₦airaland Forum

OPEN HEAVEN DAILY DEVOTION


DATE: TUESDAY JULY 15TH 2025


THEME: THE FRAGRANCE OF FAVOUR


MEMORISE: In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the
latter rain. Proverbs 16:15


READ: Psalms 44:1-3
1 We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, what work thou didst in their days, in the times of old.

2 How thou didst drive out the heathen with thy hand, and plantedst them; how thou didst afflict the people, and cast them out.

3 For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favour unto them.


MESSAGE
In Numbers 6:22-27, God commanded the priests to bless the Israelites and declare that His face will shine upon them. When God's face shines on you, you will receive a fragrance of His favor that will ensure that everywhere you go, people will find themselves showing you favor without knowing why.

In 1976, while I was a young lecturer, I attended a global conference of Applied Mathematicians in Canada as one of two delegates from Nigeria. At that time, I had only written 12 academic papers. In contrast, the man who gave the opening speech at the conference had published 150 papers! He spoke about the mathematics of the rain -I had never heard anything like that before. I looked around and asked, "God, what am I doing here?" I was supposed to present my paper the next day, so I prayed to God all night that He should glorify His name in my life during my presentation. I also prayed that the man wouldn't attend my presentation because he was probably going to think to himself, "Who brought this idiot here?" The time for my presentation came, and behold, the man was sitting right in front of me! However, when I finished presenting my paper, he stood up and began to clap. When everybody saw him clapping, they got up and began to clap too. My paper was not as special as the other papers that had been presented, but God had put His fragrance of favor on me.

When God puts His favor upon you, things will work effortlessly in your favor. When He put His favor on the Israelites, the Egyptians, who had tormented and tortured them for four hundred and thirty years, gave them everything they asked for.
And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them such things as they required. And they spoiled the Egyptians. Exodus 12:36

God's favor on a man will make even those who hate him to do everything to bless him. They will not understand why they are going the extra mile to give him all he needs.

God's favor on Esther made everyone who looked at her to accept her immediately. It also made the king choose her out of the many other damsels (Esther 2:15-17). When God lifts His countenance upon a fellow, that person becomes attractive to everyone who looks at him or her pray that God will lift His countenance upon you, in Jesus’ name.


PRAYER POINT
Father, please let the fragrance of Your favor rest on me and my family always, in Jesus' name.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Isaiah 1-3


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 8: I NEED THEE EVERY HOUR
1 I need Thee ev'ry hour,
Most gracious Lord;
No tender voice like Thine
Can peace afford.

Refrain:
I need Thee, oh, I need Thee;
Ev'ry hour I need Thee;
Oh, bless me now, my Savior,
I come to Thee.

2 I need Thee ev'ry hour,
Stay Thou nearby;
Temptations lose their pow’r
When Thou art nigh.

3 I need Thee ev'ry hour,
In joy or pain;
Come quickly and abide,
Or life is vain.

4 I need Thee ev'ry hour,
Teach me Thy will;
And Thy rich promises
In me fulfill.

Here are the correct answers for the objective questions:

1. According to the devotional, what characterizes a "true helpmeet"?
a) She stays with her husband through thick and thin.
b) She encourages her husband when things are tough.
d) She is her husband's greatest ally.

2. What was significant about Pastor E.A. Adeboye's wife's actions during his extended fasts?
b) She joined him for the first 40-day fast.
d) She insisted on continuing the fast even when Pastor Adeboye planned for her to stop.

3. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a prudent wife, as implied by the devotional and the scripture reading (Proverbs 19:14)?
c) She is a source of contention.

4. What did Pastor E.A. Adeboye emphasize about his early marriage experience with his wife?
a) They initially struggled financially, even playfully over food.
c) He promised her everything he would ever have and become.

5. Based on the "Key Point" of the devotional, what is the ultimate role of a true helpmeet?
c) To be her husband's greatest ally, standing by him through thick and thin.

Here are 5 objective questions on the devotional "Helpmeet Indeed II":

1. According to the devotional, what characterizes a "true helpmeet"?
a) She stays with her husband through thick and thin.
b) She encourages her husband when things are tough.
c) She helps her husband and then reminds him of her sacrifices.
d) She is her husband's greatest ally.
e) She shies away when things are challenging.

2. What was significant about Pastor E.A. Adeboye's wife's actions during his extended fasts?
a) She discouraged him from fasting for too long.
b) She joined him for the first 40-day fast.
c) She stopped fasting when the challenges remained after the second 40-day fast.
d) She insisted on continuing the fast even when Pastor Adeboye planned for her to stop.
e) She made him feel guilty for not being able to solve the problems faster.

3. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a prudent wife, as implied by the devotional and the scripture reading (Proverbs 19:14)?
a) She is a gift from the Lord.
b) She contributes positively to the household.
c) She is a source of contention.
d) She is valuable like house and riches.
e) She brings peace and stability.

4. What did Pastor E.A. Adeboye emphasize about his early marriage experience with his wife?
a) They initially struggled financially, even playfully over food.
b) He was the wealthiest among her suitors.
c) He promised her everything he would ever have and become.
d) Their marriage always felt like a honeymoon from the very beginning.
e) They could afford to eat a whole cow immediately after marriage.

5. Based on the "Key Point" of the devotional, what is the ultimate role of a true helpmeet?
a) To be her husband's greatest headache during challenges.
b) To take over all responsibilities from her husband.
c) To be her husband's greatest ally, standing by him through thick and thin.
d) To constantly remind her husband of her contributions.
e) To prioritize her own comfort above her husband's challenges.

PRAYER POINTS ON "HELPMEET INDEED"

Father, I thank You for the divine institution of marriage and for the revelation of a true helpmeet as described in Your Word, in Jesus' name.

Lord, I repent of any competitive spirit, pride, or self-centeredness that hinders wives from being true helpmeets to their husbands and husbands from cherishing their wives, in Jesus' name.

Father, I pray for all wives, that You will empower them with the spirit of the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31, enabling them to complement and support their husbands in fulfilling Your purpose, in Jesus' name.

I pray for grace for wives to be diligent, resourceful, and wise in managing their households, caring for their families, and contributing to their husband's success, just like the virtuous woman, in Jesus' name.

Lord, help husbands to safely trust their wives, recognizing their invaluable contribution and cherishing them as priceless gems, just as Pastor E.A. Adeboye cherishes his wife, in Jesus' name.

Father, remove every spirit of idleness, envy, or disunity that tries to creep into marriages. Let marriages be strong, united teams working towards shared goals, in Jesus' name.

I pray for humility for highly successful women, that they will continue to submit to their husbands as unto the Lord, knowing that this is Your divine order for a blessed marriage, in Jesus' name.

Lord, strengthen the hands of all wives to be supportive, to stand by their husbands through thick and thin, and to be their number one cheerleaders, in Jesus' name.

Father, I pray for all men to nourish and cherish their wives, protecting them and making them comfortable and happy, just as You desire, in Jesus' name.

Father, on this special day, the birthday of Your daughter, Pastor (Mrs.) Foluke Adeboye, we thank You for her life and for her exemplary role as a helpmeet indeed.

Lord, we pray that You will continue to strengthen and uphold her in every area of her life – spiritually, physically, emotionally, and mentally, in Jesus' name.

We ask, Father, that You grant her many more years in health and divine vitality, enabling her to continue to be a pillar of support and an inspiration to many, in Jesus' name.

May her anointing increase, and may she continue to be a blessing to the body of Christ and to her family, in Jesus' name.

My personal prayer point: Father, help me to be a more supportive and understanding partner to my spouse, always seeking their good and being their greatest ally, in Jesus' name.

Thank You, Father, for the beautiful blueprint of marriage and for the grace You provide to fulfill our roles. We receive the grace to build marriages that honor You and demonstrate Your love to the world, 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 14TH 2025


THEME: HELPMEET INDEED II


MEMORISE: And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. Genesis 2:18


READ: Prov 19:13-14

13 A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.

14 House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the Lord.


MESSAGE

A True helpmeet stays with her husband through thick and thin; she doesn't shy away when things are tough. I have been married for 57 years, and sometimes, it feels like my wife, and I are still on honeymoon. I was the poorest among those wooing her before we got married, but I told her that if she married me, everything l would ever have and become would be hers.

When we first got married, during our meals, we would playfully struggle over one piece of ponmo, but today, even if we want to eat a whole cow, we can do so because God has truly blessed us.

When things are tough, a true helpmeet encourages her husband; she supports him without making him feel less about himself. She does not help him and then turns around
to say, "You see what I did for you? Now you owe me so and so." It is a thing of joy for a true helpmeet to see opportunities to help her husband and then go ahead to help.

A helpmeet indeed is known during times when her husband is going through challenges. Years ago, I decided to fast because I was facing some serious challenges. I fasted for 40 days and nights, and because my wife knew that it wouldn't be easy for me to concentrate on my fast if she didn't join me, she fasted as well. After fasting and praying for 40 days and nights, the challenges remained, so I decided to go on another fast for 40 days and nights.
Again, she joined in the fast. After the second round of fasting, the challenges remained, so I decided to go again. This time, I planned to fast until God answered me. I didn't want my wife to go all the way with me, so we agreed that if after 40 days, the challenge remained, I would continue fasting, and she would stop. After 40 days and nights elapsed, she refused to stop. When I saw that she wasn't going to stop, I told God, “I cannot bear to lose my wife. Whenever You want, You can solve this problem, but I have to stop fasting now." She only stopped fasting when I stopped, and of course, God proved Himself faithful.

If you are a married woman, try as much as God helps you to help your husband resolve his challenges. A true helpmeet is her husband's greatest ally, not his greatest headache in the midst of life's challenges.


KEY POINT
A true helpmeet is her husband's greatest ally. She stands by him through thick and thin.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Song of Solomon 5-8


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 29: WHEN PEACE LIKE A RIVER ATTENDETH
1 When peace like a river attended my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say
It is well, it is well, with my soul

Refrain:
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul

2 My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought
My sin, not in part but the whole
Is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, oh, my soul

3 And Lord haste the day when my faith shall be sight
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll
The trumpet shall sound and the Lord shall descend
Even so, it is well with my soul

Here are the correct answers for the objective questions:

1. Which of the following characteristics are attributed to a "helpmeet" according to the devotional?
b) One who complements and supports her husband.
c) One who is never too busy to help her husband.
d) One who consistently strives to fulfill God's purpose for their lives.

2. According to the devotional, what is highlighted as a key reason for a husband's trust in his wife?
c) Her consistent willingness to do him good and not evil.
d) Her submission and support in fulfilling shared goals.

3. The devotional uses Pastor E.A. Adeboye's wife as an example of a helpmeet. Which of these actions did she perform that exemplifies this role?
a) She supervised the construction of the Mount Carmel Prayer Village.
b) She regularly cooked his meals and ironed his clothes.
c) She cut his hair when they lived in a remote location.

4. What is the consequence of couples competing against each other in a marriage, according to the devotional?
c) The marriage is unlikely to be successful.
e) A house divided against itself cannot stand.

5. Based on the devotional, if a man has a true helpmeet, how should he treat her?
b) He must nourish and cherish her.
c) He should view her as a priceless gem.
e) He should go the extra mile to make her comfortable and happy.

Here are 5 objective on the devotional "Helpmeet Indeed":

1. Which of the following characteristics are attributed to a "helpmeet" according to the devotional?
a) One who competes with her husband.
b) One who complements and supports her husband.
c) One who is never too busy to help her husband.
d) One who consistently strives to fulfill God's purpose for their lives.
e) One who prioritizes her own career above all else.

2. According to the devotional, what is highlighted as a key reason for a husband's trust in his wife?
a) Her physical beauty.
b) Her ability to generate significant income.
c) Her consistent willingness to do him good and not evil.
d) Her submission and support in fulfilling shared goals.
e) Her superior intellectual capabilities.

3. The devotional uses Pastor E.A. Adeboye's wife as an example of a helpmeet. Which of these actions did she perform that exemplifies this role?
a) She supervised the construction of the Mount Carmel Prayer Village.
b) She regularly cooked his meals and ironed his clothes.
c) She cut his hair when they lived in a remote location.
d) She allowed pride to hinder her submission to him.
e) She challenged his decisions publicly.

4. What is the consequence of couples competing against each other in a marriage, according to the devotional?
a) It leads to greater individual success.
b) It strengthens the bond between them.
c) The marriage is unlikely to be successful.
d) It demonstrates equality in the relationship.
e) A house divided against itself cannot stand.

5. Based on the devotional, if a man has a true helpmeet, how should he treat her?
a) He should expect her to handle all household duties.
b) He must nourish and cherish her.
c) He should view her as a priceless gem.
d) He should only protect her if it's convenient.
e) He should go the extra mile to make her comfortable and happy.

PRAYER POINTS ON "HELPMEET INDEED"

Father, I thank You for the divine institution of marriage and for the revelation of a true helpmeet as described in Your Word, in Jesus' name.

Lord, I repent of any competitive spirit, pride, or self-centeredness that hinders wives from being true helpmeets to their husbands and husbands from cherishing their wives, in Jesus' name.

Father, I pray for all wives, that You will empower them with the spirit of the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31, enabling them to complement and support their husbands in fulfilling Your purpose, in Jesus' name.

I pray for grace for wives to be diligent, resourceful, and wise in managing their households, caring for their families, and contributing to their husband's success, just like the virtuous woman, in Jesus' name.

Lord, help husbands to safely trust their wives, recognizing their invaluable contribution and cherishing them as priceless gems, just as Pastor E.A. Adeboye cherishes his wife, in Jesus' name.

Father, remove every spirit of idleness, envy, or disunity that tries to creep into marriages. Let marriages be strong, united teams working towards shared goals, in Jesus' name.

I pray for humility for highly successful women, that they will continue to submit to their husbands as unto the Lord, knowing that this is Your divine order for a blessed marriage, in Jesus' name.

Lord, strengthen the hands of all wives to be supportive, to stand by their husbands through thick and thin, and to be their number one cheerleaders, in Jesus' name.

Father, I pray for all men to nourish and cherish their wives, protecting them and making them comfortable and happy, just as You desire, in Jesus' name.

Father, on this special day, the birthday of Your daughter, Pastor (Mrs.) Foluke Adeboye, we thank You for her life and for her exemplary role as a helpmeet indeed.

Lord, we pray that You will continue to strengthen and uphold her in every area of her life – spiritually, physically, emotionally, and mentally, in Jesus' name.

We ask, Father, that You grant her many more years in health and divine vitality, enabling her to continue to be a pillar of support and an inspiration to many, in Jesus' name.

May her anointing increase, and may she continue to be a blessing to the body of Christ and to her family, in Jesus' name.

My personal prayer point: (Add your specific prayer regarding being a helpmeet, cherishing your spouse, or for specific marriages, e.g., "Father, help me to be a more supportive and understanding wife to my husband, always seeking his good, in Jesus' name." or "Lord, strengthen my husband to be a loving and protecting head of our home, in Jesus' name." )

Thank You, Father, for the beautiful blueprint of marriage and for the grace You provide to fulfill our roles. We receive the grace to build marriages that honor You and demonstrate Your love to the world, 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 JULY 13TH 2025


THEME: HELPMEET INDEED


MEMORISE: The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. Proverbs 31:11


READ: Prov 31:10-31
10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.

14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.

15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.

18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.

19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.

20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.

23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.

25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.

31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.


MESSAGE
A helpmeet is a wife who complements and supports her husband to fulfil God's purpose for their lives even when it is not convenient.

God ordained marriage as an institution where a wife helps her husband instead of competing with him, as the world paints it today. Just as the individuals in a team cannot compete against their teammates and expect to win, couples who compete against each other should not expect a successful marriage. A house divided against itself cannot stand (Mark 3:25). A husband and his wife are one and should work together as a team to achieve success in their marriage and in life (Mark 10:7-8 ).

Some highly successful women have allowed pride into their hearts such that they stop submitting to their husbands. Up until today, my wife cooks my meals. When the situation permits, she irons my clothes, and I iron hers too. When I was a teacher, and we were living in a remote location, she used to cut my hair. Just like the virtuous woman's husband in today's Bible reading, my heart safely trusts in her. She is never too busy to help me, and she upholds anything I uphold.

I remember when we were building the Mount Carmel Prayer Village. It was a massive project, but I went there only thrice-the day the foundation laying ceremony was done, the day I decided to take my grandchildren there, and the day the completed project was dedicated.
Throughout the duration of the construction, my wife supervised the project diligently - that is a helpmeet indeed! She is always willing to go through the necessary rigors to see that I achieve my goal. She has stood by me through thick and thin, which is why she has full access to everything God blesses me with. When a responsible man has a true helpmeet as a wife, he'll go the extra mile to protect her and make her comfortable and happy. I often say that a fellow can slap me, and I'll turn the other cheek, but if anyone touches my wife, such a fellow will have my God, the Consuming Fire, to contend with.

As a wife, can your husband rely on you? You must be able to make up for his weaknesses, celebrate his successes, and be his number one cheerleader. If you are a man that has a helpmeet indeed by his side, you must nourish and cherish her. She is a priceless gem and must be treated as one.


Prayer point
Today is my wife's birthday, please join me to pray that the Lord will continue to strengthen and uphold her.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Song of Solomon 1-4


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.

Here are answers to the quiz.

1. Answer: D) She was healed completely without medication.

2. Answer: B) Spending hours with God in secret.

3. Answer: B) He prayed earnestly and fervently.

4. Answer: B) Profound public results are birthed by intense secret sacrifices.

5. Answer: C) He would retreat to a solitary place to pray before performing miracles.

Here are 5 objective questions with multiple answers on the devotional:

1. According to the devotional, what was the outcome when the woman who had gone mad was taken to a psychiatric hospital after a simple prayer was said for her?

A) She was given medication and showed no improvement.
B) The specialist sent for her husband and told him there was nothing wrong with her.
C) She was admitted for further observation.
D) She was healed completely without medication.


2. What is the secret behind simple but powerful prayers, according to the devotional?

A) Reciting long prayers in public.
B) Spending hours with God in secret.
C) Using complex language in prayer.
D) Praying only during times of crisis.


3. According to James 5:17, what characterized Elijah's prayers?

A) He prayed briefly and occasionally.
B) He prayed earnestly and fervently.
C) He prayed only for himself.
D) He prayed only for others.

4. What is the relationship between public prayer results and secret sacrifices, according to the devotional?

A) Profound public results are independent of secret sacrifices.
B) Profound public results are birthed by intense secret sacrifices.
C) Secret sacrifices have no impact on public prayer results.
D) Public prayer results are more important than secret sacrifices.

5. According to the devotional, how did Jesus prepare for His miracles?

A) He prayed briefly before each miracle.
B) He didn't need to pray because He was God.
C) He would retreat to a solitary place to pray before performing miracles.
D) He relied on His disciples' prayers.

PRAYER POINTS ON "A SIMPLE PRAYER"

Father, I thank You for the revelation in Your word that simple prayers, birthed from intense fellowship with You in secret, can birth great miracles, in Jesus' name.

Lord, I repent of every neglect of the secret place of prayer and any belief that long, elaborate prayers are the only ones You answer, in Jesus' name.

Father, I pray for a fresh hunger and thirst for intimate fellowship with You in the secret place, just as Jesus exemplified, in Jesus' name.

I receive grace to dedicate ample time to private communion with You, knowing that this is the wellspring of power for impactful public prayers, in Jesus' name.

Lord, empower me to pray earnestly and fervently, even with simple words, that Your power may be made manifest through me, in Jesus' name.

Father, remove every doubt and unbelief concerning the efficacy of simple, Spirit-led prayers. Help me to believe that You are able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that I ask or think, in Jesus' name.

I pray for the anointing that makes simple prayers potent and effective, just like with Elijah and Your servant, Pastor E.A. Adeboye, in Jesus' name.

Lord, let my public ministrations and prayers be a direct result of profound secret sacrifices and intense labor in Your presence, in Jesus' name.

Father, grant me the wisdom to discern Your will and the courage to declare it with simple, powerful prayers, bringing forth Your desired results, in Jesus' name.

I pray for Pastor E. A. Adeboye, that You will continue to empower him with ever-increasing anointing for simple but powerful prayers, leading to countless testimonies and miracles, in Jesus' name.

My personal prayer point: (Add your specific prayer regarding simple but powerful prayers, e.g., "Father, help me to cultivate a consistent daily habit of spending an hour in secret prayer, in Jesus' name." or "Lord, use my simple prayers to bring healing and deliverance to those around me, in Jesus' name." )

Thank You, Father, for the profound truth that simple prayers, rooted in deep intimacy with You, can change circumstances and bring forth Your glory. I receive the grace to become a person of powerful, simple prayers, 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: SATURDAY JULY 12TH 2025


THEME: A SIMPLE PRAYER


MEMORISE: And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. Mark 1:35


READ: Jas 5:16-18
16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The

17 Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.

18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.


MESSAGE
Some years ago, a man's wife ran mad, and she was taken to a herbalist for treatment. After being with the herbalist for so long, she didn't get any better; rather, she only grew worse. Somebody told me about the situation, and I decided to go and pray for the woman.
When I got there, I said a simple prayer and left. After l left, some people contacted her husband and said, "This man came and prayed for only two minutes. Two minutes of prayer for this kind of problem?!" Since they didn't believe that the prayer worked, they decided to take her to a psychiatric hospital. When they got there, the specialist said, "Let us observe this Woman for a while so we can know the type of medication to administer to her." After two weeks, the specialist sent for her husband and told him, "If you say there is something wrong with this woman, then there must be something wrong with you."

With no medication and just a simple prayer, she was healed completely. In 1 Kings 18:36-38, Elijah's prayer that brought down fire must have just been for a few minutes. When ministers of God say simple prayers and great miracles happen, it is because they have spent hours with God in secret. When Jesus walked on the earth, He only had to speak once for every miracle He performed to happen. However, the Bible records in many instances that He would retreat from His disciples and other people to go to a solitary place to pray, just as we see in today's memory verse. This is the secret to simple prayers that carry so much power.

Every time Elijah prayed in the Bible, his prayers were short and very effective. In 2 Kings 1:9-12, when he decreed that fire should fall from heaven and consume the two captains and the soldiers they were in charge of, it was with a few words, "If I be a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and consume thee and thy fifty" Today's Bible reading tells us the secret behind those simple but powerful decrees - Elijah was a man like us who prayed earnestly and fervently, and God answered him (James 5:17). If you want to pray simple but powerful prayers in public, you must labor fervently and earnestly in prayers in the secret place. Profound public results are only birthed by intense secret sacrifices.


KEY POINT
The simple but powerful prayers that birth great miracles result from intense fellowship with God in secret.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Ecclesiastes 9-12


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 22: SWEET HOUR OF PRAYER
1 Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
that calls me from a world of care,
and bids me at my Father's throne
make all my wants and wishes known.
In seasons of distress and grief,
my soul has often found relief,
and oft escaped the tempter's snare
by thy return, sweet hour of prayer!

2 Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
the joys I feel, the bliss I share
of those whose anxious spirits burn
with strong desires for thy return!
With such I hasten to the place
where God my Savior shows his face,
and gladly take my station there,
and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!

3 Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
thy wings shall my petition bear
to him whose truth and faithfulness
engage the waiting soul to bless.
And since he bids me seek his face,
believe his word, and trust his grace,
I'll cast on him my every care,
and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!

Here are the correct answers to the objective questions:

1. a) Spiritual exercise (godliness)
2. c) A shortened lifespan
3. b) Not having enough time
4. b) Engaging in regular prayer walks
5. a) Managing weight
b) Strengthening bones and muscles
c) Reducing risk of getting sick
d) Improving mental health

Here are 5 objective questions on the devotional:

1. According to the devotional, what is *more* profitable than physical exercise?
a) Spiritual exercise (godliness)
b) Eating healthy food
c) Getting enough sleep
d) Having a lot of money

2. The devotional suggests that ignoring the "little profit" from physical exercise could lead to what?
a) Financial hardship
b) Spiritual weakness
c) A shortened lifespan
d) Marital problems

3. Which of the following is NOT given as a reason why people might neglect physical exercise, according to the devotional?
a) A desire for a "soft life"
b) Not having enough time
c) Not wanting to stress their bodies or stretch their muscles
d) Wanting life to be soft and easy

4. What does Pastor E. A. Adeboye mention as his personal way of exerting himself physically?
a) Going to the gym daily
b) Engaging in regular prayer walks
c) Playing sports
d) Doing strenuous manual labor

5. Which of these are benefits of regular exercise mentioned in the devotional? (Select all that apply)
a) Managing weight
b) Strengthening bones and muscles
c) Reducing risk of getting sick
d) Improving mental health

PRAYER POINTS ON "PHYSICAL EXERCISE IS PROFITABLE

Father, I thank You for Your word that reminds me of the importance of taking care of my physical body, in Jesus' name.

Lord, I repent of every neglect of my physical well-being and any desire for a "soft life" that has hindered me from exercising and maintaining good health, in Jesus' name.

Father, I pray for the discipline and motivation to engage in regular physical exercise, knowing that my body is Your temple and needs to be active and healthy for Your service, in Jesus' name.

I receive grace to overcome laziness and the urge to avoid physical exertion. Empower me to endure hardness as a good soldier of Christ, even in my physical activities, in Jesus' name.

Lord, help me to understand that the "little profit" from physical exercise is essential for my overall well-being and for fulfilling my purpose here on earth. Deliver me from self-imposed limitations due to physical inactivity, in Jesus' name.

Father, I pray for wisdom to find suitable forms of exercise that I can consistently engage in, whether it's prayer walks, other forms of exercise, or simply spending time under the sun, in Jesus' name.

I pray against any spirit of sickness or weakness that may arise from a lack of physical activity. Strengthen my bones, muscles, and overall immune system, in Jesus' name.

Lord, improve my mental health and clarity through consistent physical exertion. Help me to manage my weight and reduce my risk of chronic diseases, in Jesus' name.

Father, for those who have jobs requiring long periods of sitting, grant them the discipline to incorporate physical exercise into their daily routine. Remind us that our desire for a soft lifestyle should not shorten our lifespan, in Jesus' name.

I pray for Pastor E. A. Adeboye, that You will continue to grant him divine health, strength, and renewed vigor as he continues to lead Your people by example, demonstrating the balance between spiritual and physical well-being, in Jesus' name.

My personal prayer point: (Add your specific prayer regarding physical exercise, e.g., "Father, help me to consistently follow through with a daily 30-minute walk, in Jesus' name." or "Lord, give me the wisdom to find a physical activity I enjoy and can stick with, in Jesus' name." )

Thank You, Father, for providing me with a body to serve You and for the understanding that physical exercise is profitable. I receive the power to kickstart and maintain a regular physical exercise routine for Your glory, 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 JULY 11TH 2025


THEME: PHYSICAL ERXERCISE IS PROFITABLE


MEMORISE: For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. 1 Timothy 4:8


READ: 1Cor 6:19-20
19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.


MESSAGE
Today's memory verse tells us that the profit from spiritual exercise - which is godliness- far outweighs that of physical exercise but also implies that the little profit from physical exercise cannot be gained from spiritual exercise. To function excellently in this physical realm, you need your body to be active and healthy, hence the need for physical exercise. If you ignore the little profit from physical exercise, no matter how godly you are, you just may shorten your lifespan here on earth by yourself.

Many people today want to live a soft Life. They do not want to engage in things that will stress their bodies or stretch their muscles. They want life to be soft and easy, even though the Bible says that we should endure hardness as good soldiers of Christ (2 Timothy 2:3). You need to be in good physical shape to do the things that God put you on the earth to do. Therefore, you should always find time to exercise your body so that you can remain physically fit for God's use.

Nowadays, a lot of people are living endangered lives because they do not exert themselves physically. They move from air-conditioned rooms in their houses to air-conditioned cars and then air-conditioned offices. Many people will not even attend a church without air conditioning. However, doctors advise that it is important to sweat. It is also important to stay under the sun for a while every day, especially around midday, because sunlight has tremendous qualities that are good for the body. Personally, I exert myself physically by going on prayer walks regularly. The walks help me to stay in good shape physically, while the prayers help me to maintain good spiritual health.

Beloved, God cares about the health of your body (3 John 1:2). He cares about how you treat the container that He has given to you to enable you to fulfil your purpose on earth. Regular exercise will help you manage your weight, and it will help strengthen your bones and muscles. It will also reduce your risk of getting sick and improve your ability to perform your daily activities effectively. Regular exercise will also improve your mental health. If you have a job that requires you to sit for long periods of time, or if you work from home, physical exercise must be part of your daily routine. Do not let your desire for a soft lifestyle shorten your lifespan.


ACTION POINT
Kickstart a regular physical exercise routine today if you do not have one.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Ecclesiastes 5-8


AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


HYMN 7: I AM THINE O LORD
1 I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice,
And it told Thy love to me;
But I long to rise in the arms of faith,
And be closer drawn to Thee.

Refrain:
Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,
To the cross where Thou hast died;
Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,
To Thy precious, bleeding side.

2 Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord,
By the pow’r of grace divine;
Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope,
And my will be lost in Thine.

3 O the pure delight of a single hour
That before Thy throne I spend,
When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God,
I commune as friend with friend!

4 There are depths of love that I yet may know
Ere Thee face to face I see;
There are heights of joy that I yet may reach
Ere I rest in peace with Thee.

HERE ARE THE CORRECT ANSWERS TO THE OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS.

1. Correct Answer: B) They are people who love food and are enslaved to overeating, often leading to spiritual death.
Rationale: The devotional states: "Gluttons are people who love food and are enslaved to overeating such that they become the devil's prey...if you're glutton, you'll likely be spiritually dead because you'll find it difficult to discipline yourself to fast."

2. Correct Answer: C) Every Christian is expected to engage in fasting as a regular spiritual discipline.
Rationale: The devotional explains: "He said 'when', not 'if', implying that every Christian is expected to fast."

3. Correct Answer: B) It makes the body weak, gives it extra work in digesting excess food, and reduces its ability to fight diseases.
Rationale: The devotional states: "Overeating makes you weak and gives your body extra work in digesting the excess food...All the overfed rats died, while the rats in the second group survived."

4. Correct Answer: C) Christians, as soldiers for Christ, must exercise self-control in all things, especially regarding food, to live an impactful life.
Rationale: The devotional states: "You are a soldier for Christ, so you must exercise self-control with all things (1 Corinthians 9:25). To enjoy this life, you cannot be a glutton." It also links this to living an "impactful and fulfilling life."

5. Correct Answer: D) To fulfill one's destiny and live an impactful and fulfilling life.
Rationale: The 'KEY POINT' clearly states: "Control your appetite so you can fulfil your destiny." The message also links self-control to living an "impactful and fulfilling life."

Devotional Quiz: Avoid Gluttony

Question 1:
According to the devotional, what characterizes 'gluttons' and what is their typical spiritual state?
A) They are individuals who enjoy food in moderation and are spiritually vibrant.
B) They are people who love food and are enslaved to overeating, often leading to spiritual death.
C) They are soldiers for Christ who easily overcome the war between flesh and spirit.
D) They are individuals who fast frequently and maintain strict dietary discipline.

Question 2:
What does Jesus' statement, "...when ye fast..." (Matthew 6:16), imply for every Christian, according to the devotional?
A) Fasting is an optional spiritual exercise reserved for specific, dire circumstances.
B) Fasting is a practice only for those seeking a deeper theological understanding.
C) Every Christian is expected to engage in fasting as a regular spiritual discipline.
D) Fasting is only necessary if one is struggling with severe sin.

Question 3:
Beyond spiritual dangers, what are the primary physical consequences of gluttony and overeating highlighted in the devotional and illustrated by the rat experiment?
A) It enhances the body's natural healing processes and strengthens the immune system.
B) It makes the body weak, gives it extra work in digesting excess food, and reduces its ability to fight diseases.
C) It primarily leads to temporary weight gain without significant long-term health effects.
D) It only affects digestion, causing occasional discomfort but no serious health risks.

Question 4:
What is the overarching message about a Christian's approach to their appetite and body, given their calling as 'soldiers for Christ'?
A) Christians should prioritize enjoyment of food above all else, as grace covers excesses.
B) Christians are encouraged to follow specific, strict diets like vegetarianism.
C) Christians, as soldiers for Christ, must exercise self-control in all things, especially regarding food, to live an impactful life.
D) Physical health is less important than spiritual devotion, so dietary choices are insignificant.

Question 5:
According to the 'KEY POINT' of the devotional, what is the ultimate purpose or benefit of controlling one's appetite?
A) To impress others with one's discipline and asceticism.
B) To avoid any form of physical discomfort or hunger.
C) To achieve financial prosperity and avoid poverty.
D) To fulfill one's destiny and live an impactful and fulfilling life.

"PRAYER POINTS ON "AVOID GLUTTONY"

Father, I thank You for Your word that exposes the dangers of gluttony and calls us to discipline and self-control, in Jesus' name.

Lord, I repent of every act of gluttony, overeating, and yielding to the lusts of my flesh concerning food. Forgive me for any time my appetite has controlled me rather than me controlling it, in Jesus' name.

Father, I pray for divine strength and grace to overcome the spirit of gluttony. Help me to control myself whenever my appetite seeks to enslave me, in Jesus' name.

I receive the power to exercise self-control in all things, especially concerning my diet. Let not sin reign in my mortal body through undisciplined eating habits, in Jesus' name.

Lord, empower me to be a soldier for Christ, living a life of discipline, rather than being prey to the devil through gluttony. May my flesh be subdued by my spirit, in Jesus' name.

Father, instill in me a greater desire for spiritual alertness and discipline to fast as Your word commands. Deliver me from spiritual dullness caused by overeating, in Jesus' name.

I pray for the grace to attain higher levels of spiritual authority that come through combining prayer with fasting. Help me to see fasting not as an 'if' but as a 'when', in Jesus' name.

Lord, protect my physical health from the dangers of gluttony. Deliver me from diseases and weaknesses that arise from overeating and wrong dietary choices, in Jesus' name.

Father, help me to eat moderately and correctly, so my body can be stronger and better able to fight diseases. Let me not make my body weak by giving it extra work to digest excess food, in Jesus' name.

Lord, I pray for the discipline to live like true soldiers of Christ, with a regulated diet, so I can fulfill my destiny and finish strong, just as Pastor E. A. Adeboye has exemplified, in Jesus' name.

I pray for Pastor E. A. Adeboye, that You will continue to grant him divine health, strength, and renewed vigor as he continues to lead Your people by example, in Jesus' name.

My personal prayer point: (Add your specific prayer regarding avoiding gluttony, e.g., "Father, help me to conquer my urge to snack excessively between meals, in Jesus' name." or "Lord, give me the discipline to stop eating when I am satisfied, not when I am overly full, in Jesus' name." )

Thank You, Father, for providing us with food for nourishment and for the grace to exercise self-control. I receive the power to avoid gluttony and live a disciplined life for Your glory, 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 JULY 10TH 2025


THEME: AVOID GLUTTONY


MEMORISE: For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags. Proverbs 23:21


READ: Rom 6:12-14

12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.

13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.


MESSAGE

Gluttons are people who love food and are enslaved to overeating such that they become the devil's prey. In Christianity, a fellow is either a soldier for Christ or prey to the devil. The flesh and the spirit are constantly at war (Galatians 5:17), and only soldiers -those who live a life of discipline - can win. Therefore, as a Christian, you should always be spiritually alert; if you're glutton, you'll likely be spiritually dead because you'll find it difficult to discipline yourself to fast. In Matthew 6:16, Jesus said, "...when ye fast..." He said when', not 'if, implying that every Christian is expected to fast. Also, there is a level of spiritual authority that can only be attained when fasting is added to prayer (Matthew 17:14-21).
Apart from the spiritual dangers of gluttony, gluttons also endanger their physical health. Proverbs 23:2 says that those who are controlled by their appetites should put a knife to their throats because they are trying to kill themselves.

God didn't design your body to eat too much food. You shouldn't eat until your stomach is overly filled. Overeating makes you weak and gives your body extra work in digesting the excess food. Years ago, some scientists performed an experiment with two groups of rats. They fed the first group excessively, and before long, they became very fat. They fed the second group with just the right amount of food they required. After a while, they injected both groups of rats with a disease. All the overfed rats died, while the rats in the second group survived. Your body is stronger and can fight diseases better when you eat moderately and correctly.

Christians who are really serious about their destiny don't eat every day. Despite my age, I still fast because I want to finish strong. In 1984, I was on a 40-day fast, lying weak on my prayer mat, when someone came in, saw me, and asked, "What else are you looking for in life that is making you fast this much?" That was many decades ago; look how far I have come since then.

Beloved, if you have surrendered your life to Christ, rest assured that God wants you to live an impactful and fulfilling life. You are a soldier for Christ, so you must exercise self-control with all things (1 Corinthians 9:25). To enjoy this life, you cannot be a glutton. Soldiers have a regulated diet and hence must exercise self-control with food for their own good.


KEY POINT

Control your appetite so you can fulfil your destiny.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Ecclesiastes 1-4


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 objective questions:

Correct Answers:

1. b) For strength, and not for drunkenness
2. c) Animals that part the hoof, are cloven-footed, and chew the cud
3. c) To be healthy and have strength
4. a) Spiritual and physical weakness
5. c) Have their own garden and grow some of their own food

Here are 5 objective questions with multiple answers based on devotional "Eat Right":

1. According to Ecclesiastes 10:17, a land is blessed when its princes eat in due season for what primary purpose?
a) For pleasure and enjoyment
b) For strength, and not for drunkenness
c) To display their wealth
d) To celebrate special occasions

2. Which of the following categories of animals did God permit the Israelites to eat according to Leviticus 11?
a) Animals that chew the cud but do not divide the hoof (e.g., camel, coney)
b) Animals that divide the hoof but do not chew the cud (e.g., swine)
c) Animals that part the hoof, are cloven-footed, and chew the cud
d) All flying creeping things with four feet

3. What is the primary reason the devotional states people should eat?
a) To satisfy hunger only
b) To socialize and build relationships
c) To be healthy and have strength
d) To enjoy various flavors and cuisines

4. The devotional warns that food, as good and important as it is, can also lead to what?
a) Spiritual and physical weakness
b) Excessive joy and celebration
c) Increased mental clarity
d) Financial prosperity

5. What is one key action the devotional encourages believers to take if they have the opportunity, regarding their food?
a) Eat out frequently at restaurants
b) Rely solely on processed and pre-packaged foods
c) Have their own garden and grow some of their own food
d) Consume more sugary foods for quick energy

PRAYER POINTS ON "EAT RIGHT"

Father, I thank You for Your word that teaches us the importance of eating right for our health and strength, in Jesus' name.

Lord, I repent of every unhealthy eating habit, every time I have consumed foods that weaken my body or endanger my health. Forgive me for any indulgence in junk food or excessive sugary items, in Jesus' name.

Father, I pray for divine wisdom and discernment to know what to eat, when to eat, and how to eat, in line with Your perfect will for my body. Help me to make choices that promote health and vitality, in Jesus' name.

I receive the grace to glorify You with my body by eating only foods that will keep me healthy and strong. Deliver me from the desire for "silent killers" that undermine my well-being, in Jesus' name.

Lord, empower me to prioritize my health, understanding that a healthy body enables me to express Your glory on earth and fulfill my destiny. Let me not fall sick often due to poor dietary choices, in Jesus' name.

Father, help me to be disciplined in my diet, especially avoiding heavy foods late at night that hinder my spiritual activities like prayer. May my eating always be for strength and not for gluttony, in Jesus' name.

I pray for a renewed appetite for wholesome foods like fruits and vegetables, that they may provide me with the strength needed for daily tasks and spiritual engagement, in Jesus' name.

Lord, protect me from the negative effects of chemically grown and preserved foods. If it is Your will, provide me with the opportunity to grow some of my own food, in Jesus' name.

Father, deliver me from spiritual and physical weakness caused by wrong eating habits. May my body be a fit vessel for Your Holy Spirit to dwell in and work through, in Jesus' name.

Lord, I pray for Pastor E. A. Adeboye, that You will continue to grant him divine health and strength as he teaches Your word and leads Your people, in Jesus' name.

My personal prayer point: (Add your specific prayer regarding eating right, e.g., "Father, help me to break free from the addiction to sugary drinks and unhealthy snacks, in Jesus' name." or "Lord, guide me to prepare wholesome meals that nourish my body and mind, in Jesus' name." )

Thank You, Father, for caring about my health and well-being. I receive the grace to be mindful of what, when, and how I eat, for Your glory, 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 JULY 9TH 2025


THEME: EAT RIGHT


MEMORIZE: Blessed art thou, O Land, when thy king is the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness! Ecclesiastes 10:17


READ: Lev 11:1-42
1 And the Lord spake unto Moses and to Aaron, saying unto them,

2 Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, These are the beasts which ye shall eat among all the beasts that are on the earth.

3 Whatsoever parteth the hoof, and is clovenfooted, and cheweth the cud, among the beasts, that shall ye eat.

4 Nevertheless these shall ye not eat of them that chew the cud, or of them that divide the hoof: as the camel, because he cheweth the cud, but divideth not the hoof; he is unclean unto you.

5 And the coney, because he cheweth the cud, but divideth not the hoof; he is unclean unto you.

6 And the hare, because he cheweth the cud, but divideth not the hoof; he is unclean unto you.

7 And the swine, though he divide the hoof, and be cloven-footed, yet he cheweth not the cud; he is unclean to you.

8 Of their flesh shall ye not eat, and their carcase shall ye not touch; they are unclean to you.

9 These shall ye eat of all that are in the waters: whatsoever hath fins and scales in the waters, in the seas, and in the rivers, them shall ye eat.
10 And all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of any living thing which is in the waters, they shall be an abomination unto you:

11 They shall be even an abomination unto you; ye shall not eat of their flesh, but ye shall have their carcases in abomination.

12 Whatsoever hath no fins nor scales in the waters, that shall be an abomination unto you.

13 And these are they which ye shall have in abomination among the fowls; they shall not be eaten, they are an abomination: the eagle, and the ossifrage, and the ospray,

14 And the vulture, and the kite after his kind;

15 Every raven after his kind;

16 And the owl, and the night hawk, and the cuckow, and the hawk after his kind,

17 And the little owl, and the cormorant, and the great owl,

18 And the swan, and the pelican, and the gier eagle,

19 And the stork, the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat.

20 All fowls that creep, going upon all four, shall be an abomination unto you.

21 Yet these may ye eat of every flying creeping thing that goeth upon all four, which have legs above their feet, to leap withal upon the earth;

22 Even these of them ye may eat; the locust after his kind, and the bald locust after his kind, and the beetle after his kind, and the grasshopper after his kind.

23 But all other flying creeping things, which have four feet, shall be an abomination unto you.

24 And for these ye shall be unclean: whosoever toucheth the carcase of them shall be unclean until the even.

25 And whosoever beareth ought of the carcase of them shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even.

26 The carcases of every beast which divideth the hoof, and is not clovenfooted, nor cheweth the cud, are unclean unto you: every one that toucheth them shall be unclean.

27 And whatsoever goeth upon his paws, among all manner of beasts that go on all four, those are unclean unto you: whoso toucheth their carcase shall be unclean until the even.

28 And he that beareth the carcase of them shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even: they are unclean unto you.

29 These also shall be unclean unto you among the creeping things that creep upon the earth; the weasel, and the mouse, and the tortoise after his kind,

30 And the ferret, and the chameleon, and the lizard, and the snail, and the mole.

31 These are unclean to you among all that creep: whosoever doth touch them, when they be dead, shall be unclean until the even.

32 And upon whatsoever any of them, when they are dead, doth fall, it shall be unclean; whether it be any vessel of wood, or raiment, or skin, or sack, whatsoever vessel it be, wherein any work is done, it must be put into water, and it shall be unclean until the even; so it shall be cleansed.

33 And every earthen vessel, whereinto any of them falleth, whatsoever is in it shall be unclean; and ye shall break it.

34 Of all meat which may be eaten, that on which such water cometh shall be unclean: and all drink that may be drunk in every such vessel shall be unclean.

35 And every thing whereupon any part of their carcase falleth shall be unclean; whether it be oven, or ranges for pots, they shall be broken down: for they are unclean and shall be unclean unto you.

36 Nevertheless a fountain or pit, wherein there is plenty of water, shall be clean: but that which toucheth their carcase shall be unclean.

37 And if any part of their carcase fall upon any sowing seed which is to be sown, it shall be clean.

38 But if any water be put upon the seed, and any part of their carcase fall thereon, it shall be unclean unto you.

39 And if any beast, of which ye may eat, die; he that toucheth the carcase thereof shall be unclean until the even.

40 And he that eateth of the carcase of it shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even: he also that beareth the carcase of it shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even.

41 And every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth shall be an abomination; it shall not be eaten.

42 Whatsoever goeth upon the belly, and whatsoever goeth upon all four, or whatsoever hath more feet among all creeping things that creep upon the earth, them ye shall not eat; for they are an abomination.


MESSAGE
The primary reason people eat is for them to he healthy and have the strength to do the things they need to do. This means that any food a person eats that weakens or shortens his or her life is not good for the fellow. In today's Bible reading, God gave the Israelites instructions on what to eat and what not to eat. Modern- day scientists have discovered that the foods God allowed them to eat are good for our health, while the ones He said they shouldn't eat are bad for our health. I believe this contributed to their unusual strength and vigor in the wilderness (Psalm 105:37). God cares about your health. He doesn't want you falling sick all the time because sickness doesn't glorify Him.
Don't eat junk foods that endanger your health and then run to God to seek healing when the doctor's report comes out. You should glorify Him with your body by eating only foods that will keep you healthy.

Nowadays, many crops are grown and preserved with chemicals. This is why you should have your own garden and grow some of your own food if you have the opportunity to do so. When people contract diseases, they hardly trace them to the food they eat. However, some of the foods they eat are silent killers. As good and important as food is, it can also make a fellow weak spiritually and physically.

When you see people who have become obese because they eat whatever they like whenever they like, you will notice that they are usually weak. If you notice that getting up from a seat takes longer and requires more effort than it should, you should check your diet. Besides checking what you eat, it is als0 important to check when you eat. You cannot eat very heavy food late in the night and expect to wake up in the middle of the night to pray. Those who eat for strength don't just eat anything; they eat what will make them strong.
Fruits and vegetables will provide you with strength, therefore you should eat a lot of them. Also, avoid eating excessive sugary foods as too much sugar, like any other thing, is harmful.

Beloved, God needs you to be fit and healthy so you can express His glory on the earth and fulfil your destiny in Him. Glorify Him with your body; eat right!


KEY POINT
Be mindful of what, when, and how you eat.


BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Proverbs 30-31


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 for the questions:

c) The hidden man of the heart and a meek spirit

b) An obsession that is not befitting of Christians

d) Dorcas

c) Significant financial wealth

b) Your life will be truly beautiful and have lasting impact.