Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2019

Wise Child, Foolish Child
TEXT: Proverbs 10:1-6

"The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother" (Proverbs 10:1).

Nothing delights the hearts of Christian parents like to watch their children growing up properly, while achieving success in spiritual and secular endeavours. Spiritual growth and development, in addition to academic successes, make Christian parents proud of their investment in their children; absence of one or both constitutes a regrettable reproach. In Bible history, there were children who made their parents happy while others caused sorrows. An example of the former was Joseph, who made his father, Jacob happy in Egypt for his good qualities and achievements. Absalom is a good example of the latter as he brought sorrow to his father, David. A wise child acts right.

Thus, wise Christian youths should strive to excel in both spiritual and secular engagements, not necessarily to just please their parents but because it “is well pleasing unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:20). Besides, who does not cherish success, even for its own sake? And every form of success is hidden in Christ; only the wise will discover it. Wise men still seek Jesus; so do wise youths pursue spiritual and academic excellence through Jesus Christ.

• Quote: "A wise child acts right."

• Chɑllenge: "Have you discovered the hidden source of success?"

• Prɑyer: "Oh God, give me the wisdom to live wisely."

• Further Reɑding: Luke 15:11-32

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Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2019

Work For Your Wealth
TEXT: Genesis 26:6-16

"Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him. And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great" (Genesis 26:12, 13).

Following the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, God declared to man, “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground” (Genesis 3:19). And no word of God will ever go unfulfilled! So work is an established principle of life; no work, no wealth. Hence Thomas Edison said, “I never did anything worth doing by accident, nor did any of my inventions come by accident; they came by hard work.”

In our text, today, we see how Isaac easily prospered and attained greatness simply by obeying an old time command to labour. This is a great lesson for young people of today who lie, cheat, and swindle unsuspecting people, in the hope of acquiring material possessions. Modern digital pool-betting and other forms of gambling are snares for slothful youths and ignorant people. Wise youths work hard and trust God for success.

• Quote: "Wise youths work hard and trust God for success."

• Chɑllenge: "Step out with hard work and get blessed"

• Prɑyer: "Help me, LORD, to appreciate dignity of labour."

• Further Reɑding: Proverbs 12:11; 28:19, 20

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 27, 2019

You Are Better Off
TEXT: Psalm 37:16-30

"A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked" (Psalm 37:16).

There are innumerable stories of many young people who pursued after wealth and power with all their might, only to die in their prime and leave those things behind. Recently a 24 year-old billionaire was murdered in front of his mansion in one Caribbean island. Many movie stars who promote sins have also suddenly met their violent end while ascending the ladder of worldly success. Unfortunately, these were role models for many young people across the globe!

Christian youths who join their worldly peers to desire the wealth and fame of the ungodly but seemingly prosperous youths are simply not wise. If you are born again, you are better off in your modest lifestyle than loud and avaricious sinners who are heading to eternal damnation.

• Quote: "If you are born again, you are better off."

• Chɑllenge: "Little is much if God is in it"

• Prɑyer: "Open my eyes, O LORD, to know my worth in Christ."

• Further Reɑding: Psalm 73:1-22

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2019

You Are Precious To God
TEXT: Mark 9:38-48

"And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in Me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea" (Mark 9:42).

Sometimes, God’s people tend to feel lonely, fearful, and vulnerable, particularly in the face of life’s challenges. Such feelings emanate from our inability to ignore the threatening tempests, and focus, instead, on the faithfulness of God and His unfailing promises.

We might seem insignificant in our little corner as students, or out-of-school teenagers and youths, yet, if we are born again, the Almighty God declares, “I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me” (Isaiah 49:16). Thus, God is willing and able to fight all our battles and crush all our enemies. Satan and his agents should beware! So, put your confidence in God who is able to do all things and is present with you constantly. He loves you, just as He loved Joseph, David, and Esther. He took care of them; He will take care of you.

• Quote: "He will take care of you."

• Chɑllenge: "Believe God and discover how precious you are to Him"

• Prɑyer: "Enlighten my understanding, LORD, of my status in Christ!"

• Further Reɑding: Psalms 8:1-9; Mark 9:41-42; Isaiah 49:8-16

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019

Behold And Become
TEXT: Psalm 17:15

"As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness" (Psalm 17:15).

The Psalmist in our text today declared his desire to be close to God to have God’s character qualities transferred to him. He wanted to be like Him in goodness, righteousness, holiness, love, etc. It was not the sinful passion of Lucifer to be like God or the type that made Adam and Eve to eat of the forbidden fruit.

The Bible teaches conformity to the Divine nature as revealed in Jesus Christ. While the fullness of Christ may not be fully realised now, as “it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2), the process of conformity has begun. And as you behold His face through prayers and meditations on the scriptures, you are transformed into His likeness. “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Corinthians 3:18).

• Quote: "We shall be like Him."

• Chɑllenge: "The process of conformity has begun"

• Prɑyer: "O to be like thee, LORD, blessed Redeemer."

• Further Reɑding: 2 Corinthians 3:11-18

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 30, 2019

Enemies' Threat, Tell Dad
TEXT: Psalm 18:1-14

"I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies" (Psalm 18:3).

Bullying is a big problem that affects lots of kids. It is estimated that about three-quarters of school children have been bullied in one form or another. Bullying may take the form of a teasing, taunting or threatening. Some bullies molest, oppress or even assault their victims. Bullying can make some children not want to play outside or go to school. Some children have even gone ahead in taking their lives because of bullying! There are many ways to handle bullies and these include: avoiding them, ignoring them and standing up for yourself. However, telling an adult, most preferably your parents, is the most important step to take if you are being bullied.

How about the biggest bully of man, Satan and his cohorts? Human beings sometimes allow themselves to be tools in the hand of the devil. They constitute themselves as enemies of progress. They become persecutors, oppressors and adversaries. Are you faced with such a challenge? Learn from David. Tell your dad. Call upon the name of the Lord and He will handle your bullies.

• Quote: "Learn from David."

• Chɑllenge: "Report the bully to your parents"

• Prɑyer: "Deliver me O Lord, LORD, from my enemies."

• Further Reɑding: 1 Samuel 1:1-11

See more here:

SALVATION HAS BEEN BROUGHT DOWN


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cB9mt9ptzPE

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2019

Would You Rɑther Go Nɑked?
TEXT: Revelation 16:13-16

"Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he thɑt wɑtcheth, ɑnd keepeth his gɑrments, lest he wɑlk nɑked, ɑnd they see his shɑme" (Revelation 16:15).

The very first consequence of the fɑll of mɑn was consciousness of nudity. “And the eyes of them both were opened, ɑnd they knew thɑt they were nɑked; and they sewed fig leɑves together, and mɑde themselves ɑprons” (Genesis 3:7). Nudity or nɑkedness is ɑssociated with shɑme ɑnd embɑrrɑssment.

Are you ɑwɑre thɑt humɑn beings ɑre the only creɑtures who cover themselves with mɑn-mɑde gɑrments unlike ɑnimɑls? Nɑkedness or nudity cɑn be equɑted with shɑme and humiliɑtion. In fɑct, throughout the pɑges of the Scripture, when God brings judgment ɑgɑinst the guilty, He does it by exposing their sin and stripping them of their clothes! The only wɑy ɑny of us cɑn stɑnd in God’s presence is to be stripped of our filthy rɑgs of self-righteousness and then be clothed ɑfresh in the gɑrments of Christ's righteousness. You ɑnd I cɑn never stɑnd in the presence of ɑ holy God unless we ɑre clothed from on high with ɑ kind of righteousness thɑt is not our own. Thɑt is the gospel.

• Quote: "Nudity or nɑkedness is ɑssociɑted with shɑme."

• Chɑllenge: "Be stripped of your filthy gɑrment"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, clothe me with your righteousness."

• Further Reɑding: Amos 2:13-16

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY DECEMBER 02, 2019

Cursed Counsellors
TEXT: 2 Chronicles 22:1-12

"Wherefore he did evil in the sight of the LORD like the house of Ahab: for they were his counsellors after the death of his father to his destruction" (2 Chronicles 22:4).

"Please sack all special advisers!" That was the title of an article in a national newspaper on 13 February, 2018. Most presidents and governors have special advisers in various areas. These Special Advisers are usually specialists in various fields and they guide the government in its policies and programmes. However, they sometimes mislead their leader through faulty advisory roles.

In some cases, the advisers give wicked counsels and cause their leaders to err and oppress the people. That was the case of Ahaziah, the king of Judah. He had his mother (the daughter of Jezebel) and the house of Ahab as his counsellors. He was eventually led on a downward spiral to perdition. It was bad advice from Jonadab that encouraged Amnon to rape Absalom's sister, Tamar. Also, King Rehoboam lost ten tribes of Israel to Jeroboam because he rejected the good counsel of the old men and accepted the bad counsel of the young men. Beware of bad counsels!

• Quote: "Beware of bad counsels!"

• Chɑllenge: "Wicked counsellors cause leaders to err"

• Prɑyer: "Guide me, O thou Great Jehovah."

• Further Reɑding: Exodus 18:17-24

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY DECEMBER 3, 2019

Choose Jehovah's Fear
TEXT: Proverbs 1:20-33

"Then shall they call upon Me, but I will not answer; they shall seek Me early, but they shall not find Me: For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD" (Proverbs 1:28,29).

Fear is one of the emotions that is preprogrammed in all animals and humans as an instinctual response to potential danger. Fear can be negative or positive. It is negative when it is excessive, irrational, compulsive and crippling. Such fears have negative consequences. However, fear can be positive when it prepares us to avoid danger, work hard to meet a target or seek information.

The fear of God is a healthy form of fear recommended by the word of God. For the unbeliever, the fear of God is the fear of His judgement. Paul referred to it as "the terror of the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:11). For the believer, the fear of God is something much different. The believer's fear of God is reverence for God. It is to hold God in respect and awe. The fear of God is to depart from iniquity. This is the motivating factor for us to surrender to the Creator of the universe. The fear of the Lord is the basis for our walking in His ways, serving Him, and yes, loving Him daily.

• Quote: "The fear of God is healthy."

• Chɑllenge: "Serve God with reverence"

• Prɑyer: "I stand in awe of thy word, O Lord."

• Further Reɑding: Deuteronomy 10:12-20

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 4, 2019

Sow Evil, Reap Same
TEXT: Proverbs 1:24-33

"Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices" (Proverbs 1:31).

"Today is the child of yesterday and the father of tomorrow." Did you get that? That is another way of stating the law of sowing and reaping. What we are today is the result of what we have been thinking and the way we have lived in the past. What we do today will determine our future. This law applies to good things and bad things. It applies to believers and unbelievers. It is a law established by the God of the universe: "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap" (Galatians 6:7).

The fact that we reap what we sow is good news to those who sow good habits, but a frightening thought for those currently involved in ungodly activities such as sexual promiscuity, drug and alcohol abuse, or mistreatment of others. We cannot sow disobedience to God and expect to reap His blessing. What we sow is what we reap. Do you know something? We usually reap more than what we sow! It may be delayed but it will surely come.

• Quote: "Today is the father of tomorrow."

• Chɑllenge: "The harvest will surely come"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, help me today to do right."

• Further Reɑding: Hosea 10:10-15

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

Sing Spiritual Songs
TEXT: Proverbs 1:24-33

"Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:19).

A spiritual song has a wide meaning and may refer to any song with a spiritual theme, such as a modern praise or a song of personal testimony. It might express the joy of one’s salvation, reveal the grace of Christ, exalt the greatness and power of God, and generally, communicate a wide variety of spiritual themes. David was a man distinguished by his skill in rendering spiritual songs. He composed songs, sang songs, played instruments and wrote many worship songs. Such songs can console, encourage, teach, admonish and even warn those who are far away from God.

Unfortunately, the kind of songs that appeal to youths of today are lewd and obscene songs that inflame the flesh and minister to the baser passions of man. It is common to see young people with earphones and headsets plugged to their ears and lost in their own world of sinful pleasure. But theirs is not the world of spiritual worship and godly reverence. It is the world of sensuality and lewdness. If you must sing, sing spiritual songs.

• Quote: "If you must sing, sing spiritual songs."

• Chɑllenge: "Spiritual songs minister to the spirit"

• Prɑyer: "I will praise the Lord at all times."

• Further Reɑding: Colossians 3:15-17

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2019

Go With God's Presence
TEXT: Exodus 33:12-23

"And He said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest" (Exodus 33:14).

The Duke of Wellington once remarked about Napoleon that his presence on the field made the difference of forty thousand men. The presence of a strong leader has a powerful effect. How much greater is the impact of the awesome power of the presence of God. The presence of God satisfies our deepest spiritual longings. Adam and Eve lost this sense of His presence through sin. Theologians talk about God's omnipresence and God's immanence. In one sense, God is everywhere. He fills the universe. In another sense, God manifests His presence to His beloved.

God makes His presence known to those who are in relationship with Him by redemption. It is only through the cross and resurrection of Jesus that a way into His presence is made possible. Just as Moses needed the presence of God on the journey to the Promised Land, so do all saints need God's presence today on their journey to heaven. To go with God's presence means that we feel the reality of God more intimately. A God-filled life is the best experience anybody can desire.

• Quote: "God manifests His presence to His beloved."

• Chɑllenge: "The presence of God satisfies"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, I want to dwell in your presence."

• Further Reɑding: Psalm 90:4-6

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2019

Prosper In God's Presence
TEXT: Genesis 39:1-6

"And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand" (Genesis 39:3).

The “Living Bible” is not just a version of the Holy Bible. The living Bible refers to a believer who reflects and exemplifies the precepts of the Bible by his life. Potiphar had never read the Bible. He never knew about Psalm 1:3, “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” But he knew the reality of this verse in the life of Joseph because Joseph was a living Bible. Young Joseph brought good fortunes and favour to the house of Potiphar. His master observed clearly that the boy had the ability to prosper in all his ways. Goodness and mercy followed him and extended to those around him.

The challenge today is for youths who will reflect the precepts and promises of the Bible. Such youths must know God by personal encounter. They must abide in his presence until they are changed from glory to glory.

• Quote: "Joseph was a living Bible."

• Chɑllenge: "Reflect the precepts of the Bible"

• Prɑyer: "O to be like thee, blessed Redeemer."

• Further Reɑding: Psalm 1:1-3

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2019

Seek Good Success
TEXT: Genesis 39:1-6

"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… and then thou shalt have good success" (Joshua 1:8).

These are the days of Success and Motivational talks. Many pulpits have turned into success platforms and many preachers have turned into motivational speakers. There appears to be an obsession with success in both corporate and religious worlds. Many ministries, blogs and websites are dedicated to making men have breakthrough. Such terminologies as “dominion”, “overcomers” and “champions,” are very common in Christian vocabulary nowadays.

However, the concept of Success did not originate from any possibility thinker or motivational speaker. It originated from God Himself. He is the author of success. God is interested in man’s success. Right from the book of Genesis chapter one, God talked about fruitfulness and multiplication, exploration and dominion (Genesis 1:26-28). This is the crux of the matter. Success is not to be defined by any expert or authority other than God Himself. The definition should be sought from the book of God. It is God that determines who is a successful man. And the Scriptures are full of portraits of men and women who succeeded. A successful man is one who satisfies God’s standard for success.

• Quote: "God is interested in man's success."

• Chɑllenge: "Satisfy God’s standard of success"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, give me good success."

• Further Reɑding: 1 Kings 2:1-4

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2019

Praying For Pardon
TEXT: Psalm 25:1-11

"Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness' sake, O LORD" (Psalm 25:7).

You have heard that decision determines destiny! That is true. It is also true that prayer determines destiny. Here is the story of two thieves. They were no ordinary thieves. They were brutal, callous and cruel. Eventually, the long arm of the law caught up with them and they were sentenced to death by crucifixion. Incidentally, on the day of their execution, they were crucified on either sides of Jesus. And then, there was a game-changer. One of the thieves prayed for pardon. He accepted Jesus as Lord and asked for a place in His kingdom. And he was instantly pardoned and justified. His place in paradise was secured. A simple prayer for pardon changed his destiny.

So, what are you waiting for? The score of sin can be settled in an instant. It doesn’t matter what you have done and how you have lived. Just a little talk with Jesus can make everything right.

• Quote: "The score of sin can be settled."

• Chɑllenge: "Just a little talk with Jesus makes it right"

• Prɑyer: "Have mercy upon me, O Lord."

• Further Reɑding: Luke 23:39-43

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2019

Invasion Of Darkness Imminent
TEXT: Isaiah 60:2

"For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon thee" (Isaiah 60:2).

There is a now-common theme or concept of alien invasion, a possibility that extraterrestrial beings will invade the earth and supplant, enslave, exterminate or destroy human beings and the planet altogether. This type of writing was made popular by H. G. Well’s publication of the book, The War of the Worlds, and is now very common in science fiction books and video games.

The Bible did speak about a future invasion of the earth. First, there will be the invasion by the powers of darkness. The earth will be thrown into a great pang of turmoil and anguish. It will be time of Great Tribulation such as the earth has never known. Then there will be another invasion. John, the beloved captured the scene succinctly, “And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war” (Revelation 19:11). This is not science fiction or video game. It is the true revelation of the fate of the earth and its inhabitants. Go to Jesus for refuge.

• Quote: "Go to Jesus for refuge."

• Chɑllenge: "The earth will be thrown into a great pang of turmoil"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, prepare me a holy sanctuary."

• Further Reɑding: Revelation 19:11-16

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

True Love And Transparency
TEXT: John 5:19-30

"For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth Him all things that Himself doeth: and He will shew Him greater works than these, that ye may marvel" (John 5:20).

According to a relationship specialist, one of the goals of forming a committed, long-term relationship is to become progressively transparent – being open and honest. There are cardinal facts that each partner needs to know about the other before a long-term commitment is reached. Love can never be complete unless you can love someone completely. Trust is the key and transparency keeps that trust. When you love someone, you love all of him/her and the only way to love him/her is through a life without secrets and lies. Someone who loves you knows all your flaws, imperfections, and even your dark side. God knows all sinners but loves them and urges them to repent and embrace His salvation.

Do you love God? Then, open up to Him. Show Him all the things about your life and tell him all the things you have done. There should be no dark parts of your life any more. Duplicity, hypocrisy and insincerity have no place in a true love relationship. The relationship between the Father and the Son is a good example to emulate. In the home, be open to your parents/guardians and siblings so that there will emerge and enduring mutual love and trust.

• Quote: "Trust is the key."

• Chɑllenge: "Be open to God"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, I open up my life to you."

• Further Reɑding: Psalm 139:1-12

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2019

Sinners By Nature
TEXT: Romans 3:10-23

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).

In the early hours of 17 June, 1972, five men attempted to break-in to the headquarters of the Democratic National Committee at Watergate complex, about a mile from the White House. The five men were arrested and this sparked a chain of events that two years later would see Richard Nixon resign as the 37th president of the United States of America. The Watergate Scandal is widely regarded as the biggest scandal in political history anywhere in the world. The question in the mouth of many as the events unfolded was, "How could civilized and educated people descend so low?"

The answer to the puzzle is what the Bible identified as the depravity of man. Basically, it means that we are all lawbreakers, because sin is the violation of God's law (1 John 3:4). Sinfulness is the general characteristics of all mankind; we are all guilty before God. We are sinners by nature and by our own acts of transgression. It is only through Christ’s death and resurrection we receive pardon. You can settle your sin problem with Christ now.

• Quote: "We are all lawbreakers."

• Chɑllenge: "Human depravity is real"

• Prɑyer: "Wash me, O Lamb of God."

• Further Reɑding: Psalm 51:1-10

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019

Make Up Your Mind
TEXT: Joel 3:12-17

"Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision" (Joel 3:14).

Indecision is something we all have experienced one time or another in our lives. Some decisions aren't all that significant, such as what to have for lunch or what to put on to Church; while others have long-term significance, such as what career to pursue. In Luke 23, we find the story of one man who struggled with the decision of a lifetime. His name was Pontius Pilate, a very indecisive man who allowed other people to make his decisions for him as he grappled with what to do with Jesus when Jesus was brought before him for judgment based on false accusations.

You must also make a decision on this issue. What will you do with Jesus? Will you reject Him or will you accept Him into your heart as your Saviour and Lord? Pilate eventually made a wrong choice because he feared the loss of his position and the goodwill of others. But he lost God's favour, and perhaps, his soul. Don't linger in indecision. Make up your mind today. This is a decision with eternal consequences.

• Quote: "What will you do with Jesus?"

• Chɑllenge: "Don't linger in indecision"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, I come to You."

• Further Reɑding: Luke 23:13-25

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2019

The LORD Is My Shepherd - 1
TEXT: Psalm 23:1-6

"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalm 23:1).

According to C. H. Spurgeon, Psalm 23 is the “pearl of psalms whose soft and pure radiance delights every eye…it may be affirmed that its piety and its poetry are equal, its sweetness and its spirituality are unsurpassed.” It has been a comfort and a delight to Christian pilgrims all through the ages.

It depicts the intricate relationship between the believer and his God in such a graphic fashion – that of the sheep and the shepherd. The sheep is so weak and vulnerable; the shepherd is so strong and caring. It also illustrates a personal relationship between a man and his God – the Lord, my shepherd. Jesus confirmed what the Psalmist said when He affirmed, “I am the good Shepherd.” The believer can confidently rest in His everlasting arms. There is nothing to worry about. He has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness – wealth, health, peace, wisdom, righteousness and power. All things are made available in Jesus. The sheep can be rest assured that the shepherd is determined to feed His flock. There shall be no lack.

• Quote: "There shall be no lack."

• Chɑllenge: "Rest in His Everlasting Arms"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, I rest on your promises."

• Further Reɑding: Isaiah 40:10-12

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2019

The LORD Is My Shepherd - 2
TEXT: Psalm 23:1-6

"He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters" (Psalm 23:2).

The Psalmist here celebrates the provision, protection and providence of the Almighty God for the believer. The psalmist describes himself as one of Jehovah’s flock, who is safe under His care, and absolved from all anxieties by the sense of this protection. He gains from this confidence of safety the leisure to enjoy, without fear, all the simple pleasures which make up life—the freshness of the meadow, the coolness of the stream. Commenting on this Psalm, Ellicott noted that “It is the most complete picture of happiness that ever was or can be drawn. It represents that state of mind for which all alike sigh, and the want of which makes life a failure to most; it represents that heaven which is everywhere if we could but enter it, and yet almost nowhere because so few of us can.”

Are you a sheep in His flock? Have you come under the care of the shepherd? Do you own Him as your Lord and Saviour? Then certainly, you can enter into His rest. You can lie down in green pastures and revel in His divine providence.

• Quote: "Revel in His divine providence."

• Chɑllenge: "You can enter into His rest"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, I rest in Your Love."

• Further Reɑding: Psalm 78:72

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019

The LORD Is My Shepherd - 3
TEXT: Psalm 23:1-6

"He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake" (Psalm 23:3).

This verse may be interpreted in two ways. The Lord quickens or vivifies the spirit when exhausted. The reference is not to the soul as wandering or backsliding from God, but to the life or spirit as exhausted, wearied, troubled, anxious, worn down with care and toil. The heart, thus exhausted, He reanimates. He brings back its vigor. He encourages it; excites it to new efforts and fills it with new joy.

On the other hand, the verse may refer to the restoration of a soul from its errors or wanderings. No creature is more ready to go astray than a sheep, or more at a loss to find its way back. "And all we like sheep have gone astray," (Isaiah 53:4), and are still too prone so to do; to leave the right way of truth and duty, and to turn aside into by-paths. The Great Shepherd is able to show us our errors, so as to bring us back to our duty post again. He restores our souls; and if he does not do so, we would wander endlessly and be unprofitable.

• Quote: "The Great Shepherd is able."

• Chɑllenge: "Surrender to the Lord now if He is not yet your Shepherd"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, help me to remain in the path of righteousness."

• Further Reɑding: Psalm 51:6-12

See more here:

REMEMBRANCE
YOUTH CHOIR MINISTRATION


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNI1J1-J_gI

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY DECEMBER 17, 2019

The LORD Is My Shepherd - 4
TEXT: Psalm 23:1-6

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

William Holman Hunt, during his second trip to the Holy Land from 1870 to 1873, painted a famous picture on canvas. It depicts Jesus as a young man prior to His ministry, working as a carpenter. He is shown stretching His arms after sawing wood. The shadow of His outstretched arms falls on a wooden spar on which carpentry tools hang, creating a "shadow of death" prefiguring the crucifixion.

However, the Psalmist implied a different shadow of death in his poem. King David was experiencing a time of "doom and gloom," he felt as though death was near. Hardship, peril chaos and deep suffering invaded his life. In our fallen world, these things will invade our lives.
At some point, you and I, too, will make that long, slow painful walk through the "valley of the shadow of death." No matter the circumstance, it is important to remember a simple truth about the valley of the shadow of death. Jesus walks in the valley with us. His light is also by our side. We are not alone.

• Quote: "We are not alone."

• Chɑllenge: "Jesus walks in the valley with us"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, I rest in Your presence."

• Further Reɑding: Psalm 31:9-20

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Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER, 2019

Check Up
TEXT: 2 Corinthians 13:1-8

"Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates" (2 Corinthians 13:5).

Danny was a young man in his early twenties. He had finished high school and was waiting for admission into college. He also loved football and played for leisure most evenings. On one fateful day, while trying to score a goal for his team, he slumped and began to convulse. He was rushed to the nearest health facility but had died before arrival to the hospital. Sudden death in people younger than 35 is rare. The causes of sudden death in young people vary. Most often, death is due to heart abnormality. When these sudden deaths occur, it is often during physical activity, such as playing a sport, and more often occurs in males than in females.

This underscores the importance of regular medical checkup. Regular medical checkups will aid in early detection of ailments and prevention of complications that could be detrimental or cause death. The Bible also recommends a regular spiritual check-up. One must regularly and constantly ascertain his true spiritual standing before God. A healthy Christian strives to maintain a godly lifestyle and clear conscience always before God and man.

• Quote: "Maintain a clear conscience."

• Chɑllenge: "The Bible recommends a regular spiritual checkup"

• Prɑyer: "Search me O God and know my heart today."

• Further Reɑding: Psalm 24:14-16

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY DECEMBER 19, 2019

Be Faithful
TEXT: Matthew 21:28-32

"And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not" (Matthew 21:30).

To be faithful means to be reliable, true, trustworthy, dependable, devoted, unswerving, and constant. Faithfulness is what God requires of His servants, ministers or stewards, whether they are preachers, pastors, evangelists, missionaries, workers in the local church, teachers in the Christian school, moms or dads.

God does not require us to be famous, rich or successful, but does require us to be faithful with what He has entrusted to us. It is unfortunate that we have a dearth of faithfulness across our land today. In both the secular world and in the Christian community, unfaithfulness is common, thereby creating unproductivity.

When life is hectic and things go wrong, be faithful. When you have problems and people do not understand you, be faithful. When you want to quit, be faithful. When temptation comes and sin allures you, be faithful. When Satan tries to get you to doubt God, be faithful. When friends entice you and the world calls you, be faithful. When all else fails, be faithful.

• Quote: "When all else fails, be faithful."

• Chɑllenge: "We have a dearth of faithfulness"

• Prɑyer: "O Lord, help me to be faithful."

• Further Reɑding: 1 Corinthians 4:1-4

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019

Way To Wealth
TEXT: Job 22: 21-30

"If thou return to the Almighty, thou shalt be built up, thou shalt put away iniquity far from thy tabernacles. Then shalt thou lay up gold as dust" (Job 22:23,24a).

Is there any connection between piety and prosperity? Are godly people invariably blessed materially while ungodly people languish in penury? It is difficult to answer in black and white. But the fact remains that God is a God of prosperity. And He delights in the prosperity of His saints. The beloved Apostle John prayed for the prosperity of godly Gaius (3 John 2). The man Job himself was an example of this fact. Job was prosperous, and yet pious.

The foundation to prosperity from God involves repentance and godly living. In God's economy, the prosperity of the soul takes precedence over prosperity in other areas. The way to wealth from God is right relationship with Him. God gives the power to get wealth. That power, be it mental, physical or material must be put to use for God to bless you to yield wealth. There is also need for partnership with God. You need to be faithful in giving, consistent in saving, and prudent in spending. Faith and faithfulness are the path to financial breakthrough. Wealth based on fraud and dishonesty is not from God.

• Quote: "God gives the power to get wealth."

• Chɑllenge: "The prosperity of the soul comes first"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, I denounce unrighteousness in my life."

• Further Reɑding: Job 1:1-3

See more here:

ALL IN ALL


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WumGnnVa7_s

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY DECEMBER 21, 2019

Work, Gain And Give
TEXT: Acts 20:32-38

"I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35).

John Wesley recorded that one year his income was 30 pounds and his living expenses 28 pounds, so he had 2 pounds to give away. The next year his income doubled, but he still managed to live on 28 pounds, so he had 32 pounds to give to the poor. In the third year, his income jumped to 90 pounds. Instead of letting his expenses rise with his income, he kept them to 28 pounds and gave away 62 pounds. In the fourth year, he received 120 pounds. As before, his expenses were 28 pounds, so his giving rose to 92 pounds.

His maxim was, "make all the money you can, save all the money you can and give away all the money you can." He believed that with increasing income, what should rise is not the Christian's standard of living but the standard of giving. That sounds like a healthy attitude to money. And it sounds spiritual. Paul the Apostle and Jesus Christ Himself practised the same principle. The best antidote to greed prevalent in today's world is generosity. Learn to give generously.

• Quote: "Learn to give generously."

• Chɑllenge: "Giving is the best antidote to greed"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, teach me to work, save and give."

• Further Reɑding: 1 Timothy 6: 6-10

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2019

The Purpose Of Pentecost
TEXT: Acts 20:32-38

"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth" (Acts 1:8).

Pentecost is a figurative word representing the Day the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the early disciples of Jesus Christ. The account was recorded in the book of the Acts of the Apostles chapter 2. Pentecost was the fulfillment of God’s promise to mankind. God, who cannot lie, made the human race a promise. It is found in the book of Joel. "And it shall come to pass in the last days that I shall pour out my Spirit upon all flesh." On that day, there were some dramatic events that followed. There was a sound like a rushing mighty wind; there were cloven tongues like as of fire that sat upon the disciples, there was speaking in other tongues; and there was noise and commotion among the people.

But the question is, what is the purpose of Pentecost? Why was the Holy Ghost given? The answer is given in our text. The Holy Ghost was given to empower the believers to bear witness of Jesus Christ to the world. This involves living and speaking for Christ. This is every believer’s ministry.

• Quote: "Speak for Christ."

• Chɑllenge: "The Holy Ghost was given to empower believers"

• Prɑyer: "Give me Lord, a double portion."

• Further Reɑding: Acts 2:1-4

See more here:

I WANT MORE
End of the Month Sunday Service August 25, 2019 Youth Choir Ministration


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DCATwQ4j8ok