Today's Readings are from the Book of 1 Chronicles 3–4 | Ephesians 4

Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading)

1 Chronicles 3

The Preserved Line of the Promised King

1 Chronicles 3 continues tracing the family line of Judah by focusing specifically on the descendants of David. The chapter records David’s sons, the kings who followed him, and the continuation of the royal family after the Babylonian exile. Although it consists largely of names, it carries a powerful message about God’s faithfulness to His covenant.

The chapter begins with the sons born to David during his reign in Hebron and Jerusalem. David’s family history includes both blessing and brokenness. Some of his sons became connected with painful moments of rebellion, rivalry, and personal tragedy. Yet God’s redemptive purposes continued even through an imperfect household.

The genealogy then follows the royal line through Solomon. God had promised David that his house, kingdom, and throne would be established according to His covenant purpose. Solomon became the immediate heir to that promise, but the covenant pointed beyond him toward a greater and eternal King.

As the names of Judah’s kings are recorded, the chapter quietly summarizes generations of leadership. Some kings followed the Lord faithfully, while others led the nation into compromise and idolatry. Their reigns differed greatly, but God continued preserving the royal line. The covenant remained secure, not because every descendant was faithful, but because God was faithful.

The genealogy continues through the Babylonian exile. Jerusalem had fallen, the temple had been destroyed, and the visible kingdom of David appeared to have ended. Yet the family line continued. Even in exile, God preserved the descendants through whom His promise would ultimately be fulfilled.
This demonstrates that exile did not cancel God’s covenant. Human failure brought discipline and loss, but it could not overturn the Lord’s redemptive plan. What appeared to be the end of the kingdom was only another stage in God’s preparation for the coming Messiah.

Theologically, 1 Chronicles 3 reveals God’s sovereign preservation of the Davidic line. Earthly kings failed, kingdoms declined, and the nation entered captivity, yet God’s promise remained alive. His covenant depended upon His own faithfulness rather than the strength or righteousness of human rulers.
This chapter points directly to Jesus Christ, the promised Son of David. He is the true heir to David’s throne and the King whose reign will never end. The royal genealogy preserved through exile ultimately leads to Christ, in whom every promise concerning David’s kingdom finds complete fulfillment.

For believers today, 1 Chronicles 3 reminds us that God’s promises remain secure even when circumstances appear hopeless. Human failure, national instability, and seasons of discipline cannot destroy what God has determined to accomplish. In Christ, we belong to an eternal kingdom ruled by the faithful King. We can trust that the God who preserved His promise through generations will remain faithful in every season of our lives.

1 Chronicles 4

God’s Grace Among Ordinary People

1 Chronicles 4 continues the genealogical record of Judah and also traces the descendants of Simeon. The chapter contains many names unfamiliar to modern readers, yet each one represents a person, family, occupation, and place remembered within the history of God’s covenant people. The chapter reminds us that God’s work is carried forward not only through famous kings and prophets but also through ordinary individuals and families.

Among the genealogy appears the brief account of Jabez. His name is connected with pain, but his life is not controlled by that beginning. Jabez calls upon the God of Israel, asking for blessing, enlarged influence, divine guidance, and protection from evil. God grants his request.

The account of Jabez does not teach that prayer is a formula for personal prosperity. Instead, it reveals a man who recognizes his complete dependence upon God. He does not rely upon his background, strength, or family position. He asks the Lord to direct his future and keep him from the evil that could bring further sorrow.

His story demonstrates that a difficult beginning does not have to determine a person’s future. God’s grace is greater than the circumstances surrounding our birth, family history, or past experiences. When people seek Him sincerely, He is able to lead them beyond the limitations others may place upon them.

The chapter also mentions craftsmen, potters, workers, leaders, and families who occupied particular towns and fulfilled practical responsibilities. These details reveal that ordinary work has value within God’s purposes. Service does not need to be publicly recognized to matter to the Lord.

The descendants of Simeon are also described as seeking land for their flocks and defeating enemies who occupied the territory. Their account reflects the importance of courage, diligence, and acting upon the opportunities God provides. They did not remain passive but worked together to establish a place for their families.

At the same time, the chapter must be understood within the unfolding history of Israel. These families were living within the covenant structure God had established for His people. Their victories, settlements, occupations, and family lines all formed part of the larger story leading toward the kingdom of David and ultimately toward Christ.

Theologically, 1 Chronicles 4 reveals that God works through both prominent and ordinary people. He hears prayer, directs families, gives meaningful work, and uses faithful lives within His redemptive plan. The chapter also demonstrates that identity is not determined merely by pain or human circumstances but by God’s grace and calling.

This chapter points to Christ, who brings people into a new identity that is not controlled by their past. Through Jesus, believers receive forgiveness, spiritual blessing, divine purpose, and deliverance from the power of evil. He enlarges our influence not for selfish ambition but so that our lives may display His grace and advance His kingdom.

For believers today, 1 Chronicles 4 reminds us that no life is insignificant to God. He sees faithful service that others overlook, hears the prayers of those who depend upon Him, and can redeem even painful beginnings. In Christ, our past does not define our future. We are called to seek God’s hand upon our lives, serve faithfully wherever He places us, and use every opportunity for His glory and the advancement of His redemptive purposes.

Ephesians 4 — Walking Worthy of the Calling in the Christ

Ephesians chapter 4 marks the transition from the doctrinal truths of the first half of the letter to the practical application of those truths. Having explained all that believers possess through the Christ, the Son of God, Paul now calls them to live in a manner worthy of their calling. Christian living is the natural response to God's redemptive plan. The believer's conduct should reflect the grace, unity, and holiness that have already been provided through the Christ.

The chapter begins with an appeal to walk worthy of the calling believers have received. This worthy walk is characterized by humility, gentleness, patience, and love. These qualities reflect the character of the Son of God and preserve the unity of His Church. The redemptive plan has brought believers into one family, and Christian living seeks to protect that unity through selfless love rather than personal ambition.

Paul emphasizes that there is one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father. This repeated emphasis on oneness reveals that unity is not created by believers but given by God through the Christ. The Son of God has already made His people one, and they are now called to live consistently with that reality.

The chapter also teaches that the Christ has given spiritual gifts to His Church. These gifts are not for personal recognition but for equipping believers, strengthening the body, and advancing God's kingdom. The redemptive plan includes the growth and maturity of the Church as every believer faithfully serves according to the grace given by the Son of God. Christian living is never passive; every believer has a meaningful role in building up the body of Christ.

As believers mature, they become stable in their faith and are no longer easily influenced by false teaching or spiritual deception. Instead, they grow by speaking the truth in love while remaining firmly connected to the Christ, who is the head of the Church. Spiritual maturity is measured not merely by knowledge but by increasing conformity to the character of the Son of God.

Paul then contrasts the believer's new life with the old way of living. Those who do not know the Christ continue in spiritual darkness because they are separated from the life of God. But believers have learned a different way through the Son of God. The redemptive plan transforms the heart, leading to an entirely new pattern of living. Christian living involves putting away the old sinful lifestyle and embracing the new life created by God's grace.

The chapter describes this transformation as putting off the old self and putting on the new self. This new life reflects God's righteousness and holiness because it is created through the work of the Christ. The change is not merely outward behavior but inward renewal as the believer's mind is continually shaped by God's truth.

Paul then applies these principles to everyday relationships. Believers are called to speak truthfully, control anger, work honestly, use words that encourage rather than destroy, show kindness, forgive one another, and avoid attitudes that grieve the Holy Spirit. Every area of life is to reflect the grace believers have received through the Son of God. Christian living is demonstrated not only in public worship but also in ordinary conversations, relationships, and daily choices.

The chapter concludes with one of its greatest exhortations: believers are to forgive one another because God has forgiven them in the Christ. Forgiveness is not based on human merit but on the immeasurable grace demonstrated through the cross. The redemptive plan continually calls believers to extend to others the same mercy they have received from the Son of God.

Throughout Ephesians chapter 4, the Christ remains the center of the believer's new life. He unites His Church, equips His people, transforms their character, and provides the perfect example of humility, truth, and forgiveness. Every aspect of Christian living flows from the new identity believers have received through Him.

For believers today, this chapter reminds us that our conduct should reflect our calling in the Christ. Christian living is marked by humility, unity, spiritual maturity, and continual transformation. We are called to leave behind the old way of life and daily put on the character of the Son of God. As we speak truth in love, serve one another faithfully, forgive freely, and walk in holiness, we become living demonstrations of God's redemptive plan and faithful witnesses to the transforming grace of the Christ.

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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.

Good morning to everyone. Grace and Peace be with you.

Well, well, well, I slept good last night and this morning I had to tell my husband he was right. Ouch. Last night we all made our plans for today and went to bed. He asked me to lay out clothes for him and I reassured him that I would be up when he got up. Well….I woke up when he opened the door to the bedroom. It was 7. He wanted to leave with our youngest son at 7:30. It was a bit of a rush, but we got it done and I told him he was right. He laughed, and I am sure he marked it in his calendar … I do not admit that often. Haha.

So, the kids are going to go have some ‘family’ time this morning. My hubby and our youngest son are going to do some early errands and go to breakfast. I am going to get some me time. I got two hours yesterday, and it looks like I will get a couple more today. Having extra bodies in the house is very nice, in that I have lots of help in the driving arena. So, I don’t always have to go and I can get some recharge time.

I looked at one of the writing prompt contests that run weekly and I think that I have a good idea for the contest. I will get my next cup of coffee when everyone leaves and see what God puts to paper. Last night I made a goofy me video with the background music of “I’m just a nobody, trying to tell everybody”. It took a few minutes of figuring out the program, but it came out good.

Talking with friends a few times over the last couple of months, I have explained that where I am sitting now is not where I thought I would be. Mind you, I had no idea where I would be, nor did I have grandeur ideas … I had pipe dreams that a bunch of money would miraculously appear and I would be rich without worry … I think most of us have that idea. That never happened, obviously, but what did happen is God gave me a solid work ethic, a job that paid well, and a retirement opportunity that offered me a chance to enjoy my eldering years. Never did I think that I would be a public speaker or an author. Not since 4th grade did I think I would be a teacher. Advocator never was in my thoughts. The one thing that really does not surprise me is that I am an oversized child. My childhood was good, do not misunderstand, but my adult childhood is much funner and funnier. I am truly in tune with my inner child. I really love spending time with my littles and absolutely enjoy making people smile.

If you look at your life now … how different is it from what you have envisioned over the years? Are you shocked at where you are? How many different areas have you found you had talent in that you did not know you had talent in? Without changing the struggles or dismissing the struggles … because they are a part of the who, what, when, where and how you are now … what would you change? Many talk about going back to a younger age and knowing what they know now … honestly, I do not want to do anything over again, with one exception…When I was 9, my grandmother invited me to the senior center to have dinner with her … it was family night or something special … I told her yes … then forgot about it. She seemed upset the next day to me and that is the ONLY thing that I would change. What would you change? Or would you change anything?

Today I want to encourage you to embrace YOU. Accept the YOU that God has molded you to be. Acknowledge your accomplishments and your talents. Then give thanks to Him who has held your hand through it all. You are perfectly made and specifically designed … do not allow the enemy to tell you any different.

Be blessed.

**My heart is steadfast, O God; I will sing and make music with all my soul. – Psalm 108:1

THE ANGELS AROUND HER

Benita and her mother, Mrs. Evelyn, were driving home at night when six armed men suddenly appeared on the road. They wore black clothes and pointed their guns at the car. Benita immediately recognized their leader as one of the men who had once attacked her and later spent years in prison because of the false accusation against them.

The men wanted revenge. They told Benita that they had come to kill her. Mrs. Evelyn cried and begged them to spare her daughter, but the men refused.

Benita was frightened, but she began to pray. She remembered the Scriptures and the words of blessing Benjamin had spoken over her. She declared that no weapon formed against her would prosper and reminded herself that God gives His angels charge over His children.

Suddenly, something supernatural happened. The armed men saw what appeared to be many armed men surrounding the car. Terrified, they began to run into the bush. ‍ They did not know that the people they saw were angels sent to protect Benita.

One of the attackers fell and injured his leg. He eventually returned to Benita and begged her to pray for him. Instead of seeking revenge, Benita led him to Christ.

Meanwhile, the other men regrouped and became angry when the man refused to return to their gang. He escaped from them and warned Didi that they were coming after her. Didi immediately fled with him, but they soon encountered the remaining five gang members on the road.

The newly converted man refused to return to the gang. He explained that if they killed him, he would rather die once and live eternally with Christ than die physically and lose his soul forever.

Just as the gang leader raised his gun to shoot, the episode ended.

MORAL LESSON

Never underestimate the power of a life surrendered to God. Benita's past had brought consequences, but her new life in Christ brought her into a place of divine protection. God did not only save her from physical danger; He also used her to lead one of her attackers to salvation.

Your past does not have to determine your future. When you truly surrender your life to Christ, God can turn even your darkest experiences into opportunities to display His power and bring others to Him.
Reference: BENITA Season 2, Episode 20: THE ANGELS AROUND HER
Written by Anthony Ijere

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GIVING TO GOD: A MATTER OF FAITH, LOVE, AND RESPONSIBILITY
Good morning, dear brothers and sisters! 🏾
Every morning that God gives us the breath of life is already a reason to say, “Thank You, Lord!” We should never take life for granted or assume that it is automatic or guaranteed.
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24
The Bible teaches us that giving to God and supporting His work should be done with love, faith, freedom, and a sincere heart—not under pressure or manipulation.
1. GOD LOOKS FIRST AT THE HEART
Jesus taught that it is not necessarily the amount we give that matters most, but the heart with which we give.
In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus observed a poor widow who placed two small coins into the Temple treasury. In the eyes of people, her offering was very small. But Jesus explained that she had given sincerely, according to what she had.
This teaches us an important truth:
God does not ask a person who has nothing to give what they do not have. He looks at faith, sincerity, and the condition of the heart.
2. THE BIBLE ENCOURAGES GENEROSITY—NOT PRESSURE
2 Corinthians 9:7 says:
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
This is a fundamental Christian principle.
A pastor, evangelist, or church may honestly explain the needs of the ministry, present projects, and invite people to participate. But no one should manipulate people's consciences by saying, for example:
“If you don't give, God will punish you.”
Christian generosity should be free, voluntary, joyful, and motivated by love.
3. THE TITHE IN THE BIBLE
Tithing appears clearly in the Old Testament, particularly in Malachi 3:10, where it was part of Israel's religious system.
In the New Testament, Jesus also speaks about tithing, including in Matthew 23:23, while emphasizing the greater matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
Therefore, we should never turn the tithe into a tool of pressure or a magical formula for receiving God's blessings.
Giving is not buying God's blessing.
God is not a businessman, and an offering is not a payment intended to force God to give us something in return.
4. WHAT SHOULD A PERSON DO IF THEY HAVE NOTHING?
A person who has very little should never be humiliated because they cannot give financially.
They can serve God in many other ways:
🏾 Through prayer
Through their time
Through their skills
Through their work
Through evangelism
Through encouragement
Through helping others
Through hospitality
Through their testimony
Jesus never taught that the value of a Christian depends on how much money they give.
Your value before God is not measured by the size of your wallet.
5. HOW CAN A MAN OF GOD SUPPORT HIS MINISTRY?
This is where we need balance and wisdom.
A servant of God can honestly present the needs of his ministry, such as:
Evangelism and outreach
Renting or building a place of worship
Audio and video equipment
Transportation
Helping widows
Supporting orphans
Youth programs
Community development and other ministry activities
Then he can invite those who are able to participate voluntarily and according to their means.
The Bible also teaches that those who proclaim the Gospel may receive support through the work they do (1 Corinthians 9:13–14).
But a servant of God must also practice transparency and integrity.
When donations are received, there should be accountability regarding how the funds are used. Proper records should be maintained, and personal finances should not be carelessly mixed with ministry funds.
6. OUR RESPONSIBILITY TOWARD WIDOWS AND VULNERABLE PEOPLE
The Bible places great importance on widows, orphans, the poor, and vulnerable people.
James 1:27 reminds us that pure and genuine religion includes caring for orphans and widows in their distress.
Therefore, when a church or ministry receives resources, it should not think only about buildings and equipment. It should also ask:
“How can we use what God has entrusted to us to help people who are suffering?”
7. AN INVITATION WITHOUT PRESSURE 🏾
To everyone who desires to support a Christian ministry:
If God has blessed you with resources and you feel led to support the Gospel, you are welcome to contribute freely and joyfully.
You can give financially, materially, through your time, your skills, or your prayers.
But if you are personally going through a difficult season and cannot give financially, please do not feel guilty.
Your prayers matter.
Your encouragement matters.
Your presence matters.
Your faith matters.
Your worth before God does not depend on your ability to give money.
CONCLUSION
Our goal is not to take people's money.
Our goal is to serve God, proclaim the Gospel, build a lasting ministry, and bring hope and practical help to people in need.
I desire to develop my ministry, reach more people with the Gospel, build a sustainable work, and especially support widows, orphans, and vulnerable people.
But I want to do this with truth, integrity, transparency, accountability, and without pressure.
To those who are able to support this vision:
Thank you for your love, generosity, and partnership. 🏾
To those who cannot give financially:
Thank you as well for your prayers, your presence, your encouragement, and your faith. 🏾
May everything we do be done with love, transparency, wisdom, and respect, so that God may be glorified.
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7
🏾 May God bless every family, every donor, every supporter, and every person who serves His work with a sincere heart.
IN SUMMARY
You can ask people to support your ministry, but present a clear vision, genuine needs, and honest goals. Allow everyone to decide freely. Be accountable for how funds are used, and never make people believe that they will be cursed, rejected by God, or condemned simply because they do not have money to give.
That is a healthy, responsible, and biblically defensible way to develop a ministry.
🏾 May God bless you all abundantly, and may everything we do bring glory to His name.
With love, faith, and a joyful heart. 🏾

John 4:34 NLT
[34] Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.

https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.4.34.NLT

Hello, I would like to share with you the message from 25 août 2026 from “The Good Seed” daily calendar.


Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marvelled. And they realised that they had been with Jesus. (Acts 4:13)

“They are truly wearing his cloak!”
Jakov, a preacher of the gospel, once came to a village in Eastern Europe. There he met an elderly man named Cimmerman, who had suffered much injustice from religious people throughout his life. When Jakov wanted to tell him about his faith in Jesus, Cimmerman immediately interrupted him and recounted all the evil that these people had done in his town under the guise of their faith. After the old man finished speaking, Jakov said to him, “Imagine if I were to steal your cloak, put it on, and rob a bank. The police only see me fleeing from a distance but they catch hold of your cloak. They track you down as the owner and accuse you. What would you say?” “I would say it’s not true,” replied Cimmerman. “But the police have a strong argument,” Jakov retorted. “They will inevitably bring it up when accusing you, because they have your cloak!”
 The old man had nothing more to say about this story, and so he demanded the evangelist to leave his house. However, Jakov didn’t give up. He continued to visit him to testify to him about the love of Christ.
 One day, Cimmerman asked his visitor how a person becomes a Christian. Jakov explained to him that he must confess his sins and believe in Jesus, who gave His life to save us.
 Then the old man knelt down, bowed his head, and prayed for the first time. When he rose again, he embraced Jakov and said, “Thank you for coming into my life.” And pointing his finger to heaven, he added, “You are truly wearing His cloak, the cloak of Christ!”

Today’s reading: Joshua 24:6-15 – 1 Corinthians 16:1-9

Guidelines for living.
August 24th, 2026

Your Prayers Can Start Revival

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14



Ezekiel was a priest who had been carried away by King Nebuchadnezzar and forced to settle in Tel Abib on the Chebar Canal in Babylon. As this man grew older, he grew both hungry for God and lonesome for his homeland, one that we know as Israel today.

God revealed Himself to Ezekiel and told him of great things which were in the future for Israel. He explained, “The hand of the LORD was upon me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the LORD and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. He asked me, ‘Son of man, can these bones live?’“ (Ezekiel 37:1-3). Talk about having to answer the Teacher! What do you say when God asks you a question? Dead bones are lifeless, hopeless—they’re finished.

Yet, and this is what Ezekiel knew, God alone can reverse the hopelessness of dead bones, and wisely, very wisely, Ezekiel answered, “O Sovereign LORD, you alone know!” Good answer! He passed the test. Then God told him to prophesy that breath would enter into them, tendons would be attached, then flesh, then life. Re-creation! It was a picture of Israel’s restoration. It is also a picture of what God does individually and corporately when He chooses to revive His people.

While revivals—genuine spiritual renewals born of the Holy Spirit—have been milestones of the church from the days of the book of Acts to the present, they are the exception, not the normal, day-by-day, year-by-year sort of thing. Question: Is it possible that in the immediate future, God may again bring revival to His people around the world?

Ezekiel called God, “Sovereign.” He knew that God answers to none, and that He is the one who responds to the cries of His people, asking Him to revive them and to restore them to the place of joy and service they once had.

A history of revivals shows that while a Sovereign God does revive His people, they come in response to the cries of His people. Long ago God outlined the conditions which are necessary for revival. He said, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Are revivals simply a display of emotionalism or fanaticism? Not at all. They are displays of repentance, a searching for God, and the desire to be rejuvenated spiritually.

In the early 1900’s, a revival swept the little country of Wales—it was birthed in a prayer meeting. An 18-year-old girl stood to her feet and she said, “I do love Jesus …” Starting to weep, she repeated those words, then sat down unable to speak. In the 1960’s, a spiritual awakening began at the FEBIAS College of the Bible, when missionary Chuck Holsinger spoke in the chapel and said, “The love of God, I cannot understand it,” and like a tidal wave which came from above, something swept over the students, who were confronted with the reality of God’s presence. What should have been a 50-minute service became an all-day prayer meeting that began something with far, far-reaching consequences.

If your church is a valley of dry bones, there is hope.



Resource Reading: 2 Chronicles 7:1-22

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DATE: MONDAY 24TH AUGUST 2026

TOPIC: NOTHING GOOD TO OFFER

MEMORIZE:
"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7 (KJV)

BIBLE READING: LUKE 11:24-26
24 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out.

25 And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished.

26 Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.

MESSAGE:
The devil has two types of captives: the willing captives and the unwilling captives. An unwilling captive is someone who has entered either willingly or unwillingly into the trap of the devil but now wants to be delivered. Such a fellow will be set free from the devil’s hold when an anointed child of God prays for him or her.

A willing captive, on the other hand, is someone who also gets into the devil’s hold either willingly or unwillingly but refuses to repent or be delivered because of the perceived benefits he or she is getting by serving satan. Even if such a fellow is forcefully delivered, he or she will return to the devil’s camp, and this time around, the bondage will be much worse because the demon(s) that were previously cast out will be multiplied sevenfold (Matthew 12:43-45).

Many years ago, we discovered that a witch was among us in the church. We prayed for her to be delivered; however, she remained in bondage. We then asked her if she wanted to be free, and she said, “No. Do you want me to lose the power that I use to control my husband?” Such thinking is very unfortunate because those who serve the devil are headed for eternal damnation if they do not repent.

A woman whose children were dying one after the other went to seek help from a prophet because she needed him to pray to God for their protection.
While waiting for him, his wife asked her why she wanted to see her husband. She explained why she had come, and the prophet’s wife gave her a kolanut to eat, telling her it would solve her problem and that she didn’t need to wait for her husband again.

When she went to sleep that night, she suddenly found herself among some witches in the spirit realm. They welcomed her and promised to protect her children if she joined them. She agreed based on their promise, and after some time, it became her turn to supply the blood that the coven would drink. At that point, she surrendered her husband to be sacrificed.
More time passed, and it became her turn again to supply blood. This time, however, the witches asked her to sacrifice her children. That was when she decided to seek God’s help to save her children from the devil’s plan. Thank God she came to the church, and God delivered her.

Beloved, the devil offers nothing good or lasting. For everything he gives, he takes a thousandfold in return. I pray that God grants you the grace to avoid his traps, and if he currently has any hold over you and you are willing to be set free, I decree your liberty now, in Jesus’ name.

KEY POINT:
The devil has nothing good to give. Those who serve him are headed for eternal damnation.

BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: EZEKIEL 1-4

AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE

HYMNAL 23 : ALL TO JESUS, I SURRENDER
1. All to Jesus I surrender all to Him I freely give; I will ever low and trust Him, in His presence daily live.

CHORUS:
I surrender all,
I surrender all:
All to Thee, my blessed saviour
I surrender all

2. All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet l bow;
Worldly pleasures all forsaken.
Take me, Jesus, take me now.

CHORUS:

3. All to Jesus I surrender. Lord, I give myself to Thee; Fill me with Thy love and power, Let Thy blessing fall on me.

CHORUS:

4. All to Jesus I surrender,
now I feel the sacred flame
o the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory to His name!

CHORUS:


‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL
MONDAY, 24TH AUGUST, 2026
*NOTHING GOOD TO OFFER*
‎
1.Father, thank You for the offer of eternal life, peace, joy and holiness in Christ Jesus. I worship You, for every good and perfect gift comes from You above.

2.Father, please fill me with the fullness of Your Holy Spirit, and let there be no room for the devil to occupy in me, in Jesus' name

3.Father, please help me to humble myself before You, and to constantly resist the devil, in Jesus' name.

4.Father, please deliver me from every form of captivity that my life might be in, and help me never to return into such captivity again, in Jesus' name.

5.Father, as many captives that are unwilling victim of the devil, and are ready to be set free, I send Your word to them today, let them be set free totally, in Jesus' name.

6.Father, please deliver all Your children from the deceits of the devil, and let them accept the free gift of eternal life offered through Christ Jesus.

7.Father, please grant me the grace to avoid satanic traps that may lure me into captivity, in Jesus' name.

8.Father, please frustrate the plans of the devil to put me or any member of my household into captivity, in Jesus' name.

9.Father, as many that are currently under satanic hold and they are willing to be free, please set them all at liberty and make them Your children indeed, in Jesus' name.

10.Father, please no matter how enticing the offer from the devil might be, help me never to trade my soul for his fake promises, in Jesus' name.

11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye.
‎
Help him to abide in You till You come again in glory, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name
‎
‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name.
‎
‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name.
‎
‎14.Your personal petitions.
‎(Philippians 4:6)
‎
‎15.In Jesus name I pray.
‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16)

#GodBlessOurNation

*These prayers have no expiry date! Please join us in prayer, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.