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

    Before I start, I must issue a disclaimer. I strongly suggest that you do not consume ANY morning/evening beverages (depending on when you are reading this) while you read this. You have been duly warned and I cannot be held responsible for any mishaps from here on out.

    Every morning, we have a scheduled mini-bible study with some friends to start our day off right with God. Every morning, we are usually a few minutes late because I am trying to get everything done with my posts so that I do not forget anything. As long as I stay in my routine, I am good. Yesterday, I overslept a little (on purpose-I was tired), so there was no writing done. We were ready with coffee and bible in hand at a quarter til 7. A MIRACLE.

    When we got out of the truck, I asked if hubby had the keys; he did not, so I went in to get them off the hook. Not there. Checked the table; not there. Checked the office and last night’s clothes; not there. Now, before you think that I locked them inside, I did not; the truck was open. After several minutes of searching, we took the borrowed car to bible study. I let my son, who is visiting from across the pond, know and asked them to look for my keys. They seem to know where all my stuff is … I sure don’t. haha. Bible study was fantastic and when we got home, he informed me that they could not find them. The mega search and destroy was on. I moved laundry piles. I dug through my outgoing trash on the street. I crawled around under all the seats and stood on my head to look under the vehicle. Freezer, refrigerator, laundry in the basket and on the bed. Pulled all the covers down and pillows off. Shook towels and linen. Hands into sofa cushions and trash cans. These keys were lost. Or…very much secure … however you want to look at it.

    Finally, we called a lock smith to come out and make new keys. A very nice man, professional and polite. Joked with us and even let us know that when, not if, but when we find the other key … how to reprogram it so it will work in the truck also. I paid him, and we offered to spread the word about his business. I went inside to change to go to town, I had to go help my mother with a weed problem. I changed my clothes and went to put on my shoes. Left shoe no problem. RIGHT shoe … out falls the truck key. The one place that I did not look. And why would I look in my shoes that were inside the open closet door? Right? Naturally, I hobbled outside where everyone -but the locksmith- was with shoe in hand and tossed the key over the back of the truck into the drive. Laughter consumed my yard’s atmosphere.

    BRIGHT SIDE: I now have three keys for my truck instead of one.

    If you spewed coffee, tea, water, or any other beverage, I am not to blame. I warned you.

    A couple of things came from that little event. Seeds were planted with the locksmith in that there are still good people out there willing to help someone out. It really is a good idea to have more than one key for your vehicle and to always put them in the same place. Most importantly, however, when you lose your keys … always check your shoes that are in your closet. Just saying.

    The locksmith has been in our area, I guess, for a while, and someone else has been trying to snipe business at lower rates. Which is the case in any business. When we offered to help spread the word about his quality service, he was extremely thankful. You never know who you can impart His love on or in. I do not know if he was a believer or just someone who needed a smile of supporting love. What I do know is that my little story will bring smiles to more than just him, and the fact that it is true … well, that makes it even funnier. This world is full of ugly; will you help me bring brightness to the dark? Will you help me shine His Light?

    Be blessed.

    **So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. – 1 Corinthians 10:31
    Good morning to everyone. Grace and Peace be with you. Before I start, I must issue a disclaimer. I strongly suggest that you do not consume ANY morning/evening beverages (depending on when you are reading this) while you read this. You have been duly warned and I cannot be held responsible for any mishaps from here on out. Every morning, we have a scheduled mini-bible study with some friends to start our day off right with God. Every morning, we are usually a few minutes late because I am trying to get everything done with my posts so that I do not forget anything. As long as I stay in my routine, I am good. Yesterday, I overslept a little (on purpose-I was tired), so there was no writing done. We were ready with coffee and bible in hand at a quarter til 7. A MIRACLE. When we got out of the truck, I asked if hubby had the keys; he did not, so I went in to get them off the hook. Not there. Checked the table; not there. Checked the office and last night’s clothes; not there. Now, before you think that I locked them inside, I did not; the truck was open. After several minutes of searching, we took the borrowed car to bible study. I let my son, who is visiting from across the pond, know and asked them to look for my keys. They seem to know where all my stuff is … I sure don’t. haha. Bible study was fantastic and when we got home, he informed me that they could not find them. The mega search and destroy was on. I moved laundry piles. I dug through my outgoing trash on the street. I crawled around under all the seats and stood on my head to look under the vehicle. Freezer, refrigerator, laundry in the basket and on the bed. Pulled all the covers down and pillows off. Shook towels and linen. Hands into sofa cushions and trash cans. These keys were lost. Or…very much secure … however you want to look at it. Finally, we called a lock smith to come out and make new keys. A very nice man, professional and polite. Joked with us and even let us know that when, not if, but when we find the other key … how to reprogram it so it will work in the truck also. I paid him, and we offered to spread the word about his business. I went inside to change to go to town, I had to go help my mother with a weed problem. I changed my clothes and went to put on my shoes. Left shoe no problem. RIGHT shoe … out falls the truck key. The one place that I did not look. And why would I look in my shoes that were inside the open closet door? Right? Naturally, I hobbled outside where everyone -but the locksmith- was with shoe in hand and tossed the key over the back of the truck into the drive. Laughter consumed my yard’s atmosphere. BRIGHT SIDE: I now have three keys for my truck instead of one. If you spewed coffee, tea, water, or any other beverage, I am not to blame. I warned you. A couple of things came from that little event. Seeds were planted with the locksmith in that there are still good people out there willing to help someone out. It really is a good idea to have more than one key for your vehicle and to always put them in the same place. Most importantly, however, when you lose your keys … always check your shoes that are in your closet. Just saying. The locksmith has been in our area, I guess, for a while, and someone else has been trying to snipe business at lower rates. Which is the case in any business. When we offered to help spread the word about his quality service, he was extremely thankful. You never know who you can impart His love on or in. I do not know if he was a believer or just someone who needed a smile of supporting love. What I do know is that my little story will bring smiles to more than just him, and the fact that it is true … well, that makes it even funnier. This world is full of ugly; will you help me bring brightness to the dark? Will you help me shine His Light? Be blessed. **So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. – 1 Corinthians 10:31
    0 Commenti 0 condivisioni 7 Views
  • Present Truth # 1
    God's Letter to You

    Heaven's Pledge - Our Assurance
    At some stage in life, individuals question their existence and purpose in life. A young mind generally has hopes and aspirations for the future. A discontented or discouraged mind finds it hard to accept a purpose or reason for life. Then there are the lonely, the empty, the unhappy. How can your life become more fulfilling, healthy, interesting? What lies after death? Is it possible to receive eternal life? Human hearts of every walk of life question the uncertain, yet desire an answer to satisfy their needs of security and contentment. No doubt at times such questions enter your mind. Are there answers to life's vital questions? Where can you find them? We all have some beliefs or ideas, but how accurate are they? No book ever written reveals so well the answer to these and many other fundamental questions except the Holy Bible. It reveals how life can be lived and enjoyed to the fullest. This is a promise.

    Who Wrote the Bible?
    Some critics have claimed that the Bible is only a book written by ordinary men, and therefore is just like any other book. The first part of this assertion is partly true but the latter is false. Yes, the book was written by men, but they had one different characteristic to most authors.

    “ . . . holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21.

    God selected righteous men to pen His messages. They were not naturally creative writers, but events and messages were recorded as they were revealed and inspired by the Holy Spirit. Visions and thoughts were received and these holy men, knowing these were from God, faithfully wrote in their own language what they were shown.

    Thus there is a variety of style and of expression in the Bible, but no contradictions. There is a common theme throughout the collection of writings and a unity of beliefs.

    “The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.” 2 Samuel 23:2.

    No one was entrusted to write God’s sacred messages without receiving divine assistance.

    Actually the Bible is a compendium of books and its real Author is the Almighty. Throughout all these sacred writings is the theme of salvation from sin and its consequences, if we accept God's provisions and counsels.

    “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.

    The Scriptures also tell us of God and His loving character. “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39.

    Divisions
    Sixty-six books were written by nearly 40 writers during a period of approximately 1,600 years. Thirty-nine of the books constitute what is known as the Old Testament and twenty-seven comprise the New Testament. Whenever Jesus referred to Scripture, He quoted the Old Testament (the New Testament had not yet been written).

    The Old Testament has three major sections. Jesus said, “. . . These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.” Luke 24:44.

    “The law of Moses” refers to the first five books of the Bible. They were written by Moses and are often referred to as “the law,” because they contain all the laws that were given to ancient Israel. The ceremonial laws were symbolic and terminated at the cross. But there is far more to “Moses” than just the ceremonial system. Primarily it consists of the doctrines and principles of establishing God's church on earth. First there is the moral law as given by God Himself, then nature's laws, health, and doctrines of order and organization.

    “The prophets” refer to all the prophetic books. Some books in other classifications also have prophetic sections but, for ease of identification, each book is only placed in one category. For instance, Jesus used this type of terminology when talking with two disciples who were traveling to Emmaus after Jesus' resurrection: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27.

    One of the most compelling tests of the authenticity of the Scriptures is the evidence of prophecy, for true prophecy is the recording of history in advance. Many of the prophecies of the Bible were written hundreds of years before their fulfilment, others are occurring now, some refer to our future. So important is prophecy that God challenges anyone to accurately predict the future in detail as He does.

    “Produce your cause, saith the Lord; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob. Let them bring them forth, and shew us what shall happen: let them shew the former things, what they be, that we may consider them, and know the latter end of them; or declare us things for to come. Shew the things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that ye are gods; yea, do good, or do evil, that we may be dismayed, and behold it together.” Isaiah 41:21-23.

    “Psalms” or poetry. The poetical books are Job, the Song of Solomon, and the Psalms. Some translations of the Bible record all the poetical sections in poetical format rather than prose. Although the meter is lost in translation from the original language, the beauty, majesty and pathos of the poetry of the Bible is still apparent and may be readily appreciated.

    The Power and Purpose of the Bible
    The power of God's word is demonstrated in many ways. When we scan the heavens and behold the sun, moon, planets and the myriads of stars, all orbiting their appointed trajectory through the immense expanse of space, we are witnessing the power of the Word of God!

    “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalm 33:6, 9.

    Yet a still greater power is contained in the living Word. Jesus, the son of God said, “. . . the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63. What is this power? What is its purpose?

    “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12.

    “The word” has within itself power, deep, abiding, and eternal. It leads us to see ourselves as we really are. It searches our inmost failures and yearnings, and provides the power to raise us from the lowest degradation. It has power which is able to make and keep men right, something we cannot do for ourselves. The Bible is able to transform our character and to make each person radiant, joyous, and full of hope.

    The Psalmist testified of this marvelous transforming power: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Psalm 119:11.

    How long will the word of God endure? Christ declared: “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” Matthew 24:35.

    Comparing the short life span of man with the Word of God, the apostle Peter wrote: “For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: but the word of the Lord endureth forever . . . ” 1 Peter 1:24, 25.

    On the midst of all the turmoil and strife of this present age, the Bible stands as an immovable, unchangeable beacon, with its light pointing to the true haven. It is a teacher and counselor of the highest order.

    Can Everyone Understand the Bible?
    For centuries it has been claimed by the clergy that the Bible should not be read by lay members because only learned theologians are able to interpret its doctrines. This withholding of the Scriptures from the people resulted in an intellectual, spiritual, and moral decline known, today, as the “Dark Ages.” “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6.

    Contrary to the stated belief of “the clergy,” “the entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalm 119:130.

    Therefore, the Word of God is not only for intellectuals to understand, but if studied and obeyed, it will ennoble and elevate the humble searcher for truth, whatever his station in life. Christ declared that God's Word was more readily understood by those of open minds “babies” in trusting and absorbing just what God says, than by those who claim to be “wise.”

    “At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.” Matthew 11:25.

    Often men of considerable learning, whether secular or theological, are too proud to admit wrong and thus disqualify themselves from understanding the truth of God. This is clearly illustrated in the Bible by the attitude of the learned scribes and Pharisees toward the teachings and person of Christ. Although they had theoretical knowledge, they could not accept the truth being presented to them.

    The Lord sees those who are humbly seeking for truth: “. . . to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Isaiah 66:2.

    As we have read before, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God.” In other words, the “Spirit of God” gave the messages to the various writers. In order to understand the Word of God aright, we need this same Spirit to guide our mind when we read the Bible.

    “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13.

    The written Word of God is God's voice speaking to us. It should always be treated with respect and should be studied with genuine desire to understand truth and its messages. Time spent searching the Scriptures should be regarded as time being spent in contact with the Divine. Therefore, before opening your Bible always pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance and believe that you will be directed and taught aright.

    Why Are There So Many Different Interpretations of the Bible?
    This question is often asked by skeptics as an argument that the Bible is unreliable. But are they right? What is the key to true understanding?

    One reason is given by the apostle Peter: “As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” 2 Peter 3:16.

    In addition the Bible reproves sin and lays open the hidden secrets of the heart. This is not agreeable to our human nature which seeks to obscure the Scripture's plain explanations. The apostle Paul prophesied: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, have itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:3, 4.

    It is impossible to come to a right understanding of the Bible if our hearts are not changed, because sinful human nature is opposed to the Spirit of God. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14.

    Today men are eagerly seeking for personal advantage. For the sake of gaining riches, honor or power, they place the maxims, traditions and requirements of men above the requirements of God. From such the treasures of God's word are hidden.

    Obedience is one key to a true understanding of the Scriptures. “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” John 7:17.

    The Theme of Bible Inspiration
    Many books have a central figure around which the story is woven. The Bible too has a central person in both the Old and New Testaments. Jesus said: "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39.

    When conversing with the two disciples on the way to Emmaus after His resurrection, Jesus explained this vital truth to them: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27.

    Will There Always Be Opportunity to Study God's Word?
    Many people put off searching the Scriptures until they retire, or to some other time in the future. But they are making a fatal mistake!

    “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it. In that day shall the fair virgins and young men faint for thirst.” Amos 8:11-13.

    This wonderful book—the Bible—will soon be of no use for men. There will be no more opportunities to understand it or to obey its teachings. The Holy Spirit will not then be available to help people know the truth. Nevertheless, today we still have opportunity. There is still time to become acquainted with God's plan for us.

    Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference.
    Present Truth # 1 God's Letter to You Heaven's Pledge - Our Assurance At some stage in life, individuals question their existence and purpose in life. A young mind generally has hopes and aspirations for the future. A discontented or discouraged mind finds it hard to accept a purpose or reason for life. Then there are the lonely, the empty, the unhappy. How can your life become more fulfilling, healthy, interesting? What lies after death? Is it possible to receive eternal life? Human hearts of every walk of life question the uncertain, yet desire an answer to satisfy their needs of security and contentment. No doubt at times such questions enter your mind. Are there answers to life's vital questions? Where can you find them? We all have some beliefs or ideas, but how accurate are they? No book ever written reveals so well the answer to these and many other fundamental questions except the Holy Bible. It reveals how life can be lived and enjoyed to the fullest. This is a promise. Who Wrote the Bible? Some critics have claimed that the Bible is only a book written by ordinary men, and therefore is just like any other book. The first part of this assertion is partly true but the latter is false. Yes, the book was written by men, but they had one different characteristic to most authors. “ . . . holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21. God selected righteous men to pen His messages. They were not naturally creative writers, but events and messages were recorded as they were revealed and inspired by the Holy Spirit. Visions and thoughts were received and these holy men, knowing these were from God, faithfully wrote in their own language what they were shown. Thus there is a variety of style and of expression in the Bible, but no contradictions. There is a common theme throughout the collection of writings and a unity of beliefs. “The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.” 2 Samuel 23:2. No one was entrusted to write God’s sacred messages without receiving divine assistance. Actually the Bible is a compendium of books and its real Author is the Almighty. Throughout all these sacred writings is the theme of salvation from sin and its consequences, if we accept God's provisions and counsels. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. The Scriptures also tell us of God and His loving character. “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39. Divisions Sixty-six books were written by nearly 40 writers during a period of approximately 1,600 years. Thirty-nine of the books constitute what is known as the Old Testament and twenty-seven comprise the New Testament. Whenever Jesus referred to Scripture, He quoted the Old Testament (the New Testament had not yet been written). The Old Testament has three major sections. Jesus said, “. . . These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.” Luke 24:44. “The law of Moses” refers to the first five books of the Bible. They were written by Moses and are often referred to as “the law,” because they contain all the laws that were given to ancient Israel. The ceremonial laws were symbolic and terminated at the cross. But there is far more to “Moses” than just the ceremonial system. Primarily it consists of the doctrines and principles of establishing God's church on earth. First there is the moral law as given by God Himself, then nature's laws, health, and doctrines of order and organization. “The prophets” refer to all the prophetic books. Some books in other classifications also have prophetic sections but, for ease of identification, each book is only placed in one category. For instance, Jesus used this type of terminology when talking with two disciples who were traveling to Emmaus after Jesus' resurrection: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27. One of the most compelling tests of the authenticity of the Scriptures is the evidence of prophecy, for true prophecy is the recording of history in advance. Many of the prophecies of the Bible were written hundreds of years before their fulfilment, others are occurring now, some refer to our future. So important is prophecy that God challenges anyone to accurately predict the future in detail as He does. “Produce your cause, saith the Lord; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob. Let them bring them forth, and shew us what shall happen: let them shew the former things, what they be, that we may consider them, and know the latter end of them; or declare us things for to come. Shew the things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that ye are gods; yea, do good, or do evil, that we may be dismayed, and behold it together.” Isaiah 41:21-23. “Psalms” or poetry. The poetical books are Job, the Song of Solomon, and the Psalms. Some translations of the Bible record all the poetical sections in poetical format rather than prose. Although the meter is lost in translation from the original language, the beauty, majesty and pathos of the poetry of the Bible is still apparent and may be readily appreciated. The Power and Purpose of the Bible The power of God's word is demonstrated in many ways. When we scan the heavens and behold the sun, moon, planets and the myriads of stars, all orbiting their appointed trajectory through the immense expanse of space, we are witnessing the power of the Word of God! “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalm 33:6, 9. Yet a still greater power is contained in the living Word. Jesus, the son of God said, “. . . the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63. What is this power? What is its purpose? “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12. “The word” has within itself power, deep, abiding, and eternal. It leads us to see ourselves as we really are. It searches our inmost failures and yearnings, and provides the power to raise us from the lowest degradation. It has power which is able to make and keep men right, something we cannot do for ourselves. The Bible is able to transform our character and to make each person radiant, joyous, and full of hope. The Psalmist testified of this marvelous transforming power: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Psalm 119:11. How long will the word of God endure? Christ declared: “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” Matthew 24:35. Comparing the short life span of man with the Word of God, the apostle Peter wrote: “For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: but the word of the Lord endureth forever . . . ” 1 Peter 1:24, 25. On the midst of all the turmoil and strife of this present age, the Bible stands as an immovable, unchangeable beacon, with its light pointing to the true haven. It is a teacher and counselor of the highest order. Can Everyone Understand the Bible? For centuries it has been claimed by the clergy that the Bible should not be read by lay members because only learned theologians are able to interpret its doctrines. This withholding of the Scriptures from the people resulted in an intellectual, spiritual, and moral decline known, today, as the “Dark Ages.” “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6. Contrary to the stated belief of “the clergy,” “the entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalm 119:130. Therefore, the Word of God is not only for intellectuals to understand, but if studied and obeyed, it will ennoble and elevate the humble searcher for truth, whatever his station in life. Christ declared that God's Word was more readily understood by those of open minds “babies” in trusting and absorbing just what God says, than by those who claim to be “wise.” “At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.” Matthew 11:25. Often men of considerable learning, whether secular or theological, are too proud to admit wrong and thus disqualify themselves from understanding the truth of God. This is clearly illustrated in the Bible by the attitude of the learned scribes and Pharisees toward the teachings and person of Christ. Although they had theoretical knowledge, they could not accept the truth being presented to them. The Lord sees those who are humbly seeking for truth: “. . . to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Isaiah 66:2. As we have read before, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God.” In other words, the “Spirit of God” gave the messages to the various writers. In order to understand the Word of God aright, we need this same Spirit to guide our mind when we read the Bible. “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13. The written Word of God is God's voice speaking to us. It should always be treated with respect and should be studied with genuine desire to understand truth and its messages. Time spent searching the Scriptures should be regarded as time being spent in contact with the Divine. Therefore, before opening your Bible always pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance and believe that you will be directed and taught aright. Why Are There So Many Different Interpretations of the Bible? This question is often asked by skeptics as an argument that the Bible is unreliable. But are they right? What is the key to true understanding? One reason is given by the apostle Peter: “As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” 2 Peter 3:16. In addition the Bible reproves sin and lays open the hidden secrets of the heart. This is not agreeable to our human nature which seeks to obscure the Scripture's plain explanations. The apostle Paul prophesied: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, have itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:3, 4. It is impossible to come to a right understanding of the Bible if our hearts are not changed, because sinful human nature is opposed to the Spirit of God. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14. Today men are eagerly seeking for personal advantage. For the sake of gaining riches, honor or power, they place the maxims, traditions and requirements of men above the requirements of God. From such the treasures of God's word are hidden. Obedience is one key to a true understanding of the Scriptures. “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” John 7:17. The Theme of Bible Inspiration Many books have a central figure around which the story is woven. The Bible too has a central person in both the Old and New Testaments. Jesus said: "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39. When conversing with the two disciples on the way to Emmaus after His resurrection, Jesus explained this vital truth to them: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27. Will There Always Be Opportunity to Study God's Word? Many people put off searching the Scriptures until they retire, or to some other time in the future. But they are making a fatal mistake! “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it. In that day shall the fair virgins and young men faint for thirst.” Amos 8:11-13. This wonderful book—the Bible—will soon be of no use for men. There will be no more opportunities to understand it or to obey its teachings. The Holy Spirit will not then be available to help people know the truth. Nevertheless, today we still have opportunity. There is still time to become acquainted with God's plan for us. Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference.
    0 Commenti 0 condivisioni 18 Views
  • Amazing Facts.
    Daily Devotionals

    When Will Judgment Happen?

    September 1st, 2026

    In the year 1033, people around the world expected Jesus to return. That year, they reasoned, would signify the passing of a thousand years since the crucifixion and resurrection, and surely the Lord would come back for His own by then! (And if you are tempted to do the same, remember Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:36, that “no one” knows the “day and hour” of Christ’s return.)

    But just because the world doesn’t come stamped with a specific expiration date does not mean it’s impossible to discern the “signs of the times” (Matthew 16:3).

    One key factor is the presence of Rome at both ends of Jesus’ ministry. While the Savior was on earth, it was the pagan Roman Empire that captured and killed Him. Jesus gave up His life to atone for our sins, yes, but it was through the agency of the Roman state that this took place.

    Daniel identifies Rome as the “little horn” that will persecute the saints. And Rome is still a religious-civil power, one that has sought “to change times and law” (Daniel 7:25) and one that has interposed a manmade system of religion that puts other sinful humans in the role of mediator—a role belonging to Christ alone.

    This final Rome will also seek to compel obedience to its religion by aligning with worldly governments. Those who resist will face intense pressure to revert, and if they continue to resist, they will be confronted with the very real possibility of martyrdom.

    These will indeed be perilous times for millions of God’s faithful, the ones called a “remnant” people (Romans 9:27). But Jesus promised “he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13). Now, then, is the time to study and pray, so that you’ll be ready for that great and terrible day.

    Apply It:

    Jesus told his followers to “watch” (Mark 13:37). Keep looking out—and always keep looking up!

    Dig Deeper:

    Daniel 8:9; Daniel 8:12; Hebrews 7:25

    Key Bible Texts
    So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision. (Daniel 8:17 KJV)
    Amazing Facts. Daily Devotionals When Will Judgment Happen? September 1st, 2026 In the year 1033, people around the world expected Jesus to return. That year, they reasoned, would signify the passing of a thousand years since the crucifixion and resurrection, and surely the Lord would come back for His own by then! (And if you are tempted to do the same, remember Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:36, that “no one” knows the “day and hour” of Christ’s return.) But just because the world doesn’t come stamped with a specific expiration date does not mean it’s impossible to discern the “signs of the times” (Matthew 16:3). One key factor is the presence of Rome at both ends of Jesus’ ministry. While the Savior was on earth, it was the pagan Roman Empire that captured and killed Him. Jesus gave up His life to atone for our sins, yes, but it was through the agency of the Roman state that this took place. Daniel identifies Rome as the “little horn” that will persecute the saints. And Rome is still a religious-civil power, one that has sought “to change times and law” (Daniel 7:25) and one that has interposed a manmade system of religion that puts other sinful humans in the role of mediator—a role belonging to Christ alone. This final Rome will also seek to compel obedience to its religion by aligning with worldly governments. Those who resist will face intense pressure to revert, and if they continue to resist, they will be confronted with the very real possibility of martyrdom. These will indeed be perilous times for millions of God’s faithful, the ones called a “remnant” people (Romans 9:27). But Jesus promised “he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13). Now, then, is the time to study and pray, so that you’ll be ready for that great and terrible day. Apply It: Jesus told his followers to “watch” (Mark 13:37). Keep looking out—and always keep looking up! Dig Deeper: Daniel 8:9; Daniel 8:12; Hebrews 7:25 Key Bible Texts So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision. (Daniel 8:17 KJV)
    0 Commenti 0 condivisioni 7 Views
  • Tuesday, 1st September, 2026

    TITLE: "SURRENDER AND COMMIT: LET GOD DIRECT YOUR PLANS"

    ANCHOR SCRIPTURE(S)

    Romans 12:1–2 (KJV) "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. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

    Proverbs 16:3 (KJV) "Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established."

    QUOTE TO REFLECT ON

    “Surrender your life to God, renew your mind, and commit your plans to Him.”

    DAY'S REFLECTION

    A new month gives us a fresh opportunity to surrender, reset, and refocus. Romans 12:1 calls us to present ourselves to God as a “living sacrifice.” Unlike an offering that is given once and forgotten, a living sacrifice means continually yielding our lives, choices, plans, and desires to God.

    Paul says, “be not conformed to this world.” To conform means to allow outside pressures to shape our thinking and behaviour. The world will constantly tell us what to value, pursue, and imitate. But believers are called to follow God's standards.

    Instead, Scripture says, “be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Transformation begins from within. When God's Word changes our thinking, it changes our attitudes, decisions, habits, and ultimately our lives.

    Then Proverbs 16:3 gives us a practical key: “Commit thy works unto the LORD.” To commit means to entrust or hand over completely. It does not mean abandoning responsibility; it means doing our part while trusting God with the outcome.

    Many people make plans and then ask God to bless them afterward. Biblical wisdom teaches us to bring our plans to God first. When our desires are surrendered to Him, He establishes our thoughts and helps bring clarity and stability to our decisions.

    Life experience shows that plans made without proper direction can produce unnecessary stress and disappointment. But when we seek God's will, we gain wisdom to know what to pursue, what to change, and what to leave behind.

    As September begins, don't simply make new plans—give God your plans. Don't just seek new opportunities—seek God's direction. Don't allow the pressures of the world to shape your identity—allow God's Word to renew your mind.

    Surrender. Renew. Commit. Then move forward with confidence.

    MEDITATION SCRIPTURE(S)

    Psalm 37:5 (KJV) "Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."

    Proverbs 3:5–6 (KJV) "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

    Philippians 4:8 (KJV) "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; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, **think on these things."

    LIFE LESSONS (IMPLICATIONS)

    1. True worship includes surrendering our entire lives to God.

    2. Our minds must continually be renewed by God's Word.

    3. We should not allow worldly pressure to determine our values.

    4. Commit your plans and work to God before pursuing them.

    5. God's direction brings stability and clarity.

    6. Surrender does not mean inactivity; it means working while trusting God.

    EVERYDAY ACTION

    Give God your plans before pursuing them. Renew your mind with Scripture. Reject one unhealthy influence. Do today's work wholeheartedly. Trust God with the results.

    PRAYER

    Father, I surrender my life, plans, and desires to You. Renew my mind through Your Word, establish my thoughts, and direct my steps throughout this new month. In Jesus' name, Amen.

    DECLARATION

    I belong to God. My mind is renewed, my plans are committed to the Lord, and my steps are divinely directed. September shall be a month of God's purpose, wisdom, and fruitful progress in my life. Amen!

    Devotion by

    Rev. Frank Fabian Aidoo
    +233 544 295 158

    Follow us on WhatsApp
    https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6EpEqHbFV78wOHgv2P
    Tuesday, 1st September, 2026 TITLE: "SURRENDER AND COMMIT: LET GOD DIRECT YOUR PLANS" ANCHOR SCRIPTURE(S) Romans 12:1–2 (KJV) "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. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." Proverbs 16:3 (KJV) "Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established." QUOTE TO REFLECT ON “Surrender your life to God, renew your mind, and commit your plans to Him.” DAY'S REFLECTION A new month gives us a fresh opportunity to surrender, reset, and refocus. Romans 12:1 calls us to present ourselves to God as a “living sacrifice.” Unlike an offering that is given once and forgotten, a living sacrifice means continually yielding our lives, choices, plans, and desires to God. Paul says, “be not conformed to this world.” To conform means to allow outside pressures to shape our thinking and behaviour. The world will constantly tell us what to value, pursue, and imitate. But believers are called to follow God's standards. Instead, Scripture says, “be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Transformation begins from within. When God's Word changes our thinking, it changes our attitudes, decisions, habits, and ultimately our lives. Then Proverbs 16:3 gives us a practical key: “Commit thy works unto the LORD.” To commit means to entrust or hand over completely. It does not mean abandoning responsibility; it means doing our part while trusting God with the outcome. Many people make plans and then ask God to bless them afterward. Biblical wisdom teaches us to bring our plans to God first. When our desires are surrendered to Him, He establishes our thoughts and helps bring clarity and stability to our decisions. Life experience shows that plans made without proper direction can produce unnecessary stress and disappointment. But when we seek God's will, we gain wisdom to know what to pursue, what to change, and what to leave behind. As September begins, don't simply make new plans—give God your plans. Don't just seek new opportunities—seek God's direction. Don't allow the pressures of the world to shape your identity—allow God's Word to renew your mind. Surrender. Renew. Commit. Then move forward with confidence. MEDITATION SCRIPTURE(S) Psalm 37:5 (KJV) "Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass." Proverbs 3:5–6 (KJV) "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Philippians 4:8 (KJV) "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; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, **think on these things." LIFE LESSONS (IMPLICATIONS) 1. True worship includes surrendering our entire lives to God. 2. Our minds must continually be renewed by God's Word. 3. We should not allow worldly pressure to determine our values. 4. Commit your plans and work to God before pursuing them. 5. God's direction brings stability and clarity. 6. Surrender does not mean inactivity; it means working while trusting God. EVERYDAY ACTION Give God your plans before pursuing them. Renew your mind with Scripture. Reject one unhealthy influence. Do today's work wholeheartedly. Trust God with the results. PRAYER Father, I surrender my life, plans, and desires to You. Renew my mind through Your Word, establish my thoughts, and direct my steps throughout this new month. In Jesus' name, Amen. DECLARATION I belong to God. My mind is renewed, my plans are committed to the Lord, and my steps are divinely directed. September shall be a month of God's purpose, wisdom, and fruitful progress in my life. Amen! Devotion by Rev. Frank Fabian Aidoo 📞 +233 544 295 158 Follow us on WhatsApp 👇👇👇 https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6EpEqHbFV78wOHgv2P
    Like
    1
    0 Commenti 0 condivisioni 16 Views
  • 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!.
    0 Commenti 0 condivisioni 30 Views
  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY
    FRIDAY JULY 24, 2O26.
    "DON'T LOOSE YOUR COMPASSIONATE EDGE (2)"

    '…Faith…if it does not have works, is dead.’  James 2:17 NKJV

    MOTHER TERESA said, ‘The biggest disease today isn’t leprosy or cancer. It’s the feeling of being uncared for, unwanted—of being deserted and alone.’ As a result, she spent her life rescuing sick babies and giving dignity to the dying. Asked why she did it, she replied, ‘Because Jesus did.’ What a great answer! When simultaneous disasters hit different countries around the world, humanitarian organisations say we suffer from ‘donor fatigue’. Let’s add one more: ‘compassion failure.’ Philosopher Miguel de Unamuno wrote, ‘Warmth, warmth, more warmth! For we are dying of cold and not of darkness. It is not the night that kills, but the frost.’ Think about this: of the 1,189 chapters in the Bible, 250 contain the words of the prophets. That’s roughly 25 percent. Half of what they say denounces sin and the other half condemns those who see human suffering and do nothing about it. Yet events that horrified those same prophets take place in our world every day, and we’re immune to them. Like wearing a watch, you get used to it and after a while you don’t even notice it. But the prophets noticed! They never became desensitised to sin—or human suffering. And you mustn’t either. You say, ‘But my main focus at the moment is on building up my faith.’ That’s a good thing; but never forget that ‘Faith by itself, if it does not have works [of compassion], is dead.’

    Bible In A Year: Deut 3-4; Matt 12:1-14; Ps 46; Pro 16:20-22. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation

    *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*.

    MD.ii. [23/07, 10:32 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    FRIDAY 24TH JULY, 2026```


    *DON'T BE A COLLATERAL VICTIM* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```TEXT:JOSHUA 12:1-6```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"Now these are the kings of the land, which the children of Israel smote, and possessed their land on the other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon unto mount Hermon, and all the plain on the east" (JOSHUA 12:1).*_

    *There are people who sleep walk into disaster, through either arrogance, pride or sheer hubris. It may be that they had recorded successes in previous battles, or have become famous for their accomplishments. They may deem themselves to be invincible, and either declare a war that's totally unnecessary, or inject themselves into other people's battles. In the end, they become the victims of their ego and exaggerated sense of power and importance.*

    *This is what happened to the kings of the nations on the east of River Jordan. The children of Israel were on a journey ordered by the Almighty God. They were heading to the land of Canaan, in fulfilment of the promise God made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Their land was not part of Canaan, and therefore, was not intended to be inherited by the Israelites. The inheritance of the Israelites was to be solely Canaan, the land flowing with milk and honey. But on their way, the Israelites encountered nations that had heard about the supernatural work of God in bringing them out of Egypt. Although the Israelites did not declare war against them, these nations, some out of unfounded fear of losing their territory, and others out of envy and hatred against this nation that had a God that can subdue, humble and defeat Egypt, the great world power of the time, took it on themselves to stop Israel from progressing towards their land of promise. One of such kings was Sihon, king of the Amorites, whose nation was mainly a lush vegetation sandwiched by rivers and plain land that was a haven for pastoralists and for other forms of agriculture. The other king was Og, king of Bashan, a land of the remnants of the giants, with similar topography as the land of the Amorites. When they rose against the Israelites, they were roundly defeated, their kingdoms destroyed and their land confiscated by Moses. He subsequently allocated the land to two and half tribes of Israel, which desired to settle there because it was suitable for their vocation as pastoralists. Had those nations stayed out of the way of the Israelites, they would have remained in their land.*

    *We must be wise and not take on battles that are not ours, whether out of sympathy with other people or to prove that we are powerful. As believers, we have more than enough battles against principalities and powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, spiritual wickedness in high places, against sin and Satan. The armour Christ has given us is intended to defeat these adversaries. It is not to be wasted on self-imposed battles that do not benefit the kingdom of God. Those who engage in the wrong battles suffer great loss, and live to regret it for the rest of their lives. Let us focus on the assignment Christ has given us, namely, taking the gospel to the world of sinners, and endeavouring to bring as many as are willing, into the kingdom of God.*

    ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Those who fight battles without profit, reap rewards without benefits.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *EXODUS 26-29*
    [23/07, 10:32 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

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

    ✍🏽🏻‍ 🏽🛰

    ```FRIDAY 24TH JULY, 2026```

    *DIVINE FRESHNESS* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽🏽

    ```TEXT:PSALM 1:1-6```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper" (PSALM 1:3).*_

    *Freshness implies newness of life, originality, and the absence of weakness or death. It is always God's will that His creatures be strong, hale, and hearty. The reverse, however, is the case with many who live in continual weakness, pain, and disability.*

    *God provides the means of drawing from His life for energy. Still, instead of utilizing the provision, they resort to the use of hard drugs and destructive substances for strength and vitality.*

    *Our passage for today unveils simple steps for young people to enjoy God's divine freshness. One, they must abstain from the way, walk, and counsel of the wayward and wicked. Two, they should delight in, read and meditate daily on God's word.*

    *Three, they should appropriate the avalanche of God's blessings and prosperity through prayer and faith. Four, they should not meddle with the ungodly. Friend, the ungodly experience dryness instead of divine freshness. They go through harrowing experiences since they are cut off from God, the source of life and all goodness.*

    *Would you like to be renewed and transformed? Call on the Lord God, today.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*Freshness implies newness.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Stay rooted in Christ, and never run dry!*_

    🏽🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Jesus, help me to maintain spiritual freshness.*_
    [23/07, 10:32 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

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

    🏼🏼🏼🏼🏼‍

    ```FRIDAY 24TH JULY, 2026```

    *THE FOOL IN FULL* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🫸🏽🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```PSALM 53:1-6```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good" (Psalm 53:1).*_



    An extract from _Merriam Webster_ dictionary goes thus: *"Something is said to be 'in full' when it has come to the highest or the fullest state of degree, when it is at the uttermost extent or when it is complete, especially in details, number, or duration."*

    The fool in full is the greatest fool that will ever live on earth. He breathes in the air made by God, cultivates the soil created by God, and eats out of the produce thereof, lives in the world God created and enjoys the gift of life given by God, to mention a few; and yet, turns around to say "there is no God."

    The fool deliberately denies the existence of God despite the many proofs of God's existence. He sees the sun, the moon, the stars, the seas and the uncountable creatures in it, but never pauses to ask: *"Who made the world?"* The things he sees tell him there is God, but in his heart, he refuses to give Him the glory.

    There is, however, another fool who accepts there is God but refuses to accept His gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. This category of fools claim they can worship the Living God the way they like. They corrupt the way of worshipping Him; worshipping idols, the work of their hands. The fool can never do what is good before God.

    *You should not be a fool. Believe in the only true God and in Jesus Christ, whom He has sent. Turn away from all corrupt and abominable thoughts and actions. Then you will be saved from the foolishness of this world.*



    ```rayer:``` _*Thank You Lord, for delivering me from the foolishness of unbelief.*_ 🏽

    ``` Further Reading:``` *John 17:2, 3*
    [23/07, 10:33 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA*

    FRIDAY, 24TH JULY, 2026.

    *REHEARSAL OF GOD'S FAITHFULNESS*

    *TEXT:* JOSHUA 12:1-6.

    1.Now these are the kings of the land, which the children of Israel smote, and possessed their land on the other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon unto mount Hermon, and all the plain on the east:
    2 Sihon king of the Amorites, who dwelt in Heshbon, and ruled from Aroer, which is upon the bank of the river Arnon, and from the middle of the river, and from half Gilead, even unto the river Jabbok, which is the border of the children of Ammon;
    3 And from the plain to the sea of Chinneroth on the east, and unto the sea of the plain, even the salt sea on the east, the way to Bethjeshimoth; and from the south, under Ashdothpisgah:
    4 And the coast of Og king of Bashan, which was of the remnant of the giants, that dwelt at Ashtaroth and at Edrei,
    5 And reigned in mount Hermon, and in Salcah, and in all Bashan, unto the border of the Geshurites and the Maachathites, and half Gilead, the border of Sihon king of Heshbon.
    6 Them did Moses the servant of the LORD and the children of Israel smite: and Moses the servant of the LORD gave it for a possession unto the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh.

    *Timeless Truth:*_"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits"_ (Psalm 103:2).


    *INTRODUCTION*

    From creation, God has been engaged in doing great and new wonders. Some are penned down in the Bible while there are many more that have been experienced by individuals, families, communities and nations since creation of man. The fact that God is immutable guarantees that those miracles can be repeated and increased in greatness and number. One of the greatest ways to strengthen faith is to deliberately rehearse God's faithfulness and meditate on those past wonders of God. Throughout Scripture, God often instructed His people to remember His mighty acts so that they would trust Him for future victories. Israel's conquest of the Amorites under Sihon and the later record of those victories in Joshua remind us that God's past interventions are powerful testimonies of His unfailing covenant. Every believer should cultivate the habit of recalling God's goodness instead of dwelling on past fears or failures. As we recount His faithfulness, our confidence in His promises grows.

    *1.Arrogant Courting of Battles*

    Israel peacefully requested passage through the land of Sihon, king of the Amorites, but Sihon arrogantly rejected the request and chose war instead (Numbers 21:21–25). It is the norm in military warfare that you don't fight those who come and prefer peace to war. The worst is to lead them as captives. Sihon had taken pride in defeating Moab and taking her possessions (Numbers 21:26-2). Their victory over Moab was celebrated as it became a song in the land. He was optimistic and emboldened that he could repeat the same feat against Israel. However, he was thoughtless and proud. His pride blinded him to the fact that he was fighting against God's covenant people. It is dangerous and risky to fight against the covenant people of God. The battle ended in complete defeat of Sihon because no human strength can prevail against God's purpose.
    b. Believers have the domineering power of Jesus Christ to crush every power of the adversaries. However, this is not a license for believers to arrogantly court and tempt the people of darkness to unnecessary warfare. When Herod wanted Jesus to perform some miracles for a show of power, Jesus declined because it was unnecessary (Luke 23:8). When Satan tempted Jesus to jump down from the mountain, Jesus also declined because it was an unnecessary show of power. Believers should avoid unnecessary boasting and fight in the name of the Lord that is borne out of arrogance or pride. Believers should never fear opposition, for God remains the Defender of those who trust Him. At the same time, we must guard against pride, remembering that arrogance always invites destruction.

    *Question*

    Am I trusting God's strength in life's battles, or am I relying on human confidence and pride?

    *2. Appreciative Counting of Blessings*

    Joshua carefully recorded the kings and their land, whom God had delivered into Israel's hands (Joshua 12:1–5). These verses are more than historical records—they are memorials of divine faithfulness. God's people are encouraged to remember every victory and every answered prayer. Gratitude protects the heart from discouragement and unbelief. When we regularly count our blessings, we discover that God's mercies greatly outweigh our trials. Thanksgiving also prepares us to receive greater blessings from the Lord. As the psalmist puts it, *"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits."* This will take a diligent and deliberate effort like Joshua did when he wrote down and recalled the good wonders of God to himself and to the whole Israel.

    *Question*

    How often do I deliberately remember and thank God for His past faithfulness in my life?

    *3. Additions to Covenant for the Beloved*

    a. The conquered territories were not part of the promised Canaan inheritance. But Sihon and Og lost their land through their pride and arrogance and those blessings were taken from them and added to the children of Israel (Joshua 12:6).
    After getting victory, Moses assigned the conquered territory to the tribes of Reuben, Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh as their inheritance. God's faithfulness extends beyond victory in battle to the fulfillment of His covenant promises.
    b. There are several cases where God took away the assigned blessing of the arrogant and added them to the portion of the godly. Reuben and Esau were supposed to have the double blessings of their first born, but they both lost them through carelessness and profanity. Their blessings were added to Judah and Jacob respectively. Jesus warned the Ephesian Church of loss of ministry if they didn't repent from the loss of their first love and the immoral practices of the Nicolaitans(Revelation 2:5). He also warned the Pastor of Philadelphia that if he was not watchful, his crown would be taken from him and be given or added to another person.
    *"Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown"* (Revelation 3:11). Remember, King Saul lost his crown, which was supposed to be generational, to David. The same with Esau and none of them could get his back. Fight and be watchful to retain and enjoy all your blessings and inheritance assigned to you by God.

    *Question*

    Am I very watchful and prayerful in ensuring that my blessings and inheritance are not taken from me and transferred to another person?

    *Prayer Points*

    1.Heavenly Father, help me always remember and celebrate Your faithfulness in every season of my life .
    2.Lord, deliver me from every form of pride, boasting and unnecessary show of power and grant me victory over every battle confronting my faith .
    3.Give me a grateful heart that continually counts Your blessings instead of focusing on life's difficulties.
    4.Give Your children grace to be watchful and prayerful and don't allow anyone to take their assigned blessings and inheritance .

    *HYMN:* Count Your Blessings

    *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* EXODUS 26-29.

    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. Morning Prayer

    A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps. ⏤ Proverbs 16:9

    To pray is to let go and let God take over. ⏤ Philip Yancey

    O God, our Father, we, Your children, wait for Your blessing before we go out to the work and care of this new day. We thank You for the blessings You gave us in our sleep. You have renewed our strength and restored what yesterday’s toil took from us. We are strong this morning and ready for another day’s work because of the blessings You gave us in our sleep.

    We consecrate our lives to You for this new day. Take us and use us as You will. We don’t want to make our own plans, for we are too short-sighted and would only plan for present comfort or earthly success. We would rather have You reveal Your plan for our day. It may not be easy, but we know it is wiser and better than our way could ever be, for You see the end from the beginning, and You choose the best things for us. We lay our plans at Your feet and ask You to use them if they are the best, but if not, to set them aside so that Your plan for the day may work unhindered in us.

    We pray for our neighbors. Some of them are sick. Remember them and grant them healing and restoration. Send them Your comfort in their pain, and let them be richly blessed by the experiences they are going through. Some of our neighbors have gone through sorrows. Heal their broken hearts and give them comfort that will make them stronger to bear their grief, and help them find the blessings You have hidden in their sorrow.

    Receive us now into Your care for this day; bless us, keep us, and use us as You will. We ask in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/19/morning

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

    SERMON TOPIC:

    SERMON: BE SPIRITUALLY ALERT — EMBER MONTHS ARE HERE.

    Theme:

    “Watch and Pray: Finishing the Year Strong in Christ”

    Key Text:

    1 Peter 5:8–9

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


    THE YEAR IS NOT OVER YET!

    Beloved, we have entered the final stretch of the year.
    The ember months—September, October, November and December—are often associated with celebrations, travelling, weddings, parties, business activities, family gatherings and end-of-year excitement.
    But as Christians, we must understand something:
    The end of the year is not a time to become spiritually careless. It is a time to become spiritually alert!
    Many people become relaxed because they think, “The year is almost over.”
    But the devil does not take a holiday.
    Your prayer life must not go on holiday.
    Your Bible study must not go on holiday.
    Your holiness must not go on holiday.
    Your spiritual discernment must not go on holiday.
    The fact that we are approaching the end of the year does not mean we should lower our spiritual guard.
    This is the season to watch, pray, discern and finish well!

    1. BE SOBER AND VIGILANT.
    1 Peter 5:8
    Peter says:
    > “Be sober, be vigilant…”
    To be sober means to remain spiritually clear-minded.
    To be vigilant means to remain watchful and alert.
    A Christian can be physically awake but spiritually asleep.
    You may attend church and still become spiritually careless.
    You may carry a Bible and still lose spiritual sensitivity.
    You may pray yesterday and still need to pray today.
    The ember months can bring many distractions:
    Excessive celebrations
    Ungodly relationships
    Financial pressure
    Peer pressure
    Sexual temptation
    Substance abuse
    Unnecessary travelling
    Reckless spending
    Internet and social-media distractions
    Pressure to “make it before the year ends”
    Do not allow the excitement of the season to silence the voice of the Holy Spirit.
    2. WATCH AND PRAY
    Matthew 26:41
    > “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation…”

    Notice that Jesus did not say pray without watching.
    He said:
    Watch AND pray.
    Prayer without spiritual alertness can make us careless.
    Spiritual alertness without prayer can make us powerless.
    We need both.
    During these months, increase your prayer life.
    Pray concerning:
    Your family
    Your children
    Your marriage
    Your career
    Your ministry
    Your finances
    Your travels
    Your relationships
    Your spiritual life
    The decisions you will make
    Do not wait until trouble comes before you begin to pray.
    Prayer is not only a crisis response; prayer is spiritual preparation.
    3. DO NOT LET THE SEASON STEAL YOUR SPIRITUAL FIRE
    Romans 12:11
    > “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.
    One danger of the ember months is spiritual fatigue.
    People become tired and say:
    > “I have prayed enough this year.”
    No!
    You don't retire from your relationship with God because the calendar is approaching December.
    Your spiritual fire must continue burning.
    Leviticus 6:13
    > “The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.”

    Your altar must remain alive.
    Don't let December find you spiritually empty.
    Keep reading the Word.
    Keep praying.
    Keep worshipping.
    Keep serving.
    Keep witnessing.
    Keep forgiving.
    Keep walking in holiness.
    4. BE CAREFUL WITH DECISIONS MADE UNDER PRESSURE.
    The final months of the year can create tremendous pressure.
    People begin asking:
    “What have you achieved this year?”
    “How much money have you made?”
    “When are you getting married?”
    “When will you build your house?”
    “When will you buy a car?”
    “What are you doing with your life?”
    Such questions can create comparison and desperation.
    And desperation can lead people into wrong decisions.
    Remember:
    You do not need to destroy your future because you are trying to impress people before December 31.
    Psalm 37:7 says:
    > “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him…”
    Do not enter a wrong relationship because you are afraid of being single.
    Do not enter fraudulent business because you want quick money.
    Do not compromise your faith because you want acceptance.
    Do not abandon God's principles because you feel behind.
    God's timing is better than human pressure.
    5. FINISH THE YEAR STRONG.
    Philippians 3:13–14
    Paul says:
    > “Forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before…”

    There is still time.
    Perhaps January did not go as planned.
    Maybe February brought disappointment.
    Maybe March brought unexpected challenges.
    Maybe you made mistakes.
    Maybe opportunities passed.
    Maybe you experienced losses.
    But the year is not over yet.
    Don't spend the remaining months mourning what went wrong.
    Ask:
    > “Lord, what can I still do with the time You have given me?”
    You can still pray.
    You can still reconcile.
    You can still start.
    You can still learn.
    You can still serve.
    You can still evangelize.
    You can still correct your mistakes.
    You can still become spiritually stronger.
    There are still chapters of your story that have not been written.

    BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:

    NEHEMIAH.

    Consider Nehemiah.
    When Nehemiah and the people were rebuilding Jerusalem's wall, their enemies attempted to distract and intimidate them.
    Nehemiah 4:9
    > “Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night…”
    Look at the balance:
    They prayed AND they watched.
    They did not say:
    > “We are praying, so we don't need to be careful.”
    Neither did they say:
    > “We are watching, so we don't need God.”
    They did both.
    Prayer + Watchfulness = Spiritual Alertness
    This is a powerful principle for the ember months.
    Pray as though everything depends on God.
    Work and watch as though God expects you to be responsible.

    DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS.

    1. Not every opportunity is a God-given opportunity.
    Some opportunities are simply distractions dressed as blessings.
    Discern before you accept.
    2. Not every relationship deserves access to your destiny.
    Some relationships strengthen your faith.
    Others weaken it.
    Watch your associations.
    3. The enemy often uses distraction before destruction.
    He does not always begin with something obviously evil.
    Sometimes he begins with:
    > “Just this once.”
    Then another time.
    Then another.
    Eventually, compromise becomes normal.
    4. The final months require spiritual discipline, not spiritual panic.
    Do not wait until December to start asking God to fix everything.
    Walk with God daily.
    5. Your greatest victory may be finishing faithfully.
    Not everyone who starts well finishes well.
    Your goal should not simply be:
    > “I want to end the year wealthy.”
    Say:
    > “I want to end the year closer to God, stronger in faith, cleaner in character and faithful to my assignment.”

    PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS FOR THE EMBER MONTHS.

    1. Establish a daily prayer time.
    Even if it is 15–30 minutes, be consistent.
    2. Read the Bible daily.
    Don't allow social media to receive more attention than God's Word.
    3. Examine your relationships.
    Ask who is strengthening your faith and who is weakening it.
    4. Avoid unnecessary risks.
    Be wise with travelling, finances, relationships and celebrations.
    5. Control your spending.
    Don't spend January's resources trying to impress people in December.
    6. Stay connected to Christian fellowship.
    Don't isolate yourself spiritually.
    7. Practice gratitude.
    Count your blessings instead of comparing yourself with others.
    8. Set spiritual goals.
    Before the year ends, decide what you want to accomplish spiritually.
    9. Reconcile where necessary.
    Do not carry unnecessary bitterness into another year.
    10. Finish what God has entrusted to you.
    Don't abandon your assignment because the year has been difficult.

    QUESTIONS FOR PERSONAL REFLECTION

    1. How spiritually alert am I right now?
    2. Has my prayer life become weaker?
    3. What distractions are threatening my relationship with God?
    4. Are there relationships I need to reconsider?
    5. Am I making decisions because of God's leading or because of pressure?
    6. What temptation do I need to become more watchful against?
    7. What unfinished assignment should I complete before the year ends?
    8. If the year ended today, would I be satisfied with my walk with God?
    9. What must I stop doing?
    10. What must I start doing?

    POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS

    1. Prayer for spiritual alertness
    Father, awaken my spirit and make me sensitive to Your voice. Help me to recognize every distraction and every trap of the enemy.
    2. Prayer for protection
    Lord, preserve me, my family and everyone connected to me throughout these remaining months. Keep us from evil and unnecessary danger.
    3. Prayer against temptation
    Father, strengthen me to say NO to every temptation that can destroy my testimony, destiny and relationship with You.
    4. Prayer for divine direction.
    Lord, guide my decisions. Give me wisdom to know what to accept, what to reject and what to wait for.
    5. Prayer against desperation
    Father, deliver me from the pressure to compete, compare or compromise. Help me to trust Your timing.
    6. Prayer for restoration
    Lord, restore whatever I have lost that is according to Your will, and give me wisdom to recover what can still be recovered.
    7. Prayer for finishing well
    Father, I will not finish this year spiritually empty. Give me grace to finish stronger, wiser, purer and closer to You than I started.
    8. Prayer for the family
    Lord, preserve our families. Let no tragedy, division or destructive influence prevail over our homes.
    9. Prayer for purpose
    Father, help me to complete every assignment You have entrusted to me before the end of this year.
    10. Prayer of surrender
    Lord Jesus, I surrender the remaining months of this year to You. Take control of my life, my plans, my family, my decisions and my future. Let Your will be done in my life. Amen.

    STRONG CLOSING: DON'T SLEEP THROUGH YOUR SEASON!

    Church, the ember months are here, but God's grace is still available!
    Don't become careless.
    Don't become distracted.
    Don't become desperate.
    Don't compromise.
    Don't allow celebrations to replace consecration.
    Don't allow social pressure to replace God's direction.
    Don't allow the mistakes of yesterday to destroy the possibilities of tomorrow.
    WATCH!
    PRAY!
    DISCERN!
    STAND FIRM!
    FINISH STRONG!

    The year may be approaching its final months, but your assignment is not finished.
    Your testimony is not finished.
    Your purpose is not finished.
    Your story is not finished.
    And above all:
    God is not finished with you!
    > “Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.” — Mark 13:33

    MY CHARGE TO YOU:

    Enter the ember months with prayer.
    Walk through them with wisdom.
    Live through them with holiness.
    Move through them with discernment.
    And finish them with thanksgiving.

    Be spiritually alert.
    Your destiny is too valuable to sleep through your season!
    In Jesus' name, Amen.

    Surrender your life to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church.
    You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below

    https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1

    https://selar.com/m/umoedem

    https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks

    CONTACT - Whatsapp 2349024173027, +2349055447540

    Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com
    TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: 🔥SERMON: BE SPIRITUALLY ALERT — EMBER MONTHS ARE HERE. Theme: “Watch and Pray: Finishing the Year Strong in Christ” Key Text: 1 Peter 5:8–9 > “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” 🔥 THE YEAR IS NOT OVER YET! Beloved, we have entered the final stretch of the year. The ember months—September, October, November and December—are often associated with celebrations, travelling, weddings, parties, business activities, family gatherings and end-of-year excitement. But as Christians, we must understand something: The end of the year is not a time to become spiritually careless. It is a time to become spiritually alert! Many people become relaxed because they think, “The year is almost over.” But the devil does not take a holiday. Your prayer life must not go on holiday. Your Bible study must not go on holiday. Your holiness must not go on holiday. Your spiritual discernment must not go on holiday. The fact that we are approaching the end of the year does not mean we should lower our spiritual guard. This is the season to watch, pray, discern and finish well! 1. 🛡️ BE SOBER AND VIGILANT. 1 Peter 5:8 Peter says: > “Be sober, be vigilant…” To be sober means to remain spiritually clear-minded. To be vigilant means to remain watchful and alert. A Christian can be physically awake but spiritually asleep. You may attend church and still become spiritually careless. You may carry a Bible and still lose spiritual sensitivity. You may pray yesterday and still need to pray today. The ember months can bring many distractions: Excessive celebrations Ungodly relationships Financial pressure Peer pressure Sexual temptation Substance abuse Unnecessary travelling Reckless spending Internet and social-media distractions Pressure to “make it before the year ends” Do not allow the excitement of the season to silence the voice of the Holy Spirit. 2. 🙏 WATCH AND PRAY Matthew 26:41 > “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation…” Notice that Jesus did not say pray without watching. He said: Watch AND pray. Prayer without spiritual alertness can make us careless. Spiritual alertness without prayer can make us powerless. We need both. During these months, increase your prayer life. Pray concerning: Your family Your children Your marriage Your career Your ministry Your finances Your travels Your relationships Your spiritual life The decisions you will make Do not wait until trouble comes before you begin to pray. Prayer is not only a crisis response; prayer is spiritual preparation. 3. 🕯️ DO NOT LET THE SEASON STEAL YOUR SPIRITUAL FIRE Romans 12:11 > “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord. One danger of the ember months is spiritual fatigue. People become tired and say: > “I have prayed enough this year.” No! You don't retire from your relationship with God because the calendar is approaching December. Your spiritual fire must continue burning. Leviticus 6:13 > “The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.” Your altar must remain alive. Don't let December find you spiritually empty. Keep reading the Word. Keep praying. Keep worshipping. Keep serving. Keep witnessing. Keep forgiving. Keep walking in holiness. 4. ⚠️ BE CAREFUL WITH DECISIONS MADE UNDER PRESSURE. The final months of the year can create tremendous pressure. People begin asking: “What have you achieved this year?” “How much money have you made?” “When are you getting married?” “When will you build your house?” “When will you buy a car?” “What are you doing with your life?” Such questions can create comparison and desperation. And desperation can lead people into wrong decisions. Remember: You do not need to destroy your future because you are trying to impress people before December 31. Psalm 37:7 says: > “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him…” Do not enter a wrong relationship because you are afraid of being single. Do not enter fraudulent business because you want quick money. Do not compromise your faith because you want acceptance. Do not abandon God's principles because you feel behind. God's timing is better than human pressure. 5. 🎯 FINISH THE YEAR STRONG. Philippians 3:13–14 Paul says: > “Forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before…” There is still time. Perhaps January did not go as planned. Maybe February brought disappointment. Maybe March brought unexpected challenges. Maybe you made mistakes. Maybe opportunities passed. Maybe you experienced losses. But the year is not over yet. Don't spend the remaining months mourning what went wrong. Ask: > “Lord, what can I still do with the time You have given me?” You can still pray. You can still reconcile. You can still start. You can still learn. You can still serve. You can still evangelize. You can still correct your mistakes. You can still become spiritually stronger. There are still chapters of your story that have not been written. 📖 BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: NEHEMIAH. Consider Nehemiah. When Nehemiah and the people were rebuilding Jerusalem's wall, their enemies attempted to distract and intimidate them. Nehemiah 4:9 > “Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night…” Look at the balance: They prayed AND they watched. They did not say: > “We are praying, so we don't need to be careful.” Neither did they say: > “We are watching, so we don't need God.” They did both. Prayer + Watchfulness = Spiritual Alertness This is a powerful principle for the ember months. Pray as though everything depends on God. Work and watch as though God expects you to be responsible. 💡 DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS. 1. Not every opportunity is a God-given opportunity. Some opportunities are simply distractions dressed as blessings. Discern before you accept. 2. Not every relationship deserves access to your destiny. Some relationships strengthen your faith. Others weaken it. Watch your associations. 3. The enemy often uses distraction before destruction. He does not always begin with something obviously evil. Sometimes he begins with: > “Just this once.” Then another time. Then another. Eventually, compromise becomes normal. 4. The final months require spiritual discipline, not spiritual panic. Do not wait until December to start asking God to fix everything. Walk with God daily. 5. Your greatest victory may be finishing faithfully. Not everyone who starts well finishes well. Your goal should not simply be: > “I want to end the year wealthy.” Say: > “I want to end the year closer to God, stronger in faith, cleaner in character and faithful to my assignment.” ✅ PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS FOR THE EMBER MONTHS. 1. Establish a daily prayer time. Even if it is 15–30 minutes, be consistent. 2. Read the Bible daily. Don't allow social media to receive more attention than God's Word. 3. Examine your relationships. Ask who is strengthening your faith and who is weakening it. 4. Avoid unnecessary risks. Be wise with travelling, finances, relationships and celebrations. 5. Control your spending. Don't spend January's resources trying to impress people in December. 6. Stay connected to Christian fellowship. Don't isolate yourself spiritually. 7. Practice gratitude. Count your blessings instead of comparing yourself with others. 8. Set spiritual goals. Before the year ends, decide what you want to accomplish spiritually. 9. Reconcile where necessary. Do not carry unnecessary bitterness into another year. 10. Finish what God has entrusted to you. Don't abandon your assignment because the year has been difficult. 🤔 QUESTIONS FOR PERSONAL REFLECTION 1. How spiritually alert am I right now? 2. Has my prayer life become weaker? 3. What distractions are threatening my relationship with God? 4. Are there relationships I need to reconsider? 5. Am I making decisions because of God's leading or because of pressure? 6. What temptation do I need to become more watchful against? 7. What unfinished assignment should I complete before the year ends? 8. If the year ended today, would I be satisfied with my walk with God? 9. What must I stop doing? 10. What must I start doing? 🙏 POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer for spiritual alertness Father, awaken my spirit and make me sensitive to Your voice. Help me to recognize every distraction and every trap of the enemy. 2. Prayer for protection Lord, preserve me, my family and everyone connected to me throughout these remaining months. Keep us from evil and unnecessary danger. 3. Prayer against temptation Father, strengthen me to say NO to every temptation that can destroy my testimony, destiny and relationship with You. 4. Prayer for divine direction. Lord, guide my decisions. Give me wisdom to know what to accept, what to reject and what to wait for. 5. Prayer against desperation Father, deliver me from the pressure to compete, compare or compromise. Help me to trust Your timing. 6. Prayer for restoration Lord, restore whatever I have lost that is according to Your will, and give me wisdom to recover what can still be recovered. 7. Prayer for finishing well Father, I will not finish this year spiritually empty. Give me grace to finish stronger, wiser, purer and closer to You than I started. 8. Prayer for the family Lord, preserve our families. Let no tragedy, division or destructive influence prevail over our homes. 9. Prayer for purpose Father, help me to complete every assignment You have entrusted to me before the end of this year. 10. Prayer of surrender Lord Jesus, I surrender the remaining months of this year to You. Take control of my life, my plans, my family, my decisions and my future. Let Your will be done in my life. Amen. 🔥 STRONG CLOSING: DON'T SLEEP THROUGH YOUR SEASON! Church, the ember months are here, but God's grace is still available! Don't become careless. Don't become distracted. Don't become desperate. Don't compromise. Don't allow celebrations to replace consecration. Don't allow social pressure to replace God's direction. Don't allow the mistakes of yesterday to destroy the possibilities of tomorrow. WATCH! PRAY! DISCERN! STAND FIRM! FINISH STRONG! The year may be approaching its final months, but your assignment is not finished. Your testimony is not finished. Your purpose is not finished. Your story is not finished. And above all: God is not finished with you! > “Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.” — Mark 13:33 🔥 MY CHARGE TO YOU: Enter the ember months with prayer. Walk through them with wisdom. Live through them with holiness. Move through them with discernment. And finish them with thanksgiving. Be spiritually alert. Your destiny is too valuable to sleep through your season! In Jesus' name, Amen. Surrender your life to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church. You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar.com/m/umoedem https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks CONTACT - Whatsapp 2349024173027, +2349055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com
    0 Commenti 0 condivisioni 10 Views
  • THE DAILY DEVOTION for Tuesday, September 1, 2026

    Acts 1:8… "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and as far as the remotest part of the earth."

    Empowered for the Journey

    When Jesus stood with His disciples just before ascending into heaven, He gave them a final, defining promise: "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses."

    It is easy to read those words and feel a sense of inadequacy. We look at our own frailties, fears, and shortcomings, wondering how we could ever effectively represent a holy God. But the beauty of Acts 1:8 is that the mission never depended on human capability. Jesus did not tell His followers to work up their own courage or polish their speaking skills. Instead, He pointed them to a supernatural source. He promised the Holy Spirit would infuse them with divine power, turning ordinary, hesitant people into bold witnesses.
    That same power is available to us today. We are not called to navigate our faith quietly or rely on our own strength. Whether we are sharing our faith across the globe or simply showing kindness to a neighbor down the street, the Holy Spirit equips us from within. He gives us the courage to speak up when we want to stay silent and the grace to love when it feels difficult. As we lean on Him, our everyday routines become a canvas for His kingdom, proving that God delights in using ordinary lives to accomplish extraordinary things.

    Three Key Spiritual Truths We Can Glean from Acts 1:8

    1. Empowered by God: Spiritual impact does not come from our own willpower or talent, but entirely through the supernatural strength provided by the Holy Spirit.
    2. Called to Witness: Every believer has a distinct calling to bear witness to Christ's love, grace, and truth in the world around them.
    3. Starts Right Where We Are: Witnessing is not just for distant missionaries; it begins in our immediate circles and expands outward as God opens doors.

    "Without the Holy Spirit, there is no life. Any claim of authority is mere pretension. It is vital to acknowledge our utter and complete dependency on the Holy Spirit. His power cannot be imitated, pumped up, gained from mental exercise or force of will..."

    Charles Stanley Pastor and Author
    THE DAILY DEVOTION for Tuesday, September 1, 2026 Acts 1:8… "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and as far as the remotest part of the earth." Empowered for the Journey When Jesus stood with His disciples just before ascending into heaven, He gave them a final, defining promise: "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses." It is easy to read those words and feel a sense of inadequacy. We look at our own frailties, fears, and shortcomings, wondering how we could ever effectively represent a holy God. But the beauty of Acts 1:8 is that the mission never depended on human capability. Jesus did not tell His followers to work up their own courage or polish their speaking skills. Instead, He pointed them to a supernatural source. He promised the Holy Spirit would infuse them with divine power, turning ordinary, hesitant people into bold witnesses. That same power is available to us today. We are not called to navigate our faith quietly or rely on our own strength. Whether we are sharing our faith across the globe or simply showing kindness to a neighbor down the street, the Holy Spirit equips us from within. He gives us the courage to speak up when we want to stay silent and the grace to love when it feels difficult. As we lean on Him, our everyday routines become a canvas for His kingdom, proving that God delights in using ordinary lives to accomplish extraordinary things. Three Key Spiritual Truths We Can Glean from Acts 1:8 1. Empowered by God: Spiritual impact does not come from our own willpower or talent, but entirely through the supernatural strength provided by the Holy Spirit. 2. Called to Witness: Every believer has a distinct calling to bear witness to Christ's love, grace, and truth in the world around them. 3. Starts Right Where We Are: Witnessing is not just for distant missionaries; it begins in our immediate circles and expands outward as God opens doors. "Without the Holy Spirit, there is no life. Any claim of authority is mere pretension. It is vital to acknowledge our utter and complete dependency on the Holy Spirit. His power cannot be imitated, pumped up, gained from mental exercise or force of will..." Charles Stanley Pastor and Author
    0 Commenti 0 condivisioni 7 Views
  • TODAY'S BIBLE READING
    Tuesday, September 1
    OLD TESTAMENT
    1 SAMUEL 8 — Israel Asks for a King
    NEW TESTAMENT
    REVELATION 6 — The Opening of the Seals
    MAJOR PROPHETS
    ISAIAH 43 — God's Promise of Redemption
    TODAY'S REFLECTION
    1 Samuel 8
    Israel demands a human king because they want to be like the surrounding nations. God allows their request but warns them about the consequences. The chapter reminds us not to exchange God's perfect leadership for what merely looks attractive to us.
    Revelation 6
    The Lamb opens the first six seals, revealing events of judgment and upheaval. In the midst of these frightening scenes, we are reminded that Christ remains sovereign and God's purposes are ultimately being fulfilled.
    Isaiah 43
    God reassures Israel that they belong to Him and should not fear. He promises to be with them through the waters and the fire and declares that He is doing a new thing.
    KEY VERSE
    “Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”
    — Isaiah 43:1
    PRAYER
    Heavenly Father, help us to trust Your leadership rather than chasing what the world offers. When circumstances become difficult or uncertain, remind us that we belong to You. Give us courage to walk by faith, remain obedient to Your Word, and recognize the new things You are doing in our lives. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.
    TODAY'S CHALLENGE
    Before making a decision today, ask yourself: “Am I choosing this because God is leading me, or simply because it looks attractive to me?” Choose God's way and trust His direction.
    WE STUDY. WE PRAY. WE OBEY. WE GROW. UNTIL WE ARE TOTALLY TRANSFORMED.
    📖 TODAY'S BIBLE READING Tuesday, September 1 📜 OLD TESTAMENT 1 SAMUEL 8 — Israel Asks for a King ✝️ NEW TESTAMENT REVELATION 6 — The Opening of the Seals 🌿 MAJOR PROPHETS ISAIAH 43 — God's Promise of Redemption 🌿 TODAY'S REFLECTION 📜 1 Samuel 8 Israel demands a human king because they want to be like the surrounding nations. God allows their request but warns them about the consequences. The chapter reminds us not to exchange God's perfect leadership for what merely looks attractive to us. ✝️ Revelation 6 The Lamb opens the first six seals, revealing events of judgment and upheaval. In the midst of these frightening scenes, we are reminded that Christ remains sovereign and God's purposes are ultimately being fulfilled. 🌿 Isaiah 43 God reassures Israel that they belong to Him and should not fear. He promises to be with them through the waters and the fire and declares that He is doing a new thing. ✨ KEY VERSE “Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.” — Isaiah 43:1 🙏 PRAYER Heavenly Father, help us to trust Your leadership rather than chasing what the world offers. When circumstances become difficult or uncertain, remind us that we belong to You. Give us courage to walk by faith, remain obedient to Your Word, and recognize the new things You are doing in our lives. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen. 🌿 TODAY'S CHALLENGE Before making a decision today, ask yourself: “Am I choosing this because God is leading me, or simply because it looks attractive to me?” Choose God's way and trust His direction. WE STUDY. WE PRAY. WE OBEY. WE GROW. UNTIL WE ARE TOTALLY TRANSFORMED. 📖✨🙏
    0 Commenti 0 condivisioni 51 Views
  • ALL THE ENDS OF THE WORLD SHALL REMEMBER

    Turn Your Heart Back to God

    ANCHOR SCRIPTURE

    Psalm 22:27 (KJV) “All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.”

    1. REMEMBER GOD

    Life can make people forget God when things are going well.

    Never let success make you forget the One who gave you life.

    2. TURN TO THE LORD

    Remembering God must lead to action.

    When you have gone the wrong way, turn back to Him.

    It is never too late to return to God.

    3. WORSHIP GOD

    The right response to God's goodness is worship.

    Worship is more than singing—it is honouring God with your life.

    4. GOD'S CALL IS FOR EVERYONE

    The Scripture speaks of “all the ends of the world” and “all the kindreds of the nations.”

    God's invitation is not limited to one group.

    KEY LESSON

    1. Remember God.
    2. Return to Him.
    3. Worship Him.
    4. Live for Him.
    5. Invite others to know Him.

    FINAL CHARGE

    Remember God before life makes you forget Him. Turn to Him before you drift too far. Worship Him while you still have breath.

    SHORT PRAYER

    Father, help me never to forget You. When I drift, draw me back; when I grow weak, strengthen me; and let my life continually honour and worship You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

    Prepared by Rev. Frank Fabian Aidoo
    +233544295158
    ALL THE ENDS OF THE WORLD SHALL REMEMBER Turn Your Heart Back to God ANCHOR SCRIPTURE Psalm 22:27 (KJV) “All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.” 1. REMEMBER GOD Life can make people forget God when things are going well. Never let success make you forget the One who gave you life. 2. TURN TO THE LORD Remembering God must lead to action. When you have gone the wrong way, turn back to Him. It is never too late to return to God. 3. WORSHIP GOD The right response to God's goodness is worship. Worship is more than singing—it is honouring God with your life. 4. GOD'S CALL IS FOR EVERYONE The Scripture speaks of “all the ends of the world” and “all the kindreds of the nations.” God's invitation is not limited to one group. KEY LESSON 1. Remember God. 2. Return to Him. 3. Worship Him. 4. Live for Him. 5. Invite others to know Him. FINAL CHARGE Remember God before life makes you forget Him. Turn to Him before you drift too far. Worship Him while you still have breath. SHORT PRAYER Father, help me never to forget You. When I drift, draw me back; when I grow weak, strengthen me; and let my life continually honour and worship You. In Jesus' name, Amen. Prepared by Rev. Frank Fabian Aidoo +233544295158
    0 Commenti 0 condivisioni 11 Views
Pagine in Evidenza