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 Systematic Expository Study of God’s Word 16/03/2015

Study 12: GOD-HONOURING FAITH OF THE PROPHETS


TEXT: Hebrews 11:32

“And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae...” (Hebrews 11:32). We are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses. Whatever our conditions or circumstances, there have been men or women of faith who went through similar situations by faith. These examples of men and women of faith in Hebrews chapter eleven encourage us to trust in God. The study of the lives of godly people who have lived and fought the Lord’s battles victoriously is always helpful to our faith. Gideon with the courageous few, Barak, fighting against cruel foes, Samson restored to conquering faith and Jephthah challenging us with uncommon consecration and faithfulness all teach us profitable lessons as we fight the battles of the Lord.

The second half of Hebrews 11:32 mentions David, Samuel and the prophets. Samuel was a prophet (Acts 3:24). Although David was a king (Acts 13:22), he was also used of God as a prophet (Acts 2:25,26,30). This latter half of Hebrews 11:32 then speaks of the faith of the prophets that brings honour and glory to God. Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah were judges and warriors in Israel; Samuel was a prophet; only David is mentioned among all the kings of Israel in this chapter of heroes of faith. Faith gives us a place among God’s people, while unbelief removes our names from God’s book of remembrance.

1. DAVID: WARRIOR WITH COURAGEOUS FAITH
Hebrews 11:32; 1 Samuel 17:32-37,45-50;
Psalms 71:7,17,18; 18:32-35; 27:3; 1 Timothy 6:12.

David stands out as a great man of faith in the Bible. From his youth, he trusted in the Lord. When he was still young, he killed a lion and a bear while taking care of his father’s sheep. He fought and had victory over Goliath. He had faith in God and spoke words of faith: “Thou comest to me with a sword... but I come to thee in the name of the LORD. This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand... for the battle is the LORD’S, and He will give you into our hands” (1 Samuel 17:45-47). David overcame in many battles of life by faith. The battles were many and varied, in his family and from the king of the nation, friends and foes; yet, he always fought with courageous faith. The Psalms are full of expressions and confessions of his faith (Psalms 3:6; 4:8; 9:9,10; 18:2,17,19; 23:4; 27:1,3; 32:7; 44:5-8; 56:3-5,11; etc.).

2. SAMUEL: WITNESS OF OUR COVENANT-KEEPING FATHER
Hebrews 11:32; 1 Samuel 3:10,19; 7:7-10; 12:16-19; Psalm 99:6; Acts 13:20; 3:24-26.

Samuel knew the Lord from his childhood. He was born through the prayer and faith of Hannah, his mother. Conceived and born through the prayer of faith, prayer and faith in God carried him through life. The lives of Eli’s sons, sinful, wicked children indeed, did not destroy his faith and loyalty to God. The sinful examples of backsliders and apostates cannot destroy true faith in those who really have it.

Samuel was an outstanding prophet of God who bore witness to the faithfulness of God. The power of God was evident in his life and the prophetic ministry was kept pure throughout his life. Israel honoured and feared him because of the demonstration of God’s power through him. His messages brought strong conviction on their hearts.

3. THE PROPHETS: WATCHMEN OVER COMPROMISING FLOCKS
Hebrews 11:32; Jeremiah 6:17-19; Isaiah 52:6-8,10; Ezekiel 33:7-9,30-33; 2:3-7; Jeremiah 1:17-19; Hosea 12:10,13; Deuteronomy 34:10-12; 1 Kings 18:21,30-39.

The Lord sent His Word to His people in the Old Testament through the prophets. Moses was a great and unique prophet with whom the Lord spoke “mouth to mouth” (Numbers 12:7,. His function as God’s prophet was to teach and preach God’s Word with signs to confirm the message. All the true prophets always spoke forth the divine message. Biblical prophecy was based upon and was a development out of the law of God (Isaiah 8:20; Deuteronomy 13:1-5). Every revelation or prophecy is to be judged by the written Word of God (Revelation 22:18,19; Deuteronomy 4:2; 12:32; Romans 16:17).

The prophets were watchmen over Israel who boldly declared God’s Word to the nation. They reminded the children of Israel of the faithfulness of God. They had great faith in God and spoke with strong conviction even when the nation was backslidden and hardened. They always spoke with authority and conviction to impress the demand of God’s Word on the consciences of their hearers. And God’s power was present with them to confirm His Word

Happy birthday Boss Robonski where is d party @ i know say fish go waste for there...

TOPIC: Eat And Die

Monday, March 16, 2015

TEXT: GENESIS 3:1-13

Key Verse: “And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:4,5).

A writer observed that if the modern scientific man were to be Adam, he would not have waited for the serpent’s suggestion: he would have gone straight for the forbidden fruit immediately after God gave the instruction and warning against eating it and turned His back. The reason is, contempt of God and His cause in the world is increasingly staggering.

Adam’s fall was the outcome of disobedience and unbelief in what God told him about the “tree of the knowledge of good and evil”. The instruction was clear that: “...of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden... Thou shall not eat of it”. God warned, “for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shall surely die” (Genesis 2:17). The modern man would have rushed to pluck and take the fruit to the laboratory to verify the toxic content. That is because the natural man depends and operates by his reasoning faculty.

So, when Satan came with some assumptions that appeared reasonable with promise of some social benefits that they would not die but “be as gods”, they embraced it. The strategy of the devil and those who have followed him since Eden has always been to destroy the Christian faith and commitment by introducing doubt about the Word of God through false and misleading assumptions and doctrines. He knows that “without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6).

We are connected to God by faith in His Word. We receive forgiveness, benefits of salvation, assurance of eternity in heaven and all other blessings from God by faith. God does not expect us to listen to any other teaching as Adam and Eve did because it will destroy our faith in Him. The word of God should be sufficient for us who are heaven-bound Christian.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 33 - 35

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God’s word is nutritious.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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TOPIC: Rewards Beyond Imagination

Sunday, March 15, 2015

TEXT: REVELATIONS 14:1-5

Key Verse: “These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb” (Revelation 14:4).

King David of ancient Israel was a wise man who did not allow the culture of pomp and power of the throne to befuddle his mind. He did not permit the magnificence of office to prevent him from thinking about the eternal future. He offered precious time to deliberate on weighty questions about eternity and where he would spend it.

The king desired to be on God’s side, after earnestly concluding that earthly glory and wealth would not be of any value after death. So, he posed the all-time questions: “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?” (Psalm 15:1). “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in his holy place?” (Psalm 24:3).

In both cases the answer is that only “he that walketh uprightly”, “that hath clean hands and a pure heart, who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully… he shall receive the blessing from the LORD and righteousness from the God of his salvation”.

In Revelation 14:1-5, the Bible presents some of those that “hath clean hands and a pure heart” who would abide in heaven. They were not “defiled with women… for they are virgins.” It simply means those that shun sin and refuse to be part of the corrupt world system. They are fully consecrated to holiness and love God. They do not subscribe to the spirit of the Antichrist. They daily look up to the coming of Christ, their Lord.

God is preparing to reward righteous people with eternal habitation in His Kingdom. The redeemed will sing a new song with angels around the throne of God where Christ is seated on His right hand in heaven. The name of the heavenly Father will be written on their foreheads. What a glorious experience. Will you be there?

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 31 - 32

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Heaven is reserved for holy people.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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TOPIC: Illuminating The World

Saturday, March 14, 2015

TEXT: NUMBERS 8:1-4

Key Verse: “And Aaron did so; he lighted the lamps thereof over against the candlestick, as the LORD commanded Moses” (Numbers 8:3).

Today’s reading precedes the Lord’s commandment to Moses, His servant, to separate the Levites for special service to Him. The four verses come before those that describe the purification and consecration of the Levites who were appointed to help the priests in the ministry of worship.

This unique call symbolizes the godly separation that ought to characterize the life of a true believer in Christ. People called out of sin must live holy life that reflect the new nature after their encounter with the Lord.

Before service in the Lord’s vineyard, the born-again Christian must renounce his or her old works of darkness. He must identify with Christ, the Light and use his new calling to spread the light all over the world. That is the import of God’s directive: “when thou lightest the lamps the seven lamps shall give light over against the candlestick” (verse 2).

To receive and fulfil this great responsibility as a light-bearer in this dark world, the follower of Christ must trust and obey His commands. The Bible tells us that Aaron did exactly as God charged him concerning the lighting of the lamps and candlesticks. “And Aaron did so” (verse 3). “According unto the pattern which the Lord had showed Moses, so he made the candlesticks” (verse 4).

Faith, obedience, submission and consecration are required in God’s service. The book of Numbers was written to show us the grave consequences of rebellion, unbelief and disobedience; that if unbelief, murmuring and rebellion prevented the old generation of Israelites from making it to the Promised Land, today’s Christians should flee those evils in order to make heaven. “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition...” (1 Corinthians 10:11).

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 28 - 30

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Be a light bearer, not an extinguisher.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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Systematic Expository Study of God’s Word 09/03/2015

Study 11: WINNING IN WARFARE BY FAITH

TEXT: Hebrews 11:32

The verse begins with the question: “And what shall I more say?” Having spoken of the challenging examples and extraordinary exploits of faith, the Apostle now gives a summary of actions of faith, grouping some men of faith together. He does not mention all men or women that could have been mentioned. He passes over individuals such as Caleb, Deborah, Hannah, Ruth, Job and some others. Rather the Holy Spirit presents before us Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets. The order in which they are mentioned is not that of time, for Barak lived before Gideon, Jephthah before Samson, and Samuel before David. God reckons according to His evaluation of the fruits of our faith, not according to age. With true faith in them, they fought the Lord’s battles with courage and conviction and brought deliverance, truth and revival to God’s people.

1. GIDEON: WINNING WITH THE COURAGEOUS FEW
Hebrews 11:32; Judges 6:11-16; 7:1-8; 8:4,22,23; 1 Samuel 14:6; 2 Chronicles 14:11,12; Luke 12:32.

Gideon was called to deliver and judge the nation of Israel when they were under the fierce oppression of the Midianites and the Amalekites (Judges 6:1-4). The Israelites were poor and fearful. When God called Gideon, he felt inadequate and wondered how he could defeat the oppressors and deliver the oppressed (Judges 6:11-16). With such a great challenge before him, he needed assurance from the Lord. Given some initial assurance (Judges 6:19-24), his faith was strong enough to destroy the idolatrous altar of his father (Judges 6:25-27). “The Spirit of the LORD” soon came upon him so he could begin the great work God had called him to. His faith was growing; he did not immediately or instantly come into strong, unshakable, extraordinary faith. With divine responses that cleared all his doubts (Judges 6:36-40; 7:13-15), his faith became firm and his victory certain.

“Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17). What words ministered faith to him? “Surely 1 will be with thee and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man” (Judges 6:16). Though the enemies were many - “without number, as the sand by the sea side for multitude” (Judges 7:12), Gideon defeated them with only 300 men in his army (Judges 7:7). Few with faith can defeat many with might.

2 . BARAK: WEAPON AGAINST CRUEL FOES
Hebrews 11:32; Judges 4:4-9,14-24; Zechariah 4:6; 2 Corinthians 10:4,5; Mark 9:23.

The period of the judges was an era of repeated backsliding for Israel. “The children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord” (Judges 2:11,17, 19; 3:7,12; 4:1). Their backsliding brought “the anger of the LORD” upon them (Judges 2:14,20; 3:. Sin, disobedience and rebellion had brought Israel under powerful enemies. In God’s mercy, He raised up Barak to deliver Israel from 20 years of servitude. Barak believed God’s promise given through Deborah. The fact that he wanted Deborah, the Lord’s special representative at that time, to go with him to battle meant that his trust was in the Lord, not in his wisdom or ability. God’s presence was of more value to him than his 10,000 men. Faith for victory over cruel foes came by hearing the Word: “I will deliver him into thine hand” (Judges 4:6,7).

3. SAMSON: WEAKNESS OVERCOME BY CONQUERING FAITH
Hebrews 11:32; Judges 13:1-5,24,25; 14:5,6; 15:14-16; 16:4,5,15-20,21-30; Isaiah 40:28-31.

Samson was a judge in Israel and his special task was that of fighting against the Philistines. He is remembered most for his moral weakness, backsliding and loss of God’s power. Yet, his last exploit of faith shows that he overcame weakness by conquering faith. Throughout his life, he fought and defeated thousands of Philistines single-handedly. Many mighty deeds are recorded of him – rending a lion to pieces, slaying the nation’s enemies with the jawbone of an ass, carrying the gates of Gaza on his shoulders, breaking the strongest cords when bound by his enemies, pulling down the great temple containing thousands of the Philistines. The instantaneous answer to his final prayer concludes his mighty acts by faith and by the Spirit.

4. JEPHTHAH: WILLINGNESS WITH CONSECRATED FAITHFULNESS
Hebrews 11:32; Judges 11:4-6,11-15,27-33,35; Psalm 50:14,15; Revelation 3:8-10.

Jephthah’s calling and involvement was not only because of his faith but because of God’s grace. His birth was dishonourable (Judges 11:1,2). The Mosaic law excluded such from the congregation of the LORD (Deuteronomy 23:2) but grace brought him in not just as a member but even a deliverer and a judge. He feared the Lord and was willing to deliver God’s people and serve them. He believed God with a strong faith. He ascribed Israel’s victories to the Lord (Judges 11:12,14,21-23). He made an extraordinary vow before the Lord and faithfully kept it by keeping his daughter in continual virginity. After the victory, he faithfully maintained his consecration.

5. DAVID: WARRIOR WITH COURAGEOUS FAITH
Hebrews 11:32; 1 Samuel 17:32-37,45-50; Psalms 71:7,17,18; 18:32-35; 27:3; 1 Timothy 6:12.

David stands out as a great man of faith in the Bible. From his youth, he trusted in the Lord. When he was still young, he killed a lion and a bear while taking care of his father’s sheep. He fought and had victory over Goliath. He had faith in God and spoke words of faith: “Thou comest to me with a sword... but I come to thee in the name of the LORD. This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand... for the battle is the LORD’S, and He will give you into our hands” (1 Samuel 17:45-47). David overcame in many battles of life by faith. The battles were many and varied, in his family and from the king of the nation, friends and foes; yet, he always fought with courageous faith. The Psalms are full of expressions and confessions of his faith (Psalms 3:6; 4:8; 9:9,10; 18:2,17,19; 23:4; 27:1,3; 32:7; 44:5-8; 56:3-5,11; etc.).

6. SAMUEL AND THE PROPHETS: WITNESSES OF OUR COVENANT-KEEPING FATHER
Hebrews 11:32; 1 Samuel 3:10,19; 7:7-10;12:16-19; Psalm 99:6.

Only Samuel is named among “the prophets”. The prophets were all men of faith and they bore witness to the unfailing, unchanging nature of the Word of our covenant-keeping God. The prophets reminded God’s people of the trustworthiness of the promises of God. These prophets also fought valiantly against idolatry and immorality in the nation. Samuel was an outstanding prophet of God. From his youth, he had the presence of God and the prophetic Word. God’s power was demonstrated in his life (1 Samuel 12:16-18). Through the prophets, Israel was taught to maintain faith in God – “for I am the LORD, I change not” (Malachi 3:6).

Systematic Expository Study of God’s Word 02/03/2015

Study 10: PULLING DOWN STRONGHOLDS BY FAITH

TEXT: Hebrews 11:30,31

Forty years separate the events of verses 29 and 30; that is, the crossing of the Red Sea and the destruction of the walls of Jericho. The miracle of crossing the Red Sea marked the beginning of the wilderness journey under Moses while the miracle of the walls of Jericho falling down marked the beginning of conquering Canaan under Joshua. During the period of those forty years, many mighty acts of faith were recorded: bitter water made sweet (Exodus 15:22-25); manna and quails supernaturally provided (Exodus 16:4-18); water from the rock (Exodus 17:1-7); defeat of the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8-13); the crossing of river Jordan (Joshua 3:9-17) and others.

For many of the miracles in the ministry of Moses, the Israelites did not wholly believe God as Moses and some faithful remnants believed. However, at the time of Joshua, Israel believed God as much as Joshua did. Jericho was a great obstacle before Israel. It was a stronghold. Its location was strategic, its walls were high and thick, and its soldiers were well-trained and well-armed. Faith brought victory over Jericho. The obedience of faith brought victory. Rahab also demonstrated faith and was protected and preserved while the unbelieving people in Jericho were destroyed. The faith that pulls down strongholds also saves the vilest of sinners and brings despised aliens into the commonwealth of Israel – into the household of faith.

1. CONQUERING BY FAITH
Hebrews 11:30; Joshua 6:3-5,12-16,20; Deuteronomy 1:
28-30; 2 Corinthians 10:4,5; 2 Kings 5:1,9,10,14;
1 Kings 18:41-45.

Before coming to Jericho, a powerful fortress barring them from entering the promised land, the Israelites had crossed river Jordan by faith. To enjoy the benefit of the previous act of faith, we must overcome the present obstacle by faith. Israel was faced with formidable difficulties and powerful oppositions. To unbelievers, Jericho and the other cities seemed impregnable, but faith laughs at impossibilities. Satan’s strongholds cannot stand before godly people of faith who rely fully on God and obey His Word implicitly.

God’s instructions to Israel were very simple. Those instructions might have seemed childish or ridiculous. God promised to deliver Jericho into their hands if they would only believe and obey. And divine power overthrew Jericho’s walls when Israel manifested the obedience of faith. At the command of the Lord, they were to be silent; and at the command of the Lord, they were to shout. Implicit obedience to God’s word is absolutely essential if we are to have His blessings.

These accounts in the Scriptures show us the wondrous power of real faith to bring to pass that which is beyond nature. Walls of Jericho between us and the promised blessings, barriers between us and holiness give way and fall when we truly believe God.

2. CONFESSION OF FAITH
Hebrews 11:31; Joshua 2:1,8-12,18-21; 6:22-25; Matthew 1:1-5; Romans 10:8-10; 2 Timothy 1:12; Romans 8:31,32,37-39.

Rahab was a Canaanite, a stranger – “an alien from the commonwealth of Israel”, “a stranger from the covenants of promise”, yet “by faith she perished not with them that believed not”. Rahab had heard of the God of Israel and His mighty acts done on behalf of Israel. She had heard of God’s plan to give the land of Canaan to Israel. Others heard and believed not; they rebelled in their unbelief. But she heard and believed. And she confessed in faith. “And she said,... I know that the LORD hath given you the land,... For we have heard how the LORD dried the water of the Red Sea for you... For the LORD your God, He is God in heaven above and in earth beneath” (Joshua 2:9-11).

Others in Jericho heard the same things that Rahab heard. What they heard brought fear in their hearts but she had faith. Rahab’s confession was full and sure. She accepted the testimonies as true. She exalted God because of His wondrous works. She acknowledged Him as the God of heaven and earth. She was sure that God had given the land of Canaan to His people. With an expectant faith, she asked for mercy and salvation, not only for herself but also for her household. Her faith perceived something of the infinite mercy of God that she believed He would be willing to show mercy and grant grace to her as well as her family. Her confession and demand revealed her faith. Our confession is absolutely inseparable from our faith.

3. CHARACTERISTICS OF FAITH
Hebrews 11:30,31; Mark 11:24; Romans 4:19-21; Hebrews 4:3,10; Luke 5:4-6; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; Isaiah 28:16; 2 Chronicles 20:20-22; John 11:40.

The historical account connected with these two verses (Hebrews 11:30,31) reveals some striking characteristics of faith. There is faith that receives, when we come empty-handed to Christ for salvation. There is faith that reckons, that counts on God to undertake for us. There is faith that risks, that moves out on God’s word, daring to do the impossible. There is faith that rests, that when facing persecution, we remain confident that God will deliver. Unbelief is hesitant but bold faith is confident and courageous. Reading Joshua chapter 6, we observe (1) the obedience of faith. After receiving God’s instruction and promise to deliver Jericho into their hands, Joshua and Israel obeyed without modifying God’s word. There was also (2) the discipline of faith. Everyone among those millions of Israelites manifested faith and knew that there is “a time to keep silence and a time to speak” (Ecclesiastes 3:7). (3) Their patience of faith was remarkable. The walls of Jericho did not fall on the first day when Israel marched around them. It was not until the thirteenth time, on the seventh day, that the power of God was displayed to make the walls fall down. We must not overlook (4) the expectation of faith. The people shouted before the walls fell down – their faith expected victory and was rejoicing before the victory came. (5) The ground (basis) of faith for Joshua, Israel or Rahab was the word of God. “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). The word of God is a surer foundation for our faith than feeling. We have already spoken about (6) the confession of faith. There are those who remain silent or quiet in confusion, fear and unbelief. Others like the ten spies utter negative words that doubt the promises of God. Faith confesses with assurance and says what God has said in His promises. (7) The effect and reward of faith is always the same. For an individual (Joshua), or a family (Rahab and her household), or a nation (Israel), faith always pulls down the enemy’s strongholds and delivers us from temporal and eternal perdition.

TOPIC: Reign Of Peace

Friday, March 13, 2015

TEXT: ISAIAH 2:1-9 Key Verse: “And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” (Isaiah 2:4).

If God cannot lie and if it is easier for heaven and earth to pass than one tittle of the law (prophecy) to fail (Numbers 23:19; Romans 3:4; Luke 16:7), then believers need not worry when they receive news about global upheavals, insurrections, violence and war. They should seek succour and hope in Scripture prophecy that the time is approaching when these same weapons of mass destruction being used to wreak havoc, kill, maim and desecrate sacred lives will be converted into tools for productive agricultural enterprise (Isaiah 2:4). Governments all over the world try hard to live up to expectation by ensuring there is peace in the society. The League of Nations and its successor, the United Nations also try hard to ensure people live in peace on earth. All their efforts are good but have not achieved lasting peace. Sin, idol worship, worldliness and rejection of God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ all stand in the way of peace. Curiously, proponents of peace also embrace these obstacles to peace. It is obvious peace can only come through Jesus Christ. The urgent need now is for humanity to “go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he (God) will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word from the LORD from Jerusalem” (Isaiah 2:3). This is the kingdom of God Jesus commands us to pray for in Matthew 6:10. Believers must not adopt a defeatist stance in the wake of tidings of wars and disturbances. We should understand that they happen in fulfillment of prophecy. More than that, we should pray to receive the fulfillment of the peace and rest promised those who follow and serve Jesus Christ. BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 25 - 27

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Citizenship of Christ’s kingdom of peace is open to all people. Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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TOPIC: Don’t Get Over-Familiar

Thursday, March 12, 2015

TEXT: LUKE 4:23-32

Key Verse: “And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son?” (Luke 4:22).

People in Christ’s country home couldn’t benefit much from His ministry because of familiarity with His person. They knew so much about Him and His family background that they made the greatest mistake of their lives by looking down on Him and His ministry. While great miracles took place in other places where Jesus went and many lives were saved and transformed, His own people couldn’t benefit much from Him. How damaging over - familiarity can be! However, Jesus did not allow their attitude to affect His ministry.

We do ourselves a lot of harm when we tend to become too familiar with our pastors and leaders that we now look down on them. Our pastors and leaders are humans and not angels. If we, because of what we know about them, their family challenges and personal weaknesses which may not be sin, despise them, we will lose the benefits we ought to derive from them. The Scriptures admonish us to hold them in high esteem and count them worthy of double honour because they minister to us the word of God. We must not engage in uncharitable comments about them nor criticize them harshly. One of the greatest honours we can give to our ministers is to carefully listen to the word of God they teach us and obey.

Ministers too must be careful that they do not conduct themselves in ways that would be demeaning to their calling and ministry. They must equally hold themselves in high esteem and avoid unnecessary familiarity with the people they lead that may make them lose their respect. While Jesus mingled and lived with the people and disciples, He still maintained a life of dignity and honour that commanded the respect of others. Check how you live and conduct yourself with the people you lead. Don’t allow over-familiarity to rubbish your life and ministry.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 22 - 24

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Keep the boundaries of respect and honour for God’s servants.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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TOPIC: God: Our Defender

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

TEXT: PSALM 48:1-14

Key Verse: “For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death” (Psalm 48:14).

Alan Redpath, evangelist, pastor and a British author, said: “Any battle for victory, power, and deliverance – from ourselves and from sin – which is not based constantly upon the gazing and the beholding of the Lord Jesus, with the heart and life lifted up to Him, is doomed to failure.”

Our text, which is the psalmist’s triumphant song, captures God’s merciful acts of defending His children. Though the psalmist did not pinpoint the exact battle the Lord helped them to conquer, he ascribed the victory to the assistance and enablement they received from God. The passage notes that when the kings of the neighbouring nations attacked Jerusalem, God kept the city and the people that were in it safe. Those kings were frightened by what they saw and they fled.

Apart from explaining what God did and what He could do, the psalmist equally reveals that God, who was delighted in Jerusalem, made effectual provision for its safety because of His perpetual covenant with the children of Zion.

God has placed a high premium on you. Thus, He has concluded that “he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of His eye.” As those kings got frightened and fled, God will cause your enemies to flee from you. Do not fear; only believe, obey and love Him because “when the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.”

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 19 - 21

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God knows how to overcome all your enemies.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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TOPIC: An Incredible Transformation

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

TEXT: 2 CHRONICLES 12:1-15

Key Verse: “These are they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all his banks; and they put to flight all them of the valleys, both toward the east, and toward the west” (1 Chronicles 12:15).

Sabine Barring-Gould, a pastor in Yorkshire, decided to compose a marching song for children in his Sunday School during a holiday celebration. As the children marched along the dusty road of Yorkshire with their wooden crosses and banners, they sang: “Onward Christian soldiers, Marching as to war, Looking unto Jesus, Who is gone before; Christ, the royal Master, Leads against the foe; Forward into battle, See his banners go”.

Hardly would Barring-Gould and his little “soldiers” have imagined that their marching song, would become one of the sacred hymns of Christians.

The men that defected to David while he was in exile in Ziklag could not be described as professional soldiers, but a 400 ragtag militia comprising the distressed, indebted and discontented people (1 Samuel 22:2). This bunch of “irresponsible” citizens later became the invincible and unconquerable army that God used to do exploits.

The fewness of members of David’s militia reminds of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. Jesus Christ reformed and revolutionized the lives of a handful of people considered to be unlearned, publicans, and winebibbers. These people, anointed with the Holy Spirit of God, turned their world up-side-down with the gospel. The expansion of the kingdom of God continues, and the recruitment into His army is in progress. God is able to transform you from a weak and trembling soul into a strong and intrepid instrument if you surrender unreservedly to Him.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 15 - 18

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Be a soldier for Christ.

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TOPIC: A Vision Of Glory

"Monday, March 09, 2015"

*TEXT: ACTS 7:54-56*

*"Key Verse: “And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56)."*
It is better to incur the world’s hatred by testifying against its wickedness than gain its goodwill by going down the stream with it. We can see here the strength of corruption in the persecutors of Stephen. On this scene, men who became incarnate devils were ready to kill.
Stephen testified boldly of Christ before the Sanhedrin, condemning their crucifixion of Him whom God approves. This led to his becoming the first martyr of the Christian church. Here was an instance of the outrage and fury of the persecutors and of the courage and comfort of the persecuted.
He knew his speech would enrage the council. Since he expected no prospect of justice at their hands, he fixed his eyes intently on heaven and sought justification from God. When they were cut to the heart and gnashed upon him with their teeth, ready to kill him, he received a revelation of the glory of Christ. The heavens opened to give him a view of the happiness ahead. God is always with His people in times of hardship, persecution and danger.
We need to depend upon God always. This will help us to fix our gaze on Him while we give appropriate, Spirit-backed answers to everyone who enquires about the reason of the faith of Jesus Christ that we uphold. Compromise during persecution rob believers of the necessary revelation(s) God would have granted to soothe their pain. When men threaten us, we should learn to fix our eyes on Christ the Author and Finisher of our faith.
Stephen served the same God we serve. And He is unchanging. If He saw Stephen through, He will see us through trials. Understand however that God has not appointed every believer to be a martyr; so, you may not die like Stephen. But the ultimate is to make it to heaven irrespective of the opposition and persecution we may suffer in life. His grace will be sufficient for everyone of us in Jesus’ name.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 13 - 14*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Heaven is the sure abode of the triumphant."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: Obey God Rather Than Men

"Sunday, March 08, 2015"

*TEXT: EXODUS 1:15-22*

*"Key Verse: “But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive” (Exodus 1:17)."*
Our text clearly shows that Satan can use anybody and anything to frustrate the plan of God. King Pharaoh of Egypt, who became a wiling instrument in Satan’s hands, had a cruel plan to destroy the children of Israel. He was apparently afraid of the growing number of the Israelites and wanted to checkmate them. One day, he called the Hebrew midwives and instructed them to kill all the Hebrew male children at birth. Were these Hebrew midwives not afraid of God, this order would have been obeyed to the letter. God knew this situation would arise and, therefore, positioned these midwives, who feared Him more than they feared Pharaoh.
When the king of Egypt noticed that the midwives did not obey his command, he called and queried them. The midwives probably thought he would put them to death for disobeying him, but they were not disturbed as they had already chosen to obey God, no matter the circumstances. For their obedience, God blessed them. Pharaoh, getting more frustrated, issued another proclamation to all his people that “every son that is born ye shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive.” He thought this would quickly get rid of the Jews, but God intervened. “Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass, when the Lord commandeth it not?”
Satan is always fearful of Christians who make progress in the things of God. He fears that such fervent Christians will snatch many souls from him through evangelism into the kingdom of God. So, he will try to resist by using any means and anybody who is willing to run errand for him against faithful believers. The assurance we have is, God, who positioned the Hebrew midwives to thwart the wicked plot of Pharaoh will definitely position His angels and helpers around His children. So, do not fear those who can only kill the body and not the soul. Fear God who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 10 - 12*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Fear God and obey Him. "*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: A Sober Reflection

"Saturday, March 07, 2015"

*TEXT: HAGGAI 1:1-15*

**"Key Verse: “Therefore the heaven over you is stayed from dew, and the earth is stayed from her fruit. And I called for a drought upon the land, and upon the mountains, and upon the corn, and upon the new wine, and upon the oil, and upon that which the ground bringeth forth, and upon men, and upon cattle, and upon all the labour of the hands” (Haggai 1:10,11)."**

When something bad happens, we  often look for someone to blame. But when natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, tidal waves, mudslides, droughts and lightning strikes occur we shift the blame on God. Incidentally, the insurance companies call them “acts of God.” The question most often asked after a disaster is, if God loves people, why does He wipe them out? Why would God allow famines like the one in our text?
The fault is not God’s; it is entirely ours. Sin prepares the way for disasters to occur. The remnant of the children of Israel that newly returned from Babylon started off with a great corporate vision of building the temple for the glory of God. But as soon as they achieved a little success, they quickly lost their focus. Sixteen years had passed and nothing had happened. Not so much as even a stone had been set for the temple. They had become so focused on their own personal needs and desires that they completely forgot what God required of them. Consequently, the nation experienced mysterious and continuous food shortages. In spite of their efforts in agriculture, they sowed much but brought in little.
For Israel, it was a time of looking back to reconsider their ways. As we reflect on our past, we will discover that we have failed the Almighty; we will discover that we have worked hard to plant our crops and tend our businesses, to be able to provide food, shelter and clothing for our families but have little or nothing to show for it. This is the time for us to arise and do the work of God.
As the Jews were commanded by God through Haggai the prophet, you need to completely give your life over to doing the work of God. And by so doing, you will begin to experience His abundant blessings upon your life.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 7 - 9*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Don’t hold God responsible for human catastrophes."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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mum2bsoon:
Thanks 4 2days msg.

you are welcome sir/ma ...Its ABC.. Accept Believe and Confirm it.
God bless you

TOPIC: This is Your Day!

Friday, March 06, 2015
TEXT: LUKE 4:1-22

Key Verse: “And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son?” (Luke 4:22).

Today may have started for you like every other day. There may not be any sign suggesting that you are about to have any promise of Scripture fulfilled in your life today. One truth that will calm your nerves is this, that “God is a Spirit” (John 4:24). You do not see Him but He is working for your good.

For many years, the children of Israel had read the prophecies concerning the advent of the Messiah in the book of Isaiah and many other prophets. Many had eagerly looked forward to witnessing the fulfilment of it. For many, it appeared that the promise existed only on the pages of Scriptures and might not translate into a real experience.

In the text today however, the age-long promise became fulfilled before their very eyes! The Messiah that was long expected suddenly appeared in their temple.

The Scripture cannot be broken! Everything that God has ever spoken will certainly come to pass. Heaven and earth shall pass away but a jot of God’s word will not pass unfulfilled. What is that promise that you have been holding on to? When you read that promise, does it still appear real to you? Do not lose your faith and hope of its fulfilment because God is able to accomplish whatever He has promised to do.

Apart from the unfailing assurance of the fulfilment of God’s promise in your life, we need to be reminded that the prophecy of Christ’s second coming will soon be fulfilled. Whatever is your pursuit, possession and concern in life should not shift your mind from believing and expecting the coming of the Lord.

To be ready for His coming, you need to make personal preparations. Repentance and restitution, holy living and soul-winning, watchfulness and prayer, among others are essential to making rapture when the Lord returns to take His people to His abode in heaven.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 5 - 6

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The Scriptures cannot be broken!

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TOPIC: “If Ye Be Willing …”

"Thursday, March 05, 2015"

*TEXT: ISAIAH 1:16-31*

*"Key Verse: “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land” (Isaiah 1:19)."*
There is only one God. Today’s text  reveals this truth. The one and only God who is Almighty says, “if ye be willing and obedient ye shall eat the good of the land”. Being a God of justice, he balances it up by declaring that, “if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be destroyed with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it”.
This, along with numerous other statements made by God in the Bible, undermine the doctrine of eternal security. It is false to say that once you are saved, you are saved forever, even if you backslide and live in sin. This statement is not supported by Scripture. The security of the believer is conditional. The words “if” and “but” obviously indicate the condition attached to the sustenance of salvation and the possibility of being lost through disobedience, carelessness and negligence.
The heaven-bound Christian who has been saved by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ must be on his guard daily so that doctrinal error that would return him to worldly cravings does not creep into his life and service. Only a thin line exists between the two; crossing it can be effortless and imperceptive.
Korah, Dathan, Abiram, the young prophet , Ananias and Sapphira, Judas Iscariot and Demas were all saved at a time, but they were remiss with what they had and lost out of the heavenly race.
To avoid a similar fate, the genuine believer must be prayerful, consistent in holiness, mindful of Scripture warnings, committed in soul-winning efforts, willing to help the saints, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, succour the widow, among others.
Believers must abide in the Lord and continually avail themselves of the means of grace and spiritual renewal to avoid compromise that can lead to loss of salvation.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 3 - 4*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Obedience is the way to God’s heart."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: Peace From God

Wednesday, March 04, 2015
TEXT: PSALM 4:1-8

Key Verse: “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety” (Psalm 4:.

The reign of King Henry IV of England (1367–1413) was an uneasy one. Having usurped the crown, he applied murderous means to consolidate his hold on power. He won his battles but lost his peace. Sweet sleep fled from him. While his poor subjects went to bed in slums, Henry in “Kingly Couch”, was denied repose.

If this King had taken his case to God, he would have learnt the secret of sweet sleep from David, the monarch of Israel. King David was a psalmist who rested in God his Creator each time he was in distress. Trouble seemed to be his companion all his days; his life was always on the line. But he was wise to always run to God for deliverance. He was never disappointed each time he went to God for help. His testimony and confidence was, “I will both lay me down in peace and sleep: for thou, LORD, only maketh me dwell in safety.” The Lord did more for him. In verse 7, he says that while his adversaries were feasting on false joy, the God he trusted “put gladness in my heart more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.”

Why did David enjoy such manifold blessings? Why do those who believe in Jesus Christ today have the “peace that passeth all understanding”? It is simply because the God of peace is faithful to His promises.

God’s promises are very clear and understandable. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength” (Isaiah 26:3,4).

Peace is not free; it comes at a cost. Christ has paid the price for our peace.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 1 - 2

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Worldly peace is elusive; heavenly peace is eternal and attainable

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TOPIC: “It Is Written...”!

Tuesday, March 03, 2015

TEXT: MATTHEW 4:1-11

Key Verse: “But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).

Ahead of His ministry, Christ embarked on a forty-day fast and was afterwards led into the wilderness, “to be tempted of the devil.” Satan wanted to lure Him into disobeying God. He wanted Jesus to resort to self-will, which would satisfy worldly and not spiritual ends.

Our Lord overcame him as He repeatedly depended on the authority of the Word of God rather than yield to the desires of Satan. Thus, Jesus demonstrated that invincibility comes through the power of the Word and the Holy Spirit. Although Satan also quoted the Word out of context to mislead Jesus, he did not succeed.

That Jesus “was led up of the Spirit... to be tempted of the devil” suggests that even believers who are sound in the faith can experience trials and temptations. This would come through juicy enticements to compromise in the pursuit of our daily bread (Matthew 4:3); through offers of worldly fame and influences (Matthew 4:6); and through suggestions for Christians to go into reckless contests with unbelievers for personal recognition that does not honour God (Matthew 4:6). Jesus, the Word personified, wielded the Sword of the Spirit or the Word effectively to defeat Satan (John 1:1,14; Ephesians 6:17).

Since believers engage in perpetual spiritual warfare with the devil, we must arm ourselves with the Word of God to always overcome him. We must allow the Holy Spirit to teach and guide us in the appropriate application of the Word to be able to say “it is written” more forcefully than Satan. Regular intake and internalization of the Word is key to overcoming satanic onslaught in life and ministry. The Word carries eternal power of the Godhead that Satan cannot withstand. Where the word of a king is (in your heart, life, home, church), there is power.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 CORINTHIANS 10 - 13

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The Word works!

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TOPIC: No Room For Enmity

Monday, March 02, 2015

TEXT: 2 SAMUEL 1:17-27

Key Verse: “And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son” (2 Samuel 1:17).

King David had his own shortcomings as a man. But none of them was ingratitude or disloyalty to friends. None still was a tendency to hate his enemy, as would the carnal man. Today’s reading reveals this beloved monarch of ancient Israel at his best, displaying in balanced measure, loyalty to his slain friend Jonathan and honour to the fallen King Saul who even sought to kill him for no just reason. The contextual presentation of today’s meditation has David mourning the death of Saul and Jonathan. Learning of the tragedy that had befallen Israel, David promptly executed an Amalekite who claimed responsibility for Saul’s death in expectation of a reward for killing David’s enemy. As it turned out, it was bad news for David that Saul who hated him and wanted to kill him was dead. It was not only the death of Jonathan, his great and tenderhearted friend which hurt him, that of Saul also did. David launches into a memorable dirge that describes Saul and Jonathan as “the beauty of Israel” (verse 19) and “weapons of war” (verse 27), who “were swifter than eagles, (and) stronger than the lions” (verse 23). Verse 24 is a solemn exhortation: “Ye daughters of Israel weep over Saul, who clothed you in scarlet and other delights, who put on ornaments of gold upon your apparel.” All these for an enemy? Yes, that is what our Lord commands: “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you and pray for them that despitefully use you and persecute you that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:44,45). Do you want to be counted among the children of the Almighty in heaven? Then, heed the word of Jesus by loving your enemy as David did. Only a soul that has accepted Jesus as Lord and Saviour can do so, however. BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 CORINTHIANS 5 - 9 THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: A virtuous soul is at peace with all men, foes and friends alike. Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/ ***Share your thoughts and what you've just learnt in the comments section below. Don't forget to SHARE

robonski15:
With these three combination they have no choice but to recover swiftly. What about the earthen pond you should as well treat it to avoid same plague.

yes dey did i was excited with their response but dey r eating themselves cos i avnt fed till now since last thursaday

The pond i used up about 4ltrs of formalin to bath the earthen pond with low water and soak for 3 days before i retreat with formalin and neurocyril and salt and leave for another 3 days any additional or subractional advice?

TOPIC: You Can’t Change God

Sunday, March 01, 2015
TEXT: GENESIS 2:16-25

Key Verse: “But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:17).

God created Adam and Eve perfect human beings. He provided everything man would need before making man in His own image and after His likeness. It was an act of love for God to reproduce Himself in man. Man was free to eat of every tree except one located in the midst of the garden.

Aside giving man freedom, God also gave him overwhelming control of his habitat; He delegated Adam with authority to name all His creatures. God approved the names Adam gave to other creatures and said in Genesis 9:2 that “the fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every fowl of the air, upon all that moveth upon the earth, and upon the fishes of the sea; into your hand are they delivered”.

Though man did not complain being alone among numerous animals and trees, God thought he would be happier having “an help meet”, for “it is not good that the man should be alone”. Without consulting man, “the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam and he slept: and he took one of his ribs and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman and brought her unto the man.” God is good; He always does good.

From the foregoing, God instituted marriage to be monogamous, comprising one man and one wife. Polygamy and homosexuality are godless ideals and arrangements of the figment of man’s sinful imaginations. God will not swap position with man to take orders from any of His creatures on what marriage should be.

Abandoning God’s good order on marriage and other areas in life is a grievous act of ingratitude. Besides, confusion, sorrow and misfortune will always accompany man’s alternative arrangement that runs parallel to God’s. He will punish those who do not repent of contempt for His laws.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 CORINTHIANS 1 - 4

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God will not swap position with man to take orders from His creatures.

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TOPIC: Not Your Background

Saturday, February 28, 2015

TEXT: JOHN 1:46-51

Key Verse: “And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see” (John 1:46).

Cynicism has always been the problem of many a man. People pass comments on the basis of experience, history, tradition or philosophy. Thomas Didymus, a disciple of Jesus Christ fell into this problem of cynicism when he felt it was not possible for Jesus, whom he watched crucified and buried, to be alive again. So, when he was told that the Lord, the Master, had not only resurrected, but appeared before the disciples, he thought it was a fairy tale. He did not believe until Jesus reappeared at a meeting where Thomas was present.

Nazareth had been a small city. It was unthinkable that something good could come out from the place, let alone a unique personality of Jesus’ status. So, when he was told that the much-awaited Jesus had been found as was said in the law of Moses and the prophets, Nathanael expressed doubts. But one interesting thing about Nathanael’s kind of doubt is that it was not expressed out of disrespect for prophesy. He spoke out of confusion or mixed feelings of joy and consternation.

As a believer, you must realize that the wrong perception of people about you cannot change the counsel of God concerning your life. If you are of inconsequential pedigree in the eyes of certain people or your self esteem is receding as a result of people’s perception of you, look up to the Maker of all flesh. Do not lose your head over what people think about you. And the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who carefully piloted His dear Son till the successful fulfilment of His ministry here on earth despite His lowly parentage, will also safely lead you to actualize your dreams.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 CORINTHIANS 15 - 16

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: What matters is not your origin but God’s counsel for your life.

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robonski15:
What are the symptoms?

body peeling off from beneath.....i removed them from the earthen pond and kept in a concrete pond treated with formalin salt tetracycline and chlorophenecol it has stopped but am still treating and i have not fed

TOPIC: Earnest Intercessions

Friday, February 27, 2015

TEXT: DANIEL 9:20-27

Key Verse: “At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision” (Daniel 9:23).

The text today reveals a man, Daniel, who had a real burden for his people. He was concerned about the Jews who were in exile serving punishment for their sinful lifestyle.

Usually, the Jews used evening to offer sacrifice in their homeland. Now in Babylon, a strange land, they could not offer sacrifices to God. Daniel would use the period to pray based on the promise of God through Jeremiah that the Jews would return to Jerusalem after 70 years. The time was almost over as the next king would allow the people to return to Jerusalem. While he was praying, angel Gabriel came with the answer.

However, Gabriel told Daniel that God had other plans, which would be for a period of 70 weeks, when the people and their holy city would suffer terrible devastation. A week was regarded as seven years. So, 70 weeks means 70 x 7, which is 490 years. In the first seven weeks, which is 49 years, someone would issue a command to build Jerusalem again. The people would build the city of Jerusalem again, though they would suffer trouble because of some resistance. Within the next 62 weeks, which is 434 years, God would appoint a special ruler, which is Jesus, whom the people would kill at the end of the period. In the last week, which is seven years, a foreign prince, Anti-Christ, would come with his army. Bible scholars believe that this last one week is the period of the great tribulation, which is yet to happen.

Daniel had all the disincentives that could make him not to pray. He was a prisoner, as it were, in a foreign land. He did not have the liberty to pray because of the constrictive laws of the land. Besides, he was a busy official. Yet, he dared the odds by praying to the point that deep revelations came to him. You can act like Daniel by consciously turning adversities to blessings through effectual, fervent praying.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 CORINTHIANS 12 - 14

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Prayer brings divine intervention.

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Belexy:
You dnt need to lime and fertilize in tarpaulin ponds. Just make sure ur tarpaulin is washed and free of any chemicals it came with. I use signboard tarpaulin, its chemical free and u can stock ur fishes almost immediately.

As per the biodisc, im not a believer in dat. #just my personal opinion

pls my fishes are dropping it has been occurring and seizing after treating with aqua care and cyril with salt i stopped feeding what is the permanent cure to this

TOPIC: Watch Over That White Linen

Thursday, February 26, 2015

TEXT: ECCLESIASTES 10:1-7

Key Verse: “Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour” (Ecclesiastes 10:1).

I t is a common saying among a tribal people of the West African coast that “he that is arrayed in a white apparel should be careful to avoid walking in miry, dusty roads lest he has mud splashed upon him and his clothe be stained, and spoils his parade.” A little stain of sin could spoil and distort the testimony of good living established over many years.

Our text emphasizes how sin can destroy the testimony of the righteous. It is wisdom on the part of the believer to remain faithful and steadfast in his relationship with God. Backsliding brings reproach, shame and dishonour.

The believer has a great deal of reputation to lose. Therefore, those who follow the Lord need to walk carefully to abstain from all appearances of evil so that their testimonies will remain credible and untarnished. The sinner has no testimony which he may lose. Those in dark clothing are not so much liable to apparent stains and spots like those in white, sparkling clothing. The deeper we go in our relationship with God, the greater harm is done to our testimony and conscience by any act of sin or disposition to it. A little sin may cast so great a dark shadow over a previously great and upright living.

As we go out today, we must depend upon Him to help us attain unto the high moral standard which He has set for us in His word. We must be free from lust and never yield ourselves to evil. We must avoid situations that could lead to compromise. In the midst of extreme apathy to the gospel message and immorality that pervades our society today, we must still do our best to preach to every creature. “And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment spoiled by the flesh (Jude 23).

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 CORINTHIANS 8 - 11

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Take heed to your life and Christian profession.

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TOPIC: Divine Anointment

Wednesday, February 25, 2015
TEXT: MATTHEW 3:13-17

Key Verse: “And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17).

There are five lessons we learn from the comportment of our Lord Jesus Christ on His baptism by John the Baptist. To begin with, Jesus humbly submitted to the lesser who thought it strange to baptize his Master. We learn that all brethren should “submit one to another in the fear of God” (Ephesians 5:21).

Jesus did not give Himself up for water baptism by immersion because He repented of sin and must comply with the instructions that converts be baptized. He did it to associate with John’s ministry as His forerunner and to show us example to follow on the question of water baptism.

Besides, Jesus did it to “fulfil all righteousness”. In Kingdom work, the believer must leave no stone unturned to ensure that the will of God is done.

The Father also used the occasion to establish the fact of the existence of the Trinity. God the Father spoke (Matthew 3:17) to approve of God the Son (Jesus). God the Holy Ghost came upon Jesus “like a dove... lighting upon Him” (Matthew 3:16). The three Personalities in the Godhead were at work at the same time to teach that they are united in one Body for one work and ministry.

Moreover, if Jesus needed the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to succeed, how much more do serious believers need the Spirit’s all-conquering enablement to be victorious in evangelism and in daily Christian walk! That is the reason Jesus Christ baptizes us in the Holy Spirit so that we might have the Spirit’s powerful unction.

We need to be serious in seeking the Pentecostal power and anointing of the Holy Ghost. This will make us succeed the way Jesus did when guided by the Spirit the Father bestowed on Him. As we thirst and hunger for the experience, God is ever willing to pour His Spirit on us.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 CORINTHIANS 5 - 7

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: The believer can do nothing but by Spirit of God.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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Systematic Expository Study of God’s Word 23/02/2015

Study 09: FAITH THAT CONQUERS

TEXT: Hebrews 11:27-29
Our study today reveals faith in action. This is faith that conquers! There is faith that conquers Satan and all his agents; faith that conquers sin and all its consequences; faith that overcomes the world and the flesh; faith that conquers sickness and death; faith that conquers Pharaoh and his army; Egypt and all her magicians; faith that opens a way through the Red Sea; faith that brings permanent deliverance. This is the faith that arrests our attention today.

Faith conquers. The faith of Abel conquered sin and he received pardon and witness that he was righteous. The faith of Enoch conquered death and he was translated into the presence of God in heaven. The faith of Noah conquered unbelief and worldliness and he escaped judgment – saved from the flood. The faith of Abraham conquered human reasoning and he passed the greatest test of his life. The faith of Sarah conquered bodily weakness and she received strength to conceive. The faith of Isaac conquered parental partiality and he submitted to God’s ultimate plan. The faith of Jacob conquered human preference and tradition and he acted under divine guidance. The faith of Joseph conquered attachment to Egypt and he fixed his eyes on Canaan. The faith of Moses’ parents conquered the fear of a cruel edict and they preserved the future deliverer. The faith of Moses conquered Egypt and its pleasure and he shook Egypt to its very foundations. Faith conquers!

1. PREVAILING OVER FEAR BY FAITH
Hebrews 11:27; Exodus 10:28,29; Proverbs 19:12; 16:14; Exodus 11:4-8; Proverbs 28:1; Psalm 27:3; Isaiah 35:4; 41:10,11; Luke 12:4-7,32; Isaiah 51:12,13; Psalms 112:7; 56:3,4,11; Isaiah 12:2.

Faith strengthens the heart and delivers us from the fear of man. Faith and fear are opposites, where one is dominant the other is dormant. The fear of man is a negative force, a tool of Satan that weakens and paralyses man. Fear makes a man to tremble before a fellow man and to melt away when faced with duty or divinely appointed responsibility. Faith enables a man to shun the smiles or frowns of men. A man with God-given faith refuses to be discouraged by the greatest problems. Faith survives the fires of satanic assault and flourishes under the dews of the Spirit. “By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king” (Hebrews 11:27). When Moses demanded of Pharaoh to let God’s people go, he was not terrified by thoughts of what the enraged king might do. With no army behind him, with no powerful officer in Egypt’s court to support his request, he made his demand to leave Egypt with all the children of Israel. “Not fearing the wrath of the king”. He did not fear man; he did not fear the greatest of men, a king; he did not fear the wrath of the king. His faith in God expelled all forms of fear of all kinds of men. “For he endured, as seeing Him who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:27). He fixed his eyes on God. By faith he looked constantly at the Invisible One and all visible things lost their terror. “Seeing Him who is invisible” encourages and strengthens our faith.

2. PASSED OVER AND PROTECTED BY FAITH
Hebrews 11:28; Exodus 12:1-7,12,13,21-23,27,28; Psalm 78:49-53; 1 Corinthians 5:7; 1 Peter 1:2,18,19,5; Psalms 94:4-8; 125:3; Zechariah 2:8,9.

“Through faith he kept the passover” (Hebrews 11:28). The “passover” was an ordinance, the first ordinance, given to Israel by God. It was called the passover because God passed over the Israelites on the night when all the firstborn of Egypt died under God’s judgment. “It is the LORD’S passover. For I will pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt... And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt” (Exodus 12:1l-13). That first observance of the Passover was an act of faith. Moses and Israel acted by faith. All the firstborn of the children of Israel were delivered from the Angel of Death because they were sheltered beneath the blood of the lamb. Today, we find pardon and salvation through the Blood of the Lamb, we have purity and sanctification in the Blood of the Lamb as well as protection and security under the Blood of the Lamb.

“Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them”. “The sprinkling of blood” has reference to personal application of the blood of the Lamb, by faith. Believe in Christ and His atoning Blood, then will you enjoy the fulfilment of the promise: “When I see the Blood, I will pass over you”.

3. PASSAGE THROUGH THE SEA BY FAITH
Hebrews 11:29; Exodus 14:13-16,21-31; 1 Corinthians 10:1; Isaiah 43:2-4; Malachi 3:6; 2 Chronicles 20:17; Jeremiah 32:27,17; Luke 1:37; Mark 9:23.

This is faith, living faith, mighty faith, faith that overcomes the devil and escapes evil. ‘O for a faith that will not shrink, Though pressed by many a foe, That will not tremble on the brink of any earthly woe! Lord, give us such a faith as this, And then, whatever may come, we’ll taste, even here, the hallowed bliss of an eternal home’ (The Broadman Hymnal #277).

What an obstacle, what a difficulty, what a problem Israel had before the Red Sea. Hedged in on all sides, the Sea in front, a blood-thirsty army behind, the nation of Israel found herself in an impossible situation. By faith they passed through. They could not fight – they had no strength nor weapons; they could not fly – there was no natural way of escape. Yet, they passed through. When all natural means fail, there is a supernatural means – faith – that provides a way of escape.

Observe Moses’ language of faith: (1) “Fear ye not”. (2) “Stand still”. (3) “See the salvation of the LORD, which He will show you today”. What was the result of having implicit faith in God? God “led them by the right hand of Moses with His glorious Arm, dividing the water before them” (Isaiah 63:11-13). By faith we can pass through any Red Sea before us. Fear not; stand still and consider what God can do; see the salvation of the Lord by faith; then “go forward” in obedience to His commands. He has opened the Red Sea. He never fails those who fully trust and unreservedly obey Him.

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Belexy:
Increase in price of fish feed is biting everyone. I am also feeling it here. Even the local feed ingredients have increase in prices too.
As farmers, we need to be more united in setting a minimum price of fish per kilo. Farmers should top selling fish for less than N500 per kilo. U aint doing urself any favour and u are spoiling d market for other fish farmers.

I am a big fan of this have started this movement in my environs too we need to come strong together on this issue...
sorry have not been chanced to visit you sir though i av ur contact i will communicate with you soonest.

TOPIC: Consequence Of Efforts

Tuesday, February 24, 2015
TEXT: NEHEMIAH 3:6-22

Key Verse: “And next unto him repaired Shallum the son of Halohesh, the ruler of the half part of Jerusalem, he and his daughters. And after him repaired the priests, the men of the plain” (Nehemiah 3:12,22).

Commenting on leadership ability to understand the mood of people and be thus propelled to take appropriate and timely action, a Scottish philosopher, Francis Hutcheson said, ‘That action is best which procures the greatest happiness for the greatest numbers’.

Nehemiah which means ‘The Lord comforts’, was the personal cupbearer to the Persian King, Artaxerxes (464-424 BC). About 445 BC, Nehemiah received permission from the king to go to Judah to restore his people’s fortunes. This did not come on a platter of gold. After he had been informed that ‘the remnant that are left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire’ (1:3); he began fasting and praying for God’s intervention.

Nehemiah mobilized the people in such a way that the rebuilding of Jerusalem walls became a matter, not only of civic responsibility but of national emergency. Everyone was involved. Even women, Shallum’s daughters, were physically involved. They defied cruel mockings and jesting of their detractors.

Today, many places of worship look more like poultry farms than God’s houses. Some are even without walls and gates. There is great need for leaders with vision and concern for the building of befitting places of worship for the Lord. These should be leaders who, like Nehemiah, will mobilize everyone for the attainment of such noble objective. Above all, every believer ought to participate in making God’s house, a beauty to behold.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 CORINTHIANS 1 - 4

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It is virtuous to give of your best to the service of the Most High.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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