The Living Water Jan-June, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Friday, May 20, 2016

TOPIC: YOU AND YOUR HOUSE (2)
READ GENESIS 19:1-26

MEMORISE: They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved - you and your household. (Acts 16:31)

We are in a terrible time and an era in which the Bible predicts gross disobedience among children to their parents (2 Tim 3:1ff). Just like Noah, Lot faced a precarious condition in Sodom and Gomorrah. Efforts to get few people, at least, out of Sodom and Gomorrah, in lieu of the looming destruction, failed. However, he did not fail to deliver members of his immediate family.
It is wrong to have the selfish notion that since you have been saved, everybody, including members of your family, should find their own levels. You (as parents) will be held accountable.
The second role you must play in the salvation of your household is showing them the way. It is believed you already know the way, which is Jesus Christ, in line with the Living Water we drank yesterday. You have to show it to the members of your household. They must see the light of the gospel through you. It is paramount to do everything possible for your members to know the Lord Jesus you know and walk in Him, just as you do. That is when you will not fail as a householder.
God testifies of Abraham that he will teach his children His (God's) way. Truly, Abraham did not default, to the point of marriage and beyond; he guided Isaac. Showing them the way, is in line with Proverbs 22:6, Train up a child in the way to follow when he is old he will not depart from it. It is wrong to leave your members to trial by error life. At least, you must have tried your best (physically, morally, spiritually, etc.) before concluding that a member of your house is unyielding.

PRAYER POINTS
1. O Lord, help us to restore those children who are already delinquent.
2. Ask that the parents who fail in the discharge of their duty to their children should repent and henceforth be alive to their responsibilities.
3. Lord, inspire and enlighten the Church to educate the believers on the home.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PSALMS 72-74

I see you move into the next level of UNSTOPPABLE GLORY. You are lifted in Jesus Christ name

The Living Water Jan-June, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Saturday, May 21, 2016

TOPIC: PERSECUTION REBRANDS
READ PHILIPPIANS 3:6-10

MEMORISE: What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ (Phil 3:

Christianity, as described by somebody, is a warfare; not a funfare. The day you enlisted in the Army of the Living God by allegiance to our Captain Lord Jesus Christ was the day a fierce war was declared against you by the host of Hell with its captain, Satan the devil! Satan's activities are aimed at fighting, wounding and overcoming the saints, but he had failed right from the onset. In fact, he came to steal, kill and destroy (Jn 10:10), but the Lord of all has provisionally vanquished him (1 Jn 3:18).
Persecution is dreaded among so many Christians, and they try to dodge it. However, sadly though, the more we try to flee from it, the more it follows us, because no persecution-free Christianity was promised by the Founder Himself! (John 16:33) Jesus encourages us to count ourselves blessed when men use all sorts of malicious words against us (Matt 5:10-12).
The Christians who want to be at ease or without persecutions are oblivious of the rebranding work it does. Persecutions are true marks of Christ on us (Gal 6:17). We shouldn't be ashamed of being persecuted for the sake of the same Christ who suffered the worst humiliation for our sake. He who was made perfect through sufferings. Sufferings, persecutions, tribulations and troubles unleashed by devil will only succeed in rebranding us into triumphant saints, having served meritoriously as the militant church. Hallelujah! Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but he is delivered from them all (Psalm 34:19). Do you believe that? Rejoice like the apostles who were happy for being beaten and roughly handled for Christ's sake (Acts 5:41, 42).

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, endow me with longsuffering spirit to fight gallantly for You till the end.
2. Lord, help me to see You in every situation I am, in Jesus' name.
3. Pray that God should deliver our brethren who are going through the fire of persecution all over the world.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PSALMS 75-77

The GLORY of the LORD will be risen upon you and your household in Jesus Christ name

The Living Water Jan-June, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE
DATE: Sunday, May 22, 2016
TOPIC: EVANGELIST PHILIP'S MODEL
READ ACTS 21:8,9
MEMORISE: He had four daughters who prophesied (Acts 21:9)
A family successfully raised all the children as graduates in various fields of human endeavour. Also, a mother got her vision of raising mighty ministers of the gospel out of her ten children fulfilled. All these are not mean achievements. Any effort, any achievement on your family? Do you realise that success does not come by chance?
Today's text shows us the example of Philip the deacon-turned-evangelist. Philip was one of the seven men chosen in Acts chapter 6 to serve at the table. He was doing that ministry and yet never abandoned his home. It was later on reported that he had four grown up daughters who were virgins, and they prophesied (Acts 21:8,9). That sounds incredible and enviable of a man's household.
It is good to ask how he was able to achieve that, considering the level of corruption the world has witnessed, cum the tightness of his 'schedules.' Four virgin daughters where Tamar and Dinah could not survive been abused! It is just incredible. Our family can survive the vices widespread today. It is possible. What is the secret?
The secret is, your example, your prayers, your availability and holy desire. The best way to make your children, wife and other family members walk in God's way is by leading them by example. Show them practical example of how to relate with God in prayer, Bible study, godliness, holiness and unwavering faith. You are their mirror. Do your best to save your family members from the claws of the devil. May we not be condemned by evangelist Philip's model.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, do not let me labour in vain over the members of my family.
2. O Lord, destroy every end-time spirit that makes children grow to become wayward.
3. Lord, give us the understanding the wisdom to know how much You EXPECT from our homes.
EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PSALMS 78-80
YOU ARE FOREVER LIFTED IN JESUS CHRIST NAME

The Living Water Jan-June, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Monday, May 23, 2016

TOPIC: WATCH YOUR CHRISTIAN TESTIMONY
READ JOB 1:1-8
MEMORISE: Then the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." (Job 1:

During a valedictory service organised for some teachers who had meritoriously put in over thirty years in the civil service, one of the major activities of the day was recitation of profiles of the untiring retiring officers. Those in attendance were given the opportunity to listen to how the people (celebrants) fared in the course of their services to their fatherland.
Similarly, Job's profile was audibly read, this time by God, and it was read to the hearing of the devil. There is no one on earth like him (vv. 1-, suggests Job's right standing before God and total separation from the world. Such a testimony is very scarce today. Many Christians are total opposite of what they profess. Their lives are a complete ridicule of the Christian faith. Christians are supposed to be different people, holy and peculiar. Malachi talks about the conspicuous difference between Christians and those who are not; those who serve God and those who do not (Mal 3:18).
You cannot afford to hide your light under the bushel from your co-workers, neighbours, business associates, co-commuters, colleagues in sport hall, etc. who are yet to believe. Light never mingles with darkness, but it chases the latter away. Be different for God, and outstanding as light in this world of darkness. A city sited on the mountaintop is there for all and sundry to see. Like Job, Christians have the responsibility of maintaining a good Christian image to the glory of God.
Honour God with your wholesome Christian characters. Put the devil to shame with those godly qualities such as genuine faith, brotherly love, kindness, self-control, perseverance, etc. (2 Pet 1:5-9). Watch your Christian testimony.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, give me the grace to remain faithful to you to the end; do not let me disappoint You.
2. Make me a light to reflect Your glory and grace to the world around me.
3. Lord, give the believers the grace and power to defend their faith (Your glory, Your work) wherever You have placed them.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PSALMS 81-83

Your testimonies this week will be UNLIMITED in Jesus Christ name. You are lifted

The Living Water Jan-June, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Tuesday, May 24, 2016

TOPIC: DELICATELY MADE
READ GENESIS 1:26-30
MEMORISE: I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (Psalm 139:14)

The renowned economist, Robins Lionel opines, "Man's needs are insatiable." This means that man is inherently unsatisfied. This manifests at every point in time. Although this may seem to be natural, yet a deep spiritual look at it educated that the children of God should take a caution. Why? This is to prevent comparison of ourselves with others. The fantastic creation story makes us to realise how that our God made man uniquely, spectacularly and phenomenally. We are created to have total dominion over the other creatures. How grateful our hearts should be for knowing this? (Psa 139:14).
You are an image of God, have no duplicate, photocopy or carbon copy. You are special, peculiar and unique in all characteristic ramifications (1 Pet 2:9). Your life should be more than grateful to God for these undeserving qualities, and you should go ahead to profit, bringing benefits to mankind and glory to God's kingdom with the sterling attributes (1 Pet 2:10-11).
The physical, spiritual, social and psychological nature that God endows us with should make us see ourselves as God's unique artistic impression. We should, in retrospect, return to our Maker the glory, majesty, and honour due Him. Know this: When you resort to undue comparison with others, you are not only being unfair, but a stark ingrate! Be wise.

PRAYER POINTS
1. O Lord, I am grateful for fearfully and wonderfully creating me.
2. Lord, help me not to waste this unmerited gesture in any way.
3. Lord, help the Church to appreciate its uniqueness in the world, and live by it so that it doesn't unnecessarily mingle with the waywardness of the worldly politics and practices.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PSALMS 84-86

No matter how many people take counsel against you, it shall be turned to nothing in Jesus Christ name. YOU ARE SECURED!

The Living Water Jan-June, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Wednesday, May 25, 2016

TOPIC: GOOD OR GODLY CHOICE?
READ PSALM 37:1-40
MEMORISE: When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. (Gen 3:6)

Man is providentially faced with two or more choices whenever he finds himself in dilemmatic situations. In God's creation, he did not deprive man of enough liberty and chance to choose what he likes or wants. This was evident in the lives of our Patriarchal parents. The fact that God placed before them two different trees should not be seen as an invitation to temptation. Rather, it was a way of allowing man's obedience to His Maker and Benefactor to be tested. He (God) does not want man as the robot that is manipulated and manoeuvred before it carries out an activity. But for the alternatives available, man's life would have been regimented, leaving Him with no capacity to chose FREELY.
However, the fact that you have the ability to make choice does not mean you can control the consequences of your choice. All decisions/choices may look very good and pleasant, but one pertinent question to be asked is whether they are good and godly or not. Or, "Am I ready for the RESULTS of such choices?" Marriage is good and even commanded by God, but all its proceedings and processes must be godly, if the parties involved see God as its Proprietor.
Your choice of career or vocation may be the best you think you can get, but is it really God's choice for you? God must pervade all your activities, reason being that, we, as humans do not really know what is good for ourselves, except we have His mind! If you pursue a deep and obedient relationship with God, you will not make mistakes. Some have missed precious and eternal values because they considered 'good' but not godly choice(s) in their lives! Be careful.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, I surrender my choices to You. Please moderate them according to Your will and eternal redemptive purpose.
2. Holy Spirit, let me never make wrong choice(s) in my life.
3. Pray that God should come to the aid of marriageable brothers and sisters who are still at the verge of making choices of partners.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PSALMS 87-89

It doesn't matter what the economy and economy analysts are saying... You will never be stranded in Jesus Christ name. Remain blessed

The Living Water Jan-June, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Thursday, May 26, 2016

TOPIC: THREATENED BUT NOT FRIGHTENED
READ DANIEL 3:1-21
MEMORISE: Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter." (Dan 3:16)

Satan must not be seen as one with 'dangerous power' he uses to suppress, oppress and obsess the earth and its inhabitants. Despite that man sold his dominion to the devil through the fall, he (the devil) has no power over the children of God. The devices he uses that seem to be potent in his hands are intimidation, threat and fear! The Bible enlightens us to rebuke him; not to fear him. He has no place in us, unless we give him room.
The three young courageous Hebrew men who were exiled in Babylon remain worthy models for all Christians. The king dictatorially gave instruction to all in the province, irrespective of their backgrounds or statuses. They were all royally required to worship the king's golden image (Dan 3:2). This order was not without a threat: whoever counteracted it would be sentenced to death by the fiery furnace that had been extraordinarily prepared for deviants!
The threat would have made millions to worship Nebuchadnezzar's god! Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were truly threatened, but they refused to be frightened. Why? They trusted God to fight for them (cf. Exo 14:14). Don't worry about the devil's nagging; he is best known for roaring like a lion (1 Pet 5: whom Jesus, the original Lion of the tribe of Judah (Gen 49:9) has always dealt with (1 Cor 15:57). Only be watchful of his tactics.
We should refuse to be frightened because the moment fear grips our hearts, the devil takes the advantage to make us to believe his empty threats as reality (cf. Job 3:25). That challenge will only threaten you; it will not overcome you if you can neglect Satan's threat by keeping your faith firmly on the Almighty God.

PRAYER POINTS
1. I refuse to be frightened or intimidated by the threats of the devil and his cohorts, in Jesus' name.
2. I am covered with the blood of Jesus; Satan, you can do nothing to me, in Jesus' name.
3. Lord, let the devil's threat against your Church in the land be totally thwarted, in Jesus' name.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PSALMS 90-92

God will surprise you with what no man can deliver into your hands in Jesus Christ name!

KIDS ARE VERY INTERESTING
READ PSALM 128:3,4
MEMORISE: Your sons will be like olive shoots around your table. (Ps 128:3b)

Watching babies grow up shows that children are the most interesting set of people. Ranging from their humble spirit to tenderness, affection, friendliness, etc., one would be convinced that children are very interesting.
Jesus attested to children’s God-like character and personality when He warned His disciples against hindering them from coming to Him (Mark 10:16). Are you one of those who see children as disturbance or distraction? Do you think they should be avoided in your home? Children are happy people. They bring joy, excitement and sweetness into homes. The fact that some children are problematic should not be generalised to mean that they are not interesting.
Anyone who is into child abuse and violation of child’s right is a devil. Children are the heritage of God. He drops them directly into marriages and homes to bless the institution. Parents who have them should consider themselves very fortunate. The expectant homes should not lose hope because God never forgets anyone. Sooner than later, you shall celebrate like Sarah, in Jesus’ name. God will bless your marriage with interesting kids.
Rather than seeing children as problems or liabilities, accept them as the gifts of, and from God that they are, and endeavour to learn lessons from their inquisitive minds, humble spirit and straightforwardness.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Spirit of Belial is rebuked in the lives of our children, in Jesus’ name.
2. Lord, bless the expectant homes with fruit of the womb.
3. Oh Lord, help the parents and other stakeholders to be alive to their responsibilities on the children, in Jesus’ name.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PSALMS 93-95

The good news is, your time to testify has finally come and you are next in line for an unusual testimony in Jesus Christ name.

CAC LIVING WATER DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

Saturday, March 28, 2016

ON SPANKING CHILDREN

READ HEBREWS 12:5-6
MEMORISE: He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him. (Prov 13:24)

A boy once made headlines as the result of his repeated radicalism in his neighbourhood. Even though he came from a well-to-do family, he was, by every indication of behaviour, a perfect example of a “juvenile delinquent”. A reporter quizzed the boy in detention, “Why do you feel the need to destroy properties? Are you angry?” The boy just shrugged his shoulders and turned away. The reporter persisted, “Weren’t you afraid of getting spanked by your parents?”
At this, the boy looked at the reporter, and said, “I’ve never had a spanking in my life”. The tone of his voice, however, was not one of anger, but of sadness. The reporter talked with him further and realised that ‘not having spanking” meant to this young boy that his parents didn’t care at all about him. The young man concluded the interview by declaring that if the police turned him loose, he would continue to take out his vengeance on the neighbourhood until one or the other of his family cared enough to stop him.
Abuse is rooted in a parent’s uncontrolled and selfish expression of power over the child. Spanking is not abuse; it is a form of discipline intended to restrain the child, rechanneling his/her uncontrolled expression of power!
How about your children? Do you discipline them in line with what God permits for the brightness of their future? Do the right thing from now (cf. Prov 13:24; 23:13,14; 29:15). Are you a child? Are you a mentee, or are you serving under someone? What is your attitude towards discipline? Check it now! If God disciplines His children, who are the parents not to follow His example?

PRAYER POINTS
1. Enlighten us, o Lord, to understand what it means to be on spanking terms with our children.
2. O Lord, deliver our children from the spirit and grip of juvenile delinquency.
3. O Lord, help our governments at all levels to come up with policies that will promote sound and transformative child training in our schools.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PSALMS 96-98

Whatever is out of order in your life is restored right now in Jesus Christ name!

THE LIVING WATER DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE
Tuesday, June 28, 2016

CATCH DIVINE ATTENTION
READ 2 CHRONICLES 7:1-18
MEMORISE: And King Solomon offered a sacrifice of twenty-two thousand head of cattle and a hundred and twenty thousand sheep and goats. So the king and all the people dedicated the temple of God. (2 Chron 7:5)

Someone once said: “When you are too regular in your actions, you may not attract any special attention!” This means our approach, system or strategy of doing things need not be regular if we will get the desired result. “Regular” in this context connotes orthodox, traditional or dogmatic way of taking action. You can attract God’s attention spectacularly if you do what is unusual, irregular and untraditional in a way that pleases Him.
From our text today, we can see how Solomon displayed an irregular, uncommon and untraditional action in the dedication of the temple which attracted a spectacular divine visitation. Imagine somebody sacrificing stunning 22,000 cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats in a single day! How hectic that would have been for the priests that day. They would kill and kill and kill until they were tired of killing the animals!
Uncommon and costly sacrifices like that never go without divine attention. Solomon must have learnt that generosity from his father, King David, that nothing was too much to give to God. David would not sacrifice anything that cost him nothing! (2 Sam 24:23,24)
If you want God to show His spectacular notice on you and your offering, you will choose not to follow the traditional, ‘normal’ and regular system. Cooperate with the Holy Spirit to add extra to ordinary in giving your best to God. Only then will you be able to enjoy His extra-ordinary blessings upon your life and endeavours. Remember, God gave His Only Begotten Son (Jn 3:16; Rom 8:

PRAYER POINTS
1. O Lord, I covet the power to reach Your heaven with uncommon offerings.
2. Lord, help me to add the necessary extra to the ordinary things people do for you, so that I can do and get the extraordinary in my sacrificial walk with You.
3. Lord, make us more committed to doing Your work wholeheartedly and sacrificially.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PROVERBS 18-19

The oil of joy and gladness is released over your life in the name of Jesus Christ

The Living Water DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Wednesday, June 29, 2016

TOPIC: THE BATTLE YOU MUST WIN
READ HEBREWS 12:1-4

MEMORISE: In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. (Heb 12:4)

It is unequivocal to assert that there are many battles to fight by man on earth. The world itself is a battlefield where man is to combat ancestral, personal, marital, and socio-economic challenges. The list still goes on to include the battles faced in academics, careers and the fierce spiritual ones. Job had rightly opined, in his fourteenth chapter that man is full of troubles (Job 14:1ff). All these battles are real in life. The good news about all these battles is that Christ is able and willing more than able to demolish them if we cooperate wholly with Him (Psa 46:1ff; Isa 42:10). They have been dealt with provisionally by His resurrection.
It is not yet a bad luck to fail to win some of the aforementioned battles. The bad luck lies in losing the foundation battle, i.e. against sin. Your battle against sin, self, Satan and the world must be won if you must enter the kingdom of God. Satan is summarily the anchor of the other three, and he remains our principal enemy. He must be fought to a standstill every day, minute, hour and second because he remains unrelenting in His efforts to see man's fall, as he masterminded it in the beginning (Gen 3:1ff).
We cannot win this battle by our own power, but by total reliance on grace and mercy from above, coupled with our regular prayer, fasting and watchfulness.
Note that for everyone overcome by sin, self, Satan and the world, hell is the direct destination. You must daily fight and win this fierce battle. Put on the whole armour of God and win (Eph 6:12ff).

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, equip me with the necessary weapons to fight and overcome with, in and for You, the battles of life.
2. I refuse to be a victim in the battlefield of life. I am a victor in Christ, in Jesus' name.
3. Lord, give Your Church the victory mentality to enact the provisional victory we have in Christ in its battle against darkness in this world.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PROVERBS 20-22

You will never know a better yesterday but each day will usher in unusual blessings unto you in Jesus Christ name

CAC LIVING DAILY DEVOTIONAL
Thursday, June 30, 2016

THE GREATEST MIRACLE
READ LUKE 19:1-9
MEMORISE: Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham.” (Luke 19:9)

Yoruba translation of the word “miracle” gives a comprehensive meaning of the word. In the translation, it means “opening of mouth in surprise/amazement concerning an unusual occurrence”. It was recorded that in a revival service, a woman with a terrible hunchback went home as if she never had one. What of an amputee whose gun-shot leg was restored at the man of God’s miraculous prayer? It is possible that you can recount more of such miracles that you’ve personally encountered.
Miracles, indeed, are children’s bread. Believers in Christ are entitled to them, although it is unbelievers who pursue them. Every born again child of God has received the greatest miracle (John 3:1-3). Is not it miraculous that a once notorious gangster, stupor drinker and gambler now becomes a gentle, peaceful and Gospel carrier? Saul’s entire life of fundamentalism, terrorism and overzealousness for the Jewish Law was, in a matter of minutes, turned into an apostolic passion who would later die for the course of Christ that he had earlier persecuted.
There are no greater healings, raising of the dead, opening of the womb, etc., than salvation. If you have experienced the other miracles without having the great miracle of salvation, you have not had any at all. Do you want to experience the greatest miracle now? Humbly confess and forsake your sins, and accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Saviour. You’ll be glad you did (Acts 16:33). It is well with you.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, help me to value the gift of salvation You gave me, wholeheartedly.
2. Lord, let the burden to see the great miracle of genuine conversion happen in the life of everyone I come across consume me totally.
3. Lord, let the undying passion to see the great revival of genuine conversion consume Your Church in the land totally.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: PROVERBS 23-25
..............................
The blessings of the Lord Jesus be upon you and everything that pertains to you in Jesus Christ name

LIVING DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

Saturday, July 2, 2016

YOUR DIVINE PURPOSE
READ ACTS 20:17-24
MEMORISE: For when David had served God's purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his fathers and his body decayed. (Acts 13:36)

It is important to know God’s purpose for your life in order to fulfil it. Paul said, However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace (Acts 20:24). Paul’s most important goal in life was to tell others about Christ.
The Bible clearly defines the divine purpose of every Christian in the Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37-39) and Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). God’s divine purpose for Christians in the great Commandment is to have fellowship with Him in Spirit and in truth (John 4:24; 1 John 1:3). But for your worship to be acceptable, you must present your body a living sacrifice to Him (Romans 12:1)
God’s divine purpose for Christians in the Great Commission is to seek the lost (John 20:21). God has given us the task of reconciling people to Him (2 Cor 5:18-20). As an ambassador of Christ, you represent the Kingdom of God to people – your family, friends, neighbours, and the world. There should be no GAP between you and God.
Paul used the illustration of commitment and self-discipline of athletes in order to win prizes in games. In order to finish the Christian race well and receive reward, we must exercise commitment and discipline to receive the prize of eternal glory in heaven (2 Cor. 9:24-27; 2 Tim. 4:7-.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank You, Lord, for giving me purpose/reason for my living.
2. Lord, help me to fully discover Your purpose for my life, and pursue it to logical conclusion.
3. Lord, deliver our teeming youths from purposeless living like people with No Future Ambition (NFA), in Jesus’ name.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: GENESIS 4-7

Power to fulfill your destiny is released upon you in Jesus Christ name

THE LIVING WATER DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

Sunday, July 10, 2016

DON'T LIE
READ 2 SAMUEL 1:1-16 
MEMORISE: You shall not give false testimony against your neighbour. (Exodus 20:16)

Exodus 20:16 is a clear directive from YAHWEH. It is one of the 10 commandments given to the Israelites through Moses, from the mountain of God. The clear import of the commandment is, don't lie. Why did God give this commandment?

First, God wants His people to tell the truth when they speak. In ancient times, two or three witnesses were required in a court of law. Read Deuteronomy 19:15. This was to protect an individual from being badmouthed by a personal enemy, from a vendetta or from someone who just wants to bring another down. This is rampant today.

Second, He wants to protect us from being falsely accused. He does not like it if anybody lies about you, for it hurts you. And if you feel that way, so does God. It discomforts and discomfits you, when someone lied against you.

Also, lying against another person automatically exposes you to being lied against in the end. You know why? Nemesis can't be escaped! (cf. Gal 6:7) God would allow you to taste of the same pill you serve others, and a painful one for that matter, God does not want you to go through that, because He cares for you than you do.

Are you a liar? Have you told a lie about your age and other matters? Have you sworn falsely or served as a false witness in the past? Remember, there is no "holy lie", God hates it. Repent! Liars are on the path to hell (Rev 21:, and sometimes, 'premature' death. (2 Samuel 1:15,16)

PRAYER POINTS:
1. LORD, deliver me from the spirit of presumptuous and impulsive lying.
2. Lord, I rededicate my life to You, afresh. Let Your Spirit of Truth and Holiness take over my entire person and personality.
3. Lord, destroy the fire of lying, silently ravaging the Christian body unchecked, today.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: GENESIS 36-39

You will experience God's blessings in CAPITAL LETTERS all through this week in Jesus Christ name

The Living Water July-Dec, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Monday, July 11, 2016

TOPIC: GOD IS CONCERNED

READ EPHESIANS 6:5-9
MEMORISE: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. (Col 3:23)

Today, there is a general phenomenon that God is less concerned with our outward expressions as much as He does our heart. This informs why some chose to dress anyhow with impunity, regardless of what harm it does to anybody. Dangerously, this trend has crept into churches, most especially, the prosperity gospel proponents with less emphasis on genuinely changed Christian lifestyle.
In like manner, people do what and how they like in the civil service and other related services. So many believe as if they have forgotten, or they don't know that we shall all give account to God. Eye-service has taken over the attitude of so many workers. They work anyhow when their 'Oga' (Master) is away, but pretend to be committed when the boss is on seat. You cannot hide from God.
Be it ministry, personal work, civil service, or work in a private organisation, God is concerned and involved. Whether you are a junior worker or senior officer, an employee or self-employed, God is concerned that you go about your daily work in the following ways:
(a) Do your portion of the duty wholeheartedly as a 'service.'
(b) Do it with the knowledge of God's commensurate reward (v.9)
(c) Stewardship accounting for time and opportunities given while on earth is eminent. Do it with the readiness to give accounts unto man and God.
Henceforth, do your work as if working for the Lord directly. Whatever legitimate work you are doing, wherever you are doing it, you are in a way or the other, working for God. Do what you'll be rewarded handsomely for. God is concerned and will reward you.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank God for the job you are doing, and for His blessings so far.
2. Lord, help me to put in my best in serving You and mankind with my work.
3. Lord, let there be revival of right (godly) attitude to work and life in our churches and places of work.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: GENESIS CHAPTER 40 - CHAPTER 43

In this new week... You will not suffer before you make it in Jesus Christ name

The Living Water July-Dec, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Tuesday, July 12, 2016

TOPIC: CHARACTERISTICS OF FAITH

READ HEBREWS 11:1-6
MEMORISE: And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Heb 11:6)

In biology, there are about seven characteristics of living things, which differentiate them from non-living things. They include: Movement, Reproduction, Irritability, Transpiration, Growth, Development and Feeding. Similarly, faith has its own characteristics by which sons and daughters of Zion (God) are known.
In faith;
1. Sight is not needed, and in sight, faith is not needed (2 Cor 5:7)
2. It can never be 'no', if He is Lord
3. You see the invisible (11:9-10)
4. You do the impossible (11:17-19)
5. You conquer the invincible (11:33-34)
6. You live beyond your days (11:12-13)
7. Your record is credited righteous, and you are made perfect (Heb 11:40, cf. Rom 4:2-3)
Dearly beloved, where is your faith? What happened to the faith you had, when you first believed? Wake up. You must not allow it to die. Keep reading, hearing (Rom 10:17) and doing the Word (James 1:22-25).

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank God for today
2. Ask God to rekindle the flame of the living faith that trusts Him unquestionably, in you.
3. Ask God to make our leaders at all levels, courageous and faithful in all they do.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: GENESIS CHAPTER 44 - CHAPTER 47

You will not experience shame in the mighty name of Jesus Christ

The Living Water July-Dec, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Wednesday, July 13, 2016

TOPIC: LIVING RIGHT IN WRONG ENVIRONMENTS (1)

READ GENESIS 39:1-23
MEMORISE: In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. (2 Tim 3:12)

Joseph was a young, God-fearing man who grew up among hostile brothers. So fierce was the brothers' hatred for him that they plotted to kill him. They eventually sold him into slavery, not knowing that they had only pushed him in the direction of his destiny and glory. May the Lord turn all the evils that your enemies plan for you into your glory, in Jesus' name.
In Egypt, Joseph was sold to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. In Potiphar's house, Joseph met with God's favour, but also found himself in a challenging situation. Mrs Potiphar illicitly lusted after him. She severally pestered him to go to bed with her, but Joseph bluntly refused, saying: 'How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?' (Gen 39:9) Although Joseph's refusal to live wrong in a wrong environment led him into more troubles, in the end, he landed on the seat of glory and honour that God had prepared for him.
The outcome of Joseph's decision has many lessons for us. One, choosing to live godly in an ungodly environment may land us in troubled waters. However, if we stand by our decision and keep trusting God, He will eventually lead us into glory. Two, in the midst of God's favour, we must always be on the watch for dream-killers and destiny-destroyers. Three, we must not allow life's bitter experiences to make us bitter or hostile in our dealings with our fellow men.
As you prepare to step into the world today, resolve to do the right things in whatever situation you find yourself.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, let the grace to live right in any wrong environment I may find myself, rest upon me from today.
2. In the name of Jesus, I claim total victory over all household enemies who plan for my downfall and destruction.
3. Lord, give me the wisdom not to cooperate with my dream-killers and destiny-destroyers.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: GENESIS CHAPTER 48 - CHAPTER 50

No matter how the economy or situation of things may be, you will never experience dryness in Jesus Christ name

The Living Water July-Dec, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Thursday, July 14, 2016

TOPIC: LIVING RIGHT IN WRONG ENVIRONMENTS (2)

READ DANIEL 1:1-21
MEMORISE: But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. (Dan 1:

Daniel, a purpose-driven young man, decided to live holy in an unholy environment. While many Christians today live sinfully and compromise their faith even within the church premises, Daniel chose to live right (i.e. for God and His holiness) in a foreign land. From him, we learn some valuable lessons.
One of the lessons is that it is not what happens to us that matters, but how we respond to it. Two, our environment may change, yet we can choose not to compromise our faith, character and moral values. Three, being in captivity doesn't mean you have to live like a captive. You can wisely exercise your God-given liberty and freedom. Four, everything we do in life is a matter of the heart. Daniel acted on what he purposed in his heart not to defile himself with the king's delicacies. Five, moderation and self-discipline are two of the hallmarks of a contented and purpose-driven life.
Like your five fingers, keep these five lessons constantly in focus to help you on track, morally and spiritually. As you step out to face today's choices, be a Daniel. Choose to live right in whatever situation you find yourself. God in Heaven is ready to vindicate and consolidate.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, equip me with the wisdom to make right choices that will lead me in the path of excellence, in Jesus' name.
2. Lord, give me the grace to separate myself from anything that may defile me and corrupt my destiny, in Jesus' name.
3. Lord, let Your Fear and Spirit of excellence rest upon and in our Church, traditional and political leaders, in Jesus' name.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: EXODUS CHAPTER 1 - CHAPTER 4

No matter what the case may be in this world, you will blossom and flourish in great things in Jesus Christ name. You are lifted

CAC LIVING WATER DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE
Friday, July 15, 2016

I KNOW YOUR WORKS
READ REVELATIONS 2:1-7
MEMORISE: Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. (Heb 4:13)

When Ananias and Sapphira connived to deceive the church leaders in Jerusalem, pretending to be what they were not, the Lord to whom everything is open, exposed them and judged them accordingly (Acts 5:1ff). God knows our works – both the good and the bad. There is nothing we do in life that is hidden from Him.
In His letters to the seven churches in Asia (Rev 2:1-3:22), our Lord Jesus says repeatedly, I know your works, and He went on to analyse what each church did right and what it did wrong.
Our pastors and fellow church members may not know our works, but God to whom everything is open, knows our works and He will reward us accordingly. Apostle Paul reminds us of this in 2 Corinthians 5:10 when he says: For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. We are also reminded in 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 that our works (and the motives with which we did/do them) will be tested with fire to determine their quality.
Therefore, let us be mindful of how we live our lives and how we do God’s work. For the Lord God is coming to reward every man’s works. Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. (Rev 22:12). Work with your focus on the day of reckoning and reward.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the grace to live a life that is pleasing to You, the rest of my life.
2. Lord, purge my heart of any trace of deception and dishonesty, in Jesus’ name.
3. Lord, please help our leaders at all levels to remember that they are going to be rewarded by You according to what they do, without partiality.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: EXODUS 5-8

You will not fail God in Jesus Christ name

THE LIVING WATER DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE
Monday, July 18, 2016

SEEK ME AND LIVE
READ AMOS 5:4-7
MEMORISE: This is what the LORD says to the house of Israel: "Seek me and live; do not seek Bethel, do not go to Gilgal, do not journey to Beersheba. For Gilgal will surely go into exile, and Bethel will be reduced to nothing." (Amos 5:4-5)

As each day breaks, people set out in different directions, seeking different things. In the process of seeking those things, many people lose their lives or limbs; many get crippled for life. But God’s call to us today is: “Seek Me and live!”
“Neither seek Bethel, nor enter Gilgal, nor pass over to Beersheba,” God told the house of Israel. While those three places had historical significance in the life of Israel, seeking them, without God the Owner, would not solve their problems. What/Who they needed was God from whom comes every good and perfect gift (James 1:17).
Through our misdirected focus and misplaced priorities, most of Christians today behave like the children of Israel. We neglect the Creator and set our minds on the things that He created. We are not different from the gentiles who run after the perishable things of life. But our Lord Jesus Christ enjoins us to …seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well (Matt 6:31-33).
As you set out today, seek God first. Put Him first in everything; seek Him with all your heart, and live within the boundary of His Word. Then, His goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the grace to close my eyes to the vanity of life.
2. Help me, Lord, to seek You and put You first in all my undertakings henceforth.
3. Lord Jesus, let the desire to focus our eyes on You and things of eternal value fill the hearts of Christians everywhere, everyday.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: EXODUS 17-20

Your life will be a living testimony among men in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. You will experience SUPERNATURAL PROVISIONS for the rest of your life.
Happy Fruitful week

THE LIVING WATER DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE
Tuesday, July 19, 2016

OVERCOMING THE ENEMY
READ DANIEL 6:1-17
MEMORISE:The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you. (Rom 16:20)

Every Christian who strives to live godly in this corrupt world must prepare for battle against the enemies of righteousness. The Bible says that … haunts of violence fill the dark places of the land (Psalm 74:20b). Even, many churches today have their own dark places that serve as the habitations of cruelty and wickedness (cf. Jer 5:26-28).
This class of evil and wicked men surrounded Daniel in Babylon. When the king planned to promote Daniel over them, the men devised a wicked plan. However, Daniel’s approach to the challenging situation provides us some valuable lessons.
One, Daniel didn’t seek the face of men, trying to use political connections and manipulations. He sought the face of God. Two, Daniel used prayer weapon. Three, instead of turning against his enemies, Daniel turned to God. And when he did, the Spirit of God lifted up a standard against the enemies, using the trap they set for Daniel to destroy them.
Whenever you experience the tidal waves of the enemies in your life, home, ministry, or business, take a cue from Daniel and hand your case over to God. Trust in Him, not man (Jer 17:5-. Always remember, For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds (2 Cor 10:3-4).
As you live in holiness and employ Daniel’s warfare strategies, you will see the Holy Spirit lift up a standard against your enemies, and you will go on rejoicing in victory. The battle is not yours (2 Cor 20:15).

PRAYER POINTS:
1.Thank You, Lord, because You are always with me as the mighty One.
2.Lord, let those who seek to prevent my progress and upliftment be put to shame.
3.Let God arise, and let the enemies of righteousness and His gospel be scattered in this country and beyond.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: EXODUS 21-24

Your enemies will not rejoice over you in Jesus Christ name.

The Living Water July-Dec, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Wednesday, July 20, 2016

TOPIC: BEING RIGHT WITH GOD

READ ROMANS 5:1-11
MEMORISE: Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. (Romans 5:1-2)

As a result of our Justification (being made right with God) through faith in Christ, Paul in Romans 5:1-11 presents us with the following assurances that help us live the confident (not complacent) Christian life:
1. Assurance that our future is secure. The knowledge of our reconciliation with God through grace in order to escape wrath brings peace of mind and the assurance of one's salvation (vv. 1-2). It is grace that brings assurance, for upon it, we base our spiritual and emotional stability (1 Cor. 15:1).
2. Assurance that God is working in the midst of our problems. Suffering produces perseverance. The "perseverance" means "to bear up under difficult circumstances" It is spiritual fortitude that gets stronger in the midst of suffering. Sufferings therefore become the occasion for the development of faith and hope (vv. 3-4).
3. Assurance that God loves us no matter what. When our feet are on the solid ground of grace. God floods our lives with His love, by giving us the Holy Spirit. As life-giving water is poured out on a very dry desert during a storm, God drenches our hearts with His love when He sends His Holy Spirit to live in our hearts (vv. 5-.
Our relationship with God begins with faith, which helps us realise that we are delivered from our past by Christ's death. Hope grows as we learn all that God has in mind for us. It gives us the promise of the future. And God's love fills and gives us the ability to reach out to others. Are you right with God?

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank God for the privilege to know, love, be right with, and serve Him.
2. Ask God to forgive you and purge you of the guilt of unwholesome relationship with and attitude to Him.
3. Pray for at least one person in your family circle that is not yet in good terms with the saving Lord Jesus Christ.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: EXODUS CHAPTER 25 - CHAPTER 28

Those waiting to mock you will end up bowing at your feet in Jesus Christ name. Remain lifted forever

THE LIVING WATER DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE
Thursday, July 21, 2016

CHRISTIANS AND IDOLATRY
READ EXODUS 20:1-6
MEMORISE:You shall have no other gods before me (Exodus 20:1-6)

Idolatry is the worship of, excessive devotion to, or reverence for some persons/things aside God. An idol is anything that replaces the one, true God. Idolatry carries the deep meaning of having or inventing something in which one trusts in place of or alongside the only true God. Our modern idols are many and varied. They include pride, self-centeredness, money, education, beauty, greed, gluttony, materialism, and outright rebellion against God. Two major areas that call for our attention as Christians today are:
1.Patriotism – There may be a proper sort of patriotism or a right concern for political ideals and world peace, but it is idol worship to pin our hopes on any earthly government rather than the kingdom of God (Psa 146:3; Jer 17:5).
2.Worshiping Technology – We must beware of the temptation to worship technology. All too often, when it comes to the various problems of day-to-day life, we tend to look to technological/technical know-how as god and saviour. We trust medical techniques to cure our diseases, agricultural techniques to supply our food, psychological techniques to deal with our hang-ups, sociological techniques to make our families solid and our cities safe, business techniques to make our finances secure, etc. You may go to church on Sundays, but for all practical purposes, in day-to-day life you look to technology to get what you need. It is okay to use inventions and to learn from scientific research. But when we worship technology and give it the place that rightfully belongs to God, we are making a terrible mistake (Isa 42:
We must believe in one God, and look to him and pray to him as the one who is the ultimate Provider of our every need, who numbers the very hairs of our heads. Technology is a gift from him, not a substitute for him. (Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Luke 10:25-27)

PRAYER POINTS:
1.Pray that God should practically kill all idolatrous tendencies in you, right now.
2.Pray against all idolatrous tendencies engulfing our society under the guise of cultural rejuvenation.
3.Pray that God should deliver our traditional rulers (obas, emirs, etc.) from idolatrous inclinations.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: EXODUS 29-32

You are lifted forever in Jesus Christ name

Thursday, August 4, 2016

WHY YOU NEED HELP (I)
READ PSALM 40:13-17
MEMORISE: Be please, O LORD to save me; O LORD, come quickly to help me (Psalm 40:13).

No man is an island. In international trade, there is comparative trade advantage, which makes for importation and exportation; the product that a nation has is better at producing will be shipped to where they are needed, and vice versa. No country has it all. Without mincing words, man needs help. Your help will not be delayed. However, some people usually live their lives as if they do not require any help from anybody, including God. Is it true that they can live all through without help? You cannot bear the burden alone. You need the help of men and God. Adam could not fill the earth alone; he needed a woman, “womb-man,” to nurture the offspring. God is the only true help you need. He will send help to you through any means that will glorify Him alone. You need God’s help because:
1. Man’s power is limited. You are not powerless, but your power has limit. God is unlimited by all standards. He does whatever pleases Him. However, He did not give man absolute power. Man must always acknowledge Him as the true source of all things, power inclusive.
2. Man was created to employ the ultimate strength. The spiritual realm always controls the physical.
3. Man is heavily laden. The yoke of sin is enormous on man. Man continues languishing under the burden the devil placed on him, therefore, he need the higher (ultimate) power (Mt. 28:18).
4. Man is never aware of the evil that awaits him. He cannot really see beyond his nose. Therefore, he needs the help of God, who sees the end from the beginning and is ever available.
Our help is in God who creates the heavens and earth.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, You are my help. Don’t let my enemy triumph over me.
2. In my moment of hopelessness and helplessness, oh Lord, arise to aid me. Give me Your helping hand.
3. Lord, help all Christians to realise and acknowledge the need for Your help even in the minutest issues of life.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: NUMBERS 9-12

Where the enemies thought it is over for you or thinking they have succeeded over your life, the help of the Lord will fight for you in Jesus Christ name.

The Living Water July-Dec, 2016
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE: Friday, August 5, 2016

TOPIC: WHY YOU NEED HELP (II)

READ LUKE 10:25-38
MEMORISE: You have answered correctly, Jesus replied, "Do this and you will live" (Luke 10:28).

Have you ever heard someone crying for help before? What was your response to the cry? Majority of us are usually indifferent to people's cry for help. Yes, you have your reasons/excuses, like 'helping people is dangerous nowadays.' It is true that in the bid to help, some people have fallen in troubles. Also, cases abound regarding people who have paid evil for the favour shown to them.
What does the Bible say about being indifferent to someone who cries to you for help? (Prov 21:13) Some people prefer to waste the substance than give it out to someone else who needs it. The story of the Samaritan inspires some lessons that must not elude us. What he did added the adjective "good" to his personality, at a time when Samaritans were stigmatised by the Jews. He chose to be positively different. He succeeded in doing better than the two people who were Jews that could have helped the wounded man extremely religious and exalted people a priest and a Levite. Were they not? Yes, their attitudes made mockery of what they were and what they stood for.
Another thing is that God is not moved by our religiosity, because that does not work the will of God if we fail to represent Him adequately anywhere He has placed us. Love, mercy and grace are what God requires of us. God wants us to be our brothers' keepers. Don't claim you love God if you haven't demonstrated that love to your neighbour. He is immediate to you. Henceforth, release yourself to God to be used in accomplishing His tasks. Help the sinners to know God; try to snatch them from hell. Make a proof of your religiosity by visiting the widow, fatherless, destitute, the poor etc. (Jas 1:26,27). Help! Help! Help!

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, make it easy for me to lend helping hands to people around me.
2. Lord, put Your love in our hearts to be extension of Your love to the aching world around us.
3. Lord, help Your Church to wake up to the help ministry.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: NUMBERS CHAPTER 13 - CHAPTER 16

Whatever that is holding back your help is roasted by the fire of Holy Ghost in Jesus Christ name

Saturday, August 6, 2016

HELP! HELP!! HELP!!!
READ PSALM 121
MEMORISE: My help comes from the LORD the maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:2).

The Bible is the book of help! Help opens the pages of the Scripture. God did not make man until He had assisted him to remove chaos, shapelessness and emptiness. He chased the darkness away so that man might have a bright and glorious world (Gen 1:1,2). Above all, He declared that He will make a helpmate for man, which He eventually did (Gen 2:20-22). What else does man want that God has not given? Why then did he disappoint God?
God is the present help in need. God covered man’s unclothedness with skin, which symbolises the shedding of animal’s blood that typifies the blood of Jesus, the Lamb of God. In spite of all efforts to retain man, not fewer people still abandon God to seek help from other unreliable sources. Some consult witchdoctors, spirit-mediums, sorcerers, fallen angels, Indian temples, talisman, etc. It is not an abnormal thing to have situation and challenges that are above us, that is why, we are designed to depend on God.
Help from other sources apart from God cannot sustain you. No wonder the enormity of adversities and injuries that befall people today. The visit to the witch of Endor further compounded the woes of Saul. The Bible warns not to go down (to Egypt) for help. Going down to seek assistance from the gods/demons is a calamity, heartbreak, and sorrow in disguise. Depend absolutely on God (Psa 20:7,.
The Psalm of David 121:1,2 teaches the futility of all other sources of help. The Psalmist carefully considered all other sources of help that are available and accessible, there and then, he concluded and submitted that the only reliable and trustworthy source of help is God. God is the only one Who blesses and beautifies, with no attached sorrow.

PRAYER POINTS
1. All that I have received from the devil, I return, NOW. Please, help me, Lord, to return to You, the true source of help.
2. Lord, don’t let me be put to shame as I look up to You alone.
3. Lord, help Christian couples waiting upon You for the fruit of the womb to acknowledge You as their ONLY source of help.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: NUMBERS 17-20

No matter how difficult things may be, God's help will lift you high above every hard times in Jesus Christ name

THE LIVING WATER DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

Monday, August 8, 2016

YOU NEED PEOPLE (II)
READ NEHEMIAH 2:17,18
MEMORISE: They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work. (Neh 2:18b)

As much as Jesus needed the Holy Spirit to accomplish His God-given task, He needed people, including notable women (Mark 15:40,41). Find out why He did not appoint some of these women as apostles (Lk. 8:1-3).

Though Nehemiah was the vision carrier, he needed to work with people to get the work done. He shared the burden and communicated the need to work on the wall.

What must you do as someone who has people-oriented and God-given vision?
1. Be friendly: Enmity was an offshoot of the fall of man, and not part of the original plan of God. You can overcome this at your own end by developing the spirit of friendship and friendliness.
2. Be lovely: Love covers sins. We will always offend one another; we are not angels. But love will make forgiveness very easy to come by. Hatred is deadly, watch out for it! Why should I hate an image of God, whom Christ laid down his life for?
3. Develop a large heart, roomy enough to accommodate everybody, regardless of his or her background and radical inclination. You can get along with anybody, if you are not myopic (narrow-minded).
4. See good in everyone; in spite of Mephiboseth’s circumstance, David showed him some favour. People who relegate, underrate, and manipulate others, do so to their detriment. Believe there is a potential waiting to be harnessed in everyone. No one is useless and worthless outright.

God’s victory is at your beck and call, if you are friendly and good to everyone while some people are trying to sabotage your effort.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Fill me with the spirit of love, friendship ands kindness, oh Lord.
2. Lord, help me to be peaceful and loving, come what may.
3. Lord, destroy the spirit of hatred, strife and quarrel among Christian brethren.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: NUMBERS 25-28

All through this week, those that matters to your uplifting will locate you in Jesus Christ name

DATE: Sunday, August 14, 2016

TOPIC: DANIEL'S SECRET

READ DANIEL 6:1-10
MEMORISE: Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. (Daniel 6:10)

What do you suppose was Daniel's secret? It has to be said that Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were exceedingly rare men. It is not every day that you meet someone who conveys the presence and greatness of the Almighty God with such unmistakable courage/confidence. If one could see these great men of faith, one could have asked them what their secret was.
What was Daniel's secret?
- He had something to do with God
- His ability at the natural level; his talent; his grace
- His disciplined prayer life
- His unmistakable and undoubtable love for God
- He gave time for God
- He cared so much about others
- He rugged determination to obey the Word of God, even at the risk of losing his own life
- He depended on God
How is your secret life? Can it propagate the kingdom of God? How is your closet with the all-seeing God? Can He vouch for you? Watch it. What manifests in the open is a result of your private life with Christ.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to continually maintain an intimate relationship with You, so that I can keep enjoying Your favour.
2. Lord Jesus, give me the power to depend on You, no matter what.
3. Pray for the educational system of Nigeria, that God should use the planners to initiate strategies that would reduce to the barest minimum, every immoral tendency among our students.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 10 - CHAPTER 12

FAVOUR of the Lord will speak for you this week in Jesus Christ name

This is interesting. Am happy this is here, but please post it earlier enough for those who might want to use it for family devotion before heading out to work. God bless you for this. Thanks a lot. Long live CAC worldwide.

Sunday, August 21, 2016

SANCTIFIED AND SATISFIED (III)
READ 1 THESSALONIANS 4:1-7
MEMORISE: For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. (1 Thess 4:2)

It is absurd to hear Christian husbands forcing their wives to use compromising dresses. Some wives claim, “My husband likes me dressing this way,” even when such dressing styles contradict the biblical principle of inner beauty and being moderate (1 Tim 2:9-10; 1 Pet 3:3-4). Worse still, some mothers and sisters in the Vineyard are not satisfied with their godly, fearfully and wonderfully made/given beauty. This urges them on into the thorny ‘vineyard’ of Satan and demons, all in the name of looking good and having taste for things in vogue. They eventually became artificial and cosmetically made. What a shame! They profess to be Christians, but are not satisfied with their God-given beauty. Don’t be surprised that even men/brothers aren’t left out of this craze. No thanks to the activities of so-called Christian leaders/ministers who are merely serving the devil and their bellies. How can you take your saved and sanctified body to mix with demonic inventions, all in the name of looking good, without suffering the repercussions of illnesses, diseases, and demonic oppression/obsession? Someone said, “Women dress to kill.” Dressing to kill who?
The ancient Israelites who weren’t satisfied with the holy standard of YAHWEH, played harlotry with the Moabite women till they ignited God’s wrath on themselves (Num 25:9).
The Lord God of our fathers/mothers of faith is good enough for you. So, keep His covenant, be sanctified and satisfied with your God-given beauty and faith in Him. Be warned (Isa 3:16-26).

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, I submit my all to you today. Give me the old-time religion.
2. I refuse to be seduced by worldly beauty, in Jesus’ name.
3. Lord, help all CAC members to keep the legacies You have given us.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: JOSHUA 6-10

This is your week of undeniable blessings in Jesus Christ name

Monday, August 22, 2016

GUARD YOUR MARRIAGE
READ MATTHEW 19:1-12
MEMORISE: I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery. (Matt 19:9)

The incident that rocked the family of Mr Adam is serious enough to pull the couple apart. In fact, not too many families today would survive such. It was a real storm. Apart from the loss of fellowship with God, another thing that the incident was designed for was to bring division and dissension into the first family. Thank God, devil failed woefully in that regard. He will continue to fail in our lives, marriages, businesses, and churches, etc., in Jesus’ name.
The man held on to his wife and knew her intimately and that is what true love and companionship can do in a marriage. There was a man, who was hinted about his wife’s infidelity. Someone would have expected him to flare up. No, he did not do such thing. Instead, he silenced the evil reporter and loved the wife the more. Later on, it was revealed that the report was cooked up to break the relationship. What makes you feel that putting away is the best solution to that problem between you and your spouse? God hates divorce and this needs no debate (Mal 2:16).
It was Eve that got a correct assessment of the problem. She realised that they had been deceived. Couples should guide against any form of lies. Communication, heart-to-heart communication, is more than necessary, if your marriage must thrive. There are couples who are under the same roof, but are not on talking terms. Geographical separation is what has brought communication gap to some family. Also, financial issues impact on marriage. More than 70% of marriages break up because of money. The spouses need to be transparent to one another in all things, finance inclusive. Where is your spouse? Where is the wife/husband of your youth?

PRAYER POINTS
1. The evil spirit of divorce, pack your load and go away from our homes and churches, in Jesus’ name.
2. Lord, deliver spouses from infidelity and unforgiving spirit.
3. Pray to God to help stop the storm of divorce that is gradually gathering momentum against marriages of God’s children and ministers.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: JOSHUA 11-15

All that you have being longing to achieve but your power and wisdom has has failed you, Jehovah Almighty will release them to you effortlessly from today in Jesus Christ name.

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

PERSISTENCE PAYS
READ 2 KINGS 13:14-19
MEMORISE: Sow your seed in the morning and at evening let not your hands be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well. (Ecclesiastes 11:6)

We live in an instant era. People want things NOW! Our generation doesn’t really want to take the “seeds;” we want the flowers – an overnight success. But beloved, never give up on what you really know you should do, even when your patience seems burnt out. Every “man of the hour” has spent many days and nights getting there. This is what Prophet Elisha rebuked Joash the king of Israel for, The man of God was angry with him and said, "You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times." (v. 19)
When you are persistent, it is the proof that you have not been defeated. Mike Murdock says, “You have no right to anything you have not pursued. For the proof of desire is in the pursuit.” Dear friend, know that life holds no greater wealth than that of steadfast commitment. The secret of success is to start from scratch and keep on scratching. People are evaluated by what they finish, not by what they start. Till you end up succeeding physically, and even get to heaven, you mustn’t quit trying. What good have you started doing and now you have quit? Pick up yourself and persist. Diligence and persistence pay a lot.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. I recover, today, from my waning/failing spirit, in Jesus’ name.
2. I receive the divine grace to keep persistently pushing forward to accomplishing my God-ordained successes, in Jesus’ name.
3. Lord, deliver Your Church from complacency and discouragement, as the case may be, in relation to the Great Commission.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: JOSHUA 16-20

From today, all your efforts towards greatness will yielding great results because Jehovah will cause you to end AUGUST well in Jesus Christ name