Guard and Renew Your Mind (Romans 12:2) Your mind is a battlefield. Every day, you are exposed to thousands of messages telling you what to believe, what to desire, what success looks like, what happiness should look like, and what you should value. Social media. Music. Movies. Friends. News. Advertisements. The people you follow. The conversations you have. Even the thoughts you repeatedly tell yourself. Over time, these things can influence the way you think without you even realizing it. That's why the Bible says: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Notice the word: Transformed. Following Jesus isn't simply about changing your appearance or using Christian language. Jesus wants to transform the way you think. The way you see yourself. The way you see other people. The way you respond to temptation. The way you handle money. The way you define success. The way you deal with disappointment. The way you make decisions. The way you understand your purpose. The world constantly tells you: “Follow your heart.” But Scripture teaches us to allow God to transform our hearts and minds through His truth. Not every thought you have deserves to be believed. Not every desire should be followed. Not every opinion online deserves your attention. Not every trend deserves your participation. Not every voice deserves influence over your life. You need discernment. Ask yourself: “Is this helping me become more like Christ?” That question can change the way you consume content. Before watching something, ask. Before listening to something repeatedly, ask. Before following someone online, ask. Before joining a conversation, ask. Before accepting a popular opinion, ask: “Does this agree with God's truth?” This doesn't mean you should hide from the world. Jesus called His followers to be lights in the world. But being in the world doesn't mean allowing the world's values to control you. You can use social media without allowing social media to define your worth. You can enjoy entertainment without allowing entertainment to shape your morality. You can learn from people without making people your ultimate authority. You can be aware of culture without becoming controlled by culture. Guard your mind. Because what repeatedly enters your mind eventually influences your heart, your words, and your actions. If you constantly consume negativity, don't be surprised when negativity begins shaping your outlook. If you constantly compare yourself with others, don't be surprised when you become dissatisfied with your own life. If you constantly consume materialism, don't be surprised when you begin believing that possessions determine your value. If you constantly listen to voices that tell you that you're not enough, don't be surprised when insecurity takes root. But the opposite is also true. Fill your mind with God's Word. Fill your mind with truth. Fill your mind with gratitude. Fill your mind with encouragement. Fill your mind with things that strengthen your faith. The more you know God's truth, the easier it becomes to recognize what contradicts it. That's why reading Scripture isn't just a religious routine. It renews your mind. When God's Word says you are created in His image, you don't have to let social media determine your worth. When God's Word says you are loved by God, you don't have to chase everyone's approval. When God's Word says God is with you, you don't have to allow fear to control every decision. When God's Word calls you to forgive, you don't have to allow bitterness to become your identity. When God's Word calls you to purity, you don't have to follow every desire. When God's Word calls you to serve, you don't have to live only for yourself. The battle for your life often begins with the battle for your mind. That's why Proverbs 4:23 tells us: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Be careful what you allow to take root. And when wrong thoughts enter your mind, don't panic. A thought appearing in your mind isn't the same as choosing to embrace it. Bring it to God. Challenge it with Scripture. Replace lies with truth. Replace fear with faith. Replace bitterness with forgiveness. Replace comparison with gratitude. Replace hopelessness with the promises of God. Replace pride with humility. Replace selfishness with love. This is part of spiritual growth. You don't become more like Christ overnight. It happens as God continually transforms you. Day by day. Thought by thought. Decision by decision. So today, take an honest look at what has been influencing your mind. What are you watching? What are you listening to? Who are you following? What conversations are you constantly participating in? What thoughts do you repeatedly tell yourself? Are these things drawing you closer to Christ—or pulling you away from Him? You don't have to keep consuming something simply because everyone else does. You don't have to follow every trend. You don't have to accept every popular opinion. You have permission to say: “This isn't good for my spiritual life.” Then walk away. Your mind is valuable. Your heart is valuable. Your spiritual life is valuable. Protect them. And most importantly, give them to God. Don't allow the world to shape you more than God's Word does. Let Christ transform you from the inside out. Today, choose one unhealthy influence to reduce and one godly influence to increase. Spend more time in Scripture. Pray. Worship. Choose wise friendships. Consume content that strengthens your faith. And ask God to renew your mind. What is one thing you need to remove from your mind or replace with God's truth today? #RenewYourMind #Romans122 #GuardYourHeart #ChristianMindset #GodsWord #FaithInAction #ChristianYouth #BiblicalTruth #FollowJesus #JesusSaves #ShareJesus #DailyFaith #Lordsbook #JMSM #KNKA

THE PILGRIMS GUIDE TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 LIVING ABOVE WORLDLY PATTERNS 1 A WORD FROM THE WORD: "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled." 2 Corinthians 10:3-6 NKJV Life is spiritual and should not be handled with levity, especially as a believing child of God. Spiritual warfare is an aspect of the life you are expected to experience knowingly or not, as a believer or unbeliever. But as a believer in Christ Jesus, you must need the help of the Holy Spirit to help you secure and win the very battlefield of this war - even the battlefield of your mind. You must endeavour to align your thoughts with the demands of Heaven on your life, by willingly and actively combating negative and deceptive thoughts with the truth of God's Word and obedience. Because this warfare is not physical, non-carnal weapons are employed, so you must grow spiritually and rely completely on the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit for victory. PRAYER BULLETS: Father LORD, I want to always win the spiritual wars I'm faced with, help me with all I need. FURTHER READING: Romans 8:6-7; Romans 12:2; Philippians 2:5; Philippians 4:13. ------------------------------------------------------------------- ©️ Amaobi Nwachukwu 2026. If you're blessed by this, please, do share with others. And if you'll like to partner with us, kindly check page 3 of our hard copy edition or better still send us a WhatsApp message or call on +234 8098421967. #ThePilgrimsGuide.

The Story Behind the Hymns. THE STORY BEHIND "MINE EYES HAVE SEEN THE GLORY OF THE COMING OF THE LORD" Some hymns belong to a church while others become part of the history of a people. “Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory of the Coming of the Lord,” widely known as “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” belongs to the second category. Its story is tied to one of the darkest chapters in American history: the Civil War, a conflict that split the United States and claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. Slavery stood at the centre of the crisis, and the question of whether a nation could call itself free while millions remained enslaved had become impossible to avoid. In 1861, Julia Ward Howe, a writer, poet and abolitionist, was in Washington, D.C., when she encountered Union troops singing “John Brown’s Body,” a marching song already popular among soldiers. The tune stayed with her. Someone suggested that she write new words for it. She did. According to Howe’s own account, the words came to her in the early hours of the morning. She woke with the opening line in her mind and began writing, afraid that the verses would escape her if she waited for daylight. “Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord…” What followed was not a conventional hymn of comfort. Howe wrote with the language of the Old Testament prophets — judgment, wrath, righteousness and redemption. The battlefield became the setting for a larger moral argument. “He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored.” The line was stark and so was the time in which it was written. The hymn was published in the Atlantic Monthly in February 1862. It quickly found an audience among Union supporters and soldiers, giving words to a cause that many believed demanded more than military victory. The fight, in the hymn’s telling, was bound to a moral reckoning. Then came the line that would outlive the war: “His truth is marching on.” Those five words helped turn a Civil War song into an enduring hymn. For soldiers heading into battle, the words could sound like a declaration of faith. For abolitionists, they carried the promise that slavery would not have the final word. For families waiting at home, the hymn gave voice to the uncertainty, grief and conviction that defined the period. Its reach did not end when the guns fell silent. “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” went on to become one of the most recognisable songs in American religious and public life. It has been heard in churches, at memorials, political gatherings, military ceremonies and historic moments across generations. Its power however, lies in more than its stirring melody. It was born at a time when America was asking whether freedom could survive its own contradictions. Julia Ward Howe answered with a poem that placed justice at the centre of the national struggle. More than a century and a half later, the words remain remarkably direct. They remind us that history is not always changed in grand halls or on battlefields. Sometimes it begins in the early hours of the morning, with a writer reaching for a pen before the words disappear. Julia Ward Howe picked up that pen and what she wrote became a song that generations would sing long after the war that inspired it had passed into history. “His truth is marching on.” That is the line that remains. Not simply as music but as a declaration.

Did you know? ICHABOD — WHEN THE GLORY DEPARTED “The glory has departed from Israel.” — 1 Samuel 4:22 Ichabod was more than a name. It was a cry of grief. Israel had gone to battle against the Philistines, and the Ark of the Covenant was carried into the battlefield. But the Ark was never meant to be treated as a lucky charm. Israel had the symbol of God’s presence, but their hearts had wandered from God. The result was devastating. The Ark was captured. Hophni and Phinehas died. Eli fell and died. Phinehas’ wife died giving birth. And with her final breath, she named the child Ichabod, saying: “The glory has departed from Israel.” The lesson is sobering: you can have the Ark without honoring the God of the Ark. You can have religious activity without genuine obedience. You can carry sacred things while your heart is far from God. God’s presence is not something we manipulate or use for our own purposes. The question is not merely, “Do I have the Ark?” The deeper question is: “Does my life honor the God whose presence I seek?” May we never become so familiar with holy things that we lose reverence for the Holy One. Lord, let Your presence remain with us. Let Your glory never depart from our lives. Read 1 Samuel 4:1–22

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: FRIDAY 28TH AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: REFUEL, RECHARGE, RELOAD, PART 2 MEMORIZE: "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost," Jude 1:20 (KJV) BIBLE READING: MARK 14:32-50 32 And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and he saith to his disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray. 33 And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy; 34 And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch. 35 And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. 36 And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt. 37 And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? 38 Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak. 39 And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words. 40 And when he returned, he found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy,) neither wist they what to answer him. 41 And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand. 43 And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44 And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead him away safely. 45 And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to him, and saith, Master, master; and kissed him. 46 And they laid their hands on him, and took him. 47 And one of them that stood by drew a sword, and smote a servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. 48 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to take me? 49 I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled. 50 And they all forsook him, and fled. MESSAGE: Yesterday, I mentioned that you should recharge your spiritual energy whenever you feel a hunger in your spirit. This is very important; however, you should also continue to refuel your spiritual energy even when you don't feel a spiritual hunger so that you can be prepared ahead of any emergency. This is what I refer to as 'extra oil'. Extra oil is the reservoir of prayers and fasting that you have previously done and the Bible verses you have memorised that will come in handy when you are suddenly faced with a challenge. That is why you should always pray, fast, and study the word of God more than you think is necessary, because on days when you need a quick spiritual surge of power, it is from the reservoir that you have built that you will quickly recharge your energy. For example, temptations can arise on a day when you are not fully charged, and you will need strength to resist them. It is from your extra oil that the strength will come. Likewise, if danger suddenly shows up or disaster strikes, you will need to switch to a war mode quickly, and that can only happen when you have a reservoir of oil in you. In such moments, you can start by speaking in tongues. As you speak in tongues, you will draw from the extra oil in your reservoir, and before long, you will feel a surge of power, and then you will be able to solve the problem at hand. However, nothing will happen if there is no extra oil in your reservoir, even if you speak vehemently in tongues when facing a disaster. Child of God, nobody prepares for war on a battlefield. Oftentimes, commanders and soldiers plan their battle strategies long before wars break out. In Matthew 26:36-44, the Bible recounts how Jesus spent time praying earnestly in the Garden of Gethsemane before he was arrested. While He prayed, His disciples slept; therefore, when challenges arose, they had no extra oil to draw from, so they fled. Peter denied Jesus, and all the other disciples fainted on the day of adversity because their strength was small (Proverbs 24:10). Beloved, pray more than you think is necessary before the day of adversity comes. Prayer is never a waste. Speak in tongues often, and spend ample time in God's presence so that when the day of adversity comes, you will have more than enough extra oil to draw strength from. PRAYER POINT: Father, please help me to immerse myself in prayer and give myself to the study of Your word daily. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: EZEKIEL 16 - 17 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 12 - ONWARD, CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS! 1. Onward, Christian soldiers! Marching as to war, Looking unto Jesus, Who is gone before; Christ, the Royal Master, Leads against the foe; Forward into battle, See His banners go. CHORUS Onward, Christian soldiers! Marching as to war, Looking unto Jesus, Who is gone before. 2. At the name of Jesus Satan's host doth Ilee; On then, Christian soldiers On to victory! Hell's foundations quiver At the shout of praise: Brothers, lift your voices, Loud your anthems raise. 3. Like a mighty army Moves the Church of God: Brothers, we are treading Where the saints have trod. We are not divided, All one body we One in hope and doctrine, One in charity. 4. Crowns and thrones may perish Kingdoms rise and wane; But the Church of Jesus Constant will remain: Gates of hell can never 'Gainst that church prevail; We have Christ's own promise And that cannot fail. 5. Onward then, ye people, Join our happy throng; Blend with ours your voices In the triumph song: "Glory, praise and honour, Unto Christ the King", - This, through countless ages, Men and angels sing. ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL FRIDAY, 28TH AUGUST, 2026 REFUEL, RECHARGE, RELOAD II ‎ ‎PRAYER POINTS ‎ 1.Father, thank You for the infilling of Your Holy Spirit on me. Thank You for satisfying me with Your word, to encourage and to strengthen at all times. 2.Father, please help me to continually refuel, recharge, and reload my spiritual energy in preparation ahead of any emergency, in Jesus' name. 3.Father, please help me never to come to a point where I feel too full to refuel my spiritual energy rather, let my life continually enjoy spiritual supply of energy, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, please may I never run out of extra oil in my walk with You, help me to fill my spiritual tank with Your word, prayers and fasting such that my reservoir will overflow at all times, in Jesus' name. 5.Father, please help me not to relent in the place of studying the word, intensive prayers and continuous fasting such that when I am faced with challenges, i can emerge more than a conqueror, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, please give me strength to resist the devil and to overcome in times of temptations, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, please help me to regularly engage myself in spiritual exercises that will keep me battle ready in the days of adversity, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, please help me not to sleep nor slumber when I ought to watch and pray so I won't faint or flee in the day of adversity, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, please help me to pray more than necessary, immerse me in the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and help me to spend ample time in Your presence daily, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, please help me to immerse myself in prayers and myself to the study of Your word daily, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Please help him never to be disconnected from prayers and the study of Your word daily, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) ‎ #GodBlessOurNation These prayers have no expiry dates! Please, pray them, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus name.

Conflict and Courage. Esther 3 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. Revelation 12:17. Through Esther the queen the Lord accomplished a mighty deliverance for His people. At a time when it seemed that no power could save them, Esther and the women associated with her, by fasting and prayer and prompt action, met the issue, and brought salvation to their people.42The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 3:1140. The trying experiences that came to God's people in the days of Esther were not peculiar to that age alone.... The same spirit that in ages past led men to persecute the true church, will in the future lead to the pursuance of a similar course toward those who maintain their loyalty to God.... The decree that will finally go forth against the remnant people of God will be very similar to that issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews. Today the enemies of the true church see in the little company keeping the Sabbath commandment, a Mordecai at the gate. The reverence of God's people for His law is a constant rebuke to those who have cast off the fear of the Lord and are trampling on His Sabbath.... Men of position and reputation will join with the lawless and the vile to take counsel against the people of God. Wealth, genius, education, will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them. With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith. By false representations and angry appeals, men will stir up the passions of the people. Not having a “Thus saith the Scriptures” to bring against the advocates of the Bible Sabbath, they will resort to oppressive enactments to supply the lack. To secure popularity and patronage, legislators will yield to the demand for Sunday laws. But those who fear God, cannot accept an institution that violates a precept of the Decalogue. On this battlefield will be fought the last great conflict in the controversy between truth and error. And we are not left in doubt as to the issue. Today, as in the days of Esther and Mordecai, the Lord will vindicate His truth and His people.43Prophets and Kings, 605, 606.

Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀💝🌺🎁🌹🎀 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY SUNDAY AUGUST 23, 2O26. "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (3)" ‘…All these things I will give you...’ Matthew 4:9 NKJV THE ATTACK over the cross. Let’s look at the third temptation Jesus faced: ‘…The devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me’’’ (Matthew 4:8-9 NKJV). Satan’s third attack was over a cross-less life. In essence, he told Jesus, ‘You don’t have to carry the cross. Just bow to me and you can have it all.’ Jesus said, ‘…“Away with you, satan!...”’ (Matthew 4:10 NKJV). ‘Away’ with any teaching that says God is your porter and He has to wait on you! Or that He’s like a vending machine; all you have to do is put in a few coins and whatever you want will come out. Paul writes, ‘I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me’ (Galatians 2:20 NKJV). Has God promised to bless you? Absolutely! But that doesn’t mean you’ll never get hurt, or face lack, or fatigue, or be betrayed and disappointed by others. Jesus said, ‘…unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies [to self], it remains alone; but if it dies [to self], it produces much…’ (John 12:24 NKJV). Have you ever heard the expression, ‘Dead man walking?’ To do God’s will, you have to die to your own will, and do it daily. But if you’re willing to, God will take you to a new level of blessing. Bible In A Year: Amos 5:18 – 9:15, Matt 20:29-34, Ps 119:145-160, Pro 19:1-2. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing 💝🎀 *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. [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2026 *THE REWARD OF SACRIFICIAL DISCIPLESHIP* *Text:* Matthew 19:27–30 27. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? 28. And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. 30. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. *Timeless Truth:* _For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister"_ (Hebrews 6:10) *INTRODUCTION* During the Second World War, Desmond Doss, an American Army medic and committed Christian, served without carrying a weapon because of his convictions. During the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, he repeatedly entered a dangerous battlefield to rescue wounded soldiers. He is credited with saving approximately 75 men, lowering each wounded soldier to safety while under enemy fire. Doss later received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary courage. His story reminds us that genuine commitment often involves sacrifice. A person who is committed to a worthy cause may surrender comfort, safety and personal advantage because he believes the cause is greater than himself. Peter's question in Matthew 19:27 comes from this same concern. The disciples had left much to follow Jesus, and Peter asked, “What shall we have therefore?” Jesus did not condemn the question. Instead, He taught them that sacrifice for God's kingdom is never wasted.*For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.* (Hebrews 6:10). The passage teaches us that Christ calls His followers to sacrificial discipleship, promises them spiritual reward and warns them against measuring God's kingdom by worldly standards. Perhaps you have sacrificed time to serve God. Perhaps you have endured rejection because of your faith. Perhaps you have given financially when it was difficult. Perhaps you have chosen obedience over personal ambition. Perhaps you have remained faithful in a ministry where nobody seems to notice your work. Jesus' answer in this passage is an encouragement: God sees, God remembers and God rewards. But Christ also corrects our understanding of reward. The Christian life is not primarily about asking, “What can I get from following Jesus?” It is about asking, “How can I faithfully serve the One who gave everything for me?” The disciples left much, but Jesus promised that their sacrifice would not be wasted. There are three great challenges before us: (i) Surrender your life completely to Christ. (ii) Serve faithfully without demanding immediate recognition. *(iii)* Stand firm when sacrifice becomes difficult. The world may celebrate those who appear to be first. God's kingdom operates differently. The person who quietly serves, humbly gives, faithfully prays, patiently suffers and continues obeying Christ may be accomplishing something of far greater eternal value than the person receiving public applause. Therefore, do not give up because your service is unnoticed. Do not stop serving because your sacrifice is costly. Do not measure God's faithfulness by your immediate circumstances. Your labour for Christ is never wasted. *Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.* (1 Corinthians 15:58) One day, the Lord Himself will reveal what truly mattered. And on that day, the faithful servant will discover that nothing surrendered to Christ was ever truly lost. *1. The Surrender of Sacrificial Discipleship* a. Peter reminded Jesus that the disciples had left their possessions and livelihoods to follow Him. Following Christ involves surrender. Christianity is not merely receiving blessings; it is also yielding our lives to the Lord. We must ask whether Christ truly has first place in our lives. Following Him may require us to surrender habits, relationships, ambitions, possessions, or personal preferences that compete with His will. b. The disciples did not merely admire Jesus; they left their former way of life and continued with Him. Christian commitment is not measured by how enthusiastically we begin, but by how faithfully we continue. *Questions* (i) What am I unwilling to surrender to Christ? (ii) Does my daily lifestyle demonstrate that following Jesus is more important to me than personal comfort? *2. The Reward of Kingdom Service* a. Jesus assured His disciples that their sacrifices would not go unnoticed. Jesus spoke of the future when He would sit on His glorious throne and the disciples would share in His kingdom. Our present service must be viewed in light of eternity. What we sacrifice for Christ now has eternal significance. b. Jesus promised that those who had sacrificed houses, family relationships or possessions for His name would receive abundant blessings. This does not mean that discipleship is a scheme for material prosperity. Rather, Jesus assures His followers that nothing surrendered to Him is ultimately lost. Jesus concludes His promise with: *"And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters... for My name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.”* *Questions* (i) Do I serve God for His glory or mainly for recognition and earthly rewards? (ii) When sacrifice becomes difficult, do I remember the eternal reward promised by Christ? *3. The Reversal of Kingdom Standards* a. Jesus concludes with a statement that challenges human ideas about success and reward. Human society often measures greatness through wealth, position, influence, education and recognition. But God's measurement is different. We should not measure our spiritual worth by comparing ourselves with other people. b. God values humble service rather than self-promotion. A disciple should be willing to serve even when nobody applauds, notices or rewards the work. The world's ranking system will not determine the final outcome. God will ultimately reveal the true value of every person's service. *Questions* (i) Do I become discouraged when others receive recognition while my service remains unnoticed? (ii) Am I willing to serve faithfully even when I receive no immediate reward? *Prayer Points* 1. Lord Jesus, help me to surrender every area of my life completely to You and place Your kingdom above my personal interests.🙏 2. Father, give me grace to remain faithful in serving You even when the work is difficult or unnoticed.🙏 3. Lord, deliver me from comparing myself with others and help me to value eternal rewards above temporary recognition.🙏 4. Holy Spirit, remove pride and selfish ambition from my heart and make me a humble servant who seeks God's glory rather than human applause.🙏 *Hymn:* Take My Life and Let It Be *THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 9-10 [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *BEYOND HUMAN MEASURE* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽👑🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:MATTHEW 19:27-30```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first" (MATTHEW 19:29, 30).*_ *Brother Andrew, a humble Dutchman, began smuggling Bibles into communist countries during the _Cold War,_ risking his life to serve believers behind the Iron Curtain. He didn't seek fame; he just obeyed God's quiet call. That small, faithful beginning grew into _Open Doors,_ a global ministry that continues to help persecuted Christians today. Though little known on earth, Andrew is surely honoured in heaven.* *His story perfectly illustrates the timeless principle Jesus lays out in today's passage: that all faithful, sacrificial service done for Him, however hidden or risky, will attract heaven's reward. In the text, Apostle Peter poses a question many believers still echo today: "We have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?" It is a question laced with hope but also with the subtle implication of comparison with others and transaction with God. Considering the context, Peter's question implies that if we have given up much for God, in contrast to the rich young ruler who didn't, surely we are due a proportionate reward. In His answer, Jesus affirms that sacrifice in His name is never forgotten. Certainly, we shall receive astounding rewards, yet He closes with a warning wrapped in a paradox: "But many _that are_ first shall be last; and the last _shall be_ first."* *This final line holds the key to understanding divine reward, not as a salary earned but as a gift bestowed in Sovereign wisdom. God's kingdom does not run on human logic or worldly meritocracy. Instead, it operates based on grace, faithfulness, and sincerity of heart. When we serve God with a mere transactional mind-set, doing in order to receive, we risk missing the heartbeat of discipleship. And to correct this misunderstanding, Jesus immediately follows His statement with the parable of the workers in the vineyard. There, those who worked a full day were shocked to receive the same wages as those hired last. Then Jesus concluded with the same warning: "So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen". The point is clear: God's rewards are not based on length of service or human measure, but on His gracious prerogative. Faithfulness, not fame, draws heaven's attention.* *This ought to challenge and comfort us. We are not in competition in God's kingdom. We are simply called to be faithful. Whatever the sacrifice our calling may demand, the measure of our reward is not in the scope of our task but in our fidelity to it. So, as the "prize-giving day" draws near, let us serve with joy, not calculation, remembering that the One who called us is no man's debtor but a just and faithful Rewarder.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*When you serve in silence, heaven echoes your labour with eternal applause.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 9-10*📜📜 Beyond Human Measure https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 54: I AM READY FOR SERVICE; GHS 59: LITTLE IS MUCH WHEN GOD IS IN IT; GHS 62: GO LABOUR ON; AND GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *ATTITUDE TO WORLD AFFAIRS* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️❤️🌍❌🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:1 JOHN 2:15-17```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 JOHN 2:15).*_ *The hands of the clock has been used to describe three categories of believers. Twelve-o'clock-Christians are so heavenly conscious, but of no earthly use. Half-past-six-o'clock-Christians are buried in the world and have lost the vision of heaven. The six-o'clock-believers are Christians who are of significance on earth and are heavenly minded.* *The significance of salt as flavour is not felt when it is isolated from other ingredients. It is not eaten as food all on its own. The worth of salt is acknowledged when it is used as flavour. So are believers. We are the salt of the earth. While we insulate ourselves from the pollutions of the world and live with the consciousness of heaven, we should equally exact positive influence in the world.* *Christian youths can influence their world in various clubs in school - like the Press Club, Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientists, Young Farmers Club, Red Cross Society - to shine the gospel light. Qualified youths should exercise their franchise during elections as responsible citizens. We should not contaminate ourselves with the evils of the society; instead, impact it positively.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Youths can influence their world.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Don't isolate but insulate against the world.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to be a blessing to the world.*_ Attitude To World Affairs https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *FIRST ON THE LIST* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️✝️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🗣️🖤🩸🤍🙏🏽 📜📜```PSALM 103:1-5```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases" (Psalm 103:3).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 A list always starts with number one (1). In most cases, the first thing is the most important. For example, in an examination result, the first position is given to the child that scores the highest mark. The first always opens the list for other items to follow. As shown in our Bible passage, the first opens the door for all other benefits to come through. The blessings of God seem to be arranged in a divine, logical order in the lives of God's children. We do not have to rush for the second if we have not yet received the first. Sins (iniquities) block our way to receiving God's many benefits or blessings. Sin must first be removed out of our lives if we want to have God's blessings. For, *"if I regard* (allow) *iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me"* - and bless me (Psalm 66:18). In our Bible passage, the first benefit stated there is *"forgiveness of sin"*. It is after you have received this first benefit, by turning away from your bad ways, saying sorry to God, and making Jesus your Saviour and friend, that you are qualified to enjoy the other benefits like healing, deliverance, love and mercy of God, provision and long life. *If you desire God's blessings in your life, do the first thing first: repent and turn away from your sins, and the needed blessings will come into your life.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord, I am sorry for every bad thing I have done. Forgive my sins, be merciful to me and bless me.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Psalm 32:1, 2* First On The List https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. ⏤ Hebrews 10:22 He who kneels the most, stands the best. ⏤ D.L. Moody Most gracious God, in Your good providence You have allowed us to see the light of another Sunday—draw near to us in mercy. May the Sun of righteousness arise upon us with healing in His wings. May our fellowship this day be with You, the Father, and with Your Son, Jesus Christ. May all unworthy thoughts be suppressed, and may our hearts be filled with holy desires. Be a guest in our home today. Abide with us and sanctify our home life. We ask You to bless all the gatherings of Your people who will worship today in any part of the world. May Your Spirit be with all who preach and teach in the name of Jesus, and with all who love You. May Your word have great power. May lost sinners be convicted and led to repentance. May Christians be strengthened and encouraged. May those who are sorrowful be comforted. May children and young people receive holy and heavenly guidance and be blessed. May this be a day of the power of the Most High, and may its influence be deep and lasting. We ask You, O God, to give us a good Sunday in our own home. Help us to remember the day and keep it in a way that pleases You and brings blessings into our lives. May our love for each other grow as we worship together. May Your love be poured out in our hearts more abundantly. May we stay close to Your heart all day. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/49/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

A brotherhood that tested every piece of my soul in combat never prepared me for the pain of having my family stuck in limbo. My name is Jesse Preston. I spent 14 years on Active Duty in the U.S. Army, Airborne and Air Assault qualified. I served three combat tours in Iraq between 2003 and 2010, and a tour in South Korea in 2007. I bled, sacrificed, and gave over a decade of my life in service to the United States because I believed in honor, loyalty, and standing up for what is right. Now, I am fighting the hardest battle of my life—and it isn’t on a battlefield. It’s for my own family. Since November 2023, I have been living abroad because I refuse to abandon my wife, Miheret Beksissa, and our baby daughter, Jessica. Imagine if I had listened to the system and waited back home in America alone, staring at an empty nursery, thousands of miles away from my infant child and the woman God gave me to protect. A combat veteran doesn’t leave his family behind. We did everything right. We followed every single law. We poured our hard-earned money—over $4,000 just to begin the I-130 and DS-260 with our lawyer, paid every required government fee, and paid another $1,500 for our daughter’s CRBA and U.S. passport. Jessica is a U.S. citizen. Miheret was approved for her immigrant visa through our marriage. Our journey started in January 2024, and we were so close to coming home. But because immigrant visas for Ethiopians were paused under the current administration policy, our life is on hold. The process is dragging out indefinitely, leaving us stranded in uncertainty. We are devout, faithful Christians who just want to raise our daughter in the country I wore the uniform to defend. Every day, I look at my daughter and my wife, and my heart breaks knowing that the very system I served is keeping us from starting our life together on American soil. Please, brothers and sisters, pray for us. Pray that the doors are opened, that red tape is cut, and that our family can finally go home to America together. If this touches your heart, please share our story. Pray for us!

DEMYSTIFYING THE DEMON OF MASTURBATION By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah «“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.)” — 2 Corinthians 10:3–4» Introduction There are certain battles people fight in silence. They smile in public, worship in church, preach powerful messages, and yet return home to fight a private war that leaves them feeling ashamed, condemned, and spiritually weak. Masturbation is one of those subjects that many people are afraid to discuss openly. Unfortunately, silence has sometimes allowed fear, ignorance, condemnation, and misinformation to grow around the issue. Some people believe every case of masturbation means a demon has entered their body. Others dismiss the matter completely and refuse to acknowledge the possibility of sexual bondage, lust, addiction, or spiritual oppression. We must approach this subject with both truth and compassion. To demystify something means to remove unnecessary mystery, fear, exaggeration, and confusion surrounding it. Therefore, when we speak about what some describe as the demon of masturbation, we must understand that the issue is often more complex than simply saying, “There is a demon inside me.” The real question is: What is driving the behaviour? Is it lust? Is it pornography? Is it loneliness? Is it a habit developed over many years? Is it emotional pain? Is it an addiction? Is there genuine spiritual oppression involved? Until we understand the root, we may continue fighting the wrong battle. In this write-up, twelve points on how to demystify the demon of masturbation and stay free from it have been examined carefully. God bless you as you read through it, and I pray you get your freedom from reading it in Jesus name amen. 1. Masturbation Is Not a Person's Identity The first thing I want to say to anyone struggling with masturbation is this: You are not masturbation. You are not your addiction. You are not your worst moment. A person may struggle with a sexual habit without that habit becoming their identity. The devil loves to move people from conviction into condemnation. Conviction says: «“What you are doing is wrong. Come back to God.”» Condemnation says: «“You are dirty. You are hopeless. God does not want you anymore.”» But Romans 8:1 declares: «“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus...”» The enemy knows that a person drowning in shame will often continue doing the very thing that is destroying them. Shame says, “Hide from God.” Grace says, “Run to God.” When Adam and Eve sinned, they hid themselves. Sin makes people hide. But God came looking for them. That is still the heart of God. 2. The Real Battle Often Begins in the Mind Jesus said: «“But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” — Matthew 5:28» Sexual sin rarely begins with the physical act. It often begins in the mind. A thought is entertained. A fantasy is repeated. An image is watched. A memory is revisited. A desire is fed. Eventually, what was once a thought becomes a stronghold. This is why Proverbs 4:23 says: «“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”» The hand may be involved in masturbation, but the battlefield is often much deeper than the hand. The battlefield may be the mind, imagination, appetite, emotions, and habits. You cannot consistently feed lust and expect purity to grow. You cannot continually consume sexually explicit content and expect your mind to remain unaffected. What you repeatedly feed becomes stronger. 3. Is There Really a “Demon of Masturbation”? We need balance here. The Bible does not specifically name a spirit called the demon of masturbation. Therefore, we must be careful not to give unscriptural names and descriptions where Scripture is silent. However, the Bible clearly teaches that human beings can experience temptation, bondage, strongholds, sinful desires, and spiritual oppression. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that: «“We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers...”» At the same time, James 1:14–15 teaches that people can also be drawn away by their own desires. Therefore, not every struggle should automatically be blamed on a demon. Sometimes it is: - A habit that has been practised repeatedly. - An addiction strengthened over time. - Exposure to pornography. - Sexual fantasies. - Loneliness and isolation. - Emotional pain. - Curiosity that developed into bondage. - Lack of discipline. - Unresolved wounds. - A genuine spiritual attack that exploits an existing weakness. The wise believer does not oversimplify the problem. Sometimes a demon may exploit a habit, but the habit itself must still be broken. You can cast out an evil spirit, but if you return to the same environment, the same pornography, the same fantasies, the same secret lifestyle, and the same triggers without renewing your mind, the cycle may continue. Deliverance without discipline can produce temporary relief without lasting transformation. 4. Lust Is a Fire That Must Not Be Fed One of the greatest fuel sources for masturbation is lust. Paul instructed Timothy: «“Flee also youthful lusts...” — 2 Timothy 2:22» Notice that Paul did not say, “Negotiate with youthful lusts.” He said, “Flee.” There are some battles you overcome by standing and fighting. There are others you overcome by refusing to remain in the environment. Joseph did not stay in Potiphar's wife's room to prove his spiritual strength. He ran! Sometimes your deliverance begins with leaving the room. Turning off the phone. Blocking the website. Deleting the videos. Changing your sleeping pattern. Avoiding isolation. Refusing to entertain fantasy. You cannot pray against a fire while continuously pouring petrol on it. 5. Pornography Is Often a Major Doorway to Sexual Bondage We must be honest: pornography has become one of the greatest enemies of sexual purity in this generation. What previous generations struggled to access is now available within seconds on a mobile phone. Pornography trains the mind to seek repeated stimulation. It can create unrealistic expectations, intensify fantasies, and strengthen unhealthy patterns of sexual behaviour. For many people, masturbation did not become a serious struggle until pornography became a regular companion. Therefore, if you sincerely desire freedom, you must address the source. Do not merely pray: «“Lord, take away this habit.”» Also pray: «“Lord, give me the courage to remove what is feeding this habit.”» Psalm 101:3 says: «“I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes...”» Freedom requires honesty. What are you watching? What are you saving? Who are you chatting with? What happens when you are alone? What time are you most vulnerable? Until you identify the trigger, you may keep repeating the cycle. 6. Repetition Can Become a Stronghold A stronghold is something that has gained unusual influence over a person's thinking or behaviour. What you repeatedly practise can become easier to repeat. This is why some people sincerely hate the habit and still find themselves returning to it. The cycle may look like this: Trigger → temptation → fantasy → masturbation → temporary relief → guilt → shame → promise to stop → another trigger → relapse. The answer is not merely making stronger promises. Many people have said: «“This is the last time.”» Then repeated it again. Why? Because willpower alone is often not enough to break a deeply established pattern. Real freedom requires a combination of: - Repentance. - Renewing the mind. - Spiritual discipline. - Removing triggers. - Accountability. - Healthy habits. - Prayer. - Filling your life with the Word of God. 7. Do Not Fight a Spiritual Battle Without Spiritual Weapons If there is a spiritual dimension to your struggle, you must engage spiritual weapons. Ephesians 6:17 speaks about: «“The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”» When temptation comes, do not remain mentally passive. Speak the Word. Pray. Worship. Change your environment. Call someone you trust. Go for a walk. Read Scripture aloud. Refuse to sit in darkness and negotiate with temptation. The devil is not afraid of your good intentions. But he recognizes the authority of a believer who stands firmly in the truth of God's Word. 8. Your Body Must Come Under the Government of the Spirit Paul said: «“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection...” — 1 Corinthians 9:27» Your body has desires, but your desires must not become your master. There is a difference between having an urge and surrendering to every urge. Maturity means learning to say no to yourself. The Christian life is not simply about casting out devils. It is also about crucifying the flesh. Galatians 5:24 says: «“And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.”» There are things prayer will empower you to overcome, but you must still make a decision to walk away. God gives grace, but grace is not permission to remain comfortably in bondage. Grace empowers us to live differently. 9. Stop Fighting Alone Secrecy is one of the greatest strengths of addiction. The enemy tells you: «“Don't tell anyone. They will judge you.”» But James 5:16 says: «“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”» This does not mean you should announce your private struggle to everybody. Wisdom is necessary. Find a mature and trustworthy spiritual leader, counsellor, or accountability partner who can help you without shaming or exploiting you. Sometimes freedom begins when you finally say: “I need help.” There is no shame in seeking help. The shame is allowing pride to keep you in chains when help is available. 10. Replace, Don't Just Remove Jesus taught important principles about an empty house in Matthew 12:43–45. The lesson is clear: a life must not merely be emptied of destructive influences; it must be filled with what is good and godly. Do not simply say: «“I will stop masturbating.”» Ask yourself: “What will I replace this habit with?” Fill your life with: - Prayer. - Scripture meditation. - Productive work. - Exercise. - Healthy friendships. - Fellowship. - Service to God. - Purposeful activities. - Accountability. An idle mind can become a playground for temptation. When your life has no structure, temptation can easily find space. 11. If You Fall, Get Up Again Perhaps you are reading this and saying: «“Pastor, I have tried many times and failed.”» Hear me: Do not surrender to failure. Proverbs 24:16 says: «“For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again...”» The righteous person is not necessarily the person who never faces temptation or never stumbles. The righteous person is the one who refuses to remain on the ground. Repent genuinely. Receive God's mercy. Learn from what happened. Identify the trigger. Strengthen your boundaries. And rise again. Micah 7:8 says: «“Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise...”» Your last failure does not have to become your permanent address. 12. Freedom Is More Than Deliverance True freedom is not simply shouting during a deliverance service. Freedom is being able to return home and make different choices. Freedom is controlling your thoughts. Freedom is turning away when nobody is watching. Freedom is honouring God with your body. Freedom is saying no when temptation says yes. Freedom is developing the discipline to live in the light. Jesus said: «“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36» Christ can break chains. Christ can heal wounds. Christ can renew the mind. Christ can restore purity. Christ can strengthen weak places. But you must cooperate with the process of freedom. A WORD TO PARENTS, PASTORS AND CHURCH LEADERS We must stop addressing sexual struggles only with insults and condemnation. Calling everyone possessed without understanding their struggle may create more fear than freedom. We need truth, but truth must be spoken with love. Some people need deliverance. Some need discipleship. Some need accountability. Some need counselling for deep emotional wounds. Some need to break free from pornography. Some need all of the above. The church must become a place where people can seek help without being publicly humiliated. Holiness should be preached, but restoration must also be available. Jesus never lowered God's standard, but He also lifted people who had fallen. PRACTICAL STEPS TOWARD FREEDOM 1. Repent sincerely before God. Do not justify what you know is feeding lust and impurity. 2. Destroy your triggers. Delete pornography and sexually explicit materials. 3. Control your private environment. Avoid situations and times when you are consistently vulnerable. 4. Renew your mind daily with God's Word. 5. Pray before temptation becomes overwhelming. 6. Fast and develop spiritual discipline where appropriate. 7. Exercise self-control in other areas of life. 8. Get a trusted accountability partner. 9. Avoid isolation when you know you are vulnerable. 10. If the struggle feels compulsive or severely distressing, seek appropriate professional support alongside spiritual guidance. 11. Never give up on your journey toward purity. PRAYER FOR FREEDOM Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I come before You with humility and honesty. I acknowledge every habit, lust, fantasy, addiction, and practice that has tried to bring me into bondage. I ask for Your mercy and forgiveness. Lord Jesus, cleanse my heart and renew my mind. Break every ungodly pattern that has gained control over my life. I renounce every connection with pornography, lust, immoral fantasies, and every practice that dishonours You. Holy Spirit, strengthen me where I am weak. Give me the grace to discipline my body, control my thoughts, and flee every appearance of sexual immorality. Let the power of the Holy Spirit break every spiritual oppression and every stronghold operating in my life. I declare that sin shall not have dominion over me. My body belongs to the Lord. My mind belongs to Christ. My future will not be destroyed by a secret habit. I receive grace to walk in purity, discipline, and freedom. I will rise again. I will not be condemned. I will not remain in bondage. Through Jesus Christ, I am empowered to overcome. In Jesus' name, Amen. CONCLUSION Masturbation should neither be surrounded by unnecessary fear nor treated casually when it has become connected to lust, pornography, guilt, compulsive behaviour, or spiritual bondage. Let us demystify the issue. Not every struggle is automatically a demon. Not every demon can be blamed for choices we repeatedly make. But neither should we deny that spiritual warfare can exploit human weaknesses. The answer is a balanced pursuit of freedom through repentance, truth, spiritual discipline, renewal of the mind, accountability, wise boundaries, and the transforming grace of Jesus Christ. You are not beyond redemption. You are not too dirty for grace. You are not too weak for God's strength. And no chain is stronger than the power of Jesus Christ. Your struggle may be private, but your freedom can become your testimony. By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: 3 PLACES IN YOUR HOME THAT NEED PRAYER Theme: When You Pray Over Your House, You Build a Spiritual Wall Around Your Family Your home is more than a building. It is a place where destinies are formed, children are raised, marriages are strengthened, decisions are made, and spiritual battles are sometimes fought. You can lock your doors physically and still leave your home spiritually exposed. That is why prayer must not only happen in the church. Your home must become an altar. Joshua declared: «“As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” — Joshua 24:15» Joshua did not say, “As for me, I will serve the Lord.” He said, “Me and my house.” There are places in your house that should not only be cleaned, decorated, or furnished—they should be covered in prayer. Today, we are looking at three places in your home that need prayer. 1. YOUR BEDROOM — PRAY OVER YOUR REST, MARRIAGE AND PRIVATE LIFE The bedroom is a place of rest, intimacy, vulnerability, and sometimes deep emotional battles. It is where you sleep after the activities of the day. It is also where many people experience anxiety, fear, disturbing thoughts, marital tensions, and spiritual heaviness. Bible Verse «“I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.” — Psalm 4:8» Notice the connection: Sleep + peace + God's protection. Before you sleep, don't only check your phone. Check your spiritual atmosphere. Pray over your bed. Pray for peaceful sleep. Pray over your marriage. Pray against fear and anxiety. Pray for your thoughts. Pray that your home will be a place of peace. For Married Couples The bedroom should not become a battlefield of bitterness. Husbands and wives should learn to pray together. A marriage that prays together is inviting God into its battles. Deep Spiritual Insight The enemy wants to disturb your peace because he knows that a tired, fearful and confused person is easier to discourage. But God gives His beloved sleep. «“He giveth his beloved sleep.” — Psalm 127:2» Prayer “Father, let Your peace fill this bedroom. Let everyone who sleeps here experience divine rest. Protect our minds, our marriage, our bodies and our dreams. Let every atmosphere of fear, confusion and unrest disappear, in Jesus' name.” 2. YOUR LIVING ROOM — PRAY OVER YOUR FAMILY'S WORDS, RELATIONSHIPS AND DECISIONS The living room is where families gather. People talk there. Arguments can happen there. Children learn there. Guests enter there. Important decisions are sometimes made there. Therefore, your living room needs an altar of prayer. Bible Verse «“But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” — Joshua 24:15» The home should have a spiritual identity. Ask yourself: What atmosphere dominates my home? Is it prayer? Is it love? Is it anger? Is it television? Is it social media? Is it gossip? Is it constant quarrelling? Your home will eventually reflect what you consistently permit. A Biblical Example: Cornelius In Acts 10, we meet Cornelius, a man whose household was connected to God. His home became a place where God's presence and instruction were welcomed. The Bible says: «“He was a devout man, and one that feared God with all his house.” — Acts 10:2» Notice the phrase: “With all his house.” One person's spiritual commitment can influence an entire household. Practical Application Make your living room a place where: - The Bible is read. - Children are taught God's Word. - Family prayer happens. - Thanksgiving is offered. - Forgiveness is practiced. - Christian conversations are encouraged. You don't need a large prayer meeting. Sometimes, ten minutes of sincere family prayer can change the atmosphere of a home. Prayer “Lord, let this home be filled with love, wisdom, unity and Your Word. Let our conversations bring grace. Let our decisions be guided by You. Remove bitterness, hatred and unnecessary conflict from this family, in Jesus' name.” 3. YOUR FRONT DOOR / GATE — PRAY OVER WHAT ENTERS AND LEAVES YOUR HOME Your door represents access. People enter through it. Things enter through it. Influences enter through it. And although we should not become superstitious about physical objects, we should understand the spiritual principle of guarding what we allow into our lives and homes. Bible Verse «“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” — Proverbs 4:23» Your home needs boundaries. Not everything should enter your home. Not every conversation should enter your home. Not every relationship should enter your home. Not every piece of entertainment should enter your home. Not every influence should have access to your children. Psalm 101:3 David said: «“I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes.”» This is a powerful principle for the modern home. Today, your front door is not the only entrance into your house. Your phone is a door. Your television is a door. The internet is a door. Social media is a door. What are you allowing to enter? Practical Spiritual Watchfulness Pray: “Lord, give us discernment concerning what we allow into this home.” Don't only pray for God to protect your family. Teach your family what to reject. A REAL-LIFE PICTURE Imagine a father who locks his doors every night. He checks the windows. He installs security lights. He even has security personnel around his compound. But inside the house, nobody prays. There is constant hatred between husband and wife. The children consume anything they find online. The television is always on, but the Bible is rarely opened. The family eats together but hardly prays together. The house may be physically secure but spiritually neglected. The answer is not fear. The answer is Christ-centered living and consistent prayer. 5 PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS 1. Establish a family prayer time. It doesn't have to be one hour. Start with 10–15 minutes daily. 2. Pray in every room. Walk through your home occasionally and pray—not because the walls have magical power, but because your family belongs to God. 3. Watch what enters through your screens. Ask: “Is this content helping my family spiritually or poisoning our atmosphere?” 4. Teach your children to pray. Don't make prayer only the responsibility of the pastor. Teach your children to call upon God themselves. 5. Make your home an altar, not merely a residence. A Christian home should have evidence of Christ. Let there be Scripture. Let there be forgiveness. Let there be worship. Let there be prayer. Let there be love. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. What atmosphere currently dominates my home? 2. Do we pray together as a family? 3. What are we allowing into our home through our phones and entertainment? 4. Is there unresolved bitterness in my household? 5. If Jesus physically visited my home today, would I be comfortable with everything He would see and hear? 6. Am I building a house or building a godly legacy? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Father, let Your presence fill my home and let Your peace rule in every room, in Jesus' name. 2. Every power working against the unity and peace of my household, be defeated in Jesus' name. 3. Lord, protect every member of my family from evil influences and destructive relationships. 4. Father, give our children wisdom and protect them from ungodly influences. 5. Every atmosphere of fear, confusion, hatred and unnecessary conflict in my home, I command it to end, in Jesus' name. 6. Lord, restore every broken relationship in my household. 7. Let my home become a place where Your Word is honoured, Your name is worshipped and Your presence is welcomed. 8. Father, let no member of my household be lost spiritually. Draw us all closer to Christ. 9. Give every parent in this house wisdom to lead this family according to Your Word. 10. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord! CALL TO ACTION Beloved, don't wait until there is a crisis before you pray over your home. Don't wait until your marriage is collapsing. Don't wait until your child has been badly influenced. Don't wait until fear has taken over. Build the altar before the battle comes. Tonight, when you enter your bedroom, pray. When you sit in your living room, pray. When you pass through your door, pray. And remember: Your house may have beautiful furniture, expensive electronics and modern decorations—but the greatest decoration a Christian home can have is the presence of God. Joshua made a decision: «“As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” — Joshua 24:15» Make that decision today. Let your bedroom become a place of peace. Let your living room become a place of unity. Let your home become a place of prayer. Let your family become a testimony of God's faithfulness. PRAY OVER YOUR HOME. PRAY FOR YOUR FAMILY. BUILD THE ALTAR. AND LET CHRIST BE THE HEAD OF YOUR HOUSE. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen. If you have not given your life to Jesus kindly do so by joining a Bible believing Church. You can get inspirational ebooks from my sela/Amazon shops below https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar.com/m/umoedem https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks https://afrikdp.com/author/umohedem-9128 CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/share/1AVbtZtLvC/