Ɍɦαρsσdy Dαílíҽs
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

WEDNESDAY 18

INTERCESSION IS FOR OTHERS
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📖 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them (Hebrews 7:25).
Pastor Chris Says
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Intercession involves standing in the gap between two parties or more. It's about pleading a case on behalf of someone else, often without their awareness of their predicament or their need for help. For instance, when you intercede for someone who isn't born again, they may not be conscious of their spiritual state or their need for salvation.

In such cases, you're presenting reasons to God on their behalf. You're bringing their ignorance and lack of understanding about their spiritual standing before the Lord. Consider how God described the Ninevites to Jonah—they didn't know right from wrong. But God sent Jonah to them to preach and get them to repent from their wickedness.

Remarkably, the Ninevites, from the king to the common people, took Jonah's message to heart and repented sincerely, fasting and wearing sackcloth as a sign of mourning and penitence. Their collective repentance moved God. In Jonah 4:11 (NIV), after sparing Nineveh, God explained His compassion to Jonah: "And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?"

Similarly, when we pray for sinners, we're telling God that they don't understand their situation and their need for salvation. We acknowledge that they deserve God’s judgment due to sin, but we plead our case on Jesus' sacrifice for them. We're not persuading God to save them because salvation is already available through Jesus. Instead, we're asking that the Lord will arrange circumstances that will lead them to accept this salvation.

This type of intercession extends beyond the lost to those who, even though are already Christians, may still be ignorant or struggling with their faith. It's about selflessly praying for others; advocating for them in prayer before God, whether they are aware of their need or not.

🙏 P RA Y E R
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Dear Father, I pray for those in my world who are yet to receive salvation, that their eyes and hearts be open to receive the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I pray that you’ll orchestrate circumstances, situations, materials, and people that’ll cause the radiant light of your glorious Gospel to shine brightly in their hearts, dispelling darkness, and ushering them into the glorious liberty of the sons of God, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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1 Timothy 2:1-4; I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
[2] for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
[3] For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
[4] who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Romans 8:26-27 NIV; In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.
[27] And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

Colossians 4:3 NIV: And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Galatians 3:15-25 & Songs of Solomon 6-8

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Timothy 4:1-8 & Jeremiah 36

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

TUESDAY 17

THE “LALIA” OF CHRIST
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📖 Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word (John 8:43).
Pastor Chris Says
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Two words used in our opening verse may seem synonymous, but they have striking differences. They’re “speech” (Greek: “Lalia”) and “word” (Greek: “Logos”). “Logos” is the general term for “Word.” The Bible says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).

“Logos” encompasses speech, idea, thought, and message; it is the substance of a message. John 1:14 tells us that the Word or “Logos” of God became flesh, and that’s Jesus Christ. All of God's thoughts, ideas, and opinions, are encapsulated in Him.

“Lalia,” on the other hand, describes a mode of speech; it’s the way you say what you say. This can be by gesticulations, semasiological communication, dialects or pronunciations. Jesus said to the pharisees and the Jews as they questioned His words, “Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word” (John 8:43). They didn’t understand His communication (“Lalia”) because they couldn’t comprehend His message (“Logos”).

An example is found in John 11:11-14 when He said to His disciples, “...Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.” A similar thing happened when Jesus went to the house of Jairus, whose little daughter had just died. The Bible says, “And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead” (Luke 8:52-53).

The people didn't understand His “Lalia” because they couldn’t comprehend His message. If only they knew that His message stated who He was: “...I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live” (John 11:25). As a child of God, it’s important for you to give attention to the ministry of the Word and the Holy Spirit in the house of God. That’s how you’re cultured, trained, and taught the message of Christ. That message gives you a language—the “Lalia” of Christ.

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for your Word that cultures my spirit. As I grow in the Kingdom-culture of faith, it gives me a language that clearly communicates your truth and also forms in me a mindset of victory, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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James 1:22; But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

Matthew 13:13; Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.

John 8:43 NKJV: Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Galatians 3:1-14 & Songs of Solomon 3-5

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Timothy 3:8-16 & Jeremiah 35

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

SATURDAY 14

UNDERSTANDING HELPS YOU APPLY THE WORD CORRECTLY
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📖 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart (Proverbs 8:5). 
Pastor Chris Says
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Understanding God's Word is crucial to applying it effectively in our lives. The Bible says, "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding" (Proverbs 4:7). The Lord Jesus Himself emphasized the significance of understanding in Matthew 13:3-8 when He told the parable of the sower.

In His illustration, He explained that as the sower went forth to sow his seeds, they fell into different grounds. Some fell by the wayside and the birds of the air came and picked them up, and they had no chance to grow. The Lord Jesus however highlighted the problem of this group of people to be their lack of understanding of the Word they heard: “When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side” (Matthew 13:19).

The practical application of God's Word hinges on your understanding of it. You can't put to work God's Word that you don't understand. Without understanding, it becomes challenging to implement biblical principles and teachings effectively in your daily life.

It’s one of the reasons we encourage people to study this devotional, Rhapsody of Realities, every day. It serves as a powerful tool for enhancing your understanding of God's Word. In it, we present biblical truths in simple and clear communication, making it easier for readers to not only comprehend but also apply God’s truths in practical ways. By breaking down scriptural thoughts into understandable terms, Rhapsody of Realities equips you to live out your faith confidently and purposefully each day.

2 Timothy 2:15 says, "Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth" (AMPC). Prioritize understanding God's Word so that you may confidently and faithfully apply it in your life, knowing that through understanding, you can fully embrace and act upon the truths of Scripture.

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the wisdom and understanding you grant me through your Word. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who grants me deep insight into the truths and mysteries of the Kingdom. Thank you for granting me a discerning heart to comprehend and rightly apply the principles of the Kingdom in my daily life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Psalm 119:130; The entrance of thy words giveth light; It giveth understanding unto the simple.

James 1:22-25; But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
[23] For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
[24] for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
[25] But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

2 Timothy 2:15; Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Proverbs 4:7; Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: And with all thy getting get understanding.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
2 Corinthians 13:1-14 & Ecclesiastes 6-8

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Timothy 1:15-20 & Jeremiah 32

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

Ɍɦαρsσdy Dαílíҽs
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

THURSDAY 12

THE MISSION CONTINUES
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📖 The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it (Psalm 68:11).
Pastor Chris Says
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With so many English Bible versions available today, it’s easy for many to erroneously believe that the Bible was originally given in English language. However, it was the translators who performed this crucial work, and the Holy Spirit continues to guide them even today to make the Bible and other Christian materials accessible to many more in their native languages.

Think about the fact that the sacred writings of the Scriptures were written in Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic. But it took dedicated individuals who loved the Lord and desired to spread His message to the entire world to make it available in various languages as we have today.

This mission continues through the work of modernday missionaries and evangelists who travel to distant lands, much like those early translators. They go into remote and often challenging environments to find those who have not yet heard the Gospel, and they bring it to them in the language they best understand. The Lord Jesus instructed us to go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15). He sent us to find the lost, to seek them out in the byways and highways.

This directive is clear in the Scriptures, and it drives the mission of Christians today. We carry on the vision that He gave us. This vision is about actively reaching out to those who need to hear the message of salvation, and this involves going beyond our comfort zones, reaching out to speakers of all languages, thus ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to hear and respond to the Gospel.

The work is far from over, and the vision of reaching every person with the Gospel remains as vital as ever. That’s why we’re grateful to the Lord to have those who are working with us in various nations to make it possible for this devotional to become accessible in all known languages and dialects of the world, and as a result, reaching the ends of the earth before the Lord’s return.

Jesus said in Matthew 24:14, “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” You too can be a part of this end-time global workforce by visiting HERE

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I pray for translators, missionaries, and evangelists of the message of the Gospel all over the world, that they continue to be effective witnesses for Christ, making your Word known without hindrance, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Matthew 28:19-20; Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
[20] teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Mark 16:15; And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Romans 10:14-15; How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
[15] And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
2 Corinthians 11:16-33 & Ecclesiastes 1-2

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Timothy 1:1-7 & Jeremiah 30

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

SUNDAY 8

HE KNOWS THE TRUTH ABOUT EVERYTHING

📖Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come (John 16:13).

Pastor Chris Says
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Oftentimes, when people get sick, many aren’t aware of the reason for their trouble. They try all kinds of drugs, some of which even cause more problems than they realize. When nothing changes, they begin to wonder, “Why am I going through these difficulties? Why am I feeling so sick? Why is this happening to me?”

Well, the Holy Spirit was sent to guide you into all truth, including the truth about your health. He can help you know the problem and also the solution. Did you know the Holy Spirit is a healer? Yes, He is. The Bible says, "if He lives in you, He will vitalize your physical body." It doesn’t matter that you’ve been diagnosed with some disease; now that He lives in you, there’s the guarantee for a change. Glory to God!

Maybe you’re a student or you’re carrying out research for a project; the Holy Spirit is the Teacher inside you. You need to listen to Him because He knows everything. He’s the Spirit of wisdom, knowledge and understanding. He can fill you with the knowledge of God’s will, with all wisdom and spiritual understanding concerning anything. Just ask Him.

The Holy Spirit has come to help you in all aspects of life, whether in business, in family, or in your finances. He’s come to help you gain the mastery, to make you a wonder. Your greatest asset while you’re here in this world is the Holy Spirit. He’ll teach you the Word of God and remind you of things you’ve learned.

The Holy Spirit guides you in prayer and shows you the future. So, with Him, you can never lose or fail. Encourage His work and ministry in your life by acknowledging that He’s in you and with you always. You can speak with Him more than you do anyone else. Thank Him for being your ever-present teacher, helper and guide.

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the ministry of the Holy Spirit in my life. I’m always attentive to His guidance, as He leads me in victory in every aspect of my life: in my finances, health, job, family, relationships, and ministry. I walk in wisdom and discernment, always knowing the steps to take as I fulfil my destiny in Christ, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY 
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John 16:13 AMPC; But when He, the Spirit of Truth (the Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will guide you into all the Truth (the whole, full Truth). For He will not speak His own message [on His own authority]; but He will tell whatever He hears [from the Father; He will give the message that has been given to Him], and He will announce and declare to you the things that are to come [that will happen in the future].

John 14:26; But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Romans 8:26-27 AMPC; So too the [Holy] Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf with unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for utterance.
[27] And He Who searches the hearts of men knows what is in the mind of the [Holy] Spirit [what His intent is], because the Spirit intercedes and pleads [before God] in behalf of the saints according to and in harmony with God's will.


1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:

2 Corinthians 7:2-16 & Proverbs 22-23

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
2 Thessalonians 2:1-10 & Jeremiah 26

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 SAT. 7TH SEPTEMBER 2024

THE HOLY SPIRIT CONVICTS THE WORLD
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📖And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment (John 16:.

Pastor Chris Says
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The Lord Jesus made the statement above in one of the last meetings He had with His disciples before He was crucified. During the long teaching, which started in the 13th chapter, He told them He was going away and the disciples were puzzled. Then, He said, “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive...” (John 14:16-17).

In subsequent verses, He told them who the Comforter is: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost…" (John 14:26). This was the same person He was referring to in chapter 16 when He said, “And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment” (John 16:. What did He mean by this statement?

The word “reprove” is translated from the Greek word “elegcho”, which means “to convict” or “to convince.” This is the work of the Holy Spirit. When Jesus preached, many didn't believe. Even though certain individuals believed and received miracles, the people generally didn’t believe.

The Bible says, “But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him” (John 12:37). They weren't convicted. Why? Because the Holy Spirit hadn’t been poured out on the people. But Jesus said when the Holy Spirit comes, He will convict the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment.

Today, men can be convicted in their hearts— convinced—when they hear the Word of God because the Holy Spirit has been poured out. The reason you’re convinced that Jesus is the Son of God even though you haven't seen Him is because the Holy Spirit brought that revelation to your Spirit. It wasn’t a man that convinced you; the Holy Spirit did that in your heart. You believe because He helped you to believe.

That’s why when you go out to win souls, it’s important to do so by the power of the Holy Spirit. He’s the one who convicts the people; He convinces those listening to you and makes them believe. Glory to God!

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the ministry of the Holy Spirit around the world today as your children proclaim the Gospel everywhere; our listeners are convinced and converted. There’s a great harvest of souls into the Kingdom today, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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John 14:16-17; And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
[17] even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

John 14:26; But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

John 16:8 AMPC; And when He comes, He will convict and convince the world and bring demonstration to it about sin and about righteousness (uprightness of heart and right standing with God) and about judgment:

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
2 Corinthians 6:3-7:1 & Proverbs 20-21

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 & Jeremiah 25

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 FRI. 6TH SEPTEMBER 2024

THE GLORY IN SUBMISSION
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📖 And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified (John 12:23).
Pastor Chris Says
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Sometimes, when we tell people the Lord has glorified them, they expect to see something outwardly, like a ray of light glowing from their skin. But that’s not what the Bible teaches. The glory of God isn’t necessarily felt or perceived by the senses. It’s something you recognize with your spirit.

Look at Jesus. The Bible tells us in John 12 of some Greeks who sought an audience with Him. When He was told that they had come to see Him, He knew this was a sign: It was time for the salvation of the Gentiles. This also signified that He was about to die. Jesus responded by saying, “...The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit” (John 12:23-24).

When Jesus said, “The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified,” the Bible didn’t record that any spectacular event transpired. The heavens didn’t open up, and there was no earthquake. In the next chapter, while Jesus was sitting with His disciples at passover, Judas got up after supper and went away hurriedly. Jesus then said, “...Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him” (John 13:31).

The Bible didn’t say lights started beaming everywhere because He was glorified. No. The glory was in His submission. Here’s what the Master did: He submitted Himself totally to the will of the Father and declared, “Now is the Son of man glorified.” The submission of one’s life to the Spirit is where the glory is.

The more yielded you are to Him, the more your glory increases. The less yielded you are, the less of God’s glory is manifested in your life. So, what would you rather do? Be yielded to Him! Do the Word, walking in the Spirit, and you’ll experience greater manifestations of His glory in your life. Hallelujah!

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for your glory in my life. Thank you for the privilege and blessing to experience ever increasing glory as I do your Word and carry out every instruction of the Spirit that I receive, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 12:23-24 NIV; Jesus replied, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.
[24] Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.

John 13:31; Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him.

John 17:22; And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:

Philippians 2:8-9; and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
[9] Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
2 Corinthians 5:1-6:1-2 & Proverbs 18-19

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 & Jeremiah 24

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

Ɍɦαρsσdy Dαílíҽs
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 THURS. 5TH SEPTEMBER 2024

YOU GIVE LIGHT TO THE WORLD
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📖As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world (John 9:5).

Pastor Chris Says
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On a certain day as Jesus passed by, he saw a man who was blind from birth. His disciples, who were with Him, asked if the man’s blindness was a result of his sin or his parents’ sins. But Jesus replied that it had nothing to do with either the man’s or his parent’s sin (John 9:3). But then He made a remarkable statement in the fifth verse: “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

After saying this, Jesus did something mind-blowing: He spat on the ground, made clay with the spittle, and rubbed it into the man’s eyes. Historians tell us the man wasn’t just blind; he had no eyeballs but empty sockets. Jesus performed a miracle by turning clay into eyes, having said, “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” Do you know what this means?

Every time Jesus used that expression, “I AM”, He was reiterating what God said to Moses when he asked, “What is your name?” and God said, “I AM.” God was saying to Moses, “I am whatever you need me to be. If you need deliverance, I am your deliverance. If you need salvation, I am your salvation. If you need healing, I am your healing. What is it you need? I AM.”

So, when Jesus said, “I AM…,” He was saying the same thing God said: “I am what you need.” He saw a man who didn’t have eyes and said, “I am the light of the world.” Remember what the Bible says, “The light of the body is the eye...” (Matthew 6:22, Luke 11:34). So, Jesus was saying, “I am the eyes of the world. Without me, the world can’t see.” Right away, He proved it and gave the man eyes.

Now, here’s the most intriguing part: the same Jesus said, “Ye are the light of the world…” (Matthew 5:14). That means, just like Him, you give “eyes”—sight—to the world! Without you, the world can’t see. You give direction, clarity, and vision to the world. Even now, boldly declare, “I am the light of the world!” It means that when you go out and meet someone who is down, you can lift such a person up. Someone can have his eyes restored just because you showed up; someone who was sick can get healed. Hallelujah!

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, you’ve made me a light in this world; equipped and empowered to bring hope, healing, and deliverance to those around me. Your light in me dispels darkness. Thank you for making me an oasis of love and a haven of peace, joy, hope and faith in a troubled world; what a privilege! Thank you Father, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY: 
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Matthew 5:14-16; Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
[15] Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
[16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Ephesians 5:8; For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

Philippians 2:15; that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
2 Corinthians 3:7-4:1-18 & Proverbs 16-17

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 & Jeremiah 23

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

Ɍɦαρsσdy Dαílíҽs
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 TUES. 3RD SEPTEMBER 2024

MAKE KNOWN HIS WONDERFUL DEEDS
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📖 O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people (Psalm 105:1).
Pastor Chris Says
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There’re people who always share testimonies. When they’re in church and the Pastor asks if anyone has a testimony to share, they’re always the first to respond. How is it that some people are so blessed that they always have testimonies? The answer is in Isaiah 12:3-4, “Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. And in that day shall ye say, Praise the LORD….”

Did you see that? Their hearts are usually full of praise. What’s praise? Praise is the fruit of our lips—giving thanks to the Lord. This is even clearer in the English Standard Version: “And you will say in that day: Give thanks to the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the peoples, proclaim that his name is exalted” (Isaiah 12:4 ESV).

Notice that it says, “make known his deeds”; in other words, testify! Grateful people always testify; they always have something to say that God has done for them. They’re always bubbling with joy. What kind of a person are you? Be sure that you’re a testifier. Always share your testimonies of what the Lord has done in your life.

1 Peter 2:9 tells us something beautiful; it says, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.” Notice the underlined part; you were called, that is, ordained to show forth His praise; to declare His mighty works. Hallelujah!

Therefore, always testify of His love, His grace, His faithfulness and loving kindness that you enjoy every day. Be grateful to Him that He causes you to triumph always and in every place through Christ Jesus. Remember, winners are always full of joy and thanksgiving.

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, you’re great and glorious; you’re righteous, holy, just, true and pure. Your works are eternal, and so are your tender mercies and grace. I worship you for your faithfulness and goodness that are evident in my life. You’re exalted above all, the great King of all, the Creator of all things. Thank you, for not only have you conferred your Kingdom on me, you’ve expanded the Kingdom in me. Hallelujah!

📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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Isaiah 12:4 NIV; In that day you will say: “Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted.

1 Chronicles 16:8-9; Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, Make known his deeds among the people.
[9] Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him, Talk ye of all his wondrous works.

Psalm 96:2-3; Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; Shew forth his salvation from day to day.
[3] Declare his glory among the heathen, His wonders among all people.

Psalm 106:1; Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: For his mercy endureth for ever.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
2 Corinthians 1-2:1-4 & Proverbs 12-13

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 & Jeremiah 21

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 SUN. 25TH AUGUST 2024

FOLLOW HIM

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And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men (Matthew 4:19).

Pastor Chris Says
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Notice what the Lord said in the verse above: "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." Your responsibility is to follow Him, and He’ll make all your dreams come true. Follow Him, and He’ll see to it that you fulfil God’s calling and destiny for your life. But how do you follow Him?

If you had lived in Jesus' day in Israel, you might have thought that following Him meant physically accompanying Him from street to street, village to village, or town to town. It’s however beyond that. Judas, who followed Jesus physically, ultimately betrayed Him and lost out with God, proving that following Him physically wasn’t enough.

The first aspect of following Jesus is to follow Him in the Word, for He is the living Word. John 1:14 tells us, "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." When you follow Him in the Word, you’re following Jesus Himself. The written Word is all about Jesus.

Secondly, you must follow Him through the Word. As you study the Word, you'll find Jesus and understand His mindset, His beliefs, and observe His actions. You’ll see how He responded to everything. You’ll read, for example, how He reacted to a billowing tempest; He demonstrated authority over nature and His ability to bring peace even in the midst of chaos (Mark 4:38-39).

Everything about Jesus is revealed in the Word. Learning how He responded in various situations provides valuable insights for our own lives. When He got hungry, what did He do? When He felt tired, what did He do? He did all He did to show us how to live. Therefore, we must follow Him in, through, and by the Word. Following Him by the Word means to act on His Word, to do what He says. James 1:22 NIV says, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."

🙏 P R A Y E R 
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Dear Father, thank you for the privilege to follow Jesus in, through, and by the Word. I immerse myself in your Word daily, and I’m granted deep insights to understand its mysteries, deep secrets, and apply the principles and teachings in my life. I’m a doer of the Word, and I experience victory and triumphs in every aspect of my life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 8:31-32; Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
[32] and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Luke 9:23; And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

James 1:22-25 NIV; Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
[23] Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror
[24] and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.
[25] But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 & Psalms 135-138

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Colossians 2:16-23 & Jeremiah 10-11

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 FRI. 23RD AUGUST 2024

DOMINION OVER SERPENTS AND SCORPIONS

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They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover (Mark 16:18).

Pastor Chris Says
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Observe that the Lord Jesus, in the opening text, listed the attesting signs that’ll accompany those who believe. He said they "shall take up serpents." What does it mean to take up “serpents”? Was Jesus talking in literal terms or metaphorically?

The truth is, the phrase can be interpreted both ways. In its literal interpretation, it refers to the ability to handle physical serpents without harm, as demonstrated by Paul in Acts 28. Then, in Matthew 12:34, Jesus confronted certain people, whom He called “a generation of vipers," indicating their deceitful and malicious nature: “O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.”

In another instance, He condemned the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees and likened them to "serpents." He said, “Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell” (Matthew 23:33). So, metaphorically, "serpents" can symbolise spiritual adversaries. However, irrespective of their form, whether physical or spiritual, "you can take up serpents" signifies your control and dominion over them.

Therefore, be it physical threats from venomous snakes, spiritual adversaries who oppose truth and righteousness, or the ones who concoct deceits, manipulations, lies, tricks and schemes, you have authority and dominion over them all.

The Lord made a beautiful statement in Luke 10:19 (AMPC), saying, “Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you.” He thus reiterates your blessed authority and dominion over “serpents and scorpions”, literal and metaphorical. Hallelujah!

🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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Dear Father, thank you for the authority and power you’ve given me over all the works, tricks, schemes, manipulations and deceits of the enemy. I walk in confidence and boldness, knowing that nothing shall by any means hurt me as I stand firm in the truth of your Word. I’ve been vested with power and authority in heaven and in earth to subdue, dominate and take charge of my world. Hallelujah!

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Luke 10:19 NIV; I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.

Matthew 12:34 AMPC; You offspring of vipers! How can you speak good things when you are evil (wicked)? For out of the fullness (the overflow, the superabundance) of the heart the mouth speaks.

Mark 16:17-18 AMPC; And these attesting signs will accompany those who believe: in My name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new languages;
[18] They will pick up serpents; and [even] if they drink anything deadly, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will get well.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Corinthians 8 & Psalms 120-127

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Colossians 2:1-7 & Jeremiah 8

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 THURS. 22ND AUGUST 2024

YOU’RE GOD’S PROPERTY

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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? For ye are bought with a price... (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

Pastor Chris Says
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The Bible says you were bought with a price; that means you’re God’s treasure, His property. How amazing this is. 1 Peter 1:18-19 says, “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”

Your value is the precious blood of the Lord Jesus because that’s the price God paid for your salvation; always remember that. Your spirit, soul and body belong to God; that means no trespass for Satan and his cohorts of darkness. Satan has no business in your life and in the quarters of your body because you legally belong to Christ.

Now that you’re born again, you’re far above Satan’s domain or jurisdiction: “giving thanks to the Father for having made you fit to share in the inheritance of his people in the light. He has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son. It is through his Son that we have redemption - that is, our sins have been forgiven” (Colossians 1:12-14 CJB).

Moreover, because you’re God’s property, He’s fashioned your life for glory and excellence (read Ephesians 2:10 AMPC). Satan has no claim over your life. You’re “untouchable” because you’re protected by the great and mighty God! Colossians 3:3-4 says Christ is your life and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Now you can understand why He says, “...nothing shall by any means hurt you” (Luke 10:19); “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper...” (Isaiah 54:17). Hallelujah!

Have this consciousness and live in absolute dominion over the adversary and all adversities every day.

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I’m grateful for the assurance that my spirit, soul, and body belong to you and that Satan has no claim over my life. I am protected and fashioned for glory and excellence, and I walk in the paths you’ve prepared for me, living the good life you prearranged and made ready for me to live, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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1 Peter 1:18-19 AMPC; You must know (recognize) that you were redeemed (ransomed) from the useless (fruitless) way of living inherited by tradition from [your] forefathers, not with corruptible things [such as] silver and gold,
[19] But [you were purchased] with the precious blood of Christ (the Messiah), like that of a [sacrificial] lamb without blemish or spot.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV; Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;
[20] you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

Ephesians 2:10 AMPC; For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Corinthians 7 & Psalms 119:113-176

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Colossians 1:19-29 & Jeremiah 7 

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 MON. 19TH AUGUST 2024

IT’S YOUR JOB TO LET THEM KNOW

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For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved…and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher (Romans 10:13-14).

Pastor Chris Says
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Many around the world are still living under the dominion of sin, unaware that Jesus Christ came to set them free from the power of sin. They don’t know He came to give them life so they can live righteously as God wants them to. It’s however our job to let them know.

We’ve been given the Holy Spirit to help others find truth and to lead them in the way of salvation. That’s why you’re here; the Spirit of God has filled your life with the presence, power and the grace of God to make His Word known through you to your world.

Everyone has his world. There’s a world you live in, your sphere of contact. When someone comes into your world, they should learn about Jesus. Only through you will they know how kind and gracious He is and all that He’s done for them.

Your world should be a place where people come to hear and receive God’s Word to transform their lives. So, I ask you: What’s happening in your world? Are you making Christ known to your world or are you prioritizing some other things? Talk about Him and make His presence available to others.

Understand that though the Holy Spirit is here on earth, He doesn’t have His own body, so He uses our bodies. When Jesus walked the earth, the Holy Spirit lived in the body of Jesus. He was the one Jesus called, “my Father that lives in me” (John 14:10). That’s the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit needs your body to function. If you’ll yield to Him, He’ll come into your world and bless it. He’ll change their lives; He has the power to do it. The Bible says, “…for with God all things are possible” (Mark 10:27). He can do anything, but He needs you to express Himself.

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the privilege to share the message of salvation with those around me, and to be a conduit of your eternal blessings. Through me, many more will come into the knowledge of the truth, their lives will be transformed, and they’ll become fully aware of their inextricable oneness with you, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Mark 16:15-16; And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
[16] He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Mark 5:18-20; And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him.
[19] Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.
[20] And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.

John 4:28-30 NLT; The woman left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone,
[29] “Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could he possibly be the Messiah?”
[30] So the people came streaming from the village to see him.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Corinthians 4 & Psalms 113-116

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Philippians 4:14-23 & Jeremiah 4

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 TUES. 13TH AUGUST 2024

THE MASTER’S CLAIM AS SON OF MAN

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The people answered him, We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? who is this Son of man (John 12:34).

Pastor Chris Says
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In various instances, the Lord Jesus referred to Himself as "the Son of man," and the Jewish people understood the profundity of those words. They knew that He claimed to be the Christ. For example, in Matthew 8:20, He said, “...The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head." Also, in Mark 14:62, He said, “...I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven." Luke 9:26 tells us, "For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed…."

However, it's crucial to understand that in these various instances where Jesus referred to Himself as "the Son of man," it wasn’t a generic term denoting His humanity. He wasn’t describing Himself as “a son” of man but as “the Son” of man, indicating a specific reference to Daniel's prophecy in Daniel 7:13, “I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven….”

Daniel's vision of "the Son of man" coming with the clouds of heaven is closely connected to Jesus' proclamation during His trial before the high priest in Matthew 26:59-66. The high priest had asked Jesus if He was the Christ, the Son of God, and He replied: "Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. "...But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven" (Matthew 26:64 NIV).

The high priest immediately accused Jesus of blasphemy, tore his clothes and declared that Jesus was worthy of death. The council agreed, affirming that Jesus should be condemned to death. By calling Himself "the Son of man," Jesus was actually asserting His identity as the Christ.

This distinction was clear to the Jewish congregation who recognised the weighty implications of the Lord’s claim. The ‘Son of man’ was a title of the Christ. Jesus is God in human flesh, our great God and Saviour who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works (Titus 2:13-14).

🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for revealing yourself to us as God in human flesh. I acknowledge and confess that you are the Christ, the embodiment of Deity, my Lord and my God, and the reason for my existence. Thank you for your everlasting love, grace and tender mercies. Hallelujah!

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Matthew 16:13-16; When Jesus came into the coasts of Cæsarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?
[14] And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.
[15] He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
[16] And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.

Mark 8:38; Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.

Luke 5:24; But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 15:5-13 & Psalms 94-98

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Philippians 2:12-18 & Isaiah 64

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 TUES. 6TH AUGUST 2024

YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO DO WITH IT

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Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the… Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father…Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied (1 Peter 1:1-2).

Pastor Chris Says
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Something very remarkable in all of Paul’s epistles is his consciousness of the grace and peace of God. At the beginning of each of the epistles he wrote to the churches, you’d find expressions such as the one in Romans 1:7: “...Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

You also find the same with Peter and even John; they understood the importance and power of grace and peace in the lives of God’s people. But then Peter takes a step further to show us something quite striking about this. At the beginning of his first epistle, as read in our theme scripture, he said, “...Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.”

But at the beginning of his second epistle, he pinpoints how this grace and peace can be multiplied in your life: it’s through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord: 2 Peter 1:2: “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord.”

Multiplied grace in your life means increased capacity, speed, and accuracy to perform. It means more favours and greater excellence in your life with prosperity, dominion and power over adversity. Hallelujah!

But for these to happen, you have to have the knowledge of God; knowledge here is “epignosis” (Greek), which is correct and precise knowledge: a knowledge that relates with that which is known.

It’s up to you how much prosperity with peace you want to enjoy. It’s not going to happen by you praying, “Oh God, multiply your grace and peace in my life; no! He’s already shown you what to do: get to know God more intimately. Study and meditate on His Word. Be deliberate about this. Hallelujah!

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the abundance of grace and peace that you have made available to me through the knowledge of your Word. My knowledge of you deepens as I meditate on your Word, thus causing your grace and peace to be multiplied in my life, leading to increased capacity, dominion and prosperity, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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1 Corinthians 1:3; grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Philippians 1:2; grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Colossians 1:2; to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 9:1-29 & Psalms 74-77

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 6:10-20 & Isaiah 57

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

*TALK TO YOUR BODY AND IT WILL HEAR YOU*

Saturday, August 3rd .
Pastor Chris

_*For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned (Matthew 12:37).*_

Words are the most important things in the world. They’re also the most potent forces on earth. God made everything with words and sustains everything with words—the word of His power (Hebrews 1:3). And as read in our theme scripture, words would determine where you live eternally. Death and life are based on words (Proverbs 18:21).

So, what have you done with words? How do you use words? One of the things you have to practise is talking to your body—using your words to keep your body in health and perfection. Every so often, declare that you’re strong; you’re in health; every fibre of your being and organ in your body is perfected by the Holy Spirit.

Talk to your body and it will hear you. The human body is like an “animal” that needs to be trained. Insist on what you want your body to do, and it will start yielding to you. Every part of your body has intelligence; give your body instructions and insist that it obeys you, and in the process of time, it’ll get used to listening to you.

This is something you have to consciously practise if you haven’t been doing it. Talk to your brain, your head, your lungs, your liver, your kidneys, your heart, your blood, etc. If any part or organ in your body has been hurting or seems to have an issue, tell it to be healed and it will comply.

Remember what the Bible says in James 3; you can control and tame your whole body with your words: _*“For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us…Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things..."*_
(James 3:2-5).

Keep your body in health by speaking life to it. The Bible says the wholesome tongue is a tree of life. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you and has given life to your physical body. He’s brought you into life and immortality. Make these and similar affirmations every so often. You say, “The Holy Spirit is the life of my body; therefore, I live free of sickness, disease, infirmities and the elements of this world.” Blessed be God!

*CONFESSION*

*My physical body is alive and inundated with the pulsating life of God. As a result, I walk in divine health and vitality. I live free of sickness, disease, infirmities and the elements of this world. Hallelujah!*

*FURTHER STUDY:* *||* *3 John 1:2* Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. *||*

*||* *Ecclesiastes 8:4* Where the word of a king [is, there is] power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou? *||*

*||* *Mark 11:23* For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. *||*

*IF YOU ARE NOT YET BORN AGAIN, KINDLY SAY THIS PRAYER TO RECEIVE SALVATION NOW!🤲=>* https:///salvation-link

*GIVE TO SPONSOR COPIES OF RHAPSODY OF REALITIES AS A GLOBAL AGENT OF CHANGE TODAY!💵💷💶💳📲🌍=>* https:///3PGXMWi

*RHAPSODY SUBSCRIPTION=>* https:///3vUBdST

*🌟You Are Blessed To Be The Light Of The World! Let Your Light Shine Gloriously Before Men By DISTRIBUTING RHAPSODY OF REALITIES GLOBALLY!🌍=>* https:///46i1Wtf

*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

*1-Year Bible Reading Plan=>* Romans 7:7-25 & Psalms 64-67

*2-Year Bible Reading Plan=>* Ephesians 5:17-24 & Isaiah 54

*EXCERPT FROM:* Rhapsody Of Realities Daily Devotional

*🤳SHARE WITH YOUR WORLD!🌍*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 FRI. 2ND AUGUST 2024

THE WORD IS YOUR COMPASS

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Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path (Psalm 119:105 NKJV).

Pastor Chris Says
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God’s Word is light, and light gives direction. When you want to know God’s purpose and His direction for your life, go to the Word; study God’s Word. The Word is your compass; if you follow it, you’ll never lose your way; you’ll never fail. God’s Word is truth; it’s dependable; you can bet your whole life on it.

One of the things you gain from studying the Word of God is spiritual enlightenment and focus. Your spiritual eyes are open to what you should see, and then you’re guided to be focused on the future that God has created for you.

With the Word of God, you’re focused and know exactly where you’re going and how to get there. Life ceases to be a speculation, a leap in the dark. It reminds of the words of Jesus: “…I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). Remember, He’s the Word made flesh; the way to follow Him is to follow His Word. Hallelujah!

Don’t be afraid to believe and stay on God’s Word. Our opening verse says, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" (Psalm 119:105). The Word will never lead you astray. Proverbs 3:5 tells us, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart….” Joshua 1:8 AMPC says, “This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.”

Fix your gaze on the Word of God and align your spiritual vision with what it reveals. Doing this will lead you to the fulfilment of God's purpose for your future. With unwavering focus, you'll gain clarity on your destination and the path to reach it. Praise God!

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the gift of your Word, which serves as a lamp to guide my steps and a light to illuminate my path. I wholly trust in your guidance and follow your Word diligently. I keep my eyes fixed on your truth, knowing that’s the sure path to success and unending prosperity, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Hebrews 4:12; For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Acts 20:32; And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

Proverbs 3:5-6 AMPC; Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding.
[6] In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 6:15-7:1-6 & Psalms 60-63

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 5:9-16 & Isaiah 53

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

*YOU’RE A VICTOR, NOT A VICTIM*

Thursday, August 1st .
Pastor Chris

_*But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57).*_

God didn’t bring you into this world to be a victim of circumstance, social structure, politics, the economy, or the government of the day; no. You’re not a victim of the town, city or nation where you live; you’re more than a conqueror; you’ve overcome the world.

The Bible says, _*“…whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world…”*_ (1 John 5:4). Hallelujah! In the preceding chapter four, verse four, it says, _*“Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world”*_ (1 John 4:4).

You have to come to the understanding that God is no longer trying to give you anything, make you anything, or help you out of any predicament. That’s because there isn’t anything you require today that He hasn’t already made available to you.

Many have only related to God with a victim’s mentality, and that’s wrong. They only see Him as the One who “brings” them out of trouble. So all their lives they’re looking up to this great God who “will” help them out, lift them up, bless them, and so on, unaware of what He’s already done.

Ephesians 1:3 says, _*“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.”*_ 2 Peter 1:3 tells us that His divine power has given unto us all things that pertain to life and godliness. Then in 1 Corinthians 3:21, Paul, by the Spirit, declares, _*“Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours.”*_

It’s time to wake up to the reality of God’s Word and live in its present truths. Today, God doesn’t have any plan to prosper you, because He’s already done it. He’s not planning to heal you, because He already gave you something greater than healing—the divine nature that comes with divine health. He gave you a life that’s immune to sickness, disease, infirmity and death.

But if you don’t know these truths, you’ll live as a victim. God said, _*“My people perish for their lack of knowledge”*_ (Hosea 4:6). Have the Christ mentality; you’ve been brought into the transcendent life in Christ. Talk, act, and live accordingly.

*PRAYER*

*I’ve been brought into the transcendent life in Christ; I’m not a victim of circumstances. I’m empowered by the Spirit to overcome every obstacle that comes my way. I have everything I need to live a triumphant life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.*

*FURTHER STUDY:* *||* *Romans 8:31-39* What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? [It is] God that justifieth. 34 Who [is] he that condemneth? [It is] Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? [shall] tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or unclothedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. *||*

*||* *2 Corinthians 2:14* Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. *||*

*IF YOU ARE NOT YET BORN AGAIN, KINDLY SAY THIS PRAYER TO RECEIVE SALVATION NOW!🤲=>* https:///salvation-link

*GIVE TO SPONSOR COPIES OF RHAPSODY OF REALITIES AS A GLOBAL AGENT OF CHANGE TODAY!💵💷💶💳📲🌍=>* https:///3PGXMWi

*RHAPSODY SUBSCRIPTION=>* https:///3vUBdST

*🌟You Are Blessed To Be The Light Of The World! Let Your Light Shine Gloriously Before Men By DISTRIBUTING RHAPSODY OF REALITIES GLOBALLY!🌍=>* https:///46i1Wtf

*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

*1-Year Bible Reading Plan=>* Romans 6:1-14 & Psalms 56-59

*2-Year Bible Reading Plan=>* Ephesians 5:1-8 & Isaiah 52

*EXCERPT FROM:* Rhapsody Of Realities Daily Devotional

*🤳SHARE WITH YOUR WORLD!🌍*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 WED. 31ST JULY 2024

WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT YOU KNOW

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Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4).

Pastor Chris Says
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It’s so important that you’re always conscious of who you are in Christ and allow that knowledge control everything about your life. It’s one of the things that made David in the Old Testament so different from everyone else. David won many battles in his lifetime. Recall his encounter with Goliath; when all the armies of Israel, including the valiant King Saul, were terrified of Goliath, David said, "... for who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?" (1 Samuel 17:26).

In verse forty-five, addressing Goliath, he declared, “…Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied” (1 Samuel 17:45). Subsequently, David decapitated Goliath and won the victory for Israel as a stripling, a young lad too young to be in the army.

The difference between David and the rest of the Israelites was that David knew who he was and was conscious of it. He recognized the covenant between God and Israel and knew that as a result of that covenant, anyone coming against Israel was coming against God.

The others in Israel didn’t function with that knowledge, and that was why they could be bullied by Goliath. God said, “My people perish for their lack of knowledge” (Hosea 4:6). You can, and should always win; it’s the life God has given you.

But you have to know your divine provisions and rights in Christ. If you don’t know who you are, you’ll be disadvantaged in life. Nonetheless, if you know who you are but don’t know what to do with the knowledge, you’ll still be buffeted by the circumstances and adversities of life.

Therefore, every day, live with the consciousness that you’re born of God; you have the same life with Him. You’re superior to Satan, with dominion over circumstances and the elements of this world. Ponder these and similar truths in the Word of God, and you’ll walk in victory consistently.

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for making me a partaker of your divine nature and giving me victory in Christ Jesus. I’m conscious of who I am in Christ, and I walk in the knowledge of my divine rights and heritage in Christ. Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. I am victorious in every situation, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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1 John 4:4; Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

1 John 4:17; Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.

Philemon 1:6; that the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 5:12-21 & Psalms 52-55

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 4:25-32 & Isaiah 51

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 TUES. 30TH JULY 2024

INCREASING IN THE “EPIGNOSIS” OF HIM

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For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:9-10).

Pastor Chris Says
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What we just read is the Spirit’s prayer for the Church through the Apostle Paul. God wants you to be fruitful in every good work while simultaneously increasing in the knowledge of God. How important this is! What's intriguing about Paul's choice of words here is his use of “Epignosis” (Greek) for knowledge.

That term wasn't commonly used in everyday conversations in Bible days. Interestingly, it was also used by Peter only in his second epistle, possibly influenced by Paul's message. “Epignosis” refers to precise, correct knowledge. The power of “Epignosis” lies in its ability to relate with that which is known; it’s knowledge with intimacy.

Paul introduced this kind of knowledge which the Jews generally weren’t acquainted with; they focused on memorising the Law, reading, internalizing and repeating it. But God wanted more; He didn’t want them to have just mere head knowledge of Him but the “epignosis” of Him.

No wonder He said, "…this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me…" (Isaiah 29:13). The Lord Jesus reiterated the same words in Matthew 15:8, “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.”

For them in the Old Testament, there was no real relationship even though they could recite every detail or aspect of the Law. Therefore, Paul introduced this higher form of knowledge, a knowledge that includes fellowship with that which is known.

“Epignosis” surpasses mere observation; it involves a profound spiritual connection. So, when you engage with the Scriptures, it's not merely about routine learning; it's about deepening your relationship and interaction with the Lord and His divine truths. Hallelujah!

🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I’m filled with the precise and exact knowledge of God’s will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. I walk worthy of Him, pleasing Him in every way, being fruitful in every good work even as my “epignosis” of Him increases, and I experience the power thereof, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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2 Peter 1:2-3; grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,
[3] according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

2 Peter 3:18; But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 5:1-11 & Psalms 49-51

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 4:17-24 & Isaiah 50

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 MON. 29TH JULY 2024

DECLARE YOUR FAITH THROUGH WATER BAPTISM 

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Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptised every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38).

Pastor Chris Says
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In Mark 16:15-16, the Lord Jesus delivered a powerful charge to His disciples, commanding them to spread the Gospel to every corner of the earth and to every person, emphasizing the importance of water baptism. He declared, "He that believeth and is baptised shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned" (Mark 16:16).

The Master in the scripture above highlighted the significance of water baptism as a tangible expression or proof of your believing in Him. It’s a sign of your complete severance from the world. So, everyone who believes in Jesus should be baptized in water.

That’s why it’s important for church pastors to organise water baptism regularly and frequently, ensuring that Christians have the opportunity to publicly declare their faith through baptism. It is essential not to overlook the importance of baptism in the process of soul-winning, as baptism was a vital practice among the early disciples (Acts 2:38, Acts 8:12, and Acts 10:47-48).

Some believe that when you sprinkle water on people, that’s baptism; but it’s not. If water was merely sprinkled on you and you were told you’ve been baptised, you haven’t been baptized. To 'baptize' means to immerse. It’s from the Greek word "baptizo," which means to immerse or dip completely into.

John employed this method, immersing individuals in water for the washing away of sins, distinguishing it from other ceremonial washings. That was what earned him the name “John the Baptist” or “John the immerser.” Baptism signifies our faith in our union with Him in His death, burial and resurrection (see Romans 6:4). “For in baptism you see how your old, evil nature died with him and was buried with him; and then you came up out of death with him into a new life because you trusted the Word of the mighty God who raised Christ from the dead” (Colossians 2:12 TLB).

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the gift of salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ. I understand the importance of baptism as a public declaration of my faith and commitment to Christ, and also a sign of my complete severance from the world. I boldly and openly declare that Jesus Christ is my Lord, and I’m awakened to the fatherhood of God, having been made one with Him. Hallelujah!

📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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Acts 2:38; Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Acts 8:12; But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

Acts 10:44-48; While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
[45] And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
[46] For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
[47] Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
[48] And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 4 & Psalms 45-48

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 4:11-16 & Isaiah 49

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

Rhapsody Of Realities

POWER TO CRUSH THEM ALL

Saturday, July 27th, 2024.

Pastor Chris

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you (Luke 10:19).

In Luke 10:18, the Lord Jesus said, "...I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven." Following this, He made the amazing declaration in our opening scripture. What does it mean to tread? It means to press down, stomp on, trample on or crush underfoot. It signifies exerting total dominion and dominance over the adversary and adversities.

Psalm 44:5 says, “Through thee will we push down our enemies: through thy name will we tread them under that rise up against us.” Again, we see the use of the word “tread” in Psalm 91:13; it says, “Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.” Psalm 108:13 tells us, “Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies.”

Also, Isaiah 14:25 reveals something beautiful; it depicts our divine authority and victory over the “Assyrian” (the spirit of the antichrist): *“…I will break the Assyrian in my land, and upon my mountains tread him under foot...."* The Lord is the head, and we are His body—Hisfeet—that treads the Assyrian underfoot. Hallelujah!

Furthermore, the use of "serpents" and "scorpions" metaphorically refer to deceptive and rebellious individuals. For example, in Matthew 23:33, the Lord Jesus addressed the religious leaders as "serpents" and "generation of vipers," denoting their deceitful nature.

Similarly, Ezekiel 2:6 describes rebellious individuals as "scorpions," emphasising their opposition to God's truth: "…though briers and thorns be with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions: be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they be a rebellious house."

Both groups mentioned by the Lord Jesus and the Prophet Ezekiel are those who have taken upon themselves to fight God's people, fight God's Word, fight the truth, and walk in deception. But thanks be unto God; the Lord has given us victory over them all. Your dominion and superiority is over all the ability of the enemy—and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Praise God!

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the authority you’ve granted me over Satan and all the power of the enemy. I wield this authority effectively, standing firm in the matchless Name of Jesus against the deceptive schemes, tricks, manipulation and wiles of Satan. I’m victorious today and always as I walk in the truth of your Word, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Luke 10:19 AMPC Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you.

1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

Mark 16:17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Romans 2:1-29 & Psalms 38-41

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Ephesians 3:13-21 & Isaiah 47

Good morning.
God bless you.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 FRI. 26TH JULY 2024

THE DARKNESS IS OVER

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The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined (Isaiah 9:2).

Pastor Chris Says
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This is marvelous! Notice what we just read; it doesn’t say, “The people that walked in darkness shall see a great light”; rather it says, “They’ve seen a great light.” Also, it doesn’t say, “They that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them shall the light shine”; rather it says, “Upon them has the light shined.”

Darkness represents everything that’s evil or puts men in bondage; it represents Satan and all his evil works. But today, in Christ Jesus, all men have been delivered, transferred from the jurisdiction of darkness into the Kingdom of God’s Love-Son.

Colossians 1:13 (NASB) says, “For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son.” If you are in Christ, darkness has no jurisdiction over you. No wonder Jesus said, “…I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12).

Now, you’re in His light, you have His light, and you have become a light in a dark and crooked world (Philippians 2:15). 1 Peter 2:9 says He “…called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.” You are in His marvellous light; light so divine, so intense; the Bible says, “…and the darkness comprehended it not” (John 1:5). Hallelujah!

1 Timothy 6:16 says, God dwells in unapproachable light. This same God, according to 2 Corinthians 4:6, has shined in our hearts. What a Gospel! What a message! This means no more poverty, no more sickness, disease and infirmities; no more death; because all these are associated with darkness.

Maybe there’s been a lingering issue at work, in your family, marriage, health, or with your children. Or perhaps it’s a loved one that’s been suffering terribly; Jesus has taken away the pain. He has remedied the situation; the darkness is over. Receive His Word to you now and act your faith. Hallelujah!

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the glorious Gospel of Christ, through which your power is unveiled, with life and immortality brought to light! Thank you for the grace to preach the Gospel in the power of the Spirit and bring many out of darkness, into your marvellous light and glorious liberty of the sons of God, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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1 Peter 2:9 AMPC; But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

John 1:4-9; In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
[5] And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
[6] There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
[7] The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.
[8] He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.
[9] That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

Matthew 4:16;The people which sat in darkness Saw great light; And to them which sat in the region and shadow of death Light is sprung up.

Acts 26:16-18; But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;
[17] delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,
[18] to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 1:18-32 & Psalms 35-37

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 THURS. 25TH JULY 2024

GUARD AGAINST SUBTLE DECEPTIONS 

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And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many (Matthew 24:4-5).

Pastor Chris Says
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Jesus issued a poignant warning against deception, forewarning us of the cunning strategies that Satan would employ, particularly in the last days. It’s the same deceptive tactics he utilised in the beginning at the garden of Eden.

In Genesis 3:1-5, the Bible tells us how the serpent cunningly questioned Eve about God's instruction not to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Eve explained the command, but the serpent deceived her, suggesting that eating the fruit would make her wise like God to discern both good and evil.

The serpent insidiously twisted God's instruction, leading Eve to question its validity. Essentially, Satan accused God of deception, insinuating that He was withholding something beneficial from Adam and Eve: “For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:5).

When confronted by God, Eve acknowledged that she had been deceived by the serpent. However, by then, the damage had been done. The repercussions of her deception led to their expulsion from the garden, marking the beginning of humanity's struggle with sin and deception.

This tactic of deception, casting doubt on God's truthfulness and goodness continues to be employed today and will be used at the end of the age. In Revelation 12, the serpent is identified as the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world.

But the time in which he’ll successfully deceive the world is after the rapture of the Church, particularly during the second half of the Tribulation period. Until then, his attempts to deceive and mislead will not be very successful, because of the work of the Church, through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, the spirit of Truth.

Remain vigilant. Stay in the Word, as that’s the only way to discern truth from falsehood amidst the myriad of deceitful schemes orchestrated by the adversary. Stand firm on God’s truth and you’ll guard against the subtle deceptions that seek to ensnare, while preaching the truth of Christ to all the world. Amen.

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I’m alert, full of discernment to recognise the deceitful schemes of the enemy. I stand firm on your truth, and guard my heart and mind against deception. Your Word is a lamp unto my feet, and I’m yielded to it, as it guides me continually in the path of life, never swayed, but steadfast and immoveable to produce works and fruits of righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Revelation 12:9; And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

1 John 4:1-4; Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
[2] Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:
[3] and every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
[4] Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

Matthew 7:15; Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 1:1-17 & Psalms 32-34

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 2:11-22 & Isaiah 45

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 TUES. 23RD JULY 2024

WHEN GRACE IS MULTIPLIED 

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Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord (2 Peter 1:2).

Pastor Chris Says
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Our opening scripture tells us how grace and peace can be multiplied in your life: it’s through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord. That means the more you study to know more about God, and the Lord Jesus, the greater the grace of God that’ll be at work in your life.

When the grace of God in your life multiplies, what’s the result? Proverbs 24:5 gives us an idea; it says, “A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.” The Hebrew word translated as “strength” is “ko‌ach”; it also means ability.

This means that through the knowledge of God’s Word, you multiply your abilities; you discover that there’s so much more you can do. God gives us responsibilities according to the grace or ability that He’s given to us. Therefore, for anything you’re asked to do, there’s grace for you to accomplish it.

However, you’ll never be able to do beyond the grace or ability of God that’s at work in you. That’s when you need increased or multiplied grace. There’re people who only have the ability to manage a medium-scale business, while some others can only operate on a small scale; yet others have the ability for very large or global operations.

In the area of leadership, it’s the same; you can only lead to the extent of the ability granted you by God. What God does for you when He wants to upgrade your life is to increase your ability and your capacity to do more. James 4:6 says, “But he giveth more grace….”

You might then say, “That means I’ll just wait until God gives me more grace to be able to handle more responsibilities in life”; no! He already told you how to have His grace multiplied in your life: it’s through the knowledge of God—the “epignosis” of God—precise and correct knowledge. With that multiplied grace, you become more efficient, with far greater results. Hallelujah!

🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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The knowledge of God’s Word is increasing in my spirit, causing my abilities to increase. Christ is in me; therefore, I’m energized to do all things, being sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency. I recognize the working of God’s divine power in me to accomplish excellently, everything He’s ordained me to do today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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2 Corinthians 9:8; And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

2 Peter 3:18; But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

2 Peter 1:2 AMPC; May grace (God's favor) and peace (which is perfect well-being, all necessary good, all spiritual prosperity, and freedom from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts) be multiplied to you in [the full, personal, precise, and correct] knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 28:1-16 & Psalms 26-29

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 1:15-23 & Isaiah 43

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 MON. 22ND JULY 2024

TALK RIGHT AND LIVE RIGHT 

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For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (Romans 10:10).

Pastor Chris Says
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Your destiny is in your mouth. The Bible says in Proverbs 18:21, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” Also, Proverbs 15:4 says, “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life....” A wholesome tongue is one that talks right, that speaks God’s Word. Nothing is more wholesome than the Word of God.

Proverbs 6:2 says, “Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.” This describes the precarious situation many have found themselves in life. They’ve been bound by their own words. They speak carelessly and against the Word because they’ve not been taught right.

If you’ve been taught right, you’ll think right and talk right. In the realm of the spirit, words rule. Words are everything. God created the entire universe by the energy of words, and He gave us the same ability to build and create with words.

Your life today is the summation of your words. So, if you want a better life than what you have right now, you must change the course of your words, making sure they’re faith-filled and consistent with God’s divine provisions in the Gospel.

Proverbs 18:20 says, “A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.” If you don’t want to be sick, broke, weak and despondent, then use your mouth right; speak God’s Word.

The Lord Jesus taught on the power and importance of the spoken word—the Word on your lips. In Mark 11:23 He said you shall have what you say. 2 Corinthians 4:13 says, “We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak.”

It brings to mind what the Apostle Paul said in Romans 10:10 in showing us the principle of salvation: “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Talk right and you’ll live right. Whatever you believe and voice out with your mouth will control your life. This is a law of the spirit, and it’s immutable.

🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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Through my faith-filled words, I create whatsoever I desire; I walk in divine health, protection, peace and prosperity. I live above the elements and debilitating forces of this world because I live in Christ, seated with Him far above Satan and the wicked forces of darkness. I reign triumphantly over all the negativities of life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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Romans 10:9-10; that if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
[10] For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Mark 11:22-23; And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.
[23] For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

Proverbs 18:20 AMPC; A man's [moral] self shall be filled with the fruit of his mouth; and with the consequence of his words he must be satisfied [whether good or evil].

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 27:27-44 & Psalms 23-25

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 1:1-14 & Isaiah 42

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 SUN. 21ST JULY 2024

ALWAYS IN VICTORY

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Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ… (2 Corinthians 2:14).

Pastor Chris Says
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In 1 Corinthians 15:57, Paul pens something similar to what we just read in our theme scripture. It says, “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” We’re always in victory. This is a result of who we are in Christ and what we know— our knowledge of His Word.

Who are we? We’re more than conquerors; we’re born of God: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4). Hallelujah!

What do we know? “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). We know that come what may; no matter the situation or where we find ourselves; nothing can be to our disadvantage.

How could we lose with the Holy Spirit in us? Consider David who didn’t even have the Holy Spirit living in him as we do in Christ; he never lost a battle in his day. By the Holy Spirit upon him, and his faith in the Abrahamic covenant, he won every battle.

Our Lord Jesus already won victory over the world for us, and as He is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17). Keep these truths in your mind and meditate on them continually.

The Word says in Colossians 3:17, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus….” Doing all things in His Name means living in His Name. That means you’re living for Him, in His authority. Therefore, defeat, failure, and poverty can’t be a part of your life.

This consciousness should stir extraordinary boldness in your spirit such that you’re totally unruffled by any crisis. Everything in life is subject to the power and authority of His Name and because you live in His Name, you’ll always win. Glory to God!

🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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Thank you heavenly Father for my heritage in Christ! I’m always in victory; everything I do prospers, because I have the life of God in me and I’ve overcome the world. Thank you for giving me the Name of Jesus, to use and to live by. By the power and authority of that Name, I make progress with giant strides today, with all of nature, and everything that exists, working together in my favour, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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1 Corinthians 15:57; But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 John 4:4; Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

1 John 5:4; For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 27:1-26 & Psalms 21-22

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 6:10-18 & Isaiah 41

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 SAT. 20TH JULY 2024

FRUITS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

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May you abound in and be filled with the fruits of righteousness (of right standing with God and right doing)... (Philippians 1:11 AMPC).

Pastor Chris Says
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Did you know that we’re trees of righteousness? Isaiah 61:3 says, “...that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.” We’re trees of righteousness, planted by the Lord to produce fruits of righteousness. Hallelujah!

It brings to mind the words of the Master in John 15:5, “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” In the 8th verse, He continued, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples” (John 15:. We show ourselves to be His disciples when our lives are filled with abundant fruits and works of righteousness.

Everywhere you find yourself, manifest the fruits of righteousness; produce works of righteousness, because you’re the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. Who you are is what you’ll manifest. Whatever is inside you is what will manifest under pressure.

Therefore, because you’re a tree of righteousness—the righteousness of God in Christ—it’s your nature to walk in righteousness and do works of righteousness. In Matthew 10:8, the Lord Jesus charged us to freely manifest fruits and works of righteousness when He said, “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.”

Ephesians 4:24 (NIV) says, “and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” And Ephesians 5:1-2 & 8-10 (NIV) says, “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.”

Remember, we’re His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works (Ephesians 2:10).

🙏 P R A Y E R 
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Dear Father, I thank you for making me a tree of righteousness, planted by you to produce fruits of righteousness. My life is a reflection of your righteousness, and a testimony of your goodness to the world, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Matthew 5:16; Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

John 15:5-8; I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
[6] If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
[7] If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
[8] Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

2 Corinthians 9:10; Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 26:19-32 & Psalms 19-20

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 6:1-9 & Isaiah 40

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 FRI. 19TH JULY 2024

CONTINUE IN INTERCESSION

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I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men…that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty (1 Timothy 2:1-2).

Pastor Chris Says
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Our world isn’t at the mercy of Satan and his murderous antics. As long as we take our place, interceding for the nations and those in positions of authority, the plans of the enemy will not materialize.

We’re the ones to see to it that God’s purpose, His perfect will, is fulfilled in the earth and in the lives of men. He gave us the authority, the ability, and the responsibility. In Ephesians 6:18, the Spirit says, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”

Our intercessory ministry is through and by the Spirit. As we pray in intercession, the Holy Spirit takes hold together with us against the forces of darkness to establish the righteousness of God in every place. Part of the result is what He says we’d experience in the latter part of our theme scripture: a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

Another amazing impact of our intercessory prayers is that through it, we bind the “strong man”—Satan: “Or else how can one enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man...” (Matthew 12:29).

For us to record a massive harvest of souls in the nations of the world as we should in these last days, we must break the power and influence of Satan and demons over the minds and lives of those who haven’t yet known the Lord. As you pray, declare that the power and influence of Satan and his demons over their lives are broken in the Name of Jesus. Proclaim that as they hear the Gospel, they understand and receive it for their salvation in Christ Jesus.

Intercession is always on behalf of others; you're directing God’s grace, power and influence toward others and pleading your case in their interest. That requires importunity, consistency and fervency in prayer (James 5:16 AMPC). So, keep praying; don’t stop until the will of God is fully established.

🙏 P R A Y E R 
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Dear Father, I thank you for the spirit of prayer and intercession in the churches of Christ today. As we pray, your righteousness is established in the hearts of men as the light of your glorious Gospel shines ever more brightly upon the nations in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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James 5:16-18 AMPC; Confess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].
[17] Elijah was a human being with a nature such as we have [with feelings, affections, and a constitution like ours]; and he prayed earnestly for it not to rain, and no rain fell on the earth for three years and six months. [I Kings 17:1.]
[18] And [then] he prayed again and the heavens supplied rain and the land produced its crops [as usual].

1 John 5:14-15; And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
[15] and if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

Luke 18:1; And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 26:2-18 & Psalms 17-18

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 5:20-26 & Isaiah 39

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 WED. 17TH JULY 2024

HIS TRUTH PREVAILS

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Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come (John 16:13).

Pastor Chris Says
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In John 16:7-8, the Lord Jesus spoke to His disciples, telling them that it was to their advantage that He had to go away, for if He did not go away, the Helper (the Holy Spirit) would not come to them. But soon after His ascension, the Holy Spirit came as foretold and has been here ever since, to guide men into the truth.

The Holy Spirit is carrying out His work in these last days as we preach, teach and disseminate the Word of God to help bring the nations of men into the knowledge of the truth for their salvation. The Bible says in Acts 19:20, “So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.” This is happening all over the world.

In a world of darkness, deception and falsehood, God’s truth is prevailing. And as we pray for all nations, the light of truth further gains dominance, blazing with unquenchable intensity.

In your prayer times, declare that the Spirit of truth fills your nation, your cities, states, towns and villages. Declare that the evil works in every nation are paralyzed and God's purpose for the nations is fulfilled.

When you pray this way, you’re establishing the truth of the Word in your nation and in the nations of the world. Consequently, the Gospel will spread unhindered and the Word of the Lord will have free course and be glorified (2 Thessalonians 3:1). Hallelujah!

🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, who dwells within us and guides us into all truth. The truth of your Word penetrates every heart and mind, exposing and overcoming deception and falsehood. Indeed, your truth reigns supreme in our cities, states and nations as your righteousness fills the earth, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 16:13 AMPC; But when He, the Spirit of Truth (the Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will guide you into all the Truth (the whole, full Truth). For He will not speak His own message [on His own authority]; but He will tell whatever He hears [from the Father; He will give the message that has been given to Him], and He will announce and declare to you the things that are to come [that will happen in the future].

Acts 19:20; So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.

1 Timothy 2:1-2; I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
[2] for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 25:1-12 & Psalms 7-10

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 5:1-12 & Isaiah 37

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional