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OPEN HEAVEN DAILY DEVOTIONAL


DATE: SATURDAY NOVEMBER 15TH 2025


THEME: DEALING WITH WITCHES AND WIZARDS


MEMORISE: Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. 2 Corinthians 2:11


READ: Hebrews 5:12-14
12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.

13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.

14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.


MESSAGE
Over the past two days, I have established that you need the gift of the discerning of spirits to determine the kinds of spirits controlling the people around you. This is very important because for you to be able to deal with witches or wizards, you must first be able to identify them.

Once you recognize witches or wizards around you, your first reaction shouldn’t be to confront them or send them away.

A popular saying where I come from goes: “Once God has shown you your enemy, that enemy can no longer kill you.” Once you discover witches or wizards, do not even let them know about your discovery because the moment they know that you have discovered them, they will find alternative ways to attack. Once the devil knows that a pastor has discovered his agents among a congregation, for instance, he will replace them with new ones, and the pastor must discover the new agents with the help of the Holy Spirit all over again. However, if the pastor keeps quiet about his or her discovery and just takes the right actions as directed by the Holy Spirit to ensure they do not carry out their evil plans, there will be no damage done.

When you notice witches or wizards around you, thank God for the revelation and seek His face to know the exact steps to take to handle them. You must ask God for the grace to be spiritually sensitive at all times so that beyond detecting them, you will also be able to know when they plan to execute their evil plans and what you must do to stop them. During one of the annual RCCG conventions, I overheard in the spirit realm that one witch was telling another one, “It is time to strike.” In those days, I wasn’t as mature as l am now, so I was always ready to call down fire at any time. Therefore, when I heard that, I called the witches forward, and one of them said, “l didn’t want to do it; it is the thing within me that was pushing me,” while the other one was weeping. God set them free that day. Thank God I was sensitive to the revelation from the Holy Spirit.

Beloved, you must live a holy life dedicated to constant fasting and prayers so you can stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit and know what to do to disarm and deal with satanic agents.


PRAYER POINT
Father, please help me to remain sensitive to You so that the enemy will not take advantage of me, in Jesus’ name


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Acts 10-11


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 1: ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS NAME
1 All hail the power of Jesus’ name!
Let angels prostrate fall.
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown him Lord of all.
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown him Lord of all!

2 O seed of Israel’s chosen race
Now ransomed from the fall,
Hail him who saves you by his grace,
And crown him Lord of all.
Hail him who saves you by his grace,
And crown him Lord of all!

3 Let every tongue and every tribe
Responsive to his call,
To him all majesty ascribe,
And crown him Lord of all.
To him all majesty ascribe,
And crown him Lord of all!

4 Oh, that with all the sacred throng
We at his feet may fall!
We’ll join the everlasting song
And crown him Lord of all.
We’ll join the everlasting song
And crown him Lord of all.

Correct Answers to the Quiz

1. B. To identify the kind of spirits operating in the lives of people a believer meets. (This is the primary function stated in the first paragraph of the message.)

2. B. She accurately described them as the servants of the most high God who showed the way of salvation. (The reading says everything she said was accurate, which is why Paul had to look beyond her words to see the evil spirit. )

3. B. That it is not the same as the spirit of discernment, as many erroneously call it. (The message specifically states: "You must note, however, that the gift of the discerning of spirits is not the spirit of discernment, as many people erroneously call it." )

4. B. Greater intimacy with God. (The message states the gift "becomes heightened with greater intimacy with Him." )

5. C. To slow down the work of God and extinguish the fire of God. (The message states that agents of the devil are there to "slow down the work of God and extinguish the fire of God that is burning in the midst of the congregation." )

QUIZ

1. According to the message, what is the primary function of the gift of the discerning of spirits?

A. To accurately predict future events and guide prophecy.
B. To identify the kind of spirits operating in the lives of people a believer meets.
C. To enable a Christian to speak in various unknown tongues for spiritual edification.
D. To provide wisdom for managing church finances and administration.

2. In the biblical account referenced (Acts 16:16-18), what made the demon-possessed damsel's message initially appear credible to Paul and Silas?

A. She offered to financially support their ministry in Philippi.
B. She accurately described them as the servants of the most high God who showed the way of salvation.
C. She performed signs and wonders that drew a large crowd.
D. She was a prominent member of the local synagogue.

3. What distinction does the devotional emphasize regarding the gift of discerning of spirits?

A. That it is a gift of the Spirit and not a spiritual fruit.
B. That it is not the same as the spirit of discernment, as many erroneously call it.
C. That it is a gift only available to apostles and prophets.
D. That it is a gift that can only be received during water baptism.

4. The message states that the gift of the discerning of spirits becomes heightened with what?

A. Consistent study of various theological books.
B. Greater intimacy with God.
C. Attending specialised Christian leadership training.
D. Memorising the entire book of Acts.

5. According to the devotional, why is the gift of the discerning of spirits stated to be even more critical for ministers of God?

A. Because they need to decide which musical instruments to use in worship.
B. Because agents of the devil can sneak into the gathering of believers pretending to be children of God.
C. Because they are the only ones permitted to preach the gospel.
D. Because they need it to plan the church budget and building projects.

Prayer Points on "DISCERNING OF SPIRITS II"

1. Father, I thank You for the gift of the discerning of spirits and for the example of Apostle Paul who used this gift to expose the evil spirit operating behind accurate words, thereby protecting the early evangelistic campaign, in Jesus’ name.

2. Merciful God, I repent for any time I have been spiritually deaf or slow to act when the Holy Spirit was prompting me about a person or situation. Forgive me for being swayed by appearances or accurate words that were sponsored by an evil spirit. Wash me with the blood of Jesus (1 John 4:1).

3. My Father, my God, I ask that the gift of the discerning of spirits be activated and sharpened in my life. Let me not be caught off guard by demonic operations around me; help me to see beyond the mask and the message, in Jesus’ name.

4. Lord, as I go about my daily life and ministry, give me the keen spiritual insight to identify the kind of spirits operating in the lives of people I come in contact with. I refuse to entertain or promote a demon-sponsored agenda, in Jesus’ name.

5. Oh God, the protector of the Church, I pray specifically for all ministers of God. Equip them with the critical gift of the discerning of spirits so they can expose and deal with agents of the devil, wolves in sheep’s clothing, and those who sneak into the congregation to slow down Your work, in Jesus’ name (2 Corinthians 11:14).

6. Father, I pray against spiritual dullness and heaviness that prevents accurate discernment. Any spirit trying to grief my spirit, as the spirit grieved Paul, thereby delaying the exposure of the devil’s agents, be cast out of my life now, in Jesus’ name.

7. Holy Spirit, I pray for the power and authority to cast out the evil spirits that I discern, just as Paul commanded the spirit of divination to come out of the damsel. Grant me the boldness to enforce my victory in Christ, in Jesus’ name.

8. Lord, heighten my intimacy with You, for it is in Your presence that the gift of the discerning of spirits becomes sharpened. Draw me closer, that I may see as You see and know as You know, in Jesus’ name.

9. I pray for the immediate exposure and eviction of every agent of darkness, false prophet, or wicked spiritual influence currently operating in my local assembly, place of work, or family, disguised as a righteous person. Let their mission to extinguish the fire of God be totally frustrated, in Jesus’ mighty name.

10. My personal prayer point: (Mention any specific relationship, church setting, or environment where you need an immediate and accurate spiritual diagnosis of the operating spirit).

11. Thank You, Father, for hearing and answering my prayers. I declare that I am spiritually alert and equipped to recognize and deal with the forces of darkness appropriately, in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen!

Lord Jesus, I come to You with a deeply repentant heart, please, forgive me and wash all my sins away with your precious blood shed at Calvary. I surrender my life to you, today, and, I accept You, as my personal Lord and Saviour. Please, come into my life and save my soul from eternal damnation.

OPEN HEAVEN DAILY DEVOTIONAL


DATE: FRIDAY NOVEMBER 14TH 2025


THEME: DISCERNING OF SPIRITS II


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


READ: Acts 16:16-18
16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:

17 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.

18 And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.


MESSAGE
The gift of the discerning of spirits helps Christians to identify the kind of spirits operating in the lives of people they come in contact with. For example, a believer who has the gift of the discerning of spirits will be able to tell when he or she comes across a person who is not a child of God but is pretending to be filled with the Holy Spirit. With the gift of the discerning of spirits, believers are equipped to identify those who are wolves in sheep’s clothing around them. God intends that this gift play a vital role in the lives of believers, and it becomes heightened with greater intimacy with Him; unfortunately, many believers do not seem to appreciate its importance. You must note, however, that the gift of the discerning of spirits is not the spirit of discernment, as many people erroneously call it.

In today’s Bible reading, Paul and Silas were on a very important assignment to tell the people of Philippi about Jesus when a demon-possessed girl met them. Everything she said about them was accurate; however, if Paul did not have the gift of the discerning of spirits, he might have put her in front of their evangelistic campaign or even made her the head of the evangelism team based on the things she said. However, Paul saw beyond her words and was able to identify that they were sponsored by an evil spirit, which he eventually cast out of her.

As I mentioned earlier, the gift of the discerning of spirits is vital for all Christians; however, it is even more critical for ministers of God to operate in it. This is because agents of the devil can sometimes sneak into the gathering of believers by pretending to be children of God (2 Corinthians 11:14). In such cases, ministers of the gospel must seek them out because they are not among the congregation of saints to have fun; they are there to slow down the work of God and extinguish the fire of God that is burning in the midst of the congregation.
Beloved, you must not be caught off guard by demonic operations around you. If you have surrendered your life to Jesus Christ and do not have the gift of the discerning of spirits yet, ask God for it today so you can recognize and deal with the forces of darkness appropriately. Tomorrow, I will talk about how to deal with witches and wizards, especially within a church setting.


KEY POINT
The gift of the discerning of spirits is vital for all Christians.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Acts 8-9


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 28: GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH
Guide me, O thou great Jehovah
Pilgrim through this barren land;
I am weak, but you are mighty;
Hold me with your powerful hand.
Bread of heaven, bread of heaven,
Feed me now and evermore,
Feed me now and evermore.

2 Open now the crystal fountain,
Where the healing waters flow.
Let the fire and cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through.
Strong Deliverer, strong Deliverer,
Ever be my strength and shield,
Ever be my strength and shield.

3 When I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside.
Death of death, and hell’s Destruction,
Land me safe on Canaan’s side.
Songs of praises, songs of praises
I will ever sing to you,
I will ever sing to you.

Quiz on the devotional "DISCERNING OF SPIRITS I".

1. Based on 2 Corinthians 11:14 cited in the devotional, how does Satan commonly present his messengers to believers?
C. As angels of light

2. According to the devotional, what is the key characteristic of the Spirit of God that believers can use to test spirits, as mentioned in 1 John 4:2?
B. The spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh

3. Which of the following is NOT given in the message as a potential consequence of lacking the gift of the discerning of spirits?
C. Losing one's job due to lack of qualifications

4. What specific warning did the author receive about his close friend at the wedding ceremony in 1980?
B. He is your enemy

5. What is the primary reason the devotional states believers must ask God for the gift of the discerning of spirits?
C. To prevent the error of making an enemy a friend and a friend an enemy

Here are 5 objective questions with multiple answers based on the devotional "DISCERNING OF SPIRITS I".

1. Based on 2 Corinthians 11:14 cited in the devotional, how does Satan commonly present his messengers to believers?
A. As fearsome beasts of prey
B. As a man of sorrows, familiar with grief
C. As angels of light
D. As ordinary people who seem overtly suspicious

2. According to the devotional, what is the key characteristic of the Spirit of God that believers can use to test spirits, as mentioned in 1 John 4:2?
A. The spirit that performs great miracles and wonders
B. The spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh
C. The spirit that speaks in unknown tongues
D. The spirit that commands fire from heaven

3. Which of the following is NOT given in the message as a potential consequence of lacking the gift of the discerning of spirits?
A. Falling into the devil's trap where destiny is concerned
B. Marrying an occultic person disguised as a born-again Christian
C. Losing one's job due to lack of qualifications
D. Engaging in businesses with the wrong people

4. What specific warning did the author receive about his close friend at the wedding ceremony in 1980?
A. He is your rival for ministry leadership
B. He is your enemy
C. He will betray you for money
D. He is planning to leave the church

5. What is the primary reason the devotional states believers must ask God for the gift of the discerning of spirits?
A. To gain fame for being spiritually sensitive
B. To be able to predict future events with accuracy
C. To prevent the error of making an enemy a friend and a friend an enemy
D. To help Christian employers screen job applicants

Prayer Points on "DISCERNING OF SPIRITS I"

1. Father, I thank You for the truth in Your Word that reveals the devil often comes disguised as an angel of light to deceive and destroy (2 Corinthians 11:14). Thank You for providing the gift of the discerning of spirits to protect Your children, in Jesus’ name.

2. Merciful God, I repent for every time I have been spiritually blind, naïve, or lacked caution, allowing agents of the devil into my life, home, or business. Forgive me for putting my guard down and trusting in mere appearance rather than seeking Your spiritual insight. Wash me with the blood of Jesus (1 John 4:1).

3. My Father, my God, I ask for the gift of the discerning of spirits to operate strongly in my life. Let me not fall into the devil's trap of mistaking darkness for light and evil for good, in Jesus’ name.

4. Lord, give me an inward witness and a clear spiritual alarm system that warns me about the devil’s agents and false prophets before they can cause major damage to my destiny, finances, or relationships, in Jesus’ name.

5. Oh God, the protector of destinies, I pray against any plan of the enemy to marry me (or my loved ones) to an occultic partner disguised as a born-again Christian. Expose and scatter every demonic relationship setup in the name of Jesus.

6. Father, help me to discern the spirits controlling those I engage with in business, employment, ministry, and friendship. I refuse to engage with the wrong people out of spiritual ignorance. Open my eyes to see the genuine and the counterfeit, in Jesus’ name.

7. Holy Spirit, guide the hearts of Christian employers and leaders to be sensitive to discern the kind of spirits applicants and associates carry, so that they do not introduce negative spiritual influences into their organizations or churches, in Jesus’ name.

8. Lord, I pray that I will not commit the error of making an enemy a friend or a friend an enemy because of a lack of spiritual discernment. Give me the grace to truly know the spirits controlling the people around me, in Jesus’ name.

9. I pray for the exposure of every devil, agent, or enemy around me currently disguised as an angel of light—a loyal friend, a helpful colleague, a well-meaning relative, or a close associate. Let their true colours be revealed, just as You exposed the secret enemy to Pastor Adeboye, in Jesus’ name.

10. My personal prayer point: (Mention any specific area—a relationship, a new venture, or a specific person—where you need immediate and accurate spiritual discernment).

11. Thank You, Father, for hearing and answering my prayers. I declare that I walk by Your Spirit, my eyes are spiritually open, and I shall not be deceived by the schemes of the enemy, in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen!

Lord Jesus, I come to You with a deeply repentant heart, please, forgive me and wash all my sins away with your precious blood shed at Calvary. I surrender my life to you, today, and, I accept You, as my personal Lord and Saviour. Please, come into my life and save my soul from eternal damnation.

OPEN HEAVEN DAILY DEVOTIONAL


DATE: THURSDAY NOVEMBER 13TH 2024


THEME: DISCERNING OF SPIRITS I


MEMORISE: And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:14


READ: 1 John 4:1-3
1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:

3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.


MESSAGE
Many children of God have fallen into the devil’s trap because they lacked the gift of the discerning of spirits. Usually, the messengers that the devil sends to believers appear as angels of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). They usually seem harmless and very Iikeable, such that believers let their guards down around them and put their trust in them. By the time such believers realize that they are dealing with the devil’s agents, major damage would have been done, and they would have lost ground to the devil where their destiny is concerned. However, if such believers have the gift of the discerning of Spirits, they will get an inward witness, warning them about the devil’s agents.

Some Christian ladies have married occultic men who disguised themselves as born-again Christians because they did not have the gift of the discerning of spirits. Likewise, some believers have engaged in businesses with the wrong people because they lacked the gift of the discerning of spirits. Christian employers should not only look at the qualifications of the people they intend to employ; they should also be sensitive to discern the kind of spirits they carry so they do not impact their organizations negatively.

In 1980, I attended the wedding ceremony of one of my three close friends at the time. When I got to the venue, one of the other two friends welcomed me warmly and was doing everything to make me comfortable by offering me all kinds of drinks, food, and souvenirs. Suddenly, I heard God say, “He is your enemy.” I was shocked because I was really close to him and thought I knew him so well. However, I started treading carefully around him from that day on. Sometime later, I confronted him with what God told me, but he denied being an enemy. Some months later, we met again to discuss issues concerning the church after the death of my Father in the Lord. There, he showed his true colors and said, “From the day you came into this church, I hated you.”

Beloved, if you don’t have the gift of the discerning of Spirits, you most likely will commit the error of making an enemy a friend and a friend an enemy. This is why you must ask God for the gift of the discerning of spirits so you can truly know the spirits controlling the people around you. I pray that every devil disguised as an angel of light around you will be exposed, in Jesus’ name.


PRAYER POINT
Father, please give me the gift of the discerning of spirits.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Acts 6-7


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 28: GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH
Guide me, O thou great Jehovah
Pilgrim through this barren land;
I am weak, but you are mighty;
Hold me with your powerful hand.
Bread of heaven, bread of heaven,
Feed me now and evermore,
Feed me now and evermore.

2 Open now the crystal fountain,
Where the healing waters flow.
Let the fire and cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through.
Strong Deliverer, strong Deliverer,
Ever be my strength and shield,
Ever be my strength and shield.

3 When I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside.
Death of death, and hell’s Destruction,
Land me safe on Canaan’s side.
Songs of praises, songs of praises
I will ever sing to you,
I will ever sing to you

Here are the correct answers to the quiz:

1. C. He allowed pride to make him feel too important to interpret for a regular pastor.
2. C. Pride and self-exaltation.
3. C. He sincerely humbled himself before the Lord.
4. B. A poor spirit, a contrite spirit, and trembling at His word.
5. C. Dogs would lick his blood in the place where they licked Naboth's blood.

Quiz on the devotional "STAY HUMBLE II," presented in plain text format:

1. What was the central reason the General Superintendent's interpreter momentarily lost the guidance of God's voice?
A. He failed to interpret a sermon correctly.
B. He openly disrespected another pastor during a program.
C. He allowed pride to make him feel too important to interpret for a regular pastor.
D. He started asking God for guidance on too many mundane things.

2. According to the devotional's message, what state makes a Christian vulnerable to the devil's attacks?
A. Being too busy with ministry work.
B. Being excessively knowledgeable about the Bible.
C. Pride and self-exaltation.
D. Asking God for too many personal favors.

3. King Ahab's judgment was postponed because of which action?
A. He confessed his sin to his wife, Jezebel.
B. He immediately returned Naboth's vineyard.
C. He sincerely humbled himself before the Lord.
D. He consulted the prophet Elijah for a solution.

4. The memory verse, Isaiah 66:2, indicates that God looks favorably upon the person who possesses which three qualities?
A. Wealth, power, and wisdom.
B. A poor spirit, a contrite spirit, and trembling at His word.
C. Strength, courage, and a zealous heart.
D. Good works, consistent tithing, and faithfulness.

5. What was the Lord's immediate judgment pronounced upon King Ahab for his wickedness in taking Naboth's vineyard?
A. His entire kingdom would be taken from him immediately.
B. He would be struck with leprosy for seven years.
C. Dogs would lick his blood in the place where they licked Naboth's blood.
D. He would die in battle against the Syrians the following day.

Prayer Points on "STAY HUMBLE II"

1. Father, I thank You for the powerful reminder in Your Word that You look to the one who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembles at Your Word (Isaiah 66:2). Thank You for the grace You extend to the humble, in Jesus' name.

2. Merciful God, I repent for every act of pride, arrogance, self-exaltation, and murmuring that has crept into my heart, just as it happened to the author in the message. Forgive me for anytime I have felt "too big" for any assignment, person, or position. Wash me in the blood of Jesus (1 Peter 5:5).

3. My Father, my God, deliver me from the spirit of King Ahab, who was led by pride and covetousness to commit terrible wickedness. I refuse to sell myself to work evil in Your sight. Help me to flee from all forms of compromise and unrighteous ambition, in Jesus' name (1 Kings 21:20).

4. Lord, I pray that You will help me to maintain a humble and teachable heart in all circumstances. Let my humility be genuine, not just outward show, so that I never lose Your voice or Your guiding presence in my life, in Jesus' name.

5. Oh God, the source of all power, I ask for the grace to immediately and genuinely humble myself before You whenever I am rebuked, corrected, or become aware of my sin, just as King Ahab rent his clothes and fasted. Let my repentance provoke Your mercy and lead to the postponement or cancellation of negative judgment, in Jesus' name (1 Kings 21:27, 29).

6. Father, let every arrow of the devil targeted at me through the open door of pride be frustrated and nullified. By Your grace, I will not leave myself vulnerable to the enemy’s attacks. Be my defense and fight for me as I acknowledge my inability to fight alone, in Jesus' name (James 4:6).

7. By the authority in the Name of Jesus, I dismantle every prideful thought that makes me look down on others, especially Your anointed servants, regardless of their rank or position. Give me the grace to honour and obey those You have placed over me without murmuring, in Jesus' name (Romans 13:1-2).

8. According to Your Word, I declare that I will always choose humility. I refuse to be rejected by You. Let the grace that causes men to walk in victory and receive perpetual upliftment rest upon my life, in Jesus' name (1 Peter 5:6).

9. I lift up Your son, Pastor E. A. Adeboye. Father, thank You for using his life as a great testimony of humility. Continue to uphold him and his ministry with Your strong right hand, and let every blessing and promise concerning him be fully established, in Jesus' name.

10. My personal prayer point: (Mention any specific area where you struggle with pride or any relationship where you need a deeper spirit of humility and contrition).

11. Thank You, Father, for hearing and answering my prayers. I declare that I am clothed with humility, and I will continually find grace and favor in Your sight all the days of my life, in Jesus' mighty name. Amen!

Lord Jesus, I come to You with a deeply repentant heart, please, forgive me and wash all my sins away with your precious blood shed at Calvary. I surrender my life to you, today, and, I accept You, as my personal Lord and Saviour. Please, come into my life and save my soul from eternal damnation.

OPEN HEAVEN DAILY DEVOTIONAL


DATE: WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 12TH 2025


THEME: STAY HUMBLE II


MEMORISE: For al those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word. Isaiah 66:2


READ: 1 Kings 21:15-29
15 And it came to pass, when Jezebel heard that Naboth was stoned, and was dead, that Jezebel said to Ahab, Arise, take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give thee for money: for Naboth is not alive, but dead.

16 And it came to pass, when Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, that Ahab rose up to go down to the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, to take possession of it.

17 And the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying,

18 Arise, go down to meet Ahab king of Israel, which is in Samaria: behold, he is in the vineyard of Naboth, whither he is gone down to possess it.

19 And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the LORD, Hast thou killed, and also taken possession? And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the LORD, In the place where dogs licked the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick thy blood, even thine.

20 And Ahab said to Elijah, Hast thou found me, O mine enemy? And he answered, I have found thee: because thou hast sold thyself to work evil in the sight of the LORD.

21 Behold, I will bring evil upon thee, and will take away thy posterity, and will cut off from Ahab him that pisseth against the wall, and him that is shut up and left in Israel,

22 And will make thine house like the house of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, and like the house of Baasha the son of Ahijah, for the provocation wherewith thou hast provoked me to anger, and made Israel to sin.

23 And of Jezebel also spake the LORD, saying, The dogs shall eat Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel.

24 Him that dieth of Ahab in the city the dogs shall eat; and him that dieth in the field shall the fowls of the air eat.

25 But there was none like unto Ahab, which did sell himself to work wickedness in the sight of the LORD, whom Jezebel his wife stirred up.

26 And he did very abominably in following idols, according to all things as did the Amorites, whom the LORD cast out before the children of Israel.

27 And it came to pass, when Ahab heard those words, that he rent his clothes, and put sackcloth upon his flesh, and fasted, and lay in sackcloth, and went softly.

28 And the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying,

29 Seest thou how Ahab humbleth himself before me? Because he humbleth himself before me, I will not bring the evil in his days: but in his son’s days will I bring the evil upon his house.


MESSAGE
After I became born again, I started hearing God speak to me, and I stopped doing anything without His guidance or approval. In those days, I would ask Him which routes to drive through so I would not get caught in traffic jams, and He would guide me. However, something happened that made Him stop speaking to me for a while. I was an interpreter in the church, and the General Superintendent took a special interest in me and made me his personal interpreter. When the other pastors in the Church realized that he had chosen me to be his interpreter, they stopped asking me to interpret for them out of respect for him.

One day, we had a programme, and a pastor told me that I would be interpreting for him during his sermon. I became angry, but I didn’t object because the Bible teaches that we should always honor and obey those whom God has placed over us (Romans 13:1-2). I interpreted during his sermon, but in my heart, I murmured, “How can you call me, the interpreter to the General Superintendent, to interpret for you?” At the end of the programme, as I walked towards my car, God told me, “Son, so you are now too big to interpret for my servant.” That was all He said, and I didn’t hear His voice again. The period that followed was like hell because He stopped speaking to me. I was constantly stuck in heavy traffic as His voice wasn’t guiding me anymore. I pleaded with Him and promised never to allow pride to creep into my heart again. Thankfully, He started speaking to me again.

Pride will make a Christian vulnerable to all arrows from the devil. However, when a Christian stays humble, God will be his or her defense. God will always fight for humble people because they have acknowledged through their humility that they cannot fight for themselves.

In today’s Bible reading, Ahab did a terrible thing before God, and God sent Elijah to pass judgment on him for his wickedness. When he heard God’s word, Ahab humbled himself before God, who had sworn to destroy him. When God saw that he had humbled himself, He sent Elijah to tell him that He would not bring evil in his days (1 Kings 21:27-29). God postponed Ahab’s judgement because of his humility.

Beloved do not leave yourself vulnerable to the devil’s attacks. Humble yourself before God, and He will cause you to always walk in victory.


KEY POINT
God rejects the proud, but He gives grace to the humble.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Acts 4-5


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 31: YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION
1 Yield not to temptation,
For yielding is sin;
Each vict’ry will help you,
Some other to win;
Fight valiantly onward,
Evil passions subdue;
Look ever to Jesus,
He will carry you through.

Refrain:
Ask the Savior to help you,
Comfort, strengthen and keep you;
He is willing to aid you,
He will carry you through.

2 Shun evil companions,
Bad language disdain;
God’s name hold in rev’rence,
Nor take it in vain;
Be thoughtful and earnest,
Kindhearted and true;
Look ever to Jesus,
He will carry you through.

3 To him that o’ercometh,
God giveth a crown;
Through faith we will conquer,
Though often cast down;
He who is our Savior,
Our strength will renew;
Look ever to Jesus,
He will carry you through.

Here are the correct answers for the quiz:

1. Based on the devotional, what is the primary consequence that immediately follows pride, according to Proverbs 11:2?
C. Shame

2. According to the devotional, what natural element is used as an analogy to represent a humble person during a storm?
C. A blade of grass

3. Which of the following is an effect of pride mentioned in the devotional that causes people to "close the heavens over themselves"?
B. It makes them feel self-sufficient and resistant to God's grace.

4. The devotional uses the example of a powerful biblical king who ate grass like an ox for seven years as a result of his pride. Who was this king?
D. King Nebuchadnezzar

5. According to James 4:6, as cited in the message, what does God give to the humble?
C. Grace

Quiz on the devotional "Stay Humble I."

1. Based on the devotional, what is the primary consequence that immediately follows pride, according to Proverbs 11:2?
A. Exaltation
B. Wisdom
C. Shame
D. Preservation

2. According to the devotional, what natural element is used as an analogy to represent a humble person during a storm?
A. A rock
B. A tall tree
C. A blade of grass
D. A running river

3. Which of the following is an effect of pride mentioned in the devotional that causes people to "close the heavens over themselves"?
A. It makes them seek help from others.
B. It makes them feel self-sufficient and resistant to God's grace.
C. It leads them to submit to their elders.
D. It allows them to access God's wisdom easily.

4. The devotional uses the example of a powerful biblical king who ate grass like an ox for seven years as a result of his pride. Who was this king?
A. King David
B. King Solomon
C. Pharaoh
D. King Nebuchadnezzar

5. According to James 4:6, as cited in the message, what does God give to the humble?
A. Honour
B. Riches
C. Grace
D. A throne

Prayers

1. Father, I thank You for the grace of life and the wisdom in Your word. I pray for Your help to always clothe myself with humility as You command, so I may always enjoy Your grace, in Jesus' name (1 Peter 5:5).

2. Merciful God, I repent of any form of pride, haughtiness, self-sufficiency, and desire to show off in my heart. Deliver me from the spirit that resists Your authority and wisdom, in Jesus' name.

3. Heavenly Father, Your word says You resist the proud but give grace to the humble (James 4:6). I humble myself under Your mighty hand; let Your abundant grace flow freely into my life, my work, and my ministry, in Jesus' name.

4. Lord, grant me the wisdom of the lowly grass. When the storms and trials of life come, let my humility allow me to bend and not break, ensuring my preservation and eventual triumph, in Jesus' name.

5. The memory verse states that pride brings shame (Proverbs 11:2). I refuse to invite shame into my life. Deliver me from any attitude or action that precedes destruction and fall, and let honour uphold me because of my humility, in Jesus' name (Proverbs 16:18, 29:23).

6. Father, open my eyes to see myself as You see me. Deliver me from the delusion that pride brings, which makes me think I am the best or self-sufficient. Give me the wisdom to always seek self-improvement and help from others, in Jesus' name.

7. I humble myself under the mighty hand of God today. I pray for the patience to wait for Your perfect timing, knowing that You will surely exalt me in due time according to Your promise, in Jesus' name (1 Peter 5:6).

8. As I humble myself, I cast all my cares, anxieties, and burdens upon You, knowing that You care for me deeply. Let this act of trust further express my dependence and humility before You, in Jesus' name (1 Peter 5:7).

9. I pray that You grant me the gentle Spirit to become more like Jesus, who was lowly and meek. Help me to follow His example of humility in my interactions and service, in Jesus' name.

10. Father, I pray for my loved ones, leaders, and those in positions of power. Grant us all the grace to remain humble as we attain heights, and keep us from the destruction and downfall that come with pride, in Jesus' name.

Lord Jesus, I come to You with a deeply repentant heart, please, forgive me and wash all my sins away with your precious blood shed at Calvary. I surrender my life to you, today, and, I accept You, as my personal Lord and Saviour. Please, come into my life and save my soul from eternal damnation.

OPEN HEAVEN DAILY DEVOTIONAL


DATE: TUESDAY NOVEMBER 11TH 2025


THEME: STAY HUMBLE I


MEMORISE: When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom. Proverbs 11:2


READ: 1 Peter 5:5-7
5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.


MESSAGE
If there is a storm in the jungle, big, tall trees might be uprooted. However, by the time the storm is over, the lowly grass will remain in its position. When strong winds blow, a blade of grass will bow in the direction of the wind, but after the wind blows, it will return to its former posture and remain like that. In life, storms happen every now and then. When a storm comes, many people who have pride in their hearts and consider themselves to be better than everyone else are usually blown off, while the unknown – the meek and lowly -remain and praise God after the storm has passed. Everyone who became proud in the Bible was eventually blown off by one thing or the other. Nebuchadnezzar was blown off his throne for seven years, and he ate grass like an ox because he refused to remain humble (Daniel 4:28-37). Pharaoh lost his army to the Red Sea because he refused to acknowledge God and insisted on stubbornly pursuing God’s people (Exodus 14:28). Pride makes people put themselves in a place where they can be easily destroyed. Beloved, no matter the height you attain in life, it is wise for you to remain humble and avoid becoming a show-off.

Today’s memory verse tells us that with pride comes shame, but with the lowly is wisdom. Nobody can access God’s wisdom with a proud heart. When a man becomes proud, he invites shame to visit him. Pride always goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). A humble man, however, will enjoy preservation and promotion because humility attracts God’s favor and blessings. Proverbs 29:23 tells us that while a man’s pride brings him low, a humble man will be upheld by honor.

Pride is very dangerous because it makes people delusional. When they ought to work on themselves to become better, pride will lie to them that they are the best. Instead of seeking or receiving help from others, pride will deceive them that they are self-sufficient and do not need other people. When people allow pride into their hearts, they close the heavens over themselves because God resists the proud and only gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).

Beloved, no man can go far without the grace of God. If you want God’s grace in everything you do, clothe yourself with humility and never allow pride into your heart.


PRAYER POINT
Father, please help me to always clothe myself with humility so that I can always enjoy your grace, in Jesus


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Acts 1-3


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 24: I WANT TO BE LIKE JESUS
1 I want to be like Jesus,
So lowly and so meek;
For no one marked an angry word
That ever heard him speak.

Refrain:
I want to be like Jesus,
God’s well beloved Son;
I want to be like Jesus,
The pure and holy One.

2 I want to be like Jesus,
So frequently in prayer;
Alone upon the mountain top,
He met his Father there.

3 I want to be like Jesus,
Engaged in doing good,
So that of me it may be said,
He hath done what he could.

4 Alas! I’m not like Jesus,
As any one may see;
Thy gentle Spirit, Savior, send,
And make me like to thee.

Answers to the quiz:

1. C
2. B
3. C
4. D
5. C

Questions on "THE BACKSTAGE AND THE LIMELIGHT II"

1. According to the devotional's analogy comparing a building to a believer's life, which part of the building represents the aspect of a person that is noticed first but is most likely to be blown off first in a storm?
A. The foundation
B. The walls
C. The roof
D. The beams

2. The message suggests that an unhealthy desire to be constantly seen and known is dangerous because it makes a person more likely to:
A. Fail to appreciate the wisdom of the foundation.
B. Be the first to be blown off when storms come.
C. Be unable to fulfill prophetic words given about them.
D. Miss the opportunity to be used in God's service.

3. Which of the following biblical figures was **not** explicitly mentioned in the devotional as someone God hid or whose parents hid to preserve their destiny?
A. Moses
B. John the Baptist
C. Isaac
D. Jesus

4. In the Bible reading (Matthew 2:13-20), where was the young child Jesus instructed to be hidden by an angel of the Lord to escape the wrath of Herod?
A. Nazareth
B. Bethlehem
C. The wilderness
D. Egypt

5. The Key Point of the devotional advises that regarding one's realm of influence or announcement, the believer should:
A. Pray until the King's commandment is overruled.
B. Insist on being in the spotlight to fulfil their destiny.
C. Let God be the One to announce them at the right time.
D. Remain in the wilderness until the day of their showing unto all nations.

Prayer Points on "THE BACKSTAGE AND THE LIMELIGHT II"

1. Father, I thank You for the deep wisdom revealed in Your word, reminding us that the foundation bears the greatest burden and is the most secure part of the building, in Jesus' name.

2. Merciful Father, I repent of every unhealthy desire for limelight recognition, and immediate announcement. Forgive me for any impatience with Your divine timing, in Jesus' name.

3. Lord, grant me the humility and contentment to embrace the "backstage" season You have ordained for me, knowing that You are only preserving and preparing me until the right time, in Jesus' name.

4. Oh God, I ask for a new heart that genuinely seeks to please You alone, so I won't be among those who are quickly blown off by the storms that come with an unhealthy desire to be seen, in Jesus' name.

5. I pray that You will hide and preserve my destiny, just as You hid baby Moses, John the Baptist in the wilderness, and the young Jesus in Egypt, from every 'Herod' and 'Pharaoh' after my life, in Jesus' name (Matthew 2:13-20; Exodus 2:1-10).

6. Father, shield me from the temptation to insist on being in the spotlight when You have not permitted it. Deliver me from exposing my destiny to danger through spiritual impatience, in Jesus' name.

7. I decree and declare that I will not get frustrated if it seems my season of influence has not yet come. My trust remains total in Your faithfulness and Your perfect timing, in Jesus' name.

8. Lord, I pray for the grace of true faith that allows me to obey Your instructions, even when they involve hiding or waiting in the background, just as Moses' parents acted by faith to hide him, in Jesus' name (Hebrews 11:23).

9. I declare that You alone will announce me at the appointed time. I submit my ambition, my reputation, and my calling entirely to Your divine calendar and will, in Jesus' name (Key Point).

10. My personal prayer point: (Mention a specific area of your life or career where you are currently in a "backstage" season and ask God for patience, faithfulness, and protection during this time).

11. Thank You, Father, for hearing and answering my prayers. I declare that I am safe and secure in Your plan, and I will emerge at Your perfect time, in Jesus' mighty name. Amen!

Lord Jesus, I come to You with a deeply repentant heart, please, forgive me and wash all my sins away with your precious blood shed at Calvary. I surrender my life to you, today, and, I accept You, as my personal Lord and Saviour. Please, come into my life and save my soul from eternal damnation.

OPEN HEAVEN DAILY DEVOTIONAL


DATE: MONDAY NOVEMBER 10TH 2025


THEME: THE BACKSTAGE AND THE LIMELIGHT II


MEMORISE: By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the King’s commandment. Hebrews 11:23


READ: Matthew 2:13-20
13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.

14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:

15 And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.

17 Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,

18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.

19 But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,

20 Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child’s life.

21 And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.


MESSAGE
Yesterday, I said that Andrew was promoted to being in the background instead of the spotlight. Today, I will continue my discussion on Matthew 10:2 by sharing a few questions God asked me when I was studying the verse. He asked, “What part of a building carries the biggest burden?” I answered, “The foundation”. He asked again, what part of the building is unseen?” I responded, “The foundation”. He continued, “If the building is burnt down, what part of it escapes the fire?” I answered, “The foundation”. Finally, He asked, “When there is a storm, what part is blown off first?” I answered, “The roof”. The roof is the part of a building that people usually notice first, and it is the one that is usually blown off first in a storm while the foundation remains intact. People who want to be seen every time are more likely to be blown off by storms.

Believers who have an unhealthy desire to be seen and known as the people who make things happen need to pray to God for new hearts, so they won’t be the first to be blown off when storms come. God often hides people to preserve them. Before John the Baptist began his ministry, he was in the wilderness until the day of his showing unto Israel (Luke 1:80). God hid him until the right time. If John had insisted that he wanted to fulfil all the prophetic words the angel gave his father before the day of his showing, he might have been blown off. Even when Jesus came to the earth as a man, God didn’t announce Him to the whole world immediately. As we read in today’s Bible reading, God instructed Joseph to hide Jesus in Egypt until it was safe to return to Israel. Moses’ mother also hid him for three months until she could no longer hide him from Pharaoh. She put him in a basket and put the basket on the River Nile, and God arranged for the very system that should have killed him to preserve him (Exodus 2:1-10). When people insist on being in the spotlight when God hasn’t permitted them, they expose themselves to the ‘Herod’s and ‘Pharaohs’ who are after their destinies.

Beloved, don’t get frustrated if it seems you are not operating in the realm of influence that God has promised you. He is faithful to His words and is only preserving you until the right time. Be patient and put your total trust in Him.


KEY POINT
Let God be the One to announce you at the right time.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: John 20-21


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 19: ROCK OF AGES CLEFT FOR ME
1 Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy riven side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save me from its guilt and power.

2 Not the labor of my hands
Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All could never sin erase,
Thou must save, and save by grace.

3 Nothing in my hands I bring,
Simply to Thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress,
Helpless, look to Thee for grace:
Foul, I to the fountain fly,
Wash me, Savior, or I die.

4 While I draw this fleeting breath,
When mine eyes shall close in death,
When I soar to worlds unknown,
See Thee on Thy judgment throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee

The correct answers to the quiz questions are as follows:

1. What is the core principle the devotional emphasizes as the basis for God’s ultimate reward?
B. Faithfulness and obedience.

2. According to the message, what was the reason for Andrew's apparent "demotion" from the second spot in the list of apostles to outside the 'first three' (Peter, James, and John)?
C. He was not demoted but promoted to a greater work behind the scenes.

3. What does the message say happens "behind the scenes" compared to what happens "in the limelight"?
B. What happens behind the scenes is usually greater than what happens in the limelight.

4. Based on the passage from Matthew 6:1-6, what is the key instruction regarding doing alms and prayer?
C. They should be done in secret, so the Father who sees in secret may reward openly.

5. Which verse contains the theme's memorise text?
D. "Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men."

QUIZ

1. What is the core principle the devotional emphasizes as the basis for God’s ultimate reward?
A. Public recognition and fame.
B. Faithfulness and obedience.
C. The number of people led to Christ.
D. The chronological order of conversion.

2. According to the message, what was the reason for Andrew's apparent "demotion" from the second spot in the list of apostles to outside the 'first three' (Peter, James, and John)?
A. He denied Jesus three times, unlike the others.
B. He was not as willing to call down fire on the unrepentant.
C. He was not demoted but promoted to a greater work behind the scenes.
D. He encountered Christ first, but his faith did not grow as quickly as Peter’s.

3. What does the message say happens "behind the scenes" compared to what happens "in the limelight"?
A. The limelight always offers greater distraction and pressure.
B. What happens behind the scenes is usually greater than what happens in the limelight.
C. The audience is usually more focused on the backstage work.
D. The rewards for the work in the limelight are always immediate and public.

4. Based on the passage from Matthew 6:1-6, what is the key instruction regarding doing alms and prayer?
A. They should be done in the synagogues or corners of the streets for maximum visibility.
B. They should be accompanied by sounding a trumpet to encourage others to join.
C. They should be done in secret, so the Father who sees in secret may reward openly.
D. They should be done before all men so they may glorify God for your good works.

5. Which verse contains the theme's memorise text?
A. "Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do..."
B. "The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother..."
C. "And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are..."
D. "Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men."

Prayer Points on "THE BACKSTAGE AND THE LIMELIGHT I"

1. Father, I thank You for the wisdom that is far greater than the wisdom of men, and for Your strength that is made perfect in our weakness, as Your word declares in 1 Corinthians 1:25.

2. Merciful Father, I repent for every time I have been desperate for the praise, approval, and recognition of men. Forgive me for any pride or desire to operate in the limelight just to be seen, thereby diminishing my secret reward, in Jesus' name (Matthew 6:1).

3. Lord, I ask for the grace to faithfully fulfill Your will for my life in whatever capacity You have placed me, whether in the public eye or behind the scenes, in Jesus' name. Help me to focus only on pleasing You (2 Corinthians 5:9).

4. Oh God, grant me the discipline to perform my acts of service, give my alms, and pray in secret, with no desire for my left hand to know what my right hand is doing, so that You, who see in secret, may reward me openly, in Jesus' name (Matthew 6:3-4).

5. I bind and cast out every spirit of hypocrisy and attention-seeking that makes one desire to be seen and praised by men. Let my heart’s motive in every good work be pure and solely focused on Your glory, in Jesus' name (Matthew 6:5).

6. Father, I receive the wisdom to appreciate the value of working behind the scenes, knowing that true, lasting reward, promotion, and power often reside in the unseen work of faithfulness and obedience, just as Andrew was reserved a special place, in Jesus' name.

7. Lord, deliver me from the distractions, pressures, and potential pitfalls that often come with excessive fame and public recognition. Let me be content with the role You have chosen for me, in Jesus' name.

8. I declare that my reward will not be based on my popularity, but solely on my faithfulness and obedience to Your commands. I ask for the strength and consistency to be a good and faithful servant, in Jesus' name (Key Point).

9. I lift up Your son, Pastor E. A. Adeboye. Father, continue to bless him with profound revelatory messages like this, and shield him from the pressures of fame, keeping his focus perpetually on Your secret counsel and divine will, in Jesus' name.

10. My personal prayer point: (Mention a specific area of service or ministry where you desire to operate with greater faithfulness, regardless of public recognition).

11. Thank You, Father, for hearing and answering my prayers. I declare that I will walk in humility, faithfulness, and obedience, and my reward will be great in heaven, in Jesus' mighty name. Amen!

Lord Jesus, I come to You with a deeply repentant heart, please, forgive me and wash all my sins away with your precious blood shed at Calvary. I surrender my life to you, today, and, I accept You, as my personal Lord and Saviour. Please, come into my life and save my soul from eternal damnation.

OPEN HEAVEN DAILY DEVOTIONAL


DATE: SUNDAY NOVEMBER 9TH 2025


THEME: THE BACKSTAGE AND THE LIMELIGHT I


MEMORISE: Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men. 1 Corinthians 1:25


READ: Matthew 6:1-6
1 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.

2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:

4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.

5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.


MESSAGE
Yesterday, I mentioned that I would discuss what I learned from Matthew 10:2, so I will focus on this verse for the next few days. The verse says, “…The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;” The question is, why was Andrew listed second even though he encountered Christ first (John 1:40-41)? Normally, if 1 were to arrange the list of apostles by their first encounter with Jesus, I would say the first is Andrew, the second is Peter, and so on. This makes me believe that the verse lists the apostles by Jesus’ intended hierarchy. However, as time went on, Andrew dropped from number two, such that he was not even among the first three apostles. Whenever Jesus wanted to go somewhere special, He would go with Peter, James, and John. What caused Andrew to be demoted?

If you read through the Bible, you will not find a single flaw about Andrew. Some of the other apostles had flaws: Peter denied Jesus thrice, and James and John wanted to call fire down from heaven to destroy an entire town that did not welcome Jesus (Luke 9:51-54).

Despite this, it seemed that Andrew got demoted. However, the Lord told me that Andrew was not demoted; instead, he was promoted. The Lord told me that when Jesus informed the mother of James and John that only His Father will determine those who will sit on His right and left, He meant that the seats were already reserved. The Lord then further whispered to me that one of those seats has been reserved for Andrew. What happens behind the scenes is usually greater than what happens in the limelight. While most people focus on the stage, the real work and benefits are usually behind the scenes. You may not know it, but the producers of successful movies, who are behind the scenes, usually earn more and are more respected than the actors in the limelight. They also don’t have to deal with the distractions and pressures that come with fame.

Beloved don’t be desperate for public recognition and the approval of others. Your main focus should be on fulfilling God’s will for your life in whatever capacity He has placed you. God rewards based on faithfulness and obedience, not on fame or perceived influence. I pray that God will reward you bountifully as you focus solely on pleasing Him (2 Corinthians 5:9).


KEY POINT
God does not reward based on popularity but on faithfulness and obedience.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: John 18-19


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 30: WHEN WE WALK WITH THE LORD
1 When we walk with the Lord
In the light of his word,
What a glory he sheds on our way!
While we do his good will,
He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.

Refrain:
Trust and obey, for there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

2 Not a burden we bear,
Not a sorrow we share,
But our toil he doth richly repay;
Not a grief or a loss,
Not a frown or a cross,
But is blest if we trust and obey.

3 But we never can prove
The delights of his love
Until all on the altar we lay;
For the favor he shows,
For the joy he bestows,
Are for them who will trust and obey.

4 Then in fellowship sweet
We will sit at his feet,
Or we’ll walk by his side in the way;
What he says we will do,
Where he sends we will go;
Never fear, only trust and obey.

Here are the correct answers:

1. B. He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance.
2. C. The wisdom of this world's princes and the hidden wisdom of God.
3. B. They are foolishness to him because they are spiritually discerned.
4. B. He stopped, asked the Holy Spirit which verse to dwell on, and read it repeatedly.
5. B. Intimacy with the Holy Spirit causes illumination, making one smarter and wiser.