• A WORD FOR YOU.
    (Insights For Life)


    Moreover the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Jeremiah, what seest thou? And I said, I see a rod of an almond tree. Jeremiah 1:11 KJV.


    WHAT DO YOU SEE?
    This is one of the most powerful question ever asked in the scripture. It is deliberate. This is because your answer to this question, changes everything in and around you. It is the foundation for every genuine change. It is what makes the whole difference in a man's life. What do you see?

    God is not responsible for everything happening to you. The devil is not either. You are at the centre of everything happenings in your life. You are a decider, a contributor, a partner to the decision making process of the changes, events and activities of your life. "I leave everything in God's hands", is an ignorant man's submission. God has so much in his hands already. So leaving yours in his hands, creates a difficult situation for you. The day you understand this truth and leave by it, your life will begin to take a new shape.

    What do you see? CHANGE, PROGRESS, SOLUTION, VICTORY; BEGINS WITH WHAT YOU SEE. This is the first step to a breakthrough or a breakdown. The reason is: LIFE, GOD, is only committed to what you see. What you say, is a conclusion, but what you see is a decision. Many have decided their destiny long before it happens by their constant projection of their thoughts and imagination.

    Until you change what you see, you can't change WHAT YOU SEE. To others, they see nothing. No wonder life and God is delivering nothing to them. Do you see failure or success? Do you see frustration or manifestation? Do you see disappointment or appointment? Do you see marital settlement, financial turnaround, Favour and God's goodness? If YES, NOW, go ahead and declare them upon your self. Say it loud, let the heavens and earth hear it. Say out loud what you see. For me, I see transformation, from glory to glory in Jesus precious name. Be blessed, Stay refreshed!



    #AwordForYou
    #InsightsforLife
    #nnamdicaezarsammyministry
    #NCSM
    #DewChurchGlobal
    #LifereFreshingMinistry
    #IAMADEW
    A WORD FOR YOU. (Insights For Life) Moreover the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Jeremiah, what seest thou? And I said, I see a rod of an almond tree. Jeremiah 1:11 KJV. WHAT DO YOU SEE? This is one of the most powerful question ever asked in the scripture. It is deliberate. This is because your answer to this question, changes everything in and around you. It is the foundation for every genuine change. It is what makes the whole difference in a man's life. What do you see? God is not responsible for everything happening to you. The devil is not either. You are at the centre of everything happenings in your life. You are a decider, a contributor, a partner to the decision making process of the changes, events and activities of your life. "I leave everything in God's hands", is an ignorant man's submission. God has so much in his hands already. So leaving yours in his hands, creates a difficult situation for you. The day you understand this truth and leave by it, your life will begin to take a new shape. What do you see? CHANGE, PROGRESS, SOLUTION, VICTORY; BEGINS WITH WHAT YOU SEE. This is the first step to a breakthrough or a breakdown. The reason is: LIFE, GOD, is only committed to what you see. What you say, is a conclusion, but what you see is a decision. Many have decided their destiny long before it happens by their constant projection of their thoughts and imagination. Until you change what you see, you can't change WHAT YOU SEE. To others, they see nothing. No wonder life and God is delivering nothing to them. Do you see failure or success? Do you see frustration or manifestation? Do you see disappointment or appointment? Do you see marital settlement, financial turnaround, Favour and God's goodness? If YES, NOW, go ahead and declare them upon your self. Say it loud, let the heavens and earth hear it. Say out loud what you see. For me, I see transformation, from glory to glory in Jesus precious name. Be blessed, Stay refreshed! #AwordForYou #InsightsforLife #nnamdicaezarsammyministry #NCSM #DewChurchGlobal #LifereFreshingMinistry #IAMADEW
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  • OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL
    DATE: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER ,1ST 2026
    TOPIC :THE LAW OF HARVEST

    AUTHOR: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE

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

    BIBLE READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 15:37-44
    37 And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain:
    38 But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body.
    39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds.
    40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another.
    41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.
    42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption:
    43 It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power:
    44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.

    MESSAGE:
    The law of harvest is one of the most powerful laws created by God. It states that ‘whatever a person sows is what he or she will reap’ (Galatians 6:7), and it is so powerful that God applied it to Himself when He wanted more children.
    John 12:24 says a corn of wheat must first be sown into the ground and die before it can bring forth much fruit.
    So God sowed His only begotten son (Jesus Christ), so that He might gain many more children, and Jesus would become the firstborn among many brethren (Romans 8:29).

    Many years ago, there was a man in Nigeria who would hand out cash to people randomly wherever he went.
    People followed him everywhere he went because they knew that he would give them money.
    Some people wondered if he was mad, but he wasn’t; he only discovered that the more he gave out money, the more he received.
    Anyone who truly discovers the secret of the law of harvest would never be begged to give.

    The law of harvest is so powerful that when a person sows a seed of kindness or wickedness, the fellow will harvest what he or she has sown in bountiful folds.
    Nobody sows a grain of corn and harvests a grain; if you sow a grain of corn, the least harvest you can expect is a cob of corn with many grains.
    Job 4:8 says “…they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same.” People who spend their time scheming to harm others will eventually fall into the traps they created.
    Likewise, if you sow kindness, you will reap an abundance of kindness. Hosea 10:12 says that when people sow in righteousness, they will reap in mercy.

    Beloved, one thing you must constantly sow as a believer is good works. Dorcas could never have known that the harvest of her good works towards the widows in her community would come in the form of her being resurrected from the dead (Acts 9:36-42) – that is another mystery about the law of harvest.
    Today’s Bible reading tells us that whatever is sown often returns in another form because God gives the seed a body as He pleases.
    Dorcas’ seed of kindness returned in a bigger, better form as God’s gift of resurrection.
    Keep sowing good works, and watch God repay you in ways beyond your wildest imagination.

    KEY POINT:
    You will reap what you sow; therefore, sow good works everywhere you go.

    BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: EZEKIEL 25-27

    HYMN 16: ‘TIS SO SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS
    1. Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, Just to take Him at His Word;
    Just to rest upon His promise; Just to know, "Thus saith the Lord."

    CHORUS:
    Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
    How I 've proved Him o'er and o'er!
    Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
    O for grace to trust Him more

    2. O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
    Just to trust His cleansing blood;
    Just in simple faith to plunge me
    'Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

    3. Yes, 'tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
    Just from sin and self to cease;
    Just from Jesus simply taking
    Life and rest, and joy and peace.

    4. I'm so glad Learned to trust Thee, Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend,
    And I know that Thou art with me,
    Wilt be with me to the end. '

    HAPPY NEW MONTH TO YOU ALL!.
    OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER ,1ST 2026 TOPIC :THE LAW OF HARVEST AUTHOR: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE MEMORISE: "While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease." Genesis 8:22 (KJV) BIBLE READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 15:37-44 37 And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38 But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. 39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. 40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: 43 It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. MESSAGE: The law of harvest is one of the most powerful laws created by God. It states that ‘whatever a person sows is what he or she will reap’ (Galatians 6:7), and it is so powerful that God applied it to Himself when He wanted more children. John 12:24 says a corn of wheat must first be sown into the ground and die before it can bring forth much fruit. So God sowed His only begotten son (Jesus Christ), so that He might gain many more children, and Jesus would become the firstborn among many brethren (Romans 8:29). Many years ago, there was a man in Nigeria who would hand out cash to people randomly wherever he went. People followed him everywhere he went because they knew that he would give them money. Some people wondered if he was mad, but he wasn’t; he only discovered that the more he gave out money, the more he received. Anyone who truly discovers the secret of the law of harvest would never be begged to give. The law of harvest is so powerful that when a person sows a seed of kindness or wickedness, the fellow will harvest what he or she has sown in bountiful folds. Nobody sows a grain of corn and harvests a grain; if you sow a grain of corn, the least harvest you can expect is a cob of corn with many grains. Job 4:8 says “…they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same.” People who spend their time scheming to harm others will eventually fall into the traps they created. Likewise, if you sow kindness, you will reap an abundance of kindness. Hosea 10:12 says that when people sow in righteousness, they will reap in mercy. Beloved, one thing you must constantly sow as a believer is good works. Dorcas could never have known that the harvest of her good works towards the widows in her community would come in the form of her being resurrected from the dead (Acts 9:36-42) – that is another mystery about the law of harvest. Today’s Bible reading tells us that whatever is sown often returns in another form because God gives the seed a body as He pleases. Dorcas’ seed of kindness returned in a bigger, better form as God’s gift of resurrection. Keep sowing good works, and watch God repay you in ways beyond your wildest imagination. KEY POINT: You will reap what you sow; therefore, sow good works everywhere you go. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: EZEKIEL 25-27 HYMN 16: ‘TIS SO SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS 1. Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, Just to take Him at His Word; Just to rest upon His promise; Just to know, "Thus saith the Lord." CHORUS: Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him! How I 've proved Him o'er and o'er! Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust Him more 2. O how sweet to trust in Jesus, Just to trust His cleansing blood; Just in simple faith to plunge me 'Neath the healing, cleansing flood! 3. Yes, 'tis sweet to trust in Jesus, Just from sin and self to cease; Just from Jesus simply taking Life and rest, and joy and peace. 4. I'm so glad Learned to trust Thee, Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend, And I know that Thou art with me, Wilt be with me to the end. ' HAPPY NEW MONTH TO YOU ALL!.
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  • Warfare Prayers
    • I lift up my voice and give the Lord Jesus praise for all that He has done.
    • I stand against the spirit of fear and the attacks that have come into my life since my birth in the name of Jesus.
    • I reject and destroy every report of fear that the devil is trying to send into my life in the name of Jesus.
    • I bind and uproot the power of fear in my mind, my thoughts and my heart in the name of Jesus.
    • I refuse to give in to fear in the name of Jesus.
    • I declare by the power of the blood of Jesus Christ that no weapon formed against me, nor the devil’s kingdom against me, will ever prosper, in Jesus’ name.
    • Let the fire of the Holy Spirit fall on the heads of every tormenting spirit of fear in the name of Jesus.
    • You satanic tormenting devil of fear, loose me and my family and church now in the name of Jesus.
    • I destroy every demon that is operating or using the spirit of fear against me, against my family and against my church in Jesus’ name.
    • I declare in the unmatchable name of Jesus Christ that fear shall not be my lot.
    • I arrest every terror spirit right now in the name of Jesus.
    • I declare today that no negative report shall dwell in my heart or in my mind. I uproot it in the name of Jesus.
    • I loose myself, my family and my church from any vibes of a tormenting spirit that the devil has assigned to me. I destroy them with the blood of Jesus.
    • I bind the spirit of the fear of man in the name of Jesus.
    • I bind the spirit of the fear of people in the name Jesus.
    • I bind the spirit of fear that is holding me back from speaking God’s Word, in Jesus’ name.
    • I declare today that the Lord is my shield in whom I put my trust. I decree that the Lord Jesus Christ is with me, so who can be against me?
    • I cover myself, my family, my purpose, my destiny and my church in the blood of Jesus Christ.
    • I cover my heart and mind in the blood of Jesus Christ.
    • I cover my spirit and soul in the blood of Jesus Christ.
    • I cover my home, my bedroom, the bed I sleep in and my dreams in the blood of Jesus Christ.
    • Today I make a declaration that this tormenting spirit of fear will not intimidate me. I release the judgments of God upon his head in Jesus’ name.
    • Today I confront in the power of the Holy Spirit every demonic tormenting spirit of disease, sickness, oppression, depression, suicide, deception, false imagination and cutting myself. I smite them over their heads with the blood of Jesus Christ, and they will not rise up, again in Jesus’ name. See less
    Warfare Prayers • I lift up my voice and give the Lord Jesus praise for all that He has done. • I stand against the spirit of fear and the attacks that have come into my life since my birth in the name of Jesus. • I reject and destroy every report of fear that the devil is trying to send into my life in the name of Jesus. • I bind and uproot the power of fear in my mind, my thoughts and my heart in the name of Jesus. • I refuse to give in to fear in the name of Jesus. • I declare by the power of the blood of Jesus Christ that no weapon formed against me, nor the devil’s kingdom against me, will ever prosper, in Jesus’ name. • Let the fire of the Holy Spirit fall on the heads of every tormenting spirit of fear in the name of Jesus. • You satanic tormenting devil of fear, loose me and my family and church now in the name of Jesus. • I destroy every demon that is operating or using the spirit of fear against me, against my family and against my church in Jesus’ name. • I declare in the unmatchable name of Jesus Christ that fear shall not be my lot. • I arrest every terror spirit right now in the name of Jesus. • I declare today that no negative report shall dwell in my heart or in my mind. I uproot it in the name of Jesus. • I loose myself, my family and my church from any vibes of a tormenting spirit that the devil has assigned to me. I destroy them with the blood of Jesus. • I bind the spirit of the fear of man in the name of Jesus. • I bind the spirit of the fear of people in the name Jesus. • I bind the spirit of fear that is holding me back from speaking God’s Word, in Jesus’ name. • I declare today that the Lord is my shield in whom I put my trust. I decree that the Lord Jesus Christ is with me, so who can be against me? • I cover myself, my family, my purpose, my destiny and my church in the blood of Jesus Christ. • I cover my heart and mind in the blood of Jesus Christ. • I cover my spirit and soul in the blood of Jesus Christ. • I cover my home, my bedroom, the bed I sleep in and my dreams in the blood of Jesus Christ. • Today I make a declaration that this tormenting spirit of fear will not intimidate me. I release the judgments of God upon his head in Jesus’ name. • Today I confront in the power of the Holy Spirit every demonic tormenting spirit of disease, sickness, oppression, depression, suicide, deception, false imagination and cutting myself. I smite them over their heads with the blood of Jesus Christ, and they will not rise up, again in Jesus’ name. See less
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  • ARE YOU REALLY FIGHTING PORNOGRAPHY—OR NEGOTIATING WITH IT?
    A Christian Call to Declare War on Sexual Sin
    Pastor Joseph Clark

    There comes a point in every Christian’s battle with pornography when we need to stop asking, “How can I manage this temptation?”

    And start asking:

    “How badly do I want to be free?”

    Because pornography is not harmless entertainment.

    It is not merely a private weakness.

    It is not something Christians should simply learn to “live with.”

    It is a temptation that can become an enslaving pattern of lust, fantasy, secrecy and sin. It can consume the imagination, corrupt the way we see other people, damage marriages and relationships, steal time, weaken prayer, and draw the heart away from the purity to which Christ has called His people.

    And if you are a Christian who is fighting pornography, you need to understand something:

    You are in a fight.

    The question is whether you are actually fighting.

    Or whether you are negotiating.



    STOP NEGOTIATING WITH TEMPTATION

    One of the greatest mistakes we make with temptation is giving it a conversation.

    “I’ll just look for a minute.”

    “I won’t go any further.”

    “I’ve been good for two weeks.”

    “This isn’t really pornography.”

    “Nobody knows.”

    “God will forgive me.”

    That isn’t resistance.

    That’s negotiation.

    And Scripture doesn’t tell us to negotiate with sexual temptation.

    It tells us to flee.

    “Flee fornication.”

    — 1 Corinthians 6:18

    Paul told Timothy:

    “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”

    — 2 Timothy 2:22

    Notice the word:

    FLEE.

    Not debate.

    Not analyze.

    Not negotiate.

    Not see how close you can get without crossing the line.

    Run.

    Joseph understood this.

    When Potiphar’s wife attempted to seduce him, Joseph didn’t stay around to see how strong his resistance would be.

    When she grabbed him, Scripture says:

    “And he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.”

    — Genesis 39:12

    Joseph ran.

    Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is close the laptop.

    Sometimes it’s putting the phone down.

    Sometimes it’s getting out of bed.

    Sometimes it’s leaving the room.

    Sometimes it’s calling your accountability partner.

    Sometimes it’s getting on your knees.

    FLEE.



    JESUS DIDN’T NEGOTIATE WITH SATAN

    Look at Jesus in the wilderness.

    Satan came when Jesus was physically weakened after fasting forty days and forty nights.

    The devil tempted Him.

    And what did Jesus do?

    He didn’t engage Satan in a philosophical debate.

    He didn’t entertain the temptation.

    He didn’t say, “Let me think about that.”

    He said:

    “It is written.”

    When Satan tempted Him to turn stones into bread, Jesus answered:

    “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”

    — Matthew 4:4

    When Satan twisted Scripture to tempt Him again, Jesus answered:

    “It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.”

    — Matthew 4:7

    And when Satan offered Him the kingdoms of the world:

    “Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.”

    — Matthew 4:10

    Three temptations.

    Three answers rooted in Scripture.

    “It is written.”

    That’s your model.

    When pornography comes knocking, you need something stronger than emotion.

    Something stronger than willpower.

    Something stronger than the promise that “this will make you feel good.”

    You need the Word of God.

    David said:

    “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

    — Psalm 119:11

    Don’t wait until you’re already looking at pornography to start thinking about holiness.

    Put the Word in your heart now.



    DECLARE WAR

    Let’s be blunt.

    If pornography has become a recurring sin in your life, declare war on it.

    Don’t declare war on it tomorrow.

    Don’t declare war on it after one more failure.

    Declare war today.

    Jesus used deliberately shocking language when describing how seriously we must treat sin:

    “And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee…”

    — Matthew 5:29

    And:

    “And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee…”

    — Matthew 5:30

    Jesus is not commanding literal self-mutilation.

    He is teaching us that we must deal with sin radically and decisively.

    If your smartphone repeatedly becomes the doorway to pornography, change how you use your smartphone.

    If being alone late at night repeatedly leads you into sin, change your nighttime routine.

    If particular websites, social-media accounts, or applications trigger lust, eliminate them.

    If unrestricted internet access is destroying your purity, install safeguards.

    If secrecy is feeding the problem, bring it into the light.

    Stop protecting your access to the sin you claim you want to defeat.



    ARE YOU REALLY STRUGGLING?

    This is where the question gets uncomfortable.

    A Christian can struggle with sin.

    Paul describes the conflict between flesh and Spirit:

    “For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other…”

    — Galatians 5:17

    There is a battle.

    There is resistance.

    There is conflict.

    But ask yourself:

    Are you actually resisting?

    Are you praying?

    Are you fasting?

    Are you reading Scripture?

    Do you have an accountability partner?

    Have you told another mature Christian about the problem?

    Have you installed accountability software?

    Have you removed private access to pornography?

    Have you changed your routines?

    Have you identified your triggers?

    Have you stopped following accounts that stimulate lust?

    Have you changed the environment in which you repeatedly fall?

    Are you seeking pastoral help?

    Are you willing to seek professional Christian counseling when appropriate?

    Are you willing to seek a biblically grounded deliverance ministry if you believe you are dealing with entrenched spiritual bondage?

    Or are you simply saying:

    “I really want to stop”

    while keeping every door open?

    That’s not war.

    That’s a weak attempt to negotiate a ceasefire with your own sin.

    Commit.



    MAKE PORNOGRAPHY YOUR ENEMY

    Paul says:

    “Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God…”

    — Romans 6:13

    You have a choice about what you present yourself to.

    What are you yielding?

    Your eyes?

    Your imagination?

    Your phone?

    Your computer?

    Your time?

    Your sexuality?

    Your mind?

    Your body?

    Who gets them?

    Pornography wants them.

    Christ wants them.

    Choose.



    DON’T BE IDLE

    Idleness can become an open door.

    If you are constantly alone, bored, scrolling, lying in bed, wandering through the internet, and allowing your mind to drift wherever it wants, don’t be surprised when temptation finds you.

    Get busy.

    Work.

    Exercise.

    Study.

    Read.

    Serve.

    Pray.

    Go outside.

    Spend time with people.

    Serve the church.

    Build something.

    Learn something.

    Pursue your calling.

    Paul instructed believers:

    “And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands…”

    — 1 Thessalonians 4:11

    Don’t give temptation an empty house to occupy.



    BRING THE BATTLE INTO THE LIGHT

    Pornography thrives in secrecy.

    That is why accountability matters.

    James says:

    “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”

    — James 5:16

    Find someone trustworthy.

    A mature Christian man.

    A pastor.

    A mentor.

    An accountability partner.

    Someone who will actually ask you the hard questions.

    Not:

    “Everything okay?”

    But:

    “Have you looked at pornography?”

    “Have you intentionally searched for sexually explicit material?”

    “Are there apps on your phone that you are hiding?”

    “Have you been honest with me?”

    You don’t need someone who merely makes you feel better.

    You need someone who loves you enough to tell you the truth.



    SAFEGUARD YOUR DEVICES

    Let’s stop pretending that technology is neutral when we know how we are using it.

    If your phone is the primary gateway to your sin, safeguard your phone.

    If your laptop is the gateway, safeguard your laptop.

    Use reputable filtering and accountability tools.

    Remove applications that repeatedly lead you into temptation.

    Don’t sleep with an unrestricted device beside your bed if nighttime is when you repeatedly fall.

    Don’t keep secret browsers.

    Don’t create hidden accounts.

    Don’t maintain a private digital world that nobody else knows exists.

    Jesus said:

    “And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee…”

    — Matthew 5:29

    The principle is clear:

    Remove the access point.



    FAST AND PRAY

    There are battles that should drive us to our knees.

    Jesus Himself fasted when He entered the wilderness.

    Matthew records:

    “Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.”

    — Matthew 4:1

    And:

    “And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.”

    — Matthew 4:2

    Fasting isn’t a magic formula.

    It doesn’t purchase God’s favor.

    But it can become a powerful expression of humility and dependence upon God.

    Tell the Lord:

    “Jesus, I cannot conquer this in my own strength. I need You.”

    Pray when the temptation comes.

    Pray before it comes.

    Pray when you are strong.

    Pray when you are weak.

    And believe God.

    Paul says:

    “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful…”

    — 1 Corinthians 10:13

    And then comes one of the greatest promises in Scripture:

    “…but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”

    — 1 Corinthians 10:13

    Look for the escape route.

    And when God provides it—

    TAKE IT.



    PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOUR OF GOD

    You are not merely fighting a website.

    You are fighting temptation.

    You are fighting lust.

    You are fighting deception.

    And Scripture describes the Christian life as spiritual warfare.

    Paul says:

    “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

    Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

    For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

    — Ephesians 6:10–12

    Then he tells us to take:

    The belt of truth.

    The breastplate of righteousness.

    The Gospel of peace.

    The shield of faith.

    The helmet of salvation.

    The sword of the Spirit—which is the Word of God.

    And:

    Prayer.

    Pornography can become a powerful instrument of temptation and enslavement.

    Don’t underestimate it.

    Peter says:

    “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

    Whom resist stedfast in the faith…”

    — 1 Peter 5:8–9

    Be sober.

    Be vigilant.

    Resist.



    SEEK DELIVERANCE IF YOU NEED IT

    Some Christians experience pornography as an entrenched pattern of bondage that requires more intensive spiritual intervention.

    If you believe that describes you, seek a mature, biblically grounded deliverance minister who understands Scripture, repentance, spiritual warfare, accountability, and the finished work of Christ.

    One resource used in some Christian settings is Neil Anderson’s Bondage Breaking material.

    But understand this carefully:

    Your deliverer is not a minister.

    Your deliverer is Jesus Christ.

    No technique saves you.

    No program saves you.

    No deliverance minister saves you.

    No accountability application saves you.

    Jesus saves.

    Jesus said:

    “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.”

    — John 8:36



    FILL YOURSELF WITH CHRIST

    Here’s the part many people miss.

    The Christian life isn’t merely about removing pornography.

    It’s about filling your life with Christ.

    Paul says:

    “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.”

    — Ephesians 5:18

    Fill your mind with Scripture.

    Fill your home with worship.

    Fill your day with prayer.

    Fill your time with service.

    Fill your life with godly relationships.

    Fill your heart with the things of God.

    Paul tells us:

    “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report… think on these things.”

    — Philippians 4:8

    The goal isn’t simply:

    “I must stop thinking about pornography.”

    The goal is:

    “I want to think more about Christ.”



    TAKE IT ONE DAY AT A TIME

    You don’t have to promise God that you’ll never be tempted again.

    You don’t have to figure out how you’re going to remain pure for the next thirty years.

    Win today.

    When tomorrow comes, win tomorrow.

    Jesus said:

    “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.”

    — Matthew 6:34

    Take today seriously.

    Today, don’t look.

    Today, don’t search.

    Today, don’t indulge.

    Today, pray.

    Today, read the Word.

    Today, walk in the Spirit.

    Today, keep your eyes on Jesus.

    One day at a time.



    AND IF YOU FALL—GET BACK UP

    This is crucial.

    If you fall, Satan will whisper:

    “You failed again.”

    Then:

    “You’re a hypocrite.”

    Then:

    “You might as well keep going.”

    Don’t listen.

    Repent.

    Confess it.

    Get honest.

    Tell your accountability partner.

    Identify what led to the fall.

    Close the door you left open.

    And get back up.

    “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again…”

    — Proverbs 24:16

    One failure does not mean you should surrender.

    A person who falls off a wagon doesn’t say:

    “Well, I fell off, so I might as well lie in the road forever.”

    Get back on.

    Repentance means turning back toward God.

    Don’t allow shame to become an excuse for continued sin.



    DON’T USE GRACE AS AN EXCUSE

    Never say:

    “God forgives me, so it doesn’t matter.”

    Paul asks:

    “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?

    God forbid.”

    — Romans 6:1–2

    Grace is not permission to remain enslaved.

    Grace teaches us:

    “…denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.”

    — Titus 2:12

    Christ did not die to make you comfortable in your chains.

    He came to set you free.



    SO—ARE YOU REALLY FIGHTING?

    Here is the question I want you to answer honestly.

    Are you really fighting pornography?

    Or are you negotiating with it?

    Are you praying?

    Are you fasting?

    Are you in the Word?

    Are you accountable?

    Are your devices protected?

    Are you eliminating your triggers?

    Are you fleeing immediately?

    Are you seeking help?

    Are you willing to confess?

    Are you willing to change your habits?

    Are you willing to sacrifice convenience for purity?

    Are you treating pornography like the serious spiritual threat that it is?

    Because you cannot declare war on pornography while secretly maintaining a supply line to it.

    You must choose.

    You cannot serve Christ and willingly cultivate the sin that is destroying your fellowship with Him.

    Jesus said:

    “No man can serve two masters…”

    — Matthew 6:24

    So declare war.

    Not against yourself.

    Not against your sexuality.

    Not against God’s good design for sexual intimacy.

    Declare war against lust.

    Declare war against pornography.

    Declare war against secrecy.

    Declare war against compromise.

    Declare war against the lies that tell you that you cannot change.

    And then—

    LOOK TO JESUS.

    “…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

    Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith…”

    — Hebrews 12:1–2

    Your hope isn’t your willpower.

    Your hope isn’t your perfect record.

    Your hope isn’t an accountability application.

    Your hope isn’t a deliverance minister.

    YOUR HOPE IS JESUS CHRIST.

    Submit to God.

    Resist the devil.

    Flee temptation.

    Take the escape route.

    Get back up when you fall.

    Stay in the Word.

    Put on the armour.

    And keep your eyes on Jesus.

    James gives us the battle cry:

    “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

    Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.”

    — James 4:7–8

    SUBMIT.

    RESIST.

    DRAW NEAR.

    And keep fighting.



    A PRAYER FOR FREEDOM FROM PORNOGRAPHY AND SIN

    Heavenly Father,

    I come before You in the name of Jesus Christ.

    I plead the blood of Jesus over all sin, sickness, temptation, evil, suffering, sexual sin, lust, and pornography.

    I reject Satan and all his evil works.

    I reject every lie, deception, temptation, bondage, and stronghold that would draw me away from Jesus Christ.

    I renounce pornography and sexual impurity.

    I repent of every time I have willingly entertained lust, fantasy, pornography, or sexual sin.

    Lord Jesus, forgive me.

    Cleanse me.

    Purify my heart.

    Renew my mind.

    Strengthen my spirit.

    Give me the power to flee temptation rather than negotiate with it.

    Give me discernment to recognize temptation before it takes hold.

    Give me the courage to close the door, put down the phone, turn away from the screen, and run from whatever would lead me into sin.

    I receive Jesus Christ with all my heart and soul as my Lord and Savior.

    I surrender my body, my mind, my eyes, my imagination, my sexuality, my desires, my relationships, my future, and my entire life to Jesus Christ.

    Holy Spirit, fill me.

    Teach me.

    Guide me.

    Strengthen me.

    Convict me when I begin to wander.

    Give me hatred for sin and a greater love for righteousness.

    Help me to walk in purity.

    Help me to walk in holiness.

    Help me to walk in obedience.

    Give me strength to fast.

    Give me strength to pray.

    Give me strength to stay in Your Word.

    Give me wisdom to establish safeguards and accountability.

    Give me humility to ask for help when I need it.

    When temptation comes, remind me that You have provided a way of escape.

    When I am weak, remind me that Your grace is sufficient.

    When I fall, give me the humility to repent and the courage to rise again.

    I declare that pornography will not be my master.

    Lust will not be my master.

    Sin will not be my master.

    Jesus Christ is my Lord and my Master.

    I submit myself to God.

    I resist the devil.

    I draw near to Jesus Christ.

    And I place my complete faith and trust in Him.

    In the mighty name of Jesus Christ,

    Amen.
    ARE YOU REALLY FIGHTING PORNOGRAPHY—OR NEGOTIATING WITH IT? A Christian Call to Declare War on Sexual Sin Pastor Joseph Clark There comes a point in every Christian’s battle with pornography when we need to stop asking, “How can I manage this temptation?” And start asking: “How badly do I want to be free?” Because pornography is not harmless entertainment. It is not merely a private weakness. It is not something Christians should simply learn to “live with.” It is a temptation that can become an enslaving pattern of lust, fantasy, secrecy and sin. It can consume the imagination, corrupt the way we see other people, damage marriages and relationships, steal time, weaken prayer, and draw the heart away from the purity to which Christ has called His people. And if you are a Christian who is fighting pornography, you need to understand something: You are in a fight. The question is whether you are actually fighting. Or whether you are negotiating. ⸻ STOP NEGOTIATING WITH TEMPTATION One of the greatest mistakes we make with temptation is giving it a conversation. “I’ll just look for a minute.” “I won’t go any further.” “I’ve been good for two weeks.” “This isn’t really pornography.” “Nobody knows.” “God will forgive me.” That isn’t resistance. That’s negotiation. And Scripture doesn’t tell us to negotiate with sexual temptation. It tells us to flee. “Flee fornication.” — 1 Corinthians 6:18 Paul told Timothy: “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” — 2 Timothy 2:22 Notice the word: FLEE. Not debate. Not analyze. Not negotiate. Not see how close you can get without crossing the line. Run. Joseph understood this. When Potiphar’s wife attempted to seduce him, Joseph didn’t stay around to see how strong his resistance would be. When she grabbed him, Scripture says: “And he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.” — Genesis 39:12 Joseph ran. Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is close the laptop. Sometimes it’s putting the phone down. Sometimes it’s getting out of bed. Sometimes it’s leaving the room. Sometimes it’s calling your accountability partner. Sometimes it’s getting on your knees. FLEE. ⸻ JESUS DIDN’T NEGOTIATE WITH SATAN Look at Jesus in the wilderness. Satan came when Jesus was physically weakened after fasting forty days and forty nights. The devil tempted Him. And what did Jesus do? He didn’t engage Satan in a philosophical debate. He didn’t entertain the temptation. He didn’t say, “Let me think about that.” He said: “It is written.” When Satan tempted Him to turn stones into bread, Jesus answered: “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” — Matthew 4:4 When Satan twisted Scripture to tempt Him again, Jesus answered: “It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.” — Matthew 4:7 And when Satan offered Him the kingdoms of the world: “Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” — Matthew 4:10 Three temptations. Three answers rooted in Scripture. “It is written.” That’s your model. When pornography comes knocking, you need something stronger than emotion. Something stronger than willpower. Something stronger than the promise that “this will make you feel good.” You need the Word of God. David said: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” — Psalm 119:11 Don’t wait until you’re already looking at pornography to start thinking about holiness. Put the Word in your heart now. ⸻ DECLARE WAR Let’s be blunt. If pornography has become a recurring sin in your life, declare war on it. Don’t declare war on it tomorrow. Don’t declare war on it after one more failure. Declare war today. Jesus used deliberately shocking language when describing how seriously we must treat sin: “And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee…” — Matthew 5:29 And: “And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee…” — Matthew 5:30 Jesus is not commanding literal self-mutilation. He is teaching us that we must deal with sin radically and decisively. If your smartphone repeatedly becomes the doorway to pornography, change how you use your smartphone. If being alone late at night repeatedly leads you into sin, change your nighttime routine. If particular websites, social-media accounts, or applications trigger lust, eliminate them. If unrestricted internet access is destroying your purity, install safeguards. If secrecy is feeding the problem, bring it into the light. Stop protecting your access to the sin you claim you want to defeat. ⸻ ARE YOU REALLY STRUGGLING? This is where the question gets uncomfortable. A Christian can struggle with sin. Paul describes the conflict between flesh and Spirit: “For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other…” — Galatians 5:17 There is a battle. There is resistance. There is conflict. But ask yourself: Are you actually resisting? Are you praying? Are you fasting? Are you reading Scripture? Do you have an accountability partner? Have you told another mature Christian about the problem? Have you installed accountability software? Have you removed private access to pornography? Have you changed your routines? Have you identified your triggers? Have you stopped following accounts that stimulate lust? Have you changed the environment in which you repeatedly fall? Are you seeking pastoral help? Are you willing to seek professional Christian counseling when appropriate? Are you willing to seek a biblically grounded deliverance ministry if you believe you are dealing with entrenched spiritual bondage? Or are you simply saying: “I really want to stop” while keeping every door open? That’s not war. That’s a weak attempt to negotiate a ceasefire with your own sin. Commit. ⸻ MAKE PORNOGRAPHY YOUR ENEMY Paul says: “Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God…” — Romans 6:13 You have a choice about what you present yourself to. What are you yielding? Your eyes? Your imagination? Your phone? Your computer? Your time? Your sexuality? Your mind? Your body? Who gets them? Pornography wants them. Christ wants them. Choose. ⸻ DON’T BE IDLE Idleness can become an open door. If you are constantly alone, bored, scrolling, lying in bed, wandering through the internet, and allowing your mind to drift wherever it wants, don’t be surprised when temptation finds you. Get busy. Work. Exercise. Study. Read. Serve. Pray. Go outside. Spend time with people. Serve the church. Build something. Learn something. Pursue your calling. Paul instructed believers: “And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands…” — 1 Thessalonians 4:11 Don’t give temptation an empty house to occupy. ⸻ BRING THE BATTLE INTO THE LIGHT Pornography thrives in secrecy. That is why accountability matters. James says: “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” — James 5:16 Find someone trustworthy. A mature Christian man. A pastor. A mentor. An accountability partner. Someone who will actually ask you the hard questions. Not: “Everything okay?” But: “Have you looked at pornography?” “Have you intentionally searched for sexually explicit material?” “Are there apps on your phone that you are hiding?” “Have you been honest with me?” You don’t need someone who merely makes you feel better. You need someone who loves you enough to tell you the truth. ⸻ SAFEGUARD YOUR DEVICES Let’s stop pretending that technology is neutral when we know how we are using it. If your phone is the primary gateway to your sin, safeguard your phone. If your laptop is the gateway, safeguard your laptop. Use reputable filtering and accountability tools. Remove applications that repeatedly lead you into temptation. Don’t sleep with an unrestricted device beside your bed if nighttime is when you repeatedly fall. Don’t keep secret browsers. Don’t create hidden accounts. Don’t maintain a private digital world that nobody else knows exists. Jesus said: “And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee…” — Matthew 5:29 The principle is clear: Remove the access point. ⸻ FAST AND PRAY There are battles that should drive us to our knees. Jesus Himself fasted when He entered the wilderness. Matthew records: “Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.” — Matthew 4:1 And: “And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.” — Matthew 4:2 Fasting isn’t a magic formula. It doesn’t purchase God’s favor. But it can become a powerful expression of humility and dependence upon God. Tell the Lord: “Jesus, I cannot conquer this in my own strength. I need You.” Pray when the temptation comes. Pray before it comes. Pray when you are strong. Pray when you are weak. And believe God. Paul says: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful…” — 1 Corinthians 10:13 And then comes one of the greatest promises in Scripture: “…but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” — 1 Corinthians 10:13 Look for the escape route. And when God provides it— TAKE IT. ⸻ PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOUR OF GOD You are not merely fighting a website. You are fighting temptation. You are fighting lust. You are fighting deception. And Scripture describes the Christian life as spiritual warfare. Paul says: “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” — Ephesians 6:10–12 Then he tells us to take: The belt of truth. The breastplate of righteousness. The Gospel of peace. The shield of faith. The helmet of salvation. The sword of the Spirit—which is the Word of God. And: Prayer. Pornography can become a powerful instrument of temptation and enslavement. Don’t underestimate it. Peter says: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith…” — 1 Peter 5:8–9 Be sober. Be vigilant. Resist. ⸻ SEEK DELIVERANCE IF YOU NEED IT Some Christians experience pornography as an entrenched pattern of bondage that requires more intensive spiritual intervention. If you believe that describes you, seek a mature, biblically grounded deliverance minister who understands Scripture, repentance, spiritual warfare, accountability, and the finished work of Christ. One resource used in some Christian settings is Neil Anderson’s Bondage Breaking material. But understand this carefully: Your deliverer is not a minister. Your deliverer is Jesus Christ. No technique saves you. No program saves you. No deliverance minister saves you. No accountability application saves you. Jesus saves. Jesus said: “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36 ⸻ FILL YOURSELF WITH CHRIST Here’s the part many people miss. The Christian life isn’t merely about removing pornography. It’s about filling your life with Christ. Paul says: “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” — Ephesians 5:18 Fill your mind with Scripture. Fill your home with worship. Fill your day with prayer. Fill your time with service. Fill your life with godly relationships. Fill your heart with the things of God. Paul tells us: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report… think on these things.” — Philippians 4:8 The goal isn’t simply: “I must stop thinking about pornography.” The goal is: “I want to think more about Christ.” ⸻ TAKE IT ONE DAY AT A TIME You don’t have to promise God that you’ll never be tempted again. You don’t have to figure out how you’re going to remain pure for the next thirty years. Win today. When tomorrow comes, win tomorrow. Jesus said: “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.” — Matthew 6:34 Take today seriously. Today, don’t look. Today, don’t search. Today, don’t indulge. Today, pray. Today, read the Word. Today, walk in the Spirit. Today, keep your eyes on Jesus. One day at a time. ⸻ AND IF YOU FALL—GET BACK UP This is crucial. If you fall, Satan will whisper: “You failed again.” Then: “You’re a hypocrite.” Then: “You might as well keep going.” Don’t listen. Repent. Confess it. Get honest. Tell your accountability partner. Identify what led to the fall. Close the door you left open. And get back up. “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again…” — Proverbs 24:16 One failure does not mean you should surrender. A person who falls off a wagon doesn’t say: “Well, I fell off, so I might as well lie in the road forever.” Get back on. Repentance means turning back toward God. Don’t allow shame to become an excuse for continued sin. ⸻ DON’T USE GRACE AS AN EXCUSE Never say: “God forgives me, so it doesn’t matter.” Paul asks: “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid.” — Romans 6:1–2 Grace is not permission to remain enslaved. Grace teaches us: “…denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.” — Titus 2:12 Christ did not die to make you comfortable in your chains. He came to set you free. ⸻ SO—ARE YOU REALLY FIGHTING? Here is the question I want you to answer honestly. Are you really fighting pornography? Or are you negotiating with it? Are you praying? Are you fasting? Are you in the Word? Are you accountable? Are your devices protected? Are you eliminating your triggers? Are you fleeing immediately? Are you seeking help? Are you willing to confess? Are you willing to change your habits? Are you willing to sacrifice convenience for purity? Are you treating pornography like the serious spiritual threat that it is? Because you cannot declare war on pornography while secretly maintaining a supply line to it. You must choose. You cannot serve Christ and willingly cultivate the sin that is destroying your fellowship with Him. Jesus said: “No man can serve two masters…” — Matthew 6:24 So declare war. Not against yourself. Not against your sexuality. Not against God’s good design for sexual intimacy. Declare war against lust. Declare war against pornography. Declare war against secrecy. Declare war against compromise. Declare war against the lies that tell you that you cannot change. And then— LOOK TO JESUS. “…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith…” — Hebrews 12:1–2 Your hope isn’t your willpower. Your hope isn’t your perfect record. Your hope isn’t an accountability application. Your hope isn’t a deliverance minister. YOUR HOPE IS JESUS CHRIST. Submit to God. Resist the devil. Flee temptation. Take the escape route. Get back up when you fall. Stay in the Word. Put on the armour. And keep your eyes on Jesus. James gives us the battle cry: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” — James 4:7–8 SUBMIT. RESIST. DRAW NEAR. And keep fighting. ⸻ A PRAYER FOR FREEDOM FROM PORNOGRAPHY AND SIN Heavenly Father, I come before You in the name of Jesus Christ. I plead the blood of Jesus over all sin, sickness, temptation, evil, suffering, sexual sin, lust, and pornography. I reject Satan and all his evil works. I reject every lie, deception, temptation, bondage, and stronghold that would draw me away from Jesus Christ. I renounce pornography and sexual impurity. I repent of every time I have willingly entertained lust, fantasy, pornography, or sexual sin. Lord Jesus, forgive me. Cleanse me. Purify my heart. Renew my mind. Strengthen my spirit. Give me the power to flee temptation rather than negotiate with it. Give me discernment to recognize temptation before it takes hold. Give me the courage to close the door, put down the phone, turn away from the screen, and run from whatever would lead me into sin. I receive Jesus Christ with all my heart and soul as my Lord and Savior. I surrender my body, my mind, my eyes, my imagination, my sexuality, my desires, my relationships, my future, and my entire life to Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit, fill me. Teach me. Guide me. Strengthen me. Convict me when I begin to wander. Give me hatred for sin and a greater love for righteousness. Help me to walk in purity. Help me to walk in holiness. Help me to walk in obedience. Give me strength to fast. Give me strength to pray. Give me strength to stay in Your Word. Give me wisdom to establish safeguards and accountability. Give me humility to ask for help when I need it. When temptation comes, remind me that You have provided a way of escape. When I am weak, remind me that Your grace is sufficient. When I fall, give me the humility to repent and the courage to rise again. I declare that pornography will not be my master. Lust will not be my master. Sin will not be my master. Jesus Christ is my Lord and my Master. I submit myself to God. I resist the devil. I draw near to Jesus Christ. And I place my complete faith and trust in Him. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
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  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY
    WEDNESDAY AUGUST 26, 2O26.

    "THERE’S NOBODY LIKE HIM {1}"
    ‘I…am the Lord, and besides Me, there is no saviour.’ Isaiah 43:11 NKJV

    THE ISRAELITES were commanded not to make any ‘graven image’ of God. Why? Because God made us, we didn’t make Him. A god you can make is a god you can control and make do whatever you wish. The ancient Greeks had a host of gods, all created by men. Some demanded human sacrifice; others permitted prostitution and even promoted it in their temples. When we reverse the order and start to create God in our own image (according to our own imagination) we get the following things: 1) A god who’s liberal or conservative, a hawk or a dove; a god politicians conveniently pull out of a box at election time to gain votes even though they don’t truly serve him. 2) A flexible god who permits you to do whatever you want, and you can then say, ‘I just felt led to do it.’ 3) A god who promises to bless his children but never discipline them. 4) A god you can ‘keep in his place’ until you need him. 5) A god who is not supreme but happy to be one of many deities offering many ways to heaven. Not so! God says, ‘I, even I, am the Lord, and besides Me there is no saviour.’ Jesus said, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me’ (John 14:6 NKJV). Jesus doesn’t need a makeover to bring Him into alignment with the Internet and the space age. He is Lord! Indeed, if He is not Lord over all, He is not Lord at all!

    Bible In A Year: Ezek 5-9, Matt 21:12-17, Ps 119:169-176, Pro 19:9-10. 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. [25/08, 9:09 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA*

    WEDNESDAY, 26TH AUGUST, 2026.

    *COURAGE TO RISE AND MOVE ON AFTER A SERIOUS SETBACK*

    *TEXT:* JOSHUA 1:11-18.

    11 Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the LORD your God giveth you to possess it.
    12 And to the Reubenites, and to the Gadites, and to half the tribe of Manasseh, spake Joshua, saying,
    13 Remember the word which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, saying, The LORD your God hath given you rest, and hath given you this land.
    14 Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall remain in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan; but ye shall pass before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valour, and help them;
    15 Until the LORD have given your brethren rest, as he hath given you, and they also have possessed the land which the Lyord  your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and enjoy it, which Moses the LORD's servant gave you on this side Jordan toward the sunrising.
    16 And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go.
    17 According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken unto thee: only the LORD thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses.
    18 Whosoever he be that doth rebel against thy commandment, and will not hearken unto thy words in all that thou commandest him, he shall be put to death: only be strong and of a good courage

    *Timeless Truth:*_"Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul"_ (Hebrews 10:38,39).

    *INTRODUCTION*

    40 years have passed now when they left Egypt with great joy and hope coupled with triumph over the oppressive and terrorizing Egyptians. Little did they know the challenges that will greet them on the way. A few days journey from Kadesh to Jordan turned to 40 years. All the adults, except Caleb and Joshua, who left Egypt died without reaching the promised Canaan. Unfortunately, Moses, their faithful leader, including their high priest Aaron, and Miriam the Women Leader were painfully casualties. They just finished mourning Moses for 30 days. That was not their plan and expectations when they left Egypt. However, they must move on and enter the land of promise after all those setbacks. This takes courage and faith in God. The Christian life is similar especially, when the heart is not sanctified. Starting with the indescribable Joy of Salvation, the journey to heaven began. But unexpectedly, along the way, there are battles to fight, divine disciplines to endure and challenges meant to perfect that will be experienced. Those experiences and setbacks should not becloud our forward march to heaven; we must keep moving on until we enter the promised heaven. The Apostles were said to be *"Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom"* (Acts 14:22).

    *1. The Command to be Observed with Unwavering Faith*

    a. Joshua commanded the captains to *"Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals"*. Some people who willingly obey the commandments in their work places, public transports, whether land, air or sea, deride commandments when it comes from God through church leaders or shepherds. Some refused or stopped going to church because of their hate for commandments. They often talk of human rights, human free will etc when commandments are given by God through His ministers. The truth is that no man, no matter how wise or intelligent, can live happily or successfully in the world without learning to listen to instructions or commandments and follow them in every sphere of life. The Word of God is filled with instructions and commandment because none can claim to know the correct and fulfilling routes in life when he has never passed through it. Human security, safety, fulfillment and joy are tied to the ability to hear, listen and obey godly instructions and commandments. The 'dos' and 'don'ts' of the Word of God, which carnal minds reject, are actually, the path way to a happy and fulfilling life.
    b. Moses, their Prophet par excellence who used to see and hear from God directly was gone. Yet they did not idolize Moses that since Moses was gone all hope was lost. Their confidence was in God without any cult personality. True believers should not see any of their leaders as a cult personality to idolize. Cult personality in the household of faith is carnality and idol worship in action. Any God-given leader at any time should be obeyed and followed because it is the commandment of God and His Word that matters most and not the human vessel. Israel lost nothing as a result of the death of Moses. The same God who moved mightily in Moses also moved greatly in Joshua that Israel never regretted the death of Moses. The Command of Joshua was military in nature, but obeying it will require courage and faith. *"Within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the LORD your God giveth you to possess it"*. Looking back, many souls have died without receiving the promise. Looking forward to Jordan that it would take a great miracle like it happened in the Red Sea before they could pass. However, Joshua gave the commandment as if the Jordan challenge was not there. Israel also did not raise alarm about the humanly impassable Jordan. They all jointly and unitedly believed God that crossing was a done deal since it was God who commanded and God had done it before. We must move on by faith to the hope set before us with courage. Since God has promised to take us to heaven, no need to fear the assault of persistent temptations, the murmurs of persecutions and afflictions, the threat of marital and career setbacks and the cruel dread of principalities and power. Just move on in obedience and faith according to His Word and be sure you will land on the other side of the river.

    *Question*

    Have you decided to continue the journey to the end no matter the challenges on the way?

    *2.Care to be Offered to the Unsettled Families*

    a. The Reubenites, and to the Gadites, and to half the tribe of Manasseh were given their land and possession before they crossed the Jordan River. Now that the soldiers of those tribes were settled, it was tempting for them to quit the journey and go to their rest. Moses settled that need for genuine brotherly love before he died. Joshua recalled that because he knew that the commandment of God does not die with the vessel that God used to declare it. He said, *"Remember the word which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, saying, The LORD your God hath given you rest, and hath given you this land"*. The vulnerable were to stay behind in the promised land while their soldiers joined the remaining Israelites to fight the Canaanites. There was no rest for them until their brethren had rest. Obeying that would require faith and a golden caring heart. First, who would protect those vulnerable two and half tribes when all their soldiers leave them behind? David did that for his wives and vulnerable followers in Ziklag and the Amalekites overran the wives and carried away everything belonging to them. Was that commandment of Moses reasonable? It was reasonable since it was given by God. It was reasonable because faith in God would not be disappointed. It was reasonable because the law of love is stronger than the law of self protection. This is the lesson for us as to how God works.
    b. *"Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill ye the law of Christ"* (Galatians 6:2). Any law, policy or principle that does not visibly reflect the care and love for one another in the family, church and among neighbours is not of God no matter how the world exalts it. Practical and sacrificial care for one another is the hall mark of Christianity. When that is missing, the Christian faith is not different from other religions. Believers should lighten burdens of others, wiping off bitter tears, relieving the oppressed, putting the balm of Gilead in the troubled souls in addition to assisting and supporting others through prayer. Selfishness, self interest, self protection, self respect, etc.are being imported into the church as wisdom, but they are not Christlike. *"Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others"* (Philippians 2:4). This is a commandment.

    *Question*

    Are you practically bearing others burdens or are you hypocritically selfish?

    *3. Consecration to Obedience and Unity by the Faithful*

    a. Christian consecration is the solemn act of setting apart a person, place or thing from ordinary, secular use and dedicating it entirely to God and holy purposes. This includes consecration to do and obey the Word of God. It is difficult in these last days of superficial christianity and devotion to deliberately, doggedly and determinedly stick to the Word of God without definite consecrations. When it comes to unity among brethren, many things often threaten unity and it takes consecration with godly unity in order to ensure the unity of the saints. This is needful because the victory, the blessings and divine visitations on a people are tightly connected to unity. Unity must be encouraged and enforced in order to enjoy God's bests. *"Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the body of peace"*. We must preach it, pray for it, practice it and pass it on to the future generations. Would the Holy Spirit have descended on the Early Church if they were not united in the Upper Room? If the Trinity is not united, what would the world look like? *"And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go"*.
    It takes deliberate consecration to God to obey all the commandments of God without complaining. It takes consecration to follow a man of like passion wholeheartedly. Consecrations are milestones to spiritual maturity and profitability in the hands of God. Spiritual growth into higher ground is all about making higher consecrations and working it out through the grace of God.

    *Question*

    What are the irreversible consecrations you have made to God so far?

    *Prayer Points*

    1.Father, give me power and faith, with courage, to keep moving on until I land in the heavenly Canaan land and let me not fall by the way side .
    2.Make me an agent of unity and let the Spirit of unity and obedience reign in the midst of Your children.
    3.Give me more love to bear one another's burdens and cleanse my heart from all forms of selfishness .
    4.Help all Your children to be given to deeper consecrations.

    *HYMN:* Arise O youth of God

    *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* HABAKKUK 1-3.
    [25/08, 9:09 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026```


    *PREPARATION FOR ENDURING POSSESSIONS* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽🏽

    ```TEXT:JOSHUA 1:11-18```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go" (JOSHUA 1:16).*_

    *C. Reuben Anderson, an American, told a story of an engineer who was confined to bed because his lower limbs were paralysed from a serious accident. Because of his reputation for great skill, he was asked to design and prepare the blueprints for a great suspension bridge. After many months, his plans were completed and placed in the hands of those who were to be in charge of the bridge's construction. After a considerable period, the construction was completed. The engineer was brought on his bed to the scene of the beautiful bridge spanning the wide river. As he watched for the first time as cars sped over the bridge, and as he looked at the blueprints which he held in his hands, tears began to fill his eyes, and he cried out, "It's just like the plan; it's just like the plan." Undoubtedly, the sense of accomplishment brought tears of joy to the eyes of the intelligent and fulfilled engineer. His good works serve humanity! What a lesson! We must live to add value to others.*

    *Today's passage centres on the preparation of Israel to go in and possess the Promised Land under the able leadership of Joshua, the son of Nun, the commander of the army of Israel after the death of Moses. This time, they were on the verge of entering Canaan. Strategically, he told the army to prepare, and he reminded the three tribes: Reuben, Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses that they would cross the River Jordan and fight alongside the nine and the half tribes until they possessed their inheritance before returning to settle on the east side of Jordan. The tribal leaders affirmed their commitment and promised to follow Joshua as they followed Moses, irrespective of the challenges ahead.*

    *The salient lesson here include the unity among the tribes, cooperation with the leader, and Joshua's uncompromising, indefatigable leadership style that gave Israel the edge. As a result, the nation won battles, conquered adversaries, and possessed the Promised Land.*

    *Families, churches, societies and nations that desire victory in life's battles and challenges must follow the same pattern. Beyond earthly victories and possessions, there is an enduring possession in heaven for the saints of God. Our Lord Jesus Christ has gone to prepare a place for all who make themselves ready and willing to follow Him unconditionally.*

    ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*A walk with God is the surest way of victory in all battles.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *HABAKKUK 1-3*



    Preparation For Enduring Possessions
    https://dailymanna.app//
    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 27: I AM BOUND FOR CANAAN; GHS 42: CLOSE TO THEE; GHS 44: COME OVER; AND GHS 51: THAT BLESSED CANAAN LAND*
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    [25/08, 9:09 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*HIGHER EVERYDY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_

    ✍🏽🏻‍ 🏽🛰

    ```WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *CALL TO SPECIAL SERVICE* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```TEXT:EXODUS 31:1-11```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship" (EXODUS 31:2-3).*_

    *God gives everyone talents and gifts to function in the church and community for the common good of His church and humanity. However, some people are called of God and endowed specially for specific assignments.*

    *Such were Bezaleel and Hur. God gave them wisdom, understanding and knowledge to be able to translate the vision of the tabernacle shown to Moses on the mountain, to reality. They were to build according to pattern.*

    *The Holy Spirit apportions to each member of the church as He wills. In talents and gifts, are embedded all abilities and ministries needed by every believer to fulfill their divinely ordained functions.*

    *God equips those He engages. Has God given you a specific task to do? The wherewithal to get the work done will always be available. Does your task look irksome? The wisdom, grace and resources are available. Identify your specific assignment and work on it.*

    *However, everyone is called to the service of soul winning. Having received the gift of salvation, every believer must take the gospel message to all sinners. It is an all-believers' duty, without exception.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*God equips those He engages.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Invest your talents and gifts in the kingdom of God.*_

    🏽🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, use me for Your glory.*_



    Call To Special Service
    https://dailymanna.app//

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    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [25/08, 9:09 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣)*_

    🏼🏼🏼🏼🏼‍

    ```WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *NOAH - A RIGHTEOUS MAN* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🫎🫎🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```GENESIS 6:1-9```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God" (Genesis 6:9).*_



    God was displeased with the wickedness of humanity that He decided to send a flood to destroy the earth. However, He chose Noah, a righteous man to build an ark to save himself, his family and two of every kind of animals.

    For about 120 years, Noah was busy building the ark based on God's instructions and specifications. He also used the opportunity to warn of the impending judgment on the world in the form of a flood. But nobody heeded Noah's plea. They found it hard to believe that a loving God could also punish sin and destroy the world.

    Noah knew his God and obeyed God's instructions to the letter, even though he had never seen rain nor flood before. He did exploits for God and helped in the fulfilment of God's programme for that age.

    *The judgment of God is fast approaching again. This present world will soon be burnt with fire. It is the duty of all Christian boys and girls to live righteously and also serve as true witnesses to help sinners escape the coming destruction and judgment. God still commits His divine assignments into the hands of His faithful children.*



    ```rayer:``` _*God, please help me to be faithful in all that You have committed into my hands, in Jesus' name.*_ 🏽

    ``` Further Reading:``` *2 Peter 2:4-6*


    Noah - A Righteous Man
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    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. Morning Prayer

    I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. ⏤ Romans 12:1

    Prayer is the life-breath of the soul. Without it, we grow faint and weary. ⏤ F.B. Meyer

    O God, You alone make us dwell in safety. We lie down at night under the shadow of Your wings, and we awake in the morning under the blessing of Your love because You have sustained us. Once again, we thank You for Your care and protection, and for the gift of sleep. We renew our consecration to You this morning, asking for Your permission to live another day for You and with You, doing Your will.

    Make the way clear for us, and do not let us stray from the paths of Your commandments. In our worldly affairs, grant us wisdom and grace. May it please You to prosper us in our daily work. May Your Holy Spirit preside over our home. Protect us from harm of every kind. Let us not be careless in our duties or neglectful in our tasks today.

    Help us to make the most of every moment of this day. This day is Yours, not ours; it is ours to use for You. May we spend it in such a way that every moment will bear good fruit. In our conversations, may we speak only words that build others up—kind words, true words. Keep us from complaining and grumbling. Teach us the lesson of contentment so that we never murmur or complain.

    May it please You to keep us from speaking words that would discourage others. May we always speak words that uplift and encourage, making it easier for others to live. Forbid that we should say anything that would make anyone's burden heavier or their path more difficult. May we live every moment for You, serving You faithfully, and at last may You receive us into Your heavenly glory, through Jesus Christ our Redeemer. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/52/morning

    #taptapstudio
    #youdevotion.
    Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀🎀💝🎁🌺🌹MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY WEDNESDAY AUGUST 26, 2O26. "THERE’S NOBODY LIKE HIM {1}" ‘I…am the Lord, and besides Me, there is no saviour.’ Isaiah 43:11 NKJV THE ISRAELITES were commanded not to make any ‘graven image’ of God. Why? Because God made us, we didn’t make Him. A god you can make is a god you can control and make do whatever you wish. The ancient Greeks had a host of gods, all created by men. Some demanded human sacrifice; others permitted prostitution and even promoted it in their temples. When we reverse the order and start to create God in our own image (according to our own imagination) we get the following things: 1) A god who’s liberal or conservative, a hawk or a dove; a god politicians conveniently pull out of a box at election time to gain votes even though they don’t truly serve him. 2) A flexible god who permits you to do whatever you want, and you can then say, ‘I just felt led to do it.’ 3) A god who promises to bless his children but never discipline them. 4) A god you can ‘keep in his place’ until you need him. 5) A god who is not supreme but happy to be one of many deities offering many ways to heaven. Not so! God says, ‘I, even I, am the Lord, and besides Me there is no saviour.’ Jesus said, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me’ (John 14:6 NKJV). Jesus doesn’t need a makeover to bring Him into alignment with the Internet and the space age. He is Lord! Indeed, if He is not Lord over all, He is not Lord at all! Bible In A Year: Ezek 5-9, Matt 21:12-17, Ps 119:169-176, Pro 19:9-10. 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. [25/08, 9:09 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* WEDNESDAY, 26TH AUGUST, 2026. *COURAGE TO RISE AND MOVE ON AFTER A SERIOUS SETBACK* *TEXT:* JOSHUA 1:11-18. 11 Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the LORD your God giveth you to possess it. 12 And to the Reubenites, and to the Gadites, and to half the tribe of Manasseh, spake Joshua, saying, 13 Remember the word which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, saying, The LORD your God hath given you rest, and hath given you this land. 14 Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall remain in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan; but ye shall pass before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valour, and help them; 15 Until the LORD have given your brethren rest, as he hath given you, and they also have possessed the land which the Lyord  your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and enjoy it, which Moses the LORD's servant gave you on this side Jordan toward the sunrising. 16 And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go. 17 According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken unto thee: only the LORD thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses. 18 Whosoever he be that doth rebel against thy commandment, and will not hearken unto thy words in all that thou commandest him, he shall be put to death: only be strong and of a good courage *Timeless Truth:*_"Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul"_ (Hebrews 10:38,39). *INTRODUCTION* 40 years have passed now when they left Egypt with great joy and hope coupled with triumph over the oppressive and terrorizing Egyptians. Little did they know the challenges that will greet them on the way. A few days journey from Kadesh to Jordan turned to 40 years. All the adults, except Caleb and Joshua, who left Egypt died without reaching the promised Canaan. Unfortunately, Moses, their faithful leader, including their high priest Aaron, and Miriam the Women Leader were painfully casualties. They just finished mourning Moses for 30 days. That was not their plan and expectations when they left Egypt. However, they must move on and enter the land of promise after all those setbacks. This takes courage and faith in God. The Christian life is similar especially, when the heart is not sanctified. Starting with the indescribable Joy of Salvation, the journey to heaven began. But unexpectedly, along the way, there are battles to fight, divine disciplines to endure and challenges meant to perfect that will be experienced. Those experiences and setbacks should not becloud our forward march to heaven; we must keep moving on until we enter the promised heaven. The Apostles were said to be *"Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom"* (Acts 14:22). *1. The Command to be Observed with Unwavering Faith* a. Joshua commanded the captains to *"Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals"*. Some people who willingly obey the commandments in their work places, public transports, whether land, air or sea, deride commandments when it comes from God through church leaders or shepherds. Some refused or stopped going to church because of their hate for commandments. They often talk of human rights, human free will etc when commandments are given by God through His ministers. The truth is that no man, no matter how wise or intelligent, can live happily or successfully in the world without learning to listen to instructions or commandments and follow them in every sphere of life. The Word of God is filled with instructions and commandment because none can claim to know the correct and fulfilling routes in life when he has never passed through it. Human security, safety, fulfillment and joy are tied to the ability to hear, listen and obey godly instructions and commandments. The 'dos' and 'don'ts' of the Word of God, which carnal minds reject, are actually, the path way to a happy and fulfilling life. b. Moses, their Prophet par excellence who used to see and hear from God directly was gone. Yet they did not idolize Moses that since Moses was gone all hope was lost. Their confidence was in God without any cult personality. True believers should not see any of their leaders as a cult personality to idolize. Cult personality in the household of faith is carnality and idol worship in action. Any God-given leader at any time should be obeyed and followed because it is the commandment of God and His Word that matters most and not the human vessel. Israel lost nothing as a result of the death of Moses. The same God who moved mightily in Moses also moved greatly in Joshua that Israel never regretted the death of Moses. The Command of Joshua was military in nature, but obeying it will require courage and faith. *"Within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the LORD your God giveth you to possess it"*. Looking back, many souls have died without receiving the promise. Looking forward to Jordan that it would take a great miracle like it happened in the Red Sea before they could pass. However, Joshua gave the commandment as if the Jordan challenge was not there. Israel also did not raise alarm about the humanly impassable Jordan. They all jointly and unitedly believed God that crossing was a done deal since it was God who commanded and God had done it before. We must move on by faith to the hope set before us with courage. Since God has promised to take us to heaven, no need to fear the assault of persistent temptations, the murmurs of persecutions and afflictions, the threat of marital and career setbacks and the cruel dread of principalities and power. Just move on in obedience and faith according to His Word and be sure you will land on the other side of the river. *Question* Have you decided to continue the journey to the end no matter the challenges on the way? *2.Care to be Offered to the Unsettled Families* a. The Reubenites, and to the Gadites, and to half the tribe of Manasseh were given their land and possession before they crossed the Jordan River. Now that the soldiers of those tribes were settled, it was tempting for them to quit the journey and go to their rest. Moses settled that need for genuine brotherly love before he died. Joshua recalled that because he knew that the commandment of God does not die with the vessel that God used to declare it. He said, *"Remember the word which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, saying, The LORD your God hath given you rest, and hath given you this land"*. The vulnerable were to stay behind in the promised land while their soldiers joined the remaining Israelites to fight the Canaanites. There was no rest for them until their brethren had rest. Obeying that would require faith and a golden caring heart. First, who would protect those vulnerable two and half tribes when all their soldiers leave them behind? David did that for his wives and vulnerable followers in Ziklag and the Amalekites overran the wives and carried away everything belonging to them. Was that commandment of Moses reasonable? It was reasonable since it was given by God. It was reasonable because faith in God would not be disappointed. It was reasonable because the law of love is stronger than the law of self protection. This is the lesson for us as to how God works. b. *"Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill ye the law of Christ"* (Galatians 6:2). Any law, policy or principle that does not visibly reflect the care and love for one another in the family, church and among neighbours is not of God no matter how the world exalts it. Practical and sacrificial care for one another is the hall mark of Christianity. When that is missing, the Christian faith is not different from other religions. Believers should lighten burdens of others, wiping off bitter tears, relieving the oppressed, putting the balm of Gilead in the troubled souls in addition to assisting and supporting others through prayer. Selfishness, self interest, self protection, self respect, etc.are being imported into the church as wisdom, but they are not Christlike. *"Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others"* (Philippians 2:4). This is a commandment. *Question* Are you practically bearing others burdens or are you hypocritically selfish? *3. Consecration to Obedience and Unity by the Faithful* a. Christian consecration is the solemn act of setting apart a person, place or thing from ordinary, secular use and dedicating it entirely to God and holy purposes. This includes consecration to do and obey the Word of God. It is difficult in these last days of superficial christianity and devotion to deliberately, doggedly and determinedly stick to the Word of God without definite consecrations. When it comes to unity among brethren, many things often threaten unity and it takes consecration with godly unity in order to ensure the unity of the saints. This is needful because the victory, the blessings and divine visitations on a people are tightly connected to unity. Unity must be encouraged and enforced in order to enjoy God's bests. *"Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the body of peace"*. We must preach it, pray for it, practice it and pass it on to the future generations. Would the Holy Spirit have descended on the Early Church if they were not united in the Upper Room? If the Trinity is not united, what would the world look like? *"And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go"*. It takes deliberate consecration to God to obey all the commandments of God without complaining. It takes consecration to follow a man of like passion wholeheartedly. Consecrations are milestones to spiritual maturity and profitability in the hands of God. Spiritual growth into higher ground is all about making higher consecrations and working it out through the grace of God. *Question* What are the irreversible consecrations you have made to God so far? *Prayer Points* 1.Father, give me power and faith, with courage, to keep moving on until I land in the heavenly Canaan land and let me not fall by the way side 🙏. 2.Make me an agent of unity and let the Spirit of unity and obedience reign in the midst of Your children. 3.Give me more love to bear one another's burdens and cleanse my heart from all forms of selfishness 🙏. 4.Help all Your children to be given to deeper consecrations🙏. *HYMN:* Arise O youth of God *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* HABAKKUK 1-3. [25/08, 9:09 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026``` *PREPARATION FOR ENDURING POSSESSIONS* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:JOSHUA 1:11-18```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go" (JOSHUA 1:16).*_ *C. Reuben Anderson, an American, told a story of an engineer who was confined to bed because his lower limbs were paralysed from a serious accident. Because of his reputation for great skill, he was asked to design and prepare the blueprints for a great suspension bridge. After many months, his plans were completed and placed in the hands of those who were to be in charge of the bridge's construction. After a considerable period, the construction was completed. The engineer was brought on his bed to the scene of the beautiful bridge spanning the wide river. As he watched for the first time as cars sped over the bridge, and as he looked at the blueprints which he held in his hands, tears began to fill his eyes, and he cried out, "It's just like the plan; it's just like the plan." Undoubtedly, the sense of accomplishment brought tears of joy to the eyes of the intelligent and fulfilled engineer. His good works serve humanity! What a lesson! We must live to add value to others.* *Today's passage centres on the preparation of Israel to go in and possess the Promised Land under the able leadership of Joshua, the son of Nun, the commander of the army of Israel after the death of Moses. This time, they were on the verge of entering Canaan. Strategically, he told the army to prepare, and he reminded the three tribes: Reuben, Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses that they would cross the River Jordan and fight alongside the nine and the half tribes until they possessed their inheritance before returning to settle on the east side of Jordan. The tribal leaders affirmed their commitment and promised to follow Joshua as they followed Moses, irrespective of the challenges ahead.* *The salient lesson here include the unity among the tribes, cooperation with the leader, and Joshua's uncompromising, indefatigable leadership style that gave Israel the edge. As a result, the nation won battles, conquered adversaries, and possessed the Promised Land.* *Families, churches, societies and nations that desire victory in life's battles and challenges must follow the same pattern. Beyond earthly victories and possessions, there is an enduring possession in heaven for the saints of God. Our Lord Jesus Christ has gone to prepare a place for all who make themselves ready and willing to follow Him unconditionally.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*A walk with God is the surest way of victory in all battles.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *HABAKKUK 1-3*📜📜 Preparation For Enduring Possessions https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 27: I AM BOUND FOR CANAAN; GHS 42: CLOSE TO THEE; GHS 44: COME OVER; AND GHS 51: THAT BLESSED CANAAN LAND* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna26thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [25/08, 9:09 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026``` *CALL TO SPECIAL SERVICE* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:EXODUS 31:1-11```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship" (EXODUS 31:2-3).*_ *God gives everyone talents and gifts to function in the church and community for the common good of His church and humanity. However, some people are called of God and endowed specially for specific assignments.* *Such were Bezaleel and Hur. God gave them wisdom, understanding and knowledge to be able to translate the vision of the tabernacle shown to Moses on the mountain, to reality. They were to build according to pattern.* *The Holy Spirit apportions to each member of the church as He wills. In talents and gifts, are embedded all abilities and ministries needed by every believer to fulfill their divinely ordained functions.* *God equips those He engages. Has God given you a specific task to do? The wherewithal to get the work done will always be available. Does your task look irksome? The wisdom, grace and resources are available. Identify your specific assignment and work on it.* *However, everyone is called to the service of soul winning. Having received the gift of salvation, every believer must take the gospel message to all sinners. It is an all-believers' duty, without exception.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*God equips those He engages.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Invest your talents and gifts in the kingdom of God.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, use me for Your glory.*_ Call To Special Service https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday26thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [25/08, 9:09 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026``` *NOAH - A RIGHTEOUS MAN* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️⚖️🛥️🐄🐄🐒🐒🦅🦅🦉🦉🐴🐴🐗🐗🫎🫎🦓🦓🦍🦍🐘🐘🐎🐎🐑🐑🐓🐓🐇🐇🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```GENESIS 6:1-9```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God" (Genesis 6:9).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 God was displeased with the wickedness of humanity that He decided to send a flood to destroy the earth. However, He chose Noah, a righteous man to build an ark to save himself, his family and two of every kind of animals. For about 120 years, Noah was busy building the ark based on God's instructions and specifications. He also used the opportunity to warn of the impending judgment on the world in the form of a flood. But nobody heeded Noah's plea. They found it hard to believe that a loving God could also punish sin and destroy the world. Noah knew his God and obeyed God's instructions to the letter, even though he had never seen rain nor flood before. He did exploits for God and helped in the fulfilment of God's programme for that age. *The judgment of God is fast approaching again. This present world will soon be burnt with fire. It is the duty of all Christian boys and girls to live righteously and also serve as true witnesses to help sinners escape the coming destruction and judgment. God still commits His divine assignments into the hands of His faithful children.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*God, please help me to be faithful in all that You have committed into my hands, in Jesus' name.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *2 Peter 2:4-6* Noah - A Righteous Man https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk26thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. ⏤ Romans 12:1 Prayer is the life-breath of the soul. Without it, we grow faint and weary. ⏤ F.B. Meyer O God, You alone make us dwell in safety. We lie down at night under the shadow of Your wings, and we awake in the morning under the blessing of Your love because You have sustained us. Once again, we thank You for Your care and protection, and for the gift of sleep. We renew our consecration to You this morning, asking for Your permission to live another day for You and with You, doing Your will. Make the way clear for us, and do not let us stray from the paths of Your commandments. In our worldly affairs, grant us wisdom and grace. May it please You to prosper us in our daily work. May Your Holy Spirit preside over our home. Protect us from harm of every kind. Let us not be careless in our duties or neglectful in our tasks today. Help us to make the most of every moment of this day. This day is Yours, not ours; it is ours to use for You. May we spend it in such a way that every moment will bear good fruit. In our conversations, may we speak only words that build others up—kind words, true words. Keep us from complaining and grumbling. Teach us the lesson of contentment so that we never murmur or complain. May it please You to keep us from speaking words that would discourage others. May we always speak words that uplift and encourage, making it easier for others to live. Forbid that we should say anything that would make anyone's burden heavier or their path more difficult. May we live every moment for You, serving You faithfully, and at last may You receive us into Your heavenly glory, through Jesus Christ our Redeemer. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/52/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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  • Gods Creation, 100 / evolution, 0
    GOD HANGS THE EARTH ON NOTHING

    Long before telescopes, satellites, or space travel, a statement was written that still stands untouched by time. In Book of Job 26:7, we read that God “hangs the earth on nothing.” No pillars. No animals. No mythological supports. Suspended. Exactly as it truly is.

    At the same time, cultures around the world were offering very different explanations. Hindu traditions spoke of the earth resting on elephants standing on a giant turtle. Greek mythology described Atlas carrying the world on his shoulders. These weren’t just stories. They were the best attempts of human reasoning trying to explain the unknown. And they were wrong.

    But the Bible was not.

    Job didn’t have a telescope. He didn’t have modern science. Yet he recorded a truth that aligns with what we now observe in space. The earth is not sitting on anything. It is held in place by forces God established, exactly as Scripture declared thousands of years ago. This wasn’t a lucky guess. This wasn’t poetic accident. This was revelation.

    As Second Epistle of Peter 1:21 explains, men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. That is why the Bible stands apart. It doesn’t echo the errors of man. It speaks with authority because its source is not human imagination.

    The earth hangs on nothing because the One who created it holds it exactly where it belongs.
    Gods Creation, 100 / evolution, 0 GOD HANGS THE EARTH ON NOTHING Long before telescopes, satellites, or space travel, a statement was written that still stands untouched by time. In Book of Job 26:7, we read that God “hangs the earth on nothing.” No pillars. No animals. No mythological supports. Suspended. Exactly as it truly is. At the same time, cultures around the world were offering very different explanations. Hindu traditions spoke of the earth resting on elephants standing on a giant turtle. Greek mythology described Atlas carrying the world on his shoulders. These weren’t just stories. They were the best attempts of human reasoning trying to explain the unknown. And they were wrong. But the Bible was not. Job didn’t have a telescope. He didn’t have modern science. Yet he recorded a truth that aligns with what we now observe in space. The earth is not sitting on anything. It is held in place by forces God established, exactly as Scripture declared thousands of years ago. This wasn’t a lucky guess. This wasn’t poetic accident. This was revelation. As Second Epistle of Peter 1:21 explains, men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. That is why the Bible stands apart. It doesn’t echo the errors of man. It speaks with authority because its source is not human imagination. The earth hangs on nothing because the One who created it holds it exactly where it belongs.
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  • WHY DO THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER? Part 1 of 2.
    I would like to address one of the most puzzling and perplexing problems confronting the Christian today and that is why do the righteous suffer? In order to deal with this adequately, we're going to be looking at the book of Job. We read in Job Chapter 1:1f There was a man in the Land of Oz whose name is Job and that man was perfect and upright and one that feared God and turned away from evil. We continue to read in the book of Job how he lost everything, his family, his property, his possessions, and then lost his health with a loathsome disease. The universal problem of whether or not suffering is a sign of divine displeasure, and thus presupposes sin on the part of the sufferer, is the theme of the book of Job.

    The central problem of the book of Job is the central problem of humanity. Why do men suffer the way they do, and especially, why do the righteous suffer? Why are not godly, righteous, faithful obedient men and women always blessed? Why does it seem many of the ungodly prosper and are never in trouble? A Christian wonders why must I suffer this or that, or why must I go through this trial, or why do I have to experience all of this pain and adversity? I'm a Christian, I study the Bible, I love the Lord. I feel that I'm obedient, so why do I go through such long trials, hardships, and personal attacks? To make things even worse, many times there is no immediate answer and it's a real test of your faith as with Job.

    Is all adversity and suffering the direct result of sin? What is the basis upon which prosperity and adversity, blessing and misfortune, affliction and health happen to people? What is the basis upon which these things are distributed to men in this life? The principal aim of the book of Job is to disprove the popular theory that was held by many of the Jews and it's still popular today, that all suffering is a sign of God's displeasure and presupposes sin on the part of the sufferer. Inseparably related to the problem of suffering is the greater problem of evil and to consider one necessitates the consideration of the other. The problem of evil results from the clear fact that within the world that God created good according to Genesis 1, it was created very good! Within this world that God created good there is much that is now imperfect. It has become a world of suffering, sin, hate, warfare, oppression, evil and death. Now even a superficial observer will note that these two facts present somewhat of a dilemma. On the one hand Genesis 1 shows that God created all things good and he hates evil. On the other hand, we've seen the widespread evil and suffering that's in this world of imperfection. Now how can we explain this: what has happened? Some suggest that either God cannot remove evil nor could he have prevented its entrance into his world.

    Others say God does not will to prevent it and did not will to prevent its entrance into the Garden of Eden. Now the first conclusion will be rejected by all who believe in the Sovereign God of the Bible but neither is the second alternative any help in solving the apparent dilemma. It doesn't give us a satisfactory solution and so believers and Christians have always sought a third alternative to explain the problem of evil in a good universe. Now the book of Job is in reality the source material for a study of some of the most profound theological questions of the Bible- the problem of the righteous suffering adversity and the meaning of the presence of evil in a world God created good. It gives us the source of sickness and adversity. It's not God as some think and is often implied today. It's Satan who is behind the scenes doing this. No book in the Bible gives more insight into the problem of why the righteous suffer and the meaning and purpose of evil in the world. Now we will examine that question.

    There are three basic solutions that have been given to the problem of evil.
    First there's a denial of its existence. We're told all evil is only an illusion. This is fundamentally the doctrinal position of the Christian Scientists. All evil experienced, meaning sin, suffering, pain, and the like are purely subjective, existing only in the mind of the observer. They have no objective reality. Christian science teaches that since God is good, he could not permit evil to exist and therefore evil is not real. Suffering, evil, sin, and Satan and death are the imagination of man's finite mind. They're only an illusion. They have no reality and would disappear if man would by faith and self-discipline deny their existence. Of course, the objections to this hypothesis are almost self-evident.

    Even if this hypothesis were accepted as valid, which it isn't, one is still faced with the question of how the appearance of evil and suffering is to be explained. I mean what's the origin and meaning of the illusion of pain and suffering and death? The illusion of pain and suffering is as real to the sufferer as real pain and suffering. A world in which the majority of its inhabitants are deceived with respect to the presence of suffering needs as much explaining as one in which evil is a genuine reality. It doesn't solve the problem, it only changes the terminology from reality to illusion. The suffering and the evil remain. It is quite obvious that this view is unbiblical and is out of harmony with the facts of experience. I mean Christian Scientists yell just as loudly as anyone else when they mashed their finger with a hammer. They go right on dying like the rest of humanity.

    Another suggested solution is the error is finitism. We're told God's power is limited. The doctrine of the finite God is the solution that we must choose, we are told. The fact that God is not completely good and that he is not omnipotent is an unscriptural attempt to explain the presence of moral and natural evil. The limitation doctrine argues that God made the best kind of world that he could but that even God could not prevent the presence of evil. Finitism, we are told, preserves the goodness of God and recognizes that God is not the source of all things. He is the source of all that is good and He is an opposition to all that is evil. Finitism seems to be a solution to some people.

    But again, this theory is unbiblical. The doctrine of a finite God cannot stand in view of the testimony of Scripture. See Daniel 4:35 Jeremiah 32:17, Matthew 19:26, Romans 9, Job 1 and 2. We're told that God is in control of all events and governments in heaven and earth. Nothing is too hard for God and with God nothing is impossible. As we read Job chapters 1 & 2 we see that Satan had to get God's permission to afflict Job. The concept of an eternal principle of evil against which God is engaged in some cosmic struggle and the outcome of which is by no means certain is platonic dualism pure and simple. It's not Biblical. The doctrine of finitism is no solution at all to the problem but simply a sophisticated shortcut to avoid what appears to be a dilemma. It results from the fallacy that one must either give up the goodness of God or His omnipotence and power since there appears to be an alleged conflict. The only solution seems to be to sacrifice his omnipotence according to this unscriptural view.

    Now a third solution which we believe to be the biblical one, is that a moral world involves the possibility of evil. In a moral universe of free creatures, the possibility of moral development involves the possibility of the entrance of moral evil and its consequences into the world. For example, we see in the narratives of Genesis that God did not intend to compel moral obedience, but that a holy moral character could only be developed by voluntary free choice on Adam's part. Hence, a world without the possibility of disobeying God would not present the necessary means of developing moral character. Adam was not born with a holy moral character, but he was innocent. He was pure, but you're not born with character. This must develop and grow as you respond to the experiences of life. Trials, adversities, and so forth are designed to shape one's character.

    Someone has pointed out that these sufferings sometimes crush the person who experiences it. There are times when the final result is more glorious than would be conceivable in any other kind of universe. Therefore, this view does give us a workable solution to the problem of evil and helps explain the purpose of suffering. It is the suffering of the righteous and the allowance of the entrance of sin into the world. This view involves a possibility of the entrance of evil and also helps explain God's self-imposed limitations. Now those terms are important. We see God is presented in Scripture as omnipotent and all-powerful. But it is also true that, at the moment He created something outside himself, man who is a free moral creature, who could have the power at least temporarily to say no to God, that there was to some degree a self-imposed limitation which God placed upon Himself.

    This does not mean that God has limited His sovereignty, power, or His rule by creating a being in his own image who had the power to rebel against him. But it does mean that God chose to exercise his sovereignty in a universe filled with creatures who could temporarily rebel against that sovereignty. Notice it's only temporary, and so we see a moral world involves the possibility of the entrance and presence of moral evil. This brings us to the basic question that we're going to discuss. The perplexing problem of why the righteous suffer and biblical solutions. It's not unusual that trials and sufferings of the child of God may involve several purposes. We shall explore these next.

    Part 2.) First, we see that trials and sufferings have an educational purpose. We will see from this study that the righteous suffering trial and affliction is not always evidence that they have sinned or evidence that God is displeased with them. There may be some deeper purpose in God allowing it and that is to bring them into conformity to the image of Jesus Christ. Examining these purposes is necessary because the Christian goes through trials and sufferings of many kinds. Therefore, they need to know whether or not these are chastisements, are things to be resisted as from the devil, or if these things are from the hand of God! This way we will not be resisting when we should be submitting so we will benefit from our trials and testings. We mentioned that trials and sufferings have an educational purpose. We see Job's misfortunes and sufferings at first of all as a teaching and educational purpose. We see spiritual wisdom and discernment do not automatically come to the believer but they are gained through the times of hardship and suffering and of trial and testing.

    Job learned the meaning of an abiding faith in God. He received an education along the line of an abiding and steadfast faith. See chapter 13 in verses 15-18. Job said though he slay me yet will I trust him. He came to know what genuine faith was and he was willing to trust God in spite of circumstances and appearances. He came to know in a more meaningful way God as his Redeemer in chapter 19. He has come through a great valley of testing and trial and affliction and there's one thing he says. I don't understand all of this, but I do know my redeemer lives and then he became confident in his future of vindication. We see that in chapter 9 verses 32-35, chapter 16 verse 19, chapter 13 verse 18. He said I know that I will be justified and this suffering of mine is not the result of sin, but I will be vindicated.

    Almost beside himself from grief and suffering, he came into a deeper assurance of a future life beyond the grave and this present world of inequality, injustice, and affliction. He came into a deeper understanding of the sovereignty of God. In chapters 38 to 41 where the Lord addresses him in two discourses of speeches, Job said, I've heard of You in the hearing of the ear and now my eye has seen You. I abhor myself and I repent in dust and in ashes. He said, I lay my hand over my mouth and I'll not speak again. I've spoken once, I've spoken twice but now, he says I'll not speak again. God revealed to him his sovereignty. God doesn't answer job's perplexities or questions. He just reminds him that He is God and that whatever he does is righteous.

    So, the educational purpose and significance of suffering is evident throughout the Bible especially in the book of Job as Job progressively moves from one valley of doubt and mystery to another. Each time climbing to a mountain peak of faith as he conquers his fears and his doubts and he comes to a new understanding and appreciation of the promises of God. The meaning of suffering is first and foremost of all for the express purpose of developing within the heart of the saint the assurance and understanding of his trust in God. In psalm 119 verses 65-72. The psalmist said there that he praises the Lord for afflicting him because then he came to know how to obey the Lord as he should. He said I thank You for the correction of my affliction because now I've come to understand better how to obey your precepts and your law. Our trials and tests, persecutions and the like have an educational purpose.

    When Jesus saves you, he sends you to His school. That is the school of the trial of your faith. Sadly, most Christians have not been taught this. They do not profit from their lessons so they keep taking the same course over and over. This is because they're flunking the tests. They've not been taught to submit to the trials but instead resist them. They think trials are something to be avoided at all costs. The Bible says we are to rejoice in our trials, James 1, because it is working in us the steadfast endurance we need to mature. Jesus told us that trials are to be a cause of rejoicing in Matthew 5, because when we're persecuted he said, rejoice because great is your reward in heaven. We are not to resist these things.

    Again, in Acts 14:22, for we must by much tribulation enter the kingdom of God. If you're trying to get off the pathway of trial and if you're trying to get out of that school, then you are on the wrong path. Realize you will not be able to graduate because you're flunking the course or you become a spiritual dropout from the school of the trial of your faith. Trials and sufferings are designed by God because He loves you and desires to educate you in an abiding faith in knowing that He is able to deliver and protect you keeping you to the end. You come to trust Him in spite of circumstances as Job. You come to the place where you can say though He slay me yet will I trust Him. That doesn't make any sense to your head or your intellect, but if you stay in God's school and learn your lessons as you should, it will make sense to your spirit and to your heart. Trials and sufferings of the believer for righteousness' sake have an educational purpose. Stay in God's school long enough for him to teach you something and you'll find you'll be blessed for it with a mature faith and trust in the plans and purposes of God in your life!

    Part 3.) Next, we see that sometimes sufferings and trials have a punitive purpose. This is the solution, by the way, to the problem suggested by Job's friends. You'll notice this as you read the book and although it is by no means the whole answer, yet it does have its place in the total picture. This is the law of sowing and reaping Galatians 6:7 - for whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap. There are natural consequences of sin and so sometimes trials and sufferings have a punitive purpose. Punitive means punishment. Some of these things we endure and suffer are because we've not heeded the law of sowing and reaping Galatians 6:7. We see this throughout the Bible that this works for the saint as well as the sinner.

    We have to obey this law. If we don't sow to the Spirit and sow to the flesh, we're going to reap the consequences. We see this in the case of David. He had to reap what he sowed in his sin with Bathsheba. We read the sword never departed from his house, although he did receive forgiveness. We also see this in the New Testament in 1st Corinthians 5 and 1st Corinthians 11. Some of the Christians were not partaking of the communion the Lord's Supper as they should. Therefore, Paul says you don't discern the Lord's body, you're not eating this supper worthily, and therefore some of you are sick and some of you are dying prematurely.

    This is the law of sowing and reaping. For example, if a Christian girl allows herself to get into trouble and becomes pregnant, she may repent of that sin and be forgiven but she'll still suffer the stigma of bearing an illegitimate child. She's still going to suffer the consequences of what she sowed, for whatsoever you sow you reap. Galatians 6:7. So there's no way to get around the fact that you're going to reap what you sow. This is why sometimes we suffer trials and afflictions. We should examine our lives to see whether or not God is judging us because of something we have disobeyed him about or not getting our lives corrected about some matter. Now what's the significance of Job's suffering in relation to the punitive purpose? Remember this is the suggested solution of Job's three friends. The principle upon which all suffering is based they said is this- that suffering is a direct result of sin and a just recompense for it.

    Job's sufferings, they insisted, were a sign of divine displeasure and presupposed sin on his part. Now of course the Bible does set forth this principle. It's the law of sowing and reaping where righteousness will bring prosperity and blessing, disobedience and wickedness will bring adversity. This is a principle set forth throughout the Bible as Deuteronomy 28 which is a good example of that. Psalm 1 is another example. But what of the righteous individual who often is the victim of misfortune and suffering, and why so often do the ungodly seem to prosper? What's the explanation for the suffering of the innocent and the prosperity of the wicked? Was the popular notion that the innocent do not suffer and the wicked are always afflicted contrary to the facts, even as Bildad and Zophar dogmatically insisted it was true? They insisted the principle was immutable and that Job, though outwardly righteous, nevertheless must be guilty of some heinous secret sins.

    Their philosophy was this, that all sin causes suffering. Job is suffering. The conclusion, Job must be a sinner! Job's sufferings, they argue, convict him implicitly of some grave sin and they plead with him to acknowledge it and repent. Job protests his innocence throughout the book and so we still are faced with the perplexing question. Why then is Job suffering? Remember he didn't have chapters 1 and 2 which give us the explanation. He had to endure this experience before the answer came. What then is the explanation for those instances which seemed by the Scriptures, show the moral principle of cause and effect, sowing and reaping, that they could not always be forced into a neat logical system? The laws governing society did not guarantee that in some individual cases the innocent might not suffer and that wickedness might not elude temporary judgment.

    No, throughout the scriptures we see that suffering is not necessarily the direct result of prior sins. This is proven in many passages as Jeremiah 19, Ezekiel 21, Amos chapter 2, In John 9, the case of the blind man, Jesus said this man was not blind because of his parent's sin or his own sin but that God might be glorified in his healing. So, also, in the case of Job, we see he suffered innocently. What the Scriptures do teach is this - that in the light of eternity it is the righteous who will be blessed and the wicked who will suffer. We should not judge too soon. The conclusion is this, suffering and adversity may sometimes be the result of sin and therefore the purpose is punitive, but this is not always the case. Don't follow Job's friends' rigid thinking in condemning someone when you do not have all the facts.

    Part 4.) Sometimes trials and suffering have a disciplinary purpose. There are times afflictions are the chastisements of a loving Father. This is in harmony with Hebrews 12, 1st Corinthians 5, 1st Corinthians 11 and proverbs 3 verses 11-12. Who the Lord loves He chastens. The Scriptures tell us in Job chapter 33, that God speaks to man and the purpose for that is he may withdraw man from his purpose and hide pride from man. He keeps back his soul from the pit and his life from perishing by the sword. He is chastened also with pain upon his bed and the multitude of his bones with strong pain. God chastens his children because he doesn't want His children going on a path of destruction from disobedience to His Word and will for their lives.

    We read in Hebrews 12 that who the Lord loves He chastens and He scourges every son He receives. Job 33 speaks of one form of chastisement being sickness. In Hebrews 12 it doesn't say anything about sickness being a form of chastisement. God has many ways to chasten His children. Sometimes he just withholds his blessings. Testing has a way of humbling man's pride. You see, many of Job's utterances under the weight of his afflictions gave indication that his trials had not yet fully accomplished their purpose. You will see this as you read the book of Job. Job sometimes questions God's purposes and in his questioning of God's purpose and his control of human affairs, it implied that Job knew more than God. Sometimes Christians, under the weight of their trials and afflictions, will cry out to God in such a way and try to use their logic and reason to such an extent that they even question God's wisdom in allowing them the trials and afflictions.
    To be Continued. Edited. Shared.

    God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.
    ❤️WHY DO THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER? Part 1 of 2. I would like to address one of the most puzzling and perplexing problems confronting the Christian today and that is why do the righteous suffer? In order to deal with this adequately, we're going to be looking at the book of Job. We read in Job Chapter 1:1f There was a man in the Land of Oz whose name is Job and that man was perfect and upright and one that feared God and turned away from evil. We continue to read in the book of Job how he lost everything, his family, his property, his possessions, and then lost his health with a loathsome disease. The universal problem of whether or not suffering is a sign of divine displeasure, and thus presupposes sin on the part of the sufferer, is the theme of the book of Job. The central problem of the book of Job is the central problem of humanity. Why do men suffer the way they do, and especially, why do the righteous suffer? Why are not godly, righteous, faithful obedient men and women always blessed? Why does it seem many of the ungodly prosper and are never in trouble? A Christian wonders why must I suffer this or that, or why must I go through this trial, or why do I have to experience all of this pain and adversity? I'm a Christian, I study the Bible, I love the Lord. I feel that I'm obedient, so why do I go through such long trials, hardships, and personal attacks? To make things even worse, many times there is no immediate answer and it's a real test of your faith as with Job. Is all adversity and suffering the direct result of sin? What is the basis upon which prosperity and adversity, blessing and misfortune, affliction and health happen to people? What is the basis upon which these things are distributed to men in this life? The principal aim of the book of Job is to disprove the popular theory that was held by many of the Jews and it's still popular today, that all suffering is a sign of God's displeasure and presupposes sin on the part of the sufferer. Inseparably related to the problem of suffering is the greater problem of evil and to consider one necessitates the consideration of the other. The problem of evil results from the clear fact that within the world that God created good according to Genesis 1, it was created very good! Within this world that God created good there is much that is now imperfect. It has become a world of suffering, sin, hate, warfare, oppression, evil and death. Now even a superficial observer will note that these two facts present somewhat of a dilemma. On the one hand Genesis 1 shows that God created all things good and he hates evil. On the other hand, we've seen the widespread evil and suffering that's in this world of imperfection. Now how can we explain this: what has happened? Some suggest that either God cannot remove evil nor could he have prevented its entrance into his world. Others say God does not will to prevent it and did not will to prevent its entrance into the Garden of Eden. Now the first conclusion will be rejected by all who believe in the Sovereign God of the Bible but neither is the second alternative any help in solving the apparent dilemma. It doesn't give us a satisfactory solution and so believers and Christians have always sought a third alternative to explain the problem of evil in a good universe. Now the book of Job is in reality the source material for a study of some of the most profound theological questions of the Bible- the problem of the righteous suffering adversity and the meaning of the presence of evil in a world God created good. It gives us the source of sickness and adversity. It's not God as some think and is often implied today. It's Satan who is behind the scenes doing this. No book in the Bible gives more insight into the problem of why the righteous suffer and the meaning and purpose of evil in the world. Now we will examine that question. There are three basic solutions that have been given to the problem of evil. First there's a denial of its existence. We're told all evil is only an illusion. This is fundamentally the doctrinal position of the Christian Scientists. All evil experienced, meaning sin, suffering, pain, and the like are purely subjective, existing only in the mind of the observer. They have no objective reality. Christian science teaches that since God is good, he could not permit evil to exist and therefore evil is not real. Suffering, evil, sin, and Satan and death are the imagination of man's finite mind. They're only an illusion. They have no reality and would disappear if man would by faith and self-discipline deny their existence. Of course, the objections to this hypothesis are almost self-evident. Even if this hypothesis were accepted as valid, which it isn't, one is still faced with the question of how the appearance of evil and suffering is to be explained. I mean what's the origin and meaning of the illusion of pain and suffering and death? The illusion of pain and suffering is as real to the sufferer as real pain and suffering. A world in which the majority of its inhabitants are deceived with respect to the presence of suffering needs as much explaining as one in which evil is a genuine reality. It doesn't solve the problem, it only changes the terminology from reality to illusion. The suffering and the evil remain. It is quite obvious that this view is unbiblical and is out of harmony with the facts of experience. I mean Christian Scientists yell just as loudly as anyone else when they mashed their finger with a hammer. They go right on dying like the rest of humanity. Another suggested solution is the error is finitism. We're told God's power is limited. The doctrine of the finite God is the solution that we must choose, we are told. The fact that God is not completely good and that he is not omnipotent is an unscriptural attempt to explain the presence of moral and natural evil. The limitation doctrine argues that God made the best kind of world that he could but that even God could not prevent the presence of evil. Finitism, we are told, preserves the goodness of God and recognizes that God is not the source of all things. He is the source of all that is good and He is an opposition to all that is evil. Finitism seems to be a solution to some people. But again, this theory is unbiblical. The doctrine of a finite God cannot stand in view of the testimony of Scripture. See Daniel 4:35 Jeremiah 32:17, Matthew 19:26, Romans 9, Job 1 and 2. We're told that God is in control of all events and governments in heaven and earth. Nothing is too hard for God and with God nothing is impossible. As we read Job chapters 1 & 2 we see that Satan had to get God's permission to afflict Job. The concept of an eternal principle of evil against which God is engaged in some cosmic struggle and the outcome of which is by no means certain is platonic dualism pure and simple. It's not Biblical. The doctrine of finitism is no solution at all to the problem but simply a sophisticated shortcut to avoid what appears to be a dilemma. It results from the fallacy that one must either give up the goodness of God or His omnipotence and power since there appears to be an alleged conflict. The only solution seems to be to sacrifice his omnipotence according to this unscriptural view. Now a third solution which we believe to be the biblical one, is that a moral world involves the possibility of evil. In a moral universe of free creatures, the possibility of moral development involves the possibility of the entrance of moral evil and its consequences into the world. For example, we see in the narratives of Genesis that God did not intend to compel moral obedience, but that a holy moral character could only be developed by voluntary free choice on Adam's part. Hence, a world without the possibility of disobeying God would not present the necessary means of developing moral character. Adam was not born with a holy moral character, but he was innocent. He was pure, but you're not born with character. This must develop and grow as you respond to the experiences of life. Trials, adversities, and so forth are designed to shape one's character. Someone has pointed out that these sufferings sometimes crush the person who experiences it. There are times when the final result is more glorious than would be conceivable in any other kind of universe. Therefore, this view does give us a workable solution to the problem of evil and helps explain the purpose of suffering. It is the suffering of the righteous and the allowance of the entrance of sin into the world. This view involves a possibility of the entrance of evil and also helps explain God's self-imposed limitations. Now those terms are important. We see God is presented in Scripture as omnipotent and all-powerful. But it is also true that, at the moment He created something outside himself, man who is a free moral creature, who could have the power at least temporarily to say no to God, that there was to some degree a self-imposed limitation which God placed upon Himself. This does not mean that God has limited His sovereignty, power, or His rule by creating a being in his own image who had the power to rebel against him. But it does mean that God chose to exercise his sovereignty in a universe filled with creatures who could temporarily rebel against that sovereignty. Notice it's only temporary, and so we see a moral world involves the possibility of the entrance and presence of moral evil. This brings us to the basic question that we're going to discuss. The perplexing problem of why the righteous suffer and biblical solutions. It's not unusual that trials and sufferings of the child of God may involve several purposes. We shall explore these next. Part 2.) First, we see that trials and sufferings have an educational purpose. We will see from this study that the righteous suffering trial and affliction is not always evidence that they have sinned or evidence that God is displeased with them. There may be some deeper purpose in God allowing it and that is to bring them into conformity to the image of Jesus Christ. Examining these purposes is necessary because the Christian goes through trials and sufferings of many kinds. Therefore, they need to know whether or not these are chastisements, are things to be resisted as from the devil, or if these things are from the hand of God! This way we will not be resisting when we should be submitting so we will benefit from our trials and testings. We mentioned that trials and sufferings have an educational purpose. We see Job's misfortunes and sufferings at first of all as a teaching and educational purpose. We see spiritual wisdom and discernment do not automatically come to the believer but they are gained through the times of hardship and suffering and of trial and testing. Job learned the meaning of an abiding faith in God. He received an education along the line of an abiding and steadfast faith. See chapter 13 in verses 15-18. Job said though he slay me yet will I trust him. He came to know what genuine faith was and he was willing to trust God in spite of circumstances and appearances. He came to know in a more meaningful way God as his Redeemer in chapter 19. He has come through a great valley of testing and trial and affliction and there's one thing he says. I don't understand all of this, but I do know my redeemer lives and then he became confident in his future of vindication. We see that in chapter 9 verses 32-35, chapter 16 verse 19, chapter 13 verse 18. He said I know that I will be justified and this suffering of mine is not the result of sin, but I will be vindicated. Almost beside himself from grief and suffering, he came into a deeper assurance of a future life beyond the grave and this present world of inequality, injustice, and affliction. He came into a deeper understanding of the sovereignty of God. In chapters 38 to 41 where the Lord addresses him in two discourses of speeches, Job said, I've heard of You in the hearing of the ear and now my eye has seen You. I abhor myself and I repent in dust and in ashes. He said, I lay my hand over my mouth and I'll not speak again. I've spoken once, I've spoken twice but now, he says I'll not speak again. God revealed to him his sovereignty. God doesn't answer job's perplexities or questions. He just reminds him that He is God and that whatever he does is righteous. So, the educational purpose and significance of suffering is evident throughout the Bible especially in the book of Job as Job progressively moves from one valley of doubt and mystery to another. Each time climbing to a mountain peak of faith as he conquers his fears and his doubts and he comes to a new understanding and appreciation of the promises of God. The meaning of suffering is first and foremost of all for the express purpose of developing within the heart of the saint the assurance and understanding of his trust in God. In psalm 119 verses 65-72. The psalmist said there that he praises the Lord for afflicting him because then he came to know how to obey the Lord as he should. He said I thank You for the correction of my affliction because now I've come to understand better how to obey your precepts and your law. Our trials and tests, persecutions and the like have an educational purpose. When Jesus saves you, he sends you to His school. That is the school of the trial of your faith. Sadly, most Christians have not been taught this. They do not profit from their lessons so they keep taking the same course over and over. This is because they're flunking the tests. They've not been taught to submit to the trials but instead resist them. They think trials are something to be avoided at all costs. The Bible says we are to rejoice in our trials, James 1, because it is working in us the steadfast endurance we need to mature. Jesus told us that trials are to be a cause of rejoicing in Matthew 5, because when we're persecuted he said, rejoice because great is your reward in heaven. We are not to resist these things. Again, in Acts 14:22, for we must by much tribulation enter the kingdom of God. If you're trying to get off the pathway of trial and if you're trying to get out of that school, then you are on the wrong path. Realize you will not be able to graduate because you're flunking the course or you become a spiritual dropout from the school of the trial of your faith. Trials and sufferings are designed by God because He loves you and desires to educate you in an abiding faith in knowing that He is able to deliver and protect you keeping you to the end. You come to trust Him in spite of circumstances as Job. You come to the place where you can say though He slay me yet will I trust Him. That doesn't make any sense to your head or your intellect, but if you stay in God's school and learn your lessons as you should, it will make sense to your spirit and to your heart. Trials and sufferings of the believer for righteousness' sake have an educational purpose. Stay in God's school long enough for him to teach you something and you'll find you'll be blessed for it with a mature faith and trust in the plans and purposes of God in your life! Part 3.) Next, we see that sometimes sufferings and trials have a punitive purpose. This is the solution, by the way, to the problem suggested by Job's friends. You'll notice this as you read the book and although it is by no means the whole answer, yet it does have its place in the total picture. This is the law of sowing and reaping Galatians 6:7 - for whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap. There are natural consequences of sin and so sometimes trials and sufferings have a punitive purpose. Punitive means punishment. Some of these things we endure and suffer are because we've not heeded the law of sowing and reaping Galatians 6:7. We see this throughout the Bible that this works for the saint as well as the sinner. We have to obey this law. If we don't sow to the Spirit and sow to the flesh, we're going to reap the consequences. We see this in the case of David. He had to reap what he sowed in his sin with Bathsheba. We read the sword never departed from his house, although he did receive forgiveness. We also see this in the New Testament in 1st Corinthians 5 and 1st Corinthians 11. Some of the Christians were not partaking of the communion the Lord's Supper as they should. Therefore, Paul says you don't discern the Lord's body, you're not eating this supper worthily, and therefore some of you are sick and some of you are dying prematurely. This is the law of sowing and reaping. For example, if a Christian girl allows herself to get into trouble and becomes pregnant, she may repent of that sin and be forgiven but she'll still suffer the stigma of bearing an illegitimate child. She's still going to suffer the consequences of what she sowed, for whatsoever you sow you reap. Galatians 6:7. So there's no way to get around the fact that you're going to reap what you sow. This is why sometimes we suffer trials and afflictions. We should examine our lives to see whether or not God is judging us because of something we have disobeyed him about or not getting our lives corrected about some matter. Now what's the significance of Job's suffering in relation to the punitive purpose? Remember this is the suggested solution of Job's three friends. The principle upon which all suffering is based they said is this- that suffering is a direct result of sin and a just recompense for it. Job's sufferings, they insisted, were a sign of divine displeasure and presupposed sin on his part. Now of course the Bible does set forth this principle. It's the law of sowing and reaping where righteousness will bring prosperity and blessing, disobedience and wickedness will bring adversity. This is a principle set forth throughout the Bible as Deuteronomy 28 which is a good example of that. Psalm 1 is another example. But what of the righteous individual who often is the victim of misfortune and suffering, and why so often do the ungodly seem to prosper? What's the explanation for the suffering of the innocent and the prosperity of the wicked? Was the popular notion that the innocent do not suffer and the wicked are always afflicted contrary to the facts, even as Bildad and Zophar dogmatically insisted it was true? They insisted the principle was immutable and that Job, though outwardly righteous, nevertheless must be guilty of some heinous secret sins. Their philosophy was this, that all sin causes suffering. Job is suffering. The conclusion, Job must be a sinner! Job's sufferings, they argue, convict him implicitly of some grave sin and they plead with him to acknowledge it and repent. Job protests his innocence throughout the book and so we still are faced with the perplexing question. Why then is Job suffering? Remember he didn't have chapters 1 and 2 which give us the explanation. He had to endure this experience before the answer came. What then is the explanation for those instances which seemed by the Scriptures, show the moral principle of cause and effect, sowing and reaping, that they could not always be forced into a neat logical system? The laws governing society did not guarantee that in some individual cases the innocent might not suffer and that wickedness might not elude temporary judgment. No, throughout the scriptures we see that suffering is not necessarily the direct result of prior sins. This is proven in many passages as Jeremiah 19, Ezekiel 21, Amos chapter 2, In John 9, the case of the blind man, Jesus said this man was not blind because of his parent's sin or his own sin but that God might be glorified in his healing. So, also, in the case of Job, we see he suffered innocently. What the Scriptures do teach is this - that in the light of eternity it is the righteous who will be blessed and the wicked who will suffer. We should not judge too soon. The conclusion is this, suffering and adversity may sometimes be the result of sin and therefore the purpose is punitive, but this is not always the case. Don't follow Job's friends' rigid thinking in condemning someone when you do not have all the facts. Part 4.) Sometimes trials and suffering have a disciplinary purpose. There are times afflictions are the chastisements of a loving Father. This is in harmony with Hebrews 12, 1st Corinthians 5, 1st Corinthians 11 and proverbs 3 verses 11-12. Who the Lord loves He chastens. The Scriptures tell us in Job chapter 33, that God speaks to man and the purpose for that is he may withdraw man from his purpose and hide pride from man. He keeps back his soul from the pit and his life from perishing by the sword. He is chastened also with pain upon his bed and the multitude of his bones with strong pain. God chastens his children because he doesn't want His children going on a path of destruction from disobedience to His Word and will for their lives. We read in Hebrews 12 that who the Lord loves He chastens and He scourges every son He receives. Job 33 speaks of one form of chastisement being sickness. In Hebrews 12 it doesn't say anything about sickness being a form of chastisement. God has many ways to chasten His children. Sometimes he just withholds his blessings. Testing has a way of humbling man's pride. You see, many of Job's utterances under the weight of his afflictions gave indication that his trials had not yet fully accomplished their purpose. You will see this as you read the book of Job. Job sometimes questions God's purposes and in his questioning of God's purpose and his control of human affairs, it implied that Job knew more than God. Sometimes Christians, under the weight of their trials and afflictions, will cry out to God in such a way and try to use their logic and reason to such an extent that they even question God's wisdom in allowing them the trials and afflictions. To be Continued. Edited. Shared. ❤️ God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.
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  • Jason Ashe: The Bible does not directly state that snakes once had legs, but it does imply a dramatic change in their form after the Fall. In Genesis 3:14, when God pronounced judgment on the serpent, He declared:

    “Cursed are you above all livestock and above all beasts of the field; on your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life.”

    The phrase “on your belly you shall go” strongly suggests that the serpent did not always move in this way. Before God’s curse, it likely had another form of locomotion—walking on limbs.

    Remarkably, discoveries in the fossil record confirm what Scripture implied thousands of years ago. Since 2012, paleontologists have unearthed four separate fossils of snakes with fully formed legs. Evolutionary illustrations typically depict creatures gradually developing new limbs and gaining new features over time. Yet here we find the opposite: snakes with fully formed limbs that later became limbless. Losing functional limbs is hardly an example of becoming more advanced or better equipped for life; in many environments, the loss of limbs would mean losing a useful means of movement. Rather than demonstrating creatures evolving upward into new forms, these fossils reveal the loss of an existing feature—a process that can rightly be described as “de-evolution.” This aligns directly with Genesis, where the serpent’s form was altered by God’s judgment.

    Evolutionary scientists claim humans have only existed for about 200,000 years, while these legged snake fossils are dated at more than 140 million years. Yet Scripture—written long before any such fossils were discovered—already recorded that the serpent did not always crawl. If the Bible were merely human invention, how could it describe details about snakes that science would only “discover” thousands of years later?

    These findings provide a striking confirmation of the reliability of God’s Word. What skeptics once dismissed as myth is now supported by physical evidence in the fossil record. The existence of legged snakes affirms the historical accuracy of Genesis 3, demonstrating that the Bible contains truths far beyond human imagination. While evolutionary theory continues to shift with each new discovery, the Word of God remains unshaken—proving that “the Scripture cannot be broken” (John 10:35).
    Jason Ashe: The Bible does not directly state that snakes once had legs, but it does imply a dramatic change in their form after the Fall. In Genesis 3:14, when God pronounced judgment on the serpent, He declared: “Cursed are you above all livestock and above all beasts of the field; on your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life.” The phrase “on your belly you shall go” strongly suggests that the serpent did not always move in this way. Before God’s curse, it likely had another form of locomotion—walking on limbs. Remarkably, discoveries in the fossil record confirm what Scripture implied thousands of years ago. Since 2012, paleontologists have unearthed four separate fossils of snakes with fully formed legs. Evolutionary illustrations typically depict creatures gradually developing new limbs and gaining new features over time. Yet here we find the opposite: snakes with fully formed limbs that later became limbless. Losing functional limbs is hardly an example of becoming more advanced or better equipped for life; in many environments, the loss of limbs would mean losing a useful means of movement. Rather than demonstrating creatures evolving upward into new forms, these fossils reveal the loss of an existing feature—a process that can rightly be described as “de-evolution.” This aligns directly with Genesis, where the serpent’s form was altered by God’s judgment. Evolutionary scientists claim humans have only existed for about 200,000 years, while these legged snake fossils are dated at more than 140 million years. Yet Scripture—written long before any such fossils were discovered—already recorded that the serpent did not always crawl. If the Bible were merely human invention, how could it describe details about snakes that science would only “discover” thousands of years later? These findings provide a striking confirmation of the reliability of God’s Word. What skeptics once dismissed as myth is now supported by physical evidence in the fossil record. The existence of legged snakes affirms the historical accuracy of Genesis 3, demonstrating that the Bible contains truths far beyond human imagination. While evolutionary theory continues to shift with each new discovery, the Word of God remains unshaken—proving that “the Scripture cannot be broken” (John 10:35).
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    🌅 Have you ever experienced a place beyond imagination? ✨ 🌊 From private beach access to cozy spaces that feel like home you’ll never want to leave at Selah Shores 🏖️ 📞 Contact Us: 713-469-2100 💻 Book Online: www.selahshores.com #BeyondImagination #SelahShoresEscape #VacationPerks #MiramarBeachVibes #CoastalRetreat #BeachfrontBliss #RelaxRefreshRepeat #HiddenGemFlorida #SelahMoments #SunsetStateOfMind
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  • OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

    DATE: SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST 2026

    TOPIC: BREAKING COVENANTS, PART 2

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

    BIBLE READING: 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17-19
    17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

    18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

    19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

    MESSAGE:
    Years ago, one of my daughters in the Lord came to me and said, "Daddy, a young man approached me and said he wants to marry me." I congratulated her, but she replied, "Daddy, my father told me that I was dedicated to a river goddess when I was born, and a covenant was made that whoever I marry is going to die on our wedding day. I don't want the young man to die." I told her that I know someone stronger than the river goddess. We prayed a simple prayer, and she left. The next time I saw her, she was happily married and already had a baby. I declare that any evil force that might be hindering your progress is destroyed today, in Jesus' name.

    A new and greater covenant can cancel a previously existing one. For instance, if you want to break a covenant with someone, all you need to do is enter into a covenant with someone greater; the greater fellow can release you from the lesser person's covenant by force. If a person enters into a covenant with the devil, the moment he or she enters into a covenant with God, He will wipe out all evil covenants from the fellow's life. God's covenant is superior to any other covenant. Our God is stronger than the strongest; therefore, once a person enters into a covenant with Him, He will bind any strong man who was previously in charge of the fellow's life and throw him out.

    It is also important to note that the devil still seeks to retain his strongholds in the lives of people even after they have become born again. A stronghold is a deeply entrenched evil pattern that the devil has instilled in a person, and it must be addressed. Otherwise, the person will continue to operate under its influence even after he or she has become born again. Such strongholds typically include bitterness, pride, generational curses, anger, and other similar issues.

    Beloved, (2 Corinthians 10:3-5) urges us to pull down strongholds and cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. If you are a party to any evil covenant or are under the influence of any demonic stronghold, cry out to God today to deliver you by His mighty power. I join my faith with yours and decree that you are completely free from any evil covenant or demonic stronghold that might be in your life, in Jesus' name.

    KEY POINT:
    Having a covenant with God annuls every evil covenant in a person's life.

    BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR:
    LAMENTATIONS 1 - 2

    AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE

    HYMNAL 10 - IN CHRIST ALONE
    1 In Christ alone, my hope is found
    He is my light, my strength, my song
    This Cornerstone, this solid ground
    Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
    What heights of love, what depths of peace
    When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
    My Comforter, my All in All
    Here in the love of Christ I stand

    2 In Christ alone, who took on flesh
    Fullness of God in helpless babe
    This gift of love and righteousness
    Scorned by the ones He came to save
    'Til on that cross as Jesus died
    The wrath of God was satisfied
    For every sin on Him was laid
    Here in the death of Christ I live, I live

    3 There in the ground His body lay
    Light of the world by darkness slain
    Then bursting forth in glorious Day
    Up from the grave He rose again
    And as He stands in victory
    Sin's curse has lost its grip on me
    For I am His and He is mine
    Bought with the precious blood of Christ

    4 No guilt in life, no fear in death
    This is the power of Christ in me
    From life's first cry to final breath
    Jesus commands my destiny
    No power of hell, no scheme of man
    Can ever pluck me from His hand
    Till He returns or calls me home
    Here in the power of Christ I'll stand


    ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL
    SATURDAY, 22ND AUGUST, 2026
    *BREAKING COVENANTS II*

    1.Father, thank You for making me a new creature in Christ Jesus.

    2.Father, thank You for destroying the covenant of death and hell over me, and bringing me into a new covenant of life through the death and resurrection in Christ Jesus.

    3.Father, because greater is Jesus is in me than the devil in the world, I declare that any evil force that might be hindering my progress be destroyed today, in Jesus' name.

    4.Father, because I am in covenant with You, I decree that any evil covenant entered into on my behalf is destroyed by the power in the blood of Jesus.

    5.Father, by the new covenant in the blood of Jesus, I terminate every negative effect of any evil covenant in my life, in Jesus' name.

    6.Father, by the power of the new covenant in the blood of Jesus, I bind any strong man previously in charge of any area of my life and I throw them out of my life, in Jesus' name.

    7.Father, I break and destroy every evil stronghold of the devil over any area of my life today, in Jesus' name.

    8.Father, I break every evil pattern of bitterness, pride generational curses, anger, and every demonic stronghold in my life and family, and I terminate its influence over my life, in Jesus' name.

    9.Father, I pull down every stronghold and cast down imagination and every high thing that exalts itself against Your knowledge in my life and family, in Jesus' name.

    10.Father, as many of Your children that are under the influence of any demonic stronghold, deliver and set them completely free from any evil covenant in their lives, in Jesus' name.

    11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye.

    Let Your anointing be on in the increase in his life and establish every decree from his mouth, 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.
    OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: BREAKING COVENANTS, PART 2 MEMORIZE: "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world" 1 John 4:4 (KJV) BIBLE READING: 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17-19 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. MESSAGE: Years ago, one of my daughters in the Lord came to me and said, "Daddy, a young man approached me and said he wants to marry me." I congratulated her, but she replied, "Daddy, my father told me that I was dedicated to a river goddess when I was born, and a covenant was made that whoever I marry is going to die on our wedding day. I don't want the young man to die." I told her that I know someone stronger than the river goddess. We prayed a simple prayer, and she left. The next time I saw her, she was happily married and already had a baby. I declare that any evil force that might be hindering your progress is destroyed today, in Jesus' name. A new and greater covenant can cancel a previously existing one. For instance, if you want to break a covenant with someone, all you need to do is enter into a covenant with someone greater; the greater fellow can release you from the lesser person's covenant by force. If a person enters into a covenant with the devil, the moment he or she enters into a covenant with God, He will wipe out all evil covenants from the fellow's life. God's covenant is superior to any other covenant. Our God is stronger than the strongest; therefore, once a person enters into a covenant with Him, He will bind any strong man who was previously in charge of the fellow's life and throw him out. It is also important to note that the devil still seeks to retain his strongholds in the lives of people even after they have become born again. A stronghold is a deeply entrenched evil pattern that the devil has instilled in a person, and it must be addressed. Otherwise, the person will continue to operate under its influence even after he or she has become born again. Such strongholds typically include bitterness, pride, generational curses, anger, and other similar issues. Beloved, (2 Corinthians 10:3-5) urges us to pull down strongholds and cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. If you are a party to any evil covenant or are under the influence of any demonic stronghold, cry out to God today to deliver you by His mighty power. I join my faith with yours and decree that you are completely free from any evil covenant or demonic stronghold that might be in your life, in Jesus' name. KEY POINT: Having a covenant with God annuls every evil covenant in a person's life. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: LAMENTATIONS 1 - 2 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 10 - IN CHRIST ALONE 1 In Christ alone, my hope is found He is my light, my strength, my song This Cornerstone, this solid ground Firm through the fiercest drought and storm What heights of love, what depths of peace When fears are stilled, when strivings cease My Comforter, my All in All Here in the love of Christ I stand 2 In Christ alone, who took on flesh Fullness of God in helpless babe This gift of love and righteousness Scorned by the ones He came to save 'Til on that cross as Jesus died The wrath of God was satisfied For every sin on Him was laid Here in the death of Christ I live, I live 3 There in the ground His body lay Light of the world by darkness slain Then bursting forth in glorious Day Up from the grave He rose again And as He stands in victory Sin's curse has lost its grip on me For I am His and He is mine Bought with the precious blood of Christ 4 No guilt in life, no fear in death This is the power of Christ in me From life's first cry to final breath Jesus commands my destiny No power of hell, no scheme of man Can ever pluck me from His hand Till He returns or calls me home Here in the power of Christ I'll stand ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL SATURDAY, 22ND AUGUST, 2026 *BREAKING COVENANTS II* ‎ 1.Father, thank You for making me a new creature in Christ Jesus. 2.Father, thank You for destroying the covenant of death and hell over me, and bringing me into a new covenant of life through the death and resurrection in Christ Jesus. 3.Father, because greater is Jesus is in me than the devil in the world, I declare that any evil force that might be hindering my progress be destroyed today, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, because I am in covenant with You, I decree that any evil covenant entered into on my behalf is destroyed by the power in the blood of Jesus. 5.Father, by the new covenant in the blood of Jesus, I terminate every negative effect of any evil covenant in my life, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, by the power of the new covenant in the blood of Jesus, I bind any strong man previously in charge of any area of my life and I throw them out of my life, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, I break and destroy every evil stronghold of the devil over any area of my life today, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, I break every evil pattern of bitterness, pride generational curses, anger, and every demonic stronghold in my life and family, and I terminate its influence over my life, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, I pull down every stronghold and cast down imagination and every high thing that exalts itself against Your knowledge in my life and family, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, as many of Your children that are under the influence of any demonic stronghold, deliver and set them completely free from any evil covenant in their lives, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Let Your anointing be on in the increase in his life and establish every decree from his mouth, 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.
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