OasisofRefuge:


Thanks for sharing sir

You are welcome, anytime.

Daily Manna
Wednesday 19, November 2014

One God, Many Destinies

TEXT: 2 KINGS 18:1-12

"And at the end of three years they took it: even in the sixth year of Hezekiah, that is the ninth year of Hoshea king of Israel, Samaria was taken" (2 Kings 18:10).

The story was told of two young boys who grew up in a local church. Their Sunday school teacher had special interest in the lads because they were intelligent stars with promising future leadership traits. Years later, one of them had become an outstanding reformer and an active defender of the Christian faith while the other degenerated into a deadly and criminal advocacy of falsehood. Equal opportunities and privileges in life do not necessarily produce equal results!

Today’s text examines the contrast between two kings who ruled in Israel and Judah about the same time. Their relationship with God, which was the reflection of their heart condition, lifestyle, actions and attitude, positioned them differently before God and history.

Hosea the son of Elah, who reigned in Israel deviated from all godly precepts and transgressed in things of God to his own peril. His reign terminated the northern kingdom of Israel that had existed for over two hundred years, which eventually disappeared from history as the “ten lost tribes” commonly known as the Samaritans. Hezekiah, on the other hand, feared God, and worked in His ways. Though his father was ungodly, Hezekiah did that which was right, according to all that David his forefather did. He was with God and God was with him.

It is wisdom to pitch one’s tent beside God on the path of righteousness, because righteousness exalteth a nation but sin is a reproach to any people. Hosea, meaning salvation in Hebrew tongue, could neither obtain salvation for himself nor be an agent of salvation for his nation. Hezekiah, which means, strength of God, drew divine strength from God’s righteousness to do exploits. Godly names with special privileges in life that is void of purity and personal relationship with God and Christ will end up in shame and regret.

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

Thought for the day: "Decision determines destiny"

See more at:

Thought for the day:

"Decision determines destiny"

Daily Manna
Thursday 20, November 2014

Fear Of Man

TEXT: 2 KINGS 18:13-25

"And Hezekiah king of Judah sent to the king of Assyria to Lachish, saying, I have offended; return from me: that which thou puttest on me will I bear. And the king of Assyria appointed unto Hezekiah king of Judah three hundred talents of silver and thirty talents of gold" (2 Kings 18:14).

The scripture warns us against slavish fear which has torments. “Who art thou, that thou shouldest be afraid of a man that shall die and of the son of man which shall be made as grass. And forgettest the Lord thy Maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth; and hast feared continually everyday because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to destroy? And where is the fury of the oppressor?” (Isaiah 51:12,13).

Our inordinate fear of man is a mark of partial or total forgetfulness of God. When we disquiet ourselves with the fear of man, we forget that there is a God above him. Most of the things we fear may happen to us are just products of our imaginations. Rightly defined, FEAR is False Expectations Appearing Real. We are cautioned not to dread the power of mortal man. Slavish fear brings a snare. It exposes man to many temptations and foolish decisions. Abraham, for fear of man denied his wife, ditto Peter his Master, and many a man, his God.

Sennacherib, the king of Assyria had taken all the fenced cities of Judah and was bent on destroying the whole land. Gripped by fear, King Hezekiah was ready to pay any ransom. The king of Assyria also sent three of his great generals with a great host against Jerusalem. Rabshakeh, the chief speaker of the three generals, spoke against Hezekiah, the people of Judah and the God of the whole earth.

Pride and profanity characterized his speech. In spite of Hezekiah’s submission and readiness to pay a vast sum of money – 300 talents of silver and thirty talents of gold to purchase the safety of the land, the king of Assyria could not be pacified. No matter what a man may do to appease the devil, he can never be pacified. Instead of trying to appease the enemy, it is better to “resist the devil and he will flee from you.” Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean upon His everlasting arm, and your security will be sure.

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

Thought for the day: "The only thing to fear is fear itself"

See more at:

Thought for the day:

"The only thing to fear is fear itself"

Daily Manna
Friday 21, November 2014

Empty Boast

TEXT: 2 KINGS 18:26-37

"Neither let Hezekiah make you trust in the LORD, saying, The LORD will surely deliver us, and this city shall not be delivered into the hand of the king of Assyria" (2 Kings 18:30).

On August 27, 1792, the Duke of Brunswick, commander-in-chief of the allied army in the French Revolution who was then in the plain of Champagne, on his way to Paris with about ninety thousand men threatened to reduce the whole Paris to ashes. Shortly after his boasting the blast of God shook him, for on September 20 of the same year, almost all his army was destroyed by a fatal disease and himself obliged to retreat.

In our text today, the Assyrians had already overthrown the gods of Hamath, Arpad, Hena and Iyah. Therefore, they thought Jehovah would be like one of them and would not be able to deliver Jerusalem out of their hand. The impudent blasphemy of their speech is without parallel against God. So, God himself punished Senacherib, the Assyrian King.

The wicked always flatter themselves in their prosperity. Success emboldens men in transgression and they sometimes claim that they please God because He suffers them for a time to prosper in their sins. It is in vain to contend with God. Proud look and haughty spirit are both abomination before God. Our speech should not be characterised with pride and vain boasting. These are sins against God. Pride goes before destruction.

Humility of heart and obedience to God’s word are true great virtues. To enjoy the blessings of God, we must be humble in our heart, in our attitude, action and disposition. This is the path to greatness in God’s Kingdom. The way up is down, and God giveth more grace and promotion to the humble soul.

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

Thought for the day: "Only the foolish can ask: where is your God?"

See more at:

Thought for the day:

"Only the foolish can ask: where is your God?"

Daily Manna
Saturday 22, November 2014

Redeemed

TEXT: Jeremiah 31:1–14

"For the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger than he" (Jeremiah 31:11).

Several years ago, there was a couple that worked as missionaries among an extremely primitive tribe in some remote island of the Pacific Ocean. It was such a backward tribe that cared not for their bodies but rather lived in filthy and repulsive environment. The missionaries refused to concentrate efforts to teaching hygiene to the people, but only preached to them to be clean on the inside by the blood of Jesus. This they did with much passion and prayer. When asked the reason for their blunt principles, they explained: “When a person is inwardly cleansed, the outward cleansing follows. Jesus makes the difference in anyone’s life.”

Life had been difficult for the people of Israel. They languished and suffered severely in the land of their captivity all because of iniquity and continual disobedience to their Maker. Now, in our passage today, the promise of restoration comes from the Lord to His people. Though, Israel’s socio-religious life was destroyed, it shall revive again. Though the nation was brought down low and great afflictions and difficulties attended their way, there shall be deliverance. God will manifest Himself in the change that was coming to Israel for His faithfulness, loving kindness and unfailing love, but Israel must acknowledge her sin, and seek Him with supplication and true repentance. When Israel must have returned to true worship and to obeying God’s word, then life will become worth living.

This same message remains true today. Your night can be turned into day. Your gloom can give way to brightness and joy, your humiliations to exaltation, and your failure to good success. Jesus will make the difference in your life if you will give your heart to Him. When He comes in, He will change your life for the better. One full step in genuine repentance and faith in Christ’s atoning blood will make heaven smile down at you. It is like you never sinned before. Experience joy! Confess your sins to Him and ask Him to come into your heart today.

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

Thought for the day: "Only God can make a new life out of the old"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Sunday 23, November 2014

Value Of Obstacles

TEXT: Jeremiah 31:15-26

"I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus; Thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised, as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke: turn thou me, and I shall be turned; for thou art the LORD my God" (Jeremiah 31:18).

One man, a golf enthusiast, was telling another man how hard it was, on a certain course, to drive the ball over a ditch that lay between the tree and the green. “Why don’t they fill up the ditch?” asked the second man. An old lady was watching a game of tennis, and saw how often the ball was driven against the net. “Why don’t they take down the net?” she asked.

It is hard for many to comprehend the value of obstacles, hazards, hindrances and chastisements. They cannot understand the joys of the chase. They never entered into the delight of overcoming. If the time ever comes when all our ditches are filled, all our nets taken down, life will be too tame to live. Let us praise God daily for the hurdles in the way, face them cheerfully, and overcome them with a shout!

Though Israel, like an estranged wife had gone away from the Lord who is their spiritual husband and had been taken into captivity by enemy nations, the Lord did earnestly remember her still. His bowels of mercy are troubled for how she has fared while in captivity. They bemoaned themselves and sighed by reason of their afflictions like a bullock unaccustomed to his yoke. But He encouraged them to repent and take advantage of the new hope in His new creation. Today, this is made possible through the virgin birth of Jesus Christ.

Though we may pass through circumstances that tend to dampen the joy of saints, some things are said to encourage faith, hope, and joy, and to abate sorrow and weeping. The Lord watches over us and is going before us. He calls upon backsliders to return unto Him with a promise of pardon and forgiveness. Like the father of the prodigal son, the Lord has been waiting for His sons and daughters to return home.

Every believer is precious in the sight of the Lord. Like a shepherd would not lose one sheep, or a jeweler one diamond, or a mother one child, the Lord will not lose one of His redeemed people. However little we may be, if we are the Lord’s, we are preserved in Christ Jesus.

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

Thought for the day: "Our extremities are the Lord’s opportunities"

See more at:

Thought for the day:

"Our extremities are the Lord’s opportunities"

Daily Manna
Monday 24, November 2014

Never Stop Believing

TEXT: Jeremiah 31:27-40

"And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more" (Jeremiah 31:34).

Consider this scenario: You are confronted with seemingly intractable problems; there is a sickness or affliction that has defied cures. You have been battling a certain negative habit which you have failed repeatedly to kick. You have prayed and fasted, and nothing seems to be changing. The natural instinct in many people is to throw their hands up in frustration. The truth is that most times, we give up too soon. But it is just when we come to our wit’s end that the Lord steps in with a solution.

He did just that for the Israelites. For long, they had bemoaned their condition. They had borne the Lord’s chastisement, and they had prayed for forgiveness and pardon, but it seemed nothing was happening. But just when all hopes seemed lost, the Lord vowed to rekindle His blessings on them with the same fervour with which He brought punishment on them. He would initiate a new covenant with them. This would be totally different from the deal He had with their forefathers. He would write His laws in their hearts so that He would be their God and they His people. They would not need to be taught to know the Lord; but all of them, from the least to the greatest, would know and love the Lord because He would forgive their iniquity and remember their sins no more. He pledged that so long as the sun, moon and stars continue to shine, day and night remain, heaven and the foundations of the earth remain beyond human comprehension, so would Israel remain as a nation. Israel would be built up and flourish again, and would no longer be ravaged by enemies.

No matter your situation in life and how dire your condition may be, you must never give up hope. You must continue to have faith in God, and expect His loving intervention. If you got entangled in sin, you must quickly repent and cling to God’s grace to grant you a new life of righteousness. You must never stop believing that He loves you, and that He desires the very best for you. He may appear to be delaying His intervention, but rest assured that the Lord is never late or too early. Therefore, “hope thou in God.”

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

Thought for the day: "Never forget the best part: God is with us!"

See more at:

♫ Hymn of the Week ♫

TAKE MY LIFE (GHS 87)

1. Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.

2. Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet, and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee.

3. Take my voice and let me sing
Always, only for my King;
Take my lips and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee.

4. Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose.

5. Take my will and make it Thine,
It shall be no longer mine;
Take my heart, it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne.

6. Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure-store;
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Daily Manna
Tuesday 25, November 2014

Beyond The Bars

TEXT: Jeremiah 32:1-15

"For Zedekiah king of Judah had shut him up, saying, Wherefore dost thou prophesy, and say, Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will give this city into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall take it" (Jeremiah 32:3).

"Be of good comfort, Master Ridley, and play the man; we shall this day light such a candle, by God’s grace, in England as (I trust) shall never be put out." With these words, Hugh Latimar, the Protestant reformer cheered his fellow martyr, Nicholas Ridley as the two men were about to be burned at the stake for refusing to embrace Catholicism during the infamous reign of Queen Mary. The queen got rid of both men in order to stop the preaching of the truth. But God’s word is irrepressible. True to Latimar’s prediction, in no time, the gospel outshined both Queen Mary and Catholicism in England.

Prophet Jeremiah was imprisoned by King Zedekiah for his prophesy concerning the impending doom of the king and the city of Jerusalem. But vain is such an effort because God’s messenger may be imprisoned but not God’s word. The words spoken by the prophet came to pass as surely as daylight comes after night. The siege of Jerusalem had actually begun a year before. King Zedekiah should have heeded the admonitions of Jeremiah by penitently turning to the Lord and seeking His intervention. No, “Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him” (Proverbs 27:22). Sin was the cause of the whole trouble, yet the king added wickedness and callousness to it by shutting the prophet in. Sin hardens and kills.

Jeremiah’s confinement did not shut him off from hearing from God. Right there, the Lord instructed him to buy a plot of land off Hanameel, his nephew. This land purchased in the threatened city was symbolic of the fact that after the predicted captivity in Babylon, God would cause the people to return to their own land. As for the despotic king, he was bound to stand as a captive before Nebuchadnezzar to face the music. All these eventually came to pass.

What is your attitude to God’s warnings? Seek not to suppress nor neglect them. You may stave off impending danger only by making your ways right with God.

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

Thought for the day: "Hardness of heart is the worst response to divine warning"

See more at:

Thought for the day:

"Hardness of heart is the worst response to divine warning"

‪#‎KumuyiStormsKwara‬ Connect LIVE with Pastor Kumuyi as he ministers in Kwara State here: http:///pfdkhU

Kwara State: Supernatural Encounter with the God of Power
Supernatural Encounter with the God of Power


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpZIlqJ9VCg

Daily Manna
Wednesday 26, November 2014

Awesome God!

TEXT: Jeremiah 32:16-25

"Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee" (Jeremiah 32:17).

Kings and emperors in the past wielded such power and authority over their subjects that made their presence evoke awe and terror. Their words could mean death or life. Some even considered themselves as semi-gods and demanded to be worshipped. But whatever power they might have had and whatever they might have thought of themselves, they were still human and were plagued by all the weaknesses known to man.

Yet God is God! He alone possesses such power and authority that cannot be questioned or limited by any factor. Prophet Jeremiah knew Him better. That was why when he considered all the judgment God had determined to bring upon the people of Judah, he shuddered! God’s power and might is awesome and overwhelming. He has the power to bring to pass whatever He has determined to do. If He has determined to bring judgment upon people, He can do it and no one can question Him. His power can also bring to pass what human mind consider impossible.

In today’s passage, the prophet illustrates with the purchase of the land, the promise of God to restore the children of Judah to their land after their captivity in Babylon. This is possible, for according to the prophet, there is nothing too hard for God to do.

The knowledge of God’s awesome power should produce certain effects in us. It should make us know that God’s word is not to be toiled with. Whatever He says, either a proclamation of judgment or a pronouncement of blessing, He is able to bring to pass. We should, therefore, reverence and honour Him in all that we do. We should not attempt to take His word for granted or His delayed judgment as a sign of weakness. If He has held back His judgment to this point, it is only because He is merciful and longsuffering, waiting for the sinner to embrace His mercy and repent. It should also make us have confidence in all the good promises He has given to us, knowing that He is able to bring everyone of them to pass.

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

Thought for the day: "There is no match to the power of God"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Thursday 27, November 2014

Destruction Pronounced

TEXT: Jeremiah 32:26-35

"Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will give this city into the hand of the Chaldeans, and into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and he shall take it" (Jeremiah 32:28.)

"Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God" (Romans 2: 4, 5). This passage aptly summarises the nation of Israel’s perennial cycle of sin against God, His word and commandment. It is also true of the rest of the world today taking God for granted.

The children of Israel were freed from Egyptian captivity and slavery by the mighty hand of God. The gods of Egypt could not stop the God of heaven and earth. The commandment to them (and to us today) among other commandments was clear. “Thou shalt have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). But they set aside this commandment and upon their roofs “they have offered incense unto Baal, and poured out drink offerings unto other gods to provoke me to anger” (verse 29). Provoking God to anger through idol worship was the height of their disobedience and rebellion. A just recompense awaited them – the righteous judgment of God.

As it was with the children of Israel so it is with many people today. “They have changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man and to birds and four footed beasts and creeping things” (Romans 1:23). Idolatry begins when we change the truth about God into a lie, worship and serve the creature more than the Creator. The result? The righteous judgment of God, woe, doom, and misery!

We can escape this unpleasant experience and needless pain today by examining ourselves. Let us return unto Him when the evil days of avoidable pain and anguish have not yet come.

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

Thought for the day: "Whatever diminishes our love for God is an idol"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Friday 28, November 2014

Covenant Of Mercy

TEXT: Jeremiah 32:36-44

"And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good; but I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me" (Jeremiah 32:40)

A pastor in Norfolk, Virginia, phoned the editor of a religious newspaper and gave him the topic of his Sunday morning sermon, “The Lord is my shepherd”. The editor asked, “Is that all?” The pastor replied, “That is enough.” The editor, thinking that the words were part of his subject, announced the pastor’s topic as follows; “The Lord is my shepherd. That’s enough”. To know the Lord as our protector and provider is enough to all fears and assuage all our sorrows. There is nothing as comforting as to know that God has made a covenant of mercy with His people through the death and sacrifice of the Lord Jesus to care, protect and support them throughout their journey in life.

Our text reveals a turning point in the history of the children of Israel when God promised to “…gather them out of all countries wither I have driven them in mine anger; and in my fury and in great wrath, and I will bring them again unto this place, and I will cause them to dwell safely.” Prior to this time, it was a story of woes, defeat and affliction for the children of Israel. They incurred the wrath of people because of their disobedience and rebellion. They suddenly obtained mercy because of God’s constant love and compassion.

Micah recalled this graciousness of God when he wrote “Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy” (Micah 7:18). The same mercy Paul the apostle obtained is what all born again believers receive. The story of Calvary is purely the story of peace God made with mankind. “For by grace are ye saved through faith: and not of yourselves; it is the gift of God”. God is still in the business of making peace with sinners because He delights in mercy.

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

Thought for the day: "It is self-destruction to reject God’s mercy"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Saturday 29, November 2014

Don't Spare

TEXT: Proverbs 23:13-25

"Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die" (Proverbs 23:13)

The new trend now in parenting in some parts of the advanced world is to rule out corporal punishment for children. The plausible explanation is that it is barbaric and wicked. Children need to be loved. It presupposes that even the kindergarten knows and understands what an adult knows, and a parental frown is a sign of wickedness and lack of affection. It further presupposes that the judgment of the young ones is as sharp as that of an adult. So, why beat the child for whatever reason?

The result of the past few decades of childhood indulgence is all too evident now. Children now grow up to become rebels, outlaws, vagabonds, drug addicts, sex maniacs, gun runners, murderers, street fighters, etc. The countries that embark on the crusade against ‘child abuse’ have already started reaping the seeds of indulgence they sowed several years ago. Their adolescents and young adult now strap trousers below the buttocks, turn their fez caps backwards, cultivate long, unkempt hair and make obnoxious tattoos on their bodies. There are dangers awaiting the world in the hands of political and business leaders from a growing number of poorly trained youths that are fast becoming adults.

Our passage here underscores the need for parents to correct their children and instruct them to give their minds to the Scriptures. Accompanied with prayer, and blessed of God, it will prove a means of preventing his destruction. In view of the potential risks, parents must, therefore, encourage their children, telling them what would be for their good.

How do you handle your child now? Do you ignore his failings, hoping that things will naturally correct themselves? Or, do you take steps to bend his will now that he can still be shown the right way? The choice is yours to make.

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

Thought for the day: "It is easier to train a child than mend an adult"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Sunday 30, November 2014

Danger of Careless Lifestyle

TEXT: PROVERBS 23:26-35

"Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?" (Proverbs 23:29)

A few years ago, in one of the Western nations, a popular, elegant and wealthy lady, who was then at the prime of her youth, died tragically in a terrible auto crash that also claimed the life of her boyfriend while they were returning from a popular hotel in that city. In one of the numerous commentaries published in the newspapers on her time and life as well as her tragic and untimely death, someone said: “those who live on the fast lane of life often perish on it.”

In our passage today, we are reminded of this timeless truth as painted very clearly in the picture of the consequences of yielding one’s life, interest and emotions to the two most terrible indulgences: women and wine or adultery and addiction. While no sin or unrighteousness is excused by God or is without its consequences, the obvious fact is that men and women suffer physical, financial, emotional, psychological, social and spiritual calamities as a result of indulging in reckless lifestyles such as partying, drunkenness, adultery or fornication and addictions.

However, God has already given us the way of escape in verse 26: “My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.” The path to victory and dominion over sin is to give your heart to God and to observe God’s ways as shown us in His word.

To overcome the temptations of being entrapped by these common and prevalent sins, one must go beyond mere resolutions or mere confessions of the sins. There must be personal decision to receive the grace of God through salvation in Christ and be determined to keep the word of God in one’s heart as we regularly remember the consequences, now and in eternity, of indulging in sin.

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

Thought for the day: "A careless life is like a candle in the wind"

See more at:

Thought for the day:

"A careless life is like a candle in the wind"

♫ Hymn of the Week ♫

JESUS ONLY IS OUR MESSAGE (GHS 73)

1. Jesus only is our Message,
Jesus all our theme shall be;
We will lift up Jesus ever
Jesus Only will we see.

Jesus only, Jesus ever,
Jesus all in all we sing;
Saviour, Sanctifier, Healer,
Baptizer and coming King.

2. Jesus only is our Saviour,
All our guilt He bore away;
All our righteousness He gives us,
All our strength from day to day.

3. Jesus is our Sanctifier,
Cleansing us from self and sin;
And with all His Spirit’s fulness,
Filling all our hearts within.

4. Jesus only is our Healer,
All our sicknesses He bare;
And His risen life and fulness,
All His members still may share.

5. Jesus only is our Power,
His the gift of Pentecost;
Jesus, breathe Thy power upon us,
Fill us with the Holy Ghost.

6. And for Jesus we are waiting,
Listening for the trumpet’s sound;
Then it will be us and Jesus,
Living ever with our God.

Daily Manna
Monday, December 01, 2014

Sundry Lessons

TEXT: PROVERBS 24:1–20

"If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain" (Proverbs 24:11)

Every moment in life presents a challenge and the challenge presents us with opportunities. What you do with the opportunities that come your way ultimately determines the sum of your life. To help you in life, God did not only send His Son Jesus to save, but also gave His word to guide you.

As you look at today’s passage, you will find instructions that can help you to please God and your neighbour. They will also give you peace and joy. Believers are warned not to be envious of evil people. Wicked people today are being celebrated because the world likes evil. Their judgment is deferred by God because He wants their salvation; so people think that the wicked is approved by God. God does not love evil and so, He instructs us not to desire or be like them.

By wisdom and understanding, we can build and furnish our life (house). When there is confusion, we should obtain good counsel. Of course, not every counselor is wise. Only a wise person can give wise counsel. A multitude of bad counsellors will destroy you. Seek the wise and get wisdom. It will establish you.

As a believer, you must be strong against the moment of trouble or else you will be swallowed up. Put on the whole armour of God. Be prepared always against the evil hour. Do not faint, but be strong. Fear God and be steadfast in your commitment. Obey the good laws of the land. Don’t be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine.

Refrain from having respect of persons. Stand for righteousness. Your decision to follow Christ is the true evidence of wisdom and make sure you follow on with daily obedience to His word.

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

Thought for the day: "It is wisdom to be different and unique"

See more at:

Thought for the day:

"It is wisdom to be different and unique"

Daily Manna
Tuesday, December 02, 2014

False Witness Forbidden

TEXT: PROVERBS 24:21-34

"He that saith unto the wicked, Thou art righteous; him shall the people curse, nations shall abhor him" (Proverbs 24:24)

As the world becomes more and more materialistic, many people have jumped on the bandwagon of hero-worship for the sake of filthy lucre. In many societies, virtues have given way to vanity. The philosophy of many people now is, “the end justifies the means.” Cases of miscarriage of justice are rife. It is now a case of, ‘if you can’t beat them, join them.’ Today, we do not have many Prophet Nathans who can tell king David, “thou art the man.”

According to the wise king, false witness against the innocent is a grievous sin in the sight of God. Nowadays, majority applaud ill-gotten wealth. In their eyes, it is being smart to dupe another person to make money. Notorious armed robbers, murderers, serial adulterers and tricksters are given high honour in society because of their wealth. This category of people always have their way whenever they are dragged to court.

Believers are advised to always say the truth, no matter the implications. Our society today is filled with all manner of gang-up against the innocent, assassinations, ritual murder, miscarriage of justice, oppression and harassment. Innocent people are framed-up and dumped in prisons without cause while there are deceivers all over the place who use their sugar-coated lips to lure people into problems and still walk away freely without anybody prosecuting them; they use their positions in society or their financial status to suppress justice.

As we go about our business today, we must determine to live for Christ in all we do or say. In our neighbourhood, offices, market places and anywhere we may find ourselves, we must make up our minds never to be a party to wicked works.

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

Thought for the day: "Rise like a Lilly in a Valley"

See more at:

Thought for the day:

"Rise like a Lilly in a Valley"

Daily Manna
Wednesday, December 03, 2014

Stoop to Conquer

TEXT: PROVERBS 25:1-15

"Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men: For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen" (Proverbs 25:6,7)

The book of Proverbs is certainly a great source of wisdom to the discerning. It offers guidance to those who are diligent enough to utilize its provisions in their day-to-day endeavours.

Our text today offers us admonition on sundry issues, ranging from humility to the use of our tongue. Solomon, the author of this book, understood by divine revelation that good kings are made by good counsellors and that to have a blameless king, wicked counsellors must be banished from the court. He harps on the need for humility. A man who craves exaltation must actually humble himself.

Solomon also emphasizes the need to settle whatever differences we may have with our fellowmen, out of any legal framework, as much as possible. At the same time, he warns about the impropriety of leaking the secret of fellowmen entrusted to us, as this negative use of the tongue is tantamount to betrayal. He recommends a soft tongue because it possesses the power to subdue the most obstinate resistance.

Solomon’s admonition should be an eye-opener to everyone today. This is because the sundry issues of wrong counselling, pride and negative use of the tongue seem to be the undoing of many. They constitute the little foxes that spoil the vine (Song of Solomon 2:15). Surprisingly, some believers are so carefree that despite the effects of these strange attitudes, they still do not realize the negative weight of their behaviour. Such believers risk rejection by God at the end of their journey. The only way out for them is to breakup their fallow ground and seek the Lord so that He can reign righteousness upon them. How about your life?

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

Thought for the day: "Humble yourself before God and He will exalt you"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Thursday, December 04, 2014

God's Way

TEXT: PROVERBS 25:16-28

"If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink" (Proverbs 25:21)

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD” (Isaiah 55:8.) A songwriter puts it this way: “If you’re in the Saviour’s hands, you must do as He commands, for there is no other gospel way... It’s the way, God’s way... Never put the message by, never stop to reason why? When the Saviour speaks to you, just obey.”

In our present world of strife and constant violence, revenge has become a common norm deeply embedded in the average natural man. No one wants to either give up or let go. Unfortunately, this unscriptural way of life is being gradually injected into Christendom as a normal way of life. We now have such popular slogans as “back to sender”; “fire for fire”; “prayer of vengeance”; “Holy Ghost fire consume them”, etc. Such coinages, which now thrive amongst believers, negate the Scriptural injunction of love for our enemies.

The popular notion among such believers is that the earlier you crush your enemy out of the way, the better for you. But come to think of it, who actually decides the fate of the so–called enemies? Is it our violent approach of “fire for fire” or the providential power of God? Has God not given us enough promises in the Holy Writ to ensure our constant, continual victory over every enemy, no matter how determined or powerful? God said: “But if thou shalt indeed obey his voice, and do all that I speak; then I will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries” (Exodus 23:22). With faith in the power of God to subdue our enemies and our daily walk with Him, there is no “stubborn” enemy that can withstand the mighty power of God.

Whatever the opinion of men, our Saviour has shown us the way by sacrificially loving us when we were yet enemies. Our concentration therefore should be acts of piety, sympathy and goodness to all men.

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

Thought for the day: "Enemies can become our friends as our ways please God"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Friday, December 05, 2014

Take Heed

TEXT: PROVERBS 26:1-19

"As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouth of fools" (Proverbs 26:9)

One of the folklores of a prominent culture group along the west coast of Africa relates to the wisdom contained in one of their proverbs that while a finger points towards another person, the other four fingers (invariably) point to the accuser. This means that, sometimes, the accuser is more guilty than the person being accused.

In the passage for our devotion today, we see the deep wisdom dripping from the parables of king Solomon. The meaning of verse 9 is that normally, the first prick of a thorn alerts the victim and he removes the thorn before it inflicts a deadly injury. A drunk person however, may not feel the thorn, and so it works its way into his flesh. Similarly, a fool may not feel the sting of a parable, or a sermon or precept, because he does not see where it touches his life. Instead of taking the point to heart, a fool will “parry” it to another person - a spouse, a friend or whoever he is rebelling against. So, the next time we find ourselves saying, “so-and-so should really pay attention to that,” we should stop and ask ourselves “is there a message in it for me?”

Many believers have become so familiar with the word of God that whenever they hear a message from God, it becomes very ordinary. This is dangerous and the consequence of this “spiritual insensitivity” is spiritual death. Backsliders are therefore encouraged today to trace the cause of their backsliding and return to God. You have the opportunity to accept the Lord Jesus today as your personal Lord and Saviour if you’ve not done so; and if you have, ensure that you maintain a victorious Christian living through a closer walk with the Saviour.

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

Thought for the day: "The warning bell tolls but for us"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Saturday, December 06, 2014

Honour the Lord

TEXT: Leviticus 22:26-33

"Neither shall ye profane my holy name; but I will be hallowed among the children of Israel: I am the LORD which hallow you, That brought you out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: I am the LORD" (Leviticus 22:32,33)

On profanity, Charles Spurgeon said, “Whenever I hear a man swear, I always pray for him, it is a horrible thing that men should blaspheme, curse and swear. But I believe that there would be less of these evils if all Christians prayed whenever they heard an oath, for the devil would see that it would not pay for him. For fool though he is, he has some sense left.”

In our passage today, we see God demanding from Israel and all His children, decorum in worship, ensuring that that which is offered to the Lord is pure and holy, and offered with a transformed heart and attitude. The cow or ewe and the young should not be offered the same day. The name of the LORD is to be held in honour among His own sons and daughters and His commandments obeyed as our Saviour, Redeemer and Maker.

Profanity of God’s holy name comes in different ways today. Using God’s name to affirm what is said is disrespectful to the Maker of heaven and earth. This must be confessed and repented of. The Scripture says our words should be yea, yea or nay, nay.

We have to be very careful the way we relate with others so that we do not become a stumbling block. Romans 2:24 says, “For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written”. A life of hypocrisy and sin leads to blasphemy, dishonour and reproach of the Lord who died and paid the full price to rescue us from sin and Satan.

A life of purity and holiness honours God. When David went into sin with Uriah’s wife, the Lord said, “wherefore has thou despised the commandment of the Lord to do this evil...?” (2 Samuel 12:9). “Because by this deed, thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme” (2 Samuel 12:14). Keep your heart and life pure.

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

Thought for the day: "Your soul is like a mirror to reflect the glory of God"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Sunday, December 07, 2014

Holy Convocation

TEXT: LEVITICUS 23:1-8

"These are the feasts of the LORD, even holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their seasons" (Leviticus 23:4)

A prominent African Pastor traced back his conversion to a camp meeting held for youths many years ago, even when his motive of going there was quite different. Holy Convocation attracts the presence and power of the holy God.

Moses instructed the children of Israel to observe different feasts which God ordained for them to symbolise specific purposes. God appointed these feasts to make the children of Israel remember His dealings with them and for celebration, fellowship and worship. They were to observe the Sabbath day of rest every week and also enjoy other national holidays. The Passover was to be celebrated to reflect when God spared the lives of Israel’s first born children in Egypt and freed them from slavery. The feast of unleavened bread was to remind the people that they were leaving the old life behind and entering into a new way of living.

Careful reflection on what each of these holidays symbolises will draw the heart of a heaven-bound pilgrim closer to God. Much can be learnt about people in every nation on how they observe and celebrate their holidays. Of course, not all national holidays today are holy convocations. Christians must take note of all holidays and ask what they say about their values before celebrating them.

God is a spirit, and they that worship Him must do so in spirit and in truth. Holy convocations that are characterised by sensuality, frivolity and immoral lifestyle negate the primary purpose of such gatherings. Godly fear with reference, worship, adoration, deep solemnity must be the prevailing features of all holy assemblies. Those who stray away from weekly meetings, special camp meetings and retreats in pursuit of other ephemeral things of life are missing the peace, purity, power and provisions that freely accompany holy convocations.

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

Thought for the day: "Seasons and festivals come and go but God remains the same"

See more at:

Daily Manna
Monday, December 08, 2014

Keeping the Feast

TEXT: LEVITICUS 23:9-22

"And ye shall count unto you from the morrow after the sabbath, from the day that ye brought the sheaf of the wave offering; seven sabbaths shall be complete" (Leviticus 23:15)

In His infinite wisdom, God instituted holy feasts and convocations for the children of Israel. Each of these feasts were instituted for a purpose and He expected strict compliance if they would enjoy His blessings.

Our text today deals with some of the feasts instituted by the Lord especially the Feast of Pentecost which is also known as the Feast of weeks. It is called the Feast of weeks because it was observed fifty days or seven weeks and one day after the Passover. It is also called the Feast of harvest. The Feast of Passover also known as the Feast of Unleavened Bread was divinely instituted to commemorate Israel’s deliverance from Egypt and the sparing of their first born sons when all the first born of the Egyptians died. This was made possible by the killing of the Paschal Lamb, pointing to the shedding of the blood of Christ, for the salvation of the whole world. Every sinner who applies the blood of Jesus upon his heart by faith would receive forgiveness of sin, pass from death to life and be made a new creature in Christ Jesus.

Fifty days after the Passover comes the Feast of Pentecost. While the children of Israel ate unleavened bread during the Feast of Passover, they were to eat bread that was leavened at Pentecost because it was an acknowledgment of God’s goodness to them in their ordinary food which was leavened, whereby they offered generously to the Lord, giving glory to God as the Lord of their harvest. This annual feast was instituted in remembrance of the giving of the law upon Mount Sinai, the fiftieth day after they came out of Egypt.

It is noteworthy that the pouring out of the Spirit upon the apostles and the early church was on the day of Pentecost, exactly fifty days after Christ our Passover, was sacrificed for us. Moreover, there was a repetition of the law by which they were required to care for the poor connected with the Feast of Passover. This taught them and us by application, that the joy of harvest should express itself in charity to the poor.

God cares for His people. He has provided salvation for every sinner, sanctification for believers and the Spirit’s baptism for the saints. “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.”

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

Thought for the day: "All things are ready; believe and receive"

See more at: