CHILDLIKE CONFIDENCE IN THE WORD - Friday, June 8th 2018

Pastor Chris

So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth…it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it (Isaiah 55:11).

The Word of God is trustworthy; it’s living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12 AMPC). God’s desire for us is to be built by the Word; we excel and make progress by the Word. 1 Peter 2:2 says, “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” He wants us to accept the Word of God like children. Children are trusting.

Jesus said, “…Truly I say to you, unless you... become like little children [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving], you can never enter the kingdom of heaven [at all]” (Matthew 18:3 AMPC). Exhibiting childlike confidence in the Word doesn’t make you gullible or naïve. Rather, it means you’re smart and functioning in the wisdom of God.

Many make the Word of non-effect in their own lives because they argue with the Word; they always try to rationalize the Word. Children don’t try to rationalize things; they simply act from their standpoint of innocence, trusting the one who’s leading, guiding or instructing them. That’s how we ought to be with the Word.

Jesus said to the Pharisees, “You have made the Word of God of non-effect through your tradition” (Mark 7:13). Don’t hold on to religious opinions, beliefs and thought-patterns that are contrary to the Word. Have a childlike delight and hunger for the Word to do what it says.

It doesn’t matter where you’ve been or what has happened to you; you can trust the Word and use it to effect changes in your family, home, finances, academics, and physical body. If sickness tries to attack you, stand firm on the Word. Declare, “I’m healthy and strong, because I have the life of God in me.” If it’s fear, declare, “I’m more than a conqueror; greater is He that’s in me, than he that’s in the world.”

The Word is dependable. Therefore, be bold to speak it forth, and it’ll always prevail.

Prayer...
The Word of God is working and producing results in me! I’m like a tree by the streams; evergreen, bearing luscious fruits, because the Word of God is my life and sustenance. I live in divine health, supernatural abundance, and in continuous victory and prosperity, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Isaiah 55:10-11; For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: (11) So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

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.

Matthew 18:3-4 AMPC And said, Truly I say to you, unless you repent (change, turn about) and become like little children [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving], you can never enter the kingdom of heaven [at all]. (4) Whoever will humble himself therefore and become like this little child [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving] is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 21 & 1 Chronicles 26-29

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Corinthians 16:13-24 & Ecclesiastes 7-8

WISDOM STANDS YOU OUT . - Saturday, June 9th .

Pastor Chris

Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her (Proverbs 4:7-.

There’s a wisdom from God that’s revealed to us to live by. Jesus functioned in it, and as a result, He completely baffled and dazzled those in His day. He had a different mindset. His words and teachings were different; in most cases, they were in complete antithesis to the Law, and to natural human thinking.

According to the Law, for example, the soul that sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:20), but Jesus manifested the love, mercies and grace of God: “For the law was given by Moses, [but] grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” (John 1:17). Moses taught “An eye for an eye; life for life”; but Jesus came to reveal to us the life and nature of God; the way God thinks—the way that wins—the love-way.

Man had been raised in the natural world to be vengeful, to be insulting and injurious. But Jesus taught that we should love our enemies, pray for, and bless our detractors and persecutors: “…Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

That’s strange to the natural man. Loving your enemies isn’t what you’d naturally like to do. But Jesus came with Kingdom principles: a new way to live. He spoke love, and demonstrated love. Those that heard Him heard Love’s voice. Those He encountered felt Love’s embrace. Even the officers that were sent to arrest Him on a certain occasion, after listening to His teachings, submitted, “…No man ever spoke like this man!” (John 7:46 NKJV).

Jesus functioned with the wisdom of the just; that’s what you need in your life; that’s what stands you out and makes you a wonder to your world.

PRAYER

Dear Father, you’ve granted me wisdom and understanding, to know and walk in your perfect will. My life is the expression of divine wisdom. Wisdom is heard in my words and seen in my actions today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

Proverbs 5:1
My son, attend unto my wisdom, [and] bow thine ear to my understanding:

Matthew 5:38
Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
:39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
:40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have [thy] cloke also.
:41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.
:42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.
:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
:45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
:46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
:47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more [than others]? do not even the publicans so?
:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

Luke 21:15
For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Acts 1
2 Chronicles 1-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
2 Corinthians 1:1-11
Ecclesiastes 9-10

BELIEVE AND LIVE THE WORD - Monday, June 11th 2018

Pastor Chris

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves (James 1:22)

Many Christians have lived in the sense-realm for too long. If they feel a headache, the first thing that comes to their minds is the medication to take. They’re not conscious that they have power over sickness, disease, and infirmity; they’re not conscious that they have the divine life.

The Christian is a partaker of the divine nature; an associate of the God-kind. You have the very life of God in you; that makes you more than a mere man. Sickness really can’t, and shouldn’t thrive in your body, because Christ is the life of your physical body. His presence in you already gave life to your mortal body.

Why then are many still burdened with sickness and ravaged by one health issue or the other? The answer is clear: ignorance. The psalmist said, “They know not, neither will they understand…” (Psalm 82:5). Jesus said concerning the believing ones, “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” (Mark 16:18).

The above verse is a sovereign declaration of Deity; it’s a present-hour reality, guaranteed to produce results. Believe and act on it. Practise it for yourself, and on others. Believing the Word and acting accordingly is the way to make the Word effective in your life.

Faith is acting on the Word of God that you’ve believed. If there’s no action, then there’s no faith, and without faith, it’s impossible to please God. Faith is standing your ground on the reality of the Word.

Yes, hearing the Word produces faith in you.(Romans 10:17), but acting on it, living it out, is what causes you to excel, prosper, and make progress in life with giant strides.

Prayer...
I worship you, precious Lord, for your kindness and infinite mercies. Thank you for making me a partaker of the divine nature, an associate of the God-kind. Your life and nature in me makes me more than a mere man; I’m supernatural, excellent and full of glory. I walk in, and manifest the dominion of Christ today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
James 1:22-25;
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (23) For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: (24) For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. (25) But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

James 2:20-26
But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? (21) Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? (22) Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? (23) And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. (24) Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. (25) Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? (26) For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 2:22-47 & 2 Chronicles 8-11

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 2:1-7 & Songs Of Solomon 1-2

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Saturday, June 16th .
Pastor Chris

BE QUICK TO ACT .

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves (James 1:22).

One of the ways to make the Word of God effective in your life is by acting quickly on it. Never be hesitant or slothful to act on God’s Word. Many miss too much without realizing it when they’re slow or hesitant to act on the Word.

Whatever instruction the Lord gives to you, whatever inspiration comes to you as you study the Word or listen to it preached and taught in church, respond swiftly. That’s the kind of faith-response that gets God’s attention. When you respond swiftly to God, He’ll always respond quickly to you as well.

The Bible says, “Quench not the Spirit” (1 Thessalonians 5:19). That means you can quench the Spirit, after He has tried to no avail to stir you up and have you do something for which you were either hesitant or unresponsive. When your faith is stirred, it’s an indication of the Spirit of God working in you; don’t suppress His work in you. Act immediately on whatever instruction, guidance or direction He gives you, even when such doesn’t seem to appeal to the senses.

Think about it: To the man who had a paralyzed limb, and couldn’t move his hand, Jesus said, “...Stretch forth thine hand...” (Matthew 12:13). If the man had tried to rationalize the instruction instead of responding swiftly, perhaps he’d have lost his miracle. Peter and John did the same thing to the man at the gate of the temple called Beautiful.

After Peter ministered healing to him, he yanked the man up, and the Bible says, “…and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.” The man was smart; he dared to act on his healing: “And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God” (Acts 3:.

Don’t be hesitant or reluctant when it comes to acting on God’s Word. Be smart to respond boldly and swiftly in doing the Word, for that’s how to honour the Lord in your life.

PRAYER

Dear Father, I’m quick to act on your Word, and have it produce in me the message that it carries. I’m transformed, strengthened and energised for the glory-life as I live in, and by your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

Proverbs 13:13
Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.

Philippians 2:13
For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.

Luke 5:5
And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Acts 6
2 Chronicles 26-28

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
2 Corinthians 4:7-18
Isaiah 2

A NEW YOU - Wednesday, June 27th 2018

Pastor Chris

Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin (Romans 6:6-7).

The Bible says, “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4-6). When Jesus died, we died with Him. When He was buried, we were buried with Him. When God raised Him from the dead, we were raised together with Him. We were in Him in His death, burial, and resurrection.

Romans 4:24-25 says, “But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was RAISED AGAIN FOR OUR JUSTIFICATION.” We weren’t justified because He died; we were justified because He was raised from the dead. He was raised from the dead, a new man; He was born again.

Jesus heads up the new creation. He came up with a new life and so, the Bible says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This new creation has no past; there’s no sin in him. His resurrection gave you a brand new life. You’re not the man that sinned; that’s the “old man,” and he’s dead. Hallelujah!

A new YOU was born at the resurrection: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Blessed be God!

Prayer...
Blessed Lord, thank you for the life I’ve received through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. As Christ rose from the dead, I came alive with Him; therefore, I walk in this newness of life. I reign and rule in life today as a king, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 6:4-5
Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also [in the likeness] of [his] resurrection:

1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan : Acts 13:1-12 & Nehemiah 7-8

2-Year Bible Reading Plan : 2 Corinthians 9:11-15 & Isaiah 15-16

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Thursday, July 5th .
Pastor Chris

RIGHTEOUS BY NATURE .

For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous (Romans 5:19).

Romans 6:14 says, “For sin shall not have dominion over you....” This is because the man or woman who’s born again is born sin-free. On the other hand, the unregenerate man, the person who isn’t born again, is a sinner by nature, and enslaved to sin. He can’t but sin, even when he doesn’t want to, because he has the nature of sin.

However, this isn’t the case with you that are born again. Righteousness, which is the nature of God, was imparted to your spirit at the New Birth. You didn’t ask for it or do anything to become righteous; you’re righteous by nature. God made it so. Your righteousness is the righteousness of Christ, and has nothing to do with your “performance”; it’s a gift from God (Romans 5:17).

Just as there’s nothing you could have done on your own through your own human perfection to become righteous, in Christ, there’s also nothing you can do or not do that’ll take away your righteousness. You’re as righteous today as you could ever be. Better than that, you’re as righteous as Jesus is righteous, considering that He gave you His own righteousness. He substituted His righteousness for your sin-nature when you confessed His Lordship over your life.

You might be forced to ask, “How about when I do something wrong, does it affect my righteousness?” First, your righteousness wasn’t pre-conditioned on your good works. Ephesians 2:9 says, “Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Think about it this way: A baby doesn’t get more human as he grows. He’s hundred per cent human already. Then, he starts learning how to use all he’s got; his human faculties: his legs, his hands, his eyes, his brain, his mind, etc.

Now, during the process of training and educating that child, if he makes a mistake or does something wrong, that doesn’t mean he’s no longer human. He’s human by nature, not by actions. It’s the same thing with our righteousness. We’re righteous by nature; thus, it’s our “default setting” to produce fruits and works of righteousness. Therefore, learn to live the God-life. Glory to God.

CONFESSION

I’m the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus; therefore, I can please God every time and in every way, because I live by the faith of the Son of God who gave Himself for me. I’m sin-free, because Christ has given me a new life. I’m alive to God, and live unto righteousness, in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

Romans 6:11
Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
:12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
:13 Neither yield ye your members [as] instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of righteousness unto God.
:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

Romans 5:17
For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

2 Corinthians 5:21
For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Acts 17:16-34
Job 6-8

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
2 Corinthians 13:7-14
Isaiah 25.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

CUSTODIANS OF HIS TRUTH -Friday, July 6th .

Pastor Chris

Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in (Isaiah 26:2).

In the verse above, the prophet Isaiah wasn’t referring to countries like the United States Of America, South Africa or England, but to the Church of Jesus Christ; we’re the custodians of the truth. The Church is the pillar and ground of the truth: “…the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). We’re the ones that keep His Word, and His gates are open to us.

But there’s more; read what happens in the very next verse: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee” (Isaiah 26:3). The Hebrew words translated perfect peace are “shalom shalom,” meaning “peace peace”; but this construction really means peace with rest; peace with prosperity, health, strength and salvation! Thus, the righteous one, whose mind is stayed on the Lord, is kept in perfect prosperity, health, rest and strength.

This further shows that your mind is where God wants to work. If He can get a hold of your mind through His Word, you can become as healthy, prosperous and successful as you ever want to be. Train your mind to stay on the truth of God’s Word always. Trouble, darkness, temptations and challenges may come, but you’ll always be victorious; His truth will put you over, and the Word of God is truth.

Being custodians of His truth means we’re doers of the Word; we’re Word practitioners; we live in, by, and through the Word. And that’s where the blessing is: “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only…For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed” (James 1:22-25).

PRAYER:
I’m so glad that I belong to the Church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. Nothing takes my focus off the Lord and His eternal Word, for in Him lies my strength, peace, victory, and everlasting success. I’m guided by God’s wisdom to walk in, and fulfill His destiny for me today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

John 17:17
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

Isaiah 26:3 AMPC
You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 18:1-23, Job 9-11

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Galatians 1:1-9, Isaiah 26

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Tuesday, July 10th .
Pastor Chris

HE DOESN’T REST UPON YOU .

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Actually, it’s not scripturally correct in the New Testament to say, “May God’s Spirit rest upon you.” Someone may read our opening verse and run off with the idea that even Paul desired that the power of Christ may “rest upon him.” That wasn’t the case.

What Paul said wasn’t about the power of Christ resting upon him. The word translated “rest” is from the Greek, “episkenoo,” which is a combination of two words: “epi” meaning “a superimposition,” and “skenoo” meaning “habitation.” “Episkenoo” therefore means, “coming over something to take charge of it from within.” Paul was in other words describing his experience of being continuously filled with the Spirit.

Another use of the term “rest upon” is seen in 1 Peter 4:14, where the Bible says, “If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you….” Here, the word, “anapauo” is used, which refers to being refreshed or given rest, but not as in sleep. If you study the context, you’ll observe that it says, if you’re persecuted because of Jesus, happy are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God will give you rest; He refreshes you and strengthens you. The Greek word doesn’t say rest upon you; it can’t even be translated that way.

The essence of the detailed foregoing explanations is that in the New Testament, there’s no suggestion of the Holy Ghost coming to rest upon us. The emphasis throughout the Scriptures is for us to be full of the Spirit because He lives in us. This was the standard in the early Church, and it’s still our standard today.

The Bible says, “…and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost...” (Acts 6:5). In Acts 4:31 NIV, it says, “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken, and THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT....” This is the will of God for us today in the Church: being continually filled with the Spirit.

CONFESSION

Dear Father, thank you; for your Spirit, in all of His glory and awesomeness, has come to take up His abode in the quarters of my heart in His totality. I’m a God-carrying vessel, a conveyor of eternal verities. By virtue of being a carrier of God, I can do all things, and effect positive changes in my world. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:

John 14:17
[Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

Colossians 2:9
For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
:10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

Acts 4:31
And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Acts 20:17-38
Job 22-24

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Galatians 2:13-21
Isaiah 30

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Wednesday, July 11th .
Pastor Chris

YOUR HEART AND YOUR MOUTH .

…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).

When you study the context of the statement made by Jesus in our opening verse, you’d notice He’s teaching the disciples about faith, not prayer. In the preceding verse 22, He had said to them, “…Have faith in God.” The original Greek connotation was: “Have the faith of God,” meaning the God-type of faith. In His ensuing explanation of how the God-type of faith operates, He highlighted two important factors: your mouth and your heart.

Notice again what He said, “Whosoever shall say…and shall not doubt in his heart…shall have whatsoever he saith.” He’s showing us an important principle of faith: your heart and your mouth must go together. Romans 10:10 says, “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Until and unless there’s an affirmation of that which you’ve believed in your heart, it’ll not work.

Faith believes and speaks. 2 Corinthians 4:13 says we believe, and therefore speak; we believe first in our hearts that what we desire exists, and speak accordingly. We don’t speak to believe; we speak what we believe.

When you believe that what God has said about you is the reality, you’re bold to declare it, irrespective of what the devil, circumstances and even your mind may tell you. That’s because you have the knowledge in your spirit; you’ve believed with your spirit that those things are real and already inside you! Your affirmation of those realities gives them tangibility, causing them to materialize in the physical realm.

This is why we emphasize the confession of God’s Word. To believe in your heart isn’t enough, though it’s very important; it’s your first step. Believing is receiving the Word of God with an expectation; with confidence and child-like trust. Believing is recognizing that God is who He says He is, and He can do what He says He can do, and what He says He has done, He has done. We believe with the heart and therefore speak with the mouth accordingly. Hallelujah!

PRAYER

Dear heavenly Father, the entrance of your Word into my heart has brought light, understanding, and power to my spirit. As I delight myself in your Word, the desires of my heart are granted unto me. I’m living the higher life in Christ, and there’re no impossibilities with me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

Romans 10:6
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.

Hebrews 13:5
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.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Acts 21:1-16
Job 25-28

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Galatians 3:1-12
Isaiah 315

RULE WITH WORDS

Thursday, July 12th

Pastor Chris

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth (John 1:14).

God spoke the Word in recreating and restoring order to the earth after it became a dark chaotic mass. In the midst of the darkness and chaos, He said, “Let there be light,” and light became (Genesis 1:3). The Word that gave light to the world became flesh, and dwelt amongst us in the person of Jesus.

The Lord Jesus walked the streets of Galilee, Capernaum, and Jerusalem, as the Word in human form. He lived as the Word and did everything He did with, and through the Word. He healed the sick with the Word. He raised the dead with the Word, and cast out devils with the Word. He only had to speak words, and miracles ensued.

Recall how He raised Lazarus from the dead, a man who had been dead and buried for four days and who surely must have begun to decompose. When Jesus called out, “…Lazarus, come forth” (John 11:43), the man who had been dead came out alive! How awesome! Jesus lived and triumphed with words, showing us how to live in this world.

When He needed to feed the multitude, and all that was available was a little boy’s lunch (five loaves of bread and two fish), He spoke words (Matthew 14:17-21). He took the loaves of bread, and fish and invoked the power of multiplication into them and they became more than enough to feed five thousand men, women and children not counted, with twelve baskets as leftovers.

He’s given us the same life wherein we triumph with words. He said in Mark 11:23, “You shall have what you say.” You can speak life to your job, finances, health and family and cause miracles to happen. When you speak over any situation, your words prevail. You’re a king, and where the word of a king is, there’s power (Ecclesiastes 8:4). Rule your world and dominate circumstances with words.

PRAYER

Dear Lord Jesus, you’re the true Light that lights every man that comes into the world. You’re the living Word of God, full of grace and reality! The Word of God on my lips brings healing, prosperity and deliverance; I walk in victory today. Blessed be God!

Trust you have been blessed by today's insightful Article, kindly download your complete PDF copy of Rhapsody of Realities in any language of your choice including TeeVo, Early Reader and kiddies Rhapsody here: http:///2FDyOoj

FURTHER STUDY: Ecclesiastes 8:4 Where the word of a king [is, there is] power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?

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Job 22:28 Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy ways.

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.

Click to study your favourite Devotional Rhapsody Daily Article everyday: https:///2wyLLfg

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan=> Acts 21:17-36 & Job 29-31

2-Year Bible Reading Plan=> Galatians 3:13-22 & Isaiah 32

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody Of Realities Daily Devotional

CHOSEN TO BE HIS WITNESS

Tuesday, July 17th 2018

Pastor Chris

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:.

Have you ever thought about the fact that God chose you before you were born, to be His witness? He knew you and foreordained you to live for His glory. The Bible says, “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son…” (Romans 8:29).

God foreordained and planned that through you, He’ll bless and transform the lives of those in your world and in regions beyond. He set you apart to do His will, and to be His witness.

The Apostle Paul, understanding this, echoed the same message in Galatians 1:15-16: “But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace, To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen….” Paul’s passion and unrivalled commitment to the Gospel resulted from his knowledge and understanding that he was chosen and sent of God to turn the Gentiles from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God.

Recall his profound statement of commitment to the Gospel in 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!” Become aware, convinced, and challenged by the divine mandate and obligation to preach the Gospel.

As in our opening verse, the power of the Holy Spirit in your life is to make you an effective witness of Jesus Christ; a minister of reconciliation. You’ve been given the mandate to preach the Gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15), and make disciples and pupils of the nations (Matthew 28:19). Make this your focus, and experience true fulfillment in your life.

PRAYER
Thank you, blessed Lord, for the power of the Holy Spirit working in, and through me to bring salvation to others. Preaching the Gospel to those in my world and in the regions beyond is my passion and purpose for living. Today, as the Gospel is preached and taught around the world, many come to the knowledge of Christ, and into their inheritance in Him, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
|| 1 Corinthians 9:16-18 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. 18 What is my reward then? [Verily] that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel. ||

|| Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen. ||

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Acts 25:1-12 & Psalms 7-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Galatians 5:1-12 & Isaiah 37.

Gombs:
CHOSEN TO BE HIS WITNESS

Tuesday, July 17th 2018

Pastor Chris

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:.

Have you ever thought about the fact that God chose you before you were born, to be His witness? He knew you and foreordained you to live for His glory. The Bible says, “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son…” (Romans 8:29).

Welcome back Gombs, where you have been? I have e-looked for you all over nairaland.

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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Wednesday, July 18th .
Pastor Chris

A GRATEFUL HEART .

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 5:20).

Some people don’t know the value and power of a grateful heart; therefore, they complain over everything. If they aren’t bemoaning the economic situation, they’re complaining about the pains in their bodies or about some other problem. They’re hardly ever happy, because they’re blind to all the good things happening in, and around them, for which they ought to be grateful.

There’re many who don’t appreciate or even recognise the progress they’ve made or the blessings of God in their lives. Life itself is a gift from God to enjoy every day; that you can even think that you deserve better is a blessing. So, look into your life and see that there’s a lot to be grateful for.

Perhaps you’ve learnt something new; your knowledge and understanding of God’s Word have improved; your prayer life has become richer; all these and more are important blessings to be grateful for, and excited about. The ministry and work of the Holy Spirit in your life, for example, is far greater than any physical or material blessing you could ever get. In fact, it’s what will give rise to other material blessings in your life.

True happiness in life transcends having a lot of money. There’ve been many who had a lot of money and all that money could buy, yet they were depressed, unhappy and ended up destroying themselves. In Luke 12:15, Jesus said, “…Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”

You’re never going to be satisfied because you have so much; therefore, learn to be content and grateful for all that the Lord is to you, has made you, and made available to you. Serve Him joyfully, putting Him first in your life. Be thankful, and excited about your life in Christ: His glory and righteousness that you are, and exude, as well as His power, wisdom, and grace by which you live triumphantly every day.

PRAYER

Blessed Lord, from the depth of my heart, I’m grateful to you; you mean more than the world to me. I acknowledge your grace, mercy, wisdom and power by which I live triumphantly today, prospering in all that I do. I worship you for making my life glorious, filling me with your precious Spirit, who is to me all the advantage I need in life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1 Thessalonians 5:18
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Ephesians 5:20
Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

1 Chronicles 16:34
O give thanks unto the LORD; for [he is] good; for his mercy [endureth] for ever.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Acts 25:13-26:1
Psalms 11-16

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Galatians 5:13-19
Isaiah 38

nwakaibe:


Welcome back Gombs, where you have been? I have e-looked for you all over nairaland.

I've always been around. Never left, busy, but always here

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Thursday, July 19th .
Pastor Chris

CHARGED UP IN THE HOLY GHOST .

He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself… (1 Corinthians 14:4).

One of the synonyms for the Greek word translated “edify” is to “charge,” like a battery. Jude 1:20 (AMPC) says, “But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit.” He’s telling you to get charged up in the Holy Ghost; embolden yourself in the Holy Ghost through speaking in tongues.

This is what you do when there’re matters arising: you charge yourself up in the Holy Ghost! Are there projects you want to undertake and you’re somewhat not sure what steps to take? Get charged up in the Holy Ghost! Activate the wisdom and power of God by praying in the Holy Ghost until you’re filled with the Spirit.

Ephesians 5:18 says, “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” This is the secret to a day-to-day life of the miraculous and supernatural: being filled with the Spirit. If someone was timid, and began the exercise of speaking in tongues consistently, soon enough, he’d become bold and sound.

When you speak in other tongues, and your spirit is charged, it takes over your mind; your spirit will rise like a giant from within and dominate the outward man. Paul said to Timothy, “...stir up the gift of God that is in you…” (2 Timothy 1:6). One of the ways to do this is through speaking in tongues.

The reason some Christians faint in the day of adversity is because their inner man is weak, and the reason for that weakness is that they don’t speak in tongues sufficiently. Speaking in tongues imparts courage to your spirit. It produces in you a sense of absolute dominion over adversities.

Refuse to live an ordinary life. There’s power in you; stir it up always. In your privacy, speak in tongues. When you’re on the go, speak in tongues. Keep yourself supercharged all the time. This isn’t for a particular Christian denomination; it’s for every child of God. Get yourself charged up in the Holy Ghost always.

CONFESSION

I’m emboldened, strengthened and fortified by the Spirit to do all that the Lord has called me to do. I’m filled with miracle-working ability by the greater One who lives in me, energizing me from within! Glory to God!

FURTHER STUDY:

Acts 1:8
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Ephesians 6:18
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Acts 2:2
And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
:3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Acts 26:2-18
Psalms 17-18

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Galatians 5:20-26
Isaiah 39

JESUS MADE REMISSION OF SINS POSSIBLE

Monday, July 23rd 2018

Pastor Chris

Be it known unto you therefore, brethren, that through this man is proclaimed unto you remission of sins: and by him every one that believeth is justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses (Acts 13:38-39 ASV).

Before Jesus came, there were sacrifices and offerings for the atonement of sins in the Old Testament. The Jews always had to offer sacrifices year after year for sins. These involved the killing of animals; several bulls and goats, but the Bible says in Hebrews 10:4, “For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.”

The blood of bulls and goats couldn’t provide remission, but when Jesus came, with one sacrifice, He perfected forever all those who are called in Him. He offered Himself once, not for the forgiveness of our sins, but for the total blotting away or remission of sins. (Hebrews 9:14). He made remission of sins possible.

Too many around the world aren’t aware that their sins have been remitted. He didn’t do it for Christians; He did it for the whole world (John 3:16). There’re those today who ignorantly put themselves through some harsh penance; they punish themselves for their sins, thinking if they suffered enough, God would be sympathetic towards them and overlook their sins. But it doesn’t work that way.

The Bible says, “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). It’s not by your efforts. So, it doesn’t matter how many times you buffet yourself for your sins; it makes no difference how long and hard you suffer and go through self-inflicted penance; your sins can’t, and won’t be remitted that way. What was required was sinless blood, the blood of Jesus Christ. He alone was qualified to offer Himself for the remission of our sins.

Acts 10:43 says, “To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.” If you’re born again, happy are you, because you have remission of sins; total obliteration and removal of sins—past, present, and future. His blood is that powerful; it speaks better things (Hebrews 12:24); it speaks of eternal redemption and eternal inheritance (Hebrews 9:11-14). Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
Dear Father, I thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus, whom you sent for the remission of the sins of the world. I walk in the finished works of Christ, and the glory that His death, burial, and resurrection wrought for me. I’m forever righteous, holy, blameless and unreproveable in your sight. What a blessing!

FURTHER STUDY
Hebrews 10:4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. 5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: 6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. 7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.

Hebrews 9:13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READIND

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Acts 28:1-16 & Psalms 26-29

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Ephesians 1:15-23 & Isaiah 43

Rhapsody Of Realities

THE VICTORY MENTALITY

Tuesday, July 24th 2018

Pastor Chris

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Anything is possible! This should be your mentality. Never think defeat, failure or weakness. Cultivate the winning mentality; the mentality that believes and affirms, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13). That’s the victor’s mentality, and you develop it through the Word.

It doesn’t matter what your life has been like or the experiences you’ve had; one thing is certain: you’re a victor in Christ Jesus!, Irrespective of the affliction, tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, destitution, perils, wars etc., that may be ravaging today’s world, you’re more than a conqueror: “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us” (Romans 8:37).

Trust the Lord and hold on to His Word. When you go through challenges, don’t complain! The Lord knew there’d be challenges, but He gave us the assurance that we’ll be triumphant always: “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” (2 Corinthians 2:14).

Your victory is a settled fact. 2 Corinthians 4:17 says, “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory”; this is a present-hour truth. Nothing is, and can ever be to your disadvantage. Romans 8:28 declares, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Have this consciousness!

CONFESSION
I’m triumphant forever, because I’m born of God; greater is He that’s in me than he that’s in the world. My life is for the glory of God. I win every day; that’s my heritage in the Lord! I’m strong in Him, and in the power of His might to do exploits! Blessed be God!

FURTHER STUDY:
John 16:33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

I John 4:4 You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

Romans 8:35‭-‬39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or unclothedness, or peril, or sword?
36 As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.
38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come,
39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Acts 28:17-31 & Psalms 30-31

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Ephesians 2:1-10 & Isaiah 44

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Saturday, July 28th .
Pastor Chris

REDEMPTION AND REMISSION .

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace (Ephesians 1:7).

“Redemption” in the verse above, is the Greek word, “apolutrosis” and it means riddance. In Christ, we have our riddance. He rids or plucks you out of trouble, and rids your life of anything that’s wrong. So, you can say, “I have my riddance in Christ, no matter what!” That’s redemption. It doesn’t matter what mess you may think you’re in, you can trust Him to get you out.

In Christ Jesus, we also have remission of sins. The King James translation uses the word “Forgiveness” of sins, but the Greek word is “aphesis” and it means remission; the total removal or blotting away of sins. God did much more than forgive us; He blotted out our sins. There’s no trace or record of your sins; it’s as though you never sinned.

That’s why it’s wrong for a Christian to keep a consciousness of sin. Some are forever praying and asking God for forgiveness, because they’re always overwhelmed by the burden of sin-consciousness. The truth is that the Bible never tells us to ask God for forgiveness. God never made provision for your “forgiveness.” This might upend some people’s theology, but it’s a present truth.

To forgive means to pardon, in which case the record of wrong remains, though you’ll not be punished. But that’s not the case with God and us. The actual Greek rendering is “to take away completely, to put away, blot out, separate from.” You might want to ask, “How about 1 John 1:9 that says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness?”

What that simply means is that if we acknowledge (confess) our sins, God is faithful and just to put them away, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. There’s an automatic cleansing going on. That’s what it says in the seventh verse: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin” (1 John 1:7).

God wants you to walk free of guilt or condemnation! He wants you to walk in the light of your riddance, your righteousness, your justification, your holiness, and your sanctification in Christ Jesus, not snowed-under by guilt or sin-consciousness.

PRAYER

Thank you dear Father for this glorious truth in your Word! Christ is my riddance; He rids me of trouble, and of anything that’s inconsistent with the provisions of the Gospel. I walk victorious, conscious of my right-standing with you, and my triumphant life in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

Romans 3:2-25

Romans 6:14
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

Luke 24:46
And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:
:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Romans 3
Psalms 42-44

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Ephesians 4:1-10
Isaiah 48

Rhapsody Of Realities

IN REMISSION WE HAVE JUSTIFICATION

Sunday, July 29th 2018

Pastor Chris

Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness (remission) of sins: And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses (Acts 13:38-39).

We learnt in our previous study that what we have in Christ isn’t forgiveness, but remission of sins. Some Bible translators weren’t sure when to use the word “forgive” and when to use the word “remit.” So in different translations, they render the Greek word “aphesis” as “forgiveness” and also as “remission.” For example, the King James Version translated it as forgiveness instead of remission as seen in our opening verse.

Remission is the complete removal of sin. In the Greek Septuagint, there’s a word used in Leviticus 25:10 that’s akin to remission; it’s the word “liberty,” which means “release.” Part of that verse says, “And ye shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout all the land….” The word “liberty” is the same word “aphesis,” which means remission. We’re to proclaim remission; man’s total release from sin, its effects and consequences!

Just as all debts were cancelled during Jubilee in the Old Testament, remission in the New Testament is the wiping out or blotting out of a debt (sin), as though it had never been; as though it never happened. In forgiveness, the record shows that you’re the offender but have been pardoned for the offense, whereas in remission, there’s no record of offence.

In remission, the offence is separated or divorced from you; it doesn’t exist; hence, you’re justified. Yes, in remission, you have justification! The Bible says in Acts 13:39 that by Jesus Christ, all that believe are justified from all things, from which they couldn’t be justified by the law of Moses.

To be justified means that you’re acquitted; you’ve been declared “not guilty,” in spite of your sins, because they’ve been remitted; they don’t exist. How is this possible? It’s the righteousness of God: “To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus” (Romans 3:26).

PRAYER
I pray for sinners around the world today, that as they hear the Gospel, their hearts are open to receive the remission already accomplished for them through the death of Christ, to live unto righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
2 Corinthians 5:19‭-‬21 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.
21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Romans 3:23‭-‬26 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
24 being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,
25 whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed,
26 to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Romans 4 & Psalms 45-48

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Ephesians 4:11-16 & Isaiah 49

Rhapsody Of Realities

SIN IS NO LONGER A FACTOR

Tuesday, July 31st 2018

Pastor Chris

For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace (Romans 6:14).

Some Christians make statements like, “As long as you’re in this body, you’re prone to sin,” but that’s not what the Word teaches. To believe and talk that way is to derogate the salvation Jesus brought to us, and denigrate its power. 1 John 2:1 says, “MY little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. AND IF ANY MAN SIN, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”

The underlined portion of the preceding verse lets us know that it’s not compulsory to sin. Part of it says, “…if any man sin,” not “…when any man sin.” Sin is no longer a factor. The Bible says, “…whosoever is born of God sinneth not…” (1 John 5:18). It is possible not to sin, otherwise, the Apostle John wouldn’t have said so.

You need to understand how God sees you, following the redemptive and substitutionary work of Christ. Colossians 1:21-22 makes it clear. It says, “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.” He’s made you holy, blameless, and unreprovable. You didn’t attain this by your actions, but in Christ Jesus.

No wonder He says in 1 Peter 2:9 (AMPC), “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” He called you out of darkness, to set forth His wonderful deeds, and display His virtues and perfections. He didn’t just say you should walk in perfection, but to display and manifest His glory and virtue. He’s called you to walk in divine excellence, and manifest the fruits and works of righteousness. That’s the life of a Christian. Glory to God!

PRAYER
Dear Father, you’re the one at work in me, both to will and to do of your good pleasure. I’m born of you; therefore, sin has no dominion over me. I produce works and fruits of righteousness, displaying your perfection and excellence in all I do, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
|| Romans 6:6-14 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin. 8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: 9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. 10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13 Neither yield ye your members [as] instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of righteousness unto God. 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. ||

|| 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 O death, where [is] thy sting? O grave, where [is] thy victory? 56 The sting of death [is] sin; and the strength of sin [is] the law. 57 But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. ||

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Romans 5:12-21 & Psalms 52-55

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Ephesians 4:25-32 & Isaiah 51

Good morning.
God bless you.

WE HAVE HIS AUTHORITY

Wednesday, August 1st 2018

Pastor Chris

For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ (Romans 5:17).

The Lord Jesus occupies the most exalted position there is; He’s seated at the right hand of the Father, far above all principality, and power, might, and dominion, and every name that is named. But did you know that you’re in Him? You’re seated with Him in glory. The Word declares: “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4-6).

We’re called to exercise dominion and to live as masters and victors in life through Jesus Christ. We reign in Him and through Him over Satan, darkness, the world, and all creation. Revelation 5:10 tells us that Christ Jesus has made us kings and priests unto God, and we shall reign on the earth.

God gave Jesus authority over all creation. At the mount of transfiguration, He spoke out of heaven saying, “...This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him” (Matthew 17:5). He commanded everything that exists—living and non-living—to be subject to Jesus and, by extension, to you, because you’re in Him; you’re one with Him. You occupy His place of authority, with the power of attorney to act in His stead. You’re not ordinary. You operate from a higher realm where your words are backed by Deity.

Every word Jesus uttered came to pass; He changed hopeless situations because He had all authority in heaven and in earth—the same authority He bequeathed to the Church—you and me. He said in Matthew 28:18-19, “…All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore…”; thus, we’re on the go in His Name; the Name that opens every door.

Realise that all authority has been vested on you to alter the circumstances of your life to sync with God’s perfect will. Therefore, speak words of power and break the influence of Satan over men’s lives, and cause the light of the Gospel to shine in their hearts.

CONFESSION
I walk in dominion over Satan, darkness, and the world. I’m seated together with Christ in glory, dominion, and power. My light shines ever so brightly, and I gloriously fulfil my destiny in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
|| Luke 10:19 AMPC Behold! I have given you authority andpower to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you. ||

|| 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
Romans 6:1-14 & Psalms 56-59

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Ephesians 5:1-8 & Isaiah 52.

“PATIENT IN TRIBULATION” .

Friday, August 3rd .
Pastor Chris

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer (Romans 12:12).

2 Timothy 2:3 says, “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” In various Bible translations, different words are translated patience. However, the best synonym that describes patience is “endurance”; the ability to be patient in tribulation; that is, enduring hardship with hope. This means you’re able to face any opposition and remain unflustered, knowing the Lord is with you.

Proverbs 24:10 admonishes us against giving up or giving in, in the day of adversity; rather, we’re to maintain our victory. Maybe you’re at the beginning stage of developing your faith, and things may be looking tough and very challenging, have confidence in the Word. Be patient and give the Word time to work in your life and in your circumstances. Endure. That situation is for your testimony!

There’re people who don’t know how to stick with what they believe. For example, once they’re criticized for their faith, they tend to be discouraged; that’s wrong! Endure such criticisms, for they’re designed for your promotion. Don’t renounce the Faith just because a colleague at work made derogatory remarks about you or Christianity. Rather, be proud of your identity and association with Christ. Keep winning souls.

It won’t be long before those who may be criticizing you acknowledge the glory and power of God on your life. Therefore, endure with hope the tests or trials you may be experiencing right now. The Lord Jesus said in Luke 21:19, “In your patience possess ye your souls.” Endure challenges with hope, knowing that you’ll never be disadvantaged or defeated. Be hopeful and confident of a better and brighter day ahead! Create that picture in your mind—the picture of victory and triumph, and hold on to it.

PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for the extraordinary life of excellence, dominion and power that I have in Christ. I count it all joy when I go through diverse tests, because I know who I am: a victor for life, destined to reign, win, and excel, irrespective and independent of pressures and negative circumstances, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY: || Proverbs 24:10 [If] thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength [is] small. ||

|| Galatians 5:22 NIV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ||

|| Hebrews 10:35-36 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. 36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. ||

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan=> Romans 7:7-25 & Psalms 64-67

2-Year Bible Reading Plan=> Ephesians 5:17-24 & Isaiah 54

BE SUPPLY AND ABUNDANCE CONSCIOUS.

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] (2 Corinthians 9:8 AMPC).

As a Christian, never utter statements like, “Things are tight. I have to manage. If I give or spend so much, I won’t have anything left.” To have such a mindset is to put yourself in a position of disadvantage and financial jeopardy. Never talk lack, because you’re the seed of Abraham and all things are yours in Christ: “And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Galatians 3:29).

God wants you to live at that higher level of spiritual consciousness, where your spiritual eyes are open to see that the whole world belongs to you. As you consciously develop yourself in God’s Word, you’ll realise He’s already given you everything that pertain to life and godliness. Lay claim to your possessions by walking in the light of His Word.

Walk in the practical consciousness of what the Word says about your Kingdom rights, privileges, and possessions in Christ Jesus. Declare, “The Lord is my shepherd; therefore, I refuse to lack. Doors of opportunities are open unto me. I’m blessed, and all my needs are abundantly supplied according to God’s riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

The will of God and the certainty of the life of abundance He’s called you into is clearly revealed in our opening verse. He wants all grace—every favour and earthly blessing—to 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.

Believe, affirm, and be conscious that your life in Christ is one of endless supply and abundance. Learn what the Word says about God’s financial plan for His children: about tithes and offerings, sowing and reaping, giving and receiving. Practise them and see God’s blessings multiply in your life.

PRAYER
Dear Lord, you’re my Shepherd; therefore, I can never lack! I’m walking in the light of my prosperity; I have access to wealth untold! Lack and want aren’t part of my life, because all things are mine in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
2 Corinthians 8:9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Psalm 23:1 The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want.

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Romans 11:1-24 & Psalms 79-81
2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Philippians 1:1-8 & Isaiah 59

PRAYING THE WORD - Thursday, August 9th 2018

Pastor Chris

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us (1 John 5:14).

God’s Word is His will expressed to us; therefore, praying according to His will is praying the Word. This is a very important element in prayer that not so many understand and practise: praying by the authority of the Word of God. When we pray, it’s important that it’s on the basis of the revelation and insight given to us by God through His Word. We must act our faith in prayer, on the basis of the Word of God; if God’s Word covers the subject, then we’re audacious in faith to receive answers.

We read in our opening verse that when we pray according to His will—His Word—He hears us. The fifteenth verse says, “And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” This means that when you pray according to His will (His Word), He hears and answers your prayer.

Some people, while praying, just talk, and don’t care whether or not what they’re saying is in line with the Word of God. Your prayers must be consistent with the Word to be effective. Don’t just pray; pray the Word. God already gave His Word, to show us everything that He’s given to us, everything that He’s made us, and everything that we can do in Christ Jesus.

Thus, when you pray, until and unless your words are in sync with His divine provisions in Christ, you’ll be praying amiss. He’s revealed to us how to ask; how to pray and what our requests can cover, so you can have faith when you pray to Him. And your faith grows as you learn the Word of God. The more of God’s Word you know, the more faith you’ll have, and the more accurate and effectual your prayers will be.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I’m lifted by your Word! I’m transfigured and guided by your truth in the path of your divine and perfect will for my life. I walk in strength, health and victory today, because I live by your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 27:1-6
The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD [is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When the wicked, [even] mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. 3 Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this [will] I [be] confident. 4 One [thing] have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. 5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. 6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD. ||

Matthew 24:35
Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. ||

Jeremiah 1:12
Then said the LORD unto me, Thou hast well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 11:25-36 & Psalms 82-84

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philippians 1:9-14 & Isaiah 60

Rhapsody Of Realities

SONGS OF VICTORY

Friday, August 10th 2018

Pastor Chris

…Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s (2 Chronicles 20:15).

In 2 Chronicles 20, we read something inspiring that King Jehoshaphat did when Judah was besieged by enemy nations. He and the armies of Judah were completely out-numbered, and in his own words, he admitted Judah’s vulnerability, but not without seeking help from the Lord. He prayed, “O our God, wilt thou not judge them? for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee” (2 Chronicles 20:12).

Then, verses 14-17 tells us something beautiful; it says, “Then upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah…came the Spirit of the Lord…And he said, …Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s. Tomorrow go ye down against them….Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the Lord with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them: for the Lord will be with you.”

Those were the Lord’s comforting and assuring words to Jehoshaphat. But notice the next thing Jehoshaphat did, in readiness to confront the invading army: he appointed singers unto the Lord, to praise the beauty of Holiness, chanting, “...Praise the Lord; for his mercy endureth for ever” (2 Chronicles 20:21). This was a song of victory.

As they went on singing and marching towards the enemy’s camp, the Bible declares that “...the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten” (2 Chronicles 20:22). When Judah’s army came in from behind the singers, their entire assailants had perished, having destroyed one another. Jehoshaphat, with his army, simply took the spoil without a fight! This was an unusual strategy, and it’s for our learning.

Our songs of worship and praise, in the face of daunting circumstances, spell defeat for the adversary. It doesn’t matter how severe you think the challenge is; praise and worship the Lord from His Word of victory. Regardless of the might of the adversary and adversities, never give up! Sing songs of victory. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Thank you Father, for you’ve made me an overcomer in this world and set me on a perpetual victory parade, with songs of victory in my mouth! I’m full of might and ability to face and surmount life’s challenges, to the glory and praise of your Name, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
|| Psalm 149:1-6 Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, [and] his praise in the congregation of saints. 2 Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. 3 Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. 4 For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation. 5 Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds. 6 [Let] the high [praises] of God [be] in their mouth, and a twoedged sword in their hand; ||

|| 2 Corinthians 2:14-15 MSG And I got it, thank God! In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. 15 Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation--an aroma redolent with life. ||

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Romans 12:1-16 & Psalms 85-88

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Philippians 1:15-22 & Isaiah 61

A SPIRITUAL KINGDOM

Tuesday, August 14th 2018

Pastor Chris

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Romans 8:6).

In Christ, we’ve been born into a real, authentic, and functional spiritual kingdom. That’s where we live right now. We live in, and carry out our everyday activities from that spiritual kingdom. However, to enjoy the blessings that belong to you in that realm of life, you’re required to have adequate knowledge of the Word, understand, and function by the principles of the kingdom of God.

Many Christians aren’t yet fully conscious that they’re in a spiritual kingdom; they’re only conscious of that which exists in the physical realm. Such people, for example, are hardly conscious of the myriads of angels with and around them. They’re yet to take advantage of the ministry of the Holy Spirit, as He speaks to them from within, and seeks to guide them in all the affairs of life; hence, they live ordinary lives.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the Gospel of the spiritual life; life beyond the sense realm. The Bible says, “…to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Romans 8:6). Anyone who believes in Jesus Christ has passed from death unto life; which means you’ve been automatically transferred from the domain of darkness, to the domain of life: the “Kingdom of His Love-son” (Colossians 1:13), and it’s a spiritual kingdom. You live in that kingdom now.

Though you’re in the world, you’re not of this world. Therefore, you can’t afford to live by the principles of this physical world. True success is spiritual, and it’s based on spiritual principles. Become conscious of the spiritual realm, and control things from that realm. When you focus on and function from the realm of the spirit, nothing in this physical world will be able to hinder your success and victories in life.

CONFESSION
I’m alive to God, and to a world of endless possibilities and everlasting triumphs. I experience success always, as I live in and by the Word of God, playing by a different set of rules. I live and walk in the full consciousness of the spiritual Kingdom to which I belong, enjoying all that is mine in that realm of life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
|| Colossians 1:12-13 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated [us] into the kingdom of his dear Son: ||

|| Colossians 3:1-2 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. ||

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Romans 15:14-33 & Psalms 99-101

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Philippians 2:19-30 & Isaiah 65

Rhapsody Of Realities

CREATED FOR GOOD WORKS

Sunday, August 19th 2018

Pastor Chris

For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live] (Ephesians 2:10 AMPC).

Did you know that just as the iPhone for example, is the workmanship or product of Apple Inc., you’re the workmanship or product of God? Think about that for a moment: you’re God’s product; He made you. God has His label on you, and He couldn’t have made anything that’s not perfect, which means you’re perfect; you’re excellent all the way.

God didn’t create you for sickness, poverty or for you to be a nobody; rather, He fashioned you for good works, and to live the good life. Read our theme scripture again: “For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].”

You’re not in the world by chance; God has a plan for your life, and it’s for your life to be an unending stream of works that please Him—works of faith and righteousness. That’s what your life is for. You’re peculiar; crafted for excellence; you’re a success!

Therefore, in your neighbourhood, home, workplace, school—everywhere you find yourself—manifest the glory of God! Preach the Gospel with boldness. Heal the sick, cast out devils, cleanse the lepers, and raise the dead! You’re the bearer and effulgence of His glory today, the icon of His righteousness, and dispenser of His manifold wisdom and graces. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
I’m walking in preordained pathways, manifesting the glory of God; I’m a success. My life is for the glory of God, and I produce and express His righteousness in all I do, pleasing Him in all things, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
|| Acts 10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. ||

|| John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater [works] than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. ||

|| Titus 2:13-14 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. ||

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
1 Corinthians 4 & Psalms 113-116

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
Philippians 4:14-23 & Jeremiah 4

Good morning.
God bless you.

Rhapsody Of Realities

PURCHASED BY BLOOD

Thursday, August 30th 2018

Pastor Chris

Neither by the blood of goats and calves,
but by his own blood he entered in once
into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us (Hebrews
9:12).

The word “redemption” as used in our
opening scripture is from the Greek,
“lutrosis,” which means to ransom, deliver,
save, or bring out of trouble. The Lord Jesus redeemed
man from sin at the cross, and His blood became the
sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. Then He was
buried, and on the third day, God raised Him from the
dead with a new life, the resurrection life. This same resurrection life is what everyone who believes in Him
has received.

Thus, being born again, you’re not the “redeemed”; you’re the fruit of Christ’s redemptive
work; you have the resurrection life. Some people get confused when they study portions of the Scriptures
where the new creation is described as “redeemed.”

For instance, in Revelation 5:9, the Bible says,
“And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy
to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for
thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy
blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people,
and nation.” The word “redeemed” here is wrongly
translated; it’s from the Greek, “agorazo,” which means
to make a purchase; to buy something as a gift to give to someone. It’s not a buyback, as is the case with “lutrosis”; it’s a fresh purchase. Christ purchased us with
His blood, and gave us as gifts to God.

Several translations actually give a proper
rendering of that verse. The New International Version
says, “…with your blood you purchased for God
persons from every tribe and language and people and
nation.” The Living Bible says, “…for you were slain, and
your blood has bought people from every nation as gifts
for God.” You’re a gift, purchased for God by Jesus; He
bought you with a price—His blood!

Now, you belong to God. You’re not the person
that was “delivered” from the devil when Jesus died
on the cross; you’re a new creation, born superior to
Satan, the world and its failing systems, and elements.
You’re an associate of the God-kind: “Whereby are
given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature,
having escaped the corruption that is in the world
through lust” (2 Peter 1:4).

PRAYER
Gracious Father, I thank you for the precious blood
of Jesus by which I’ve been cleansed from all unrighteousness. I’m a new creation; an associate of
the God-kind, grateful for the life of righteousness
which I have in Christ. I rejoice over your power and glory working in my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Hebrews 4:14-16; Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. (15) For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. (16) Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

1 Corinthians 6:20
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Corinthians 14 & Proverbs 3-4

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 & Jeremiah 16

DISPENSERS OF DIVINE BLESSINGS

Saturday, September 1st 2018

Pastor Chris

How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 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 2:3-4).

Our opening scripture in the King James Version seems to portray the underlined portion as referring to the gifts of the Spirit, but that’s not what it means. The word translated “gifts” above isn’t the Greek word “charisma,” like you have in 1 Corinthians 12; rather, it’s from the Greek word “merismos,” which means “distributions.” The Douay-Rheims translation actually puts it in a better light. It reads, “God also bearing them witness by signs, and wonders, and divers miracles, and DISTRIBUTIONS OF THE HOLY GHOST, according to his own will.” What does the Scripture mean by “the distributions of the Holy Ghost?”

First, let’s put this in proper perspective: Who were those that performed the signs and wonders, and special miracles? It was the Apostles—the early witnesses that bore testimony to the resurrected Christ! God performed signs, wonders, miracles, and “distributions of the Holy Ghost” through them! Acts 5:12 says, “And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people….”

Who are we today? The Bible says we’re ministers or “servants” of the New Testament; stewards of the mysteries of Christ (1 Corinthians 4:1). We “serve” the New Testament. Imagine coming into a restaurant and being served by a waiter. We’re like that waiter who serves in a restaurant; but the difference is, we serve life! We serve the Spirit, righteousness and the blessings of the New Testament. Hallelujah!

When I pray for God’s people, and say to them, “I bless you in the Name of Jesus; I bless you with the Word; with His presence; and with the Holy Ghost,” I’m distributing the blessings of Christ! This is what He’s called us to do as His ministers and ambassadors in the earth; we’re dispensers of divine blessings. He’s anointed us, and we’re to distribute this grace by the Spirit and change lives everywhere.

PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for the privilege of being a minister of the New Testament, hence a conveyor of eternal verities. I’ll extend your blessings to others through the Spirit, and spread your grace to the ends of the earth, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
|| Matthew 10:7-8 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. ||

|| Romans 1:11 For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; ||

|| 1 Peter 4:10 As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. ||

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
1 Corinthians 15:35-58 & Proverbs 8-9

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
1 Thessalonians 2:10-20 & Jeremiah 18

Rhapsody Of Realities

THE SPIRIT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

Sunday, September 2nd 2018

Pastor Chris

And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm (Daniel 1:20).

In the days of King Nebuchadnezzar, he wanted certain young men trained, and he got them from different nations. Among them were four Hebrew boys: Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. On the day they were brought to be examined by the king, they were found to be ten times better than their peers. Why? God had blessed them with supernatural intelligence; they had an excellent spirit!

A similar example is David. The power of God came on him when Samuel the Prophet anointed him to become king of Israel, and he turned out to be a marvel in his day. He killed and decapitated Goliath as a stripling. Saul was the King of Israel at the time, and he was a great man of war, but when he faced Goliath, he was terrified. The difference was that the Spirit of God had departed from Saul, and the Spirit had come upon David. Saul had become an ordinary man, whilst David had the Spirit.

1 Samuel 18:7 says, “And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and DAVID HIS TEN THOUSANDS.” What were they seeing in the spirit? “Ten times more!” They could have said “twelve” or “six”; but they said, “...Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands. ” There’s something about the Spirit that causes you to do the extraordinary and unimaginable!

Now that you’re born again, that Spirit is in you, not just on you. Acts 1:8 says, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you….” The Holy Spirit has brought the glory of God into your life, giving you guidance and direction. You can walk through “walls,” blaze through barriers, and through the darkness. He’s filled you with supernatural ability to do things that can’t be humanly explained.

Take advantage of the person, power, and ministry of the Holy Spirit in your life! He’s your advantage; He causes you to see, think, say and do things ordinary men can’t do.

CONFESSION
By the power of the Holy Ghost, there’s a profuse demonstration of the supernatural in my ministry, job, business, finances, health, family, and everything that concerns me. My path is that of the just which shines brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. Glory to God!

FURTHER STUDY:
|| 1 Samuel 10:6 NIV The Spirit of the LORD will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person. ||

|| Judges 14:5-6 Then went Samson down, and his father and his mother, to Timnath, and came to the vineyards of Timnath: and, behold, a young lion roared against him. 6 And the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and he rent him as he would have rent a kid, and [he had] nothing in his hand: but he told not his father or his mother what he had done. ||

|| 1 John 2:27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. ||

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-Year Bible Reading Plan
1 Corinthians 16:1-24 & Proverbs 10-11

2-Year Bible Reading Plan
1 Thessalonians 3:1-13 & Jeremiah 19-20