🌿 MINDFULNESS: THE WISDOM OF HOW WE TREAT ONE ANOTHER 🌿 Being mindful is more than simply being aware. It is remembering that we share this world with other people. It means practicing manners, decorum, etiquette, and civility—not because we are trying to appear perfect, but because we recognize the dignity of others. Sometimes wisdom sounds like speaking. Sometimes wisdom sounds like listening. And sometimes wisdom sounds like silence. 📖 “A time to keep silence, and a time to speak.” — Ecclesiastes 3:7 There are moments when our words can encourage, correct, defend, or bring healing. And there are moments when speaking out of anger, pride, impulse, or frustration can cause unnecessary harm. 📖 “Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” — James 1:19 The Bible reminds us that our words matter. 📖 “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” — Proverbs 18:21 And sometimes the wisest response is simply to be still. 📖 “Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10 Being still does not mean being indifferent. Being quiet does not mean being weak. Being civil does not mean permitting wrongdoing. Jesus Himself demonstrated that there is a time for gentleness and a time for righteous confrontation. Scripture calls us to pursue truth, justice, mercy, and righteousness—not merely comfort or appearances. So mindfulness asks us: Is this the right time to speak? Is this the right way to speak? Does this need to be said? Am I listening as carefully as I am speaking? Will my words bring understanding—or unnecessary injury? And perhaps most importantly: Am I treating people as members of a family whom God has commanded me to love? 📖 “Love one another: as I have loved you.” — John 13:34 📖 “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.” — Romans 12:10 Christian love is not pretending that everything is acceptable. It is not concealing injustice. It is not remaining silent when someone is being harmed. Rather, it means learning to speak truth with love, to correct without cruelty, to disagree without contempt, and to stand for what is right without abandoning compassion. 📖 “Speaking the truth in love…” — Ephesians 4:15 There is tremendous wisdom in knowing the difference between silence that protects peace and silence that permits injustice. So today, let us be mindful. Mindful of our words. Mindful of our tone. Mindful of our surroundings. Mindful of other people’s dignity. Mindful of when to speak. Mindful of when to listen. Mindful of when to be still. And yes… Mind your P’s and Q’s. 😉 Not as an invitation to conceal who we are or to perform politeness for appearances— but as a gentle reminder to show respect, practice good manners, exercise self-control, and treat others with the dignity we hope to receive. Because kindness is not weakness. Civility is not compromise. Silence is not always surrender. And speaking up is not always unkind. Wisdom is knowing which moment requires which one. 🌿✨ “Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14

Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀🌹🎀🎁💝🌺 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY. SATURDAY AUGUST 29, 2O26. "THERE’S NOBODY LIKE HIM! (4)" ‘Let all that I am praise the Lord;...’ Psalms 103:2 NLT THE BIBLE equates God with light, and light with holiness. ‘…God is light; in him there is no darkness at all’ (1 John 1:5 NIV). Paul said that God dwells in ‘…unapproachable light…’ (1 Timothy 6:16 NIV). Scripture refers to Christ ‘…who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners…’ (Hebrews 7:26 NIV). So how should you approach such a God? As you would an auditor when your books don’t balance? Or a dictator who holds the power of life and death? No, Jesus told us to pray, ‘…Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name’ (Matthew 6:9 KJV). There’s your answer! You must come to God as a father who loves you dearly and desires only what is best for you, while always regarding Him with profound reverence. As your awe of God expands, your fears in life will diminish. A big view of God translates into big courage; a small view of God generates no courage at all. A puny God can’t help you when cancer strikes, your family is in trouble, or you’ve no way to pay your bills. A ‘do-me-a-favour’ Jesus may look good stuck on your dashboard, but that image can do nothing for your fears. You need an awesome God, who, while diminishing your ego, enlarges your faith and blows your mind. David wrote: ‘Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies. He fills my life with good things…’ (Psalms 103:2-5 NLT). Bible In A Year: Ezek 16:53-19:14; Matt 22:1-14; Ps 103:13-22; Pro 19:17. 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. [28/08, 9:18 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* SATURDAY, 29TH AUGUST, 2026. *SUNDRY WORDS OF WISDOM* *TEXT:* PROVERBS 13:18-25. 18 Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured. 19 The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil. 20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. 21 Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed. 22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just. 23 Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment. 24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes. 25 The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want. *Timeless Truth:*_"He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed"_ (Proverbs 13:20). *INTRODUCTION* If people are asked how to differentiate a wise person from a foolish person, the answer will differ according to the wisdom or foolishness of individuals giving the answer. Unfortunately, in most cases, the foolish see themselves as wiser than the wise. The successful and rich farmer in Luke 12:19-21 appeared to have had wisdom to make wealth and multiply it. Most people will take such, today as wise and smart, but God called him a fool. So a wise man in the eyes of an earthly person is not necessarily wise as far as the Ancient of Days is concerned. The Word of God is therefore, the most reliable and best literature on true and divinely approved wisdom. It looks at wisdom in the context of eternity and not in the context of ephemeral things of this world. The book of Proverbs contains practical wisdom for victorious and godly living. The text gives us some lectures on what constitutes true wisdom in the sight of God and in the sight of truth loving men. In essence, we can perceive wisdom in a person through his words, ways of life, values, choices and disciplines. *1. Humility in Receiving Instruction* One of the outputs of wisdom is the humility to accept and obey godly instructions. Anyone who claims, by his actions, that he is above instruction must claim to be on the same table of wisdom with the Omniscience God. That will be foolishness. *“Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.”* Refusing godly correction often leads to painful consequences, while accepting rebuke produces growth and honour. A teachable spirit is a mark of wisdom. *Question* How do you respond when godly correction is given to you? Is a proud intelligent or wealthy person wise? *2. The Happiness in Realization of Interest* *“The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul…”* This is well known experientially. There is joy when righteous desires are fulfilled. What if the desire that is accomplished is evil? Is it still sweet to the soul? This is how to differentiate a fool from the wise. For the wise, when evil desires come to pass, they are sad and unhappy. They cannot rest until they go to God for mercy. The fool reacts differently. They are happy at the evil that happens because *"it is abomination for fools to depart from evil"*. They are always right and wise in their own eyes even when they do evil or evil happens. *Question* Do you rejoice when evil desires are accomplished? Do you rejoice when good things happen to others? You can always judge whether you are a fool in the eyes of God or not. *3. The Healthy of Relationship with the Intelligent* *“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”* Our companions influence our character, decisions and future. Walking with wise people, according to Divine definition of wisdom, promotes wisdom, while intimate association with foolish people can bring sorrow. Your peers influence your principles and your principle determines your prudence. Your relationships reform your Character and your character determines your personality. *Question* Are your closest companions helping you to grow in wisdom and godliness? *4. The Harvests of Reward for Involvements* Whatever is sown will be harvested in multiple folds whether good or evil. It is a matter of time. *"Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repaid.”* Nobody should deceive himself that if he sows sin and sows to the flesh he will reap righteousness and spirituality. Those who sow love and goodness will reap the same with their children. Sin has consequences and eventually, catches up with the unrepentant. God, however, watches over the righteous and rewards those who faithfully follow Him. *Question* What are you sowing with your tongue and talents? *5. Having Righteous Inheritance* *“A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children…”* The inheritance can be education, wealth, good spiritual and moral upbringing. A godly inheritance includes more than money and possessions. Faith, integrity, wisdom, good character and the fear of God are treasures that can bless generations. A wise father invests all these good things in the life of the younger generation through any medium possible just like Jesus gave us diver blessings as he departed from the world. *Question* Do you demonstrate wisdom by investing invaluable things to your younger generation through any medium available? *6. The Huge Results of Ignorance* *“Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.”* God can provide abundance through diligent labour. The poor remains poor not because he was made so, but just because he could not till the ground and labour. Furthermore, poor decisions, injustice and lack of wise management may destroy what could have been fruitful. Those who are enjoying bountiful harvests in a godly way are using God's wisdom while those who remain poor should go and learn the wisdom of God. *Question* Are you using the opportunities and resources God has given you with wisdom and good judgment? *7. Home Rulership without Indiscipline* *“He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.”* The rod is not necessarily physical. It may also be psychological, frowns or stern rebukes. Genuine love does not ignore wrongdoing. A child left to himself will be spoilt and become a source of shame to the parents and the society. Schools might be forbidden from spanking, but God expects parents, both natural and spiritual, to enforce discipline lovingly and godly.Godly discipline, exercised with wisdom and love, helps to correct, train and guide children in the right path. *Question* Do you apply wisdom and love in the discipline of the erring both in the Church and the natural family? *8. Divine Recompence according to the Heart* *“The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want.”* God knows the needs of His people and is able to provide for them. The righteous learn contentment and dependence upon God, while wickedness ultimately leads to emptiness. *Question* Do you trust God daily as your Provider and seek to live in righteousness before Him? *Prayer Points* 1.Lord, give me a humble and teachable heart that receives godly correction 🙏. 2.Father, surround me with wise and godly companions who will strengthen my faith 🙏. 3.Lord, help me to leave a lasting inheritance of faith, wisdom and godly character for future generations 🙏. 4.Father, grant Your children wisdom to manage opportunities and resources that You have provided them🙏. *HYMN:* Deeper Deeper *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* PHILEMON [28/08, 9:18 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST, 2026``` *WATCH YOUR DESIRES* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️💓⚠️‼️🛑👁️🧐🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:PROVERBS 13:18-25```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil" (PROVERBS 13:19).*_ *"Some desire is necessary to keep life in motion," said the English writer, moralist and sermonist, Samuel Johnson, "and he whose real wants are supplied, must admit those of fancy." The problem often arises from the nature of the desire people harbour. Most people desire what they do not need, but what serves their fancies. Some are never able to distinguish between the needs they should desire and the wants that serve little purpose.* *King Solomon, the writer of these couplets in the Proverbs, could justifiably claim expertise on the sometimes messy topic of desires. He lived for a time to satisfy his personal desires, to feed his body with whatever he wanted. But in the end, he saw them as vanity, inferring by his conduct that he, who was the wisest of men in his time had succumbed to the cravings of the most foolish people. He therefore, warned of the consequences of rejecting instructions, probably alluding to his action, emphasising that even if the desires of such people were accomplished and seemed "sweet to the soul", at least for a time, it offers no incentive to the foolish person to shun evil conducts. He draws a parallel between those that keep company with wise men, and companions of unwise people. He concludes that sinners are invariably unwise in what truly matters in life, and are therefore unable to bequeath a legacy of inheritance to generations after them. Stressing the destructive nature of poor judgment, the wise preacher also counselled against withholding discipline from children, and affirms that it is an expression of love to ensure that children are brought up well. In the end, this is part of what brings satisfaction to the righteous, as the fruit of his labour.* *It is no doubt, desirable to achieve our goals in life, but we must be careful as not every desire is worth pursuing. Some are so deadly that when you set your heart on them, you may lose the ability to determine what is truly good, and what is dangerous. Often, our desires influence how we justly assess our actions. At such a time, it becomes important whose words we obey, whose advice we accept, and whose friendship we keep. The word of God must under-guard our every action. Any desire that panders more to our ego or serves only our flesh runs counter to God's command. We must focus on what God says, and shun any desire that tends towards pride and vainglory.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Unchecked desires are the fuel that power unhinged conducts.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *PHILEMON*📜📜 Watch Your Desires https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 6: YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION; GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED; AND GHS 189: TAKE TIME TO BE HOLY* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna29thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [28/08, 9:19 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST, 2026``` *IN HIS SECRET PLACE - 1* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🗣️🙏🏽🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:PSALM 91:1-9```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty" (PSALM 91:1).*_ *_World War I_ soldier, Leonard Knight was saved when a pocket Bible which he was carrying in his breast pocket stopped a German bullet from hitting him. Incredibly, Leonard escaped without a scratch, to the glory of God.* *Optimum security can only be found in God. He has the power to secure you and everything that is committed to His hands. No matter how vehement the storm rages, He is willing to protect you beyond this world and preserve you spotless unto life eternal. "Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God," Corrie ten Boom posited.* *"Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy" (Jude 1:24). Like the chicks find shelter under the wings of mother hen, so you too can dwell in His secret place and enjoy divine security.* *Anyone that chooses God for his/her protection shall be saved and secured from all alarms. Genuine experience of salvation earns you an abode under His wings.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Salvation earns you an abode.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*You are safe in the hollow of His hand.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to dwell in Your secret place.*_ In His Secret Place - 1 https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday29thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [28/08, 9:19 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST, 2026``` *ACHAN'S SIN AND CONSEQUENCES* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽⚠️‼️🛑⚖️🔥⚰️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```JOSHUA 7:19-26```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"And Achan answered Joshua, and said, Indeed I have sinned against the LORD God of Israel, and thus and thus have I done" (Joshua 7:20).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 As the children of Israel prepared to attack Jericho, the gateway to Canaan land, God commanded them to destroy all the people of Jericho with all their properties, except the vessels of silver, gold, brass and iron which were meant to be used for God's service. They were warned never to take for themselves any property from Jericho. After conquering Jericho, they proceeded to fight against a tiny enemy town called Ai. But in the process, thirty-six men among the Israelites were killed by the men of Ai, and the rest were chased away shamefully and disgraced because one of the men of Israel called Achan disobeyed God's command. This made God not to protect or help them in the battle. Achan fell into a chain of sins by: *(1) Looking at and admiring the Babylonish garment, money and gold.* *(2) Coveting the Babylonish properties.* *(3) Disobeying God's command by stealing the Babylonish properties.* *(4) Trying to cover his sins by secretly hiding the stolen Babylonish properties in his room.* *(5) Influencing his family members to join him in covering up his sins.* *(6) Causing the death of his family and thirty-six men of Israel.* *(7) Causing the anger of God to come upon the Israelites.* Achan's sins could not be hidden from God. He was exposed and disgraced. Himself, his wife and children were all stoned to death and burnt with all their properties including what he stole and attempted to cover up. *At the tail end of every chain of sins is damnation and destruction. But only Jesus has the power to break the chain and set the sinner free through repentance and cleansing in His precious blood. Repent now and be free from the consequences of your sins.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Dear Lord, give me the grace to keep off from every appearance of sin.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Psalm 9:17* Achan's Sin And Consequences https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk29thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; ⏤ Colossians 3:23 The great thing in prayer is to feel that we are putting our supplications into the bosom of omnipotent love. ⏤ Andrew Murray We come into Your presence, O great and glorious God, to begin the day at Your feet. Without Your blessing, we dare not venture into the twisting paths of the world. We desire to do good work today. Keep us from being satisfied with merely fulfilling our duties; may we do even the smallest tasks with excellence, so as to please You. We also desire to live well in our family life. Sometimes we fail to do our best at home. We grow careless, and we do not speak as affectionately as we should. We are less courteous and kind than we might be. We do not always give the best expressions of love to those closest to us. Teach us, Father, to love at home—and to show our love. Preserve us from impatience, irritability, and frustration in our interactions as a home, and give us the spirit of love. We also desire to show love in all our relationships with the world. Give us a generous heart toward our neighbors. Help us to be like Jesus, who, when reviled, did not revile in return—who bore injury and insult with meekness and gentleness. May we have the same patient love that He had. If we suffer wrong from others, may we bear it quietly, without resentment, returning good for evil and kindness for unkindness. May we have the spirit of helpfulness toward all our neighbors. May we be like the Good Samaritan to anyone we find in distress or need. Enable us to carry the love of Jesus to every life we touch. Make us good interpreters of Jesus' divine love and kindness. May our neighbors see in us the holiness of Jesus. Let our day be one of beauty and grace, full of Jesus and full of goodness to others. We ask this in the blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/55/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

**The price of the cross wasn't paid for you to keep sinning** Scripture is clear: *"we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth"* (John 9:31). This doesn't mean God ignores those trapped in sin — it means He takes no pleasure in a life that sins without any sign of repentance, that prays with the mouth while the heart stays stuck in the same wrong practice. Prayer isn't a ritual for someone who wants to keep living however they please and only cry out for help when things get hard. And this is exactly what God was already complaining about through the prophet Isaiah: *"This people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me"* (Isaiah 29:13). Jesus repeated that same accusation centuries later (Matthew 15:8). God isn't impressed by the appearance of faith, pretty words, an emotional worship service — He looks at the heart. And if the heart remains far off, distant, clinging to sin, the lips can say whatever they want: God sees the distance. The way back begins with humility: *"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time"* (1 Peter 5:6). That's what David did after sinning gravely. He didn't hide, didn't justify himself, didn't shift the blame — he humbled himself, prayed, fasted, wept before God (2 Samuel 12; Psalm 51). And God, who resists the proud, restores the one who truly humbles himself. But this needs to be said plainly: grace is not a license to keep sinning. When Jesus forgave the woman caught in adultery, He didn't just say "go in peace." He said: *"go, and sin no more"* (John 8:11). Forgiveness comes with a command attached: change direction. Whoever uses grace as an excuse to stay the same hasn't understood what the cross cost. And it's worth remembering: Jesus didn't suffer, didn't bleed, didn't die on a cross so you could keep living comfortably in sin. It was the highest price ever paid for anyone — for all of humanity. To ignore that, to treat grace as something cheap, is to despise the very sacrifice of Christ. That's why the Bible is harsh toward those who live behind a facade: *"He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him"* (1 John 2:4). You can say you love Jesus, post a Bible verse, raise your hand in worship — but if the sinful practice continues the same, without struggle, without repentance, without any change at all, Scripture calls it exactly what it is: a lie. It's not about being perfect, it's about not being at peace with sin. *"That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit"* (John 3:6). Whoever is born again is transformed on the inside — no longer living enslaved to sin like before, because they have a new nature. *"We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not... and that wicked one toucheth him not"* (1 John 5:18). This doesn't mean a Christian never fails, but that he no longer lives dominated, enslaved, comfortable in wrongdoing. There's a difference between stumbling and repenting, and lying down in sin as if it were normal. If you pray, but keep the same practice, the same lie, the same hidden sin — today's invitation isn't to give up, it's to truly humble yourself. God isn't standing there with arms crossed waiting for you to fall so He can condemn you. He's waiting for you to humble yourself so He can lift you up.

Lifeline Today Wednesday August 26 Pursue Purity Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 One major attribute that will attract people to you is the state of your heart; how pure it is. Moral purity is like an aroma, a fragrance that releases the beauty of God’s holiness. If we are to succeed by faith, we must also live a corresponding life of purity and holiness. Purity is vital to faith. There cannot be faith in the heart unless there is holiness in the life. You pursue purity by exposing your conscience constantly to the Word of God. As you do, your heart grows strong and insists on doing right, condemns wrongdoing, causes remorse over sin and rewards righteousness with peace. Your inward purity which is reflected in your outward action singles you out for favour where others are rejected. Purity has to do with moral discipline that starts from self. No matter how gifted you are, your gift will never reach their maximum potential without the application of self-discipline. This is your day. Wisdom Fountain: "Keep your heart pure. A pure heart is necessary to see God in each other. If you see God in each other, there is love for each other, then there is peace." Prayer: Heavenly Father, create in me a clean heart and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Purify my thoughts, my motives, and my desires. Help me to turn my eyes away from worthless things and guard my words. Give me the strength to resist temptation and to run from things that lead me away from You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so my actions bring honour to Your name in Jesus' name.

Why does a Christian need to cultivate Biblical discernment? Three reasons why you need Biblical discernment: Sometimes you hear the right voice (a believer) say the wrong thing. When this happens, if you exercise Biblical discernment, then you’ll understand that the person simply mis-spoke. We’re all human and we all make mistakes. Mis-stating something doesn’t make someone a bad person. It simply means that they’re human…like you. Sometimes you hear the wrong voice (a non-believer) say the right thing. When this happens, if you exercise Biblical discernment, then you’ll understand that the person didn’t say the right thing to help you; they said what they said to try to mislead you because… The wrong voice NEVER says the right thing for the right reason. Now that I’ve stirred up a hornets nest, let me make some clarifications. The insights I’ve shared in this post only apply to true Christians - followers of Jesus - who live the way they live to glorify God and point people to the Savior, Jesus Christ. And just to be perfectly clear: Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. In fact, He’s the only Savior, which means that there is NO way to connect to God the Father apart from Jesus. The Biblical discernment I’m referring to is developed over time by making God’s Word (the Bible) a priority, along with praying regularly and fellowshipping regularly with other believers. Biblical discernment is NOT available to unbelievers. So if you want Biblical discernment, but you have not yet surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus, then your next step is to do what the Bible tells us we have to do to connect with the Father through Jesus: Believe in God the Father and in His only Son, Jesus Christ. Confess that Jesus is Lord and that the Father raised Him from the dead. Repent of your sin (your wrongdoing - we’ve all done wrong). Surrender control of your life to Jesus, who will then become the Lord of your life. Accept by faith the forgiveness that God offers freely through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Believe that you are now justified before God (put in right-standing with God), and that He’s forgiven you of EVERY wrong thing you’ve ever done. Believe God’s Holy Spirit is now living in you (that’s a mystery, but it’s true), and purpose in your heart to live as God intends, with the help of His Spirit. Learn to enjoy being in God’s “forever family”, and share with others what’s happened to you. Discover God’s gifts to you, and then use them to make a difference in the lives of other people. Become an ambassador for Jesus! Tell everyone you meet about how He’s changed your life and given you a purpose (a reason for living). I hope these insights inspire & motivate you to open yourself up to all that God is and all that He has for you! God bless!

True Worship Belongs to God Alone Scripture Judges 17:6 (NKJV) In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes. When Everyone Does What Is Right in Their Own Eyes Judges 17 marks a shift in the book of Judges. Instead of focusing on Israel's battles with foreign enemies, the chapter reveals the spiritual decline taking place within the nation itself. The greatest danger was no longer outside Israel but inside the hearts of God's people. The chapter begins with Micah returning stolen silver to his mother. Although he admitted his wrongdoing, the family's response did not lead to true repentance or obedience to God's Word. Instead, they used part of the silver to make a carved image and a molded image for worship. They mixed the name of the LORD with practices that God had clearly forbidden. Micah then established his own private shrine, made household idols, and even appointed his own priest. Later, when a wandering Levite arrived, Micah hired him to serve in his personal religious system. Micah believed that because he now had a Levite serving him, God would surely bless him. The tragedy of this chapter is that the people were religious but not obedient. They wanted God's blessing without submitting to God's commands. They created a form of worship based on personal preference rather than God's revealed truth. Judges 17 concludes with the sobering statement that there was no king in Israel, and everyone did what was right in his own eyes. The issue was not merely political leadership but spiritual authority. The people rejected God's rule and replaced it with their own opinions and desires. This same temptation exists today. Our culture often teaches that truth is personal and that everyone should determine what is right for themselves. Yet God's Word remains the unchanging standard for faith and life. Genuine worship is not built upon feelings, traditions, or personal preferences but upon humble obedience to the Lord. God desires hearts that submit to Him completely. True worship is demonstrated not only by what we say but by how faithfully we obey His Word. Reflection Questions 1. Am I following God's Word or simply doing what seems right in my own eyes? 2. Are there areas where I have substituted personal preferences for biblical obedience? 3. Is my worship shaped by Scripture or by culture and convenience? Prayer Heavenly Father, help me to honor You according to Your Word rather than according to my own ideas. Guard my heart from compromise and from creating a faith that fits my preferences instead of Your truth. Teach me to walk in humble obedience and to worship You in spirit and in truth. May every area of my life be surrendered to Your authority. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Psalm 19:1-14 CEB Heaven is declaring God’s glory; the sky is proclaiming his handiwork. [2] One day gushes the news to the next, and one night informs another what needs to be known. [3] Of course, there’s no speech, no words—their voices can’t be heard— [4] but their sound extends throughout the world; their words reach the ends of the earth. God has made a tent in heaven for the sun. [5] The sun is like a groom coming out of his honeymoon suite; like a warrior, it thrills at running its course. [6] It rises in one end of the sky; its circuit is complete at the other. Nothing escapes its heat. [7] The LORD’s Instruction is perfect, reviving one’s very being. The LORD’s laws are faithful, making naive people wise. [8] The LORD’s regulations are right, gladdening the heart. The LORD’s commands are pure, giving light to the eyes. [9] Honoring the LORD is correct, lasting forever. The LORD’s judgments are true. All of these are righteous! [10] They are more desirable than gold—than tons of pure gold! They are sweeter than honey—even dripping off the honeycomb! [11] No doubt about it: your servant is enlightened by them; there is great reward in keeping them. [12] But can anyone know what they’ve accidentally done wrong? Clear me of any unknown sin [13] and save your servant from willful sins. Don’t let them rule me. Then I’ll be completely blameless; I’ll be innocent of great wrongdoing. [14] Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you, LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

Loving and Gracious in All Things “There are those people who would say, ‘I’d rather deal with somebody who is rude, antagonistic and sarcastic, but when it really matters, is there for us in the big challenges of life.’ But when one reads the Holy Bible, Old and New Testament, the character of God is such that He expects us not only to be loving and gracious on the big things, but also on the little things. To be loving and gracious only when it really matters, or only when it is convenient, is not the character of Christ. We must be loving and gracious in all things—big and small.” Christian Character Is Revealed in the Little Things It is easy to admire someone who stands beside us during a great crisis. Faithfulness in difficult times matters. But Christianity calls us to something deeper. God does not ask us to love only when the circumstances are serious. He calls us to love in the ordinary moments of everyday life. Jesus said: “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” — Luke 16:10 The little things matter because the little things reveal the heart. How do we speak when we are irritated? How do we treat someone who inconveniences us? How do we respond when someone disagrees with us? How do we speak about people who aren’t present? These things may seem insignificant to the world, but they are not insignificant to God. Love Is Not Selective Jesus gave His followers a standard far higher than simply being decent when it is convenient: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you.” — John 13:34 Christ’s love was not reserved for emergencies. It was woven into everything He did. Paul says: “Let all your things be done with charity.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14 Notice the word all. Not some things. Not the important things. All things. Our speech, our attitudes, our reactions and our relationships are all opportunities to reflect Christ. Paul also says: “Let your speech be always with grace.” — Colossians 4:6 Always. Not only when we are preaching. Not only when we are dealing with someone we love. Not only when someone is watching. Always. Even When People Are Difficult Christian love is tested most when people are difficult. Jesus said: “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you.” — Matthew 5:44 This does not mean Christians must tolerate abuse or refuse to confront wrongdoing. But even when we must establish boundaries or correct someone, we are not permitted to abandon Christlike love. Proverbs tells us: “A soft answer turneth away wrath.” — Proverbs 15:1 And Paul commands: “Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” — Ephesians 4:32 Kindness is not weakness. Grace is not weakness. Forgiveness is not weakness. These are marks of someone being transformed by Christ. The Fruit of the Spirit Should Be Seen Every Day Paul describes the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.” — Galatians 5:22–23 Notice how many of these qualities are revealed in ordinary interactions. Longsuffering. Gentleness. Goodness. Meekness. A person may demonstrate extraordinary courage during a crisis and still need the Holy Spirit to teach them patience in everyday life. Someone may sacrifice greatly for another person and yet continually wound others with their words. Christianity is not merely about doing great things occasionally. It is about becoming a person whose ordinary life reflects Jesus Christ. Christ in the Big and the Small Paul writes: “Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” — Colossians 3:17 Whatever you do. That includes the dramatic moments of life—and the mundane ones. So yes, be the person who stands beside someone when tragedy strikes. Be the person who answers the call when someone is hurting. But also: Be kind when nothing important is happening. Be patient when you are irritated. Speak graciously when you could speak harshly. Forgive the small offenses. Refuse to return sarcasm with sarcasm and hostility with hostility. Because the Christian calling is not simply to be loving when “it really matters.” It is to be loving because Christ lives in us. Jesus said: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” — John 13:35 The world should see Christ not only in how we respond to life’s greatest tragedies, but in how we behave on an ordinary Tuesday afternoon. Love in the big things. Love in the little things. Grace in the big things. Grace in the little things. Mercy in the big things. Mercy in the little things. Because there are no insignificant moments when we are called to represent Jesus Christ. “Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14 That is the Christian life: not occasional goodness, but a life increasingly shaped by the character of Christ.

Daily Bible Lesson. WE ASK GOD FOR MORE LIGHT—THEN MAKE EXCUSES WHEN HIS LIGHT REQUIRES CHANGE “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.” — 1 Samuel 15:22 We pray: “Lord, show me Your will.” Then His light touches something we love— our time, appetite, appearance, character, location, or tongue— and suddenly: “My situation is different.” “Everyone does it.” “I'm not convicted.” Perhaps our greatest problem is not always lack of light. IT IS THE HUMAN HEART'S AMAZING ABILITY TO EXPLAIN AWAY THE LIGHT IT DOES NOT WANT TO OBEY. Jesus asks: “Why call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” — Luke 6:46 So here is the question beneath every reform: ARE WE SEEKING GOD'S WILL—OR ASKING GOD TO APPROVE OURS? --- ① SABBATH REFORM—WHO OWNS YOUR TIME? THE EXCUSES: “I have to work.” “Most Christians worship Sunday.” “God knows my heart.” Yes—God knows the heart. And Jesus says: “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” — John 14:15 God's command still reads: “The seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God.” — Exodus 20:10 Obedience may cost convenience, approval, opportunity—even income. But faith asks something deeper: WHAT IS JESUS WORTH? “We ought to obey God rather than men.” — Acts 5:29 Do not merely argue for the Sabbath. KNOW THE LORD OF THE SABBATH—and ask Him for faith to walk in His footsteps. --- ② HEALTH REFORM—HAS APPETITE RENAMED ITSELF “NECESSITY”? THE EXCUSES: “My body needs it.” “I've always eaten this way.” “We're all going to die anyway.” But this body is not ours to abuse. “Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:20 “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink… do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31 Health reform is not salvation by menu. It is stewardship of a body purchased by Christ. Inspiration warns of those who “frame excuses and make necessities which have no existence” while resisting health light. — Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 399 What a warning: APPETITE IS A TERRIBLE COUNSELOR WHEN ASKED TO JUDGE ITS OWN HABITS. Stop asking only: “Do I enjoy it?” Ask: “WILL THIS KEEP MY BODY AND MIND FIT FOR CHRIST'S SERVICE?” --- ③ DRESS REFORM—WHO ARE WE TRYING TO PLEASE? THE EXCUSES: “It's only fashion.” “God only looks at the heart.” “I don't want to look different.” Yes: “The LORD looketh on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7 And Scripture also calls for: “Modest apparel.” — 1 Timothy 2:9 The issue is not ugliness. Not neglect. Not a religious uniform. The question is: WHO IS SHAPING MY APPEARANCE—CHRIST OR THE WORLD? Christian dress should reflect modesty, simplicity, health, dignity, and good taste without making self the attraction. CLOTHING CANNOT SAVE THE HEART—BUT THE MASTER OF THE HEART WILL INFLUENCE THE CLOTHING. Let your appearance quietly testify: “I BELONG TO CHRIST.” --- ④ CHARACTER REFORM—“THAT'S JUST HOW I AM.” Perhaps no excuse protects cherished defects more effectively. Anger becomes “my personality.” Pride becomes “confidence.” Bitterness becomes “what they deserve.” Then comes the universal shield: “Nobody is perfect.” True. But Jesus never made imperfection an excuse for refusing transformation. “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 2:5 Christ does not merely forgive us in the old life. HE BEGINS MAKING US NEW. “When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.” — Christ's Object Lessons, p. 69 Stop defending your defect with: “THAT'S WHO I AM.” Bring it to Jesus: “LORD, MAKE ME LIKE YOU.” --- ⑤ LOCATION REFORM—WHY DID INSPIRATION CRY, “OUT OF THE CITIES”? Here excuses become painfully practical: “My job is here.” “My children's opportunities are here.” “I'll move when everything becomes convenient.” Yet Inspiration repeatedly urged: “Out of the cities, out of the cities! This is the message the Lord has been giving me.” — Country Living, p. 29 Why? Not because soil saves souls. But country surroundings can favor health, simplicity, useful labor, children learning from nature, greater separation from corrupting influences, and preparation for difficult times. God's first home for humanity was not a congested metropolis. “The LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden.” — Genesis 2:8 Abraham lived as a pilgrim. Lot “pitched his tent toward Sodom.” — Genesis 13:12 Their stories remind us: LOCATION CANNOT CONVERT THE HEART—BUT ENVIRONMENT CAN POWERFULLY INFLUENCE IT. Yet Inspiration also counseled: “Out of the cities; but not a moment before God would have us go.” — Country Living, p. 26 So the message is not: PANIC AND RUN. It is: PRAY. PREPARE. SIMPLIFY. LEARN. WATCH PROVIDENCE. AND WHEN GOD OPENS THE WAY—OBEY. And remember: YOU CAN LEAVE BABYLON GEOGRAPHICALLY WHILE BABYLON STILL LIVES IN YOUR HEART. Christ's first relocation project is: SELF OFF THE THRONE—CHRIST ON IT. --- ⑥ SPEECH REFORM—CAN A CONVERTED HEART KEEP AN UNCONVERTED TONGUE? Here the excuses sound innocent: “I'm only joking.” “But it's true!” “I just needed to release my feelings.” Scripture answers: “Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting… but rather giving of thanks.” — Ephesians 5:4 “Speak evil of no man.” — Titus 3:2 And instead: “That which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” — Ephesians 4:29 Imagine that standard: WORDS THAT MINISTER GRACE. No gossip. No slander. No degrading jesting. No cutting sarcasm. No dishonest flattery. No spreading bitterness from heart to heart. “Bless, and curse not.” — Romans 12:14 This does not mean hiding wrongdoing. Jesus rebuked sin. Nathan confronted David. Paul corrected churches. Truth sometimes must hurt before it heals. But Scripture says: “Speaking the truth in love.” — Ephesians 4:15 Before speaking, ask: IS IT TRUE? IS IT NECESSARY? IS IT LOVING? WILL IT BUILD RATHER THAN POISON? WOULD I SAY IT THIS WAY IN THE VISIBLE PRESENCE OF JESUS? “Let the law of kindness be upon your lips and the oil of grace in your heart.” — Christ's Object Lessons, p. 337 What a standard: **TRUTH ON THE LIPS. GRACE IN THE HEART.** --- ⑦ PERHAPS THE MOST DANGEROUS EXCUSE—“I'M NOT CONVICTED.” Sometimes that is sincere. Conscience must never be forced. But sometimes: “I'M NOT CONVICTED” really means: “I DON'T WANT TO INVESTIGATE THIS DEEPLY ENOUGH TO BECOME CONVICTED.” Jesus reveals a searching principle: “If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.” — John 7:17 Notice the order: WILLINGNESS → UNDERSTANDING → OBEDIENCE. Before asking, “Is this really required?” ask: “LORD, IF YOUR WORD SHOWS ME THAT I AM WRONG—AM I WILLING TO CHANGE?” That question exposes whether we want truth— or merely reassurance. --- ⑧ BUT HERE IS THE DANGER ON THE OTHER SIDE—REFORM WITHOUT CHRIST Inspiration defines genuine reformation: “Reformation signifies a reorganization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices.” — Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 128 Truth must reach: the calendar, the kitchen, the wardrobe, the temper, the address, the tongue, and the choices nobody sees. “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.” — James 1:22 But never miss this: REFORMATION WITHOUT CHRIST CAN PRODUCE A PHARISEE. You can keep Sabbath— and hate your brother. Eat perfectly— and feed on pride. Dress modestly— and advertise self-righteousness. Move to the country— and take worldliness with you. Guard your tongue publicly— while bitterness rules privately. Jesus did not come merely to rearrange our habits. HE CAME TO RECREATE OUR HEARTS. “Without Me ye can do nothing.” — John 15:5 --- THE QUESTION BENEATH EVERY REFORM When Christ touches your— TIME—will He be Lord? APPETITE—will He be Lord? APPEARANCE—will He be Lord? CHARACTER—will He be Lord? LOCATION—will He be Lord? TONGUE—will He be Lord? There it is. DOES JESUS HAVE PERMISSION TO CHANGE EVERYTHING? “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” — Luke 9:23 Perhaps we do not need another argument. Perhaps we need another surrender. Instead of continually praying: “LORD, GIVE ME MORE LIGHT,” perhaps we need to pray: “LORD, FORGIVE ME FOR RESISTING THE LIGHT I ALREADY HAVE.” Take my appetite. Take my pride. Take my temper. Take my tongue. Take my plans. Take my home. TAKE MY WHOLE HEART. “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” — Acts 9:6 NO MORE EXCUSES. NO MORE BARGAINING WITH LIGHT. NO MORE TRYING TO OUTREASON GOD. CHRIST BEFORE CONVENIENCE. FAITH BEFORE FEAR. TRUTH BEFORE TRADITION. SURRENDER BEFORE SELF. Because when Jesus truly becomes Lord— REFORMATION IS NO LONGER SOMETHING GOD MUST FORCE FROM US. IT BECOMES SOMETHING LOVE IS WILLING TO SURRENDER TO HIM.

Choose Forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32) Almost everyone knows what it feels like to be hurt. Someone breaks your trust. A friend betrays you. Someone says something that stays in your heart for years. A relationship ends painfully. Someone treats you unfairly. And sometimes the hardest part isn't the pain itself. It's deciding what to do with that pain. You may feel like holding on to anger will protect you. You may think: “They don't deserve my forgiveness.” And perhaps what happened was genuinely wrong. But Jesus calls us to something greater than revenge. The Bible says: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Forgiveness doesn't mean pretending that what happened was acceptable. It doesn't mean saying that the person didn't hurt you. It doesn't mean you must immediately trust someone who has broken your trust. And forgiveness doesn't always mean reconciliation. Sometimes healthy boundaries are necessary. But forgiveness means refusing to allow someone else's wrongdoing to control your heart forever. It means releasing your desire for revenge and placing justice in God's hands. Jesus gave us the ultimate example. He was betrayed. Rejected. Mocked. Beaten. Crucified. Yet even while suffering on the cross, He prayed for those who were hurting Him. That is the power of God's grace. And if Christ has forgiven us, we are called to extend that grace to others. Think about how much God has forgiven you. Every mistake. Every sinful thought. Every wrong decision. Every time you ignored His voice. Every time you chose your own way. We stand in need of grace too. That doesn't make someone else's wrongdoing insignificant. It reminds us that we are also people who need forgiveness. Maybe today you're carrying anger toward someone. You don't have to pretend everything is fine. Bring the pain to God. Tell Him exactly how you feel. Ask Him to heal your heart. Ask Him to help you forgive. And if necessary, establish wise boundaries. But don't let bitterness become your identity. Bitterness can consume the person carrying it more than the person who caused the hurt. Forgiveness sets your heart free. Sometimes forgiveness happens in one decision. Sometimes it is a process. You may have to surrender the same pain to God repeatedly. That's okay. Keep giving it to Him. Keep praying. Keep healing. Keep choosing grace. And remember that forgiveness doesn't mean you have to forget the lesson. You can forgive someone and still learn from what happened. You can forgive and still protect yourself. You can forgive and still choose wisdom. You can forgive without returning to an unhealthy situation. Forgiveness is not weakness. It is freedom. If you have hurt someone, don't only ask God for forgiveness. Where appropriate, have the courage to apologize. Say: “I was wrong.” “I'm sorry.” “Please forgive me.” Humility can begin the healing of a relationship. And if someone has hurt you, ask God for the strength to release the bitterness. You may not be able to change what happened. But with God's help, you can choose what happens next. Don't let yesterday's pain steal today's peace. Give your hurt to God and choose forgiveness. Is there someone you need to forgive—or someone you need to ask for forgiveness today? #ChooseForgiveness #Ephesians432 #Forgiveness #Grace #Healing #ChristianYouth #FaithInAction #JesusForgives #JesusSaves #ShareJesus #DailyFaith #Lordsbook #JMSM #KNKA