₦airaland Forum

God’s Word: The Material For Your Blessing - Tuesday, November 1st .

Pastor Chris

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves…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 (James 1:22-25).

The Word of God can be trusted; its integrity is unquestionable. When God wants to do something new in your life, He gives you His Word; He brings that thing (whatever it is), into your life through words; through His message to you. His Word is His material for blessing you. It behooves you, therefore, to get the Word into your spirit; trust and live in the Word.

When He wanted to launch Abraham to a new level in his life, it was through words. He said to him, “Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee” (Genesis 17:5). In the mind of God, Abraham being the father of many nations was a done deal. Though Abraham had no physical children at the time, as far as God was concerned, he was already a father of many, through words.

Until Abraham connected with God’s Word, he couldn’t walk in the blessings thereof. Being the father of many nations was God’s destiny for him; a destiny created through God’s Word. There’re people who aren’t walking in God’s destiny for their lives because they aren’t living out the Word. Don’t assume that as long as God has given a word concerning you, it’ll come to pass; you have a role to play. You must believe and act on the Word. You must connect to, and align yourself with His message to you to experience the blessings thereof.

The Bible says, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3). You have to walk and agree with God for His blessings, His truth, His Word, His will and purpose to be fulfilled in your life. You have to work out your own salvation with godly reverence (Philippians 2:12). It’s the doer, not the hearer of the Word, that’s blessed. Read the opening scripture again.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for giving me your Word to live by and use in altering the circumstances of life and to align with your perfect will and destiny for me. Your Word produces in and for me what it talks about, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
James 2:17-23
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. 19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? 22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? 23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 1, Jeremiah 34-35

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 1:1-12, Ezekiel 32

Loving Jesus - Monday, October 31st .

Pastor Chris

If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha (1 Corinthians 16:22).

The Lord Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15), meaning that the proof of your love for Him is keeping His Word. Furthermore, our opening verse says anyone who doesn’t love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be “anathema” (accursed). Loving Jesus isn’t debatable or negotiable; it’s not subject to the power of choice. It’s something you’re required to do.

Jesus is the crown of heaven, and the joy of the whole earth. Everything in the universe revolves around Him. He’s the embodiment and fullest revelation of God’s love! The Father has expressed Himself and His love in Jesus. There’s no better way for the Father to prove His love and manifest Himself to man outside of Jesus! Jesus is the joy of the Father’s heart. All that God does is wrapped around Him. This is the reason you must love Jesus with all your heart. Someone might want to ask, “But how can I love Him, when I can’t see Him physically?”

He already said it: “If you love me, keep my Word!” So, it’s through the Word. He rules our hearts and lives through His Word. Loving Him is loving the Word, living according to His Word. Someone once said, “I believe in God, and I love God, but I don’t believe in Jesus.” That’s a contradiction, because the Bible says, “Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: but he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also” (1 John 2:23). If you love the Father, you must love the Son also.

Your proof of love for God is demonstrated in your love for Jesus. And there’s no better way to prove your love for the Master than to do His Word. Your love for Him should be expressed in your worship and in your actions as well. Your love for Him should be the greatest attraction, and the distinguishing attribute in your life.

Prayer...
Precious Lord Jesus, I love you; thank you for all you’ve done for me. I appreciate and celebrate your glory in my life; thank you for giving me eternal life, and for loving me with such endearing and everlasting love. You’re my everything; you alone are worthy of all praise, glory, honour and adoration, forever and ever. Amen.

Further Study:
John 14:21-23
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. 22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? 23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philemon 1:1-25, Jeremiah 33

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: James 5:1-20, Ezekiel 31

Kenneth Hagin...

I'm so following.

The WoF... Ah!

Using The Name Of Jesus: A Matter Of Authority - Saturday, October 29th .

Pastor Chris

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth (Philippians 2:10).

Ephesians 1:21 talks about the resurrected Christ, and lets us know that He’s set in the heavenly places, “Far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name that is named [above every title that can be conferred], not only in this age {and} in this world, but also in the age {and} the world which are to come” (AMP). Here, the word “rule” means two things: first, it means the authority that governs; and secondly, it means the decrees by which it governs. It refers to rulership and its rules. Meaning that it doesn’t matter what rule has been made, Jesus is far above all rule. He’s set, not just above, or near above, but FAR above all rule, authority, power, and dominion. Hallelujah!

Therefore, when you use the Name of Jesus, there’s no room for doubt. God didn’t even say to use the Name only if you have faith. When it comes to using the Name of Jesus, it’s a matter of authority and not of faith. Think about this: While controlling the traffic, the officer doesn’t need any faith when he motions to the vehicles to stop. The faith that put him in office in the first place is all that he needed. And the Bible says, “...God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith” (Romans 12:3).

All the faith you needed to come into Christ Jesus has been dealt to you. Now you have authority over every demon of darkness. You don’t need somebody to help you cast the devil out today. In Matthew 17:5, we read God’s testimony of Jesus; He said, “…This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.” This was addressed to everything that has intelligence, living and non-living things. God commanded them to hear and obey Jesus.

The same decree was given concerning you the day you were born again. All of nature, angels, demons etc., have been commanded to hear and obey when you speak, because you stand and speak in the authority of Jesus. When you make decrees or entreaties in the Name of Jesus, it’s as though Jesus Himself were speaking. Therefore, be bold to use the Name of Jesus authoritatively, to control the circumstances of your existence and tame the forces of nature.

Prayer...
Precious Father, I thank you for the privilege and authority to use the Name of Jesus. I live in and by His Name, doing things in the power of that Name. I walk in victory, dominion, and righteousness, making progress from glory to glory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
John 14:12-14
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater [works] than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. 13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do [it].

Mark 16:17-18
And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 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.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Titus 1-2, Jeremiah 29-30

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: James 3:1-18, Ezekiel 29

Be Clothed With Humility - Friday, October 28th

Pastor Chris

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

As you study God’s Word, you’ll discover the kind of life God wants you to live and how He wants you to live it. He sent Jesus to the world to be our perfect example. How did Jesus live? He was clothed with humility. The Bible says, “…he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him …” (Philippians 2:8-9).

Notice the underlined phrase in the foregoing scripture; it shows that if you humble yourself, God will exalt you. There’s no need for you to keep trying or striving to exalt yourself; just be humble. True humility is submitting yourself to the authority, influence, and impact of God’s Word. True humility is receiving the Word into your heart and acting accordingly, making definite changes in your character and attitude with, and through the Word.

For example, if you were in a church service listening to the Word of God, how do you respond? Do you receive it into your heart, or do you wish that the person who has offended you was listening? Don’t be that way; a sign of humility is for you to always receive the Word for yourself, to change your life from glory to glory.

Emulate the humility of Christ and others given to us in the Scriptures who walked in excellent humility of heart. David is such an example. Even when Saul sought to kill him, and he had the opportunity to revenge against Saul, David rather put the Word to work. He said, “...The LORD forbid that I should do this thing unto my master, the LORD’s anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the LORD” (1 Samuel 24:6).

No wonder God described him as “...a man after my own heart” (Acts 13:22). What an honour to be described this way by God almighty! In your life, eschew pride and arrogance. Be clothed with humility, and God will surely promote and exalt you.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for teaching me your Word, and showing me the essence of humility, a glorious quality that attracts divine favour and promotion. I walk in love and submissiveness to the Word today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Proverbs 29:23
A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

James 4:6
But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Timothy 4:1-22, Jeremiah 26-28

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: James 2:1-26, Ezekiel 28

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

Don’t Complain… Act On The Word - Thursday, October 27th

Pastor Chris

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

Oftentimes, you’ll find certain people whose everyday life is filled with pain, discouragement and defeat. You’d expect such folks to be quick to accept help at the slightest opportunity; but they’d rather gripe and whine about the difficulties they’re going through. We find a typical example with a certain man Jesus encountered at the pool of Bethesda. He had suffered a paralytic condition for thirty-eight long years.

Though Jesus knew the man had been sick for so long, He still asked him, “Do you want to get well?” The man didn’t answer the question, but got defensive and started complaining about how he had been abandoned by everyone, with no one to help him into the pool every time the angel stirred the water. He didn’t ask Jesus for help either; he ignored the important question and griped about the situation.

That’s the way some people are; they complain to God about their problems, blaming others and society for the challenges they’re going through, instead of acting on the Word. The Bible says, “…count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations” (James 1:2). Romans 8:35-37 says, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or unclothedness, or peril, or sword?...Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”

When you face challenges, don’t cry. Stand your ground in faith. Keep affirming the Word, knowing that greater is He that’s in you, than he that’s in the world. Refuse to be discouraged by the enormity of the problem. The greater the trouble, the greater the glory that’ll be manifested. This is the reality. You’re greater than the challenges you face. Hallelujah.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I’m confident and grateful for the life of victory you’ve called me into. All things work together for my good, including the challenges and troubles that I face; they work for me a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Therefore, now and always, my heart is filled with joy unspeakable, and full of glory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.


Further Study:
Romans 8:28
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.

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 Corinthians 4:17-18
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and] eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen [are] temporal; but the things which are not seen [are] eternal.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Timothy 3:1-17, Jeremiah 23-25

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: James 1:1-27, Ezekiel 27

who noticed her feet in the third pic?

*Rhapsody Of Realities*
_Don’t Listen To Satan’s Lies_

Wednesday, October 26th .
Pastor Chris

```…He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it (John 8:44).```

You should never expect the devil to tell the truth about anything. The Bible says he speaks lies, because it’s not in him to tell the truth. Imagine he tries to put the thought in your mind that you’re not really born again or that you can never be a serious Christian. That shouldn’t get your attention, because he’s told you a lie.

Recall what he did to Jesus: God had just spoken out of heaven to Jesus at His baptism saying, “…This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Now, the voice was audible enough that Jesus and John the Baptist heard it; the angels and all demons heard it, yet Satan came to Him and said, “…If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread” (Matthew 4:3). Satan challenged what God said about Jesus in Matthew 3:17.

Something similar happened in the Book of Genesis. God had told Adam to tend and keep the Garden of Eden, but instructed that he could eat from any tree in the garden, except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. However, Satan deceived Eve and she ate the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. He said to her, “...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).

Satan knew what God had said to Adam, but challenged God’s instructions. That’s the way he is; he always talks against what God has said to you or about you. He could ask you, “If you’re truly saved, how come you don’t feel that way?” That’s him questioning what God said in Ephesians 2:8: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” Your feeling wasn’t what got you saved. So, don’t listen to his lies.

Satan will always tell you that you’re not righteous; you’re not healed; you’re not a child of God; but don’t listen to his lies. Resist him with the Word, and he’ll flee.


*CONFESSION*
_I’m not ignorant of the devices of the devil. I stand firm on God’s Word of righteousness, victory, and love today, and always, delighting myself in the Lord. Hallelujah._

*Further Study:*

*|| Revelation 12:9-10 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. 10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. ||*

*|| 1 Peter 5:8-9 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. ||*

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Timothy 2:1-26,
Jeremiah 19-22

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 13:1-25,
Ezekiel 25-26

Focus On What Really Matters - Tuesday, October 25th

Pastor Chris

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance (Luke 15:7).

Living for Jesus Christ and making yourself His partner in building and transforming lives around the world is what counts the most in life. God did the ultimate: He gave His Son to die to bring us to Himself; to win us to Himself. So everything in your life—your thoughts, ideas, the excellence in your life—should be about soul-winning.

Many are concerned about the lesser things of life; but you must focus on the Gospel. True fulfilment and satisfaction in life is only derived from living for the Lord, fulfilling His dream. Many get carried away by their needs or their personal dreams; that’s wrong. Take your eyes off yourself; pursue and fulfil God’s dream. Live your life as an ambassador and steward of the mysteries of Christ; that’s what your life is for.

He already said all things are yours (1 Corinthians 3:21). In Matthew 6:25, 32, 33 He said, “Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

Don’t major on the minors; fulfil God’s dream. Be passionate about soul-winning; commit your life and resources to it. As you saw in the preceding verses, God doesn’t want anything, including “your needs” (for you really don’t have any needs), to distract you from preaching the Gospel. That’s why He made all things yours and plugged you to an unending supply. So, focus on what really matters. Be a fervent, persistent and consistent soul winner.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I recognize myself as your partner in soul-winning, an ambassador of the Gospel and minister of reconciliation. I live to impact my world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, turning sinners from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God. I thank you for your grace at work in me to fulfil this glorious ministry, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 4:1-2
Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

2 Corinthians 5:18-19
And all things [are] of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 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.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Timothy 1:1-18, Jeremiah 17-18

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 12:14-29, Ezekiel 24

Get His Latest Information -
Monday, October 24th 2016.

Pastor Chris

…I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them (Exodus 6:3).

One beautiful benefit derived from constant fellowship with the Lord is that you’re in sync with the Spirit; you’re updated with new and latest information from “headquarters.” Through fellowship, we receive ideas and strategies from the Father; we get to understand more, the things He wants us to do, and how to do them in accordance with His standards, desires, and perfect will.

You may be doing what God told you to do, but if you’re not in constant fellowship or communion with Him, you may be carrying out your assignment without the “Father’s latest information.” As you walk with Him, the exact knowledge of His will, His plans, purposes and intents become clearer to you.

Think about it this way: If you told someone to build you a house, and he comes up with a beautiful architectural design, because the house is yours, and you have and know the master plan, you could decide to make necessary changes. Even as the house is being built, every once in a while, there could be something new you want to add. You see, life is dynamic; our cities and societies are dynamic. You can’t say, “I created the design ten years ago, and that’s the way it’s going to stay;” no! There’re lots of changes and adjustments that’ll be necessary as you get along.

Human lives are that way. God builds Himself into us, and we’re His instruments for building our lives, and building the lives of others. We’ve got to be attuned to Him in fellowship to have the latest information. You need His latest information so you can build exactly as He wants.

For example, though Abraham, Isaac and Jacob knew God as El Shaddai, God introduced Himself to Moses as Jehovah in Exodus 6. At that moment, Moses had the latest information. But revelation has progressed even further; we don’t pray to the Father with the name “Jehovah,” neither do we cast out devils in the name of Jehovah; we use the Name of Jesus.

That’s latest information, different from Jehovah, El Shaddai or any of the other names by which God was introduced in the Old Testament. Today, the Father reveals Himself in His Son, Jesus; He’s wrapped Himself in Jesus: “For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell” (Colossians 1:19).

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you, for your Word is the most important source of knowledge. As I study the Word, my spirit is flooded with light to know and walk in your perfect will always, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Chronicles 12:32
And of the children of Issachar, [which were men] that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them [were] two hundred; and all their brethren [were] at their commandment.

2 Peter 1:12
Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know [them], and be established in the present truth.

Colossians 1:9
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;

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 6:1-21, Jeremiah 15-16

_2-Year Bible Reading Plan_:
Hebrews 12:1-13, Ezekiel 23

Help Others - Sunday, October 23rd .

Pastor Chris

Don’t get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don’t give up (Galatians 6:9 CEV).

Being prosperous means a lot more than amassing wealth for yourself; rather, it involves being able to help others. The reason God has blessed us is so we can serve Him and bless others. This is very clear when you read 2 Corinthians 9:8-9 (AMP). It says, “And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation]. As it is written, He [the benevolent person] scatters abroad; He gives to the poor; His deeds of justice and goodness and kindness and benevolence will go on and endure forever.”

True prosperity is looking out for opportunities to be a blessing to others. It’s finding joy and excitement in helping and extending love to others. A truly prosperous person is of a benevolent spirit; he’s quick to give, and derives joy in helping others become prosperous.

It makes no difference if you’ve had unpleasant experiences in trying to help others. Perhaps you’ve helped someone become successful who eventually turned against you; don’t become bitter. Keep up the good work, knowing that the Lord will reward your labour of love. Hebrews 6:10 says, “For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name….” Moreover, Jesus said, “But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil” (Luke 6:35).

Remain the helper and the giver. Remember, helping others is a gift; it’s a unique ability from God. And the Bible says, “...If you have the gift of helping others, do it with the strength that God supplies…” (1 Peter 4:11 CEV). As you help others, the Lord will keep increasing His grace on your life, for greater victories and successes.

Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for granting me the resources, ideas, insight and opportunities to reach out to others and be a blessing to my world. I’m wise and discerning, strengthened and enabled to lift others and help them succeed, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Hebrews 13:16
But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

2 Thessalonians 3:13
But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 5:1-25, Jeremiah 13-14

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 11:17-40, Ezekiel 22

Your Words Rule Your Life - Saturday, October 22nd .

Pastor Chris

Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth (Proverbs 6:2).

There is a spiritual language for the Christian. That’s why, as a child of God, you ought to practice speaking the Word only, and always, because the supernatural life is based on your tongue. Your tongue rules your life. The Apostle James likened the tongue to the rudder of a great ship, which the captain uses to direct the ship wherever he wants (James 3:4-5).

In Matthew 12:36-37, Jesus said “But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the Day of Judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Literally, this means a man will go to heaven or hell because of his tongue-work; what he said or didn’t say. The Apostle Paul’s words on salvation in Romans 10:8-10 buttresses this: “…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. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

Your life is the character of your words. If a man’s words are confusing, his life will be confusing as well. In the same vein, if your words are wholesome, your life will be perfect, excellent, and inspiring. Proverbs 15:4 says, “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life….” Watch your words—your confessions—they control your future. Proverbs 12:18 says, “…the tongue of the wise is health.” You can keep yourself in health, peace and safety with your words.

Talk faith, success, and increase! 1 Peter 3:10 says, “For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile.” Keeping your lips from evil means keeping them from speaking fear, doubt, and unbelief. If you’ve found yourself in poverty, sickness, or anything that’s contrary to the good life that’s been given to you in Christ, it’s because you’re not using your mouth right. It’s time for you to change things.

The Bible says to let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom and spiritual understanding (Colossians 3:16). Fill your heart with God’s Word and let it come out of your mouth. With the Word in your mouth, you can frame or recreate your world. Keep talking the Word. Keep charting your victorious course through the power of your words.

Confession...
I have the tongue of the wise and learned; I’m cultured to speak faith-filled words that transform my life from glory to glory and change circumstances. I’m propelled in the direction of God’s perfect will and destiny for me, and declare that my future is secure in Christ! Blessed be God!

Further Study:
Psalm 34:12-13
What man [is he that] desireth life, [and] loveth [many] days, that he may see good? 13 Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.

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

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 4:1-16, Jeremiah 11-12

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 11:1-16, Ezekiel 21

Give Honour To Whom It Is Due - Friday, October 21st .

Pastor Chris

Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth (Ephesians 6:1-3).

Primarily, honour means to show respect towards another. It means to give recognition to; to esteem. It also means to give preference. Our opening verse admonishes children to honour their parents. When you honour your parents, God says you’ll have a long and happy life. That means God’s going to specially preserve you in the earth, and see to it that you have a prosperous and glorious life.

There’re lots of people who’re looking for jobs, and not getting any, neither do they have the right ideas to start up their own business; things aren’t well with them. It’s possible they haven’t been honouring their parents or those whom God has placed over them.

You’re indebted to your parents and those who nurtured and brought you up in life. You owe them; and it’s a debt you’ll have to pay. 1 Timothy 5:4 AMP says, “But if a widow has children or grandchildren, see to it that these are first made to understand that it is their religious duty [to defray their natural obligation to those] at home, and make return to their parents or grandparents [for all their care by contributing to their maintenance], for this is acceptable in the sight of God.” The way to pay that debt is by honouring them, and giving back to them.

There’s, however, one more inclusion to this truth. In the New Testament, when God said for us to honour our parents, He wasn’t only referring to our physical parents, but also our spiritual parents. Your spiritual father or mother is the one who brings you up in the faith. The Bible says, “For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel” (1 Corinthians 4:15).

There’re those who start out well in Church and later become unruly in the house of God. They come to church whenever they wish, speak against the leadership in the most derogatory manner. Such people aren’t giving honour to whom honour is due. Honour those who have the rulership and authority over you. This is of utmost importance in the Kingdom of God, because your success and wellbeing are connected to this: “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you” (Hebrews 13:17).


Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for teaching me to esteem, honour, and show respect to those you’ve placed in positions to nurture and bring me up in the path of truth and righteousness. Thank you for your blessings in my life; I’m making progress from glory to glory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:

Mark 12:14-17
And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? 15 Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see [it]. 16 And they brought [it]. And he saith unto them, Whose [is] this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Caesar's. 17 And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him.

1 Timothy 5:4
But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.

1 Peter 2:17
Honour all [men]. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 3:1-16, Jeremiah 9-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 10:19-39, Ezekiel 20

You Have An Understanding Heart - Thursday, October 20th .

Pastor Chris

But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things (1 John 2:20).

Jesus said to His disciples, “…it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given” (Matthew 13:11). If you’re a child of God, it’s your divinely-given right and ability to understand the Scriptures. One of Satan’s strategies is to make God’s people assume that they don’t have an understanding of the Word, by throwing doubts in their minds. He lies to Christians like he tried with Jesus: “…If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread” (Matthew 4:3).

Satan tried to make Jesus believe that He wasn’t the Son of God. So he may say to you, “If you’re truly a Christian, how is it that you don’t understand the Scriptures?” Tell him, “Satan, I have an understanding heart; the Holy Spirit teaches methe Scriptures and helps me understand all things.” Refuse to accommodate Satan’s lies. Don’t give in to his deceptions. You have insight into mysteries and secrets by the Holy Spirit.

Recall in John 20:21-22, after the resurrection of Jesus, while His disciples were in a room, He came in among them and said to them, “…Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” By imparting them with the Holy Spirit, He opened their understanding to know and understand the Scriptures (Luke 24:45). That same Holy Spirit lives in you today, and teaches you the Word of God.

2 Timothy 1:7 says you have a sound mind; that means an understanding mind. Affirm what God has said concerning you, not the thoughts the devil tries to introduce to your mind. Acknowledge and accept that you’re sound, you have the mind-set and understanding of the righteous. You’re highly sagacious and perspicacious. You have extraordinary amplitude of comprehension by the Holy Spirit. Hallelujah!

Confession....
I’m born of the incorruptible seed of God which is the Word; therefore, I have understanding of the Word. I function in extraordinary wisdom—the wisdom of the righteous. My path in life is as the shining light that shines brighter and brighter unto the perfect day.

Further Study:
Matthew 13:10-11
And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? 11 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.

Luke 24:45
Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 2:1-15, Jeremiah 7-8

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 10:1-18, Ezekiel 18-19

analice107:
On a serious note. If am courting a guy and he happens to be very busy or cant cook, I will cook and stock for him, i will do his laundry.

Many Christian marriages are stressing because
1. No divine guidance.
2. No relationship between the two people. Relationship doesn't entails coital.

Any born again Christian who knows that breaking the hedge brings the serpent in shd know what awaits her when she goes in proper.

If i find my person, not strong enough to apply self control, then that shd tell me that, at that point in time, he most likely have someone he is involved with and may still "likely" do it out there even wen we marry.

These closeness is necessary to spot out these flaws which are not communicated.

In one of the threads here, a guy posted a comment saying, a girl he wanted to marry pressured him so much into coital relationship, but he refused, until the lady showed him a miss interpreted scripture taken out of context, and he fell. Satan taking up any form to pull God's people down.
See manipulation? If couples are distant, these kind of pretence wont be noticed.

Thanks


Shadeyinka... You didn't tell me why, this is a better position.

Thanks again.

analice107:
No not in "Zaa oza room"

The other room
Where a woman pretends
To be weak,
So that a man
Can believe he is strong.

Where a woman pretends
To be foolish,
So that a man
Can say he is wise.

Where a woman stoops
So that a man can conquer.

The other room,
Where gods of men
Become worshippers of women,
Where leaders of thought
Become minions
Of the bleeders of blood.
Where wielders of power
Succumb to power.

The other room,
Where the brashness of testosterone
Yields to the bra straps of estrogen.

Where the bravado of masculinity
Is tamed by the wiles of femininity.
Where the turgid
Becomes the flaccid.

Three rooms
In a house
One in which a man
Believes he is king
Two in which
He realises
A woman is god!

No, not in Zaa rum

You didn't answer the kweshun na.

shadeyinka:
If they decide that they want only the traditional wedding, then they are free to live together as husband and wife.
BUT
If they plan to do church wedding after that, then it means that it is the church wedding that defines the final rite of their wedding. If they sleep together before this, it is a sin of fornication.

A christian couple can even choose to do court wedding alone andbit is a valid wedding as long as they would not put a church wedding or blessing after they have consummated the court wedding. That would be a spiritual fraud and fornication.

Why then does the church recognize traditional marriage?


Any ideas?

shadeyinka:
Most times young Christians find it difficult confiding in people close to them about LOVE, Sex, Dating, Marriage, Romance in relation to Purity and Godliness. Unfortunately, the world is setting a new standard that by the day is becoming more popular.

The aim of this post is for Christians to post Questions or ask for clarifications concerning this.

God willing, you will get an unbiased, godly Christian response that will help you to survive in this perversed generation.

Note: I will only comment on issues that seeks answers that lead to better godly lifestyles.

Stay Blessed

NB:All matured Christians are welcomed to contribute!

If I have a fiancée... Is it alright to allow her do them laundry and chores and kitchen?


NB:
No "the other room" stuff

God Is Love - , October 19th .

Pastor Chris

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love (1 John 4:7-.

Love is the totality of God’s nature. This is beyond someone having love in his m or the ability to love; it means that He’s love personified. God is love! And because He’s love, He doesn’t have the capacity to hate; it’s not possible for God to hate. Hate is of the darkness. God is light, and in Him, there’s no darkness at all (1 John 1:5). The Bible says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17).

Someone may reference Romans 9:13 and ask, But didn’t God say, “...Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated?” (Read Malachi 1:2-3). This is where understanding the place of poetry and prophecy, and the dichotomy of expression in the Scriptures come in. The language of the Prophets in the Old Testament shouldn’t always be interpreted at face value; you’d have to look through the words of other Prophets to interpret them. You’d also have to judge their communication in line with the revelation of God that we see in the New Testament, in the person of Jesus.

God is love. When the Holy Spirit reveals God to you and you get to know Him, His love will dominate you. This is because the more you love Him, the more like Him you become. As you meditate on His love for you, you’ll find yourself demonstrating that same love in your life.

You’re a product of love. Let the love of God in your spirit dominate you. It’s something you do. The Bible says for us not to love only in words, but in deeds as well (1 John 3:18). Be like God whose essence is love, because as He is, so are you in this world.

Prayer....
The love of God is expressed through me today; my communication, actions, and all that emanate from me are expressions of the love-nature of Christ that’s in my spirit. I’m the embodiment and expression of the love of Christ. Hallelujah!

Further Study:
John 15:13
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

John 17:23
I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent , and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

1 John 4:16
And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 1:1-20, Jeremiah 5-6

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 9:11-28, Ezekiel 17

Train Yourself To Love - Tuesday, October 18th

Pastor Chris

Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law (Romans 13:10).

Everyone deserves and qualifies to be loved, including those you may perceive to be “your enemies.” Jesus said, “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). You don’t only love those who love you; you love everyone with the unconditional love of Christ.

All people are the same when it comes to love. Everyone has the capacity to give and receive love. Everyone wants to be loved, though not everyone wants to give it or respond to it. Love is the greatest power in the universe. It goes beyond cultural divides, religious barriers, ethnic differences, and social stratifications.

Train yourself to walk in love. It’s a conscious choice you have to make; it’ll transform your life. In John 13:34, Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” Tell yourself, “I’m going to walk in love, no matter what. I’m going to love others genuinely, even when their actions aren’t deserving of love.”

The Bible tells us that God demonstrated His love for us, while we were undeserving of kindness: “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:. We’re therefore to love like Him, as His beloved children: “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour” (Ephesians 5:1-2).

To walk with God is to walk in love. 1 John 4:7-8 says, “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” Let your life be the out-shining of His love.

Confession...
My life is the expression of the love of the Father. I abound in love today, towards those in my world, and beyond, and declare that my heart is established, blameless and in holiness before the Lord, for His love is perfected in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
John 13:35
By this shall all [men] know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

1 John 4:7-8
Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

1 Thessalonians 3:12-13
And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all [men], even as we [do] toward you: 13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18, Jeremiah 3-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 9:1-10, Ezekiel 16

Features Of Your New Nature - Sunday, October 16th

Pastor Chris

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23).

A day-old child is as human as a ninety-year-old adult; but there’re characteristics of the human life that are yet to be developed in the child. Likewise, when you were born again, you were born with all the unique and distinct features of the recreated human spirit listed in our opening verse. Which means there’s love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance in your spirit.

As you study and live out the Word, these spiritual characteristics that are already in you will come to the fore; you’ll manifest them in greater measure. The forces of life are domiciled in your spirit, but you’ve got to cultivate them! God’s life, character, and nature are already in your spirit; but you must spend time to cultivate and nurture your spirit by learning and meditating on the Word. 1 Peter 2:2 says that you should desire the sincere milk of the Word that you may grow thereby.

Real spiritual maturity means that you’re bearing fruits of righteousness, and your fruits abide. It means the works of righteousness are being manifested in your words and actions. Train yourself to walk in love. Manifest and express joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness.

Notice that the Bible says, “…against such there is no law.” There’s no law or culture that’s against walking in love; love is generally accepted by all peoples of the earth. Likewise, there’s no law that says you shouldn’t be joyful, peaceful, patient, gentle, or kind. There’s no law that forbids faith, meekness or self-restraint. These are intrinsic features of the recreated human spirit; the unregenerate man doesn’t have them. Therefore, be free to lavishly express and manifest the characteristics of your new nature in Christ.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for your life and nature in my spirit, and your grace that’s at work in me mightily to walk in your light and fulfil your desires at all times. As I meditate on the Word, the divine attributes of my spirit are nurtured and manifested through me to bless my world. I’m an embodiment of love, joy, peace, meekness, gentleness, goodness, faith and temperance, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Matthew 7:15-20
Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither [can] a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

Ephesians 4:21-24
If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12, Isaiah 64-66

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 7:11-28, Ezekiel 12-13

Hear And Think Right - Saturday, October 15th .

Pastor Chris

For as he (a man) thinketh in his heart, so is he… (Proverbs 23:7).

Change is something we all want, should have, and continually crave; change from glory to glory. Change, whether positive or negative, results from the words you pay attention to, and the thoughts they stir up in your heart. The Lord Jesus taught His disciples to hear and think right. In Mark 4:24, He said, “...Take heed what ye hear….” Then in Luke 8:18, He said, “Take heed therefore how ye hear….”

How you hear is as important as what you hear, because how you hear often determines your response and attitude, as well as the ability to appropriate the power of the words that come to you. Words make or mar. Our lives are influenced by words; the atmosphere in your home depends on the words that are spoken therein. Your relationships are built on words. Our lives are so dependent on words that, not only do they affect our attitudes, they also affect our health and living conditions.

Whether or not you’re living in faith or in fear is a function of what you hear. Faith comes by hearing God’s Word. God’s Word contains positive information that bolsters faith, while fear comes through negative information. Many today have become faint-hearted from listening to media reports on the deplorable state of the world’s economy. If only they’d turn their attention to the Lord and His infallible Word!

Job 22:29 says when men are cast down, then you shall say there’s lifting up. You’re in the world, but not of the world. Your prosperity and success are independent of the vagaries of nature, economics, and economies of this world. Have this consciousness. Think like a victor. Live as a champion. 1 John 4:4 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.”

Believe and accept the integrity of God’s Word. Think the Word-way. God has given you His Word as the veritable agent to change and transform your life from glory to glory: “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Corinthians 3:18).

Confession...
The Word is growing mightily and prevailing in me; I’m making progress by the Word, heaping up success upon success. There’s prosperity, joy and increase in my life, and Christ is exalted and glorified in me today, in the Name of Jesus! Amen.

Further Study:
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.

Romans 12:2
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28,
Isaiah 61-63

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 7:1-10,
Ezekiel 10-11

Words Mean Everything - Friday, October 14th

Pastor Chris

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

The greatest gift given to man in his natural life is the gift of words; the ability to express himself in words. It’s an extraordinary gift from God to human beings. Your inner personality comes out in words. Your words are important; words mean everything. Sadly, many haven’t realized this, and it’s the major reason they live ordinary lives here on earth.

Everything God gave us is activated through words. Our very salvation depends on words. You received salvation by words; you maintain salvation by words. Whether you live or die is dependent on your words. Whether you live in sickness or health, poverty or wealth, victory or defeat, depends on your words. The Lord gave you the ability to speak; to use your mouth to chart your course aright in life.

Your mouth wasn’t given to you primarily for eating and drinking and communicating with others; the primary function of your mouth and your tongue is to steer your life in God’s direction for you. Learn to talk right. Talking right means talking the Word only and always. It also means valuing what you say; learning to keep promises. Your words must have integrity; they must mean something to you.
There’re people who are careless with words. When they talk to you, they know their words don’t mean anything because they don’t plan to keep it. You must say what you mean, and mean what you say. Don’t speak idle, inoperative words. In Matthew 12:36, the Lord Jesus said, “But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” God holds you accountable for the things you say.

Don’t make careless statements, for they’ll produce results for you.
One of the ways the world around you can see Jesus in you is through your character, which is often expressed in your words. Therefore, speak wholesome, gracious words every time and everywhere. Make it a conscious exercise to store God’s Word in your heart, for out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). As God’s Word dwells richly in your heart, you’ll develop and speak the right words; gracious and faith-filled words.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for showing me the importance and value of words. I live by your Word; therefore, my communication is modelled in line with your thoughts, precepts, and direction for my life. I speak faith-filled words always, knowing that my words are filled with power to transform my life and chart my course in victory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
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.

James 3:2-6
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. 3 Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. 4 Behold also the ships, which though [they be] so great, and [are] driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! 6 And the tongue [is] a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18,
Isaiah 59-60

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 6:11-20,Ezekiel 8-9

Maintaining Focus In Prayer - Wednesday, October 12th .

Pastor Chris

For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful (1 Corinthians 14:14).

One vital element of effective prayer is focusing your mind on what you’re praying about. Imagine that someone is praying for the salvation of souls in a particular region of the world. He’s interceding that, through the preaching and teaching of the Word, God’s righteousness would prevail in the towns, hinterlands, and cities without hindrance. While at it, his mind wanders away, and he’s thinking about some nice cars, houses or a meeting he’s scheduled with a friend. His prayer would hardly be effective that way, and this happens to a lot of people.

Focusing your mind, emotions and entire faculties on what you’re praying about is very important, and praying in the Spirit is a great advantage in this regard. When you pray in the Spirit, your spirit prays; your mind is unfruitful (1 Corinthians 14:14). Therefore, it’s important that you yield yourself to the Spirit by giving Him your mind—paying attention to Him as you pray. That way, you’ll be in sync with Him; His visions, promptings, ideas and thoughts will be clear to you.

Praying in the Spirit gets you synchronized with God’s will, His purpose, and timing. But your mind has a role in this; you must get your thoughts together as you pray in tongues. You might say, “As much as I try, I just can’t help it; my mind keeps drifting as I pray.” Maintaining focus in prayer is something you do consciously. Your mind is a tool. You’d have to discipline your mind to think in the direction of your prayers, and switch it back to that thing you’re praying about. If it wanders again, bring it back until your mind gets the message.

In prayer, arrest your mind; channel your thoughts and emotions in the direction of the Spirit, and you’ll receive the ministrations of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the tremendous blessings and impact of speaking in other tongues. As I set my mind on the realities of your Kingdom and pray in the Spirit, I’m aligned and in sync with your will, purpose, and direction for me, fulfilling your perfect will and bringing you glory in all things, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 14:14-15
For if I pray in an [unknown] tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.

1 Corinthians 14:39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.

Jude 1:20
But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Thessalonians 1-2:1-16,
Isaiah 54-56

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 5:1-14, Ezekiel 5-6

God’s Response To The Cry Of Humanity - Tuesday, October 11th .

Pastor Chris

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men (Luke 2:13-14).

All around us, we see many whose stories depict frustration and despair, pain and poverty; they’re broken, displaced, and helpless. Some people see this terrible picture of the needy and ask, “Isn’t there a God? Couldn’t He have done something?” Yes, there’s a God; and He already did something.

First, He gave us the mind to think about such people, see the state they’re in, and then imbued us with the ability to pitch in and help. But you see, much greater than whatever help we could render is what He did in sending Jesus Christ to the world. Jesus is God’s answer to all of man’s challenges, the solution to every problem. Man needs much more than food, water, shelter, medicine and money; man needs divine life. And only Jesus gives that life. He said, “…I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10 NIV).

Sometimes, you may think if someone had a lot of money, he’d be fine, but it’s not true. He may still be broken and in pain, even with all the wealth. Jesus said a man’s life doesn’t consist in the abundance of his possessions (Luke 12:15). Money doesn’t give life, joy, or peace; but Christ does. So, everyone needs Jesus; He’s God’s response to the cry of humanity. God knew that if He sent Jesus to the world, it would be the end of frustration, misery, sorrow, and darkness for anyone who believes.

This is the reason we preach and teach the Gospel all around the world, letting men know that it doesn’t matter what their case is; in Christ they have hope. In Christ they’ve been delivered; they have victory, glory, and life eternal. It makes no difference where they are in life, if they’d receive Christ, He’ll usher them into the transcendent life. In Christ, we’re more than conquerors.

Christ is the answer. He’s the solution that men seek. Get to know Him, and follow Him in the Word, through the Word, and by the Word; and your life will be excellent and full of glory.

Prayer..
Dear Father, I thank you for sending Jesus to the world as the answer to man’s cry for salvation, peace, prosperity, and wellness. My eyes are open to see those in need, and I thank you for making me your outstretched arm of blessing, and a minister of reconciliation, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 John 5:11-12
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; [and] he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

1 John 4:9
In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

John 10:10 AMP
The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Colossians 4:2-18,Isaiah 52-53

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 4:1-16,Ezekiel 4

Saintzykie:
Where una dey get this greek version from?

Mysword Bible for android

The Right Songs In Worship - Monday, October 10th .

Pastor Chris

But now bring me a minstrel. And it came to pass, when the minstrel played, that the hand of the LORD came upon him (2 Kings 3:15).

It’s so important to worship the Lord. Through worship, you set up an atmosphere for miracles in and around you, and create the right environment for the Spirit of God to operate. It may be with a song or a scripture; as you sing or declare it in worship, the presence of God can literally overwhelm your situation, resulting in a miracle. It’s one of the several reasons we make music unto the Lord.

The right spiritual song of worship can position you to hear from God. Once, Elisha was with three kings who came to him for counsel. But because he was offended at one of them, the king of Israel, and had responded to the king in anger, he couldn’t minister under the anointing (2 Kings 3:13-14). The kings wanted to receive the Word of God from him, but he couldn’t readily prophesy. So, what did he do? He said, “Bring me a musician.” The Bible says when the minstrel—the musician—played, the Spirit of the Lord came on Elisha, and he began to prophesy (2 Kings 3:15).

If you’ve been a Christian for so long, and you’ve never heard the Lord talk to you, this might be the missing link. You have a role to play. You need to position yourself to hear Him. You need to be free in His presence, not rigid, languid, dull or uninspiring; worship Him from your spirit, with the right songs, and before long, your spirit will make that divine contact with Him, and you can hear as He ministers to you. He’s a master communicator; He ministers to you even as you’re ministering to Him.

It’s not about singing “your best” song; it’s about singing the “right songs” for the move of the Spirit. There’s a time for your best song or your own song, but there’s also a time for the right song. So, in worshipping Him, you have to sing the right songs; songs that are inspired by the Word, not just any song. It’ll tune your spirit correctly and you’ll hear the voice of the Lord.

Prayer...
Dear Father, as I proclaim your Word in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs and make melody in my heart to you, my spirit is attuned to receive divine revelations, counsel, direction and guidance, from the Holy Spirit. Thank you for the ministry of the Spirit in my life, in the Name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Chronicles 16:8-12
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. 10 Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. 11 Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually. 12 Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;

Ephesians 5:18-20
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Psalms 66:1-4 NIV
Shout for joy to God, all the earth! 2 Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious. 3 Say to God, "How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you. 4 All the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing the praises of your name."

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Colossians 3:1-4:1, Isaiah 50-51

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 3:12-19, Ezekiel 3

There’re Higher Purposes Of Prayer - Friday, October 7th .

Pastor Chris

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints (Ephesians 6:18).

Our theme verse is quite profound. The Amplified translation makes it clearer; it says, “Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty….” Prayer is very important. Oftentimes, when we talk about prayer, what comes to people’s mind is asking God for things, making entreaties and requests; that’s all they’ve known about prayer. Yes, such a prayer has its place, where you make requests, but prayer has higher purposes than asking God for your needs.

Praying for material needs, that is, asking God for something for yourself is actually the lowest kind of prayer. When you pray like that, you’re praying at the babyhood stage; it’s the prayer of spiritual babies. Someone could pray, “Oh God, I need a job,” or “Lord, I need some money,” or “Dear Father, give me a car, a wife, a husband, a house etc.”; but that’s the lesser purpose of prayer.

There’re higher purposes of prayer. One of them is fellowshipping with the Father through the Spirit. Another higher purpose of prayer is the privilege to exercise our authority in Christ. There, you take your place of authority and cause things to happen within the ambits of the power given to you by Christ Jesus. Thirdly, prayer helps us to activate and walk in the consciousness of the divine presence. Fourthly, through prayer, we enforce the will of the Father in the earth.

Prayer is also the exercise of the human spirit. Now, you’d have to understand that there’re different kinds of prayer; there’s a kind of prayer that’s the exercise of the human spirit. Also, all the ones we already mentioned are covered by the different kinds of prayer. You can get and study our books on prayer: “PRAYING THE RIGHT WAY” and “HOW TO PRAY EFFECTIVELY” to learn more.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the revelation of your Word to me today, teaching me to pray accurately, in accordance with your Word. Thank you for showing me the right faith principles to apply for my prayers to produce the right results, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
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.

1 Timothy 2:1-3
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;

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Colossians 1:1-23, Isaiah 44-45

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 2:1-9, Lamentations 3

The world can see how you failed to comprehend simple analogy.

Thanks for your time sir.

Praise Him - Thursday, October 6th

Pastor Chris

And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them (Acts 16:25).

Something remarkable about the way Paul and Silas praised the Lord in Acts 16 was that they were exuberant in their praise and worship of the Lord. It was supposed to be for them a moment of gloom, loneliness and despondency, but rather than be overwhelmed with despair, they sang praises unto God. They didn’t just mutter songs quietly, fearful of the prison guards, they sang as loud as they could such that the prisoners heard them.

This is one of the faith-ways to respond in the face of contrary situations; you praise and worship the Lord exuberantly, knowing that in Him you’re more than a conqueror. If it seems as though you’re in the “darkest hour” of your life, don’t despair! Don’t try to remind God of the problem, no; praise Him! You might say, “But if I don’t tell Him my problems, He won’t know what’s on my mind”; you’re wrong. He knows everything, because He’s God.

Take your mind off the challenges and with a grateful heart, worship and extol His majesty; praise His Name, for He’s the healer, the provider, the supplier of all good things, and He’s greater than all. Adore Him for He’s great and greatly to be praised. Even now, irrespective of the situation, praise Him! Think about everything He’s done in your life! Think about His love, mercies, and grace towards you; think about His wonderful, glorious blessings in your life, and worship Him lavishly from your spirit.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I rejoice in you, for you’re the only true and wise God; the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords! Thank you for your goodness, kindness, love, and mercies towards me today. I praise you now and forever, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Hebrews 13:15
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of [our] lips giving thanks to his name.

Psalm 28:7
The LORD [is] my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.

Psalm 150:1-6
Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. 2 Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. 3 Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. 4 Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. 5 Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. 6 Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philippians 4:4-23, Isaiah 42-43

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 1:1-14, Lamentations 2

There’s Much More - Wednesday, October 5th .

Pastor Chris

And he brought us out from thence, that he might bring us in, to give us the land which he sware unto our fathers (Deuteronomy 6:23).

The construction in our opening verse is about one word—“purpose.” The reason for bringing them out was so He could bring them in! This is how He wants us to approach our salvation in Christ Jesus; He saved us (brought us out of sin), that He might bring us into our inheritance in Him; our place in Him. This mentality will make a huge difference in your life; it’ll completely change your destiny, and make it one of greatness only.

He didn’t just save us; He did it for a reason. The real message of Christianity isn’t just about the “saviour”—Jesus. Yes, He’s the Saviour, but He did much more than “saving us.” If “saving us” was all He came to do, that wouldn’t be Christianity. Being saved was a means to an end. Now that you’re saved, welcome to a new world, but it’s much more than that. He saved us so He could bring us into oneness with Himself; our place of righteousness, glory, greatness, dominion, and excellence.

Notice again His purpose for bringing them out of Egypt: it was to give them the land which he swore to their fathers; the land of their inheritance, and make them great as He said to Abraham. God had said to Abraham, “I’ll make a great nation of your descendants, I’ll bless you, and I’ll make your reputation great, so that you will be a blessing” (Genesis 12:2 ISV). But they had become slaves in Egypt; that wasn’t greatness. He delivered them so that His purpose for their lives would be realized; so they’d become the great ones that Hewanted them to be. As slaves, they couldn’t have the land; so He had to bring them into a place of liberty, to give them the land.

Jesus brought us out of sin and we might inherit His righteousness. He brought us out of death, pain and penury, that we might have life in abundance, live in prosperity, health, and wellness every day on this earth. Now we can help those who don’t know Him to discover His light, learn about Him and receive His righteousness. That’s why we’re His witnesses. He saved us and made us His partners in saving others. So, you see now that there’s much more to our salvation in Christ.

Confession...
Dear Father, I thank you for making me a representative of your heavenly kingdom here on earth. I make students of the nations, and I influence my world with the Gospel, saving the lost, and establishing your peace, righteousness, love, joy, health and prosperity in the lives of men, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
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:

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.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philippians 3:12-4:1-3, Isaiah 40-41

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philemon 1:10-25, Lamentations 1

Ubenedictus:
gombs did u somehow forget ur basic bible teaching?


1 Timothy 2:5 (KJV) 5 For there is
one God, and one mediator between
God and men, the man Christ Jesus;


the parties are God and man. that means every human being in Christ Jesus by faith have a covenant with God.

heb9:15 Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are
called may receive the promised eternal
inheritance...

these are d basics of xtian faith, i'm very suprised u are argueing this.

Sir, if I (Jesus) mediate in a problem between you (mankind) and your dad (God) , does it mean I (Jesus) entered a covenant with you (mankind)?



By my mediation, Does it mean you have a covenant with your father?



Snap out of it jare.


Meanwhile, where was the covenant between God and man instituted? Or where was that of Jesus and God instituted?