₦airaland Forum

Thursday January 14, 2016

Confederates Against The Truth

- PSALM 83:1-8

Key Verse:

"For they have consulted together with one consent: they are confederate against thee" (Psalm 83:5).
America's moral decline rapidly accelerated following one event - the US Supreme Court's removal of prayer from the nation's schools. On June 25, 1962, 39 million students were forbidden to do what they and their predecessors had been doing since the founding of the nation - publicly calling upon the name of the Lord at the beginning of each school day. The school children have always prayed thus: "Almighty God, we acknowledge our dependence on Thee and beg Thy blessing over us, our parents, our teachers and our nation". Since this prayer was stopped, America has experienced radical decline in each of the four areas which the children's prayer touched upon: youth, family, education and national life. The psalmist in our text, cried out to God, pointing out the apparent unity of a group of nations confederate against Israel. About ten nations were named in our text as a coalition of the willing, joined together in one mind to wipe Israel out of the earth. The psalmist does not appear to recommend any human defensive mechanism in confronting this group. Rather, he puts his hope in God to defend and protect His people. The enemy is doing everything he can today to invade the Church and lead us down the path of peril. The homes and families are also under severe attack. Children are being taught evolution in schools, and made to accept homosexuality as a normal life. The seat of learning has been hijacked by the devil to teach the children that God is a myth from our repressed past. In the West, the situation is worst as the present generation does not have any desire to worship God. They are completely engrossed in the pursuit of fleshly lusts and damning pleasures of the world. We must arise quickly and sound the alarm against evil. We must cry out unto God. We must pray for a revival of righteousness and holiness in our age.

Thought for the day: A timely warning can save a soul in danger.

Wednesday January 13, 2016

Religion Or Righteousness?

-GALATIANS 6:11-18
Key Verse:

"For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature" (Galatians 6:15).
William Booth, a Methodist preacher who started the Salvation Army in England in the middle 1800's was once asked what dangers he thought lay ahead for Christianity. He replied, "In answer to your inquiry, I consider that the chief dangers which confront the coming century will be religion without the Holy Spirit, Christianity without Christ, forgiveness without repentance, salvation without regeneration, politics without God, and heaven without hell".Paul the Apostle in our text, concluded a large letter to the Galatians primarily aimed at keeping them in the faith without giving in to preachers of Judaism and advocates of religion that cannot save. In this conclusion, he reminded these precious converts in Galatia that the Jewish traditionalist's outreach to them is to make them conform to their religion and customs. He reminded them that the circumcision which counts in the sight of God is not that which is outward but the inward heart circumcision. The confusion about which teachings takes precedence; the Bible or tradition continues today. Many, today, respect the traditions of their churches over and above God's word. Some ignorantly believe their church leaders are infallible, that is, they cannot make mistakes. Those who are fanning the embers of religion must understand that people don't get to heaven by complying with man's requirements. It is only God's immutable dictates and the necessary compliance that will get sincere seekers to heaven. No wonder Jesus denounced the religious leaders of his days for teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Upon which foundation do you stand? The Bible or tradition? Making models of religious men who are blinded by tradition, and neglecting the inspired word of God carries grave consequences. Please be warned!

Thought for the day: Single-minded faith, not religion, is the gateway to heaven.

Prophets Of Wine And Strong Drink

-MICAH 2:6-13

Key Verse:

"If a man walking in the spirit and falsehood do lie, saying, I will prophesy unto thee of wine and of strong drink; he shall even be the prophet of this people" (Micah 2:11).
Research studies by one Paul Harvey, show that after drinking three bottles of alcohol, there is an average of 13 percent net of memory loss. After taking only small quantities of alcohol, trained typists were tested and their errors increased by 40 percent. Only one ounce of alcohol increases the time required to make a decision by nearly 10 percent; hinders muscular reaction by 17 percent; increases errors due to lack of attention by 35 percent.God's case against Israel and Judah was outlined in Micah's prophecy. Although he started out from the first chapter to lament over the sins of Israel, the people appeared very indifferent to his calls. They continued in their sins while their condition grew worse. From our text, the Israelites were preventing prophets from doing their work. They made themselves enemies of God by moving farther away from Him. They desired preachers who taught error and supported their appetite for strong drink and wine. Micah warned of God's impending judgment; even as he prophesied that the Lord will break them in pieces in His wrath. So-called Christians who drink alcohol have tarnished their testimonies to the world - as well as to those in the church. And the ones who are hurt the most by these compromised behaviours are children. Youths of this present generation are so far away from God that they consider even church attendance unnecessary. When a sinner knows and acknowledges his or her sinfulness, there is hope for restoration. But when they come to the point of willful disobedience and resisting every attempt to reprove them, their condition becomes pathetic. The world has fallen to its lowest state of depravity with the happenings we witness every day. Wise believers will firmly take a stand, never to be part of the world's depravity.

Thought for the day: It is sheer folly to make a prophet of wine one's model preacher.

Monday January 11, 2016

Purpose-Driven Life-

2 CHRONICLES 2:1-10"Key Verse:*"And Solomon determined to build an house for the name of the LORD, and an house for his kingdom" (2 Chronicles 2:1).*"
The most basic question everyone faces in life is "Why am I here"? "What is my purpose"? Self-help books suggest that people should look within, at their own desires and dreams, but Rick Warren, the author of the book, "Purpose Driven Life" says the starting place must be with God and His eternal purposes for each life. Real meaning and significance comes from understanding and fulfilling God's purposes for putting us on earth. From our text, king Solomon eventually began to fulfill his life purpose of building a temple to the great God of Israel. He was determined to fulfill this goal without highlighting and magnifying the difficulties around him. He requested assistance from Huram, the king of Tyre, in the cutting of cedar and algum trees which will be floated from Lebanon to Israel and the provision of an expert who can work on the temple utensils and vessels to bring the work to the desired standard. Solomon would in turn, send to Huram agricultural produce which will represent payment for the goods and services from Tyre. Solomon knew that his life purpose was to build a befitting temple to the glory, honour and majesty of God. He therefore, must have spent quality time thinking and strategising on how this vision of building God a house can be realized. He had an attitude which brought him to the altitude he desired. Fulfilling our God-given destiny cannot be by accident. Let's not sit down and wait for our life dreams and goals to happen by accident. Let's maintain the right attitude and seize every opportunity to drive our goals towards their achievement. God gives visions to individuals who will then seek helpers to help drive their vision to reality. Beloved, look out for those helpers and strike the iron while it is hot.*Thought for the day: *Stop looking for excuses; drive your vision with the right attitude.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 10, 2016

Danger Of Backsliding-

2 KINGS 1:1-6"Key Verse:*"And Ahaziah fell down through a lattice in his upper chamber that was in Samaria, and was sick: and he sent messengers, and said unto them, Go, enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron whether I shall recover of this disease" (2 Kings 1:2).*"
Bertrand Russell was bo into a Christian home and taught to believe in God, but he rejected his training and became an outspoken atheist. His daughter, Katherine Tait, said of him, "Somewhere at the bottom of his heart, in the depths of his soul, there was an empty space that once had been filled by God, and he never found anything else to put in it." In the days of Elijah, Israel continued in the sins of Jeroboam, a well-celebrated index case of SUNDAY JANUARY 10 backsliding in the northe kingdom. Ahaziah, the ninth king to rule this part of Israel continued in the sins and wickedness of his fathers when he ascended the throne. The consequence of his sinful reign was terrible. First, the economy suffered a recession when Moab, a tributary nation, rebelled against Israel. His health equally took a downward tu when he accidentally fell from his upper chamber. His attempt to seek solution from the gods of the Ekronites was rebuffed by God through Elijah the prophet, who communicated God's judgment on him through his messengers: he will die of the disease for failing to seek the God of Israel. We lea a lot from this passage. Those who knowingly depart from the teachings of God's word to seek refuge in darkness must be prepared to cope with the evil that lurks in dark places. And when we already know that our problems are caused by our iniquities, we must repent and retu to God rather than seek help from places where there is no help. Those who continue to seek solution from the wrong sources must realise that they are on a wild goose chase. Seeking help from a woman with familiar spirit brought down the kingdom of Saul and contributed to his eventual death (1 Chronicles 10:13). Retuing to God for mercy still remains the only viable option.*Thought for the day: *Hard is the way of transgressors.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 9, 2016

Never An Easy Ride-

JEREMIAH 12:1-6"Key Verse:*"If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? #@and if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?" (Jeremiah 12:5).*"
A story was told of a boy who deliberately failed third grade so he wouldn't have to go into fourth grade and write with ink. Today, our children are not worrying about ink in elementary school but are leaing to use simple computer programs so they'll be prepared to use more difficult programs in high school and college. There's no growth without challenge, and there's no challenge without change.Prophet Jeremiah had this theological crisis in our text. He found himself struggling with the paradox of wicked people prospering. He couldn't understand why a holy God would permit false prophets and unfaithful priests to prosper while he, His faithful servant, was facing trials. God's reply to him wasn't the kind he expected. Instead of focusing on the wicked, he was encouraged to concentrate on himself. He was told not to expect an easy ride as the life of the prophet involves suffering. Jeremiah probably would have had a comfortable and secure life if he had not accepted the call to be a prophet. He was like a man running a race and having a hard time keeping up. He was now to progress running with foot soldiers to racing with fast horses. And from a level playing ground to coping with an overflowing Jordan. As Christian pilgrims, we must not expect an easy ride. Life on the narrow road can bring about hardships, misunderstanding and opposition by even members of our own families. Each new challenge (horses, jungles, opposition of relatives) will help us develop our faith and prepare us for more fruitful ministry and heaven at last.*Thought for the day: *An easy life stifles maturity; challenges develop spiritual muscles.

robonski15:
My bro it was an error, 300 - 500g.. will give you a call.. Thanks

Its ok i get ya expecting your call

FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2016

No Room for Boasting

-ROMANS 11:12-18"Key Verse:*"Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee" (Romans 11:18).*"
According to a story in the Grand Rapids Press, the owner of a small foreign car had begun to irritate his friends by bragging incessantly about his gas mileage. So they decided on a way to get some humour out of his tireless boasting, as well as bring it to an end. Every day, one of them would sneak into the parking lot where the man kept his car and pour a few gallons of gas into the tank. Soon he was recording absolute phenomenal mileage and boasting of getting as much as 90 miles pergallon. It was even more fun to watch his reaction when they stopped refilling the tank. The poor fellow couldn't figure out what had happened to his car. Paul the apostle in our text spoke about our salvation as entirely the work of grace, leaving no room for boasting. Israel were set aside due to their present rejection of Christ and the grafting in of the gentiles that followed through faith. Gentile believers are cautioned not to boast about the favour they now have, but rather be thankful and humble, lest their rejoicing and unguarded attitude lead to their fall. The exhortation from this text should be taken seriously by every standing believer today. There are many reasons we should avoid the euphoria of thinking we have already arrived, and boasting ourselves against those who have fallen from the faith. One of the reasons we should never boast is because we are saved by grace through faith and not by our own works. We equally should remember that the story of those who fell could be our story if we become careless and prayerless. The doctrine of eteal unconditional security does not have a place since God is no respecter of persons; those who sin against Him will face the wrath of His judgment as their former walk with Him in times past will no longer count.*Thought for the day: *The discerning runs purely on the fuel of grace.

pharmsy:
Good day to every member of the house. Please I have 50 female fishes that I kept for broodstock. They are 1 year and 3 months now but I've not been able to use them for spawning because none has egg. What could be the problem.is 1 year and 3 months not enough?

introduce male to them for a while u.should get.result

robonski15:
If you have melange size for sale 500 grams and above pls kindly contact me.. Thanks

thats no more melange its nie medium table size if its above 500g i have 350-500g now ny the time it will be available for sale by ending u wil be having that sizes.
Call 09094603249

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016

Divine Prophecy Dramatized

-EZEKIEL 4:9-17
Key Verse:

"Moreover he said unto me, Son of man, behold, I will break the staff of bread in Jerusalem: and they shall eat bread by weight, and with care; and they shall drink water by measure, and with astonishment" (Ezekiel 4:16).
Secular actors and playwrights pride themselves on their skill and ability to work at drama they claim is useful to correcting the ills of the society. Their writing has led to the creation of a huge industry that it has offered employment to thousands of citizens. But there is a downside: it is a mode Pied Piper of Hamelin playing deadly tunes drawing most of society into sensuality, irreverence and ultimate moral bankruptcy and eteal damnation.The time to visit sinning Judah had come. The land was filled to the brim with rebellion, apostasy and idol worship. The law of Moses given to guide the children of Israel in the path of righteousness some 875 years earlier had been set aside. In its place were idolatrous conduct and immorality. Punishment was coming via a siege and eventual fall of Jerusalem. But first, the warning was through a dramatization symbolism of the wrath to come. God asked His servant, Ezekiel, to lie on his left side in the full view of the residents of Jerusalem. He would do so for 390 days. Next, he was to rest on his right side for 40 more days. All these indicated that the people of Jerusalem would have their activities severely restricted under a siege coming their way. There would be food shortages as symbolised by the small amount of food Ezekiel was asked to take (verses 9-11). He was asked to cook his food over cow's excrement to reflect Judah's spiritual defilement. Ezekiel acted all these in obedience to the Lord. His complete submission to God's order is a lesson to his followers. We must be willing to witness for the Lord on His own terms without seeking permission for adjustments to suit us. We must pray for greater boldness to "dramatically portray the sins" of society the Ezekiel way, without minding the comments of friends, colleagues and relations.

Thought for the day: The old-time religion is still the answer to taming sin.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

Encountering God's Love In Adversity-

LAMENTATIONS 3:55-58"Key Verse:*"Thou drewest near in the day that I called upon thee: thou saidst, Fear not" (Lamentations 3:57).*"
When Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 5 that the tree of hope is watered by tribulation, patience and experience, he was being taught by God to restate the truth He revealed to Prophet Jeremiah some 660 years earlier. Like Paul whose experience of hardship in the course of faithfully serving the Lord drove him further to love and trust God, Jeremiah's similar persecution led him to hope in God Who did not disappoint him. As he wrote the book of Lamentations, Jeremiah recalled his celebrated encounter with the faithfulness of God when he was thrown into the pit by the princes of Judah. Left alone to die in the dungeon, the prophet cried unto the Almighty for deliverance from the hands of his enemies. God rescued him in his hour of need. Following his experience, Jeremiah was emboldened to plead for Jerusalem when the Babylonian army invaded Judah and wasted the land. A Christian's challenges in his day-to-day activities and how the Lord helps him overcome them must form the basis of his hope in Him. The believer in the Lord is allowed to pass through some trials and temptations in order to strengthen and enable him bear his cross. When testimonies of such deliverances are shared among the brethren, they serve to edify the saints as well as win souls for the Lord. The moments of persecution and affliction are no moments to flinch from God. They are times to be grateful to Him for the salvation He has wrought for us and for preparing heaven for the redeemed. It is a moment to praise God in anticipation of deliverance; they are moments to remember what He did for us in the past. We must believe in the God "Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us" (2 Corinthians 1:10).*Thought for the day: *God's compassions fail not; they are new every morning.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 5 2016

Awesome Judgment-

PSALM 82:1-7"Key Verse:*"They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course" (Psalm 82:5).*"
A private in the United States Army medical department became extremely nervous when told the colonel-in-charge wanted to see him.He had not met such a senior officer before; so, he wondered what awaited him. He thought with apprehension what offence he might have committed that was to bring the boss' wrath on him. A more awesome dread is the lot of those who are responsible for putting "all the foundations of the earth out of course". The worried writer of Psalm 82 surveys the spiritual desolation where there is gross miscarriage of justice and asks for how long this would go on. From this pedestal, he cries out to man to go back to where God wants him to be. He must resort to fair judgment; he must not decide matters to favour the rich and the powerful in society; he must not look on while the defenceless is deprived of his goods and rights. A society in the long run is not assessed by its wealth or number of rich men. It is rated by how it accommodates the weak elements in its fold. Since nothing escapes the all-seeing eyes of God, the psalmist offers the inevitable: "Arise, O God, judge the earth". But God does not takenpleasure in the death of the wicked (Ezekiel 18:32). He has made provision for the sinner to make right his way and secure pardon. He sent Jesus Christ to die a proxy death for the wicked so that the latter's sin does not take him into eteal destruction. When the sinner thus has his sin cleansed by the blood of Jesus, he does not need to have any fear of the wrath of God if he remains faithful to Him.It is those who are not sure about their relationship with God who fear each time there is a message on the coming of the Lord. A genuine Christian, saved, sanctified and serving the Lord faithfully should not be like the American soldier*Thought for the day: *Fear of God's laws promotes love for His second coming.

MONDAY JANUARY 4

The Perfect Reign Is Coming

-2 CHRONICLES 6:1-6"Key Verse:*“But I have chosennJerusalem, that my namenmight be there; and havenchosen David to be overnmy people Israel”n(2 Chronicles 6:6).*"
Bible scholars agree that the goldenn age of ancient Israel was duringnthe reign of Solomon, son of KingnDavid. They hold the view that thenperiod witnessed unprecedentednpeace, power, prosperity, prestige andnan ambitious expansion of thenkingdom. Another indisputablenconsensus is that the era began withnSolomon inviting God to step into thenproject of ruling the people from daynone.nSolomon pleaded while dedicatingnthe temple in Jerusalem: “Now, my God, let, I beseech thee, thineneyes be open, and let thine ears be attent unto the prayer that is madenin this place”. God’s answer to the request is found in the tranquilitynand blessedness enjoyed in Israel in the days of Solomon. The youngnmonarch swam in splendour and greatness not witnessed by hisnfather whose reign was full of rebellion and family troubles. Solomonnwas endowed with wisdom, knowledge and understanding thatnattracted great men and woman from far and near to his palace. Hisnproverbs and sayings were not ordinary. His utterances soothed andncomforted the sorrowful.nAlthough rich, Solomon still saw kings and queens bringing morenwealth to him. You enjoy prosperity when you ask God to step intonyour affairs.nWe may marvel at the abundance supply in the time of Solomon.nBut it is only symbolic of a far better reign which is to come undethe Perfect King Jesus Christ. It foreshadows the eteal reign of thenKing of kings in Whose time we shall have an“kingdom, that all people, nations, andnlanguages, should serve him: his dominion isnan everlasting dominion, which shall not passnaway, and his kingdom that which shall not bendestroyed” (Daniel 7:14).*Thought for the day: *Eternal bliss awaits those who endure till the end.

SUNDAY JANUARY 3

Unassailable Love-

GALATIANS 6:1-5*Key Verse:*""

Early in 2015, a woman’s globallyn acclaimed charity work for thenpoor in India was disparaged byninsinuations that her motives werennot altruistic. Her critics claimed thatnthe nun’s enormous sacrifices for thensick and the underclass were notnboe out of genuine love andndetermination to uplift them, but ratheto convert the idolatrous Hindus shenfed and looked after to Christianity.nThese adversaries were notnswayed by the woman’s lifetime vownto give “wholehearted free service to the poorest of the poor”. Theicomments on the intentions of the respected charity worker causedna storm worldwide with most people coming to the aid of the latennun. They insisted that only genuine love for the poor as commandednby Jesus Christ could have led the woman to live all her life amongnthe poor, and spend and be spent till the day of her death.nTo love Christ’s way is to offer sacrificial service in the belief thatnone is doing it because the Lord commands it. The law of Christ is tonlove your enemy, love your neighbour as yourself. It is to love youspouse with all his or her imperfections as the Lord Himself loved usnso much that while we were yet in sin, He offered to die for us so wenwould not perish if we accept Him as our Lord and Saviour.nTo fulfil the law of Christ is to follow in His footsteps. We mustnstoop to serve the brethren and the Church of Christ. Our servicenmust not be to align with the mood or pleasure of the world. Instead,nit must be as a result of our love for the Lord and His work. If we loventhe Lord and His commandments, we shall loventhe brethren.nThis Christ-like sacrificial love is missing innthe world today. Genuine Christians must fillnthe gap to honour our Saviour*Thought for the day: *True greatness lies in being a channel of blessing to
others.*

SATURDAY, 02 JANUARY, 2016

Evil Awaits Evil Persons-

TEXT: MICAH 2:1-5"Key Verse:*“Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, against this family do I devise an evil, from which ye shall not remove your necks; neither shall ye go haughtily: for this time is evil” (Micah 2:3).*"
The generation of Americans at the time of the end of the US War of Independence took a wise decision in framing conventions, treaties and ordinances to guide the allotment of land to the states. According to historians, the newly formed nation comprising 13 states would have been plunged into a more devastating conflict had there not been a strict adherence and enforcement of those laws. Now far back in history, the childrenofIsraelinthedaysof Prophet Micah failed to follow God’s precepts on land inheritance. The Lord knew the destructive consequences of dispute over land, so He had divided portions of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. His perfect plan would not make room for any encroachment as no tribe or family was without inheritance. Even the daughters of Zelophehad who were first denied land possession because their father had nomale child had the decision reversed by God.However, several centuries later, Israel set aside God’s laws onland possession. A rich and powerful class emerged that applied force to seize the property of the poor. These people had no other business than to plot evil from dawn to dusk. God would not stand indifferent. So in verse 3, He pronounced woe upon the perpetrators of evil, oppression and land-grabbers. Man cannot get away with disobedience to God. There may be a deceptive lull blinding the perpetrator from perceiving the looming danger. Yet, unless the sinner repents, he cannot escape the full weight of the sentence and eteal perdition. God is always waiting for that crucial moment of godly sorrow on thepart of the wicked. It is not an endless wait,though. One day the door of mercy shall beshut and the Lord shall say to the tardy and thenegligent: “...I know you not whence ye are;depart from me...” (Luke 13:27).*Thought for the day: *The wicked will harvest evil on the day of judgment.

To all our viewers likers sharers and mentioners Thanks for keeping this thread alive.

To all who where blessed inspired healed chastized encouraged we bless God and give him the glory.

we have launched into our year of Dominion with this thread for 2016

" https://www.nairaland.com/2835313/daily-manna-feeding-word-daily#41538213 "

FRIDAY JANUARY 1

Beyond The Present-

TEXT: ROMANS 11:1-6"Key Verse:*“But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal” (Romans 11:4).*"
The telescope was developed in 1609 by an Italian scientist of the Renaissance Age, Galileo, to establish the certainty of the movement of the earth round the sun. This tool led to the tradition of seeking what the future held in store for man. It was held that if man could invent the means of seeking farther than his immediate physical environment, he could also possibly project himself into the future without divine input and guidance. What a folly! FRIDAY JANUARY 1 To the almighty God only, is reserved the precise knowledge and fine details of the future and eternity; not to man or his short-sighted devices. And He reveals such secrets at His pleasure to His people (Deuteronomy 29:29). He did it for Apostle Paul by the leading of the Holy Spirit when he declared that Israel, God’s people, was only temporarily rejected.rnGod in His mercy had a bright future for them.rnPaul’s reference to Prophet Elijah who lived nearly 600 years earlierrnalso underscores the sorry condition of man when he presumes to know the depth of the present or the future. When the fiery prophet laments that he is the only one left in Israel who has not given in to the idol, Baal, the Omniscient says He has kept for Himself 7,000 others who have not “bowed unto Baal”.rnGod is still the Sovereign of the universe. He is aware of the minute details of what goes on in the world and in our lives (Matthew 10:29- 31). He is there at the beginning of the year and right there each step of the way throughout the year and beyond. We do not need a horoscope or palm reader or telescope to look into the future or to know what to expect in the New Year. Godrn has everything worked out for the faithful Christian as long as he is in the centre of His will every moment of his life, believing in His precious promises: “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:20).*Thought for the day: *Launch yourself into the New Year trusting only in the Lord of Eternity!

THURSDAY, 31 DECEMBER

Hope Of His Calling

-EPHESIANS 1:15-23"Key Verse:*“The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints” (Ephesians 1:18).*"
The Book of Ephesians declares two basic themes: how the true seeker is redeemed and how the redeemed should now live his new life. Therefore, Paul the apostle seeks to strengthen their faith and spiritual foundation by revealing the fullness of God’s eternal purpose in Christ Jesus. The Apostle’s prayer for the Ephesian believers reflects God’s highest desire for every believer in Christ: that the Spirit will work in them in a greater measure so that they may receive more wisdom, revelation and knowledge concerning God’s redemptive purposes for present and future salvation. And, for the believer to make progress in grace, advance victoriously over Satan and witness effectively to the lost world, he must always have God’s power abiding in him. Being thus enlightened, the Christian believer progressively recognizes the priceless value of his salvation and the treasure he is to God. Having tasted of God’s power through conversion, he devotes Himself more to receiving from God and obtaining strength for daily living. As the believer awaits the coming of his Saviour, he devotes his life to sharing the good news of salvation with people around him, extends a helping hand to those struggling with life’s challenges, engages in activities that touch people’s lives and ensures he lives a holy life before his Lord. By these, he shall be drawn daily into deeper understanding of the mysteries of the kingdom, growing in the grace that comes through Christ.*Thought for the day: *Our calling is for the glory yet to come.

WEDNESDAY, 30 DECEMBER

A Grand Rebellion-

REVELATION 19:17-21"Key Verse:*“And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh” (Revelation 19:21).*"
From the remotest point of antiquity, men have longed for and talked about a golden age, a utopia, an age of peace and justice and righteousness, a time when oppression and war will cease. Poets have written about it. Folk singers still sing about it. Politicians promise it. Prophets predict it. Most people cry for it. But no one can actualize it but Christ. From our text, King Jesus comes to destroy the ungodly and to take His elect from all over the universe into His Kingdom. This comes at the end of the Great Tribulation according to Matthew chapter 24. When all of the judgments pronounced in our text are complete, then the King comes to defeat the Antichrist and his prophet. Christ is coming back to destroy all the ungodly who refused His lordship over them. Those who reject His message and redemption today and follow Satan in his rebellion should expect His judgment at the end of their lives. The story of the fall of man in the garden of Eden was Satan’s first attempt to co-opt man into his group of rebels. Since then, man has been deceived into various acts of rebellion as the devil urges him on. The army which the Antichrist will bring together from every part of the earth will be his biggest act of rebellion; yet, they shall be utterly crushed and Christ shall set up His millennial kingdom. This kingdom will not be a coalition of governments, but an absolute one with an absolute Monarch. It will be the best regime ever. You can begin to prepare now to be part of that kingdom where sin, sickness and Satan shall be shut out; but there shall be absolute peace and joy for all who served the King of kings and Lord of lords when they were on earth.*Thought for the day: *Rebellion damns; avoid it.

TUESDAY, 29 DECEMBER

Let Go!

-ISAIAH 43:18-21"Key Verse:*“Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert" (ISAIAH 43:19).*"
It is said that he who sits down to recount his past failures and disappointments increases his sorrows. Looking back causes him to lose focus and faith in God. Our text deals with God’s unfathomable love and mercy towards Israel. The people had ceaselessly sinned through abominable idolatry and disobedience. They dishonoured His commandments and went into spiritual harlotry; neither did they heed God’s warning through His prophets. But as His people repented and returned to Him, He assured them, “I will do hhwa new thing; now it shall spring forth... I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert” (verse 19). He also gave them a charge, “remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old” (verse 18). There was going to be a new time of forgiveness, blessing, restoration and God’s abiding presence if they could put the past behind them and focus on the present and God’s ability to make the future better. Today, believers who have gone astray and away from the Lord are called upon to return to their God. Sinners outside the fold of Christ are required to repent and accept Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Saviour. Together, we are to be witnesses of the grace of God and the great provision He has made for us. This we can do effectively if we take our minds off our past failures and disappointments. Your future is as bright as the promises of God.*Thought for the day: *Each day is new for the believer, signalling a new dawn.*Bible Reading in one Year:*EZEKIEL 43 - 44

MONDAY, 28 DECEMBER

Just Obey-

HEBREWS 13:16-25"Key Verse:*“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you." (HEBREWS 13:17).*"
Instructions are hard to obey. In every society, there are laws that must be obeyed by every citizen; failure to do so attracts punishments. Whether in religious or circular world, there are laid-down rules that are not negotiable. A society that is full of rebels cannot move forward. Anti-social behaviours anywhere in the world constitute serious distraction to authorities. By the same token, when there are rebellious members of the church, the work of the Lord suffers. In the text, Paul the apostle sternly warns against any attitude that could amount to rebellion in the church. He urge members to “obey them that have the rule over...” them. He noted that if by any act of disobedience the leaders fail in their duties, it would be unprofitable for the disobedient followers. Nowadays, there are many rebellious people in the church who oppose every decision by the authorities. There are those who constitute themselves as a destabilizing force within establishments. It ought not to be so. Some people think they can do whatever pleases them and get away with it, but the Scripture is clear on the dire consequences of putting a wedge against the progress of God’s work. Like the children of Israel who resisted Moses on their way to the Promised Land and received a recompense for their disobedient actions, even so shall those who constitute a stumbling-block for others on their journey to heaven receive punishment for their destabilising actions. However, the Bible is replete with God’s promises to those who obey Him. He never changes. All He wants is a life of obedience and cooperation with leaders He has appointed over us. When we do, we shall reap abundant blessings here and hereafter.*Thought for the day: *Obedience brings blessing.

SUNDAY, 27 DECEMBER

Not The Ultimate Goal-

ECCLESIASTES 12:8-14*Key Verse:*" “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13)."

Epicurus, the ancient Greek philosopher, founded the school of thought that proclaimed the pursuit of boily pleasure as the greatest good. He claimed that the absence of pain constituted the highest form of happiness that should be the objective of man. He and his followers believed that this ideology would lead to a state of tranquility and freedom from fear. How sadly wrong they were! Because more than 600 years earlier, a king of Israel who had swum in wanton affluence and pleasure proved the tragedy and futility of life without holiness and God. According to Jewish tradition, King Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes during his last years of life, after he had seen the worthlessness of materialism as a way to happiness. The son of the great King David, Solomon inherited massive affluence. He went on to experience power, honour, fame and sensual pleasure, marrying 700 wives and keeping 300 concubines. But it was all empty existence and disillusion. He did not derive any joy in all these carnal possessions. This explains the occurrence of the word “vanity” 37 times in the book of Ecclesiastes. Yet, despite the underlining pessimism of this intensely personal book, Solomon concludes by foreshadowing the crux of Jesus’ teaching about 1000 years later. We should not store up treasures on earth (Matthew 6:19-21,24). It is senseless to gain the whole world and forfeit one’s soul (Matthew 16:26). A man’s life is not weighed by materialism (Luke 12:15). We should not trust in riches if we are believers in eternal life which comes through Jesus (1 Timothy 6:17).*Thought for the day: *A life apart from Christ is a life torn apart.

TUESDAY, 01 DECEMBER

A Privileged Offering

-EXODUS 25:1-22
Key Verse:
“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering” (Exodus 25:2).

Man, by nature, is full of absurdities. He always likes to receive good things. In spite of God’s benevolence toward him, he is most unwilling to give unless it is extracted from him. But for a person that will walk with God acceptably, he will not only accept to give, he should be ready to give willingly, for such attitude makes the offering acceptable to God. In our text, God instructed Moses to tell the people of Israel to bring their offering, but made it clear that only those offered willingly were to be taken on His behalf. The offering was to be deployed in the worship and service of God, and in building a sanctuary unto Him. God’s work, however, suffers a lot today because many worshippers do not give to God and when they do, they do so reluctantly and sparingly. Such worshippers sometimes harbour the erroneous belief that whatever they give goes to church leaders and founders. But God makes it clear here that whatever is brought to His house is meant for Him. His commandment in Malachi is a further proof of the divine ownership of tithes and offerings: “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse that there may be meat in my house…” (Malachi 3:10). It then implies that those who give to God are promoting or sponsoring His work. Besides, those who pay their tithes and offerings are also honouring God (Proverbs 3:. If you want to be prosperous in a manner that glorifies God, become a cheerful and bountiful giver from today.
Thought for the day: It is a privilege to give to God.

MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER 2015

The Great Banquet

-REVELATION 19:6-10

Key Verse:
"Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God" (REVELATION 19:7,9).

He had scrupulously hatched a plot to have a group of people completely exterminated. He must have felt convinced that the plot was woven in iron-cast secrecy. Then there was this banquet to which he was invited as a special guest. While the wining and dinning was in full swing, Haman’s plot to exterminate the Jews was exposed. The banquet turned out to be his waterloo. Earthly banquets at best serve carnal purposes. Both in the Old and New Testaments, most banquets had been used as occasions for vicious acts. King Herod used the occasion of the birthday party he organized for his lords to behead John the Baptist. Queen Esther’s banquet was to expose Haman’s plot against the Jews. But there is a great and unique banquet that is to hold at the end of time, different from the banquets of the world. It is a Messianic banquet, the marriage supper of the Lamb, during which the patriarch and all the righteous will be guests. The bride is the Church (the body of believers). The event would be the culmination of human history. The bride’s clothing would be the righteousness of the saints standing in sharp contrast to the filthy clothing of the great LovePeddler (Revelation 17:4; 18:16). At rapture, the church will be taken away to meet with the Lord in the air to celebrate at the marriage supper of the Lamb. It will be a magnificent banquet that the finite mind of man cannot comprehend now. It will unveil the Saviour as the full and central focus of God’s revelation and His saints as partakers of His eternal glory. We are saved not by works but by grace. Even today, grace is available to the sincere seeker. As you read this, make a lifetime decision to surrender your life to Jesus and live a consistent Christian life to be qualified to be a guest at the awe-inspiring great banquet.
Thought for the day: Labour not for the bread which perisheth.

SUNDAY, 29 NOVEMBER 2015

Mighty In God’s Hands

-ROMANS 16:1-16
Key Verse: “That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also” (Romans 16:2).

God is at His best when He uses things we view as commonplace to accomplish extraordinary feats. For instance, He took the inarticulate and hesitant Moses to free millions of Israelites from centuries of bondage. Today’s Scripture reading shows a display of divine attention on saved women who served in God’s kingdom. As Apostle Paul ends his epistle to the Church in Rome, the Holy Spirit led him to reveal the simple people God raised to support His Work. Only the couple - Aquilla and Priscilla, appear to be well known; others are silent workers. Among them are no less than eight women. Despite their social status as “weaker vessels”, God used them to render special services to the Church and the kingdom of heaven. Paul did not hide his commendation for their work. In the case of Phebe, who delivered the letter to the Romans from Corinth, Paul asked for unique hospitality for her. Describing Phebe as “our sister”, he urges the church in Rome to “receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of; for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also” (verse 1,2). Phebe and other saints, including women may have been in the background. They may not have been numbered among the regular apostles. But they did not just make up the crowds. They worked tirelessly in the church to make God notice them for a mention in the Bible. They were committed to God’s work and evangelism. The exemplary service they rendered should challenge us to seek to please God and not expect the applause of men. We are not to operate by man’s standards. It is God who gives us the unction; we must meekly function by His laws. There should also be no competitive spirit in our midst if our goal is heaven.
Thought for the day: God is looking for ordinary people He would use to do the extraordinary.

SATURDAY, 28 NOVEMBER 2015

The Limits Of Oppressors

-PSALM 94:1-11

Today, there are many international, government and non- governmental organizations that campaign or fight against injustice and oppression. Many of them are genuinely concerned about the atrocities going on in the world. Unfortunately, despite these political, legal and social solutions, injustice still prevails. This is because the problem of injustice and oppression lies beyond these solutions. Ironically, some of the anti-oppression crusaders themselves engage in oppressive activities. The prevalence and promotion of evil in the world often causes the righteous to employ the kind of petition found in today’s text. The preceding verses acknowledge God as the Source of retributive justice and mercy, and appeal to Him as the great Judge of the earth, for redress. Notice the familiar observations about the wicked: they are exultant because of their worldly success. They oppress and exploit the helpless with impunity. They have atheistic orientation and a wrong notion of God. It is dangerous to emulate ungodly, oppressive and proud people of this world. They have no regard for God’s holy standard or judgment because they willfully deny His involvement in the affairs of men or even His existence. They do not understand that the triumphing of the wicked is short, and the joy of the hypocrite is but for a moment. They need to understand that not only does “he that teacheth man knowledge” know all things and understand the vain thoughts of men, but will judge them at last. Believers need not despair for these things nor get discouraged by the persecution from arrogant oppressors. Oppression has limited time. This is a golden time to prayerfully reach them with the only means of salvation – the gospel of Christ.
Thought for the day: Atheism is a pretence that only exist on earth; not in hell.

FRIDAY, 27 NOVEMBER 2015

The True Heroes

-HEBREWS 11:30-40
Key Verse:
"And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions" (HEBREWS 11:32,33).

In a museum in Scotland resides the sword of famous Scotsman Wallace, who was a hero and patriot. A visitor once said, “I do not see how it could win such victories”. “Ah sir, you do not see the arm that wielded it,” came the reply. Hebrews chapter eleven is truly a chronology of heroes of faith. Our text summarized the exploits of several ordinary people from the Old Testament who did extraordinary exploits through faith. Gideon defeated a great host of the Medianites through a small army of 300 wielding touches and earthen vessels, while David killed the giant Goliath with a sling and a stone. Others, including Daniel and his colleagues, were said to have obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions and miraculously escaped the fiery furnace. The list includes women who through faith, had their children raised from the dead and ended with those who endured great persecutions and suffering even unto death in order to defend the convictions they held very dear to their hearts. All are said to have obtained a good report. Today, many look up to sport stars and athletes, movie stars and musicians as heroes. They are seen as heroes because in many ways, they do things that most people can not do. We often overlook their moral failings and bad examples while we focus on their incredible exploits. But God’s heroes in the Bible were not men and women of extraordinary ability or talent but men and women of extraordinary faith. They were ordinary people with little abilities who had their lives transformed by grace after a very poor beginning. You can be a hero of faith today, not by focusing on your strength or ability, but by relying on God’s grace which is freely available to all who ask for it. The first step to becoming a true hero of faith is submitting to the will of God, believing and living by His Word.
Thought for the day: God makes heroes out of zeroes.

THURSDAY, 26 NOVEMBER 2015

Work For Everyone

-ACTS 13:1-7
Key Verse: “As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them” (Acts 13:2).

“A man willing to work and unable to find work, is perhaps the saddest sight… under the sun”, remarked Thomas Carlyle, Scottish historian and writer. It is not the will of God that man should be idle, doing nothing. He has work for each one of His creatures to do. The various creations He made on the earth lend credence to the fact that even the minutest creature has its own place, its own work and its fitness to do it. The birds, though without hands, make intricate nests for their abode; the spider spins its webs to trap its prey for daily bread; the ant is ever busy working in its season to shame the idle man. We are made to render service unto God and humanity. In our text, God, by the Holy Spirit, declares that He had work for Paul and Barnabas, for they were called to dedicate themselves, their time and talents. In secular life as well as in ministry, we do not all have to look the same direction or copy the other man in the service he renders. There is a work assigned for every man. Every man is endowed with relevant abilities and is brought to the place he finds himself at a particular time to achieve divine purpose. God could not have raised a man and endowed him merely for his own sake; for He said: “This people have I formed for myself; they shall show forth my praise” (Isaiah 43:21). God has called us for Himself that we may share in the glory that is in His son Jesus Christ. He has left the great privilege of accomplishing the great commission to us, to tell the world the wonderful story of the love of Jesus. Let us, therefore, ponder on this eternal purpose; that God has put us in the place where we are to do His will. When there is any opportunity to serve God and our generation by proclaiming the gospel message, we must take care not to let it slip.
Thought for the day: A worthy son serves sacrificially in his father’s vineyard.

WEDNESDAY, 25 NOVEMBER 2015

No Variance With God

-NUMBERS 15:1-16

The “tribe” of human right advocates has greatly expanded in the last couple of decades. At the heart of these movements and campaigns is the vexed issue of equality. These movements seek to address specific situations they consider biased and unfair in societies. They seek equal rights in certain social and economic contexts, and the removal of legally enforced discriminations that are based on such conditions as gender, religion, race, age, health, etc. Much good has come from these efforts. When abused, however, it has the potential of dragging societies along terribly permissive lanes. In today’s text, God recommended the principle of equality in the instructions He gave Israel concerning offerings and sacrifices. The nation had just recovered from an episode of rebellion and had been forgiven, after Moses interceded. As they stood at the verge of the promised land, Moses reiterated the instructions and guidelines they were expected to observe when they settle in the land. Our interest here is the instruction concerning equal treatment for the Israelites and the strangers (Gentiles) among them. This law applied to both responsibilities and benefits. It implies that in sacrificing to God and in receiving blessings, no difference would be made between the Jews and the Gentiles who have joined them to worship God. This law forestalled adulteration of worship and helped to foster unity and love among the people. It was also a pointer to the era of grace where “there is neither Jew nor Greek… bond nor free... male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus”. In the same manner, God expects all His worshippers to uphold the same standard and be holy, irrespective of their gender, social status, cultural background and denominational affiliation.
Thought for the day: God is not partial.

TUESDAY, 24 NOVEMBER 2015

A Lifetime Preoccupation

-ROMANS 15:14-22"

Key Verse:*“Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man’s foundation” (Romans 15:20).*"
Some years ago, an uncompromising newspaper columnist and radio commentator, John Calvin Thomas, was to take part in a TV network news program. Shortly before the show was recorded, the producer asked Thomas not “to use any Bible verses tonight”. On another occasion, he was dropped from an appearance on a morning presentation; the producer fearing that Thomas, a faithful evangelical Christian, “might quote some Bible verses”. Apostle Paul also had challenges in his days while going about the business of the great commission. The authorities sought to shut his mouth from preaching. He was stoned and jailed, betrayed and maltreated by false brethren. He suffered humiliation and neglect, and experienced denial of rights and physical deprivation. Still, Paul, like the other apostles in the early Church “strived to preach the gospel” (Romans 15:20). A born-again child of God who is fiery for Christ is unstoppable in the face of any opposition. He marches on to preach that Christ is the Saviour of the world and is willing to save sinners. Resistance may come in different forms; friends and relatives may forsake him; and he may be “a gazing stock both by reproaches and afflictions”. Knowing he has been given the grace to overcome adversaries, he will not give up but move on to surmount the oppositions. This is the key point in our passage today as Paul rounds off the inspired letter to the brethren in Rome. He spoke of having “been much hindered” from coming to meet them. Nevertheless, he commends the faithfulness of God to empower him. Paul’s missionary works were accompanied by miracles. Believers are also assured of the same signs and wonders if we preach the word of God with single-minded regularity today.*Thought for the day: *The Word is to be preached and lived out, not placed under the pillow.

Even Now, God Can

-JOHN 11:18-32

"Key Verse:*“Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee” (John 11:21,22).*"
“Faith,” says American pastor and author, A.W. Tozer, “sees the invisible but it does not see the non- existent.” The Bible renders it so emphatically, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”. It is so because it is directed at God. The Bible says, “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God”. This truth played out, as seen in our text, when Christ arrived at Bethany where His friend, Lazarus, had died four days earlier and had been buried. The situation was very pathetic. Relatives, friends and other concerned people had gathered to mourn with Mary and Martha who were bereaved. When Martha met Christ, she expressed the same sentiment that her sister, Mary, also eventually voiced, “If thou hadst been here, my brother had not died”. This statement has a ring of settled despair in it. But observe the next remark of Martha – “But I know, that even now...”. That was an expression of faith in God’s ability through Christ. It is more difficult to exercise faith in a situation that is considered hopeless. When it seems that God is late in arriving, and the undesirable has happened, can He still act? When the matter appears to have been “sealed up” in the tomb of hopelessness for many days and “by this time [it] stinketh”, will you be willing to roll away the stone of doubt for God to work? When your mind is already adjusting to the reality of the undesirable event in your life and your only consolation is in the hereafter, can God still intervene? Yes, God can. He never arrives late. Passage of time or tenseness of the situation do not dull the sharp edge of His power. The same way He raised Lazarus, He will intervene in your humanly hopeless situation. Martha said, “I know that even now...”. What do you say about your case?*Thought for the day: *Feeling hopeless? Do not resign to fate; reassign your faith!*Bible Reading in one Year: *2 KINGS 24 - 25