Spiritual Understanding Through The Word - Wednesday, January 14th .

Pastor Chris

For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding (Colossians 1:9).

There's such a thing as spiritual understanding; but sadly, many lack this important spiritual virtue. Many actually function in human, worldly, or carnal understanding. When you talk with such people, you can understand why they reason differently; they only think from the world’s perspective, because they lack spiritual understanding. Spiritual understanding comes by the Holy Spirit, and is granted you through the Word.

In our opening scripture, the word “understanding” is translated from the Greek “Sunesis.” It’s an interpretation; a way of thinking; a mentality. So, the Apostle Paul, in that verse, was dealing with a certain kind of understanding—a revelatory understanding—which the Word of God gives us! This is why you need to stay in God’s Word, studying, learning, and making sure you understand it! This will give you the personality that God wants you to have. It’ll make you spiritually sagacious, insightful, discerning and wise.

Another beautiful part of this is that God isn’t just raising us for this world; all that He’s doing in us—His programming in us through the Word—is for the ages to come. So, if you don't have spiritual understanding, insight into the realities of the Kingdom while you're still in the earth, how are you going to function in the world to come? Therefore, it's important you study the Scriptures with excitement; have a voracious appetite for the Word. Some people may be baffled, wondering why you’re so sold-out to the Word; let them know it's because God’s Word is everything.

With the Word in you, it doesn't matter what you desire in this world; you can get it! God's ultimate desire isn’t to give you a house, a car, a job, or money; what He wants is His Word in your spirit, because with that, you can get or create anything.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit who grants me spiritual insight, and sets me on the right course in life. I walk in righteousness and dominion, having insight into mysteries and secrets of your Kingdom; and I live above the distracting influences of the world, because I live in your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Acts 20:32
And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. ;

Ephesians 1:17-18
17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 10:24-42, Genesis 34-35
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 6:1-13, Genesis 14

“Worthy Of Him…And Fruitful In Every Good Work” - Thursday, January 15th .

Pastor Chris

For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:9-10).

This is so powerful. The Holy Spirit inspired the Apostle Paul to pray this prayer for the Colossian Church. Notice the purpose of this beautiful, Spirit-inspired prayer: “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10).

This is God’s desire: He wants you to walk worthy of Him, pleasing Him in all things. That means when people see you, or are listening to you, they’ll testify of His goodness, because you’ve become the expression and testimony of His grace, greatness and love; the expression of His beauty. The Lord Jesus said something that buttresses this in John 15:5; He said, “I am the vine, ye are the branches….” We’re His extension, His beauty, and His glory.

The glory of a tree is in its branches. So if Jesus says He’s the vine and we’re the branches, He’s therefore saying His glory is seen in, and borne by, us. So everywhere you go, you’re showing forth His glory, pleasing Him in all things, and fruitful in every good work. It doesn’t matter what’s been assigned to you to do; you can be productive, effective and fruitful in that assignment. It’s part of our heritage in Christ. When we get involved in anything, it comes outright; growth, increase, progress and prosperity sets in. If that thing was a wilderness before we came, it be comes a “fruitful field,” and the fruitful field becomes a “forest.” Halleluiah!

You're not ordinary; when you arrive in a place, Christ has arrived! That’s the reason you can be fruitful in every good work. When you’re given a responsibility, or an official assignment, don't say, “I don't understand why I’m being asked to do this”; no! Don’t think or talk that way! Rather, see yourself as the right candidate for the job, and go ahead to make it a success.

Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for I’m your extension, your beauty and your glory. I will walk worthy of you always, pleasing you in all things, and fruitful in every good work, in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.

Further Study:
Isaiah 32:15
Until the spirit be poured upon us from on high, and the wilderness be a fruitful field, and the fruitful field be counted for a forest. ;

John 15:4-5
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 11:1-30, Genesis 36-37
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 6:14-24, Genesis 15

Reigning By Grace - Friday, January 16th .

Pastor Chris

For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ (Romans 5:17)

While there’re many Christians today who are reigning in life and enjoying their glorious heritage in Christ, there’re still those who’re whining, crying, pleading and begging God for everything; toiling and failing, and this ought not to be. As seen in our opening verse, we’re not called to reign by our strength, but by grace through Jesus Christ; we’re sufficient in His sufficiency (2 Corinthians 3:5 AMP). Halleluiah!

Refuse to live as a victim in life; you’re called to reign. The word “reign” in our opening verse actually means “to king.” The Greek construction is accurately rendered thus: “…they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall king in life, by one, Jesus Christ.” You’re supposed to be “kinging” in life. This is what some of us have found out; we’ve received abundance of grace, and the gift of righteousness, and as a result, we’re “kinging” in life; we’re living the life of dominion.

Sadly, some people look at us and think we must be doing something strange or wrong for our lives to be so glorious; but how could something wrong produce something so excellent? We’ve only taken advantage of the super-abundant grace that’s available in Christ Jesus.

We’ve all been given grace in abundance: the grace of God that brings salvation—wholeness, preservation, health, peace, deliverance, safety, security, prosperity—and all the blessings in Christ Jesus, has appeared unto all men (Titus 2:11). However, the question is, “Have you received that grace?” It’s those who have “received abundance of grace” that'll reign in life.

This informs why the Apostle Paul charged Timothy to take advantage of the grace of God that’s in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 2:1). Become grace-conscious. Grace is the overflowing of God’s ability at work in your life; it's the glory of God working in your spirit. The grace of God in your life brought about eternal life, righteousness, and oneness with the Holy Spirit. The Bible says, “…he giveth more grace…” (James 4:6); meaning that there’s grace for everything and anything; whatever God has called you to do, there’s more than enough grace for it. Therefore, live in, and by, the “grace advantage.”

Confession...
I thank you blessed Lord, for your grace that’s at work in my spirit. Your grace has brought me eternal life, righteousness, and oneness with your Spirit. I take advantage of this grace and live victoriously today and always! Nothing is impossible with me, because my life is the story and testimony of your grace. Blessed be God!

Further Study:
Hebrews 4:16
Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

James 4:6
But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:Matthew 12:1-21, Genesis 38-39
2-Year Bible Reading Plan:Matthew 6:25-34, Genesis 16

At Rest In Prosperity - Saturday, January 17th .

Pastor Chris

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee (Isaiah 26:3).

This scripture gives us the key to a life of peace and prosperity; a life that’s at rest in prosperity. That means you enter into it and stay in it; your life is maintained at that realm. Many often ask what they should do so the power of God may work on their behalf to ensure continuing peace and prosperity. The answer is simple: focus your mind—your attention, and emotions—on the Lord. It’s like focusing your camera on a moving object. You have to do it with some diligence and dexterity.

When your mind is focused on God’s Word, you’re guaranteed to walk in peace and prosperity. Your mind is a powerful tool given to you by God for transforming your life from glory to glory. If you’d give the right attention to the Word, it makes no difference the storms that billow against you, you’ll be at rest; your prosperity will not be shaken, despite economic downturns, meltdowns or inflation. The Lord Himself will keep you in “perfect peace.”

The Hebrew word for “peace” in Isaiah 26:3 is “shalom,” which describes the “rest” of God, wherein is prosperity, health, strength, and salvation. You can be as prosperous, successful, and healthy as you ever want to be; the key is yielding your mind to God’s Word. Your mind is the door to your spirit. If you can get the Word of God into your system, there’s nothing you can’t achieve. That’s the secret of the miraculous, and supernatural.

Keep your focus on God’s Word, and divine peace and prosperity will be your experience.

Confession...
I walk in prosperity, victory, and health because I live in God’s Word. I’m literally transfigured into the image that I see in the Word, as I meditate and yield my mind to the tutelage of the Word. Therefore, my attitude, mindset and belief systems are transformed, and my life and character, improved and upgraded, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Hebrews 12:2
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. ;

Joshua 1:8
This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 12:22-50,Genesis 40-41
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 7:1-12, Genesis 17

There’s More To Righteousness - Sunday, January 18th .

Pastor Chris

And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God (Luke 18:18-19).

Aside being a gift that we received, there’s more to righteousness. The righteousness of God is also about the goodness of God—His equity. In our opening scripture, Jesus was trying to explain to the rich young ruler about the “goodness” of God, because goodness is about righteousness, rightness, or right judgment.

How can you judge what’s right? How can you judge which way is right, and which way to go in life? How do you differentiate what’s right from what’s wrong? How do you distinguish what has glory from what has shame? How do you decide what’s of God from what’s not of God? How do you determine that which is godly? That’s righteousness!

What does it mean to walk in the righteousness of God? For example, in judging issues and situations, you're not looking for who’s right or who’s wrong; you side-up with His Word! You’re on one side—God’s side of righteousness. Your life becomes beautiful, because you look at the world from the standpoint of God’s righteousness, not man’s opinion.

Think about living your life like that: Everybody is thinking in a certain way, seeing and appraising things from the human perspective, but you’re seeing from, and with, the eyes of God; that’s the beauty and power of righteousness. If you would understand the righteousness of God, it would take away such base things as envy, wrath, malice, anger etc.; all of such demeaning vices will be out of your life, when you don’t see with the eyes of men, but with the eyes of God.

When you consciously live this way, there’ll be an awesome force—a love-attraction in your life that pulls people to you; there’s something about the righteousness of God that captivates men. Recall that we said; it’s about His goodness; when you function in righteousness, you become the epitome of God’s goodness: the expression and representation of how good God is.

Prayer...
Thank you Lord for the gift of righteousness bestowed upon me. Now, I have your righteousness, which causes me to be always right, manifesting your goodness, nature, grace, and kindness, to my world, seeing things from your perspective, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Romans 1:16-17
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. ;

Romans 14:17 TLB
For, after all, the important thing for us as Christians is not what we eat or drink but stirring up goodness and peace and joy from the Holy Spirit. ;

Psalm 27:13
I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 13:1-23,Genesis 42-43
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 7:13-20,Genesis 18

YOU HAVE ALL THINGS IN HIM - Monday, January 19th .

Pastor Chris

For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:23).

The statement above reiterates a fundamental truth of the Gospel—the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ. However, as you get higher in the understanding of the Gospel, you discover that He really doesn’t stand away and give you eternal life; He is eternal life. So, He actually gave you Himself.

1 Corinthians 3:21 says, “...all things are yours”; this is so because all things are in Christ, and He’s in you. Therefore, you have all things in Him. When you come to this realization, it’ll change your thinking and prayer life; you won't need to be asking God for things, because He already gave you everything! He already gave you Himself.

Now you can better appreciate why Jesus said, “...take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on” (Luke 12:22). This means, “Don’t bother about anything!” Everything good that you could ever imagine is already yours in Christ. His Word says, “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3).

God has given you the key to all things, because you’re His heir (Romans 8:17). Hence, there's no need asking or “begging” Him for anything. If there’re things you think you’re in need of, once you identify them, take possession in your spirit. The Bible says He has set eternity in your heart—in your spirit (Ecclesiastes 3:11). This means there’s no limit to the extent and reach of what you can possess with your spirit. You have the capacity to contain eternity itself, in your spirit.

Now think about this: If eternity can dwell in your heart, much less the whole world! No wonder the Word says out of our hearts are the issues of life; meaning that you can bring forth anything you want from within your spirit.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for giving me all things in Christ Jesus. I cast all my cares upon you and lay all burdens down at your feet! I rejoice, knowing that you’ve supplied all my needs according to your riches in glory by Christ Jesus. I live in abundance today, and always, celebrating your goodness in my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 1:30
But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: ;

John 17:10
And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Study Plan: Matthew 13:24-43, Genesis 44-45
2-Year Bible Study Plan: Matthew 7:21-29, Genesis 19

“Make Things Happen!” - Tuesday, January 20th .

Pastor Chris

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Philippians 4:13).

The Lord once said to me, “I don’t want something good to happen to you, and I don’t want something bad to happen either.” He said, “If you’re still living at that realm where you still think something good is going to happen to you, then you’re not living a mature Christian life.” So I asked, “What then is going to happen, since I should expect neither good things nor bad things to happen to me?” Then He said, “Make things happen”; “You happen!”

Think about it: Could anything good or bad ever happen to God? Did you ever read in the Scriptures that God was happy because something good “happened” to Him? Or that He was sad because something bad happened to Him? He doesn’t function in such a realm. He makes things happen. In the same way, you’re a child of God, made in His image, born after His kind; you belong in His class. So, you shouldn't have anything “happening” to you; instead, you should be the one happening.

Satan, the adversary, may come around and try to make things “happen” to you but the Bible says you should resist the devil and he’ll flee (James 4:7). He can try all he wants to, but he’s no match for you; you’re superior to him; therefore, he can't make anything “happen” to you. It doesn’t matter how many demons are roaming around, trying to stir your nest; they're not a factor; you have authority over them all in the Name of Jesus.

Being born again, you have the ability of Christ in you to determine what you want in your life. Therefore, never allow yourself to be a victim of circumstances. Keep reigning in life. Apply faith in God’s Word to deal with situations and challenges. Subdue, tame, and rule your world for Jesus Christ. Keep making things happen in the Kingdom of God.

Confession. ..
The ability of God is at work in me; I’m sufficient in His sufficiency. I make great and glorious things happen in my life, in God's kingdom, and in the lives of others, to the glory of Jesus Christ. I’m alive to God, fruitful and productive by the power of the Holy Spirit! Halleluiah!

Further Study:
2 Corinthians 3:5
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; ;

Luke 10:19
Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 13:44-14:12,Genesis 46-48
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 8:1-11,Genesis 20

Grace Makes All The Difference - Wednesday, January 21st .

Pastor Chris

But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me (1 Corinthians 15:10).

The Apostle Paul in the verse above celebrates the grace of God that was upon his life. From the human point of view, he never would have qualified to be an apostle. Nonetheless, he became such an outstanding apostle who laboured for the Gospel more than all the other apostles. He acknowledged the grace of God as the one factor that made all the difference in his life.

It brings to mind the encounter between Gideon and the angel of the Lord in the sixth chapter of Judges. The angel appeared to him and said, “…The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour…Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?” (Judges 6:12-14). Gideon, evaluating himself from the natural standpoint, didn’t believe he was a mighty man of valour; he considered the weak position of his family and said, “…Oh my Lord, where with shall I save Israel? behold, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house” (Judges 6:15).

However, the grace of God made all the difference in his life. God said to him, “Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man” (Judges 6:16). Don’t look at your perceived physical inadequacies; trust in His ability. All that Gideon needed was to believe God’s Word, and be confident in God’s grace upon his life; thank God he eventually did, and as a result, he was mightily used of God to accomplish the deliverance of Israel from the Midianites.

God might have impressed it in your heart to do something for Him, and contrary thoughts may have been rising in your heart, making you feel you don’t have what it takes. But you need to realize that you have already been granted grace in superabundance (Romans 5:17). All you need do is to trust in God’s ability and walk in the light of His grace.

Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for blessing me so richly with your Word; I acknowledge your grace that's at work in me, and I take advantage of it in advancing your Kingdom, taking my role as your partner in soul-winning, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
2 Corinthians 12:9
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. ;

Ephesians 3:20
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, ;

Romans 5:17
For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 14:13-36,Genesis 49-50
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 8:12-22,Genesis 21

The Expression Of The Christ-life! - Thursday, January 22nd .

Pastor Chris

To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).

Christianity is the unveiling of Christ in you. It’s the outworking of the Word of God in a human person. The Christian, essentially, is the expression of the Word of God; the image of the Word, such that every step you take, and all the things you do are the outworkings of the Word of God. That’s what Jesus was when He walked the earth; He was the unveiling of the Word: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…” (John 1:14). He was the manifestation of God; the express image of His person!

Now that you’re in Christ, you’re the express image of Christ. You’re Christ alive in your world today! In your family, workplace, neighbourhood, city, and country—in that place where you are—you’re the Christ that they see. Therefore, the words you speak, the life you live, the way you do the things you do, should express the Christ-life. When people look at you, they should see the glory of the new creation.

You’re a God-carrying vessel; you make manifest the savour of His knowledge and glory in every place (2 Corinthians 2:14). His presence is evident in your words and deeds; He manifests His love, power, compassion, and grace to the world today through you. Carry this consciousness with you every day, that Christ is alive in you, blessing lives, and changing generations.

God’s dream for your life is that Christ will express Himself through you; and that’s true success—the image of Christ in you—how much His personality and character are revealed through you. Your goal, therefore, should be to be more and more like Him; talking like Him, and relating to others like Him. Everything you do should be about the manifestation of Christ in you—His excellence expressed through you, for you’re His living tabernacle.

Confession...
My life is the expression of the glory of Christ; He’s unveiled in me to my world today! The divine life is manifested through me, and I bring others into this life through the Gospel. I live in the consciousness of my divine life and origin in Christ, knowing that His wisdom, ability, and power are working in, and through me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
John 1:14
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. ;

Colossians 1:27
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 15:1-28,Exodus 1-2
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 8:23-34, Genesis 22

Hallelujah

Why Still The “God Of Jacob”? - Friday, January 23rd .

Pastor Chris

And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations (Exodus 3:15).

The Bible shows us quite clearly that God is very interested in the meaning of names. Hence, He changed the name of Abram (exalted father) to Abraham (father of many), and Jacob (deceiver) to Israel, meaning a prince. However, you’d notice that even after changing Jacob’s name to Israel, he still introduced Himself to Moses as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Why still the God of Jacob, since He had changed the man’s name to Israel? After all, He didn’t say, “I’m the God of Abram,” but “the God of Abraham.”

The reason is that God was at the time concerned about the attitude of Israel as a nation. The people of Israel at that time acted in a manner that wasn’t consistent with God’s will for them. They acted in a way that depicted them as not different from other nations, and whenever they so acted, He called them Jacob. However, when they acted according to His Word, He called them Israel. Israel means a prince of power with God, whereas Jacob means swindler or deceiver. Thus, in saying, “I’m the God of Jacob,” instead of Israel, He lets us know that irrespective of Israel’s behaviour, He was still their God, and remained faithful to them.

It reveals something about the character of God: He’s faithful to us even when we’re not. He doesn’t change His character because of your character and behaviour. Whether you act like “Jacob” or you act like “Israel,” His Word concerning you is steadfast: He has loved you with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3); He’s already accepted you as His very own (Ephesians 1:6). He doesn’t turn His back on you just because you erred.

God’s promises and blessings are not for you because you have acted like “Israel”; they’re yours because you’re in Christ. However, He expects you to be steadfast and unmovable, with unshakable faith in His Word.

Prayer...
I thank you precious Father, for your unwavering faithfulness towards me; I’m safe and secure in your eternal love, confident that you’ll never leave me nor forsake me. Thank you for being my ever-present help in time of need; I love you with all my heart, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Romans 11:29
For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. ;

Isaiah 54:10
For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 15:29-16:12,Exodus 3-5
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 9:1-13,Genesis 23

“Take No Thoughts” - Saturday, January 24th .

Pastor Chris

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God (Philippians 4:6).

Thoughts come to us all the time. Even now, your mental receptacle system is working, and myriads of signals are coming through your mind. Your mind could be processing something that happened in the past, or something you’re expecting to happen in future. You could even be thinking about a loved one, your office, your car…anything; right now.

When thoughts rush at us like that, the tendency is for us to “take” one or more of such thoughts, and ruminate or brood over them. This leads to worry, and God never wants us to worry; rather, He wants us to be “careful for nothing….” The word, “careful” is from the Greek “Merimnao,” which means, “to take thought,” to be anxious about, or center your mind in such a way as to be concerned and distracted. When you “take” thoughts, that is, allow yourself to be worried over anything, those thoughts draw you away and get you distracted. Therefore, when negative thoughts come to you, trying to get your attention and pull you away, God says, “Don’t take them!”

The Lord Jesus alluded to the same thing in Matthew 6:25-26; He said, “...take no thought (Merimnao) for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on….Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them….” Don’t worry about what you’re going to eat, drink, or wear. The people of the world seek after these things, but your heavenly Father knows you need them. Act like the birds; trust the Lord to take care of you.

Instead of “taking thoughts,” tell the Lord what you want, through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. He’s big enough to take care of you; He knows exactly what you need, which is the reason He’s made all things yours in Christ. Have this consciousness; and when you do, the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will garrison your heart and mind through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the consolation, comfort, and strength that I derive from your Word! I refuse to worry or be bothered about anything, knowing that all my needs are met in Christ! Thank you for bringing me into a place of peace and prosperity, righteousness, glory, and dominion, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Psalm 23:1
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. ;

Philippians 4:19
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 16:13-17:13,Exodus 6-7
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 9:14-26,Genesis 24

Perfect And Complete In Him! - Sunday, January 25th .

Pastor Chris

I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him (Ecclesiastes 3:14).

Whatever God does is perfect and eternal. When He made you, He made you perfect and it wasn’t part of His plan for your kidneys, heart, lungs or any other organ in your body to fail. He made you perfect and complete, with nothing missing. No wonder the Word says you’re complete in Him (Colossians 2:10).

Genesis 1:31 says, “And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.” Notice, it doesn’t say everything that He had made was partially good; no! They were very good; and you’re the cream, the best and most sublime, of all that He created. He’s the only One who can tell us about His creation, and we need to have the right mindset about who we are and our heritage in Christ. If He has said He made you perfect and complete, then that’s it! Believe it, confess it, and live accordingly.

Colossians 4:12 tells us something beautiful; it says, “Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently1 for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.” Epaphras was here interceding for the brethren and desired for them to stand perfect and complete. The word, “perfect” is translated from the Greek “teleios”; it actually means “maturity,” “a completeness”; that is, being brought to full age. While the word, “complete” in that same verse, means “pleroo” (Greek), meaning “to be full,” and in need of nothing.

Thus, the Spirit’s prayer for the Church, through Epaphras, is for us to become mature in the things of God, and be full in such a way as to require nothing; it’s for us to be whole, perfect, and sound. That’s the way Jesus was; He was perfect and entire, wanting nothing. What a life! This is God’s dream for you; live accordingly.

Confession...
I know who I am; I’m the seed of Abraham! The world belongs to me. I reign and rule over circumstances by the power of the greater One who lives in me! He lives in my spirit, in my soul, and in my body! No failure for me, and no defeat on my path; I’m moving from glory to glory! Halleluiah!

Further Study:
James 1:4
But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. ;

3 John 1:2
Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 17:14-18:14,Exodus 8-9
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 9:27-38,Genesis 25

When His Glory Overshadows You · Monday, January 26th

Pastor Chris

Therefore, we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4).

Luke 1:35 highlights for us the conception of Jesus in the womb of Mary. It says, "And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that Holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God." The Holy Spirit overshadowed Mary and Jesus was conceived in her womb.

Our opening verse presents a similar scenario with regard to His resurrection. It tells us that the Lord Jesus was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father; the glory of the Father here refers to the presence of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit overshadowed the "dead" body of Jesus, and life came back to His body. Being born again, this same Holy Spirit, the glory of the Father, has taken up His abode in your spirit; He resides in you. 1 Corinthians 3:16 says, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" So, you don’t need to look for the glory of God outside of you; He’s right in your heart.

Therefore, to enjoy the riches of His glory, all you need do is look inwards and make contact with the glory in your heart. Worshipping God connects you with the glory. When you worship Him via singing, you connect your mouth with your heart, and your spirit makes contact with His realm. That connects you with the glory in your heart. The moment this happens, the power of the Highest will overshadow you, and miracles will follow. No sickness, disease or infirmity can remain in your body when the glory of God overshadows you that way!

Confession...
The glory of God is risen upon me, and I manifest that glory everywhere. The power, beauty, and excellence of God resides in my spirit; and through me, His righteousness is established, and His grace and love are revealed to men. Today, and always, I display the wonderful deeds and perfections of Him who has called me out of darkness into glory and virtue! Blessed be God!

Further Study:
Colossians 1:27;
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Ephesians 5:18-19
18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;

1 year Bible reading plan: Exodus 10-12 Matthew 18:15-35
2 year Bible reading plan: Matthew 10:1-11 Genesis 26

Propelled By Wisdom - Tuesday, January 27th .

Pastor Chris

Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding (Proverbs 4:7).

The Word of God is the wisdom of God. It makes no difference how educated you are, how many books you’ve read, or what you think you know in life, or about life; if you don’t have the Word in you, you can’t function in the wisdom of God. All you’d have is the wisdom of men, and the wisdom of men can only take you some distance, because it’s limited; but the wisdom of God will take you all the way. So, you need the wisdom of God. Wisdom—the wisdom of God—is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom (Proverbs 4:7).

With wisdom you have it made; you’re set up for a life of endless victories and unlimited possibilities, where the miraculous becomes your daily experience. For example, in Exodus 14:16, God instructing Moses, said, “…lift thou up thy rod, and stretch out thine hand over the sea, and divide it: and the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea.”

This was the wisdom of God in action. This beats human imagination. The wisdom of man (science) can’t accept that anyone could divide the sea, the Red Sea at that, with a mere rod; but this was God’s science. He knew it’ll work. He wasn’t “trying” to perform a miracle; He, in fact, instructed Moses to do it, and Moses acted on His Word and it produced result.

The Bible says, “The LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6). You can’t be more successful than the level of wisdom that you have in you, and through God’s Word, wisdom is not only imparted to your spirit, it’s also increased. Go for wisdom today! God’s wisdom gives you an excellent mindset, an excellent way of thinking and doing things. Then you’ll find yourself making excellent decisions, and walking in the perfect will of God. You’ll always be glad about your decisions and choices because you’re propelled by wisdom to be in the center of God’s will all the time.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I declare that your wisdom is functioning in me mightily and I’m excelling in good judgment, having the right ideas and making the right decisions, always. I’m filled with the knowledge of your will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
James 1:5
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. ;

Proverbs 9:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 19:1-15, Exodus 13-14
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 10:12-22, Genesis 27

He Wants You Strengthened - Wednesday, January 28th .

Pastor Chris

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man (Ephesians 3:14-16).

The Spirit of God, through the Apostle Paul, prays in our opening verse, desiring that according to the riches of God’s glory, you’d be strengthened with might in your inner man—your spirit. This prayer is evidently the will of God for you; He wants you invigorated with divine energy in your spirit. Now, what should be your response to this? Remember, the Spirit already prayed this prayer through the Apostle Paul.

Your response, therefore, should be: “Thank you blessed Father; I am strengthened with might in my inner man by the Holy Ghost!” Make this declaration about yourself repeatedly. Declare that you’re strong on the inside; you’re invigorated with miracle-working ability. You may look weak on the outside, but inside you is the strength of almighty God. That means you’re up to any task; you can do anything. Your abilities are unlimited. Nothing is impossible for you to accomplish, because you’re sufficient in God’s sufficiency (2 Corinthians 3:5).

Make bold to say like Paul, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). If you ever feel weak inside, say, “God has granted me (call your name), according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in my inner man.” Having made the declaration, don’t wait for something to happen outwardly first, or a sign; receive it, because it’s God’s will revealed. Then, function with the consciousness of one who has been strengthened. That’s how you take advantage of God’s provisions in the Gospel for your benefit.

Confession...
I thank you heavenly Father, for the power of your Spirit in my life! Even now, I’m strengthened with might by the Holy Ghost in my inner man! I can do all things through Christ who energizes and infuses me with miracle-working ability! I’m sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency! Halleluiah!

Further Study:
Ephesians 6:10
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. ;

Psalm 27:1
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? ;

2 Timothy 4:17
Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 19:16-20:16,Exodus 15
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 10:23-33,Genesis 28

You’re Above All Things! - Thursday, January 29th .

Pastor Chris

And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church (Ephesians 1:22).

1 Corinthians 15:25, talking about the Lord Jesus, says, “For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.” This isn’t about Jesus reigning in heaven; rather, it’s about Him reigning in the earth. Legally, God has put all things under the feet of Jesus (Ephesians 1:22). Isaiah 9:6 says, “…and the government shall be upon his shoulder….” This is so powerful, because it introduces our connection to it. If He had said, “and the government shall be upon His head,” that would have meant the Lord Jesus, because He’s the head, and we’re His body.

Therefore, the government being upon His shoulders means His reign, His rulership and authority, is upon the Church; its borne by us. Halleluiah! This means even if you were the least in the Church—the last little toe of the foot—you’re still above all things, because all things have been placed under the feet of Jesus. This is a settled fact in heaven. God already said so, and nothing can change it. The Lord Jesus, through the Church, must reign over all things.

What this means is that in these last days, you’re expected to arise, take up the arms of faith, and be strengthened in the things of God. Speak the Word with boldness and see it come to pass. The world and the fullness thereof has been given to you. Therefore, be bold to possess the earth, because the rulership is in your hands. Exercise dominion and take charge of your life; command every contrary storm to be calm in the Name of Jesus! Refuse to be sick, poor, or defeated. Rule over circumstances.

Confession...
I’m what God says I am. Christ in me is my victory and glory in this life! I’m a member of His body, of His flesh and of His bones, ruling, reigning, and prevailing with Christ over the world and circumstances! Greater is He that’s in me than he that’s in the world.

Further Study:
Ephesians 2:6
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: ;

Psalm 110:2
The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 20:17-34,Exodus 16-17
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 10:34-42,Genesis 29

Success Is Not Accidental - Friday, January 30th .

Pastor Chris

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success (Joshua 1:8 ).

To be a success in any field of human endeavour, whether in business, politics or in some kind of commerce, is not by accident. It must be prepared for; the future belongs to those who prepare for it. The one who fails to plan has most certainly planned to fail. That means nothing just happens. You make things happen.

Many good things can happen for you along the path of life without you necessarily preparing for them. But that’s just like ripe oranges falling off the tree; the best ones don’t fall like that all the time; you’ve got to pluck them off the tree. For example, you didn’t wait for salvation to “fall” on you. Though the Bible tells us the Lord Jesus consummated the work of salvation on the Cross and made it available to everyone, some people will still go to hell because they didn’t accept it. That’s not God’s fault; it was a choice they made not to accept it.

As a child of God, you’re the offspring of success, because your heavenly Father is a success. Jesus Christ is a success; you therefore, can’t be anything less. Success is your birthright. However, just because you’ve got the genes of success in you doesn’t mean you’re going to live up to your calling. You’ve got to do something about it. You’ve got to organize yourself for it. Plan for it and work towards it.

Success and failure are neither accidental nor mysterious. If you consistently practise the principles of success according to God’s Word, as recorded in our opening verse, you’re guaranteed to experience good success in every area of your life. On the other hand, the one who lives without vision, purpose and a sense of direction, will certainly experience failure in life. For many years, I’ve exceeded my goals, and the reason is simple: I chose to win and applied the principles of success. Success isn’t accidental, and it’s not enough to hope for it; you make it happen and it’ll be so.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for guiding me in the path of life and leading me in the way of supernatural success and permanent prosperity. I make my way prosperous and consistently experience good success as I meditate on the Word and speak it forth with boldness, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Further Study:
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 21:1-32,Exodus 18-19
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 11:1-10,Genesis 30

Trees Of Righteousness! - Saturday, January 31st .

Pastor Chris

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified (Isaiah 61:3).

The Lord Jesus was in the Synagogue on a certain day and was called up to read the Scriptures. He opened to the book of Isaiah, read the scripture above, and concluded by saying to the people: “…This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears” (Luke 4:21).

Today, that same scripture is fulfilled in us, the new creation in Christ Jesus. The Lord has produced in each one of us, trees of righteousness. We’re the planting of the Lord; He planted us in His garden and has made us co-workers with Him. 1 Corinthians 3:9 tells us, “…we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” Meaning as Christians, we’re God’s field; we’re His garden, and in that field, there are trees and there are grasses. Zechariah 10:1 says, “Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; so the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.” Notice, the rain is to be poured on every one grass, but we’re trees. We’re in God’s farm yard as fellow labourers with God, as trees of righteousness, producing other trees of righteousness.

So, when I, as a tree of righteousness, produce other trees of righteousness and we be come trees of righteousness, we’re a fruitful field. And by the Holy Spirit, as we all continue to multiply, we become a forest. The Lord Jesus, when He read from Isaiah 61, said that scripture was fulfilled in His day. Now, Jesus Christ is gone to heaven and we’re walking in His shoes, in His steps. We’re the ones the Spirit of God is upon today, and like Jesus spoke back then, we too can say today, “The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.”

That’s our message to the world. He sent us with the Holy Spirit to go and preach His message and bring people out of bondage and out of darkness; to bind up the brokenhearted. That’s what we do as trees of righteousness. We bear fruits of righteousness.

Confession...
I’m a tree of righteousness, planted by the Lord. No matter how strong the contrary winds blow, my life is unshakable, because I’m firmly rooted in Christ. I’ll never be discouraged or disadvantaged because I’m the planting of the Lord.

Further Study:
Philippians 1:9-11
And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; 10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; 11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

John 15:5
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. ;

1 Corinthians 3:9
For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 21:33-22:1-14,Exodus 20-21
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 11:11-20,Genesis 31

Set Among Kings - Sunday, February 1st .

Pastor Chris

Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men (Proverbs 22:29).

Some Bible translations use the word “serve” for “stand” in the verse above, suggesting that the man who is diligent in his business would “serve”before kings; but that’s not the picture. The word translated “stand” above actually means “to set oneself in position or in place”; whereas the word “before” used in the same verse means “in presence of.” This therefore, means that by being diligent in whatever you do, you set yourself up for greatness; you set yourself in position or in place among kings.“Kings” here isn’t merely referring to someone with a crown on his head. It’s a reference to authority, rulership, or the place of dominion. Whether it’s in an industry, or even service in the house of God, being diligent brings you into a place of honour, influence, authority and greatness.

If you’re a Pastor, for example, be diligent in your work; be committed to the ministry of the Word and prayer. Perform your pastoral duties faithfully and with diligence. Consider the words of Samuel to the people of Israel as he challenged them to serve God under their new king, Saul. Samuel maintained his role as
priest and intercessor saying, “Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way” (1 Samuel 12:23). How inspiring!

You have to pray for the people who are under you. It’s a responsibility. If Samuel considered it a sin against God not to pray for the Israelites, it’ll also be a sin against God for you not to pray for those whom God has placed under your care as a Pastor or leader in His vineyard. So, whatever you do, be diligent, and it’ll set you apart for honour.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for your grace in my life, and the ability to show care, and be diligent in all my duties and responsibilities. I’m full of wisdom, and continually receive thoughts and ideas from the Spirit that put me over, and give me the advantage always. I’m made for life, and set up for honour, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Daniel 6:3;
Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.

Proverbs 12:24:
Diligent hands will rule,but laziness ends in forced labor.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 22:15-46 Exodus 22-23
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 11:21-30 Genesis 32

The Diligent Bears Rule - Monday, February 2nd .

Pastor Chris

The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute (Proverbs 12:24).

Proverbs 22:29 says, "Seesth thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men." Just as diligence brings you before kings and into honour, slothfulness, on the other hand, leads to poverty and self-imposed servitude. Proverbs 22:29 tells us that those who are slothful will stand before "mean men"; that phrase actually means "nobodies."

It's puzzling that some people could be described in the scriptures as "nobodies" or obscure and insignificant; people whose words and actions don't count! King Solomon called them vain men, meaning they're empty; their words and actions are worthless. What they say have no value or impact. Now, remember, the value of your personality reflects in your words. Therefore, if a man's words are vain, and without value, what does that tell you? He's obscure, or irrelevant.

The Lord Jesus said, "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment" (Matthew 12:36). Such people, even though they're of value, devalued themselves by not being diligent. They weren't made nobodies by God, the society, or by other people; they made themselves so.

Be diligent in all you do and pay attention to details. God says the diligent person will never be obscure or insignificant. I'm sure that's what you want in your life. You want to be able to change things, and bring glory to the Lord Jesus Christ. You want to be excellent, effective and sound in your job, and gloriously fulfil your destiny in Christ! Then be diligent. That's the key! Be a man or woman of dignity, integrity and honour.

Confession...
My words are consistent with my Christ-nature and therefore have value! Now and always, I speak the words of faith. Through my words, I create a victorious and prosperous life, and set myself in a place of dominion, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Matthew 12: 35-37 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. 36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. ;

Proverbs 10:4
He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 23,Exodus 24-25
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 12:1-9,Genesis 33

He's Coming Back Again . - Tuesday, February 3rd .

Pastor Chris

Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book (Revelations 22:7).

Some people wonder why we preach the Gospel the way we do all around the world with so much urgency, fervency, and passion. First, it's because the Master gave us a mandate to evangelize the world before He comes back. He said in Luke 13:19, "...occupy till I come"; that means keep working; keep preaching the Gospel and leading men and women into righteousness.

In Matthew 28:19-20, the Master instructed, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." He left us with a message; a message for the whole world about what He came to do in the world, so that when He comes back, many will be prepared for Him, and go with Him. Halleluiah!

That's why we're preaching. We're not just talking, or merely holding "religious" programmes. This isn't just to get people excited about Christianity; no! It's about Jesus Christ and His living message: that He came to die for us, and that God raised Him from the dead, and that He ascended into heaven, and He's alive today, and will come back one day, very soon.

How ready are you for the Master's soon return? You might ask, "When, and how soon is He coming back?" He's coming very soon; a lot sooner than many realize. All the things He told us will happen before He comes are happening exactly the same way He said they would. There aren't too many signs or events left to be fulfilled before the Master's soon return.

This is why we must keep preaching the Gospel, letting men and women all over the world know that the end is near, the Master is coming again. He was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin, unto salvation (Hebrews 9:28).

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for you for your grace upon the Church of Jesus Christ to effectively proclaim the Gospel and establish your righteousness in the hearts of men and women all around the world in these last days. Through the preaching and teaching of your Gospel of righteousness, the lost around us, and in the regions beyond, are snatched from destruction and damnation, into the glorious liberty of the sons of God, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
John 3:13
And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. ;

1 Corinthians 16:22
If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha. ;

2 Timothy 4:2
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 24:1-35,Exodus 26-27
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 12:10-21,Genesis 34

Supernatural Enablement - Wednesday, February 4th .

Pastor Chris

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:.

Before Jesus' ascension, He said to His disciples, "And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:49). Then, in our opening verse, He said to them, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you...." Why is this important? It's because there's no Christianity without the power of the Holy Spirit! What is power?

The word translated "power" in Acts 1:8 is the Greek, "dunamis", which means inherent power; the dynamic ability to effect changes. It also means wonder-working ability or miracle-working ability. It refers to the ability to do the impossible. If you're born again and have received the Holy Spirit, you've received the ability to do the impossible - a supernatural ability! It's the creative ability of God, for the Bible says He created all things by the power of the Holy Spirit. Now, that same Holy Spirit lives in you. Therefore, you have the divine enablement to accomplish any task, and change hopeless situations.

With the Holy Spirit, you can never be defeated or disadvantaged. If you want the glory of God in your life, if you want to walk in dominion over devils, sickness, disease, infirmities and death, then the Holy Spirit is all you need. His presence in your life makes you indomitable! Like Paul, be bold to say, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13).

Never say or think you're helpless or ordinary; not when the Holy Spirit lives in you! He's the power of God, and the power-giver. Walk with Him, and it'll be glory, victory, success, excellence and miracles for you all the way!

Prayer...
Blessed Father, I thank you for the privilege and blessing of having the Holy Spirit live in me, with His miracle-working ability working in me! I'm effective, efficient, and excellent in all that I do through the power of the Holy Spirit. I can do all things by His ability that works within me! Halleluiah!

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 2:4-5
And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. ;

Ephesians 3:14-16
For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 24:36-51,Exodus 28
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 12:22-30,Genesis 35

Be Conscious Of His Love - Thursday, February 5th

Pastor Chris

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

Love is that endearing value of a person that gives you a sense of his or her importance to you. Therefore, that God loves you means you're special and valuable to Him. If this is true, then it must mean that your life has a meaning; you're not living for nothing. God didn't create you to be a failure but to be head over all things. Walk in the liberty and full assurance of His love, knowing that you're beyond condemnation (Romans 8:1).

The consciousness of God's love will change your life and give an extraordinary mentality. Consider a man like David, who had a unique perception of the love of God. His understanding of the Father's love made him think differently. In Psalm 23:1 for example, he said, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." This alone lets you know what David thought about God, for which reason he was such a success, and his life so victorious! He knew that he was valuable to God, and therefore concluded: "I will never lack anything in my life, because God loves me; He's my shepherd!" What a mentality.

Always take out time to meditate on the love of God. Think about His grace, kindness and the fact that if you were the only one on earth, the Lord Jesus would still have given His life for you. That's how valuable you are to God. Dare to believe this, and let it sink deep into your consciousness; it'll change your life forever, and give you a new confidence.

God loves you just the way you are. You didn't have to "work" or impress Him to earn His love, for you could never earn it by your own works, but by grace. He chose to love you. All you have to do is accept His love as simply as it has come to you, and be conscious of it at all times. Even now, lift your hands to Him and say, "Thank you Lord, for loving me so much!"

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for your love, and your grace, which you've so lavishly poured out on me! Your joy fills my heart, and my life is the expression of your praise and glory, as I gloriously experience your love, and manifest the same to my world, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 John 4:7-10
7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. ;

1 John 4:16 AMP
And we know (understand, recognize, are conscious of, by observation and by experience) and believe (adhere to and put faith in and rely on) the love God cherishes for us. God is love, and he who dwells and continues in love dwells and continues in God, and God dwells and continues in him.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 25:1-30,Exodus 29-30
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 12:31-38,Genesis 36

Your Safety Is Guaranteed! - Friday, February 6th .

Pastor Chris

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me (Psalm 23:4).

In Luke 21:25-26, Jesus said that in the last days, there'll be perplexity of nations, men's hearts failing them for fear: "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear..." (Luke 21:25-26).

We're living in a day where there's so much fear. There's fear within and there's fear without; there's fear everywhere. Kids don't play outside like they used to. Many are no longer bold to take pleasure-walks without looking over their shoulders, in fear of being stalked by marauders, drive-by shooters, or becoming victims of a terror attack. Life has changed. Now, as a child of God, what should your response be, in spite of all these?

First, let's read the inspiring words of David again in our opening verse: "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." The next verse is even more inspiring, "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies..." (Psalm 23:5). He prepares a table before you in the presence of your enemies, not in their absence. In other words, you don't have to care about the enemy and what he will, and can do; the adversary is not a factor! Glory to God!

It doesn't matter whether there's evil everywhere; you dwell in the secret place of the most High. Therefore, you're untouchable. No wonder He says, "A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee" (Psalm 91:7). What an assurance of safety, security, and peace for the one who's in Christ! Refuse to fear. The Lord is your salvation; that means no matter what happens, no matter the terror or evil concocted by the enemy, your safety is guaranteed because you're in Christ. Let this be your mindset.

Confession...
Christ is my life, and He's the environment in which I dwell; therefore, I'm forever safe, secure and protected to live triumphantly always! My life is the testimony of the grace and wisdom of God, who causes all things to work together for my good! I have victory in His Name! Halleluiah!

Further Study: Psalm 91:1-16 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. 3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. 4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. 5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; 6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. 7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. 8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. 9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; 10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. 11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. 12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. 13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. 14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. 15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 25:31-46, Exodus 31
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 12:39-50, Genesis 37

No Impossibilities - Saturday, February 7th .

Pastor Chris

But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

The story is told in Mark 5:25-34 of a woman who suffered hemorrhage for twelve years, until nobody could take care of her anymore. She had been a wealthy woman, until she got sick. All her efforts to seek medical help proved abortive. She had spent all her living on doctors and instead of getting better, her condition worsened. In her desperate search for a solution, after no one could help her, she heard about Jesus. And as characteristic of the ministry of the Master, her dilemma ended when she met Him.

It doesn't matter what you might be going through in your life; it's not about the trouble that comes to you; it's what you do when the trouble comes that matters. Never think that the problem you're facing is too big or insurmountable; don't accept that your condition is incurable. Nothing is impossible with God. Also, and very significantly, the Word says all things are possible to him that believes (Mark 9:23). The life of the Christian is one of limitless possibilities and endless victories.

When the world says, "This or that is impossible, or such-and-such ailment is incurable," that's the limit of their understanding. Your life shouldn't be dependent on the limitation of someone else's thinking. There's no sickness that's incurable. It's only incurable until someone discovers and creates the cure. Besides, we, the believing ones, have been given the ability and authority in Christ to heal all manner of sickness and disease: "...they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover" (Mark 16:18).

Maybe, you're in a predicament right now, or suffering from a health condition which Medicine has labelled incurable; don't despair! Perhaps you were told you'd never walk again; don't give up or become despondent! Christ in you is your hope of deliverance, healing, health and preservation. Even now, proclaim that every fibre of your being is subject to the impact and influence of the life of Christ in you! Blessed be God!

Confession...
I live in, and by, the Word of God and nothing is impossible with me! Christ the healer lives in me; He's my life and my righteousness. He has ushered me into a life of unlimited possibilities, victories, and dominion! I can do all things in His Name! Glory to God!

Further Study:
2 Corinthians 4:17
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; ;

Mark 9:23
Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 26:1-30,Exodus 32-33
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 13:1-9, Genesis 38

Vital Realities Of His Substitutionary Work - Sunday, February 8th .

Pastor Chris

Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow (1 Peter 1:10-11).

I've often wondered why people go through terrible difficulties for a protracted period of time. Someone might argue that it's due to the severity of their situation; no! For the most part, it's due to their ignorance of the Word of God, which results in their inability to appropriate the vital realities of Christ's substitutionary work to their personal lives.

The Bible talks about the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow (1 Peter 1:11). Christ already suffered: His vicarious death and triumphant resurrection paved the way for a life of glory for all of God's children. There's absolutely no reason for any Christian to suffer in life, except by choice or ignorance of God's Word.

It's important that we get to know the Word of God in truth, and live by the vital realities of His Word. Part of the ministry of the Holy Spirit in your life is to make the Word of God that has been consummated in the redemptive plan of God real in your life. He makes all that Christ came to do, in His substitutionary work, real in your life; He brings you into the vital experience of it, not just the legality.

Let me explain it this way: everybody in the world has actually been legally saved; as far as God is concerned, every human being is saved. However, until, and unless, someone accepts that salvation, it will not be a vital truth or reality, and as a result, he'll never experience the salvation that Christ brought to him. He may go to hell, not because of his sins, but because he didn't know or accept the truth of salvation that was made available to him in Christ.

In the same way, when you're in Christ, you must recognize, accept, and endorse the blessings of salvation that the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ has consummated for you in order for them to become vital realities in your life.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for granting me knowledge of my heritage in Christ, and insight into the mysteries of your Kingdom. I manifest your glory and walk in the light of victory, prosperity and success today, in the Name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 2:12
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. ;

Philemon 1:6
That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 26:31-56,Exodus 34-35
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 13:10-23,Genesis 39

He's Lavished His Love On You! - Monday, February 9th .

Pastor Christ

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not (1 John 3:1).

The word, "bestowed" in our opening verse above actually means, "lavished". Therefore, putting it rightly, it should read, "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath lavished upon us...". This is the sense in which God has loved us - with an everlasting love; love without limits.

Think about it: we who shouldn't have been known of God, who shouldn't have ever come close to God are now, as a result of the superabundant love He's lavished on us, accepted of Him. We're now called the sons of God. This is an amazing reality. Let's read 1 John 3:2: "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is."

Notice it's not talking about us becoming the sons of God when we get to heaven; it's not futuristic; we're sons of God NOW! However, in outward appearance, we may not look so, but for sure, when He comes, we shall be like Him in appearance. But already, as He is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17). As He is loved of God, so are we. The Father loves you as much as He loves Jesus.

You're secured in the Father's love; take advantage of His everlasting love for you. He loves you as though you were the only one on earth! Not only is His love for you without limits, it's also unconditional. The Bible says, "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins" (1 John 4:10). So, clearly, He demonstrated His boundless love for us, even while we were yet in sin. Have faith in that love, for it's been poured out abundantly for you.

PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for lavishly pouring out your love upon me and giving me all things that pertain unto life and godliness. I can boldly declare that I've been accepted in the beloved, and blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Romans 5:5
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. ;

Romans 5:8
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 26:57-75,Exodus 36-37
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 13:24-33,Genesis 40

The "Shout" Of His Calling - Tuesday, February 10th .

Pastor Chris

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first (1 Thessalonians 4:16).

Our opening verse says the Lord will descend from heaven with a shout, and with the voice of the Archangel. I'm sort of familiar with that kind of shout of the Master! It's like the one that He gave at the tomb of Lazarus; the Bible says He yelled with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come forth" (John 11:43). Lazarus, having been dead, and buried for four days, came out of the grave alive.

If Jesus hadn't called Lazarus by name, everybody that ever died would have come out of the grave, at the shout of the Master. His voice resonated through Hades, and all of Hades trembled, and Lazarus come out, because the Master called him by name, with a shout.

Now the Bible says that the same Jesus would descend with a shout; when He does, the dead in Christ shall rise first. Every Christian that ever died will come out of the grave. If they were buried in the sea, the sea will give them up; if their bodies were burnt, they'll come back to life! Wherever they are, they'll come out of death, and we that are alive and remain in the earth shall be caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:17). Blessed be God!

This is what we're preparing for; it's the reason we're sparing nothing in making ourselves ready and getting others ready, for the end of all things is near!

Prayer...
Dear Father, what a glorious day it'll be when we all see Jesus! Thank you for our hope of eternal life through Christ Jesus, and the awesome privilege of being in Christ! Christ lives and reigns gloriously in the earth through me. Hallelujah!

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 15:51-52
Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

1 Corinthians 15:16-24 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 27:1-26, Exodus 38-39
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 13:34-43, Genesis 41

Pleasing The Father - Wednesday, February 11th .

Pastor Chris

By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. (Hebrews 11:5).

The Bible says, "And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him" (Genesis 5:24). That tells you the kind of man he was. He was a prophet of God; he was the prophet that saw vision of the Lord's coming with ten thousands of His saints: "And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him" (Jude 14:15).

How could someone have such a vision? We read in our theme verse that before his translation into heaven, he had the testimony that he pleased God. In other words, Enoch he knew that he pleased God with his life. That lets you know that when you are pleasing God with your life, you can know it; its not a guess work. It takes faith to please Him: "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).

When someone says, "O, God, I don't know whether you are pleased with me or not," please have mercy on me and be pleased with me, " that person is walking in ignorance; that's not the way. Are you walking in love, and living by faith? If you are, then rest assured that you are pleasing the Father. Faith walks by love (Galatians 5:6). Moreover, Romans 14:23 tells us that whatsoever is not of faith is sin. In other words, God isn't pleased with anything done outside of faith.

When you're walking by faith, and manifesting the love of God, you'll know it in your spirit that your life is pleasing to Him. The Holy Spirit will bear witness with your spirit that you're pleasing the Father; you'll know! Halleluiah. Learn to walk with God by walking in love and faith in His Word!

Prayer. ..
Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for you're working in me, to will and to do of your good pleasure. My life is a reflection of your love, and the manifestation of your glory! Your wisdom functions mightily in me today, as I take your Gospel to my world, in Jesus ’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
2 Corinthians 3:2 -3
Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: 3:3 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.

Philippians 2:13
For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 27:27-44 Exodus 40
2-Year Bible Reading Plan:Matthew 13:44-52 Genesis 42

Participants In The Divine Experience - Thursday, February 12th .

Pastor Chris

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature... (2 Peter 1:4).

Our opening verse means you’re now a participator or sharer of God’s divine nature. You’re involved in the God-life; the divine experience. God is no longer living that special life all by Himself; He’s made you an associate of the God-kind. You’ve now become a carrier or conveyor of the God-life. What a blessed reality! This means that failure, defeat, weakness, fear, and other works of darkness can’t, and shouldn’t be a part of your experience, because you live the transcendent life.

This is the consciousness God wants you to have and live by every day. When you declared the Lordship of Jesus over your life, you became a new creation, and superior to Satan; the God-life was imparted into your spirit! Now you’re in the light, catapulted into the Kingdom of His dear Son. Satan no longer has right over your life; though he may try to maneuver or deceive you, he’s not a factor. He’s already defeated. Don’t be concerned about his futile manipulations; walk in the dominion and power of the Spirit, unafraid of anything.

Consider the Apostle Paul; he was conscious of the God-life in him. He didn’t have to pray, “O God, don’t let the venom affect me,” when a poisonous viper bit him. The onlookers expected him to drop dead, but when they saw that he was uninfected, they called him a god (Acts 28:1-6). It happened thus for Paul because of his consciousness of the God-life in him. He knew he had eternal life; the impregnable and “uninfectable” life of God.

He is the one, who by the Spirit, wrote, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This means you’ve been transmuted with the life of God, into the nature of Christ; transfigured in the spirit into the image of the Son of God! You’re different. The human life with which you were born by your parents has been supplanted by the supernatural life of God.

Confession...
I’m an associate of the God-kind; I function from the standpoint of advantage, victory, dominion, and power, because I’m born of God and conscious of His life in me. I’m guided and propelled by His divine wisdom to do His will, and fulfil my destiny in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 John 5:11-12
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 27:45-66;Leviticus 1-3
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 13:53-58;Genesis 43

Repel Worry!

Friday, February 13th - Pastor Chris

Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God (Philippians 4:6).

God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). This is why we should never worry about any situation or anything in your life. Worrying will short-circuit His power that's at work on your behalf. So, rather than worry, trust Him, for He never fails.

Most people have a "worry list" that's endless. If they're not worried about the future, then it's about their marriage, or about their children, money, education, business, health etc.; that's not the life of a Christian. The Lord Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." This is God's will for your life; He wants you free from struggles, worries and the troubles that weigh men down. Someone might ask, "If I have lots of problems, isn't it right that I worry?"

But the question is, "How does 'worrying' about a problem get you the solution to that problem?" It doesn't work that way! You can worry for as long as you want about the money you need; it's not going to make the money come to you. God isn't going to say, "Son, I've seen that you've worried so much; so I've decided to give you the money!" That'll never happen, because it's contrary to His Word; He has said, "Be anxious for nothing!" Therefore, He wouldn't indulge anyone in such faithlessness.

God told us not to worry because of it's adverse effect. Worry sets up a magnetic force that attracts to you, everything that's consistent with what you're worried about. Worry makes you imagine negative possibilities, and your imagination of those negative possibilities crystalizes them. In plain terms, worry makes your fears possible!

When worry attacks you, repel it, because it's a spirit. Use the Word against it. When you find that something is getting your attention, to the point you're almost getting worried, do what the Word says: Make your request known to God and then, give Him thanks that it's done. You'd immediately experience such indescribable peace from within that others would wonder how you could be at peace in the midst of the storms.

Confession...
I live worry-free because Christ is my all! In Him, I'm self-sufficient, enabled to do all things, and supernaturally supplied and fortified for the triumphant life! Blessed be God!

Further Study:
Philippians 4:6-7 TLB
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don’t forget to thank him for his answers.
7 If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus. ;

Matthew 6:31-34
Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 28, Leviticus 4-6
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 14:1-10, Genesis 44