziah from being killed. For a long while, it seemed that the dynasty of David had come to an end in Jerusalem. This followed the fate that befell Ahaziah, the king of Judah. He had done wickedly and at the permission of the Lord, he was killed.

On learning that the king was dead, his mother organized a massacre of all the king’s sons. Then, she took over the throne and began to reign. But unknown to her, the priest Jehoiada and his wife had hidden the young son of Ahaziah from being killed by his grandmother. For seven years, the evil woman reigned in the land. Then one day, Jehoiada called the notable and powerful men in the kingdom with whom he hatched a plan to install the young boy as king in continuation of the dynasty of David. He also gathered the congregation of the people together in the house of God where they pledged loyalty to the king. He armed the men, and strategically deployed them within and outside the house of God, to ward off intruders. Then, he brought out to the temple, Joash, the son of King Ahaziah, crowned him as king, and in line with the commandment of the Lord, delivered the written scriptures to him. Thereafter, Jehoiada and his sons, the priests, anointed Joash as king, and proclaimed: “God save the king.”

The evil one is daily waging a fierce war against the elect. God has enlisted believers in the noble job of standing in the gap like the Levites. We must realize the seriousness of that assignment and delay no longer. God is depending on you today to save some souls. Don’t disappoint Him.

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

Thought for the day: "The counsel of the Lord shall stand"

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Daily Manna
Monday 20, October 2014

A New Beginning

TEXT: 2 Chronicles 23:12-21

"Then all the people went to the house of Baal, and brake it down, and brake his altars and his images in pieces, and slew Mattan the priest of Baal before the altars" (2 Chronicles 23:17).

There has always been “a new beginning” in the affairs of men. At the end of a year, another year begins; after wars, there are new beginnings to rebuild destroyed cities and villages. Old things do not always continue. By the same token, this old world is fading off for a new heaven and a new earth. Old things give way.

After the death of Athaliah, the people wanted to put a stop to idol worship. They wanted a new beginning in Israel. So, they destroyed the insignia of Satanism; they even killed the priest of Baal to end an unfortunate era.

Consider the case of Athaliah, a wicked and powerful woman who forced herself onto the throne of Judah after eliminating all the seeds-royal. Athaliah thought she had effectively quashed the divine plan of perpetuating kingship in the lineage of David. But another woman, the wife of Jehoiada the priest, was used of God to rescue and preserve a one-year-old son of the late king. After six years of usurping power, Athaliah was deposed and the rightful person (the young prince) was crowned. Athaliah lost her life in the process. Jehoiada who spearheaded her removal also brought about a revival in the land. Baal worship and worshippers were flushed out of Judah; the true worship of God was reinstated and the kingdom consolidated. This brought joy and quietness to the land. This is nothing but God’s act.

Mention must be made of the courage, care and commitment of Jehoiada, the priest who saved, nursed, tutored and eventually installed and anointed the young king. Men of such relentless zeal, faith, wisdom and commitment are in great demand today. It takes men who stick out their necks for God like Jehoiada to start a revival. Can the Lord count on you?

If you are a beloved of God and heir of His wonderful promises, be assured that even if a thousand Athaliahs usurp what God has ordained for you - yea, they may flourish for a while - the hand of the Lord will pluck them out.

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

Thought for the day: "God makes all things beautiful in His time"

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♫ Hymn of the Week ♫

JUST OBEY! (GHS 47)

1. Just as God who reigns on high,
Spake to men in days gone by;
So the Lord is calling men today;
And my brother, this is true,
Whatso’er He says to you,
There is but one thing to do –
Just obey.

Just obey … Just obey …,
Is the way…, God’s way …,
When His message comes to you,
There is but one thing to do:
Just obey…, Just obey.

2. If you’re in the Saviour’s hands,
You must do as He commands,
For there is no other gospel way;
Never put the message by,
Never stop to reason “why”,
When the Saviour speaks to you –
Just obey.

3. If for mansions fair you sign,
In that land beyond the sky,
After time with you has pass’d away;
Tho’ the way you may not see,
Christ is calling, “follow me,”
Faith and duty both will cry –
Just obey.

DLBC, Sweden.

Daily Manna
Tuesday 21, October 2014

The Lord's House

TEXT: 2 Chronicles 24:1-14

"And it came to pass after this, that Joash was minded to repair the house of the LORD" (2 Chronicles 24:4).

The place of good house for the worship of God cannot be overstressed. Although the Scripture says God does not dwell in a house made by hand, where His name is called and worshipped must be presentable.

This was why When Dr. Yongi Cho’s church – the largest single congregation in the world - was reportedly carrying out the church’s building project in South Korea, a lot of poor women folks and widows had to sell their petty possessions in order to be able to give. We were even told that those that had long hair had to cut them, sell and give for the building of the church. It was a joyful experience for everyone, though there was the initial pain of self-denial. Everyone must be involved in building a house for God’s worship.

The same experience is what we have in our text today. King Joash saw the need to repair the house of God that had been vandalised by the previous idolatrous kings. He, therefore, instructed the priest and Levites to collect offerings from the people for this purpose. At first, the priests were hesitant. Probably, they were considering the financial condition of the people. This is the same mistake most ministers make when it comes to encouraging the people to give for the work of God. But when they eventually told the people, they not only gave abundantly, but they gladly gave. They rejoiced in their giving.

A project in the house of God, whether church-building, mission or a particular programme, must be enthusiastically supported by every member. Excluding members from giving because we think they are poor will amount to robbing them of their joy and much more, of the key that will liberate them from poverty. Giving may sometimes be accompanied by the initial pain of self-denial and sacrifice; it however results in abounding and boundless joy.

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

Thought for the day: "God makes all things beautiful in His time"

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Daily Manna
Wednesday 22, October 2014

Reaping Fruits of Evil

TEXT: 2 Chronicles 24:15-22

"And they left the house of the LORD GOD of their fathers, and served groves and idols: and wrath came upon Judah and Jerusalem for this their trespass" (2 Chronicles 24:18).

The depraved nature has always pushed man to do things that are outrightly against God and conscience, even when one has enjoyed divine blessings. In fact, experience has shown that the more blessings some people enjoy, the more prodigal they become to God. For instance, Saul, the first King of Israel, stood before Goliath of Gath in utter helplessness and God raised up David, a seventeen-year old boy to terminate the national reproach and collective shame. This feat was appreciated by Saul for a while, but he soon forgot history and sought to kill the innocent youth.

In all of Israel, Joash was the youngest king to reign. He reigned for forty years. Jehoiada the high priest was his godly benefactor, guiding him in the way of godliness and righteousness. He was like a father to the young King and under his fatherly guidance, Joash repaired the temple and Judah began to prosper again. But after the death of Jehoiada who was buried among the kings for his goodness towards God and the people, the princes of Judah led the king into sin and apostasy. Joash lacked sufficient moral courage to resist ungodly pressures. Soon, his ears were turned away from the warnings of the prophets. Jehoiada’s son, Zechariah confronted the king on the consequences of his sin and abandoning God. Rather than listen, he got him killed.

There are many who act like King Joash today. Such people benefit from the goodness and kindness of other people but turn around to repay good with evil. Some people tend to lose their head when they come to fame and riches. In the case of Joash, it was worse than merely repaying evil for good, for Jehoiada, Zecharia’s father was like a father to him. Zecharia‘s admonition was for the king to turn away from sin to save his soul and the people. He was not asking for any undeserved favour.

Is there anyone somewhere who has pointed out the evil in our way such as should make us grateful and appreciative? Or are we thinking about how to mete out acts of wickedness to such a fellow? Let us take heed lest the curse which came upon those who did such wicked thing come on us. Those who warn us against sin should be our best friends, not enemies.

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

Thought for the day: "Do not repay evil for good"

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Daily Manna
Thursday 23, October 2014

Tragedies of the Wicked

TEXT: 2 Chronicles 24:23-27

"And when they were departed from him, (for they left him in great diseases,) his own servants conspired against him for the blood of the sons of Jehoiada the priest, and slew him on his bed, and he died: and they buried him in the city of David, but they buried him not in the sepulchres of the kings" (2 Chronicles 24:25).

John Flavel said, “They that know God will be humble; they that know themselves cannot be proud. That person is the greatest in God’s sight who is least aware of his spiritual stature and who is least in his own sight. When the Spirit exalts a person, he hides him in such a beautiful naturalness that the person is unconscious of his own spiritual greatness and is unconscious of his own humility.”

Our text today centres on the judgment of God which came upon Joash for his aggravated wickedness. He had a good beginning but ended up as an arrogant and an ungrateful king. A small army of Syrians made themselves masters of Jerusalem, destroyed the princes, plundered the city and sent the spoils of it to Damascus. God smote Joash with a great disease; his own servants conspired against him and slew him on his bed for the blood of the sons of Jehoiada. Finally, his people denied him the privilege of being buried in the sepulchres of the kings, because he had stained his honour in his wicked reign.

The purpose of our living here on earth is to do the will of God. Our emphasis in life must be on the most essential things which include being saved, living a life of holiness and preparing for the coming of the LORD. We are not to be preoccupied with the momentary and transient things such as our position in life or the influence we have on others. As we wait for the coming of the LORD, we need to daily examine our lives whether or not we remain humble before God. We must ensure that we do not use our privileges or exalted positions to afflict those who are less privileged.

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

Thought for the day: "The wicked shall not go unpunished"

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Daily Manna
Friday 24, October 2014

Your Motives Matter

TEXT: 2 Chronicles 25:1-10

"And he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect heart" (2 Chronicles 25:2).

Many African countries, have since the year 2000 witnessed the establishment of many worship centres. But many of such centres were established as money-making ventures since the unemployment level in the country is on the rise. So, while it is commendable to build churches, if the major reason for doing so is material gain, it offends God and exposes those involved in it to divine wrath.

In today’s text, Amaziah was no enemy to religion, but a cool and indifferent friend. Like him, many do what is good, but not with a perfect heart. He was vindictive, although he thought that sparing the children of those servants that killed his father was a deed of mercy, even when he killed their fathers.

It is dangerous to depend on the arm of flesh for success. Although appearing to be a strategist, Amaziah was embarking on a project that was doomed to fail. His life was going to be lost if he went ahead to war. He was clearly told about this, but he still trusted in his strategy. He had paid some people for hundred talents of silver. This, to him, should secure him some degree of victory.

Sinners, who do no have faith, however, always object to self-denying obedience. They give excuses, and like Amaziah, say: ‘But what shall we do for the hundred talents?’ As business men and women, they ask: ‘what shall we do if by keeping the Lord’s day holy we lose many good customers? What shall we do without this gain? What shall we do if we lose the friendship of this world?’ Many endeavour to quieten their consciences by the pretence that forbidden practices are necessary.

The answer is, “The Lord is able to give you much more than this. He makes up, even in this world, for all that is given up for His sake.” Will you therefore submit to God’s perfect will and serve Him without questioning or disputing His authority? Obedience brings a blessing. Whatsoever you do for Christ must be in line with His will. Good deeds veiled in hypocrisy have no reward in heaven.

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

Thought for the day: "The unregenerated heart is desperately wicked…who can know it"

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Thought for the day:

"The unregenerated heart is desperately wicked…who can know it"

Daily Manna
Saturday 25, October 2014

Prompt Obedience

TEXT: Psalm 119:57-64

"I made haste, and delayed not to keep thy commandments" (Psalm 119:60).

The world of today is a world of technology - cable networks, satellite transmissions, mobile phones, Internet and huge communication possibilities. Too many distractions in the world appear to be pushing people farther afar from the things of God, so much that obedience to the word of God is not given the deserved consideration. The believer thus stands the danger of paying too little attention to courting the favour of God.

Sometimes, man becomes self-satisfied and self-fulfilled simply because he can easily afford the basic necessities of life, enjoy some privileges as a result of family background, educational attainment or political connections. But when we turn away from self or man to God and concede to Him everything we have, we begin to experience His matchless love and favour.

The passage today gives us an insight into the decision and determination of a man who decided to make God His all in all; made God’s word the centre point of his life; obeyed God and associated with godly people. Our perception of and purposes in life determine our preferences and choices.

We must, like the Psalmist and others, hasten to do the will of God at all times. A life of deep devotion and prompt obedience will strengthen our relationship with the Almighty for our temporal and eternal benefit.

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

Thought for the day: "Only a rebellious son argues with his father when he says “go”"

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Daily Manna
Sunday 26, October 2014

For Your Own Good

TEXT: Psalm 119:65-72

"It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes" (Psalm 119:71).

A former drunkard, now a real child of God, told of his near-death experience with cirrhosis of the liver as a result of alcoholism. But, his life was spared by the special grace of God. Today, he has given up drunkenness. Truth is that had he not been afflicted, he would not have thought of giving his life to Christ.

The Psalmist says, “Before I was afflicted, I went astray.” That is the humble confession of many. “All we like sheep have gone astray”. That is the unfortunate truth concerning everyone. Natural man is a sheep gone astray. A straying sheep will be brought back to the right way by the rod of the shepherd. The abandoned sheep, left to itself, will be lost and ruined. The wandering sheep needs the help of the shepherd. When the shepherd applies the guiding rod on the sheep, it may be painful but that is the way to save the sheep.

The Psalmist continues, “but now have I kept your word.” Many people never do the right except great pain is visited on them. The scriptures say that the wicked will not be corrected by acts of favour shown to him and that the inhabitants of the world learn righteousness through God’s judgment (Isaiah 26:10-19). When afflictions come, the first thing to do should not be “binding and loosing” but self examination to see if there be any wicked way in us and let God lead us in the way everlasting (Psalm 139:23,24). Then can we, like the Psalmist, declare “it is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.”

Many of us like little children play with fire and until we are burnt we do not withdraw. God will not condone sin in anyone because He is not willing that any should be lost. Are you experiencing God’s rod of affliction? It is His rod of love and correction. He wants your attention. Turn to Him and it will be well. Affliction from Him is not to destroy, but to save. Whatever chastisement God permits in His child is for the good of that individual. He means well for us. And he loves His children dearly.

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

Thought for the day: "God usually purges His elect in the furnace of affliction"

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Daily Manna
Monday 27, October 2014

I Admit

TEXT: Psalm 119:73-80

"Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in thy precepts" (Psalm 119:78).

Most times, people cover a fault that should be acknowledged. In their attempt to defend themselves, they incur upon themselves the wrath of God. A man that is down, needing help, does not need more beating. They only need encouragement from everyone to pick their pieces again only if they realize their mistakes.

King David began his descent into sin when he committed adultery. The sin gave rise to a pregnancy, and to cover it up, the king plotted and killed Uriah, the husband of the woman. However, when David realized his faults through the message of Prophet Nathan, he was heartbroken and had a godly sorrow. He said, “I have sinned against the Lord.” David’s ability to acknowledge his sin was the beginning of his pardon by God. Having received His pardon, he never ceased to appreciate the Almighty. In his lowly estate, he received abuses and ill-treatment even from unexpected quarters, but he was humble to bear it all.

In our text today, King David took an inventory of his life - the goodness of God in his life; God’s righteous judgment and his (David) deserved affliction. He also prayed for God’s continuous mercy and loving kindness.

Some believers are so full of pride that they hardly accept their faults. They feel they have the right to do whatever pleases them, especially when they occupy a high office in society or even in the church. Humility should make us to always accept our fault and enable us to seek Christ.

The prodigal son realised he had fallen from grace and he went back to his father, begging for pardon. And he got it. If you have wandered away from the fold, you can make your way back, even now. Christ is waiting.

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

Thought for the day: "Don’t cover your sin to your destruction; open it up to God"

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Daily Manna
Tuesday 28, October 2014

Godly Desire

TEXT: Psalm 119:81-88

"Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth" (Psalm 119:88).

The world is beset with diverse challenges politically, socially and economically. These also impact negatively on the lives of individuals living on the globe. These troubles appear to moderate the lives of many so much that the hearts of people have been shifted from the things that matter to those things that have no lasting effect and of no spiritual value. Going by the things we see and experience, man is naturally weak to withstand them, but must need the quickening of the Spirit of God to keep the law of God.

The Psalmist, in our text, puts his hope in the word of God for his salvation and safe-keeping. He exuded great faith as he enthused that though he was extremely troubled by the enemy, he had made up his mind to trust in God’s statutes. Persecuted on all sides to the point of almost being destroyed, he was resolved to hold on tenaciously to God’s precepts. He noted that the action of the proud who sought to destroy him was contrary to the word of God. Yet for him, he would never toe the line of wickedness. Rather, he looked unto God for deliverance, insisting he would keep to the word of God.

The word of God is the priceless treasure that can enrich our life without measure. It is the bastion of hope for the hopeless; it is the lamp to believers’ feet and light to their path; it is the source of believers’ authority and dominion over the enemy. The hope of salvation for sinners lies in the word of God and it is the source of the believers’ strength. Therefore, the wise thing to do by all who desire victory in all areas of life and hope to be with the Lord at the end is to hold tightly to the word of God.

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

Thought for the day: "The word of God is the bulwark of believers’ faith"

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Thought for the day:

"The word of God is the bulwark of believers’ faith"

Daily Manna
Wednesday 29, October 2014

Dependable Companion

TEXT: Psalm 119:89-96

"Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction" (Psalm 119:92).

Nowadays, it is almost becoming difficult to have a dependable companion. Cases abound of people tricking their friends to be kidnapped for ransom. Some give up even their blood relations for money. Security has broken down in many countries, particularly in developing nations, so much that life is almost meaningless. And justice is a mirage.

Newspapers and electronic media inundate our ears and eyes with horrible news on a daily basis. There’s no comforting news anywhere. But the Psalmist tells us that the law of the Lord offers that hope. Reading and depending on it reassures the believer of the ever-present God to offer the desired help.

The Psalmist here acknowledges the efficacy of the word of God and of all His counsels. He also acknowledges the unchangeableness of the almighty God with whom is no variableness nor shadow of turning. “Thy word” by which the heavens were made, “is settled,” producing as evidence, the constancy of the course of nature. The abiding faithfulness of the Creator from generations past till eternity lends more credence to the durability and reliability of His word. He said, “I am God, I change not” (Malachi 3:6). So also are His words. “For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.” This eternal quality is not subject in anyway to the elements of nature. The Psalmist ever found solace in the powerful influence of the word in his affliction, as it gave him delight in solitude and sorrow. The word of the Lord is a pleasant companion at all times.

The best evidence of our love for the word of God is never to forget it. David said: “I have sought thy precepts,” even in the midst of enemies and conspiracies against him. He confessed, “I will consider thy testimonies.” The more of His word you have in you, the more His abiding presence is assured. We should, therefore, consciously endeavor to store more of His word in our hearts.

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

Thought for the day: "A man is vulnerable when he forsakes God’s law"

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Daily Manna
Thursday 30, October 2014

Cast Off Indolence

TEXT: LUKE 19:21-28

"Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?" (Luke 19:23).

anna sets out to provide spiritual nourishment for those who are truly committed to seeking God and walking closely with Him. It's an extraction of God's word, and mainly serves to draw the sincere seeker closer to God on a daily basis.

A story was told of a young man who rounded off his apprenticeship at a tailoring institute. On his graduation day, he was given some money and two different sewing machines as a settlement. His elder brother also gave him some amount of money to enable him start small, but he wanted to start big like his master. He wanted a whole building as a starting point and different kinds of sewing machines. In the course of his waiting, the money he was given got lost and fire gutted where he packed the two machines and he went back to square one.

Had the boy rented a shop to start with, he would not have suffered so much loss. His mates who put the little thing they were given into proper use are today flourishing in the business.

This was the point our Lord Jesus Christ drove home in the parable in our text. He had told His disciples of a certain nobleman who, prior to embarking on a long journey, called his ten servants and delivered one pound to each of them. On his return, all the servants, but one, gave glowing account of how profitable they had been. They had wisely invested the pound and gained many times over. But this one exception came back to his master with his one pound. If he stopped at handing back the pound to the master and walking away, that would have been bad enough. But then, he verbally attacked his master. He accused his master of always wanting to profit from the efforts of others. His master was furious. Now, the master would judge the servant according to his words, describing the servant as wicked. He then took the pound from the servant and gave it to the man that had gained ten, again stressing a vital point that the more you use your talent, the more profitable you will become.

It is an act of foolishness to refuse to use the talents God has deposited in you. In fact, such foolishness is sinful. It denies God His due pre-eminence in your life. It means you have refused to be useful to your fellow human beings, and above all, you have neglected to obey God.

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

Thought for the day: "Do not despise the day of little beginning"

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