₦airaland Forum

TOPIC: With All Diligence, Seek God

"Wednesday, August 06, 2014"

*TEXT: JOB 28:1-11*
*"Key verse: “He cutteth out rivers among the rocks; and his eye seeth every precious thing” (Job 28:10)."*
Men, whose names are written in history, never gave up to life’s challenges. Edward Gibbon, one of them, was noted to have spent twenty-six years writing his great work on history, while Noah Webster worked diligently for thirty-six years to bring into print the first edition of his dictionary. Cicero, a Roman orator, was also said to have practised before friends everyday for thirty years in order to perfect his public speaking. Among all these men, who carved a niche for themselves, one thing stood out - persistence. 
This was the centrality of Job’s sermon to his friends in our text. While explaining the challenges that miners would experience before they could get any precious resources, Job pointed out that they would go deep down into the earth, break rocks and excavate the soil to make deep furrows in the dark recesses of the earth where the sunlight could not penetrate. From that depth, precious stones and gems would be brought to the surface and, through special process, would be separated from the dross.
The miners’ efforts of producing the precious mineral, when compared with the energy, which we put in the Lord’s work, attests to the fact that our contribution is inconsequential. This, of course, should lead us to some heart-searching questions: Why is our service for Christ sometimes performed in a halfhearted manner? Why do some people, who pursue earthly goals, put us to shame with their diligence?
The Scripture says that whatever a man soweth he will reap. If we seek Jesus Christ as earnestly as miners seek for hidden treasures, we will discover God’s hidden treasures in our lives, which will make us to prosper spiritually and physically beyond measure. Jesus is the Word and Wisdom of God personified. So, knowing Him experientially is the greatest of all knowledge and seeking for that knowledge the right way is a treasure indeed.
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Idleness is a short road to death, but diligence is the way of life."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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chindi: Pls sir,is dis actually today's post cos it's same as yesterday's.

Just posted todays own sorry its late

TOPIC: End of The Wicked

Tuesday, August 05, 2014

TEXT: JOB 27:11-23

Key verse: “This is the portion of a wicked man with God, and the heritage of oppressors, which they shall receive of the Almighty” (Job 27:13).

Thomas Carlyle had a bitter experience with his manuscript. For months, he had, with all his resources, busied himself with the manuscript, which he hoped to turn into a book entitled, ‘The French Revolution.’ When he got satisfied with the level of efforts he put into it, Carlyle sent the manuscript to his friend, John Stuart Mill, for critical evaluation. Mill passed the manuscript on to Mrs. Chapman, who he thought would be able to make a fair comment.

Unfortunately, the lady, after reading it by the fireplace on the evening of March 5, 1834, before she went to bed, dropped the manuscript on the mantel. Her maid, who came the following day to clean the room and to start the fire in the fireplace, thought the manuscript was a waste paper and used it as fuel to kindle the fire. That was how the work of many months got burned up in a matter of seconds.

The catastrophe, which befell Carlyle, will certainly be a child’s play when compared to the punishment, which God will mete upon sinners, if they fail to repent. This is the fact Job laboured to expound to his friends. Job’s friends had voiced a similar opinion but had mistaken Job for a wicked man, simply because he was in great affliction. Job tried to set the matter in true light by teaching what he knew to be the mind of God and not mere human opinion.

Much as he shared his friends’ idea that as a mark of God’s judgment, afflictions must trail the wicked, he knew that they did not always come the way they thought. The wicked may multiply children and “heap up silver as the dust, and prepare raiment as the clay,” yet, he cannot escape divine wrath even though it takes longer coming.

All he trusted on earth - wealth and social connection - will be unable to save him from the storm of God’s wrath even as he dies miserably. The question is: what is your relationship with God?

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY No one ever gets away with wickedness; retributive justice is sure.

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

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TOPIC: Why Not Words of Kindness

Sunday, August 03, 2014

TEXT: JOB 26:1-14

Key verse: “How hast thou helped him that is without power? how savest thou the arm that hath no strength? How hast thou counselled him that hath no wisdom? and how hast thou plentifully declared the thing as it is?” (Job 26:2,3).

A story was told of Mamie Adams, who always went to one particular branch post office in her town because of the friendly approach of the postal employees there. One day, just before Christmas, as she went there to buy stamps, there was a long queue and someone pointed out that there was no need to wait in line because there was a stamp machine in the lobby. Mamie replied: “I know, but the machine won’t ask me about my arthritis.”

Job expected his friend, Bildad, just like the postal employees did to Mamie, to soothe his pains with words of encouragement. Unfortunately, Bildad’s words could not help Job, who was still suffering. For Job, Bildad’s description of God was very poor and so, Job believed that words about God should not merely come from the human mind, but they should come from Holy Spirit. Job, while noting that Bildad should have applied wisdom, showed Bildad what he ought to have said: “How hast thou helped him that is without power? how savest thou the arm that hath no strength?” (Job 26:2).

Today, many Christians, in an attempt to exalt self and exhibit self-righteousness, destroy other people with unkind words, notwithstanding what these people might be passing through. But God, in Colossians 4:6, counseled: “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.”

Job’s detailed description of vast spaces, in his reply to Bildad’s speech, would have probably convinced Bildad that he was not the sole custodian of knowledge about God. Job spoke about hell as well as heaven; the sky and the clouds; and about mysteries, for example the horizon and the rain.

No matter what you are passing through in life, be mindful of the fact that not everybody will understand you. Some friends and relations may misunderstand you. But in all situation, continue to stand on the truth of God’s word and soonest, everything will be over.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Kindness is anything that lifts another person; show it.

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

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TOPIC: Why Not Words of Kindness

"Sunday, August 03, 2014"

*TEXT: JOB 26:1-14*

*"Key verse: “How hast thou helped him that is without power? how savest thou the arm that hath no strength? How hast thou counselled him that hath no wisdom? and how hast thou plentifully declared the thing as it is?” (Job 26:2,3). "*
A story was told of Mamie Adams, who always went to one particular branch post office in her town because of the friendly approach of the postal employees there. One day, just before Christmas, as she went there to buy stamps, there was a long queue and someone pointed out that there was no need to wait in line because there was a stamp machine in the lobby. Mamie replied: “I know, but the machine won’t ask me about my arthritis.”
Job expected his friend, Bildad, just like the postal employees did to Mamie, to soothe his pains with words of encouragement. Unfortunately, Bildad’s words could not help Job, who was still suffering. For Job, Bildad’s description of God was very poor and so, Job believed that words about God should not merely come from the human mind, but they should come from Holy Spirit. Job, while noting that Bildad should have applied wisdom, showed Bildad what he ought to have said: “How hast thou helped him that is without power? how savest thou the arm that hath no strength?” (Job 26:2).
Today, many Christians, in an attempt to exalt self and exhibit self-righteousness, destroy other people with unkind words, notwithstanding what these people might be passing through. But God, in Colossians 4:6, counseled: “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.”
Job’s detailed description of vast spaces, in his reply to Bildad’s speech, would have probably convinced Bildad that he was not the sole custodian of knowledge about God. Job spoke about hell as well as heaven; the sky and the clouds; and about mysteries, for example the horizon and the rain.
No matter what you are passing through in life, be mindful of the fact that not everybody will understand you. Some friends and relations may misunderstand you. But in all situation, continue to stand on the truth of God’s word and soonest, everything will be over. 
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Kindness is anything that lifts another person; show it."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: Make Them See It

Saturday, August 02, 2014"

*TEXT:  JEREMIAH 27:1-11*

*"Key verse: “Thus saith the LORD to me; Make thee bonds and yokes, and put them upon thy neck” (Jeremiah 27:2)."*
The good illustration is worth more than a “sack of chalk,” says an old time infants’ school teacher. Illustrations when aptly used, are like windows on the side of a walled house. They throw light into the rooms that all may see.
Though, Jeremiah was a tested servant of God, a faithful prophet who is also reputed for his lucid use of language, God insisted here that the message of this prophecy be practically demonstrated so as to make vivid in the eyes of the people, the judgment that was to come. This use of visual aids was not merely to make understanding easier; it was intended to give more power and effect to the word.
Isn’t it true that action speaks louder than words? People see what we do more readily than what we say. Sadly, many so-called preachers of the gospel verbalise more than they practise. They teach people to follow their words and not their actions. But Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, urged believers in his day to “follow me as I follow Christ.” His outward dispositions portrayed his profession as a servant of God. Practical Christianity brings convictions upon more of our neighbours, friends and colleagues than the few that we have won through our preachings. Paul also urged believers: “Put on therefore, as elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering...” (Colossians 3:12-16).
Many  of our hearers would rather have us walk with them than merely show them the way. As true believers, we must strive to live out our profession, showing an exemplary, righteous character for others to follow.
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Practical Christianity is a more forceful testimony."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: Consecration Unto God Alone

"Friday, August 01, 2014"

*TEXT: LEVITICUS 19:23-37*

*"Key verse: “Therefore shall ye observe all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them: I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:37)."*
George Foreman, at 45, was the oldest man in the world to win the heavyweight boxing champion. In his book, God in My Corner, he recounted how he achieved the feat. When he staged a comeback, nearly ten years out of boxing, he felt he needed to get rid of some excess fat, as he had ballooned from 220 to 315 pounds, which was not good enough for him. 
Sequel to this, he engaged himself in fat-shedding exercises. He started with the basics –running every day. At first, he could not make up to a mile. Intermittently, he would stop to catch his breath, huffing and puffing. Apart from himself and his wife, no one else believed he could recapture the title, which he had won before. But with time, especially in the eight month, after a continuous exercise, he was able to shed much fat and finally got down to his fighting weight – 229 pounds. The rest was a testimony.
Just as Foreman controlled himself, our text revealed the restriction, which God placed before the Israelites. For the first three years, they should not eat the fruits of their farm and on the fourth year, when the fruit had become holy, they should offer it to praise Him. Then, from the fifth year, they should start eating the fruits. For the greedy ones among them, this might prove an uphill task. They might start eating the fruit from the first year, thus disregarding God’s instruction, which, unfortunately, might attract God’s wrath upon their lives. 
Sometimes, God can give such a holdup directive concerning His will and it may be to teach us self-control or how to be patient. Unfortunately, some impatient and disobedient believers may not appreciate this waiting period. 
Our text equally stressed God’s warning against all forms of ungodly practices, particularly magic, charm, horoscopy, shaving because of the dead and tattoo, among others. If you are involved or giving approval to these evil practices, you had better repent.
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: With complete consecration comes perfect peace."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: It's In The Life You Live

Thursday, July 31, 2014

TEXT: LEVITICUS 19:14-22

KEY VERSE: “Thou shalt not curse the deaf, nor put a stumbling block before the blind, but shalt fear thy God: I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:14).

If we let the Bible rule our thoughts and personal conduct, we will have the right attitude toward everybody. It helps us to act the way Christians should in all our relationships with others.

In the passage of Scriptures for today, we see God’s demand on his people for discretion and righteousness in their relationship with all men. True believers are the people of God. We are to be mindful of the safety of those that cannot help themselves. The disabled, the disadvantaged, the defenseless and minors are not to be taken advantage of. We are to fear the Lord. Believers in position of authority are to be different from the world. They are to dispense justice without fear, compromise or regard to persons, for such behaviours are an abomination in the sight of God.

Every true believer is expected to be a soul winner and never a waster. To this end, we are to warn sinners daily of the doom and the consequences of sin by effectively presenting the gospel to them. We should not permit sin by not preaching to them, otherwise, we ourselves become guilty of sin and liable to judgment (Ezekiel 3:18). The believer is not a slanderer. He allows the Spirit’s control over his passions and emotions, and he takes care not to offend in word or in deed.

Some of the greatest proofs of a true relationship with Christ is the possession of God’s love in the heart towards others and the fact that we keep His commandments. The genuineness of our profession is not measured by the high-sounding words of the testimony we give, but by the fruits of obedience which show forth in our lives. Strive to be a fruitful, shinning Christian.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Don’t make your life offensive; make it winsome for Christ.

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

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TOPIC: Care For Them

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

*TEXT:  LEVITICUS 19:1-13*

*"KEY VERSE: “And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard, neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard; thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger: I am the LORD your God” (Leviticus 19:10)."*
The phrase, “God’s preferential option for the poor” was coined by some religious scholars. This, they use to describe the special attention God pays to the poor and the disadvantaged as reflected in both the Old and New Testaments. Truly, the poor easily gets God’s attention because of their disposition that befits the grace of God. But in a world that runs on the principle of “the survival of the fittest,” who cares for the poor?  Even a pastor of a gospel church was heard sometime ago announcing to his congregation that his church was not for the poor. How absurd!
In today’s text, we find sundry ceremonial and moral precepts God gave to the children of Israel through Moses. They contain principles that should get us sure-footed on the path of righteousness. Israel was reminded that they were dealing with a holy God and as such were expected to be holy themselves. Even so are we, that are by redemption affiliated to the same God of holiness expected to be holy. This holiness consists in our duties to God and to man. 
Verses 9 and 10, however, draw attention to God’s concern for the poor and the disadvantaged. The Jews were required to deliberately leave their corn-fields and vineyards after harvesting for the poor to pick up the leftover. God expects the piety of His people to incorporate benevolence - making provision for the poor and needy.
The people of the world may continue with their greed, avarice and covetousness, but those who have tasted of the grace of God and in whose hearts the love of God is shed abroad have no excuse to neglect this duty of caring for the poor and disadvantaged. Look around, see the poor and, as much as it lies in you, help put a smile on their faces. Indeed, when you share your blessings with the less privileged, those blessing become multiplied. In attending to the poor though, let’s strike a balance. Don’t become a god to anyone and do not allow your benevolence to promote idleness.
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Holiness does not make us insensitive to people’s need."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: Grace, Not A License To Sin!

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

TEXT: LEVITICUS 18:17-30

KEY VERSE: “Therefore shall ye keep mine ordinance, that ye commit not any one of these abominable customs, which were committed before you, and that ye defile not yourselves therein: I am the LORD your God” (Leviticus 18:30).

As Christians, we do rejoice that we are not under the dispensation of the laws of the Old Testament with so many of its “dos” and “don’ts”. We relish so much the grace of God that does not condition our salvation on the works of our hands and the sacrifices we have to bring but on Christ’s final and eternal sacrifice. However, there is a point in which many Christians err in their understanding of the grace of God in relation to the moral obligations commanded in the Old Testament. They misinterpret the grace of God to mean having unrestrained liberty to do whatever they wish. Some declare that Christ’s sacrifice has taken care of the sins they ever committed or would ever commit. They brand those who seek to live straight and keep the moral laws as being unduly legalistic, fanatical and under bondage. This is an abuse of grace!

Grace does not take from us our moral obligations. The moral ordinances contained in the passage of our meditation this morning are as binding on us today as they were binding on all the people in the Old Testament dispensation. Disobedience to these laws carries the same weight of judgment today as it did in the Old Testament. Neither law nor grace can protect from judgment in such cases. It is folly to place one’s hope in a grace that will excuse sin and allow one to do the very thing forbidden to be done under the terms of grace as revealed in God’s word.

Real grace brings along with it the divine enablement to obey God’s word and live right. Keeping God’s word is revealed as the secret of blessing both in the Old and New Testaments. God’s words are to keep us from committing these abominable practices and thereby defiling ourselves. Living contrary to the word of God on the excuse of grace is an abuse of God’s grace and therefore subject to God’s judgement.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Grace does not take from us our moral duties.

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

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TOPIC: Yielding To His Lordship

"Monday, July 28, 2014"

*TEXT: LEVITICUS 18:1-16*

*"Key verse: Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, I am the LORD your God” (Leviticus 18:2)."*
Respect for constituted authority means modeling our lives along the lines of their prescriptions. Our conducts are expected to be moderated by the reality of what the laws say, or the guidelines they have stipulated. This is indeed the greatest tribute we can pay to those who have the duty to rule over us, or govern our affairs, those who have the responsibility to provide for the peace and orderly conduct of our lives - protecting us from infractions by others and promoting our overall rights and interests. It is the minimum obligation we owe those over us.
God desires much more obedience from all His children. Here, He commands Moses to declare to the children of Israel that He is the Lord their God. This being so, their standard for living was not to be according to the practices they witnessed in Egypt, or the abominations they were to encounter in Canaan. God’s word was to be their supreme guide and the barometer by which their lives were to be measured. In particular, therefore, the Lord instructed them against immoral dealings or unlawful marriages with  anyone faintly related to them, or lusting after such people, or even the extreme case of incest. God is holy and all His children are to be holy also. To attain this state of holiness, the children of Israel were commanded to observe all of God’s statutes and judgments “which if a man do, he shall live in them; I am the Lord.”
The test of our faithfulness to God is in how we regard Him in our lives. If we consider Him indeed as our Lord, then He must have the final say in all areas of our lives. We must trust that He knows our interests best and that He means well for us. We must seek to avoid any action that will defile us or contravene His holy expectations. In short, if He is the Lord of our lives, we must keep His words even to the minutest details.
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: If He is Lord, then He must have all!"*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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nurey: I can because i know SS blood types have grade.

if she is from a well to do family, then she must have been taken very good care of so the complications will be minimal. if she is the type with severe complications, it is hard for me to marry such because the complications will over whelm her leading to her eventual death. Now the problem is not her death but the love you have developed and pity you will have for her during her trying times and that is what will eventually ruin such individual because the love you have for such person will never fade after they pass away. it could then lead to your death or destruction for not being able to get over the loss

U'v said well just trying to eleminate d stigma tin people attach to dem i think its beta to live with such for 1 day in peace dan to be with an aa or as dat will giv me bp for years and kill me before my time some of this victims are very wonderful I'v met n dated 1 before she is d only one that showed true love of all other females have met till i lost her. Well i knw d price and am willing to pay it bt there is nothing God cant do wether AA or SS we all shall die or raptured.

onegig: Are you in such a position now?

If the person dots the Is' in what you want, why not?

Gud, well i have passed d position, thx 4 ur contribution u r on point

I'm AA with an open mind, well i dont allow people to affect my decisions i perusade and listen to myself, though i hear others dont get me wrong.
If you come accross ur opposite in sex and u r ripe for settling down and you are aware of d genotype tin but she beats all ur standards and u r convinced this is ur kinda wife even getting God involved.
Would you step up to the alter and say those 3 words...?
Not "i love u" i meant "yes i do"
Just ur opinion and thoughts NL's lets chat
NB. Aint basis of my decisions

TOPIC: Life In The Blood

"Sunday, July 27, 2014

"*TEXT: LEVITICUS 17:8-16*

*"Key verse: “And whatsoever man there be of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among you, that eateth any manner of blood; I will even set my face against that soul that eateth blood, and will cut him off from among his people” (Leviticus 17:10)."*
The reason, no doubt, the laws of most nations of the world are stiff concerning murder and bloodshed is because of the value God has placed on life. Israel’s redemption from Egyptian slavery and bondage was made possible by the blood of the passover lamb. In other words, they were saved by the shedding of the blood of the animal; its death becoming substitutionary for the people. The Lord directed the children of Israel that the blood of the lamb at passover was to be placed on the two side posts and on the upper door post of every home, “and when I see the blood, I will pass over you” (Exodus 12:13).
The life of the flesh is in the blood (verse 11). The blood of any animal is identified with its life. The animal sacrifice is used as atonement for human sin at the price of the animal’s life. This is the principle of substitutionary atonement: the animal dying in man’s place. This underscores the importance and pricelessness of the blood of Christ as the instrument of our salvation and redemption.
Eating of blood was prohibited because of the value God attaches to blood. It is also to discourage heathen and idolatrous practices and to preserve and remember the symbolism of the sacrifice – Christ’s death on the cross for the redemption of man. No other sacrifice is needed today. “For, there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man, Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5). The Blood of the Saviour is the means by which believers have been ransomed, the means by which we have been vindicated over guilt and condemnation. Therefore the Blood must be sacredly appreciated.
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: “Without shedding of blood, no remission of sin.”"*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: Watch Their Lies!

"Saturday, July 26, 2014"

*TEXT:  JEREMIAH 27:12-22*

*"KEY VERSE: “Therefore hearken not unto the words of the prophets that speak unto you, saying, Ye shall not serve the king of Babylon: for they prophesy a lie unto you” (Jeremiah 27:14)."*
The days in which we live are days when every Tom, Dick and Harry in the name of a prophet or ‘a man of God’ has a vision, a prophecy or a word he is ready to give to the inquisitive or undiscerning believers. Unfortunately, many so-called Christians are also eager to receive the message from ‘heaven’ through the so-called man of God who are nothing but deceivers. Such unwary believers seem oblivious of the warning by God, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).
 In the passage today, God expressly and repeatedly warns us against listening to and believing just any man or woman in or outside the church who tells us things contrary to the revealed will of God in the Scripture or through our God-appointed, tested and trusted leaders in the church. 
The children of Israel here disregarded the prophecy of their God-appointed prophet, Jeremiah and were already yielding to the words of the false prophets. God, in his love, sent a strong warning to them not to believe those false prophets as the captivity of Judah by Babylon must be completely accomplished. 
The important lesson we need to learn is to believe the Bible and the sound teachings we are receiving from the church than running after prophecies or visions that weaken our minds. We also need to resolve to patiently wait for God. Any revelation or vision that runs contrary to the word of God, or which imputes wrong timing and negative interpretation and application must be firmly resisted like the proverbial plague. Avoid being misled by so-called modern prophets and teachers.
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Keep to the Bible alone and you won’t miss it."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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chindi: This is one thing I ask my dear LORD to grant me. Sometimes I feel shy to stop ppl who use HIS Name in vain.
May God help us to be bold and speak for HIM, Amen.

The courage to do so may God Grant us.... just determine it and believe it

TOPIC: This Pleases Him!

Friday, July 25, 2014

TEXT: LEVITICUS 17:1-7

Key verse: “To the end that the children of Israel may bring their sacrifices, which they offer in the open field, even that they may bring them unto the LORD, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest, and offer them for peace offerings unto the LORD” (Leviticus 17:5).

What can a man bring to God which will be excellent and acceptable in His sight? John Bunyan’s answer may surprise us - a broken and contrite heart. This was the subject of his book ‘acceptable sacrifice’ a moving exposition of Psalm 51:17, the last work which he prepared for the press before his departure to glory. Bunyan shows from Scripture why a broken heart is so acceptable to God. He characterizes the unbroken heart of man, showing why it must be made contrite, and explains the nature of the change which is involved. He also guides the reader in discerning whether this change has taken place, and shows how the heart, once broken, can be kept tender.

The Israelites, before the building of the tabernacle, did offer their sacrifices in the open field from which they are now restrained through this new order given by God in our text. For their sacrifices to be acceptable unto God, all Israelites and persons sojourning in their land were commanded to bring their sacrifices to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. The sacrifices were to be offered unto the Lord, and those who disobeyed were to be cut off. This was done that the sacrifices might be offered publicly, and be known to be offered to the Lord and not to idols or devils. It was equally God’s intention to prevent private idolatry taking place in the land and to avoid unauthorized persons intruding into the priests’ office.

Under the New Testament dispensation, the emphasis is no longer on animal sacrifices to be brought to the priest but on individual believers becoming living sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto God. It is the kind of sacrifice that resonates with the relationship we have received – as God has received us freely, we give ourselves freely.

As we prepare to enter into a new day, our focus must be on Christ who gave Himself to us that we might live unto Him.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Nothing pleases God more as a whole-hearted sacrifice!

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

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TOPIC: God Is Powerful

Thursday, July 24, 2014

TEXT: JOB 25:1-6

Key verse: “Dominion and fear are with him, he maketh peace in his high places” (Job 25:2).

Abraham Lincoln, former President of United States of America, once said: “I can see how it might be possible for a man to look down upon the earth and be an atheist, but I cannot conceive how he could look up into the heavens and say there is no God.”

That could possibly be the perception of Bildad, who had repeatedly attacked Job in spite of God’s declaration that Job was a just man. As against his usual style of raining accusations on Job, Bildad focused, this time, on God’s dominion, the supremacy of His power, His innumerable armies and His providence, which extended over all.

Bildad concluded that man could not be justified before God, noting that heavenly bodies could not be reputed pure in His sight; much less man, who is naturally weak and sinful. He highlighted the utter helplessness of man and his need of God.

Of course, Bildad was right when he pointed out that every person had committed one wrong thing or the other against God, which agreed with Romans 3:23 that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God”. But he did not disclose that God had made provision for man’s redemption (Romans 3:24). God forgives us when we confess our evil deeds to Him.

As Job passed through the night of adversity and patiently awaited for the morning to break forth and set him free from his sorrows, every other thing which included the sun, the moon, the stars and the element, seemed so vain that he could only look up to God who is the ever present help in the day of trouble. Every believer in Christ must endeavour to live a holy lifestyle. Whatever you are passing through, whatever adversity that may have befallen you, be rest assured that the morning of joy will definitely appear.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: We have a God who delights in impossibilities.

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

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rozayx5: meaningless
like my dad said a degree is a meal ticket, if you wanna make billions or millions the business side of you must be at work

Am on this PAGE i dropped off school cos of FOREX and I`m gonna shock d world.....

TOPIC: Be Bold For Christ

"Wednesday, July 23, 2014"

*TEXT:  JEREMIAH 26:12-24*

"*Key verse:  “But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof: for of a truth the LORD hath sent me unto you to speak all these words in your ears” (Jeremiah 26:15).*"
Frederick the Great, the agnostic Prussian king had a devout Christian as his most trusted Army General, by name, Von Zealand. In a festive gathering, the king began making crude jokes about Christ until everyone, except Von Zealand, was rocking with laughter. Finally, Von Zealand stood up and addressed the king: “Sir, you know I have not feared death. I have fought and won 38 battles for you. I am an old man; I shall soon have to go into the presence of One greater than you, the mighty God who saved me from my sin, the Lord Jesus Christ whom you are blaspheming. I salute you, sir, as an old man who loves his Saviour, on the edge of eternity.” The place went silent, and with a trembling voice the king replied, “General Von Zealand, I beg your pardon! I beg your pardon!” And with that the party quietly ended.
Similarly, Jeremiah found himself among an intimidating audience to whom he had to deliver a stern message. The prophet was fully aware of the implication of his message and the likely response of the people, yet he kept faithful to One greater than the bloodthirsty King Jehoiakim who lately slew Prophet Urijah for preaching a similar message.  That is courage – doing what you are scared to do for the sake of your conviction.  
If not for the intervention of Ahikam who had an influence among the princes and elders, the malicious priests and prophets would have handed out Jeremiah to be killed on trumped up charge of treason. The most ardent persecution of the saints have always come from religious circles. But the Lord preserved Jeremiah’s life. “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it (Mark 8:35). When next you find yourself  torn in between the fear of man and a God-assigned duty, will you dare to be like Jeremiah? Be faithful and speak up for the Lord. He will vindicate and preserve you. 
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Don’t bend low or back out: be bold for Christ!"*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: Shun Party Spirit

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

TEXT: PROVERBS 21:16-31

Key verse: “He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich” (Proverbs 21:17).

It will be difficult to quantify the number of families and lives that have been ruined by the love of alcohol. The bottle has not only succeeded in impoverishing many that love it, but has stolen away joy, peace and harmony in many homes. Many children have been denied the love, warmth, affection and care expected to be given in the family due to the influence of alcohol. How many promising men, having great potentials and wonderful careers have had their careers ruined and thrown out of job because they have become slaves to alcohol. And there are countless number of untimely deaths, young wives turned to early widows and children orphaned at tender age, all due to alcohol.

Our passage today warns against the practice of abandoning oneself to pleasure. There are so many people who spend all their time and money seeking for pleasure. They can be said to be possessed by the party spirit. While they cannot afford to pay their children’s school fees and provide for their basic essentials of life, they can afford the money for expensive party dresses, designer’s perfumes and other such vanities. Some even go to the extent of taking loans just to organize parties.

This is the spirit of the world and must not be found among Christians. Christians are supposed to be discreet, prudent and wise in all their dealings. Their lives are to be lived to the glory of the Lord. We should also bear in mind that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which must not be defiled with alcohol or any other such defilements.

It is not only the Bible that warns against the danger of alcohol and reckless pleasure seeking. Government agencies have joined in the campaign. The wise will take heed and keep off. Whatever subtracts from a sober Christian fellowship which must be Christ-honouring and soul-seeking cannot be of God. We must avoid all tendencies that paint the believer in lurid, worldly colours.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Don’t be mocked by wine; be wise.

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

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chindi: Pls take it easy on him bro, he posted sth he thought would be needful. I learnt things abt d eagle and how one can relate the principles of an eagle to his daily doings. Pls dnt be too hard on him.. Dear Olorunimilo, hope u've heard frm d Op. It's his thread and u av 2 play by his rules

Thank you sir for your peace keeping piece, trust me am not hard on people i dont know. the poster knows quite well her purpose for been here. Its not my rule its d law of nairaland. i opened the thread for devotionals only, if i wanted to any other discussion i would rather open another thread for such.
I have no issue with the post but the presence and the intention of the poster and it will be so wrong to leave this thread for you if not i will just leave cos i am not the noise maker type. Nairaland is so big you can play around and post what you like but respect yourself and leave what belongs to Caesar.
Dont be a distraction pls and just keep the sanity of this thread thats my opinion.
God bless us all

TOPIC: Judgment Is Certain

Monday, July 21, 2014

TEXT: JEREMIAH 25:30-38

KEY VERSE: “A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth; for the LORD hath a controversy with the nations, he will plead with all flesh; he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the LORD” (Jeremiah 25:31).

Men go to great lengths to ensure they do not contravene the rules set by powerful personalities or state authorities. The reason is simply because they know they would never be able to avoid the long arm of the law against offenders. Ironically, the same people who tremble at the laws of men, trifle with, or flagrantly contravene God’s holy standards on the misguided belief that they can get away with it, or that God is not bothered by their conducts.

Yet, God cares and He is even more meticulous in documenting breaches of His law than any man-made authority will ever be able to do. When therefore, God says that He has a controversy with the inhabitants of nations, the mere thought of this must drive fear into all hearts. For it is certain that God will come roaring on the day He will mete out judgment on sinful men in all nations. Because the people relished evil, God will unleash evil on them. On that day, none can escape this vengeance of the Lord. The offenders will cry out, but it will be too late.

A discerning heart can avert this impending doom by submitting to critical self-examination and taking stock of where one has offended God. He must thereafter go to God in penitence, pleading for pardon and forgiveness, and asking for grace to make a fresh start with Him. This is the only way to avert the death sentence already pronounced on all sinful persons. But those who ignore the repercussions of their evil conducts and continue to live contrary to the word of God will draw His fierce anger and eventually, face His severe punishment.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God”.

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TOPIC: Moving Into Blessings

Sunday, July 20, 2014

*TEXT: PROVERBS: 22:16-29*

"*Key verse: “Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge” (Proverbs 22:17).*"
In various fields of human endeavour, there are prescribed steps for those who seek for mastery and excellence. Such steps when carefully followed, lead to outstanding performance because they are tested steps that had led many to success. King Solomon, in today’s passage, proffers humility, proper attention to the doctrines and the retention in our hearts of such things as we have read as the secrets of profiting in the word of God. Truly, nothing recommends a man for divine exaltation as humility from the heart. The proof that we are humble at heart is the true confession and genuine repentance from our sins and the total surrender of our lives to the Lordship of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. The humble heart is a teachable heart.
The believer that desires spiritual blessing must aspire to grow. He must be diligent to read the Scriptures daily. Doctrines are important for spiritual stability. The believer who fails to endure sound doctrine is susceptible to false teaching.  We need to understand the basic doctrines of our faith so that we can recognize false doctrines and prevent them. The best way to retain what we have learnt in the word of God is to always go back to those things and regularly put them into practice. Nowadays, many people have developed itching ears against the word of God; they are no longer keen on having the word that once saved them. Some others have become familiar with the word and are replacing it with their personal word or other fables. True believers must not do so.
The great truths and doctrines of the word of God are written so that we, and others through us, might have confidence in the truth. It is obvious that we cannot be channels of blessing to others if we have not been born again. Give your life to Jesus today and lead others to the Saviour.
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Open up to God and open up happiness!"*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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Pls whoever u r dont derail this thread if u want to post anything open ur seperate thread this is strictly a devotional thread keep off u are warned

TOPIC: Don't Wait Too Late

"Saturday, July 19, 2014"

*TEXT:  JEREMIAH 25:1-11*

*"Key verse: “And the Lord hath sent unto you all his servants the prophets, rising early and sending them; but ye have not hearkened, nor inclined your ear to hear” (Jeremiah 25:4)."*
An aged minister told the story of a man whom he often warned, but who always said to him, “Sir, when I am dying, I shall say, Lord, have mercy on me; and I shall go to heaven as well as anybody else.” Returning home from market one night, rather ‘foul’ with liquor, he guided his horse with a leap right over the parapet of a bridge into the river; the last words he was heard to utter were a most fearful imprecation; and in the bed of the river he was found dead, killed by the fall.
For twenty three years now, Jeremiah the prophet had been prophesying unto the people of Israel but they wouldn’t hearken. They ignored the warning to repent and turn away from their evil practices and from idolatry unto the living God. They equally rejected the message of other prophets apart from Jeremiah’s who had given them warning of the danger of sin. The consequence of their stiffneck was seventy years of captivity to Babylon. 
If we could call people out this morning and ask them one at a time, Sir, why are you in hell? Did you not know how to be saved?” I am sure that some might say, “I did not know how to be saved”; but I believe literally thousands would say, “Yes, I knew how to be saved but I waited too long to accept it.” I don’t think you would find one person in hell who deliberately planned to go there, but many waited too late and died without the Saviour.
We must not delay nor harden our hearts to the gospel. The truth is, every time the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart and you refuse to accept Christ, your heart becomes harder and harder, until, after awhile, when God speaks, you don’t even hear His voice anymore. Nobody knows when he is going to die. You may say, “I don’t like to hear talks about death.” Well, when people quit dying, preachers will quit talking about death. Billy Sunday said, “if we had more preaching on hell from the pulpit, we would have less hell in the congregation”.
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It is deadly to say “No” to the Spirit’s calling."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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chindi: Amen bro and same to u!
Thank GOD Almighty for u!!

you welcome...amen sir, All glory to God

TOPIC: Keep Off The Rat-Race

Friday, July 18, 2014

TEXT: PROVERBS 23:1-12

Key verse: “Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom” (Proverbs 23:4).

The Book of Proverbs is noted for giving precepts to Christians and humanity in general on how to avoid pitfalls that may ruin and damn the soul, and how to live successfully and victoriously here. Exhortations for living to please God and maintaining proper relationships with our fellow men abound in the book of Proverbs.

Our text touches on what our attitude should be towards riches and wealth and how we can avoid the danger associated with inordinate ambition to be rich at all costs. It also counsels on how we can use our discretion in relating with rich people.

No human being desires to be poor or dependent on other people for sustenance and survival. This is one of the reasons people engage in profitable labour. However, the prevalent situations around us today show that many people are desperately seeking to enrich themselves and acquire wealth by all means. The philosophy of the end justifying the means now dictates the manner many seek riches.

The counsel of the Scripture to us is: “Labour not to be rich…” (verse 4). It does not suggest that being rich is sinful. It is just a caution to avoid the danger associated with the unbridled crave for riches. The New Testament presses this counsel further by saying that, “they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition …the love of money is the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:9,10).

Indeed, it is a measure of the immaturity of the believer when he devotes more attention to gathering riches and getting obsessed with material considerations. A right and unswerving relationship with God is sure to evoke His blessings from time to time, and without adding sorrow to them.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Caution: Over speeding kills!

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

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rozayx5:

chindi: Oops, so sorry abt dat, the LORD is ur Strength bro. Hope u're fine now??

Amen sir, doing fine now thanks a milli and remain blessed, your inheritance will not be taken away from you

TOPIC: An Enduring Portion

Thursday, July 17, 2014

TEXT: JOSHUA 18:21-28

Key verse: “...This is the inheritance of the children of Benjamin according to their families” (Joshua 18:28).

Generally, there is a sense of sacred and cherished birthright attached to the inheritance of land in many nations by the beneficiary. In Israel, the Lord had promised the people, through Moses and his successor, Joshua, that the land of Canaan would be divided among the tribes as an inheritance. After Joshua had fought all the battles successfully and there was now peace round about, it became imperative to do as the LORD had instructed concerning the land.

The dividing of the land was not without squabbles as Joshua had to cast lot. “And the lot of the tribe of Benjamin came up according to their families…(verse 11). On the whole, the tribe of Benjamin had a total of twenty six cities, including Jerusalem. The portion lay north of Judah and south of Ephraim. Though the territory was small in size, it was strategically located, commercially and militarily.

Today, many families are held up in scores of litigation over issues of land inheritance. This has had a telling effect on the unity and cohesion of such families. While it is good to inherit land and property from our families because “a prudent man leaveth an inheritance unto his children’s children”, we should be more concerned about our heavenly inheritance “where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God”.

As believers, we are heirs of all things: His grace (1 Peter 3:7); His salvation (Hebrews 1:14); eternal life (Titus 3:7); and His righteousness (Hebrews 11:7). We are therefore advised to set our affection on things above, for our life is already hid with Christ in God. It is wise to split hairs on transient and fleeting material perquisites. How we need to devote our burstling energies into laying for ourselves treasures and inheritances in heaven!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Believers’ portion is a never fading one.

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

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