Speak Life Always - Thursday, November 16th

Pastor Chris

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

Proverbs 15:4 says, “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.” The things you say are so important; you can make or mar your life with the words you speak. The current situation that you find yourself in, whether good or bad, is the result of the words you’ve spoken in the past. Jesus said you shall have whatsoever you say (Mark 11:23). So, endeavour to always say the right things, particularly, things that are consistent with the divine life that you received in Christ Jesus.

Look at our opening verse again; it says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue….” You can bring death into your life, family, business and finances, if all you think and talk about all the time is death. Likewise, you can speak life into your body and circumstances, and be full of health and life.

A dear lady shared her testimony in one of our meetings. She had been in a terrible state, and wanted to die because of her condition. She’d been involved in a ghastly accident and was in a coma, but she could hear everything going on around her. She heard the doctor talking about her prognosis, which was very bad, and she wanted to die because she thought she would never be normal again. While she was contemplating death, God said to her, “You cannot die now,” and she thought, “What?”

Then in her spirit, she heard the Lord say, “If you really want to die, it’ll take you some time. You’d have to reverse the order, because you’ve spoken so much life prior to this time; therefore, to die, you’d have to start talking death to undo the life you’ve been speaking.” Hallelujah! The power of our words!

It’s so important for you to speak life always. The Bible says, “For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned” (Matthew 12:37).

Confession..
Eternal life is at work in me. I’m full of life; my entire being is inundated with divine life and energy. I’ve passed from death unto life. I am the glory of God, a life-giver, and dispenser of eternal verities! Hallelujah!

Further Study :

James 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion [is] vain.

Philemon 1:6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 4:6 Let your speech [be] alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 12:14-29, Ezekiel 13-15

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 12:20-29, 1 Chronicles 16

Gombs:

Speak Life Always - Thursday, November 16th

Pastor Chris

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

Proverbs 15:4 says, “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.” The things you say are so important; you can make or mar your life with the words you speak. The current situation that you find yourself in, whether good or bad, is the result of the words you’ve spoken in the past. Jesus said you shall have whatsoever you say (Mark 11:23). So, endeavour to always say the right things, particularly, things that are consistent with the divine life that you received in Christ Jesus.

Look at our opening verse again; it says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue….” You can bring death into your life, family, business and finances, if all you think and talk about all the time is death. Likewise, you can speak life into your body and circumstances, and be full of health and life.

A dear lady shared her testimony in one of our meetings. She had been in a terrible state, and wanted to die because of her condition. She’d been involved in a ghastly accident and was in a coma, but she could hear everything going on around her. She heard the doctor talking about her prognosis, which was very bad, and she wanted to die because she thought she would never be normal again. While she was contemplating death, God said to her, “You cannot die now,” and she thought, “What?”

Then in her spirit, she heard the Lord say, “If you really want to die, it’ll take you some time. You’d have to reverse the order, because you’ve spoken so much life prior to this time; therefore, to die, you’d have to start talking death to undo the life you’ve been speaking.” Hallelujah! The power of our words!

It’s so important for you to speak life always. The Bible says, “For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned” (Matthew 12:37).

Confession..
Eternal life is at work in me. I’m full of life; my entire being is inundated with divine life and energy. I’ve passed from death unto life. I am the glory of God, a life-giver, and dispenser of eternal verities! Hallelujah!

Further Study :

James 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion [is] vain.

Philemon 1:6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 4:6 Let your speech [be] alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 12:14-29, Ezekiel 13-15

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 12:20-29, 1 Chronicles 16

The word of God is true and living. When I had a ghastly motor accident on 28/07/2017, Even as am in pain the word of God came to me and say to me " declare the word of God upon your life that you shall not die but shall live" immediately I spoke the word admits pain. indeed the word works am alive and hearty. NB: It happened in Obulu-okiti close to Asaba

oyonu:


The word of God is true and living. When I had a ghastly motor accident on 28/07/2017, Even as am in pain the word of God came to me and say to me " declare the word of God upon your life that you shall not die but shall live" immediately I spoke the word admits pain. indeed the word works am alive and hearty. NB: It happened in Obulu-okiti close to Asaba

You're blessed


Spread the word so that others can be saved

Spirit And Life- Friday, November 17th

Pastor Chris

He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water (John 7:38).

As God’s children, we’re all called into the ministry, and the Lord Jesus gives us a good definition of what Christian ministry is in our opening verse. Ministry is the outflow of the rivers of living water in you. The thirty-ninth verse explicates: “But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.”

The “rivers of living water” He’s talking about is the Holy Spirit. So, ministry is actually the outpouring of the life of the Spirit of God from within you! You can’t give what you don’t have. He says out of your belly, meaning out of your innermost being, shall flow rivers of living water. This means the Holy Spirit pours out Himself through you.

Talking to His disciples earlier in John 6:63, the Master said, “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” This is wonderful! The Master’s words weren’t ordinary; they were spirit and life. Make this your objective in life, to speak words that are spirit and life. Don’t seek to be an orator or a good preacher; seek to release words of life. That’s what makes the difference. That’s how you can stand before others, and as you speak, miracles happen; blessings abound.

A young girl told a story. She was brought into the church, and as she sat listening to the teaching, not even knowing what I was saying, an evil spirit that had bound her for so many years suddenly went out of her. She could see the evil spirit looking at her and threatening her from a distance, but that devil couldn’t stay. “The devil was afraid of what Pastor Chris was saying and then ran out of the church,” she said.

Someone else testified that he’d been sick for so long but noticed that every time he came to church, he got better. So he decided to keep coming, until one day, he realized he was completely normal. This is so because the words we speak are spirit and they’re life! And until you minister spirit and life, you’re not fulfilling your role. We’re life-giving spirits. Hallelujah!

Prayer...
Thank you Father for the honour to be useful to you in ministry. I yield myself fully to your Spirit and ask that you be pleased to use me continually for your glory in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
1 Corinthians 2:4
And my speech and my preaching [was] not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:

1 Peter 4:11
If any man speak, [let him speak] as the oracles of God; if any man minister, [let him do it] as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* Hebrews 13, Ezekiel 16

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 12:30-41, 1 Chronicles 17

Guidance And Direction Through the Word - Saturday, November 18th .

Pastor Chris

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:105).

What many require the most in life are guidance and direction. Often, many find themselves in a quagmire, unsure of what steps to take; they pray for guidance, but even when they pray, they’re not sure when God is talking to them. If you want to know and hear the voice of God more clearly, it’s very simple; study His Word. God’s Word has the ability to bring illumination to your spirit and give you insight into reality.

God’s Word reveals the truth regarding all things, being the true light (John 1:9). Therefore, let it guide you in all your affairs, and you’ll deal wisely in life. The scriptures were given to make you wise unto salvation (2 Timothy 3:15). That means, through the Word, you’re made wise to glorify God. Therefore, study and meditate on the Word, and you’ll always walk in divine wisdom. Wisdom is a force; it guides you in the direction of God’s perfect will.

2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The more you study and meditate on the Word, the wiser, smarter, and more sagacious you become. Your wisdom can’t be resisted because you speak from beyond this world. Some may not understand you but every time you speak, they can’t forget your words; they hear wisdom and see wisdom in you. You become a problem solver; an answer to the cry of many.

Confession...
My path is illuminated with the light of God’s Word; therefore, I do not lack direction. I’m an answer from God. Everywhere I go, I’m relevant, because I’m loaded with divine wisdom and insight to provide the right answers to questions, and solutions to problems. I’m indeed an answer to the cries of millions all over the world because I function in the wisdom of God. Hallelujah!

Further Study :
Joshua 1:8
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.

1 Timothy 4:15
Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.

John 8:12
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* James 1, Ezekiel 17-19

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 12:42-50, 1 Chronicles 18

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL (NOVEMBER PDF => http:///2iK6qRp)*

*FAITH IS BEYOND REASON .*

Sunday, November 19th .
Pastor Chris

_*Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).*_

Faith is a very simple Kingdom principle to understand and apply. The reason some Christians struggle with their faith is that they try to reason out the Word of God with their minds. Faith is the response of the human spirit, not the mind, to the Word of God. Faith is of the spirit, not the senses. The Bible says, _*“With the heart, man believeth…”*_ (Romans 10:10). You don’t believe with your mind, you believe with your heart—your spirit. You can reason with your mind, but faith isn’t in the realm of reason.

For example, if you’ve been educated in Biology or Medicine, you know that it’s absolutely impossible for a woman to conceive a child without a male sperm. How then can you reason out and explain the birth of Jesus Christ? It’s beyond human or natural comprehension. How can you explain the death, burial, resurrection, and glorious ascension of Jesus with the knowledge of science? You’ve got to accept what God said in His Word, and that’s faith. You take God at His Word, whether it makes sense to you or not.

Ephesians 1:3 says, _*“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.”*_ Don’t try to reason out how it happened or if this is really so; believe it and act accordingly. Acknowledge, and affirm that you’ve been blessed, not just with material things such as houses, cars, money, etc., but with all spiritual blessings, because God said so.

The blessings and realities of our transcendent life in Christ are beyond sense knowledge and can’t be subjected to empirical verification. Now, these blessings, though already spiritual realities, aren’t in physical shapes or forms that the mind can easily relate with or comprehend through reasoning. Therefore, to those who’re controlled by their minds, who live in the realm of the senses, these blessings aren’t “real,” until they can “see” or “touch” them. To them, “seeing is believing”; but that’s not Christianity.

In Christianity, “believing is seeing.” We believe and see the blessings as real because of what the Word says. Ours is the life of faith in the Word, through the Word, and by the Word.

*PRAYER*

*Dear Father, thank you for revealing your Word to my spirit and making me see clearly the blessed life you’ve given me in Christ, a life of faith beyond this world. I live in glory, victory and prosperity above this world and its systems, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.*

*FURTHER STUDY:* *||* *Hebrews 11:6* But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. *||*

*||* *John 20:29* Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed [are] they that have not seen, and [yet] have believed. *||*

*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

*1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* James 2-3:1-13,
Ezekiel 20-21

*2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 13:1-11,
1 Chronicles 19

*EXTRACT FROM:* http://app.rhapsodyofrealities.org/reader/328

*Act Now!!! Give someone the chance for a new start and fresh hope for tomorrow. Follow this link to Donate at least One Copy:* http:///ror_sponsor

*Be A Partner Of Rhapsody Of Realities Today!*

Faith Is Beyond Reason - Sunday, November 19th

Pastor Chris

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).

Faith is a very simple Kingdom principle to understand and apply. The reason some Christians struggle with their faith is that they try to reason out the Word of God with their minds. Faith is the response of the human spirit, not the mind, to the Word of God. Faith is of the spirit, not the senses. The Bible says, “With the heart, man believeth…”(Romans 10:10). You don’t believe with your mind, you believe with your heart—your spirit. You can reason with your mind, but faith isn’t in the realm of reason.

For example, if you’ve been educated in Biology or Medicine, you know that it’s absolutely impossible for a woman to conceive a child without a male sperm. How then can you reason out and explain the birth of Jesus Christ? It’s beyond human or natural comprehension. How can you explain the death, burial, resurrection, and glorious ascension of Jesus with the knowledge of science? You’ve got to accept what God said in His Word, and that’s faith. You take God at His Word, whether it makes sense to you or not.

Ephesians 1:3 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.” Don’t try to reason out how it happened or if this is really so; believe it and act accordingly. Acknowledge, and affirm that you’ve been blessed, not just with material things such as houses, cars, money, etc., but with all spiritual blessings, because God said so.

The blessings and realities of our transcendent life in Christ are beyond sense knowledge and can’t be subjected to empirical verification. Now, these blessings, though already spiritual realities, aren’t in physical shapes or forms that the mind can easily relate with or comprehend through reasoning. Therefore, to those who’re controlled by their minds, who live in the realm of the senses, these blessings aren’t “real,” until they can “see” or “touch” them. To them, “seeing is believing”; but that’s not Christianity.

In Christianity, “believing is seeing.” We believe and see the blessings as real because of what the Word says. Ours is the life of faith in the Word, through the Word, and by the Word.


Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for revealing your Word to my spirit and making me see clearly the blessed life you’ve given me in Christ, a life of faith beyond this world. I live in glory, victory and prosperity above this world and its systems, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
Hebrews 11:6
But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

John 20:29
Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed [are] they that have not seen, and [yet] have believed.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: James 2-3:1-13, Ezekiel 20-21

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 13:1-11, 1 Chronicles 19

Responding To The Word - Monday , November 20th 2017.

Pastor Chris

for he hath said…So that we may boldly say… (Hebrews 13:5-6).

Speaking God’s Word and responding to God’s Word are two different things. Many think they’re the same, but they’re not. Most have never been taught how to respond to God’s Word and many don’t know what it is to actually speak God’s Word.

A good example of speaking the Word in response to a situation was the encounter between the Lord Jesus and Satan as recorded in Matthew 4:1-4 (read entire reference). The Master responded to Satan, quoting the scripture that says, “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). He spoke the Word; He said exactly what God already said through Moses, the Prophet.

So, when do you speak the Word? It’s mainly when Satan throws thoughts at you, and circumstances raise their voices against you.
You say, “It is written,” and then go ahead to say what is written; don’t try to put it in your own words. Say it exactly as it is in Scripture. We learnt that from Jesus. He didn’t try to paraphrase or put it in His own words; He said, “It is written,” and then quoted what was written. He wasn’t trying to give the interpretation; He gave the Word. It’s one of the reasons you must have the Word of God in you richly.

Then, how do you respond to the Word? Our theme verse shows us exactly how: it’s by the vocalization of your faith on the basis of what God has already said. Your confession, resulting from your faith in a specific word or statement from God is your response to that Word. That’s what changes your life and circumstances.

For example, the Word says in 1 John 4:4, “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” Your response should be, “Yes, I am of God and I’ve overcome Satan and the adversities of life, because greater is He that’s in me, than he that’s in the world.” Glory to God! That’s how you activate the power of the Word to produce what it talks about in your life.

Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for showing me the way to a life of continuous victory. I live above discouragement and the crippling principles of the world. As I speak the Word and respond to the Word in faith , I maintain my victory and dominion in Christ , today and always , Jesus ' Name . Amen .



Further Study :Romans 10:9-10 Hebrews 13:5-6

1 Year Bible Reading Plan :James 3:14-4:1-12Ezekiel 22-23

2 Year Bible Reading Plan :John 13:12-20 1 Chronicles 20

The Glory Of This Latter House - Tuesday, November 21st

Pastor Chris .

The glory of THIS LATTER HOUSE shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts (Haggai 2:9).

Notice the expression “The glory of this latter house” in our opening text. The emphasis here is on the word “this”, a demonstrative adjective that specifies what is being referred to. So, in our opening verse, it refers to the present: “this latter house”; it didn’t say, “the latter house.” They’re two different things. The prophet wasn’t talking about the glory of a house in the future, but the glory of “this present house,” the house currently being built.

It’s important to make this clarification, because oftentimes when these words are given in prophetic language, it’s often said that “The glory of the latter house, shall exceed the former,” but that’s not what God said. We have the tendency to always push it to the future, as though we have a plan to build the latter house someday; but it’s not futuristic!

There was a former house, but it was destroyed; hence, the need for this latter house. So, the prophet says the glory of this current house, that is, whatever you’re building right now, whatever projects or visions you’re involved in, expect that the glory will by far surpass anything you’ve ever seen or experienced. What house are you building now? Make it the glorious house of your dream now; don’t push it to the future.

You’ve been exposed to new ideas and innovations; put them to work; upgrade and surpass the old experience. In the previous vision, you had a pattern, and you were going to build it according to that pattern, but you’ve gained new insight, you’ve seen a bigger vision, so you need to upgrade and change the levels to conform to this new vision. You declare, “I make all things new in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ; I’m making adjustments for this new level.” Hallelujah!

Prayer...
Dear Father, you’ve made me the expression of your grace and righteousness. I have the nature of Christ; therefore, as I continue to behold your glory in your Word, I make progress from glory to glory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
1 Peter 1:10-11
Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace [that should come] unto you: 11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.

Isaiah 43:18-19
Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. 19 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.

Daily Scripture Reading :
1-Year Bible Reading Plan:James 4:13-5:1-20, Ezekiel 24-26

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:John 13:21-30, 1 Chronicles 21

Distributions of the Holy Ghost - Wednesday, November 22nd .

Pastor Chris.

God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will (Hebrews 2:4).

The word translated “gifts” here, doesn’t mean gifts like we have it in 1 Corinthians 12:4, where the word “gifts” is translated from “charisma.” Here, “gifts’ is translated from the Greek word “merismos,” and it means “distributions.” It’s more accurately rendered “distributions of the Holy Ghost,” instead of “gifts of the Holy Ghost,” in the KJV.

What do we mean by distributions of the Holy Ghost? Acts 5:12 says, _And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon’s porch.”

The Word states that many signs and wonders were done by the hands of the apostles. Who are we? We’re God’s outstretched hands. We’re bearers of the divine order. We serve the blessings of the New Testament and one of those blessings is the Holy Ghost; we “distribute” the Holy Ghost. It’s the reason we can lay hands on someone and the person receives the Holy Spirit.

Oftentimes, we say in prayer, “I bless you in the Name of Jesus. I bless you with the Word, and I bless you with the Holy Ghost.” That’s what we’re doing: distributing the blessings of the Spirit. When Jesus blew on His disciples in John 20:22 and said, “...Receive ye the Holy Ghost,” they received the spirit of understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures. That’s “distribution”; and He’s given us the grace to do likewise. Hallelujah!

Prayer...
Heavenly Father, I thank you for the privilege to be not just a beneficiary of the glorious blessings inherent in the New Testament, but also for the grace and ability to distribute these blessings to others. I pronounce blessings and the favour of God on my friends, family, colleagues, and associates today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :

2 Corinthians 3:4-6
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: 5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency [is] of God; 6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

Acts 8:14-17
Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: 15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 17 Then laid they [their] hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 1:1-21, Ezekiel 27-28

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 13:31-38, 1 Chronicles 22

Fulfil Your Ministry In The Gospel - Thursday, November 23rd

Pastor Chris

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24).

The Apostle Paul took personal responsibility for the Gospel. The Gospel to him was a sacred trust. He affirmed this in his epistle to Timothy, when he said, “According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust” (1 Timothy 1:11).

In 1 Corinthians 9:16, he said, “For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!” Again, in 1 Timothy 1:12, he declared, “…I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.” He knew he had to fulfil his ministry in the Gospel.

God has counted you faithful and committed the Gospel to your trust; therefore, fulfil your ministry in the Gospel. See the spread of the Gospel around the world as your sacred responsibility, and be passionate to do all it takes to fulfil it. Always remember that you’re fully responsible for those in your world, to bring them the message of salvation.

The Apostle Paul encountered several obstacles and challenges in the course of preaching the Gospel, but he remained undaunted. Even when the Holy Ghost expressly testified that he was going to suffer afflictions and be imprisoned as he preached the Gospel (Acts 20:22-23), he remained resolute and focused. His response is what we read in our opening verse. He was determined to finish his course with joy; very inspiring!

Your attitude should be the same. Refuse to be moved by the problems and the difficulties that you might face in preaching the Gospel. Always remember that God counted you faithful and that’s why He’s put you into the ministry. So, like the Apostle Paul, be determined to fulfil your ministry in the Gospel, and finish your course with joy.
Prayer..
Dear Father, thank you for setting me on the path of success, glory, victory and divine destiny in the Gospel! I’m steadfast and unmovable, walking preordained pathways, in and mightily helped to fulfil my ministry in the Gospel and finish my course with joy, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
Mark 16:15-18
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

1 Corinthians 9:16-17
For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! 17 For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation [of the gospel] is committed unto me.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 1:22-2:1-25, Ezekiel 29-30

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 14:1-9, 1 Chronicles 23

True Confession of The Word - Friday, November 24th

Pastor Chris

I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession (1 Timothy 6:13).

The word “Confession” here, is translated from the Greek word “Homologia,” which means to speak the same thing in consent. Confessing the Word means you agree with, and say what the Word of God says about you, Himself, your world or anyone or situation.

Why is it so important that we confess the Word boldly? It’s because our confessions are or create realities. Jesus said, “You shall have what you say” (Mark 11:23). What are the things you’re supposed to say? They’re the same things God has already declared in Scriptures.

Hebrews 13:5-6 says, “…for he hath said…So that we may boldly say…." The reason He said what He said is so that we may boldly say the same thing. God’s Word isn’t for you to hear and be quiet; you respond by saying the same thing. That’s true confession of the Word. God gave you the Word so you’ll boldly proclaim it.

Someone might ask, “Must I say it?” Emphatically yes! Otherwise, you’ll never experience the vital reality of the Word of God in your life. It’s the way to get your spirit to take a hold of the Word to become a reality in your life. The Christian life is lived by words; it’s for talkers; talkers of the Word. Perhaps you know someone who’s been attacked by cancer, diabetes or any kind of sickness; advise them not to keep quiet! They should have “talking sessions.” You say, “What if they’re too weak to talk?” Let them mutter or even whisper: “I have the life of God in me; the Spirit that raised up Jesus from the dead lives in me; therefore, my whole body is vitalized and energized with divine life. No sickness can stay in my body. The presence of God’s Spirit destroys every trace of sickness and disease in my body.”

If they mutter it long enough, it’ll turn into a shout, and soon enough they’ll bounce off that sickbed. God’s Word is medicine. It cures every infirmity and keeps you in divine health.

Prayer...
Dear Lord, thank you for the victorious and prosperous life I have in Christ. I live in health and in glory every day, because of your grace and righteousness in me. You’ve blessed me in all things, and with all things; therefore, I’m forever grateful! I’m guided by your wisdom to walk in, and fulfil your perfect will for me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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

1 Timothy 6:13
I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and [before] Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 3, Ezekiel 31-32

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 14:10-21, 1 Chronicles 24

Training Your Spirit For Success - Saturday, November 25th

Pastor Chris

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:.

In 1Thessalonians 5:23, the Apostle Paul, by the Spirit, penned down a beautiful prayer for the saints. But something worthy of note is the order. Let’s read: “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” The spirit comes first, the soul second, and third, the physical body. This is the Spirit’s order, and that shows us why we ought to give premium to the development of our human spirit.

Sadly, many are only concerned about what takes place in their physical bodies, or how their minds function, losing sight of the most important—their spirit. God is much more concerned about your spirit. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” “Heart” is synonymous with the human spirit, and that verse tells us that’s where the issues of life emanate from.

Prosperity, health, wellness, peace, victory, joy, and every good thing you could ever imagine are all domiciled in your spirit. Can you see why you should rather give more time to the development of your spirit? Jesus said in Luke 6:45, “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good….”

Your heart—your spirit—is a treasure house of good things. The ideas and thoughts that’ll make you creative and excellent in all you do, are resident in your spirit. The highest potentials of the human nature are in his spirit. So, keep educating your spirit with the Word. Do this through conscious study and meditation on the Scriptures. Fasting, prayer, and swiftly acting on spiritual instructions are also ways you train and exercise your spirit for success and excellence.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for your Spirit guides me in all things, and floods my heart with light that I may know and walk in your perfect will always. My faith prevails today, as I put your Word to work; your righteousness, and the forces of life within my spirit, are unleashed, and your glory is revealed in and through me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
Joshua 1:8
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.

Proverbs 20:27
The spirit of man [is] the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.

Proverbs 4:23 AMPC
Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 4, Ezekiel 33-34

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 14:22-31, 1 Chronicles 25

Spiritual Instructions - Sunday, November 26th

Pastor Chris

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:7)

Oftentimes, the Word of God comes to us as spiritual instructions. Proverbs 4:13 says, “Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.”

When an instruction of the Spirit is given, not only is it important that those instructions be understood, they must also be acted upon. Any form of resistance or disobedience is what God refers to as “witchcraft.” The Bible says, “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry…” (1 Samuel 15:23).

An example is King Saul. God instructed Saul to destroy the Amalekites and everything they had, including their animals, but he ignored the instruction. He didn’t destroy their sheep and oxen, because according to him, “…the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the Lord thy God in Gilgal” (1 Samuel 15:21).

That wasn’t the instruction. The instruction was clear: destroy everything. God didn’t say, “Preserve the choice animals for a sacrifice unto me.” It’s important that you follow God’s Word and His instructions to the letter. Do things His way, and you’ll always be a success. Saul lost the kingship over Israel forever, by choosing his own way and harkening to the voice of the people against God’s specific instruction (Read entire account in 1 Samuel 15:1-23).

Be wise. Even when God’s instructions are contrary to your human reasoning, be like Peter: act on them. When the Lord Jesus asked Peter to cast his net into the sea after a fruitless fishing expedition (Luke 5), even though the instruction was contrary to Peter’s reasoning, he obeyed and got a miracle for it. God’s instructions may come to you in the most unexpected way, follow them, because therein lies your promotion.

Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for the counsel I receive from your Word, and the divine instruction that comes to me daily by your Spirit. I’m a doer of your Word, not a hearer only; I take fast hold of instruction; my heart is attentive, and I act fast on your Word. Promotions, advancements, significant attainments are evident in my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
Proverbs 8:33
Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.

Proverbs 8:7-10
For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness [is] an abomination to my lips. 8 All the words of my mouth [are] in righteousness; [there is] nothing froward or perverse in them. 9 They [are] all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge. 10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.

Proverbs 10:17
He [is in] the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* 1 Peter 5, Ezekiel 35-36

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 15:1-10, 1 Chronicles 26

Consciously Live Right - Monday, November 27th

Pastor Chris

My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not (Proverbs 1:10).

The word “sinners” in our opening verse isn’t referring to the heathen or people who don’t know God. Rather, in this particular context, it refers to the children of Israel who weren’t living right; those that broke the Law, and weren’t living according to God’s instructions.

That’s why the Spirit instructs, “ Suppose they say , “Come on; let’s find someone to kill! Let’s attack some innocent people for the fun of it! They may be alive and well when we find them, but they’ll be dead when we’re through with them! We’ll find all kinds of riches and fill our houses with loot! Come and join us, and we’ll all share what we steal.” My child, don’t go with people like that. Stay away from them” (Proverbs 1:11-15 GNB). How instructive!

Being born again, you have the nature of God to do right, and must therefore consciously live right. You’ve been separated from the world, unto God, from unrighteousness unto righteousness, and from darkness to light. You might have been a gangster, but now that you’re born again, you can’t go back to such gangs. Yes, you may preach the Word to them, but you can’t roll or stick with them anymore. “...Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good” (Romans 12:9).

You must let go of any attitude that’s not of God. In 1 Corinthians 6:5-9, the Apostle Paul chided the Corinthian church because their way of life didn’t portray the new nature of righteousness they had received. As a Christian, it’s important you recognize that you’ve been completely delivered from the worldly lifestyle. You’re not the same man you were before you were born again. Your old nature of sin was supplanted by God’s nature of righteousness.

Recognize your new identity. See the picture of the new you and live accordingly. You’re a new creation. Your conduct must now reflect your new personality in Christ Jesus—your new nature—which is the nature of righteousness.

Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for I’m renewed in the spirit of my mind and perfected in righteousness and true holiness. Sin and all forms of ungodliness unrighteousness can’t and have dominion over me. My life is for your glory, and I walk worthy of you, pleasing you in all things, and bearing fruits of righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
1 Thessalonians 5:22-23
Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 4:23-29
And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. 25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with [his] hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. 29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* 2 Peter 1, Ezekiel 37-38

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 15:11-19, 1 Chronicles 27

Success by The Spirit - Tuesday, November 28th

Pastor Chris

And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God (Luke 16:15).

A man isn’t a success because other people say he is. A long list of academic, political, or business achievements isn’t essentially the definition of success. That a person is famous and celebrated by men doesn’t mean he or she is a success before God. A successful life, one that pleases God, is that which achieves those things that God has called the person to do.

Thus, the first thing is to know what God has called you to do. There’re people that are praised in this world and acclaimed to be successful, who will eventually end up in hell. Some are already there. It doesn’t matter what anyone says about you, the only one who matters is the one who made you. He’s the one who knew the purpose for which you were born. So, don’t live your life to the applause of men. Jesus said, “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36-37). He also said, “…for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God” (Luke 16:15).

What do you esteem in your life? What are the things that are important to you? What drives you? What are you passionate about? Until, and unless those things are the same things that God considers important, things of Kingdom and eternal value, they’re useless. Don’t run in vain; don’t put your efforts in the wrong things. Don’t seek to please men; do all things with only one goal in mind: to please the Lord Jesus and be a success for Him.

God wants us to be successful according to His definition of success, not according to man’s standards. He wants us to have a great life; He wants us to do excellently well; He wants us to be productive in our lives; producing results that glorify Him. And we can only do this by the power of God’s Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit, no matter what you do, it’ll be empty. True success is by the Spirit and in fulfilling God’s call, plan and purpose for your life.

Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for the power of the Holy Spirit at work in me, and manifested in all that I do, such that my works here on earth are sanctified before you, and impactful to bring many into your glorious salvation. I enjoy a life of unending victory, success, prosperity, health, and righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
Romans 15:16
That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.

John 15:5
I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

Luke 12:15
And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* 2 Peter 2, Ezekiel 39-40
2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 15:20-27, 1 Chronicles 28

Speak The Right Words - Thursday, November 30th .

Pastor Chris

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

Words are so important in the Kingdom of God. By your words, you can consistently chart your course in victory and success; you can recreate the circumstances of your life. The very principle of salvation is based on words. Romans 10:10 says, “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

It’s important to note the two keywords in the scripture above, “heart” and “mouth.” With your heart, you believe and are made right with God, but with your mouth, you confess your way into salvation.

The Greek word for mouth is “stoma.” Stoma means the edge or front of a weapon. That means your mouth was given to you as a weapon. It brings to mind what the Word says in Ephesians 6:17: “And take the helmet of salvation, and THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, WHICH IS THE WORD OF GOD.”

When you speak forth the Word of God, you’re applying a weapon. For instance, if you’re attacked by sickness, don’t just talk about it, or complain to people about the situation; cut it down with your mouth by speaking the Word of God that addresses the condition.

Remember, what you say comes to be. Your words either make or mar. Like the words of Jesus, your words are spirit and life. Jesus said you shall have what you say (Mark11:23). Ecclesiastes 8:4 says where the word of a king is, there’s power, and He’s made us kings and priests unto God (Revelations 1:6). We make decrees as kings, and we pray as priests, speaking forth God’s Word to bring about a transformation in our lives and that of others.

Use your mouth aright. Speak God’s Word only and always. Hallelujah!

Prayer...

Dear Father, I thank you for your precious Words that give life. Thank you for the glory and transformation I experience in my life as a result of your Word that dwells richly in my heart, and proceeds out of my mouth. I walk in divine wisdom, and in the joy and peace of the Spirit, today and always, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :

Isaiah 49:2
And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me, and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he hid me;

Revelation 19:15
And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.

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 Scriptures Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:1 John 1-2:1-14, Ezekiel 43-44

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:John 16:12-22, 2 Chronicles 1-2

We Live In Christ - Friday, December 1st

Pastor Chris

As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him (Colossians 2:6)

The New International Version’s rendering of our opening verse says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, CONTINUE TO LIVE IN HIM" Notice the underlined expression; it let’s us know that Christ is a place. You were born into the place called Christ when you were born again. He’s your home. Hallelujah!

The Bible says,“Therefore if any man BE IN CHRIST, he is a new creature…” (2 Corinthians 5:17). 1 Corinthians 12:13 says, “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body…” and that body is Christ. In the New Testament, wherever the word, “Christ” is used without “Jesus,” understand that the reference is beyond the person of Jesus Christ. Christ is a person and Christ is a place.

The Bible says God made Jesus to be the head of the body of Christ, and the Church is His body. So, you’ve been born into Christ; that’s where you live now and this must be your consciousness. Nothing that’s inconsistent with Christ and the Christ-life or nature should have a place in your life. The life you’ve received is one of absolute mastery—a life of righteousness, dominion, power, glory and excellence.

In Christ, not only have you been made righteous, you’ve also been made the righteousness of God. Therefore, living the righteous life that He gave us has become our natural way of life. In Christ—our home country—we express and manifest the righteousness of God. We bear fruits and produce works of righteousness.

In Christ, there’s no sin, sickness, disease, failure, poverty, defeat, weakness or death; all we have is health, joy, peace, success, strength, prosperity, beauty and life forevermore! We reign and rule over Satan and his cohorts of darkness. We’re more than conquerors. We’re forever triumphant. Nothing can defeat or put us down. That’s the life we have, and live in Christ. So, when you say, “I’m in Christ,” you ought to understand the import of that statement, for it means that’s where you live; your address is Christ!

Confession...
Christ is my life. Having received Jesus Christ as my Lord, I live triumphantly in righteousness, glory, health, dominion and authority! I walk, conscious of my oneness with the owner of the universe; therefore, the whole world is mine. Blessed be God!

Further Study :
1 Corinthians 1:30* But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.

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.

Acts 17:28
For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* 1 John 2:15-3:1-10, Ezekiel 45-46

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 16:23-33, 2 Chronicles 3-4

You Can Do All Things Through Christ - Saturday, December 2nd .

Pastor Chris

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Philippians 4:13).

What a glorious confession by the Apostle Paul in the verse above! What a mentality! Have you come to that point where you know that nothing is impossible unto you? You can do all things through Christ! It’s your heritage as a child of God, because He’s made you sufficient in His sufficiency.

Notice that Paul didn’t say, “I can do all things, because I’m so intellectually endowed”; no. It’s not about you; it’s about Christ: who He is in you, and His ministry in, and through you. If Paul could do all things through Christ, then having received Christ, you should affirm the same: “I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me.” It should be a consciousness by which you live every day.

The more you’re conscious of it, and affirm it, the more you programme yourself with the abilities of Christ. Suddenly, you’ll discover wonderful talents—uncanny abilities—unleashed from within you for things you never knew you could do. You’ll birth new dreams and create new frontiers and vistas of success for the Kingdom and in the world. Never confess inability, for you’re able to do all things. You’re up to any task.

Never see yourself as weak. Christ, the anointed One and His anointing, dwells in you in His fullness. Therefore, there’s no impossibility with you. Jesus said, “…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” (Mark 11:23). The Word says you can; therefore, don’t sell yourself short.

Rise up to the abilities of the Word of God in your spirit, and nothing shall be impossible to you. Glory to God!

Confession...
I’m alive to God, spirit, soul and body. Christ is in me; therefore, I’m loaded with limitless potentials and possibilities. Christ is my ability, my competence, and my all; I can do all things in His Name. Nothing is impossible to me, because greater is He that’s in me than he that’s in the world. Hallelujah!

Further Study :

Colossians 1:26
[Even] the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:
:27 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:

1 John 4:4
Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

2 Corinthians 3:5
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency [is] of God;

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:1 John 3:11-24, Ezekiel 47-48

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:John 17:1-10, 2 Chronicles 5-6

You Live In The Kingdom of God's Son - Sunday, December 3rd

Pastor Chris

Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son (Colossians 1:13).

You’ve been “delivered” from the power of darkness, and translated into the Kingdom of God’s love-son. You’re in that Kingdom now, not when you get to heaven. This is the reason it’s such an incongruity to accept or even think that the Christian needs deliverance from Satan.

Satan and the Christian aren’t in the same class. The Christian is in the Kingdom of God’s dear Son, too far and too high from Satan’s domain. Ephesians 2:6 says we’ve been raised up together, and made to sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. We’re seated together with Christ, far above principalities and powers. This is the reality.

As long as a Christian believes he or she is troubled by demons and therefore requires deliverance, that Christian has left his or her estate. The question to ask would be where did the demons meet him? Certainly not in Christ, where he’s supposed to be seated far above them! That’s the reason as a Christian, it’s important that you know the Word of God for yourself. You need to know who you are, what you have, where you are, and your abilities in Christ; you don’t need to be afraid of the devil! You’re superior to him.

If you’ve experienced spiritual attacks, perhaps it was because you didn’t know what to do. All you have to do is say, “In the Name of Jesus Christ, Satan, stop it! From this day, you’ll come back no more.” Surely, he’ll flee and return no more.

Being born again, you live in the presence of God, and function with the dominion of Christ. Live the victorious life that you’ve received in Him.

Prayer...
Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for transferring me from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. I thank you for bringing me into Christ . Christ is my place -my place of health, wealth, security, prosperity, and greatness. The prince of this world, Satan, has nothing in me. Glory to your name forever. Amen .


Further Study :
Ephesians 2:6 1 John 4:4

1 Year Bible Reading Plan :1 John 4 Daniel 1-2

2 Year Bible Reading Plan :John 17:11-21 2 Chronicles 7-8

The Programming Of The Word - Monday, December 4th

Pastor Chris

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 (Colossians 3:16).

1 Peter 1:23 says, “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” You’re a product of God’s incorruptible seed: His Word. Your origin is in the Word of God. Therefore, your life ought to be programmed with the Word. Some people programme their lives for failure, lack, poverty, and sickness by the words they speak.

Some parents, for example, talk negatively to their children. Imagine a parent telling a five-year-old child out of annoyance, “You’re mad.” When the child gets to fifteen and begins to act in a strange manner, the parents would begin to wonder what has gone wrong! They failed to realize that they had programmed that child wrongly by driving those negativities into his psyche and into his spirit—through their swear words, and he had no choice but to act them out, and become what they said he was.

Be careful what you say, because Jesus said, “For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned” (Matthew 12:37). Use the Word of God to programme yourself for greatness. God’s Word is powerful. From the Lord’s admonition in Joshua 1:8, we observe that success in life comes from meditating on God’s Word. It’s the reason we emphasize personal study of the Word.

Consciously soak your spirit with the Word. It’s the only way you can be programmed for excellence, and for the fulfilment of your destiny in Christ.

Confession....
I’m born of the incorruptible seed of the Word of God; therefore, my origin is in the Word. I stay connected to the Word, which programmes me for the glorious life in Christ. I succeed in all things, fulfilling my destiny in God, and riding on the high places of the earth by the Word of God, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :

Romans 12:1-2
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

2 Timothy 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Joshua 1:8 AMPC This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 5, Daniel 3-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 17:22-26, 2 Chronicles 9-10

The Reality Of Salvation - Tuesday, December 5th .

Pastor Chris

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (Romans 10:10)

Our opening verse lets us know how salvation is made real in our lives; it’s by declaring the lordship of Jesus over your life. Someone can “believe” that Jesus is the Son of God, and still go to hell. To believe is not enough. The Bible says even the devils also believe; they believe so much that they tremble, but that doesn’t mean they are, or can be, saved: “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble” (James 2:19).

If you believe that Jesus is the Son of God, and that He died for you, and that God raised Him from the dead, you must also confess His lordship over your life; otherwise, you’re not saved. A man’s good works won’t save him either. I know it’s Christmas time where many, including non-Christians, express goodwill and are generally kind to others. Nevertheless, salvation from God isn’t as a result of your good works; it’s by the grace of Jesus Christ: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

The Bible tells us of a certain Roman centurion, Cornelius by name, a devout and generous man; but he was not saved (Acts 10:2). The Lord sent an angel to him and said, “...Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved” (Acts 11:13-14). His good deeds didn’t save him. He had to receive salvation through the affirmation of words—words of the Gospel.

Receiving salvation is the greatest miracle of all. Once you believe in Jesus and confess that He’s Lord of your life, you receive the life and nature of God. In that split second, you’re awakened to the fatherhood of God; you become a legal and vital child of God; an associate of the God-kind, superior to Satan.

Share this good news with those you meet who haven’t yet known the Lord. Tell them they don’t have to try to atone for their sins or impress God with their works. All they need to experience the reality of salvation is to believe in Jesus Christ and confess His lordship over their lives.

Prayer...
I believe in my heart that God raised Jesus Christ from the dead, and I affirm that He’s Lord of my life. I live in the consciousness of all that the death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ brought to me. Health, wealth, eternal life, prosperity are all mine in Christ. My life is a manifestation of God’s glory and grace, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
Romans 10:6-10
But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down [from above] 7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) 8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, [even] in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 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. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Romans 10:13
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* 2 John, Daniel 5-6

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 18:1-9, 2 Chronicles 11-12

Righteousness Speaks - Thursday, December 7th

Pastor Chris

But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach (Romans 10:6-.

The phrase “the righteousness which is of faith” in the verse above is a rather interesting one. It’s rendered in the original Greek as “the ‘of faith’ righteousness,” thus, giving personality to the word, “righteousness”; and that righteousness, he says, “speaks.” “The ‘of faith’ righteousness” speaks. So, righteousness talks; it doesn’t keep quiet.

Often, we say, Christianity is for talkers; we speak righteousness, just as we speak wisdom. The righteousness of God is the truth of God; it’s the reality concerning any situation. So when we affirm the Word, we’re speaking righteousness, we’re speaking God’s language of faith. Romans 10:9 tells us how the “of faith righteousness” works. It says, “…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 word, “confess” is from the Greek “homologeo,” which means to speak the same thing in agreement. It means affirming the Word of God in agreement with God; not merely repeating it exactly in the same words, but making your own affirmations in agreement with His Word. If you’d confess or affirm the same things that God has said about you in His Word, they’d become real in your life.

For example, 2 Corinthians 3:5 says, “Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God.” You ought to, on the basis of what God has said, declare, “I’m sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I’m up to any task. I produce excellence and works of righteousness, because Christ is my ability and sufficiency.” That’s speaking the righteousness of God, the rightness of God about who you are, and what you can do in Christ.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for the privilege to affirm your Word concerning my life. I declare that I’m more than a conqueror, and can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! Your wisdom guides me today, and I’m led of the Spirit to produce excellence and works of righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.


Further Study :

Hebrews 13:5-6
[Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

1 Corinthians 2:12-13
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Jude, Daniel 9-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 18:19-27, 2 Chronicles 15-16

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody Of Realities Daily Devotional

Believe and Affirm - Friday, December 8th

Pastor Chris

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (Romans 10:10).

Man is a spirit being, and not a body. His physical body is his domicile, where the spirit, the real man, lives. Your body isn’t you. Your spirit is the real you, and every human spirit has the capacity to believe; you don’t have to see to believe.

This debunks the general assumption that “seeing is believing”; that’s a contradiction, because you don’t have to “believe” what you can see. If you were standing beside a red Toyota car, and there’s nothing wrong with your eyes, you won’t say, “I believe there’s a red Toyota car parked beside me”; you know that such a car is there because you can see it. You only have to believe something you haven’t seen.

The word “believe” is the verb of faith, and faith is a noun. The action of faith is believing. So, you don’t say “seeing is believing.” Believing is acting your faith; putting your faith to work. For example, 1 Corinthians 3:21 says, “Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours.” You have to believe that all things are yours just as the scripture says, then live and act accordingly, even though you’re yet to literally see all things physically in your possession. You ought to believe and voice what you believe.

For example, the Bible says, “In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:14). Having believed this scripture in your spirit, declare, “In Christ I have my redemption; my riddance. He plucks me out of trouble; I’m rid of every pain. I have my riddance from sin, darkness, and from all things that are inconsistent with the life of Christ.” Hallelujah!

You believe, and then you affirm. Believing is with your spirit, but the affirmation seals it: “We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak” (2 Corinthians 4:13).

Prayer...
*Dear Father, I thank you for the entrance of your Word into my spirit; I believe, and therefore speak that I’m an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ; the world belongs to me. I have no consciousness of lack or need, because the Lord is my shepherd; He’s made me self-sufficient. Blessed be God!

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

Romans 10:8-10
But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, [even] in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 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. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* Revelation 1, Daniel 11-12

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* John 18:28-40, 2 Chronicles 17-18

Our Superiority in Christ - Saturday, December 9

Pastor Chris

Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? (1 Corinthians 6:3).

The Bible says we shall judge angels and we’re also going to judge the world: “...Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world...” (1 Corinthians 6:2). “Does this mean that the Christian is superior to the angels of God?” Emphatically yes. We’re superior in the sense of our identity with Christ.

Moreover, we’re going to be seated with Christ to judge the world of the ungodly and also fallen angels, angels who didn’t obey God. Now, the angels that obeyed God don’t need to be judged; but we’re superior to them nonetheless.

It’s the reason we’re not to worship angels or pray to them or through them. The Christian is one with Christ: “But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:17). We’re joint-heirs with Christ. We’re God’s children, born of His Spirit, through the Word. And the angels are His servants. John 8:35 says, “And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.” It should be noted, however, that angels have supernatural power, whilst we have authority over them in the Name of Jesus.

Hebrews 1:13-14 says, “But to which of the angels said he at any time, sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” God’s holy angels are always at your service. They minister on your behalf; they wait on you to do whatever you want them to do that’s consistent with the word of God.
When you give the Word, they go into action to ensure what you say comes to pass.

The reason is because the angels are subject to Jesus Christ; they listen to and obey Him, and we’re in Him (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our superiority over angels, Satan, and circumstances is the result of our oneness with the Lord. Live and walk in the consciousness of your righteousness and authority in Christ, and the triumphant life you have received.

Prayer....
Dear Father, I thank you for bringing me into oneness with you. I take advantage of this oneness to rule and dominate my world. Only you counsel stands sure in my life and environment. Thank you Lord for the ministry of angels on my behalf, and my superiority over the devil and his cohorts. Greater is He that's in me, than he that’s in the world . Amen

Further Study:
Hebrews 1:2-8 1 John 4:17

1 Year Bible Reading Plan :Revelation 2:1-17 Hosea 1-2

2 Year Bible Reading Plan :John 19:1-12 2 Chronicles 19-20

*The Blessedness Of Giving -Monday Dec 11

Pastor Chris

While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease (Genesis 8:22).

One of the most profound principles in the Word of God that guarantees continuous increase in finances is the principle of giving.
Not too many people are as excited to give, as they’re to receive, mean while the promised blessing isn’t to the receiver but to the giver. Jesus said, “…It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

2 Corinthians 9:8 gives us clear insight about the blessedness of the giver. It says, “And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation]” (AMPC). The previous verse says, “…God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving].

Though the foregoing verses are about finances, Jesus in His sermon on the Mount was more general: “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again” (Luke 6:38). He said “Give!” Whatever good thing you desire in your life, sow the seed of it into the lives of others and it’ll be multiplied in your own life. Remember His words: “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them…” (Matthew 7:12).

Another thing your giving does is that it helps to increase the fruits of your righteousness: “Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness” (2 Corinthians 9:10). Your giving to the Lord connects you and everything that concerns you with blessings that aren’t only for today, but for tomorrow and for all time.

Each time you have the opportunity to give, be excited. Our lives as Christians should depict the character of our heavenly Father, who gave His precious Son, Jesus, for our salvation (John 3:16).

Confession...
Thank you precious Father, for blessing me in all things, and making me a blessing to my world. I declare that I'm mightily blessed today as I give, for you've said in your Word, it's more blessed to give, than to receive. Hallelujah .

Further Study :
2 Corinthians 8:9 2 Corinthians 9:7 Luke 6:38

1 Year Bible Reading Plan :Revelation 3:7-22 Hosea 7-10

2 Year Bible Reading Plan :John 19:23-37 2 Chronicles 23-24

Soul Winning : Our Conscious Lifestyle - Tuesday, December 12th .

Pastor Chris

And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18).

In Luke 19:10, Jesus said, “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” ; this is the summary of His mission on earth. Shortly before He ascended, He commissioned the Church to preach the Gospel to all men that they might receive eternal life. This is the ministry of reconciliation, which has been committed to our trust. Every Christian has a ministry to fulfil in soul winning; it’s our conscious lifestyle. We’re called to turn men to righteousness; to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God.

You’re a missionary Christian, commissioned to spread the message of salvation in your world and to the regions beyond. We’re in the last days, and the Lord is doing a quick work; He’s working with and through His Church to make His righteousness known, and establish His Kingdom in the earth and in the hearts of men. We’re His partners in soul winning and world evangelism. Don’t be complacent or wary about soul winning and evangelism.

Help someone receive salvation this Christmas season, as that’s the most precious gift you could give to anyone who’s not yet born again. Help those around you learn the Word; show them the path of life! Teach them how to live. That’s what Jesus said: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). He wants you to disciple those in your world; teach them the way of righteousness. This is your calling as a Christian.

There’s no better way to please the Lord and fulfil His will than leading sinners to receive salvation. The glory of God is manifested specially in the life of the one who’s a passionate soul winner. Daniel 12:3 says, “And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.” Make your life one of ever-increasing glory by making soul winning your conscious lifestyle.

Confession...

My life is one of ever-increasing glory, as I fulfil the ministry of reconciliation, bearing and dispensing the divine realities of the Gospel to my world. My words are anointed of the Spirit to bring salvation to the unsaved and impart to them the blessings of the Gospel, turning them from darkness to light, and bringing them into the glorious liberty of the sons of God, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :

Mark 16:15
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature
:16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

1 Corinthians 9:16
For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:Revelation 4, Hosea 11-14

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:John 19:38-42, 2 Chronicles 25

We Reign With Him And in Him - Wednesday, December 13th .

Pastor Chris

The LORD will send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thy enemies (Psalm 110:2).

The Lord Jesus is the Head over the Church, which is His body. The head and the body are one, and they go by the same name, which is Christ. Having been baptized into the body of Christ through the new birth, you’ve become one with Christ. What, and who He is, we have also become. Hallelujah!

No wonder the Bible says as He is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17). Ephesians 1:22 says God has put all things under His feet: “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church.” So, if Jesus is the head over all things, and we’re one with Him, then we’re also head over all things. We reign in Him and with Him. The Bible says, “…he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet” (1 Corinthians 15:25). This isn’t about Him reigning in heaven, but in the earth.

Isaiah 9:6 says, “…and the government shall be upon his shoulder….” Notice that the government is upon His shoulder; that is, His body—the Church. Therefore, when the Psalmist declared, “The LORD will let your power reach out from Zion, and you will rule over your enemies” (Psalm 110:2 CEV), it’s through the Church—His body—that He reigns and rules.

As a member of the body of Christ, you rule and reign in His stead. Revelation 5:10 says He’s made us kings and priests—to reign on the earth. Take your place of dominion, and reign in the Name of Jesus over circumstances. Refuse to be sick, broke, or poor. Refuse to be a victim. Take charge and win every day. Reign and rule in life as the king that you are.

Confession...
I take possession of all that belong to me in Christ, enjoying my triumphant life to the full, to the glory of His Name! I take my place of dominion, and reign in the Name of Jesus over circumstances. I’m in charge and in control, winning every day. Blessed be God!

Further Study :

1 John 4:4
Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

Luke 10:19
Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Revelation 5:10
And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:Revelation 5, Joel 1-3

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:John 20:1-10, 2 Chronicles 26-27

A Greater Move Of The Spirit - Thursday, December 14th

Pastor Chris

And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions (Joel 2:28).

These are the last days, and the Church of Jesus Christ is experiencing an unprecedented move of the Spirit. We’re seeing, and will yet see more phenomenal miracles of salvation, growth, healings, etc. The reason is simple: “The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the Lord of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the Lord of hosts” (Haggai 2:9).

This is extraordinary, because even though the things we read in the Book of Acts are beyond human comprehension and imagination, to think that there’s still a greater glory ahead, and in our day, is absolutely mind-blowing.

Take Acts chapter 2 for example. The Bible says Peter preached and three thousand people gave their hearts to Christ at once. Luke records another phenomenal addition to the church in the fourth chapter: Peter and John preached, and about five thousand people who heard the message believed (Acts 4:4). How wonderful!

No wonder Peter, who was conscious of this glorious move of the Spirit and the very dispensation Joel prophesied about in Joel 2:28, reiterated those very words in Acts 2:16-17. He said, “But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh….” The “last days,” began with Peter’s preaching. In Acts 5:14-16, his very shadow touching the sick got them healed; even demons went out of those that they had bound.

We also read that “...God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them” (Acts 19:11-12). Now, we’re at the ending part of the “last days.” If the beginning witnessed such glorious demonstrations of the power of God’s Spirit, then you can imagine what a time we’re in today in the calendar of God.

The Church today is far more enlightened, positioned, and equipped for greater impact. Believe and expect a greater move of the Spirit in these last days as the scriptures declare: “The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former….”

Prayer...
Dear Father, thank you for the presence of your Spirit on earth, and His greater move in the lives of many around the world today. Indeed, your glory fills the whole earth; your power is touching lives all around the world, and your righteousness is revealed, more than ever, in expectation of our Lord’s soon return. Amen.

Further Study :

Isaiah 43:18-19 Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. 19 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.

Joel 2:23-32
Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first [month]. 24 And the floors shall be full of wheat, and the fats shall overflow with wine and oil. 25 And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. 26 And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be ashamed. 27 And ye shall know that I [am] in the midst of Israel, and [that] I [am] the LORD your God, and none else: and my people shall never be ashamed. 28 And it shall come to pass afterward, [that] I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: 29 And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. 30 And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. 31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come. 32 And it shall come to pass, [that] whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Revelation 6, Amos 1-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 20:11-18, 2 Chronicles 28

You Mirror Him - Friday, December 15th .
Pastor Chris .

Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17).

The Lord Jesus gave us the clearest picture of God possible. In John 14:7-9, when Philip said to Him, “ …Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us,” the Master gave a profound response. He said, “…he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father.” He wanted them to know that He was the express image of the Father—the clear example and expression of the Father’s character. So, back in Bible days, the disciples saw and knew the Father in Jesus.

Someone might say, “We aren’t as privileged as the disciples who were with Jesus as He walked the streets of Galilee, Nazareth, or Capernaum, revealing the nature and love of the Father; how then can we know the Father?” Yes, Jesus is in heaven, but He isn’t expecting that you physically see Him like those in His days did. That’s why He sent us the Holy Spirit: “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever” (John 14:16).

The Holy Spirit lives in you today, taking the place of Jesus who is in heaven, and He looks, talks, acts, and loves exactly like Jesus. This is wonderful because just as Jesus mirrors the Father, being the express image of the Father’s person, the effulgence of His glory, you also are the icon of the Father. If today you want to see or know what God looks like, all you have to do is look at God’s mirror—His Word—and see Him in you. The Bible says as He is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17).

His very life, the very quality of His personality and the characteristics of His glory are all in you today. His beauty, aura and perfections are manifested in, and displayed through you to the world. Hallelujah!

Confession...
Dear Father, thank you for your glory, beauty, aura and perfections are manifested in, and displayed through me. As Jesus is the effulgence of your glory and the exact representation of your person, so am I. I walk in this consciousness. Hallelujah!

Further Study :

Hebrews 1:1
God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
:2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by [his] Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
:3 Who being the brightness of [his] glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

John 17:22
And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:

1 John 4:17
Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:Revelation 7, Amos 5-9

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:John 20:19-31, 2 Chronicles 29

Beyond The Physical Appearance - Saturday, December 16th

Pastor Chris

Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17).

When we say, “…as he (Jesus) is, so are we in this world,” the picture that comes to the mind of some is the build, height, complexion, hair or the physical characteristics of the man Jesus, while He was on earth. It’s much more than that. Our semblance is with the resurrected Christ, the glorified Jesus.

Yes, before His resurrection, He worked wonders and performed mighty miracles. He commanded the deaf ears to be opened, the blind eyes to receive sight, maimed limbs to be made whole and raised the dead back to life. But notice that John the apostle didn’t say, “as he was, so are we in this world”; that would have been wonderful. But, the Spirit carefully used the word “is” showing us that we’re just as He is, in His present state; in His glorified state. Hallelujah!

The impressive thing about His appearance isn’t His beards, complexion, or height; it’s the glory and the life emanating from Him, so much so that at such instance, you don’t even remember the fleshly description. You’re absorbed into His glory. Read it again: it says, “as he is,” in other words, as He is the resurrected, ascended, triumphant and glorified Christ, so are we in this world. Such blessedness!

That’s why it’ll be amiss to try to figure Jesus out in a Jewish body, or to even be flesh and body conscious. Be spirit conscious. Don’t appraise yourself by your physical appearance; you’re glorified just as Jesus. He’s not recognised in the flesh (Luke 24:15-16, 31, 35). So don’t describe yourself by your earthly nativity or human affiliations.

See yourself in Him and as the glory of God: “And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; …” (John 17:22). Romans 8:30 says, “Moreover whom he did predestinate…them he also glorified.” 1 John 3:2 says, “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” We may not look like Him outwardly, but that doesn’t matter. We’re right now the sons of God like Jesus; inwardly, in our spirits, we already look like Him. Blessed be God!

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for showing me the truth of who I am in Christ. As Jesus is, so am I in the world. I’m glorified, and conscious that the life of God is in me, and evidently manifested in and through me. Thank you for making me the effulgence of your glory, and the revelation of your righteousness, in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.

Further Study :

John 3:13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, [even] the Son of man which is in heaven.

1 John 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

Hebrews 2:11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified [are] all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Revelation 8, Obadiah

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 21:1-12, 2 Chronicles 30

Celebrate His Goodness - Sunday, December 17th .
Pastor Chris

Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness (1 Chronicles 16:29).

As the year 2017 draws to a fruitful end, it’s important that we make out time to thank God for His mighty blessings in our lives. Make today a special day of rejoicing, expressing profuse gratitude to the Lord for His blessings throughout 2017.

There’re four important ways you’re to celebrate and thank the Lord today. First is through your prayer of thanksgiving; express yourself to Him with thanksgiving from your heart. Secondly, worship and praise Him profusely and ecstatically from your spirit. Thirdly, celebrate Him with your testimony—your testimony of thanksgiving. Testify of what He’s done in your life; eulogize Him for the joy of the Spirit that’s in your heart. Thank Him for the foundation of your spirit; the foundation of faith that God gave you. Celebrate the hope, and other blessings in your spirit.

Lastly, celebrate Him with an offering. We worship God with our offerings because He’s God. Your offering to God is an oblation, a testimony of your faith in Him. Give the Lord a special thanksgiving offering today, and project yourself into the greater future He’s planned for you.

Choose certain times or hours of the day to have celebration sessions alone or with your family. Make it an entire day of celebration, because you’re grateful for all that Christ is to you; you acknowledge and appreciate His grace at work in you.

Don’t spend time thinking about some unattained goals or “disappointments” you may have experienced in the year. Rather, celebrate Jesus, trusting that He’s already perfected all that concerns you. Rejoice! Shout and dance around in your room, glorifying the Name of Jesus. Celebrate His life that’s in you. Celebrate His Word that’s working mightily in you. Celebrate the prosperity, health, peace, joy, victories and life of glory that God has given you.

Prayer...
Thank you precious Father, for your blessings upon my life, my family, and everything that concerns me; you’ve decorated my life with your glory. You plucked me out of trouble and satisfied my desires with good things; for these, I rejoice and adore your majesty. All glory, dominion and praise are yours, now and forever, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :

Psalm 103:1
Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, [bless] his holy name.
:2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

Psalm 96:8
Give unto the LORD the glory [due unto] his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.

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

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:Revelation 9, Jonah 1-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:John 21:13-25, 2 Chronicles 31