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.

The Story Behind the Hymns. THE STORY BEHIND "SOFTLY AND TENDERLY JESUS IS CALLING " “Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling” is one of the best-known Christian invitation hymns, written by American hymn writer and composer Will Lamartine Thompson in 1880. Thompson was born in East Liverpool, Ohio, in 1847 and became a successful songwriter and publisher. Unlike many hymns that emerged from formal church traditions, “Softly and Tenderly” came from Thompson’s personal desire to create a simple song that would appeal directly to people who needed to make a spiritual decision. The hymn’s central message is an invitation: Jesus is calling people to come to Him, return to Him, and receive His mercy. Its gentle words “Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me” gives the song its distinctive character. Rather than using threatening language, Thompson presented the call of Christ as loving, patient and compassionate. One of the most memorable stories associated with the hymn involves evangelist Dwight L. Moody. Thompson reportedly visited Moody when the evangelist was seriously ill. During their meeting, Thompson told him that he had written the hymn and that he hoped it would be useful in Christian ministry. Moody was deeply moved by the song and encouraged its use in evangelistic meetings. After Moody's death in 1899, the hymn became even more widely known through evangelistic campaigns and church services. Over the years, it has been sung at revival meetings, altar calls, funerals and moments of personal reflection. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity: a gentle reminder that the invitation to come to Christ is still open. More than 140 years after it was written, “Softly and Tenderly” remains a powerful hymn because its message has not changed — Jesus calls, and the invitation is extended to everyone.

THE MONEY’S MIND The Body of the Word: The Container of Economic Contents By Omodolapo Ogunye What if the greatest economic storehouse is not a bank, a vault, a market, or a financial institution? What if it is the Body of the Word? We have been trained to look for economic resources in external systems: capital markets, institutions, commodities, technology and investment opportunities. But Scripture presents another possibility. The Body of the Word is a container. A container filled with contents. And among its contents are economic contents. Song of Solomon describes the Beloved: “His head is purest gold.” — Song of Solomon 5:11 Proverbs declares: “In her left hand are riches and honour.” — Proverbs 3:16 And again: “My fruit is better than fine gold.” — Proverbs 8:19 These descriptions are not merely poetic ornaments. They reveal something profound: There are economic contents stored in the Body of the Word. Gold. Riches. Honour. Fruit. Prosperity. These are not external additions to the Word. They are revelations of what is contained within the Person of the Word. This changes the way we think about economics. The question is no longer merely: “Where can I find money?” The deeper question becomes: “What economic contents are stored in the Body of the Word?” Colossians 2:9 says: “In Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.” The Body is therefore a container of fullness. And if the Word is revealed in Scripture as economic and financial, then the Body of the Word contains economic identities, economic wisdom, economic abilities and economic performances. This is where The Money's Mind begins. The Money is not merely a currency. The Money is a Person. And the economic contents we seek are contained within the Body of that Person—the Word. The Scriptures are capable of producing performances because they testify about the Word. But perhaps the economic performances of Scripture are activated when we begin to discover and hunger for the economic contents stored within the Body of the Word. This is the proposition: The Body of the Word is the container of economic contents. And the future of economic revelation may depend on our willingness to look beyond the pages of Scripture—not away from them, but into the Person they reveal. Because perhaps wealth is not first something to pursue. Perhaps wealth is a content waiting to be discovered in the Body of the Word. The Money has a Mind. And the Mind of the Money is stored in the Body of the Word. Omodolapo Ogunye THE MONEY'S MIND The Body of the Word as Finance & Economics The Kitchen Celebrating The Body of the Word. shows.acast.com/the-kitchen

🎵 New song out for Spring 2026! “For, behold, the winter is past; the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth; the time of singing has come…” – Song of Solomon 2:11–12 This track was born from my own journey with God and a heart that wants to rejoice in how amazing our Creator is to give us seasons like spring. May this song remind you that new life, colour, and song are gifts from His hand. If you have time, please listen. Share it with someone who needs a fresh reminder of God’s goodness this spring. 🙏 https://youtu.be/HBxHIeKfsbc #JourneyWithGodMusic #SongOfSolomon #SpringWorship #ChristianEDM #TropicalHouseWorship #WorshipSong #NewSeasonInGod

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

🚨🎶❤️‍🔥 I LITERALLY JUST FINISHED THIS SONG… AND IT'S NOT EVEN RELEASED YET! It's called “CLEARING OUT THE CLUTTER” 🔥 And NO… I'm not just talking about cleaning out a closet. 👀 I'm talking about clearing out the people, habits, distractions, hurt, fear, shame, old mindsets and DEAD WEIGHT that keep taking up space God is trying to fill. 🙌✝️ 🎶 “I'M CLEARING OUT THE CLUTTER… MAKING ROOM FOR GOD!” ❤️‍🔥 WHEW. THAT LINE. 😭🔥 Sometimes you've got to stop asking God to add MORE and start asking yourself what needs to GO. 🚪 This one isn't even released yet—I JUST finished it, and I'm giving y'all a FIRST LISTEN! 🎧🔥 👇 TURN IT UP. LISTEN TO THE WORDS. Then come back and tell me: ❤️‍🔥 WHAT ARE YOU CLEARING OUT OF YOUR LIFE? If this song speaks to you, SHARE IT with somebody who's ready to make room for what God has next. 🙌🎶 #ClearingOutTheClutter #MakingRoomForGod #NewMusic #ChristianMusic #Jesus #Faith #LetItGo #FoxxFusionMinistries

Revelation 5:1 AND I saw lying on the open hand of Him Who was seated on the throne a scroll (book) written within and on the back, closed and sealed with seven seals; [Isa. 29:11; Ezek. 2:9, 10; Dan. 12:4.] Revelation 5:2 And I saw a strong angel announcing in a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the scroll? And [who is entitled and deserves and is morally fit] to break its seals? Revelation 5:3 And no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth [in the realm of the dead, Hades] was able to open the scroll or to take a [single] look at its contents. Revelation 5:4 And I wept audibly and bitterly because no one was found fit to open the scroll or to inspect it. Revelation 5:5 Then one of the elders [of the heavenly Sanhedrin] said to me, Stop weeping! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root (Source) of David, has won (has overcome and conquered)! He can open the scroll and break its seven seals! [Gen. 49:9, 10; Isa. 11:1, 10; Rev. 22:16.] Revelation 5:6 And there between the throne and the four living creatures (beings) and among the elders [of the heavenly Sanhedrin] I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain, with seven horns and with seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God [the sevenfold Holy Spirit] Who have been sent [on duty far and wide] into all the earth. [Isa. 53:7; Zech. 3:8, 9; 4:10.] Revelation 5:7 He then went and took the scroll from the right hand of Him Who sat on the throne. Revelation 5:8 And when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders [of the heavenly Sanhedrin] prostrated themselves before the Lamb. Each was holding a harp (lute or guitar), and they had golden bowls full of incense (fragrant spices and gums for burning), which are the prayers of God's people (the saints). Revelation 5:9 And [now] they sing a new song, saying, You are worthy to take the scroll and to break the seals that are on it, for You were slain (sacrificed), and with Your blood You purchased men unto God from every tribe and language and people and nation. [Ps. 33:3.] Revelation 5:10 And You have made them a kingdom (royal race) and priests to our God, and they shall reign [as kings] over the earth! [Exod. 19:6; Isa. 61:6.] Revelation 5:11 Then I looked, and I heard the voices of many angels on every side of the throne and of the living creatures and the elders [of the heavenly Sanhedrin], and they numbered ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands, [Dan. 7:10.] Revelation 5:12 Saying in a loud voice, Deserving is the Lamb, Who was sacrificed, to receive all the power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and majesty (glory, splendor) and blessing! Revelation 5:13 And I heard every created thing in heaven and on earth and under the earth [in Hades, the place of departed spirits] and on the sea and all that is in it, crying out together, To Him Who is seated on the throne and to the Lamb be ascribed the blessing and the honor and the majesty (glory, splendor) and the power (might and dominion) forever and ever (through the eternities of the eternities)! [Dan. 7:13, 14.] Revelation 5:14 Then the four living creatures (beings) said, Amen (so be it)! And the elders [of the heavenly Sanhedrin] prostrated themselves and worshiped Him Who lives forever and ever.

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.

The Kitchen Newsletter Good day, Welcome to The Kitchen, where we explore, prepare and serve the contents in the Body of the Word as the delicacies of God—to create the form of the Father on the earth, to make the earth in His likeness, and to take charge of the economic destinies of nations for God. Relax, and let's journey through the scriptures to see the Body of the Word. The Word Is More Than Written Letters John's experience on the island of Patmos gives us a remarkable starting point. He turned to see the voice speaking to him, and what he saw was not merely a written sentence or an abstract idea. He saw Jesus Christ—the living Word of God—in the appearance of a man, with a body. John describes His head and hair, His eyes, His feet, His voice, His right hand, His mouth and His face. “His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire.” Revelation 1:12–17 This is important. The Word of God is not merely letters printed on pages. The Word is a living Person. And the Body of this living Word is the image of the invisible God. Hebrews tells us: “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being.” Hebrews 1:3 Paul similarly describes Christ as: “the image of God.” 2 Corinthians 4:4 So when we look at the Body of the Word, we are looking at the revelation of the invisible God. The invisible God cannot be seen with ordinary physical eyes. But He has made Himself known through the Body of the Word. That is why Paul says that God has caused light to shine in our hearts: “to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:6 The face represents the person. The body gives us the detailed descriptions through which the Person of the Word is revealed. God Is Speaking From the Body of the Word There is another dimension here that I find particularly striking. Jesus does not merely want His Church to know about Him. He wants His Church to know Him. After John saw these things, Jesus said: “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.” Revelation 1:19 And Isaiah declares: “The hand of the LORD will be made known to his servants.” Isaiah 66:14 The Scriptures testify about the Person of the Word. Jesus Himself said: “These are the very Scriptures that testify about me.” John 5:39 Therefore, when Scripture gives us a description of the head, hair, eyes, face, hands, feet or mouth of the Word, we should not dismiss those descriptions as insignificant details. They are invitations to look deeper. The details of the Body of the Word become doors into the knowledge of God. This is why the Holy Spirit is so important. Jesus said concerning the Spirit of Truth: “.....He will take from what is mine and make known to you.” John 16:13–15 And Revelation repeatedly gives us this instruction: “Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelation 2:7 The Spirit takes from Christ and makes Christ known. So the revelation of Scripture concerning the Body of the Word is not merely information. It is what the Spirit is saying to the churches. THE BODY OF THE WORD IS WHITE LIKE WOOL AND SNOW Now let us look at one particular description. John says: “His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow.” Revelation 1:14 Notice that John is describing the head and hair, but the revelation does not have to stop at the head and hair. The description points us toward the description of the whole Person. Daniel saw something remarkably similar: “His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool.” Daniel 7:9 Then the Song of Solomon gives us another description: “His appearance is like Lebanon, choice as the cedars.” Song of Solomon 5:15 Lebanon was known for its majestic mountain ranges and snow. The Scriptures are therefore giving us a consistent picture: whiteness, wool, snow, purity. Isaiah makes the meaning of this imagery particularly clear: “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.” Isaiah 1:18 White like snow. White like wool. The picture is purity. Cleanliness. Freedom from stain. No defect. No blemish. No corruption. So when we see the Body of the Word described as white like wool and white as snow, we are being brought into a revelation of the purity and holiness of God. The Body of the Word Is the Standard of Purity This has a very practical implication. How do we understand God's standard of purity? We look at the Body of the Word. How do we understand God's holiness? We look at the Body of the Word. How do we understand what it means for something to be clean before God? We look at the Body of the Word. The Body of the Word gives us the picture. The standard is not created by culture. It is not determined by popular opinion. It is not defined by whatever happens to be socially acceptable at the moment. The standard is the Body of the Word. This is why the revelation of the Body of the Word is not merely an interesting theological subject. It confronts the way we think, the way we live, the way we build, the way we govern and even the way we define what is acceptable. If Christ is the image of the invisible God, then our understanding of God must ultimately be brought into alignment with the Body of the Word. The Body of the Word is the purity of God. The Body of the Word is the holiness of God. And pursuing the revelation of the Body of the Word is therefore a pursuit of the holiness of God. The Psalmist says: “Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.” Psalm 96:9 But There Is Something Even More Provocative The same Body that is pure is also food. Jesus said: “I am the bread of life.” John 6:35 And again: “I am the living bread that came down from heaven......and this bread is my flesh” John 6:51 Then He makes the statement even more direct: “For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink.” John 6:55 This gives us an extraordinary picture. The Body of the Word is not merely something God wants us to observe. It is food. And if the Body of the Word is white like wool and white as snow, then we can describe it as clean food. The delicacies of God are found in the revelation knowledge of the Body of the Word. The Body of the Word is the food. The detailed descriptions of the Body are the delicacies. The Holy Spirit is the Teacher. And the delicacies of the Father bring us into a deeper knowledge of the Father. The Table of God There is an intriguing Old Testament picture here. God instructed Israel: “Put the bread of the Presence on this table to be before me at all times.” Exodus 25:30 Jesus identifies Himself as the Bread that came down from heaven. The connection is profound: God's table points us toward the Body of the Word as God's food. Even the language of the Song of Solomon gives us another picture: “And at our door is every delicacy, both new and old, that I have stored up for you.” Song of Solomon 7:13 There are dimensions of Christ that we have not yet adequately explored. There are descriptions that we have read without necessarily understanding. There are Scriptures we have quoted without asking what Person they are revealing. And this is where the unfolding of the Word becomes important. “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Psalm 119:130 The Body of the Word can be read. The Body of the Word can be unfolded. And when unfolded, light comes. Not merely intellectual information. Revelation. The knowledge of the Father. The Clean Food of God This also helps us understand the Old Testament distinction between clean and unclean food. Leviticus 11 records God's instructions concerning clean and unclean animals. The animals were not simply a collection of arbitrary dietary regulations. Within the larger biblical pattern, they also point toward deeper realities that find their fulfillment in Christ. The clean animals—including lambs, sheep, goats and bulls—were repeatedly associated with sacrifice and worship. The ultimate reality, however, is Christ - his Body. John the Baptist identifies Him as: “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29 And Jesus declares: “My flesh is real food.” John 6:55 So the shadow points toward the substance. The symbol points toward the Person. The animal points toward the Lamb. The bread points toward the Bread of Life. The descriptions point toward the Body of the Word. The Body of the Word is the clean food of God. And the delicacies contained within that Body are the detailed revelations through which God makes Himself known. What Are We Eating? Perhaps this is the question we should leave with today. What are you feeding your understanding of God with? Opinions? Traditions? Culture? Personal assumptions? Or are you allowing the Scriptures to introduce you to the Person of the Word? Jesus said the Scriptures testify about Him (John 5:39). The Holy Spirit takes what belongs to Christ and makes it known (John 16:13–15). The unfolding of the Word gives light (Psalm 119:130). And Christ is the exact representation of the invisible God (Hebrews 1:3). Therefore, there is a profound invitation before us: Come and feed on the Body of the Word. Look. Read. Unfold. Ask the Holy Spirit to open the Body of the Word to you. Look at the Body of the Word. Look at the descriptions. Look at its purity. Look at its holiness. Look at its beauty. Look at its members. Look at the delicacies contained within it. And perhaps what we have called ordinary words are carrying revelations of the Person of Christ that we have not yet tasted. The Father wants to make Himself known. And He has given us the Body of the Word. The Body of the Word is the image of the invisible God. The Body of the Word is pure. The Body of the Word is holy. The Body of the Word is clean food. And the revelation of that Body is a delicacy prepared for those who are willing to come to the table. Listen to The Kitchen Podcast by Omodolapo Ogunye on Audible, Spotify, Deezer, Amazon Music and Apple Podcasts. Please share and spread the Revelation Knowledge of the Body of the Word. celebrating the Body of the Word #foodmoneyshow #bodyoftheword #moneymarket #worldwide #churchonline

August 31, 2026 (day 243/365) MONDAY GOD'S WORD FOR THE DAY “Trust God Without Fear” Isaiah 12:2 “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid.” This is the Word of God. Isaiah 12 is a beautiful song of praise that celebrates God as the source of salvation, strength, and comfort. After speaking about judgment and restoration, Isaiah points the people toward a life of confident trust in God. Fear often grows when we focus on our circumstances rather than on the One who holds our future. We may not know what tomorrow will bring, but we can know who will be with us tomorrow. God is not only our salvation; He is also our strength when we feel weak and our comfort when we are troubled. Faith does not mean that we will never face frightening circumstances. It means that fear does not have to control us because our trust is placed in God. May we learn to trust God more deeply each day, remembering that He is our salvation, our strength, and our song. May His presence replace our fear with confidence and our anxiety with peace. Amen. Have a blessed day with the Lord. -- Pastor Emmanuel Serto