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.

DBF-001-039 continues with John 2:18. The Jewish authorities now challenge Jesus to prove His authority. Their response exposes a recurring human problem: demanding that God prove Himself on our terms rather than submitting to the revelation He has already given. DAILY BREAD FELLOWSHIP DBF-001-039 Today’s Scripture John 2:18 (ESV) “So the Jews said to him, ‘What sign do you show us for doing these things?’” Opening the Scriptures Jesus had cleansed the temple. He had driven out those who were misusing His Father’s house and had demonstrated unmistakable authority. The Jewish authorities now confronted Him. Their question was essentially: What gives You the right to do this? They demanded a sign. This is striking because the problem Jesus confronted was already visible before them. The temple had been misused, yet instead of first examining what had gone wrong, they challenged the authority of the One who confronted it. They wanted Jesus to prove Himself. This attitude will appear repeatedly throughout His ministry. People will see His works, hear His words, and still demand something more before they will believe. The deeper problem is not always lack of evidence. Sometimes it is an unwillingness to submit. Living God’s Word Today We must be careful not to approach God in the same way. We can quietly begin making bargains with Him. “God, if You answer this prayer, then I will trust You.” “If You solve this problem, then I will believe You are with me.” “If You give me what I ask for, then I will obey.” That is not biblical faith. God does not stand before us waiting to pass our examination. We stand before Him. He has revealed Himself in creation. He has spoken through His Word. Most importantly, He has revealed Himself through His Son, Jesus Christ. Our responsibility is not to demand that God continually prove Himself according to conditions we establish. Our responsibility is to hear His Word, believe Him, and obey. This does not mean Christians should never ask sincere questions. Scripture contains many faithful servants of God who cried out for understanding during difficult circumstances. There is a great difference, however, between seeking understanding and demanding proof before we will obey. One says: “Lord, help me understand.” The other says: “Lord, prove Yourself to me first.” The religious leaders were standing before Jesus Christ, yet they demanded another sign. We should examine our own hearts before criticizing theirs. God has already given us the greatest revelation possible. He has given us His Son. And as we continue through John’s Gospel, we will discover that Jesus will point toward the greatest sign of all: His death and resurrection. Do not build your faith upon demanding another miracle. Build your life upon the Christ revealed in God’s Word. Question for Today Are you trusting what God has revealed, or are you demanding that He prove Himself on your terms? Respond: “Lord, help me trust Your Word and obey You.”

True wisdom is seen in how you live, not just in what you say. 🤍 James 3:13 reminds us that if we desire to be counted wise, our lives must reflect it. Wisdom is expressed through our choices, our character, our attitude, and the way we treat others. Live well. Live wisely. Live humbly. Let your life speak louder than your words, and let everything you do reflect the wisdom that comes from God. 🌿✨ May our lives continually testify of God’s wisdom. Amen. 🙏🏽

*TODAY'S PROPHETIC DECLARATION - MONDAY, 31ST AUGUST, 2026.* 🌟*HOLD FAST TO GOD'S WORD*🌟 Last Monday & Last Day of August 📖 Scripture: “And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” — Mark 7:9 (KJV). 🔥*Reflection – Let God's Word Have the Final Authority* In Mark 7, Jesus confronted the religious leaders because they had allowed human traditions to take priority over God's commandments. The problem was not simply tradition itself. Traditions can have value, but they become dangerous when human practices replace God's truth. As we come to the final day of August, this verse invites us to examine our hearts. Are there habits we have become comfortable with that God is asking us to change? Are there opinions, traditions, expectations, or human approval that have become more important to us than obedience to God's Word? Christianity is not merely about outward religious activities. God desires a heart that genuinely loves Him and obeys His Word. As August closes, let us surrender our ways to God and allow His Word to shape our lives in the new month. Don't allow tradition to take the place of transformation. 🔊*Prophetic Declaration:* Today, I declare that God's Word shall have the highest authority in my life. I will not allow human opinions, traditions, pressure, or expectations to take the place of God's truth. I declare that my heart is open to correction, instruction, transformation, and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Today, I receive grace to examine my habits, attitudes, decisions, and priorities. Wherever my ways have departed from God's will, may the Lord lovingly redirect my steps. I declare that I shall not be controlled by the desire to please people at the expense of pleasing God. My loyalty shall be to Christ, and my decisions shall be guided by His Word. I proclaim divine wisdom over my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and destiny. May God's truth guide every important decision I make. I declare that every unhealthy habit, ungodly pattern, destructive mindset, and practice that is contrary to God's will shall lose its influence over my life. Today, I choose obedience over convenience, truth over popularity, righteousness over compromise, and God's approval over human applause. I declare that my faith shall not become merely an outward religious routine. I want my worship to come from a sincere heart, and my obedience to flow from genuine love for Christ. As August comes to an end, I declare that every lesson God has taught me shall produce transformation in my life. I shall not merely hear God's Word—I shall live by it. I proclaim that September shall be a month of deeper obedience, spiritual maturity, renewed commitment, divine wisdom, and greater intimacy with God. I declare that the Lord shall expose anything that has quietly taken His place in my heart. May He remove every idol of human approval, pride, tradition, materialism, fear, or self-will. Today, I surrender my plans and expectations to God. His will shall be greater than my preferences, and His purpose shall be greater than my plans. I declare that my life shall become a testimony of authentic faith—not merely what I say publicly, but what I practice privately. God's Word is my standard. Christ is my Lord. Obedience is my response. Truth is my foundation. And God's will is my desire. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen! 🙏🔥📖 ✅*Action Steps for today:* 1️⃣ Begin with thanksgiving: Thank God for preserving you throughout the entire month of August. 2️⃣ Read Mark 7:1–13: Reflect on Jesus' warning about allowing human traditions to replace God's commandments. 3️⃣ Declare: “God's Word is the final authority in my life. I choose obedience over human approval.” 4️⃣ Examine your heart: Ask yourself, “Is there any habit, attitude, tradition, or desire that is taking priority over God's will?” 5️⃣ Make one change: Identify one area where God is calling you to greater obedience and take a practical step today. 6️⃣ Guard against people-pleasing: Remember that pleasing God is more important than receiving everyone's approval. 7️⃣ Prepare for September: Write down one spiritual goal for the new month—such as deeper prayer, Bible study, evangelism, forgiveness, or consistent worship. 8️⃣ Close August with gratitude: Thank God for His mercy, protection, provision, correction, and faithfulness throughout the month. 🔥*Prayer for the Last Day of August:* Heavenly Father, I thank You for bringing me safely to the final day of August. Looking back, I can see Your mercy, protection, provision, guidance, and faithfulness. Lord, as I close this month, search my heart and reveal anything that is not pleasing to You. Forgive me for every time I have allowed human opinion, tradition, convenience, pride, fear, or the desire for approval to become more important than Your Word. Help me to love Your truth and obey Your commandments. Give me a heart that is willing to receive correction. Where I have gone wrong, redirect me. Where I have become spiritually complacent, awaken me. Where I have become distracted, draw me back to You. Lord, let my worship come from a sincere heart. Let my Christianity be more than outward appearance or religious routine. May my private life agree with my public confession of faith. I surrender my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, plans, and future to You. As I enter September, help me to walk more closely with You. Give me greater hunger for Your Word, deeper commitment to prayer, stronger faith, and greater obedience. Let September bring spiritual growth, divine direction, fruitful service, and opportunities to glorify Christ. Thank You for every blessing and every lesson of August. I close August with gratitude, and I enter September with faith. May Your Word guide me, Your Spirit lead me, and Your will be accomplished in my life. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen. 🙏🕊️ 🌿*Blessing for today:* May the Lord's Word remain the foundation of your life as August comes to an end. May God give you grace to recognize everything that must be surrendered, corrected, changed, or strengthened before entering the new month. May you finish August with gratitude instead of regret, faith instead of fear, peace instead of anxiety, and obedience instead of compromise. May the Lord bless your family, strengthen your ministry, establish the work of your hands, guide your studies, prosper your honest endeavors, and order your steps according to His purpose. As September begins, may you experience fresh grace, renewed strength, greater wisdom, deeper faith, divine favor, and spiritual growth. 🔥 God's Word shall guide you. 📖 His truth shall transform you. 🕊️ His Spirit shall lead you. 🙏 His grace shall sustain you. 🌟 His purpose shall prevail in your life. 🌟 LAST MONDAY & LAST DAY OF AUGUST 📖 “FULL WELL YE REJECT THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, THAT YE MAY KEEP YOUR OWN TRADITION.” — MARK 7:9. As you close the month of August, may you release every way that is contrary to God's will and enter September with a heart fully surrendered to Christ. Goodbye August! 👋 Thank You, Lord, for Your faithfulness! 🙌 Welcome September! 🌅 I enter the new month with faith, obedience, hope, and expectation! 🔥 Good morning beloved, happy new week and do have a blessed, peaceful, fruitful, and spiritually renewed final day of August! 🙏🕊️📖 Shalom! *Remember: Your confession is your possession.* *©️ Postulant C. O. Oyadosu.* _Please share with others, thank you and God bless you 🙏_ For counseling, prayers and partnership or you want to share your testimonies with us; please call or Whatsapp: +2348063128703 Or Email: clementoyadosu[gmail].com

Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀🎀💝🎁🌺🌹MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY. MONDAY AUGUST 31, 2026. "WHAT IS "SUCCESS " FOR YOU?" I have glorified You on the earth...’ John 17:4 NKJV AT THE end of His life, Jesus was able to pray, ‘I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do.’ Jesus didn’t try to compete with John the Baptist or model Himself after some Old Testament prophet. He knew what ‘success’ was for Him. To know what it is for you, you must: 1) Discern what success really is. When others feel good about you, you’re popular; but when you feel good about yourself, you’re successful. Your life’s highest calling will always create the highest level of joy within you. 2) Before you set goals, pray. ‘In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths’ (Proverbs 3:6 NKJV). It’s not wrong to set goals, it’s just wrong to set them without first consulting God. 3) Stop expecting others to bring you success. Don’t wait for flowers to arrive. God gave you seed; start growing some of your own. ‘Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else’ (Galatians 6:4 NLT). And besides, when you’re less needy you’ll become more attractive to others. 4) Get over yourself—everyone else has. A minister said he was praying one day, ‘Father, why does the devil keep reminding me of my past?’ God replied, ‘Because he’s running low on material!’ Repent, and then move on. God says He will ‘…not remember your sins’ (Isaiah 43:25 NKJV). There’s only one good reason to bring up the past, and that’s to learn from it and grow wiser. Bible In A Year: Ezek 22-23, Matt 22:23-33, Ps 142, Pro 19:21-23. 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. [30/08, 9:40 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* MONDAY, 31ST AUGUST, 2026. *DANCING AT THE GATES OF HELL* *TEXT:* MICAH 2:7-13. 7 O thou that art named the house of Jacob, is the spirit of the LORD straitened? are these his doings? do not my words do good to him that walketh uprightly? 8 Even of late my people is risen up as an enemy: ye pull off the robe with the garment from them that pass by securely as men averse from war. 9 The women of my people have ye cast out from their pleasant houses; from their children have ye taken away my glory for ever. 10 Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction. 11 If a man walking in the spirit and falsehood do lie, saying, I will prophesy unto thee of wine and of strong drink; he shall even be the prophet of this people. 12 I will surely assemble, O Jacob, all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as the flock in the midst of their fold: they shall make great noise by reason of the multitude of men. 13 The breaker is come up before them: they have broken up, and have passed through the gate, and are gone out by it: and their king shall pass before them, and the LORD on the head of them. *Timeless Truth:*_"Woe to them that are at ease in Zion, and trust in the mountain of Samaria, which are named chief of the nations, to whom the house of Israel came"_ (Amos 6:1). *INTRODUCTION* It is dangerous to live carelessly at the edge of spiritual destruction, presuming that God's patience means that His judgment will never come. The people of Israel had become comfortable with sin, oppression and false teachings, yet they still wanted to hear pleasant messages. They were, in effect, dancing at the gates of hell—enjoying temporary pleasures while moving dangerously close to divine judgment. The audience of Micah foreshadows this modern age or last days when the *"people will no longer be able to endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears"* (2 Timothy 4:3). If Israel was severely punished for preferring fables to the sound Word of truth, the people of this age will have a more *"sorer punishments"* in eternal hell fire. Micah's message calls us to examine our hearts, remember the consequences of persistent rebellion and hasten to leave every path that leads to destruction. *1. Heart-Probing Questions* a. There were some probing questions in the text. *"O house of Jacob, is the Spirit of the LORD straitened [limited]?"* The people complained that God's power or patience was too short or that His Spirit should only give good messages instead of warning them about judgment. In the last days too, the same attitude and preference will increasingly continue. *"They shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables"* (2 Timothy 4:4). The sound doctrine of the Word of God will be a heavy burden and unbearable to the religious lovers of pleasure. Many preachers will unfaithfully dilute their messages to suit their audience and make them happy though they will eventually, lead them to destruction and hell. They also asked, *"Are these his doings?"*. The people questioned if God was really behind the hard times or the warnings of punishment they were hearing. To them, God is too good to inflict such a heavy judgment. It was not God that was behind their hard times, but their evils. When you do evil, evil will follow and when you do good, good will follow. b. God answered their questions. *"Do not my words do good to him that walketh uprightly?"* God answers that His messages are always good and helpful for people who actually, live right and obey Him. Even when the Word of God is a warning judgment, it is equally to do good to those who are rebellious and disobedient for it will turn them from the path of destruction. All the messages of God are good and are intended to do good in the lives of the obedient. Hearing His Word is never a liability if there is love for the truth. We must stop blaming God, the Church, our circumstances or other people for the consequences of our disobedience. The probing question is directed at our hearts: Are we walking uprightly before God? A person who rejects God's correction, but expects His blessings is dangerously deceiving himself. *Question* When God's Word confronts your lifestyle, do you humbly submit to it or resist its correction? *2. History of Protracted Quarrel* a. The basis of God's quarrel with Israel had always been because of their sins and violence against moral laws. God always gives reasons to justify His judgments so that it is clear to all that people's disobedience is not a matter of ignorance, but a deliberate choice and exercise of their will. Some of their evils were listed. The rebellion of God's people was not a momentary mistake; it had become a prolonged quarrel against God's righteous ways. They rose against others as enemies, robbed the peaceful, oppressed women and drove children away from their inheritance. *"The women of my people have ye cast out from their pleasant places"*. Furthermore, the children were messed up, demoralized and denied basic moral training and discipline that would make them radiate the glory of God. *"From their children have ye taken away my glory for ever"*. Robbery and insecurity of lives and property became a booming trade in the land. *"Ye pull off the robe with the garment from them that pass by securely"*. Worse still, they preferred false prophets who specialize in prophesying ephemeral blessings including wine and strong drink. b. Israel had a long history of persistent rebellion despite warnings from the prophets. Sin often begins as a private compromise, but can grow into a lifestyle that damages others. Persistent rebellion against God results in injustice, selfishness and spiritual blindness. Those dancing at the gates of hell may laugh at warnings and celebrate false assurances, but judgment does not disappear because people refuse to hear about it. *Question* Is there any sinful habit you have allowed to continue for so long that it is now affecting other people? *3. Hasten to Permanently Quit* God commanded His people to arise and depart because their sinful condition had made their present position spiritually unsafe. Lot was told by the angel to hasten *"while he lingers"* though the fire of hell was almost dropping like rain. He was warned *"escape for thy life"* (Genesis 19:16,17). If he had delayed further, the fire of God would have caught him with all his family members. When God pronounces His judgments on wickedness, the wisest thing to do is to speedily take steps and quit whatever is displeasing to God. *“This is not your rest.”* Though the judgment of God was catching up with them, they still believed their mind and the messages of compromising prophets who promised them *"peace, peace, when there is no peace"*. They were relaxed, unresponsive and continued their lives of pleasure as if the prophet was just wasting his time. Any promised rest or enjoyment in the midst of sin is fake and deceptive. *"Arise ye, and depart, for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction"*. God always remembers mercy in His wrath. He asked them to seek for exile in other countries because the judgment on the land as a result of their evil was irreversible. God's solution against His judgments is always departure from sin and objects of divine rebukes and displeasure. *"Depart ye, depart ye"*. b. As characterictic of God, the message ended with hope and restoration for the repentant remnants. God promised to gather His remnant and lead them like a shepherd. After they had suffered in the land of the captivity, "the Breaker" (The Messiah) went before them, opening the way for deliverance and led them back to their land. This will also be repeated in the last days when Messiah will come back to deliver Israel from the hand of their enemies, especially the Antichrist. God does not call us to abandon sin without providing the grace and power to escape it. Christ is our Deliverer, able to break the chains of bondage and lead us into true freedom. Do not dance near the gates of hell. Arise, repent and permanently quit every sinful path. Run toward Christ, who alone leads His people safely through the way of life. *Question* What must you urgently and permanently leave behind in order to walk freely with Christ? *Prayer Points* 1.Lord, search my heart and reveal every area where I have resisted Your Word and correction🙏. 2.Father, deliver me from every prolonged habit of sin that is destroying my fellowship with You and hurting others🙏. 3.Lord, give me more love for the truth and give me hatred for all forms of deceptions🙏 4.Lord Jesus, my Deliverer and Breaker, go before me, break every chain of bondage and lead me into a life of holiness and victory👆. *HYMN:* Have you counted the cost? *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* ESTHER 6-10. [30/08, 9:40 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) MONDAY 31ST AUGUST, 2026``` *CAGED IN COMFORT* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️⚠️‼️🛑🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:MICAH 2:7-13```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction" (MICAH 2:10).*_ *In 2019, a massive earthquake struck Indonesia, displacing thousands of people. Entire communities were forced to abandon their homes, not because they wanted to, but because the ground beneath them had become unstable. For many, staying behind meant certain destruction. The tragedy was not just in the collapse of buildings but also in the reluctance of some to leave despite clear warnings.* *Micah's message to Israel carried a similar urgency. In Micah 2:10, the prophet declares, "Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction." The people of Israel had settled into spiritual complacency, believing that their land and prosperity were secure. Yet, their corruption had made their very dwelling place dangerous. God's warning was clear: comfort without righteousness leads to ruin.* *The Israelites had defiled the land with injustice and idolatry. They exploited the poor, perverted justice, and silenced the voices of truth. Yet, they refused to believe that judgment was coming. Their sense of security was false. Micah's call was not just about physical exile but also about a spiritual awakening.* *This is a message for our generation. Many cling to lifestyles, habits, or environments that have become spiritually toxic. Some remain in relationships, careers, or ideologies that corrupt their faith. The call to "arise and depart" is not always about physical relocation but about spiritual repositioning. God often calls His people to leave behind what is no longer safe for their souls. When we refuse, destruction follows. Israel's refusal to heed this warning led a life devoid of His presence and peace.* *Are there habits, relationships, associations, or mind-sets that you need to leave behind? Spiritual stagnation is as dangerous as physical complacency. When a place, practice, or pursuit no longer aligns with God's will, staying becomes destructive. The believer's true rest is not in earthly security but in God Himself. When He calls us to move, it is always for our preservation. Do not let comfort keep you in a place that has become unfit for your soul.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*No amount of wealth can buy enduring rest for it only abides in Christ.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *ESTHER 6-10*📜📜 Caged In Comfort https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 190: "CALLED UNTO HOLINESS"; GHS 179: HIGHER GROUND; GHS 189: TAKE TIME TO BE HOLY; AND GHS 253: MY PORTION FOR EVER* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna31stAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [30/08, 9:40 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```MONDAY 31ST AUGUST, 2026``` *POWER OF FAITH CONFESSION - 1* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🗣️🙏🏽🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:LUKE 7:1-10```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed" (LUKE 7:7).*_ *Faith confession is when your spoken word agrees with the written word of God - the Bible. It is saying what God says about your situation. God has said wonderful, life-changing things about His children. When we agree with His word and speak the same thing, the resultant effect is that it brings positive changes in our circumstances - academics, health, career, spiritual life, and standard of living.* *Saying what God says about your life brings you to heights you can never dream you could reach. Therefore, speak victory and not defeat. Meditate on the unfailing promises of God. "A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth" (Proverbs 12:14a). Be positive with your words. Negative words attract negative things to you.* *Your words will either bring pain or pleasure. Your confession will produce life or death. Your words shape your life. Therefore, choose your words carefully before you utter them. God spoke, "and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast" (Psalm 33:9). In like manner, you possess what you confess because you are created after the image of God.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Speak victory and not defeat.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Be positive in your confession.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, help my decision to always speak positive words.*_ Power Of Faith Confession - 1 https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday31stAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [30/08, 9:40 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```MONDAY 31ST AUGUST, 2026``` *THE BLAME GAME* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️👥👉🏼👈🏼❌🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```GENESIS 3:9-15```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat" (Genesis 3:12).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 God put our first parents in the Garden of Eden to care for it and enjoy all the good things in it. But the devil came and deceived the woman to disobey God, and eventually Adam too disobeyed. When God came down calling for man and asking why they had disobeyed His instruction, the blame game started. Each of them started shifting blame. God who is patient and longsuffering asked the woman to explain what happened, she too pushed the blame to the serpent. If they had simply acknowledged their sinfulness and begged for forgiveness, the human race will not be in the mess we are in today. Their disobedience corrupted and made us dirty before God. We all inherited the nature of sin and wickedness. This is the reason many children often pass off their wrongdoings to others. Some children, even when caught red-handed, will still blame someone else for their disobedience. *God wants us to be humble enough to accept responsibility for our wrongdoings. Do not shift the blame, repent and ask God to have mercy on you.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord, give me the courage to always own up to my disobedience and also repent.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *1 Samuel 15:10-21* The Blame Game https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk31stAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ: ⏤ Philippians 3:20 The men who have done the most for God in this world have been early on their knees. ⏤ E.M. Bounds O God, most merciful—bless us this morning. Lay Your hand upon us with a Father’s blessing. May the grace of the Lord Jesus be upon us and in us all day long. Let Your word dwell in our hearts richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing us. May it be so deeply rooted in us that it keeps us from sin. May the power of Your Spirit rest upon us throughout this day, cleansing and purifying our thoughts, feelings, and all our inner life, and compelling us to walk in holiness in all we say and do. Please guide us today, O God, and keep us in all our experiences. Guard us from carelessness. Let us not drift away from the holy truths we have been taught, nor from Jesus Christ our Savior. Let us not become entangled in the affairs of this world in a way that causes us to lose any of the sanctity of our lives. Though we are in the world, let us not be of it. Help us to maintain a godly life amid all that is ungodly. May our citizenship always be visibly in Heaven, even though we dwell on this earth. May we be true pilgrims, looking for a city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. Let us not love this world as if we were going to stay in it forever. Grant a personal blessing to each one in our family. Our needs are different. Tenderly care for those of us who are weak. Shelter any of us who will be exposed to temptation today, and let us not fall. If any unforeseen trouble or sorrow lies in our path, prepare us for it, that we may not be caught off guard and fall into sin. May we each carry out into the world a power of love and grace that will bless everyone we meet. We ask all this for Jesus’ sake. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/57/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: 6 SIGNS SOMEONE ISN’T REALLY CHRISTIAN. “A Christian by Name, or a Christian by Nature?” Text: Matthew 7:21–23; 2 Corinthians 13:5; 1 John 2:3–6 🔥 NOT EVERYONE WHO SAYS “LORD” KNOWS THE LORD. There is a dangerous assumption in Christianity today: “If someone goes to church, carries a Bible, posts Bible verses, sings worship songs, or calls Jesus ‘Lord,’ then that person must be a Christian.” But Jesus warned us that this is not always true. > “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 7:2 That statement should make every one of us pause. Jesus did not say, “Not everyone who attends church.” He said, “Not everyone who says, ‘Lord, Lord.’” This means it is possible to have Christian language without Christian life. It is possible to have a Bible in your hand but not have Christ in your heart. It is possible to be active in church but inactive in obedience. It is possible to know Christian songs without knowing Christ. And therefore, the question today is not: “Do people think I am a Christian?” The question is: “Does my life give evidence that I truly belong to Christ?” This message is not designed to judge other people. It is a mirror before it becomes a weapon. Before you examine your neighbor, examine yourself. LOOK AT THE 6 SIGNS:- 1. THEY HAVE NO GENUINE DESIRE TO OBEY CHRIST. A genuine Christian is not perfect, but there is a genuine desire to please God. Jesus said: > “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” — John 14:15 Obedience does not save us; Christ saves us. But genuine salvation produces a desire to obey the One who saved us. Someone may say: > “Jesus is my Lord.” But if Jesus is truly Lord, He must have authority over your decisions. You cannot continually say: “Jesus is Lord,” while your lifestyle says: “I am my own lord.” Important distinction A true Christian can fall into sin. But there is a difference between: falling into sin and building your life around sin. There is a difference between: > “Lord, I have failed. Forgive me.” and: > “I know it is wrong, but I don't care.” The first demonstrates repentance. The second demonstrates rebellion. 2. THEY HAVE NO EVIDENCE OF SPIRITUAL FRUIT. Jesus said: > “Ye shall know them by their fruits.” — Matthew 7:16 Notice that Jesus did not say: “You shall know them by their clothes.” He did not say: “You shall know them by their church attendance.” He said: “By their fruits.” What is growing in your life? Is there increasing love? Is there increasing patience? Is there forgiveness? Is there humility? Is there self-control? Is there compassion? Is there holiness? Galatians 5:22–23 describes the fruit of the Spirit. A genuine Christian should show evidence of spiritual transformation. Not perfection. Transformation. If someone has been claiming Christ for years but there is absolutely no evidence of Christlike character, that should lead to serious self-examination. 3. THEY LOVE THE WORLD MORE THAN THEY LOVE GOD. 1 John 2:15 says: > “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.” The Bible is not saying Christians cannot enjoy God's creation, work hard, have possessions, or live normal lives. The warning is about worldliness becoming the master of the heart. When money becomes more important than righteousness... When popularity becomes more important than holiness... When sexual pleasure becomes more important than obedience... When social media approval becomes more important than God's approval... When material possessions become our identity... Something is wrong. Jesus asked: > “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” — Mark 8:36 A Christian lives in the world, but the world must not live in the Christian's heart. 4. THEY HAVE NO LOVE FOR OTHER BELIEVERS. This is one of the strongest biblical tests. 1 John 3:14 says: > “He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.” Christianity is not merely about loving God with our lips. It also affects how we treat people. You cannot continually hate everyone, refuse forgiveness, enjoy destroying people's reputations, and then claim that your relationship with Christ is healthy. Jesus said: > “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” — John 13:35 Love does not mean allowing people to abuse you. Love does not mean approving everything people do. Love means treating people with the character of Christ. Ask yourself: How do I treat people who cannot benefit me? How do I treat those who disagree with me? How do I respond when someone succeeds? Can I forgive? Can I apologize? Can I celebrate another person's progress? Because sometimes the greatest evidence of Christianity is not what happens inside the church building, but how we behave outside it. 5. THEY ONLY FOLLOW JESUS WHEN IT IS CONVENIENT. Some people want Jesus as Savior but refuse Him as Lord. They want: Blessing without obedience. Breakthrough without discipline. Promises without repentance. Heaven without holiness. The crown without the cross. But Jesus said: > “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” — Luke 9:23 Following Christ will sometimes cost you something. It may cost you a relationship. It may cost you an opportunity. It may cost you popularity. It may cost you comfort. It may require you to say: “No.” when everybody else is saying: “Yes.” A genuine disciple does not follow Jesus only when following Him is profitable. Real Christianity is tested when obedience becomes costly. 6. THEY HAVE CHRISTIAN KNOWLEDGE BUT NO PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST. This may be the most frightening sign. A person can know about Jesus without actually knowing Jesus. You can memorize Scripture. You can preach sermons. You can sing worship songs. You can teach Sunday school. You can even perform religious activities. And still have a heart far from God. Jesus said in Matthew 7:23: > “I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” Those are terrifying words. Notice something: Jesus did not say: “You never knew about Me.” He said: “I never knew you.” Christianity is not merely information about Christ. It is relationship with Christ. You can know the Bible and not obey the Author. You can know Christian vocabulary and not know the Savior. You can sit in church every Sunday and still be spiritually lost. 📖 BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: JUDAS ISCARIOT One of the most sobering examples is Judas. Judas walked with Jesus. He heard Jesus teach. He witnessed miracles. He was among the disciples. He participated in ministry. Yet his heart was not surrendered to Christ. Eventually, he betrayed Jesus. This teaches us something uncomfortable: Being close to Christian activity does not automatically mean being close to Christ. You can be around the fire and still be cold inside. You can be around worship and still have an unconverted heart. You can be around pastors and still need salvation. You can be a church worker and still need Jesus. Therefore, don't ask: “How long have I been in church?” Ask: “Has Christ truly transformed my life?” 🔥 A DEEP SPIRITUAL TRUTH. Salvation is not proven by perfection; it is evidenced by transformation. The Christian life is not: > “I never make mistakes.” It is: > “I no longer want to remain the person I used to be.” When Christ enters a person's life, something begins to change. Their desires begin to change. Their priorities begin to change. Their relationships begin to change. Their attitude toward sin begins to change. Their hunger for God's Word begins to change. Their response to correction begins to change. Their heart begins to change. That is the work of grace. 🛠️ PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS. 1. Examine yourself Paul says: > “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith.” — 2 Corinthians 13:5 Don't only examine your neighbor. Examine yourself. 2. Repent where necessary Don't defend what God is asking you to surrender. If the Holy Spirit reveals something, repent. 3. Return to God's Word Don't build your Christianity around social media quotes. Build it around Scripture. Read it. Study it. Believe it. Practice it. 4. Develop a genuine prayer life Prayer is not merely asking God for things. Prayer is relationship. Talk to God. Listen to God. Seek His will. 5. Look for spiritual fruit Ask: “Am I becoming more like Christ?” Not: “Am I better than someone else?” 6. Make Jesus Lord, not merely Savior Don't only ask Jesus to rescue you from hell. Ask Him to rule your heart. 🤔 QUESTIONS FOR PERSONAL REFLECTION. 1. If someone watched my life for 30 days, would they see evidence of Christ? 2. Do I obey God only when obedience benefits me? 3. What fruit of the Spirit is growing in my life? 4. How do I treat people who cannot reward me? 5. Have I genuinely repented of my sins, or have I simply learned Christian language? 6. Do I know Jesus personally, or do I only know about Him? 🙏 POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer of Examination Father, search my heart and reveal anything in me that is not pleasing to You. 2. Prayer of Repentance Lord Jesus, wherever I have lived in disobedience, forgive me and give me grace to turn completely back to You. 3. Prayer for Transformation Holy Spirit, transform my character and produce Your fruit in my life. 4. Prayer for Genuine Faith Father, remove every form of hypocrisy from my life. Let my Christianity be genuine, not merely outward. 5. Prayer for Love Lord, give me grace to love people sincerely, forgive quickly, and represent Christ correctly. 6. Prayer for Perseverance Jesus, when following You becomes difficult, give me strength not to turn back. 7. Prayer for Spiritual Hunger Lord, give me a deeper hunger for Your Word, prayer, holiness, and Your presence. 🔥 STRONG CLOSING: DON'T JUST WEAR THE NAME—CARRY THE NATURE. Church, the greatest question is not: “Am I called a Christian?” The greatest question is: “Does Christ truly live in me?” Don't be satisfied because your name is on a church register. Don't be satisfied because you have a Bible. Don't be satisfied because you attend Christian programs. Don't be satisfied because you can quote Scripture. Don't be satisfied because people call you “Brother” or “Sister.” Make sure you know Jesus. If you have drifted, come back. If you have been pretending, repent. If your faith has become merely religious, return to Christ. If you have never truly surrendered your life to Jesus, today is the day to surrender. Because one day, every religious mask will fall. Every title will disappear. Every reputation will disappear. Every earthly achievement will disappear. And we will stand before Christ. So let our prayer be: > “Lord Jesus, make me a genuine Christian—not merely a Christian by name, but a Christian by nature, character, faith, obedience, and love.” Don't just carry the Bible. Live the Bible. Don't just talk about Jesus. Follow Jesus. Don't just wear the name Christian. Let Christ be seen in you. May our lives preach the Gospel even when our mouths are silent. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen. Accept Jesus Christ today by joining a Bible believing Church near you 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 https://afrikdp.com/author/9128a016-dd79-4f17-9e60-bf11f65f1a34 CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com

Pray about everything, at any time, and for other believers with a persistent heart. Believers are called to maintain an ongoing, prayerful attitude of dependence on God throughout everyday life, rather than only praying in a crisis. #GodNeverSlumber #GodNeverTire #LordsBook

LEP'S FAITH QUOTES: Precious in the Sight of God 8/31 Monday Meditation If the saints only knew how precious they are in the sight of God they would scarcely be able to sleep for thinking of His watchful, loving care. Oh, He is a precious Jesus! He is a lovely Savior! He is divine in all His attitude toward us, and makes our hearts to burn. There is nothing like it. "Oh," they said on the road to Emmaus, "did not our hearts burn within us, as He walked with us and talked with us?" (Luke 24:32). Oh beloved, it must be so today. --Smith Wigglesworth

Have you ever sat down to pray and wondered, “What am I supposed to do right now?” You want to spend time with God, but perhaps you become distracted, repeat the same requests, or feel unsure of where to go next. It doesn’t have to be this way. You can learn to recognize the flow of the Holy Spirit. Here are 7 Streams of Prayer you can follow. Prayer is like a river, and a river has many streams. When you identify those streams, you can better discern what the Holy Spirit is doing in any given moment. When you first learn to drive, every movement requires conscious effort. Eventually, driving becomes natural. Prayer can be similar. When you are first learning to pray, you may wonder what to say next. As you grow, you begin to recognize where the Holy Spirit is leading you. These seven streams of prayer are not boxes you must check every time you pray. Instead, they can help you recognize the different ways prayer can flow. 1. Adoration Adoration is the worship of God. There are moments when you enter prayer and suddenly want to sing, praise, or simply tell Jesus that you love Him. That is prayer. “For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” - John 4:24 (NLT) Worship is a response to revelation. When the Holy Spirit breathes upon the truth of who God is, worship rises from within your heart. Do not rush past those moments. If your heart is being drawn toward worship, worship Him. 2. Supplication Supplication means bringing your requests to God. You may need guidance, provision, healing, or help in a difficult situation. Bring those needs to Him. “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” - Philippians 4:6 (NLT) You can either worry or pray. Worry is the flesh’s powerless counterfeit for prayer. It is a useless attempt to control something over which you have no control. Take the list of concerns in your mind, give it to God, thank Him for what He has already done, and receive His peace. 3. Confrontation Confrontation refers to spiritual warfare. Scripture teaches that we are engaged in a real spiritual battle, and there are moments when the Holy Spirit will lead you to confront spiritual opposition in prayer. “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” - James 4:7 (NLT) Notice the order: submit to God, resist the devil, and he will flee. You do not confront the enemy in your own strength. Submission places you in Christ and under His authority. From that position, you can resist the attacks of the enemy against your mind, family, and spiritual life. Remain aware of the spiritual battle without becoming obsessed with it. Greater is He who lives in you than he who is in the world. 4. Contrition. Contrition is repentance. Repentance is not living under condemnation; it is allowing God to continually change your mind and keep your heart tender toward Him. “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” - 1 John 1:9 (NLT) Sometimes you begin praying and sense that something is wrong. The Holy Spirit may bring an attitude, thought, word, or action to your attention. Respond quickly: “Lord, that was wrong. Forgive me and help me walk differently.” Do not allow small compromises to slowly harden your heart. Let the Holy Spirit remove them while they are still small. 5. Meditation. Meditation means dwelling on the Word of God. The Word gives fuel to your prayer life. “But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” - Psalm 1:2-3 (NLT) If you do not feel inspired to pray, read the Psalms. If you want God to work on your character, read Proverbs. Do not merely read a passage and then forget it. Think about it, repeat it, speak it, and turn it into prayer. You might read that the fruit of the Spirit includes patience. Repeat that truth until it becomes a prayer: “Lord, make me patient.” The Word gives substance and weight to your prayers. It also develops godly desires within you. 6. Intercession. Intercession is praying for other people. “I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them.” - 1 Timothy 2:1 (NLT) Pray for your family, friends, coworkers, church, and those who do not yet know Jesus. You may not immediately see anything change. The person may even appear to move further away from God. Keep praying. Your prayers are making a difference, even when you cannot see what is happening in the supernatural. Learn to see through the eyes of faith instead of judging only by present circumstances. How many people are following Jesus today because someone prayed for them? If no one in your family has established a legacy of prayer, you can be the first. 7. Appreciation. Appreciation is thanksgiving. “Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name.” - Psalm 100:4 (NLT) Thanksgiving is like the send button on your prayers. You have presented your request, and now you thank God in faith. Ask Him for healing, and then thank Him. Ask Him to deliver you, and then thank Him. Ask Him to save your loved ones, and begin thanking Him for what He is going to do. Imagine the day after the miracle. Picture your loved one worshiping God. See yourself walking in joy, peace, freedom, and courage. Let thanksgiving produce faith and hope within your heart. Final Thoughts Let the Holy Spirit Direct the Flow. These seven streams are not seven boxes you must check every time you pray. The goal is not to worship for five minutes and then force yourself to move to supplication. The goal is to recognize the flow of the Holy Spirit. You might begin by worshiping God. Then a need comes to mind, so you ask Him for help. A Scripture rises in your heart, and you begin meditating on it. Suddenly, you remember someone who needs prayer, and you begin interceding. The prayer flows. As you recognize these streams, you will learn when it is time to move from one to another. Prayer becomes less rigid because you are cooperating with what the Holy Spirit is doing. Remember: prayer is a flow, not a formula.

August 28 - A Right Attitude Toward Jesus #LifeOfChrist “Two blind men followed Him, crying out, ‘Have mercy on us, Son of David!’” (Matthew 9:27). The attitude of the heart that Christ honors and accepts is one in which the sinner understands his or her personal unworthiness. That was the attitude of the two blind men as they came to Him. They realized they didn’t deserve Jesus’ help, but they also must have known that “The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. The Lord is good to all, and His mercies are over all His works” (Ps. 145:8–9; cf. Joel 2:13). It seems reasonable to suggest that the two men came to our Lord not only for physical healing but to receive His forgiving mercy. They were no doubt burdened by a spiritual need that they knew only Jesus could meet. They approached Him with real humility, publicly throwing themselves on His abundant grace. Their attitude was perfectly aligned with that of the tax collector who mourns over his unworthiness and cries out, “God, be merciful to me, the sinner!” (Luke 18:13). It is noteworthy that Jesus initially showed no response to the men’s pleas. But as He moved along with the multitude, the blind men kept pouring out the desire of their hearts with persistence and determination. It’s as if the Lord tested their faith, letting it extend to its extremity and prove its sincerity. But theirs was a Savior of mercy, granting healing and salvation to all who come with a humble, believing attitude. Ask Yourself How often do your prayers and faith begin to flag after one or two attempts at asking for help? What are some of God’s reasons for requiring persistence in our pursuit of Him?