An Understanding Of "Christ In You" - Monday, June 8th .

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 1:26-27).

In the opening verse, the Apostle Paul unveils the mystery that was hidden from ages and from generations; that mystery is "Christ in you, the hope of glory". What does this mean to you? I need you to ponder on it for a moment.
In certain places in Scripture, where the word "Christ" is used, it could refer to Jesus - the messiah.

In some other places, it could mean the Church, which is His body: "For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ" (1 Corinthians 12:12). But in our opening scripture, "Christ" doesn't refer to the Church or the person of Jesus; rather, it refers to the anointing on the man Jesus that made Him different. "Christ" actually means "the anointed one". Notice the definite article "the" in the phrase "the anointed One", meaning it's not just anybody that you call Christ; it's got to be the anointed one. Praise God!

When he says "Christ in you, the hope of glory", he's talking about the anointing on the person of Christ Jesus. In other words, he's saying, "That anointing in you, is the hope of glory". The man Jesus doesn't live in you, per se; He's in heaven. Though you might say, "Jesus is in me", that's only acceptable in generic terminology, because the man, Jesus, ascended to heaven and He's seated at the right hand of God. But the Holy Spirit brings His presence and makes His anointing known and available to you today. So, Christ is in you, but not the man Jesus.

Now, this is the mystery: the totality of the character and nature of the man Jesus, all that He represents - His life, power, wisdom, majesty, glory and grace - are in you. Meditate on this and have the "Christ in me" consciousness. Fix your gaze on that truth; put your mind on it, for this is no religion!


Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for Christ, the anointed One and His anointing, live in me; all that the anointing represents - His life, power, glory, wisdom, righteousness and grace - are expressed in and through me! Christ in me is my confidence for a glorious, prosperous and victorious life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Further Study: Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. ;

1 John 2:27
But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 21:1-25, 1 Chronicles 26-29

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 15:33-47, Deuteronomy 6

An Understanding Of "Christ In You" - Monday, June 8th .

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 1:26-27).

In the opening verse, the Apostle Paul unveils the mystery that was hidden from ages and from generations; that mystery is "Christ in you, the hope of glory". What does this mean to you? I need you to ponder on it for a moment.
In certain places in Scripture, where the word "Christ" is used, it could refer to Jesus - the messiah.

In some other places, it could mean the Church, which is His body: "For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ" (1 Corinthians 12:12). But in our opening scripture, "Christ" doesn't refer to the Church or the person of Jesus; rather, it refers to the anointing on the man Jesus that made Him different. "Christ" actually means "the anointed one". Notice the definite article "the" in the phrase "the anointed One", meaning it's not just anybody that you call Christ; it's got to be the anointed one. Praise God!

When he says "Christ in you, the hope of glory", he's talking about the anointing on the person of Christ Jesus. In other words, he's saying, "That anointing in you, is the hope of glory". The man Jesus doesn't live in you, per se; He's in heaven. Though you might say, "Jesus is in me", that's only acceptable in generic terminology, because the man, Jesus, ascended to heaven and He's seated at the right hand of God. But the Holy Spirit brings His presence and makes His anointing known and available to you today. So, Christ is in you, but not the man Jesus.

Now, this is the mystery: the totality of the character and nature of the man Jesus, all that He represents - His life, power, wisdom, majesty, glory and grace - are in you. Meditate on this and have the "Christ in me" consciousness. Fix your gaze on that truth; put your mind on it, for this is no religion!


Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for Christ, the anointed One and His anointing, live in me; all that the anointing represents - His life, power, glory, wisdom, righteousness and grace - are expressed in and through me! Christ in me is my confidence for a glorious, prosperous and victorious life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:

Galatians 2:20
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. ;

1 John 2:27
But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 21:1-25, 1 Chronicles 26-29

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 15:33-47, Deuteronomy 6

Light Gives Meaning - Tuesday, June 9th .

Pastor Chris

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid (Matthew 5:14).

As a believer in Christ Jesus, you're the light of the world! Jesus said so. Therefore, you must fulfil your calling as the light of the world. Light gives meaning, describes, and gives direction; it reveals the true nature of things. Until you turn the light on, you wouldn't know what's covered in darkness. You might feel the objects, but their true state or meaning is only revealed when the lights are turned on.

For example, you may have an expensive necklace or wristwatch on, but its glitter will be lost in the dark. No one may be able to tell its true value even if they felt it on you. It might have even been made of gold, but until light shines on it, its value (meaning) isn't seen and appreciated.

Now, being the light of the world, you're sent by God to give meaning to the lives of men in this world. For example, when we say in our ministry, "Christ Embassy, Giving Your Life A Meaning" that's what we're talking about. He sent us to give meaning to people's lives. There're those who say, "I'm just an ordinary person; my life has no meaning, I'm just living from day to day!" No; not when you're born again! In Christ, not only does your life have a meaning, you're ordained to help give meaning to the lives of others through God's Word.

Jesus said, "...As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you" (John 20:21). He came to give our lives a meaning and then sent us to preach the same Gospel and use it to bring glory, beauty and meaning to the lives of men all around the world. He sent us as a light in a dark world. Light brings flavour, beauty, and colour. So, as the light of the world, you're to bring beauty, and sweetness to others through the Word of God - the Light of God! It dispels every darkness and brings value, stability, and glory into men's lives.

Prayer...
Precious heavenly Father, thank you for the special privilege you've given me as the light of the world to give meaning to the lives of men through your Word. I live in your glory today and always, impacting lives with the light of your glorious Gospel, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. ;

Acts 26:16
But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 1:1-26, 2 Chronicles 1-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 16:1-11, Deuteronomy 7

Kenny4lyfe:
There's something that can never be taken away from us; and that is uniqueness of the message that bequetted unto us. This uniqueness thrives even in face of divers challenges.
I am glad to be a part this mehn.
@Gombs it's awe inspiring to finally meet you at the recently concluded BLW Internationa Staff Week with Pastor Chris. Thanks for your efforts to ensure that our side of the story is heard through NL.
I go back to my station with renewed vigour to ensure the dominance of this Gospel of Light, Life and Love in my world, giving people's life a meaning in the process. Amen.

You're welcome bro. This message will be heard...it MUST be heard. International missions to Sudan.. loading

Steer Your Life In God's Direction...With Words - Wednesday, June 10th .

Pastor Chris

Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof (Proverbs 18:21).

Everything God gave us is activated through speech - words. Many, however, don't understand the power of words. The primary function of your mouth and your tongue is to steer your life in God's direction for you. Remember what the Bible tells us about God in the book of Genesis; it says, "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light (Genesis 1:1-3).

The first speech we notice from God wasn't to somebody; rather, He started by talking to situations and circumstances. He was making things happen through the power of speech, showing us what we're supposed to do with words. He wanted light and He said, "...let there be light", and light came into being. He gave us the ability to speak so that like Him, we can call into existence the things that we want to see in our lives and environment. Halleluiah!

Your words locate you; what you say determines where you'll be in life. That's the reason it's so important for you to avoid talking negatively. For instance, when a Christian declares, "I can't do such-and-such", he may think that only applies to the context of that particular statement, but it's not so! That statement immediately works in his spirit and affects his divine nature.

This accounts for why some Christians are in a dilemma in their walk of faith. They think they know the Word of faith; yet they're not getting the right results of the Word in their lives, and they wonder why the contradiction. The reason is that they've programmed too much negativism into their spirits which must be changed. And only the Word can make that happen.

Think and talk right. Talk according to the scriptures! Be sure that your words are in sync with the revealed Word of God always. That way, you'll consistently make progress, and chart your course from glory to glory.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for your glory in my life, and the influence of your Word in my spirit, soul, and body, and on my lips! By the power of your Word on my lips, my life is beautified daily; my mind is renewed, and I'm transformed from glory to glory, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Further Study:
Romans 12:2
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will 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: Acts 2:1-21, 2 Chronicles 5-7

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 16:12-20, Deuteronomy 8

Cultured By The Word - Thursday, June 11th .

Pastor Chris

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 (Acts 20:32).

Years ago, there were statements many were fond of making that just didn't go down well with my spirit. For example, in referring to something that was trending or in vogue, they'd say, "This dress is what's reigning" or "This brand of car is what's reigning now". I couldn't accept such or permit anyone to say such around me, because nothing, and no one else reigns, but Jesus, and He reigns through me.

I think this way because the Word has cultured my understanding. The Word of God has given me an extraordinary mentality; I can't think otherwise. Make up your mind to be cultured by the Word; it's something you have to do for yourself. Follow the Word; copy Jesus; emulate His lifestyle. Study the way He lived and ministered, and follow His examples.

Only the Word of God can mould you into that man or woman that God has destined you to be. It doesn't matter your background; you can be cultured by the Word; it's a choice that you have to make. I may not know what influences you might have been exposed to, and why you think the way you do, but I know that the Word of God can give you a new mentality.

Let God's Word be the light by which you see all things. Let it guide you in your marriage, ministry, academics, business, finances, and every area of your life. Let your outlook on life be from the perspective of God's Word. When you allow the Word of God to culture your spirit, His glory and abundant provisions become real to you.

Prayer...
Blessed Father, my delight is in your Word, which I cherish more than my necessary food! My mind is renewed, and my spirit conditioned by your Word for greatness! I'm like a tree growing by the stream, blooming and blossoming with fruitfulness, and impacting my world with your righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. ;

1 Peter 2:21
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 2:22-47, 2 Chronicles 8-11

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 1:1-10, Deuteronomy 9

Vibrant And Aglow In The Spirit - Friday, June 12th

Pastor Chris

Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord (Romans 12:11).

The word translated "fervent" above is the Greek "zeo"; it means to boil with heat for liquid; or glow with heat for solids. Thus, to be "fervent in spirit" is to boil in your spirit with the Word of God, and glow on the outside. That's why the Moffat translation says, "Maintain the glow"; because there's a glow of the Spirit in your life. The New King James version says, "Keep yourself aglow with the spirit"; the Amplified translation says, "...be aglow {and} burning with the Spirit...."

That's what God wants; He doesn't want you slothful, languid or docile. He wants you vibrant, exuberant, and aglow in the spirit always. Some people are slothful about going to church, or about the things of God; they're uninterested in spiritual activities. Don't be that way! Be active in soul winning; be involved in encouraging and bringing others to the house of God. Passionately pray and intercede for lost souls; it's part of your ministry in the Gospel as a child of God.

You're an ambassador of Jesus Christ, and of the Church to which you belong; never forget it. You're to speak on behalf of Christ and, of your church. Your church is your spiritual family; bring others into that family so they can hear the same Word of God that has built and edified you! Touch the lives of others with the Gospel.

Maintain your zeal and fire for the Gospel. Remain passionate about the spiritual; that is, be on fire in your spirit, and glow on the outside! How do you achieve that?

First, it's by praying in tongues. If you want to excel spiritually and make lasting impact in this world, learn to spend quality time praying in tongues. Do it quite often. When you're alone, rather than being idle, or thinking about unimportant things, pray in tongues!

Also, study the Word; give yourself to the ministry of the Word. That's how you maintain inspiration and your zeal for the Lord - it's through prayer and the ministry of the Word.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for counting me faithful, calling me into the ministry of reconciliation. I am passionate, vibrant and aglow in my spirit today; fired-up and ready to spread the Gospel to my world. Thank you for your light that shines brightly in and through me, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Matthew 5:14
Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Isaiah 60:1
Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.
Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 3:1-16, 2 Chronicles 12-15

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 1:11-25,Deuteronomy 10

The Word: His Will Expressed -
Saturday, June 13th

Pastor Chris

Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord... (Hosea 6:3).

If you don't know the Word of God, you'll live below God's dream for you. Your life wouldn't be the expression of what He really wants; you can't fulfil His desire and His plan for your life. There're too many who live on the basis of assumptions; on what they "think" the Word says, and not what it actually says, and that's sad. That somebody said something nice and religious isn't enough for you to accept it. Study it for yourself. Just because it sounded like something God could have said doesn't mean it came from God.

The Bible tells us something inspiring about a certain group of Christians in the city of Berea, describing them as noble: "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" (Acts 17:11). Did you see that? They didn't give room for assumptions. Whatever they were taught in the Word, they went back to the Scriptures to study in order to be sure that what they had been taught was in line with God's revealed thoughts.

You can't know the mind of God until you know the Word of God. His Word is His will and mind expressed. Therefore study the Scriptures for yourself. Don't say, "What if I don't understand?" You have the Holy Spirit, and part of His ministry in your life is to help you understand the Scriptures. What's more? Jesus said it's your heritage to understand the Scriptures - the mysteries of the Kingdom: "...Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God..." (Luke 8:10).

The glory and beauty of your life will be to the measure of your knowledge of the Word of God. It makes no difference how long you've been in church; your life can't progress beyond the level of the knowledge of God that you have. So, know the Word for yourself. Study, meditate and ponder on it; put your heart into it, because your whole life depends on it.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I give myself wholly to your Word, and declare that my profiting is evident, as I make progress by the Word. Thank you for positioning me through your Word to reign and rule over circumstances, triumphing gloriously every day, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Mark 12:24
And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power 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.

1 Timothy 4:15
Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.

2 Timothy 2:15 (AMP)
Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 4:1-31, 2 Chronicles 16-19

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 1:26-38, Deuteronomy 11

Empowered To Help Others - Sunday, June 14th .

Pastor Chris

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

If you haven't made up your mind to enjoy your life, you can make that decision today, because that's God's will for you (John 10:10). He wants you to have good health, to be strong, vibrant, prosperous, and influential enough to help others. You have to be in a position of advantage to be able to lift others, and be a blessing.

One has to be financially influential to make meaningful impact in spreading the Gospel around the world. In our ministry, for example, the tremendous impact we make all around the world, in hosting large crusades and conferences, airing TV programmes etc., cost lots of money. We're grateful to the Lord for empowering us to be able to do all that!

Preaching the Gospel is akin to fishing in a river; it can be done in different ways. You could jump into the water, swim, and try to catch some fish with your hands; you won't get a lot of them that way though! You could also place a hook in a strategic spot in the water, and bait the fish to swallow the bait. You still may not get very many. Another option is to cast a net into the water. With the net, you'll more likely get a haul; a better result. However, it'll certainly cost you more to use the net.

God wants us to be prosperous. Those who got acquainted with Jesus in the course of His earthly ministry became empowered to bless others; they had greater influence, reach and impact in their time. That's what He's done with your life; you're blessed to be a blessing.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the work you've committed into my hands, in reaching the unreached with the Gospel of Christ. I'm unwavering as I put in the best of my resources, time and energy, in the divine task of reaching the world with the Gospel. Thus, I make great impact for your Kingdom, in Jesus' Name. Amen.


Further Study:

1 Corinthians 9:16
For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! ;

2 Samuel 24:24
And the king said unto Araunah, Nay; but I will surely buy it of thee at a price: neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God of that which doth cost me nothing. So David bought the threshingfloor and the oxen for fifty shekels of silver.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 4:32-5:1-11, 2 Chronicles 20-22

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 1:39-56, Deuteronomy 12

Think Fresh; Think Success! - Tuesday, June 16th .

Pastor Chris

Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord (Romans 12:11 AMP).

Part of the reason young people can be very successful, where older people fail, is that many young people don't know enough to be afraid. Most older people know too much; they have too much information about what doesn't work. They remember when they tried something and it failed, and so they become cynical. It's a lot harder to inspire such people to make a fresh move or have a fresh start.

Understand that being old in this context isn't so much about a person's age, but about the state of his mind. Your body might age, but refuse to age in your mind. Think fresh; think success. God loves to use young people, because they think fresh all the time; they easily believe, and are always passionate about learning something new.

It's never too late to learn and be inspired by a dream of success. Even if you're already grey-headed and advanced in years, God can still use you. Moses was one hundred and twenty years old when he died, and at that age, he was still strong and vibrant. The Bible says, "...His eyesight was sharp; he still walked with a spring in his steps" (Deuteronomy 34:7 MSG).

What will you be like when you're ninety-two? I can tell, if you put this message to work: You won't be crying that nothing works. Instead, you'll be the one teaching and imparting faith to the younger generation. You'll be changing lives with the Gospel, speaking in tongues, prophesying, and speaking words of faith by the power of the Holy Spirit!

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for stirring my heart with your Word to gain the right inspiration! My mind is anointed to see and accept possibilities. I'm energized and aglow in my spirit to impact the world of my time, through supernatural ideas inspired in me by your Spirit, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Psalms 103:5
Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

Joshua 14:10-11
And now, behold, the Lord hath kept me alive, as he said, these forty and five years, even since the Lord spake this word unto Moses, while the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness: and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and five years old. 11 As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 6:1-15,
2 Chronicles 26-28

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 1:67-80,
Deuteronomy 14

Triumphant In The Midst Of Crises - Wednesday, June 17th .

Pastor Chris

Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place (2 Corinthians 2:14).

There was as much evil in Bible days, as there is today; the world was just as wicked and dark back then, as it is today. The happenings around the world today, as reported by the media might be terribly agonizing, but the Bible clearly shows that these things are not new: "The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 1:9).

There were economic hardships back then as there are today; there were recessions and depressions. People lived in fear because of terrorism. There were, and are still tricks the adversary uses to suppress and oppress people. In fact, he has no new tricks; he's only got the same old ones that will always fail.

Our God, however, has been faithful throughout all generations. In the midst of the darkness, He has led His children in perpetual triumph and kept His promises. No wonder the psalmist declared, "I will sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever: with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations" (Psalms 89:1).

It doesn't matter how much news of doom and gloom is propagated through the media, refuse to fear. Don't panic! 1 John 4:4 says, "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world". Your heavenly Father has been dealing with evil, hardship, harsh economic conditions, wickedness, and terror in the world for long. He's not perplexed as to how to take care of you, and beautify your life.

Read again the inspiring words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 2:14, this time, from the Message translation: "And I got it, thank God! In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade...." God has ordained your victory, promotion, and prosperity in the midst of recession, economic downturn, inflation, and disaster. He already planned that you'll be a success in this life, irrespective of what's going on in the world around you.

Confession...
Irrespective of the perils and tribulations in this world, I'm shielded and protected; I'm like a tree planted by the waters, that spreads out her roots by the river. I don't know when heat comes. I'm triumphant always in Christ Jesus! I've overcome the world and its systems! Thank you Lord Jesus!

Further Study:
Psalm 37:18-19
The Lord knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever. 19 They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.
Psalm 91:5-6
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.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 7:1-53,
2 Chronicles 29-30

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 2:1-7,
Deuteronomy 15

The Beauty Of Christianity - Thursday, June 18th .

Pastor Chris

For it has pleased God to tell his people that the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too. For this is the secret: Christ lives in you... (Colossians 1:27 NLT).

Christianity is the living, pulsating life of God in a human person; it's Christ at home in you. Christianity is divinity at work and alive in and through you; it's the relationship between a human being and a living God.

Christianity isn't a religion at all. Religion is man's work towards God; his ways and efforts to reach out to God. Christianity, on the other hand, is God's work in man. It's a call to oneness with Divinity; a walk with God in righteousness; a call to the transcendent life of glory and love. Colossians 1:27 says Christ in you, the hope of glory. That's Christianity: Christ alive in you.

Someone once said, "I'm now very religious, since I became a Christian"; no! That's a complete misunderstanding of who a Christian is. A Christian is one in whom God dwells; a partaker of the divine nature - an associate of the God-kind. This makes Christianity so sublime! God wasn't satisfied to merely be with or live amongst us, He chose rather to take up His abode in the quarters of our hearts! That's the beauty and glory of Christianity! It's the life of God lived out through you. It's the unveiling of the Living Word in a human life!

Until and unless this becomes your understanding of Christianity, all you have will be mere religion. The essence of Christianity, the reason we go to church, pray, preach the Gospel and do the things we do as Christians isn't because we've embraced a religion, but because we've received God's nature - His life. That's what Jesus brought to us. He made it possible for us to receive eternal life - the indomitable, impregnable, "uninfectable" life of God: "And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life" (1 John 5:11-12).

Confession...
I'm an associate of the God-kind, the effulgence of God's glory, and dispenser of His goodness! I'm an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ; therefore, the world belongs to me. Greater is He that's in me than he that's in the world. I'm the glory of God!

Further Study:
Psalm 87:2-3
The Lord loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. 3 Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah. ;

Hebrews 12:22-24
But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, 23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, 24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 7:54-8:1-8, 2 Chronicles 31-32

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 2:8-20, Deuteronomy 16

Prosperous And Influential - Friday, June 19th .

Pastor Chris

And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise (Galatians 3:29).

The Scriptures chronicle for us Bible characters who were very prosperous; men like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, Solomon, etc. God had beautiful testimonies about these ones.

Let's examine some of these men and what the Scriptures recorded about them, beginning with Abraham. The Bible says he "...was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold" (Genesis 13:2). Then, Genesis 26:12-14 talks about Abraham's son, Isaac: "...he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him".
Then what about Jacob? Genesis 36:6-7 shows us that Jacob and Esau had so much possessions that they couldn't live together in the same place; the land couldn't support their "combined assets" - herds of livestock. So, Esau had to move a considerable distance away from his brother Jacob. God identified Himself with these three great patriarchs. He said, "...I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob..." (Exodus 3:6).

Another character is David. The Bible tells us that he was "...full of days, wealth, and glory. His son Solomon ruled after him" (1 Chronicles 29:28 MSG). These were God's friends, and God's testimony of them was extraordinary. He called Abraham, "my friend" (James 2:23). He called David "a man after my heart" (Acts 13:22). And both of them were very prosperous. What about Job? The Bible says he was the richest man in all the East (Job 1:3).

Being born again, you're the seed of Abraham; an heir of God, and joint heir with Christ. Therefore, prosperity is your birthright. Believe and live in prosperity. This isn't about amassing wealth for yourself until you don't know what to do with all that you have; it's being who God has made you to be; taking your place as a blessing to others. Read 2 Corinthians 9:8 (AMP) and understand God's idea for your prosperity: "...God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation]."

Confession...
I'm connected to an endless stream of prosperity, riches and glory. I'll never be broke and I'll never be poor, because I'm an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ! I have inestimable and inexhaustible inheritance in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Further Study:
2 Corinthians 8:9
For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. ;

1 Corinthians 3:21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours;

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 8:9-40,
2 Chronicles 33-34

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 2:21-32,
Deuteronomy 17

Risen With Christ - Saturday, June 20th

Pastor Chris

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God (Colossians 3:1).

When Jesus died on the cross, in the mind of justice, the whole world died with Him, because He died for all men. However, Christianity didn't start from His death, but from His resurrection. When God raised Him from the dead, you were raised together with Him, and you became a new creation, alive to God, with the transcendent life. The new creation is the fruit of His redemption (Romans 8:23).

You've been brought out of death - spiritual death - into life! You came alive with Christ with His resurrection life.
Knowing this, therefore, knowing that you've been raised together with Christ, and seated with Him in the heavenly realms, the Bible says you should seek those things which are above! Have the consciousness of one who's born from above, and is seated together with Christ in the place of dominion, glory and power! Let the things of God, of His heavenly kingdom to which you've been born, mean more to you than the transient things of this earth.

You're not of this world; you're born from above. 1 Peter 1:23 says, "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever." Jesus is the living Word, and He said of Himself, "I am born from above" (John 8:23)! You were born of the same living Word that came from heaven. Therefore, you too can declare boldly like Jesus, "I am from above!" Have that consciousness. It'll change everything about you, and bring a supernatural perspective to your life.

Speak a different language. Speak like the heavenly man or woman that you are. Refuse to speak sickness, disease, lack, defeat, and failure.

Confession...
I'm born again; born of the Word that came from above. I have the same life from above as Jesus. Therefore, I don't condescend to the patterns and afflictions that ravage the lives of men, but I set my affection on the heavenly kingdom, where prosperity, victory, promotion and glory dwell, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
John 8:23
And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.

Ephesians 1:21
Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 9:1-31,
2 Chronicles 35-36

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 2:33-40, Deuteronomy 18

The Effects Of Grace - Sunday, June 21

Pastor Chris

WHO, WHEN HE CAME, AND HAD SEEN THE GRACE OF GOD, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord (Acts 11:23).

Luke, by the inspiration of the Spirit, explains in the verse above, how Barnabas and Paul went to visit the brethren, and they saw the grace of God. What does it mean to "See the grace of God?"
"Grace" is from the Greek word "charis"; it refers to the divine influence on the heart reflected in the life of a man. It's the outward expression, or the outworking of an inward divine influence in your heart.

Simply put, it's the inner working of the glory and the power of God in your life that radiates, shines, and reflects on the outside. So, what these Apostles saw was an outer reflection of the inner working of the power, and life, and nature of God in them - they saw the effects of that grace.
You only see the outworking of the grace of God. It's like saying "We saw the wind blowing". You really don't see the wind; what you see are the effects of the wind. The effects could be moving objects or the branches of a tree moving to and fro; then you can immediately decipher that it's a strong wind. You don't see the wind; what you see are the effects!

It's the same way with the description in the opening verse. The grace of God on its own can't be seen until you see what it produces. So, the Lord impresses on your heart, through His Word and the Holy Spirit, and whatever is deposited by that influence, is seen on the outside; it shows or reveals itself on the outside. Then we can say, just like the early Church, "We saw the grace of God on them".

That's why it's important to grow in grace. 2 Peter 3:18 tells us, "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ...." The word "grow" is taken from the Greek word "auxano"; it means "to give increase to". To grow in grace is to increase in the workings of the power of God in your life. And as you grow in grace, more of the glory of God shines, radiates, and is seen through you. Halleluiah!

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the knowledge of your Word that causes me to walk in an overflow of grace. That grace which is the power of promotion, reflects on the outside, producing favour, beauty, goodwill, loveliness, perfections, glory and ability in my life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
2 Peter 1:2
Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, ;

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.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 9:32-43,
Ezra 1-3

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 2:41-52,
Deuteronomy 19

An Inevitable Key For Success - Monday, June 22nd .

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).

The opening verse shows us a key ingredient for a successful and prosperous life - diligence! Some people find themselves in a regrettable state in life due to their inability to apply diligence in their lives, and in the things that God has called them to do.

The Lord Jesus was humbly diligent; He said in John 4:34, "...my meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work". He recognized that His success was in doing the work of the Father, and finishing it. He knew the importance and eternal significance of His assignment, and committed Himself to it with extraordinary discipline and diligence.

There're people who never finish or complete anything that's committed to them; and there're others who are perpetually late to their workplace or come up with excuses for non-performance. Yet, such people wonder why things aren't working out right for them, or why they aren't being promoted. The reason for their predicament is simple: they slothfully ignore the application of diligence in their everyday life. Diligence is a key factor that sparks off true success in you. I'm talking about the God-kind of success; not the world's definition of success.

Diligence brings you before kings and into honour, while slothfulness leads to poverty and obscurity. Diligent people make their organizations more successful and prosperous than the way they met it. That's one of the hallmarks of truly successful people. Become diligent in anything and everything that's committed to your trust.

A close look at the lives of successful men and women around the world, no matter what field of endeavour they belong to, will reveal one common factor in their lives - diligence. The same thing applies to things of the Spirit. As you diligently study the Word of God and apply it, it enriches your spirit; you become successful in your spirit, and your fellowship with the Lord is enhanced.

Confession...
I function with the ability of the Spirit always, not just in my desire and readiness to start up any endeavour, but also in bringing them to excellent fruition. I'm assured of a life of honour, dignity, and glory, because I apply diligence in every area of life. Halleluiah!

Further Study:

Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. ;

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

Proverbs 14:23 (MSG) Hard work always pays off; mere talk puts no bread on the table.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 10:1-23,
Ezra 4-6

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 3:1-11,
Deuteronomy 20

There're Higher Levels - Tuesday, June 23rd .

Pastor Chris

And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ (1 Corinthians 3:1).

There're certain kinds of communications permissible for Christians at the lower level of spiritual understanding. For example, at an evangelical meeting, I might say, "God is going to heal you today", and diverse healing miracles will take place. That statement is a truth, but a lesser truth. I'll explain.

Genesis 1:16 talks about different lights: "And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also". Light stands for truth. So, there're lesser truths and there're greater truths. The lesser and generic truth is that "God is going to heal you". But there's such a thing as being specific. It's like specialization in the academia. At the first level, you're taught the rudiments. As you move higher, you're taught specifics - areas that only the initiated should come into. It's the same thing spiritually.

The more you delve into the Word of God, the more you realize that God is really not "doing" anything for anybody today in the sense that many understand it. He's already done everything He needed to do; He has fulfilled everything in Christ Jesus! So, He's not making any effort to heal you; He's already done it! If you thought, "O God, you're really going to heal me today"; that's a lesser truth.

In certain kinds of meetings, we teach and preach the general truth, so the non-Christians present at such meetings could hear the Word of God, be blessed and receive Christ. But at certain other meetings, we unveil the Word so God's people can learn and put it to work for themselves; we move to the higher classes and show them the reality of God's Word.
Refuse to remain in the lower class, like the Corinthian Christians that the Apostle Paul chided for being carnal.

Rather, transcend the babyhood stage of Christianity. Grow in Christ and increase in the knowledge of God's Word! Grow and function at higher levels, for there's a higher life in Christ!

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for enlightening my heart to grasp deeper truths and higher revelations of your Word. I'm inspired to live the transcendent life of glory; I'm triumphant in Christ, always, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
2 Timothy 2:15
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

1 Peter 2:1-2
Laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 10:24-48, Ezra 7-8

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke
3:12-22,Deuteronomy 21

You Sit On Jesus' Seat! - Wednesday, June 24th .

Pastor Chris

Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, Saying The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not (Matthew 23:1-3).

The Lord Jesus used the illustration above to explain something profound about authority. He instructed the disciples to do whatever the Scribes and Pharisees told them to do, because they (the Scribes and Pharisees) represented Moses. However, He was quick to admonish the disciples not to act like them.

As a Christian, you sit on Jesus' seat. Your authority over devils and the powers of darkness isn't based on your ability; it's the authority of Christ. All of nature and creation, including Satan and his cohorts, have been commanded to hear and obey you, just as they were commanded to hear and obey Jesus (Matthew 17:5). Therefore, whatever you tell them to do, they must do! This is a spiritual principle, and Satan and his demons understand it; cast them out, and they'll be gone.

Even if Satan tries to oppose you and says, "You can't cast me out, because you don't have enough power, and haven't prayed enough", your response should be, "I sit on Jesus' seat! Therefore, I order you to come out!"

You have to understand who Satan is; he's the opposer and accuser: "...for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night" (Revelations 12:10). In Zechariah 3, he accused Joshua in the presence of God: "And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan..." (Zechariah 3:1-2). The Lord didn't say to Joshua, "You see now. If you were doing the right thing, Satan won't be here to resist you". Rather, He turned to Satan and said, "The Lord rebuke you!"

In Christ, you're irreproachable. Christ reconciled you in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, faultless, and blameless in the sight of God. Satan may accuse you all he wants, and fuss about your inability to cast him out, it makes no difference! You sit on Jesus' seat: You're seated together with Him in the heavenly realm - at the right hand of God Almighty - the place of dominion, power, and authority!

Prayer...
I'm seated together with Christ in the place of power; far above all principalities, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. I live in dominion over sin, sickness and infirmities, and every opposing force, accusation or hindrance, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:

Ephesians 2:5-6
Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved; ) 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

Colossians 1:22
In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:

Romans 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Acts 11:1-18, Ezra 9-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Luke 3:23-38, Deuteronomy 22

Speak In Tongues And Interpret! - Thursday, June 25th .

Pastor Chris

Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret (1 Corinthians 14:13).

The Bible says Jesus Christ is the embodiment of all knowledge and wisdom (Colossians 2:3); and you're complete in Him (Colossians 2:10). This is what makes it possible for you to know anything through the Holy Spirit. I admonish God's people to speak in tongues all the time, because it's the coded language of the Spirit! It's the quickest way to activate and condition your spirit to receive spiritual information and guidance.

Perhaps you require guidance for something, or there's a piece of information you need; speak in tongues. Go on until you know you've got the guidance or counsel you need, or the information you require. The answer may be given to you in your spirit, in other tongues. In that case, you'll require the gift of interpretation of tongues. This is important because if you can't interpret the answer in your understanding, you may not be able to apply it to your benefit. In that case, you'd have to ask the Holy Spirit to help you bring the message to your understanding in prophetic utterance.

If you thought you were blessed speaking in tongues, wait until you receive the interpretation! The Bible says, "Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret" (1 Corinthians 14:13); it's that simple! Ask the Lord in faith for the interpretation of the tongues you're speaking, receive the interpretation by faith and speak it forth in your understanding.

Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for the blessing of speaking mysteries and secrets in other tongues, in a heavenly language that's void of earthly and carnal interference. I receive inspiration, strength, comfort, and edification as I speak in tongues even now, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:

Ephesians 5:18
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

1 Corinthians 14:15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 11:19-30, Nehemiah 1-3

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 4:1-13, Deuteronomy 23

"Believe Not Every Spirit" - Friday, June 26th .

Pastor Chris

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world (1 John 4:1).

In 2 Chronicles 18:21, the Bible tells us that a lying spirit was in the mouths of the prophets to cause them to utter lies. That spirit hasn't died, and because what he did worked, there're other spirits who do the same today. They take over people and make them utter lies without restraint.

That's why it's important that you test every spirit; don't just believe everything; believe only that which is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous, and praise-worthy. Don't believe a rumour; like some would say, "In every rumour, there's an element of truth". How could there be an element of truth in a rumour founded on falsehood? What element of truth was there when they lied against Jesus? The Bible says they hated Him without a cause, and lied against Him (Matthew 26:59).

Such things still happen today! There're still lying spirits. It's the same devil; he has no new tricks. His strategies are the same. If he could be a lying spirit in the mouths of prophets in the Old Testament, you can imagine what he could be in, and do with, those who let him.

He can be a lying spirit in the mouth of children against their parents, or vice versa. He could be a lying spirit in the mouth of a friend or family member against another friend or other family members. He's just that way; he's Satan; the deceiver and manipulator. However, we're not ignorant of his devices.

Follow God's Word, and allow the Holy Spirit guide you in all things; He's the Spirit of truth, and He alone can guide you in the path of truth always.

Prayer...
Dear Lord, I thank you for wisdom that's at work in me, with which I'm led in the path of truth. I abhor falsehood, and I'm firmly established in your Word which makes righteousness manifest in my spirit, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Proverbs 13:5 GNB
Honest people hate lies, but the words of wicked people are shameful and disgraceful.

|Psalm 101:7
He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.

1 John 2:20
But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 12:1-25, Nehemiah 4-6

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Luke 4:14-32, Deuteronomy 24

Angels At Your Service!

Sunday, June 28th .

Pastor Chris

Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? (Matthew 26:52-53).

As a child of God, you need to be aware that God has assigned angels to you, to minister, not just to you, but for you. They're at your service: "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14). So, when for example, you make a decree in the Name of Jesus, your angels enforce it; they see to it that it happens. What do you want done? Give the word and dispatch your angels.

Observe Hebrews 1:14 carefully; it says angels are "...ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" That means they SERVE you. However, they do so under the authority of Jesus; they carry out the things you say in the Name of the Lord Jesus. They don't carry out human instructions. Jesus gave us the power of attorney to use His Name. So, when you use the Name of Jesus, you're no longer using your human authority; you're using the authority of Jesus Christ!

Let's consider the words of the Master in our opening verse. Peter wanted to fight for Him, with his sword, but Jesus stopped him and said, "Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?" (Matthew 26:52-53).
Jesus was fully aware that if He gave the word, the angels were under obligation to take action! This is for every one of us. He, however, gave us insight into how He was able to command such ministry so easily when He said, "...the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works" (John 14:10).
Angels respond to God's Word (Psalm 103:20). As long as you function within the ambit of God's perfect will, angels will be at your service; they'll be happy to work with, and for you.

Confession...
The Lord has sent His angels before me to minister for me daily! As I make declarations of the Word, they're dispatched to establish the words of my mouth and ensure that the words that I speak don't come back to me void. I'm never alone, because the host of heaven is with me always!

Further Study:
Psalm 34:7
The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.

Luke 1:13
But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 13:13-52, Nehemiah 9-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 5:1-11, Deuteronomy 26

Take Your Place In The Ministry of The Gospel . - Monday, June 29th .

Pastor Chris

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give (Matthew 10:7-.

As you study the Bible, you'll find that God never arrogated absolutely to Himself, all the powers of change for human lives. He never told us, for example, that He was going to win souls by Himself. He told us to do that. He told us to heal the sick; He didn't say, "Ask me to do it; or pray for me to do it"; no! He lets us know that it's our responsibility, but we function with His authority. What a blessing!

The Bible says, "And they (the disciples) went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen" (Mark 16:20). This is what is happening in our day! As we preach the Gospel, the Lord confirms our message. Signs and wonders take place!
Get bold for Christ. Preach the Gospel with passion, and as you do, the Lord will confirm His Word with signs following. We have something to give to the world;

it's the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Recall again what the Lord said: Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely you have received, freely also give (Matthew 10:. He has given us both the power and authority to do mighty works in His Name and effectively demonstrate the character o the Spirit to our world.

Therefore, take your place in the ministry of the Gospel. Preach the Gospel with boldness.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I rejoice that you counted me faithful to be a minister of reconciliation, and an effective partner with you in evangelizing the world, thus impacting many lives with the blessings of the Gospel, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study: John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

Mark 16:18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 14:1-28, Nehemiah 11-13

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 5:12-26, Deuteronomy 27

He Can Change His Mind! - Tuesday, June 30th .

Pastor Chris

And the LORD changed his mind about the disaster that he planned to bring on his people (Exodus 32:14 NRSV).

The Bible tells a story in 2 Kings 20 about King Hezekiah. He was deathly ill, and the Lord sent the Prophet Isaiah to tell him he would die. Upon hearing this news, he turned his face toward the wall and prayed, weeping sorely. The Lord spoke to Isaiah, and he went back to tell the king the Lord had heard his prayer, and added fifteen more years to his life. You may then wonder, "Does God change His mind?"

This story doesn't suggest that God made a decision to shorten Hezekiah's life. He was to die on the basis of God's righteousness and laws previously given. He had taken some wrong steps, and God sent the prophet to tell him he would die, because the Old Testament law states that the soul that sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:4). The king however repented and changed his ways, and it became unrighteous for God to continue in that decision, which was based on the previous moral condition. Thus, the Lord actually changed His mind.

This doesn't mean He changes His standards; but it becomes inconsistent with His character to go ahead and punish a man who already repented. Everyone who sins is condemned as the Bible says, but through salvation in Christ Jesus, repentance is possible.

In case you're in a situation, and you want the Lord to change His mind, you have to change first. If you change your state, your way of doing things, then God would, in consistency with His character, also change how He deals with you. The Bible says He gives more grace! Walk in His light and His grace, and you'll find that the favour of God can be multiplied in your life continually, as you walk with Him, pleasing Him.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for enlightening my heart with the revelations of your Word today. I'm synchronized with the Spirit, knowing and walking in your perfect will for me. Through your Spirit, I walk worthy of you unto all pleasing, fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of your Word, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Amos 7:1-6 NKJV Thus the Lord God showed me: Behold, He formed locust swarms at the beginning of the late crop; indeed it was the late crop after the king’s mowings. 2 And so it was, when they had finished eating the grass of the land, that I said: “O Lord God, forgive, I pray! Oh, that Jacob may stand, For he is small!” 3 So the Lord relented concerning this. “It shall not be,” said the Lord. 4 Thus the Lord God showed me: Behold, the Lord God called for conflict by fire, and it consumed the great deep and devoured the territory. 5 Then I said: “O Lord God, cease, I pray! Oh, that Jacob may stand, For he is small!” 6 So the Lord relented concerning this. “This also shall not be,” said the Lord God.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 15:1-21, Esther 1-4
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 5:27-39, Deuteronomy 28

Be Full Of Joy - Wednesday, July 1st .

Pastor Chris

Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8 ).

Being happy and full of joy is a personal decision and choice that you have to make. Demons attach themselves to people to make them restless, confused, sad, and depressed. Once the devil can knock the joy out of someone, he has that one in a corner. The Bible says, "...the joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). That joy is in your spirit; stir it up all the time.

One of the ways to fan the embers of joy in your spirit is fellowship with the Holy Spirit; Romans 14:17 says, "For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost". Being born again, you're born into Christ; the environment of the Spirit, where there's glory, life, righteousness, peace, and joy. Those who function outside that environment are the ones who face disappointments, frustrations, discomfort, depression, and insurmountable challenges in life! They're easily agitated, bitter, angry, and frustrated, because nothing seems to be working out in their lives. Frustrated people frustrate others; unhappy people make others unhappy; hurting people hurt others.

However, once you come into this alignment with God, synchronized with His will and purpose for your life through the Holy Spirit, your joy will overflow. People would wonder how you're able to remain joyful and on top, in the midst of challenges.

In John 15:11, Jesus said, "These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full". The Lord's desire is for His joy to be in you twenty-four hours a day, irrespective of the circumstances you face. He's given you joy that isn't dependent on the happenings around you; joy that flows from your spirit - joy unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8 ).

Refuse to wear a sad look as though the weight of the whole world is on your shoulders. Jesus has taken your sorrows and He's brought you into His joy, abundance and peace. Philippians 4:4 says, " Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice". This isn't a suggestion, but an instruction from the Lord! Make it a point of duty to always give thanks and be glad in everything, and at all times. 1 Thessalonians 5:16 says: "Rejoice evermore". Glory to God forever. Halleluiah!

Confession...
I'm full of joy, and strengthened by the Holy Spirit today! I live in God's presence where fullness of joy and pleasures abound forevermore. My life is the testimony of God's grace and goodness, and I rejoice always in the Lord! Halleluiah!

Further Study:
Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

1 Timothy 6:17
Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 15:22-35, Esther 5-7
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 6:1-11, Deuteronomy 29

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Live By Heavenly Principles - Thursday, July 2nd .

Pastor Chris

If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25).

Being born again, we live in two worlds contemporaneously: the natural world and the spiritual world. Some Christians have an understanding of the natural world and its principles of operation, but they're yet to understand the spiritual world and its principles.

The Lord Jesus made it clear that though you're in this natural world, you're not of this world; you were born into God's realm when you were born again. You have to be conscious of, and learn how to function in, that realm. It's a realm of glory; a realm that's beyond time and space. It's the realm of the miraculous.

Referring to this spiritual realm, Jesus declared, "...I am from above..." (John 8:23). He minced no words about the fact that He lived in two worlds. In John 3:13 He said, "And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, EVEN THE SON OF MAN WHICH IS IN HEAVEN" (John 3:13); He was referring to Himself. You would have expected Him to say, "Even the Son of man which was in heaven", but He didn't! Rather, He said, "...which is in heaven...", because He lived in two worlds.

Just as there're activities we carry out in the natural world, there're activities in the spirit world as well. In the spiritual world, we live by the Word of God through the power of the Holy Spirit. We see with the eyes of the spirit. We live by heavenly principles; we dominate this physical world with the principles of our heavenly kingdom.

Refuse to condescend to the earthly level of life or reasoning. There's a life to be lived in the spirit realm. Let that become clear to you, and function accordingly! You'd be amazed at the glory of God that'll be manifested in your life as you walk in the Spirit.

Prayer....
Dear Father, I thank you for the unveiling of the mysteries of the Kingdom to my spirit. I live by the Word and function by the power of the Holy Spirit; therefore I subdue my world. Thank you, for my life is ordered according to your perfect will, and your glory is revealed in me, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Romans 8:6
For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.

1 John 4:17
Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 15:36-16:1-15, Esther 8-10
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 6:12-19, Deuteronomy 30

Speak The Word...Speak Wisdom!

Friday, July 3rd .

Pastor Chris

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. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual (1 Corinthians 2:12-13).

Part of the ministry of the Holy Spirit in your life is to help you discover your heritage and inheritance in Christ Jesus. Then, as He unveils them to you, you're expected to speak them: "...Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth". Notice that it didn't say, "which things also we speak of"; rather, it says we speak them. Just like it says in 1 Corinthians 2:6, "Howbeit we speak wisdom"; we don't talk about wisdom; we speak wisdom, and wisdom is the Word of God.

There're many who "speak of" wisdom, but don't speak wisdom; they can write books on wisdom, but they don't speak wisdom. Speaking wisdom is speaking the Word. For example, the Word says you're a partaker of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4); that's the wisdom of God. Therefore, when you, on the basis of that scripture, declare, "I'm an associate of the God-kind; a partaker of His grace, glory, and expression of His righteousness", you're speaking wisdom.

When you declare, "All my needs are supplied according to God's riches in glory by Christ Jesus", despite inflation, recession, and global economic meltdown, you're speaking the wisdom of God. When you say, "I have the life of God in me; I live in divine health twenty-four hours a day", in spite of the pain you may be feeling, you're speaking wisdom.
People may jeer or mock at you for speaking the wisdom of God, but always remember that the wisdom of God is incongruous with the world's system. When you make it a practice to always speak the wisdom of God, you'll be misunderstood by many, especially those who are ruled by the senses, but don't let it deter you. Declare what the Word says concerning you, irrespective of the situation.
Declare your righteousness, health, dominion, and oneness with the Lord with boldness. Speak the wisdom of God always and your life will glorify God.

CONFESSION
The wisdom of God is in my heart and in my mouth today! God's Word is as fire shut up in my bones; and as I speak, I dissolve doubts; I'm prevailing and reigning in life by grace through righteousness, and the glory of God is seen and expressed through me, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Further Study: ||

1 Corinthians 2:6-8
Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. ||

Hebrews 13:5-6
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. ||

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 16:16-40, Job 1-2

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 6:20-30,
Deuteronomy 31

Listen To Him In Your Spirit!
- Saturday, July 4th .

Pastor Chris

And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not (Genesis 28:16).

Is it possible for the Lord to be present in a place, talking to you, and you wouldn't know it? Emphatically yes! It happened to Jacob; he only realized he'd been in God's presence after he had a dream in which he saw the angels of God descending and ascending into heaven on a ladder. Then he said, "...Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not" (Genesis 28:16). It still happens today.

Sometimes we say, "The Lord is in this place", and some people don't know what we're talking about; they begin to look around for some smoke, fire or other "spectacular" sign of His presence; no! He doesn't always announce Himself that way.

Once, Elijah needed to hear from God, and the Bible says, "...behold...a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle..." (1 Kings 19:11-13).

Elijah apparently expected God to manifest Himself in the wind, earthquake, and fire, but He didn't; instead, He showed up in a still small voice. That's typical of how the Lord leads us today through His Word and the Holy Spirit; He guides us from within, in your spirit. Your spirit bears witness with the Word as He counsels and instructs you from within. Proverbs 20:27 says, "The spirit of man is the candle of the Lord..."; that's where the light of God is; that's where He guides you from - not through the senses.

Don't wait to "feel" or experience some physical manifestation first, no; His Word in your spirit is all you need. Listen for His voice in your day-to-day activities; listen to Him in your spirit, for He addresses His Word to your spirit.

Confession..
I'm sensitive to the leading and guidance of the Spirit always, because I'm yielded to the Word. I bless the Lord, for His wisdom and counsel in my spirit, and His light with which I live! Glory to His Name forever! Amen.

Further Study:
Isaiah 30:21
And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

Psalm 16:7
I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 17:1-15,
Job 3-5

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 6:31-38,
Deuteronomy 32

Soul Winning - A Compulsion - Not A Choice! - Sunday, July 5th .

Pastor Chris

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 (Romans 1:16).

As a Christian, preaching the Gospel isn't something you choose to do or not to do; you're called to a life of soul-winning; it's your primary responsibility on earth. 2 Corinthians 5:18 says God has reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation. The ministry of the Gospel has been committed to your trust. So, fulfil your ministry in the Gospel.

All that a man needs to do, to partake in all that Jesus has made available, is to believe the Gospel. The power of the Gospel only works for those who believe: "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation" (Romans 10:10). But then, the Bible says in Romans 10:14: "...how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?" Titus 1:3 tells us that God has in due time manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed to us as a commandment, as an instruction. Preaching the Gospel is your solemn responsibility.

Your commitment to the Lord must reflect in your dedication to the preaching of the Gospel. Paul the Apostle was emphatic in his commitment to the Gospel; he said in 1 Corinthians 9:16 (MSG) "If I proclaim the Message, it's not to get something out of it for myself. I'm compelled to do it, and doomed if I don't!" Preaching the Gospel isn't something you do because it's convenient; it's required of you; it's your number one Kingdom responsibility. Therefore, be faithful in it: "Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful" (1 Corinthians 4:1-2).

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the Gospel of Christ that's committed to my trust, and and through which I've been made your righteousness in Christ Jesus. I declare that testimonies of salvation abound today, all around the world, as the Gospel is preached and received gladly, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

2 Corinthians 3:6
Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

Mark 16:15-16
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 17:16-34,
Job 6-8

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 6:39-49,
Deuteronomy 33

Satan Is Not An Illusion - Monday, July 6th .

Pastor Chris

And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven (Luke 10:18).

It's unfortunate that some people don't believe there's an adversary called Satan, the devil. Some people don't even want to talk about him; they say, "There's no devil", trying hard to convince themselves in their delusion. Jesus didn't deny the existence of Satan, though He emphasized his defeat and our triumph over him.

Satan is real; he's a spirit being. He's not an illusion as some believe; he's a personality; an evil personality. He was an angel, according to the Bible, but he fell from grace and became the devil.

God didn't create a devil. He made an angel called Lucifer, son of the morning. However, through pride, he lost his position, was overthrown, and became the devil. So, Satan does exist; the Bible says he moves from one place to another: "And the Lord said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it" (Job 1:7).

Although he has his demons running rampage all over the place, Satan isn't everywhere at the same time; he's not omnipresent, and doesn't know everything. To counter him, the Bible says you're to resist him steadfastly in the faith (1 Peter 5:8-9). That's how you keep him on the run (James 4:7). As long as you operate in faith, Satan cannot withstand you; you're superior to him.

When Jesus defeated Satan in hell, you were in Him. In Christ, you defeated Satan and his cohorts of hell. Now, you're seated with Christ in the heavenly realms, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come (Ephesians 1:21). So, Satan is under your feet. Though he's not an illusion, he's not a factor in your life.

Confession...
Thank you Father, for I know that the devil and the cohorts of hell have been defeated, paralyzed, and rendered completely powerless. I have been given the authority and made superior to them in Christ! Now, I walk in my victory over Satan, sin, sickness, disease and death! Blessed be God!

Further Study:
James 4:7
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Ephesians 6:12
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 18:1-23, Job 9-11
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 7:1-10, Deuteronomy 34