Memorise:
And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:” John 3:14
Read: Hebrews 12:1-2
1: Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Message:
Human beings have been in search of the way back to their Maker since after the fall. The soul of man pants after the peace that only his Maker can provide. This is the reason man invented means of getting along with God in the name of religion. Unfortunately, man was unable to adequately reach out to his Maker until God in His mercies revealed Himself to us through His son Jesus Christ.
” And the Lord God called Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself” Genesis 3:9-10
Adam was sent out of the Garden of Eden and he became a wanderer and a destitute of the peace that he once had with his Maker. After many dispensations, God decided to reveal part of Himself to some people who sincerely sought to know Him. He related to Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses and the prophets to mention just a few. They did not only benefit from God’s self-revelation, they also helped their generation by pointing them to the Almighty God. Yet, the perfect relationship was not in view then. When the fullness of time came, God became man and lived among men in the person of Jesus Christ. When one of the disciples asked Him to reveal God the Father to them, Jesus said:
“.. Have I been so long time with you and yet hast thou not known me, Phillip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, show us the father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the father in me?...” John 14:9-10
Jesus Christ is the perfect revelation of God the Father. He came to reveal the father to us so that we may know how best to worship Him. It was through His teaching that we know that God is a spirit and whoever wants to worship Him must worship Him in spirit. He told us that unless we are born-again, we cannot see the Kingdom of God. Religious activities are exercise in futility without this experience. Not until He came, even Doctors of the Jewish religious laws were ignorant of these principles of God’s kingdom. Therefore we must always look unto Jesus for direction if we want to make it back to the One who created us in His image. Our text says to look up unto Jesus because He is the author and finisher of our faith.
I encourage someone reading this devotional to look unto Jesus for salvation, for deliverance, for healing, for material prosperity and eternal life.
Prayer Point:
Jesus Christ my Saviour, I look unto You today, perfect everything concerning my life.
Bible in one year: Matthew 16:5-18:35 Job 13:17-14:6
Author: Pastor E.A. Adeboye
Sunday, January 31, 2016
Saturday, January 30, 2016
_Bible Verses About Hope...
Romans 12:12 - Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
Romans 15:13 - Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he [it is] that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
Romans 5:2-5 - By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (Read More...)
Isaiah 40:31 - But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint.
Isaiah 41:10 - Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Psalms 39:7 - And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope [is] in thee.
Mark 9:23 - Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things [are] possible to him that believeth.
1 Corinthians 13:13 - And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these [is] charity.
Romans 8:24 - For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?
Proverbs 23:18 - For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.
Proverbs 10:28 - The hope of the righteous [shall be] gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.
Romans 8:25 - But if we hope for that we see not, [then] do we with patience wait for [it].
Jeremiah 17:7 - Blessed [is] the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
Psalms 71:14 - But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more.
COUNTING YOUR BLESSINGS II
MEMORISE:
Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight” Psalms 144:1
READ: Psalm 103:1-5 (KJV)
1: Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with loving kindness and tender mercies;
5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.”
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Matthew 13:44-16:4 Job 13:1-16
Still dwelling on counting your blessings, we must consider some other things as highlighted by the great Psalmist so that we may understand what made him a great worshipper. There are many seen and unseen Hands of the Almighty God that have kept us alive. For life alone, we must bless the Lord.
In our memory verse for today, the Psalmist blesses the Lord for teaching his hands to war and directing his fingers to fight aright. We must realize that not all fighters win in the battles of life, many are destroyed by the hostility of life. This might have influenced David to write: “Bless the Lord o my soul… who redeemeth thy life from destruction...” Psalms 103:4.
Considering the numerous battles David fought, particularly against King Saul, one should know that but for God, David would have died a premature death. David lived to a very old age, though his beloved son overthrew him and sought his life; he survived his external and internal enemies. To him, the kindness God showed to him was not ordinary, it was the loving type. Meaning that kindness has categories!
How I wish someone reading this devotional will appreciate God’s kindness to him as intensely as David did.
David saw good food, its nourishment and appetite to eat it as blessings from the Lord in verse 5 of our text today. What a grateful creature of the Almighty God David was.
There is a story told of a woman, iIesa-land in the South-west Nigeria, who was fond of thanking God for good food and the appetite to eat well. Anytime Mama Ijesa came up for testimony, she would tell of how God provided not only good food but also appetite to eat it. Her Pastor became bored of the one and only testimony of this grateful woman and stopped her from giving testimonies in the Church.
Not long after, the Pastor took ill, and on his sick bed, all sorts of food were brought to him but he had no appetite to eat any of them. When mama-Ijesa came visiting like other parishioners, she innocently asked whether her Pastor realized that having good food to eat is not enough, but having appetite to eat is equally praiseworthy.
ACTION POINT :
Take a minimum of 15 minutes to thank God for His goodness and Mercies over your life and that of your loved ones.
AUTHOR: PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE.
HYMNS:
WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS
What a friend we have in Jesus,
all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
all because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer.
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful
who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Are we weak and heavy laden,
cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he'll take and shield thee
thou wilt find a solace
Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight” Psalms 144:1
READ: Psalm 103:1-5 (KJV)
1: Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with loving kindness and tender mercies;
5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.”
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Matthew 13:44-16:4 Job 13:1-16
Still dwelling on counting your blessings, we must consider some other things as highlighted by the great Psalmist so that we may understand what made him a great worshipper. There are many seen and unseen Hands of the Almighty God that have kept us alive. For life alone, we must bless the Lord.
In our memory verse for today, the Psalmist blesses the Lord for teaching his hands to war and directing his fingers to fight aright. We must realize that not all fighters win in the battles of life, many are destroyed by the hostility of life. This might have influenced David to write: “Bless the Lord o my soul… who redeemeth thy life from destruction...” Psalms 103:4.
Considering the numerous battles David fought, particularly against King Saul, one should know that but for God, David would have died a premature death. David lived to a very old age, though his beloved son overthrew him and sought his life; he survived his external and internal enemies. To him, the kindness God showed to him was not ordinary, it was the loving type. Meaning that kindness has categories!
How I wish someone reading this devotional will appreciate God’s kindness to him as intensely as David did.
David saw good food, its nourishment and appetite to eat it as blessings from the Lord in verse 5 of our text today. What a grateful creature of the Almighty God David was.
There is a story told of a woman, iIesa-land in the South-west Nigeria, who was fond of thanking God for good food and the appetite to eat well. Anytime Mama Ijesa came up for testimony, she would tell of how God provided not only good food but also appetite to eat it. Her Pastor became bored of the one and only testimony of this grateful woman and stopped her from giving testimonies in the Church.
Not long after, the Pastor took ill, and on his sick bed, all sorts of food were brought to him but he had no appetite to eat any of them. When mama-Ijesa came visiting like other parishioners, she innocently asked whether her Pastor realized that having good food to eat is not enough, but having appetite to eat is equally praiseworthy.
ACTION POINT :
Take a minimum of 15 minutes to thank God for His goodness and Mercies over your life and that of your loved ones.
AUTHOR: PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE.
HYMNS:
WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS
What a friend we have in Jesus,
all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
all because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer.
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful
who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Are we weak and heavy laden,
cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he'll take and shield thee
thou wilt find a solace
Thursday, January 28, 2016
MAKING YOUR MARRIAGE WORK II
MEMORISE : And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and they twain shall be one flesh” MATTHEW 19 : 5.
READ : EPHESIANS 5 : 21 - 25 :
21 submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;”
21 submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;”
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MATTHEW 9 : 27 - 12 : 8, JOB 12 : 1 - 12.
A marriage that has God in it is the best thing that can happen to any child of God. The Bible says:
“ Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord” Proverbs 18 : 22.
This Scripture unequivocally dismisses the wrong notion of marriage being a burden. For your marriage to work, our memory verse for today reveals the first obligation on the part of the man (the husband) towards his wife: you must strictly adhere to this twin-command - leaving your parents and cleaving to your wife. Some men never leave their parents, particularly their mother. They are “mummy’s boys” and after marriage they still ‘eat from their mother’s pot’ on regular basis. This habit destroys a marriage relationship fast.
Unconditional love is another obligation a husband must perform towards his wife. This kind of love will make the man give his entire being to his wife without expecting anything in return. The Bible says:
“Husbands,, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it”
Ephesians 5 : 25.
“ Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord” Proverbs 18 : 22.
This Scripture unequivocally dismisses the wrong notion of marriage being a burden. For your marriage to work, our memory verse for today reveals the first obligation on the part of the man (the husband) towards his wife: you must strictly adhere to this twin-command - leaving your parents and cleaving to your wife. Some men never leave their parents, particularly their mother. They are “mummy’s boys” and after marriage they still ‘eat from their mother’s pot’ on regular basis. This habit destroys a marriage relationship fast.
Unconditional love is another obligation a husband must perform towards his wife. This kind of love will make the man give his entire being to his wife without expecting anything in return. The Bible says:
“Husbands,, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it”
Ephesians 5 : 25.
Some men, unfortunately, do not know what it means to be married. Marriage could be regarded as giving of one’s self to one’s spouse. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, gave the real picture of marital obligation when he wrote :
“But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife.” 1 Corinthians 7 : 32 - 33.
“But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife.” 1 Corinthians 7 : 32 - 33.
The truth in the above passage is that a man is under obligation to cater for his wife and to have an unreserved commitment to the joy and well-being of his wife. Some so-called Christians are so careless about their marriage that they neglect the divine mandates of caring for the family. As a result, the wife becomes disillusioned about the faith and the children vow never to follow their father to worship God. At the end of the day, the failure of the family eventually affects their Christian walk and ministry. Love must be experiential and substantial, men must show their love practically, and their spouses will not be in doubt as to whether or not they are loved.
PRAYER POINT :
Father, please give me the ability to love my spouse unconditionally.
Father, please give me the ability to love my spouse unconditionally.
HYMN:
GOD GIVE US CHRISTIAN HOMES
GOD GIVE US CHRISTIAN HOMES
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
MAKING YOUR MARRIAGE WORK 1.
MEMORISE : Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.” PROVERBS 31 : 10.
READ : EPHESIANS 5 : 21 - 25 :
21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;”
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MATTHEW 7 : 1 - 9 : 26, JOB 11 : 7 - 20.
It takes great commitment to make a marriage successful and blissful. The gift of God demands the commitment of those who are involved. The good thing is that the Bible is not silent on what couples must do to make their marriages work. I pray for couples reading this devotional; your marriage will be highly successful in Jesus’ name.
In our Bible reading for today, we are blessed with some principles which will help us make our marriage work. The first one that catches our attention is the mutual submission between the husband and the wife. Both the husband and the wife must learn to mutually submit to one another. The reason is found in the first epistle of Paul to the Corinthians :
“Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband; and likewise also the husband hath no power of his own body but the wife.” 1 Corinthians 7 : 3 - 4.
Another principle that any woman who wants her marriage to succeed should imbibe is unconditional submission. This is the submission that does not attach any condition to compliance. The Christian wife must learn to submit to the husband. When she does this, she receives a blessings which money cannot but from God.
“ For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.” 1 Peter 3 : 5 - 6.
It is dangerous for a woman to go into marriage partnership with a man she will not submit herself to. It is better for such a woman not to get married at all. When the Word of God says, “Wives, submit..” some people take this as a piece of advice. However, it is not a piece of advice, but an express command; it must be obeyed. As a matter of fact, the Bible goes further to reveal the degree of submission; it says: “..as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.” Years ago, I counselled one of my daughters along this line when she began to have problems with her marriage. Initially, she did not find it pleasant, but I told her that she could not do the contrary if she really wanted her marriage to work. The problem with her then was that she was as highly educated as her husband and she felt she had equal rights with her husband. May the Lord bless your home with eternal peace in Jesus’ name.
ACTION POINT:
Take a practical step of voluntary submission to your husband as unto the Lord today, and the Lord will give you a peaceful home.
AUTHOR : PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE.
HYMNS:
GOD, GIVE US CHRISTIAN HOMES.
God, give us Christian homes!
Homes where the Bible is loved and taught,
Homes where the Master's will is sought,
Homes crowned with beauty Thy love hath wrought;
God, give us Christian homes;
God, give us Christian homes!
God, give us Christian homes!
Homes where the father is true and strong,
Homes that are free from the blight of wrong,
Homes that are joyous with love and song;
God, give us Christian homes;
God, give us Christian homes!
God, give us Christian homes!
Homes where the mother, in queenly quest,
Strives to show others Thy way is best,
Homes where the Lord is an honored guest;
God, give us Christian homes;
God, give us Christian homes!
God, give us Christian homes!
Homes where the children are led to know
Christ in His beauty Who loves them so,
Homes where the alter fires burn and glow;
God, give us Christian homes;
READ : EPHESIANS 5 : 21 - 25 :
21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;”
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MATTHEW 7 : 1 - 9 : 26, JOB 11 : 7 - 20.
It takes great commitment to make a marriage successful and blissful. The gift of God demands the commitment of those who are involved. The good thing is that the Bible is not silent on what couples must do to make their marriages work. I pray for couples reading this devotional; your marriage will be highly successful in Jesus’ name.
In our Bible reading for today, we are blessed with some principles which will help us make our marriage work. The first one that catches our attention is the mutual submission between the husband and the wife. Both the husband and the wife must learn to mutually submit to one another. The reason is found in the first epistle of Paul to the Corinthians :
“Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband; and likewise also the husband hath no power of his own body but the wife.” 1 Corinthians 7 : 3 - 4.
Another principle that any woman who wants her marriage to succeed should imbibe is unconditional submission. This is the submission that does not attach any condition to compliance. The Christian wife must learn to submit to the husband. When she does this, she receives a blessings which money cannot but from God.
“ For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.” 1 Peter 3 : 5 - 6.
It is dangerous for a woman to go into marriage partnership with a man she will not submit herself to. It is better for such a woman not to get married at all. When the Word of God says, “Wives, submit..” some people take this as a piece of advice. However, it is not a piece of advice, but an express command; it must be obeyed. As a matter of fact, the Bible goes further to reveal the degree of submission; it says: “..as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.” Years ago, I counselled one of my daughters along this line when she began to have problems with her marriage. Initially, she did not find it pleasant, but I told her that she could not do the contrary if she really wanted her marriage to work. The problem with her then was that she was as highly educated as her husband and she felt she had equal rights with her husband. May the Lord bless your home with eternal peace in Jesus’ name.
ACTION POINT:
Take a practical step of voluntary submission to your husband as unto the Lord today, and the Lord will give you a peaceful home.
AUTHOR : PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE.
HYMNS:
GOD, GIVE US CHRISTIAN HOMES.
God, give us Christian homes!
Homes where the Bible is loved and taught,
Homes where the Master's will is sought,
Homes crowned with beauty Thy love hath wrought;
God, give us Christian homes;
God, give us Christian homes!
God, give us Christian homes!
Homes where the father is true and strong,
Homes that are free from the blight of wrong,
Homes that are joyous with love and song;
God, give us Christian homes;
God, give us Christian homes!
God, give us Christian homes!
Homes where the mother, in queenly quest,
Strives to show others Thy way is best,
Homes where the Lord is an honored guest;
God, give us Christian homes;
God, give us Christian homes!
God, give us Christian homes!
Homes where the children are led to know
Christ in His beauty Who loves them so,
Homes where the alter fires burn and glow;
God, give us Christian homes;
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
FREE INDEED
Memorise:
“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed” John 8:36
Read: John 8:34-36
34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
Message:
Many people claim to be free, but they are not free indeed! The only genuine freedom is available in Jesus Christ. Anyone that still commits sin and claims to be free is living in self-deceit. The greatest task-master in the world is sin. Whoever is under its grip is not free and as a matter of fact, has no mind of his own.
During the days of Jesus here on earth, the Jews did not know they were in bondage. Hence, they were surprised when Jesus said that the words which He was spreading to them would set them free. In the scriptural passage before us today, Jesus Christ revealed the source of bondage which people entangle themselves in.
“Jesus answered them, verily, verily I say unto you, whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin” John 8:34
Only the truth of the Word of God can set man free from the slavery of sin. The question is how can we know the truth? Jesus is the only truth that can set us free from the slavery of sin. No other means can afford us the desired freedom. Another liberating truth in the Word of God is that whoever commits sin is of the devil, but the Son of God has come to destroy the power of sin in man.
“He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” 1 John 3:8
In Acts 4:12, we read that there is no salvation by any other, because there is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Beloved, if you are being intimidated by the task-master of sin (the devil), the good news is that Jesus Christ is able to set you free, if you will come to him today in total repentance. It is only Jesus that can make you free indeed. Believe Him today, and you will be free from all forms of bondage.
Prayer Point:
Father, please set me free from all forms of bondage in which the enemy has kept me in Jesus’ Name.
Bible in one year: Matthew 4:23-6:34, Job 10:18-11:6
AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE ·
“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed” John 8:36
Read: John 8:34-36
34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
Message:
Many people claim to be free, but they are not free indeed! The only genuine freedom is available in Jesus Christ. Anyone that still commits sin and claims to be free is living in self-deceit. The greatest task-master in the world is sin. Whoever is under its grip is not free and as a matter of fact, has no mind of his own.
During the days of Jesus here on earth, the Jews did not know they were in bondage. Hence, they were surprised when Jesus said that the words which He was spreading to them would set them free. In the scriptural passage before us today, Jesus Christ revealed the source of bondage which people entangle themselves in.
“Jesus answered them, verily, verily I say unto you, whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin” John 8:34
Only the truth of the Word of God can set man free from the slavery of sin. The question is how can we know the truth? Jesus is the only truth that can set us free from the slavery of sin. No other means can afford us the desired freedom. Another liberating truth in the Word of God is that whoever commits sin is of the devil, but the Son of God has come to destroy the power of sin in man.
“He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” 1 John 3:8
In Acts 4:12, we read that there is no salvation by any other, because there is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Beloved, if you are being intimidated by the task-master of sin (the devil), the good news is that Jesus Christ is able to set you free, if you will come to him today in total repentance. It is only Jesus that can make you free indeed. Believe Him today, and you will be free from all forms of bondage.
Prayer Point:
Father, please set me free from all forms of bondage in which the enemy has kept me in Jesus’ Name.
Bible in one year: Matthew 4:23-6:34, Job 10:18-11:6
AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE ·
Monday, January 25, 2016
THE STRONG AND MIGHTY
Memorise:
I am Alpha and Omega the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8
Read: Psalm 24:7-10 (KJV)
“7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
8 Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.”
Message:
It should be surprising to see children of God cringing in the presence of forces that threaten not only their physical lives, but also relationships with their Father in heaven. This attitude is unlike that of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Babylon. These young Hebrew men knew their God to be strong and mighty, and they were bold enough to declare it to the absolute dictator, king Nebuchadnezzar. This is what is expected of us as children of the Most High God.
In the testimony of the Psalmist in our Bible reading for today, we read of him speaking about the God who is strong and mighty in battle. This God has never lost any battle. Like I have preached on many occasions, this God is a war-Lord. He is more effective than any Chief of Naval staff when it comes when it comes to offensive air battles. This was proven in the battle he fought on behalf of the children of Israel under the leadership of Joshua:
“ And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the Lord cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the Children of Israel slew with the sword.” Joshua 10:11
Beloved, I am pleased to announce to you that if truly you are born-again, your God is strong and mighty. Hence, you have no reason to fear any attack of the enemies. The Bible says:
“So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him. And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord.” Isaiah 59:19-20
There is something very important to note in the above scripture; “ .. unto them that turn from transgression..” The Lord, strong and mighty can only fight on behalf of those who have reconciled with Him through genuine repentance. Sin exposes an individual to enemy attack. Therefore, I appeal to someone reading this devotional; ensure that your life is void of iniquity which makes you vulnerable to the attack of the enemy. Our God is strong and mighty. Those who have walked with Him sincerely have this as their testimony. It will be yours too in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point:
Father, please show yourself strong and mighty in my life so that my enemies may fear, repent and surrender to your Almightiness.
Bible in one year: Matthew 1:1-4:22, Job 10:6-17
AUTHOR PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE
I am Alpha and Omega the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8
Read: Psalm 24:7-10 (KJV)
“7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
8 Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.”
Message:
It should be surprising to see children of God cringing in the presence of forces that threaten not only their physical lives, but also relationships with their Father in heaven. This attitude is unlike that of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Babylon. These young Hebrew men knew their God to be strong and mighty, and they were bold enough to declare it to the absolute dictator, king Nebuchadnezzar. This is what is expected of us as children of the Most High God.
In the testimony of the Psalmist in our Bible reading for today, we read of him speaking about the God who is strong and mighty in battle. This God has never lost any battle. Like I have preached on many occasions, this God is a war-Lord. He is more effective than any Chief of Naval staff when it comes when it comes to offensive air battles. This was proven in the battle he fought on behalf of the children of Israel under the leadership of Joshua:
“ And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the Lord cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the Children of Israel slew with the sword.” Joshua 10:11
Beloved, I am pleased to announce to you that if truly you are born-again, your God is strong and mighty. Hence, you have no reason to fear any attack of the enemies. The Bible says:
“So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him. And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord.” Isaiah 59:19-20
There is something very important to note in the above scripture; “ .. unto them that turn from transgression..” The Lord, strong and mighty can only fight on behalf of those who have reconciled with Him through genuine repentance. Sin exposes an individual to enemy attack. Therefore, I appeal to someone reading this devotional; ensure that your life is void of iniquity which makes you vulnerable to the attack of the enemy. Our God is strong and mighty. Those who have walked with Him sincerely have this as their testimony. It will be yours too in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point:
Father, please show yourself strong and mighty in my life so that my enemies may fear, repent and surrender to your Almightiness.
Bible in one year: Matthew 1:1-4:22, Job 10:6-17
AUTHOR PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE
Sunday, January 24, 2016
DIVINE TRANSFORMATION 1
Memorise: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Read: 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (KJV)
9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 31:14-32:47; Job 9:13-24
MESSAGE:
Yesterday, we read about the state of the heart of man being very wicked. We also read about spiritual surgery which can bring about divine transformation. The work of redemption performed by Jesus Christ makes divine transformation possible.
In the Bible reading for today, we note the terrible things that man is capable of. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, unequivocally said that those who do those things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. However, he wrote:
“And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:11
Our Lord Jesus Christ was speaking to Nicodemus about divine transformation when He said to him: “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Being born of water and of the Spirit brings about divine transformation.
The mystery of the new birth cannot be explained by human reasoning except through the enlightenment by the Spirit of our God. For example, in the epistle of John:
“8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” - 1 John 3:8-9
There are two main avenues for experiencing divine transformation: the first is genuine repentance; when a man voluntarily submits his will to God in obedience. The other one is the power in the blood of Jesus Christ; the blood of the new covenant is much more superior to the blood of the bull (Hebrews 10:4). Therefore, for divine transformation, Jesus Christ is the answer. I pray that all the necessary transformation you need to live an acceptable life before God will be given to you through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer Point: Father, please cleanse me from all impurities and let my life conform to Your original image.
DIVINE TRANSFORMATION II
Memorise:
“And the spirit of the Lord will come upon thee, and thou shall prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man.” 1 Samuel 10:6
Read : 1 Samuel 10:1-6
1: Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the Lord hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?
2 When thou art departed from me to day, then thou shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre in the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will say unto thee, The asses which thou wentest to seek are found: and, lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and sorroweth for you, saying, What shall I do for my son?
3 Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the plain of Tabor, and there shall meet thee three men going up to God to Bethel, one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine:
4 And they will salute thee, and give thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive of their hands.
5 After that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy:
6 And the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man.
1: Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the Lord hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?
2 When thou art departed from me to day, then thou shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre in the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will say unto thee, The asses which thou wentest to seek are found: and, lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and sorroweth for you, saying, What shall I do for my son?
3 Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the plain of Tabor, and there shall meet thee three men going up to God to Bethel, one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine:
4 And they will salute thee, and give thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive of their hands.
5 After that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy:
6 And the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man.
Message:
The Almighty God at creation set the natural laws in motion, and they started to function just as He commanded them. For example, the sun rises and sets at the appointed times and so does the moon. However, whenever God decides to showcase His sovereignty, He may decide to suspend these laws and do things as He pleases. He may even decide to bring something out of nothing or make somebody out of nobody. This is what people call ‘a miracle’. My prayer to someone using this devotional today is that a divine transformation will make you somebody where you have been looked upon as nobody in Jesus’ Name.
The story in our Bible reading today reveals a divine transformation in the life of the first king of Israel, King Saul. He was not just anointed as a king; he started to prophesy. The good news is that a better transformation which is equally divine is now available to whoever is willing to surrender his life to Jesus Christ. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:17:
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away: behold all things are become new.”
As a result of this experience, the believer becomes very important personality. Apostle Peter called us chosen, royal priesthood and peculiar. Beloved, do you desire divine transformation? There is only one person who can give you this experience; and this is Jesus Christ. The Bible says;
“He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes..” 1 Samuel 2:8.
However, the divine transformation which makes an enemy of God become a friend of this same God, takes some responsibilities. Old things must pass away and the fellow must now live according to the principles of the Kingdom of God. The Bible says;
“And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” 1 John 3:3
The reality which King Saul did not pay close attention to might have been responsible for his dethronement. This may also account for the downfall of many children of God, who God transformed and raised to be His ministers, but took the grace of transformation for granted and lost their position both in the ministry and in the Kingdom of God. This will not be your portion in Jesus’ Name.
The Almighty God at creation set the natural laws in motion, and they started to function just as He commanded them. For example, the sun rises and sets at the appointed times and so does the moon. However, whenever God decides to showcase His sovereignty, He may decide to suspend these laws and do things as He pleases. He may even decide to bring something out of nothing or make somebody out of nobody. This is what people call ‘a miracle’. My prayer to someone using this devotional today is that a divine transformation will make you somebody where you have been looked upon as nobody in Jesus’ Name.
The story in our Bible reading today reveals a divine transformation in the life of the first king of Israel, King Saul. He was not just anointed as a king; he started to prophesy. The good news is that a better transformation which is equally divine is now available to whoever is willing to surrender his life to Jesus Christ. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:17:
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away: behold all things are become new.”
As a result of this experience, the believer becomes very important personality. Apostle Peter called us chosen, royal priesthood and peculiar. Beloved, do you desire divine transformation? There is only one person who can give you this experience; and this is Jesus Christ. The Bible says;
“He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes..” 1 Samuel 2:8.
However, the divine transformation which makes an enemy of God become a friend of this same God, takes some responsibilities. Old things must pass away and the fellow must now live according to the principles of the Kingdom of God. The Bible says;
“And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” 1 John 3:3
The reality which King Saul did not pay close attention to might have been responsible for his dethronement. This may also account for the downfall of many children of God, who God transformed and raised to be His ministers, but took the grace of transformation for granted and lost their position both in the ministry and in the Kingdom of God. This will not be your portion in Jesus’ Name.
Prayer Point:
Father, please use Your almighty power to give me a pleasant transformation this season in Jesus’ Name.
Bible reading: Deuteronomy 32:46-34:12, Job 9:25-10:5
Father, please use Your almighty power to give me a pleasant transformation this season in Jesus’ Name.
Bible reading: Deuteronomy 32:46-34:12, Job 9:25-10:5
Friday, January 22, 2016
WALKING WITH GOD III
Memorise:
He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted upon His soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. Psalm 24:4
Read: Psalm 24:3-6
3 Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Selah.
Message:
Walking with God requires living holy because God is holy. According to the Scriptures, two can’t walk together if they do not agree. When we live holy, we are in agreement with God. The Lord spoke with Abram thus:
“And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God: walk before me, and be thou perfect.” Genesis 17:1
In our Bible reading for today, we are confronted with some fundamental requirements for an acceptable walk with God. The first one is clean hands. If your hands are defiled, you cannot walk with God. What is it that defiles a man’s hands? Blood money is one; money that belongs to another person or organization but you have taken unlawfully is another. Also your hands are defiled by the unlawful touch of another man’s wife or another woman’s husband.
“Can a man take fire in his bosom and his clothes not be burned? Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned? So he that goeth in to his neighbour’s wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.” Proverbs 6:27-29
Moreover, only a man with pure heart can effectively and acceptably walk with God. The heart is deceitful and desperately wicked, but God is able to remove this wickedness. This is why everyone must surrender his or her heart to God for spiritual surgery through genuine repentance. The Scripture says all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. If we confess our sins to God, He is faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. God also promises:
“And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh: That they may walk in my statues, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11:19-20
Jesus Christ said that we cannot serve God and Mammon. Also, the Bible enjoins us not to love the world and its vanities. Failure to heed this scriptural injunction is lifting up our soul unto vanity. The love of money can hinder our Christian walk with God. It makes Christians do such things as swearing false affidavits. May the Lord deliver you from anything that works against your walk with God in Jesus’ Name.
Action Point:
Using 2 Coritians 6:14-18
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”
Pray that God will enable you to shun anything that will hinder your walk with Him.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 19:1-31:13, Job 8:20-9:12
AUTHOR: PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE
He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted upon His soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. Psalm 24:4
Read: Psalm 24:3-6
3 Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Selah.
Message:
Walking with God requires living holy because God is holy. According to the Scriptures, two can’t walk together if they do not agree. When we live holy, we are in agreement with God. The Lord spoke with Abram thus:
“And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God: walk before me, and be thou perfect.” Genesis 17:1
In our Bible reading for today, we are confronted with some fundamental requirements for an acceptable walk with God. The first one is clean hands. If your hands are defiled, you cannot walk with God. What is it that defiles a man’s hands? Blood money is one; money that belongs to another person or organization but you have taken unlawfully is another. Also your hands are defiled by the unlawful touch of another man’s wife or another woman’s husband.
“Can a man take fire in his bosom and his clothes not be burned? Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned? So he that goeth in to his neighbour’s wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.” Proverbs 6:27-29
Moreover, only a man with pure heart can effectively and acceptably walk with God. The heart is deceitful and desperately wicked, but God is able to remove this wickedness. This is why everyone must surrender his or her heart to God for spiritual surgery through genuine repentance. The Scripture says all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. If we confess our sins to God, He is faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. God also promises:
“And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh: That they may walk in my statues, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11:19-20
Jesus Christ said that we cannot serve God and Mammon. Also, the Bible enjoins us not to love the world and its vanities. Failure to heed this scriptural injunction is lifting up our soul unto vanity. The love of money can hinder our Christian walk with God. It makes Christians do such things as swearing false affidavits. May the Lord deliver you from anything that works against your walk with God in Jesus’ Name.
Action Point:
Using 2 Coritians 6:14-18
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”
Pray that God will enable you to shun anything that will hinder your walk with Him.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 19:1-31:13, Job 8:20-9:12
AUTHOR: PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
QUALIFIED FOR COMMENDATION?
MEMORISE : And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his works shall be.” REVELATION 22 : 12.
READ : MATTHEW 25 : 19 - 21 :
“19 After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.
20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.
21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: DEUTERONOMY 22 : 13 - 25 : 4, JOB 6 : 24 - 7 : 6.
Man is wonderfully and fearfully made. Created in the image of God, man is a “god” to other creatures. God Almighty created man for a divine purpose and for His pleasure. At the same time, He has earmarked a reward for every man who chooses to fulfill God’s purpose for his life. This is why in our memory verse today, we read about Jesus Christ saying He rewards men according to their works.
In our Bible reading of today, the faithful servant who made good use of the talents given to him by his master received commendation. This story is no doubt talking about the commendation and rewards awaiting believers who faithfully serve the purpose and interest of the Lord. The question confronting us in today’s reading is “Are we qualified for commendation?” Jesus Christ said :
“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the father in my name, he may give it you.” John 15 : 16.
The Lord is encouraging someone reading this devotional today; He is taking note of your labour of love in the Church and to humanity. Though your pastor or superior may not commend you, the Almighty God will reward you handsomely if you will not be weary in well doing. Galatians 6 : 9 says :
“ And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
The outspoken Peter asked the Lord what their reward would be seeing that they left everything to follow Him. Jesus answered by saying :
“..Verily I say unto you, there is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands for my sake, and the gospel’s, but he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.” Mark 10 : 29 - 30.
Beloved, if you want to receive commendation from the Lord on the last day, first step is to give your life to Christ. Then, begin to work for Him, serve Him and His Church through soul winning and sacrificial giving. You will surely be commended. Remember He said, “I come quickly and my reward is with me…”
ACTION POINT :
Think of a way to use your God given talents to expand God’s kingdom on earth: be it through giving or aggressive soul winning.
AUTHOR : PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE.
HYMN:
O JESUS I HAVE PROMISED
O Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Be Thou forever near me,
My Master and my Friend;
I shall not fear the battle
If Thou art by my side,
Nor wander from the pathway
If Thou wilt be my Guide.
Oh, let me feel Thee near me;
The world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
The tempting sounds I hear;
My foes are ever near me,
Around me and within;
But, Jesus, draw Thou nearer,
And shield my soul from sin.
Oh, let me hear Thee speaking,
In accents clear and still,
Above the storms of passion,
The murmurs of self-will;
Oh, speak to reassure me,
To hasten, or control;
Oh, speak, and make me listen,
Thou Guardian of my soul.
O Jesus, Thou hast promised
To all who follow Thee
That where Thou art in glory
There shall Thy servant be;
And Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Oh, give me grace to follow,
My Master and my Friend.
Oh, let me see Thy footmarks,
And in them plant mine own;
My hope to follow duly
Is in Thy strength alone.
Oh, guide me, call me, draw me,
Uphold me to the end;
And then to rest receive me
READ : MATTHEW 25 : 19 - 21 :
“19 After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.
20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.
21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: DEUTERONOMY 22 : 13 - 25 : 4, JOB 6 : 24 - 7 : 6.
Man is wonderfully and fearfully made. Created in the image of God, man is a “god” to other creatures. God Almighty created man for a divine purpose and for His pleasure. At the same time, He has earmarked a reward for every man who chooses to fulfill God’s purpose for his life. This is why in our memory verse today, we read about Jesus Christ saying He rewards men according to their works.
In our Bible reading of today, the faithful servant who made good use of the talents given to him by his master received commendation. This story is no doubt talking about the commendation and rewards awaiting believers who faithfully serve the purpose and interest of the Lord. The question confronting us in today’s reading is “Are we qualified for commendation?” Jesus Christ said :
“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the father in my name, he may give it you.” John 15 : 16.
The Lord is encouraging someone reading this devotional today; He is taking note of your labour of love in the Church and to humanity. Though your pastor or superior may not commend you, the Almighty God will reward you handsomely if you will not be weary in well doing. Galatians 6 : 9 says :
“ And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
The outspoken Peter asked the Lord what their reward would be seeing that they left everything to follow Him. Jesus answered by saying :
“..Verily I say unto you, there is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands for my sake, and the gospel’s, but he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.” Mark 10 : 29 - 30.
Beloved, if you want to receive commendation from the Lord on the last day, first step is to give your life to Christ. Then, begin to work for Him, serve Him and His Church through soul winning and sacrificial giving. You will surely be commended. Remember He said, “I come quickly and my reward is with me…”
ACTION POINT :
Think of a way to use your God given talents to expand God’s kingdom on earth: be it through giving or aggressive soul winning.
AUTHOR : PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE.
HYMN:
O JESUS I HAVE PROMISED
O Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Be Thou forever near me,
My Master and my Friend;
I shall not fear the battle
If Thou art by my side,
Nor wander from the pathway
If Thou wilt be my Guide.
Oh, let me feel Thee near me;
The world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
The tempting sounds I hear;
My foes are ever near me,
Around me and within;
But, Jesus, draw Thou nearer,
And shield my soul from sin.
Oh, let me hear Thee speaking,
In accents clear and still,
Above the storms of passion,
The murmurs of self-will;
Oh, speak to reassure me,
To hasten, or control;
Oh, speak, and make me listen,
Thou Guardian of my soul.
O Jesus, Thou hast promised
To all who follow Thee
That where Thou art in glory
There shall Thy servant be;
And Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Oh, give me grace to follow,
My Master and my Friend.
Oh, let me see Thy footmarks,
And in them plant mine own;
My hope to follow duly
Is in Thy strength alone.
Oh, guide me, call me, draw me,
Uphold me to the end;
And then to rest receive me
Monday, January 18, 2016
WEEP NOT:
WEEP NOT: A DIVINE COMMAND
Memorise: Rejoice evermore
1 st Thessalonians 5:16
Read: Luke 7:12-15, 12 Now when he came
nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there
was a dead man carried out, the only son
of his mother, and she was a widow: and
much people of the city was with her.
13 And when the Lord saw her, he had
compassion on her, and said unto her,
Weep not.
14 And he came and touched the bier: and
they that bare him stood still. And he said,
Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
15 And he that was dead sat up, and began
to speak. And he delivered him to his
mother.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy
19:15-22:12, Job 6:8-23
MESSAGE!!!
At times, children of God lose the import of
God’s command, which invariably is for our
good if we do not take it as a suggestion
but as a command. Positively, one of such
commands is in one of the shortest verse
of the New Testament; “Rejoice evermore.”
In today’s Bible reading, we were given a
command; “Weep Not”. This command is
easier read than obeyed, but then, it should
be obeyed. A widow lost her only son and
Jesus Christ commanded her not to weep!
This command came before the action that
justified it in that situation. To someone
reading this devotional, Jesus is telling you;
“weep not” because He will intervene in that
situation which is causing you to weep. One
terrible thing about weeping is that it does
not solve the problem at hand. So, why
engage in what will not change the
situation? Once again I say, “Weep not”.
Jesus Christ who asks you not to weep
knows what He is going to do about that
situation, like in the case of the widow of
Nain. The Bible says that Jesus came and
touched the coffin that was bearing the
dead young man and commanded life to
come back to the lifeless body. Death then
immediately released the soul of the young
man at the command of the One whose
Name is the Resurrection and the Life.
Weeping could be very detrimental to those
who indulge in it. Apart from being a
deviant behaviour against a divine
command, it blurs your vision and
reasoning. Also, weeping, particularly when
God has spoken against it, is an indirect
way of protesting against God’s Word. It is
equal to murmuring, which is also
rebellious. The Bible assuredly says:
“Weeping may endure for a night; but joy
cometh in the morning.”
Psalm 30:5
Blessed are we, if we believe the scripture.
In addition, the Bible says that
weeping blurred Mary Magdalene’s visions on the
resurrection morning so much that she mistook
Jesus Christ for a gardener!
“Jesus said unto her, Woman, why
weepest thou? Whom seekest thou? She,
supposing him to be the gardener, saith
unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence,
tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will
take him away.”
John 20:15
.
An antidote for weeping is the reading of
God’s Word concerning His promises to us
in time of trouble. Another one is high
praises to God who specializes in reversing
the irreversible. The Bible says that when
David was distressed at Ziglag because his
wives and children had been taken away by
raiders, he appealed to God for consolation,
and he was not only consoled, but was also
assured of the reversal of the unpleasant
situation. Beloved, trust the Lord for the
reversal of that seemingly unpleasant
situation in your life and that of your loved
ones and you will laugh last.
Prayer Point
Father, please wipe away all tears from my
eyes by removing those situations that
cause me to weep today
Memorise: Rejoice evermore
1 st Thessalonians 5:16
Read: Luke 7:12-15, 12 Now when he came
nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there
was a dead man carried out, the only son
of his mother, and she was a widow: and
much people of the city was with her.
13 And when the Lord saw her, he had
compassion on her, and said unto her,
Weep not.
14 And he came and touched the bier: and
they that bare him stood still. And he said,
Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
15 And he that was dead sat up, and began
to speak. And he delivered him to his
mother.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy
19:15-22:12, Job 6:8-23
MESSAGE!!!
At times, children of God lose the import of
God’s command, which invariably is for our
good if we do not take it as a suggestion
but as a command. Positively, one of such
commands is in one of the shortest verse
of the New Testament; “Rejoice evermore.”
In today’s Bible reading, we were given a
command; “Weep Not”. This command is
easier read than obeyed, but then, it should
be obeyed. A widow lost her only son and
Jesus Christ commanded her not to weep!
This command came before the action that
justified it in that situation. To someone
reading this devotional, Jesus is telling you;
“weep not” because He will intervene in that
situation which is causing you to weep. One
terrible thing about weeping is that it does
not solve the problem at hand. So, why
engage in what will not change the
situation? Once again I say, “Weep not”.
Jesus Christ who asks you not to weep
knows what He is going to do about that
situation, like in the case of the widow of
Nain. The Bible says that Jesus came and
touched the coffin that was bearing the
dead young man and commanded life to
come back to the lifeless body. Death then
immediately released the soul of the young
man at the command of the One whose
Name is the Resurrection and the Life.
Weeping could be very detrimental to those
who indulge in it. Apart from being a
deviant behaviour against a divine
command, it blurs your vision and
reasoning. Also, weeping, particularly when
God has spoken against it, is an indirect
way of protesting against God’s Word. It is
equal to murmuring, which is also
rebellious. The Bible assuredly says:
“Weeping may endure for a night; but joy
cometh in the morning.”
Psalm 30:5
Blessed are we, if we believe the scripture.
In addition, the Bible says that
weeping blurred Mary Magdalene’s visions on the
resurrection morning so much that she mistook
Jesus Christ for a gardener!
“Jesus said unto her, Woman, why
weepest thou? Whom seekest thou? She,
supposing him to be the gardener, saith
unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence,
tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will
take him away.”
John 20:15
.
An antidote for weeping is the reading of
God’s Word concerning His promises to us
in time of trouble. Another one is high
praises to God who specializes in reversing
the irreversible. The Bible says that when
David was distressed at Ziglag because his
wives and children had been taken away by
raiders, he appealed to God for consolation,
and he was not only consoled, but was also
assured of the reversal of the unpleasant
situation. Beloved, trust the Lord for the
reversal of that seemingly unpleasant
situation in your life and that of your loved
ones and you will laugh last.
Prayer Point
Father, please wipe away all tears from my
eyes by removing those situations that
cause me to weep today
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