₦airaland Forum

Christ: The Secret Place . -
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1).

Due to the rate and extent of evil, and wickedness in today's world, many have become afraid, asking, "Does God still care? Can we trust Him to take care of us? Is He close enough to do something?" Emphatically yes! Actually, He doesn't need to do anything anymore; He's already done all that's necessary for your safety and protection.

The Bible says He has raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:6). The one who should be bothered about the problems and evil in the world is the one who isn't in Christ. Christ is our security, peace, safety and protection; He's our dwelling place. Our opening verse is very emphatic about this; it says, "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."

To dwell in the secret place of the Most High is to dwell in Christ; meaning He's your habitation. Anyone who dwells in that "secret place" abides under the shadow of the Almighty; that means he's under the protection of the Almighty.

In the New Testament, Apostle Paul puts it this way: "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creation..." (2 Corinthians 5:17). Christ is that dwelling place; because you're in Christ, you are, and will always be, safe. Psalm 91:8-9 says, "Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation."

As a child of God, you have no reason to be afraid of terror. The Lord, the Most High, is your habitation! The Bible says, "Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day" (Psalm 91:5). You're in Christ; therefore, you're supernaturally protected! You abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

Confession...
Christ is my dwelling place, and my trust is in the Lord! Therefore, as the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so am I completely shielded from every form of evil in the world. No harm shall befall me, neither shall any plague come near my dwelling, because my life is hid with Christ in God! Halleluiah!

Further Study:
Isaiah 43:1-2
But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. 2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 10:1-31,Numbers 11-1
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 19:23-30,Exodus 12

Celebrate The Success Of Others - Monday , 2nd March.

Pastor Chris

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves (Philippians 2:3).

There’re people who, instead of seeing the positive side of others and learning from them, get into worthless competition. The news of someone else’s success not only upsets and triggers in them a competitive spirit, they also feel “dwarfed” by them. This ought not to be so.

The success of another person doesn’t mean that you’re failing; therefore, rejoice and celebrate them. Be filled with love. Never find yourself in unhealthy competition with others. If you were starting a business, for example, don’t let it be because you want to compete with somebody else; don’t strive or fight with others; let God lead you. If you’d commit your work to Him and trust Him, He’d cause you to succeed. He’s already established you on the Rock, and that Rock is Christ; therefore, you have nothing to fear.

Moreover, success is relative, and there’re different phases and levels of success. Your success can only be measured according to the vision and target that God has given you. If you’re about a God-given endeavour, then He alone can judge how successful you are. Between you and God, you can decide whether or not you’re successful, because it’s based on what you’re told to do. What He told you to do may not be what He told someone else; so there’s no need to compare yourself with others, or rate yourself on the basis of their success or failure.

Therefore, in all you do, let your motives be right and be void of selfishness. When you hear of other people’s successes, never allow the self-pitying or “why-not-me” attitude. Rejoice. Refuse to compare yourself with anyone. Remember, you’re unique before the Lord!

Prayer...
Dear Lord, I thank you for your love, which is shed abroad in my heart by the Holy Spirit. I extend this undiluted love to everyone around me, showing sincere concern about their challenges, and expressing true joy and happiness for their successes. Envy, jealousy, and pride have no place in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Genesis 4:4-7 GNB
Then Abel brought the first lamb born to one of his sheep, killed it, and gave the best parts of it as an offering. The Lord was pleased with Abel and his offering, but he rejected Cain and his offering. Cain became furious, and he scowled in anger. Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why that scowl on your face? If you had done the right thing, you would be smiling; but because you have done evil, sin is crouching at your door. It wants to rule you, but you must overcome it.”

1 Corinthians 13:4 AMP
Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:Mark 9:33-50 Numbers 9-10
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:Matthew 19:13-22 Exodus 11

ramalot:
False. You only want to load your answer with the applicable preconceived notion.

That said, did you just evade my original question?
It is practically a yes or no answer. Answer the question.

your question I not logical. meanwhile, I am a Christian, under a new covenant. Google that

ramalot:
Great.
Now, what if someone told you that the enslavement of millions of Africans during and after the slave trade was perfectly okay.
After all, the bible expressly gives a nod to the institution of slavery. Would your answer be an emphatic yes?

Keep in mind, anything short of an emphatic yes would be short of a 100% agreement with the bible.

Leviticus 25:44-46

As for your male and female slaves whom you may have: you may buy male and female slaves from among the nations that are around you. You may also buy from among the strangers who sojourn with you and their clans that are with you, who have been born in your land, and they may be your property. You may bequeath them to your sons after you to inherit as a possession forever. You may make slaves of them, but over your brothers the people of Israel you shall not rule, one over another ruthlessly.


Titus 2:9-10

Slaves are to be submissive to their own masters in everything; they are to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior.



These are only two out of many.

Great.
Now, what if someone told you that banning and/or total avoidance of homosexuality, idolatry etc perfectly okay.
After all, the bible expressly gives a no no to the institution of botj. Would your answer be an emphatic yes?

Keep in mind, anything short of an emphatic yes would be short of a 100% agreement with the bible.


by the way, are you Christian, atheist, pagan or agnostic. I want to start from your root belief in answering you.

sonOfLucifer:
Hello fool.

Hello buddy! i see you've been roaming round NL seeking for who to devour... just steer clear of my path. I ruin evil.. I hurt demons

ramalot:
Quick question, do you agree with everything in the bible 100%

emphatically yes!

[quote author=Muyiwabiggy post=31189051][/quote]gombs...I've been here for 6years now. nice meeting you!

Strengthened for Kingdom Work - Sunday, March 1st

Pastor Chris

Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power (1 Corinthians 15:24).

The Lord Jesus called us to establish His Kingdom in the earth. He’s setting up His Kingdom in this earth, and after He’s set it up, and ruled and reigned in this earth, there’ll come the judgment of the Great White Throne where He’ll sit and judge everyone that ever came to this world. The Bible says we’ll sit with Him on thrones to judge the nations of the world; but before that happens, you’re going to have to do what He’s called you to do.

The reason you’re in this world is to establish His Kingdom of righteousness in this earth. There’s a job for you here; it’s leading men and women into righteousness. This is something you must be passionate about. There’s no Christian who’s excluded from this; none of us is called to lazy through life. We’re an army, God’s army, enlisted into the ministry of reconciliation: “To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:19).

The army is a profession of discipline and toughness. A soldier in service doesn’t live like civilians do; he’s got a regimented lifestyle. He endures tough, physical and mental training, and he’s always battle-ready. The body of Christ is an army! There’re no sissies in God’s army; you must be strong and tough for the job at hand. When it’s time to pray and you’re required to stand, stand up and pray! If you’re required to kneel, kneel!

As a soldier in God’s army, you’re called to a life of spiritual discipline, to become tough for the Kingdom! Soul-winning, for you, is non-negotiable, because that’s your lifestyle. Be fervent and zealous about the things of God; be involved in establishing His Kingdom in the earth; be fervent in soul-winning. He has strengthened you for this purpose.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the privilege of being a participator in the establishment of your Kingdom in the earth. Your Spirit is at work in me, causing me to dispense your righteousness and love! My life is an absolute manifestation of your glory! As Christ reigns as King over all the earth, I reign with Him, in establishing His Kingdom in the earth, and in the hearts of men, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1 Corinthians 3:9
For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.

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.

2 Timothy 2:4
NIV No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:Mark 9:14-32 Numbers 7-8
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:Matthew 19:1-12 Exodus 10

Vicdedean:
Thanks man! Keep it coming. You are very consistent my guy
However the thread look complicated as I have to search it somehow by quoting it. Why is it so?. Sure I love to be your friend though.

I don't understand. you can mail me by my signature. thanks alot

You Must First Be Righteous To Live Right! - Saturday, February 28th . 

Pastor Chris 

For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness (Romans 4:3). 

Some Christians haven't quite understood the concept of righteousness. They still look at the righteousness of God from its result, rather than its source. As Christians, we received righteousness as a gift: "...they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ" (Romans 5:17). Right living is the result of righteousness; right living isn't righteousness. 

There're many who think that if they could live right, then they'll be made the righteousness of God. It's not so. You'd have to first believe in Jesus Christ, and have the gift of righteousness imparted to your spirit before you'd be able to live right. You could never be righteous by living right. How could you live out what you don't have? 

It's like expecting someone who isn't born again to walk in love; that's not going to work. Two things you can't do until you have Christ in you: first, you can't walk in love; secondly, you can't live right. You must have Christ, whom the Bible says is made unto us righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30), to live right. Until you're righteous, God doesn't expect you to produce righteousness; He'll be remiss to ask you to do what you couldn't do. 

That's the reason He imparts righteousness to you as a gift, knowing that once you become righteous, you can live righteously; your life becomes the manifestation of His goodness, glory, grace and love. All of these and other divine attributes will be evident in your life as you live out the Word. 

Confession...

I'm the manifestation and expression of God's righteousness; the proof of His equity, glory and grace! I'm excited about my new life in Christ: a life of dominion, love, excellence and power through righteousness. Halleluiah!

Further Study:
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. ;

Romans 14:17
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Daily Scripture Reading 

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 8:27-38-9:1-13, Numbers 5-6

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:Matthew 18:21-35,  Exodus 9.

Kedam:
No. whats ur point? Remember you heard pain, sadness, etc u jumped waiting

my point is only humans have a soul. the fact that animals feel pains etc is no reason to deduce they have a soul.

like I said, all creation are in pains...does it mean they all have souls,even worms?

Romans 8:19 BBE
For we are conscious that all living things are weeping and sorrowing in pain together till now.

Kedam:
That's where u are wrong. Jesus came to this world to save man's soul (fact) from their sin but not animals because they don't need to be saved. Also if animals have no soul why do u think they can feel ur pain and sadness? If animals have no soul why will u talk to a dog to do something which he will certainly do. If animals have no soul why will they see danger and run? If they have no soul why were the israelite told not eat anything strangled. Also what's a living creature?

so, anything that can feel pain and sadness etc has a soul?

meeeh, you need Jesus. Everything responds to sound, for it was sound that brought them to being. God spoke and everything has signature of that sound code. Every thing came from darkness and water by sounds of God's word.

every creature has intelligence both living an non living. That was why God asked Moses to speak to the rock for water,that was why Jesus stopped the winds...how? by using the right sound code.

The whole creature is in pains and are groaning waiting for the sons of God to come to their libration. that's how every thing responds to sound, whether positively or negatively.

God spoke creation into being through words. When He
said, "Let there be light", light came into being (Genesis
1:3). Most of Genesis chapter one is about God speaking
creation into being. Have you ever wondered why God had
to "talk" to bring forth these things instead of making them? It's because by talking, you create a sound code.

Speech creates sound waves, and the original source
material for creation is sound, because that's the energy
produced by words.

Sound code therefore, is the instruction, meaning, account, or information embedded in a sound wave.

Sometime ago, a scientist performed an experiment to ascertain the effect of words on water. He had water in
different jars and would talk to the different containers of
water. After a long while, each of them formed crystals.

The ones he talked nicely to formed beautiful crystals. He
spoke words of love: "You're wonderful; you're beautiful; you're full of love"; and beautiful crystals resulted.

However, the jars he spoke harshly to, saying, "You're
ugly, terrible, bad; I hate you", formed very poor, ugly-
looking crystals; deformed crystals.

Can we then say water has a soul?

ọ bụrụ na ị na-ekwupụtara na ọnụ gị na Onyenwe anyị Jizọs na obi gị kwere na Chineke mere ka O si na ndị nwụrụ anwụ , ị ga-azọpụta.


I try shey?

keep it rolling folks

Speak Life! - Friday, February 27th .

Pastor Chris

Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof (Proverbs 18:21).

God spoke creation into being through words. When He said, "Let there be light", light came into being (Genesis 1:3). Most of Genesis chapter one is about God speaking creation into being. Have you ever wondered why God had to "talk" to bring forth these things instead of making them? It's because by talking, you create a sound code. Speech creates sound waves, and the original source material for creation is sound, because that's the energy produced by words.

Sound code therefore, is the instruction, meaning, account, or information embedded in a sound wave. Sometime ago, a scientist performed an experiment to ascertain the effect of words on water. He had water in different jars and would talk to the different containers of water. After a long while, each of them formed crystals. The ones he talked nicely to formed beautiful crystals. He spoke words of love: "You're wonderful; you're beautiful; you're full of love"; and beautiful crystals resulted.

However, the jars he spoke harshly to, saying, "You're ugly, terrible, bad; I hate you", formed very poor, ugly-looking crystals; deformed crystals. What then is the moral behind this? The human body is seventy per cent water. That means more than two-thirds of your physical body is water. Therefore, speaking negative words to yourself results in the deformity of the water crystals in your body; deformed crystals resulting from deformed minds. Many have talked themselves to death without knowing it.

Refuse to speak negatively or ugly about yourself; many think it's "fashionable" to do so, and that's sad. They pick lots of negative communication from their environment, workplace, neighborhood, etc., and take them home. Like some who, referring to their job, will say, "This thing is killing me"; or the mother who keeps saying, "These children are killing me", and thinks it doesn't matter; it does! They're destroying the water crystals in their bodies, because those crystals respond to words.

Speak life to your body, your environment, family, and to your world!

Confession...
The Word of God has produced life in me; I'm a testimony of the grace and glory of God as a result of the impact of the Word in my life. I'm walking in righteousness, victory, prosperity, health, success and greatness. Halleluiah!

Further Study:
James 3:2 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. ;

Proverbs 15:4
A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit. ;

Colossians 4:6
Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 8:14-26,Numbers 3-4
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 18:12-20,Exodus 8

prettysheila:
Based on my research that there are several electrical impulses going on d body.from the brain to the eyes and all other parts of the body.The indians believed that humans av different colours of electrical impulse in there brain.the blue colour is evll,the sinners,the red colour is for the lustful ones while the lilac colour is for the righteous ones.then,wats your argument on this?justify your argument

truck load of baloney!

the Bible is the only book with divine truth...and the Bible let's me know that God's word can separate the soul from the spirit.

now you are going into electrical pulses from the brain...you've derailed from the soul an spirit thread you started. lol

Kedam:
Do animals have a souls or not ? Its simple make ur research. When it comes to animal, spirit is an exception I already stated it clearly if that's ur point.

They don't, if they did... Jesus' salvation work would apply to them too. But God so loved the world of men that he gave Jesus. We are special to God because we are a spirit that has a soul and lives in a body.

prettysheila:
Lol.just wat I thought.just tell me your view on it

done that already

prettysheila:
It has been said that the soul belongs to God while the spirit belongs to man.if u agree with that proposition.Then,can you explain the basis of your argument?

who said?

meanwhile, the soul and spirit ain't same. However, where the spirit is, the soul is... The soul is the 'brain' of the spirit. They live forever, and both return to God after death.

.

A Necessity For Spiritual Growth - Thursday, February 26th .

Pastor Chris

That we henceforth be no more children...But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ (Ephesians 4:14-15).

As a Christian, something very important you need to understand is that Jesus Christ is not only alive today, but He's also with us through the Holy Spirit, and cares affectionately for us. Moreover, He wants us to take His message to the ends of the earth. That's what our life is about: taking His message to those who are yet to know Him. We're a light to a world in darkness. However, in our journey of winning souls and changing lives, there's a necessity for spiritual growth; we must keep growing in the Word, and consciously enhance our fellowship with the Holy Spirit.

It's not enough to be born again; there's so much more in God to enjoy. How much liberty of the Spirit that you'll enjoy depends on the spiritual knowledge of God's Word that you have. His blessings that you'll enjoy in your life depend on the knowledge of Him that you have in your spirit. The less knowledge you have, the less blessings and joy of the Spirit that will flow through you.

This is important because the knowledge of God's Word is what puts you over in life. The Bible says through knowledge shall the just be delivered, not just from trouble, but also into their inheritance (Proverbs 11:9). Through the knowledge of God's Word, you're able to exercise dominion and control over circumstances.

In addition, through the growth that you experience by being in fellowship with the Holy Spirit, you're constantly being lifted over and above the corrupting influences of this world. When men are cast down because of their experiences, you have another message: There's lifting up (Job 22:29)!

Never allow the challenges you face overwhelm you. Whatever challenges you might be facing today are what you've been built, prepared and fashioned for. None of us is given more than he or she can handle: "...God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able..." (1 Corinthians 10:13). Rather than focus on the trouble, act on the Word, and you'll surely have a testimony.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the life of splendour, grace, prosperity, and greatness you've brought me into. I'm excelling and making progress on every side, and my faith is prevailing over circumstances, as I walk in the fullness of your blessings, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Hebrews 5:12-14 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. ;

1 Peter 2:2
As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 7:23-8:1-13,Numbers 1-2
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 18:1-11,Exodus 7

what if I dreamt about Arsenal winning the UEFA Champions league?

creepy

I can help your case o

Have No Consciousness Of Need - Tuesday, February 24th .

Pastor Chris

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 1:3).

As you study the scriptures, and grow in the knowledge of God’s Word, you’d discover that everything you could ever want has been provided in the Word. What God wants isn’t for us to use prayer as an avenue to ask Him for the things we need; rather, the purpose of prayer is our fellowship with Him. That’s what He seeks.

1 Corinthians 1:9 says, “God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.” You’ve been called unto the fellowship of Jesus Christ. That means you’ve been brought into oneness, a partnership or family union with Jesus Christ. If this is true, what in the world could you ever be in need of? Every good thing you could ever want in your life, or have enough sense to ask for is wrapped up in Christ. To have Christ is to have everything.

Our opening scripture says He’s already given you all things that pertain to life and godliness. Your approach to the Word of God should be, “If God says it, then my response is ‘YES’. If He says I have all things in Christ, then it means all things are mine; no need to ask for anything because all
my needs have been provided in Christ.” Let this be the way you think. Jesus had no consciousness of need; follow His example.

Confession...
I have no consciousness of need,
because Christ is in me, and He’s my all! With Him, I have everything. My life is one of ever-increasing glory as I live in, and by, the Word, and constantly fellowship with the Holy Spirit, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Philippians 4:6
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

1 Corinthians 3:21
Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours

Philippians 4:19
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 6:30-56, Leviticus 25
2-Year Bible Reading Plan:Matthew 17:14-21 Exodus 5

The Church: Stronger, Bigger, And More Effective! - Sunday, February 22nd .

Pastor Chris

And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder (Matthew 21:44).

The Church of Jesus Christ is the ground and pillar of truth (1 Timothy 3:15). However, there're those who have set themselves as enemies of the Church. Some have vowed that by the time they are through with Christianity, nobody will remember it existed. In Psalm 2:4, the Bible shows us that "He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision". Such misled folks are not alone in their derision; many have made such empty threats before, but God's Word and His work outlived them, and will yet outlive anyone who stands in its path.

We're in the biggest and greatest union that the world has ever seen; we're in the greatest team ever. We aren't in something that's irrelevant and weak, and fading away; the Church of Jesus Christ is stronger, bigger and more effective today, than any time in history. This is the reality. We're seeing greater miracles today than any time in the history of the Church. Haggai 2:9 says, "The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former...." That's His Word, and so it's got to be, and that's what's going on all around the world.

The Church is stronger than ever before, and we give the credit to the Holy Spirit, whose influence, power, impact and work is evident in the body of Christ today more than ever. Those who keep whipping the Church, saying that the Church today is void of power and in a backslidden state, are not in touch with reality; they're not seeing rightly.

Jesus prayed the Father to send the Holy Spirit. Then He (Jesus) ascended to heaven, and the Holy Spirit has been with us ever since, building the Church. He's in charge of the Church today; He's the Lord of the harvest. It'll therefore be out of place for anyone to say or suggest that the Church is failing in the hands of the Holy Spirit, when in reality, we're making the greatest impact for the Lord in our day. Glory to His Name forever!

Confession...
I belong to the church of the living God, the ground and pillar of truth, where I'm taught the Word, equipped, trained, nurtured, built, and edified in wisdom and righteousness! Thank you Father, for your power and glory in the Church, and your work of righteousness that's being spread and established all over the earth, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Ephesians 4:11-13
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: ;

Luke 4:16
And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. ;

Matthew 16:18
And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 5:21-43,Leviticus 22-23
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 16:21-28,Exodus 3

Christ...Our Home - Saturday, February 21st .

Pastor Chris

For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his (Hebrews 4:10).

One day, some of the disciples of John the Baptist came to Jesus and were surprised to see that He had a house, unlike John the Baptist, who often lived in the wilderness, eating locusts and wild honey. These disciples of John stayed with Jesus throughout the day, asking questions about the Kingdom and having Jesus answer their questions. When it was nighttime, rather than go back to John, they stayed with Jesus.

You'd have thought they'd return to John the next day, but no; they continued with Jesus and became His disciples; why? They had come home. That was what their soul had been searching for. Christ is our home. To be in Christ is to find rest for your soul; He's your peaceful habitation.

Our opening verse says, "For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his" (Hebrews 4:10). Christ is the real deal; He's God Himself. It doesn't get better than that. He's a person and He's also a place - our place in God. To be a Christian means you've come into Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 talks about being in Christ: "...if any man be in Christ..."; that's the place! You came home, into Christ, when you were born again. No wonder the Bible says in Him we live (Acts 17:28).

Ephesians 2:6 tells us that God has made us sit together in heavenly places, "in Christ"; that's your home; that's your environment; that's your place! So when you say, "I'm in Christ", it means you're at home. This is Christianity; you've been immersed into Christ. What a place; what a home - where there's no sin, sickness, disease, failure, poverty, defeat, weakness or death! Rather, all you have is health, joy, peace, success, strength, prosperity, beauty, and life forevermore!

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for making me to sit together in heavenly places in Christ! Not only does Christ live in me, He's also my home, and the environment from which I function. Christ is my glory, my health, wealth, wisdom, righteousness, and my all! In Him I live, and move, and have my being.

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 1:30
But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: ;

Acts 17:28
For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. ;

Colossians 1:26-27
Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: 27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 5:1-20,Leviticus 19-21
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 16:13-20,Exodus 2

Understanding Spiritual Mysteries - God's Will For You! - Friday, February 20th .

Pastor Chris

And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given (Matthew 13:10-11).

Just like the disciples, whom the Master was addressing in our opening scripture, you also have been granted the ability to know and understand spiritual mysteries. In Ephesians 1:17-18, Paul prayed, "That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints". This, however, should no longer be just a prayer for you, respond to it and appropriate it into your life; because that's the will of God for you.

God wants you to have insight into mysteries and secrets, with your spirit flooded with a light to see and apprehend your heritage, and identity in Christ. So, you say, "I've been given the spirit of wisdom and revelation, in the knowledge of God; the eyes of my understanding are enlightened; therefore, I know the hope of my calling; spiritual realities are unveiled to me! I know who I am, and all that belongs to me in Christ". It's important to respond to the Word this way because faith is the response of the human spirit to the Word of God.

Psalm 25:14 lets us know that the secret of the LORD is with them that reverence Him. He unveils His will to them. When you have the holy fear of God, and honour Him in your life, He will give you revelations of His Word, and would make Himself known to you in a special way. The words of Jesus further amplify this in John 14:21: "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him".

Prayer...
I have the ability to know and understand the mysteries of the Kingdom, because the Lord has enlightened my spirit; therefore, I walk in the light, and manifest the same to my world! Thank you Lord, for being my light, and also making me the light of the world, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 2:12
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. ;

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 16:13
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.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 4:21-41,Leviticus 16-18
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 16:1-12,Exodus 1

Full Of Wisdom - Thursday, February 19th .

That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. (1 Corinthians 1:29-30).

Just as Christ is your life (Colossians 3:4), and also your righteousness, sanctification, and riddance (redemption), He's also your wisdom. Christ being your wisdom means you're the embodiment of all wisdom and knowledge, for the Bible says in Him are deposited all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:3), and He lives in you.

There're people who are always miles apart from wisdom; when they talk or act, wisdom is never seen or heard. They have the wrong mindset, and therefore reason foolishly, because wisdom eludes them; but that's not you. Christ has been made unto you wisdom. Your role is to respond to God's Word by declaring, "Christ is my wisdom; I'm excellent, and I do excellent things". Someone may hear you talk that way and think you're proud and boastful, but you're not; rather, you're establishing the truth about who you are in Christ.

You don't get wisdom in the classroom or laboratory; it's not in age either; it comes from God; true wisdom is of the Spirit. Being in Christ and Christ in you, you have access to divine wisdom. Therefore, that controlling force to always be in the center of God's will, and have insight into the realities of the Kingdom is at work in your life. That force of wisdom controls your thoughts and actions and causes everything you do to turn out excellently.

Recognize and acknowledge that you're full of the wisdom of God. Now and again, consciously declare that the wisdom of God in your heart and in your mouth is seen and heard.

Confession...
Christ is my wisdom; therefore, I have an excellent spirit. I think differently, because God's Word has moulded my thinking and given me the mindset of the righteous. Divine wisdom is heard in my words, and seen in my actions today! I function in God's perfect will and have insight into the realities of the Kingdom. Halleluiah!

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 2:12-13
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. ;

James 3:13
Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 4:1-20,Leviticus 15
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 15:29-39,Genesis 50

Peculiar, Supernatural, And Extraordinary! - Wednesday, February 18th .

Pastor Chris

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 (1 John 4:17).

Being born again, you're a new creation in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17), having the life and nature of God in your spirit. See His description of you in 1 Peter 2:9: "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". You're peculiar, chosen, royal, supernatural, and one of a kind! See yourself in this light.

The Word of God is God's mirror, which He gave to you, so you can look and see who you really are. For example, in His prayer to the Father, Jesus said "...the glory which thou gavest me I have given them...(John 17:22); that's God holding up His mirror for you to see that you're a partaker of His glory. You've been glorified with Jesus.

Ponder again on His description of you in 1 Peter 2:9: "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". You're chosen, royal and peculiar; you're unique and special. You're the most celebrated of all God's creation; you're born of His Word; and full of the Holy Ghost. He chose you to be the one to show forth His praises and manifest His glory in the earth. What a calling!

When the Lord Jesus walked this earth, even though He laid aside His glory, He walked gloriously. He lived and manifested the supernatural. He walked on water, talked to the wind and the waves, unstopped deaf ears, opened blind eyes, healed lame legs, restored maimed limbs, and even raised the dead. He was extraordinary. He did all that He did to let us know that we have the same ability within us to function likewise.

The same Holy Spirit that was the power and essence of Jesus lives in you today. That means you can think, talk, walk, and act like Jesus. What a life!

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for your Word that has lifted and placed me on a pedestal beyond the ordinary. I acknowledge my special place in Christ and declare that my life is a manifestation of your glory even as I live and walk in the supernatural today, and always, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Peter 2:9 AMP
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. ;

Romans 8:17
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 3:13-35,Leviticus 13-14
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 15:21-28,Genesis 49

thanks Buddy

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

The Bible tells us in Ephesians 1:3 that God has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. Forgiveness is one of these blessings that we've been given in Christ Jesus. God already made forgiveness available to you; what He wants you to do is to obtain forgiveness when you need it; just receive it. This is different from asking God for forgiveness of sin. You don't need to keep asking for forgiveness over and again for the same offence; receive His forgiveness as an act of your faith.

The Greek word translated "forgiveness" is "Aphiemi", which means to let go or have freedom. So, the Father's focus is your freedom from sin. By that, I don't mean freedom from the bondage of sin, but freedom from sinning. You were already removed from under the bondage of sin and darkness into the Kingdom of God's Son when you were born again. You've been declared not guilty, acquitted, and free.

Acts 26:17-18 gives us further insight into God's idea about forgiveness. There, the Lord gave Apostle Paul a message for the Gentiles, 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". Notice the underlined word, "receive"; it derives from the Greek word, "lambano", which means, "to take possession of"; to take something and make it yours.

Just as you don't need to ask for your inheritance in Christ, because it's already yours, forgiveness has also been provided for you in the Gospel. The same way you receive an inheritance is how you receive forgiveness, because the verse we read says, "...that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me."

If you did something wrong, instead of wondering what to do and thinking whether or not God has forgiven you, receive ("lambano" ) forgiveness. Say, "Father I acknowledge that what I did is wrong, and I receive forgiveness in the Name of Jesus".

Obtain Forgiveness - Tuesday, February 17th .

Pastor Chris

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

The Bible tells us in Ephesians 1:3 that God has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. Forgiveness is one of these blessings that we've been given in Christ Jesus. God already made forgiveness available to you; what He wants you to do is to obtain forgiveness when you need it; just receive it. This is different from asking God for forgiveness of sin. You don't need to keep asking for forgiveness over and again for the same offence; receive His forgiveness as an act of your faith.

The Greek word translated "forgiveness" is "Aphiemi", which means to let go or have freedom. So, the Father's focus is your freedom from sin. By that, I don't mean freedom from the bondage of sin, but freedom from sinning. You were already removed from under the bondage of sin and darkness into the Kingdom of God's Son when you were born again. You've been declared not guilty, acquitted, and free.

Acts 26:17-18 gives us further insight into God's idea about forgiveness. There, the Lord gave Apostle Paul a message for the Gentiles, 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". Notice the underlined word, "receive"; it derives from the Greek word, "lambano", which means, "to take possession of"; to take something and make it yours.

Just as you don't need to ask for your inheritance in Christ, because it's already yours, forgiveness has also been provided for you in the Gospel. The same way you receive an inheritance is how you receive forgiveness, because the verse we read says, "...that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me."

If you did something wrong, instead of wondering what to do and thinking whether or not God has forgiven you, receive ("lambano" forgiveness. Say, "Father I acknowledge that what I did is wrong, and I receive forgiveness in the Name of Jesus".

Prayer...
Father, I thank you for the blood of Jesus that speaks my salvation and total deliverance from sin. I rejoice because I know sin shall not have dominion over me, because Christ Jesus died for me, and was raised back to life for my justification, thereby absolving me of every guilt and judgment of sin both now and forever, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Hebrews 4:16
Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. ;

1 John 2:1
My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 2:23-3:1-12,Leviticus 11-12
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 15:10-20,Genesis 48

Activating Your Faith! - Monday, February 16th .

Pastor Chris

And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace (Luke 8:48).

Matthew 9:27 tells us of two blind men that followed Jesus crying, "...Thou Son of David, have mercy on us". He asked them: "Do you believe I'm able to do this?". They answered affirmatively, and He touched them and their eyes opened. Their faith-response connected them with their healing.

Believing is from, and with the heart (Romans 10:10). You don't believe with your brain or with your mind; you believe with your spirit. When you believe with your spirit and respond according to your believing, your faith produces results. In Luke 8:43-44, the Bible tells us of the story of a woman who had suffered an issue of blood for twelve years and how she received her healing just by touching the border of Jesus' garment. This was no ordinary touch, because the Lord felt the impact of it, so much so, that He asked, "Who touched me?"

The woman, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before the Master and told Him what happened. The Lord then said to her, "...Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace" (Luke 4:48). The Master identified her faith as what made her whole. It was her faith that touched Jesus and connected her to her healing. It was a spiritual touch. She saw the Lord Jesus beyond the physical man; she saw Him as the Son of God, and touched Him with her spirit. Faith is of the spirit.

Your faith is what makes the connection. The woman with the issue of blood, when she had heard of Jesus, said to herself, "...If I may but touch hi garment, I shall be whole". She believed, confessed her believing, and went for her miracle. You can do the same!

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the opportunity to study your Word, and increase my faith. As I put my faith to work, I experience an endless stream of the miraculous from day to day, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. ;

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

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 2:1-22,Leviticus 9-10
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 14:34-15:1-9,Genesis 47