Present Truth # 1 God's Letter to You Heaven's Pledge - Our Assurance At some stage in life, individuals question their existence and purpose in life. A young mind generally has hopes and aspirations for the future. A discontented or discouraged mind finds it hard to accept a purpose or reason for life. Then there are the lonely, the empty, the unhappy. How can your life become more fulfilling, healthy, interesting? What lies after death? Is it possible to receive eternal life? Human hearts of every walk of life question the uncertain, yet desire an answer to satisfy their needs of security and contentment. No doubt at times such questions enter your mind. Are there answers to life's vital questions? Where can you find them? We all have some beliefs or ideas, but how accurate are they? No book ever written reveals so well the answer to these and many other fundamental questions except the Holy Bible. It reveals how life can be lived and enjoyed to the fullest. This is a promise. Who Wrote the Bible? Some critics have claimed that the Bible is only a book written by ordinary men, and therefore is just like any other book. The first part of this assertion is partly true but the latter is false. Yes, the book was written by men, but they had one different characteristic to most authors. “ . . . holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21. God selected righteous men to pen His messages. They were not naturally creative writers, but events and messages were recorded as they were revealed and inspired by the Holy Spirit. Visions and thoughts were received and these holy men, knowing these were from God, faithfully wrote in their own language what they were shown. Thus there is a variety of style and of expression in the Bible, but no contradictions. There is a common theme throughout the collection of writings and a unity of beliefs. “The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.” 2 Samuel 23:2. No one was entrusted to write God’s sacred messages without receiving divine assistance. Actually the Bible is a compendium of books and its real Author is the Almighty. Throughout all these sacred writings is the theme of salvation from sin and its consequences, if we accept God's provisions and counsels. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. The Scriptures also tell us of God and His loving character. “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39. Divisions Sixty-six books were written by nearly 40 writers during a period of approximately 1,600 years. Thirty-nine of the books constitute what is known as the Old Testament and twenty-seven comprise the New Testament. Whenever Jesus referred to Scripture, He quoted the Old Testament (the New Testament had not yet been written). The Old Testament has three major sections. Jesus said, “. . . These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.” Luke 24:44. “The law of Moses” refers to the first five books of the Bible. They were written by Moses and are often referred to as “the law,” because they contain all the laws that were given to ancient Israel. The ceremonial laws were symbolic and terminated at the cross. But there is far more to “Moses” than just the ceremonial system. Primarily it consists of the doctrines and principles of establishing God's church on earth. First there is the moral law as given by God Himself, then nature's laws, health, and doctrines of order and organization. “The prophets” refer to all the prophetic books. Some books in other classifications also have prophetic sections but, for ease of identification, each book is only placed in one category. For instance, Jesus used this type of terminology when talking with two disciples who were traveling to Emmaus after Jesus' resurrection: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27. One of the most compelling tests of the authenticity of the Scriptures is the evidence of prophecy, for true prophecy is the recording of history in advance. Many of the prophecies of the Bible were written hundreds of years before their fulfilment, others are occurring now, some refer to our future. So important is prophecy that God challenges anyone to accurately predict the future in detail as He does. “Produce your cause, saith the Lord; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob. Let them bring them forth, and shew us what shall happen: let them shew the former things, what they be, that we may consider them, and know the latter end of them; or declare us things for to come. Shew the things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that ye are gods; yea, do good, or do evil, that we may be dismayed, and behold it together.” Isaiah 41:21-23. “Psalms” or poetry. The poetical books are Job, the Song of Solomon, and the Psalms. Some translations of the Bible record all the poetical sections in poetical format rather than prose. Although the meter is lost in translation from the original language, the beauty, majesty and pathos of the poetry of the Bible is still apparent and may be readily appreciated. The Power and Purpose of the Bible The power of God's word is demonstrated in many ways. When we scan the heavens and behold the sun, moon, planets and the myriads of stars, all orbiting their appointed trajectory through the immense expanse of space, we are witnessing the power of the Word of God! “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalm 33:6, 9. Yet a still greater power is contained in the living Word. Jesus, the son of God said, “. . . the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63. What is this power? What is its purpose? “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12. “The word” has within itself power, deep, abiding, and eternal. It leads us to see ourselves as we really are. It searches our inmost failures and yearnings, and provides the power to raise us from the lowest degradation. It has power which is able to make and keep men right, something we cannot do for ourselves. The Bible is able to transform our character and to make each person radiant, joyous, and full of hope. The Psalmist testified of this marvelous transforming power: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Psalm 119:11. How long will the word of God endure? Christ declared: “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” Matthew 24:35. Comparing the short life span of man with the Word of God, the apostle Peter wrote: “For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: but the word of the Lord endureth forever . . . ” 1 Peter 1:24, 25. On the midst of all the turmoil and strife of this present age, the Bible stands as an immovable, unchangeable beacon, with its light pointing to the true haven. It is a teacher and counselor of the highest order. Can Everyone Understand the Bible? For centuries it has been claimed by the clergy that the Bible should not be read by lay members because only learned theologians are able to interpret its doctrines. This withholding of the Scriptures from the people resulted in an intellectual, spiritual, and moral decline known, today, as the “Dark Ages.” “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6. Contrary to the stated belief of “the clergy,” “the entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalm 119:130. Therefore, the Word of God is not only for intellectuals to understand, but if studied and obeyed, it will ennoble and elevate the humble searcher for truth, whatever his station in life. Christ declared that God's Word was more readily understood by those of open minds “babies” in trusting and absorbing just what God says, than by those who claim to be “wise.” “At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.” Matthew 11:25. Often men of considerable learning, whether secular or theological, are too proud to admit wrong and thus disqualify themselves from understanding the truth of God. This is clearly illustrated in the Bible by the attitude of the learned scribes and Pharisees toward the teachings and person of Christ. Although they had theoretical knowledge, they could not accept the truth being presented to them. The Lord sees those who are humbly seeking for truth: “. . . to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Isaiah 66:2. As we have read before, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God.” In other words, the “Spirit of God” gave the messages to the various writers. In order to understand the Word of God aright, we need this same Spirit to guide our mind when we read the Bible. “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13. The written Word of God is God's voice speaking to us. It should always be treated with respect and should be studied with genuine desire to understand truth and its messages. Time spent searching the Scriptures should be regarded as time being spent in contact with the Divine. Therefore, before opening your Bible always pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance and believe that you will be directed and taught aright. Why Are There So Many Different Interpretations of the Bible? This question is often asked by skeptics as an argument that the Bible is unreliable. But are they right? What is the key to true understanding? One reason is given by the apostle Peter: “As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” 2 Peter 3:16. In addition the Bible reproves sin and lays open the hidden secrets of the heart. This is not agreeable to our human nature which seeks to obscure the Scripture's plain explanations. The apostle Paul prophesied: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, have itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:3, 4. It is impossible to come to a right understanding of the Bible if our hearts are not changed, because sinful human nature is opposed to the Spirit of God. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14. Today men are eagerly seeking for personal advantage. For the sake of gaining riches, honor or power, they place the maxims, traditions and requirements of men above the requirements of God. From such the treasures of God's word are hidden. Obedience is one key to a true understanding of the Scriptures. “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” John 7:17. The Theme of Bible Inspiration Many books have a central figure around which the story is woven. The Bible too has a central person in both the Old and New Testaments. Jesus said: "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39. When conversing with the two disciples on the way to Emmaus after His resurrection, Jesus explained this vital truth to them: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27. Will There Always Be Opportunity to Study God's Word? Many people put off searching the Scriptures until they retire, or to some other time in the future. But they are making a fatal mistake! “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it. In that day shall the fair virgins and young men faint for thirst.” Amos 8:11-13. This wonderful book—the Bible—will soon be of no use for men. There will be no more opportunities to understand it or to obey its teachings. The Holy Spirit will not then be available to help people know the truth. Nevertheless, today we still have opportunity. There is still time to become acquainted with God's plan for us. Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference.

September 1st, 2026 Read; Philippians 3:20 Whether or not you possess a passport, every Christian holds a deeper citizenship in heaven. Our earthly nations, languages, and cultures remain meaningful, but none can claim the allegiance that belongs to Jesus. In Christ, believers separated by borders and circumstances are members of one household and await the same Savior. You may therefore share a stronger spiritual bond with a Christian whose daily life looks entirely different from yours than with a neighbor who does not confess Christ. Heavenly citizenship teaches us to honor earthly neighbors while recognizing brothers and sisters throughout the world. Prayer Glorious God and Almighty Father, I eagerly await the day when people from every nation, tribe, and language gather around Your throne in joyful worship. Even now, unite Your people in Christ across every border and make our fellowship a faithful glimpse of the kingdom to come. Lord Jesus, come. In Your precious name, I pray. Amen.

1. The Father using the Body of the Word to accomplish the purposes of his heart... 2. The Body of the Word is the zeal of the Lord Almighty. 3. The Father has always used the Body of the Word to accomplish his purposes on earth . Listen to The Kitchen on Amazon Music. Apple podcasts. Audible. Deezer. Spotify. https://shows.acast.com/the-kitchen/episodes/6a73011bf75191d0fae34179 #foodmoneyshow #bodyoftheword #marketplace #words #worldwide #churchonline

The Heart of Prayer: Knowing God as Our Heavenly Father One of the greatest parts of Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount is His teaching about prayer. In Matthew 6:9, Jesus gives His disciples a powerful revelation about our relationship with God: “Pray, then, in this way: ‘Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.’” — Matthew 6:9 Every word of this prayer carries deep meaning for those who long to know God and develop a personal relationship with Him. Jesus teaches us that we can approach the Almighty God as our Heavenly Father. This is a timeless truth for every generation and reveals the loving heart of God toward His children. Jesus Himself revealed His unique relationship with the Father. He said, “The Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing” (John 5:19). He also declared, “My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working” (John 5:17). In John 10:36, Jesus spoke of Himself as the Son of God, a truth that religious leaders of His day rejected and considered blasphemous. Jesus came into the world to reveal the Father’s divine nature, love, grace, mercy, and plan of redemption. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He opened the way for us to know God personally. When Jesus teaches us to pray, “Our Father who is in heaven,” He begins with relationship. Then He says, “Hallowed be Your name.” This means that our deepest desire should be that God’s name be honored, magnified, and glorified through our lives. Prayer is not merely asking God for what we need; it is surrendering our hearts to His will. Our Heavenly Father loves us, cares for us, forgives us, provides for us, and brings salvation, joy, and peace through Jesus Christ. Therefore, let us approach Him with the humble heart of a child, calling Him Father, seeking His will, and living to glorify His name. Love God, love people, and let your life glorify your Heavenly Father.

# **DWELLING IN THE SECRET PLACE** There is a difference between **visiting God and living close to God**. Psalm 91:1 says, *“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”* I think of the secret place as that quiet space where you can put everything down for a moment—the things you cannot explain to anyone, the worries you carry into the night, the questions you are afraid to ask out loud. It is where you come before God without pretending that everything is fine. In His presence, you can breathe again. The secret place is not necessarily a particular room, building, or mountain. It is a life of intimacy with God. It may be those early minutes before everyone else wakes up, a quiet corner after a long day, or simply a moment in your car when you turn everything off and talk honestly to God. **To dwell means to remain.** It is more than running to God when life falls apart and then forgetting Him when things become comfortable. It is learning to walk with Him in ordinary days as well as difficult ones. When you make God's presence a regular part of your life, prayer becomes more than an emergency call; it becomes a relationship. Something changes when you spend time with God consistently. Your problems may not disappear overnight, but your perspective begins to change. You become less controlled by fear and less dependent on people's approval. You begin to recognize God's voice, understand His Word more clearly, and make decisions from a place of faith rather than panic. The secret place does not promise a life without trouble; it gives you somewhere to stand when trouble comes. **Psalm 91:2** says, *“I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.’”* Perhaps you have been trying to carry too much on your own. You have been strong for everyone else, answering messages, solving problems, meeting expectations, and quietly wondering who will strengthen you. **Come back to the secret place.** You don't have to arrive with perfect words. Come tired. Come confused. Come grateful. Come disappointed. Just come. God is not asking you to perform; He is inviting you into His presence. Don't make the secret place somewhere you visit only when you are desperate. **Make it your dwelling.** Let prayer become part of your rhythm. Let Scripture shape your thinking. Let worship quiet your heart. And when the storms come—and they will—you will have something deeper than circumstances to hold onto. **You will know where your strength comes from, where your peace is found, and where you can return when everything around you feels uncertain.**

*TODAY'S PROPHETIC DECLARATION - TUESDAY, 1ST SEPTEMBER, 2026.* 🌟*MY MOUTH SHALL SPEAK THE PRAISE OF THE LORD*🌟 *First Day of the New Month - Happy New Month😊* 📖 Scripture: “My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD: and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever.” — Psalm 145:21 (KJV). 🔥*Reflection – Enter September With Praise* A new month is a gift from God. We have crossed from August into September not by our own strength, but because of God's mercy and faithfulness. Psalm 145:21 gives us a beautiful decision to make: “My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD.” This is more than a declaration for our lips; it is a commitment of our hearts. We choose to praise God not only when everything is perfect, but because He remains God in every season. As you begin September, don't begin with fear about what the month may bring. Begin with praise for the God who already knows what lies ahead. Praise Him for His protection. Praise Him for His mercy. Praise Him for His provision. Praise Him for answered prayers. Praise Him for prayers still awaiting answers. Praise Him for the victories you can see and the battles He is fighting behind the scenes. Your mouth has power to shape the atmosphere of your day. Therefore, let September begin with thanksgiving, worship, faith, and positive confession rooted in God's Word. 🔊*Prophetic Declaration:* Today, I dedicate this new month to Almighty God. I declare that the Lord shall be glorified in my life throughout this month. I declare that my mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord. I will not use my mouth to magnify fear, impossibility, discouragement, or defeat. I shall continually testify of God's goodness and faithfulness. I proclaim that September shall be a month of divine favor, supernatural preservation, answered prayers, spiritual growth, open doors, restoration, fruitful labor, and glorious testimonies, according to God's perfect will for my life. I declare that God's mercy shall speak for me throughout this month. His grace shall sustain me, His wisdom shall guide me, and His presence shall accompany me wherever I go. I declare that every day of September shall be ordered by the Lord. My going out shall be blessed, my coming in shall be blessed, and my steps shall be directed according to His purpose. I proclaim divine covering over my family and household. May the Lord preserve us from evil, strengthen our bonds, provide for our needs, and fill our home with peace, love, unity, and joy. I declare God's blessing over my ministry. May He anoint me afresh, increase my spiritual capacity, make my service fruitful, and use me to touch lives and advance His Kingdom. I declare favor over my work, business, studies, and legitimate endeavors. May the Lord establish the work of my hands and give me wisdom to recognize and maximize every opportunity He provides. I proclaim that September shall not be a month of stagnation. I receive grace to move forward, grow, learn, build, serve, and fulfill God's purpose for my life. I declare that every legitimate expectation I have committed to God shall receive divine attention. Where I need patience, give me patience. Where I need wisdom, give me wisdom. Where I need courage, give me courage. I declare that my testimony will not be silenced. My mouth shall praise God before the breakthrough, during the process, and after the victory. I shall praise God when I understand and when I do not understand. I shall trust Him when the answer comes quickly and when I must wait. Today, I choose praise over complaining, faith over fear, hope over despair, gratitude over murmuring, and obedience over compromise. September belongs to God. My life belongs to God. My family belongs to God. My future belongs to God. And my mouth shall continually praise His holy name! In Jesus' mighty name. Amen! 🙏🔥🙌 ✅*Action Steps for today:* 1️⃣ Start September with thanksgiving: Spend time thanking God for bringing you into a brand-new month. 2️⃣ Read Psalm 145: Meditate on God's greatness, goodness, mercy, and faithfulness. 3️⃣ Declare: “My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord throughout September!” 4️⃣ Write your September expectations: Commit your goals, plans, prayers, and desires to God. 5️⃣ Choose praise daily: Whenever you are tempted to complain, deliberately find something to thank God for. 6️⃣ Speak God's Word: Begin each morning by declaring Scripture over your life and household. 7️⃣ Be a blessing: Encourage, pray for, or help someone who needs hope this month. 8️⃣ Create a praise habit: Set aside time each day for worship and thanksgiving. 9️⃣ Commit the entire month to God: Ask Him to lead every decision, relationship, opportunity, and activity. 🔥*Prayer:* Heavenly Father, I thank You for bringing me into the month of September. I acknowledge that it is only by Your mercy, grace, and faithfulness that I am alive to see this new month. Today, I dedicate September to You. My mouth shall speak Your praise. Let thanksgiving continually rise from my heart and my lips. Thank You for August—for the victories, the lessons, the protection, the provision, the answered prayers, and even the challenges through which You strengthened me. Lord, go before me throughout September. Order my steps and direct my decisions. Close every door that is not according to Your will and lead me through every door You have ordained for me. Bless and preserve my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and every legitimate endeavor. Give me fresh wisdom, strength, favor, discipline, courage, and spiritual understanding. Let September be a month of meaningful progress and divine alignment. Let my life produce fruit that glorifies You. Lord, let my testimony increase. Give me reasons to praise You every day. Even when I am waiting for an answer, teach me to praise You. Even when I do not understand the process, help me to trust Your character. Let my mouth never become an instrument of destruction, fear, or discouragement. Instead, let my words bring encouragement, faith, truth, grace, and praise. I surrender September to You. Lead me, Lord. Guide me, Lord. Strengthen me, Lord. Use me, Lord. And be glorified in my life. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen. 🙏🕊️ 🌿*New Month Blessing:* Happy New Month! 🎉🌅 May September be a month of testimony, divine favor, supernatural preservation, fruitful labor, spiritual growth, restoration, open doors, answered prayers, and undeniable testimonies. May the Lord go before you and make every crooked path straight. May His presence accompany you throughout the month. May His wisdom guide you, His grace sustain you, His mercy preserve you, and His favor surround you like a shield. May your family experience peace and divine protection. May your life, work, business, ministry become more fruitful and impactful. May the Lord bless your work, business, studies, and every legitimate endeavor. May every good seed you have planted begin to produce fruit according to God's perfect timing. May September bring you closer to God and deeper into His purpose for your life. And above everything else: 🔥 May your mouth never cease to praise the Lord! 🙌 May your heart overflow with thanksgiving! 📖 May God's Word guide you! 🕊️ May His presence preserve you! ✨ May your life become a living testimony of His goodness! 🌟 WELCOME TO SEPTEMBER! 🌟 📖 “MY MOUTH SHALL SPEAK THE PRAISE OF THE LORD: AND LET ALL FLESH BLESS HIS HOLY NAME FOR EVER AND EVER.” — PSALM 145:21 September shall be a month of PRAISE, PRESERVATION, PROGRESS, PURPOSE, and TESTIMONY! 🔥🙌 I declare: I will enter September with praise, walk through September with faith, and finish September with testimonies! Good morning beloved and Happy New Month! Welcome to September to remember and do have a blessed day! 🎉🙏🔥 Shalom! *Remember: Your confession is your possession.* *©️ Postulant C. O. Oyadosu.* _Please share with others, thank you and God bless you 🙏_ For counseling, prayers and partnership or you want to share your testimonies with us; please call or Whatsapp: +2348063128703 Or Email: clementoyadosu[gmail].com Please Follow Today's Prophetic Declaration on: 👇🏿👇🏿👇🏿👇🏿👇🏿 https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbCBuRaHbFUxxV14Pg28 Or on: 👇🏿👇🏿👇🏿👇🏿👇🏿 Mcbamio TV https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb7wXT305MUizT4ind1F

Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀🎀💝🎁🌺🌹 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY FRIDAY JULY 24, 2O26. "DON'T LOOSE YOUR COMPASSIONATE EDGE (2)" '…Faith…if it does not have works, is dead.’  James 2:17 NKJV MOTHER TERESA said, ‘The biggest disease today isn’t leprosy or cancer. It’s the feeling of being uncared for, unwanted—of being deserted and alone.’ As a result, she spent her life rescuing sick babies and giving dignity to the dying. Asked why she did it, she replied, ‘Because Jesus did.’ What a great answer! When simultaneous disasters hit different countries around the world, humanitarian organisations say we suffer from ‘donor fatigue’. Let’s add one more: ‘compassion failure.’ Philosopher Miguel de Unamuno wrote, ‘Warmth, warmth, more warmth! For we are dying of cold and not of darkness. It is not the night that kills, but the frost.’ Think about this: of the 1,189 chapters in the Bible, 250 contain the words of the prophets. That’s roughly 25 percent. Half of what they say denounces sin and the other half condemns those who see human suffering and do nothing about it. Yet events that horrified those same prophets take place in our world every day, and we’re immune to them. Like wearing a watch, you get used to it and after a while you don’t even notice it. But the prophets noticed! They never became desensitised to sin—or human suffering. And you mustn’t either. You say, ‘But my main focus at the moment is on building up my faith.’ That’s a good thing; but never forget that ‘Faith by itself, if it does not have works [of compassion], is dead.’ Bible In A Year: Deut 3-4; Matt 12:1-14; Ps 46; Pro 16:20-22. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation 🌹🎀 *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*🌷🎀💝🌹. MD.ii. [23/07, 10:32 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) FRIDAY 24TH JULY, 2026``` *DON'T BE A COLLATERAL VICTIM* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️⚠️‼️🛑🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:JOSHUA 12:1-6```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"Now these are the kings of the land, which the children of Israel smote, and possessed their land on the other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon unto mount Hermon, and all the plain on the east" (JOSHUA 12:1).*_ *There are people who sleep walk into disaster, through either arrogance, pride or sheer hubris. It may be that they had recorded successes in previous battles, or have become famous for their accomplishments. They may deem themselves to be invincible, and either declare a war that's totally unnecessary, or inject themselves into other people's battles. In the end, they become the victims of their ego and exaggerated sense of power and importance.* *This is what happened to the kings of the nations on the east of River Jordan. The children of Israel were on a journey ordered by the Almighty God. They were heading to the land of Canaan, in fulfilment of the promise God made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Their land was not part of Canaan, and therefore, was not intended to be inherited by the Israelites. The inheritance of the Israelites was to be solely Canaan, the land flowing with milk and honey. But on their way, the Israelites encountered nations that had heard about the supernatural work of God in bringing them out of Egypt. Although the Israelites did not declare war against them, these nations, some out of unfounded fear of losing their territory, and others out of envy and hatred against this nation that had a God that can subdue, humble and defeat Egypt, the great world power of the time, took it on themselves to stop Israel from progressing towards their land of promise. One of such kings was Sihon, king of the Amorites, whose nation was mainly a lush vegetation sandwiched by rivers and plain land that was a haven for pastoralists and for other forms of agriculture. The other king was Og, king of Bashan, a land of the remnants of the giants, with similar topography as the land of the Amorites. When they rose against the Israelites, they were roundly defeated, their kingdoms destroyed and their land confiscated by Moses. He subsequently allocated the land to two and half tribes of Israel, which desired to settle there because it was suitable for their vocation as pastoralists. Had those nations stayed out of the way of the Israelites, they would have remained in their land.* *We must be wise and not take on battles that are not ours, whether out of sympathy with other people or to prove that we are powerful. As believers, we have more than enough battles against principalities and powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, spiritual wickedness in high places, against sin and Satan. The armour Christ has given us is intended to defeat these adversaries. It is not to be wasted on self-imposed battles that do not benefit the kingdom of God. Those who engage in the wrong battles suffer great loss, and live to regret it for the rest of their lives. Let us focus on the assignment Christ has given us, namely, taking the gospel to the world of sinners, and endeavouring to bring as many as are willing, into the kingdom of God.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Those who fight battles without profit, reap rewards without benefits.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *EXODUS 26-29*📜📜 [23/07, 10:32 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```FRIDAY 24TH JULY, 2026``` *DIVINE FRESHNESS* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️✨🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:PSALM 1:1-6```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper" (PSALM 1:3).*_ *Freshness implies newness of life, originality, and the absence of weakness or death. It is always God's will that His creatures be strong, hale, and hearty. The reverse, however, is the case with many who live in continual weakness, pain, and disability.* *God provides the means of drawing from His life for energy. Still, instead of utilizing the provision, they resort to the use of hard drugs and destructive substances for strength and vitality.* *Our passage for today unveils simple steps for young people to enjoy God's divine freshness. One, they must abstain from the way, walk, and counsel of the wayward and wicked. Two, they should delight in, read and meditate daily on God's word.* *Three, they should appropriate the avalanche of God's blessings and prosperity through prayer and faith. Four, they should not meddle with the ungodly. Friend, the ungodly experience dryness instead of divine freshness. They go through harrowing experiences since they are cut off from God, the source of life and all goodness.* *Would you like to be renewed and transformed? Call on the Lord God, today.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Freshness implies newness.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Stay rooted in Christ, and never run dry!*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Jesus, help me to maintain spiritual freshness.*_ [23/07, 10:32 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```FRIDAY 24TH JULY, 2026``` *THE FOOL IN FULL* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️😠😡🫸🏽📓⚠️‼️🛑🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```PSALM 53:1-6```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good" (Psalm 53:1).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 An extract from _Merriam Webster_ dictionary goes thus: *"Something is said to be 'in full' when it has come to the highest or the fullest state of degree, when it is at the uttermost extent or when it is complete, especially in details, number, or duration."* The fool in full is the greatest fool that will ever live on earth. He breathes in the air made by God, cultivates the soil created by God, and eats out of the produce thereof, lives in the world God created and enjoys the gift of life given by God, to mention a few; and yet, turns around to say "there is no God." The fool deliberately denies the existence of God despite the many proofs of God's existence. He sees the sun, the moon, the stars, the seas and the uncountable creatures in it, but never pauses to ask: *"Who made the world?"* The things he sees tell him there is God, but in his heart, he refuses to give Him the glory. There is, however, another fool who accepts there is God but refuses to accept His gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. This category of fools claim they can worship the Living God the way they like. They corrupt the way of worshipping Him; worshipping idols, the work of their hands. The fool can never do what is good before God. *You should not be a fool. Believe in the only true God and in Jesus Christ, whom He has sent. Turn away from all corrupt and abominable thoughts and actions. Then you will be saved from the foolishness of this world.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Thank You Lord, for delivering me from the foolishness of unbelief.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *John 17:2, 3* [23/07, 10:33 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* FRIDAY, 24TH JULY, 2026. *REHEARSAL OF GOD'S FAITHFULNESS* *TEXT:* JOSHUA 12:1-6. 1.Now these are the kings of the land, which the children of Israel smote, and possessed their land on the other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon unto mount Hermon, and all the plain on the east: 2 Sihon king of the Amorites, who dwelt in Heshbon, and ruled from Aroer, which is upon the bank of the river Arnon, and from the middle of the river, and from half Gilead, even unto the river Jabbok, which is the border of the children of Ammon; 3 And from the plain to the sea of Chinneroth on the east, and unto the sea of the plain, even the salt sea on the east, the way to Bethjeshimoth; and from the south, under Ashdothpisgah: 4 And the coast of Og king of Bashan, which was of the remnant of the giants, that dwelt at Ashtaroth and at Edrei, 5 And reigned in mount Hermon, and in Salcah, and in all Bashan, unto the border of the Geshurites and the Maachathites, and half Gilead, the border of Sihon king of Heshbon. 6 Them did Moses the servant of the LORD and the children of Israel smite: and Moses the servant of the LORD gave it for a possession unto the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh. *Timeless Truth:*_"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits"_ (Psalm 103:2). *INTRODUCTION* From creation, God has been engaged in doing great and new wonders. Some are penned down in the Bible while there are many more that have been experienced by individuals, families, communities and nations since creation of man. The fact that God is immutable guarantees that those miracles can be repeated and increased in greatness and number. One of the greatest ways to strengthen faith is to deliberately rehearse God's faithfulness and meditate on those past wonders of God. Throughout Scripture, God often instructed His people to remember His mighty acts so that they would trust Him for future victories. Israel's conquest of the Amorites under Sihon and the later record of those victories in Joshua remind us that God's past interventions are powerful testimonies of His unfailing covenant. Every believer should cultivate the habit of recalling God's goodness instead of dwelling on past fears or failures. As we recount His faithfulness, our confidence in His promises grows. *1.Arrogant Courting of Battles* Israel peacefully requested passage through the land of Sihon, king of the Amorites, but Sihon arrogantly rejected the request and chose war instead (Numbers 21:21–25). It is the norm in military warfare that you don't fight those who come and prefer peace to war. The worst is to lead them as captives. Sihon had taken pride in defeating Moab and taking her possessions (Numbers 21:26-2). Their victory over Moab was celebrated as it became a song in the land. He was optimistic and emboldened that he could repeat the same feat against Israel. However, he was thoughtless and proud. His pride blinded him to the fact that he was fighting against God's covenant people. It is dangerous and risky to fight against the covenant people of God. The battle ended in complete defeat of Sihon because no human strength can prevail against God's purpose. b. Believers have the domineering power of Jesus Christ to crush every power of the adversaries. However, this is not a license for believers to arrogantly court and tempt the people of darkness to unnecessary warfare. When Herod wanted Jesus to perform some miracles for a show of power, Jesus declined because it was unnecessary (Luke 23:8). When Satan tempted Jesus to jump down from the mountain, Jesus also declined because it was an unnecessary show of power. Believers should avoid unnecessary boasting and fight in the name of the Lord that is borne out of arrogance or pride. Believers should never fear opposition, for God remains the Defender of those who trust Him. At the same time, we must guard against pride, remembering that arrogance always invites destruction. *Question* Am I trusting God's strength in life's battles, or am I relying on human confidence and pride? *2. Appreciative Counting of Blessings* Joshua carefully recorded the kings and their land, whom God had delivered into Israel's hands (Joshua 12:1–5). These verses are more than historical records—they are memorials of divine faithfulness. God's people are encouraged to remember every victory and every answered prayer. Gratitude protects the heart from discouragement and unbelief. When we regularly count our blessings, we discover that God's mercies greatly outweigh our trials. Thanksgiving also prepares us to receive greater blessings from the Lord. As the psalmist puts it, *"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits."* This will take a diligent and deliberate effort like Joshua did when he wrote down and recalled the good wonders of God to himself and to the whole Israel. *Question* How often do I deliberately remember and thank God for His past faithfulness in my life? *3. Additions to Covenant for the Beloved* a. The conquered territories were not part of the promised Canaan inheritance. But Sihon and Og lost their land through their pride and arrogance and those blessings were taken from them and added to the children of Israel (Joshua 12:6). After getting victory, Moses assigned the conquered territory to the tribes of Reuben, Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh as their inheritance. God's faithfulness extends beyond victory in battle to the fulfillment of His covenant promises. b. There are several cases where God took away the assigned blessing of the arrogant and added them to the portion of the godly. Reuben and Esau were supposed to have the double blessings of their first born, but they both lost them through carelessness and profanity. Their blessings were added to Judah and Jacob respectively. Jesus warned the Ephesian Church of loss of ministry if they didn't repent from the loss of their first love and the immoral practices of the Nicolaitans(Revelation 2:5). He also warned the Pastor of Philadelphia that if he was not watchful, his crown would be taken from him and be given or added to another person. *"Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown"* (Revelation 3:11). Remember, King Saul lost his crown, which was supposed to be generational, to David. The same with Esau and none of them could get his back. Fight and be watchful to retain and enjoy all your blessings and inheritance assigned to you by God. *Question* Am I very watchful and prayerful in ensuring that my blessings and inheritance are not taken from me and transferred to another person? *Prayer Points* 1.Heavenly Father, help me always remember and celebrate Your faithfulness in every season of my life 🙏. 2.Lord, deliver me from every form of pride, boasting and unnecessary show of power and grant me victory over every battle confronting my faith 🙏. 3.Give me a grateful heart that continually counts Your blessings instead of focusing on life's difficulties. 4.Give Your children grace to be watchful and prayerful and don't allow anyone to take their assigned blessings and inheritance 🙏. *HYMN:* Count Your Blessings *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* EXODUS 26-29. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps. ⏤ Proverbs 16:9 To pray is to let go and let God take over. ⏤ Philip Yancey O God, our Father, we, Your children, wait for Your blessing before we go out to the work and care of this new day. We thank You for the blessings You gave us in our sleep. You have renewed our strength and restored what yesterday’s toil took from us. We are strong this morning and ready for another day’s work because of the blessings You gave us in our sleep. We consecrate our lives to You for this new day. Take us and use us as You will. We don’t want to make our own plans, for we are too short-sighted and would only plan for present comfort or earthly success. We would rather have You reveal Your plan for our day. It may not be easy, but we know it is wiser and better than our way could ever be, for You see the end from the beginning, and You choose the best things for us. We lay our plans at Your feet and ask You to use them if they are the best, but if not, to set them aside so that Your plan for the day may work unhindered in us. We pray for our neighbors. Some of them are sick. Remember them and grant them healing and restoration. Send them Your comfort in their pain, and let them be richly blessed by the experiences they are going through. Some of our neighbors have gone through sorrows. Heal their broken hearts and give them comfort that will make them stronger to bear their grief, and help them find the blessings You have hidden in their sorrow. Receive us now into Your care for this day; bless us, keep us, and use us as You will. We ask in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/19/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

Thanks be to God the Almighty

Matthew 21:18-27 This passage becomes controversial, not because of any major issue really but because of this fig tree. The Pharisees were all bent out of shape because of the previous day's events, and they were chomping at the bit to get Jesus. So Jesus approaches Jerusalem and was hungry and begins looking for fruit amongst the leaves and He finds none. There are a few issues here. 1. This wasn't the time of year that figs were fruiting on the trees. So some try to say that Jesus should have known there were no figs on this tree and should not have cursed it, because there was never supposed to be figs ready. And this is true, but there are young fig growths that develop into figs later in the season, and there were none of these little nibs either so that's why Jesus cursed the tree. 2. The parallel account in Mark 11. In the parallel account, Jesus goes to the tree, finds no fruit and curses it, the disciples and Jesus enter Jerusalem and only notice the withered tree as they are leaving the city later that day. So why is one instantaneous reaction and the other isn't? We need to stop imposing 21st century rules of Grammar on ancient texts. Mark wasn't obligated to present events in the same manner as Matthew. The emphasis should be on the lesson, not the timing. Mark wanted to emphasize the trip to Jerusalem before the lesson of the fig tree. Others say that here Jesus is performing a live action parable. Israel is often seen in prophecy and Old Testament scripture as a fig tree. Sometimes it is a healthy fruiting tree, signifying a faithful Israel. At other times it is a dead tree signifying an Israel straying from God. So this trip to Jerusalem is seen as this parable where Jesus approached the tree only to find no fruit. Whether the withering happened immediately or later is not the point. It's entirely possible that the immediate withering was not noticed by some of them until later, or that the entirety of the whole live parable took place for the purpose of teaching this one lesson and the timing is irrelevant. It doesn't change the words of scripture, doesn't alter any teachings in any way. So we need to stop forcing our need for grammatically pat answers on scripture. It is here Jesus says that a prayer offered in faith can have miraculous results. And Jesus uses the example of asking for a mountain to move. Again, the emphasis is on the lesson not the seeming impossibility of the requested event occurring. And sadly, we do not have a biblical example of a physical mountain moving as a result of prayer. This is the same Jesus who raised the dead and cast out demons so moving millions of tons of metric earth is in His wheelhouse. But the lesson is twofold. First, whatever we ask is doable because He is Almighty God. Second, Jesus is approaching Jerusalem toward the end of His earthly ministry expecting a response in the affirmative not because he believed they'd respond but because God promised the nation of Israel that they would have the opportunity to accept the gospel first but would ultimately reject Him. So what is the point behind this lesson? Jesus comes to Jerusalem in His final week, cleanses the temple again, and is literally demonstrating that the fruit (faithfulness and fruit of righteousness) he is wanting to see (nibs) is nowhere to be found on the tree (Israel/Jerusalem). Jesus wasn't surprised that no nibs were available to eat, He wasn't shocked the tree had no fruit, He just made perfect use of an obvious fact to teach a somewhat unobvious truth. [18] Now in the early morning, when He was returning to the city, He became hungry. [19] And seeing a lone fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it except leaves alone; and He *said to it, “No longer shall there ever be any fruit from you.” And at once the fig tree withered. [20] Seeing this, the disciples were amazed and asked, “How did the fig tree wither all at once?” [21] And Jesus answered and said to them, “Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will happen. [22] And whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive it all.”

The Lord Almighty is the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens and the earth. This world was created by the power of His Word. That Word became flesh and dwelt among us when Jesus came down to earth. During His time here, Jesus proved that nothing was too hard for Him. He turned water into wine, fed a multitude with five loaves and two fish, calmed the storm, walked on water, healed the blind, lame, deaf, and paralyzed, raised the dead, forgave sins, and accomplished so much more. No matter how hard or impossible our situations may seem, let us hand them over to Jesus, knowing that nothing—absolutely nothing—is impossible for Him to handle. Have a wonderful day, knowing that to the God who made everything out of nothing, there's nothing that He can't do. 😊 Esther Collins Based on Jeremiah 32:17