DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Tue. 9/5/2017
Being A Member Of God’s Family
Matt. 6:33-34
Life without Christ is full of crisis. The worry and anxiety of life prevent us from thinking right and to excel in life. We need Christ seated at the centre of our heart in order to guide us aright in our endeavours. Accepting Jesus into our lives changes situation, it picks up the pieces of our lives together and makes them fall in pleasant places. One of the greatest benefits we enjoy as Christians is that we are actually adopted as children of God and enjoy all the privileges connected with that. For one to be able to press on in these difficult times, one needs the guidance of the Holy Spirit (Job 22:21). When you submit to God and live at peace with Him, He will make your way prosperous.

POINT OF EMPHASIS: He who trusts in the Lord will prosper.

PRAYER POINT: Father Lord, I ask for the grace to be at peace with You so as to make my way prosperous.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Thur. 11/5/2017
Diligence And Hard Work Required
Eccl. 9:10; Prov. 21:5; 6:6-11
Getting to the top in our career, business and spiritual life requires maximum effort because the hands of the diligent will rule. The diligent worker plans ahead for the future just as the virtuous woman in the Bible. Hard work yesterday has to be followed with hard work today to guarantee tomorrow’s prosperity (Prov. 6:6). The call to hard work is a call to a truly purposeful living. It is a call not to waste your life but to get up and get out and do something with the opportunity God has placed before you. God is an industrious God, because he succeeds, we too can succeed if we are not slothful in business. God honours hard workers by crowning them with His personal blessings. Therefore, use your power, intelligence, vision, gifts and all that God gave you to do something worthwhile.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: Hard work brings great gain.

PRAYER POINT: Father Lord, I refuse to labour in vain.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Fri. 12/5/2017
You can Rise Again Where You Fail
Jer. 8:4, Prov. 24:16, 2 Cor. 4:9
It is important to know that anything good does not come easy and we all fail at some point in our lives. Jesus encouraged us not to give up at the face of temptation but we should put our hope in God to lead us through and be overcomers. Failing is a learning experience so that we do better next time. We had biblical characters like Job and Peter who failed but did not dwell on them. Instead, they learnt from their mistakes and kept moving forward. Determination and failure lead to success. When you fail, you get up and try again and you will get it right. God is always near and if you fall, He’ll pick you up and dust you off. Keep on pursuing righteousness and use God’s strength. A failure is not a loss, it’s a gain, you learn, you change, you grow. You only fail when you stop trying.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: The good thing about failure is that you learn from it.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, give me the courage to face and triumph over challenges that come my way.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Sat. 13/5/2017
Be Generous
Prov. 11:25
God has been so good to man since inception, that He made man to rule over the affairs within his environment. God is a perfect example of this where He gave His only begotten Son Jesus Christ for us to be reconciled back to Him. It is God’s desire for us to show compassion. Giving is a challenge to most people that is why we need to acknowledge that God owns everything, once we grasp this fact we look at our possessions and finances differently. God has entrusted us with a portion of His riches, you have the privilege and responsibility of taking care of His property and spending His money in ways that please Him (2 Cor. 9:11). God wants us to bless others, pay our tithe, support local churches and give special offerings, He loves a cheerful giver.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: It is good to show mercy to the needy, this makes the heart

of God happy.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, help me to love and bless others.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Tue. 16/5/2017

Good Reputation Entails Good Works

Tit. 1:5-13

The commission of Titus in Crete and the responsibilities with the qualities spelt out for a Bishop apply these days to every child of God. Those who say one thing and do another thing are called hypocrites. Christians’ walk and act must match their confession. Hypocrisy is more destructive in the lives of people who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ. If they preach, teach the word, and refuse to live the word to demonstrate their new life in Christ for all to see it, it is better not to claim to be Christians at all, than to say they are born-again and then behave like unbelievers. The guidelines spelt out here for Titus by Paul are not meant only for leaders in the church but for all professing Christians. Since actions speak louder than words, ensure that your actions or behaviours match your belief.

POINT OF EMPHASIS: Hypocrisy is more destructive in the life of Christians if they don’t live out their belief.

PRAYER POINT: Help me Oh Lord to have a good reputation. By Your grace, I will not behave like an unbeliever.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Wed. 17/5/2017

God’s Steward Must Be Of Good Conduct

Tit. 2:1-8

The highest incentive for doing God’s will is a strong desire to please God. We may have other worthy motives as anticipation of getting heavenly rewards, living a comfortable life and reaching the highest peak of our profession. But we bring the greatest glory to God when we obey Him and do what brings Him delight. A faithful steward must practice sound Biblical doctrines because they are good and holy. They make members fit in the service of God (verse 1). The guidelines here apply to the old, young, men and women and to the preacher. Take to the one that belongs to your age so that you can adhere to the truth of the gospel and for you not to be found wanting. For you to have influence on others and for your preaching to have positive effect, conduct yourself well both in your conversation, dressing and lifestyles. Note that any defect in these areas is a great blemish and hindrance to your reputation. With God’s help live above reproach. Enemies would be seeking occasion to find anything amiss in your conduct, don’t allow them to speak evil of you.

POINT OF EMPHASIS: Let your life correspond with Biblical sound doctrine.

PRAYER POINT: I receive grace through the Lord Jesus Christ to live a life that is worthy of Christ.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thur. 18/5/2017

Reputation Takes Time To Build

Esther 8:5 – 9:4

Mordecai was a role model. He had a better view of serving. Some people’s patience in doing good is often limited especially when the recipient doesn’t thank them. When king Ahasuerus did not acknowledge Mordecai’s contribution, he didn’t give up but continued serving the king wholeheartedly. Mordecai did not turn to a hero overnight. He had consistently lived a life of integrity long before he was rewarded. He had disrupted an assassination plan involving the king and it seems nobody noticed his life saving plot. Haman, the king’s top official, hated Mordecai and the entire Jews. He planned to exterminate all of them. It was Mordecai that reversed Haman’s evil attack on the Jews. Mordecai was celebrated by the Jews and king Ahasuerus rewarded him for what he did. It took time before his reputation came to limelight. God expects Christian to serve with long-lasting patience and in due time, our good reputation would be rewarded.

POINT OF EMPHASIS: God expects you to build good reputation with long-lasting patience.

PRAYER POINT: I will not give up living a life of good reputation I will surely reap my patience in the name of Jesus.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 20/5/2017

Don’t Allow Your Reputation To Suffer

Ruth 2:1-13

Ruth had everything going against her, she was a foreigner, a Moabite, poor and a window. She displayed again her humility to Boaz (verse 10) whereas her good reputation which people were talking about her had got to Boaz before (verse 11). Character is indeed contagious. Ruth did not allow her character to suffer under the unpleasant situation she went through and was rewarded for it. If you have made up your mind to please God and people with good character, God will strengthen you.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: Ruth’s character earned her a reputation despite her depressing situation.

PRAYER POINT: Lord Jesus, I am trusting you for the grace that will not allow my reputation to suffer under any circumstance.

REVISION DAY 3

WEDNESDAY 24/05/2017

LESSON 5

STEWARDSHIP OF TALENTS AND GIFTS

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 69, 243.

Devotional Reading: Lk. 19:15-27

Topic For Adult: You Were Gifted For A Purpose

Topic For Youth: Don’t Take The Grace Of God In Vain

Topic For Intermediate: Discover And Use Your Gifts

Scripture Lesson: Matt. 25:21



Memory verse: “His Lord said to him, ‘well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things, enter into the joy of your Lord”. Matt. 25:21 (NKJV).



SUMMARY

Christ Jesus gives His followers talents proportional to their ability. The greater our talent is, the more pain we must exact in order to make profit of it. Those that are given little talents should not despise it but should utilise it and make gains out of it for God and His kingdom. God will not ask us to account for more than what He gave us. He is going to ask us to render our stewardship in proportion to our talents. Don’t bury your talent because God will ask you what you do with it.



LESSON 6

STEWARDSHIP OF TREASURE

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 69, 236

Devotional Reading: 1 Chro. 29:10-14

Topic for Adults: The Treasures Are Not Yours, You’re A Caretaker

Topic for Youths: Treasures. You Will Give Account

Topic for intermediates: All We Have, Given From Above

Scripture lesson: Gen. 1:1; 1 Chro. 29:12-14, Ps. 24:1, Mal. 3:6-12



Memory verse: The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,’ says the Lord of hosts. Hagg. 2:8 (NKJV)



SUMMARY

Giving a portion of financial resources is part of stewardship living. It is a powerful way of showing that we truly believe that all we have possessed are given to us by our God. That is, we involve God’s claim in what He entrusted in our hands. The Psalmist in appreciation and gratitude says “What shall I render to the Lord, for all His benefits towards me.”

REVISION DAY 5

FRIDAY 26/05/2017

LESSON 9

WEALTH CREATION THROUGH INVESTMENTS



Suggested Hymn: G.H.B. 243, 244.

Devotional Reading: Gen. 26:12-14

Topic for Adults: It Is Never Too Late Or Too Early To Start

Topic for Youths: There Is No Shortcut To Godly Riches

Topic for Intermediates: Wisdom Is The Principal Thing

Scripture Lesson: Gen. 30:25-43; Lk. 19:12-26



Memory Verse: “And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

Deut. 8: 18 (NKJV).



SUMMARY

Have you ever wondered how the rich get their wealth and keep growing it? Do you have dream of having to be working so hard for money or have money work for you? It is the blessing of God that makes one rich without hard labour. You can enjoy rest from labour if you develop a long term investment plan, pray for guidance, get expert advice and persist patiently. Wealth creation through investment takes time but that is the way the wealthy built their empire.





LESSON 10

FLEE LAZINESS, EMBRACE DILIGENCE



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 114, 150.

Devotional Reading: Prov. 6: 6-11

Topic for Adults: God Hates Indolence

Topic for Youths: Diligence Leads To Prominence

Topic for Intermediates: Don’t be lazy

Scripture Reading: Gen. 2: 1-8, 15; 2Thess. 3:6-15; Prov. 22:29



Memory Verse: Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men. Prov. 22:29 (NKJV).



SUMMARY

Christianity is not a cloak for slothfulness. Our God is diligent and industrious, and so must we too. Jesus Christ demonstrated unparalleled level of diligence during His earthly ministry as well as the early Apostles. Labour makes us to share a part of God’s attribute; rather than seeing it as punishment upon man. Even in the Garden of Eden, man still had to work. Adam couldn’t have been happy if he had been idle. We have seen in the lesson, some of the dangers of idleness and rewards of diligence. God has given us several abilities and He expects us to work diligently to make a proof of ourselves in our chosen careers and in the ministry He has entrusted into our hands. As stewards, we can’t afford to disappoint God because we will give account of our stewardship.

REVISION DAY 6

SATURDAY 27/05/2017



LESSON 11

CREATING A POOL OF RESOURCES

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B: 350

Devotional Reading: Matt. 25:14-30

Topic For Adults: Building Wealth And Keeping It

Topic For Youths: Look Unto God To Make Your Way Prosperous

Topic For Intermediates: Don’t Eat All, Save For The Raining Day

Scripture Lesson: Gen. 41:33-37, 53-55; Ps. 92:12-15; 1 Sam. 2:7-9; Gen. 26:12-14; Jer. 17:7-8; 29:11; Prov. 3:9-10; Heb. 13:5; Lk. 12:15-21



Memory Verse: “And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day. Deut. 8:18 (NKJV).



SUMMARY

Creating a pool of resources requires self-control. To discipline oneself is very difficult but we can do this because our self-control comes from our confidence that God is in control of our lives.

In this lesson, we discover that it is only God that we can run to for open heaven out of our financial difficulties. In achieving these, we have to forego a lot of things that is sinful which the devil has tied around us, preventing us from breaking free. All these stand as a barrier between you and God Almighty, but thank God for His marvellous grace that abound that has reconciled us to God.



LESSON 12

BUILD A REPUTATION FOR INTEGRITY



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B: 32, 99.

Devotional Reading: Ruth 2:8-14, 4:13-17

Topic For Adults: You Have An Opportunity To Re-Shape Your Reputation

Topic For Youths: What Is Your Trademark?

Topic For Intermediates: Does Your Name Match Your Character?

Scripture Lesson: Neh. 9:5-10; Tit. 1:5-13; 2:1-8; Esther 8:15 – 9:4



Memory Verse: In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility. Tit. 2:7 (NKJV).



SUMMARY

Integrity made Mordecai to become a powerful man of influence all over the province. All the officials assisted the Jews because they became afraid of Mordecai. A good reputation brings blessings. There is nothing more valuable than this. It has an incalculable value that cannot be sold or bought but whom you are and what you stand for will make you to retain its value. Continue to build good reputation for yourself, the blessings you will get is more than what money can buy.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thur. 1/6/2017

David, A Man After God’s Heart

Ps. 51:1-12

David was a king in Israel. He fell into the sin of adultery with Bathsheba and committed murder by arranging that Uriah, Bathsheba’s husband, be killed. Nathan, the prophet, confronted David concerning the sin; David did not try to find excuses for his actions, instead, he humbled himself before God. One of the symptoms of spiritual pride is finding excuses for one’s sin, or blaming others for one’s actions. A man who realises his spiritual poverty and desires to make heaven does not hesitate to confess his sin to God and ask for forgiveness. David went further to ask for a clean heart and a steadfast spirit. The goal is not just to acknowledge one’s spiritual poverty, but to seek to be built up spiritually and to be established in holiness. One who will inherit the kingdom of God will not remain a spiritual babe perpetually.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: Realising your being poor in spirit should drive you to aspire to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

PRAYER POINT: Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

BLESSINGS FOR THE POOR IN SPIRIT

Quarter’s Theme: CHRISTIAN ATTITUDE

Unit 1: Our Spiritual Condition (Lessons 1-4)

(RESPONSIBILITY MONTHS)

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 190, 203

Devotional Reading: LK. 6:17-20

Topic For Adults

DO NOT REMAIN A SPIRITUAL BABE

Topic For Youths

HEAVEN - ADMISSION ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Topic For Intermediates

AN INHERITANCE IS WAITING FOR YOU

Scripture Lesson

Lk. 18:9-14; MATT. 13:24-32; 5:3



MEMORY VERSE

I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your unclothedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. Rev. 3:18 (NKJV)


BACKGROUND

Those who want to receive the blessings of God’s kingdom must be qualified by the ways and values of His revealed requirements in the Scripture and not by the standard of this world. One of the vital expectations from those who have developed a sound relationship with God through Jesus Christ is the topic for our discussion this week.



NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: THE POOR IN SPIRIT (LK. 18:9-14)

The poor in spirit are people who evaluate their spiritual state with sincerity. They realise that God is infinitely holy and demands that they be holy too. They are keenly aware that they have fallen short of that standard. Their judgment about themselves is not based on human standard but God’s standard. “Knowing the terror of the Lord” they seek to be continually cleansed of their sins so they can be found worthy before God through the accomplished work of Jesus Christ.





PART 2: THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN (MATT. 13:24-32)

The terms “kingdom of heaven” and “kingdom of God” are often used interchangeably (Matt. 5:3, Lk. 6:20). The kingdom is the realm over which the kingly or sovereign rule of God is exerted. Jesus Christ came preaching and saying that the kingdom of heaven is very near. Though God created the whole universe and we see Him rule in the affairs of men, yet many of His human creatures do not submit to His authority right now. The devil and his angels are also very active – stealing, killing and destroying; waging war against those who have given their lives to Jesus Christ. The kingdom of God will be fully established when all the adversaries of God would have been committed to hell. God’s peaceful and glorious reign will then be manifested. Various characteristics of the kingdom are described in Revelations 21:1-4.

Jesus tells several parables to teach about the kingdom of heaven. Some glimpses we have from the parables are: right now both those who will inherit the kingdom and those who will not co-exist can sometimes be mistaken one for the other; in the kingdom, and those who started insignificantly, will grow to become big; those who appreciate the kingdom will sacrifice whatever is needed to be part of it, etc.



PART 3: INHERITORS OF KINGDOM OF HEAVEN (MATT. 5:3)

Those who will inherit the kingdom of heaven are quite aware that no sinner shall be admitted. They take great pains to prepare themselves to be counted worthy to be admitted. The categories of people that will be excluded from the kingdom are listed in 1 Cor. 6:9-10 along with those listed in Gal. 5:19-21. Every person alive is going through a sieving process; a selection process – to be made fit for the kingdom of heaven or not. The poor in spirit may not be perfect, but they have such a contrite spirit which genuinely mourns whenever they fall into sin. While others could not careless when they sin, the poor in spirit is thrown into sorrow when caught in sin, fearful of being found wanting and unworthy of the kingdom of heaven. God is mindful of these ones and He preserves them for the kingdom.

Those who are counted worthy of inheriting the kingdom of heaven are called “blessed” because of the bliss and joy which will be theirs forever. In their blissful rest, there will be no more sorrow, no more pain, no more death. Even before they are admitted into the presence of God, they start to enjoy the power and blessings of the world to come right here on earth.

If the kingdom of heaven were to appear today, what is that thing in your life which you have taken for granted and is likely to disqualify you from inheriting the kingdom?

What have you learnt about the kingdom of heaven that should motivate you to strive to enter into and inherit it?

CONCLUSION

While others revel and carouse, those who aspire to enter into and inherit the kingdom of heaven strive hard to make up for their spiritual deficit. They draw closer to God so that He may fill them with His Spirit and establish them firmly in His court. While mockers jest about the things of eternity, the ones that will inherit the kingdom of heaven are fully aware they are just pilgrims here, they look for a city whose architect is God Himself. We must recognised that we are not self-sufficient, we need the Holy Spirit’s power and sustaining grace for us to inherit the kingdom of God.





QUESTIONS

Who are the poor in spirit?

What does the poor in spirit do having known the terror of the Lord?

When would the kingdom be fully established?

What should those who will inherit the kingdom do?

As a wise kingdom seeker, what should you do to things that may likely disqualify you from inheriting the kingdom of God?

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 5/6/2017

The Lord Is Near To Those of Broken Heart

Ps. 34:15-22

When a person falls into sin, there are two possible steps the person can take. The person can choose to persist in the sin. Sin then becomes a way of life for the person. The other path opens to the person is a broken heart over the sin committed. The person mourns over the sin and seeks a way of repentance and reconciliation with God. The unrepentant sinner gets cut off from God as long as he persists in his sin. The face of God is against him; and God eventually cuts off his remembrance from the earth. But God draws closer to the penitent to deliver them from the repercussion of sin committed and all forms of affliction. People who persist in sin do so thinking God does not mind what they do because He does not execute judgment promptly. God’s wheel of judgment grinds slowly, but grinds finely.

POINT OF EMPHASIS: God delivers those who are broken hearted because of sin as well from their afflictions.

PRAYER POINT: I reject a heart that accepts and gets used to sin; I receive a spirit sensitive to the Holy Spirit.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Tue. 6/6/2017

Rend Your Hearts, Not Your Garments
Joel 2:12-17

When a person’s misdeed is exposed there is always the expression of regret. The expression can be superficial, not coming from the heart. Several things are done so that the offender can be accepted back into the good books of the offended – giving apology; presenting gifts; becoming more polite. When it is sin against God, the person becomes more active in religious activities, gives bigger offerings and pays church dues regularly; etc. Outward show of repentance is of little value to God because it is often the consequence of regretting that one is found out, rather than an expression that one judges one’s action to be wrong. God is more interested in the inward expression of repentance. On the level of a community, the repentance should involve everyone, and sometimes accompanied with fasting.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: Rend your heart and not your garments; return to the Lord your God.

PRAYER POINT: Father, grant us Your mercy as we look unto You in repentance.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Wed. 7/6/2017
Mourning Over Sin Brings Healing
2 Chro. 7:12-18
Sin brings judgment, not only on individuals, but also on a nation. Sometimes the judgment could be instant, while at other times the judgment is delayed. In any case judgment will come upon an unrepentant sinner. The punishment may be in form of hardship meted out to the sinner, or any other form of punishment God deems appropriate. When the persons put under such judgment genuinely repent of their sin, turn from their wicked ways, and cry unto God for forgiveness, God gives the assurance that He will forgive and deliver from the punishment. God is willing to forgive, to restore man to His loving kindness, and to heal their land. While man can be deceived by confession which is not genuine, God cannot be deceived. He knows the heart of man.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: It is high time our nation turned to God genuinely that He may heal our land.

PRAYER POINT: Holy Spirit, give us repentant heart, come and heal our land in Jesus’ name.

Read from the E.A Adeboye's Devotional

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Thur. 8/6/2017
Impenitence Brings God’s Wrath
Jer. 7:8-15
At times, people use confession just as a ruse to escape the repercussion of one’s sin. People confess their sin, only to return to the sin again and again. God sees through the deceit and cannot be fooled. When man refuses to genuinely turn away from sin, judgment is inevitable. Man often has some reasons or something he trusts in for refusing to genuinely repent. The Jews believed that as long as the temple was in their midst, they could not suffer any disaster. That kind of thinking ignores history. God has sternly judged unrepentant sinners in the past. People trusted in Shiloh being the place where God put His presence, but sin caused Shiloh to be destroyed under His judgment. God warns sinners in every generation, including ours, of impending judgment; it is left for the generation to seek His face in genuine repentance.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: Do not put your trust in anything but the mercy of God, else judgment is inevitable.

PRAYER POINT: Father, move through our land and destroy the spirit of impenitence.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Fri. 9/6/2017
Lot Mourned Over Wickedness Of Sodom
2 Pet. 2:4-11
Mourning for sin comes from a realisation that unless there is genuine repentance, terrible judgment is inevitable. The mourner knows that “it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” because “our God is a consuming fire” (Heb. 10:31; 12:29). The mourning does not necessary have to be for one’s personal sin. Lot knew that the people of Sodom were going to suffer the repercussion of their sins. Knowing the terror of falling into the hands of God, he was tormented and fearful for what was to come upon them. Besides, his righteous soul did not find rest, seeing the horrible sins going on around him. There is the temptation for a righteous person to get used to seeing sins around him and to accept as normal. The acceptance is a slippery way for the righteous person to compromise. Do not let your soul become comfortable with sins around you.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: Do not let your soul get comfortable with the sins around you.

PRAYER POING: Father, make my spirit comfortable only with those things that please You.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Sat. 10/6/2017
Mourning For The Only Son
Zech. 12:10-14
The prophecy of what the Jews would do to the Messiah when He came into the world was given long before His coming. They would reject Him and get Him killed. What sin can be greater than rejecting the Savior sent by God to reconcile men to Him, and then getting Him killed. For millennia after the crucifixion of the Savior, the Jewish race had persisted in rejecting the Messiah. To bring to pass God’s covenant with Abraham, He is going to pour upon the Jews a spirit that will bring them to repentance of their unbelief, their rejection of the Messiah and their part in the crucifixion. The mourning over their sin will be nationwide and will involve everyone. The repentance will open a door to forgiveness and deliverance from damnation.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: The whole Jewish nation will mourn over the rejection of the Messiah.

PRAYER POINT: Father, pour upon our nation the spirit of grace and supplication to bring us to repentance.

11/6/2017 LESSON 2

BLESSINGS FOR THE SPIRITUAL MOURNERS

Quarter’s Theme: CHRISTIAN ATTITUDE

Unit 1: Our Spiritual Condition (Lessons 1-4)

(RESPONSIBILITY MONTHS)

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 158, 159

Devotional Reading: 2 PET. 2:4-11

Topic For Adults

DON’T GET USED TO SIN

Topic For Youths

DON’T JOIN THOSE WHO ENJOY SIN

Topic For Intermediates

RUN AWAY FROM SIN

Scripture Lesson

PROV. 29:1; ISA. 1:5-6; PHIL. 3:18-19; MATT. 5:4; 2 CHRO. 30:9; HOS. 6:1

MEMORY VERSE

For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. 2 Cor. 7:10 (NKJV)


BACKGROUND

Jesus is still seeking those that are lost. Jesus is having concerns for those languishing in sins. This week’s lesson centres on another requirement for entering into the kingdom of God for those who are in God’s kingdom, must grieve their hearts over their own weaknesses in relation to God’s standard of righteousness. They must mourn over things that grieve God. The ideal characteristics of the members of God’s kingdom are spelt out.



NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: DANGERS OF IMPENITENCE (PRO. 29:1; ISA. 1:5-6; PHIL. 3:18-19)

Sin has become the norm and an acceptable thing to the average man on the street. He cannot see why anyone would feel bad about doing something that presumably everyone else does. Many boast about their exploits in things which the Bible describes as their shame, which is sin. The people have sold themselves to work uncleanness (1 Tim. 3:13). The hearts of so many people are no longer sensitive to the work of the Holy Spirit; there is no desire to cry over sin, no repentant heart, no broken spirit.

When man persists in sin, he incurs God’s wrath and brings punishment upon himself. A large percentage of the disasters befalling man today come as a result of man’s sin. Self-inflicted disasters pile one upon another, there is hardly any facet of life that is not affected. These are judgments from God upon the impenitent. Before God sends His judgment upon a sinner, He would have warned him or her. But if the sinner refuses to repent, then the judgment comes upon him; he is likely to perish without a way out (Prov. 29:1). The hand of God is always heavy upon the impenitent and he cannot have peace (Ps. 32:3-4; Isa. 3:11); God is angry with him everyday (Ps. 7:11). Finally, the impenitent will end up in hell and be confined there eternally.



PART 2: BLESSINGS OF PENITENCE (MATT. 5:4; 2 CHRO. 30:9; HOS. 6:1)

A Christian must not allow his or her heart to become so hardened that it is not affected by the presence of sin in his or her life or people around him or her. Lot lived among very depraved people. As he beheld what lifestyle they lived, his heart was gravely distressed. He remained sensitive to what God demands and was keenly aware of the repercussion of sin. In some churches today, sin is allowed or tolerated while some sons of God behave as if it did not matter. It is high time we turned to God mourning for sin in our lives and in our society that God may look upon us with mercy.

God ever attends to those who mourn for sin to comfort them. They are indeed blessed because their sins are forgiven and there is, therefore, no condemnation in their hearts (Ps. 32:1,2; Rom. 8:1). They enjoy the mercy of God, restoration from whatever they have roamed and are given the privilege of enjoying the bounties of the Father. Those who mourn for sin are also given the privilege of partaking in the covenant blessings of Abraham.



CONCLUSION

Those whose hearts remain sensitive to God’s demand for holiness in their lives are bothered by the presence of sin either in their lives or in the lives of those around them. They are not happy, and in fact they mourn, because they know it is a terrible thing to fall into the hand of God; for our God is a consuming fire. God comes to them in their mourning to comfort them and grant them His salvation. Pray that the Holy Spirit will make your heart always sensitive to God’s demands.



QUESTIONS

What is the reward of anyone who persists in sin?

Before God judges a sinner, what would He have done?

What is the fate of the sinner who refuses to repent?

What should be the response of the church in respect of the lifestyle of her members?

Explain what you understand by the term ‘Blessed are those who mourn’.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 12/6/2017

God Gives Grace To The Humble

1 Pet. 5:5-11

Meekness is a human character of being quiet, gentle and submissive. The meek easily yield to God’s commands and directives. They are also gentle in their interaction with other people. When provoked, they are able to control their emotion, sometimes remaining silent or sometimes return soft answer. This does not portray a weak character, but strong character put under control. Meekness and humility are closely related and walk side by side. The proud finds it difficult to follow God’s instructions and is head-strong. Those who lack meekness set themselves up against God’s authority; just as Satan did in his rebellion against God, and was cast out of heaven. Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD. On the other hand, God gives grace to those who are humble.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: God resist the proud, but gives grace to and helps those who are meek.

PRAYER POINT: I humbly surrender myself under Your authority, God, grant unto me the grace to obey You.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Tue. 13/6/2017

Put On Meekness Like Christ

Phil. 2:5-11

Jesus Christ was fully aware of His being part of the God-head, but did not consider that as something He should be preoccupied with. He was willing to follow God’s salvation plan. Even when the terror of the impending crucifixion came upon Him, He readily yielded to God’s will. He meekly went to the cross without cursing the people who crucified Him. Many in the church do not have this spirit of meekness; the ministers find the congregation members behaving like stubborn goats and not like meek sheep. Such stubborn spirit draws people away from obeying instructions that will make them grow in the knowledge of God. We are enjoined to have the spirit of meekness that Jesus Christ demonstrated on earth. Only those who possess the mind of Christ can hope for such exaltation given to Him.

POINT OF EMPHASIS: Let the mind of meekness that was in Jesus Christ be in you.

PRAYER POINT: I receive the spirit of meekness that I may be able to obey God more readily.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Wed. 14/6/2017

Pride Goes Before Destruction

Prov. 16:18-21

When a man does not possess the spirit of meekness, he is very likely to possess the spirit of pride. While meekness and humility walk hand in hand, pride is on the other side of the aisle. A proud person finds it difficult to follow godly instructions; when people rub him on the rough side, he is likely to blow hot because his ego has been wounded. Those who find it difficult to follow godly instruction follow the path that leads to destruction. Society looks down upon those who choose to be meek and encourages people to blow their own trumpet, push themselves forward, prove that they are second to none, accept nonsense from no one; etc. Any philosophy that makes one to reject God’s commands or selectively obey God or makes one brash when dealing with others, is not of God and will lead to destruction.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.

PRAYER POINT: I pray in the name of Jesus Christ that I will not be destroyed by pride.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thur. 15/6/2017

Moses The Meekest Man

Num. 12:1-8

Moses grew up in the palace of Pharaoh. He was called by God to bring the Israelites out of Egypt. He spoke with God face to face and experienced God’s first hand miracle. His curriculum vitae show that he was of higher pedigree than anyone else in his generation. In spite of these qualifications, Moses remained a meek person, the meekest man on earth. His siblings talked against him because of his wife. It takes meekness to have such status and remain calm and gentle under provocation. Many of us lose control under very little provocation. It is a sign of lack of the spirit of meekness. We need the Holy Spirit to break us down, and fill us so that the fruit of the Holy Spirit can manifest in our lives. God rose to defend Moses by rebuking Aaron and Miriam. Moses was still the one pleading with God to heal Miriam.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: When you are meek, God fights your battle for you.

PRAYER POINT: Holy Spirit, bring forth Your fruit in my life in Jesus’ name

Morning.
nice job u doing Herr and tanks 4 keeping us posted on d Sunday school.

pls is there any way u can wit a topic of d Sunday school 4rm last year quarter. Depravity of Human Nature. Thanks

Please which is the best audio bible that can work off line with no data. I have gone to play store and google but not successful.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 16/6/2017

Meekness of Christ in Paul

2 Cor. 10:1-6

Paul was specially called by God and commissioned to carry the gospel to the Gentiles. He diligently fulfiled the mandate God gave him and became the founder of several churches. But some in the congregation challenged his spiritual authority and despised his personality. While he labored among them to found the churches and in all his relationship with the churches, he demonstrated meekness. He was gentle with them as he nurtured them spiritually. His reaction to those who opposed his authority was that of gentle correction while reminding them that his weapon was not carnal but mighty through God to deal with insubordination. A meek person also shows his displeasure to those who oppose him without losing his control. You only know a person’s personality when he is put in position of authority.



POINT OF EMPHASIS: Deal with people with the meekness and gentleness of Christ.

PRAYER POINT: Father, grant me the grace to live with the meekness and gentleness of Christ.

SirVick69:
Morning.
nice job u doing Herr and tanks 4 keeping us posted on d Sunday school.

pls is there any way u can wit a topic of d Sunday school 4rm last year quarter. Depravity of Human Nature. Thanks

Thanks for your comment. About your question, I don't think I can get any info about it

OK thanks

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 17/6/2017

Jesus, Greatest Example

Jn. 13:1-15

Jesus selected twelve men to be His disciples. They went together for over three years. They saw Him perform miracles, and at one point Peter, one of the twelve, confessed Him to be the Christ. The time for Him to be betrayed was drawing near. He knew who would betray Him, yet He did not fight the traitor. Instead He demonstrated the highest example of meekness to all His disciples. He took a bowl of water and a towel and proceeded to wash and dry the feet of His disciples – a job that was reserved for the lowest slave in a household. He told His disciples that what He did was an example for them. They were enjoined to follow the examples laid down. How do you treat those who oppose you, especially when they are your subordinates?



POINT OF EMPHASIS: “I have given you an example; that you should do as I have done to you.”

PRAYER POINT: Help us to treat others with the meekness You demonstrated, Lord Jesus.

18/6/2017 LESSON 3

BLESSINGS FOR THE MEEK

Quarter’s Theme: CHRISTIAN ATTITUDE

Unit 1: Our Spiritual Condition (Lessons 1-4)

(RESPONSIBILITY MONTHS)

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 75, 259

Devotional Reading: GAL. 5:22-26

Topic For Adults

HUMBLE YOURSELF BEFORE GOD

Topic For Youths

DON’T ASSOCIATE WITH THE PROUD

Topic For Intermediates

IMITATE JESUS, BE MEEK

Scripture Lesson

GAL. 5:17-23; MATT. 11:28-30; 5:5; PS. 22:26; 147:6; 149:4



MEMORY VERSE

But the meek shall inherit the earth, And shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. Ps. 37:11 (NKJV)



BACKGROUND

Another requirement to enjoy the abundant blessings of God is meekness which is the focus of this week’s lesson. Meekness means gentleness, restraint coupled with strength and courage to possess humble submission. The information therein is to make the kingdom people be in their proper position to relate with fellow believers and unbelievers as well.



NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: MEEKNESS, FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT (GAL. 5:17-23)

The same word is translated as, humility or gentleness depending on which translation of the Bible one reads. This attribute is only possible for a person that is filled with the Holy Spirit as it is part of the fruit of the Spirit. A person without the Holy Spirit may pretend to be meek, but it is certain that those who are in the flesh cannot please God (Rom. 6:. It is not natural for a person that has not accepted the lordship of Jesus Christ to conduct himself meekly. The natural man strives to please God, but the power of carnality makes the effort futile. The Holy Spirit deals with the power of carnal nature in a person who has surrendered his life to the lordship of Jesus Christ and empowers the Christian to bear the fruit of the Spirit.

Being filled with the Holy Spirit is not optional for a Christian who wants to please God; it is imperative. The fruit of the Holy Spirit, rather than the gift of the Holy Spirit, is the sure sign of being right with God. The gift of the Spirit can still manifest when a person has backslidden.



PART 2: IMITATORS OF CHRIST IN MEEKNESS (MATT. 11:28-30)

Jesus Christ assured His hearers that whatever testimony He bore about Himself is true. God the Father also testified that Jesus is His beloved Son in whom He is well pleased. So man can accept His testimony as being true and reliable. His testimony about Himself is that He is “gentle and lowly in heart”. He demonstrated His meekness throughout His incarnation: He came into the world through very humble parents; He shied away from any form of publicity throughout His ministry; He laid aside His importance as part of the God-head to serve His disciples and humankind; He surrendered His life to die for man on the cross; He did not seek revenge on those who crucified Him. His lifestyle is an example for believers to follow. We are too consumed by the sense of our importance. Many have abandoned the narrow path of meekness to follow the highway of self-glorification. Today, He still calls us to take His yoke upon us an to learn from Him, for He is gentle and lowly in heart.



PART 3: BLESSINGS IN MEEKNESS (MATT. 5:5; PS. 22:26;147:6; 149:4)

The world may despise those who are meek, but God calls them blessed. One of the blessings for the meek is “rest for your souls”. Many souls are troubled because of the strife they have been drawn into while they walk the path of self-glorification and disobedience to God’s commands. The meek have peace with God and with those around them. They may appear not to possess much on the earth, yet their heavenly Father declares that they will inherit the earth. God also blesses them with satisfaction; their hearts are full of praise to God because of the abundance He gives them. At God’s own time, He lifts up the meek and makes them to dine with the rulers of the world. God beautifies the meek with salvation – eternal salvation from the torment of hell and temporal salvation from the oppres-sion of the wicked.



CONCLUSION

The meek are scarce in the world because the society despises them. The world considers them wretched, but God declares them blessed. Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly than to divide the spoil with proud. The meek are kind, they don’t want to hurt anyone or cause them pain. Are you truly meek? It is a quality one must have to enjoy God’s blessing and enter His God’s kingdom.



QUESTIONS

How could someone become meek?

Why is it difficult for a carnal man to please God?

Why is being filled with the power of the Holy Spirit not optional for a Christian?

How did Jesus demonstrate His meekness?

The world hates those who are meek, how then are they considered to be ‘blessed’?