Bring Forth Your Strong Reasons · Friday, April 19th · Pastor Chris

Produce your cause, saith the Lord; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob (Isaiah 41:21).

How comforting and inspiring to know that you can argue your case before the Lord in prayer! You can actually turn your closet into a courtroom, and bring forth your strong reasons for demanding a change, or insisting that things turn out in a certain way for you or for your loved ones. This kind of praying is serious and intense—the kind for which you shut your door and say, "I must have a miracle today!"
You might ask, "What if after praying for a while, I’m still not satisfied that it’s done?" Well, that’s why it’s called "pleading your case"; it just means "case adjourned!" Since you’re not yet convinced it’s done, go back to the Word, research and produce more evidence.

Pray earnestly in the spirit—in other tongues. Even if you have to stop praying for a while to go to work, or engage in some other
worthwhile activities, once you have the opportunity again to be alone, continue in prayer.
Even while you’re on the move, perhaps in the car, heading to work or returning from work, once the issue comes to your mind, speak the Word of God about it. This, essentially, is how you pray when praying the prayer of petition; it’s rendered with tenacity and a strong sense of purpose. You don’t take "no" for an answer! If you don’t get a note of victory the first time you pray, you continue until you know you’ve got what you want; and at that point, nothing in the world can take it from you.

However, until you have that note of victory and knowledge in your spirit, continue in prayer; keep pleading your case. Remember
what He said in Isaiah 43:26: "Put me in remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified." God didn’t make this statement because He’s forgetful; rather, it’s an invitation for you to bring forth your arguments and strong reasons in pleading your case. He wants you to present the statements of fact, promises, and declarations He’s made concerning the matter you’re dealing with, and be importunate in prayer. Soon enough, there’ll be laughter in your spirit because you’d have the victory.

Prayer
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for showing me that I’m not helpless, but empowered to effect changes in the circumstances of life by faith and in the Name of Jesus. My faith in you and in the power of your Word prevails today, and always, and I rejoice, in the
Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: James 5:17; Hosea 14:2
Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Luke 17:20-18:1-14, 1 Samuel 8-10
2 Year Reading Plan : Mark 3:20-35 Leviticus 19

Recognize His Grace · Tuesday, April 16th · Pastor Chris

But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ (Ephesians 4:7).

How wonderful this is! Each one of us has been given grace, according to the measure of the gift of Christ. We’ve all been given grace to excel in life. The Greek word for grace is "Charis," which is the root of the English word "charisma." "Charis" refers to the divine influence on the human spirit that reflects on the outside of a man’s life, producing favour, beauty, goodwill, loveliness, and ability.

It’s the glory of God in your spirit, which reflects on the outside.This grace causes favour and glory to abound in your life. For example, when the Lord Jesus was a child, the Bible says he "…grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him" (Luke 2:40). Grace made Him, even as a child, to have favour with God and man (Luke 2:52). In the Book of Acts, Barnabas went to visit certain brethren, and the Bible says, "…when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all…" (Acts 11:23). What was it that Barnabas saw? It certainly wasn’t a light beaming out of their heads. He saw the beauty of God; he saw things working out excellently in the lives of these brethren.

The grace of God on your life is the divine ability in you to be successful in every endeavour, and you’re to grow in that grace: "…grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ…" (2 Peter 3:18). Grace is the power of promotion; it’s the thing that causes your life to move from one level to another, and that’s why the Scriptures admonish that you grow in grace. Every child of God has been given grace in abundance (Romans 5:17), but the degree to which you let it reflect is up to you. The more you fill your heart with God’s Word and have the Holy Spirit work in your life, the greater the grace of God that’ll be manifested in your life.

Confession
I’m growing in grace and in the knowledge of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The beauty of God in my spirit is showing forth on
the outside, evidently manifest for all to see! Excellence, glory, virtue and success are the hallmarks of my life, because the grace of
God is superabundant upon me.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 2 Peter 1:2; John 1:16
Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Luke 15:11-32 Ruth 1-4
2 Year Reading Plan : Mark 2:23-28 Leviticus 16

He Led Captivity Captive…" · Sunday, April 14th · Pastor Chris
Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men (Ephesians 4:.
Many have given different interpretations to our opening verse over the years. Various Bible versions have translated it differently
because of its complex rendering. For instance, one version reads, "This is why he says when He ascended on high; He led captives
in His train, and gave gifts to men." However, the King James Version is most accurate: "Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up
on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men."
The Apostle Paul quoted this verse from Psalms 68:18: "Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast
received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them." Notice that Paul said, "…he led
captivity captive…" not, "he led captors captive." What does this mean? Captivity here refers to the power, authority and activities of
the captors. Their right and power to hold you in captivity was taken captive; that right was seized by Jesus! He took it from Satan
and his cohorts; they don’t have it anymore; so "captivity" has been held captive!
Today, no one should be legally held captive by Satan, sickness or disease; all we have to do is announce their freedom. This is why
Paul, in the city of Lystra, could say to a man who was impotent in his feet, and had never walked from birth, "Sir, stand up!" Paul
didn’t even pray for him. Paul’s audacity of faith resulted from his knowledge that "captivity" had been held captive.
This was the same reason Peter could tell the crippled beggar at the gate of the temple called Beautiful, "...Silver and gold have I
none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk" (Acts 3:6). He also didn’t pray. Why?
Because the power to hold men captive has been seized by Jesus Christ!
Confession
I stand fast in the liberty of Christ and rejoice in the glory of God, never to be burdened by any yoke of bondage. I’m free to live, free to
reign, and free to serve the Lord in health, joy, victory and prosperity. Glory to God!
f u r t h e r s t u d y: Judges 5:12; Revelation 1:18
Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Luke 14:1-24 Judges 17-18
2 Year Reading Plan : Mark 2:1-12 Leviticus 14

"Shalom…Shalom!" · Thursday, April 11th · Pastor Chris

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee (Isaiah 26:3).

In the verse above, the Spirit of God lets us know what will happen in the life of the one whose mind is stationed or focused on the Lord: he’ll be kept in "perfect peace." Now, what does He mean by "perfect peace?" The original Hebrew construction didn’t actually say "thou will keep him in perfect peace"; rather, it says "…thou will keep him in "shalom…shalom," which literally means "peace, peace."

"Shalom" means peace of prosperity, peace with prosperity or peace in prosperity. It doesn’t just refer to peace with respect to being quiet or calm; it means peace with rest of mind, abundance and unlimited prosperity! It describes the rest of the man who has found his place in Christ and, as a result, all his struggles are over! His troubles have been overcome. He has gained the mastery over his circumstances; he has taken charge, having entered God’s rest.

Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest…." Here, the Master says, "Stop struggling; stop trying to do it by your own strength! Come to me, and I’ll make your life easy, pleasant, and joyful!" That’s the kind of rest we have in "shalom"; it’s life without stress. Meditate on our theme verse for the day; focus your heart and
mind on the Lord.

James 1:25 says, "But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed." Then Joshua 1:8 says, "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night…for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." This is your recipe and guarantee of a triumphant and extraordinary life of success, peace, and prosperity.

Confession
My mind is stationed and focused on you, O Lord, for you are my delight! in you, I’ve found peace, salvation, victory, unending joy, and life everlasting! Thank you for the blessing of your Word and impact of your divine presence in my life!

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Hebrews 12:2; Joshua 1:8 (AMP)

Happy birthday ma,
I love you so much
You are indeed an epitome of God's grace
I'm encouraged and motivated for everytime I see or hear you talk
Thank you for being there!
Happy birthday ma!

Reappraise Your Priorities · Friday, February 22nd · Pastor Chris

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? Or What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:31-33).

I want you to read the text above again, but this time, meditatively. Many have interpreted the words of the Lord Jesus in those verses to mean that we should seek the Kingdom first before we can go about seeking other things. That’s not what Jesus said. He instructed us to seek only the Kingdom of God and nothing else. According to Him, everything else will be granted us if we’d seek
after this one thing: His Kingdom.

It makes no difference what your vocation is; whether you’re a student, civil servant, politician, businessman or an entertainer; that vocation is your mission field for the moment. Therefore, be determined to win others to Christ in your mission field. I often get amazed at Christians who become spiritually inert when they travel out of their stations either on official or business trips. How can
you be in a new locale for weeks without going to Church or witnessing to anyone for Christ? That shouldn’t be.

Recognize that you’re on a mission, regardless of where you are or what you do; the Gospel is your number one priority. Your life
shouldn’t just revolve around your profession or business. Furthermore, the first thing you do when you relocate to another city shouldn’t be to secure an accommodation close to your place of work; rather, look for an accommodation close to the church; and if there’s no church in the city, start one. Contact our office and we will show you how. You have to be concerned about the development of your spirit, and the expansion of the Kingdom of God.
The Lord’s injunction for us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness calls for every one of us to reappraise our priorities and walk accordingly.

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for choosing and enabling me as a faithful minister of reconciliation; I’m effective in leading the lost tosalvation, and guilding them to the realities of the Kingdom, on account of your great love, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 2 Timothy 4:2; 1 Corinthians 9:16

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

Search The Scriptures · Wednesday, February 20th · Pastor Chris

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).

Some Christians are often confused as to how to study the Bible, wondering if they’d have to read from Genesis to Revelation, memorizing every verse. Not necessarily; there’re several ways you can study the Scriptures, and these several ways are all important. My first recommendation, however, would be for you to be consistent in your study of our "Rhapsody of Realities" daily devotional. In it, we’ve designed a very simple but effective method for you to study the Scriptures and go through the entire Bible—from Genesis to Revelation—using the one-year or two-year study plan.

While you’re at that, you can also study the Bible in several other different ways that’ll help you learn several things, for you really don’t have to study from Genesis to Revelation to get to know some of the things you need to know. Every time you listen to God’s Word preached or taught like you’re learning now through this devotional, take note of all the references that are given from the Scriptures. Then, during your personal times of study, diligently go back to those references and study them. When you do this, they’ll become a part of you, because you can immediately identify them and link them with certain topics that were discussed.

Also, during such teachings, when a Bible character is mentioned, for example, go to the Bible and find out more of what the Bible says about that character or personality. This will help you learn more from God’s Word. So, you can make your own several personal studies from listening to God’s Word being preached or taught, or when you study good Christian materials that provide references.

Note, however, that even when you read the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation at one time, that still wouldn’t be enough; you’ve got to keep at it. The Word of God is fresh every day; it’s undated and never stale. It’s your sole requirement for an effective and balanced Christian life. Therefore, the amount of time you invest into searching the Scriptures and learning the Word is never too much or wasted; it’s time well spent. So be diligent at it.

Prayer
Dear heavenly Father, I open my heart to the ministry of your Word today. My heart is filled with wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of you, and grace and peace are multiplied unto me for a life of success and excellence, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 2 Timothy 3:16; Acts 17:11

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

Be Influential For The Gospel · Sunday, February 10th · Pastor Chris

Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus (Mark 15:43).

When Jesus died, the Bible shows that it wasn’t His disciples that got His body for burial. This wasn’t because they weren’t righteous enough, but they didn’t have the influence. Joseph of Arimathaea, a highly respected member of the Jewish Council, was the one who got the body of Jesus. What does that tell you? It shows that if you’re not a man or woman of influence, you really can’t speak for the "body of Jesus"; that means you can’t speak for the body of Christ.

It reminds of what the Scripture teaches about the "poor wise man"; his wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard: "Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man. Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the poor man’s wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard" (Ecclesiastes 9:15-16). The poor Church will never be able to speak for the body of Christ; it’s only the Church with influence that’ll speak for the body of Christ!

Thanks be unto God, the knowledge of the Word is growing and prevailing all over the world, and the Church is marching on triumphantly in glory. We have the voice and the means to saturate the earth with the knowledge of the glory of God as the waters cover the sea. As we continue in the Word of God, teaching and living by every principle of His infallible Word, our influence in the earth will be such that can’t be resisted.

No matter how nice you are; no matter how much you believe in Jesus—no influence, no voice. Therefore, make up your mind to be influential for the Gospel. By that, I mean, let your prosperity result in the spread of the Gospel around the Word. As a ministry, we’re publishing and distributing Bibles, books, and other Christian materials to millions all over the world. Be a part of this. Put your money where it counts. Our free distribution of "Rhapsody of Realities," for example, has brought hope to many lives and helped to rekindle the embers of faith amongst other believers in distant lands. Join us today in making a greater impact for the Gospel.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for granting me the Word and the Holy Spirit to help me become a more effective minister of the Gospel, having greater influence, reach and impact in the world today. I declare that I’m abundantly supplied and furnished to seed the Gospel into the nations of the world, so that more souls will be ushered into the Kingdom, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Matthew 5:14; Romans 8:19

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 27:1-26, Exodus 38-39

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 13:34-43, Genesis 41

The Law Of Life · Saturday, February 9th · Pastor Anita

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2).

Once you come into Christ, the law of the Spirit of life starts working in you. This is a governing and operative principle in Christ, and it’s more than bringing a man out of sin. This law affects your business, your body, and everything you do, such that everything about your life just keeps growing and multiplying. This law of life only functions for those who are in Christ; those who are born again. Those who are without Christ are subject to the spiritual law of sin and death on which Moses’ law was based.

Whereas, the law of the Spirit of life produces life in, and for everyone who’s in Christ Jesus, the law of sin and death produces corruption, denigration, bondage and death for, and in those who live without Christ in the world. Such folks are without hope. But blessed be God! We’ve been born again, according to God’s abundant mercy unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Peter 1:3), and the law of the Spirit of life is at work in us.

From the time Christ rose from the dead, God stopped counting men’s sins against them (2 Corinthians 5:17-20). This didn’t just apply to the Church, but to the whole world! Jesus paid for the sins of the whole world! God is no longer angry at anyone; what He’s saying now is "Come and enjoy the life in Christ!" Once you accept that invitation and receive Christ, automatically, the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus starts functioning in you. You have eternal life and the very nature of God in your spirit. Now, you can serve the Lord truly, and live by the principle of eternal life.

Confession

I am a new creation in Christ Jesus; I walk in the glorious liberty of the sons of God, freely enjoying my inheritance in Christ, having been made free from sin, bondage, and death, by the law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah!

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Romans 8:21; 2 Corinthians 3:17

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 26:57-75, Exodus 36-37

His Presence Makes You Holy · Friday, January 25th · Pastor Chris

According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love (Ephesians 1:4).

The doctrine of holiness is one that’s been grossly misconstrued by many in the Church. Many equate holiness with "sinlessness," but holiness has nothing to do with what you do. The presence of God in your life is what makes you holy. The entire doctrine of holiness in the Bible, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, has nothing do with your actions; rather, it has to do with who you are and where you are. Only a holy man can live holy; you can’t "practise" holiness to become holy. Holiness is actually positional; God’s presence in, and upon you, makes you holy. You have to first be holy, before you can live a holy life. This is why in Christ, we’re made holy by grace, and thus expected to live accordingly.

.For example, the Bible describes Mount Sinai as a holy mountain because God stepped on it. The mountain didn’t do anything right or wrong to become holy. The presence of God consecrated it and made it holy. If a mountain could be said to be holy because God stepped on it, how much more you that are His dwelling place! You’re God’s holy and sanctified vessel; separated from the world, unto the Christ life.

Even when you do something wrong, as a child of God, it doesn’t change who you are; you’re still holy. When you sin and ask God’s forgiveness, He forgives you, and as far as He’s concerned, you’re as one who never did anything wrong. No wonder the Word says, "And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight" (Colossians 1:21-22). Before God, you’re unblameable, and unreproveable.

This is what it means to be holy; it means that through the Spirit, you’ve been consecrated by God unto salvation. By His choice, you’ve been set apart from sin, sickness, poverty and death, unto priesthood, and the glorious life in Christ.

Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for the blood of Jesus that has washed me white as snow, and brought me into union and fellowship with you. I’m grateful that through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ you’ve presented me holy, blameless, sanctified and irreproachable in your sight, in Jesus’ Name.

F u r t h e r s t u d y: 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Hebrews 3:1Daily Scripture Reading1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 17:14-18:1-14, Exodus 8-92 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 9:27-38 Genesis 25

He Seeks Your Fellowship · Monday, January 21st · Pastor Anita

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen (2 Corinthians 13:14).

This scripture was Paul’s prayer for the saints at Corinth. The Greek word translated "communion" above is "koinonia," which also means fellowship, participation, and partnership. Is it possible for a man to have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of heaven and earth? The answer is an emphatic "Yes!" He isn’t unapproachable as the religious folks try to make us believe. Actually, the Bible reveals that He longs for your fellowship.

God isn’t always looking out to punish you for your sins or wrong doings as some people think. When you’re acquainted with the Lord, you’ll realize He loves you even in spite of your wrongs. Remember, He was the One who went looking for Adam and his wife in the Garden of Eden, even though He knew they had disobeyed Him (Genesis 3:8-9). In his epistle to the churches, John said, "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ" (1 John 1:3).

You may be wondering, "What’s so special about me that God seeks my fellowship?" It’s because you’re His very offspring; you have His life and nature: "And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life" (1 John 5:11-12).

The reason God can fellowship with you is that you have His life (Zoë) in you. The world doesn’t speak His language, but you do, for His Holy Spirit lives in you. This is the reason He delights in your worship and prayers. No wonder He said, "…before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear" (Isaiah 65:24). So you see, prayer is more than asking Him for things; it’s a fellowship. That’s what the Lord seeks; your fellowship with Him.

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the great honour and privilege of fellowship with you, with Jesus and with the Holy Spirit. It’s the greatest calling there is and I ask that you teach me through the Holy Spirit to fulfill continually this call, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 1 Corinthians 1:9; 1 John 1:3

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 14:13-36, Genesis 49-50

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 8:12-22 Genesis 21

Legal And Vital Sons Of God! · Saturday, January 19th · Pastor Chris

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not (1 John 3:1).

Rather than use the Greek word "huios" for "sons," which refers to the sons of figurative kingship, the word "teknon" is used in 1 John 3:1 to express that we’re the vital sons of God; His sons and daughters in truth, because we’re actually born of Him. 1 John 3:2, tells us, "Beloved, now are we the sons of God"; not in the future, or when we get to heaven, but NOW. It’s a statement of fact; a present hour reality, that as Christians, we are the bona fide, legal, and vital sons of God.

Understand that the legal aspect of redemption was what made the vital experience of eternal life possible. 1 Corinthians 6:20 says, "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s." This is the legal aspect of redemption; the fact that you were bought with a price.

Then, verse nineteen tells us, "What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" This shows that God has brought us to live in His class of being, and has poured Himself into us, thereby making our physical bodies His tabernacle of witness; His living temple. This is the vital aspect.

Now, the vital aspect of our sonship is that you’re born of the Spirit of God; you’re born of the Word of God (1 Peter 1:23). As a result, you now have the life of God in you; you’re no longer ordinary; you have the supernatural life. Being born again, you’ve become the "tecknon" of God; the legal and vital son of God. As a result, the Bible says "…God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father" (Galatians 4:6). Take advantage of your privileged position as a child of God in truth.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for the legal aspect of redemption, which made the vital experience of eternal life possible. Now, I’m a participator in the divine experience; an associate of the God-kind. Therefore, the effect of this life is apparent in everything that I do, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 1 John 5:4-5; Colossians 1:12

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 13:24-43, Genesis 44-45

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 7:21-29 Genesis 19

Have The Consciousness Of A Victor · Friday, January 18th · Pastor Anita

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me (Galatians 2:20).

Every Christian should have the Christ consciousness. It is the consciousness of a victor. You should know that regardless of circumstances, you’re more than a conqueror; no weapon fashioned against you prospers. This is our heritage.

Looking at the life of Jesus, we see a clear example of one who lived with this consciousness. He was a master over circumstances, and exercised dominion over all things. He had no sense of lack or need. Yet, the Bible lets us know that He functioned in the earth, not as the Son of God, but as the son of man. In other words, Jesus didn’t live with the supernatural life of angelic beings; rather, He lived as the seed of Abraham: "For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham" (Hebrews 2:16). He became like us; He lived as a man, letting us know that everything that He did was what a man could do.

The way Jesus lived, the things He did, the words He spoke—the miracles, signs and wonders that He performed—are all indications of what you and I can do today, by the same Spirit. Jesus was such a success. He had the mentality of the Word, for He was the Word made flesh. He knew divine truths that others never knew. He lived by the truth, for He was the truth.

Here’s one of such knowledge and consciousness that He had: in John 6:38 He said, "For I came down from heaven…." At this time, He was talking to people who knew when He was born, and where He was born. They knew His mother, Mary. They knew his brothers and sisters; yet, He said, "I came down from heaven." He was conscious of His divine nativity.

Let this same mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5); have the consciousness of a victor. Think like Christ. Live with the consciousness that you’re in Christ, and Christ lives in you, therefore you’re indomitable. Have the consciousness that you hail from God, and have overcome the world, because greater is He that’s in you, than he that’s in the world. Have the consciousness that you’re a new creation in Christ Jesus, therefore you have a supernatural life in Christ. Halleluiah.

Prayer

Dear Father, I have Christ’s consciousness; therefore, the circumstances of life are subject to me because I have the dominion of Christ. I’m seated with Christ in heavenly places, far above all principalities, powers, might, and dominions, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Romans 8:28; Mark 4:41

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 13:1-23, Genesis 42-43

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 7:13-20 Genesis 18

Keep The Switch Of Faith Turned On - Tuesday, January 15, 2013 - Pastor Anita

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest (Joshua 1:9).

Just because you’re experiencing trying times doesn’t mean you’re defeated. The truth is that those tests and trials are springboards for your promotion! Contrary to what many think, it’s a blessing when you face diverse tests; that’s why the Bible says, "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations" (James 1:2).

Make up your mind that throughout this year, irrespective of the challenges that may come your way, you’ll stand your ground in the Word. Grow your faith with the Word of God, so that no matter what happens, you’ll always win. Your faith is the victory that overcomes the world. Therefore, never allow what you hear or see with your physical eyes cause you to lose heart and start voicing fear; stand your ground and keep talking your victory.

Some Christians lose heart and allow fear take a hold of them when the evil day comes. However, irrespective of the negative thoughts or pictures the enemy may bring to your mind, refuse to fear, and refuse to speak negatively. Do what Caleb and Joshua did! Out of the twelve spies Moses sent to spy out Canaan, only the two of them stood their ground and said concerning the giants, "...they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not" (Numbers 14:9). That’s the voice of faith, and faith is what gives you the victory.

The Lord Jesus said in Mark 9:23, "If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." Never give up or give in. Keep the switch of faith turned on, for faith never fails! Your faith-filled words, in the power of the Holy Spirit, will always prevail. When you find yourself in an uncomfortable position, don’t fret; don’t fear; don’t despair! Speak words of faith.

Confession

I’m a victor in Christ Jesus. Fear, doubt and unbelief have no place in me, for my faith in God and in His eternal Word is the victory that overcomes the world! I refuse to be discouraged because greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world!

Further Study
Colossians 2:6-7
As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.

Mark 11:23
For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 11:1-30, Genesis 36-37

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 6:14-24, Genesis 15

The Word Has Inherent Ability - Saturday January 12th, 2013 - Pastor Anita

And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified (Acts 20:32).

The Word of God is the only material given to us by God to build our faith. Romans 10:17 says "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." This means the more of God’s Word you receive into your spirit, meditate on, and put to work, the greater your faith will be. Without continuously inundating your heart with the Word of God, the challenges of life could overwhelm you, and you’ll faint in the day of adversity.

But with the Word of God in your spirit, you’ll discover that absolutely anything is possible unto you! That’s why a sick person, for example, while studying or listening to God’s Word on healing could automatically have faith stirred in his heart to be healed. The reason is that God’s Word imparts faith and courage to your spirit. As you listen and fill your heart with it, faith rises in you like a giant.

This is the reason God seeks to impart His Word to your Spirit. With the Word of God in your spirit, you don’t have to struggle or try to make it produce results for you; it has inherent ability to produce what it talks about. The Word of God in your heart and in your mouth is your sure recipe for a successful life on earth. So stick with the Word; and not only will it build you up, and give you an inheritance among them that are sanctified, it will make you what it talks about.

CONFESSION: I rule, reign and dominate my world today by the faith of God in my spirit! My faith is alive and producing results because the Word of God is in my heart and in my mouth, and as I speak it forth, circumstances align with God’s perfect will for my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Mathew 9:18-38, Genesis 29-30

2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Mathew 5:31-40, Genesis 12

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

________TALK SPIRITUAL_______

THURSDAY_10TH_JANUARY_2013

*****WITH PASTOR CHRIS******

And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ (1 Corinthians 3:1).

John 11 tells the story of Lazarus, who fell sick and died. When Jesus heard, He said to His disciples, "…Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep." His disciples, not understanding what He meant, replied, "Lord, if he is asleep, he will get better." Jesus had to tell them plainly, "…Lazarus is dead!" They didn’t understand Jesus’ spiritual language because they were yet carnal; so He had to speak to them in a language they could understand, that’s why He said to them, "Lazarus is dead." The Apostle Paul had a similar experience with the Christians at Corinth; he wasn’t able to communicate with them in spiritual language, hence he chided them for being carnal: "And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:1). Have you ever found yourself in situations where you had difficulty expressing yourself to carnal people? For example, being a spiritual man, if you felt a headache, you couldn’t say "I have a headache." The carnal man, on the other hand, sees nothing wrong communicating at such a mundane level. Realize that as Christians we don’t walk by our feelings, we walk by faith. If you say, "I have headaches," it means you’ve taken possession of it; you claimed it, and you shouldn’t because it’s an outside force; so don’t accommodate it in your body. Yes, you might feel the pain, but use the Word against it and it will pass out of your body. Hebrews 13:5-6 says "…for he (God) hath said…that we may boldly say…." You’re only supposed to say what you have, that God gave to you. Don’t accept anything that’s from the devil. Make up your mind that throughout this year, you’ll stand your ground in faith and walk in divine health. Refuse sickness, poverty, death, or depravity. Talk spiritual. Speak according to God’s infallible Word, and not according to your senses.

CONFESSION: I’m what God says I am. My life is the testimony of God’s grace and infinite blessings. I have the grace to excel in everything. I live in divine health, prosperity, abundant joy, and indescribable peace, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY: James 3:2(AMP) 2 For we all often stumble and fall and offend in many things. And if anyone does not offend in speech [never says the wrong things], he is a fully developed character and a perfect man, able to control his whole body and to curb his entire nature.

2 Corinthians 5:7(AMP) 7 For we walk by faith [we regulate our lives and conduct ourselves by our conviction or belief respecting man’s relationship to God and divine things, with trust and holy fervor; thus we walk] not by sight or appearance.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 8:1-27, Genesis 25-26

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:11-20 Genesis 10

The Image Of The Heavenly · Monday, January 7th · Pastor Chris

As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly (1Corinthians 15:48).

The Bible tells us in the book of Genesis how God formed Adam, the first man, from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and Adam became a living soul. The Word described him as earthy because he was of the earth and possessed the natural human life: "The first man is of the earth, earthy…" (1Corinthians 15:47). We’re however introduced to a second and last Adam in 1 Corinthians 15:45: "And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit."

The first Adam was the man in the garden, but the second or last Adam is the Lord from heaven—the Lord Jesus Christ: "The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven" (1 Corinthians 15:47). Reading further into the forty ninth verse of 1 Corinthians 15 (AMP), the Apostle Paul says something very striking: "And just as we have borne the image [of the man] of dust, so shall we {and so} {let us} also bear the image [of the Man] of heaven."

Everyone on earth was born after the first Adam, meaning that we have all borne the image of the earthy. However, when a man is born again, he’s cut off from the first Adam and born after Christ. He becomes a heavenly man on earth, and he’s expected to walk in this newness of life, after the image of him that created him. Notice the Amplified rendering of 1 Corinthians 15:49, the latter part says, "… Let us also bear...," inferring therefore that it’s our responsibility to bear the image of the heavenly.

Accept what God has said about you in His Word. If He has said you’re a new creation, accept it and be bold to say the same about yourself and act accordingly. Simply say "yes" to God’s Word today.

Confession I have the life and nature of Christ—the Second Adam—in my spirit. I’ve put on the image of the heavenly, and my affections are set on things above, being seated with Christ in the heavenly realms, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name in this world, and in the world to come. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Colossians 3:10; 2 Corinthians 3:18

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 6:1-18, Genesis 18-19

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 7

He Loves You Just The Way You Are · Sunday, January 6th · Pastor Chris

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not (1 John 3:1).

God didn’t create you to be a failure but to be head over all things. He wants you to walk in the liberty and full assurance of His love, knowing that you’re beyond condemnation due to His infallible, unconditional and eternal love for you (Romans 8:1). He loves you just the way you are.

You didn’t have to struggle to earn God’s love, for you could never earn it by your own works but by grace; it’s a gift from God! All you have to do is accept His love as simply as it has come to you, and you’ll never remain the same again. God demonstrated His great and boundless love for us, while we were yet in sin. Perhaps you’re wondering, "Can God possibly love someone like me?" Emphatically yes! No matter what kind of life you may have lived, He loves you just the way you are; you can take advantage of His great love today.

The consciousness of God’s love will change you for the better and inspire you to love other people. His love gives you the ability to live in the liberty of His Word and enjoy His abundant life. God’s love will carry you over all the circumstances of life. Jesus said He doesn’t have to pray to the Father on your behalf, since the Father Himself loves you (John 16:26). Take advantage of His great love today.

Remember, Jesus didn’t come to save us because we were many; no! He did because of His love. You’re the object of His love. Be conscious of this truth today; God loves you more than you can possibly imagine.

Prayer Heavenly Father, I thank you for your great love and kindness towards me! In everything I do today, and everywhere I go, I’m mindful of your love, and that consciousness inspires faith and boldness in me to face the circumstances of life and win! I rejoice in your loving kindness, which has strengthened my hope in you. Therefore are my days full of rest and peace, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: John 16:26-27; Romans 8:31-32

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:21-48, Genesis 15-17

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 3:10-17, Genesis 6

Be The Best For Him · Saturday, January 5th · Pastor Chris

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well (Psalms 139:14).

The verse above describes the peculiarity and uniqueness of every child of God. You’re the Father’s pride; a creation of wonder. God has deposited so much within your spirit that makes you a peculiar treasure of inestimable value.

In Genesis chapter 12:2 God said to Abraham, "And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing." You’re the seed of Abraham now that you’re in Christ: "...if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed" (Galatians 3:29). By virtue of being Abraham’s seed, not only are you blessed, you’re also a blessing. You carry the blessing with you and have become a dispenser of blessings everywhere you go. No wonder 1 Peter 2:9 declares: "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light."

Take some time today and meditate on who you are in Christ Jesus! You’re God’s perfectly crafted masterpiece, set forth to manifest His glory and display His praises to the world around you. Your responsibility now is to be the best of you for Him.

You’re the only one of you that God has. He’s never had another one like you, He doesn’t have another like you, and will never have another like you. That’s how unique you are. Therefore be a success for Him! Be the best of you for Him, and give Him your all.

Prayer Dear Father, I ascribe all glory, honour and majesty to your great and wonderful Name! Thank you for making me a peculiar treasure, separated unto you to bring you glory! I release myself to you and declare that by the power of your Spirit, your purpose for my life is fulfilled, to the glory and praise of your Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 1 Peter 2:9 AMP

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:1-20, Genesis 12-14

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 3:1-9, Genesis 5

Put The Name To Work · Friday, January 4th · Pastor Chris

These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God (1 John 5:13).

Notice the underlined construction. The Apostle John says, "…that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God." He’s simply saying, "Put the Name of Jesus to work!"

The Name of Jesus is the Name that opens every door in every city and every nation. That’s the Name you need for a life of consistent victory, anywhere. For example, when Jesus gave the great commission in Mark 16:15 to "…Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature," it was in His Name. He gave us His Name, and that’s bigger than the whole world. Philippians 2:10 says "…at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth." This is the reason you can be comfortable in any place, any city, region or nation. You’re on a divine assignment, sent forth, not in your own name, but in that matchless Name of Jesus.

Luke’s report in Acts 3 about Peter and John is a detailed example of men who dared to use the Name of Jesus. Incidentally, this was their first miracle after Jesus’ ascension. When Peter met the crippled man at the gate of the temple called Beautiful, he said to him "…such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk" (Acts 3:6). The man couldn’t walk in his own name or in his father’s name. Niether was he able to walk in Herod’s, Pilate’s or Caesar’s name; but he did in the Name of Jesus! Acts 3:7-8 says Peter "…took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked…."

The reason for the failure, defeat, sickness and weakness in the lives of many people is failure to trust and use the Name of Jesus in the crises of life. Psalm 20:7 AMP says "Some trust in and boast of chariots and some of horses, but we will trust in and boast of the name of the Lord our God." Put the Name of Jesus to work in every area of your life. The Word says to do all things in the Name of Jesus (Colossians 3:17).

Prayer Dear Father, I thank you for the power in the Name of Jesus, and the authority I have to use that Name against the devil, sickness, disease and everything that hurts or binds. By the power of that Name, I declare that I’m living the higher life of glory that you prearranged for me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Acts 3:16; John 16:23; Philippians 2:10

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 4, Genesis 9-11

2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 2:13-23, Genesis 4

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL:

SAFEGUADED BY THE ANOITING:

THURSDAY_3RD-JANUARY_2013.

****WITH PASTOR ANITA****

Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time….But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things (1 John 2:18-20).

The Scripture reveals that in the last days there’ll be many antichrists; many who’ll come in their own names with false doctrines. A false doctrine isn’t necessarily the opposite of the Gospel; it’s a perversion of truth. It may sound very close to the Gospel, but it’s not the Gospel. Its aim is to deceive and lure people away from the true Gospel of our Lord Jesus. As a child of God, however, you don’t have to fret over how many antichrists, false preachers, and false teachers there are out there. This is because your heart and mind are anointed to know the truth. By the anointing of the Holy Spirit that’s on your life, you’re able to tell right from wrong, and to discern the right teaching of the Gospel from false doctrines. 1 John 2:27 tells us, "But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him." The Holy Spirit is the Lord of the Church, and when you hear the Word of God, under the anointing of the Holy Spirit, the same Spirit in you will bear witness with your spirit that what you’re hearing is the truth. That’s why you can’t be deceived or swayed from the truth that you’ve come to believe, because there’s a special ability from the Holy Spirit that makes you know the truth. If you’d yield to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, you won’t find yourself being deceived by the evil one, neither will you make the wrong choices, decisions and investments in life. That anointing is activated by the recognition and acknowledgment of His Word in your life.

PRAYER: Dear Father, I thank you for the anointing of the Holy Spirit in my life. That anointing teaches me all things and reveals the realities of the kingdom to my spirit. I declare that I can do all things by your ability at work in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY: Philemon 1:6(AMP) 6 [And I pray] that the participation in and sharing of your faith may produce and promote full recognition and appreciation and understanding and precise knowledge of every good [thing] that is ours in [our identification with] Christ Jesus [and unto His glory].

Born To Love Like Him · Wednesday,
December 26th

Pastor Chris
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one anothe (John 13:34).

Back in the Old Testament, God gave the Israelites several commandments or laws, which He instructed them to obey as a condition for enjoying the blessings of the covenant He had with Abraham.
However, in the New Testament, the Lord Jesus Christ, before His crucifixion, said in John 13:34, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." He brought in a new commandment which effectively abolished the previous commandments of the Old Testament (Ephesians 2:15). This new commandment is that we should love one another as He has loved us.

Ater the Lord gave this commandment He proceeded to die on the cross for us, and God raised Him from the dead. He rose up from the dead with a new life, and God said to Him, "…Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee" (Hebrews 5:5). He is thus the head of the new creation; we’re born of Him to love like Him. Ephesians 5:1-2 tells us to be imitators of God, and "…walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour."
We can emulate our heavenly Father to walk in love because His love is in us. Romans 5:5 says, "And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." God has put His love in your heart so you can love the same way He does, and so fulfil the new commandment to love one another. There’s so much to thank the Lord for, so lift your hands in worship and love to Him right now, and less Him for who He is. Worship Him passionately from your spirit as you anticipate the greater glory
and victories He has in store for you in the coming year.

Prayer
Dear Father I thank you for your grace,kindness, and love. I thank you for your
mighty hand upon my life, and the ability of the Spirit to excel and prosper in all things. I receive in my spirit the wisdom, counsel and guidance I need to live triumphantly today, and dominate the circumstances of life, in the Name of Jesus. Amen.
fu r t h e r s t u d y: 1 Peter 2:5; Ezekekiel 45 elation 8:4 .
Good morning and have praiseworthy day and experience! God bless u

Four Vital Activities Of The Human Spirit – Sunday December 30, 2012 – Pastor Anita

For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come (1 Timothy 4:.

There are four vital spiritual activities, which if practiced consistently, would cause your recreated human spirit to bring forth good things. In no particular order, first among these is meditation on the Word. Meditation helps drive the Word of God deep into your spirit; it causes the Word to be seasoned in your spirit, causing it to grow mightily in you and prevail.

Meditation on the Word is a sure recipe for a successful life: “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success” (Joshua 1:. As you meditate on the Word, your profiting – your success, prosperity and total well being will become evident to all (1 Timothy 4:15).

Another important spiritual activity you must constantly engage in is prayer. Prayer conditions your spirit and improves the quality of your personality. Through prayer, you’re able to effect changes in the realm of the spirit and cause circumstances to align with God’s perfect will for your life. No wonder Jesus said in Luke 18:1, “…that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” Praying with Pastor Chris on Yookos every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday has become valuable to Christians all over the world because it has birthed a new understanding and re-culturing on prayer; be sure to get involved.

Another vital activity of the human spirit is speaking in tongues. 1 Corinthians 14:4 says. “He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself…” The word “edifieth” also means to improve, build up, strengthen, and energize. This is what speaking in tongues does for your spirit: it improves, builds, strengthens, and energizes you.

Finally, speaking the Word at all times: this is another vital activity of the human spirit, and it’s of equal importance. The Lord emphasized this when He admonished Joshua to keep the Word in his mouth at all times (Joshua 1:. You don’t have to wait for calamity to strike before you speak the Word. Take out time every day for “talking sessions”; speak God’s Word concerning your success, victory, prosperity, and health! The Bible says, “A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things…” (Matthew 12:35). Bring forth the good things inside you through these activities of your human spirit!

Confession
My life is for the glory of God! I dwell in the secret place of the most high, and abide under the shadow of the Almighty, in health, safety, prosperity and joy, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study
2 Peter 1:8
For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan: Revelation 21; Malachi 1-2
2 Year Reading Plan: Revelation 22:1-10; Malachi 1-2

REFUSE TO BE LIMITED!
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28TH

PASTOR CHRIS

Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth (Mark 9:23).

Many years ago, malaria and tuberculosis were said to be medically incurable, until medical research developed a cure for them. Presently, H.I.V/ AIDS is considered incurable because medical science is yet to come up with a proven cure. This goes to show that the tag of incurability is another term for the limitation of human knowledge and understanding. Never accept from anyone that your condition is hopeless or incurable. Refuse to have your life limited by the limited understanding of others.

For the Christian, there’s no such thing as a hopeless situation, neither is there any problem that’s insurmountable.­ No sickness can be said to be incurable; not when you have your switch of faith turned on. Consider for example, the story of the woman with the issue of blood.

She suffered hemorrhage for twelve years and was given up to die. Her condition was certified medically incurable. Being a wealthy woman, she spent all her livelihood on medical bills until she became impoverished, and instead of getting better, her condition grew worse.

Such was the "hopelessness" of her situation until she heard about Jesus. Hope rose up in her and she said, "…if I may but touch his clothes, I shall be whole" (Mark 5:28).

She proceeded, against the odds, to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment and instantly, "…the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague" (Mark 5:29). The Master took note of this and commended her faith, saying, "…Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague" (Mark 5:34).

This clearly demonstrates the overcoming power of faith. No wonder Jesus said, "all things are possible to him that believeth" (Mark 9:23).

If you've found yourself in a dire situation which man’s wisdom or scientific knowledge has termed hopeless or incurable, refuse to be daunted. Trouble may come, but you must refuse to faint in the day of adversity (Proverbs 24:10). Never accept any situation as impossible. You can change anything by putting your faith to work.

PRAYER

Dear heavenly Father, what a blessed hope I have in you! I’m so grateful to be a partaker of the divine life! Now, every fear is gone and I’m full of faith, dominating my world and maintaining my victory in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

Mark 11:24
Amplified Bible (AMP)
24 For this reason I am telling you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe (trust and be confident) that it is granted to you, and you will [get it].

John 14:14
Amplified Bible (AMP)
14 [Yes] I will grant [I Myself will do for you] whatever you shall ask in My Name [as presenting all that I Am].

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

IMMERSED INTO CHRIST!

THURSDAY_DECEMBER_27TH 2012

****WITH PASTOR ANITA****

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ (Galatians 3:26-27).

The word "baptize" is from the Greek word "baptizo" which means to dip into or to immerse completely in. This means everyone who’s born again has been dipped into or completely immersed in Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12:13, the Apostle Paul reveals "For byone Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit." Notice it says, "Forby one Spirit are we all baptized…." This means the HolySpirit is the One who baptized us into Christ. This is different from water baptism, which was only symbolic of a reality that had taken place in a man’s spirit. The Christian’s baptism into Christ is not a theory or a figure of speech, buta tangible reality. Romans 6:3-4says "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we alsoshould walk in newness of life." Romans 10:9 says, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." The moment you openly declared that Jesus Christis your Lord, that He died for you, and that God raised Him from the dead, the Holy Spirit didsomething in your life. He awakened you to the fatherhoodof God, and made you one with Him. He baptized you into Christ, and the Christ-life was imparted to your spirit. This is eternal life. Your spirit was thus, recreated. The union between you—the new creation—and Christ is more than a physical union. It’s the union of your spirit with the Lord. Your spirit has become one with Christ.This is Christianity! It’s the life of Christ in a man, and the life of the man in Christ.

CONFESSION Dear Father, I thank you because you live in me and Iin you. In you I live, and move, and have my being. Therefore, my life is supernatural and of unending victory having been completely immersed inChrist. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY Colossians 1:27 Amplified Bible (AMP) 27 To whom God was pleased to make known howgreat for the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christwithin and among you, the Hope of [realizing the] glory.

1 Corinthians 12:13 Amplified Bible (AMP) 13 For by [means of the personal agency of] one [Holy] Spirit we were all, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free, baptized [and by baptism united together] into one body, and all made to drink of one[Holy] Spirit.

When is the next competition and how do i participate

Born To Love Like Him · Wednesday, December 26th · Page
Visits (334)
Pastor Chris
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one
another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another
(John 13:34).
Back in the Old Testament, God gave the Israelites
several commandments or laws, which He
instructed them to obey as a condition for enjoying
the blessings of the covenant He had with Abraham.
However, in the New Testament, the Lord Jesus
Christ, before His crucifixion, said in John 13:34, "A
new commandment I give unto you, That ye love
one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love
one another." He brought in a new commandment
which effectively abolished the previous commandments of the Old
Testament (Ephesians 2:15). This new commandment is that we
should love one another as He has loved us.
After the Lord gave this commandment He proceeded to die on the
cross for us, and God raised Him from the dead. He rose up from the
dead with a new life, and God said to Him, "…Thou art my Son, this
day have I begotten thee" (Hebrews 5:5). He is thus the head of the
new creation; we’re born of Him to love like Him. Ephesians 5:1-2
tells us to be imitators of God, and "…walk in love, as Christ also hath
loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to
God for a sweet-smelling savour."
We can emulate our heavenly Father to walk in love because His love
is in us. Romans 5:5 says, "And hope maketh not ashamed; because
the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which
is given unto us." God has put His love in your heart so you can love
the same way He does, and so fulfil the new commandment to love
one another.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL:

CHRISTMAS: A CELEBRATION OF CHRIST IN YOU!

TUESDAY_25TH_DECEMBER_2012 ****WITH PASTOR CHRIS****

To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).

Colossians 2:9 tells us that in Christ Jesus dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; that includes the Father, and the Holy Spirit. This is the reason when you call the Name Jesus, the Holy Spirit, who is the power of God and the doer of God’s works, goes into action. He answers to that Name. Colossians 1:19 (AMP) says, "For it has pleased [the Father] that all the divine fullness (the sum total of the divine perfection, powers, and attributes) should dwell in Him permanently." Jesus never needed to get wisdom, knowledge or power from anywhere else but inside Him. In Him"… are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3). He never needed more of God, because the totality of Deity was inside Him. This is the quality of the Person of Jesus; He is "loaded" with God! No wonder He declared of Himself: "For even as the Father has life in Himself and is self-existent, so He has given to the Son to have life in Himself and be self-existent" (John 5:26 AMP). He is everything that God is. In the same vein, if you’ve received Christ into your life, you have everything! Christ in you is all you need! You don’t need to source for wisdom, knowledge or power from outside anymore; look inwards! The Bible says you’re complete in Christ (Colossians 2:10); that means you’re perfected in Him, who is the full representation or icon of the Godhead. There’s nothing lacking or missing in your life today, because there’s nothing you didn’t get in Christ Jesus. This is the real meaning of Christmas; it’s the celebration of the life of Christ in you. Christmas means much more than the birth of the infant Jesus in a manger; it’s the celebration of Christ and all that we are and have in Him. The Word declares that as He (Jesus) is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17). In Christ, we have EVERYTHING we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). Let this mind be in you as you celebrate today.

CONFESSION: Christ, the embodiment of all knowledge, wisdom and power is alive and exalted in me, working and touching lives through me! I manifest His wisdom, ability and power; and I’m full of His might today! Blessed be God!

FURTHER STUDY: Acts 10:38 Colossians 1:27

Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

A Gospel of Love

Saturday December 22nd, 2012

Scriptural Reference

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life
(John 3:16).

The Gospel of Jesus Christ, which has been committed to our trust, is a Gospel of love. Your passion as a child of God is to see to it that you share this message of His great love with those who don’t know Him. What a glorious Christmas it would be for you, and for Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome
Theme: A Gospel of Love
Date: Saturday December 22nd, 2012

Scriptural Reference: John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

The Gospel of Jesus Christ, which has been committed to our trust, is a Gospel of love. Your passion as a child of God is to see to it that you share this message of His great love with those who don’t know Him. What a glorious Christmas it would be for you, and for the one to whom you take the light of the Gospel, and lead to Christ this season!

If the Gospel means anything to you, you must boldly and consistently share it with others. The Apostle Paul’s undying passion for the Lord translated into his passion for the Gospel and for the souls of men. In spite of the great persecutions he suffered, he declared, "I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel…" (Romans 1:14 -15).

Recognize that you’re also a debtor to your world; you owe the people in your sphere of contact this message of God’s great love for mankind. You could be the only one with the opportunity to touch their lives with the Gospel. If you’re a miner, take the Gospel to your world of miners. If you’re a pilot, take the Gospel to your world of pilots. Whatever you do, and wherever you are, preach the Gospel. Be instant in season and out of season.

God has said, "…all souls are mine..." (Ezekiel 18:4), but it’s your responsibility to bring them to Him. Tell them God loves them so much He sent Jesus to die for them (John 3:16). All they have to do now is to confess Jesus as their Lord (Romans 10:9), and they’ll be saved and automatically delivered from all the powers of darkness and be translated into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son (Colossians 1:12).
Make this Christmas count for someone else by helping them receive the life of Christ. Let there be joy in heaven today, as you bring someone out of darkness into God’s marvellous light.

CONFESSION:
I refuse to be quiet about the Gospel, for it’s the power of God unto salvation. That power is released to turn men from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God as I proclaim the Gospel today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: Romans 1:16; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; Acts 26:16-18
the one to whom you take the light of the Gospel, and lead to Christ this season!

If the Gospel means anything to you, you must boldly and consistently share it with others. The Apostle Paul’s undying passion for the Lord translated into his passion for the Gospel and for the souls of men. In spite of the great persecutions he suffered, he declared, "I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel…" (Romans 1:14 -15).

Recognize that you’re also a debtor to your world; you owe the people in your sphere of contact this message of God’s great love for mankind. You could be the only one with the opportunity to touch their lives with the Gospel. If you’re a miner, take the Gospel to your world of miners. If you’re a pilot, take the Gospel to your world of pilots. Whatever you do, and wherever you are, preach the Gospel. Be instant in season and out of season.

God has said, "…all souls are mine..." (Ezekiel 18:4), but it’s your responsibility to bring them to Him. Tell them God loves them so much He sent Jesus to die for them (John 3:16). All they have to do now is to confess Jesus as their Lord (Romans 10:9), and they’ll be saved and automatically delivered from all the powers of darkness and be translated into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son (Colossians 1:12).
Make this Christmas count for someone else by helping them receive the life of Christ. Let there be joy in heaven today, as you bring someone out of darkness into God’s marvellous light.

CONFESSION:
I refuse to be quiet about the Gospel, for it’s the power of God unto salvation. That power is released to turn men from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God as I proclaim the Gospel today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Romans 1:16; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; Acts 26:16-18

Its actuallg the love of christ thst keeps christians in churvh not damnation or fear of hell

The Heavenly Man

Friday December 21, 2012

Pastor Anita

The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly (1 Corinthians 15:47-48).

In the above verses, the scripture refers to two kinds of men: the earthly man and the heavenly man. The earthly man was made in the image of the first Adam, who is the progenitor of the human race. On the other hand, the heavenly man, is made in the image of the Second Adam – the Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:48 says “As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they that are heavenly.”

Let’s review the words of Jesus to Nicodemus in John 3:3 AMP: “…I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, that unless a person is born again (anew, from above), he cannot ever see (know, be acquainted with, and experience) the kingdom of God.” Notice the underlined words. This shows that the one who is born again is born from above; he’s a heavenly man. This is the big thing about Christianity. Christianity is not a religion; it’s love’s manifestation of divinity in humanity by the law of faith.

Your understanding of this truth will put springs in your steps as you declare boldly that you’re like Jesus, because you’re born in His image. Jesus is the prototype of the new race of heavenly men. Hebrews 12:22-23 says “But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven…” And in Philippians 3:20 ASV, the Apostle Paul reiterates this reality in saying, “…our citizenship is in heaven…”

You have the assurance today that heaven is your homeland; that’s the place of your nativity. Heaven is a real place with a real agenda. When you have this consciousness, you’ll understand that you’re not in this world to merely balance the ecosystem but to fulfil divine destiny. The Kingdom of heaven is running an agenda in this world, and you’re a necessary part of it.

Confession
I am a legal representative of the heavenly Kingdom, called and separated from the world. I’m from above; therefore, I’m not subject to the distracting elements and corrupting influences of this world. I belong in God’s Kingdom, where I enjoy the full blessings and privileges of my kingdom inheritance.

Further Study
2 Corinthians 5:20
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

Psalms 87:5
And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her.

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan: Revelation 13:1-10; Daniel 5-6
2 Year Reading Plan: Revelation 17:1-10; Haggai 1

Rhapsody of Realities Pastor Anita Oyakhilome

Declare Your Victory – Saturday December 15, 2012 – Pastor Anita

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord (2 Corinthians 3:18).

When all hope seems lost and it appears the walls are closing in on you, don’t despair; look to the Word. Looking to the Word doesn’t mean staring at the pages of your Bible; it means to study, meditate, act and depend on its message to you. Through meditation, you give opportunity for the Word to permeate your spirit, soul and body.

When you face challenges, boldly declare your victory over the situation. God’s Word spoken forth in faith will always prevail. So voice your faith and declare your victory in the face of adversity. This was what David did when he confronted Goliath. He made bold declarations of his victory over the giant, before he went against him: “This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcasses of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel” (1 Samuel 17:46). How inspiring!

David’s confidence wasn’t in his physical skill, agility or strength, but in”…the Name of the LORD of host” (1 Samuel 17:45). Make your boast in the Lord by declaring your victory ahead of the battle. Remember, you’re more than a conqueror. Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. You can do all things through Christ, which strengthens you and causes you to always triumph gloriously.

You’re a victor in Christ Jesus. You can’t be defeated. No wonder the Apostle Paul said in Romans 8:35-37, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or unclothedness, or peril, or sword...Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”

Prayer Dear Father, I thank you for your power and ability at work in me. Thank you for making me a victor in Christ Jesus. Irrespective of the adversities that may come my way, my victory is assured, because you’re my sufficiency, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study 2 Corinthians 3:4-5 And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;

2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.

Daily