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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 5:54pm On May 20, 2016
Daily Manna
Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Obedience Through Faith

TEXT: HEBREWS 11:17-22

"By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son" (Hebrews 11:17).

Our text, which gives a catalogue of people who exhibited absolute faith in God, discloses Abraham's greatest trial of life and how he overcame. Isaac, his only son by Sarah, his wife, was earmarked for sacrifice. God had earlier promised that through Isaac, He would bless mankind. With this development, Abraham obviously found himself in a dilemma. Should he kill Isaac as God commanded, how would the promise be fulfilled? And, if he refused to do what God asked him, would the promise still be there? Finally, he decided to ignore his personal inclination, and do what He told him to do. For Abraham, God must find a way to keep His promise. What a challenge for all.

Isaac believed what God promised his father when he blessed his two sons, Jacob and Esau. Jacob, when he was about to die, equally blessed Joseph's two sons – Ephraim and Manasseh. Joseph, who also believed and trusted God's promises, was sure that He would deliver the Israelites from Egypt and asked his family to take his bones along with them to the Land of Canaan after his demise.

How many of us have such an unalloyed faith as Abraham, who overlooked his own predilection to please God? How many of us could comfort ourselves like Isaac, who built upon what God promised his father to have a better future? There are many who still scoff at God's promises. Despite all odds, our confidence should be in Christ, not in man; our sustenance should be in things He provides, not in things we receive through strife and vainglory.

Until we re-order our lives to fully trust God, we will not please Him completely and unreservedly.

Bible Reading in one Year: PROVERBS 21 – 23

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "The difference between an overcomer and the defeated is faith"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 12:35pm On May 23, 2016
Daily Manna
Thursday, October 29, 2015

Severity Of God's Wrath

TEXT: JEREMIAH 13:1-14

"And I will dash them one against another, even the fathers and the sons together, saith the LORD: I will not pity, nor spare, nor have mercy, but destroy them" (Jeremiah 13:14).

Shortly before his death, a friend of William Claude Dukenfield, an American comedian, actor and writer, visited him in hospital. He was surprised to find Dukenfield flipping through a Bible and he curiously asked him what he was doing with it. Dukenfield replied, "I'm looking for loopholes".

The people of Judah could also be said to be looking for loopholes in the Bible. They had a penchant for disobeying God due to their association with neighbouring nations. God, therefore, decided to punish them. In symbolic language, God instructed Jeremiah to purchase a linen waistband and wear it without washing it, which he did. Later, the Lord told him to take his waistband to Euphrates and hide it there in a hole of the rock. After a while, God asked him to return to Euphrates and retrieve the waistband. When he did this, he found out that the waistband had become ruined beyond usefulness.

God's initial purpose was for Judah and Jerusalem to cling closely to Him and become an ornament of glory. Unfortunately, they had turned to worship idols. They had tarnished themselves and got spoiled by contact with the polluting influences of other nations. Their stubborn attitudes to worship other gods made God angry with them. So, He decided to destroy their pride, just as the waistband was destroyed.

Those who refuse to learn from the past are often condemned to relive it. Judah failed to learn from Samaria's mistakes, and drew herself inexorably into utter ruin and perdition. Just like Judah, many people still refuse to learn from God's indignation upon the impenitent. It is only while suffering from their iniquities that they belatedly begin to call upon God. Don't wait until it is too late before amending your ways. The time is now. Tomorrow might be too late.

Bible Reading in one Year: PROVERBS 24 – 26

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Beware of God's severity and wrath!"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 1:22pm On May 25, 2016
Daily Manna
Friday 30, October, 2015

Wisdom Is Key

TEXT: JAMES 4:1-17

"Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away" (James 4:14).

The strong pull of worldliness creates conflicts that are harmful to the growth of our faith. The pursuit of its pleasures produces covetousness, envy, fighting and arrogance.

The believer's only alternative is submission to God with a humble and repentant heart. This will produce a transformed attitude towards others as well. Submission and humility will help the Christian to avoid falling into the temptation of becoming proud, unjust and selfish.

In the passage under consideration, James points out that believers must make appropriate and judicious use of their short life while on earth. He goes further to underscore the need for them to totally handover their lives to God for direction, as self-management is destructive as it is not Christian-like.

He also admonishes believers to tally their plans with the purpose of God for their lives. If you have been living without involving Christ to direct the affairs of your life, you can begin today.

James also warned against the mad crave for materialism regardless of the source. These days, some believers have embraced all means in their desperation to defeat poverty and make money. To them, the end justifies the means. Let us not forget that "a man's life does not consist of the abundance of the things he possesses".

No matter how long a man lives on earth, there comes a day when he must bid the world good-bye. In the concluding verse of the chapter, James notes: "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." Let this principle be your guide today.

Bible Reading in one Year: PROVERBS 27 – 29

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Life is like a vapour"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 2:09pm On May 29, 2016
Daily Manna
Saturday 31, October, 2015

Damning Tendencies

TEXT: REVELATION 18:1-8

"How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow" (Revelation 18:7).

To the natural mind, it is inconceivable that this world, with all its glitz and glamour, would be totally destroyed one day. Some wondered that, "how can it be that with all its impressive, intimidating structural and social development, the flourishing economic progress, and the new heights that man has attained in the quest to conquer the earth, it would be destroyed?" It is thus, not plausible to them that in one day, all would be wiped out.

God's programme is neither open to debate nor subject to man's sanction. The fact is that Babylon - a metaphorical name for the present world and its evil system - would be destroyed soon. All those who exclude God from their considerations, relish worldly goods, will be swept away. Even if they have exploited the world's system to their selfish benefits, they would be brought to account for their deeds on the judgment day. Just as they glorified themselves and lived luxuriously, so would they be tormented and made sorrowful on that day. What they feared most would befall them. They would face death, mourning and famine. The whole world would be burned with fire, as determined by the Lord.

Hence, it is dangerous to focus one's attention on the world, exploit the sinful pleasures in the world or yield to temptations to take advantage of the evil system in the world to amass great wealth for oneself. This may bring one great fame, pleasure, security and comfort; but make one to trust self and not God. Therefore, we must then shun all tendencies to live like the world and follow Christ's example of obedience, truthfulness, sacrifice and service to God and to our fellow men.

Bible Reading in one Year: PROVERBS 30 – 31

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Remember, what the world offers ends in the world"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 6:59pm On Jun 01, 2016
Daily Manna
Sunday 01, November, 2015

Absolute Obedience Demanded

TEXT: EXODUS 24:1-11

"And Moses came and told the people all the words of the LORD, and all the judgments: and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which the LORD hath said will we do" (Exodus 24:3).

One major undoing of king Saul was his partial obedience to God's word. He received divine commission through prophet Samuel to utterly destroy the Amalekites, sparing no man or animal. He complied, but not completely. He spared Agag, their king, and the best of their animals. By this act, he earned God's judgment.

The resolve of the Israelites, in today's text contrasts sharply with the action of Saul. Here, Moses who had been away on Mount Sinai got back to the people and acquainted them with all the commandments, laws and ordinances from God. Their response was "…and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which the LORD hath said will we do." Moses therefore put the laws in writing, read it out to them and ratified the covenant with sacrifices. The congregation of Israel reiterated their commitment to obey God.

Although it has been shown that pledge and performance do not always match, the people's attitude is quite instructive. The implication of their resolve to obey God is that every one of them was prepared to comply with every word of the Lord. Moses had stated God's terms clearly before them so that their decision would be by choice. As we are privileged to have the whole counsel of God and to be inheritors of the covenant of grace, we should be more committed to obey every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.

When you choose what to obey in God's commandments, you may end up like Saul, who inadvertently, earned God's disfavour. "...To obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams."

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 1 - 2

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Absolute obedience is what it takes to please God"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 10:46am On Jun 08, 2016
Daily Manna
Monday 02, November, 2015

A Noble Call

TEXT: LUKE 9:1-9

"And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece" (Luke 9:3).

Most carnal minds will sell their souls for fleeting material considerations because they are driven by real or anticipated material benefits. To them, a person's worth is determined by what he possesses as against the sacred values he propagates. The number of those driven by the noblest of virtues is very few.

The instructions given by our Lord Jesus Christ in today's passage contrast sharply with the practices of many preachers and religious practitioners today. While He sent His disciples, equipping them with power and authority, He expected them to live lives of absolute dependence on God in their journeys. All those things Christ told them not to take could constitute distractions on their way which may reduce their efficiency and performance. He instructed them to show that in all things, they were ambassadors for God, and should therefore, continue with His charges.

What a challenge to those who must possess cars, houses, fat salaries and even a guarantee of pension allowance before they can take the initial steps of missionary journeys today! It is evident that the Lord who sends believers has all it takes for them to make ends meet. Preachers who muddle things up by placing material things before the primary message need to retrace their steps to the foot of the cross at Calvary and allow the Saviour to lead them, and not just run on their own prompting.

God is looking for people who will implicitly trust Him for provision, not those who are seeking to serve Him because of material benefits.
As a Christian, what is your motivation for serving God? Get it right today, and allow the unlimited powers of God to be deposited in you. Only when you cast aside the ambition for materialism, can you be more useful in the hands of God.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 3 - 4

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "There is always a choice to make between God and mammon"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 10:48am On Jun 09, 2016
Daily Manna
Tuesday 03, November, 2015

Miracles Still Happen

TEXT: ACTS 9:32-43

"And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately" (Acts 9:33,34).

There have been great testimonies of the effect of God's power in solving the problems of men in recent times. There are verifiable miracles that testify to the power of God today. Many of these have been witnessed in our contemporary times.

Miracles are supernatural interventions of the power of God in matters beyond human abilities. We find this in the passage of our meditation today. Aeneas had kept his bed eight years, sick and paralytic without hope of ever getting better. But when Peter arrived with the power of God, there was an instant change. In another scenario, Dorcas was dead; and her case appeared hopeless and irreversible. All her friends could do was to weep and wail. But when Peter came with the power of God, life and joy were restored to her and her friends. Miracles!

There are people who feel that the days of miracles have passed. They believe that the miracles witnessed in the days of the apostles were necessary because those were the days of the beginning of the Church, and those miracles were to help herald the gospel message. So, now that the gospel is known everywhere, there are no need for them. For some, with the breakthroughs in the field of science, technology and medicine, there were no more needs for miracles. They believe that contemporary miracles are merely make-beliefs or aided by occultism and satanic powers. But whatever anybody may think or believe, miracles still exist today.

Do you have a situation that seems hopeless even with modern technology? Are people giving up on your case and you feel you have to live with your problem for the rest of your life? There is good news for you. God's ever-potent power is still at work and He has never changed. Reach out to Him in faith and you will soon become a living proof that miracles still happen!

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 5 - 7

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "God's efficacious power is very real today"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 9:02am On Jun 13, 2016
Daily Manna
Wednesday 04, November, 2015

Dare To Be Exceptional

TEXT: NUMBERS 14:11-25

"But my servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it" (Numbers 14:24).

Not too long ago, a department in a university recorded a massive failure of its students. Out of over 20 undergraduates that sat for a course, only one made an 'A' grade. Majority failed while only a few had a 'pass grade'. When the outstanding student was asked the secret of his exceptional performance, the young lad said: 'I did not underestimate the course. Everybody knew it was a tough one; so while most of my colleagues refuse to try at all, a few put in a wishy-washy effort. I gave it all my attention and determined to conquer it; and thank God I did.'

The children of Israel never ceased to offend God. The evil report brought by the spies broke the people's heart. While they were lamenting over the report, Caleb said they were able to go up against the country despite the seeming impediments on their way. And for his positive attitude towards the challenge, God singled him out for a special blessing.

In like manner, believers should learn to be positive in their utterances. They must see success where others see failure. Apostle Paul charged us that we can do all things through Christ that strengthens us. Our ability to confront difficult situations lies in our confession, because "as he thinketh in his heart, so is he".

Successful people are made by their dogged determination; they see possibilities where others see brick walls. Evidently, people who have the "can do" spirit have always excelled. We must be exceptional in whatever we do, so that there would be a positive difference between us and unbelievers.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 8

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Your attitude determines your altitude"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 7:29pm On Jun 16, 2016
Daily Manna
Thursday 05, November, 2015

All Things Are Ready

TEXT: JOHN 5:17-24

"But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work" (John 5:17).

The potentate of an Arabian kingdom was stunned when a group of Western missionaries he had invited to a feast. The sultan wanted to know why these believers in Jesus Christ had abandoned their prosperous society back home to come to the desert. They were building missionary schools, roads and health centres for his people. In the process, these Christians exposed themselves to infections that sometimes proved fatal. He asked if they did all these in order to secure a place in heaven. "No," was the answer that jolted the Arabian ruler. "We are doing all these to show our appreciation to our Lord Jesus Christ who died for our salvation. He has earned heaven for us through His sacrificial death on the cross at Calvary. And He says we must go and preach to all creatures about the salvation He has brought, so that no one would perish in sin. We obey that commandment as His faithful servants... Our works can't earn us heaven; only faith in Him, repentance from sin and obedience to what He says".

This is a thorough understanding of the salvation plan of God. Everything we need to enter into the Kingdom of heaven hereafter was provided by Jesus Christ when He was crucified. No act of man could do it. It is for him to submit to the conditions needed for the appropriation of the benefits of Calvary.

We appreciate God for Calvary when we obey and have faith in Him. We honour him when we resist temptation and shun sin. We put Satan and his agents to shame when we preach Christ to sinners who are under the yoke of the powers of darkness. The genuine Christian knows that Jesus has made all "things...ready" for him in heaven.

So, like the missionaries in Arabia, today's believer must appreciate God for making heaven ready for Him by going to the uttermost parts of the world to preach Jesus.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 9 - 10

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "There is 'a woe' awaiting believers who refuse to preach the gospel."

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 4:55am On Jun 17, 2016
Daily Manna
Friday 06, November, 2015

The Beauty Of Love

TEXT: ROMANS 13:8-14

"Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law" (Romans 13:10).

A young man left his employer, a timber merchant, and began business in competition with him. For a while, he prospered greatly and got many orders that would have gone to the company he left. But just when his business seemed to be most flourishing, a huge fire destroyed all his timber. A day after the fire incidence, his old employer came to visit him. The young man said later, "I could have hated him, for I thought he came to gloat over my misfortune. But he came as a friend in need and said, 'I know you have agreed to supply timber to your customers by certain dates, and this unfortunate fire makes it impossible for you to do so. My timber yard is at your disposal. You can have what you need and pay me at your own convenience'". The young man was overwhelmed by this embodiment of virtue; the rivalry and hatred that he had nursed gave place to love.

When a lawyer came to ask Jesus Christ for the great commandment, Jesus said, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shall love thy neighbour as thyself". Apostle Paul expatiated on this when writing to the Romans that "love is the fulfilling of the law".

The golden rule is doing unto others what you would want them to do to you. Definitely, we all want others to love, honour, respect, and empathize with us. Love towards others prevent or make it impossible for one to do any form of evil against them. Your love will seek others' welfare rather than their downfall or hurt. After highlighting the nine gifts of the Spirit, Paul said, "and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way – follow after charity [love]". Love, therefore, is the pinnacle of the Christian experience.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 11 - 12

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Love, agape love, demonstrates the majesty of the Christian life."

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 9:43pm On Jun 18, 2016
Daily Manna
Saturday 07, November, 2015

Planted In The Lord's House

TEXT: PSALM 92:1-15

"Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God" (Psalm 92:13).

There are marked differences between weeds and plants. The most important of these is the fact that weeds are free-growing, whereas plants are cultivated. Weeds are often invasive and grow rapidly but are undesirable. Plants, on the other hand, are delicate and are painstakingly nurtured to bear desirable fruits or for their aesthetic, therapeutic or other values.

This horticultural reality aptly illustrates the contrast between the righteous and the unrighteous. Today's text highlights this contrast in a most graphical way. This Psalm underscores the duty and desirability of praising God. God is most worthy to be praised, especially for His works and wisdom. Unfortunately, there are some ungrateful people who are willfully ignorant of such marvelous works. They rationalize such thought by attributing God's works to a product of a big-bang warped science.

The ungodly are not only, brutish for not glorifying God, but they are very much like weeds. They may spring up as rapidly as grass and flourish outwardly like summer flower, but "they shall be destroyed forever".

In contrast, "the righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon". They may not attain the rapid growth of weeds, but shall grow gracefully, steadily and enduringly like palm trees. Like the cedar, they are stable, incorruptible and fruitful. The righteous is God's plant; planted in the best of soils – the house of the Lord – where he is nurtured on God's rich counsel, care and comfort.

Are you a weed or a plant? On what soil is your life planted? Are you rooted in the vanities and wickedness of this world or in the rich soil of God's grace and fellowship? Straighten your way with God through repentance and faith in Christ. If you are already "planted", consecrate to God for more growth and fruitfulness.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 13 - 14

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Are you a weed or plant?"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 2:58am On Jun 23, 2016
Daily Manna
Sunday 08, November, 2015

What You Ought To Do

TEXT: ACTS 10:1-8

"He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do" (Acts 10:6).

Religion has become a very fashionable thing in this clime. More worship centres are springing up daily. This development has caught the attention of the music industry and different genres of music now have gospel themes as their focus. What is however disturbing is the shallowness and emptiness of most of these religions. This is aptly illustrated by the true story of a devout and religious woman who became ill and was at the point of death. Really, doctors had confirmed that she was going to die. She became greatly afraid and cried out to God: 'I am afraid, I am a sinner, and I am not fit to die, and I don't know how to be saved. But if You will get me well, I will learn how to get ready to meet You!' God heard her prayers. She got well and immediately sought out a revival meeting to attend. While explaining her situation to the preacher she said: "I saw then that my religion might be good enough to live by, but certainly not to die by!" She gave her life to the Lord and became really saved.

Cornelius in our text was in a similar situation. Although he was prayerful, devout and generous, his profession and practice of religion lacked something very essential. God had to send an angel to him, instructing him to send for Apostle Peter who would tell him what he ought to do. He promptly obeyed and became truly saved.

Your religious devotion is not enough if it lacks the power to make you righteous and prepare you for death. You need more than mere religious devotion and good works to get fit for heaven. You need Jesus and the salvation He offers. Those who refuse to learn from the emptiness of mere religion are condemned to die unprepared to meet the Lord. You need to get rid of religion without righteousness and get truly born again. This is what you really ought to do.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 15 - 16

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Religion without Christ is vain"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 11:20am On Jun 24, 2016
Daily Manna
Monday 09, November, 2015

The Wise Choice

TEXT: HEBREWS 11:23-25

"By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter" (Hebrews 11:24).

His friends warned him that he was treading a rather dangerous path, avoiding fellowship and spending his time with women of easy virtue and alcohol. He merely laughed, maintaining that fellowship and Christ had gone out of his life after his graduation, and that he should now be left alone to savour his liberty, a so-called liberty. They persisted but their warnings fell on deaf ears. Johnson, had made a choice that gave no room for Christ. Soon, the pleasures of the world with its glittering light consumed his passion, and bound him hand and foot to the devil. Not long after, he lost his life in a tragic accident.

Moses had the best upbringing available in ancient Egypt; the purpose was to make him an heir to the throne. He gave up the pleasures of the palace to identify with the squalor and humiliation of the down-trodden people of God. He saw, by faith, the great wealth and prestige surrounding him as being of temporal and fleeting nature, "choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season" (verse 25).

The essence of human existence is not just for 'now', but for 'hereafter'. The choice we make today will obviously determine where we would spend eternity. Charles Spurgeon described death as 'a changing room where we put on the robe of immortality'. Then we receive the reward of the choice we had made to spend eternity either in heaven or in hell. Heaven is real; hell also is real. It is either heaven or hell; there is no neutral place, no waiting room. Heaven is for the righteous saints who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Hell is for sinners who reject Him. You have a choice to make.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 17 - 18

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "The choice you make today determines your place in eternity"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 12:15pm On Jun 29, 2016
Daily Manna
Tuesday 10, November, 2015

Sound The Alarm!

TEXT: ISAIAH 21:1-10

"For thus hath the Lord said unto me, Go, set a watchman, let him declare what he seeth" (Isaiah 21:6).

In ancient times, it was customary to have watchmen in most cities. The watchmen essentially warned of impending danger, allowing people to prepare their defenses.

Against the backdrop of war and imminent attack on Israel, God commanded prophet Isaiah to assume the role of a watchman. Isaiah is to look to a prophetic future and tell the people what he sees approaching. He saw a chariot of horses and a couple of horsemen, and immediately began to lament for the destruction that is coming on the nation's agricultural heritage, its economy and people at large.

Like in Isaiah's days, war rages in our world today. The expectation is that believers will assume the role of watchmen over the people they are called to lead. There is need for believers to take their stand, look at what is approaching and open their mouths and sound the warning loud and clear. When the watchman in our passage saw trouble approaching, he did not keep the message to himself. Instead, he opened his mouth and shouted out the warning for all to hear.

The enemy is doing everything he can today to invade the Church and lead us down the path of peril. Our home and family are also under severe attack. Children are being taught evolution in schools. The seat of learning has been high-jacked by the devil to teach the children that God is a myth from our repressed past. We must arise quickly and sound the alarm against evil before time eventually runs out.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 19 - 20

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Your warning can save a soul in danger"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 10:17am On Jun 30, 2016
Daily Manna
Wednesday 11, November, 2015

Damned Through Riches

TEXT: JAMES 5:1-11

"Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you" (James 5:1).

Riches is a double-edged sword. It can either be a source of blessing or ruin. Abraham Lincoln, a foremost American President, who tasted both divides of riches and poverty said that poverty in itself does not kill; it is riches and power that have the capacity to destroy.

Apostle James took a journey down history lane, and discovered that most kings in Israel, who were humble, level-headed, prayerful and spiritual when they were poor and needy, suddenly became heady, incorrigible, and wicked when they became rich. Saul was humble, shy and self-effacing before he was anointed king over Israel. He suddenly became heady, incorrigible and wicked when he came to the throne. Solomon was prayerful and obedient at the beginning but became wayward as his reign progressed. Rehoboam was found faithful enough to have had entrusted into his hands, ten out of twelve tribes taken away from Solomon's posterity. Yet, he soon became ungrateful and insensitive to the point of leading Israel away from God.

The character of carnally-fixated rich men in all generations are so similar, prompting James' rebuke and scathing remarks for those of his generation. This was with the hope that they would repent and put less trust in fleeting material perquisites. Thankfully, not all the rich men in the Bible were condemned. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were rich, but they were righteous and blessed. Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus, Lydia of Thyatira, Theophillus, and Cornelius were rich people in the New Testament, but they chose to be righteous. Riches which are not used to glorify God are worthless. Christians must be cautious of fleeting riches and embrace true riches by Christ, which can neither be moth-eaten nor stolen by thieves.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 21 - 22

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "True riches with righteousness bring present eternal blessings"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 9:37am On Jul 01, 2016
Daily Manna
Thursday 12, November, 2015

Ruined Without Remedy

TEXT: REVELATION 18:9-20

"Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you" (James 5:1).

Alexander Maclaren, an English non-conformist minister of Scottish origin, noted: "In such a world as this, with such hearts as ours, weakness is wickedness in the long run. Whoever lets himself be shaped and guided by any thing lower than an inflexible will, fixed in obedience to God, will in the end be shaped into a deformity, and guided to wreck and ruin".

The revelation of John the Beloved, depicted how Babylon, a city widely endowed with potential and real resources, was destroyed in just a brief moment. God found it guilty of many crimes. Babylon had made herself an enemy of God’s people, opposing and fighting them. The city was responsible for the deaths of many of them. Babylon also plunged itself into sensual pleasures, idolatry and trafficking. The kings, who associated with it, were greatly infected with Babylon’s evil ways. They worshipped the beast and turned away from God. But His anger came upon the city, and He destroyed her with fire. Her associates could only agonise in tears and sadness, but could not come to her rescue. They were assured that God would punish Babylon because of its sin. These kings became much worried when they saw what God did to Babylon and felt they could share the same fate; they could suffer as Babylon had suffered.

Babylon's ruin is an indication that God is no respecter of persons. No matter how wealthy or influential you are in the society, God cannot lower His standard to accommodate you in His kingdom. When you allow relations, friends and business associates to lure you into sin, you will bear the consequences alone. The kings, merchants and ship owners could not rescue Babylon from the wrath of God. This is how it would be on the last day – the soul that sinneth shall die.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 1 - 2

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "There are no sacred cows with God, the righteous Judge"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 10:28am On Jul 01, 2016
Daily Manna
Friday 13, November, 2015

Warning Of Divine Humiliation

TEXT: JEREMIAH 13:15-27

"Therefore will I discover thy skirts upon thy face, that thy shame may appear" (Jeremiah 13:26).

A. W. Tozer, in his book entitled, 'Men who met God,' said: "We must face the fact that many today are notoriously careless in their living. This attitude finds its way into the church. We have liberty, we have money, we live in comparative luxury. As a result, discipline has practically disappeared. What would a violin solo sound like if the strings on the musician's instrument were all hanging loose, not stretched tight, not disciplined?"

Jeremiah knew the Israelites were adamant in their sins because of pride. God, therefore, pronounced immeasurable divine judgment upon them; they would be overwhelmed with darkness and stumble in their way. At that moment, they had some light and they hoped to get more. But God said that deep darkness would overtake them, except they confess and repent of their sin. Jeremiah, who knew the implications of God's warning, told them never to ignore it as failure to listen to Him would earn them captivity.

God does not gloss over sin. He punishes it severely if it is unrepented of. He damns a careless soul in hell who is hardened in his sin. He humiliates the proud and abases the high-minded. Jeremiah tried, unsuccessfully, to draw Israel's attention to God's judgment awaiting them if they refused to repent. It was as if Jeremiah's proclamations against sin were an empty wolf's cry. They paid dearly for it. God's clarion call to all today is that we depart from sin and pursue peace. He sacrificed His Son on the cross so that sin and its consequences might be done away with. Whoever, therefore, fails to accept His offer of mercy and forgiveness will surely receive His wrath and judgment.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 3 - 4

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Sin is not just breaking God's laws, it is breaking"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 11:38am On Jul 01, 2016
Daily Manna
Saturday 14, November, 2015

Be Wise In Your Decision

TEXT: JOHN 5:25-31

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life" (John 5:24).

God has never ceased to show compassion to sinners. But when Jesus healed an impotent man, who had an infirmity for thirty-eight years, some Jewish leaders went after His life, claiming He healed the man on the Sabbath day. This, according to them, was unlawful. Jesus explained to them that God had never stopped His work, but only rested from the work of creation on the seventh day. By implication, God still loves people on the Sabbath and the healing of that man was an expression of compassion for him.

Jesus' reply infuriated the Jewish leaders, who felt Christ's excuse was not tenable. They equally faulted His claim that He was the Son of God, stating that by that position, Jesus was trying to equate Himself with God, which they would not like to entertain. But Jesus pointed out that He would not do anything, which God never permitted, adding that He made Him a Judge of all things. On this premise, those who believed in Him would receive eternal life, while anyone who rejected Him would be condemned.

Today, people still have the choice to either believe in Jesus as God's Son, their Saviour and Lord or reject Him. To reject Christ is to reject God Himself. One can only receive eternal life when he decides to believe in Jesus as his Saviour and Lord. A new life will then ensue the moment Jesus is made the Cornerstone and Pillar of life.

Death cannot snuff out a life redeemed by the Lord. At His appearing, the momentarily dead believer will rise-up from death and be united with the Saviour and other raptured believers. The beauty of the Christian life and the greatest benefit of salvation lies in the fact that all believers will live forever with their Saviour. Let this therefore be your comfort and consolation.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 5 - 6

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "God still saves"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 1:55pm On Jul 01, 2016
Daily Manna
Sunday 15, November, 2015

Living Unto The Lord

TEXT: ROMANS 14:1-9

"For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived that he might be Lord both of the dead and living" (ROMANS 14:8,9).

Paul the apostle, said in Galatians 2:20, "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me". This is a summary of the life of one who, after being separated from God by sin, has truly repented and accepted Christ as Lord and Saviour.

A believer should always make a bold statement about his stand in Christ and also of his level of spiritual maturity. Paul the apostle raised, in our text, the issues of strong and weak faith, what to eat, what not to eat, and the attitude of those who tried to judge others who were doing what they themselves considered unacceptable. He made it clear that no one had the right to judge another man's servants.

Paul the apostle concluded that while some matters were strong enough as they bordered on the foundation of the truth, others were not so important to be legislated upon. He surmised summary that believers should distinguish between essential and non-essential matters as they affect doctrines. However, the challenge about whether to eat or not to eat meat or herbs was more acute for those who were idol worshippers before their conversion. They preferred not to eat meat, to avoid being reminded of their past pagan lifestyle.

The lesson for believers today is that eating anything should not be seen as a moral matter. Our personal attitude about eating or not eating should not lead us to unjustly condemn one another. And concerning estimating one day above another, we must rise beyond such parochial definition. We are to give every day in the week unto God. The first day of the week however is recognized in the New Testament as having a special significance because of Christ's resurrection.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 7 - 8

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Eat, drink and do all things to the glory of God"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 4:00pm On Jul 01, 2016
Daily Manna
Monday 16, November, 2015

A Positive Tongue

TEXT: NUMBERS 14:26-39

"Even those men that did bring up the evil report upon the land, died by the plague before the LORD" (Numbers 14:37).

Robert Schuller, a writer, pointed out in one of his books, that "you may not be able to control the times, but you can compose your response. You can turn your pain into profanity or into poetry. The choice is up to you. You may not have chosen your tough time, but you can choose how you will react to it."

Man, most times, is the architect of his fortunes or misfortunes. The Bible says that as a man thinketh in his heart so is he. Those who say, "I can do all things through Christ which strenghteneth me" have always made it to the top. Cowards and fault-finders never made it. Never say to your boss, "the task is impossible, I can't do it". The wisest thing to do is to keep quiet and try your best. When he sees your efforts and the impossibility of the task, he is likely to recall you; he will be glad you obeyed him in the first place. Today, many people see failure even before they begin a task. How we perceive a task determines the outcome.

Today, we see the story of ten spies who chose to see things with carnal eyes. They decided to respond negatively to a potential challenge; polluted the minds of others and incited them into murmuring against their leader and against God. Had they joined Caleb and Joshua (part of the spies) to confess positively their ability to overrun Canaan, God would have confirmed their words.

Many believers unnecessarily get into problem because of their negative reactions to issues. They easily dismiss instructions from leaders, and also incite others to disobey instructions from their superiors. Such attitudes lead to rebellion and divisions in the church. And since God is not an Author of confusion, He does not condone such flagrant exhibition of unruly behaviour. To escape God's wrath, such acts of rebellion must be speedily repented of and forgiveness sincerely sought.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 9 - 10

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "It is wise to use the tongue to build, not to destroy"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 12:50pm On Jul 02, 2016
Daily Manna
Tuesday 17, November, 2015

Gateway Through Prayer

TEXT: ACTS 10:9-20

"On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour" (Acts 10:9).

When God is about to call a person to the discharge of a special duty, He often, in a special manner, prepares him. Paul was converted on the way to Damascus when he was blinded by divine glory that shone from above. When Ananias was called to find Paul, he was told "…behold, he prayeth" (Acts 9:10,11). The first task Paul was saddled with by the Holy Spirit after his glorious conversion was praying. He needed that to be able to fulfil the ministry he was about to receive from the Lord.

In our text, the Lord was about to open a great door for the Gentiles to come into the kingdom through the gospel. Having decided to use Apostle Peter, the Spirit nudged him to retreat to a secluded rooftop to pray. Peter obeyed, not knowing, that some Gentile enquirers were coming on their way. It was necessary for him to pray in this manner as directed by the Spirit so that his witness and preaching might be under the fresh influence and anointing of the Holy Spirit.

If we are to be useful in the kingdom for great works, we must recognise and always heed God's call to separation and prayer. The Lord cannot do much with believers who are not totally dependent on Him in constant prayer and intercession. Though David suggested morning and evening and at noon as times to pray (Psalm 55:17), God's call to prayer or intercession can come anytime in between. We are to be sensitive to the nudging of the Holy Spirit and yield our lives and time to labour in prayers for the never-dying souls of sinners all around us. Please, pray that God will find you dependable in this regard.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 11 - 13

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Prayer is our first and necessary duty"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 7:05am On Jul 05, 2016
Daily Manna
Wednesday 18, November, 2015

Unalloyed Faith In God

TEXT: HEBREWS 11:26-29

"By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible" (Hebrews 11:27).

Amy Carmichael prayed: "Give me the love that leads the way, the faith that nothing can dismay, the hope no disappointments tire, the passion that will burn like fire, let me not sink to be a clod: make me Thy fuel, flame of God."

Our text reveals men with uncommon faith that moved the hands of God. It shows men of history, who stood in the gap to avoid destruction on God's people. It x-rays men who conquered kingdoms, obtained promises and stopped the mouths of lions.

Many years after Joseph's death, the new king of Egypt was uncomfortable with the growing number of the Israelites. This Pharaoh subjected the Israelites to slavery and ordered the killing of their baby boys at birth. But Moses' parents trusted God and defied the king's order. They hid him for three months. When they could no longer sustain the act, they placed him beside the river, where Pharaoh's daughter, by providence, saw him and adopted him as her son. His parents, by divine arrangement, nursed him before he went to live in Pharaoh's palace. But when Moses grew up, he refused to be called Pharaoh's daughter's son. He chose instead to go back to his own people, who were poor slaves. He chose to suffer with them rather than have a comfortable life without God. Obviously, his parents had imparted into him godly virtues.

Moses demonstrated absolute confidence in God and what never happened in the history of mankind was accomplished through him. He was a peculiar man of God who was mightily used.

How is your take in life? Do you value the things of this world more than the promises of Christ? Do you have a living flaming faith that can lead you to surrender totally and be obedient to the commandments of Christ? Pray never to disappoint God.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 14 - 15

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Temptation exercises our faith and prompt us to pray more"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 4:36am On Jul 07, 2016
Daily Manna
Thursday 19, November, 2015

God Is Still In Control

TEXT: PSALM 93:1-5

"The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea" (Psalm 93:4).

You may have heard the story of the man that got insanely frustrated about God and decided to spit at Him. As he positioned his mouth heavenward and spat, the wind returned the full measure of the spittle upon his face. God possesses a deep sense of humour.

As the scepter of unbelief and ungodliness is being raised today in line with the long predicted end-time norms, it is important to reassure ourselves that the almighty God is still in control. The 93rd Psalm most eloquently captures the universal and eternal government of God. Plainly, it states that "The LORD reigneth". His reign has been from eternity past; He reigns till date and will reign forever. He reigns over every being and everything we call nature. He is clothed with pure majesty and strength. The monarchs of this world may be decked out in finest of royal robes, but what is the dim glow of the firefly in comparison to the full strength of the sun! The earth, the order in it and all planets derive their stability only from His providence.

Although Satan may lift up floods of opposition and waves of persecution to blur the brilliance of the glory of the Omnipotent, He remains, "I AM THAT I AM". He is on high and is mightier than the noise of doubt and unbelief, human philosophies and profanity, willful ignorance and brazen rebellion. His word and revelation are infallible and everything about Him is holy.

The true Church of God eagerly awaits the fuller demonstration of this glory at the millennial reign of Christ. Meanwhile, it pays to have a deeper understanding of God's true nature and His sovereignty. This will bring us more comfort, confirmation, courage, confidence and commitment.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 16 - 17

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "God must first reign in you before you can reign with Him"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 9:56am On Jul 07, 2016
Daily Manna
Friday 20, November, 2015

No Hope Elsewhere

TEXT: ROMANS 15:1-13

"For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope" (Romans 15:4).

A dying girl was sent home by doctors after futile attempts to cure a malignant tuberculosis that had destroyed her lungs. They told her to spend the rest of her few days on earth with her relations. At home, the young woman reached for the Bible and turned to 1 Peter 1:24, where the word of God insists that by the scourge Jesus Christ endured at Calvary, believers are healed. She reminded the Lord of this written Word and pleaded that He fulfill His promise. Did He? Yes, for the story of the girl revealed that the almighty Creator gave her two brand new lungs, and she later had children.

If any man has fallen abysmally in despair, it is not because God has abandoned him. It is rather because man has moved from where He placed him. The change in location has led to a departure from the life-saving precepts only the Bible offers. No where else would you find the divine injunction that the "strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves". No earthly philosophy can sincerely preach that "every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification".

The world has rejected the Bible and created a doctrine that believes in the survival of the fittest. The upshot is the decline of morals and worship of prosperity and not the pursuit of the kingdom of God. They teach that the end justifies the means.

There is hope if the worldly man would make a U-turn from this destructive and helpless path leading him to perdition and accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour. In this redeemed state, he can read the Scriptures and be comforted by God's declaration that soon, He will put an end to this evil system (Revelation 21:1-4).

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 18 - 19

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "The world is hopeless without the word of God"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 11:12am On Jul 07, 2016
Daily Manna
Saturday 21, November, 2015

Punishment For The Ungodly

TEXT: REVELATION 18:21-24

"And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all" (Revelation 18:21).

Our text captures what God prescribed as the total destruction of Babylon, which shall be sudden and catastrophic. The sins of the city were that she deceived many nations and killed saints. God had a controversy against her and brought her beneath the surface where nobody could see her again. The city, which was once basking with socio-economic activities became a shadow of herself.

John the Beloved, in this vision, saw a mighty angel throw a stone, like a great millstone, into the sea, aptly portraying the downfall of the great city and its system. The angel, as a confirmation of this declares, "Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all".

Entertaining sounds of harps, singers, flutes or trumpets ceased on her streets, while craftsmen, who furnished the items of luxury, were no more. Industrial activities was totally destroyed; the millstones, which grind the grain for flour, could not get grains, thus affecting food supply. Lamps, which lit the homes and businesses were permanently put out and darkness engulfed everywhere. The merry voices at wedding parties ceased. The destruction of Babylon is a note of warning to everybody, particularly as we conduct our lives in this world, with the prevailing mindset that money is everything.

Even after the Bible had clearly warned that "the love of money is the root of all evil, which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith and pierced themselves through with many sorrows", many remain adamantly wedded to committing heinous crimes because of money. What happened to Babylon is instructive to all: great destruction awaits those who have made mammon, (money) their god.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 20 - 21

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Love of money ensnares and kills"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 10:18am On Jul 21, 2016
Daily Manna
Sunday 22, November, 2015

The Big Question

TEXT: ISAIAH 21:11-17

"The burden of Dumah. He calleth to me out of Seir, Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?" (Isaiah 21:11).

Asking questions has been a very important tool in the learning process. Without questions, no scientific progress would have been made from creation. Questions are asked for various reasons and they reveal the character of the persons asking them. For instance, the first recorded question in the Bible was asked by Satan from Eve: "Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?" This was asked with an evil motive of weakening Eve's faith and to lure her to disobey God. Such crafty questions abound. However, some questions are significant and demand answers that may define our future.

The question of the man from Seir, directed at the watchman, Prophet Isaiah, was significant and relevant, even to us today. "Watchman, what of the night?" he enquired. The repetition of the question accentuates the anxiety prevailing at that time. Then, the Assyrian army had subdued Judah and its neighborhood, including Dumah (Edom) and fear was on every side. The question then was, "What of the night [of calamity]? Is there hope of deliverance?" "The morning cometh, and also the night...", came the answer from the prophet, implying that deliverance (morning) would soon come to the captive Hebrews, and punishment (night) to the Edomites. The prophet encouraged sincere enquiry and repentance as the only means of securing an answer of peace.

Today, the world is facing nights of crises. There is palpable apprehension. Very soon, it will be a glorious dawn of deliverance for believers in Christ, and night of severe punishment for the God-forsaking world. As watchmen, believers ought to speed up preaching the gospel to save more people.

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 22- 23

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "The big question is no longer "where's the world going?" but "where are you going to be?"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 7:27pm On Jul 21, 2016
Daily Manna
Monday 23, November, 2015

Even Now, God Can

TEXT: JOHN 11:18-32

"Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee" (John 11:21,22).

"Faith," says American pastor and author, A.W. Tozer, "sees the invisible but it does not see the non-existent." The Bible renders it so emphatically, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen". It is so because it is directed at God. The Bible says, "The things which are impossible with men are possible with God".

This truth played out, as seen in our text, when Christ arrived at Bethany where His friend, Lazarus, had died four days earlier and had been buried. The situation was very pathetic. Relatives, friends and other concerned people had gathered to mourn with Mary and Martha who were bereaved. When Martha met Christ, she expressed the same sentiment that her sister, Mary, also eventually voiced, "If thou hadst been here, my brother had not died". This statement has a ring of settled despair in it. But observe the next remark of Martha – "But I know, that even now...". That was an expression of faith in God's ability through Christ.

It is more difficult to exercise faith in a situation that is considered hopeless. When it seems that God is late in arriving, and the undesirable has happened, can He still act? When the matter appears to have been "sealed up" in the tomb of hopelessness for many days and "by this time [it] stinketh", will you be willing to roll away the stone of doubt for God to work? When your mind is already adjusting to the reality of the undesirable event in your life and your only consolation is in the hereafter, can God still intervene?

Yes, God can. He never arrives late. Passage of time or tenseness of the situation do not dull the sharp edge of His power. The same way He raised Lazarus, He will intervene in your humanly hopeless situation. Martha said, "I know that even now...". What do you say about your case?

Bible Reading in one Year: 2 KINGS 24 - 25

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Feeling hopeless? Do not resign to fate; reassign your faith!"

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Re: Daily Manna — God's Abiding Concern by OLAADEGBU(m): 11:59pm On Jul 22, 2016
Daily Manna
Tuesday 24, November, 2015

A Lifetime Preoccupation

TEXT: ROMANS 15:14-22

"Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation" (Romans 15:20).

Some years ago, an uncompromising newspaper columnist and radio commentator, John Calvin Thomas, was to take part in a TV network news programme. Shortly before the show was recorded, the producer asked Thomas not "to use any Bible verses tonight". On another occasion, he was dropped from an appearance on a morning presentation; the producer fearing that Thomas, a faithful evangelical Christian, "might quote some Bible verses".

Apostle Paul also had challenges in his days while going about the business of the great commission. The authorities sought to shut his mouth from preaching. He was stoned and jailed, betrayed and maltreated by false brethren. He suffered humiliation and neglect, and experienced denial of rights and physical deprivation. Still, Paul, like the other apostles in the early Church "strived to preach the gospel" (Romans 15:20).

A born-again child of God who is fiery for Christ is unstoppable in the face of any opposition. He marches on to preach that Christ is the Saviour of the world and is willing to save sinners. Resistance may come in different forms; friends and relatives may forsake him; and he may be "a gazing stock both by reproaches and afflictions". Knowing he has been given the grace to overcome adversaries, he will not give up but move on to surmount the oppositions.

This is the key point in our passage today as Paul rounds off the inspired letter to the brethren in Rome. He spoke of having "been much hindered" from coming to meet them. Nevertheless, he commends the faithfulness of God to empower him.

Paul's missionary works were accompanied by miracles. Believers are also assured of the same signs and wonders if we preach the word of God with single-minded regularity today.

Bible Reading in one Year: ECCLESIASTES 1 - 3

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "The Word is to be preached and lived out, not placed under the pillow"

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