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TOPIC: Praising God
Monday 30, June 2014
TEXT: PSALM 117:1,2

KEY VERSE: “O praise the Lord, all ye nations, praise him, all ye people” (Psalm 117:1).

The leper out of the ten who were healed by the Lord Jesus Christ had an exceptional perspective on gratitude. They all cried to the Lord for help. But when the assistance came, the Lord did not hear from them again, except from one who “turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God” (Luke 17:15). What touching and deep-seated show of appreciation!

In the passage before us today, we consider these short but ennobling verses of praises to God for His unlimited love. No wonder John the Beloved in his epistle (1 John 4:, declared that God is love. His nature is love; His attributes can be condensed into love.

His love is so great when we consider how He bore patiently with apostle Paul (when he was Saul, the archenemy and tormentor of the early church). In spite of the havoc he did to the early church, God, in his sovereignty and love, still arrested, saved and utilized him to expand the frontiers of the gospel. What a great God indeed!

For many of us who were rascals and whose destiny would have been hell, He was patient with us until we became born again. In the fullness of time, He saved and transformed our lives; He lifted us to be seated in the heavenly places with Christ Jesus, enjoying the benefits of the Kingdom - pardon, peace, purity, promotion, preservation, protection and eventually, paradise. We need to praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Praise unbars the gates of heaven.

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TOPIC: Christ, The Only Hope
Tuesday 01, July 2014
TEXT: JEREMIAH 23:1-8

Key VERSE: “In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (Jeremiah 23:6).

Man’s waywardness and pleasure-seeking predisposition have led him to develop a number of futile survival strategies. A saying such as ‘there are numerous routes to the market’ is used to justify illegal means rather than resourcefulness. The implication is that many think they can also access the Kingdom of heaven through multiple means.

With the spiritual problem of man however, this is not the case. The hydra-headed problem of sin does not have multiple options to solving it. This is one fact that the majority in the world are unfortunately ignorant of. The many religions in the world simply explain the attempts of man to reach God. But the truth is, these ways lead nowhere. Man’s problem of sin has just one solution and that is, Jesus Christ.

In today’s text, we have the prophetic promise of the coming of the Redeemer and the Messiah – Jesus, the Righteous Branch. He is presented as the only Hope for the salvation and restoration of the nation of Israel. Though the Jews as a people are yet to accept and recognize Him as their Messiah, they will do this when the time comes.

Whether for the salvation and restoration of the Jews, or for the salvation of sinners any where in the world, Jesus Christ is the only Hope. For those who in their ignorance are seeking for salvation by other means, we give this clear and simple message - stop all your searching and turn to Jesus alone. He is the ONLY WAY to God. If you will come to Him now, you will find salvation that you have been searching for.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: No alternative: Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life.

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TOPIC: A Worthy Sacrifice of Praise
Wednesday 02, July 2014
TEXT: PSALM 118:27-29

Key verse: “God is the LORD, which hath showed us light: bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar” (Psalm 118:27).

Man has learnt to express his appreciation for kindness or favour received in different ways. For some, it is through a “Thank You” card, a text message or any other means by which they can thoroughly express how grateful they are. Towards the end of the year, we find people, corporate organizations, etc., sending out gifts, hampers and so on as a way of appreciating their numerous customers and stakeholders. These gift items are usually carefully chosen to match the personality to be given and equate the favour received.

Though this practice may have some selfish undertones as it is aimed at cementing relationships and securing future favours, and a form of marketing strategy and public relations, such kind gestures are well appreciated by those whom they are given.

The Psalmist in our text today calls us to consider what God has done for us and respond by binding our sacrifices on the altar. Many of us today have taken God’s goodness and mercies in our lives for granted that we do not care to express our thanks to Him in any form. We wake up each morning, go about our schedules, return home in the evening, and also go to bed at night without pausing, for once, to acknowledge and appreciate the mercies we have received. Apart from the daily mercies and goodness we enjoy from God, we are called upon to think about the special favour we have received from Him. He has shown us the light. So many people are still wallowing in deep darkness unable to find the light of salvation. How grateful we ought to be that we have the light and that we are saved!

As we think of all that God has done for us, is doing for us and will do for us, there is no better way to show how grateful we are than to make our lives living sacrifices bound with cords of consecration upon the altar of divine worship and service.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Match your praise with His mercy.

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TOPIC: His Rod Does Not Kill
Thursday, July 03, 2014
TEXT: PSALM 118:15-26

Key verse: “The LORD hath chastened me sore: but he hath not given me over unto death” (Psalm 118:18).

Paying the price for acts of indiscretion is usually most painful. Many times therefore, people go to great lengths to cover their tracks and avoid being brought to account for their misdeeds, publicly. Yet, such a process of accountability has both a purifying and energizing impact on the person involved, especially if the chastisement is coming from the Lord.

The Psalmist had begun by taking stock of the mercies of God, even as he was also experiencing some rough times. He was conscious of the fact that the Lord will never altogether abandon the righteous. Troubles apart, he concluded that he would “not die, but live to declare the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living”. He was confident that the Lord would not allow him to so suffer as to die. Rather, he hoped that He would usher him through the gate of deliverance. There, he would praise the Lord for reversing his situation and circumstances. He would greatly appreciate God’s marvelous works; he would be glad and rejoice in the day that the Lord has made to bring him out of his troubles. Now full of confidence, he would plead with the Lord to save and shower prosperity on him. And as he prays, he is assured of blessings from the Lord.

Believers must face life’s troubles with courage. At such times, they are not to seek solace in self-pity or engage in trading blames. They must recognize that inherent in any trouble, is a vital purpose to be served. If God allows such troubles, He only wants to use them to make His children better, and prepare them for greater blessings in the future. Believers must be rest assured that no matter the severity of troubles, God will never abandon them. Where they have gone astray, and as a result are suffering for their actions, they must take steps to repent and return to the Lord, for then, He would willingly receive and abundantly pardon them.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: He chastises us only to make us better.

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TOPIC: Beware of False Prophets
Friday, July 04, 2014
TEXT: JEREMIAH 23:9-22

Key verse: “I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem a horrible thing: they commit adultery, and walk in lies: they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness: they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants thereof as Gomorrah” (Jeremiah 23:14).

The spread of apocalyptic literature purporting to tell us the exact dates of the rapture and the Second Coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ has taken on a frightening turn in our generation. None of the predictions made in the books by these “prophetic” authors has come to pass. And that is because they were made by those God did not send. They did not have the Bible as their source.

From the text before us, God condemned the priests and prophets of Israel for their profanity, adultery, swearing, lying, hypocrisy, and deception. He threatened to judge them. The people were exhorted not to hearken to them, nor accept their misleading promise of peace and safety; whereas the storm of God’s wrath would fall upon the head of the wicked. The Lord declared plainly that he had not sent these prophets. Their so-called prophesies were no other than dreams, and the deceits of their own hearts. So, the Lord declared Himself to be against these prophets, for stealing His word from their neighbours and using of His name to propagate their error with which they misled the people.

False prophets are chameleonic in appearance and character. Jesus says they will disguise to deceive others. Paul affirmed that false brethren among the Corinthian elders appeared as ‘angels of light’ or ‘messengers of righteousness’ (2 Corinthians 11:3,14,15). Jesus, our Lord and Master tells us that we shall know them by their fruits, not their leaves (Matthew 7:16). By their ‘fruits’, He meant their character and conduct, the converts they produce, and the overall results of their ministry. So, do not join those who peddle error. Beware!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Leaves may fade but the fruit is sure

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TOPIC: A Little Made Great
Saturday, July 05, 2014
TEXT: JOSHUA 18:11-20

KEY VERSE: “And the lot of the tribe of the children of Benjamin came up according to their families: and the coast of their lot came forth between the children of Judah and the children of Joseph” (Joshua 18:11).

Governor Stewart of Missouri, recognized that a convict he was about to pardon was once his steamboat mate under whom he served as cabin-boy. He said: “I want you to promise that you will never again take a stick of wood and drive a sick boy out of his berth on a stormy night, because some day that boy may be governor, and you may want him to pardon you for another crime. I was that boy. Here is your pardon.”

From our text, the tribe of that little boy, Benjamin (whose mother died after having him through a difficult labour) was given an enviable portion in the allocation of inheritance to the tribes of Israel. Benjamin, being the last tribe was called “Benoni” by his mother which signifies “the son of my sorrow”. He was so-called because his mother brought him forth in sorrow. But he got one of the best portions of land through the providential hand of the Almighty God. The land was very pleasant and fruitful because of the goodness of the soil. Thus, his sorrow was turned to joy.

It is a blessed thing that at moments when we are most cast down, neglected and despised, we are most lifted up by the consolations of the Spirit. One reason is, trials make more room for consolation.

Great hearts can only be made by great troubles. The spade of trouble digs the reservoir of comfort deeper, and makes more room for consolation. Therefore, fret not over your heavy troubles, for they are the heralds of great mercies. Weeping may endure for a night, the Bible notes, but joy surely comes in the morning.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: He makes great the little and despised.

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Sunday 06, July 2014
***A DEADLY SIP****
TEXT: PROVERBS 20:1-15
Key verse: “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise” ( Proverbs 20:1).
A group of Dutch scientists, according to a research published in April 2009 in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, claim that people who drink half a glass of wine a day live four years longer than people who do not drink alcohol. Their claim is strange and misleading because it failed to highlight the statistics of untimely deaths caused by drunk drivers and suppressed the problem of addiction which has become the hallmark of alcoholism today.
Wine, as portrayed in our text has deceived many; it does not only overcome them before they are aware, it promises them certain pleasures which it does not give. Drunkenness results in pain and mockery and exposes people to reproach, disgrace and derision. Alcohol sets people to scoff at their companions and even to mock at religion, and all that is good and serious ( Hosea 7:5). Strong drink not only disturbs the brain, it makes a man rage and quarrelsome. What he gets in return is woe, sorrow, and wounds ( Proverbs 23:29).
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is an irreversible condition associated with consumption of alcohol by pregnant women. Each and every case of FAS is a needless tragedy. Victims suffer serious physical deformities and often mental deficiencies. And, they suffer these problems for their entire lives. Numerous other health problems are associated with alcohol consumption, which should be avoided.
Many people find organized programmes very useful in helping them reduce their consumption to moderate levels. One of such best known programmes is Moderation Management. All these procedures are mere palliatives; they never obliterate altogether the peril of alcoholism. For those who need to quit drinking entirely, Jesus remains the only answer. His blood will miraculously deliver you from alcohol addiction more than any rehabilitation centre can do.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It is utter foolishness to succumb to the push and pull of alcoholism.
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TOPIC: No One is Left Out!
Monday, July 07, 2014
TEXT: JOSHUA 19:1-9

Key verse: “Out of the portion of the children of Judah was the inheritance of the children of Simeon: for the part of the children of Judah was too much for them: therefore the children of Simeon had their inheritance within the inheritance of them” (Joshua 19:9).

Equity and fairness are virtues that the world has little patience for. Many people believe in the survival of the fittest. They leave no room for the weak and helpless, but trample on the rights and aspirations of others in the pursuit of their selfish goals. They pay scant attention to the feelings of those hurt in the process, but congratulate themselves for succeeding where others have failed.

Joshua and the children of Israel had conquered a large part of the Promised Land. But now advanced in age, he was reminded that some tribes had not taken possession of their territories. Joshua was then mandated to divide the land for all the tribes. It was in this regard, that he apportioned the territory outlined in our text to the tribe of Simeon. God had earlier given to the tribe of Judah a very large territory, well suited for its large population. Now, He took stock of everything and saw that Judah had got more than its fair share, while other tribes had got nothing at all. To ensure equity and fairness, God directed Joshua to carve out a portion of the territory earlier given to Judah, and hand same to the tribe of Simeon as their inheritance. It would have been contrary to God’s equitable standards to give more to one tribe and none at all to another. Quite remarkably, there was no record that the tribe of Judah resisted Joshua’s attempt to enforce equity and fairness in the nation of Israel.

We too must never succumb to the temptation to be too self-protective, and therefore, act in selfishness. We must be fair in our dealings with all. We must seek and protect the interests of others. We must ensure that the good things the Lord has provided for His children or put under our care are evenly distributed to all as they have need. Those who have received more must be willing to share with those who have little or nothing. At all times, we must ensure that neither covetousness nor selfishness is allowed to influence our conducts and actions.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Let God’s goodness go round!

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TOPIC: The Inner Light
Tuesday, July 08, 2014

TEXT: PROVERBS 20:16-30

Key verse: “The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly” (Proverbs 20:27).

The Bible account of the creation of man is a wonderful insight into the mystery, majesty and power of God. “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Genesis 2:7). Thus, the spirit of life was imparted into man, enabling him to conform to the image and likeness of the Most High.

God desires an enduring relationship. It was this desire that was at the root of the special privileges that our first parents, Adam and Eve enjoyed. Then this relationship was broken by the sin of disobedience and paradise was temporarily lost. But the Lord was not happy with the new state of things and He sent His only begotten Son Jesus Christ to be the propitiation of the sins of the whole world. We can also be purified through His sacrifice. “A new heart also will I give you and a new spirit will I put within you, and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh and I will give you an heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26).

This new spirit, which is through regeneration, gives him power to walk in His steps. It is the Spirit that enables him acknowledge and appreciate God’s presence. He hears God’s word, holds it and heeds it. And because he has this new consciousness, he no longer goes about as a tale bearer, neither does he accept the wages of deceit and fraud. When he is hurt, he will not think of retaliation knowing that vengeance is of the Lord. He will not lean on his own understanding conscious now that his “goings” are of the Lord.

The Spirit of God in us is a searchlight, a compass, guiding and directing us in the way to go. He never leads us into sin. “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God” (Romans 8:14). Does God’s Spirit lead you? The Spirit searches out all things. Let us renew the spirit within us so that our thoughts, actions and meditations will be pure before God.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: He who succumbs to the leading of the Spirit invariably prevails in all situations.


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TOPIC: It's God That Gives
Wednesday, July 09, 2014


TEXT: JOSHUA 19:17-23

Key verse: “This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Issachar according to their families, the cities and their villages” (Joshua 19:23).

In many parts of the world, acquisition of landed properties goes with a lot of troubles. In such places, sharing of commonly owned properties among brethren has been known to cause hard-to-pacify bitterness and even fierce fight. Not so with the heavenly-minded people who acknowledge their earthly possessions as God’s property and hold same with loose hands while setting their eyes on the “city ...whose builder and maker is God.”

The sharing of Canaan land among the tribes of Israel was characterized by fairness, love, tolerance and team spirit. It could not have been otherwise since it was conducted under the influence of divine providence. It was, however, not without struggle against the original occupants whom God wanted out of the land. Our text focuses on the inheritance of the tribe of Issachar. Notice that even though Issachar was elder to Zebulun, he latter got his lot before him. This was God’s providence at work and in keeping with the order of treatment by their patriarch, Jacob, when he blessed his children and predicted what should befall them in the latter days (Genesis 49:13,14). God’s wisdom is much higher than we can easily comprehend.

The tribe of Issachar was said to have been made up of valiant men of might in all their families, and in all their generations (1 Chronicles 7:1-5). Their record shows they were a laborious, hardy, valiant tribe, patient in labour and invincible in war. Many significant places are found in the land of Issachar, including, Jezreel, Shunem, River Kishon, the mountains of Gilboa and the valley of Megiddo.

There is a better Promised Land which abides eternally in which only the ransomed have a share. By turning over your life to the Lord Jesus Christ through repentance, faith in Him and consistent righteous living, you can secure a personal portion there. It is in your interest to book a place there before it becomes everlastingly late.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Fix your gaze on the eternal mansion, over the Hill top.

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Thursday, July 10, 2014
In Church For What?
TEXT: JEREMIAH 26:1-11
Key verse: “Thus saith the LORD; Stand in the court of the LORD's house, and speak unto all the cities of Judah, which come to worship in the LORD's house, all the words that I command thee to speak unto them; diminish not a word” ( Jeremiah 26:2).
The majority of the churches and worship centres in our cities are usually packed full of worshippers each worship day. This gives a picture of people who seem to be very religious and have great delight in God and His words. There may appear to be no need to ask if these people really delight in God and are really committed to obeying His word. But a further probe reveals a startling truth! Many of these worshippers are not truly interested in what God has to say. Rather, they determine what they want to hear and what the preachers should say! And once the preachers deviate from preaching what suits them, they rebel. Sadly, many of the pastors and preachers play along with them, giving to the people what they want to hear and not what God commands them to preach. No wonder, we have so much shallowness and lack of righteousness in the lives and conducts of these worshippers. They are in the church but are not in touch with God.
God’s instruction to Jeremiah in our text was clear. He was to speak to the people who came to the house of the Lord to worship what He commanded him. One is surprised to observe the reactions of these professing worshippers. They turned down the word of God and turned in rage against Jeremiah.
We need to closely examine our motives for going to the house of the Lord. Do we really have delight in hearing the word of the Lord? Or, do we tune off once the preacher announces a subject that seems not to go down well with us? Do we select what messages we want to hear and dictate to our preachers by our actions what messages they must preach to us? If we do, then we are in no way different from the people in Jeremiah’s days. God expects every worshiper to obey His word and submit to His will without questioning. The only way to be happy in Jesus is to trust and obey.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Are you in church but out of touch with God?
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Friday, July 11, 2014
A Well Deserved Reward
TEXT: JOSHUA 19:40-51
KEY VERSE: “When they had made an end of dividing the land for inheritance by their coasts, the children of Israel gave an inheritance to Joshua the son of Nun among them” ( Joshua 19:49).
When God appoints a man and gives him an assignment, the responsibility is on the individual to reciprocate God’s good gesture by being faithful in carrying out the assignment and discharging his or her duty very well. It is only then that the individual becomes a beneficiary of the reward of faithful service.
In the narrative today, the Bible recounts the story of how the land of promise was divided after it was possessed under the leadership of Joshua. It shows how the tribe of Dan fought to increase their own portion and how Joshua, their faithful commander was rewarded according to the word of the Lord (verse 49,50).
As believers of today, we are not to be satisfied or complacent with the little portion of grace we have, service we are rendering, or in fact, the little success we have. The Lord has promised to increase our greatness and reward us if we faithfully and valiantly fight the good fight of faith and dispossess the enemies of the inheritance that rightfully belongs to us.
Like Joshua, what God has spoken concerning your life will be fulfilled only if you faithfully fight and follow Him to the end. Joshua’s example is particularly instructive, worthy of emulation by all believers. He was single-minded in His devotion to Jehovah and in His loyalty to His leader Moses, throughout His years of services to him. At long last, Joshua triumphed through the wilderness and entered the Promised Land, led the people valiantly and got his deserved portion in the Promised Land. Faithfulness indeed counts and is rewardable.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Your good deeds do not go unnoticed.
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Saturday, July 12, 2014
The Day Of God's Wrath
TEXT: JEREMIAH 25:12-29
Key verse: “For thus saith the LORD God of Israel unto me; Take the wine cup of this fury at my hand, and cause all the nations, to whom I send thee, to drink it” ( Jeremiah 25:15).
In the Scriptures, intoxicating wine is sometimes used to depict God’s anger and wrath against sin and all ungodliness. The effect of God’s righteous judgment would be similar to that of an intoxicating wine, destroying their sensibilities and herding them to eternal doom.
Here, in our text, Jeremiah had prophesied that God would repay sinful nations, with Babylon occupying a very prominent position, for their evil deeds. Judah’s years in Babylonian captivity seemed to have had little effect in their total obedience to God’s word. Rather, they sank deeper and deeper into sin and idolatrous worship: “For lo, I begin to bring evil on the city which is called by my name, and should you be utterly unpunished? Ye shall not be unpunished, for I will call for a sword upon all the inhabitants of the earth, saith the LORD of hosts” (verse 29).
Is it possible that the same message would be preached for the whole of twenty-three years, the same warning given and the same alarm raised from the roof tops about God’s hatred for sin and wickedness with its inescapable consequences, and the people be not moved? Can a people or a nation remain unrepentant and unperturbed for so long? Yes, so it was then with the nations of the world in Bible days, and so it is today.
At the moment, the anger of the Lord is still waxing strong against all ungodly individuals and nations. Although religious houses are springing up on every corner of the city, sin has assumed an alarming sophistication. Yet, God is watching and waiting. He has no pleasure in the sinner’s death. He requires you to repent of your sins and be reconciled unto Him. He paid the price by making the provision through His dear Son, Jesus Christ. Have you heard this message for twenty-three years, or more or less? the time to repent and to heed His call is now.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: To be forewarned is to be forearmed.
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Sunday, July 13, 2014
He Suits Your Need
TEXT: JOSHUA 19:10-16
Key verse: “And the third lot came up for the children of Zebulun according to their families: and the border of their inheritance was unto Sarid” ( Joshua 19:10).
Greed, envy and lack of contentment are behind most of the feuds and crises we have in many families, communities, nations and countries of the world. The desire to get what belongs to others and the lack of satisfaction with one’s lot and possession find expression in struggles, rivalries and wars that have engulfed many lands.
The church too, seems not to be totally free from these vices. We have struggle and clamour for power and position in many churches today. Envy, distrust and other forms of rancor are tearing the Church apart and weakening her influence on the world. All these are due to the fact that we fail to realize that our lots are given to us by God and He has done this according to our needs.
Our passage this morning spells out the portion given to the tribe of Zebulun as their inheritance in the Promised Land. Worthy of note is the fact that God gave them their portion “…according to their families …” that is, in proportion to their needs. In His wisdom and Omniscience, God apportioned to every tribe just what they need and just what suits them. No wonder there was no report of strife or feeling of dissatisfaction among the tribes of Israel over the lots given them. They had confidence in the wisdom of God who had chosen for them a worthy portion.
There will be less strife in the world and there will be no feeling of envy and jealousy in the families and churches if we recognize and accept God’s wisdom in the portions we have in life. God is a good God and whatever He gives is for our good. If we sense a need for more, let’s ask Him in faith and trust His final judgment. This is the secret of peace and contentment.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Nothing betters what God gives.
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TOPIC: Seek To Be Fair To All
Monday, July 14, 2014

TEXT: PROVERBS 21:1-15

Key verse: “Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard” (Proverbs 21:13).

People often seek to enforce high standard of values for others than they are willing to do for themselves. To them, the golden rule, doing to others as you would wish them to do to you, is both a distraction and utterly unsuitable for our modern world driven by greed and avarice. But whatever man’s position, God’s standard remains unchanged, in time and eternity.
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It is therefore not surprising that the Lord in our text, made sundry observations and contrasted moral values with vices. He wants us to draw vital lessons from them and allow the wisdom they bring to condition our lives. He said that no matter how highly placed a king may be, God still has total control over his actions. And although many men would always justify their actions, God probes into the heart for hidden motives. He appreciates justice more than mere sacrifice. And to Him, pride, whether shown openly or hidden in the heart, is sin. He says that the diligent usually prospers while the impatient often suffers from want. Those who amass wealth by lying or fraud thread the path of death, while robbers would eventually be destroyed by their wicked conducts. Men should eschew all evil, but possess purity in their actions. Men and women who perpetrate evil act would be overthrown by God, even as He expects the wise to learn from the judgment that comes to the wicked.
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It is an act of wickedness to turn deaf ears to those who cry out for your assistance, especially when you are in a position to help. This is one reason the prayers of many people are not answered. Unknown to them, by shutting their ears to the pleas for help from others, they shut God’s ears to their own prayer for help.

Therefore, if you desire good things from God, you must readily do good to others. God cares for you, but He also wants you to care for your fellow men. Therein lies happiness in life and a blessed reward in eternity.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: When you help others, you help yourself too!

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TOPIC: He Suits Your Need
Sunday, July 13, 2014
JULY REVIVAL PROMO


TEXT: JOSHUA 19:10-16

Key verse: “And the third lot came up for the children of Zebulun according to their families: and the border of their inheritance was unto Sarid” (Joshua 19:10).

Greed, envy and lack of contentment are behind most of the feuds and crises we have in many families, communities, nations and countries of the world. The desire to get what belongs to others and the lack of satisfaction with one’s lot and possession find expression in struggles, rivalries and wars that have engulfed many lands.

The church too, seems not to be totally free from these vices. We have struggle and clamour for power and position in many churches today. Envy, distrust and other forms of rancor are tearing the Church apart and weakening her influence on the world. All these are due to the fact that we fail to realize that our lots are given to us by God and He has done this according to our needs.
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Our passage this morning spells out the portion given to the tribe of Zebulun as their inheritance in the Promised Land. Worthy of note is the fact that God gave them their portion “…according to their families …” that is, in proportion to their needs. In His wisdom and Omniscience, God apportioned to every tribe just what they need and just what suits them. No wonder there was no report of strife or feeling of dissatisfaction among the tribes of Israel over the lots given them. They had confidence in the wisdom of God who had chosen for them a worthy portion.

There will be less strife in the world and there will be no feeling of envy and jealousy in the families and churches if we recognize and accept God’s wisdom in the portions we have in life. God is a good God and whatever He gives is for our good. If we sense a need for more, let’s ask Him in faith and trust His final judgment. This is the secret of peace and contentment.
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THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Nothing betters what God gives.

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TOPIC: Remember The Giver
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
JULY REVIVAL PROMO


TEXT: JOSHUA 19:24-39

KEY VERSE: “This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Asher according to their families, these cities with their villages” (Joshua 19:31).

Many people delight in naming their blessings but the majority of such that count their blessings do not remember Him from whom the blessings flow. A grateful heart not only counts the blessings, he considers deeply the source.

In our text today, we look at the portions that fell to the tribes of Asher and Naphtali, respectively, when Canaan land was shared by Joshua among Israel’s twelve tribes. To Asher was given for an inheritance, that portion of land that was bordered on the West and the East by the Mediterranean Sea, the eminent port cities of Tyre and Sidon, and the Phoenician nations who were renowned sea merchants. Asher’s allotment was to make her rich and great because of the fertile soil and her business affiliations/partnership with her sea-faring neighbours.

Naphtali’s reclusive portion laid further north. She was surrounded almost entirely by friendly neighbours, a situation that afforded her rapid population and economic growth as her people spread themselves over an expansive, peaceful, and fertile land that brought much riches and wealth to the tribe.

Surely, Joshua did not give those allotments with the foreknowledge of the intrinsic wealth appertaining to each property; it was God who purposed it that His blessing which He had pronounced on the tribes through the mouths of Jacob and Moses might come to pass (Genesis 49:20,21; Deuteronomy 33:23-25). It is needless running after the blessing; get into relationship with the Giver: “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all other things shall be added unto you.” The Bible tells us that promotion does not come from the West, East, North or South, but from God alone. Trust only in Him.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: There are no regrets when God chooses for you.
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Wednesday, July 16, 2014
MOULD THEM EARLY
TEXT: PROVERBS 22:1-15
Key verse: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” ( Proverbs 22:6).
One area in which many Christian parents have failed woefully today is child training. For such parents, once enough money and materials have been provided for the comfort of their child, they feel their work is done. The import of early godly upbringing dawns on them only when they begin to reap the bitter fruits of their failure. Child training must be timely and deliberate. William Gurnall captured the essence when he observed that the difference between religion and atheism is that “religion doth not grow without planting, but will die even where it is planted without watering. Atheism, irreligion, and profaneness are weeds that will grow without setting, but they will not die without plucking up.”
Sundry lessons are found in our text, including the inestimable value of good reputation, the equality of men – rich or poor, the virtues of prudence etc. But verse 6 holds the key to all these. “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” implies that parents and children handlers have ample duty and privilege of moulding the character of the child in such a godly way that it becomes near impossible for them to change at adulthood.
Such training begins with the trainer. The trainer must be living above board – living out what he/she advocates. No amount of pious instructions will produce a godly child if the instructor is not living righteously. Again, parents must decide on the right goal and exercise love and firmness in nudging the child to it. Note that it is “in the way he should go” and not “in the way he wants to go.” Good behaviour should be rewarded and bad conduct reprimanded.
The world is already smarting from the effects of the neglect of this most important duty. You can help make a difference today by lending a godly helping hand in the training of the children within the sphere of your influence.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Model the life you want in your children.
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TOPIC: An Enduring Portion
Thursday, July 17, 2014
JULY REVIVAL PROMO


TEXT: JOSHUA 18:21-28

Key verse: “...This is the inheritance of the children of Benjamin according to their families” (Joshua 18:28).

Generally, there is a sense of sacred and cherished birthright attached to the inheritance of land in many nations by the beneficiary. In Israel, the Lord had promised the people, through Moses and his successor, Joshua, that the land of Canaan would be divided among the tribes as an inheritance. After Joshua had fought all the battles successfully and there was now peace round about, it became imperative to do as the LORD had instructed concerning the land.

The dividing of the land was not without squabbles as Joshua had to cast lot. “And the lot of the tribe of Benjamin came up according to their families…(verse 11). On the whole, the tribe of Benjamin had a total of twenty six cities, including Jerusalem. The portion lay north of Judah and south of Ephraim. Though the territory was small in size, it was strategically located, commercially and militarily.

Today, many families are held up in scores of litigation over issues of land inheritance. This has had a telling effect on the unity and cohesion of such families. While it is good to inherit land and property from our families because “a prudent man leaveth an inheritance unto his children’s children”, we should be more concerned about our heavenly inheritance “where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God”.

As believers, we are heirs of all things: His grace (1 Peter 3:7); His salvation (Hebrews 1:14); eternal life (Titus 3:7); and His righteousness (Hebrews 11:7). We are therefore advised to set our affection on things above, for our life is already hid with Christ in God. It is wise to split hairs on transient and fleeting material perquisites. How we need to devote our burstling energies into laying for ourselves treasures and inheritances in heaven!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Believers’ portion is a never fading one.

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TOPIC: Keep Off The Rat-Race
Friday, July 18, 2014
JULY REVIVAL PROMO


TEXT: PROVERBS 23:1-12

Key verse: “Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom” (Proverbs 23:4).

The Book of Proverbs is noted for giving precepts to Christians and humanity in general on how to avoid pitfalls that may ruin and damn the soul, and how to live successfully and victoriously here. Exhortations for living to please God and maintaining proper relationships with our fellow men abound in the book of Proverbs.

Our text touches on what our attitude should be towards riches and wealth and how we can avoid the danger associated with inordinate ambition to be rich at all costs. It also counsels on how we can use our discretion in relating with rich people.

No human being desires to be poor or dependent on other people for sustenance and survival. This is one of the reasons people engage in profitable labour. However, the prevalent situations around us today show that many people are desperately seeking to enrich themselves and acquire wealth by all means. The philosophy of the end justifying the means now dictates the manner many seek riches.

The counsel of the Scripture to us is: “Labour not to be rich…” (verse 4). It does not suggest that being rich is sinful. It is just a caution to avoid the danger associated with the unbridled crave for riches. The New Testament presses this counsel further by saying that, “they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition …the love of money is the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:9,10).

Indeed, it is a measure of the immaturity of the believer when he devotes more attention to gathering riches and getting obsessed with material considerations. A right and unswerving relationship with God is sure to evoke His blessings from time to time, and without adding sorrow to them.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Caution: Over speeding kills!

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TOPIC: Don't Wait Too Late
Saturday, July 19, 2014
JULY REVIVAL PROMO


TEXT: JEREMIAH 25:1-11

Key verse: “And the Lord hath sent unto you all his servants the prophets, rising early and sending them; but ye have not hearkened, nor inclined your ear to hear” (Jeremiah 25:4).

An aged minister told the story of a man whom he often warned, but who always said to him, “Sir, when I am dying, I shall say, Lord, have mercy on me; and I shall go to heaven as well as anybody else.” Returning home from market one night, rather ‘foul’ with liquor, he guided his horse with a leap right over the parapet of a bridge into the river; the last words he was heard to utter were a most fearful imprecation; and in the bed of the river he was found dead, killed by the fall.

For twenty three years now, Jeremiah the prophet had been prophesying unto the people of Israel but they wouldn’t hearken. They ignored the warning to repent and turn away from their evil practices and from idolatry unto the living God. They equally rejected the message of other prophets apart from Jeremiah’s who had given them warning of the danger of sin. The consequence of their stiffneck was seventy years of captivity to Babylon.

If we could call people out this morning and ask them one at a time, Sir, why are you in hell? Did you not know how to be saved?” I am sure that some might say, “I did not know how to be saved”; but I believe literally thousands would say, “Yes, I knew how to be saved but I waited too long to accept it.” I don’t think you would find one person in hell who deliberately planned to go there, but many waited too late and died without the Saviour.

We must not delay nor harden our hearts to the gospel. The truth is, every time the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart and you refuse to accept Christ, your heart becomes harder and harder, until, after awhile, when God speaks, you don’t even hear His voice anymore. Nobody knows when he is going to die. You may say, “I don’t like to hear talks about death.” Well, when people quit dying, preachers will quit talking about death. Billy Sunday said, “if we had more preaching on hell from the pulpit, we would have less hell in the congregation”.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It is deadly to say “No” to the Spirit’s calling.

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TOPIC: Moving Into Blessings
Sunday, July 20, 2014
JULY REVIVAL PROMO


TEXT: PROVERBS: 22:16-29

Key verse: “Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge” (Proverbs 22:17).

In various fields of human endeavour, there are prescribed steps for those who seek for mastery and excellence. Such steps when carefully followed, lead to outstanding performance because they are tested steps that had led many to success. King Solomon, in today’s passage, proffers humility, proper attention to the doctrines and the retention in our hearts of such things as we have read as the secrets of profiting in the word of God. Truly, nothing recommends a man for divine exaltation as humility from the heart. The proof that we are humble at heart is the true confession and genuine repentance from our sins and the total surrender of our lives to the Lordship of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. The humble heart is a teachable heart.

The believer that desires spiritual blessing must aspire to grow. He must be diligent to read the Scriptures daily. Doctrines are important for spiritual stability. The believer who fails to endure sound doctrine is susceptible to false teaching. We need to understand the basic doctrines of our faith so that we can recognize false doctrines and prevent them. The best way to retain what we have learnt in the word of God is to always go back to those things and regularly put them into practice. Nowadays, many people have developed itching ears against the word of God; they are no longer keen on having the word that once saved them. Some others have become familiar with the word and are replacing it with their personal word or other fables. True believers must not do so.

The great truths and doctrines of the word of God are written so that we, and others through us, might have confidence in the truth. It is obvious that we cannot be channels of blessing to others if we have not been born again. Give your life to Jesus today and lead others to the Saviour.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Open up to God and open up happiness!

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TOPIC: Judgment Is Certain
Monday, July 21, 2014
TEXT: JEREMIAH 25:30-38

KEY VERSE: “A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth; for the LORD hath a controversy with the nations, he will plead with all flesh; he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the LORD” (Jeremiah 25:31).

Men go to great lengths to ensure they do not contravene the rules set by powerful personalities or state authorities. The reason is simply because they know they would never be able to avoid the long arm of the law against offenders. Ironically, the same people who tremble at the laws of men, trifle with, or flagrantly contravene God’s holy standards on the misguided belief that they can get away with it, or that God is not bothered by their conducts.

Yet, God cares and He is even more meticulous in documenting breaches of His law than any man-made authority will ever be able to do. When therefore, God says that He has a controversy with the inhabitants of nations, the mere thought of this must drive fear into all hearts. For it is certain that God will come roaring on the day He will mete out judgment on sinful men in all nations. Because the people relished evil, God will unleash evil on them. On that day, none can escape this vengeance of the Lord. The offenders will cry out, but it will be too late.

A discerning heart can avert this impending doom by submitting to critical self-examination and taking stock of where one has offended God. He must thereafter go to God in penitence, pleading for pardon and forgiveness, and asking for grace to make a fresh start with Him. This is the only way to avert the death sentence already pronounced on all sinful persons. But those who ignore the repercussions of their evil conducts and continue to live contrary to the word of God will draw His fierce anger and eventually, face His severe punishment.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God”.

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TOPIC: Shun Party Spirit
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
TEXT: PROVERBS 21:16-31

Key verse: “He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich” (Proverbs 21:17).

It will be difficult to quantify the number of families and lives that have been ruined by the love of alcohol. The bottle has not only succeeded in impoverishing many that love it, but has stolen away joy, peace and harmony in many homes. Many children have been denied the love, warmth, affection and care expected to be given in the family due to the influence of alcohol. How many promising men, having great potentials and wonderful careers have had their careers ruined and thrown out of job because they have become slaves to alcohol. And there are countless number of untimely deaths, young wives turned to early widows and children orphaned at tender age, all due to alcohol.

Our passage today warns against the practice of abandoning oneself to pleasure. There are so many people who spend all their time and money seeking for pleasure. They can be said to be possessed by the party spirit. While they cannot afford to pay their children’s school fees and provide for their basic essentials of life, they can afford the money for expensive party dresses, designer’s perfumes and other such vanities. Some even go to the extent of taking loans just to organize parties.

This is the spirit of the world and must not be found among Christians. Christians are supposed to be discreet, prudent and wise in all their dealings. Their lives are to be lived to the glory of the Lord. We should also bear in mind that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which must not be defiled with alcohol or any other such defilements.

It is not only the Bible that warns against the danger of alcohol and reckless pleasure seeking. Government agencies have joined in the campaign. The wise will take heed and keep off. Whatever subtracts from a sober Christian fellowship which must be Christ-honouring and soul-seeking cannot be of God. We must avoid all tendencies that paint the believer in lurid, worldly colours.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Don’t be mocked by wine; be wise.

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keep dreaming

TOPIC: Be Bold For Christ
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
TEXT: JEREMIAH 26:12-24

Key verse: “But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof: for of a truth the LORD hath sent me unto you to speak all these words in your ears” (Jeremiah 26:15).

Frederick the Great, the agnostic Prussian king had a devout Christian as his most trusted Army General, by name, Von Zealand. In a festive gathering, the king began making crude jokes about Christ until everyone, except Von Zealand, was rocking with laughter. Finally, Von Zealand stood up and addressed the king: “Sir, you know I have not feared death. I have fought and won 38 battles for you. I am an old man; I shall soon have to go into the presence of One greater than you, the mighty God who saved me from my sin, the Lord Jesus Christ whom you are blaspheming. I salute you, sir, as an old man who loves his Saviour, on the edge of eternity.” The place went silent, and with a trembling voice the king replied, “General Von Zealand, I beg your pardon! I beg your pardon!” And with that the party quietly ended.

Similarly, Jeremiah found himself among an intimidating audience to whom he had to deliver a stern message. The prophet was fully aware of the implication of his message and the likely response of the people, yet he kept faithful to One greater than the bloodthirsty King Jehoiakim who lately slew Prophet Urijah for preaching a similar message. That is courage – doing what you are scared to do for the sake of your conviction.

If not for the intervention of Ahikam who had an influence among the princes and elders, the malicious priests and prophets would have handed out Jeremiah to be killed on trumped up charge of treason. The most ardent persecution of the saints have always come from religious circles. But the Lord preserved Jeremiah’s life. “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it (Mark 8:35). When next you find yourself torn in between the fear of man and a God-assigned duty, will you dare to be like Jeremiah? Be faithful and speak up for the Lord. He will vindicate and preserve you.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Don’t bend low or back out: be bold for Christ!

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TOPIC: God Is Powerful
Thursday, July 24, 2014
TEXT: JOB 25:1-6

Key verse: “Dominion and fear are with him, he maketh peace in his high places” (Job 25:2).

Abraham Lincoln, former President of United States of America, once said: “I can see how it might be possible for a man to look down upon the earth and be an atheist, but I cannot conceive how he could look up into the heavens and say there is no God.”

That could possibly be the perception of Bildad, who had repeatedly attacked Job in spite of God’s declaration that Job was a just man. As against his usual style of raining accusations on Job, Bildad focused, this time, on God’s dominion, the supremacy of His power, His innumerable armies and His providence, which extended over all.

Bildad concluded that man could not be justified before God, noting that heavenly bodies could not be reputed pure in His sight; much less man, who is naturally weak and sinful. He highlighted the utter helplessness of man and his need of God.

Of course, Bildad was right when he pointed out that every person had committed one wrong thing or the other against God, which agreed with Romans 3:23 that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God”. But he did not disclose that God had made provision for man’s redemption (Romans 3:24). God forgives us when we confess our evil deeds to Him.

As Job passed through the night of adversity and patiently awaited for the morning to break forth and set him free from his sorrows, every other thing which included the sun, the moon, the stars and the element, seemed so vain that he could only look up to God who is the ever present help in the day of trouble. Every believer in Christ must endeavour to live a holy lifestyle. Whatever you are passing through, whatever adversity that may have befallen you, be rest assured that the morning of joy will definitely appear.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: We have a God who delights in impossibilities.

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TOPIC: This Pleases Him!
Friday, July 25, 2014
TEXT: LEVITICUS 17:1-7

Key verse: “To the end that the children of Israel may bring their sacrifices, which they offer in the open field, even that they may bring them unto the LORD, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest, and offer them for peace offerings unto the LORD” (Leviticus 17:5).

What can a man bring to God which will be excellent and acceptable in His sight? John Bunyan’s answer may surprise us - a broken and contrite heart. This was the subject of his book ‘acceptable sacrifice’ a moving exposition of Psalm 51:17, the last work which he prepared for the press before his departure to glory. Bunyan shows from Scripture why a broken heart is so acceptable to God. He characterizes the unbroken heart of man, showing why it must be made contrite, and explains the nature of the change which is involved. He also guides the reader in discerning whether this change has taken place, and shows how the heart, once broken, can be kept tender.

The Israelites, before the building of the tabernacle, did offer their sacrifices in the open field from which they are now restrained through this new order given by God in our text. For their sacrifices to be acceptable unto God, all Israelites and persons sojourning in their land were commanded to bring their sacrifices to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. The sacrifices were to be offered unto the Lord, and those who disobeyed were to be cut off. This was done that the sacrifices might be offered publicly, and be known to be offered to the Lord and not to idols or devils. It was equally God’s intention to prevent private idolatry taking place in the land and to avoid unauthorized persons intruding into the priests’ office.

Under the New Testament dispensation, the emphasis is no longer on animal sacrifices to be brought to the priest but on individual believers becoming living sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto God. It is the kind of sacrifice that resonates with the relationship we have received – as God has received us freely, we give ourselves freely.

As we prepare to enter into a new day, our focus must be on Christ who gave Himself to us that we might live unto Him.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Nothing pleases God more as a whole-hearted sacrifice!

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TOPIC: Watch Their Lies!
Saturday, July 26, 2014
TEXT: JEREMIAH 27:12-22

KEY VERSE: “Therefore hearken not unto the words of the prophets that speak unto you, saying, Ye shall not serve the king of Babylon: for they prophesy a lie unto you” (Jeremiah 27:14).

The days in which we live are days when every Tom, Dick and Harry in the name of a prophet or ‘a man of God’ has a vision, a prophecy or a word he is ready to give to the inquisitive or undiscerning believers. Unfortunately, many so-called Christians are also eager to receive the message from ‘heaven’ through the so-called man of God who are nothing but deceivers. Such unwary believers seem oblivious of the warning by God, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).

In the passage today, God expressly and repeatedly warns us against listening to and believing just any man or woman in or outside the church who tells us things contrary to the revealed will of God in the Scripture or through our God-appointed, tested and trusted leaders in the church.

The children of Israel here disregarded the prophecy of their God-appointed prophet, Jeremiah and were already yielding to the words of the false prophets. God, in his love, sent a strong warning to them not to believe those false prophets as the captivity of Judah by Babylon must be completely accomplished.

The important lesson we need to learn is to believe the Bible and the sound teachings we are receiving from the church than running after prophecies or visions that weaken our minds. We also need to resolve to patiently wait for God. Any revelation or vision that runs contrary to the word of God, or which imputes wrong timing and negative interpretation and application must be firmly resisted like the proverbial plague. Avoid being misled by so-called modern prophets and teachers.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Keep to the Bible alone and you won’t miss it.

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TOPIC: Life In The Blood
Sunday, July 27, 2014
TEXT: LEVITICUS 17:8-16

Key verse: “And whatsoever man there be of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among you, that eateth any manner of blood; I will even set my face against that soul that eateth blood, and will cut him off from among his people” (Leviticus 17:10).

The reason, no doubt, the laws of most nations of the world are stiff concerning murder and bloodshed is because of the value God has placed on life. Israel’s redemption from Egyptian slavery and bondage was made possible by the blood of the passover lamb. In other words, they were saved by the shedding of the blood of the animal; its death becoming substitutionary for the people. The Lord directed the children of Israel that the blood of the lamb at passover was to be placed on the two side posts and on the upper door post of every home, “and when I see the blood, I will pass over you” (Exodus 12:13).

The life of the flesh is in the blood (verse 11). The blood of any animal is identified with its life. The animal sacrifice is used as atonement for human sin at the price of the animal’s life. This is the principle of substitutionary atonement: the animal dying in man’s place. This underscores the importance and pricelessness of the blood of Christ as the instrument of our salvation and redemption.

Eating of blood was prohibited because of the value God attaches to blood. It is also to discourage heathen and idolatrous practices and to preserve and remember the symbolism of the sacrifice – Christ’s death on the cross for the redemption of man. No other sacrifice is needed today. “For, there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man, Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5). The Blood of the Saviour is the means by which believers have been ransomed, the means by which we have been vindicated over guilt and condemnation. Therefore the Blood must be sacredly appreciated.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: “Without shedding of blood, no remission of sin.”

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TOPIC: Yielding To His Lordship
Monday, July 28, 2014
TEXT: LEVITICUS 18:1-16

Key verse: Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, I am the LORD your God” (Leviticus 18:2).

Respect for constituted authority means modeling our lives along the lines of their prescriptions. Our conducts are expected to be moderated by the reality of what the laws say, or the guidelines they have stipulated. This is indeed the greatest tribute we can pay to those who have the duty to rule over us, or govern our affairs, those who have the responsibility to provide for the peace and orderly conduct of our lives - protecting us from infractions by others and promoting our overall rights and interests. It is the minimum obligation we owe those over us.

God desires much more obedience from all His children. Here, He commands Moses to declare to the children of Israel that He is the Lord their God. This being so, their standard for living was not to be according to the practices they witnessed in Egypt, or the abominations they were to encounter in Canaan. God’s word was to be their supreme guide and the barometer by which their lives were to be measured. In particular, therefore, the Lord instructed them against immoral dealings or unlawful marriages with anyone faintly related to them, or lusting after such people, or even the extreme case of incest. God is holy and all His children are to be holy also. To attain this state of holiness, the children of Israel were commanded to observe all of God’s statutes and judgments “which if a man do, he shall live in them; I am the Lord.”

The test of our faithfulness to God is in how we regard Him in our lives. If we consider Him indeed as our Lord, then He must have the final say in all areas of our lives. We must trust that He knows our interests best and that He means well for us. We must seek to avoid any action that will defile us or contravene His holy expectations. In short, if He is the Lord of our lives, we must keep His words even to the minutest details.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: If He is Lord, then He must have all!

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