An Emoji Devotions for Tue, 23 March 2021

Topic: Be Drunk in the Holy Spirit

Highlights: Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Ephesians 5:18

When the Lord said “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.” Psalm 46:10 He was saying the core truth because He is truly exalted among nations of the earth today. He also said in Habakkuk 2:3 that "For the vision awaits an appointed time; it testifies of the end and does not lie. Though it lingers, wait for it, since it will surely come and will not delay." That is exactly true too and why we all need to be drunk in the Holy Spirit as 2 Peter 2:9a explains it better that "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you...," Which means that being drunk in the Holy spirit makes you to be numb to snakes and lions of life even though they are there to scare you (please read Luke 10:19, and Psalm 91:13 for better understanding).

Psalm 27:14 Explains it better that we should all "Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD!"

God's time is faster than in spirit time but it may look slower while waiting in flesh because God has to do the fixing and arrangements before the result. Psalm 4:4 says "Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. To patiently wait for the Lord in any situation either boiling or stormy, when you need quick answer, it is better to be silent and to trust in the Lord. Do not drink wine or alcohol to subdue yourself but Be silent and search your heart while you trust in God.

In Luke 18:7-8 Jesus said "Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night? Will He continue to defer their help? I tell you, He will promptly carry out justice on their behalf. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?”

The faith Jesus wants to see in you when you are in the midst of challenges is to see you trust in the Lord with all your heart and be wonderfully calm about it no matter what it looks like.

Psalm 27:13 "I remain confident of this:
I will see the goodness of the Lord
in the land of the living."

Prayer: Holy Lord fill me up with the fullness of Holy Spirit in Jesus name. Amen I receive confidence in the Lord in Jesus name. Amen

An Emoji Devotions for Mon, 22 March ,2021

Topic: And Christ will Shine on you

Highlights: This is why it is said:

“Wake up, sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.” Ephesians 5:17

Jesus is the light that shines. A powerful light that overcomes darkness. Like the sun that shines during the day and the whole night turns into day. Jesus's light is so big that no darkness can overpower it. John 1:5 says if we have Jesus in our lives then we have the light of life that no darkness could overpower. In John 8:12 Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. The person who follows me will never live in darkness. He will have the light that gives life.”

Yes, though darkness look horrible and fearsome, it is the darkness that should be afraid of light and not the other way round. What baffles angels in heaven is how a born again Christian is afraid of powers of darkness because angels can never be afraid of demons no matter how tough. 2 Timothy 1:7 says that "God did not give us a spirit that makes us afraid. He gave us a spirit of power and love and self-control." In the days of our Lord Jesus when he speaks a word demons will run for their lives. In Matthew 8:16 "When evening came, they brought to Him many who were under the power of demons, and He drove out the spirits with a word and restored to health all who were sick."

According to our highlighted Verse, it is time to wake up from sleep if you are someone who is being afraid of people based on their spiritual gruesomeness. You must surrender your life to our Lord Jesus Christ who is the light that shines and once he comes into you, you will glow and stop this fear of darkness. Once you accept Jesus, we should confess with faith everyday that it is the darkness that will run from the light. Something like this "I am a light of God given the liberty of peace and progess through Christ Jesus and as long as I remain the light of the world, it is darkness that will stay away from me". Ephesians 2:6 says "And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus" which means You and I are now in the heavenly realm with Jesus, bigger and greater than all realms of darkness. Praise the Lord!

Prayer: Lord Jesus please shine your light upon my spirit and give me confidence and victory over the realms of darkness. Amen. "I am a light of God given the liberty of peace and progess through Christ Jesus and as long as I remain the light of the world, it is darkness that will stay away from me" Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Sun, March 21 2021

Topic: Attributes of Champions

Highlights:
Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank. Prov 22:29

Being diligent is a personality trait that makes a champion. Traits like having a charming smile and brilliant mind and being diligent and determined as a champion. Everyone is born a champion but few really chose to become a champion in life. Champion lifestyle is not a easy one that's why people abandoned to become an ordinary self because the road is not easy. Champions are reckless in their focus and determination to their goals because they aim for the crown. In competition no matter how you try, it takes winning to become a champion of the game. So many many people wants to associate themselves with champions, including the top profile people in the society because they are celebrities. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the greater than the greatest champion in human history because he laid down his life for everyone of us so that we can have life in abundance. What are few attributes of a champion:

1. They are Diligent
2. They Demonstrate courage
3. They are Disciplined
4. They are Motivated
5. They are Intelligent
6. They are Humble
7. They Focused to sacrifice for the greater good.

Like Jesus, Whoever is born again and has the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a champion.

"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4

As from now on, we must turn to God and believe we have been made champions through Jesus Christ our Lord. If you are not born again it is time to surrender your life to Christ today by confessing him as your Lord and saviour. Because if the Spirit that raise Jesus Christ dwells in you, it will make you a champion. Romans 8:11

Prayer : Lord make me a champion through the power of the Holy Spirit in Jesus name. Amen

An Emoji Devotions for Thu, 18th March, 2021

Topic: Manipulation of the devil and human mocking

Highlights:

He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. Matthew 27:42

Then the devil took Him to the holy city and set Him on the pinnacle of the temple. 6“If You are the Son of God,” he said, “throw Yourself down. For it is written: ‘He will command His angels concerning You, and they will lift You up in their hands, so that You will not strike Your foot against a stone.’” Matthew 4:6-6

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10

It is a good thing to sing hymns because in their words you find encouragement. A manipulated person may never know if he's doing the right thing. Even when he or she is doing the right thing he will be tempted by the devil and mocked by men to pull him off the right track. Proverbs 14:15 "The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps." The first thing the devil does is to make you believe the things he wants to tell you. The devil first of all took Jesus to the holy city and set Him on the pinnacle of the temple before he said "Throw yourself down if you are the son of God." He eventually reminded Jesus what the Bible says about angels guidance in Psalm 91. It's true that Jesus is righteous and was taken to the Holy city but God did not tell us to test our spiritual abilities whether they are working or not. Whatever could make you test the power of God whether it will work or not is a manipulation of the devil. Daniel did not go into the lion's den to test his powers he was falsely accused and after being thrown in the lion's cave God delivered him. Same thing for Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, they escaped the burning furnace because they were determined not to disobey God. Some people will give God deadline like three months or three years before preparing to backslide back into the world. You can see that when people even the priests and teachers of law mocked Jesus on the cross that he saved others but he could not save himself in Matthew 27:42. Jesus did not fight back.

When you truly want to serve God, you will serve him wholeheartedly without ultimatums or deadline nor faulting. You will not permit the devil to manipulate you or listen to what people say to mock you. Jesus response to all test from the devil was "it is written"... It is written man shall not live by bread alone, it is written thou shall not test the Lord your God, it is written thou shall serve the Lord thy God and only him shall thou serve. We should endeavour to read out Bible to know what's written concerning us to over-rule manipulations from the devil. God said in 41:10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. What He says is true. He did it for Moses, and all men of faith. He will do it for you if you do not let the devil manipulate you nor yield to human mockery. Keep serving God and trusting him whether it is good or bad. Remove any deadline or second option to backslide in your heart and serve God fully. That's how a true child of God does.

Prayer: Father make me your child permanently. I am not more giving you any deadline or ultimatum. I will serve you for the rest of my life and will obey you. Please Lord hold me up with your victorious right hand. In Jesus name. Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Mon 15 March, 2021

Topic: the dots and comas of life

Highlights: I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

If you have ever came across a story line paragraph without punctuation marks. Even though it contain beautiful story it wouldn't make much sense. It may feel like you are been dragged back by real life punctuations if you really want to move fast and something or some people are slowing you down. Like someone trying to catch up with an event would suddenly bumped into unexpected traffic.

In year 2020 the whole world experienced a backlash holiday from an unexpected COVID 19 pandemic which has reshaped how people live. Now you have to cover your nose, wash your hands and distance yourself from people anywhere even in the bank. An act which looks to the moral like pride if there were no pandemic. May God have mercy!

It makes more sense when we become a gentleman and gentlewoman that people want to see but what's stopping us? A good man or woman will not feel good after making someone else sad. Like looking down on the waiter in the restaurant because something went wrong with your order, or talking rashly to the roadside commuters because they anyhow bumped into you? How has anything or anyone been acting crazy like a punctuation mark lately in your story line? Do you now understand what Jesus went through before he laid down his life for me and you on the cross? See the punctuations that when Jesus said in this world you will have trouble does not refer to blows and jabs from religious fights. It's personal and a thing that defines you as gentleman. Are you having trouble coping with the real world people around you?

God knows. Yet it is those people who decides in their heart if you are good man or good woman. No, it's not a temptation when same thing happens more than once and you can only say "but God knows my heart!". Summer and winter will not cease but who will save your soul when you are remembered by what we have done?

Hebrews 9:27 -28 "Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him."

Have you waited for Christ salvation or It is just a normal thing to try; to receive Jesus Christ into your life, have you made confessions about him as your Lord and saviour to genuinely show the way you behave is as a Bible believer? You can be the gentleman and gentlewoman the world wants to see. Though it is difficult, Jesus says "be cheerful I have overcome the world".

Prayer: Lord have pity on me if I have affected other people's lives negatively, forgive me and give me the opportunity to live right. I need the grace of our Lord Jesus to remember who I need to be and not what I want to be. Let me be like Jesus to the world. Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Sun, 14 March,2021

Topic: why are you like this?

Highlights: "...and lean not on your own understanding;" Proverbs 3:5-6

It's until you are hungry then you will appreciate food. Then you will know why some hungry people can't walk very well. You always want to know the reason for everything. That's probably why you are like what you are right now. It's possible you don't mutter it out, maybe you always whisper silently in your heart. "Why is everyone not smiling at me?" Is my dress that bad? Why is he covering his nose? You even ask why someone is being nice to you. God says we should stop asking questions and give thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus".

Time flies, and soon enough by the time strange things start happening to you, if you do not change your attitude of asking too many questions then you may start knowing the reason why it asking too much questions is bad. Instead of asking questions, follow tha advice of King Solomon in Proverbs 22:28 - 29

"Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors."

Work on the talent God gave you, be yourself and leave what others are saying for God to handle.

The Bible says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" 2 Corinthians 5:17

The new person is you! Be real to yourself and stop asking why. Be in Christ today and all your questions will be solved.

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Prayer: Lord you are my Daddy, my creator, my friend and my everything. Forgive me for my rebellion against you through my inappropriate questions. I have repent today. In Jesus name Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Mon, 8 2021

Topic: God’s Kingdom shall shine - the Lord’s glory shall be radiant.

By H. U. Wenger

Highlight: You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth: (Acts 1:

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20 – 21)

A long time ago, John the Baptist went through the land of Israel by preaching: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” (Matthew 3:2). Only a short time later Jesus was touring the same land with the same message. (Matthew 4: 17). Jesus, however, invited to follow him and promised that he would make his disciples to fishers of men. (Matthew, 4: 19) Additionally to his preaching about the kingdom of heaven he gave the people a taste of it by healing the sick, by freeing the demon possessed and restoring the paralyzed. In an amazing teaching in the Sermon on the Mount he showed them the love of God that dwelled in him and made clear, that he wants to bestow the very same love and power to them. As my father has sent me into the world, so I send you into the very same world. (John 17:18; 20:21) You will be like sheep among wolves. The disciple is not any greater than the master. They hated me and they will hate you, because I am not from this world and as my followers are not from the world, but still in the world. (John 15:18 ff).

Where ever the followers of Christ are living out the love of God and the gospel, there will be a taste of the kingdom of heaven and of the Lord’s glory. The earth is a fallen creation that waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed (Romans 8:19) and it will only turn into a heavenly place, when the prince of peace will reign for a thousand year.

Presently we live in a time that is pregnant with expectations for the revelation of God’s greater glory and a mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit, accompanied with signs and wonders. I will greatly rejoice, when such things are starting to happen and frankly, I hope for it too. In the meantime, I believe in the path of obedience. To make the kingdom of heaven visible, it must dwell within me. Whenever I realize that I am not living in the love with which Jesus loves me, whenever I catch myself judging others and not giving them the respect and reference I am receiving from my heavenly father, I need to repent and to turn around. By humiliating myself und the mighty hand of God, his glory will be radiant in my community and his kingdom will become visible and shining.

Ephesians 5: 1 – 9 shows us the way. Consciously wanting to be an imitator of God as a dearly loved child and live a life of love, like Christ, ready to give myself as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God and withstand everything that is not born out of God’s love.

Prayer: Lord, teach me to be your imitator in love and respect. Fill me with your spirit and please do immeasurably more through the power of the indwelling spirit than I can ask or imagine.

An Emoji Devotions for Sun 7th March, 2021

Topic: The Sunday called “my eyes”

By H.U. Wenger

In the old church order the Sunday has its name from Psalm 25, Verse 15: “My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare”.

Highlights: “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go. I will guide thee with my eye.” (Psalm 32:
“Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. Relieve the troubles of my heart and free me from my anguish. Look on my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins. See how numerous are my enemies and how fiercely they hate me! Guard my life and rescue me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you. May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you.” (Psalm 25:16 – 21)

The eye-contact is an utterly important thing in every conversation. Important things between partners are not resolved in writing or over the phone. We rather want a personal meeting in which the partners are face to face. The look into each other’s eyes, gives us some assurance. In first King 18 and 19 the Old Testament shows us a memorable example on what is going to happen, when a man of God loses the sight of the LORD’S eyes.

Elijah has just fought the battle with the priests of Baal and he has been triumphant. All the people of Israel have shouted: “The LORD is God, the LORD is God!” And with it, they agreed to the demise of the 400 priests of Baal. After that triumphant day, King Ahab returned to his palace and he reported to his wife Jezebel all that has happened. Jezebel was enraged and he sent a message to Elijah: “May the Gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them.” Because of that threat Elijah’s eyes have been diverted from the Lord and were now directed to the enraged Jezebel and so Elijah began to run for his life. He was so disappointed with God that he wanted to die from the hand of God. “I have had enough LORD. Take my life; I am not better than my ancestors.” The Lord does not argue with Elijah – he lets him sleep for a while and then gives him a new aim that makes him search again for the LORD’S face, for his eyes that will guide him on his way. Elijah learns that it is not the unrestricted powers of the LORD that conquer and convince with regard to the human soul. It is the goodness and love of God that causes man to turn around and to trust in the Lord, because he is the only one, who can release our feet from the snare.

Elijah did meet God’s eyes again because the Lord guided him with his eyes and Elijah was willing to look into God’s eyes and follow his guidance. He gloriously finished his path and was finally raptured into heaven in a fiery chart.
You may feel lonely and afflicted today. Your troubles may look invincible and you may be in great anguish. Turn your eyes again to the LORD. No Jezebel and no power of the earth is a match for the love and goodness of God. In him alone is your rescue and comfort.

Prayer: Dear LORD, please help me that I will never divert my eyes away from you. Teach me your way and guide me with your eyes. Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Sat 6 Mar, 2021

Topic: God will never forget you

Highlights: See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands;
your walls are ever before me. Isaiah 49:16

Look around, if you can see what God is saying up in that highlighted Verse and you felt good about it, then I congratulate you. It takes being born again to SEE the kingdom of God. So many people can see but cannot recognise. But when you being a born again Christian could see and can recognise but forgets easily. No wonder Jesus gave a parable about a farmer sowing seed. "Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.”

God does not forget animals let alone the ones he created in His own image. (Read Matthew 6:26-34)

"Can a woman forget her nursing child, or lack compassion for the son of her womb? Even if she could forget, I will not forget you!" Isaiah 49:15

Even if you forget this phrase in the future "remember, God will never forget you."

Prayer: God I pray to please hear me. Do not allow me to forget that you already have me in mind. Give me the spirit of remembrance and honour for you. In Jesus name. Amen

An Emoji devotion for Fri 5 Mar ,2021

Topic: starting to look like each other

Text:For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” Matthew 12:50

Couples who are in tune with each other often mirror each other's habits and body language. It shows that there's emotional comfort and trust in their relationship. Scientists state that partners tend to change their own habits throughout their married life. For example, if one of them was trying to quit smoking and started eating healthy food, the other one often did the same.

You should start to look like Jesus. Are your true friends doing the will of God as you do?

"So don’t be foolish with your lives, but learn what the Lord wants you to do"

What does God want your friends to do.

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

To offer their body as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable... Romans 12:1

To not conform to the ways people of the world become desperate for social trends and fame. Romans 12:2

It is the will of God that they abstain from fornication. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5

Don’t be drunk with wine, which will ruin your life, but be filled with the Spirit. Ephesians 5:18

Encourage each other with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Eph 5:19a

“What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’

“‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went.

“Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go.

“Which of the two did what his father wanted?”

“The first,” they answered.

Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. Matthew 21:28-31

Start to look like each other. Start to think like each other. Mingle with people who do what God wants.

Prayer: Lord Jesus please give me grace to mingle with those who do your will and live with them peacefully. In Jesus name. Amen

An Emoji Devotions for Thu, March 4, 2021

Topic: Laban Syndrome

Highlights: When morning came, there was Leah! So Jacob said to Laban, “What is this you have done to me? I served you for Rachel, didn’t I? Why have you deceived me?” Genesis 29:25

To succeed in this life is in God's hands but to fear and fail is orchestrated by the evil inside of you as what you think is not actually what God thinks. There is a syndrome in everyone born of a woman which I call the Laban Syndrome: It is the fear of failure leading to dependence on man's power rather than God's power. It is giving God a nod of approval to receive his trust but failing to deliver at the end. It is like giving an excuse all the time because you are enjoying indulgence. Afterall I am not a judge and God is the King. If we are lucky enough our dream wife or husband could match 20% compatible with our life's expectations or none at all. Stealing his older brother's inheritance, Jacob feared his brother's wrath and fled to Harran. ... And he got a job, he loved his job so Jacob served Laban seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her. Gen 29:20 What is the Laban in your life? Your job or your quest to marry? And How have they shaped your life so far. Has any type of Laban switched your heartthrob for another one. What did you do to tLaban's syndrome and how did it affects you? Malachi 3:8

Should people cheat God? Yet you have cheated me! “But you ask, ‘What do you mean? When did we ever cheat you?’ “You have cheated me of the tithes and offerings due to me.

When God is speaking. Listen to what God is saying! Should people cheat God? Either you are professor or Bachelor of religion, In what way have you been living in Laban's syndrome?

Prayer: God almighty, prepare and connect me through the Holy Spirit to you with a nice and cordial relationship. Help me to align well with you by fulfilling my vows and if I have owed you anything please pardon me. In Jesus name. Amen.

An emoji devotion 4 Wednesday March 3 2021

Topic: In the Valley of Baca

Highlights: As they pass through the Valley of Baka, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. Psalm 84:6

That which seemed an impediment turns to a furtherance; at least, no misery can be so great, no estate so barren, but a godly heart can make it a well, out of which to draw forth water of comfort; either water to cleanse, and make it a way to repentance; or water to cool, and make it a way to patience; or water to moisten, and make it a way of growing in grace; and if the well happen to be dry, and afford no water from below, yet the rain shall fill their pools, and supply them with water from above. If natural forces be not sufficient, there shall be supernatural graces added to assist them, that though troubles of the world seem rubs in the way to blessedness, yet in truth they are none, they hinder not arriving at the mark we aim at, they hinder us not from being made members of Sion, they hinder us not from approaching the presence of God. No, my soul, they are rather helps, for by this means we go from strength to strength, from strength of patience, to strength of hope; from strength of hope, to strength of faith, to strength of vision; and then will be accomplished that which David speaks here; Blessed is the man whose strength is in God, and in whose heart his ways are. Sir Richard Baker.

The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling[a] together; and a little child will lead them.
The cow will feed with the bear, their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. Isaiah 11:6-7

Prayer: O Lord be my all sufficient helper in all times. Amen

An Emoji Devotions for Tue 2 March, 2021

Topic: Cattle Breeders Generations

Highlights:
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. Psalm 23:1

Abraham was a cattle breeder. He is the father of faith. In fact all Israelites have cattles. Job 42:12 - So the LORD blessed Job's latter days more than his first. He owned 14,000 sheep, 6,000 camels, 1,000 yoke of oxen, and 1,000 female donkeys. In Psalm 50:10

With so much cattles there will E very much milk and wool in the land. In Psalm 50:10 God said "every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills." Jacob served Laban for 14 years to rear cattles for him and David was a shepherd. When our Lord Jesus was born, God revealed it first to some shepherds in Bethlehem. (See Luke 2:10-12)

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.” Luke 2:8-9 (NIV)"

There must be something special about cattle breeders which attracts God to them. Most important thing is that portray same qualities as God to protect their cattles.

They feed, they care, they nurture, they protect and even lay down their lives for their cattles. Isaiah 40:11 "He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young."

Though there are bad eggs amongst cattle breeders but Jesus said in John 10:11-12 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd, and the sheep are not his own. When he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf pounces on them and scatters the flock.

This is the reason why you surrender your life to Jesus Christ and be one of his sheep. A sheep is soft-Hearted, upright, elegant. Sheep is a meek animal. They are usually very quiet and gentle, holding themselves aloof from the world.

Our Lord Jesus said in John 3:3 "Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again."

Are you born again?

Prayer: Lord Jesus the good shepherd make me one of your sheep. Guide me, care for me and nurture me. I want to be born again into your sheep folds. I will be gentle, meek and mild to your commands as written in the Bible. Love you Jesus my shepherd. Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Mon, 1 March 2021

Topic: How do I center my focus on God?

Highlight: Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous laws. Psalm 119:164

Happy new month to you from where you are! I wish all readers of Emoji Devotions glorious manifestations in spiritual awakenings this month. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

When Jesus said "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness". He is pointing to honourable worship and reverence to God. It is Most honourable way to live;- Let me show you something; when you have plans, who do you tell first? The most honourable way is to tell God first about it. By telling God first about your plans in secret shows you have refevence for Him. Note that I do not talk about the things you need*. I say it's most honourable to tell your plans to God first! "Seek ye first the kingdom..." means seek God's approval first before you *do* it. Have you ever prayed like this? "Dear heavenly father, these are my plans for today."

As a child of God, our maker is our father and he deserves to truly know what is going on in our lives. Some will say, "is He not God who knows all things?" But If God says " is she not my daughter who has sharp eyes to see, she does not need my help" . Which is more justified? Remember, When God left Job for Satan to handle?, see what happened to him within an hour: Job 1:14b-18 "....They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”

While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The fire of God fell from the heavens and burned up the sheep and the servants, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”

While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”

While he was still speaking, yet another messenger came and said, “Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you (Job)!”

If what you are planning is really important then you need to tell God first so you can be justified when you are enjoying the reward.
If you do not learn from Job, you can learn from Jesus. Matthew 6:33

That is how to center focus on God.

Ecclesiastes 5:2 Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.


Prayer Exercise: Give thanks to God for his support and protection. Tell Him about your plans for today, repeat same exercise each day. Write down the transformation you observe at the end of each week?

An Emoji Devotions for Wed 24th February, 2021


Topic: Moments of Joy!

Highlights: You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11

Have you ever been in a situation whereby you wore a cardigan because it was cold and suddenly thereafter the weather changed to a humid temperature and you see it necessary to remove your jacket. God's presence is everlasting joy. Psalm 16:11 and God does not change forever, it is human being that do change. So many have lost their consciousness on their positions of God's presence and their moments of joy was stolen because the devil wants it that way. John the beloved once said "For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world." 1John 2:16 NLV. Jesus also said " The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life." John 10:10 and apostle Paul said" Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Philippians 4:4. Having joy shows we are in His presence but not all could have such experience because the devil has made it to look like they are worse and things are really bad.

Do not reminisce with the devil. Once a thought or idea comes from your past that is showing hurt and sadness from your feelings, know that the devil is around the corner. 2cor 5:17 Do not let such thoughts steal away your moments of joy. You can beat such thoughts by having hope in God looking unto Jesus that your tomorrow will be better. Acknowledge the presence of the Holy Spirit around you and sense joy instead of sorrow.

Job in His agony said "But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last" Job 19:25 NLV.. Know your God and if you are not born again you must repent of your sins and accept Jesus as your Lord and saviour today and ask him to fill you with His joyous and Holy precense which is the Holy Spirit.

Always ask Holy Spirit to take over and give you joy unspeakable and peace that surpasses all understanding. May your Joy be full in Jesus name. Amen

Prayer: Father Lord please secure my moments of joy everyday in the Holy Spirit. In Jesus name. Amen

An Emoji Devotions for Tue 23 February, 2021

Topic: Magical Enemy

There is an evil I have seen under the sun, the sort of error that arises from a ruler: Fools are put in many high positions, while the rich occupy the low ones. I have seen slaves on horseback,
while princes go on foot like slaves.
Whoever digs a pit may fall into it;
whoever breaks through a wall may be bitten by a snake. Whoever quarries stones may be injured by them;
whoever splits logs may be endangered by them. If the ax is dull
and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success. Ecclesiastes 7: 5-10

From the Bible reading above. It is very clear that humans create errors with their imaginations and these imaginations lands them into the pit or to the venomous spits of snakes. The pit did not force you to come but you dug a pit and yet fell into it. Also the snake was lying gently on its own but you went to break into its home and found that a snake spitting at you. All these things started from imagination.

Consider why wise people are lying waste in the city while the unlearned are ruling in the government. 1Cor 10:23 CEV says "Some of you say, “We can do whatever we want to!” But I tell you that not everything may be good or helpful." Fools are placed in many positions and slaves riding on horseback but the rich occupy low ones and princes go on foot like slaves.

1 Samuel 13 Amon was so in love with his half-sister Tamar , a virgin who happend to be Absalom's sister. Amon was advised by his friend called Jonadab to act like he was sick and ask the king to send his half-sister Tamar to nurse him. He raped Tamar and he lost his life to the same course. In verse 32 it was same Jonadab his friend that announced to his father about his death. You see that Amon was just a short-sighted wise man who lost his life to self conceited wisdom of getting what he wants by all means because they look good in his eyes. He believes in short term achievements and refused to recognise that he is digging pits for venomous snakes in his imagination. When he imagined the whole thing, he really wished he could have his wish come through. What a spoilt brat! His friend helped him more into early grave with wrong advise.

Your magical enemy is hidden in your imaginations and they will bring you to bad advise and decisions. Whenever these imaginations come to you, you must sight the pit and snakes immediately and use your skill to drop the dull ax with unsharpened edge. Afterall our Lord Jesus Christ said "whoever wants to become great among you must be * servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be * slave— which means beware of the traps lying as magical enemies in your imaginations to be great. In this was you will be able to map out your way into breakthrough.

Prayer: God, please be good to me. Help me fix my mind on eternal blessings and fruitfulness in Jesus name. Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Mon 22 February, 2021

Topic: Two Realms

Highlights:

At one time all of us lived to please our old selves. We gave in to what our bodies and minds wanted. We were sinful from birth like all other people and would suffer from the anger of God. Ephesians 2:3

But now you belong to Christ Jesus. At one time you were far away from God. Now you have been brought close to Him. Christ did this for you when He gave His blood on the cross. Eph 2:13

Today's Devotional is going to be straightforward. I want to discuss about two important realms. The realm of thoughts and the realm of consciousness. In the realm of thoughts is where we have cravings and desire for what the body and mind wanted. If our body goes by instructions given from our thoughts then we are likely controlled by the prince of the air Ephesians 2:1-2. I have heard few people who said they get good sleep without nightmare once they drink hard drink but once they stop drinking they will have nightmare. That's the prince of the air coaxing them to drink in order to subdue damage them. I want to believe that the temptation of our Lord Jesus Christ in the wilderness took this form. Some people live so strong in the thinking realms that it seems they are watching it on TV. Some have even got their night dreams stolen and replaced with fearful thoughts. John 10:10

The second is the realm of consciousness. Though It takes discipline but it's very great and has the presence of God. Anyone operating in the realm of consciousness are great people. Example was Abraham who took hold of God's promise and almost sacrificed his son because he was conscious of the end. (Genesis 18:9-15; 21:1-7). Another Example is found in Ruth 1:14 Again they wept aloud, and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her. Ruth is a woman of faith. She clinged to Naomi her mother in-law even when all hope seems to be lost. She was one of the great grandmother of our Lord Jesus Christ. Those who operate in the realms of consciousness has something that keep them on track. They have far sight into the future seeing the greatness of God. They look up to the second coming of Christ even when it seems it's not forthcoming. This is the realms you see God and his angel. Afterall our Lord Jesus told the devil "it is written..."when He was tempted in the wilderness. In the case when His disciples could not cast out demons Jesus told them they had little faith and if they could have faith as small as the size of mustard seed. Nothing will be impossible to them. Matthew 17:19-20 Howbeit in verse 21 He said "this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting."

You can reach the level of consciousness by fasting and praying. This is part of the reason Jesus Christ fasted before embarking on his ministerial journey. Focus on God and do all its takes to stay with him because with him is eternal life. John 6:68.

Prayer: O Lord place my consciousness on your promises in Jesus mighty name. Amen

An Emoji Devotions for Sun 21 February, 2021

Topic: Please Don't Die

Highlights: Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? Hebrews 12:7


A pot filled with water burning in the intense heat of fire will maintain resistance until the water is dried up. Once there is no more water, the pot will be burnt. For our “God is a consuming fire" Heb 12:29; and according to Zechariah 14:21 We are all cooking pots because our flesh is the house of the spirit living in us(also See "Heavenly Mothers" Emoji Devotions for Fri 19th). As a matter of fact, every pot born alive and existing on earth is always on fire. Whatever you have in your pot determines what you are up to. Jeremiah 1:13 -15a The word of the Lord came to me again: “What do you see?”

“I see a pot that is boiling,” I answered. “It is tilting toward us from the north.”

The Lord said to me, “From the north disaster will be poured out on all who live in the land. 15 I am about to summon all the peoples of the northern kingdoms,” declares the Lord....

Sometimes a pot could refer to a collection of people or city with the same motives. This shows that we are living on God's fire to fulfill his purpose. Right now the world is burning on grace because we all have something cooking in our pots that fire could still burn. God is an everlasting fire that does not quench (Amen) and is burning every human motives. 1 Cor 3:13-15 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

Everyone has a motive(a reason for doing something) and if your motive is established, you will receive a reward for it but if your motive is burned you will suffer loss. In Luke 3:16 John answered them all, "I baptize you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. In this verse John the Baptist was telling the people that God has sent Jesus to come and do the separations of those who will be burned with fire and those who will be established with God forever. See this in Luke 3:17 (that) "He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire.” It is just like a man holding light looking into everyone's eyes while identifying and separating the justified from the condemned. That's Jesus Christ. His mother once said "Do whatever he tells you" John 2:5

In Luke 12:51-53 (Our Lord Jesus said) "Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. 52 From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”

You can see why Jesus came to the world. Because in verse 49 of Luke 12 He said "I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning!" NIV. That's the fire burning already under every pots of each and everyone of us. If the Spirit of God is not living in you (your pot), that means you are chaff which will be burned. Let me put it like this : For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. Romans 8:13 How is this possible? If put a flesh on fire, the flesh will be burnt. But if by the spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. How? You need to be born again. Yes, if you are not born again, you cannot receive the spirit of our Lord Jesus Christ.

As human being our brain is forgetful and ignorant that we are all living at the expense of God's fire. We must sincerely accept Jesus Christ into our lives and ask him to give us His Holy Spirit and fire to put us in the right path in God's will. You have the right to live if you are not burned by fire of God. This can only happen when your motives are not against the fire. Read Hebrews 12:18-29

In conclusion, if you are at the point of death; repent and make amendment of your ways back to God and ask God for mercy through Jesus Christ because God's children don't die, they only sleep. John 11:11 This He said, and after that He *said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I go, so that I may awaken him out of sleep.”

If your works have been burn with fire, the loss will show in your body and your health. Do not ask God why you wish to live as you wish and don't want to get burned. It is not God's fault that he created you to make this world more beautiful while you change and wants to go your own way. The world itself is powered by the fire of the sun. It cannot be in darkness anymore. For it is time for judgment to begin with God's household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 1 Peter 4:17. The only solution is to genuinely repent and remain in the Holy Spirit and fire. Please don't die.

Prayer: Lord Jesus wherever you are I'm ready to change my ways by receiving you into my life. Send me your Holy Spirit and fire to show me the rest of things I need to know. In your name I pray. Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Thu 18 February, 2021

Topic: That Alternate Angle

Highlights: ...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, Hebrews 12:1b

Fixing our eyes on Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of faith. There is a theory in James 1:6 "But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." As a matter of truth, The race of faith is so marked out that a double minded person should not expect to receive anything from God. James 1:7-8. Those who have double mind are positioned in an alternate angle to the degree of looking unto both Jesus and alternative solutions.

Mark 11:24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. The last part of the above Bible verse is telling us to face one direction and that direction is to believe that we have received what we prayed for, and it will be ours. Sitting in the alternate angle means you are sitting in opposite positions relative to a transversal intersecting two lines. You are not standing straight but tilted towards two directions. Such people cannot please God because anyone who comes to him must throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. Hebrews 11:6,12:1.

Most of these things happen in the high degree of thinking. As a Christian, You must beware of alternate angles in your thoughts as a matter of fact, No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God facing alternate angles. Matthew 6:24, 1John 2:15

Prayer: Help me Lord, give me power and grace to throw off everything that hinders and sins that easily entangles my heart and to stay focused on the road mapped out in faith. Amen.

An Emoji for Wed, 17 February 2021

Topic: God will never forget you.

Highlights: But God will never forget the needy;
the hope of the afflicted will never perish.

Walking on the journey of life for long and have seen many beautiful bad and ugly things. We only remember the remarkable days. Something like the day you lost something important to you like your keys and you have to start looking for it. Things of the past so not die easily but may somehow be forgotten. Did you know why the night turns into morning and the sun rises everyday? Do you know it's because of you? The Bible says though "each day has enough trouble of its own" Matt 6:34b But "Who can speak and have it happen if the Lord has not decreed it? Lamentations 3:37

If you think you were forgotten, then consider these things? Who feeds the animals in the bush? Who feeds the fish in the sea, and who is taking care of the trees in the forest? Who guides the birds to their home in the sky?

For no one is cast off by the Lord forever.
Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. Lamentations 3:31-32

Prayer: I thought I have seen it all before. Now I remember your compassion has me. Your love never fail. Great is thy faithfulness O Lord unto me. In Jesus name. Amen and Amen.

An Emoji devotion for Tue, 16 February, 2021

Topic: Heaven on Earth

Highlights:

..."You are not far from the kingdom of God." ...Mark 12:34

To some; unless they are converted and become like a child, they will not enter the kingdom of heaven. To others it is hard for them to enter into the kingdom of heaven because they are rich. Some have received the keys of the kingdom of heaven and whatever they bind on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatever they loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. To others, the kingdom of God is like casting seed upon the soil; and after going to bed at night and gets up by day, and the seed sprouts and grows—how it happens they do not know. To some; the kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed smaller than all other seeds which was sown in the field, but when it is full grown, it became larger than the garden plants and turned into a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.

Two questions:

What is the Kingdom of heaven like to you and have you yet reached your heaven on earth?

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval. Romans 14:17-18

Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me attain your heaven on earth through your grace and mercy. Amen.

Bible references: Matthew 18:3, Matt 19:23, Matt 16:19, Mark 4:26-29, Matt 13:44-46, Matt 13:31-43

An Emoji for Mon 15 February, 2021

Topic: Cities on Hilltops

Highlights: You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:14

A City is a human settlement but an abandoned city would turned into ghost town that will be forgotten. Jesus said "You are the light of the world" - Like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. The light of the sun that make things visible for the day shinning on a hilltop city has the best views and ratings in the sight of men. Residents from suburban areas would melt looking from afar the beauty of hilltop cities in all its splendor and give glory wishing they had been the one living in such magnificent edifice. "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

In Matthew 11:20 Then Jesus began to denounce the towns in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent.

People around you were supposed to wish they were in your shoes and admire you more and more with amazing things about you. But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required. Luke 12: 48


"...For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day."

To be a good city on hilltop, you should maintain your ratings before God and men and if your case is like Chorazin, you must repent. Matthew 11:21-22

Prayer: Lord as time passes by and by in the difficulty of representation as the light of the world and a city on the hilltop. I ask for grace and mercy to win in your name Jesus. Amen.

An Emoji for Sun 14 February

Topic: No one has ever gone into Heaven

Highlights:

No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man. John 3:13

Heaven is an organized territorial unit having a monarchial form of government which is God. ...“What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? The above sentence was found in Mark 4:30 when Jesus was looking for a good description of how to describe heaven. He said heaven is like a mustard seed which is the smallest of all seed on earth. Yet when planted it becomes the largest of all garden plants with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade. (Verse 31-32). Since No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven; then JESUS is HEAVEN. Jesus is the Kingdom where all the angels dwell and on the other hand Devil is the Kingdom where all demons lives. Jesus is heaven while the Devil is hell.

Which means As God is the father of Truth (Jesus), The Devil is the father of Lies see John 8:44

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. John 3:16,18.

Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved--you and your household." Act 16:31

Prayer: Heavenly Lord of all. You are the hope I have in this world of mine. I believe in you and in your name. Jesus! . Save me and be wonderful to me. Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Fri 12th February, 2021

Topic: Who is wise? How can wisdom grow within me?

By H.U. Wenger

As I woke this morning, I took my little devotional with a verse from the Bible for the day. It read: “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.” (Proverbs 3, 7) It is my habit to always grab the Bible and read the verse in the context, to not take conclusions in a wrong direction. The verses before read: “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” The following verse stated: “This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.” I understood that the short portion of scripture is an advice for my wellbeing. Am I wise in my own eyes, I questioned myself? At first glance it did not feel like it, but as I kept thinking about it, I realized that there are moments in my life where I am secretly harboring a sense of superiority. Not that I would speak about it. I keep it for myself. Nevertheless I internally distance myself from others and I violate love and faithfulness. I lean on my own understanding. I forget that all I have is a gift from the Lord and with that my fear of the Lord has diminished and evil, pride and haughtiness can grow. In those moments, although they may even feel good, I am working against my wellbeing.

The fear of the Lord has nothing to do with anxiety. Fear of the Lord is the awareness that I am responsible before him for all my thinking and doing and that all I am and all I have is his gracious gift to me. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (Proverbs 9, 10) He, and He only can give me life eternal. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. (John 17, 3) Fear of the Lord ultimately grows out of perfect love, out of the knowledge that no matter what I do, no matter what happens to me, I am surrounded by his love which he has revealed trough the suffering and the death of Christ. Death could not hold him and with him I am resurrected to a new life.

Time and again life tells me that I need more wisdom and I have to take refuge to James 1, 5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
The apostle James gives us the highlight for today in his teaching about the wisdom from above: “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” (James 3, 13 – 18) “It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: ‘Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord’.” (1. Corinthians 1, 30 – 31)

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I want to wholeheartedly and fully surrender to you. Make me wise in your eyes and keep me from pride, envy and selfish ambitions. Amen

An Emoji Devotions for Thu 11 February, 2021

Topic: Do you believe that God has mercy?

By H.U.Wenger

In “The Book of Mysteries”, written by Rabbi Jonathan Cahn, this is the question the teacher asks his student. He replies: “Of course – you have told me that!” But “no” said the teacher. “God does not have mercy. The student was confused and for the first time contradicted the teacher. “With all due respect – that is not right.” “So then,” replied the teacher, “prove your point.” The student then responds that he has read in the book of Daniel, in which Daniel prays for Gods mercy on the people of Israel and he says: “To the Lord our God belongs mercy and forgiveness …” “No, says the teacher, at least in the original language it does not say that. It says, to the Lord our God belongs rachamim. And what is rachamim, the student asks. The teacher responds that although some would translate it as mercy, it is not a singular, but a plural word. “It does not mean mercy. It means mercies. It means that Gods mercy is more than mercy. God’s mercy is so great, so strong and so deep that it cannot be contained in a single word. Rachamim means that his mercy has no end.”
The student wants then to know whether the word for “sin” is a singular or a plural word and the teacher assures him that “sin” is a singular word. What does that tell us?
Cahn lets the student say: That no matter what my sin is, no matter how great, the mercy of God is always greater. An no matter how much I have sinned, no matter how many sins I have, the mercies of God are more than my sins.”
“Yes,” said the teacher. “So do not ever make the mistake of thinking that you have exhausted God’s mercy. You never have. You never could. And you never will. He will always have more mercies than you have sins, more than enough to cover every sin and to still have enough compassion left over to love you forever. For what the Lord has for you is not mercy … but rachamim.” So far Jonathan Cahn
Highlights: Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon. (Isajah 55, 6 – 7) So I say, “My splendor is gone and all that I had hoped from the Lord.” I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3, 18 – 23) Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. (2. Corinthians 1, 3 – 4)
You may be down because of sin, because of disappointment or because of betrayal. Do not despair, but turn to God. He has enough rachamim for you. Jeremiah was rightfully disappointed and David had many bloody sins. Both turned to the Lord and both became men after God’s own heart. Take courage!
Prayer: God, thank you that I cannot fall outside of your mercy. I am turning to you. Help me to get up again and rejoice in your rachamim for me.

Reference
Jonathan Cahn, The Book of Mysteries, FrontLine Charisma Media, Lake Mary, Florida 2016, ISBN 978-1-62998-941-9, Day 56

An Emoji Devotions for Wed, 10 February 2021

Topic: Why is it important to care for a holy life?

By H. U. Wenger

Highlights: “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14)

We do know that except for Jesus himself, every one of us is a sinner. According to the sermon of the mount we all qualify for murderers and adulterers. Nevertheless many Christian consider the doctrine of the sermon of the mount as an ideological non-reachable ideal. Yes, of course we should strive for a sanctified life, but Jesus himself did not believe it really possible and therefore he has given us his own righteousness for free, as a gift. Even the Epistle to the Hebrews mentions that we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are – yet was without sin. (Hebrews 4:15) We cannot do without sin, so why bother?

This is a doctrine that has spread from the Western liberal theology and it is a dangerous cancer in the church today that causes Christianity to be without the dynamics of salt and light. Although nobody can claim to be without sin as long as we live in the flesh (1. John 1: we always have to aspire for a more sanctified life. This is the only way to become more like Jesus. Yes, it is true that Jesus has gifted his disciples with his righteousness and holiness, but it is also true that he called them time and again to a holy life: compare the beatitudes (Matthew 5: 3 – 12); be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5, 13 – 16); keep the law (Matthew 5, 17 - 42); love your enemies and be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew 5: 43 – 48) He encourages to let go of the earthly worries about clothing and food and to concentrate on his kingdom and his righteousness. (Matthew 6: 28 – 34) The apostles continue in that very tradition. All the Epistles show us what riches and blessings are bestowed on us through the redemption through Christ and then encourages us to lay down everything that belongs to the old nature and live in the Holy Spirit, the new nature, God has given us. We cannot follow Jesus just ideally or spiritually. Discipleship needs always to be wholeheartedly, including my mind, my soul, my body and eventually my actions.
Jesus warns us: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ (Matthew 7:21 – 23)

Highlights: “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14) “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature:” … (Colossians 3:1 – 5a)

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I earnestly want to be holy as you are holy, but I am not. Help me to grow and to be transformed into your image. Thank you for the Holy Spirit and forgive me any resistance I have put against his guidance. My life belongs to you, take it and form it into your image. Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Tue, Feb 9, 2021

Topic: My doubts can lead to deeper trust and firmer faith in the Lord

By H.U. Wenger

Highlights: For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love. By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth. (Psalm 33: 4 – 6)

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing. (Psalm 34:8 – 9)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5 – 6)

It is totally normal that we have doubts because we have so many wants and wishes in our lives and not everything we pray for, is always given to us.
Additionally we know that our lives are not as perfect as the one of Jesus has been. So maybe God is appalled and disappointed by my behavior. Would he give me, what I crave for, if I could live an immaculate life? Without realizing, we move our thoughts away from God and concentrate on us.

This is the place, where we fall into the same trap as Eve did at the beginning of time. Is God really all that good? Do I just hold to it because it gives me a feeling of security and refuge? God is good because he says so and because he has proven it in history.

Whenever doubts are tormenting us, we need to concentrate our thoughts on God and on what scripture tells us about him. He is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6).

All the promises he has given us, he will fulfill in his appointed time. It may, however, well be that a few of my wishes do not match with what he has promised. In any case, I am free to pray and to beg with the assurance, that he will give me good gifts (Matthew 6:7 – 11). He has made the heavens and the earth and he has created you and me. All our days have been written down in heaven, before anyone of them came to pass in time. (Psalm 139) Just think what he has cost him to save you from the hands of the enemy! He had to give his only Son to the worst torture imaginable.

His love for you is so strong that he offers life eternal to you, even before you have taken your first steps as a disciple. He will never betray you he will not reject you as long as you cling to him and the promises in his word. Even if you are lead through hard times, you will find refuge in him and his truth.

The bigger my doubts become, the more I need to cling to him. If I refuse to do so, my own understanding will betray me and I will go astray. In trusting him with all my heart, despite my doubts, he will lead me in a place of rest and will show his power and strength to me. Paul testifies to this in his epistle to the Philippians: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4, 6 – 7)

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I surrender all I have and all I am to you. Please come into the situations that are too much for me to handle. Thank you that you love me and that you are present now. Guard my heart and let me cling to you with all my strength. Amen

An Emoji Devotions for Mon 8 February, 2021

Topic: A fruitful live for the kingdom of heaven

By H.U. Wenger

Highlights: As has just been said: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion.” (Hebrews 3:15)

While a large crowd was gathering and people were coming to Jesus from town after town, he told this parable: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds ate it up. Some fell on rocky ground, and when it came up, the plants withered because they had no moisture. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown.” When he said this, he called out, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.” (Luke 8, 4 –

The first verse reminds us of the rebellion from the Israelites against Moses, as they did not have water in Exodus 17, 1 – 7. In the spur of a moment they were ready to kill Moses. The Lord saved them by ordering Moses to hit a rock with his rod. The second portion of scripture depicts our lives with regard to our readiness to receive and to nurture the word of God. The fact that we all live as fallen creatures in a fallen world has the consequence that all four types of land are present in my life. I have not been understood, I have been wronged and it has made me hard like a well trampled path. Here the seed gets refused and the birds or the wind can take them away. There are hurts and wounds in my life that are covered with a very thin layer of earth. Here, I am craving for healing and relief, but the good seed is always too slow and it withers and leads to frustration. I have tried, but it does not help anyway; so why bother anymore? Then, I have learned that there are a few things that give me immediate relief and satisfaction, although I hate them.

So many times I have vowed that it has now been the last time, I have done it. But the thorns ensnare me again and the good plant gets chocked. Finally there is the good soil and it may likely be the largest part and give me my reputation for my Christian life.

Jesus wants, however, heal the three parts of my soil that have become deficient through my depravity and through my being wounded and hurt. Every part of my being that cannot receive and nurture his good seed cannot be sanctified and cannot be fruitful. Jesus invites me to bring all my contaminated soil to him for purification, for being renewed by him. To live the new life, I need to look at the soil of my life. He can make the hardened parts soft, heal the concealed wounds and hurts, break the false gods of lust, greed, envy, pride and whatever else the fallen world has betrayed me with.

The only thing, I have to do, is to confess my whole misery and bring it to him. He will show us the way to recovery. He may do a miracle and simply take the bad stuff away. He may lead us into contact with wise brothers and sisters, who can help us out.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11, 28 – 30)

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus please help me. I want my whole personality to honor and glorify you. I want that my whole being is bearing fruit for you. Please heal the hardened parts and help me to not harden my heart, when I hear your voice, telling me to listen, to repent and to trust and to go on with confidence. Amen.

https://emojidevotions..com/2021/02/a-fruitful-live-for-kingdom-of-heaven.html

An Emoji Devotions for Sat 6th February,2021

Topic: Dangerous Family Politics

Highlights:

As they danced, they sang: "Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands."

Saul was very angry; this refrain displeased him greatly. "They have credited David with tens of thousands," he thought, "but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?"
1 Samuel 18:7-8

You wonder why some family are shattered today? It's simply because the parents have made one of the siblings powerless by singing praise of the other. In the inward truth the plan is to stir up passion and to motivate the weaker one but in so doing, some brothers and sisters have hated each other. King Saul and David were not family by blood but by anointing.

What could he have more, some women (not all the women in the country) have sang praise of David more than King Saul and given to the king fewer credit to the shepherd boy. In order words we must warn our family members to beware of praise singers of men who could cause rift between peaceful family. Christian elders should beware of powerful factors in the causes which could lead to unhingment of mind in family.

King Saul later became mentally unbalanced and almost took David's life in the cause of taking back his credit. He totally lost it all because of political praise singers.

Prayer: Help me Lord to be mentally stable through peace found in the Salvation of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen


https://emojidevotions..com/2021/02/dangerous-family-politics.html

An Emoji Devotions for SUN 7th February, 2021

Topic: Am I righteous? Am I just?

By H.U. Wenger

The steaks for being righteous are high and most of us would probably answer very reluctantly and prudently to the question. We know too well about our biases, about our likes and dislikes and the small or sometimes big injustices that result from them. Normally I consider myself as a non-discriminating guy against others, but recently I have woken to a horrible truth about me that gave me the shivers. I sat in a preaching and it struck me as boring and without deep thoughts. I felt how my anger was stirred and I came to the conclusion that the guy is unfit for preaching. I reasoned that I could say much more even with absolutely no preparation. Right then he began to talk about our tendency for haughtiness, pride and self-conceit and he confessed, that he struggles with the very facts mostly in traffic, when he feels surrounded foremost by morons and people, who are totally unfit for driving. I was immediately convicted by the spirit of the Lord. A multitude of instances flooded my mind, in which my internal attitude was totally arrogant and self-satisfied. Sure, I did not utter words, but the Lord sees our heart our heart determines everything we are doing.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4, 23) After the sermon I had to repent immediately. I was crushed by the fact that under scrutiny, my behavior was not even just, let alone righteous.

In his sermon on the mount, Jesus says to his disciples: “For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5, 20) If we want to know, who we really are and what we really want, we need to have a close look into what we are doing on a daily bases.

To enter the kingdom of heaven we need to be righteous. It is not enough to be civil, decent and self-respecting. We need to be loving and merciful towards others as Jesus was, while walking the earth. The problem is that our fallen nature is unable to do all of that. Jesus gives therefore his own righteousness to everybody who wants to earnestly walk with him. Even more, he makes our hearts and souls to the temple of his Holy Spirit. We are made holy, not in our deeds, but in our estate before the Father in heaven. Jesus righteousness becomes my righteousness and this enables me to live already in the kingdom of heaven in the spirit.
But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. (Romans 3, 21-24)

As the preachers and my example show, the worldly spirit tries always to ensnare and to deceive us. We can fall into the trap of complacency and egomania without being alarmed by it. We can even consider ourselves as well balanced with the sins of pride, haughtiness and self-deceit, but we have lost the dynamics of being salt and light for the world. People around us are only drawn to God by encountering the liberating character of Jesus Christ. How should they encounter it, if I do not live it out wholeheartedly?

Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your mercy and grace. You have given to me, your righteousness for free. Please help me live out your character and be salt and light for the people around me. Thank you for your forgiveness for my pride and arrogance. Without you, I cannot do anything of value. Amen.

An Emoji Devotions for Fri, 5 February 2021

Topic: Bring God's presence

Highlights

No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Matthew 6:24

This is how it works. When you want God's presence you should be determined that money will not control your feelings, actions and reactions.

Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

A needle eye is too small for a rich man or woman to pass because there is no red carpet and no paparazzi? That's the phrase. They cannot just squeeze themselves to stand a boring place. "No, I can't", "I need my bodyguards!" This is not a designer product" I'm allergic to body odor, My MakeUp is not enough! That car is not Porsche. Their hand shakes because they have no time to pass a thread through the needles eye.

Some are sorrowful because they have no money and they become spiritually irresponsible because they are desperate for money. Many have lost their salvation because they cannot be trusted with money. They forgot God the giver of life and money.

When there's no more conscience because of money. What will you do when you get into trouble?

The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22

Remember that what makes you a true Christian is when you bring God's presence to them. Do not let people regret having relationship with you because of money!

Prayer:
Lord I pray, do not let your presence leave me for life and help me to transmit your presence in Jesus name I pray. Amen.

https://emojidevotions..com/2021/02/bring-gods-presence.html

An Emoji Devotions for Thu 4 February, 2020

Topic: Battles on Bottles

Highlights:

Remember your Creator
in the days of your youth,
before the days of trouble come
and the years approach when you will say,
“I find no pleasure in them Ecclesiastes 12:1

Before you open that bottle of wine remember you are going for a battle because wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise. Before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars grow dark, and the clouds return after the rain; when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men stoop, when the grinders cease because they are few, and those looking through the windows grow dim; when the doors to the street are closed and the sound of grinding fades;
when people rise up at the sound of birds, but all their songs grow faint when people are afraid of heights and of dangers in the streets;
when the almond tree blossoms and the grasshopper drags itself along and desire no longer is stirred. Remember your creator on when you are still looking good and reasoning rightly so that the righteous standard of the law might be fulfilled in you, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Romans 8:4


Prayer: May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be sufficient for me. Amen