Hello

How much do you replace the screen of Lenovo Thinkpad T420?


Expecting........

Thanks so much for the recommendation

skywalker240:
Add some cash, and get the umidigi A9+

Please I need a good recommendation of phone between 40 to 45k that is better than Infinix SMART 5 in terms of functionalities and camera.
Thanks fellow NairaLanders

Where determination exists, Failure can never dismantle the flag of success.



No time is too late to start.



Lesson from Mama

Good afternoon sir, I saw in one of these threads on NL where you said you can help someone get Eyin Olobe, please how can I get it? I am in Lagos please. Thanks

Saturday, February 29, 2020

– Leap Day

TOPIC: WHY A NEW CREDITOR?


Read 2 Peter 2:1-6

1. But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

2. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.

3. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.

4. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;

5. And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;

6. And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;

MEMORISE: But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction (2 Peter 2:1)

EXPOSITION
A creditor is a person to whom a debt is owed. Someone who gives credence to something; a believer. Jesus is our creditor Who paid double for our sins on Calvary. Believers are to pay attention to Christ’s teachings to counter the false teachings of the end time prophets who work for the devil. Beware not to take a new teacher for yourself. Peradventure you have been taking a new creditor, God’s arms are opened to welcome any erring Christian back home.

The prodigal son walked away, but later came back to his father. Come back to Saviour now, that His anger has not yet grown hot against the finally impenitent. Soonest, He will set grace aside for judgement. Seek His forgiveness, so that His mercy may come quickly. He gave the Israelites opportunity to repent and return. He does not want anyone to perish or be destroyed. Don’t pay with your dear life, when He has done that already.

Henceforth, evaluate all teachings in the light of God’s Word, because fake prophets, fake prophecies, miracles and demonic prosperity, abound everywhere. Don’t be a slave to sin, flesh and the world. Don’t be their prey or victim. Immorality, greed and lying are the devil’s weapons to entice the godly and get them destroyed. The Word of God clearly warns that just as there have been falsehood (false prophets/teachers and their teachings) in the past, even among the people, there will be more (2 Pet. 2:1), ‘who will secretly bring in destructive heresies even denying the Lord who brought them’. Peter said that under inspiration, some 2000 years ago. It is getting worse with those false teachers/prophets, because of the nefarious activities of their father, the devil (cf. Jn. 8:44). But one thing is sure: they will ‘bring themselves swift destruction’ (2 Pet. 2:1c). Don’t align with them!

PRAYER POINTS
1. Deliver me, O Lord, from every enslavement of the devil.

2. Lord Jesus, take all satanic yokes off my shoulder, and give me Yours, that is easy and light.

3. Pray for our children, that the Lord should help them to sincerely accept the total, work of salvation made available through, and in our Lord Jesus Christ.


EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Numbers 5 – 6 & Luke 17

Friday, February 28, 2020

TOPIC: COME AND SEE

Read: 1 Kings 10:1-13
[1]And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD, she came to prove him with hard questions.[2]And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bare spices, and very much gold, and precious stones: and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart.[3]And Solomon told her all her questions: there was not any thing hid from the king, which he told her not.[4]And when the queen of Sheba had seen all Solomon’s wisdom, and the house that he had built,[5]And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her.

[6]And she said to the king, It was a true report that I heard in mine own land of thy acts and of thy wisdom.[7]Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me: thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth the fame which I heard.[8]Happy are thy men, happy are these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and that hear thy wisdom.[9]Blessed be the LORD thy God, which delighted in thee, to set thee on the throne of Israel: because the LORD loved Israel for ever, therefore made he thee king, to do judgment and justice.[10]And she gave the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold, and of spices very great store, and precious stones: there came no more such abundance of spices as these which the queen of Sheba gave to king Solomon.[11]And the navy also of Hiram, that brought gold from Ophir, brought in from Ophir great plenty of almug trees, and precious stones.[12]And the king made of the almug trees pillars for the house of the LORD, and for the king’s house, harps also and psalteries for singers: there came no such almug trees, nor were seen unto this day.[13]And king Solomon gave unto the queen of Sheba all her desire, whatsoever she asked, beside that which Solomon gave her of his royal bounty. So she turned and went to her own country, she and her servants.

MEMORISE: And Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see” (John 1:46)

EXPOSITION:
The taste of the pudding, they say, is in the eating. It is better seen and experienced than imagined. News of king Solomon’s prosperity spread abroad and the Queen of Sheba couldn’t wait to confirm by herself. Let us observe these few things with respect to the queen and those who will come to Jesus.

• Though the queen was of some sort, a great personality, she bowed to God in Solomon. This brings to mind, our brother, Nicodemus, who, though was learned and influential, sought and found the Saviour, even in the night. His life never remained the same (Jn. 3:1ff).

• She was perplexed by the prosperity of Solomon and acknowledged God’s grace upon him. Whoever you may be, when you see another man carrying God’s grace, please acknowledge, instead of being envious of him.

• She gave gifts to Solomon, like the wise men did to Jesus (Matt. 2:1ff).

• The queen went home happily, rejoicing and satisfied, because her heart desire was met. No one truly sees Jesus and remains the same, thereafter.

When you come to Jesus Christ, your life puzzle is solved (Matt. 11:28,29). Philip could not leave Jesus, when he was invited to come and see for himself (Jn. 1:46-49). Just as the queen who came to Solomon troubled, and in doubt, did not return without her problem solved, the King of kings is waiting for you today, to give you the joy which money cannot buy, and the peace that passes all understanding.

Why sit there and die in ignorance? (cf. 2 Kgs. 7:3) Jesus is, no doubt, the sweetest and most powerful Name. If you will not believe Him, because you didn’t see Him, are His works and words not enough testimonies? Stop cheating on yourself by your continual refusal to accept the REDEEMER/SAVIOUR of humanity. Come and see the wonders of God through Jesus Christ, as He lifts you up, today and forever!

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, forgive all my doubt about You and Your Word.

2. Father, build up the faith of our youths to solely rely on You and Your promises, in all they do.

3. Lord, reveal Yourself to leaders of denominations and assemblies who have not known You till now, in Jesus’ name.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Numbers 3 – 4 & Luke 16

Thursday, February 27, 2020

TOPIC: THE HARLOTRY OF GOD’S CHILDREN

Read Hosea 1:1-9

1. The word of the Lord that came unto Hosea, the son of Beeri, in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel.

2. The beginning of the word of the Lord by Hosea. And the Lord said to Hosea, Go, take unto thee a wife of whoredoms and children of whoredoms: for the land hath committed great whoredom, departing from the Lord.

3. So he went and took Gomer the daughter of Diblaim; which conceived, and bare him a son.

4. And the Lord said unto him, Call his name Jezreel; for yet a little while, and I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu, and will cause to cease the kingdom of the house of Israel.

5. And it shall come to pass at that day, that I will break the bow of Israel, in the valley of Jezreel.

6. And she conceived again, and bare a daughter. And God said unto him, Call her name Loruhamah: for I will no more have mercy upon the house of Israel; but I will utterly take them away.

7. But I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will save them by the Lord their God, and will not save them by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, by horses, nor by horsemen.

8. Now when she had weaned Loruhamah, she conceived, and bare a son.

9. Then said God, Call his name Loammi: for ye are not my people, and I will not be your God.

MEMORISE: For My people have committed two evils: They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, and hewn themselves cisterns broken cisterns that can hold no water (Jeremiah 2:13)

EXPOSITION
The Northern Israel was greatly loved by YAHWEH, like the south. They were prospered by Him. But they abused this privilege, abandoning Him for corruption and idolatry. Had they forgotten that He is jealous (Exo. 20:5)? They were just not bothered by ‘whose ox is gored’. God’s justice proved to them that they were sinners and had abandoned Him for a terrible rival. And so, God declared to them and to as many who engage in spiritual harlotry today, these three things:

i. I WILL DISPERSE YOU. Only those who dwell in the secret place of God shall abide under His shadow (Psa. 91:1). Many who still pray and minister on God’s altar today, are already dispersed and handed over to the devil.

ii. I WILL NO LONGER HAVE MERCY. This may be hard to believe; yet God can never lie (Num. 23:19). How long are we going to hide under God’s mercy to defraud Him and rubbish His name among the heathen? What do we say of prophets who go to herbalist and Imams for charms to ‘grow their ministry’? God’s judgment looms on such (Eph. 5:6; Col. 3:6).

iii. YOU ARE NOT MY PEOPLE. This is the final blow from God as He separates the sheep from the goats. Though, God created all humans, not all will return to Him, because the Lord knows those who are His (2 Tim. 2:19).

Have you already gone astray, having your heart roaming about during church services, and eating on the altar of the devil? Come back today, as God is waiting for you to be reconciled and restored. Delay is dangerous.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, please cast me not away from Your presence and take not the Holy Spirit from me.

2. O Lord, deliver me from the slavery of sin.

3. Father, don’t allow our services and that of our leaders to be in vain; lead us to everlasting life, in Jesus’ name.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Numbers 2 & Luke 15

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

TOPIC: JUST BE CONTENTED

Read Ecclesiastes 1:7-11

[7]All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again.[8]All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.[9]The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.[10]Is there any thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new? it hath been already of old time, which was before us.[11]There is no remembrance of former things; neither shall there be any remembrance of things that are to come with those that shall come after.

MEMORISE: Hell and Destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied (Proverbs 27:20)

EXPOSITION
When the world was created, it was new, and everything is new in its own time. But that which is new, inviting and beautiful today, will one day become old, obsolete, and depreciate in value. Where are the big trees of yesteryears? What of the Mercedes Benz of 1970s? Some rivers have dried up? Why too hasty to get everything? The Bible admonishes, ‘Godliness with contentment is great gain’ (1 Tim. 6:6). Youths who want to get the latest this and that must be warned of the inherent dangers, especially when they don’t care how they get these things. In those days, our fathers achieved success and greatness by hard work and dedication, but today, people want to be great, not minding losing their values. Many, by this, have lost their positions in God, in the community, and of utmost pity, in heaven. If it is appointed for man to die once after which is judgment (Heb. 9:27), why the craze to get all and at any cost? Even the heaven and earth will soon pass away (Psa. 102:25, 26).

Why not wait for God, wait for your time and wait for your own destiny? Believers in Christ ought to braze up and fight tooth and nail to secure eternal life. We must learn a great lesson from Zacchaeus, who, because he wanted to see Jesus, took the pain to climb the tree (Lk. 19:1-4). How zealous are we in the service of our God? The Scripture commands us to seek those things above (Col. 3:1ff) as they remain imperishable and everlasting. Dear reader, how is your Christian life? Be mature and contented!

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, forgive me for all I have gathered for myself without or outside You.

2. Father, help our children to be contented with whatever You have given their parents to offer them, and look up to You, alone, for the make up.

3. Lord, deliver our leaders, both in church and politics, from the spirit of “grab” it at all cost.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 27, Numbers 1 & Luke 14

Tuesday, February 25, 2020

TOPIC: THE UNBROKEN THREE-FOLD CORD

Read Ecclesiastes 4:12

And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

MEMORISE: [/b]If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up (Daniel 3:17,18)

[b]EXPOSITION
A cord is a long, slender, flexible material, usually consisting of several strands, as a thread or yarn, woven or twisted together. The durability of a cord depends on the material it is made of. To make it stronger and more lasting, they are woven together as one. In the context of our Living Water dose today, the unbroken cord is a moral, spiritual or emotional bond of families, homes and relationships. The strength of any organisation depends on the unity of its staff. But why are organisations, homes, churches and community in disarray today? Everyone wants to go his or her own way. There is no more common goal for good. Business partners cheat on one another and break their agreements’ terms. Countless couples no longer respect the oath sworn to, at the registry or even in the church. And so, we look for peace everywhere, only to find it nowhere!

Why are the little ants capable of building their house which may be difficult for humans to demolish without stress? Successful relationships, homes and businesses are not the one without problems and stress, and train; they are built on trust, patience, forgiveness, resilience, etc., despite the challenges they face, including their individual differences. There are relationships that cannot break up; Christ is at the centre. Though they face turbulent times, Christ in their midst, stills their storms (Mk. 4:39). The 3 Hebrews experienced tension, but since God was in their midst, their cord could not be broken.

Though you call yourselves children of God, family of God, or a people of God, how well do you pray, study God’s Word and fast? Those who have good relationship with the Saviour are not easily broken or overwhelmed by the challenges of life. The Trinity remains indivisible (Jn. 10:30; 14:26), and so must we, wherever we find ourselves.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, make me united with You, my family, and Your people, the church.

2. Dear Father, give every home, and churches that have driven You away the grace to acknowledge Your indispensability and repentantly call unto You for restoration and fellowship.

3. O God, build up our confidence in You, so as not to be threatened by anything to make us deny You, for whatever reasons.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 26 & Luke 13

Monday, February 24, 2020

TOPIC: THE IRONY OF WEALTH


Read Ecclesiastes 5:8-20

[8]If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest regardeth; and there be higher than they.[9]Moreover the profit of the earth is for all: the king himself is served by the field.[10]He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.[11]When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes?[12]The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep.[13]There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun, namely, riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt.[14]But those riches perish by evil travail: and he begetteth a son, and there is nothing in his hand.[15]As he came forth of his mother’s womb, naked shall he return to go as he came, and shall take nothing of his labour, which he may carry away in his hand.[16]And this also is a sore evil, that in all points as he came, so shall he go: and what profit hath he that hath laboured for the wind?[17]All his days also he eateth in darkness, and he hath much sorrow and wrath with his sickness.[18]Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion.[19]Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.[20]For he shall not much remember the days of his life; because God answereth him in the joy of his heart.

MEMORISE: For all that is in the world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life – is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it, but he who does the will of God abides forever (1 John 2:16, 17)

EXPOSITION
Often times, when we have opportunities of visiting big cities and see ‘big, big houses’ and high high-rise buildings, we want to feel the owners are some sort of special people, different from the rest. But all men are equal before God though, the measure of one’s blessings is different from the other. Wealth is good and can make one happy, and at times, answers to so many needs and wants. But the irony in wealth acquisition is that, people are never satisfied; the more they seek it, and/or have it, the more wants they want to meet. Ask Solomon who in spite of all his wealth, concluded, ‘All is vanity’. Pursuing wealth is like certain things that never say, ‘enough’ (Prov. 30:15,16).

Three things are very important: when, how and why you make your wealth. Again, when we say “the land belongs to the king,” is that not oppression? Wealth, if care is not taken, connects the owner to worse people and places. As ministers of the gospel, hope God’s blessings upon you have not turned you to another thing; dining with the devil, as your ‘vehicle no more has break’. Today’s youths and preachers want to ‘belong’, with big titles not found, both in Jesus’ days or those of the Apostles. Imagine what a man had sleepless nights to make are being spent by those who sleep well? Do you know that no matter the riches, if it is ill-gotten, can fly away overnight, and the owner may be back to square one?

In this wise, believers must be contented, looking only for how to satisfy needs, and not wants. Jesus taught us to ask for our daily bread (Matt. 6:11). Let us learn to lay up our treasures in heaven, where nothing can destroy it (Matt. 6:19). That is when we are truly wealthy.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Dear Lord, help me not to run ahead of You in my quest to acquire basic necessities of the world.

2. O Lord, withdraw our youths and children who are already enmeshed in cultism and other unwholesome deals, because they want to get rich quickly.

3. Father, expose and punitively deal with our political and Church leaders who grossly enrich themselves at the expense of the masses.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 24 – 25 & Luke 12

Sunday, February 23, 2020

LOVE LIGHTENS YOKE

Read: Genesis 29:18-28

Genesis 29:18-28 And Jacob loved Rachel; and said, I will serve thee seven years for Rachel thy younger daughter.

And Laban said, It is better that I give her to thee, than that I should give her to another man: abide with me.

And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.

And Jacob said unto Laban, Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled, that I may go in unto her.

And Laban gathered together all the men of the place, and made a feast.

And it came to pass in the evening, that he took Leah his daughter, and brought her to him; and he went in unto her.

And Laban gave unto his daughter Leah Zilpah his maid for an handmaid.

And it came to pass, that in the morning, behold, it was Leah: and he said to Laban, What is this thou hast done unto me? did not I serve with thee for Rachel? wherefore then hast thou beguiled me?

And Laban said, It must not be so done in our country, to give the younger before the firstborn.

Fulfil her week, and we will give thee this also for the service which thou shalt serve with me yet seven other years.

And Jacob did so, and fulfilled her week: and he gave him Rachel his daughter to wife also.

MEMORISE: Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light (Matthew 11:29, 30)

EXPOSITION
An adage says, “The abode of loved ones is not far from one’s reach”. Paul in 1 Cor. 13:4-7 says, ‘Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things’. Truly, love is the end of the law. The Ten Commandments are compressed into two, because all of man’s relationships, both with God and man, is hinged on LOVE (Mk. 12:30, 31).

Jacob’s love for Rachael made him serve for 7 years, and another 7, without feeling the pain, time and all that it cost him. If you really love someone, you will go extra mile to please him. Couple who confess their affection for each other, openly, are not exempted from the stress and strain of marriage, but love does cover multitudes of sin. Believers in Christ are expected to take upon them the yoke of Christ. Though, this looks like a paradox; for why should an already wearied man add another weight upon himself? Jesus Christ is ready to shoulder both us and the weight of load upon us. To carry His yoke is to be obedient to His words, be humble to follow Him, in spite of our attainments in life, and forsaking all else for the Gospel.

Like Jacob did for Rachael, and even endeavoured to serve an additional 7 years, just to have the woman after his heart, only love would make His yoke light upon us. We can go far with the Saviour, if we surrender our hearts to Him. Cast your burden upon Jesus for He cares for you (Psa. 55:22). Couples, colleagues and staff in offices must be patient and endure one another to enjoy one another in the Lord.


PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, remove from me the spirit of impatience and intolerance.

2. Father, help couples who, despite that they live under the same roof, are divided, to come together as You establish Your love in their hearts.

3. Lord, help our leaders to love their subordinates, and vice-versa, so that You can dwell among us, once again.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 23 & Luke 11

Saturday, February 22, 2020

THE WEIGHT OF REBELLION

Read: 1 Samuel 15:22-26

But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.

For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.”

Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned. I violated the Lord’s command and your instructions. I was afraid of the men and so I gave in to them.

Now I beg you, forgive my sin and come back with me, so that I may worship the Lord.”

But Samuel said to him, “I will not go back with you. You have rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you as king over Israel!”


MEMORISE: [/b]Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? (Galatians 3:3)


[b]EXPOSITION
The children of Israel only concluded in their mind to have a new captain, different from Moses and Aaron, who would lead them away from the hard path of Canaan, and back to Egypt, when God’s fury arose to destroy them. Thank God for Moses’ intervention (Exo. 32:11,12). More often than not, we look at witches as those human beings with fangs in their mouth to sulk other people’s blood. This may be true, but more than that, are also those who disobey God’s order and want to go their own ways—rebels. Why. Each time we disobey God, we seek to alter His plan, therefore hurting Him, robing His people of the blessings prepared for them, short-changing ourselves, and inflicting other terrible consequences on ourselves. So, if God says “suffer not a witch to live”, those who rebel at His command are also billed to die. This is the import if the message, … rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry (1 Sam. 15:23a).

The spirit of witchcraft had possessed Saul and made him to usurp the office of a prophet, and spared Agag and his people. The rebellious ones want to go their own way, independent of their bosses or superiors. There is a strong connection between witchcraft and rebellion, for where love is missing, death is coming. The seven sons of the high priest, Sceva, in Ephesus, wanted to drive out demons, not knowing that the same spirit dwelt in them, hence the stiff opposition and attack they faced (Acts 19:14-16). This may also account for the failure of the so called deliverance ministers to exorcise demons. Can we rob Peter to pay Paul? No, if course.

The witches in the Galatian church were not the ones flying in the night, but those who had been brainwashed to relapse into falsehood, and were no longer strong spiritually. Hope you are not being brainwashed into rebelling against your Creator, boss, spouse, etc. If you are found wanting, please renounce your ‘witch craft’ today!

PRAYER POINTS

1. Oh Lord, deliver me from every act of rebellion against You and Your Word.

2. Lord, help children who are rebellious against their parents, school and church authorities to repent and be of good behaviour.

3. Father, by your mighty power, bring back backsliding members who went out of the church and out of the way, because of having been disciplined.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 20-22 & Luke 10

Friday, February 21, 2020

TOPIC: STAY BY THE FIRE

Read Matthew 24:12

MEMORISE: Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded (James 4:

EXPOSITION
In the western world, when it is cold outside, people naturally turn on the heater to keep themselves warm. They cover themselves with blankets and gather by the fire. They do what they can to protect themselves from being affected by the harsh weather. What are we doing to protect our hearts from growing cold to the things of God in our Lord Jesus Christ? Are we staying close to the fire of Christ? It is bitter cold in the world today, and sin is rampant. With the actions of many people being uncharacteristic of God, what are we doing to keep our love from growing cold? We must draw near to God and let Him draw near to us. If we don’t stay close to the spiritual warmth of God’s love, and deepening our knowledge of Him, we will allow situations and circumstances to offend us and cause us to fall away. The colder it is in the world, the more we must run to the fire of God’s Word and receive His truth, receive His understanding and His Spirit. Refuse to sit and remain offended with anyone. The will keep the enemy out and keep God’s love in.

Everyone will have their opinion of why someone is behaving the way he is. But you, let go and let God show you the deeper meaning. In all your getting, get understanding. Understanding and love are directly proportional. The more understanding you have from God about someone, the better you can relate with Him, and people around you. Let God bless you with understanding, so that you can love better in this day and time. Draw close to Him and He will turn on the heat in your heart and increase your love capacity. It is cold outside. Stay by the fire of our Lord and His Spirit.

PRAYER POINTS

1. O Lord, it is cold and dark in the world, I draw near to You; enlarge my heart and keep my love for You warm.

2. Father, don’t let me grow cold and callous; help me stay by the warmth of Your presence, in Your Word, always.

3. My Father, my Father, fill me with Your Holy Spirit and be glorified in me in Jesus’name.


EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 18 – 19 & Luke 9

Thursday, February 20, 2020 – World Day Of Social Justice

EBED-MELECH

Read: Jeremiah 39:15-18

Jeremiah 39:15-18 While Jeremiah had been confined in the courtyard of the guard, the word of the Lord came to him:

“Go and tell Ebed-Melek the Cushite, ‘This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: I am about to fulfill my words against this city—words concerning disaster, not prosperity. At that time they will be fulfilled before your eyes.

:But I will rescue you on that day, declares the Lord; you will not be given into the hands of those you fear.

I will save you; you will not fall by the sword but will escape with your life, because you trust in me, declares the Lord.’”


MEMORISE: I will save you; you will not fall by the sword but will escape with your life, because you trust in me, declares the Lord.’” (Jeremiah 39:18)

EXPOSITION

The behaviourists believe there is correlation between what we get and what we do. This is the similar view in Galatians 6:7-10: God is not mocked, what you sow you shall reap. Ebed-melech’s case reveals the impeccability of this thought. No controversy, you get what you bargain for.

Who was Ebed-melech? What did he do? The name means “Servant of (a) king”. He serve Zedekiah before the exile of Judah to Babylon. He was a eunuch, who possessed a golden heart. When some evil people in the cabinet of the distressed King Zedekiah prevailed on him to imprison Jeremiah, it was Ebed-melech who God used to set him free from the dungeon (38:4-13). Ebed-Melech had soft sports for God and His people. It was this kindness to the man of God and other goodly and godly attitudes that God saw and gave His message to him (read Jer. 39:15-18).

“Because” here implies consequence. It could be fitly rendered as “consequent upon”. Who says God does not count our works? Though it is not by work that anyone should boast. Yet, whatever anyone sows, he reaps. That should be both a challenge and an encouragement to you on this auspicious World Day of Social Justice, in a generation that people think God no longer sees what each person does, talk less of rewarding such accordingly.

Do not do anything for which you do not expect God’s repaying you accordingly.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, continue to use me for Your glory; don’t let me, at any point, work contrary to Your will.

2. Release the spirit of service, integrity and humility plus fear of God into my heart, O Lord Jesus.

3. Pray for our seminary and it’s satellite campuses, that God should cause remarkable growth therein, to improve the quality of our ministers.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 16-17 & Luke 8

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

TOPIC: PRAY UNTIL SUCCESS HAPPENS (P.U.S.H)

Read Acts 12:5-11

[5]Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.
[6]And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.
[7]And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.
[8]And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.
[9]And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.
[10]When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.
[11]And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

MEMORISE: Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

EXPOSITION

Many people pray about something for a while and when the answer doesn’t come when they think it should, they just throw up their hands in defeat, and say, “What’s the use?” Jesus was frequently concerned that His followers pray continually in order to accomplish God’s will for their lives. We must presevere in prayer with respect to all matters, until we receive our answer.

In the early church, when Herod killed James and discovered that this was pleasing to the Jews, he arrested Peter and kept him in custody of sixteen men, in the prison. He had it in mind to present him to the people for a ‘public lynching after passover’ (Acts 12:4; The Message), but the early church lived with the conviction that ‘the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much’, and prayed intensely and steadily concerning Peter’s situation. Their prayer didn’t go unanswered (Acts 12:6-11).

Jesus Christ used the parable of the persistent widow to emphasise the need to be persistent and persevering in prayer (Lk. 18:2-6). If even the unjust judge of the parable would eventually avenge the widow, because of her persistence, how much more will our just and loving God hear and respond to us! Diligence in persistent prayer can never go unrewarded in God’s presence (1 Jn. 5:14, 15).

God does not delay because He doesn’t care or because He is cruel or unjust. But sometimes, He does delay, and through those delays, we must learn patience, persistence and faith – faith that He does hear and does have our best interests in mind, even if we can’t understand why He doesn’t respond immediately (Dan. 10:12-13). We may not know what is going on behind the scenes, yet, we can have faith that God has our eternal best interests at heart (Jer. 29:11).

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord Jesus, give me the grace to always believe that You do hear prayers and that You have my best interest in mind, even when You don’t respond to my prayers immediately.

2. Lord Jesus, give me the grace to continue in prayer until success happens.

3. Father, please restore the Spirit of persistent and persevering prayer in our churches, today, as in the early Church.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 14 – 15 & Luke 7

Tuesday, February 18, 2020

TOPIC: HOPE FOR THE BACKSLIDER

Read Jeremiah 3:12-14

[12]Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel, saith the LORD; and I will not cause mine anger to fall upon you: for I am merciful, saith the LORD, and I will not keep anger for ever.[13]Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the LORD thy God, and hast scattered thy ways to the strangers under every green tree, and ye have not obeyed my voice, saith the LORD.[14]Turn, O backsliding children, saith the LORD; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion:

MEMORISE: Return, you backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings (Jeremiah 3:22b)

EXPOSITION
The compassionate attitude of God towards His children who have gone astray is clearly revealed in Jeremiah 3:14 : ‘Return home, you wayward children, “says the Lord, “for I am your master. I will bring you back to the land of Israel – one from this town and two from that family – from wherever you are scattered’.

Sin breaches our relationship with God, but God will graciously receive those who return to Him with all humility and true contrition. He longs to take us back, and His willingness to forgive His children is infinite. No matter where we are, or what we have done, we can be confident that God will pardon us, if we forsake our sin and turn to Christ alone, for our pardon. That is the magnitude of His grace. This is the good news for the backslider!

God’s loving concern for the backslider is steadfast and sure. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you (Jas. 4:. Remember the proverbial prodigal son, how his father reabsorbed him totally, when he realised his foolishness and decided to return home to his father, notwithstanding what he would have to experience in the hands of the father, as punishment for his foolishness (Luke 15:11ff).

Do not let anything hold you back from God and His forgiveness and grace. Don’t let the pleasures of sin deceive you. Also, do not let doubt or guilt hold you back, for He promises, ‘If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (1 Jn. 1:9). God remains merciful, and does not want to punish forever.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Thank God for His loving concern for the backslider, and for His forgiveness and grace.

2. O God, please create in me a clean heart, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

3. Pray for all backsliders in Christendom, that God will grant them the grace to return to Him with true contrition.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 13 & Luke 6

Monday, February 17, 2020.

DON’T CONSTITUTE A STUMBLING BLOCK

Read: Matthew 18:1-9
[1]At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?[2]And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,[3]And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

[4]Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.[5]And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.[6]But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.[7]Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh![8]Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.[9]And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.

MEMORISE: “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea. (Mark 9:42)

EXPOSITION
Jesus, in answering His disciples’ questions, Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?, called out to a child, and setting the child in the midst of the disciples, He taught that unless a person becomes humble as a child, he cannot enter into Heaven (Matt. 18:1-4). Jesus meant that anyone going to partake of, and enjoy the benefits of His Kingdom, now and in eternity, would have imbibe the humility that a child exhibits. This symbolises submitting to the Gospel in all obedience, by accepting Jesus Christ, the Author of the Gospel, as one’s personal Lord and Saviour. The phrase, little ones in Mark 9:42, therefore is not a reference to a child; but refers to those who “humble themselves as this little child.”

The Bible plainly teaches that you had better not do anything that would make any Christian to stumble, and warns that it would be better that he who constitutes such stumbling block be thrown in the sea with a milestone hung around his neck. This immediately shows the seriousness Jesus attaches to such carelessness or deliberately, as a very grievous crime. In fact, a ‘culpable homicide’, punishable, now and in eternity.

The Bible further warns that we must remove stumbling blocks that cause us to sin. This means that any relationship, practice, or activity, that leads to sin should be stopped. That it would be better to go to heaven without such things than to end up in hell with loads of the things in question (Mark. 9:37-47). Therefore, don’t allow the devil use you to cause anyone to stumble, whether in your dressing speech, action, etc. God doesn’t take it lightly with anyone who leads his neighbour to Satan’s net.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord Jesus, please help me with the power of the Holy Spirit, never to do anything that can cause my fellow humans and Christians to stumble.

2. Holy Spirit, help me to remove and overcome any stumbling block that can cause me to sin, in Jesus name.

3. Father, help leaders of our churches not to engage in any programme or teaching that threaten the spiritual growth of the Church.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: LEVITICUS 11-12 & LUKE 5

Sunday, February 16, 2020[b]

Read Matthew 17:14-20

HOW IS YOUR FAITH?

Read 1 Peter 4:14-19

MEMORISE
Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” So Jesus said to them, ‘Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and It will move; and nothing will be Impossible for you” (Matthew 17:19-20)

EXPOSITION
The disciples although, had been given the authority to heal (Lk 9:1), were unable to drive out the demon in the demon-possessed boy, and they asked Jesus why. He answered them, ,”Because of

your unbelief”. He pointed to their lack of faith. Although, it is the power of God, not our faith, that moves mountains, faith must be present, to do so. Perhaps, the disciples had tried to drive out

the demon with their own ability, rather than God’s. They had relied on what they thought they could do (cf. Zech. 4:6; Rom. 9:16).

There is great power in even a little faith when God is with us. Jesus said, the only way we can do anything that will produce result, is to remain close to Him, for without, outside, or aside Him, we can do nothing (Jn. 15:5). If we feel weak or powerless as Christians, we should examine our faith/level of trust in Him,’ making sure we are trusting not in our own abilities to produce results, but His own power and enablement (Jn. 14:12; Phil. 4:13). If we are facing any challenge that seems as big and immovable as a mountain, let us take away our eyes from the mountain and look to Jesus, for more faith.

Immediately, the father of the child turned his attention to Jesus and cried out in tears, Lord, I believe, help my unbelief! (Mk. 9:24). Then Jesus answered and said, “O faithless and perverse

generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him here to Me” (Matt. 17:17). How is your faith in Christ Jesus-working faith? Where and who do you turn to when you are billowed against by the storms of life? It pays you to keep looking unto Jesus, the

Author and Finisher of our faith (Heb. 12:2), for those who look unto Him are never ashamed (Psa. 34:5).


PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord Jesus, give me the grace to always depend on Your power; and not my ability, in all I do.

2. My Lord and Savior, the grace to always remain close to You as a branch, so that my efforts will produce results, grant me, in Jesus name.

3. Father, grant all Christians the grace to always look away from mountains and grants, to You whenever we face challenges of life, in Jesus name.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY Leviticus 9-10, Luke 4

Saturday, February 15, 2020.

KEEP CHOOSEN LIFE

Read: Deuteronomy 30:15-16

Deuteronomy 30:15-16 [/b]See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction.

For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess.

[b]MEMORISE: See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. (Deuteronomy 30:15-16)


EXPOSITION

There are many decisions in life that can be made for us, but when it comes to certain decisions, we are on our own. The decision to make Jesus our personal Saviour and Lord is something no one can decide for us. People can pray for, and Encourage us all day, but they can’t choose for us. In the same way, the decision to let go of the past and move forward, or the decision to take the leap and do what God has placed within us to do, is ours alone. No one can choose life for us. Everyday, He sets before us, life and death, and then tells us, “choose life!” that both you and your seeds may live.

The fact that we are seeing so much evil in the world today, is a result of the choices people are making. And while you can’t do anything about their choices, you can certainly do something about yours. Every time you choose God’s way of handing situations in your way, you are choosing life. Every time you accept the challenge the Holy Spirit gives you, you are choosing life.

Don’t worry about whether you will finish strong and fulfil God’s purpose and plan. People who are walking powerfully in the grace of God no longer worry about these things. They just keep on taking one step if faith, at a time, one obedient act, at a time, and one day, at a time. They keep choosing life, and stand the chance in the Lord to enjoy all of His greatness and goodness, now and it eternity. Choose life, today!

PRAYER POINTS

1. Thank You Lord, for speaking directly to my heart. Forgive all the wrong choices I have made till date.

2. Thank You Lord, for giving me strength for living; I choose life today in Jesus name.

3. Guide the believers, O Lord, to set their priorities right as they embark on the Christian race.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Levitcus 7-8 & Luke 3

Friday, February 14, 2020

TOPIC: PAINS AND GAINS OF SINGLES

Read Genesis 24:57-67
57. And they said, We will call the damsel, and enquire at her mouth.
58. And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go.
59. And they sent away Rebekah their sister, and her nurse, and Abraham's servant, and his men.
60. And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, Thou art our sister, be thou the mother of thousands of millions, and let thy seed possess the gate of those which hate them.
61. And Rebekah arose, and her damsels, and they rode upon the camels, and followed the man: and the servant took Rebekah, and went his way.
62. And Isaac came from the way of the well Lahairoi; for he dwelt in the south country.
63. And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, the camels were coming.
64. And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel.
65. For she had said unto the servant, What man is this that walketh in the field to meet us? And the servant had said, It is my master: therefore she took a vail, and covered herself.
66. And the servant told Isaac all things that he had done.
67. And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his mother's death.

MEMORISE: Then Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent; and he took Rebekah and she became his wife, and he loved her. So Isaac was comforted after his mother's death (Genesis 24:67)

EXPOSITION
Being a single Christian brother, or sister, is God-ordained, as well as being married Christian brother, or sister. Both must not be joked with, but be taken with all seriousness. Being single has some things that look like pains. One of such is loneliness. This can be a serious internal disturbance, especially, if one is up to marriageable age. The solace here for all singles is that, you may be lonely but never alone; Jesus is with you. Apart from loneliness, coping with temptations to misbehave cannot be overemphasised, concerning singles. Since, you are yet to marry, the devil will strategically place some oppose sex around you. But with Holy Spirit filling you and coupled with prayers and watchfulness, you will surmount this. This should guide the youth as St. Valentine's day is being celebrated globally. They should beware of those ungodly momentary sexual enjoyments that can truncate their future.
The pains should not becloud the gains. It is a time you have all the time to prepare for future challenges. You have at your disposal, time to pray, anytime any day, at home or elsewhere, without disturbance of any kind. Your obligation/expenditure are greatly limited, if you are yet to marry. And you must save hugely. Read Paul's counsel 1 Cor. 7:8,9,24-25).
Single's time, as a Christian, is also a time to prepare for the ministry. Or are you surprised you are told you have got a ministry? Yes, you do! So, use your single days as a believer to prepare adequately for the task ahead (cf. Col. 4:17). If God calls you to ministry while still unmarried, how lucky are you! The reason is that, you have more time for preparation than when you are married. So, dear young brother/sister, single periods can be painful, yet they become gainful at the end, if the time had been judiciously invested. Stay blessed.

PRAYER POINTS
1. O God, help our marriageable youths waiting for Your will to understand and acknowledge that it is worth the waiting.
2. Lord, rid our churches, ministers and members of the sins of fornication and adultery.
3. O God, help Your Church to be more alive to You.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 5 - 6 & Luke 2

Thursday, February 13, 2020. - WORLD RADIO DAY

ACT GOD’S SCRIPT

Read: Acts 9:1-17

Acts 9:1-17 Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest

And asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.

As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him.

He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”

“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied.

“Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone.

Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus.

For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.

In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered.

The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.

In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”

“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem.

And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”

But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.

I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”

Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”


MEMORISE: [/b]Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. (John 14:10)


[b]EXPOSITION

God is the scriptwriter if all men. Unfortunately, many do not realise this truth, and the script written for them. Therefore, it is practically impossible for them to act accordingly. Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour of the world, acted His Father’s Script, here on earth (Jn. 14:10)

Script is written document, containing the dialogue and action for drama; the text of a stage play. Every believer, irrespective of age, sex, or color, is expected to act the same script from our Father in heaven. Because Christ lives in us, we can’t live as we want. The life in us is not ours, but His. Our Lord Jesus wrote a script for Ananias to help disciples, Saul. Despite the fear of the once terrible persecutor if the church, he obeyed God’s difficult instruction that led to the liberation of several gentiles.

Similarly, Abraham acted the script of God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness. He became the Father of faith (Gen. 22:2,6-10). Jacob requested Joseph not to bury him in Egypt, when he would die. When Jacob eventually died, Joseph took his body to Canaan for burial (Gen. 49:29-33; 50:12-13).

Acting God’s script brings freedom, honour, fame, promotion, and other good things in the Lord. The ass, her colt and their owner surrendered themselves to be used of our Lord and Saviour, and they had their names written in gold, in the Holy Writ. The animal were decorated (Mk. 11:1ff). This had not happened to any other animal before then. God is still in the business of honouring/decorating those who faithfully act His script. Have you discovered yours? Are you faithfully aligning with it? You can never regret if you do (cf. Psa. 34:5)


PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord Jesus, open my eyes to the understanding if Your script for my life, in the way You want it, in Jesus name.

2. God, help me not to fail or disappoint You, here on earth, in Jesus name.

3. Pray for Christians parents to be more careful with how they live their lives in their children’s presence and behind them, with the understanding that they are writing history with their lives.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Leviticus 1-4 & Luke 1

Wednesday, February 12, 2020

TOPIC: THE DANGER OF HYPOCRISY

Read Matthew 23:13-15

MEMORISE: Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples, saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do” (Matthew 23:1-3)

EXPOSITION
Hypocrisy is all about falsehood, concealment, deceiving others, misleading, and hiding. Merriam Webster dictionary defines hypocrisy as the behavior of people who do things that they tell other people not to do.
Few things bring down the wrath of Jesus Christ like hypocrisy. His love for the inspired Scriptures, as well as His concern for those who were being destroyed by its distortion was so great that it caused Him to use these words to describe the hypocrite (false preachers): children of hell, blind guides, fools, white-washed sepulchres, serpents, etc. (Matt. 23:15-34). He described their character as those ministers who seek to be popular, important, and noticed by others, who love honour and titles, and who keep people out of heaven by their distorted ‘gospel’ (Matt. 23:6-7).
Hannah Arendt described hypocrisy as the vice of vices, because the hypocrite deceives himself. He may deceive someone else by his grand importance, but the root tragedy is, he deceives himself. The murderer knows he is a sinner. The adulterer knows he is a sinner. The hypocrite, no matter what ugly thing he does, does not see himself as a sinner. He fools himself. He has such a convincing act that he believes his own lie. This deception is a grave danger. It cannot continue forever. The truth would expose hypocrisy, now and ultimately, and then, the shame of the hypocrite would be so great. Don’t be part of those to be shamed in the end. Come to Jesus, now.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, please help me to overcome the spirit of hypocrisy in my life.
2. Holy Spirit, kindly open the eyes of believers that are under the yoke of false religious leaders, and set them free by Your power.
3. Father, save our nation from the hands of hypocritical political and religious leaders.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Exodus 40 & Mark 16

Tuesday, February 11, 2020

– World Day of the Sick

TOPIC: THE ALL-IN-ONE CURE

Read Isaiah 53:1-5

1. Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?

2. For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.

3. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

4. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.

5. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

MEMORISE: [/b]But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace is upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed (Isaiah 53:5)

[b]EXPOSITION

People around the world are duly informed to be wary of unwholesome, counterfeit and substandard drugs. One of those things attributed to drugs like these is when they do not have a specific ailment they cure. A medicine said to be an all-in-one cure is not only dangerous but also deadly. Meanwhile, the dose of today’s Living Water is about ‘one-man-battalion’, the Man is Jesus Christ. He remains an all-in-one cure for all manners of diseases, spiritual or physical.

For each and every disease in the world (both discovered and yet to be discovered), the “all-in-one” cure (Jesus Christ) has got solution to them. A commentator one said: “… it is a pity that we merely read the accounts of raw miracles, signs and wonders of the Bible… We obviously lack the faith and extra sacrifice needed to replicate them in our days…” As if the healings, raising of dead and other miracles are in theory, Christians have made medical and alternative therapy as primary targets for their well-being. Primarily, Jesus Christ is our Divine Healer.

The power to heal the sick, raise the dead, open blind eyes and make the deaf to hear is still very much available for every child of God. The fact that original miracles have become scarce does not mean they do no longer exist. Dear devout, have faith of a measure to heal you of any ailments, whether emotional, spiritual, medical or physical. Jesus Christ still does healing without you paying the bills. On this year’s World Day of the Sick, align right with Him for yours, and you’ll be amazed at the availability of His healing power.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord Jesus, I receive Your all-in-one antidote for the crises in my life, marriage and career, in Jesus’ name.

2. O God, restore our faith in You, so that we can always trust You as our Jehovah Rapha.

3. Pray for the healing of as many as you can mention who are sick or have infirmities in a way or the other, for the touch of the Holy Spirit.


EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Exodus 38 – 39 & Mark 15

Monday, February 10, 2020

TOPIC: THE TRUE PEACE TREATY

Read: Colossians 1:19-23
19. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;
20. And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.
21. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
22. In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
23. If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

MEMORISE: For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross (Colossians 1:19-20)

EXPOSITION
A peace treaty is an agreement between two or more hostile parties, usually countries or governments, which formally ends a state of war between the parties. A treaty's content usually depends on the nature of the conflict involved. There have been many false peace agreement throughout human history. Perhaps, the most famous one is the so-called “Peace in Our Time” that Neville Chamberlain “secured” with Adolf Hitler, prior to World War II.
Mankind and everything in the universe are brought in unity and harmony under Christ. It does not mean, however, that all people are reconciled, irrespective of their wills/volitions. But as many as receive Him, to them He gives the right (power; authority; audacity; privilege), to become children of God, to those who believe in His name (Jn. 1:12). This verse depicts clearly that the saving faith is an attitude of life. The person who rejects Christ's offer of reconciliation remains an enemy of God (Jn. 3:16ff). For those who believe in Him, it is essential for them to continue in the faith and maintain a persevering faith in Jesus, as Lord and Saviour (Col. 1:23).
Are you at peace with God? If you believe in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, you can be sure that God is at peace with you. If not, you must repent and believe, today, if you want to find peace with God. He is ever waiting to restore you and accept you back home to His love. His justification brings reconciliation and PEACE.

PRAYER POINTS
1. O Lord my God, give me the grace to maintain a persevering faith in Jesus, to the end.
2. Father, all those that are yet to reconcile with You, touch their hearts to repents and accept You as their Lord and Saviour.
3. Holy Spirit, please convict all members of our churches, and even ministers, that are yet to reconcile with You, let them come to You with the heart of repentance.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Exodus 36 - 37 & Mark 14

Sunday, February 9, 2020


TOPIC: THE HIDDEN PERSON OF THE HEART

Read 1 Samuel 16:7

7 But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.

MEMORISE: But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7)

EXPOSITION

You wouldn’t have thought Jesus was the King of kings, if you have seen Him walking on the streets. He looked like an ordinary man when all the while, He was the Saviour of the world. In the same way, David didn’t look like a might warrior. He didn’t look like he could slay a giant, let alone defeat a lion and bear. When prophet Samuel came to anoint the next king of Israel, and Jesse brought out his strong sons, Samuel asked, “Are these all of your sons?” Jesse answered, “We have one who keeps the sheep.” When David entered the house, God told Samuel, “That’s him.” David didn’t look like a king, but he loved the Lord with all his heart.

You may not look like the kind of person, who would be used mightily by God to impact this world for Jesus, but remember, neither did others, throughout Bible history. The Bible confirms, ‘…God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty’ (1 Cor. 1:27).

While everyone else is focusing on the outward appearance of things, continue to focus on letting God accomplish His work in your heart and mind. Let Him enrich you on a deep soul level, so that you can enrich others and walk in divine influence. Doing this will take you farther in life than you can ever imagine! (1 Pet. 3:3-4).


PRAYER POINTS

1. God, thank You for Your wisdom and grace through which You reveal to us the condition of our hearts.

2. O God, transform me, until I look like Jesus on the inside, and behave like Him on the outside.

3. Help our leaders to possess the mind of Christ while carrying out their leadership responsibilities.


EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Exodus 34 – 35 & Mark 13

Saturday, February 8, 2020

TOPIC: BEWARE OF BACKSLIDING

Read Hebrews 6:4-8

4. For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,

5. And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,

6. If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

7. For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:

8. But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.

EXPOSITION

Backsliding, also known as falling away or committing apostasy, is a term used in Christianity to describe the process by which an individual who has been genuinely converted, reverts to pre-conversion habits and/or lapses or falls into sin. It is when a person turns from God to pursue his own fleshly desires. Hebrews 6:4-6 clearly shows that backsliding is possible only for those who have first experienced salvation, regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit. It is not a mere denial of New Testament doctrines by the unsaved, within the visible church. A series of steps always leads to backsliding, because everyday, we are either building up, or weakening our different spiritual characters. We are either moving forward, or falling backward. The steps include:

Failure to take the truth, exhortations, warnings, promises and teachings of God’s Word with utmost seriousness (Lk. 8:13; Jn. 5:44).

Through deceitfulness of sin, the believer becomes increasingly tolerant to sin in his own life (Eph. 5:6; Heb. 3:12-13).

Through hardness of heart and rejecting God’s way, the believer ignores the repeated voice and rebuke of the Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:30; 1 Thess. 5:19-22; Heb. 3:7-.

The Bible issues warnings concerning the possibility of backsliding, designed both to alert us to the deadly perils of backsliding and motivate us to persevere in faith and obedience. Please, take time to read the following Bible passages for such warnings: Col. 1:21-23; 1 Tim. 4:1, 16; 6:6-10,; 2 Tim. 4:2-5; 2 Pet. 1:5-11. May these not stand to condemn us on the last day.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord Jesus, uphold me with Your right hand of righteousness, to the end. Do not allow me to fall away from faith, in Jesus’ name.

2. Father, if I am already taking any steps that can lead to backsliding, convict me by Your Holy Spirit, and bring me back to repentance, in Jesus’ name.

3. Please, intercede for our brethren facing persecutions because of Christ, that God will uphold them with His mighty hand of righteousness, to the end.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Exodus 32 – 33 & Mark 12

Friday, February 7, 2020

TOPIC: LORD, RESET ME

Read 1 Peter 5:10
10. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

MEMORISE: But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you (1 Peter 5:10)

EXPOSITION
On a typical modern-day phone, there is a small reset button that, when pressed, restores the device to its original factory setting. Normally, this is necessary when there is a major software problem with the device. Resetting it would bring back the original glory of the device.
There are seasons and times in our lives when we get so far from God’s original plan for our lives, because of being carried away by the pressures of life. We add onto our lives, assignments, relationships and tasks, in the same way we load apps onto our phones. We complicate our lives with what God never intended to be in our lives – parties, TV shows, dates, etc., and these unfortunately choke out God and His programmes that should matter most to us (cf. Matt. 6:33). At such times, we feel unnecessarily burdened by life’s situations. When life is overwhelming, complicated, burdensome and frustrating, we know it is time to press reset.
Let God restore you to your original place in Him. Let Him re-establish, resettle and reconfirm you. Let God reset you. Let Him occasion situation that would set you back on track. Stop drifting far away from Him. The farther you are away from Him, the more dangerous it is. The farther the sheep stray away from home, the more risky it becomes for it, most especially, at night.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Father God, my life seems to be drifting away from Your original plan; forgive me for adding projects, relationships and other things to my life that You never told me to add.
2. Lord, reset my life; bring me back to my original state and place in You. Reset my heart and breathe Your life into me, NOW.
3. Lord, help ministers of the gospel who are choking You out of their schedules with the series of programmes they organise and participate in, to the detriment of their own relationship with You.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Exodus 30 – 31 & Mark 11

Thursday, February 6, 2020

TOPIC: DO NOT BE DISCOURAGED

Read 1 Samuel 30:1-7
1. And it came to pass, when David and his men were come to Ziklag on the third day, that the Amalekites had invaded the south, and Ziklag, and smitten Ziklag, and burned it with fire;
2. And had taken the women captives, that were therein: they slew not any, either great or small, but carried them away, and went on their way.
3. So David and his men came to the city, and, behold, it was burned with fire; and their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, were taken captives.
4. Then David and the people that were with him lifted up their voice and wept, until they had no more power to weep.
5. And David’s two wives were taken captives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite.
6. And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.
7. And David said to Abiathar the priest, Ahimelech’s son, I pray thee, bring me hither the ephod. And Abiathar brought thither the ephod to David.

MEMORISE: Look, the Lord your God has set the Land before you; go up and possess it, as the Lord God of your fathers has spoken to you; do not fear or be discouraged (Deuteronomy 1:21)

EXPOSITION
On most cases, God will show you where He is taking you, but He will not show you what He will bring you through. This has been God’s normal way of dealing with His own children. When God wanted to bring His people out of the land of Egypt, He showed them the picture of the Land He was bringing them to – the land flowing with milk and honey, but He did not show them what they were going to pass through. God refused to show them what they would pass through along the way, so that they would not be discouraged from the beginning of the journey.
God showed Joseph the picture of the future He had for him, in his dreams, but decided not to show him the hardship and bitterness he had to pass through, in the midst of the journey, before arriving his destination (or destiny). Imagine how Joseph would react in the early stage of his life, if God had revealed to him how his brothers would treat him, the evil things his boss’ wife would do to him, and how he would land in the prison, unjustly.
As God spoke to the children of Israel then, His voice is being directed to you now, that you should encourage yourself in the Lord, as David did (1 Sam. 30:6). God has set a particular land before you, too. You will surely get there, but not without serious challenges on the way. In fact, only champions are challenged. So, never be discouraged with all you are, or would still be going through on the way to your own promised land. The Lord who promised to take you to the Promised Land will surely get you there. Just hold on to Him.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, help me to overcome whatever Satan uses to discourage me in life.
2. I refuse to be discouraged in all the good things I lay my hand upon, in Jesus’ name.
3. Lord, strengthen the missionaries to overcome all discouragements on the mission fields.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Exodus 28 – 29 & Mark 10

Wednesday, February 5, 2020

TOPIC: BEARER OF BURDENS

Read Matthew 11:25-30
25. At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.
26. Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight.
27. All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.
28. Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

MEMORISE: Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy lade, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28)

EXPOSITION
Have loved ones ever confided, ‘I’m so tired’? Or have you ever staggered home from work feeling exhausted? Please read Matthew 11:28-30. Take a deeper look at what Jesus said. He offers ‘rest’ for the drained and the exhausted, which is a very different kind of rest from the ‘do-nothing’ mode. The root of the Greek word for ‘rest’ is from where we got our word, ‘pause’. Maybe, Jesus is saying, just press the button of pause in your life, calm down, see where you are and get things into perspective.

Making use of farming imagery of oxen being yoked together, lumbering up and down on field, Jesus intends to draw out an important lesson for them then, and the church, His representative, now. It is likely you have never come across either oxen or a yoke before, given your environment, most especially, if you are outside the Israelite and Eastern world. Yet, you can still learn from it, given an overview of how it works over there.

Normally, a farmer yokes two bulls together, so that their combined strength enables them to complete the job on the farm. This is the Christian’s expectation, when faced with situations beyond our own strength. When you are burdened with expectations or situations, remember, Jesus has promised to take the yoke with us. He asks us to take His yoke upon ourselves, which involves learning from Him (v. 29). His yoke is easy and His burden light, because He pours His strength into our weaknesses, as we humbly take His yoke upon us (v. 30). And His ‘yoke’ is custom-made to fit our needs. You don’t have to bother how it won’t be oversize. He knows you ever before your existence, and has made the right provisions for you, ahead (cf. Jer. 29:11).

Come to Jesus, our Burden-bearer and claim what God-with-us (Emmanuel) promises. Find new peace, contentment and rest in His living and loving presence.

PRAYER POINTS
1. O God of heaven, devoid me of self, so that I will rely on Your enabling power wholly.
2. Lord, grant me the grace to find a fresh peace and contentment under Your banner.
3. Pray for brethren who are going through hard times, and that this is making them to withdraw from the presence of God, personally and corporately, that the Holy Spirit should encourage and help them appropriately.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Exodus 26 – 27 & Mark 9

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH
THE LIVING WATER {Jan ~June, 2020}
DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

Monday, February 3, 2020.

TOPIC: YOUR PRIMARY ASSIGNMENT

Read Matthew 6:28-33

[28]And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:[29]And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.[30]Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?[31]Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?[32](For after all these things do the Gentiles seek for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.[33]But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

MEMORISE: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you (Matthew 6:33)

EXPOSITION
Why primary school education has to precede both secondary and tertiary institutions, is obvious. When a child has not mastered writing and recognition of letters and figures, there is no justification for introducing such child to higher levels of learning. Today’s dose of the Living Water refocuses our attention on our primary assignment, as Christians on earth – seeking Christ’s kingdom, first. It is primary, because it has to come first and foremost, in all our endeavours (Matt. 6:33).
When the first and foremost thing is being neglected, abysmal and lacklustre performance cannot be avoided! All through man’s life, he seeks wealth, fame, status, relevance and recognition, thereby neglecting his main duty on earth. God made us to relate with Him (Gen. 3:. He demands we give Him our hearts (Prov. 23:26). He wouldn’t struggle to have room there (Rev. 3:20). Don’t try to share His rightful place in you with other persons/things.
No doubt, wealth, fame, prosperity, and the likes, are desired by rational persons. They are part of man’s felt needs. However, they are secondary to man’s real need – salvation and meaningful walk with God. Do you go to the university without having gone through the primary and secondary schools? You’d better stop running after the God-promised “additions”. Instead, seek God’s Kingdom first (Matt. 6:33). How? Be born again (John 3:3). Be sanctified by Jesus’ blood (cf. Eph. 5:26,27). Be Holy Spirit-filled. Be studious of the Scripture. And, don’t forget to witness what you have witnessed to others who haven’t. By so doing, you can’t be stopped from getting all the good things of life Jesus Christ has in stock for you. Stay lifted!

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, deliver me from every ungodly desire that can stop me from focussing on what concerns You for me.
2. Pray for the grace to prioritise what matters to God, in all aspects of Your life.
3. Lord, help our church leaders at all levels, not to shift their focus away from what beats in the heart of God.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Exodus 22 – 23 & Mark 7

DATE: Friday, March 3, 2017

TOPIC: REWARD OF FAITH

READ NUMBERS 14:37-38
MEMORISE: Those very men who brought the evil report about the land, died by the plague before the LORD. But Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh remained alive, of the men who went to spy out the land. (Numbers 14:37-38)

Joshua and Caleb were able to withstand the powerful current of unbelief through their simple faith. They kept their trust in God, in the face of all the difficulties, and finally, He honoured their faith in a wonderful way. Whereas the bodies of their brethren decayed in the dust of the wilderness, Joshua and Caleb entered the land of Canaan to enjoy its fruitful valleys and vineyards on the hills.
The confession of their brethren was that they would die in the wilderness, which was fulfilled on them. Caleb and Joshua had a different confession, that they would live, and their confession came to pass (cf. Num 14:28).
Lesson: Make positive confession of faith for yourself, family, career, business, vocation, etc. Faith makes a man see a roaring lion as mewing cat. Only Joshua and Caleb relied on the faith of their fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, hence their undaunted and rewarding courage. When others showed unbelief, they were resolute that God had given them the Promised Land. And it was so. They got what they believed and possessed what they confessed.
As a Christian, don't join the crowd against God's programme. Hold unto God's Word/promises. That is faith. That is the kind of faith Abraham, as well as Joshua and Caleb were handsomely rewarded for (cf. Rom 4:21).

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the faith that follows Your purpose and programmes to logical conclusion, regardless of what evident odds.
2. Lord, may I not be found to go against Your programme, in any way, in Jesus' name.
3. Lord, equip our brethren who are being hotly persecuted with the faith to remain unbreakable, no matter the severity of the persecution.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: JOHN CHAPTER 1

WHATEVER REPRESENTS STORM IN YOUR LIFE IS CALMED TODAY IN JESUS CHRIST NAME